Pretty soon, deals will be everywhere - but not all of them are what they seem. As Black Friday and Cyber Monday roll in, so do the scammers - ready to catch out anyone who’s not paying close attention.With online shopping at an all-time high and festive deals starting earlier each year, it’s easy to get swept up in the excitement. But while you're hunting for bargains, fraudsters are hunting for victims. That’s why it’s more important than ever to stay sharp and protect your personal info.Whether you're buying gifts for loved ones or treating yourself to a tech upgrade, this guide is here to help you shop smarter, avoid common traps and keep your data safe. Double-check before you click. If a deal looks too good to be true, it probably is.Scammers love to lure people in with flashy discounts and urgent messages. Before clicking on any link, take a moment to check the URL. Does it look legit? Are there any spelling mistakes or strange domain names?For example, a fake site might use “am

Ever feel like you’re not getting the most out of your mobile? Not using it to its full potential? What if you could unlock your own super-helpful assistant, creative genius, and search expert?Whether you want help writing messages, planning your weekend, editing photos, or finding things instantly, new AI tools are here to make your life easier and a little more enjoyable. By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly what these features are and how you can use them in everyday life - to save time on tasks, be more creative, and find the info you need in a flash. Meet Gemini: your creative AI assistant. Gemini is Google’s latest AI assistant built right into your phone. It’s designed to help you find the right words, get fresh ideas, and make plans. And it’s all done through a simple chat interface that feels easy and natural.Use Gemini when you want to: Improve your messages. Paste in a draft email or text and ask it to “make this sound more professional” or “check for any typos.” It

Guy Fawkes Night is nearly here, and so is your chance to capture the most dazzling firework photos of the year. No need to haul around a bulky DSLR either. That’s because the perfect camera is already in your pocket — your smartphone.While today’s mobiles are packed with all kinds of clever photography tech, snapping awesome firework pics takes more than just pointing and shooting. It’s not quite as easy your average selfie!That’s why we’ve put together some handy tips that’ll help you master the art of firework photography. So, you’ll be ready to light up your social feeds with some explosive, scroll-stopping shots when November 5th rolls around. 1. Use night mode.  Many modern phones, including Apple iPhone and Samsung Galaxy devices, have nighttime photography modes. These typically work by snapping multiple shots at different exposures and blending them into one sharp and well-lit image. The result? Brighter, less grainy firework photos where colours and details truly shine.If you

It’s the classic modern-day dilemma. You’ve got a smartphone packed with incredible features, but a battery that struggles to make it to teatime. With a little bit of work though, you can make that charge really go the distance. We’ve pulled together 10 expert tips - from quick setting tweaks to myth-busting advice - to help you take control of your battery life. And they’re not just about making your battery last from 9 to 5 either. They’re about keeping it healthy for the long haul too… 1. Charge smarter: use the 80% rule.  Charging your phone all the way to 100% might feel right, but it’s not great for your battery. Try to keep your charge between 20% and 80%. Most phones now have smart charging features that help with this. iPhone – Go to Settings > Battery > Battery Health & Charging > Optimised Battery Charging.   Android/Samsung – Head to Settings > Battery > More Battery Settings > Adaptive Charging/Protect Battery. These features learn your routine and ho

Halloween is on its way. But for mobile phone owners, the scariest thing isn’t a ghost or a ghoul... it’s the thought of losing your phone with all the precious data on it. So, let us help you avoid that nightmare, with this treat of an article…And speaking of treats, we’re giving away a NINJA Swirl by CREAMi NC701UK 13-in-1 Ice Cream & Frozen Dessert Maker!Whether you're heading to a costume party, trick-or-treating with the kids, or just enjoying a pumpkin spice latte in a coffee shop, your phone is your lifeline. That’s why we’ve brewed up a potent potion of 10 simple but powerful tips to protect it from real-world monsters, like thieves and hackers! 1. Dodge the pickpocketing poltergeists. Let’s start with the basics. Keep your phone on you, and keep it secure.Halloween crowds are a playground for pickpockets. That phone peeking out of your back pocket? That’s basically bait for a sneaky thief. And even if you’re using your phone and not aware of your surroundings, you’re at ri

