Devicescape, which works with device manufacturers and service providers to enable easy WiFi connectivity, published the results of a broad consumer survey into wireless connectivity preferences.
Key findings from the “Q1 2011 Devicescape WiFi Report” showed:
- Eighty percent of respondents believe 24/7 connectivity has improved their lives, and almost 90 percent of respondents like feeling connected while on the go.
- The majority of respondents (80.5 percent) prefer to shop at retail outlets that offer WiFi.
- More than 65 percent of respondents would take advantage of a WiFi zone in a retail store to sign up in real time for club cards, free memberships and coupons.
- WiFi availability and pricing have no real significance when choosing an airline, according to 55.3 percent of respondents.
- Reduced data plan costs are not enough to entice 50.3 percent of iPhone and Android enthusiasts to switch brands.
- When cash flow is strained, almost 60 percent of respondents say paying for a gym membership takes a backseat to paying for their smartphone.
The survey queried a cross-section of Devicescape’s members — a group of 1,088 respondents that includes a variety of professionals and students.
“Connectivity is simply critical to everyday life, as evidenced by the demand for WiFi in our homes, shopping centers, airports, businesses, parks, cafés — you name it,” said Dave Fraser, CEO of Devicescape. “Wherever there is a need to interact with another human, there is a need for connectivity. This is why such importance is placed on how we deliver that connectivity — whether over 3G or WiFi.”http://www.devicescape.com