The iPhone 8 Plus, launched in 2017, was once Apple’s flagship for those who preferred a larger screen and the classic Home Button with Touch ID. Fast-forward to 2025, and it remains available in the certified used and refurbished market at a very low price. According to UpTrade’s Price Tracker, certified used or refurbished iPhone 8 Plus models now start at just $130.
On the surface, that sounds like a great deal—especially for users who want an affordable iPhone with a big screen. However, there’s one major drawback: Apple has officially ended software support for the iPhone 8 Plus. That makes it a less secure and future-ready option.
In this blog, we’ll explore what the iPhone 8 Plus offers in 2025, why iOS support is a critical factor, and why you may want to spend a bit more for a better alternative like the iPhone XS Max.
iPhone 8 Plus in 2025: Price, Design, and Legacy
At $130+, the iPhone 8 Plus is one of the most budget-friendly iPhones on the refurbished market. It still looks and feels solid, thanks to its aluminum frame, glass back, and 5.5-inch Retina HD display.
It features Touch ID, which many users still prefer over Face ID, and has a dual-camera system that includes a Wide and Telephoto lens—still capable of taking decent photos in good lighting.
The iPhone 8 Plus was also the last in Apple’s lineup to have the traditional Home Button, making it a favorite among fans of the old design. But while the design holds up for nostalgic reasons, the tech under the hood is beginning to show its age.
iOS Support: Is the iPhone 8 Plus Still Getting Updates?
No—Apple officially discontinued iOS support for the iPhone 8 Plus as of 2023. That means in 2025, it is no longer receiving:
- Major iOS updates
- Security patches
- New features or performance improvements
While the phone can still be used for calls, texts, and apps that remain compatible, it’s now considered a security risk for users who want long-term reliability. Additionally, as more apps update their minimum requirements, users may find themselves increasingly locked out of app updates or unable to install new ones.
If you're planning to keep your phone for more than a year, lack of software support is a deal-breaker. That’s why we recommend looking at newer models like the iPhone XS Max, which still receives full iOS updates in 2025.
Performance in 2025: Can the A11 Bionic Still Keep Up?
The iPhone 8 Plus runs on Apple’s A11 Bionic chip, which was groundbreaking in 2017. But in 2025, it’s starting to show its limitations.
- While it can still handle basic tasks like browsing, calling, messaging, and streaming, don’t expect a smooth experience with heavier apps or modern games.
- App load times are noticeably slower compared to newer iPhones
- Multitasking can feel sluggish due to aging hardware
- Newer apps and iOS features are not supported due to outdated chip architecture
If you’re only using your phone for light daily use, it might be tolerable. But if you need longevity or better performance, the A11 chip is no longer a good long-term solution.
Camera, Battery, and Display: Are They Still Good Enough?
The iPhone 8 Plus comes with a dual 12MP camera system (Wide + Telephoto), and in well-lit conditions, it still takes decent photos. However, you’ll notice the lack of Night Mode, Deep Fusion, and other advanced features introduced in later models.
- Camera: Good for casual shots, but low-light performance is weak and lacks modern AI enhancements.
- Battery: The 2,691mAh battery was decent in its time, but battery health on refurbished models may be degraded unless replaced. Expect moderate daily use, but not all-day battery life.
- Display: The 5.5-inch Retina HD LCD display is serviceable but lacks the sharp contrast, colors, and deep blacks of OLED screens in newer iPhones like the XS Max.
In short, these components are still usable, but they don’t meet the expectations of most modern users in 2025.
iPhone 8 Plus vs iPhone XS Max: Is It Worth Paying $50 More?
With the iPhone 8 Plus priced at around $130+ and the iPhone XS Max starting at $180+, buyers on a budget may hesitate to spend the extra $50. But when you look at long-term value—especially iOS support—the difference is more than justified.
1. iOS Support: Critical in 2025
iPhone 8 Plus: As of 2025, Apple has officially ended iOS support for the iPhone 8 Plus. This means:
- No more major iOS updates
- Limited or no security patches
- Increasing app incompatibility over time
iPhone XS Max: Still receiving the latest iOS updates in 2025, and expected to continue through at least 2026 or 2027. That means:
- Continued access to new features
- Ongoing security updates
- Better app compatibility and user experience
2. Performance
- XS Max runs on the A12 Bionic, which is faster, smoother, and more efficient than the aging A11 in the 8 Plus.
- Better multitasking, app performance, and power management.
3. Display & Design
- XS Max offers a 6.5-inch Super Retina OLED display—brighter, more colorful, and immersive than the 8 Plus’s 5.5-inch LCD.
