iPhone users more loyal than Android, Symbian likely to jump
updated 04:20 pm EST, Tue January 18, 2011
Zokem says iPhone still most loyal brand
iPhone users are still the most loyal to the platform by a wide margin, Zokem found in a study on Tuesday. Apple's platform was unique in commanding not only high loyalty from existing users, 85 percent of which planned to buy again, but being the most frequently sought after by those jumping over from competitors. Android had a higher loyalty, at 89 percent of existing owners likely to buy again, but there was higher overall turnover and fewer using another mobile OS likely to choose it as their next platform.
RIM's BlackBerry and Samsung's Bada were middling in terms of commitment to the platform. HP/Palm's webOS and Symbian were the least loyal of all among those asked, with the vast majority of both likely to switch to another platform.
Nokia's Maemo, used only on phones with the N900, was the only one to have a negative overall loyalty score as everyone was leaving the mostly abandoned platform.
The results covered about 1,500 subjects and wasn't a complete reflection of the market. It still corroborated earlier studies that suggested that iPhone loyalty was highest. Android has been unique among multi-device phone platforms in keeping a high degree of loyalty but has also shown signs that it may not necessarily command the same consistent buying habits.
Fresh-Faced Recruit
Joined: May 2009
I am happy with Android
because I love the customizability. I can also buy a nice HTC or Samsung for around $400 on prepaid and have it cheaply unlocked. I have had an amazingly good deal with a mobile operator that only I can terminate(unless they go bust), so I pay only $5 a month for 200 talk minutes. I do all data on wifi. No way would I do a smartphone contract with any provider for Android or iOS. I am saving enough money each year to purchase a new macbook pro. After all, I basically use a phone to talk.