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

https://www.idmobile.co.uk/apple-intelligence

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

You’re on the beach, the sun is setting, and you’re just about to capture that perfect vista. Then BAM. You pull out your phone, but instead of the camera, you get the dreaded ‘Storage Full’ notification. Annoying, right? We’ve all been there. The biggest culprit is usually your photo gallery. If it’s anything like ours, it’s probably clogged up with thousands of screenshots, duplicate photos and out of focus images. Luckily though, there’s loads of quick ways to get back those precious gigabytes. We’ll show you exactly how to clean up your gallery, make space for new memories, and get your phone back to top speeds! Let’s dive in… Start with the tools you already have.​​​​​​ Before you download any new apps, check out the free clean-up tools that are hidden away in your phone’s photo app. They’ll help you find and delete duplicates, blurry pics and old screenshots. And they make the whole process super straightforward.  For iPhone users: The Apple Photos app has a nifty feature called

Finding a healthy balance with our screen time is increasingly vital for our mental well-being, especially as highlighted during Mental Health Awareness Week in May. While our smartphones offer incredible connectivity, excessive use can contribute to stress and anxiety.  At iD Mobile, we understand this delicate balance and importance of having an intentional relationship with technology.     Our flexible plans and data management tools are designed to empower you to take control. Some of the ways you can make use of this are:Choose a plan that fits your lifestyle (and screen time goals): With iD Mobile's Pay As You Go plans, you're not stuck with a set amount of data. You can choose a different bundle every month, so if you want to cut back on your online time, you can enforce this by picking a smaller data package. See exactly where your data is going: The iD Mobile app shows you how much data you're using and which apps are using the most. This helps you understand where your online

So, you’re settled on the couch after a long day, ready to binge your favourite show or dive into a gaming session. Then you discover the shocking news - the remote is missing! Or worse, your controller dies mid-match. It’s a small frustration, but so annoying.What if you could save things by using something that’s already right in your hand? Like… your smartphone.Your smartphone - yes, the same one you use to scroll social media and send texts - can double as a powerful controller. From gaming to streaming to smart home management, your phone might be the only remote you’ll ever need. Here’s how easy it is to make the most of it. Level up your gaming: use your phone as a controller. Gaming is more mobile than ever. If you’ve ever dreamed of playing your PS5 or Xbox games from different rooms in your home (or even while traveling) your phone makes it possible. There’s no need to hog the family TV or be tied to the living room anymore.  For PlayStation players.Got a PS4 or PS5? The PS R

Ever wondered how long your new phone will really last? Or how easy it might be to get it fixed? From 20th June 2025, getting the answers to these questions is about to get a whole lot easier.New, standardised energy labels are being rolled out for all new smartphones and tablets sold in the EU and right here in the UK. Think of them like the stickers you see on your telly or washing machine, but packed with even more useful info. This is all part of a bigger plan to cut down on waste, make devices last longer, and help you make genuinely sustainable choices.Here at iD Mobile, we want to make sure you’re in the know. So, let’s break down what these new labels mean for you. What’s the big idea?  The European Union has brought in these new regulations to help us all make more informed and sustainable choices when buying new tech. The aim is to give you a clearer picture of a device's energy efficiency, how long its battery should last, how tough it is, and how easily it can be repaired.

Got tickets to see your favourite band or artist? We bet you can’t wait to catch them in action and rock your friends’ social feeds with some epic shots. But gigs aren’t the easiest places to snap photos on your phone. As when the lights go down, it can make pics look blurry and blown out.So, we’ve put together this guide that’ll help you take amazing concert photos you’ll actually want to share. Plus, we’ve highlighted some of the best phones for capturing awesome live music moments — from the front row all the way to the back! Quick tips for any smartphone.  No matter what phone you have, there are a few simple tricks which can make a big difference right away: Control the lights: Don’t just point and shoot. Tap your screen to focus on the artist and slide your finger down to lower the exposure. This will make sure those bright stage lights don’t turn your musical hero into a glowing blob. Avoid digital zoom: It can be tempting to zoom in when you’re nowhere near the stage. But thi

