A new study from UK consumer advocacy group “Which?” this weekend claims that Apple overstates the battery life of several iPhone models. According to the report, the iPhone XR’s real-world performance offers the biggest discrepancy compared to Apple’s claims in relation to talk time.
The group says that it tested nine different iPhone models and found that all of them fell short of Apple’s claims by between 18 percent and 51 percent. The iPhone XR, for instance, recorded real-life talk time of 16 hours and 32 minutes, according to Which. Apple claims that the device offers up to 25 hours of talk time.
In a statement responding to Which?’s test (via Business Insider), Apple reiterated that it “rigorously” tests its products and stands behind its battery claims. The company also noted that Which? did not share its testing methodology, while Apple publishes its testing process in full detail:
Which? explained that its testing consists of charging brand new, independently purchased iPhones to full battery, then measuring how long they last during continuous calling. You can read Apple’s testing methodology on its website.
Which?’s findings on the iPhone XR battery life are particularly interesting. Upon release last year, many reviewers praised the device’s battery life, especially in comparison to the iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max.
In total, Which? tested smartphones from Apple, Samsung, Sony, Nokia, and HTC. Samsung, Sony, and Nokia were all found to underestimate their battery life claims, while HTC fell into the same category as Apple of overstating battery life.
You can read Which?’s full release on the findings here.
