But do they?
The Mobile Data Association (MDA) today announced the quarterly figures for the total number of GPRS and MMS devices being used by customers in the UK as of 30th June 2004. The quarterly figures from UK GSM network operators O2, Orange, T-Mobile and Vodafone show a rapid increase for both GPRS and MMS devices on the previous quarter.
From a total active customer base of over 52 million*, GPRS active devices topped 24 million as of 30th June 2004, an increase of 45% on the previous quarter. This figure represents a 46% penetration rate for GPRS devices for the total UK market. This trend is expected to continue with current estimates of over 50% of mobile customers using internet capable handsets.
GPRS services have illustrated an increase in popularity in the last 12 months in both the consumer and corporate markets. Popular applications include access to rail/air timetables, mobile chat, location services, mobile images and innovative music services. GPRS technology provides “always on” capabilities and faster speeds for e-mail and web browsing on the move.
MMS active capable devices reached 15 million as at 30th June 2004, with a penetration rate of 29% for the total UK market. June’s figures show an increase on the previous quarter of 36 %. With an ever-increasing number of MMS capable handsets and a growing range of compelling services to suit every customer need, MMS and GPRS capability has stimulated adoption and usage of new multimedia services and represents a key “stepping stone” to 3G.
The MDA announces GPRS and MMS active devices figures quarterly during 2004.
Definition:
* Active subscriber base (PAYG/ PAYM, registered and active) as of 30th June 2004, where `active` is defined as used in the prior 3 months.