Studio Press

comScore Networks, a leader in the measurement and analysis of consumer behavior and attitudes, today released an analysis of the online research and purchase behavior of consumers in the wireless phone market. comScore revealed that consumers were most likely to research newly released and “trendy” models, with the Motorola RAZR V3C topping the list during the first quarter of 2006. Other models securing spots on the most researched list include the Palm Treo 650, the Palm Treo 700W, and the Motorola Pebl.

The Motorola Q is the latest phone to be released, with Verizon Wireless positioned as sole provider of this model for a limited time. As a measure of interest in the model, comScore found that the Motorola Q product page on the Verizon Wireless Web site received slightly more than 100,000 unique visitors in the second half of May, 2006.

Price is a Driving Factor When Purchasing a Phone

comScore also analyzed trends in ordering cell phones online, among new and existing customers, at major carrier and wireless sites in the first quarter of 2006. Not surprisingly, low-cost – or no-cost – models topped the list. The Sony Ericsson Z520A, available through Cingular, was the most frequently ordered model, with more than two-thirds of these phones provided at no cost to the customer. The Nokia 6101 (T-Mobile) and 6102 (Cingular) phones ranked second during the first quarter of 2006. More than two-thirds of the Nokia 6101/6102 phones were also provided at no cost to the customer.

“Consumers are researching the latest wireless phones online in great numbers, by either visiting product pages or conducting searches for specific models at the leading engines,” said Brian Jurutka, director of marketing solutions at comScore. “The top 10 models sold accounted for nearly half of all phones ordered by consumers at major wireless sites in the first quarter – with Motorola capturing the highest share at 38 percent.”