New data from the NPD Group’s Mobile Phone Tracking service, released yesterday, shows sales of 5G phones in the U.S. accounted for less than 1% of devices in 2019. While the initial figure seems alarming, the data shows strong growth from the first half of the year to the second – up by nearly nine times.
5G roll-out
The increase from the first half of 2019 to the second makes sense as it accounts for the introduction of new 5G phones from Samsung, LG, and OnePlus as well as the continued 5G roll-out through US.
“5G adoption will grow and potentially begin to drive upgrade cycles.”
BBrad Akyuz, NPD Connected Intelligence
Smartphone pricing and lack of clear use case for 5G were the main obstacles to purchase in 2019, but we expect this to change in 2020,” said Brad Akyuz, executive director, industry analyst, NPD Connected Intelligence.
“As 5G becomes a standard feature in flagship models and more affordable 5G mid-tier device options debut, 5G adoption will grow and potentially begin to drive upgrade cycles,” Akyuz continued.
5G awareness
Based on NPD’s latest Mobile Connectivity Report, we know that 5G awareness, in the second half of 2019, reached nearly 9 in 10 consumers at 89%. 65% of US consumers in the second half of 2019 also stated an interest in purchasing a 5G smartphone, with only 15% saying they were “not at all interested”.
We expect the 2020 report to show steep rises in figures across the board as 5G coverage spreads and more consumers purchase 5G phones and plans.