- Edge-to-edge design with Face ID looks and feels more modern than the 8 Plus’s old-school bezels and Touch ID.
4. Camera & Battery
- XS Max features improved Smart HDR, better low-light performance, and longer-lasting battery life in most cases.
- Both have dual 12MP cameras, but the XS Max benefits from newer image processing.
✅ Takeaway: If you can stretch your budget by $50, the iPhone XS Max is a much smarter investment in 2025. You'll get:
- Ongoing iOS support
- Stronger performance
- A modern design and OLED display
- Better long-term usability
The iPhone 8 Plus may seem like a deal, but it's already past its software support window—and that alone makes the XS Max worth the upgrade.
iPhone 8 Plus vs iPhone 11 Pro Max: Is It Worth Paying $90 More?
If you're considering the iPhone 8 Plus in 2025, chances are you're looking for a large-screen iPhone with familiar features like the Home Button and Touch ID. But for $90 more, the iPhone 11 Pro Max offers a far better long-term value. Here’s how they compare:
Display:
- iPhone 8 Plus: 5.5-inch Retina HD LCD
- iPhone 11 Pro Max: 6.5-inch Super Retina XDR OLED
The 11 Pro Max has a significantly larger, sharper, and more vibrant display.
Chipset & Performance:
- iPhone 8 Plus: A11 Bionic (2017) – no longer supported
- iPhone 11 Pro Max: A13 Bionic (2019) – still receives iOS updates
The A13 Bionic is faster, more efficient, and supported through at least 2026–2027.
Camera System:
- iPhone 8 Plus: Dual 12MP (Wide + Telephoto), no Night Mode
- iPhone 11 Pro Max: Triple 12MP (Wide + Ultra-Wide + Telephoto), Night Mode, Deep Fusion
The 11 Pro Max provides far superior low-light performance and versatility.
Battery Life:
- iPhone 8 Plus: Up to 14 hours video playback
- iPhone 11 Pro Max: Up to 20 hours video playback
The 11 Pro Max delivers all-day battery life with ease.
Software Support:
- iPhone 8 Plus: No longer eligible for iOS updates
- iPhone 11 Pro Max: Still supported and running the latest iOS in 2025
✅ Takeaway: If you want a large-screen iPhone that still holds up in 2025, the iPhone 11 Pro Max is absolutely worth the extra $90. The performance, display, camera, battery, and software support are in a completely different league.
Conclusion: Should You Buy the iPhone 8 Plus in 2025?
The iPhone 8 Plus might look like a tempting deal at $130, but its lack of software support in 2025 makes it a risky investment. Apps will slowly lose compatibility, and the lack of security updates could leave your data vulnerable.
If you want a large-screen iPhone at a good price, skip the 8 Plus and go with one of these:
FAQs: Buying a Used iPhone 8 Plus in 2025
1. Is the iPhone 8 Plus still getting iOS updates in 2025?
No. Apple ended iOS support for the iPhone 8 Plus in 2024. It will not receive iOS 18 or future updates.
2. Is it safe to use an iPhone 8 Plus without updates?
While it can still function, it’s not ideal. You won’t get security patches or compatibility with new apps, which can limit usability and expose your data.
3. What’s the price for an iPhone 8 Plus in 2025?
Prices start around $130 for certified used and refurbished models. However, consider paying $50–$90 more for a better, supported iPhone.
4. Is the iPhone 8 Plus still good for basic tasks?
Yes, it can handle calling, texting, light browsing, and apps that still support iOS 16. But performance may lag on newer or heavier apps.
5. Does the iPhone 8 Plus have Face ID?
No. It uses the classic Touch ID with a Home Button. Some users prefer this for privacy and convenience.
6. How does the iPhone 8 Plus compare to the iPhone 11 Pro Max?
The 11 Pro Max is better in every way—display, battery, camera, speed, and software support. It's worth the extra cost.
7. What is the screen size of the iPhone 8 Plus?
It has a 5.5-inch LCD with large bezels. The iPhone 11 Pro Max, by contrast, has a nearly full-screen 6.5-inch OLED.
8. What are the best large-screen iPhone alternatives under $250?
9. How old is the iPhone 8 Plus?
It was released in 2017. 8 years old in 2025.
10. Is there an iPhone 9?
Since you are reading this article about iPhone 8 Plus, you must be wondering whether there is an iPhone 9. The answer is no. Apple skipped 9 and went straight to iPhone X, which means 10. Also, it was the 10th year anniversary of iPhone, when iPhone X was launched in 2017.
11. Is an iPhone 8 Plus worth anything?
Yes. If you have an iPhone 8 Plus and would like to sell it. You can check on our Sell Price Tracker. It’s up to $50 now in 2025.
