Which? Smartphones Made Easy Catalogue

Which? is the UK's leading independent consumer organisation, founded in 1957 as the Consumers' Association and operating as a not-for-profit body. For decades it has tested products, investigated markets, and published plain-English guides to help everyday people make informed choices. The Smartphones Made Easy guide was part of that tradition – a free, step-by-step printed booklet designed to help anyone, whatever their technical confidence, get the most out of a modern smartphone without jargon or fuss. With the majority of UK adults now carrying a smartphone, Which? recognised that clear, trusted guidance was as valuable as any product review.

What the Guide Covers

The Smartphones Made Easy guide walks readers through every key aspect of smartphone ownership from the very beginning. It explains how to set up a new handset, connect to Wi-Fi, and navigate the home screen. From there it moves on to downloading and managing essential apps, making and receiving calls and messages, and using the built-in camera to take, store, and share photos. The guide also explains how to make video calls – a feature that became essential for keeping in touch with family and friends – and how to back up and sync your data across devices so nothing is ever lost.

Designed for Everyday Confidence

Unlike generic tech manuals, Which? guides are written for real people rather than enthusiasts. Smartphones Made Easy uses clear language, step-by-step instructions, and practical examples drawn from everyday use. It covers features common to both Android and Apple iOS handsets, including GPS navigation, HD video cameras, and high-resolution screens. The aim is to help readers feel confident rather than overwhelmed, covering the essentials without assuming any prior knowledge of smartphones or apps.

Which? and Consumer Trust

Which? has been the UK's consumer champion for nearly 70 years. As a not-for-profit organisation it accepts no advertising and remains entirely independent, funding its work through subscriptions and memberships. Its testing laboratories and expert researchers cover everything from white goods to financial products, and its published guides carry the same independence and rigour. The Smartphones Made Easy guide reflected Which?'s core mission: giving people the knowledge they need to get value from the products they buy and use every day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Which? a government organisation?

No. Which? (formally the Consumers' Association) is an independent, not-for-profit organisation. It was founded in 1957 and is funded by its members and subscribers rather than by the government or by advertisers. This independence is central to its ability to give unbiased advice.

What happened to the Which? Smartphones Made Easy free guide?

The guide was offered as a free printed booklet, available by calling a freephone number. It was a time-limited promotional offer rather than a permanent publication. The guide is no longer available to request, but Which? continues to publish smartphone buying guides, reviews, and how-to advice on its website at which.co.uk.

Does Which? still publish guides for people new to smartphones?

Yes. Which? regularly publishes beginner-friendly smartphone advice, including best-buy recommendations, step-by-step how-to articles, and guides to choosing a network or contract. These are available online to Which? members and, in some cases, to all visitors at which.co.uk.

Was the guide suitable for older users or complete beginners?

Yes. The guide was specifically written for people who were new to smartphones or lacked confidence with technology. It avoided technical jargon and built from the basics, making it well suited to older adults getting to grips with a first smartphone or anyone upgrading from a simpler handset.

Which smartphones did the guide cover – iPhone or Android?

The guide covered the core features common to modern smartphones in general, including both iOS (Apple iPhone) and Android devices. Topics such as setting up the phone, downloading apps, taking photos, making video calls, and syncing data apply across both major platforms.

How is Which? funded and is it truly independent?

Which? is funded entirely by its members and subscribers, with no income from advertising or product manufacturers. This model allows it to test and recommend products without commercial influence, which is why its recommendations are widely trusted by UK consumers and the media.

This catalogue is part of the Catalink archive and may no longer be available to order. The information above describes Which? and its Smartphones Made Easy guide. For current details, visit the company's official website.