A short but perfectly formed 5 star review from Richard at Tigers Trust. We are always happy to help our customers when they have an issue or a query. You can see more of our 5 star reviews on the Simpatico homepage; or why not have a browse in our Business Mobiles Shop
Eric has recently been interviewed by Techopedia on the benefits of eSIMs, so we thought we would explore them a bit further in this article and look at how they might benefit businesses.
An eSIM is a digital version of a physical sim card that is embedded directly into a device, such as a smartphone, tablet, or smartwatch. Unlike traditional physical SIM cards, eSIMs are built into the hardware and cannot be removed. In other words, you won’t have to carry a physical SIM card with you to access your phone calls, texts etc.
In the UK, eSIM technology is widely supported by major carriers. Leading providers such as Vodafone, EE, O2, and Three offer comprehensive eSIM services, making it an accessible option for businesses looking to enhance their mobile communication infrastructure. For companies running several devices, eSIMs make it much easier to manage contracts, including when the time comes to change providers. No more distributing SIM cards to all of your employees!
Businesses can switch carriers or plans without physically swapping SIM cards. This is particularly useful for employees who travel frequently, as they can easily switch to local carriers to avoid roaming charges and ensure better connectivity. Conducting international business will not only be easier, but also less expensive.
By switching carriers and plans remotely, businesses can optimise their mobile phone expenses. They can take advantage of better rates or promotional offers without being tied to a specific carrier’s physical SIM. Whereas before the logistics of companies swapping SIM cards may have outweighed the benefit of cost savings, eSIMs remove that problem.
eSIMs offer improved security features. Since they are embedded in the device, they are less prone to theft or tampering. This is crucial for businesses that handle sensitive data and need to ensure secure communication channels. They are also more difficult to lose or damage (we’ve all dropped a tiny SIM card and struggled to find it!)
Typically, phones allow for up to 2 eSIMs, or a physical sim and an eSIM. However, quite a few Android models have dual sim trays, which offer the same benefit as 2 eSIMs but using physical sims. More than one sim (either eSIM or physical sim) can be beneficial for employees who need separate business and personal lines. This allows businesses to provide a single device for employees who work in multiple regions or countries, simplifying communication and management.
Reducing the need for physical SIM cards and their packaging helps businesses contribute to environmental sustainability. This aligns with corporate social responsibility goals and promotes a greener business operation.
Almost all businesses could receive some benefit from the adoption of eSIM technology. However, we’ve identified some particular use-cases which may see the biggest impact.
For businesses with a remote or global workforce, eSIMs enable employees to stay connected without the need for physical SIM swaps. IT can remotely provision services based on the employee’s location and connectivity needs. This offers speed, efficiency and flexibility that physical SIMs cannot match.
Businesses running short-term projects in different regions can benefit from eSIMs by providing local connectivity to project teams quickly and efficiently, without the hassle of distributing physical SIMs.
Companies managing a fleet of mobile devices (e.g., for sales teams, field service engineers) can streamline updates and changes to mobile plans across all devices without needing to collect and replace SIM cards.
Ask us about eSIMS if you are interested. All UK networks support eSIMs, but we’ll need to check if your business device is compatible.
eSIM technology offers significant advantages for businesses, from simplified management and enhanced security to cost savings and environmental benefits. As eSIM adoption grows, businesses can leverage this technology to improve their mobile communication infrastructure and support their employees more effectively.
Contact us now if you would like to find out more.
The iPhone 16 has been garnering a lot of attention for its fresh features and overall improvements, but like any new tech release, it’s not without its criticisms. Here’s a balanced look at what people are saying about the iPhone 16 so far.
The design of the iPhone 16 has been praised for its vibrant new colour options and sleek build. The Pink, Teal, and Ultramarine colours are particularly striking, offering a fresh look compared to the more muted tones of previous models, shop for iPhone colours 16 here.
However, some users are disappointed that the standard models still lack the 120Hz ProMotion (i.e. much faster screen refresh rates and a much smoother visual experience) and Always-On display features found in the Pro models. This absence is particularly noticeable for those who have experienced smoother scrolling and faster refresh rates on other devices.
