According to a new Deloitte survey, two in three consumers are more likely to buy a new phone once 5G-compatible devices become available. Deloitte's Connectivity and Mobile Trends report, found that 16% of consumers who use smartphones said that 5G capabilities will be a key variable when choosing their next device. While 26% chose display quality and 22% opted for brand. The survey also found that around one in three consumers use phones that are more than two years old, and less than 60% of people plan on buying a new phone within the next two years.
“As carriers roll out 5G in the United States, a significant number of consumers will adopt the service quickly — if it delivers on its promise of faster speeds and better coverage. Major networks and studios will continue to launch their own streaming and other data-heavy entertainment services like online multiplayer games, augmented reality, and virtual reality, accelerating the race to attract and retain customers." Said Deloitte Vice Chairman Kevin Westcott.
Although there is certain optimism when buying a new device with 5G capabilities, 84% of consumers are yet to be convinced to pay the £11 per month extra some operators are proposing for 5G. Peter Corbett, Deloitte Partner, and National Telecommunications lead said that the network will experience growing pains at the beginning: “Consumers should prepare to be disappointed with 5G in the short-term, until its full establishment early 2021.”