According to Statista, a staggering 48.83% (just under 50%) of smartphone owners in the UK, have an iPhone. Given the number of brands available on the Android market, that’s huge. And, although Apple loyalists have declined in recent years, iPhones remain the front runner in the mobile market.
As iPhones are so popular, protecting them has been a topic of discussion for years especially as they come with a premium price tag. With the latest model, the iPhone 14 on the cusp of launch, let’s talk about the best ways to keep it looking and operating in tip-top condition. We’ll start with the obvious.
Physical damage protection
With Apple being the first to release a smartphone with a glass screen back in 2007, there were a few teething problems and it was rare to own an iPhone without eventually getting at least one dreaded crack through the screen.
1. Protect your screen 
Purchasing a screen protector is a popular choice for iPhone users. Most commonly made from a thin piece of plastic or tempered glass, screen protectors act as a barrier to protect phone screens from cracks and scratches.
Screen protectors are widely available online from brands such as Tech 21 and Spigen, with tempered glass being the material of choice, due to its strength and durability.
2. Protect your phone casing 
In September 2017, with the release of the iPhone 8 and 8 plus models, Apple decided to change the metal back casing to glass. Many Apple loyalists questioned the design change as it led to cases of ‘shattered backs’ but the change was needed to enable the implementation of Qi inductive (wireless) charging.
Getting a resilient case is key to preventing any cracks or a full shattered back to your iPhone 14. Opting for a silicone or rubber case as opposed to plastic is best, as these materials are shock-absorbant and will be better at protecting your device against falls or knocks.
Check out brands such as OtterBox, Mous or Urban Armour for some great heavy-duty cases.
Security protection
Although preventing external damage to your iPhone is important (especially if you have plans to resell it when your contract comes to an end), protecting it against unwarranted access is just as important.
In the unfortunate event that it got into the hands of a criminal, limited security makes it easier to access and sell on.
Here are a few of the built-in security features you should be using if you own an iPhone:
3. Enable Find My iPhone
When you get a new iPhone the first thing you should do is check that your ‘Find My iPhone’ application has been enabled. This feature means that if your phone is lost or stolen, you can stop it from being used. You can learn more about activating Find My iPhone here.
4. Set a strong passcode 
For situations where you have to use your passcode instead of Face or Touch ID, for example, if you turn on or restart your iPhone, it’s a good idea to make your passcode hard to guess. Try to avoid your date of birth or numbers in consecutive order. For added complexity, you can set an Alphanumeric passcode, meaning you can use numbers and letters. You can learn more about setting a passcode and using the Alphanumeric feature here.
5. Use Face ID or Touch ID
Depending on the iPhone model, you will have the option to set Face or Touch ID. As well as being a convenient way to activate ApplePay or sign in to third-party apps, it also provides an added layer of security so using it is highly recommended.
Data and privacy protection
For many people, their smartphones hold masses of personal information and if that information got into the wrong hands it could be detrimental. There are a few built-in features that can be enabled to help keep your data private.
6. Use the built-in authenticator
The built-in authenticator enables users to activate two-factor authentication on their iPhones. This means if you are accessing a site that requires secure authentication, your iPhone will automatically generate a verification code to confirm your identity. This is a great way to prevent criminals from accessing important information such as online banking logins. You can learn more about setting this up here.
Insurance protection
7. Insure your iPhone
Having mobile insurance means that if you were to have a mishap with your phone, you would get a repair or replacement without having to fork out £100s for a new handset or repair.
With our award-winning insurance, you will get a super-fast repair or replacement when you need to claim. Rest assured, you can be SO-SURE that we’ve got your mobile phone covered.
You can insure your iPhone 14 for as little as £9.49 per month here.
Did you know we give cashback to our careful customers?
At SO-SURE, community = cashback rewards. Think of it as a piggy bank for careful customers. The more friends and family you connect with, the more money goes into the piggy bank. And then, if no one needs it, you all get it back. You can learn more about our Reward Pot here.