We’ve got exciting news for all you globe-trotters and adventure seekers — iD Mobile’s Roam Beyond is going even further! We’re adding five incredible new countries to our line-up, so you can stay connected in more places than ever before.Whether you're mapping your route through Tokyo or sharing foodie snaps from Singapore, our great-value data add-ons mean you can roam with confidence. No nasty bill shocks here, just happy travels. Welcome to our 5 new destinations! We’re thrilled to announce that Roam Beyond now covers these five highly-requested destinations: Japan Singapore China (including Macau) Pakistan Montenegro That means you can share stunning snaps of Kyoto’s ancient temples, navigate the bustling markets of Lahore and more without breaking the bank. All thanks to our new, budget-friendly iD Mobile Roam Beyond add-ons. How does Roam Beyond work?  Getting set up is a breeze — no boarding pass required. Just follow our steps below to stay connected wherever your trav

The dust has just settled on another spectacular Apple event, and as always, it was packed with exciting announcements. This year, Apple has truly redefined its smartphone family, introducing four incredible new models. Get ready to meet the brilliant iPhone 17, the impossibly thin iPhone Air, the powerhouse iPhone 17 Pro, and the ultimate iPhone 17 Pro Max. Let's explore what makes this new line-up such a huge leap forward. The Brilliant iPhone 17.  The new iPhone 17 is a massive upgrade and the perfect choice for most people. For the first time, the standard iPhone gets a stunning 6.3-inch Super Retina XDR display with ProMotion. If you're upgrading from an iPhone 15, this is a game-changer, making everything from scrolling through social media to gaming feel incredibly fluid and responsive. The display is also protected by Ceramic Shield 2, offering three times better scratch resistance than previous generations.Inside, the new A19 chip delivers a huge boost in speed and efficiency,

Is your phone constantly buzzing, pinging, and demanding your attention? Notifications never seem to stop, and finding a quiet moment can feel impossible.That’s where Focus Modes come in. Built into most smartphones, they’re designed to cut distractions and give you back control of your attention. Set one up and your phone will start working with you, not against you. The result? Less stress, better productivity, and more time for the things that matter. What are Focus Modes and why should you care? Focus Modes are like a smarter versions of “Do Not Disturb.” Instead of one big mute button, you create custom profiles for different parts of your life.For example, you might set one up for work, another for family time, one for the gym, or even a quiet reading mode. Each profile decides who and what can get through.And the benefits go beyond fewer notifications. Filtering out background noise helps you feel calmer and more present. It protects your evenings from late-night work emails, ke

The Made by Google event has just wrapped up for another year, and what a show it was! The team in California has been busy, and as we expected, they showed off the brand-new Google Pixel 10 family. The big story this year is definitely all the clever AI features packed inside to make life that little bit easier.To celebrate, we're giving one lucky iD Community member the chance to win a Google Pixel 10 Pro! Stick with us as we run through the new gear, and we’ll tell you how to enter at the end. Google Pixel 10.  First up is the Pixel 10. This is the new foundation of the range, and it’s packed with some great stuff for everyday use. The camera system gets a real boost this year. For the first time on the standard model, it now features a proper 5x telephoto lens – a big step up from the digital zoom on the Pixel 8. It means you can get those really crisp, close-up shots without having to move an inch.The AI inside is smarter too. A new feature called Magic Cue tries to guess what you

Think you’re savvy enough to spot most scams? Those “you’ve won the lottery!” emails have always been easy to mark as junk. But today’s scams are a lot more sophisticated and convincing, with fraudsters getting extra creative. They’re even trying to steal data by tapping into our smartphones. The good news? You don’t need to panic. That’s because in this guide, we’ll walk you through the latest mobile scams — from fake job offers to AI-powered deepfakes. You’ll learn how they work, the warning signs to watch for, and ways to keep your phone and personal details safe. The “you’ve got the job” scam.  Job hunting is stressful enough, so don’t let scammers make it worse. They’re now targeting job seekers on platforms like LinkedIn and Indeed, by posing as recruiters offering dream roles with great pay and flexible hours. How this scam works:You might get a text, WhatsApp message, or even a call from someone claiming to represent a company. They’ll propose a job that sounds perfect — no int

