The iPhone XR arrived in 2018. It was a big deal for Apple. It offered many features of the more expensive iPhone XS but at a lower cost. This made it a very popular choice for many people around the world, including in Pakistan. The iPhone XR price was a key reason for its success.
This article will show you the journey of the iPhone XR price in Pakistan. We will look at its price when it first launched. We will also see how its price has changed over time. Understanding this timeline helps you see if the iPhone XR is still a good phone to buy today. We will cover its initial launch, price drops, and what you can expect to pay for it now.
The Grand Launch: The Initial iPhone XR Price
When Apple launched the iPhone XR in September 2018, it was called the “affordable” iPhone. It sat alongside the more premium iPhone XS and XS Max. The starting price in the United States was $749. This was much lower than the $999 starting price of the iPhone XS.
In Pakistan, the official price was much higher. This was due to import taxes, duties, and currency exchange rates. The initial official iPhone XR price in Pakistan was around PKR 150,000 for the 64GB model. This was a lot of money, but it was still less than other new iPhones. The phone offered a large Liquid Retina display, the powerful A12 Bionic chip, and a great camera. People in Pakistan who wanted a new iPhone without paying top dollar were very interested.
The high initial cost meant it was a premium device. Only a small group of people could afford it at launch. However, this set the stage for its future as a popular second-hand phone.
Price Adjustments After a Year
In 2019, Apple released the iPhone 11 series. With new models on the market, Apple officially cut the price of the iPhone XR. This is a common strategy. The new official price in the US dropped to $599.
This price cut had a positive effect in Pakistan. The official iPhone XR price saw a significant drop. New units were now available for around PKR 120,000 to PKR 130,000. This made the phone accessible to more buyers. At the same time, the used phone market started to grow. Lightly used iPhone XR models began appearing for under PKR 100,000.
This was a turning point for the iPhone XR in Pakistan. It was no longer just a new, expensive phone. It became a smart choice for people who wanted Apple quality at a better price. Its value remained strong because of its powerful chip and continued software support from Apple.
The iPhone XR Becomes a Mid-Range Champion.
Between 2020 and 2021, the iPhone XR found its true place in the Pakistani market. Apple had discontinued it officially after the launch of the iPhone 12. However, its popularity did not fade. Instead, it became one of the most sought-after used iPhones.
The iPhone XR price in the used market settled between PKR 70,000 and PKR 90,000. The exact price depended on the phone’s condition, storage size, and battery health. A phone in perfect condition with high battery health would cost more. A phone with some scratches would be cheaper.
This price point puts the iPhone XR in direct competition with new mid-range Android phones. Many buyers preferred the used iPhone XR. They chose it for its smooth performance, excellent camera, and the status of owning an Apple product. The A12 Bionic chip was still very powerful and could handle all modern apps and games easily. This made it a great value-for-money device.
Navigating PTA Tax and Its Impact
A major factor affecting the iPhone XR price in Pakistan is the PTA tax. For phones brought from abroad, users must pay a hefty tax to get them approved for use with local SIM cards. This tax can significantly increase the overall cost of the phone.
For the iPhone XR, the PTA tax has changed over time. However, it has always been a large amount. This created two categories in the market: PTA-approved and non-PTA phones.
A PTA-approved iPhone XR costs much more. For example, a used PTA-approved unit might cost PKR 85,000. The same phone, if non-PTA, might only cost PKR 55,000. People who buy non-PTA phones often use them with an S-COM SIM in certain areas or just use them as a Wi-Fi device. This price difference is very important for buyers to consider. It makes you decide if you need cellular service or if you can live without it to save money.
The iPhone XR Price in 2024 and 2025
Today, the iPhone XR is still a relevant phone in Pakistan. It continues to receive iOS updates from Apple, which keeps it secure and functional. Its performance is still good enough for daily tasks like social media, browsing, and taking pictures.
In late 2024 and heading into 2025, a used iPhone XR price is typically between PKR 60,000 and PKR 75,000 for a PTA-approved unit in good condition. The price for a non-PTA unit can be as low as PKR 45,000. These prices make it an excellent entry-level iPhone for students or first-time Apple users.
The phone’s value has held up remarkably well. Compared to Android phones from 2018, the iPhone XR offers a much smoother and more premium experience. This lasting value is a key reason why people continue to trust and buy iPhones.
For readers tracking Apple’s pricing trends, our detailed breakdown of the iPhone 12 price in Pakistan offers helpful insights alongside this iPhone XR price timeline.
Is the iPhone XR Still Worth Buying?
Looking at the full timeline, the iPhone XR has proven to be a fantastic device. Its journey from a premium-priced phone to an affordable mid-range champion is impressive.
If you are thinking about buying one today, consider your needs. If you want a reliable phone for daily use with a good camera and a premium feel, the iPhone XR is a great choice. The iPhone XR price makes it a very attractive deal. It offers access to the Apple ecosystem without the high cost of newer models.
However, be sure to check the battery health and overall condition before buying a used unit. A battery health of 85% or higher is ideal. For its price, the iPhone XR delivers performance and quality that few other phones can match. It remains a smart purchase for budget-conscious buyers in Pakistan.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What was the launch price of the iPhone XR in Pakistan?
The official launch price for the iPhone XR in Pakistan was approximately PKR 150,000 for the 64GB model back in 2018.
2. What is the current iPhone XR price in Pakistan?
A used, PTA-approved iPhone XR in good condition typically costs between PKR 60,000 and PKR 75,000 today.
3. Why is there a big price difference between PTA and non-PTA iPhones?
The difference is due to the high government tax required to register an imported phone for use with local SIM cards. A non-PTA phone avoids this tax, making it cheaper.
4. Does the iPhone XR still get software updates?
Yes, the iPhone XR continues to receive the latest iOS updates from Apple, which keep the phone secure and add new features.
5. Is the iPhone XR a good phone to buy now?
Yes, for its price, the iPhone XR is a great value purchase for everyday use, offering good performance and a premium feel.
