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In August last year, we shared some of the biggest technological developments of 2021 and how we can expect them to not only shape our world, but impact our everyday lives. By popular demand from our wonderful Community, we’re back with a 2nd edition! And this time, we’re going to showcase the biggest advancements you can expect to see in the world of tech in 2022. So, what’s new? Electric cars Electric cars have been getting better and better throughout the years. More economical, and a greater range means that frequent service station stops to recharge on long journeys are no longer an inevitability. In fact, last year, President Biden announced a challenging new target for the US: Half of all vehicles sold in the country would use electricity rather than petrol by 2030. Naturally, that means that car manufacturers all over the world are ramping up their electric vehicle production and innovation (up by 30% in 2021!). While Tesla are currently the first brand that springs to mind when we think of electric cars, it’s going to become a much more competitive market in the not-too-distant future. Smarter smart homes Smart home tech has been around for a number of years now, and the chances are you’ve already got one or two devices dotted around your home already. In 2022 and beyond, the smart tech you use every day will become a lot more integrated – and you won’t need to be so choosy about which voice assistant or platform you use. In the past, compatibility of certain devices was a bit of an issue. You’d go to buy smart lights, or a doorbell, or a speaker only to find they’re compatible with one particular platform, like Alexa, Google or Siri. This year, all the big smart tech players are planning to release an update so that their tech works with Matter. This is a new standard that was formerly called ‘Project Connected Home’. Matter allows all these different smart devices to communicate with each other regardless of the voice assistant it’s made for! Next time you shop for your smart home kit, look out for a label that says it works with Matter. That means it’s pretty much as adaptable as it gets. Tech for health Every time we go to the gym, we see more and more people wearing Apple Watches, fitness trackers and other kinds of connected health and fitness tech. And with good reason! These trusty devices are great for giving us near-accurate insights into our health, and even specified recommendations on how to boost our fitness. Occasionally, however, a device comes along that completely changes the game. At the world famous CES tech show in Las Vegas in January, tech company Movano introduced the Movano Ring. This ring may look simple enough, but it can track a whole host of useful stats including your heart rate and body temperature. It can detect when you’re napping, and can even accurately make both short and long term personal health recommendations. We can’t wait to see it hit the shelves! What about phones? It’s no secret that smartphones are getting incrementally better, but we’re expecting to see quite a few exciting refinements in the smartphone world in 2022, beginning with the launch of the all-new Samsung Galaxy S22 range. We don’t know what improvements Samsung will make on the awesome S21, but they haven’t let us down yet. So, stay tuned… Elsewhere, here are the smartphone tech features we reckon we’ll be seeing a lot more of in 2022: 5G Connectivity When it was first launched in the UK, 5G connectivity was a feature that was saved exclusively for the more flagship smartphones, like the S21 and Google Pixel 5. Now though, most of the latest phones have superfast 5G capability, and you can even get your hands on a good 5G phone for less than £300! Want to make the most of 5G on iD Mobile? Don’t forget to check our list of iD Mobile 5G approved phones. Even higher refresh rates We’ve spoken about refresh rates a number of times, in particular when smartphones first made the leap from 60hz to 120hz in 2020. Like 5G, this was initially saved for the pricier phones out there. After all, a higher refresh rate makes everything you do on your phone look so much smoother. However, we reckon the best phones of 2022 will go beyond that 120hz benchmark, transforming mobile gaming for the better. And if you don’t want to splash out on one of the pricier phones out there, we reckon you’ll start to see solid mid-range smartphone sporting that 120hz refresh rate too. That’s twice the refresh of the average TV! Snap! Smartphone cameras make up for their lack of zoom ability with some extremely nifty software and artificial intelligence. Over the years, the massive gap in quality between phone photos and digital camera photos has become smaller and smaller. And we’re expecting more of the same from the big phones of 2022. Many tech youtubers have long told their viewers that the big thing that separates the best smartphones from the more affordable handsets is the camera ability. But they’ll also tell you that even those mid-rangers can take some pretty fantastic photos and capture video that stands the test of time. And, now that tech journalists are predicting 50MP lenses to become a base this year, that just gives an indication of how much better your smartphone camera work is about to get. More power, faster Gone are the days of turning up late to college or missing the train to work because you forgot to charge your phone. Fast charging has saved all of us bags of time over the years, and it’s getting even faster. In 2021, Chinese smartphone brand Xiaomi launched a ground-breaking phone that was capable of charging at 120 W (Nearly 10 times faster than what was previously considered fast charging. At only 17 minutes to reach 100%, it set a new standard. While it may be a while before we see 120 W charging on the majority of phones out there, we’re still expecting most phones to cut their charging times with bigger, more economical batteries, and more powerful chargers. Watch this space… Those are the big tech updates we’re excited about from the past 3 months. What are you guys excited to see launch in 2022? Did anything from CES catch your eye this year? Let us know in the comments below.

NFC has been available on smartphones for quite a while. You might have noticed it in your settings, and there’s a good chance your phone is using it right this moment! But do you know exactly what NFC is, and what you can use it for? Read on to discover more… What exactly is NFC? NFC stands for Near Field Communication. It’s a type of wireless connection that sends data between devices that are within short distance of one another. It’s designed to work best at roughly 10 centimetres distance, and this is seen as a major security benefit. After all, you’d be sure to notice a potential hacker acting suspiciously just a few centimetres from your phone. Sony and BlackBerry (RIP) were the first to introduce this tech to their phones way back in 2011, and it’s grown to become a big, important feature ever since. What can NFC be used for? NFC lets you share data between NFC-equipped devices, but it also means you can connect two devices together too. For example, many headphones and speakers feature NFC, letting you pair your phone with a quick tap. This saves time scrambling around for an aux cable or scrolling through that list of Bluetooth devices to find the speaker you’re looking for NFC also makes it simple to share videos, photos and other details. Just touch two compatible phones together, select the 'tap to share with other nearby devices' feature, and your chosen content will be transferred instantly. Another really handy thing you can use NFC for is storing tickets on your smartphone. When you buy train, plane, gig or festival tickets, make sure you download them onto your phone. That way, you don’t need to keep hold onto a physical ticket for months in advance. When the time comes to use that ticket, load it up and you’re ready to get it scanned. It’s also great for getting around London if you don’t have an Oyster card. Whether you’re at the station barriers or getting on the bus, reach for your phone and tap it to the reader – it’s really as easy as that. But the thing that NFC is most famous for? Making secure and easy payments with your smartphone or smartwatch. Here’s how… Using NFC to pay with your iPhone If you’re an iPhone owner, you can use Apple Pay in places that accept contactless card payment. It uses an NFC conenction between your iPhone and the card reader. To set up Apple Pay on your iPhone, you need to use the Apple Wallet app to store your credit card or debit card info securely. Go to Settings > Wallet, and tap ‘+’ in the top right corner, and follow the on-screen prompts to add a new card. When your card is verified, tap Next, and you can start using Apple Pay straight away. Using NFC to pay with your Android smartphone If you’ve got an Android smartphone, you can use Google Pay to spend your cash without coins and notes rattling in your pocket. Simply open the app (or install it if it’s not already on your phone) and add a payment method. Then, turn on NFC in your phone’s settings and you’re good to go. When you want to pay for something, just wake up your phone and hold its back to the payment reader for a few seconds (you don’t even need to open the Google Pay app). A blue check mark will then appear on your screen, showing you the payment has been successful. If it doesn’t, just try holding your phone in a different way - your NFC antenna could be placed somewhere different. Should I use NFC? Why not? It’s quick, secure and extremely versatile. Plus, it hardly uses any processing power – so it won’t slow down your phone or leave you without a way to pay when you’re out and about. Now that all major phones have an NFC chip, there are more apps than ever designed to use NFC. That tech is playing an important part in making our lives a little easier! And, while you’re here, don’t forget about QR codes. If you’re not sure what they are, don’t panic – the chances are that you’ve used them many times already (the NHS Covid-19 Vaccination Pass is a QR code). Unlike bar codes, these strange Lego-like squares can store a lot more information and there’s no limit to what they can be used for! Check out our guide to QR codes to learn more. Those are the basics of Near Field Communication and how it’s come to be such an important feature. Contactless phone payments, storing usable boarding passes, pairing with headphones with a simple tap – none of these things would be possible without NFC. What’s the most innovative way you’ve seen it used? Let us know below!

Celebrating International Mother Tongue Day February 21st marks a very special day in the calendar: International Mother Tongue Day. So, what’s it all about? Officially proclaimed by UNESCO in November 1999, this day is dedicated to protecting and preserving every single language that’s used by people around the globe. It’s about recognising the beauty in our diverse cultures, making an effort to understand and familiarise ourselves with cultures that aren’t ours through multilingualism. In other words (excuse the pun), when we dedicate ourselves to learning a new language, we automatically take a step closer to unifying with others from all walks of life. The idea of a special day to recognise the relationship between language, heritage and culture actually originated from what is now Bangladesh (formerly East Pakistan). When the Pakistani government declared Urdu to be the sole national language of Pakistan in 1948, many people fought for Bangla, the mother tongue of the majority, to be recognised too. This struggle continued for many years, and it’s a rare instance in human history of people sacrificing their lives for their language. It’s this strength of feeling and original language movement that the modern International Mother Tongue Day commemorates. There are many things you can do to celebrate the day in your own individual way, be it research into other cultures you find inspiring, or even reach out to friendly faces and neighbours in your area and take a genuine interest in their heritage and mother tongue. However, if that seems a little daunting, we reckon the best way to get the most out of the day is by taking the plunge and learning a new language. And there are plenty of apps that can help you. Whether you’ve got a passion for Portuguese, a fondness for French or even want to learn how to use sign language, there are plenty of fantastic apps that can help you on your journey! Here are a few of our favourites: Sign BSL Available on Android and iOS. This app is a bit different to your average language learning platform. Sign BSL is essentially a 20,000 word plus dictionary for British Sign Language, and it’s incredibly simple to use. Simply scroll through the words in the database, or search for specific words you’d like to learn, and you’ll be taught how to sign it in video form. No awkward diagrams or step-by-steps, just learn by example! Not only is learning to sign an extremely useful skill, but it’ll help you connect with those around you who may be deaf or hard of hearing. Be part of positive change for a more inclusive society and give it a go! Duolingo Available on Android and iOS. Duolingo has been a mainstay of the App Store and Google Play Store for over 10 years, and it’s one of the most popular language learning apps in the world. It works by turning language learning exercises into super fun games. You’ll start off with basic verbs, sentences and phrases, and as you progress, you’ll learn new words every day until you feel that natural fluency taking effect. Every lesson is easy to digest and short enough to train your brain on the journey to work. With Duolingo, you can choose from over 30 languages to learn for free, and you can track your achievements and progression along the way. You’ll be duo-lingual in no time! Busuu Available on Android and iOS. This one comes with a big community to help you on your way to multi-lingual mastery. Busuu not only helps build your vocabulary but even helps improve your accent. When you learn with Busuu, you get achievable targets and a personalised study plan to keep you on track. Plus, you can even get feedback from native speakers to make sure you’ve found your voice. It’s not all about learning new words, either. Depending on what language you learn, words are ordered differently in a sentence. Busuu gives essential grammar tips on word order, using the right verb tense and loads more. It’s worth upgrading to Busuu’s subscription scheme as it unlocks grammar exercises, quizzes, feedback from fellow subscribers and downloads to keep you productive when you’re offline. Memrise Available on Android or iOS. If you need some structure to retain those new words and phrases, Memrise is the perfect language learning app for you. Choose the language you want to learn and the app will lay out a structured path for you. Recap your knowledge at the end of each lesson with timed tests, and set goals like how long you want to study to get the most out of every session. There’s plenty of lessons to dabble in if you’re trying out the free version, but there’s also a paid membership version that unlocks all the premium app content. If you really want to learn that language to a fluent level, we’d recommend going premium. Rosetta Stone Download Rosetta Stone on Android and iOS. Everybody’s heard of Rosetta Stone. Rosetta Stone offers a practical and comprehensive language learning experience, whatever and however many languages you’d like to learn. The app teaches you to think in the language you’re learning by displaying a picture with the word, instead of a translation. A handy in-app phrase book helps you speak with confidence as you become multi-lingual. Refine your accent with the apps’ TruAccent speech engine, and with a little dedication, you’ll be speaking like a native. This one isn’t cheap, but it is undoubtably brilliant and has flexible pricing options to suit you. The 12-month subscription option offers unlimited language courses for £15.75 a month, while a lifetime subscription requires a one-off payment of £349. However, when you consider all the new opportunities and experiences that you can gain from learning that lingo, it’s more than worth it in our books. Those are the language learning apps we find ourselves using the most frequently at iD Mobile HQ. Give them a go and connect with other cultures, or even use them to build a greater connection with your family’s heritage! How are you planning to make the most of this International Mother Tongue Day? Let us know below!

