A business mobile is no longer a nice-to-have. With over 88 million mobile connections in the UK, well over the population total, it’s clear phones are now part of how work gets done (DataReportal). Choosing one isn’t just about a device, it’s about setting your team up with the tools they need to work effectively, wherever they are.
This article looks at how to approach buying a business mobile, what to think about, what to avoid, and how to make your investment count. Whether you’re running a solo operation or looking after a growing team, knowing what to consider will help you make a smarter decision.
Picking the right phone and plan
Not all devices or deals are the same. Start with the platform: iPhones and Androids dominate, with Apple holding around 48% of the UK market and Samsung close behind (StatCounter). Make sure whatever you choose fits the apps and systems you already use.
Next, think about how much data your team will use. 5G is becoming more common, and phones that support it are great for things like video meetings or working on the move.
Security matters too. Look for models with encryption, fingerprint access, and remote wipe functions. It’s worth picking a plan that includes fast support and lets you tweak terms as your team grows. Some providers let you pool data between users, handy if some team members use more than others.
Comparison Table: Apple vs Samsung vs Other Android Devices
| Feature | Apple (iPhone) | Samsung (Galaxy Series) | Other Android (e.g. Pixel, OnePlus) |
| Operating System | iOS | Android (One UI) | Android (Stock or Custom UI) |
| App Ecosystem | Controlled and consistent | Broad and adaptable | Varies by brand |
| Device Management | Apple Business Manager | Knox Suite | Depends on brand |
| Security | Face ID, Secure Enclave | Biometric, Knox Suite | Biometric, varies by device |
| Integration with Mac/PC | Strong with macOS | Syncs well with Windows | Varies |
| Price Range | £700–£1500+ | £600–£1300+ | £400–£1000+ |
| Battery Life | Long-lasting | Varies | Varies |
| Durability | High, with ceramic shield | Strong, Gorilla Glass | Moderate to strong |
| Support & Updates | Around 5 years | 3–4 years | 2–3 years |
This breakdown should help you line up your priorities with the device that fits best.
Rolling out business mobiles the right way
Buying phones is only half the story. How you hand them out and train your team matters just as much. Start small: test things with a few users to catch problems early. Make sure everyone understands how to use the tools you’re giving them.
Link the phones into your systems, your messaging apps, finance software, customer databases. Done right, mobiles become a proper part of the job, not just another gadget. Set rules around what’s okay to install or share to avoid headaches later.
Security policies should be clear from the start. Track usage, make sure updates are applied, and have a way to lock or wipe a phone if needed. With UK companies losing an average of £3.4 million to data breaches in 2023 alone (IBM), taking this seriously isn’t optional.
Seeing the results from your investment
If you’re spending money on new phones and contracts, you’ll want to see what you’re getting back. Look for signs like lower phone bills, faster customer replies, or shorter time to close deals.
Staff with the right tools get more done. They can reply on the go, check systems while visiting clients, and move faster than if they’re tied to a desk. According to Radius, giving teams mobile tools can boost productivity by 20% (Radius).
Don’t ignore softer results either. When staff have reliable gear and clear boundaries between work and life, they tend to be happier. Clients notice when your team is organised and professional, it all adds up.
What’s next for business mobiles?
Phones are already a big part of how companies work, and that trend isn’t slowing down. Unified communications systems, better 5G coverage, and eco-conscious hardware are all shaping what comes next.
Most of us now use tools like Microsoft Teams from our phones. In fact, over 70% of Teams app users are mobile-first (TechRadar). That tells you where things are heading: more flexibility, more mobility.
Sustainability is creeping up the list too. More buyers are choosing devices made with recycled parts, or those designed to last longer. Choosing greener options is quickly becoming a business standard.
As 5G spreads, it’s expected to cover nearly 70% of the UK by 2026 (Ofcom), more possibilities open up, like real-time logistics, smart apps, and faster data access.
When you’re planning your next phone buy, think ahead. What will your team need six months from now? Making the right call today saves hassle down the line.
To dive deeper into choosing your next work device, take a look at our other guides: Business mobile explained and Finding the best business mobile provider.