Should You Upgrade to the New iPhone XS Max?

If you’re reading this, you are either a tech lover or in the market for a new iPhone. I don’t want to disappoint with my initial reactions to the iPhone XS Max so I’ve been waiting a little while to write this one. It’s been a week and a half since my new iPhone XS Max arrived. Last year, I wrote a blog post about Apple’s Upgrade Program and how it’s easier to upgrade through the manufacturer (Apple) than the carrier companies (Verizon, AT&T, Sprint, etc.). I had my iPhone 8Plus for a little over one year and really did love it. Upgrading to a bigger screen was a decision I don’t regret. When the iPhone X came out last year, I had my reservations. So many new features were being launched and I didn’t want to be part of that guinea pig group, so I decided to wait and go with the iPhone 8Plus. This year, I was ready to take the leap, even if it was a bit reluctantly. Here are my key takeaways:

1. The size is extremely comparable to the iPhone 8Plus.
   People have their reservations about upgrading to such a “big” phone, but in reality, it’s only a tiny bit (indistinguishably) larger. It feels the same in my hand, but there is no wasted space in regards to the screen. The screen itself has a much improved resolution, as well.
   
2. The processing speed is definitely faster/better battery life.With the new A12 Bionic chip, I noticed a difference in switching between apps and general quickness of the phone. You will positively be able to tell that there is a faster processor (supposedly 15% faster). The battery life is also a lot better (for NOW), but we will see how it does with time.
3. I sometimes miss the fingerprint button, but…
   The face recognition is a bit slow sometimes (the only slow thing about the phone) and if my phone is sitting flat on my desk or table, I miss being able to just gain access through my fingerprint. Making my face visible to actually unlock it is a bit of a pain at times. You can still use the passcode, but after having the fingerprint access, I am a bit spoiled, I suppose. I do have to say I am impressed that the face ID recognizes me with glasses and a GlamGlow face mask… haha!
   

   Shot on iPhone XS Max in Portrait Mode (back camera)… and by a Raven’s fan (impressive, right!?)

   

   Portrait Mode on front-facing camera

   

   Shot on iPhone XS Max regular camera mode in low-light setting

   

   

   Adjustable fstop in Portrait Mode (See above two photos)

4. Both cameras meet my expectations.
   The cameras on the front and back are both stellar. Portrait mode is far better on the iPhone XS Max than it was on the iPhone 8Plus. You can even adjust the fstop (depth of field). This makes it nice for when you don’t feel like hauling your big camera to events. Recently, I traveled to Baltimore for the Steelers game and didn’t feel I needed to take my camera to the game with me, but still got some great shots (see above).
   

   This was taken solely for the purposes of demonstrating the issues with the front-facing camera on the Snapchat application as I write this blog post. I, in no way shape or form, think I look good as a bear with glasses. lol

5. Snapchat needs an update.
   I do use Snapchat, albeit infrequently, mostly due to my cousin Brianna and our 411-day Snap streak.. lol. But if you are an avid Snapchat user, the developer has not yet issued an update addressing the front-facing camera, which may be a bigger problem for you than it is for me. The issue lies in the fact that the camera is wayyy zoomed in and pixelated (see above); basically, the app is not formatted for the larger screen and higher resolution of the new phone. This is extremely noticeable when the image is compared to those taken by the standard Camera app.. and when your face takes up the entire screen and your arm is fully extended. Get it together, Snapchat.
6. Animoji is pretty cool.
   The little Animoji I created is fun to send in messages or when singing happy birthday to your favorite uncle. It adds an extra personal touch and, let’s be honest, she’s super cute. I also sing StirFry in my head every time I go to use one. Thanks, Apple.

   

7. The battery life percentage remaining cannot be shown.
   Along with the different button sequences we must use to screenshot, turn off the phone, etc… it’s also different to view the remaining battery life of the iPhone. The control center is now located at the top right. This must be dragged down to view the battery life percentage, as it no longer fits at the top of the phone with the cut-out notch for the speaker and camera. It’s a blessing and curse and maybe makes me a little less anxious about battery life. Overall, I’ve gotten used to it and it’s not a big deal to me.

   

8. Overall, I’m glad I upgraded to XS Max and didn’t choose the regular XS.
   When looking at the screen sizes initially, I was going to go with the XS instead of the XS Max; however, I am accustomed to a larger phone and really prefer the bigger screen too now that I’ve been using it for a while. I am pleased with my upgrade decision and really like this new phone!

 

I purchased these tempered glass screen protector and this case. 🙂 Let me know if you’ve recently upgraded and what your thoughts are in the comments below or on Facebook, Instagram, etc. Thanks for reading!

 

xo,
Ashley