- 24th October 2006-

In-Stat reveals new 3G “Killer App”

After years of eagerly anticipating video would be the “killer application” for 3G, a new survey from In-Stat finds that existing and potential 3G customers are much more interested in high-quality mapping and navigation services. However, 3G carriers that want to capture that market will have to expand the availability of compatible handsets.

“Expanding the number of GPS or Assisted-GPS (A-GPS) handsets from today’s levels will be an important step for 3G carriers to provide the applications their customers really want,” says David Chamberlain, In-Stat analyst. “Unfortunately, technology choices left over from the 1990s make this difficult but carriers and handset vendors are starting to provide an increasing flow of products that better meet the 3G customers’ needs.”

The research, “3G and Mobile Multimedia” (#IN0602911MCM), covers carrier initiatives and marketing of 3G services in North America, Europe and Asia, and includes the results of In-Stat’s survey of North American mobile phone users.

Coincidentally, In-Stat states that low labour costs and a fast-growing domestic market will spur China’s consumer electronics manufacturing industry to more than double by 2010. The industry will grow from $71.5 bn in 2006 to $167 bn in 2010, the market research firm says. China’s mature supply chain, a skilled labour force, and convenient logistics are the key factors to attracting outsourcing manufacturers from abroad.

Web: www.in-stat.com