For the first time in mobile history, smart phone sales have exceeded feature phone sales with the highest growth rates being seen in Eastern Europe, Latin America and Asia, according to research firm Gartner.

A total of 210 million units of feature phones were sold in the April to June period, whereas 225 million smart phones were sold in this time.

Smart devices are defined by their in-built applications and their ability to connect to the internet, but feature phones tend to have fewer features and come at a cheaper price.

Despite the constant demand for simpler phones, feature phone sales were down by a total of 21%, while phone sales were up by 46.5% from the previous year. Smart phones accounted for over half of the mobile phone sales in the second quarter.

The research firm claimed that Samsung were the global leaders in smart phone sales. The technological giant sold more than 71 million units of its smart phones between April and June, whilst Apple sold a mere 31 million units in comparison. Despite the constant legal battles between the two, Samsung controls more of the market at a staggering 31.7%. Apple has a market share of 14.2%.

Experts claim that the findings were hardly surprising, considering more than ever people are opting for phones with added features such as email, apps and quality mobile games. Some maintain this is simply because our technological appetite matches the rate at which technology is advancing. Mobile phones are no longer just a way of keeping in contact with our friends, but a way of organising, entertaining and socialising.

 

 



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