Hope Santa brings you a new cell phone!
I know, I know…you really want a Red Rider BB Gun.
But 1) you’ll shoot your eye out, and 2) Internet-ready mobile phones are, or will be, essential tools for daily life.
Why are internet-ready mobile phones so important, you ask? Well, mobile phones are becoming essential communication tools. Most people carry cell phones with them an a regular basis, if not constantly, in case they need to make a call. But 62% of Americans also use their cell phones for non-voice activities, like text messaging, taking/sending photos, accessing the Internet, downloading maps, or recording videos. And most of us (51%, actually) would rather give up their computer, television, and land line phone than their cell phone. Adults under 30, African-Americans and Hispanics are most likely highly attached to their cell phones and probably use many features other than voice-calling on a regular basis.
And, this trend will continue to increase, as Pew Internet & American Life Project is now predicting that mobile phones will be the primary Internet access tool worldwide by 2020. This prediction is based on the increasing affordability of mobile phones, mobile users’ willingness to use new features and applications on their cell phones, and increases in technology that have made accessing the Internet from a cell phone easier than ever.
What does this mean for you, the average consumer? As marketers continue to recognize and take advantage of the average consumer’s use of mobile phones for Internet access and other content, they are more likely to tailor messages, promotions, and websites for use of mobile devices. Consumers without reliable and efficient Internet access on their cell phones may miss out on exclusive content, sales, and other offers from their favorite companies and brands. Its also likely that more business and social enterprises will take place via mobile phones, so those of you without this access may find yourself out of the loop.
All the more reason to ask for a new phone, one with fast and reliable Internet access, and to get an unlimited data plan as well to take full advantage of your new phone’s capabilities.