The iD Mobile guide to saving money in 2022 For many people out there, December is undoubtedly the most expensive month of the year. All the Christmas prep: the presents, the food, the travelling, the reunions with friends and family at gloriously indulgent restaurants… sometimes you have to brace yourself when that monthly bill arrives. It’s no wonder that ‘staying on top of finances’ ranks so highly as a New Year’s resolution! However, tightening the purse strings after the festive season doesn’t necessarily mean you need to drastically change your lifestyle. Nor does it mean you have to immediately stop going to the places or doing the things you enjoy! All it takes is a little planning and organisation, and you’ll be amazed at how much money you’ll save, and how much more in control you’ll feel. Here are a few things you can do to save this year… Whatever you’re planning, set yourself a budget This one sounds simple, but when you’re making big and exciting plans, budgeting is the way forward. You won’t be unpleasantly surprised when you see how much you’ve spent, and if you do go over budget, you can accurately rejig finances around instead of leaving it to sort itself out. Setting a good budget puts you one step closer to your savings goals. Banking and saving from your phone is a real head start - it puts you in charge of the stats that really matter. Apps like Moneybox put all your savings accounts and ISAs into one place that’s easy to track, while both Monzo and Revolut have some incredibly innovative saving features that do all the hard work. Any time you spend money, the transaction is placed into categories like Entertainment, Groceries, Eating Out and Transport, so you get a detailed breakdown of how much you’re spending on certain things. Not only do you know where your money’s going, but you can use that info to adjust your spending in one area to improve your finances, instead of cutting back on everything across the board. However, the one standout saving feature is Pots. You can create a Pot, to save money for a specific thing like a holiday, house deposit or even your monthly bills. Move money into your Pots whenever you need, lock them so that you don’t spend money that’s reserved for important payments and goals, and unlock the pot when the time comes. You can even set it up so that any spare change left over from transactions go straight into it. You never know, the change from those morning lattes could end up being your ticket to somewhere exotic! Saving-savvy plug-ins Just because you’re on a money saving mission, doesn’t mean you need to stop buying the things you need online. Nor does it mean you have to miss out on great deals! Keeping an eye out for discount and promo codes online means that you can get those must-have shoes, that stylish coat or even satisfy that pizza craving even cheaper at the checkout! Sites like Vouchercodes and Hot UK Deals have always got brilliant offers, so check back every now and then. Better yet, a great plug-in or browser extension does all the hard work for you. It knows when you’re on a particular retailer’s website and gives you a list of promo codes that may apply to your order. Download Pouch on your Google Chrome browser, and you’ll get stacks of codes ready to use whenever you fancy a takeaway or buy anything online. Or, if you don’t fancy combing through all the discount codes one by one, go for Honey. It automatically applies each code to your basket for you to see if any apply. If they do, you’ll instantly see your order total drop. Get deals that are even better than the offers you see advertised! Get paid to shop If you’re like us, whatever you’re buying, you do most of your shopping online. So, why shouldn’t you get all the benefits? With sites like Top Cashback and Quidco, you can earn money from the purchases you make when you’re browsing the web. It’s easy to get started. Simply sign up on the website and use it to follow onto the retailer you want to buy from. When you order something, the cashback site receives a commission from the sale and they then share a portion of that with you! There’s a whole host of shops you’ll be familiar with that are signed up, so you’re able to get money back on loads of purchases you make. Get into the habit of accessing the shops you love to browse from the cashback site you join. You never know, you could end up saving hundreds over the course of 2022. Since you’re shopping online, you’re likely to use a credit or debit card to make payments. Some credit cards, like American Express, offer brilliant rewards just for using your card. So, be sure to take a look and see which credit cards are offering the best reward schemes! If you’re a new cardholder, the AMEX Platinum Cashback Everyday card is an ace option. You’ll get 5% cashback for the first 3 months (£100 max), then 0.5% up to £10,000 spent and 1% on £10,000+. Not bad at all… Answer surveys Love to tweet or give your take on the news, different products and brands? Why not get paid to do it! Did you know you can get paid to fill in online surveys and give your opinion on a variety of things? Some free survey websites will reward you with things like Google Play Store credit or Love2Shop vouchers, while others, like Crowdology, give you a choice between cash via PayPal or Amazon gift cards. And they’ll pay you up to £10 for every survey you complete! Getting started takes a matter of moments. Just register on a survey site (there are loads) and wait for new surveys to get sent to your email inbox. Once they arrive, fill them in and start reaping the rewards. Don’t worry, you won’t be answering the same questions again and again. They can be about anything, from movies to video games, news to sport. Get involved! Those are just a few of our suggestions on how to save and spend savvier in the new year. There are plenty of things you can do to make sure you’re on top of finances, but the best thing you can do to get started is to check your balance at regular intervals. That way, you’ll know exactly how much is going in and out of your accounts. Have you got any tips of your own on saving after the Christmas and New Year period? Don’t keep them to yourself, share them with the Community in the comments below!

Taking a solo staycation the perfect time to unplug and relax, or try out that new thing you keep talking about – here’s our rundown of the best ways to get the most out of your staycation. Staycations often take place somewhere locally like a hotel, campsite, or holiday apartment - it’s the perfect way to take a break without all the travel and expense of a regular holiday. So why should you take a solo staycation? There are plenty of reasons: • Unplug and take a well-earned break. • Save cash by keeping travel costs down. • It’s a great opportunity to learn more about where you live. So with all that in mind, let’s run through or tips for getting the most out of your solo staycation: 1. Treat yourself to a pamper day Have you been wanting to check out that new spa that opened up down the road, or soothe your aches with a relaxing massage? Now’s your chance. What about a beauty treatment? There are plenty of apps to help out, like Urban, PRIV, or Zeel which lets you book professional treatments, straight to your home, office or hotel. Hey, it’s your staycation, why should you have to do all the legwork? 2. Get your chef on and cook up a storm Taking some time out gives you a great opportunity to brush up on those kitchen skills. And there’s no shortage of free recipe apps to help you get inspired. A few worth checking out are BBC Good Food, Tasty, Big Oven and Food Network. You’ll find apps for all of these, whether you’re on Android or iOS. You can also save time buying the ingredients for your next culinary masterpiece by using an online grocery service like Ocado, Amazon Pantry, Amazon Fresh, and mySupermarket. Most of the main supermarkets have free apps too, so if you’ve got a favourite, they’re likely to offer a delivery (Aldi and Lidl might be the only exceptions). So now you’ve got no excuse, get that chef’s hat on and learn how to bake that cake (and eat it, of course). 3. Try out some local events Whatever you’re into, you’ll usually find local events to suit you, or why to try something totally new? Events come in all shapes and sizes from, music and comedy gigs, car shows, art exhibitions, or open-air theatre shows – and you’ll often find plenty which are completely free. A great way to find out about local events is by using location services (geotagging) in your social media apps like Facebook and Instagram. Geotags let your social media, and even Google, build a profile of where you go and what you like to do, they can then send you alerts about local events that might interest you. It’s a great way to get recommendations for events you might not normally find out about. If you’re not too keen on sharing your location information, there are plenty of apps to help you find out what’s going on in your area. Some of our faves are Eventbrite, Skiddle, Stubhub, DICE and TodayTix. 4. Be your own movie date Ok, let’s get this out of the way from the get-go, there’s nothing wrong with going to the cinema on your own and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise! Plenty of people enjoy solo cinema nights - it costs half as much and there won’t be any arguments about which movie you want to watch. But, if you’re not keen on heading to the cinema alone, why not recreate the experience at home? Get yourself some popcorn, open a bottle of wine and close the curtains. Services like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video mean you’ll have no shortage of movies to get stuck into. 5. Take a class and learn something new Fancy learning a new language, trying your hand at a life drawing class or buying yourself some cowboy boots and having a go at line dancing? Ok, maybe not the latter, but you’ll often find loads of local classes in all sorts of things, all you have to do is look. Obby.co.uk is a great place to start if you’re looking for something fun like pottery, dance or jewellery making. If it’s something more practical you’re after, there are plenty of sites that’ll match you up with courses like Skillshare, Coursera and Udemy. 6. Get active A staycation is a perfect opportunity to get your endorphins flowing with some exercise, so dust off that bike, get your trainers on and get out there. Websites like https://about:blank feature cycling routes in your area uploaded by other users to help you get started. Get motivated by building your own training plan with apps like Nike Training Club, JEFIT and Freeletics. Or if you fancy something a little more tranquil, find a local Pilates or yoga class using MINDBODY. 7. Unplug completely with some guided meditation There’s no doubt that meditation can be hugely beneficial. It can help you think more clearly, feel more energised, control anxiety, reduce depression and lots more. But don’t take our word for it, check out what the NHS says about mindfulness and meditation. Your staycation is the perfect opportunity to give meditation a go and don’t worry if you haven’t got a clue where to start – as always, there are plenty of apps to help out. Some of our favourites are Headspace, which is perfect for beginners, or The Mindfulness App which is great for helping you stay motivated with progress updates and challenges. So, whether you’re planning a weekend of relaxation all to yourself, or an activity-packed two-week staycation, we’ve hopefully given you plenty to get inspired about. Got any helpful tips on solo holiday-ing? Share your comment below. If you’re looking to get the family involved in your next staycation, take a look at our guide to making it a special local retreat.

It’s no secret that joining a gym is such a popular resolution every new year. Though the festive feasting and relaxation are always a yearly highlight, the time comes when you’ve got to regain that motivation and strive for a healthy body and mind. It doesn’t have to mean running straight to your local gym on January 2nd and signing up for super-duper deluxe membership. There are plenty of things you can do to look after your health! Here are a few ideas that we’ve found incredibly useful for health and fitness goals… Keep an eye on your food intake Looking at your diet is the best place to start when planning for your health. And no, we don’t mean cutting out everything you love and sticking exclusively to salads indefinitely. What we mean is, everything in moderation! When you track what you eat and plan your meals in advance, you can plan a more effective workout routine – but more on that later. Here are a couple of apps we think are perfect for recording what you eat: See How You Eat: Free with in-app purchases on Android and iOS . Let’s be clear: nobody enjoys calorie counting. It’s time consuming and can often feel like writing a diary entry after every meal. But it doesn’t need to be that way. With See How You Eat, you take pictures of your meals instead of typing every element of the meal and working out the calories. This is a surprisingly effective way to adjust your eating habits. People that keep a food journal tend to make healthier choices and become more conscious of portion size, two big ways to improve your diet! And if you’ve got a personal trainer or fitness guru in your corner, you can just send them a screenshot of your 9-day food intake rather than and endless list. Easy peasy! MyFitnessPal: Free with in-app purchases on Android and iOS . You’ve probably heard of this app before from avid gym-goers and fitness fanatics, but did you know it’s great for tracking food intake? Whatever you eat, whether it’s a meal or just a snack, you can quickly add it to your food diary by scanning the barcode or typing it into the app’s database of over 14 million foods. Once it’s logged, you can look in depth at your nutrition intake and accurately see what’s working for you and what’s holding you back. Need meal inspo? You’ll find loads of inventive and healthy recipe ideas right there as well. Make those calories count! Keep active Picture the word ‘exercise’ and you’re probably thinking about a row of treadmills in a typical gym that plays loud music on a loop. But it doesn’t need to be that way! In the height of the lockdown period in 2020, we adapted to restrictions and become more creative in our fitness routines. Why not be creative again? Whether it’s a step-by-step yoga guide on YouTube, circuit training in your local park or a Couch to 5K, finding the regime or type of gym that works for you is important for nailing those long-term goals. Check out our suggestions: Barry’s Bootcamp: It may be a gym, but this is not your average place to work out. Barry’s Bootcamp is all about high intensity interval training (HIIT). Split into two rooms, Tread and Floor, you can stick with either strength training or cardiovascular exercise, or mix it up and do both. Barry’s routine offers up to a 1000 calorie burn-off over the course of a session, with brilliant instructors that help you work efficiently towards your goals, whatever they may be. Promising an elevated heart rate throughout the entire workout, this is a gym that makes every second of training count. Give it a try but be warned… it’s not for the faint hearted! F45 Training: Need a bit of team spirit to keep yourself motivated during exercise? That’s what F45 is all about! The F stands for ‘functional training’, and sessions are a mix of circuit and HIIT style workouts that are designed for everyday movement. As you may have guessed, every session is just 45 minutes, making it easy to squeeze an effective workout into even the busiest schedule. You’ll meet loads of fantastic people with similar goals, so you can motivate and inspire each other to peak fitness. Three days a week are dedicated to cardio, three are for resistance-based workouts, and one is a hybrid. Pick the sessions you want to attend and go for it! It’s a great system, and it means sessions never have the chance to get boring, so you’re less likely to slip back into unhealthy habits. Treat yourself to a fitness tracker The best gyms have high-tech equipment that’ll give you stats like calories burned, heart rate and time spent on a particular machine. But what if your routine isn’t gym-based? What if you want more comprehensive stats about your full workout, not just one exercise at a time? If that sounds like you, consider a good fitness tracker as your new gym buddy. FitBit Fitness trackers like the Fitbit Charge 5 can really prove invaluable in making each workout count. Yes, it can count steps, calories and heart rate, but it can do so much more. It measures your resting heart rate to build a better picture of your fitness, and awards you with Active Zone Minutes for the time you spend at cardio, fat burn or peak heart-rate zones. When you’re back home after an evening gym session, the Charge 5 can even help you manage stress and track your sleep, so you gain as much from rest as you do from exercise. Clever! And if you have an Apple Watch, there’s no shortage of amazing health and fitness tricks you’re keeping up your sleeve. The latest Apple Watches can take an ECG from your wrist, measure blood oxygen levels and track all kinds of workouts – not to mention store your favourite workout tunes. Nike Training Club Free on Android and iOS Want a ‘personalised’ personal trainer on your phone? Nike Training Club is one of the most useful fitness apps around! It’s packed with more than 185 workouts, and they’re all completely free to use. It has everything from strength and endurance sessions to mobility and yoga, and every session is led by a world-class Nike master trainer armed with plenty of expert advice. Create personalised training plans to fit in with your schedule and fitness requirements, and you’ll be given special daily exercises (‘Picks For You’) based on your routine. The more you train with Nike Training Club, the more personal your recommendations become. Simple. Take the time to work on your mind, too Physical health is only half of the story - mental health is equally important. Having the motivation to actually exercise starts with your mind of course! So, it’s just as vital to set time aside to work on meditation, alleviating stress, and working through any negative thoughts that may hinder your progress. Luckily, there are some brilliant apps out there for getting your mind into shape. Here are two we’ve found particularly useful: Headspace Available on Android and iOS Headspace is one of the best mindfulness apps around. It’s designed to give everyone the tools to process thoughts and emotions without becoming overwhelmed by them. You’re asked to imagine your thoughts as passing cars on a busy road, while Headspace helps you build the resilience to sit and watch them go by. Just let the cars pass – don’t focus on a single one! Headspace familiarises you with the basics of meditation with a free 10-minute essentials course. Every session is either three, five or 10 minutes long, so you can pick a session that fits perfectly into your schedule. Every session is easy to follow, and there are even sessions designed to introduce kids to the skill of meditation early on. Once you’ve done the free trial you’ll need to pay for more sessions, but £9.99 a month for a clear, stress-free mind is well worth it! Breethe Available on Android and iOS Breethe is an ace all-in-one app for the mind. It’s a great help in combating stress, anxiety and sleepless nights with masterclasses on meditation, mindfulness and much more. You’ll find relaxation music and sleep sounds to help you catch some zzzz’s peacefully, bedtime stories and visualisations to keep you feeling positive, as well as breathing exercises and inspirational talks, Whatever you want to get out of meditation, you’ll develop inner peace and personal growth along your journey. Breethe has quite a few free meditations to help you get started. And if you’re really getting into it, you can go premium for just £12.99 a month. Relax, unwind and develop the mental tools you need to take on each day and achieve your goals. There you have it, just a few of our favourite ways to help keep your mind and body healthy. What kind of workouts do you find most effective in your fitness routine? What goals do you plan to achieve for your mental and physical health in 2022? Let us know below!

