- One in six mobile users switch to join the 'appster' generation
- 3 million** mobile users say access to apps is most important consideration when getting a phone
The average 'appster' has downloaded nine apps in the past 12 months and spent an average of £9 on them in total. This looks to be a trend for the future with over two fifths (43 per cent) of mobile users saying they would consider switching, or have recently switched their mobile to an iPhone or other smartphone specifically to get access to apps. The app culture is particularly popular with the under twenties where the figure rises to one in seven (70 per cent) wanting to be an 'appster'.
For almost 3 million** people, having a handset that can download apps is the most important consideration when buying a phone, ahead of the cost or the number of minutes and texts included in the deal.
James Parker, manager of mobiles at moneysupermarket.com said, "The iPhone has led the way in the smartphone market since its launch and the advent of 'apps' has really added fuel to the fire. Apps are already extremely popular but it seems plenty more people will consider switching to a smartphone in order to be part of the latest mobile phenomenon.
"It was recently announced that Spotify will be launching a service on mobiles to allow users to access their music streaming services. This move is a milestone in the mobile world and it will be interesting to see what other services we see pop up as apps in the next few months."
However, not everyone is in favour of the new app culture , as the survey also shows that 31 per cent think apps are gimmicks, 21 per cent say they are for 'show-offs' and 17 per cent insisting that they that apps are for tech geeks.
-Ends-
Notes to editors:
* Opinium Research carried out an online poll of 2,008 British adults from Friday 21st to Tuesday 25th August 2009. Results have been weighted to nationally representative criteria.
** 6% of people (2,898,900)
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