Premium Affordability

Cell phone manufacturers scale back features for emerging markets

Implications - As mobile connectivity becomes less of a luxury and more of a necessity -- especially for those who have limited options for alternate access to the Internet -- a call for scaled-back budget mobiles can be seen. Beyond providing accessibility, this exemplifies a more strategic approach to mobile features, as the definition of "technological necessity" is turned on its head in the digital age.
Workshop Question - How can your brand cater to the growing necessity of tech, and balance that with growing income inequality?

Trend Themes

  1. Affordable Smartphones — The demand for affordable smartphones is driving the market for stripped-down budget devices targeted towards consumers in developing markets.
  2. Minimalist Features — As seen with the Nokia 230 and Asus Live, minimalist features cater to consumers who seek affordability but still desire a capable smartphone experience.
  3. Premium Budget Smartphones — Brands such as Samsung and Meizu are tapping into the demand for affordable premium smartphones, delivering powerful devices at budget prices.

Industry Implications

  1. Technology — The technology sector is seeing disruptive innovation opportunities in the form of affordable smartphone devices targeted towards a new customer base.
  2. Manufacturing — Manufacturing companies can leverage the demand for affordable smartphones to create new, cheaper models with minimalist features suitable for developing markets.
  3. Marketing — Marketing professionals can tap into the growing demand for affordable premium smartphones and develop new strategies to reach an increasingly budget-conscious consumer base.
3.3
Score
Popularity
Activity
Freshness
Patterns
Megatrends
5 Featured, 44 Examples:
130,335 Total Clicks
Date Range:
Dec 15 — May 16
Trending:
Mild
Consumer Insight Topics:

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