Getting older doesn't mean you have to compromise on the smartphone you choose, whether you’re looking for a handset with excellent cameras, or a big-screen device that’s ideal for texting and making calls. We’ve put together some of the latest and greatest phones with a range of features that can suit everyone, whether you’re buying for yourself or someone close to you.
Explore our experts’ top picks of the best phones for the elderly from iD Mobile, brought to you by Currys, and browse our pay monthly phones to grab a great deal.
Best big phone: Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra
If you’re looking for a larger phone, the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is hard to beat in our eyes. It combines durability, top-tier performance, and long-lasting battery life with a large 6.9-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X screen. The large display offers excellent readability for texts and icons, and with 2,600 nits brightness on offer, it’s simple to jump on FaceTime, or look back at previously taken photos.
Samsung’s One UI software includes ‘Easy Mode’ which essentially simplifies all the menus you use and enlarges each icon for fast access. Samsung is known for their ingenuity when it comes to AI, and it shines through in the S25 Ultra; this is a thoughtful phone built with quick and easy use in mind.
Another much-loved feature we enjoyed using was the S Pen. Included in several Samsung flagships, the S pen is a stylus that enables more precise touch input, perfect if you prefer writing to tapping or swiping.
Last but certainly not least, high-quality speakers and Voice Focus audio - a fabulous Galaxy AI integration from Samsung - makes phone conversations easier.
- Release date: February 2025
- Dimensions: 162.8 x 77.6 x 8.2mm
- Weight: 218g
- Display size and resolution: 6.9-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X (3120x1440)
- OS: Android
- Refresh rate: 120Hz
- Storage: 256GB, 512GB or 1TB
- CPU: Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy
- RAM: 12GB
- Battery: 5,000mAh
- Rear cameras: 200MP + 50MP + 50MP + 10 MP
- Front camera: 12MP
- IP rating: IP68
- Large 6.9-inch screen for effortless viewing
- S Pen stylus makes typing and texting simple
- IP68 water and dust resistance withstands accidental splashes and scuffs
Best mid-range phone: Google Pixel 9a
Looking for a slightly more budget-friendly option? The Google Pixel 9a offers a range of flagship-worthy features, at a more affordable price. The clean, clutter-free Android interface is ideal if you aren’t as tech savvy or simply want a powerful device to take you from day to day. With Gemini AI integrated into every facet and feature, the Pixel 9a supports voice commands for easier navigation of the already simple interface. Affordable yet powerful, this handset delivers smooth performance without overwhelming features, while regular security and OS updates also keep your phone safe and secure.
The Google Pixel 9a also features thoughtful additions for phone calls. Call Assist screens unknown numbers for you, hanging up immediately if a spam caller is detected. When you have calls you want to take, Voice Clarity enhances voices you do want to hear and removes background noise to make for a clearer, easier conversation, no matter where your caller is ringing you from.
- Release date: April 2025
- Dimensions: 154x73.3x8.9mm
- Weight: 185.9g
- Display size and resolution: 6.3-inch Actua display (1080 x 2424)
- OS: Android 15
- Refresh rate: 120Hz
- Storage: 256GB
- CPU: Google Tensor G4
- RAM: 8GB
- Battery: 5,100mAh
- Rear cameras: 48MP wide lens + 13MP ultrawide
- Front camera: 13MP
- IP rating: IP68
- Clean, user-friendly interface
- Google assistant integration
- Voice Clarity makes calls simple and clear
Best battery life: Samsung Galaxy A26 5G
What good is a phone if you can’t get into it, or it runs out of battery when you need it most? This isn’t a problem with the Samsung Galaxy A26 5G; the large 5,000mAh battery can last for over 2 days. The side-mounted fingerprint sensor – doubling up as the power button – is easier to access than a lot of under-screen options and makes unlocking your phone quick and easy.
Paired with the Samsung One UI Core Easy Mode, the bright and bold 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display makes the A26 5G a simple but absolutely effective handset. 1,000 nits brightness makes seeing the screen in all lighting conditions easy, but Samsung’s enhanced Vision Booster is there to help out on particularly sunny days. Plus, the Eye Comfort Shield reduces harmful blue light, so your eyes are cared for day and night.
The loudspeaker output on this handset makes sound feel crystal-clear, as well as helping you enjoy clearer phone conversations and seamless media playback. The long battery life, easy access and bright screen makes the A26 5G a great all-rounder.
