NEW YORK-While few people now use the wireless Web for anything more than checking e-mail and stock quotes, most are receptive to the idea of wireless shopping, results which led analysts with Accenture to conclude there is the potential for a large market for mobile commerce.
According to a recent study published by the consulting firm, less than 1 percent of wireless Web users have used their phone or personal digital assistant to actually buy something. However, the study found about 40 percent of those surveyed said the wireless 1/8Net was either “somewhat appealing” or “very appealing.”
“Our survey indicates that people across the globe can see the great potential of mobile commerce,” said Richard Siber, partner in communications and high-tech with Accenture. “However, because of current device and access limitations-including screen size and slow transmission speeds-widespread Web surfing and shopping on mobile devices has yet to arrive.”
Siber said once equipment and networks evolve, more people will use their mobile devices for making purchases.
Accenture’s online study surveyed 3,189 residents in the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, Finland and Japan.