On Sunday, 7 September 2025, at 3pm, the UK government will be running a nationwide test of the UK's Emergency Alerts system. This is to make sure the system, which is used to warn people when lives are in danger from things like extreme weather, is all working correctly.When the test happens, compatible mobile phones and tablets will make a loud, siren-like sound and vibrate for about 10 seconds. This will happen even if your device is on silent. A message will also pop up on the screen confirming that it's a test and that you don't need to take any action. How do I check Emergency Alerts are switched on? These alerts are an important tool for getting information to the public in an emergency, so it's a good idea to ensure they're switched on. They should be enabled by default, but it’s easy to check your settings to be sure: I’m using an iPhone: Open ‘Settings’. Tap ‘Notifications’. Scroll all the way to the bottom of the page. Under the "Emergency Alerts" section, make sure th

Losing your phone feels like losing your lifeline. But knowing what to do next can make a massive difference. Whether it’s slipped out of your pocket on the bus or been swiped from a table at a café, the panic is real. Don’t worry though. There are clear steps you can take to protect your data, stop your phone being misused and get back up and running as fast as possible.  Lock and locate your device immediately.  The first thing to do is to track your phone. Both Apple and Android devices come with built-in tools that’ll help you locate, lock or even erase your phone remotely. If you’re using an iPhone, head to Find My iPhone. For Android users, Find My Device is your go-to. These features let you see your phone’s location on a map, lock it down and display a message on screen – like a contact number or ‘this phone is lost’. If things look serious you could also wipe your data remotely to protect your privacy. If you didn’t have location tracking turned on, don’t panic. You can still

Ever found yourself needing to send a last-minute work email from your laptop on a train commute? Or how about trying to keep the kids entertained on a tablet on that long car journey? The struggle to find decent public Wi-Fi is real - and often frustrating.But here’s the good news: your smartphone has a hidden superpower. It’s called hotspotting (or tethering) and it lets you turn your phone into your very own portable Wi-Fi network. No café passwords. No dodgy connections. Just you, your phone and the freedom to get online wherever you have signal.Hotspotting lets you share your phone’s mobile data with other devices like your laptop or tablet. It’s perfect for working on the go, streaming on long trips or just staying connected when Wi-Fi isn’t an option. And the best part? You’re using the data plan you already have. No extra kit. No extra cost. How to set up your personal hotspot – step-by-step.  It only takes a minute to turn your phone into a hotspot. Here’s how to do it on the

Here’s some exciting news for iD Mobile customers! We’ve listened to your feedback and are adding even more options to make staying connected abroad easier, whether you’re a seasoned traveller or planning your first trip abroad.Our Roam Free feature has been a game-changer for years, offering unbeatable value and flexibility when you travel to some of the most popular destinations in the EU and beyond. And now, if you fancy going even further afield, we’re adding Roam Beyond add-ons! Let’s see how these can make your travels hassle-free and more budget friendly. Roam Free: your iD Mobile travel companion.  Before we tell you about our new Roam Beyond add-ons, here’s a quick reminder of what our existing Roam Free feature is all about. With Roam Free, you can use your UK monthly allowances of minutes, texts, and data (up to 30GB!) in 50 destinations. From sipping espresso in Italy to surfing in Spain, your phone will work just as it does at home - at no extra cost. Ready to explore? Roa

