Voice-only users stand as opportunity for carriers

A little more than one-third of North American cellphone subscribers only use voice services, according to a new report from research firm In-Stat.
The firm said wireless carriers should view the findings as an opportunity, reflecting a new, untapped segment for mobile data and entertainment offerings.
“There is a potential dark cloud on the horizon for the cellular operators, however, as unlimited Internet access packages may disrupt today’s enhanced service offerings, which are currently very tightly coupled to what a particular service provider wishes to offer,” says Gerry Kaufhold, an analyst at In-Stat.
The company’s survey found that half of respondents said they would access the Internet via an unlimited data package, instead of purchasing other rich media services, if the pricing was right.
In addition, the firm said it found users are confused by the wide variety of handset models currently on the market.