7th January - Samsung has launched its first ultra durable handset, the Samsung Solid, which is exclusive to O2.

The Samsung Solid is water and dust resistant and has an inbuilt anti-shock mechanism. It also comes with a thick rubber body that will help protect against damage if the phone is dropped.

The handset is aimed at tradesmen and extreme sports enthusiast and also features a VGA camera, Bluetooth and WAP connectivity, FM radio and flashlight. The Solid also boasts an SOS dialling function which sends an alert message to a chosen contact if the volume button is pressed three times in quick succession. Once the message has been sent, the next incoming call is automatically answered.

Samsung announcement comes just weeks after Data Select unveiled the Toughphone, which was designed by construction equipment manufacturer JCB, in November. The Toughphone is also shock, dust, water and drop resistant, and will work in temperatures from -20C to 60C.

The Toughphone is free with a 12-month contract on Vodafone but costs £199.95 on pre-pay. The Samsung Solid is also available for free with a 12-month O2 contract cost only £59.99 on O2 Pay As You Go.