With the sun shining, there’s no better time to head out into nature and explore the UK's breathtaking trails. But there’s no need to stuff your backpack with massive OS (Ordnance Survey) maps. The most powerful navigation tool you own is already in your pocket!Forget the old-school maps and pricey GPS devices. Today’s smartphones, with the right apps, can be your guide, safety net, and personal trainer all rolled into one. We’ve rounded up the essential apps that turn your phone into the ultimate hiking companion. Plus, to help you get kitted out for your next trek, we're giving one lucky reader the chance to win a Garmin Venu 3s!Whether you're strolling through the Yorkshire Dales or summiting in Snowdonia, your trusty mobile will help you uncover new routes, stay safe, and track every step. Your guide to navigation apps.  Different apps shine in different areas. Here’s our breakdown of the best navigation tools for UK walkers:OS Maps: This one’s the gold standard. It taps into the o

We’ve all been there – you’re sat in a meeting or lecture, hammering out notes, and struggling to keep up. And you’re not really able to pay attention to what’s actually being said either. That sounds like a lose-lose situation to us. Luckily, there’s a better way. The AI that’s stuffed into your smartphone can act as your very own personal assistant, transcribing all those convos and events for you. And apart from pressing record, you won’t even have to lift a finger. By using these tools, you’ll be more present, create perfect records of key conversations, and save yourself hours of time. What’s not to like?  For the student: ace your lectures and seminars.  Imagine being able to focus entirely on what your lecturer is saying, without worrying about taking notes. Well, with AI transcription, you can. It turns your phone into the ultimate study buddy, taking the lead while you sit back and learn. You’ll need a few apps to get going though. Otter.ai or your phone’s built-in Voice Memo

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With summer holiday season in full swing, Turkey is a top destination for millions of us looking for some sun. You might have seen some news recently about Turkey’s telecom regulator (the BTK) banning access to the websites and apps of major eSIM providers like Holafly and Airalo.The good news, our Roam Beyond Add-ons for Turkey are completely unaffected by this ban. Why are we not affected? It’s super simple. The ban in Turkey targets third-party eSIM providers that require you to visit their website or use their app to buy and install a new eSIM. Our Roam Beyond add-ons work differently. They are a bolt-on to your existing iD Mobile plan. There’s no need to download or activate anything from a separate app that might be blocked. You just add the data bundle to your account and you’re good to go. Stay connected with Roam Beyond in Turkey. If you’re off to Turkey, our great value Roam Beyond add-ons have you covered. They’re a handy way to get a chunk of data and steer clear of any out

You don’t have to leave the country to enjoy a great holiday. In fact, some of the best escapes can be found right here in the UK. A staycation gives you the chance to explore somewhere new, take a break from the everyday, and relax. All without the hassle of airports or long travel times.Staycations come in all shapes and sizes. From beach breaks to woodland walks, there’s something for everyone — solo travellers, couples, families, nature-lovers, or festivalgoers. Here are a few ideas to get you started, plus some handy apps to help you plan (and enjoy) your perfect UK getaway. Coastal getaways.  When the sun’s out, the UK’s coastline really comes into its own. With almost 100 Blue Flag beaches across the country, there’s no shortage of clean, safe, and beautiful spots to enjoy.Cornwall – A classic destination for sandy beaches, surf spots and charming coastal villages like St Ives and Padstow. Wales – The Pembrokeshire coast is a standout, with beaches like Barafundle Bay and Whites

We all keep a lot of personal data on our phones nowadays. Whether that’s passwords to social accounts, pics of the family, or sensitive banking info. And you obviously don’t want any of that to fall into the wrong hands. So, what can you do to make sure that your phone stays safe while you’re out and about? We’ve got you covered. Here are a few dos and don’ts when it comes to protecting your phone… Be aware of your surroundings.  Just popping to the bar at the pub? Don’t leave your phone out on the table. It only takes a thief a few seconds to walk over and grab it. The same goes for when you’re wandering around, especially in big cities and places where there’s a lot of people. Crowds are the perfect hiding place for pickpockets. If you’re constantly flashing your phone, you’ll make yourself a target. Before you get your phone out to snap a photo of that famous landmark, have a look to see who might be near you. In places like London, bike and moped thieves are unfortunately fairly c