Narrowly missed out on our amazing Black Friday offers and feeling a touch of FOMO? Relax! We think everyone should be able to get an incredible value deal here at iD, so our deals don’t end in November. That’s right, we’re treating everyone to epic deals for the festive season, too. Let’s get started with our Christmas SIM Only offers. As you probably know by now, we’re all about ‘no fluff, just the good stuff’ at iD Mobile. That means features you’ll love, like Data Rollover and Bill Capping, a Help and Support area where you can find the answers you need, and amazing value. Well, this month, we’re throwing in a Christmas gift too. Throughout December, we’ll give you a Currys gift card worth up to £50 when you buy a selected 12 or 24-month SIM Only plan. Starting at £10 a month for 12 months, you’ll get 20GB data, unlimited minutes, and a £25 gift card to spend on the tech you love. And it doesn’t stop there – here’s our pick of the best SIM Only deals this month: Contract length Monthly cost Data Minutes Currys gift card 24 months £16 Unlimited Unlimited £50 24 months £10 30GB Unlimited £25 12 months £18 Unlimited Unlimited £50 12 months £16 100GB Unlimited £50 12 months £10 20GB Unlimited £25 With savings like this, how can you say no to unlimited data? If you’re after a 12-month contract, we’ll give you all the data you can use for £18 a month, and we’ll give you that £50 gift card as a thank you, too. And if you want to lock in that unbeatable deal for the long term, go for unlimited data for 24 months for only £16 a month. Not bad at all! Get cashback with our festive Samsung deals Since it is the season of giving, why not be a friend to yourself as well? If you’ve got your eye out for a phone that can take Christmas family photos that’ll stand the test of time, we’ve got awesome deals on a range of top Samsung phones. It’s guaranteed to be love at frost sight! So, what’s the deal? It’s simple! We’ll give you up to £150 cashback when you buy a selected Samsung 5G phone with us. Get £100 cashback when you get the impressive Samsung S21, or the big £150 when you choose the beastly Galaxy S21 Ultra. However, if you’re after a more affordable Samsung that’s still packed with 5G speeds and a ton of features, we haven’t forgotten you. Our festive Samsung deals have something for everyone! Let’s break it down: Samsung phone Cashback offer Galaxy S21 Ultra £150 Galaxy S21+ £120 Galaxy S21 £100 Galaxy A52s 5G £80 Galaxy A32 5G £30 Whether you’ve got your heart set on something from the boundary-pushing S21 range, or you’re simply after a great value Samsung 5G phone with multiple cameras, you can bag yourself a new Samsung AND get cashback this Christmas. Ho ho ho! Christmas Competition Time: There was plenty of energy in last month’s Community competition! We asked you guys about your favourite phone release of all time, and your fantastic responses truly sent us down memory lane – everything from the legendary Motorola Razr to the tough-as-nails Nokia 3310. We love that you guys are as passionate about phones as we are. And speaking of energy, our prize this month may just make your Christmas, and help you get your 2022 off to a flying start. Why? Because we’re giving one lucky iD Community Member the incredible Samsung Galaxy S21 AND a Fitbit Charge 5! That’s in-person quality calls, super-fast 5G and beautiful screen, and an awesome activity tracker to keep on top of all your health stats. We’re talking workouts, heart rate, sleep, and even stress. Kickstart the new year in style! How to enter: We want to know ‘What was the greatest Christmas gift you ever received, and why?’ It could be any present, from anyone special in your life, so long as it has a good story! Feel free to add a photo of the gift below, too. The closing date for entries is 23.59 (GMT) on 15th December 2021, so be sure to post your entry in the comments section below before the deadline. T&C’s apply. Best of luck and have a wonderful Christmas!

Great gifts and amazing food aside, there’s one reason that Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year, and that’s the quality time we spend with family and friends. It’s a chance to unplug from the world and make brilliant memories with those nearest and dearest to us. Not every family’s Christmas Day follows the exact same traditions. Some are ready to break out the board games as soon as the Christmas pudding’s finished, others like to fire up the Nintendo Switch for a Mario Kart grand prix, while others love a festive movie before moving on to swapping gifts. If you’re stuck for things to watch or play together as a family, read on! Bring out the board games! If there’s one time of year you can convince everyone to get involved, it’s Christmas. Sure, we might end up flinging board pieces at each other in frustration, but we'll all be closer for it in the end. Here are a mix of games that can be played offline (i.e on a board) and on your phone, together. Of course, offline gaming usually requires a little prep - like getting the kit itself, or making sure you've got the right amount of people. But there's nothing quite like some simple, analogue fun. There’s a reason these games have been around for a while. And gathering at the table is a great way to have some laughs and (friendly) competition. Plus, with so much screen time throughout the year, it can be good to take a break and do something a little easier on the eyes when holiday season comes. Monopoly How to play: We can’t kick off our list without mentioning the most ‘love it or hate it’ board game out there, Monopoly. The aim of this game is to become the wealthiest player by buying, building, renting and selling property on the board. It can be quite tense, and everyone seems to bring their own rules, so be prepared! Why play: Monopoly is the ultimate ‘all ages’ game. It’s perfect for kickstarting a Christmas Day games marathon with a little competition, and it’s a great way to let the kids learn through play. Decision making, money management and determination – just three skills Monopoly can help build. And even if your Christmas 2021 is a bit quieter than usual, the app version (Android, iOS) is the ideal game to play long distance with family and friends -it’s got video chat built in! Tiddlywinks How to play: Place a pot in the middle of the table and then take it in turns to fire winks (small plastic discs) into the pot using a squidger - a larger disc. It starts off with just trying to get your winks into the pot – but can soon escalate into serious strategy. Why play: It’s a game that requires genuine hand-eye skill and planning. Plus, you can play on your own, with multiple players or even games in pairs – which amps up the competition. Tiddlywinks terminology includes phrases such as gromp, scrounger and crud (a power shot). There’s also a World Championship. So, get your eye in over Christmas and perhaps 2022 Tiddlywinks glory awaits! Articulate! How to play: Played in teams, the aim of the game is to make it all the way around the board to the ‘Finish’ segment. Players must guess what their teammates are describing in 30-second rounds. For every correct guess, the team moves on one segment, and each segment contains a specific category that they’ll play in the next round. It could be famous people, nature, world, an action, or even a random round. So, you have to bring your A-game! Why play: Unlike Monopoly, Articulate! isn’t likely to take up your whole Christmas Day. It’s very fast-paced, made to be played in teams, and a great laugh. Just make sure you don’t say “Rhymes with” or “Sounds like” and there won’t be any rule-based debates. However, once the competition heats up, it’s guaranteed to be loud and intense. Bar Skittles How to play: Bar skittles is the much smaller version of classic skittles – but the object is the same: knock over the skittles. The ball is attached to a pole and each player gets three goes to knock down 9 skittles each time – with a maximum score of 27 per turn. The game continues until someone reaches 101. Why play: It’s fun! This version requires much less space than traditional skittles and you’ll even get a bit of a workout swinging the ball and then collecting up the scattered skittles. Great for burning off some of those mince pies! Take the game online Is your Christmas set to be a smaller affair this year? Or are you planning to include friends and family that live far away? If so, why not throw a few online and console games into the mix! Since most people will have access to a screen, you won’t need the equipment needed for the more traditional games. You’ll also find loads of traditional board games in app form – so you can still get your board games fix remotely. Christmas pub quiz How to play: This one’s easy. Just gather all players on Zoom, House Party, Whatsapp etc. Each team has to come up with a series of questions to outfox the other teams. Winner is the team with the most points. Why play: If your extended friends or family are spending Christmas apart, this can be an excellent opportunity to gather everybody together and do something fun. Plus, because you set the questions, you can put together rounds totally personalised for your family or friends. Words With Friends 2 How to play: It’s classic Scrabble – but on your phone. Take it in turns to add your words to the board to rack up the highest score possible. Why play: It’s a great game for people who love words. Better still, Words With Friends 2 includes a Lightning Round – where two teams of five players go head-to-head against the clock. So, if you’ve got a family member who always takes waaay too long on their turn, this mode will make them get a move on! Free with in-app purchases on Android and iOS Uno How to play: Get rid of all the cards in your hand – using special cards to stop your opponents from doing the same. Just make sure that all players have downloaded and signed up to the app. Why play: The app lets you have a maximum of 4 players, so it might be perfect for your family. It’s a simple game but the ability to play a card that drops your opponent in it is great for a bit of festive rivalry! Free with in-app purchases on Android and iOS Mario Kart 8 How to play: If you have a Nintendo Switch and controllers for everyone, you’re in business! This isn’t your average racing game. You’ll need to master drifting around corners and using items like shells and bananas to outwit the other racers. Start off with a single race to test out the family’s skills before moving onto the big competition! Why play: Anyone that’s ever played a Mario Kart grand prix with their friends will tell you how much fun it is, and the latest Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is a brilliant instalment. 48 courses (including the dreaded Rainbow Road), 10 cups to choose from and a stack of great characters. Plus, there’s nothing better than using your red shell on an opponent that’s gaining on you. Our pick of the best festive family films to stream this year When you’re all ‘board-gamed out’ and Christmas dinner is done, the next best thing to do is crack open the chocolates and cosy up for a good Christmas flick as a family. So, we’ve combed through Disney +, Netflix and Amazon Prime’s festive flicks to give you a few of the best Christmas movies available to stream. Klaus (Netflix) This charming, animated film from the creator of Despicable Me is a Santa origin story set in Norway. Jesper (Jason Schwartzman) is packed off by his father to the joyless town of Smeerenburg, where he has to learn the ropes of the family trade – running the postal service. There’s only one problem. Everyone in Smeerenburg is so unfriendly that no one sends each other letters. With the help of schoolteacher Alva (Rashida Jones), Jesper encourages the children of the town to write to a mysterious hermit toymaker (J.K. Simmons) living in the nearby woods. This quirky mix of old and new is one for kids and parents, with hilarious and brilliant performances from the cast. Watch Klaus on Netflix Nativity! (Amazon Prime) Nativity! is the story of two schools that compete every year to produce the best nativity play, only this year things are a little different. After teacher Paul (played by Martin Freeman) is overheard boasting to his rival that a top Hollywood producer is coming to see their play, the lie snowballs into something much bigger. It’s now up to Paul to not only make his nativity play brilliant, but brilliant enough to get the attention of Hollywood. It’s funny, unmistakably British, and features a whole host of familiar faces from shows and movies you love. Watch Nativity! on Prime Video. Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey (Netflix) One A-lister packed, frothily magical Christmas tale coming right up. Everything, from Jingle Jangle’s spectacular musical numbers to its steampunk fantasy world, is completely over the top… but completely enchanting. Jingle Jangle follows Jeronicus Jingle (Forest Whitaker), a once famous toymaker who’s left bitter and broke when his apprentice steals his ideas. But Jeronicus is shaken out of his years’ old funk by the innocent optimism and creativity of his granddaughter, Journey. More merriment and Christmas joy ensues. Watch Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey on Netflix Home Alone (Disney +) No Christmas movie recommendation list can be considered complete without throwing this one in. It’s the classic festive family movie. In case you’ve never seen Home Alone before (you’re in for a treat), mischievous 8-year old Kevin (Macaulay Culkin) is accidentally left behind by his family who are off to spend Christmas in Paris. While at home, Kevin uses his wit and imagination to prevent two bumbling burglars from robbing his family’s house. 31 years later, it’s still guaranteed a laugh. Watch Home Alone on Disney + What traditions do you keep with family and friends on Christmas Day? Are there any board games that always get an annual outing, or a holiday-themed movie that you always go back to? Maybe the time-honoured ‘Die Hard is a Christmas movie’ debate has become a tradition in itself! Whatever you love doing with family and friends over the festive period, let us know below. Merry Christmas!