Watching TV has never been easier. Whether you're at home, on the train, or waiting for a coffee, streaming services let you catch up on your favourite shows anytime, anywhere. And with so many great series out right now – like Baby Reindeer, Blue Lights, Bridgerton, and Slow Horses – there's no shortage of things to watch. Why streaming services are worth it. According to Ofcom’s Media Nations report for 2025, over 85% of households in the UK now subscribe to at least one TV streaming service. Here are some of the biggest benefits of going full stream ahead:Watch whenever you want – No more waiting around for TV schedules! Binge all night or sneak an episode during lunch – it’s your call. Stream on anything – Phone, tablet, laptop, or the big screen – wherever you are, the show goes on. Share the love – Most streaming services let you set up profiles for everyone, so no one has to fight over what to watch (hopefully). Download and go – Got a long trip or dodgy Wi-Fi? Download your fav

Holidays are exciting, but they can get expensive fast. From flights and accommodation to meals and activities, the costs can add up quickly. Luckily, your phone can be your number one ally in keeping your budget in check. Whether you're planning your trip or already on the go, smart mobile use can lead to real savings. This guide shows you how to make your phone work harder for your wallet.Plus, we’re giving away a pair of Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses—read on to find out how to enter! Before you travel:  Booking smart with apps.One of the biggest expenses of any trip is getting there and finding a place to stay. Apps like Skyscanner are your best friends when it comes to comparing travel prices. Set up alerts for your desired destinations to catch the best deals as soon as they drop. And don't forget to check mobile-only deals on platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com, and Hotels.com. Booking in advance and using flexible date tools can also help you secure the best prices, so start plannin

Apple has just dropped the iPhone 16e, bringing flagship intelligence and serious power to an incredible price point. If you’ve been waiting for the perfect moment to upgrade without breaking the bank, this is the phone you’ve been looking for. The brains behind the magic.  At its heart is the new A18 chip and Apple Intelligence, working together to make your everyday tasks easier and more intuitive. Imagine tidying up photos with a tap, generating custom emojis on the fly, or having a smarter Siri that truly understands you. Paired with Apple’s first-ever C1 modem for faster, more efficient 5G, the iPhone 16e feels effortlessly quick and connected. Buy the iPhone 16e Capture your world like a pro.  The camera system is a huge leap forward. The brilliant 48MP main camera doesn't just take stunningly sharp and vibrant photos in any light; it also features a built-in 2x telephoto zoom. This clever design gives you two cameras in one, letting you capture beautiful optical-quality close-up

iD Mobile is 10 years old this May!Can you believe it? A whole decade of smart features, incredible milestones, amazing customers (that’s you), and a whole lot of data under the bridge.Since launching in 2015, we’ve been on a mission to make mobile better, more flexible, more affordable, and way more customer-focused. Whether you’ve been with us since the beginning or just joined the iD Mobile family, we wanted to take a moment to celebrate all the ways we’ve grown together. So grab a slice of cake (virtual or real, completely up to you), and let’s take a fun trip down memory lane The early days (2015–2017).  What a month May 2015 was. iD Mobile was launched by Carphone Warehouse, with a big idea: to shake things up with a mobile service that put value, flexibility, and transparency first. We knew there was a better way to do mobile, and we were determined to prove it!Fast forward to June 2017, and we were already making waves with inclusive roaming in 50 destinations, more than any ot

Imagine your phone, but supercharged. That’s what happens when you combine the smarts of Gemini Advanced with the lightning speed of iD Mobile’s 5G - powered by Three, the UK's fastest 5G network.*Suddenly, everything from firing off emails and planning that dream getaway to prepping for a big interview feels quicker, simpler, and a whole lot less stressful – no matter where you are. This isn't just an upgrade; it's your mobile dream team!This dynamic duo boosts everything your phone can do, transforming it into a smart, responsive hub for work, play, and everything in between. Let’s dive into how this powerhouse pairing can revolutionise your day. Daily Planning and Personal Help – Gemini as Your Life Manager.  First up, let’s talk about getting organised. Think of Gemini Advanced as your personal assistant, but with a PhD in productivity. Need help planning your day? Want a hand writing that to-do list, summarising a flood of emails, or even drafting a professional message? Just ask

