https://www.cnet.com/news/iphone-xs-vs-xr-vs-xs-max-iphone-buying-guide-for-2018/ > It's got the same speedy processor, and that single rear camera has a new software version of portrait mode, that fancy SLR-style camera effect that blurs the backgrounds of headshots. The XR also comes in some fun, exclusive color choices. > Best of all, the iPhone XR starts at $250 less than the iPhone XS, making it the most affordable new iPhone of 2018. But here's the rub: While the XS models hit on Friday, Sept. 21, the iPhone XR won't arrive until Oct. 26. That's why we strongly advise iPhone shoppers to wait until we've reviewed that model -- we want to make sure it's as great a value in real world tests as it sounds like it is on paper.