5G ranks 3rd amongst most important feature wanted in buying phone
It is also an important motivator for those planning to change mobile providers.
As its adoption amongst smartphone users increases, 5G ranked third amongst the most important feature considered by consumers when they buy a new phone, following battery life and storage.
In the Mastering the new digital life report, Deloitte found that 68% of the respondents who had upgraded their phones in the last year had 5G capability in 2022, up from 56% in 2021.
Deloitte also found that 5G is the second-most important motivator for 24% of respondents who are likely to change mobile providers next year, behind better value for money.
“As the refresh cycle for smartphones enters 2023, it’s likely that most users will have 5G phones and services,” it said.
Amongst those who use 5G, one in two agreed that it enhanced many capabilities and experiences, with 25% saying they are watching more streaming videos, 20% said they are using their phones more as mobile hotspots and for payment, and 25% of Gen Z smartphone users indicated an increase in mobile gaming.
Deloitte also said that whilst the respondents recognised that 4G phones can accommodate those activities, they are “very satisfied” with 5G.
The survey conducted in the first quarter of 2022 involve 2,005 US consumers.