The Action Button is a versatile new addition, replacing the traditional mute switch and allowing for various customizable functions. While many find this feature incredibly useful, some users have found the learning curve a bit steep. Setting up the button to run specific shortcuts can be a bit daunting, especially for those not already familiar with the Shortcuts app
The Camera Control button, which aims to provide a more tactile photography experience, has also received mixed reviews. While its functionality is appreciated, some users have reported that it takes time to get used to the different press intensities required for various actions. There have been complaints about accidental presses, which can lead to unintended actions like zooming when simply trying to take a photo. Some people have already disabled it because it just gets in the way. Anecdotally, younger people seem to enjoy the camera button more.
The iPhone 16’s camera system has seen significant upgrades with the new 48-megapixel Fusion main sensor and improved macro photography capabilities. The Spatial Video feature and anti-reflective lens coatings are particularly well-received.
The new A18 processor and Apple Intelligence features are designed to enhance usability and performance, offering advanced writing tools and live transcription among other capabilities. However Apple Intelligence will not reach us until December 24, so we have no idea what that will be like yet.There are some concerns about the increased storage requirements for photos due to the enhanced photographic styles, so that might become an issue. Users have commented that battery life is notably better, and that the phone does not overheat. This may feel like damning with faint praise, but they do make the user experience better.
The iPhone 16 is generally well-regarded for its mix of new features and design refinements. The vibrant colour options and innovative controls make it a standout, and the camera improvements are notable. However, the lack of certain premium features in the standard models and the learning curve associated with the new controls have been points of contention. For those coming from older models, the iPhone 16 offers significant upgrades, but for current users of recent Pro models, the changes might not feel as substantial.
As Apple continues to roll out new models, the debate about the necessity of big innovations with each release persists. The iPhone 16 showcases incremental but meaningful improvements that enhance user experience without drastically altering the device’s core identity. While some users might yearn for revolutionary changes, it’s important to recognize that Apple’s strategy often focuses on refining existing features and integrating subtle yet impactful enhancements.
These iterative upgrades serve multiple purposes. They not only cater to the loyal Apple customer base who appreciate reliability and familiarity but also attract new users by showcasing steady, reliable advancements. Moreover, incremental improvements help maintain Apple’s reputation for high-quality, user-friendly devices, ensuring consistent demand.
However, the question remains: Is it all to increase demand? Partly, yes. By consistently introducing new features, even if they are minor, Apple keeps its products in the spotlight, stimulating interest and encouraging upgrades. This strategy sustains the brand’s momentum and keeps it competitive in a rapidly evolving tech landscape. While ground breaking innovations might not accompany every new model, the ongoing enhancements ensure that each iteration of the iPhone feels fresh and appealing, driving both sales and user satisfaction.
In essence, Apple’s approach balances the need for innovation with the practicality of delivering a polished, dependable product. This strategy has proven successful so far in keeping the iPhone relevant and desirable year after year.
If you’d like to see what iPhone 16s we have available, including the Plus, Pro and Pro Max, visit our Business Mobile shop. You can also browse our range of Samsung phones, and other Android devices here.
Thank you to Ben from Sign Makers UK for this 5 star review, we do appreciate our customers leaving us excellent reviews. To see how competitive our pricing really is, you can visit our Business Mobile Shop here, or if you’d like more advice about business mobiles, you can read our article The Best Business Mobile Phones In 2024.
In a world where smartphones dominate and the internet drives everything, you might think landline telephones are a relic of the past. Yet, there’s something about seeing a landline number that sparks a sense of trust. Maybe it’s because we’ve been trained to associate them with stability—businesses with physical locations, homes that have been around for a while, or just an extra layer of permanence. But here’s the thing: while landlines hold this aura of reliability, the world of communication has quietly (or not so quietly) transformed, thanks to VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol).
Why Do We Still Trust Landline Numbers?
The answer is both simple and psychological. When we see a traditional landline number, it feels official. Businesses that display them seem more “established” and trustworthy, as if having a physical location is proof of their credibility. In contrast, mobile numbers—especially in a professional context—can feel transient, temporary, or even personal.