We’ve all done it. A great new phone comes out that ticks every box, and boom! You’ve bought it and you’re upgrading. You back up all your files and apps, pop the SIM out of your old phone and into the new and that’s it. You’re all moved over and ready to crack on with your new, next-gen smartphone. But what are you going to do with your old phone? Whether you want to make a gift of it to a family member or mate, sell it, donate it to charity or keep putting it to good use, there’s always a better option than simply ‘out of sight, out of mind’. Here are just a few of them: Give it as a gift! We all know the latest smartphones are getting better and better, but phones from just a few years ago still work perfectly well in today’s 5G focused world. Think about the flagship phones that launched just two years ago: iPhone 11, Samsung Galaxy S10, Google Pixel 4, Oneplus 7 - these are all still brilliant phones, even now. If your old phone is still as snappy as ever, why not give it to that mate that’s looking for a new phone? ‘Tis the season after all… Make sure you’ve done a couple of important things before you gift it. Remember to save all the data and important files stored on your old phone elsewhere. Back it up to a laptop, transfer it over to your new phone, or save it to the cloud. That way, you won’t be in danger of losing your notes or holiday photos once you’ve given it away. Next, be sure to do a factory reset on the phone before boxing it up. As you may guess, a factory reset wipes all of the data you’ve stored on your phone and takes it right the way back to how it was when you first bought it. Your mate can set it up exactly the way they like, and they’ll get that new phone feeling in the process. Win win! Sell your phone online Even if you’re not out to make loads of money, it’s surely more worthwhile to sell your old smartphone than leave it hidden away to be forgotten! As with giving your phone away, be sure to remove all your data and perform a factory reset first, so it’s like new when the lucky buyer powers it up. If your old phone is a flagship from a few years ago, you could try your luck on Facebook Marketplace, eBay, or Gumtree, get a quote from a site like Fonebank, or take it to a gadget store and see what they’ll offer. Or better yet, did you know you can trade your phone in right here at iD Mobile? Just head over to the iD Mobile Trade-in page, let us know what phone you have and the condition it’s in, and we’ll give you a quote. Post it to us, we’ll assess the condition and send you a bank transfer within one working day. Easy! Sound good? Find out more about iD Mobile Trade-in right here. Why not donate it to a worthy cause? Old phones, provided they’re in full working order, are a more than welcome sight in charity shops. They tend to make for a higher ticket item, the money all goes to a good cause, while the buyer gets to grab a great phone at a bargain price. Everyone’s a winner. We mentioned Fonebank before, which is a great site for getting a fast quote for that old mobile and selling it quickly. But they’ve also got a fantastic charity initiative with WaterAid. When you sell your phone, you can choose to donate a percentage, or the full value of your phone directly to WaterAid. Why not clear your home of unused tech and do a good deed at the same time? Put it to good use Even if your old phone’s showing its age with its battery, speed or camera capability, there are still ways to give it new life. One of the best ideas is turning it into a security camera. Plenty of apps let you view the live camera feed of one phone on another, and setup is incredibly easy. Just place your old phone in a good spot and download Alfred. With this handy app, all you need to do is sign into the same account on both phones to keep tabs on what’s happening around the house. It’s got motion detection, two-way talking and even low-light filtering, so it’s just as useful at night as it is in daylight. Or, if you have a little one at home, why not turn that old smartphone into a baby monitor? Just place it near their cot or bed (keeping it plugged in if battery is an issue) and you’re halfway there. You can either video call the old phone over Wi-Fi using Skype or similar services, or go for a specialist app. If it’s an Android phone, the BabyCam app is made for doing just this job. You just need two devices connected to the same Wi-Fi and you’re ready to go. Recycle it! Did you know that roughly 80% of the materials used in your phone are recyclable? Among the materials that make up your phone, some are precious metals. If you can’t find another use for your phone, and you don’t want the hassle of selling it, consider going for the green option and recycling it. You can recycle old mobile phones at most local recycling centres, so check to see where your nearest one is. Or, why not put an ad on Freecycle or Freegle to see if you can find any takers locally? But, as with selling or gifting your phone, make sure you’ve cleared all your data and that you’ve got all the files you need, first. Those are just a few ideas on what to do to save that old phone from gathering dust! Have you got an old phone around your home? What are you planning to do with it? Let us know below…

In need of some Christmas pressie inspo? It can be pretty tricky nailing the perfect gift for all the special people in your life! Whether they’re really into their phones, gaming, fitness,, or a mix of everything, Christmas present planning can turn into something of a project. But when you get it right, there’s no better feeling than the gift of giving. Here are some ideas we think will make their Christmas… Gifts for phone lovers Are they thinking about getting a new phone? Here’s our pick of the smartphones that’ll put a smile on their face: For flagship fans - Google Pixel 6 There’s so much to love about the Google Pixel 6, but nothing more than the reimagined camera system. Pixel phones are known for having impressive cameras, and this is without doubt the best yet. So, if that friend or relative is into their Insta, you can’t go wrong with this phone. We love the anti-blurring editing feature. If they happen to capture a dud photo where someone’s face is blurred, the clever editing software automatically picks out a moment when it was in focus. And we love the Magic Eraser too, which lets you remove passers-by and unwanted photobombers from the background of snaps. No more waiting around for that fleeting picture-perfect opportunity! For those who love cutting-edge phone tech – iPhone 13 Buying for someone whose old iPhone is starting to show its age? Then treat them to this year’s iPhone 13. When it comes to capturing videos there’s a new Cinematic mode, which we absolutely love. Start shooting a video, and the focus automatically shifts with the action on screen. It can even anticipate when a new object is about to move into shot. Really clever stuff. There are three other phones in this series: iPhone 13 Mini, iPhone 13 Pro, and iPhone 13 Pro Max. If you’re not sure which one would make the best gift, check out our guide to the iPhone 13 range. For those that are big fans of the Samsung approach to Android – Samsung Galaxy S21 If they’re constantly on their phone for work, entertainment, catching up with friends and more, the Samsung Galaxy S21 can handle all of it. It’s a seriously powerful phone, combining 5G speeds and a laptop-like 8GB of RAM. Put simply, that means they can run a stack of browsing pages alongside plenty of open apps, and it still won’t slow down. And If they never miss a good photo op, the S21 nails it first time with a triple rear camera and a 10MP front camera. For those that want a phone with plenty of style - OPPO A54 5G The Oppo A54 offers incredible value for a phone with 5G tech onboard. It may be priced like a budget phone, but there’s plenty of amazing features they won’t believe. The AI-enhanced quad camera won’t disappoint, especially when it comes to those Christmas day wide-angle family photos. There’s a huge battery too, which’ll keep it going throughout the day even if they’re far from a charger. And if they’re more about standout colours over subtle greys and blacks, the shimmering Fantastic Purple finish will make a big impression. For those that want the best of everything - Motorola Edge 20 Lite If they love to get stuck into games and shows on the move, the Motorola Edge 20 Lite’s OLED screen will make them very happy. It’s by no means small, so moving from the TV to continue that episode is no biggie. Elsewhere, the triple camera setup is fronted by a whopping 108MP sensor. With the amount of detail it lets in, you may want to make them designated photographer at all future get-togethers and nights out. The ultimate stocking-filler accessories What about a gift to make their new phone experience even better? We’ve got you… Gear4 phone case Made from the same material as military-grade body armour, every Gear4 mobile phone case will protect their phone from drops of up to 4m. So there’s no need for them to worry about knocks and bumps. Even if they’re the ‘clumsy’ one in your group. Belkin wireless charging speaker If they’re always on their phone, and we mean always, grab a Belkin wireless charger stand with Bluetooth speaker. This great all-in-one lets them play music from their phone or take calls even when it’s charging. And with up to 10W of charging power, they’ll be back up and running in no time. Gifts for gamers Know someone that loves exploring new worlds and taking the competition to opponents? With something for beginners, pros and everyone in between, this Christmas is set to be a great one for gamers… For festive family fun – Nintendo Switch The Nintendo Switch is probably the most versatile games console that’s ever been created. Hook it up to a TV for a traditional gaming session, prop up its built-in screen to create a portable tabletop console, or attach the Joy-Con controllers to make it into a handheld. And, of course, there are the games. Nintendo are famous for their colourful, family-friendly games like Super Smash Bros, Animal Crossing and The Legend of Zelda. The Switch is also one of the best consoles for playing with mates, as you can link up to eight Joy-Con for party games. And who doesn’t love a Christmas Day Mario Kart grand prix? For the chatty teammate – Pulse 3D wireless headset Got a friend whose 2D, flat-sounding audio makes them a less-than-effective teammate? Help them level up with a headset that reimagines the sound in immersive 3D. The Pulse 3D Headset works with all PlayStations, but it’s especially great for PS5 owners. They’ll feel right in the middle of every battle, quest and cutscene. And it’s a real lifeline when it comes to team comms. Both built-in mics are noise-cancelling, eliminating any annoying background buzz. And they can go wireless with a 12-hr battery life or plug it straight into the console - whatever works for them. For VR Lovers – Oculus Quest 2 Know someone who wants to give virtual reality gaming a go? The Quest 2 is an all-in-one system, making it the ideal choice for anyone who’s just getting started. They won’t need a powerful gaming PC to play. Just a smartphone and the Quest 2 itself. The headset and controllers will let them see, hear and move within 360⁰ games and experiences, and, with 50% more pixels than the last Quest, the games are looking seriously good. Gifts for fitness fans Help them get a head start on their new year’s resolution with something that’ll really help them level up in the gym… For those on a health kick – Fitbit Sense This is a great all-round smart watch that focuses on much more than just exercise. Of course, it covers the same ground as most trackers – steps, distance, calories. But your gift-getter can also stay on top of their stress levels and heart health. It’ll tell them when their heart rate’s unusually high or low, and even track their skin temperature. Is your friend just getting started on their fitness journey? If so, this is a good choice. They get a 6-month free Fitbit Premium trial along with their Fitbit Sense. So, they’ll have a heap of personalised guidance, advanced insights and access to the Fitbit community to help them keep on track. For those that love the great outdoors – Huawei Watch GT 2 Pro Are they into hiking, climbing, or maybe your less-run-of-the-mill sports like skiing or golfing? The Huawei Watch GT 2 Pro has over 100 different workout modes, so they’ll get an accurate read whatever they’re doing. There are lots of handy features for when they’re off the beaten track too. Things like sudden weather change alerts to let them know when it’s about to pour down. And then there’s trajectory return, letting them quickly find their way home. Plus, the GT 2 Pro lasts 2 weeks on a single charge so they don’t need to worry if they’re on a big excursion. For the morning jogger – Mobile phone armband Have you drawn the fitness fanatic in your group for Secret Santa? If so, they’ll be very happy to see one of these in their Christmas stocking this year. A good armband will stop them from thinking about their phone while they’re pushing for their personal best. Instead of their smartphone rattling around in their pocket while they stream their workout tunes, it sits safe and secure on the outside of the arm instead. Some phone armbands even have space for cash and cards too, so they can easily pay for that post-workout latte on the way back. Gifts for music aficionados Got a friend that’s always in charge of the aux cable or always has a new tune to share? One of these gifts will be music to their ears! For those that never leave the house without headphones – Google Pixel Buds A-Series If you’ve got a music lover on your gift list, these earphones may be their best Buds. Pixel Buds A-Series are designed for deep bass and clear vocals, so their playlist always sounds top notch. They don’t need to keep fiddling with the volume controls either. Adaptive Sound matches their surroundings – whether that’s a busy train station or quiet walk in the park. Plus, these Buds can do some pretty amazing things – from searching Google to real-time foreign language translation into their ears. Now they’ll always know where they’re going! Top tip – if they’ve got an Android phone, these earbuds are a real winner. They’ll pair up with a single tap. For that friend who loves a social gathering – JBL Xtreme 2 Know someone who likes to meet up with mates? this might be the speaker for them. The Xtreme2 is a powerful Bluetooth speaker that can go anywhere. It’ll also last 15 hours on one charge and pairs with two phones or tablets – so everybody can take it in turns to DJ. This speaker is also tough. Its IPX7 rating means that it can take a splash – handy for when BBQs and beach days are back. For those that want to hear every little detail - House of Marley Stir It Up Turntable Record players aren’t just about retro appeal. This House of Marley Stir It Up turntable not only lets them play their treasured records, but they can even convert them to MP3 through their Mac or laptop. And it doesn’t need to be part of a bulky sound set up. This turntable lets them connect to Bluetooth speakers too, so they can put a record on and then wander off with a speaker. Gifts to help them get their day started Any one of these ace gifts would make a fantastic addition to their morning routine… For those that love a café visit – Nespresso VertuoPlus pod coffee machine Are they a coffee lover? We don’t blame them. There’s nothing quite like a freshly brewed coffee on a chilly winter’s morning. If they are, why not give them the coffee shop experience at home? With one push of a button the Nespresso VertuoPlus can whip up a barista-style brew. From frothy cappuccinos to creamy lattes, they’ll get a huge choice of delicious coffees at their fingertips. And they’ll have you to thank for it! For those that want a good hair day every day – Dyson Supersonic Know someone who wants to look their best, but is worried about the damage heat styling can do? The Dyson Supersonic may blow them away. With intelligent heat control and a far-from-traditional design, it’s not your average hair dryer. The Supersonic is perfect for nailing the frizz-free salon-style look without any unnecessary heat. And the new flyaway tool will help them pin down those pesky stray hairs and get a smooth, shiny finish. For those that have smart style – Michael Kors Darci Gen 5e smartwatch While most smartwatches look quite sporty, Michael Kors smartwatches really stand out. The Darci Gen 5E smartwatch has the look of a designer analogue watch, with a gold, rose gold or silver linked metal strap and circular watch face. But it’s got a customisable AMOLED display, too. So, it combines the best of modern tech and traditional style. And it’s powered by Google’s Wear OS. So they can make calls, use Google Fit to track their workouts, make contactless payments with Google Pay and use a ton of Google Assistant features. All while keeping that ‘timeless’ (sorry) traditional watch look. There you have it – just a few ideas to help you really boss the gift of giving this festive season. Have you managed to get all your gifts sorted nice and early this year? What are you hoping Santa brings you this Christmas? Let us know below!