Laughter is honestly the best medicine. After all, it’s a simple way to boost your mood and is proven to be a powerful stress reliever. Don’t just take our word for it either. An article by the British Heart Foundation explains how laughing helps release endorphins – otherwise known as feel-good hormones. Just a few minutes of mirth can increase the oxygen you take in, lower your heart rate and blood pressure, and help your muscles relax. You can’t argue with that.And now there’s even more reason to smile…To celebrate World Laughter Day (on May 4, 2025), we’re giving away a pair of Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Bluetooth Noise-Cancelling Headphones! Whether you’re giggling at your favourite podcast, chuckling over a video call, or just enjoying the peace and quiet between laughs, these headphones are perfect for turning up the joy.So, if it’s a quick grin or a full-on belly laugh you’re after, here are a few ideas that are bound to give you a giggle – and don’t forget to enter the giveaway

Want to take more wow-worthy photos? Whether you’re jetting off on holiday soon or you just love capturing nature at home, blurring the background of your pics adds a professional touch.It’s a simple effect that helps viewers focus on the subject. And you don’t need a fancy DSLR to achieve it either. That’s because many of today’s smartphones now have cutting-edge cameras which can easily create that “bokeh” look. There are even some clever editing apps which use the power of Ai to do it!Follow our steps below, and you’ll be well on your way to capturing stunning photos that none of your social followers will scroll past. Turn on ‘portrait’ mode.  Most phones these days have some kind of ‘portrait’ camera setting. It simulates the shallow depth of field you can achieve on pro cameras, which blurs the background and brings out your subject more. Whether it’s your cute pet or a pretty flower in bloom.Here’s how to find and make the most of your phone’s portrait mode:iPhone: Open the came

Heading to the beach sometime soon? If it’s a sunny day we can’t blame you!A beach day should be about fun, not fretting over your phone. But between sand, water, heat, and crowds, it’s one of the riskiest places for your phone - whether it’s an accidental drop or a sneaky theft.Luckily, we’ve got you covered. This guide share some top tips to keep your phone safe, so you can relax, take selfies, and make memories without mishaps. Use a waterproof case to keep it dry and safe. Water and electronics? They’re basically frenemies. The quickest way to ruin your beach vibes is with a soaked or sand-crusted phone.Here’s the good news. You can easily guard your device with a waterproof case or sealed pouch. Brands like Spigen and Gear4 are famous for a reason — they offer full protection from water, dust, and drops. And as a bonus, a lot of cases still let you use your touchscreen - so you can snap your beach pics without opening the pouch.Even if your phone’s got a water-resistance rating, t

Whether you’re at home or on the go, it’s now easier than ever to stay in touch with mates, mum and dad or your work colleagues. It’s not just regular calls or texts now either. Video calling’s given every single natter a far more personal touch. It sort of feels like they’re sat right there with you.What are the best apps for video calls though? Well, we’ve put together some of our favourites that are worth a download on your phone, tablet or laptop. Let’s dive in… WhatsApp.  You’ve almost definitely heard of WhatsApp. But if not, here’s a quick intro. It’s one of the most popular messaging apps in the whole world. And with over 2 billion users, there’s a very good chance your family and friends are already using it. One of its biggest plus points is its end-to-end encrypted texts and calls. What does that mean though? Well, it keeps all of your chats private and secure. So, no prying eyes can see or hear what you’re talking about. And because of its simple, easy to navigate interface

It’s nearly festival season. And while they’re loads of fun, they can also be super chaotic, especially if you’re not prepared. So, we’ve put together some top phone tips and tools to help you get the best from the fest. Must-have phone accessories for festivals.  Portable power bank.Festivals aren’t short. You’ll probably be there from Thursday to Sunday at least. And your phone’s battery will really be put to the test. So, packing a high-capacity portable power bank (one that’s at least 10,000mAh) is key. Then, you’ll be able to keep your phone charged all weekend, letting you capture every moment and stay in touch with your mates. After all, it’s easy to lose them in a big crowd!Look for one that’s lightweight and durable. Then you can carry it around without adding too much bulk to your festival bag.  Waterproof phone pouch.Muddy fields, spilled drinks and rain are all part of the festival experience. Remember, we do live in the UK. So, you’re almost definitely going to encounter a