Which Android phone makes the best phone for your bag?

The phone in your bag doesn't need a great camera or a fast chip. It needs to hold a SIM, keep a Bluetooth link alive and pass call audio cleanly. Here's what to look for, whether you're reusing an old phone or buying a cheap one.

Must-haves

• Android 13 or later. iTell needs it. Check in Settings → About phone → Android version.
• A SIM slot for your second number, physical or eSIM.
• A battery that lasts a day without the screen on. Most phones do; very old batteries may not.

Nice to have

• Dual SIM, if you want two extra numbers on one phone. iTell lets you pick the SIM per call or conversation.
• A small size, so it disappears in a bag.
• Regular security updates from the manufacturer.

What doesn't matter

Camera, screen quality, processor speed, storage. The bag phone mostly sleeps.

About call audio

Texts, contacts and call alerts work on any Android 13+ phone. Call audio is different: each manufacturer routes it in its own way, so some phones carry both directions perfectly and some only let you listen. iTell runs a short check the first time and picks the best method for your phone.

Phones we've tested with live two-way calls:

We add phones every month. If yours isn't on the list, give it a try and run the check; if iTell doesn't work on your phones, our refund policy gives you 14 days.

Buying second-hand?

• Make sure it's not locked to a carrier you don't use.
• Check the Android version before you pay.
• Reset it fully and set it up fresh before installing iTell.

Questions about a specific model? Ask us, we're happy to check.