From 31st July 2025, you'll no longer be able to ‘Log in with Facebook’ to access the iD Community. If you used this service, you'll need to create a password to continue using your account. How to create a password for your iD Community account. If you're already logged in to the iD Community, click your Profile Picture, then click 'Log out'. Click 'Log in'. Click 'Forgot password?'. Enter the email address associated with your iD Community account (this'll be the one you use for Facebook), then click 'Send'. Follow the instructions in the email you receive to create a new password.Once you have created your password, you will be able to log in to the iD Community using your email address and new password. I'm not sure which email address I use for Facebook. What should I do? If you're not sure which email address you used to sign up for the iD Community via Facebook, you can easily check this within your Facebook account settings.On Desktop:Log in to your Facebook account. Click on y

Sports fans are in for a treat this summer. It’s jam-packed with huge tournaments, races and more – and to celebrate, we're giving you the chance to win a HISENSE 55E6NTUK 55" Smart 4K Ultra HD HDR LED TV!If you don’t want to miss a second of the non-stop action, we’re here to help. We’ll show you how to stream all the unmissable moments live on your iPhone or Android. And we’ll explain how to get your phone plan prepped, whether you’re watching at home or cheering from the sidelines abroad.Just follow this handy guide to catch every goal, match point and chequered flag without any nasty surprises on your mobile bill, and find out how to enter our incredible giveaway. Let’s get going… First things first: Get your data plan match fit.  Streaming sport can use up a big chunk of your data. Meaning it’s a good idea to check your plan before kick-off to see how much data you’ve got to play with. Watching in standard definition can use up to 1GB per hour, while high definition will triple th

Samsung has just dropped its latest lineup of foldable phones — their slimmest and lightest models to date. They’re packing even smarter camera tech and Galaxy AI too, helping you create cool content and tick tasks off faster.Read our recap to find out more about the brand-new Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7. Plus, a surprising budget-friendly model… Galaxy Z Fold 7: productivity powerhouse.  The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 is a phone and tablet rolled into one. Folded, it works just like a regular smartphone. But when you open it up, you're greeted to a huge screen. Perfect for multitasking with different apps, watching films, and playing games on the go. Here are some of the new model’s standout features: Ultra-thin and lightweight design: The Z Fold7 is only 8.9 mm when folded and 4.2 mm unfolded. It weighs just 215 grams too, making it even lighter than the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra. That’s pretty amazing considering that the cover and main screens are wider this time around. Speaking of…

You don’t have to hop on a plane for a great holiday. The UK’s full of top spots for a weekend away or a full-on minibreak. But wherever you are, you probably want to stay connected. Otherwise, how are you meant to share those stunning snaps on the Gram? Well, with our handy guide, you won’t be offline for long… Connecting to train and coach Wi-Fi.  Just because you’re on a train or a coach, it doesn’t mean you can’t keep up with the group chat. Most have a special Wi-Fi service onboard that’ll let you use your phone as normal. Getting online isn’t difficult either…Check for free Wi-Fi services – Open up your Wi-Fi settings and look for the network name (SSID) that’s specific to the transport you’re on – e.g. Southwest Rail Wi-Fi. Tap on it, and you’ll be asked for your email address. Enter that and you should be ready to browse, message and more.  Stay safe on public Wi-Fi – Always check the network is secured. If you’re unsure, ask a member of staff before you decide to hit connect.

The back-to-school (or uni) shopping list can feel daunting. And when it comes to tech, sometimes the costs really start to add up. But what if we told you that you could get everything you need for under £500?Well, we think you can! We’ve put together the ultimate tech checklist for students, from the perfect smartphone to a reliable laptop and a few essential extras. Follow this guide to get fully kitted out for the new academic year without breaking the bank. The hub of your student life: a smartphone.  Your phone is more than just a messaging machine. It’s your schedule, your lecture notes, your emergency contact, your entertainment centre and your late-night takeaway button. In other words, it's essential.With iD Mobile’s latest Pay monthly phones, you can grab a new device without a big upfront cost. Budget-friendly doesn’t mean basic either. You’re getting a powerful, modern phone that’ll keep up with your busy student life.Choose a model like the Google Pixel 9a or the Apple iP