Who doesn’t love a great deal? It doesn’t matter if you’re after a couple of seats on a plane somewhere exotic, a new big TV, or an amazing phone offer, the best time to treat yourself is Black Friday. And while the first two may not be in our wheelhouse, our Black Friday event this year has some fantastic phone offers you really won’t want to miss. Whether you’ve got your smartphone all sorted, or you’ve completed your contract and you’re still happy with the phone you’ve got, now’s the time to find the perfect SIM Only deal for you. All the data you could want, unlimited minutes and unlimited texts, all for an incredible price. With our 1-month SIM Only deals this Black Friday, you can save up to £5 on selected plans! Get 16GB of data for just £8 or go bigger at 40GB for only £10. If you’re after something more long term, we’ll give you unlimited data, as in as much as you can use, for only £16 a month on 12 and 24-month SIM Only plans. So, if you’re ready to change up your plan and find an alternative that really works for you, there’s never been a better opportunity. What about those of you after a shiny new phone in time for the festive period? Well, we’ve got you guys covered, too. It’s not only our SIM Only deals that’ll turn heads this Black Friday. We’ve got unbeatable deals on our phones that can do it all. We’re talking some of the best flagship smartphones around, at a price that may just make your Christmas. Got a new iPhone on your list for Santa this year? Get your hands on the brilliant iPhone 13 (128 GB) and save up to £72 when you go for unlimited data. Browse, stream and game away without ever running out! Want to go Pro? Save up to a huge £192 off on selected 24-month plans when you get the iPhone 13 Pro (128 GB) with iD Mobile during our Black Friday event. It offers the best the Apple experience yet - all new iOS 15, Cinematic Mode for phone footage with a professional edge, and a battery that just won’t quit. Combine that with unlimited data, and you’ve got a real winner. And for the Android fans, we haven’t forgotten you either. We’ve got brilliant deals featuring big brands like Samsung, OPPO and more. We’re offering the Samsung A32 5G with 20GB data for just £18.99 a month with no upfront cost. That’s enough to stream 4,000 songs! Fancy going pro? Treat yourself to an early Christmas gift with the Motorola Edge 20 Pro or OPPO Find X3 Pro on a 24-month plan and you’ll get up to £170 off too. It’s only fair after all! Our Black Friday event is here! We don’t like to restrict the best deals we have to just one day in the year. We think everyone, be they brand new iD Mobile customers or seasoned Community Superheroes, should get a fair chance to get their hands on a winning deal. That’s why our Black Friday event doesn’t simply start and end on the final Friday of November. That’s right – iD Mobile Black Friday offers are now live, right the way up to the final day of the month, Tuesday 30th. That gives you plenty of time to find yourself a phone or SIM deal you’ll love. Don’t forget to check out our full line-up of ace Black Friday deals over on the iD Mobile website. Is there anything in particular you’re planning to snap up this Black Friday? Are you more of an online festive shopper or like to soak up the excitement in store? Let us know in the comments below. Competition Time: To celebrate in true Black Friday fashion, we’re giving you the chance to win a £100 Currys gift card to spend on some epic new tech! To enter this fantastic competition and celebrate our Black Friday Event, simply tell us: what is your favourite phone release of all time and why? To give your entries some spark, feel free to include a picture of the phone you’ve stated in your answer. Standard T&Cs apply. Good luck!

Our Black Friday Event 2021 Planning to get your hands on a brand-new phone or treat yourself to a new SIM deal in the lead-up to Christmas this year? iD Mobile is the place for it! Our Black Friday event is already well and truly under way and features some incredible deals you won’t want to miss. You can save up to £72 when you go for unlimited data with the cutting-edge iPhone 13, or go pro with the Motorola Edge 20 Pro or OPPO Find X3 Pro and get a massive £170 on a 24-month plan. And that’s just for starters. Our Black Friday Event Competition! But it’s not just about amazing deals. At iD, we want to get your festive season off to a flying start, so we’re launching a fantastic prize draw competition to help you kickstart Christmas in style. Here’s how it works… Anyone who purchases a new pay monthly plan between Saturday 20th and Friday 26th November, will get the opportunity to enter our prize draw competition. Once you’ve made your purchase and moved onto the order confirmation page, simply click the banner to enter or visit idmobile.co.uk/black-friday-competition. Entering the competition is easy. All you have to do is answer the question about one of iD Mobile’s key features (we can’t tell you what the question is yet, but you’re guaranteed to find some helpful hints on the Community)! While you’re there, don’t forget to submit your first name, email address and order reference number to make sure your competition entry is valid. So, what’s the prize? Not prize, prizes! We’re giving ten lucky iD Mobile customers a Currys digital gift card to spend however you like. Winners will be randomly drawn from the entrants that answer the question correctly. Here’s what you could win: First prize - £1,000 Currys gift card First four runners up - £500 Currys gift card Five remaining runners up - £100 Currys gift card The competition will remain open until 23rd December, and the prize draw will begin on 3rd January 2022. We’ll let the winning entrants know and send out prizes on the week beginning 10th January. You’ll need to be over the age of 18 to enter, and your iD Mobile account needs to be in good standing. Remember, only one entry per person! Doubling up won’t double your chances. Other than that, you’ll find all the other important legal info about the competition over at idmobile.co.uk. Best of luck! T&Cs apply

We’ve reached 50,000 members! The iD Mobile Community has reached a big milestone this month. That’s right! From humble beginnings, this brilliant Community has grown to a whopping 50,000 members. Wow! We couldn’t be happier to see so many people join. So, from all of us here at iD, to all of our members and iD Superheroes, thank you for making the Community the epic place it is. It’s been a massive year for the Community. Since August 2020, we’ve doubled in size, and that means more iD members making the most of the knowledge on offer in our Help Articles, and learning from our awesome Legend rank holders. Not to mention, all our other smart cookies and helpful newcomers on their journey to Superhero status, sharing their own questions, tips, and help and support. You’ve all made the Community an awesome place to be. The Stats… Thousands of topics have been created in the past year alone, along with around 5,000 positive content helpfulness votes and 3,300 likes for helpful replies. In total, nearly 40,000 posts have been made since August last year. That’s more posts than any other year since the Community was created. You guys sure have been active! Here’s a quick breakdown of the numbers since our brilliant Community started: Posts so far: 75,720 Topics created: 25,310 Replies created: 50,420 Likes given: 8,560 Positive content helpfulness votes: 9,380 Those are some pretty big numbers considering the iD Community was created a little over three years ago. And that’s all down to our brilliant members. As we mentioned earlier, our iD Community has gone through quite the journey to get to this point. In our quest to create the ultimate place for our customers to hang out, we’ve introduced new categories, made content easier to find, ran many ace competitions, redesigned the Community homepage, rebranded the Community ranks, introduced our new help and support hub and shared our latest knowledge and top tips. And we’re just getting started… We’ve got loads more exciting new projects to share with you, so stay tuned! The Community Superheroes… You guys have been brilliant making this place what it is! So much so, in 2019 we introduced the Superhero element to our Community. We wanted to create a way for the most knowledgeable and active members to thrive, reward them for everything they do, and make sure that when fellow members have their questions answered, they can see that the responder knows what they’re talking about! Since then, legends have been made. Our top three all-time leaders, @WelshPaul , @Gregor and @terrywebbs have earned thousands of points between them by chatting with other members and answering their questions. They’ve gained quite a few knowledge badges and earned great rewards along the way (we’re currently working on something extra special for you too!), and we couldn’t be more appreciative of them. As the Community continues to expand, who’ll join them at the top of the leaderboard? Only time will tell… And just because you haven’t quite reached legendary status just yet, don’t think you’ve gone unnoticed. We see you! We’ll be doing everything we can to help you climb through the ranks and become an expert on all things iD. One of the people we’ve seen rising through the ranks recently is @andewhite. You’ve been very busy helping fellow iD members on a ton of topics including data, switching, phone reception and security code SMS messages to name a few. Thanks for getting stuck into the Community and embracing the Community spirit! You’ve already ranked up to ‘Hero’ level in a short space of time, and we’re excited to see your onward journey to Superhero level. Let’s see how you get on, how many points you can earn and how far you can climb. We believe in you! Once again, thank you to every single one of our 50,000 iD Community members. It’s you that make this place great, and we can’t wait to share even more milestones with you in the future! Competition Time: To celebrate achieving this awesome milestone we will be giving away 5 x £50 Currys gift cards! That’s right! Five of you lucky Community members will win a £50 Currys gift card to spend on some amazing tech! To enter, all you need to do is: Comment below what you love about the iD Community, what improvements you'd like to see and what new features you'd like added. Good luck everyone! T&Cs apply Competition Winners: @chattergirl @IanMW @Oli1287 @R3dsid3bo5rd @Georgeasher

If you’re in the market for a new Android phone that can do it all, you’re in great hands with iD Mobile. Smartphones are getting better and better all the time, so choosing the right one for you can be tricky. Here’s our pick of the Android phones we love, to make that all-important decision a little easier. Samsung Galaxy S21 5G The Galaxy S21 5G has three rear cameras (with a big 64MP Telephoto Camera leading the way) and a huge 30x Space Zoom – which makes for some amazing close ups. It can even record in incredibly high res 8K at 24 fps, and you can pick out high resolution stills as crystal-clear, in-the-moment photos. It’s a content creator’s dream. Everything you do on the S21, from general browsing to multiplayer online gaming, feels super-smooth. That fantastic 6.2-inch AMOLED display supports a 120 Hz refresh rate, so every tap, swipe and press feels really responsive. And it adapts to your activity, so you can rely on the battery to keep going. Packed with an octa-core processor, 8GB RAM and fast 5G connectivity, the Samsung Galaxy S21 5G can handle speedy downloads, big apps and intensive multitasking. Check out the Samsung Galaxy S21 here Google Pixel 6 Want a phone that delivers the best of the Android experience to your fingertips? You’re looking at it. The Pixel 6 is Google’s first ‘flagship’ smartphone, and combined with 5G and Android 12, it’s a total game-changer. The first things you’ll notice about the Google Pixel 6 are the two-tone design and the all-new bar style rear camera layout. It looks completely different to any other smartphone we’ve seen, and it houses one of the best dual-camera setups yet. A 50MP wide and 12MP ultra-wide lens, teamed with a bigger sensor that lets in 150% more light than the Google Pixel 5. Put simply, Night Sight never looked this good. It’s also the first ever smartphone to feature Google’s own Tensor chip, designed to make the most of everything Android has to offer. If you thought smartphones had already peaked, this one is almost twice as fast as the Pixel 5 and offers the most layers of hardware security. So, your data is fully in your control. At 6.4-inches, the Pixel 6 sits comfortably between bigger-screen smartphones and more compact designs, so you get the perfect balance of comfort and immersive entertainment everywhere you go. And with a 90Hz refresh rate, the touchscreen feels as smooth as the phone looks. Treat yourself to the Google Pixel 6 with iD Mobile Samsung Galaxy A52s 5G Make no mistake: The Samsung Galaxy A52s is packed with amazing features you just wouldn’t expect on a mid-ranger. We’re talking 5G, a stunning 6.5-inch 120Hz Super AMOLED screen, battery that just keeps going and stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos tech. It’s like a full entertainment centre that fits in your pocket. That Infinity-O display isn’t just there to look good. It means the selfie camera is able to capture 32MP of bright, sharp detail, while barely taking up any screen space. On the back, there’s a quad camera fronted by a massive 64MP lens that gets the shot right first time. And when you switch to the 123° Ultra-Wide lens, you can capture sweeping landscapes and family photos like a pro. There’s bundles of space for your files, too. The A52s has 128 GB of built-in storage to take care of your apps, games, movies and music. But if you ever need more, you can add up to 1TB extra storage by inserting a microSD card. That’s roomier than most laptops! Find yourself a winning Samsung A52s 5G deal with iD Mobile Samsung Galaxy A12 If you’re after the smartphone essentials without breaking the bank, The Samsung Galaxy A12 ticks that box emphatically. It offers everything you need in a smartphone without the unnecessary frills: a lovely big screen, a bigger battery than many flagships and a design that keeps the phone comfy in hand when texting and calling. What’s not to love? Unlike Samsung’s Infinity-O selfie cam solution, Infinity-V houses the front lens in a dewdrop-style notch at the top. Plus, it’s able to record footage in 720p quality, making it a solid option for Teams meetings and family catch-ups over Zoom. After a new profile picture? The A12 can take photos that really capture personality and style. The quad rear camera is led by an impressive 48MP lens, but also includes a nifty depth camera. With this, it can fine-tune the background blur in your shots and put you front and centre for frame-worthy snaps. Elsewhere, we love it when a phone gives you the option to add more storage, and the Galaxy A12 is no different. 64GB is enough to help you get started, but, like the A52s 5G, you can always add more with a microSD card, whenever you need it. Pick your perfect Samsung Galaxy A12 deal with iD Mobile

