ARLINGTON, Va.—Consumers are finding it more important to carry wireless phones with them everywhere and are interested in more than just talking on them, according to a recent survey by the Consumer Electronics Association.
CEA said that 48 percent of wireless phone owners claim they carry their phones with them at all times, a rise from the 33 percent that said the same a year ago. In addition, 57 percent of those surveyed said they use their phones for social rather than business purposes. And, surprisingly, 71 percent of consumers limit themselves to less than 400 minutes per month, despite many plans that boast thousands of minutes—often coupled with free night and weekend incentives.
The survey also found that 63 percent of wireless phone owners are interested in e-mail capabilities on their phones and 28 percent considered Internet access an important consideration in their phone purchase. However, only 14 percent showed interest in m-commerce, or making purchases via their wireless phones.
CEA also said that interest among non-owners of wireless phones shows growing opportunities in the wireless market. In fact, nearly half of non-owners showed interest in signing up for service, with cost being their greatest concern.
