News
Half US users are mobile video virgins
Tim Green Aug 13 2008, 11:10am
Over half of US users with a video-capable mobile have never watched a clip on their device.
However, researcher Parks Associates believes operators will overcome this challenge by offering more programming at no cost.
It suggests in its Mobile TV: Analysis & Forecast (Second Edition) report that they follow the example of Japan and South Korea, where some services are offered free of charge. In Italy, where additional fees have been the norm, usage has been limited.
"Buy before you try is always a tough sell," said John Barrett, director of research at Parks Associates.
"Most subscribers must pay additional money to watch video and mobile TV services, even once they have purchased an appropriate phone. This circumstance presents an obvious chicken-and-egg obstacle to adoption. Many consumers are hesitant to pay for a new, unfamiliar service, but they will remain unfamiliar with the service until they or someone they know uses it."
