Latest handsets

The original Samsung Solid has certainly been a popular choice for users who required a durable phone. So, are its replacements the Samsung Extreme B2100 and the Bound B2700 up to the tough task of taking over where it left off?

In the hand, both feel stronger than the original and seem like they will take all but the worst of conditions. In fact, the Extreme has an IP57 waterproofing rating, thus meaning it can withstand thirty minutes in water at a depth of three feet. Both, of course, follow in the footsteps of their predecessor, being dust and shock proof.

The pair are now quad band, allowing for better roaming coverage, compared to the dual band of the first Solid. They also have bigger and crisper displays; Extreme 1.77’’ and Bound 1.9’’ in size.

A handy addition of a torch is sure to be a hit, as is the inclusion of a Micro SD slot to expand the memory. Camera quality has improved with the Extreme sporting 1.3 MP and the Bound a 2MP. The Bound also comes with 3G capabilities for a faster web experience.

These phones exist in a specific market with just one other major competitor, namely the JCB Tough phone. In our opinion they offer great value for users looking for a hard wearing device that has a little more to offer in the way of phone features, although neither come with the three year warranty of the JCB Tough phone.

Both handsets are available from us SIM free, at a cost of just £95 for the Extreme and £120 for the Bound.

Accessories are almost as popular as phones these days and can enhance the use of any handset, but they need to be of good quality and there are a bewildering array to choose from. Here are some tips in the guise of Total’s Top Three:

A Rubber Skin for your device is an inexpensive, yet practical accessory. Whilst it won’t protect the screen directly, the body of the phone should remain pristine for a longer period and guard against the occasional knock. What’s more, due to their style these days, they also barely affect pocketability.

Many phones and PDA’s now come with expandable memory. Making use of cards such as the Micro SD, amongst others, can enhance the capability of the phone, enabling photos, documents, data and music to be stored on just one device, in ever increasing volumes.

And lastly, a desktop cradle can be a handy place to store you mobile device when you’re in the office, providing a practical way to charge your device, so it’s always accessible too.

Should you require any further information about these, or indeed, any other handset or accessory, you can find further details on our pricelist, available on the Helpdesk, or please contact us on 0845 070 5460.