5th
Do Americans prefer text messaging to calling? Survey says…
Survey says YES!
In September, Nielson Mobile released figures comparing text messaging and calling habits of typical U.S. mobile subscribers since Q1, 2006. The data shows increasing preference for text messaging, with an average 357 messages sent and received monthly in Q2, 2008 compared with 204 calls. Neilson cites 450% growth in text messaging over the 30 month period. The numbers are compelling.
When we plotted the data, we saw a bigger story. Calls have been fairly level throughout the test period, with the latest figures hinting at decline. Meanwhile, not only are texts on the rise, but recent growth is dramatic. The increase in the first two quarters of 2008 nearly match that of the previous two years combined.
The 160 character limit imposed by SMS forces you to pack a lot of information in a little space. Yet Neilson’s figures show a growing preference for this type of quick, concise information exchange.
