Consumers Seek 4G Connections and Affordability According to New Survey

At CES, we announced that T-Mobile is rolling out 4G speeds to additional markets and tomorrow we’re launching our newest, affordable 4G smartphone, the Nokia Lumia 710.  It’s been our continued focus at T-Mobile to make a great 4G experience and compelling 4G devices broadly available and affordable for everyone. Recently, we conducted an Omnibus survey¹ with Harris Interactive that confirms 4G connections and affordability are key features smartphone users are looking for when they shop for a new smartphone. Here’s a quick snapshot of some of the survey results: Value Remains Most Important Factor for First Time Smartphone Adopters: - More than four-in-ten (44 %) first time smartphone buyers in 2012 say the cost of the data plan associated with the smartphone is the most influential reason they have not purchased a smartphone before. A 4G Connection is Becoming a Must for Smartphone/Tablet Owners: - About one-in-three consumers (28%) rank a "fast and reliable 4G network connection" as the most important feature they need when looking for a new smartphone. - 86% of current smartphone owners who also own a tablet want access to content on their tablet everywhere they can on their smartphone -- not just where there is Wi-Fi.  (NOTE: this may explain why T-Mobile’s Sonic^TM 4G Mobile Hotspot is popular with Wi-Fi-only tablet owners.) 2012 will be another exciting year for T-Mobile as 4G goes main stream. While last year marked the emergence of 4G networks, this year is all about fueling mass adoption by delivering fast, 4G connections in more places and innovative 4G products and services at a great value. ¹Survey Methodology This survey was conducted online within the United States by Harris Interactive on behalf of T-Mobile USA from December 20-22, 2011 among 2,573 adults ages 18 and older, among whom 235 will be first time smartphone buyers in 2012, and 988 are current smartphone users who will remain smartphone users in 2012. This online survey is not based on a probability sample and therefore no estimate of theoretical sampling error can be calculated. For complete survey methodology, including weighting variables, please contact kmcfadzean@waggeneredstrom.com.