More basic phone users eye upgrade to 4G phone in India

NEW DELHI: One out of two basic phone users in India intends to buy a 4G feature phone in the next six months, International Data Corp said, adding that a third of feature phone users wants to purchase data-enabled devices next year.

Feature phone users are getting more aware about the benefits of mobile internet and want to switch to a data-enabled phone. However, affordability of smartphones – in terms of upfront purchase costs – remains a barrier for them, IDC said in a report on Friday, citing its Smartphone Consumer PULSE study covering 10 major Indian cities.

The market research firm said consumers are willing to hold on to their smartphones for a longer period. More than 50% of the respondents replaced their phones after 18 months or more. Still, there is an opportunity for new brands to tap the others, who are open to experimenting and replacing their devices more frequently.


IDC India’s study showed one-third of mobile phone users are willing to spend more than their planned budget and more than half are ready to spend $100 (Rs 6,400) to $200 on a new smartphone.

“Word of mouth and recommendation continue to be the most prominent factors influencing the smartphone consumer’s purchase decision.

In tier I cities, specifications and brand value are other key drivers of choice of brand, whereas in Tier II-III cities, consumers prefer price, design and good after-sales service,” said Himanshu Jain, a market analyst at IDC India.