A new report from the Pew Research Center shows that the mobile Web is increasingly becoming mainstream.
The survey found that 59% of Americans accessed the Internet through a wireless connection. This also includes laptops over WiFi but the most interesting figure I found out of here is that about 40% of adults use the Internet, instant messaging or e-mail on a mobile phone. This is a sizable jump from the 32% that did this in last year’s study.
I think there are many factors for this, as smartphones have become incredibly mainstream. The Apple iPhone is already in the hands of millions and devices like the Motorola Droid have also sold well.
What’s more, all the carriers are making a bigger push for users to sign up for mobile data plans. These contracts generate more revenue than just voice plans and that’s why carrier’s like T-Mobile can give away free smartphones on a new, two-year contract.
Handset makers like Apple are also contributing to mobile web usage, as devices like the iPhone make it easy to hop online on the go. Additionally, the company’s success with the App Store has contributed to the rise, as many of these programs use the Internet.
The report also found that consumers are increasingly using their devices for more than just voice calls. What else are consumers using phones for?
– Take pictures—76% now do this, up from 66% in April 2009
– Send or receive text messages—72% vs. 65%
– Access the internet—38% vs. 25%
– Play games—34% vs. 27%
– Send or receive e-mail—34% vs. 25%
– Record a video—34% vs. 19%
– Play music—33% vs. 21%
– Send or receive instant messages—30% vs. 20%
I can easily relate to these figures, as I rarely use the phone part of my smartphone, unless it’s for business purposes. Am I getting out of touch though? Let us know what you use your cell phone for the most in the comments.