Android: What’s new? Coming to the end of your phone contract and ready for something new? You’re in the right place. Since the last time you treated yourself to a new device, smartphones have got better…a lot better. These days, you can find a great smartphone to suit any budget. Here are a few of our favourites, and how they shape up against the smartphones of yesteryear. Samsung Galaxy A52s 5G One of the biggest developments to reshape the smartphone world recently is the introduction of speedy 5G. While it was an exclusive feature for the most premium phones only two years ago, we’re starting to see it introduced in mid-range handsets like the Samsung Galaxy A52s 5G. And it’s a hugely welcome addition. That’s not the only thing that’s new, though. If you’re moving on from the A52s 5G’s predecessor, the Samsung Galaxy A51, you’ll notice plenty more technological leaps. Like the display, for instance. They both have a 6.5-inch Super AMOLED screen, but this time around, Samsung have doubled the refresh rate to a flagship-standard 120 Hz. That means scrolling, gaming, and watching shows feels twice as smooth. And when you’re taking that perfect selfie, the new LED front camera flash will come in really handy in low-light settings. Elsewhere, the A52s 5G adds more power in every possible way. It’s got a much bigger battery to keep you going for longer without a charge, and the RAM gets a 50% boost from 4GB to 6GB. So, you can flick between your favourite apps in any order and the phone will keep up the pace like a natural. Left your wallet at home? Not a problem. Samsung have added NFC (Near Field Communication) to the Galaxy A52s 5G, which means you can add all your credit and debit cards to Samsung Pay. You can even tap your phone to a pair of NFC headphones or speakers to connect instantly, without any trial and error. Smart! Find your perfect Samsung Galaxy A52s 5G plan with iD Mobile Samsung Galaxy A12 As we mentioned before, one of the new trends in today’s smartphone world is flagship features packed into more affordable phones. And in no other phone is this more apparent than the Samsung Galaxy A12. Many people instinctively go for flagship phones because they offer the best experience. But if you only plan to use your phone for the essentials like calling, chatting on WhatsApp or getting stuck into a movie on a long journey, the A12 may just be the phone for you. It has a huge battery (25% bigger than its predecessor, the A11) an incredibly comfy back with good grip, and a beautifully big screen to get lost in the action anywhere. While it doesn’t have 5G or bundles of RAM, it doesn’t hold back on much else. The quad camera setup is fronted by a big 48MP lens that’s versatile enough to capture a range of scenes in style. There’s also a macro lens that’s ideal for blurring the background in portraits, another neat feature that’s been added since the Galaxy A11. Plus, you can top up the storage to a huge 1TB whenever you like by adding a microSD card. You’ll never need to delete old files to make space. Pick your perfect Samsung A12 deal with iD Mobile Google Pixel 6 While smartphones have really stepped in recent years, it could be said that Google are leading the charge. While every Google Pixel up to the Pixel 5 was deemed a solid mid-range phone, the Google Pixel 6 is the brand’s first fully-fledged flagship. Add the new Android 12 operating system into the mix, and you’ve got a phone that matches revolutionary hardware with We love the unique camera design on the back, which breaks the trend of offset camera setups and subtle understatement to make them a real feature. Plus, the cameras are as good as they look. A 50MP wide lens and a 12MP ultra-wide, with the ability to capture jaw dropping night-time shots and even remove passers-by from the background in the post-edit. No more outtakes and practice photos - something that seemed impossible only two years ago. Elsewhere, Google have made the highly anticipated move from Snapdragon processors to their very own Google Tensor chip. This may not sound like a big deal, but the Tensor chip’s boost in power means the Pixel 6 is roughly 80% faster than the Google Pixel 5. Nearly twice as speedy opening apps, loading web pages and navigating through menus and sub-menus. It’s these little things that put the Google Pixel 6 up there with the most responsive, intuitive smartphones around. It’s a real winner. Discover your new Google Pixel 6 with iD Mobile Samsung Galaxy S21 5G/ S21+ 5G Looking for something cutting-edge? Samsung’s latest flagship S21 5G range is a real head-turner. The first major smartphone release of 2021, the S21, S21+ and S21+ Ultra all come packed with 5G tech to power through downloads and intensive multitasking. That’s something even the 2019 flagship S10 series didn’t have, and you’ll be amazed at how much it speeds up everyday functions. Both the Galaxy S21 and S21+ feature a triple rear lens setup led by a 64MP telephoto camera with an impressive 3x optical zoom. Or, if you’re taking snaps at a distance, you can really get up close to your subject with 30x Space Zoom. Both phones capture future-ready footage in 8K at 24 fps, and you can pick out an in-action high-res photo from your footage to use as a thumbnail when you share your clip. With the S21 range, you can create content like a natural. At 6.2-inches, the S21 5G is easy to hold and has a Dynamic AMOLED 2X display for bright, sharp images. The S21+ offers that same brilliant resolution with a notably bigger 6.7-inch screen. Both have a 120 Hz adaptive refresh rate compared to the Galaxy S10s 60 Hz, which we really adds to the snappy feel you get from both devices. Combined with 5G, mobile gaming never felt so smooth. Take a look at iD Mobile’s Samsung Galaxy S21 5G deals and Galaxy S21+ 5G deals Ready to upgrade? Ready to upgrade to a brand-new phone? If you’ve been with iD Mobile for a while, you could be eligible for a great value deal on a range of the latest handsets. Find out more about upgrades and find a deal you’ll love with iD Mobile.

‘Tis the season for new smartphone launches, where the biggest brands in the smartphone world unveil their latest innovations. September saw Apple unveil their game-changing iPhone 13 range, and now the titans of Android, Google, have launched their two best smartphones yet. We’re talking about the Pixel 6 and the Pixel 6 Pro. There’s been a lot of hype about these phones over the past few months in the run-up to their release. That’s partially because they’re the first smartphones to feature Google’s own custom-made processor, but there are plenty of other reasons to love these smartphones. Let’s take a closer look: How do they look? See for yourself! The latest phones in the Google Pixel family sport a radically different look to their predecessors. We love the unique ‘bar’ style camera module at the top, and the two-tone design above and below it is a real point of difference. Elsewhere, the selfie camera moves on both phones to the top centre, and both the front and back are protected by super-tough Gorilla Glass Victus. That’s just as well, as they may be too nice to cover up. Google have always opted for colour palettes that buck the trend, and this time around is no different. There are three different colour options for the Google Pixel 6, and another three for the Pixel 6 Pro: Choose from Sorta Seafoam, Kinda Coral and Stormy Black with the Pixel 6, and Cloudy White, Sorta Sunny and Stormy Black for the Pro. Whichever colour you go for, these phones are impressively stylish. And with the new Material You UI that matches your user interface with the colours of your wallpaper background, we think Google is really onto something exciting in the world of smartphone design. What are the screens like? The design isn’t the only area where Google have decided to do things differently. The screens on both of these phones are quite something. The Google Pixel 6 may be the smaller of the two devices, but it’s by no means small. At 6.4-inches, it’s a good size for watching movies and getting the most out of games, while staying comfy to hold when taking calls and sending messages. Plus, it feels as smooth as it looks thanks to a Full HD+ resolution and 90 Hz refresh rate. Google Pixel 6 Pro steps things up a gear, in every way. Much like its Pixel XL predecessors, it’s bigger at 6.7-inches. And speaking of pixels, the display gets the most from every single dot that makes up the screen. It’s a Quad HD+ OLED, meaning every little pixel is self-lit. Put simply, colours appear true-to-life when you browse through photos and watch gritty dramas. But that’s not all. The Google Pixel 6 Pro also boasts a 120 Hz refresh rate that drops down for less active apps. That means you still get that buttery-smooth scrolling, but it doesn’t waste any battery unnecessarily. Clever. Whichever one you go for, Google Pixel switches things up in 2021 with a fingerprint scanner built that sits underneath the screen. It feels like a logical place to have it, and means that secure access is only ever a quick thumb-tap away. The power of Google: When it comes to the processor that powers the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro, Google have gone back to the drawing board and crafted their very own smartphone chip. Not only does this break with their tradition of using Snapdragon processors, but the new Google Tensor chip in both phones is around 80% faster than the Pixel 5’s chip. Almost twice as fast. That’s a huge deal in 2021. It’s not just about speed, though. This chip is a real smart cookie. It makes both phones better at picking up speech and varying dialects, and it’s considerably more accurate translating on the go. More importantly, it adds the most layers of hardware security on a smartphone yet, and that means your data is in safe hands – yours. Both phones come packed with the Google Tensor chip and 5G connectivity, which is paired with 8 GB RAM for the Pixel 6 and a massive 12GB RAM for the Pro model. Pixel perfect pictures: When it comes to previous Google Pixel phone cameras, it’s been the software that’s stolen the show. This time around, the cameras are bigger and better across the board. Put simply, the Google Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro have the most advanced cameras Google have put into a phone. Both have a new 1/1.3 inch primary sensor on the back that lets in 150% more light than the Pixel 5. That means much, much better photos in light and dark settings. The dual camera system on the Pixel 6 features a new 50MP wide and 12MP ultrawide lens, while the Pixel 6 Pro adds an amazing 48MP telephoto lens to make it a triple. The standout features here are the reduction of blur when you take a snap, and the editing options after you’ve taken it. Laser detect autofocus keeps your subject in razor sharp focus, and if there happen to be any passers by in the background of that group snap, you can remove them in the edit with Magic Eraser in Google Photos. No more photobombs! When are the Google Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro available? Both the Google Pixel 6 and the Google Pixel 6 Pro are available for pre-order from iD Mobile right now, and we’ve got a brilliant offer for you! The Google Pixel 6 starts from £29.99 for 20 GB data with a £49.99 upfront cost, while the Google Pixel 6 Pro starts from £39.99 for 20 GB data, plus £49.99 upfront. And even if you’re still more than happy with your current phone, check out our top features of the new Android 12 operating system! Unwrapping and activating your new Google Pixel 6 or 6 Pro device: Please note that your new Google Pixel 6 or 6 Pro device may not be automatically running the latest Android operating system (Android 12). Please access the settings panel on your new device and check whether your new device is running the new Android 12 version. If your device is not running Android 12, then your device may not be able to connect to the iD 5G network, until it is updated. Your new Pixel 6 device should say: Software: SD1A.210817.036 O/S Version: Android 12

