Mark Bridge writes:
In many ways it’s been a week of big news without big surprises. Apple announced the much-rumoured iPad mini, which is just like an iPad but smaller. It also introduced a fourth-generation update to its larger iPad, promising more speed and more 4G connectivity.
Talking of 4G, the network operator formerly known as Everything Everywhere revealed tariff details for its new 4G mobile phone service. When 4G launches in the UK tomorrow it’ll cost slightly more than 3G. Who’d have thought it?
Quarterly results from a handful of companies didn’t really catch anyone out. Samsung and Apple had relatively good quarters, LG did better than expected, HTC saw revenue and profit fall, Amazon.com and Facebook both made a loss while EE and Virgin Media kept things ticking over nicely. Assorted analyses from Strategy Analytics, IDC and ABI Research show Samsung dominating smartphone sales, followed by Apple’s iPhone range.
When it comes to tablets, Apple is ahead although the market share of Android devices has been increasing during the past few months.
It’s also been a good week for mobile money. American Express has invested in mobile Point of Sale business iZettle, O2 has launched its own mobile POS solution, the UK’s Project Oscar m-commerce venture has a new name – and new research says most consumers in developing markets know about mobile payments and will increase their use of the service.
Finally, a quick look ahead. Hot on the heels of Microsoft’s Windows 8 availability we’re expecting an update about Windows Phone 8 today... and it seems that Google has some new Android-powered Nexus devices waiting in the wings. Tune in to Wednesday’s podcast to learn more!
| Receive this reminder of the biggest mobile headlines by email every Monday morning. Simply register at TheFonecast.com by clicking the link at the top right-hand corner of our home page and we’ll send you our weekly news summary. |