For older generations, the idea of communicating with a landline carries a nostalgic sense of comfort and security. It’s the phone they grew up with, the one that doesn’t drop calls mid-conversation or lose battery power. Even now, some people equate a landline with quality—crystal-clear audio with no interruptions. It’s a perception that sticks, even though VoIP technology has evolved to rival, if not surpass, traditional telephony in many ways.
The Rise of VoIP: Transforming Communication
VoIP has been the game-changer that most people didn’t even realise was happening. By using the internet to transmit voice calls instead of traditional phone lines, VoIP has made it easier—and cheaper—for businesses and individuals to stay connected. This technology has allowed companies to scale without being tied down to physical locations. You can have a landline number that routes through the internet, which means businesses can appear as though they have a local presence anywhere in the world, even if they’re a small startup working remotely.
Flexibility: Make and Receive Calls Anywhere
One of the greatest perks of VoIP is flexibility. With the right setup, you’re no longer tethered to a desk or office to make or receive calls. Whether you’re at home, in a coffee shop, or halfway around the globe, you can manage business calls on your mobile phone or even your PC. This is particularly useful for companies that have embraced remote or hybrid work environments, where employees are scattered across locations but still need to stay connected.
For personal use, VoIP has also made international calls way more affordable (or free!), especially with apps like Skype, Zoom, or WhatsApp. Gone are the days of agonising over your phone bill because you talked too long with a friend or relative abroad.
Landline Numbers with VoIP Power
Now, here’s where things get interesting: VoIP doesn’t mean the death of landlines. In fact, many businesses still have a “landline number,” but it’s powered by VoIP. So, when you call that trusted number, it may not be connecting through copper wire but instead through the internet. You get the best of both worlds: the trusted landline appearance, with the flexibility and cost-effectiveness of modern technology.
This hybrid solution allows businesses to project reliability while still embracing the convenience and scalability of VoIP. And because VoIP numbers can be set up to look like landline numbers, businesses can appear local even when operating remotely or across multiple cities.
The Bottom Line
Landlines still hold a special place in our minds, evoking feelings of stability and trust. But VoIP has revolutionised how we communicate by breaking the chains of geography and offering flexibility like never before. The beauty of VoIP is that you don’t have to choose between tradition and innovation—you can have both, making and receiving calls wherever you are, while still enjoying the reliability associated with a landline number.
So, next time you see a landline number, you might wonder: is it a real landline, or is VoIP behind the scenes making it all happen? Either way, it’s a win for everyone involved.
At Simpatico we have a great landline replacement VoIP solution – Phoneline+. As well as being able to make and receive calls from multiple landline numbers from a PC or mobile app (or both!), you can easily set up custom on-hold music or schedule calls to divert to different places at different times of the day (e.g. voicemail, or another number entirely).
Phoneline+ also includes free calls to Australia, New Zealand, USA, Canada & the Republic of Ireland – useful if you have business contacts or family in these countries and you want to present your landline number to them when you call. All this from only £9.95 per month. You can have a look at our VoIP for Business deal here.
It seems the general consensus on the iPhone 16 release is that it was rather underwhelming. Can Apple really keep the momentum going every year to come up with fantastic new features for their products, especially the iPhone? Their recent event ‘It’s Glowtime’ was highly anticipated, but did it live up to the hype, and what have they done with the iPhone 16s?
Well, from what we can gather, all models have a slightly larger display, a new ‘Action’ button, and a camera upgrade where you can use it like a real camera (half press to focus or bring up more controls and the full press to take the photo). The lenses are realigned which gives the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus a new look, although the Pro and Pro Max still have the same lens arrangement, and there’s some new colours. There also seems to be a lot of internal ‘techy’ stuff which you can’t see and they may or may not make the iPhone run smoother and faster.
The main focus from the launch event seemed to be the new ‘Apple Intelligence’, which isn’t actually available yet (UK English support will be available in December), but soon you won’t need to do anything on your iPhone because Siri will do it for you. He or she can add events to your calendar, rewrite text messages and emails so your garbled nonsense is actually coherent, she will summarise emails and texts on the notification screen – it seems that you don’t even have to read your own messages anymore! She can find specific photos for you which saves you time trawling through your camera reel – all you have to do is describe the photo you have in mind and she’ll find it, or find a bunch of photos that fit the description.
