Over the years with the way the mobile phone industry has evolved across the globe, the fine line between a mandate and a feature in a mobile phone has become blurred. Surely, who would say that a 1.3 mp camera is a feature anymore or for that matter even a radio? Phone book memories are supposed to be large. It is a mandate, not really a feature. And with technological upgradation of existing mandates to peg them as unique features having a strong selling proposition, it is no wonder that consumers are making the most of this scuffle between leading manufacturers.

With the craze of mobilizing music having caught on with a large section of the mobile phone users market, manufacturers are bundling their handsets with software's compatible with a variety of sound formats such as MP3, WAV, WMA, et al. Experts say that consumers prefer to have an MP3 ring tone player on their mobile phones as compared to a music playing software or even a video recorder. This could probably be the insight behind Motorola's RAZR V3. This super ? slim phone has a basic camera, MP3 ring tone player, and Bluetooth connectivity, all packed neatly into a very stylish looking handset. Although it can playback video MPEG 4 with sound, it does not have the more advanced features such as memory card, music player, or even a video recorder. Yet, it is doing very well for itself. Launched towards the end of 2004, the RAZR V3 is still a head turner being really thin at 13.9mm and looking extremely suave because of the anodized aluminum finish. This keeps the handset lightweight and strong at the same time protecting it from the wear and tear of everyday use. The Motorola RAZR V3 is a steal for someone looking for basic features packaged into a high ? end looking handset.

The Samsung D500 with its 1.3 mp camera, and, video recording and messaging, bundles MP3 ring tone playing software as well. This large display screen gadget has Bluetooth connectivity along with a USB cable port. Industry experts say that this has been one of Samsung's best offering to the market and pegged the product as a complete entertainment package. The D500 has Java embedded games and the integrated hands free speakerphone plays good quality songs through the MP3 player.

The Sony Ericsson series of W phones meaning WALKMAN phones took the market by storm. One of the improvised and therefore better versions of this series the W890i is 10 mm thick, and weighing only 78 g, still looks very attractive. The featherweight look and feel does not mean that there is a compromise on the offering. The WALKMAN plays MP3 and other format tracks, the sound of which can be boosted through the Bluetooth stereo provided or just by plugging in authentic Sony ear phones to the proprietary jack. This also means that the MP3 ring tones are played at a better quality of sound. This phone comes with SensMe software installed that allows the user to create a playlist based on the tempo and mood of the songs. Although it has a 3.2 mp camera, the absence of LED flash and auto focus restricts the photographic output produced. However, as analysts defend, this phone is not meant to substitute one's need for a camera as much as it is meant to fulfill one's need for a music player whilst on the move.

Although most of Nokia's handsets now have MP3 ring tone player capabilities, the 6300, according to industry reports, is one of the top favourites. The stainless steel finish along with good multimedia capabilities makes this handset a classical piece for someone who is looking at getting good value for their money.