Could Wi-Fi-Only Phones Replace Cellular?

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. -- Wi-Fi-only phones could theoretically replace cellular phones for some users, but respondents that participated in an In-Stat Web survey around Wi-Fi phones and communication devices had only a lukewarm response to the concept, reports In-Stat (http://www.in-stat.com). Although the majority of respondents expressed at least marginal interest in Wi-Fi-only phones, nearly 25% expressed absolutely no interest, the high-tech market research firm says.

"Overall survey results indicated that Wi-Fi is a desirable buddy technology to cellular," says Gemma Tedesco, In-Stat analyst. "The majority of respondents were interested in having a Wi-Fi communication device together with their cellular phones, albeit only if the Wi-Fi phone or communicator device is cheap."

Recent research by In-Stat found the following:

* Current pricing for Wi-Fi-only phones is way out of line with what most consumers are willing to pay.

* Respondents expressed a general satisfaction with their cellular handsets for mobile voice communication.

* Respondents indicated they would pay a premium for a Wi-Fi personal communication device, such as the Sony mylo, compared to a standard Wi-Fi phone.

The report, "Wi-Fi for Voice?: Consumer Research Around Wi-Fi Phones" (#IN0703844WT), examines market demand for Wi-Fi phones. It includes results from, and analysis of, an In-Stat consumer survey regarding attitudes and perceptions of Wi-Fi-only phones. Additionally, it provides analysis of the current Wi-Fi phone landscape.

For more information on this research or to purchase it online, please visit: http://www.instat.com/catalog/wcatalogue.asp?id=3 or contact a sales representative:

Eastern North America: Tina Sheltra, 480.609.4531; [e-mail]

Western North America: Erin McKeighan, 480.609.4551; [e-mail]

Outside of North America: http://www.instat.com/sales.asp

The price is $1,995 (US).

Related report:

"IP Phones Invade the Home and Office," IN0602854CT, $2,995 (US)

About In-Stat

Technology vendors, service providers, technology professionals and market specialists, worldwide, rely on In-Stat's experienced staff and in-depth research to support critical business, product and technology decisions. In-Stat's insights are derived from both a deep technology understanding and comprehensive research, which examines each segment of the value chain for each market. Regular and ongoing end-user demand and primary research surveys underpin much of the analysis, enabling In-Stat to provide incisive market knowledge and guidance on future market opportunities.

In-Stat is a strategic segment of the $9 billion Reed Elsevier global information network, with access to an expansive worldwide electronic network, extensive technology databases and well-informed personnel. As a member of Reed Business Information, In-Stat is a division of the largest business-to-business publisher in the U.S.