The year 2013 marks the first time that smartphones will outship feature phones at a global level. With increased penetration, smartphone OEMs are seeking new market opportunities and sub segments that will drive their revenue and market share growth through the second half of the smartphone adoption cycle. This report focuses on the emerging low cost smartphone value segment that is expected to be the largest opportunity for growing the smartphone market. Low cost smartphones have a wholesale ASP of $0 to $200, which helps to lower the barrier to entry for consumers who have yet to upgrade from feature phones.
The overarching factors of smartphone ASPs including price band segmentation, regional smartphone ASP forecasts, and operator subsidization practices are forecast to demonstrate the scope of the low cost smartphone opportunity. Key smartphone OEM portfolios are segmented by price tier and analyzed for OEM specific potential and exposure to the low cost smartphone market. Additionally, the "ingredients" or key features found in a low cost smartphone are highlighted and forecast to underline improving quality of low cost smartphones.