Survey Sez: Size Does Matter

Smartphone owners here and across the pond want wireless devices with larger displays, but they also want them to be light and compact.

The Strategy Analytics Wireless Device Lab says surveyed smartphone respondents prefer device screens in the 4-inch to 4.5-inch range, as long as the device also is thin.

Some differences in size preference exist dependent on the segment, the group notes. For example, women are more likely to consider slightly smaller devices than do men. Existing Android owners are more likely to seek larger devices than existing Apple iPhone owners.

“Almost 90 percent of existing smartphone owners surveyed chose a prototype smartphone with a display larger than their current device,” comments Paul Brown, a director in the Strategy Analytics User Experience Practice. “This trend is driven by increased mobile Web browsing capability as well as engaging video and gaming experiences.”

Adds Kevin Nolan, vice president/User Experience Practice at Strategy Analytics, “In order for smartphone owners to adopt larger devices, it is important for handset manufacturers to ensure that mobile devices are not too heavy and that the devices remain thin enough for purses and pockets.”