Released five years ago Apple’s iPhone 11 is no longer the newest kid on the block. However, even in 2025, it may appear as a compelling option for value-conscious seeking a dependable and capable smartphone. Lets revisit the main stages of this smartphone’s history.
Usually the rumors and speculations about the new iPhone start immediately after the release of the latest model. Some indications come from Apple’s acquisitions – this is the strategy the company pursues to bring new inventions, technologies to its products.
In 2017 Apple acquired Pop Up Archive to improve its podcasting capabilities. Pop Up Archive specialized in tools for transcribing and organizing podcasts. The acquisition may helped to enhance podcast search and discovery features in the Apple Podcasts app, making it easier for users to find and enjoy podcasts.
The Danish startup Spektral was acquired in 2017 for its advanced computer vision technology, which could efficiently separate figures from their backgrounds in images and videos. The startup competences helped to improved camera capabilities, particularly in augmented reality (AR) applications and photo editing, enhancing the overall iPhone user experience.
Vancouver-based app tools startup Buddybuild described itself as “mobile iteration platform” focused on continuous integration and debugging tools. It was acquired by Apple in 2018 to ramp up its efforts to court developers by making it easier to create and iterate their apps for its platforms.
In 2018 Apple acquired Tueo Health which was working on a solution to help parents monitor asthma symptoms in children using a mobile app and commercial breathing sensors. The company is also expected to revamp its Health app for iPhones at its annual developers conference.
These acquisitions likely contributed to the development of new features and improvements in iPhone 11 and subsequent models including enhanced camera capabilities, augmented reality applications, and health monitoring functionalities.
Apple officially announced iPhone 11 as the “dual camera iPhone” and, in addition, the “most powerful and advanced smartphones” iPhone 11 Pro and iPhone 11 Pro Max on September 10, 2019. The phones had several standout features:
Dual or Triple Camera System: iPhone 11 featured a new dual-camera system with ultra wide lenses while iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max had new triple-cameras with ultra-wide and telephoto lenses
A13 Bionic Chip: A13 Bionic chip was touted as the fastest chip ever in a smartphone offering significant performance improvements for all the iPhone 11 models
Improved Battery Life: Apple claimed that the iPhone 11 had the best battery life of any iPhone to date ranging 17 – 20 hours of video playback depending on the model
After iPhone 11’s debut media reviews were positively balanced. Forbes came out with a punchy headline - “Apple iPhone 11 Review: Slick, Capable And Drop-Dead Glorious”. The Verge followed a similar line right from the beginning touting that iPhone 11 was the phone most people should buy. Business Insider reviewer confessed: “I finally decided to purchase a new device was three-fold: I wanted a better camera, I wanted the feeling of buying the latest and greatest, and I wanted something I really liked looking at (specifically, the minty green color)”. CNET did not lack positivity either - “new cameras, longer battery life, Night Mode, a goofy selfie feature and a price drop. That's a respectable upgrade list”.
The Gardian was more critical and thought iPhone 11 was just an iPhone XR with a better camera. PCMag saw no urgency for upgrades: “there's nothing wrong with more cameras (they're very good), but if you can hold out, we're almost certain to see a lot more innovation next year”. The best summary came from NYT: “those with the iPhone 7 from 2016, for example, still have a very good phone with a stellar camera and fast speeds. So now is the moment to ask: Do we really need to upgrade our iPhones every two years? Based on my tests of the iPhone 11, 11 Pro and 11 Pro Max, the answer is no”.
Despite of reservations from some media reviews people liked new smartphones. The iPhone 11 models quickly became must-haves primarily due to their advanced cameras. Both the twin-lens and triple-lens cameras provide ultrawide photo abilities, as well as a 2x zoom, Night Mode, Smart HDR, and a new True Tone flash unit. Figures showed that iPhone 11 contributed to Apple's highest revenue quarter ever in Q1 2020, with phone sales alone bringing in $51.62 billion. The strong demand for the iPhone 11, especially during the holiday season, played a crucial role in this achievement.
The iPhone 11 was a landmark release for Apple, introducing the powerful A13 Bionic chip and a significant upgrade to the camera system with its now-iconic dual-lens setup. But the main question remains: can a phone released few years ago still hold its own value in a world dominated by newer and often more expensive devices? The answer, surprisingly, is a resounding yes for many.
Why the iPhone 11 Remains Surprisingly Relevant in 2025?
The A13 Bionic Chip - Power That Endures. While not the latest silicon marvel, the A13 Bionic chip remains incredibly capable. It handles everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and email with impressive speed and fluidity. It can also tackle more demanding applications, mobile games and even some light video editing. One might notice some speed differences compared to the newest processors but for the vast majority of tasks the A13 still delivers.
The Camera System - A Photography Powerhouse. The dual 12MP wide and ultrawide lenses on the iPhone 11 continue to be a great choice for everyday photography. The camera captures rich, vibrant images with impressive dynamic range, even in challenging lighting conditions. Night Mode, a standout feature at the time, remains a crucial tool for low-light shots, making dimly lit environments look surprisingly bright and clear. The video recording capabilities are also excellent, offering stable and high-quality 4K footage. Whether you are capturing family moments, landscapes, or just everyday snapshots, the iPhone 11's cameras will never disappoint.
iOS Updates - The Gift That Keeps on Giving. Apple’s commitment to software updates is a major advantage for the iPhone 11. It continues to receive the latest iOS updates, which means that no user is stuck with outdated features or security vulnerabilities. This also means everyone has access to new app functionalities and a continuously optimized user experience. This longevity is a huge advantage compared to many Android devices, which often have a shorter software support lifecycle.
A Sweet Spot in Affordability. With newer iPhones hogging the limelight (and carrying higher price tags), the iPhone 11 has become incredibly affordable in the used and refurbished market, and even new in certain regions. This lower price point makes it an incredibly attractive option for budget-conscious who want a reliable iPhone experience without the high price of the current generation. You can often find it in excellent condition for a fraction of the cost of a new device, making it a smart financial choice.
Build Quality and Reliability. The iPhone 11 was built to last. Its durable construction and water resistance mean it's well-equipped to handle the rigors of daily life. This phone always feels solid and reliable in your hand, and there is no need to worry about it breaking easily. This durability translates to a longer lifespan, making your investment last longer.
The iPhone 11 is a testament to Apple’s quality engineering and long-term software support. In 2025, it's not just a relic of the past but a remarkably capable and affordable smartphone that continues to offer an excellent user experience. If you're looking for a reliable, versatile, and budget-friendly device, the iPhone 11 deserves a serious look. It’s a great reminder that sometimes the best tech isn't always the newest but rather the most well-rounded and long-lasting.
Are you still using an iPhone 11, or considering buying one in 2025? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below - we would love to hear from you!