Such a contract plan is not something you see everyday and it's definitely worth considering but, as all seemingly great deals, 3's 9Pounds Monthly contract comes with a couple of catches. Nonetheless, the plan is a great step forward, since now other operators might consider such payment plans as well.

At first sight, it strikes you as the best deal you'll ever make, especially since it is the holiday season and by now most of you are probably trying to save up as much as possible knowing that shopping is far from over and the money is almost gone. And indeed, if you’re in need of a mobile and money is an issue, then this is the deal for you.

Allowing us to take a glimpse into the payment plan of the future, more accurately, the 2009 plans, when the users’ financial status will be most reduced, the offer, called Mix&Match, includes, as 3 is claiming, flexibility and quality. The actual offer delivers 100 minutes or texts or any mix of the two, as well as free voice mail, plus 300 3 to 3 minutes.

In addition, free Skype calls and chat, plus free Windows Live Messenger and the “towering” feeling of paying only 9Pounds /month on such a contract are also included. The only catch is the considerably long period of time that users have to pay this monthly fee for; other than that, the deal fits perfectly those clients who can’t afford to spend large amounts of money.

Marc Allera, sales and marketing director, 3 UK stated regarding this very tempting contract, "Delivering value to consumers has always been a priority, that’s why we’re the first and only mobile network to try to take the worry out of at least one bill a month with the UK’s first ever £9 tariff. The current economic climate means that we’re more committed than ever to finding ways to pass savings to consumers".

Next, the second and much more important catch is the fact that, unless users choose to accept the Sony K660i lime on white or silver on black versions, the deal cannot take place. Actually, this is the most important part of the deal and in the end the most profitable part for 3.

Even so, as previously mentioned, if you’re in need of a very cheap deal that also comes with some advantages, 3's Mix&Match is the perfect choice.