Handset shipments drop 58% in Japan

According to Forbes, who got their info from Reuters, Mobile phone shipments in Japan dropped 58% (!) in October to what is the lowest monthly total on record. Now for us Mobile-centric bods, that IS worrying news – because Japan is often considered a barometer for the rest of the world, albeit usually ahead of the curve.

However all may not quite be as it seems, since although the economy is a main suggested cause, it’s also important to bear in mind the introduction of new business models whereby Operators charge for devices in return for lower calling charges.

Either way, if the sales are dropping away, then that will, over time affect the R&D of companies selling handsets there – and as we know, Japan is famous for technologically-advanced handsets….

[Via: Forbes / Image via: japan-guide.com]