3G Data Cards Hot Among Soccer Moms (and Dads) – Not just for joe and janet business any more…

In: Communication|Hardware|Site Feeds|VoIP

19 Aug 2008

A new report by Nielsen Mobile (via GigaOM) suggests that 3G data cards are becoming increasingly mainstream. For some, a vanilla phone, data card, and laptop make more sense than a smart phone. Satellite broadband customers also seem eager to make the jump to EVDO or HSDPA in an effort to get more consistent speeds. In some instances, the report suggests that the cards are gaining traction among residential broadband customers while at home. From the report:

Nielsen s research reveals that the cards are beginning to play an important role in home and personal Internet access, as well. In fact, 43 percent of mobile data card users report they most often use their data card at home, while 15 percent say they typically use the card at work. Additionally, one in five (21 percent) data card subscribers take advantage of ubiquitous access by heading outdoors and 9 percent use their card while commuting.

Of course incumbent carriers have to make sure they aren’t cannibalizing home broadband connection sales, something the 5GB monthly caps that accompany many 3G products help prevent. Not quite a problem yet, given that of the 1,300 mobile data card users surveyed, 99% still kept their wired broadband service — suggesting the technologies still play very different roles for most people (it also hints that 3G data cards are most popular among the disposable income set). But what about when LTE and mobile WiMax launches?
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