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Survey Shows Boomers Ready to Leap into Smartphone Market

The survey, completed by 2,037 U.S. cellphone users ages 40-plus, focused on their interest in and opinions of smartphones and how they do or would use them to enhance their lifestyles.

Of those who responded, 60 percent of non-smartphone users say they are considering or plan to buy a smartphone, while 87 percent of current smartphone owners report they are likely or extremely likely to purchase another smartphone. The Android operating system is the leader among current smartphone owners, with 28 percent, followed by Apple at 19 percent and BlackBerry at 15 percent.

Boomer respondents reported a desire to own a smartphone that will enhance their daily lives. Some of the results include:

• Sixty-seven percent are active on Facebook and desire a smartphone that offers easy access to the Web for social networking purposes.
• Those surveyed who intend to buy a smartphone say primary uses include e-mail, location-based services, games, and photography.
• As a cost-conscious demographic, 60 percent would download financial applications, travel discounts and other coupons.

"Consumer Cellular continues to expand its services and products to better meet the needs of its target, Boomer demographic," said John Marick, CEO of Consumer Cellular. "This research proves the 50-plus marketplace is technologically savvy and desires a smartphone that will match their active lifestyles. Armed with this research, we plan to offer an Android device later this month."

The survey was conducted by Flying Coyotes from March 18-28, 2011, with a ± 2.4 percent margin of error. It was conducted via e-mail throughout the U.S.

For more information about Consumer Cellular's products, services and affordable cell phone plans, follow the company on Twitter: @Consumer_Cell and on Facebook: www.facebook.com/consumercellular.

About Consumer Cellular

Consumer Cellular, the exclusive wireless provider for AARP, was founded in 1995 on the belief that everyone should have affordable access to the safety and convenience of cellular service. The company provides its customers with simple phones, affordable cellphone plans, guaranteed satisfaction and top-ranked customer support staff all located within the United States. Plus, Consumer Cellular customers never have to sign a long-term contract in order to start service.

The Portland, Ore.-based company is privately held and utilizes the nation's largest voice and data network, covering more than 296 million people - or 97 percent of the U.S. population. As one of the nation's leading wireless wholesalers, Consumer Cellular is able to purchase wireless service in large volumes, providing its customers with the best of both worlds: great low rates and the best cellular network available. Consumer Cellular's cellphones and plans are sold nationwide at Sears as well as direct to consumers at www.consumercellular.com or 800-686-4460.

LANE PR
Melissa Moore, 503-546-7894
Melissa@lanepr.com