Introduction

Camera phones are entering the rapid growth stage and they will soon be the most common image capture device in the world. InfoTrends/CAP Ventures estimates that over 175 million camera phones were shipped in 2004, and that by the end of the decade there will be a global population of over one billion mobile imaging handsets -- more than double the number of digital still cameras (DSCs).

Although handset shipments are booming, consumers are not using their camera phones to the fullest extent. InfoTrends/CAP Ventures research reveals that the number of photos taken, shared, and printed is relatively low compared with DSCs, resulting in a significant unrealized revenue potential for the mobile imaging industry.

For the camera phone to quickly reach its potential, technology vendors, carriers, and photo printing service providers must provide consumers with a compelling experience. Today, most camera phones lack the image quality and functionality necessary for many types of pictures. Additionally, for most customers the camera phone usage model is not as easy, convenient, or satisfying as the DSC.

Improvements in the camera phone experience are occurring, but they have been relatively slow due to differing priorities of handset manufacturers, wireless carriers, and retail photofinishers. Concerns regarding costs, usage models, pricing, and revenue opportunities are affecting product design and service offerings to the detriment of maximizing the mobile imaging potential.

InfoTrends/CAP Ventures believes the industry needs to stimulate more photo activity among camera phone owners to accelerate (1) handset purchases, (2) picture taking, and (3) sharing, storing and printing services. Our research indicates that camera phone owners that take more pictures tend to share more images, print more images, and purchase handsets more frequently.

Project Scope

The study is designed to address a number of issues, including:

Who Should Subscribe

Getting Started

For more information on this study or to sign up as a participant, contact Matt O’Keefe at (781) 616-2100, ext. 115 or via e-mail at mokeefe@infotrends-rgi.com. Early subscriber discounts are available until June 30, 2005.