Looking to upgrade to a shiny new iPhone? iD Mobile has got you covered. We’ve got the latest and greatest iPhones, with everything that makes the Apple experience so good – all new iOS 15 software, effortless style, and cameras that set the standard. And you’re bound to find a top deal that works for you, right here. Let’s take a closer look at the line-up: iPhone SE: The SE delivers the best of the iPhone experience to suit any budget. It has the same processor that’s used in the iPhone 11, and a more-than-capable 12MP camera that’ll shoot instantly shareable 4K footage. That’s impressive. With a 4.7-inch screen, it’s the smallest iPhone available right now. But with a Retina HD display, the iPhone SE still delivers bundles of clarity and colour, and the handset feels super comfy and natural to use single-handed. Elsewhere, the SE can run intensive AR apps and offers 13 hours of video playback time. Plus, with up to 256 GB storage, you can download as much as you like. Discover the iPhone SE with iD Mobile iPhone 11: This 2019 flagship is still a seriously good phone. It’s 6.1-inches, so slightly smaller than the iPhone XS Max of the previous year, but still great for big screen action sequences and gaming on the go. You can forget taking your charger everywhere with you, too. The iPhone 11 can continuously play videos for up to 17 hours on a full charge, making it a solid long-haul flight companion. On the back, the cameras double up with a Wide and Ultra-Wide lens. It’s a versatile setup and able to capture frame-worthy images both close up and at a distance, with 2x optical and 5x digital zoom. Combined with Apple’s smart AI, you don’t have to be a professional photographer to get it picture perfect. Check out iD Mobile’s iPhone 11 plans . iPhone 12: There’s loads to love about the iPhone 12, starting with its Super Retina XDR OLED display. Because every pixel is self-lit, the iPhone 12 has plenty of sharpness and colour precision to make your movies and games pop. And at 6.1 it doesn’t trade in-hand comfort for the big screen experience. Backed by the A14 Bionic processor and its 5G compatibility, the iPhone 12 is an epic multitasker. It can download big files while you flick from app to app at the same time, without feeling any slower. Crank up the settings on your games, or move straight onto the next episode of your show without any waiting around. That snappy responsiveness is great news for both the front and rear cameras, too. You can get that perfect action shot the moment it happens with minimal shutter lag, or go Ultra HD at a beautifully smooth 60 fps when you record. Find your perfect iPhone 12 deal with iD Mobile . iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 Mini: With the newest iPhones, Apple have taken everything users love about the iPhone 12 and added more oomph to the hardware. It’s that good, the new A15 Bionic processor is currently the best performing smartphone chip around, a record that its predecessor, the A14 Bionic comfortably held until now. Elsewhere, the iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 Mini keep the same screen size as the iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 Mini. At 6.1 and 5.4 inches respectively, you can go large for immersive gaming and entertainment or compact for ergonomic comfort on the go. Whichever you choose, the Super Retina XDR display makes the content on screen really stand out. Flip the phones over and the dual camera system has improved, too. They can shoot in new Cinematic Mode, which shifts the focus between people in the frame, and the cameras can even capture 47% more light than the iPhone 12, making night-time photos more detailed. All that photography is going to use battery, but don’t worry. These iPhones have enough power to offer an extra 90 minutes of screen time compared to the iPhone 12. And with the base storage option doubled to 128GB, you won’t need to delete apps or photos to free up space. Treat yourself to a great iPhone 13 or iPhone 13 Mini deal at iD Mobile. iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max: The iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max are up there with the most powerful flagship smartphones around. That, along with its amazing triple camera system and ground-breaking battery make both phones a real winner. Both phones keep similar dimensions to the iPhone 12 Pro and iPhone 12 Pro Max, as well as the same screen sizes (6.1 and 6.7-inches), only this time Apple have doubled the maximum refresh rate to 120hz and increased the brightness. That means these phones offer the smoothest visual experience on an iPhone yet. Like taking photos up close to your subject? You’re in luck. When you move in with the iPhone 13 Pro’s ultra-side lens, it instantly triggers Macro mode. With this, you can get as close a 2cm away from what you’re photographing, and still get a detail-rich picture. Not only that, but the all new Cinematic Mode makes an appearance here too, so you can get really creative with your videos. As for the battery, the iPhone 13 Pro and Pro Max set new standards for smartphones. The iPhone 13 Pro can play streamed video for 20 hours, while the iPhone Pro Max clocks in for a huge 25. That’s over two seasons’ worth of TV entertainment on a single charge! Like the battery life, storage capacity takes a massive leap too. With options up to an epic 1TB of onboard space, the iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max are as roomy as it gets. Power up with the iPhone 13 Pro or iPhone 13 Pro Max with iD Mobile.

Stay toasty warm this winter with some of our favourite tech to beat the cold. We’ve gathered together a handful of handy apps and accessories to help you beat the winter weather this year. Weather apps It’s happened to all of us... you wake up, look outside and it’s a beautiful clear morning. So you leave the brolly and winter waterproofs at home, only for things to take a turn for the worst when you leave work. If only you’d checked before you left home! It’s hardly surprising to discover that there are loads of useful weather apps to help you stay prepared for an unexpected downpour. Here are a few of our favourites: Accuweather (iOS and Android) – It looks great and packed with loads of helpful features. Get alerts for rain, snow or ice and get minute-by-minute weather updates. Weather Channel (iOS and Android) – You’ll see weather forecasts up to 15 days in advance, get storm alerts and safety tips, and see it all on a map of your area. BBC Weather (iOS and Android) – It’s one of the best looking and easiest to use weather apps available. Get hourly forecasts up to 14 days in advance and see the day at a glance without having to open the app with its clever widget. JBL on-ear headphones Protect your ears from the cold while enjoying some hot chart-toppers with these JBL on-ear headphones. With Bluetooth connectivity, you can listen to your music without getting tangled in all those annoying wires, and a full battery will let you enjoy your tunes for up to 11 hours. Get the JBL T450BT Wireless Bluetooth Headphones Smart thermostats It’s the end of the day and you’re looking forward to getting home, putting the heating on and relaxing with a cuppa. But what if you could warm the house up for when you arrive? Great news, you can! The Nest Learning Thermostat lets you set the perfect temperature wherever you are. The Nest app is simple to use and the thermostat even learns your routine so you don’t need to manually adjust it. Don’t worry about forgetting to turn it off either, it can tell when you’ve left the house using the GPS in your phone and switch off automatically, helping to cut down your energy bills. Extra accessories Here are a few other ways you can use great tech to stay warm this winter: Touchscreen gloves – A twenty-first century invention to fix a twenty-first century problem – you just got a text but it’s freezing, do you leave it and check when you get home, or whip off your gloves and let your hands freeze? Touchscreen gloves let you use your phone while your hands stay nice and warm. They’re made with a special conductive material sewn into the fingers so they’ll work with your phone’s screen – clever stuff! Smart plugs – Smart plugs are a great way to get started with your smart home. They essentially make any appliance ‘smart’, use them on standard lights and set them to come on before you get home, or even plug a heater in so it starts warming the house when you leave work. Holiday apps – There’s only one way to truly beat the cold, and that’s to avoid it altogether. There are loads of great travel apps to choose from if you want to escape the winter blues. Here are a few to try: On The Beach (on iOS or Android) Teletext Holidays (on iOS or Android) TravelDeals24 (on iOS or Android) Have you found any clever ways to beat the cold using tech? Let us know in the comments below.

Meet the newest and most refined iPhone operating system yet… Even if you’ve got an iPhone and you’re not in the market for a new device, there’s still a big reason to love Apple phone launches, and that reason is a new OS. Whenever Apple launch a new flagship, you can be sure that a cutting-edge software release will come with it, and this year was no different. Along with the launch of the iPhone 13 family, iOS 15 went live to the world on September 20th, and it really builds on the best bits of the iPhone experience. At first glance, you’ll see a few subtle stylistic upgrades and refinements, but scratch beneath the surface and you’ll find nifty new features that are bound to make your phone feel smoother. Here are six new iOS features we’re loving right now: Don’t like your tab bar at the bottom of Safari? Change it! Tab bars at the bottom of your browser have always been a bit of a crowd divider. For many iPhone users, the update to iOS 15 has moved the address bar on Safari from the top to the bottom of the window. If you’re cool with that, no problem! If you miss it being at top, though, here’s how to switch it back: Go to Settings > Safari, then scroll down to Tabs, then switch to Single Tab. Okay, it’s not the most advanced feature, but what it shows is that Apple are making the iPhone experience ever more customisable. Your phone, the way you want it. We appreciate that. Get productive with Focus: If you haven’t started using Focus on your iPhone yet, what are you waiting for? This new feature is probably the best version of ‘do not disturb’ we’ve ever seen on a phone. Essentially, Focus is a super-customisable do not disturb function. When you switch to Focus, you can filter the apps you receive notifications from, the people who can ring you and apps and widgets on your home screen. And it’s not just one mode. You can set a mode for all kinds of activity, like work, mindfulness, cooking, sleep and workouts. When you’re in Focus Mode, your status will change in your messaging apps, so your contacts know you’re in the zone. Invite your non-iPhone friends to a FaceTime call: Here’s a biggie. FaceTime calls are no longer just for people with an iPhone, iPad or Mac. Now, iPhone users can create a link to a FaceTime call which can then be sent onto anyone, whatever device they use. Once they click the link, you can accept them into the call, and that’s it! They’re in. Dive into content with mates at the same time: While we’re talking Facetime, we have to mention the new Shareplay features available on iPhone. Ever get into a show that all your mates are watching, but you can’t talk about it because you’re not on the same episode? Say goodbye to spoiler alerts with Shareplay over Facetime. With shareable activities, you can now gather your mates to watch that latest episode or action-packed movie, or stream your favourite artist’s new album release, or chill with a podcast – all at the same time, even when you’re not together in person. It’s just the popcorn you can’t share. Live Text - Apple’s answer to Google Lens: Live Text is one of the more exciting features to roll out with iOS 15, and that’s because there are no limits to its use. Using your camera, you can hover over objects and signs to identify text, make phone calls, head straight to websites and loads more. Plus, it’ll even pick up on text in photos you’ve already taken. On top of all of that, Live Text can translate from other languages in a matter of moments, so we can’t wait to put it through its paces on our travels. Want to send a photo? Drag and drop it! This one isn’t futuristic, but it’s something that iPhone users have wanted for a long time. Drag and drop cuts out all the usual steps of sending a photo, video, file or link to contacts, whether it’s a single person or the group chat. For a photo, simply open the Photos app, hold down on the photo you want to send, swipe up to get back to the home screen at the same time, and tap to open the messaging app you want. Then, just drop it right into the chat and it’ll send. Easy. Which phones can update to iOS 15? iOS 15 is compatible with every iPhone from the iPhone 6S onwards. So even if your iPhone’s 6 years old, you’re still covered. Those are just a handful of the brilliant new things that iOS 15 can do. Already updated your iPhone and trying out new features? What’s caught your eye on you’re the new OS, and what would you like to see added next time around? Let us know below!

Google’s operating system just got a big refresh. Here are the new features we’re loving right now… It’s always exciting when you get that alert on your phone to say there’s a big new software update available, and Google’s latest OS release is no different. Android 12 brings some fantastic new features to Android phones, including better privacy and security, a fresh-looking interface and the most in-depth drop-down Quick Settings we’ve seen yet. Whether you’ve got an Android phone that’s around two years old, or you’ve just bought a new Android phone that ships with Android 11, you can expect to get that update ping real soon. In the meantime, let’s take a closer look at the finer points of Android 12: It’s a widget wizard! We all love widgets. They make your home screen personal with info that’s tailored and relevant to you. And with Android 12, they’re clearer to navigate. Widgets are now divided into the apps they belong to, and it should tell you how many widgets are available. It’ll even show you what the widget will look like on your phone before you pick it. Plus, we think the new stock Android clock and weather widget designs really make your home screen pop. To get there, just long press anywhere on your home screen until the options pop up, then tap Widgets. Keep it to yourself: Privacy is a big topic when it comes to phones, and we always recommend checking the permissions you give the apps you use. Take location, for instance. Some apps need to know your exact location, like taxi and food delivery apps. Others don’t need it at all, while some, like weather apps, only need an approximate location – they don’t need to know where you are turn by turn. That’s why Android 12 splits location permissions into two categories, Precise and Approximate, to put you in more control of your data. Now you can decide for yourself if the apps you download need to know exactly where you are. Speaking of privacy… Android have made some real progress with privacy features in this version, so we couldn’t just give it one spot on our list. The new Privacy Dashboard is a real step up from manually delving into each app’s permissions. On the dashboard, you can see all the permissions at a glance, like microphone, camera, location, and contacts. Under these categories, you’ll see which apps have permission to use them. You can even dive deeper and see an exact timeline of when each app used these permissions. Smart! Screenshot the entire thing: Here’s a feature we think everyone will use! Ever want to capture a snippet of an article or Twitter exchange in your WhatsApp group but can’t fit it all into one screenshot? Android 12 solves that bugbear once and for all with scroll capture. It’s easy to use – just take a screenshot like normal, tap on ‘Scroll’ and then scroll down to extend the image. Now you can share it all in a single snap instead of turning it into a thread. Power up with Game mode: Sometimes, it’s the slightest advantage that makes all the difference in grabbing the win. Like frame rate, for example. A high frame rate means smoother motion and more reactive controls, and now, your Android 12 phone will show you exactly what the frame rate is in real time. Head to Do Not Disturb mode, tap Schedules and you’ll find a few different profiles. Tap Game mode, and you’ll be taken to a menu where you can toggle FPS on or off. Plus, there’s a quick link to livestream your gameplay straight to YouTube. Colour co-ordinated style! If you’ve already updated to Android 12 and you’ve since changed your wallpaper, you might have noticed something new. The new ‘Material You’ feature creates a custom colour palette to match the colours of your wallpaper background. Those colours are then applied to your notification panel, system background and lock screen to make your phone look super-tidy and uniform. Why not try it out and give your phone a makeover? There you have it, just a few of the brilliant new things Android phones can do with the power of Android 12. There are plenty more features you can expect with the new OS, so why not explore them out for yourself? Let us know what new features you’re loving in the comments below!

