Switch to a virtual phone network (and save money!)

The UK has four mobile-phone networks: EE, O2, Three and Vodafone. All the other networks – such as Giffgaff, Tesco Mobile and BT Mobile – are Mobile Virtual Network Operators, or MVNOs. They buy data, texts and calls from the big four networks at a discount, and pass on this saving to their customers. Switch to an MVNO from one of the big four and you’ll start paying less from day one.

MVNOs are like utility companies. When you switch to a new energy provider, not much happens in the background. Electricity continues flowing from the same grid, but someone else will be responsible for sending you bills and providing customer service. It’s the same with an MVNO. Unless your phone is locked to a specific network, you can carry on using it as before – and, if you switch between MVNOs on