Difficult access to games could cost carriers $110M

U.S. carriers are missing out on millions of dollars by making it difficult for users to discover and download mobile games, according to new figures from Strategy Analytics.
The market research firm found that while mobile gaming is expected to ring up $520 million in sales this year, portals that are difficult to navigate will cost operators $110 million in potential gaming revenues. The report is based on a study by the Strategy Analytics Wireless Media Lab that found Verizon Wireless provides a better game-buying experience than competitors Helio L.L.C., Sprint Nextel Corp. and AT&T Mobility.
“Improving usability across the purchasing process from content discovery, preview (and) billing approaches is required,” said David Kerr, VP of the firm’s Global Wireless Practice. “Cingular (AT&T Mobility) received the lowest rating across all four categories” including simplicity and time required to complete a purchase.