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Intelligent Horizons, Inc.
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International Data Corporation (IDC) reported that 692 million mobile phones shipped worldwide in 2004 and forecast increased demand through 2009. Phones enabled with non-voice capabilities such as games, ring tones, picture sharing, web surfing, and short message services enjoyed widespread usage in 2004. As competition forces cuts in voice service prices, companies are looking to the non-voice services to bring in needed revenues. As a result, more mobile phones will be enabled with GPS location and mapping applications, mobile music applications, and Wi-Fi compatibility. Some of these phones include technology that bypass the carrier's networks, and reduces their power to control wireless data. Wi-Fi capable phones, PDA's with Bluetooth technology, and Wi-Fi capable laptops can bypass the carrier's network through Wi-Fi or WiMax hotspots. Phones equipped with USB cables and removable phone cards can hook up to the internet through laptop computers or TV set-top boxes, and also connect directly to download pictures, ring tones, or messages. According to IDC, 25,000 public hot spots for accessing Wi-Fi networks are available in the United States. jWire estimates there are 65,000 public hot spots available worldwide. Yankee group reported that 520,00 people used Wi-Fi hot spots in the US in 2004,and that number will double in 2005. However, it is tough making money on hot spots alone, as evidenced by Verizon shutting down 150 Wi-Fi hot spots they set up in New York City. On the other hand, according to T-Mobile, hot spots help attract and retain cell phone customers. T-Mobile is also setting up secure hot spots for corporate customers, and believes that will be a growth market. Even though Wi-Fi service is faster now, Verizon is banking on future versions of cellular that will have better speed and coverage. That might explain why Sony, Kyocera, and Motorola are among the firms that will be selling phones with built-in Wi-Fi and cellular capabilities. Cingular Wireless and T-Mobile are among the network carriers offering plans with access to Wi-Fi hot spots and high-speed cellular service. In-depth interviews, focus groups and surveys provide insights about user attitudes, preferences, behavior and purchasing styles. Providers want to know more about how consumers and business people communicate, access information, share knowledge, and adapt to new technologies. It's important to learn about desired outcomes, processes and experiences, and stories about real-world issues and trade-offs people make regarding the digital media and technologies they use or desire. |