London: Buyers of Apple’s new £1,999 foldable iPhone Duo could pay more than £1,000 extra by choosing a long-term mobile contract with a major network instead of purchasing the handset separately and selecting a cheaper SIM-only plan, consumer group Which? has warned.
In research published on October 22, Which? found that customers taking the basic unlimited-data SIM option with EE, O2 or Vodafone could pay £37 a month. Over four years, this could cost at least £1,146 more than choosing a cheaper alternative, with unlimited data recently available from virtual network operator iD Mobile for as little as £15 a month.
The difference could grow because the networks apply annual price increases. According to Which?, the £37 monthly SIM charge is due to rise to £39.50 after March 31, 2027, and to £42 after March 31, 2028. Buyers should therefore consider the total cost over the contract period rather than focusing only on the advertised monthly payment.
The handset itself can also cost more through a network. Which? found that the total repayment for the iPhone Duo reached £2,169.36 with EE or O2 and £2,167.84 with Three or Vodafone. Apple lists the device from £1,999 when purchased directly, although financing terms vary.
Lisa Barber, Which? technology editor, warned that consumers could face higher handset repayments alongside expensive monthly data charges. The organization recommends comparing the full cost of contracts against buying the phone separately and choosing a SIM-only deal.
Consumers who prefer to spread payments can also look for interest-free financing options. Choosing an older model or a refurbished handset may reduce costs further, while customers should weigh any network perks against the additional amount they would pay over the contract period.
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