Dukes+A.+Blog+Post+Analysis

Dukes A

TO: Proximity mobile team FROM: Andrew Dukes SUBJECT: Reuters Article on Smartphone Market DATE: Feb 4, 2010

This memo will discuss a //Reuters// article called, "Smartphone Competition to Bite in 2010 after Q4 Boom". This article provides a broad overview of the current smartphone market. This article will inform the Proximity readers and clients about the status of the smartphone market. Additional questions will be necessary to create discussion within the spring focus group.


 * What the Market Currently Looks Like**

The smartphone market is booming. Within the last quarter of 2009, the smartphone market hit its peak by selling a total of 53 million phones. Apple, the exclusive supplier of the iPhone, has substantially increased their sales in 2009. Also, they are anticipating an even greater increase in 2010. Foreign-based companies, like Samsung and LG Electronics, have found similar success as Apple. It is expected that more vendors will enter into the market in 2010, which will result in a lower prices for consumers.


 * Why this Increase is Significant**

The increase of smartphones impacts the Proximity readers and clients for two major reasons:


 * __A wider variety__ - New vendors will bring a greater selection of available smartphones. This includes new designs, colors, and applications.
 * __Lower Prices__ - Consumers will be able to get smartphones at lower prices due to the high completion between companies.


 * Questions to Ask Mobile Users**

Since smartphones are becoming more and more popular, we will need to recognize what attracts mobile users to smartphones.


 * Do you typically find yourself away from a computer when you're in need of the internet?
 * Do you find smartphone applications useful?
 * Do you feel that smartphones are worth the extra monthly fee?

If proximity members answer these questions, they will have a better understanding of how smartphones are impacting the mobile market.


 * Reference**

Virki, T. (2010, Feburary 1) Smartphone competition to bite in 2010 after 4Q boom. //Reuters.// Retrieved Feburary 2, 2010, from http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSLDE60U0K220100201.