Trend cluster
Category

Controlled
Connectivity

Consumers get more control over their mobile connection.

Wi-Fi-First SmartphonesSignal-Improving Phone CasesCustom Data PlansMobile LTE Hotspots

Trend

What is the Controlled Connectivity trend?

Controlled Connectivity: For many consumers -- particularly Hispanic consumers in North America -- the cellular device is the main source of Internet access. Maximizing on this, network providers and device manufacturers are giving consumers more control over their connectivity. This speaks to the need for customization and the necessity of integrating consumer behavior into even the most technical of products.

Trend themes

Themes within the Controlled Connectivity trend

Three behaviours holding the trend together
01

WiFi-First Smartphones

This trend is disrupting the traditional mobile network plan by introducing Wi-Fi first smartphones with freedom to easily switch between Wi-Fi & mobile network.

02

Signal-Improving Phone Cases

This trend is disrupting the traditional phone cases by introducing cases that not only offers extra battery but also improves the signal and durability of the phone.

03

Custom Data Plans

This trend allows consumers to personalize their own phone plans which can make a significant impact on how the traditionally-priced plans are structured.

Industry implications

What the Controlled Connectivity trend means for industry

Where the trend changes the playbook
For

Wireless Services Providers

Introducing Wi-Fi-first smartphones and mobile LTE hotspots can benefit wireless services providers such as Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile alike for better connectivity and custom data plans.

For

Mobile Network Manufacturers

Signal-improving phone cases offer opportunities for companies like Apple and Samsung to improve user experiences and increase phone durability.

For

Consumer Electronics Accessories

Custom data plans and signal-improving phone cases are significant innovations for accessories manufacturers like Mophie, OtterBox and Belkin can take advantage of to gain a competitive edge.

Workshop question

What is consumer behavior within your industry indicating about how your offerings are utilized? Can you streamline that?

Trend signals

Trend signals for Controlled Connectivity

Trend score 3.0 out of 10, from popularity 40%, activity 42%, freshness 8%.

Popularity40%
Activity42%
Freshness8%
Audience
70%Men
30%Women
  • Gen Alpha (not a primary audience)
  • Gen Z
  • Millennial
  • Gen X
  • Boomer (not a primary audience)
Market
Europe
Asia-Pacific
South America
Africa