Everything you need to know about the iPhone XS
The iPhone XS and XR range of smartphones include:
- iPhone XS: an upgrade from the iPhone X.
- iPhone XS Max: the plus-sized version of the iPhone XS, boasting a bigger screen and Apple’s longest battery life.
- iPhone XR: positioned as the entry-level model.
- Apple Watch Series 4: available in GPS and cellular versions.
Here’s all you need to know about this model, the successor to the iPhone X.
Availability
The iPhone XS: available now.
Design
The iPhone XS will has a 5.8 inch screen as well as an OLED display, giving it a clearer, brighter picture.
Available in gold, space grey and silver. Splash, water and dust resistant.
Features
The update includes features such as:
- Face ID: enabled by TrueDepth camera tech for facial recognition
- NFC: NFC (near field communication) capabilities, with reader mode
- Charging: in addition to traditional recharging of the lithium-ion battery, boasts wireless charging via Qi chargers and charging via USB.
- Cameras: Dual 12MP wide-angle and telephoto cameras
- iOS 12: the new iPhone has the latest Apple operating system, iOS 12. 4K video recording at 24 fps, 30 fps or 60 fps.
- Apple Pay: pay using facial recognition in shops, within apps and on the web.
If you’re in the market for a new handset, you’re sure to find a better deal by comparing offers on MoneySuperMarket.
You’ll be able to browse pay-monthly offers and pay-as-you-go deals from the top mobile phone manufacturers and network providers, so you know you’ll be able to find the perfect phone with the right tariff for you.
Is the iPhone XS still worth it in 2021?
Although no longer the new model in town, there’s a lot still to love about 2018’s iPhone XS. Not only does it have the same all-screen design as the iPhone 11 range, it’s also got a comparable dual-lens camera that’s only slightly less impressive than the newer models.
The XS is and will be compatible with new versions of Apple’s iOS software, so you can expect to get a suite of new features, as well as performance and security improvements.
The iPhone XS comes in a lot cheaper than newer iPhones and offers about ten hours of battery life on a single charge, with a fast-charge mode for when you need to power-up in a hurry.
If you’re after a new handset but don’t want to fork out for the latest model, the iPhone XS could be a good choice for you.
iPhone XS contracts
So now you’ve decided the iPhone XS is the phone for you, which contract should you get?
Take a look at the comparison table at the top of this page, where you’ll find our pick of the standout deals available right now.
If you can’t see one that meets your needs, you can tailor your search by using the filters at the side of the page.
No upfront cost iPhone XS deals
Not keen on paying a lump sum upfront? The good news is that you don’t have to. But it’s worth remembering that contracts with no upfront charge usually have higher monthly premiums. So, you’ll have to find a bit more cash each month.
Unlimited data iPhone XS deals
Contracts with no data limits are ideal if you stream a lot of videos or music, or work a lot on the move and need the peace of mind that comes with knowing that you won’t run out of data.
The catch is that they’re generally a bit more expensive than contracts with data limits.
Cheap iPhone XS deals
If you’re looking to cut your outgoings, we’d recommend you take a look at iPhone XS contracts from low-cost networks, such as Tesco Mobile of giffgaff. You’ll most likely miss out on value-adding freebies, such as a Netflix/Spotify subscription or customer rewards schemes, but if cost is your primary criteria that probably won’t deter you.
Is the iPhone XS waterproof?
The iPhone XS is water-resistant, rather than waterproof. With an IP 68 rating, it can withstand being submerged in up to two metres for half an hour.
Does the iPhone XS have wireless charging?
You can charge the iPhone XS wirelessly with a charging pad (sold separately). You can also use wireless charging facilities in public places, such as cafés and airports.
What are the best iPhone XS deals?
The best iPhone XS deal is the one that best suits your needs. If you’re a heavy data user, make sure you get a contract with a generous usage allowance. If you’re the sort of person who must have the latest model, consider an early-upgrade contract, such as O2 Refresh or Tesco Mobile Anytime Upgrade Flex.
If you’re not sure what you need, take your lead from the comparison table at the top of the page, where we’ve picked out the deals we consider to be the best on offer right now.
Which headphones come with the iPhone XS?
The free headphones that come with the iPhone XS are Apple’s standard, wired, in-ear earphones, rather than the high-end wireless AirPods.
Can I upgrade to the iPhone XS?
You’ll be able to upgrade to an iPhone XS at any time with no penalty, provided you’re out of contract. You’ll also be able to upgrade mid-contract, if you’re signed up to an early-upgrade contract, such as Tesco AnyTime Upgrade Flex, but will be liable to pay up the rest of your handset contract.
Which iPhone XS colours are available?
The iPhone XS comes in colour options of black (officially known as space grey), white/silver and gold.
How long is the iPhone XS battery life?
Most iPhone users get between nine and ten hours from their iPhone XS on a full charge. That’s fairly standard for a modern smartphone with a large screen. However, if you want an iPhone with better-than-average battery life, you might want to consider the iPhone XR. Tests indicate you can expect an average of 11 hours use on a full charge.
How good is the iPhone XS camera?
Like the iPhone X, the iPhone XS has a dual camera that pairs a 12-megapixel telephoto lens for lossless zooming with 12-megapixel standard wide-angle lens.
But it stands apart from its predecessor with the inclusion of Smart HDR technology that takes multiple shots simultaneously and combines them for better images. It’s a very welcome addition and makes it easy to get really good snaps.
iPhone XS specs
| Manufacturer | Apple |
|---|---|
| Operating System | iOS |
| Release Date | |
| Sim Card Type | Nano |
| Accelerometer | Yes |
|---|---|
| Proximity | Yes |
| Compass | Yes |
| Barometer | Yes |
| Gyroscope | Yes |
| GPS | No |
| Form Factor | Candy Bar |
|---|---|
| Thickness | 7.7 mm |
| Size | 70.9mm x 7.7mm x 143.6mm |
| Weight | 177 g |
| Battery Type | Lithium Ion |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 2658 mah |
| Standby | hours |
| Talktime | 20 hours |
| Display Size | 5.8 inches |
|---|---|
| Screen Type | Super AMOLED |
| Resolution | 1125 x 2436 inches |
| Pixels Per Inch | 458 ppi |
| Touch Screen Type | Capacitive |
| CPU | 2490 mhz |
|---|---|
| Processor Cores | 6 Cores Cores |
| Memory | 4000 MB |
| Internal Storage | 64, 256, 512 |
|---|---|
| External Storage | No |
| Primary Camera | 12 MP |
|---|---|
| Flash | Yes |
| LED Flash | |
| GEO Tagging | Yes |
| Auto Focus | Yes |
| Fixed Focus | Yes |
| Touch Focus | |
| Face Detection | Yes |
| Smile Detection | |
| Image Stabilisation | Yes |
| Video Quality | 2160p |
| 2nd Camera | 7 MP |
| Generation | 4G |
|---|---|
| Frequency | Dual-band |
| NFC | No |
| Wi-Fi | No |
| Wi-Fi Hotspot | No |
| Wi-Fi Direct | No |
| Bluetooth | No |
| USB | No |
| Loudspeaker | Yes |
|---|
