While handset makers try to differentiate their products by implementing additional functions to make them more attractive, consumers on their end may not be willing to pay for all of the features. According to recent In-Stat survey – GPS, digital cameras and memory card slots are three features that mobile phone users are interested in and might pay for when purchasing their next phone.
Moreover, In-Stat says that candybar phones with touchscreens continue their dominance in the wireless market as the form factor of choice. The company’s research analyst Greg Potter also mentioned that integration with other devices is also on the rise, with respondents indicating they would like to integrate their phone with their car or other devices and to use their phone as a mobile hotspot.
Some of the report data includes:
- Over 52% of respondents indicated their next phone will have a touchscreen.
- A physical QWERTY keyboard is still the preferred method for inputting new contacts.
- Improved indoor cell reception had the highest level of interest for WiFi hotspot use with a phone.
- GPS directions and surfing the Internet were cited as something respondents were willing or might be willing to pay for.
Additional information on In-Stat’s report titled “Future Cellphones: Current User Preferences Drive Future Handset Designs” is available from here.