Launch of new smartphones like iPhone 5 expected to set tills ringing

INDUSTRY experts predict a bumper sales period for smartphones with the launch of the iPhone 5 expected this week and Nokia about to enter the market for the first time.

According to figures from Carphone Warehouse, more than half of adults in the UK currently own a smartphone – but many more are on the point of taking the plunge.

Over the next three months 15 per cent of UK consumers are planning to buy a smartphone for the first time, which means almost seven out of ten of us will soon own a smartphone.

Graham Stapleton, chief commercial officer at Carphone Warehouse, said: “We’re on the precipice of some highly anticipated handset launches and more and more consumers are considering purchasing smartphones than ever before. As the rumour mill goes into overdrive and speculation abounds online, we’re seeing a significant increase in the number of ‘first timers’ asking about and considering shifting to these types of device.”

Apple is expected to announce the iPhone 5 next Wednesday. This week Nokia announced its entry into the market with the Lumia handsets and Motorola also announced three new RAZR phones.

Ernest Doku, telecoms expert at uSwitch.com, says: “September marks the time of the mobile calendar when consumers are bombarded with new handsets, and this year is no different. It’s also two years since the iPhone 4 launched – which means many customers will be coming to the end of their 24-month contract, and be on the market to upgrade their phone or deal. This means that networks and handset manufacturers alike are preparing to cash in on an influx of consumers looking for a new smartphone.

“With such a huge array of smartphones now available and with deals and models catering for all types of budgets, many consumers may now be considering getting their first smartphone. If you don’t have to have the newest shiniest model, you may be able to save money by snapping up an older model at a bargain price as networks try to clear old stock.

“In the past we have seen previous iPhone models lower in cost when the newest version is released, and the same has happened with Samsung’s popular Galaxy models.

Kate Murphy, mobiles spokesperson at MoneySupermarket, said: “Smartphones dominate the mobiles market, meaning high anticipation for the release the likes of the new iPhone. Although consumers are keen to get their hands on the latest must have gadget they shouldn’t forget how important it is to be on the right tariff for their needs.

“If you are on the lookout for a new phone or are sat eagerly awaiting new handsets, ensure you take the time to think about what you will be using your phone for to prevent a bill shock further down the line.

“The new generation of smartphones rely heavily on data and many offer services such as YouTube and streaming from sites such as BBC iPlayer and Sky Go. Opting for a tariff such as one from Three that offers unlimited data from £29 per month for an iPhone 4s would be perfect for heavy internet users.

“If you are currently tied into a contract check your most recent bill to see if you are within your allocated minutes, texts and data. Most networks will let you move on to a better tariff if you feel that your current one isn’t meeting your requirements.”