What is a business mobile phone?

Very simply, a business mobile is a mobile you use for business. There are a few reasons why a business would look to integrate a mobile phone as a part of the furniture rather than using personal mobiles – these reasons can range from creating a personal/business life split to ensuring you’re giving out a business number instead of your personal number, to having it as a business expense instead of it coming out of your personal bank account.  

In this article, we’ll break it down for you so that you’ve got all the information you need to get started and find the best business mobile phone to fit your needs. 

The difference between a personal phone and a business mobile 

It’s actually a pretty simple comparison. Very simply, an iPhone 17 is an iPhone 17 whether it’s used for business or pleasure, but where the real differences lie is in the tariffs and how they’re managed. Let’s dig a bit deeper. 

Personal Mobile 

A personal phone is exactly what it says on the tin. It’s used for anything and everything outside of work; internet banking, social media and recording videos of your children. The tariff you choose depends on what you require and can be managed easily on a small scale. You’ll likely setup a plan which is for just yourself, or you & your family. Importantly, your personal phone is your sole responsibility. 

Business Mobile 

A business mobile phone is there to not only make your life easier, but to also be managed by your business. As a business owner, you’ll be able to organise the whole plan for all the mobile users across the business. This means that a business tariff can cover not just one individual handset, but hundreds and hundreds of mobiles – it’ll just depend on the size of your company.  

Business accounts are typically more flexible, adding upgrades, changes and upgrading to a new handset, and data can also be rolled over or shared between users depending on your requirements.  

Business Benefits 

• Upgrade when it suits you
• Data rollover
• Europe roaming (if included) 

Why use a dedicated business mobile? 

Business mobiles can be monitored by your company IT team (if you have one) and be locked down in the event of damage or loss of the handset. A business mobile can also create a professional image. It won’t look very good if you go to meet a new client and you’re mobile has your personal phone case featuring controversial footballs teams or cartoon characters. Keeping it clean, simple and professional is the way to go. 

When it comes time to pay for the contract, prices are advertised as ex-VAT since most will claim the tax back as a business expense. In some cases, you’re able to get shared data plans which can save you money.  

In short, a business mobile keeps work organised, secure and professional, keeping your personal phone truly personal. 

Deciding on a data plan and network provider 

When looking at a new plan, it’s not always about getting the biggest, it’s about getting the best bang for your buck whilst ticking all the right boxes – evaluating your needs and getting a plan to fit. Here are some points for you to consider. 

1. The amount of data you require. Think about how much browsing, video watching etc you’ll be doing and plan accordingly.
2. Check provider coverage. Make sure you’re not going to be cut short whilst you’re on the road by using Ofcom’s coverage checker. 
3. Review the plan’s flexibility. It’s worth checking if you’re able to upgrade your plan or get more in the future without additional costs.
4. Compare costs. Everyone offers different plans for different costs so weighing up your options is key. 

Looking to upgrade your plan?  

Looking to upgrade your plan? Great news! Check out our business mobile tool to get instant prices on tailored deals for your business. With the right deal, it’s actually very easy once you know what you’re looking for. Knowing which plan you’re going for, you can speak to the new provider and start moving over your phone number with a PAC code. That’s if you’ve got a number you’d like to keep. If not, you’re able to crack on and process your new plan without any hold ups. 

If you’re looking to stick to your current provider but need a bit more data, chat to them and they’ll give you the best deal possible without needing to cancel and restart your plan. 

What is a PAC code?  

A PAC code is an authorisation code used to move your phone number from one provider to another. To get yours, you’ll need to get in contact with your current provider. You’ll just need to pass it to your new provider and they’ll do the technical bits ahead of your account being setup. Typically, this takes about 1 day. 

A switch doesn’t have to be complicated. We’ll even help you. Head over to our business mobile comparison section where you can find our best deals for you. Once you’ve chosen, our wonderful team will assist you with any questions you may have.