- Release date: March 2025
- Dimensions: 146.7x71.5x7.8mm
- Weight: 200g
- Display size and resolution: 6.7-inch Super AMOLED (1080X2340)
- OS: Android
- Refresh rate: 120Hz
- Storage: 256GB
- CPU: Samsung Exynos 1380
- RAM: 6GB
- Battery: 5,000mAh
- Rear cameras: 50MP + 8MP + 2MP
- Front camera: 13MP
- IP rating: IP67
- Super long-lasting 5,000mAh battery
- Integrated Eye Comfort Shield to reduce blue light
- Smooth, adaptive 120Hz display for effortless scrolling and streaming
- Vision Booster for easy screen reading even in bright sunshine
Best affordable iPhone: iPhone 16e
The latest iPhone release to hit the shelves, the iPhone 16e is Apple’s more affordable alternative to its latest flagship series. A purse-friendly price tag hasn’t stopped the 16e from making our list though, with multiple features ideal for younger and older users alike. The familiar iOS experience has an intuitive design, with added accessibility tools like VoiceOver and Zoom making texting, calling and swiping from app to app simple.
Apple’s health features now feel like an integrated part of iPhone handsets, and the iPhone 16e is no different. Specifically, the Health app integration which can help keep on top of tracking your health, fitness and sleep - without having to think too much about it.
Some screen adaptions that make the 16e great for the elderly True Tone Retina display which offers excellent colour and brightness, whether you’re picking your phone up in the middle of the night, or bright sunshine.
- Release date: February 2025
- Dimensions: 146.7x71.5x7.8mm
- Weight: 167g
- Display size and resolution: 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR (2523x1170)
- OS: iOS 18
- Refresh rate: 120Hz
- Storage: 128GB, 256GB or 512GB
- CPU: A18 chip
- Battery: up to 26 hours video playback
- Rear cameras: 48MP fusion camera
- Front camera: 12MP
- IP rating: IP68
- Emergency SOS
- True Tone Retina display
- Updated Face ID makes unlocking your phone simple and easy
Best simple design: Motorola Edge 60
If a clean and easy-to-navigate phone is more your style, the Motorola Edge 60 could be just what you’re looking for. With its minimalist Android interface, this phone strips away unnecessary bells and whistles, and delivers a user-friendly experience that’s ideal for anyone wanting a fuss-free setup.
Motorola’s take on Android keeps things intuitive and familiar. The simplified UI reduces clutter on the home screen, with clear icons and streamlined menus that make it easier to find what you need. Pair that with large display settings and bold font options, and it’s no wonder this phone is a top pick for older people.
Another major perk of the Edge 60 is its smart gesture system. With just a quick flick of the wrist, you can launch the flashlight or open the camera, with no fumbling through menus or clicking tiny buttons required. It’s a subtle but clever way to make the phone more accessible.
You also get practical features like excellent battery life that lasts well over a day, and fast charging that’ll top you back up quickly. The Motorola Edge 60 is built to be dependable, with a durable body and water resistance that offers some reassurance in case of slips or spills.
- Release date: May 2024
- Dimensions: 161 x 73 x 7.9 mm
- Weight: 179g
- Display size and resolution: 6.67-inch Super HD Display (2712x1220)
- OS: Android 15
- Refresh rate: 120Hz
- Storage: 512GB
- CPU: MediaTek Dimensity 7300
- RAM: 12GB
- Battery: 5,200mAh
- Rear cameras: 50MP main
- Front camera: 12MP
- IP rating: IP69
- Clean and minimal user interface
- Customisable gesture controls
- Excellent water and dust resistance
Summary
From young to old, iPhone to Android; there’s a phone suitable for everyone. If you’re looking for a phone for your teenager, browse our selection of the best phones for kids.
Phones for the elderly FAQs
It’s best to look for features that enhance accessibility and ease of use, like large screens, simple interfaces (like Easy Mode or Simple Mode), loud and clear call audio, long battery life, and physical buttons or stylus support. Hearing aid compatibility and emergency call features are also beneficial.
Yes, smartphones can be very safe for elderly users. Models with built-in safety features like Apple’s Emergency SOS or Android’s emergency contact settings are there to help you feel safe and secure. Many also offer regular security updates and health tracking tools, giving users and their families peace of mind.
This depends on the user’s needs. SIM-free phones give more flexibility and no monthly payments, which is great if the user already has a SIM. Pay monthly contracts can be more convenient, spreading the cost and including minutes and data.