Mobile Users Clueless On Data

VNUnet writes that even with more data-friendly mobile devices, most users are clueless when it comes to using data services on their device. The article cites a survey of European consumers by mobile software company SurfKitchen that found high prices, poor usability and reliability as holding back mobile data services.

Dean Bubley at Disruptive Analysis said, "The cost of data is certainly too high. Prices are between two and six times as much as they should be, and this is a key factor in holding back adoption."

Exactly. As I have said time and time again, the pricing is too high and the user experience too difficult. People want the same kind of experience they can get at work and at home and it's just not happening yet for mobile devices. If I can get SBC Yahoo DSL for $14.95 at home then do I really want to fork out another $45 a month (or $60 if I use a laptop) for Verizon's EV-DO service, unless I really have to?

Once the barrier to entry is lowered then more consumers will flock to mobile data services. Oh yeah, the mobile industry also has to make it easier to explore and find stuff on the network too. Make it cheaper, compelling and convenient and ARPU will follow...

(updated to make it clear the survey was of consumers in Europe)