
O2 has been one of the UK's top networks for donkey's years, but if you've never used the effervescent brand before you might not be aware what's on offer - here's our run down of the best O2 phones and what treats you can expect in return for a monthly wedge of cash:
When talking about Bolt Ons, we'd hope (unlike Google it seems) that you'd realise that we weren't thinking along the lines of Peter Kay or Paddy McGuiness.
No, we're talking about the optional extras that O2 allows you to add on to your monthly contract. Ranging from International Calls to Picture messaging and Insurance, the network hopes there's something to appeal to everyone.
There's even the ability to purchase a further 100MB of data on top of your monthly allowance, should you find that you are close to running out. This could be particularly useful as all data enabled plans include tethering.
So what basics do you get to begin with? Bonus Plans come with Unlimited texts with varying levels of minutes and data, and Standard plans come with varying levels of everything.
Forgive our greediness but things heat up on the "New Tariff", coming bundled with Unlimited calls and Texts, and 1GB of data. This isn't limited though, as you can double that should the mood take you.
On top of that, on all data plans of 250MB or more, you can add free Wi-Fi on BT Hotspots. Interestingly, for those less data hungry users, O2 offers to reduce your plan costs if you limit yourself to 100MB.
Finally, we have to mention O2 Priority. It's all in the name here, providing first option on a variety of tickets at O2 stadiums and arenas nationwide as well as high street vouchers direct to your phone.
Obviously you're going to want to make use of all of this, but how?
Sony Xperia S
Sony's first foray into the mobile world after completing the buyout of former partner Ericsson, comes in the form of the Xperia S. Sony opted to pack in its own Bravia engine, taken from its tv range, which has helped create a really fantastic screen. Inside you'll find NFC technology, a dual core 1.5GHz processor and a high end 12MP Camera.
Read our full Sony Xperia S Review here
HTC Sensation XE
It might be unfair to say this phone is all about the Beats, but HTC's newly acquired technology adds something to the XE that others don't. The XE also comes straight out of the box with Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich) and HTC's much loved Sense UI, which adds a nice layer to a lovely OS. This all comes wrapped in a clean black chassis with smart red accents.
Read our full HTC Sensation XE Review here
Samsung Galaxy S2
Our original review might have been April 2011, but even today it holds its own. Yes we might have mentioned it once or twice, but that's because it really is a 5-star phone. An excellent display, 8MP Full HD recording camera, 1.2GHz dual core processor and thinner than Kate Moss, the S2 is still at the top. Oh and it even comes with Ice Cream Sandwich out the box now.
Read our full Samsung Galaxy S2 review here
Sony Ericsson Xperia Ray
Proof that high end technology can fit into a smaller body, comes the Xperia Ray. Although coming from the Ericsson era, you'd be wrong in thinking it was getting dated. Coming squeezed behind a pin sharp display, is a 1GHz processor and an 8mp camera, both of which help the Ray fight above its weight group.
Read our full Sony Ericsson Xperia Ray Review here
Apple iPhone 4S
The original iPhone was a game changer, and this is continued with the 4S. The fifth iPhone so far comes in with a proprietary dual core processor, and Apple's wonderful Retina Display to bring apps to life. Apple know that a smart phone's real strength lies in its app catalogue, and you'll be unsurprised to find that its iTunes store is packed full of high quality offerings.