Find out if your smartphone is beach-ready in this jargon-busting guide… Planning to relax to podcasts by the poolside on holiday, link up with friends at a festival or watch a movie whilst relaxing in the bath? Then you’ll be needing your phone by your side. But before you bring your trusty smartphone with you on your adventures or near water, you should know if it’s as ready as you are to take on the elements. And if not, how can you protect it? We’ve put together this handy guide to explain everything about waterproof phones, from IP ratings to a list of the most water-tight phones around right now. First thing’s first, let’s see just how waterproof your phone really is… How can I find out if my phone is waterproof? To find out how resistant your phone is to water, you need to know your phone’s IP rating. What’s that? An IP rating is essentially a two-digit number that tells you how good your phone is at keeping out dust particles and water. The first number refers to solid particles like dust and grit, while the second number refers to water. When a phone has an IPX8 rating, that means it has maximum protection against water, but hasn’t been tested for dust resistance. If your phone has an IP67 or IP68 rating, that means it’s fully water and dust-resistant. IP68 is the highest rating awarded to a smartphone. It means the phone’s been tested in lab conditions, is fully dustproof and can withstand being submerged in 1.5m of fresh water for up to 30 minutes. To find out what IP rating your phone has, you can find this info in the user manual. If you can’t find your manual or have already thrown it out (don’t worry, we’ve all done it before), you can search for your phone on GSM Arena. If it has a rating, you’ll see the number in the ‘Body’ section. What can you do (and not do) with a water-resistant smartphone? So, now you know how resistant your phone is, but there are a couple more things worth knowing before you jet off. An IP68 rating guarantees your phone is protected from fresh water only. So, it’s able to handle a splash of water, being used in the rain or even an unfortunate drop in the sink or bath. Even if your phone is water-resistant, you should dry it with a soft, clean cloth as soon as possible when it gets wet. Remember, a phone gets its IP rating by being tested with fresh water. That means it’s not tested against other liquids. Sea water is full of salt and swimming pools contain chemicals to keep the water clean. Neither get on well with smartphones, so remember to take it out of your pocket before you go for a swim! If you spill a drink like tea, coffee, lemonade, beer or wine or on an IP68 phone and quickly clean it, it should be fine. But don’t leave it too long, or you could be in trouble. What smartphones are the most water-resistant? iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 Pro: We’ve mentioned that IP68 is the highest rating for dust and water-resistance, but Apple are pushing for the toughest phones ever with the iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 Pro. They may have an IP68 rating, but they’ve been tested at a depth of 6 metres for 30 minutes, four times deeper than the industry standard. We expect every iPhone in the future to carry the same level of protection too, so you’re in safe hands. Samsung S21 Range: Got a Samsung Galaxy S21, S21+ or S21 Ultra? You’re in luck. All three flagship Samsung phones have IP68 protection against dust and water, so splashes shouldn’t be a problem. Samsung S20 Fan Edition: Water-resistant smartphones aren’t a new development at Samsung. In fact, every flagship Samsung phone since the Galaxy S7 and S7 Edge has had an IP68 rating, and the S20 Fan Edition is no different. We love the matte finish too, as it makes the phone feel even more durable. OPPO Find X3 Pro: If you’re after a tough, sturdy Android phone that can do it all, but isn’t a Samsung, the OPPO Find X3 Pro is a solid choice. It’s also got that all-important IP68 certification, and a design that’s inspired by spacecraft! Check it out. Are there accessories to make your phone more water-resistant? There sure are! If you’ve got a popular smartphone, the chances are that there’s a case or carry bag out there designed to boost its resistance to the elements. If you’re after maximum protection or want to capture underwater shots on your trip, a floating phone case is the way to go. These seal fully to prevent water from seeping in, and they keep your phone from sinking to the bottom of the pool or seabed. And the best bit? You can still fully use the touchscreen when your phone’s inside. It’s just the fingerprint scanner that won’t work, so make sure you’ve got a pattern or passcode set up. Those are the essentials of waterproof smartphones. If you discover your phone either isn’t rated for water-resistance, or hasn’t got the best rating, don’t worry. Like we said, there are plenty of accessories out there that can toughen it up. These cases have IP ratings just like phones, so make sure to look out for that number ‘8’. That way, you’ll know it’s the real deal! If you have any questions to do with a mobile phone’s water-proofing, let us know below!

Every year brings a new iPhone line-up and with them, new innovations that make the experience that much better. Whether it’s ground-breaking smartphone camera tech like Cinematic Mode, ever-smarter AI or an all-new, intuitive iOS operating system, the latest iPhones can do things that simply weren’t possible even just a few years ago. So, how does iD Mobile’s current iPhone line-up compare to previous generations? iPhone SE: The 2020 iPhone SE is a more entry level offering from Apple among the current range, but nonetheless a great way to get the best of the iPhone experience. The difference between the SE and the iPhone 6, for instance, is night and day. It’ll offer 5 hours longer battery life and has a higher 12MP camera that captures 4K 60 fps footage. But the biggest development is power. The A13 Bionic chip that powers the iPhone SE performs tasks 4 times faster than the iPhone 6’s A8. That’s a big plus for things like web browsing and opening apps. Amongst all the hardware advancements, the iPhone SE is compatible with Apple’s latest version of its operating system, iOS 15. Get set for new-look notifications, watching new shows in real-time with friends over Facetime, and incredible privacy protection. Take a look at iPhone SE plans with iD Mobile. iPhone 11: The iPhone 11 may be two years old, but it’s ideal for getting stuck into games and box sets on the go even now. At 6.1-inches, it was pretty much the first iPhone to offer what we consider a ‘big’ screen in today’s smartphone landscape. Inside is a great battery that delivers a whopping 17 hours of video playback on a full charge – long enough for an entire season on Netflix. Compared to the iPhone 8, released 2 years before, the camera system represents a big step up. Between the two lenses and Apple’s clever AI, the iPhone 11 boasts 2x optical zoom and 5x digital, rich colours with Smart HDR and a bunch of pro-looking portrait effects. The iPhone 11 also comes packed with up to 256 GB of onboard storage - that’s double the iPhone 8! What will you do with all that extra space? Find an iPhone 11 in a colour you love with iD Mobile. iPhone 12: In 2020, Apple introduced two new ‘firsts’ to the iPhone – a brilliant Super Retina XDR display, and 5G compatibility. With the power of 5G behind it, iPhone 12 can download movies and apps in moments and open them almost instantly. Stream shows without any buffering, video call your mates on FaceTime lag free – these are things that sets the iPhone 12 apart from its predecessor. But it’s not just about 5G. The iPhone 12’s A14 Bionic chip is still one of the best performing smartphone chips around, even a year on. It can do trillions of operations at once, so multitasking simply isn’t an issue. That’s great news for shutter speed when you shoot photos on the dual 12MP camera. Capture that moment, exactly when it happens. Find the perfect iPhone 12 plan for you at iD Mobile. iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 Mini: This year, Apple have taken everything that was great about the iPhone 12 and refined it further in the iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 Mini. There are similarities like 5G compatibility, design, and screen size (6.1 and 5.4-inche s respectively), but it’s the tech inside that makes a real difference. We’re talking Apple’s most advanced smartphone processor, exceptional dual camera system and a battery life to match. We’re not kidding – this battery offers an extra feature-length movie’s worth of playback time. Compared to the iPhone 11, released two years before, the iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 Mini offer several big tech leaps. The A15 Bionic chip outperforms every processor that came before on things like general performance, graphics, and conserving battery, making the iPhone 13 even more reliable. The iPhone 13 may have the same screen size as the iPhone 11, but it’s more compact, has narrower borders and a smaller notch. Like the best TVs, it also has an OLED display for those deeper blacks and realistic colours. Need space? We all use more phone storage than we did just two years ago. That’s why Apple have doubled the minimum storage capacity to 128GB – more than enough for movies, apps, music, podcasts and photos. Discover your new iPhone 13 or iPhone 13 Mini at iD Mobile. Want to find out more about the iPhone 13? Then check out our more in-depth review of the iPhone 13 range here iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max: Make no mistake, the iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max are the most powerful Apple phones yet. A combination of the A15 Bionic processor, triple camera system with incredible tricks up its sleeve, and benchmark-breaking battery put these phones up there with the best we’ve seen. At 6.1 and 6.7-inches respectively, the iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max closely follow the shape and design of the iPhone 12 Pro, only this time with a smaller notch and a refresh rate that goes all the way to 120hz. That means super-smooth scrolling and realistic motion in movies and games to you and I. The real standout with these phones is the cameras. Put simply, they’re dramatically more powerful. The ultra-wide lens has been totally redesigned and can now capture stunning macro photography from just 2 cm away. The same goes for video too, making it a go-to for shooting nature up close. And if nightlife and city skylines are more your thing, you can now go for Night Mode on all three lenses including the telephoto. Getting that shot right first time in low light is no longer a fluke! Oh, and before we forget, the iPhone 13 Pro also has the biggest storage options ever seen on an iPhone. Starting at a roomy 128GB, you’ve got space for all the files you need. And if you want to download without ever needing to delete anything, ever, the iPhone 13 Pro and Pro Max have a desktop pc-like 1TB option. That’s roughly 250 hours of HD movies. Treat yourself to a next-gen iPhone 13 Pro or iPhone 13 Pro Max with iD Mobile. Want to find out more about the iPhone 13? Then check out our more in-depth review of the iPhone 13 range here Looking to upgrade? Ready to upgrade to a brand-new iPhone? If you’re coming to the end of your contract, you could be eligible for a great value deal on a range of the latest handsets? Find out more about upgrades and get a great value deal with iD Mobile.

To celebrate reaching 50,000 Community members we’re giving away five £50 Currys gift cards! To enter the competition, read the article below and follow the instructions to enter. Good luck!

Is your phone no longer new, looking a bit meh, running slowly or running out of space? Then fret no more! We’re giving you a chance to win the incredible OPPO Find X3 Neo thanks to our friends at OPPO. To bag yourself this incredible prize, click ‘ here’ and scroll down until you reach the ‘Competition Time’ section. Read the entry requirements and enter! It’s that simple! Who will it be this time? Good luck ;) Alternatively, you can also click the article below and scroll to the ‘Competition’ section :)

Whether you’ve just got a shiny new iPhone (congrats!) or have been attached to your trusty old one for years, here are some of our favourite hacks and tips to help you get the most from it… 1. Charge faster in airplane mode Let’s start with a great little tip to make sure your battery charges fast when you really need it. Simply switch on airplane mode, and your iPhone will gain juice much faster. Okay, so you won't be able to make calls or use the internet in airplane mode – but think of all that lovely battery life! 2. Shake your iPhone to undo that thing you didn’t mean to type If you're sending someone a message - or writing a cool Insta caption - and you've just changed your mind about what you've written, just give your iPhone a shake and it’ll ask you if you want to undo. No more tapping the backspace button a million times now! 3. Hold down the camera button and go into burst mode To make sure you capture that moment perfectly, you might want to take loads of pics at the same time. Instead of frantically tapping the camera shutter button, just hold it down. You’ll go straight into burst mode and take a load of shots, saving yourself a ton of effort. And most importantly, you’ll get that perfect snap. 4. Introduce Siri to your close family, for quick calling Does referring to your parents (or grandparents) by their name make you feel awkward? Then teach Siri to know who you're talking about. If you ask Siri to you’re your mum, dad, grandpa or grandma, it’ll ask you what their name is. Then when you tell Siri the full name that you’re assigning the relationship to, it remembers. So from now on, when you say 'Hey Siri, call mum', it knows who you mean! 5. Top tip - closing your apps doesn’t save your battery life It may sound unbelievable, but closing your apps could use up more battery life than just keeping them open. Tech Expert James Goodnow advises: “Don’t swipe away the apps from the multitasking screen. People think that helps your battery life, but it actually makes it worse. iOS will close apps as it needs to. Firing them up fresh every time tasks the processor and drains the battery. It’s like constantly starting and stopping your car." So now you know. Next time you’re tempted to close an app, will you be able to resist? 6. Download the iD Mobile app from the App Store Of course we had to add this one in… but we think it’s very cool! You can control your iD Mobile account on-the-go (check allowances, view bills, set a cap, change your plan and more) by simply downloading the iD Mobile app from the App Store. We’ll let you into a little secret too - it’s completely free to download, and won’t eat any of your data allowance if you’re not connected to Wi-Fi! 7. Transfer your old apps and data to your new phone Getting a new phone can be amazing… but also a little tricky if you want to bring all your apps, music and photos with you. Whether you’re switching from an old Android or iPhone, check out our guide to find out how to seamlessly switch everything over to your new iPhone! Read more about how to switch your data here 8. Install some apps One of the big advantages of a smartphone…all kinds of apps to explore and download from the App store! To find the App Store simply look for the icon in your menu or search ‘App Store’ using your phone’s search bar. Open it up and get discovering! Some apps are free to download and some you may need to purchase. Prices are clearly displayed under the app title and you can also check out reviews from users to help you decide whether to buy. 9. Say hello to Wi-Fi Calling Wi-Fi Calling is available for selected iPhones on iD Mobile, and it’s a really handy feature. It lets you use Wi-Fi to make calls and send texts when coverage isn’t great. If you’re in a remote location or hit an indoor blackspot, it could be just what you need. Read more about Wi-Fi Calling here And there you have it! Our 9 tips to help you get the most from iPhone. Any questions on what you’ve read? Or would you like to share some tips of your own? Then go ahead and post a reply below.