What’s interesting is that Apple have chosen to hold their prices steady with the iPhone 16 release, with the base model being available for £799. So if you factor in inflation, does that mean that the iPhone 16 is actually cheaper than its predecessor?
The new iPhone 16 was available for pre-orders from Friday 13th September 2024, and available to buy outright from Friday 20th September. The new 16 range includes iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max.
As soon as we get our hands on the iPhone 16, we’ll provide an in-depth review. Will it replace the iPhone 15 in our list of best mobile phones for businesses?
To get your iPhone 16 please visit our Apple Business Mobile Shop.
Apple are due to launch the iPhone 16 this evening. You can watch it live here
Another amazing 5 star review, this time from Mark Edwards from Rent East Yorkshire. You can read more of our reviews on the Homepage, or have a browse in our Online Shop where you can have a look through our business mobile offers, pick from the options and customise each aspect of a contract to suit your requirements.
As September approaches, the flurry of rumours and speculation about the iPhone 16 release are growing in momentum. The actual release date has not yet been confirmed but is rumoured to be Tuesday 10th September (so we could be potentially looking at less than a month before all is revealed). Pre-orders could be on the 13th, with availability by the 20th September. September is traditionally the month that new iPhones are released anyway, so whatever the exact date, we don’t have long to wait.
Some of the speculated new features don’t seem particularly enticing at first glance, but when you get down to the details, a few are actually quite promising.
The action button which already appears on the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max, is due to be extended across all of the iPhone 16 models. For anyone not already familiar with the action button – it replaces the mute switch located above the volume controls on the side of the phone. This action button can perform multiple functions and the user has the option to choose what function they’d best like to use, options include opening the camera app, activating the flashlight, voice memo, app shortcuts, plus others. The default action is to turn Silent mode on or off.
The Pro models will have an improved 48 megapixel ultra wide lens, and it’s also rumoured that the Pro will have a 5 x optical zoom lens, a feature previously limited to the Pro Max models. The Pro’s main camera could also include a large image sensor, which captures more light and means photos taken in low light conditions have much better outcomes.
Standard iPhones have previously had a diagonal camera layout with a square shaped camera bump to accommodate the lenses. However, the iPhone 16 appears to have the camera lenses arranged vertically, with a much smaller pill-shaped camera bump (not unlike many Samsungs), with the flash being located on the back of the phone outside of the camera bump. Not sure how this will impact the overall use of the phone or camera, apart from having to buy a new phone case, but it’s an interesting change.
All of the iPhone 16 models are thought to have the new capture button, which is great news for camera nerds. This will be located on the right edge (same side as the power button) of the phone and is said to work in a similar fashion to a shutter button on a digital camera, using the soft press for focusing then the full press for capturing the image.
The Pro and Max model screen sizes will increase to 6.3 and 6.9 inches respectively; the physical size of the phone will remain the same, but by trimming the bezels they have increased the screen size without increasing the actual size of the phone. There will be no change to the standard models.
AI is coming with the iOS 18 update, so it will also be available on the iPhone 15 Pro models when the update arrives, it’s unclear at the moment what benefits this will provide to iPhone users. It is potentially a conversational style Siri, not unlike ChatGPT. (Have a look at Apple Intelligence in 5 minutes on YouTube). Other features include upgraded microphone, stacked battery technology, faster charging, and processor upgrades.
Most importantly, there could be some new colours coming into the mix, as well as (perhaps) some old favourites. iPhone 16 dummy models which have been revealed appear to be a slight move away from the pastel shades towards a bolder colour selection including blue and green, as well as pale pink, and the classic black and white. The Pro models appear to be sticking to black, white, grey and pink. There was a hint of a Rose Gold.
Having said all this, 2025 is touted to be the big year for iPhone change with the 17 Slim, a new class of phone.
However, this is all just speculation so we will just have to wait and see. The countdown begins…
Have a read of this amazing 5 star review from Kelly Cheesman of Beverley Travel – one of our long standing customers. You can read more of our 5 star reviews on the homepage, or how about having a browse in our new online shop where you can order your new business mobile contracts online.
