Over 30 Per Cent of 3G Users Considering 4G for Next Upgrade

Handsets stackedOver 30 per cent of 3G users will consider switching to 4G once their current contract ends, whether or not they already own a 4G-enabled device, new research shows.

According to a YouGov survey, 44 per cent of current smartphone users own a 3G device that isnt compatible with 4G, while 20 per cent are on 3G contracts but own devices capable of running 4G. Breaking down the results between these two segments, the report found that 31 per cent with 4G-enabled phones were considering 4G plans, while 34 per cent of those with 3G handsets were also thinking about upgrades.

Both groups were similarly concerned about the price of 4G and were equally likely (26 per cent) to wait until the cost falls before upgrading. While the majority of current 3G users think they may possibly upgrade, only a small number said it was very likely, with 18 per cent of those with 4G devices and 8 per cent of those with 3G phones rating their likelihood that high.

Attitudes towards the advantages of 4G were still tentative. Among those who already owned 4G smartphones, 29 per cent said they were excited about 4Gs capabilities, while 24 per cent said 3G suited their needs perfectly fine and they had no need to upgrade. With 3G device owners, these figures were at 22 per cent and 42 per cent respectively.

“Current 3G users are a key target group when it comes to the next wave of 4G adopters,” said Russell Feldman, director in technology & telecoms at YouGov. “However, while there are high levels of awareness of 4G and it seems likely that consumers will shift over to the service, the change will be more evolutionary than revolutionary. Although most think they might upgrade a lot of these late-comers are also not particularly excited by what 4G offers.

“There is definitely hope for operators here, though. Two of the main issues for current 3G users when it comes to upgrading are the potential cost and a lack of information over the benefits. As many networks are now offering free or cut-price deals on 4G, the next challenge is to communicate both the deals and the benefits of upgrading to consumers nearing the end of their contacts. If they do this they will stand a good chance of turning people who might be interested into those who will upgrade.”