Smartphone Shipments Decline in Australia

Australian mobile phone shipments seemed to be heading toward a blunt end, itWire reported based on market research by IDC.

The research firm released figures supporting its claim, saying shipment of mobile phones of Down Under has dropped to about 2 million in Q1 2014. This marks a decline of 22 percent over the previous quarter and a 17 percent decline on a year-on-year basis. While shipment of feature phones dropped 38 percent, the same for smartphones standing at 20 percent.

As seen, the market response is generally weak during the first quarter, which is considered quite normal after the hectic shopping spree during the holiday quarter. With so many mobile phones traded during the previous quarter, consumers still are relishing their device and least likely to consider a replacement a few months down the line.

Another reason being put forward by experts to explain the lull in buying during Q1 was that people are holding their purses for a few mega releases expected later. These include the new iPhone range which is expected by fall. Samsung also has quite a few aces up its sleeve and people obviously are looking forward to the S5 successor before setting on a purchase.

Samsung by far leads the pack in Australia although Apple commands fierce brand loyalty. The study revealed 70 percent of iPhone buyers to remain in the family while Android commands a brand loyalty of 60 percent.

Another trend being witnessed is the gradual demise of landlines. Once considered indispensable for every household, landlines seem to be losing their relevance against smartphones that allow one to do so much more than communicating.

Pensioners and the elderly continue to rely on it for the use of the landline for all purposes, but have a mobile connection which is used only when absolutely necessary.