Bandwidth-intensive smartphones tax network capacity
Multi-megapixel cameras, video recorders, Internet surfing and real-time map capabilities are just some of the technologies drawing consumers to innovative smartphones. Unfortunately, those same features are directly to blame for sluggish wireless service. "As carriers continue to upgrade network infrastructure, expand coverage areas and improve data speeds, smartphone usage will continue to test network capacity," said Kirk Parsons, senior director of wireless services at J.D. Power and Associates. Parsons added, "Smartphones will continue to stress wireless networks with higher data usage for texting, e-mailing and Web surfing, so it is crucial for wireless carriers to enhance existing network speed and capacity, as well as to develop and upgrade to next-generation technologies."

Without a doubt, the PC-like functionality of late-model phones is saturating network capacity. Wireless carriers are scrambling to increase network capability, but all of the blame does not fall simply on their shoulders. Industry experts say those who develop feature-laden phones-and those who write the software for the devices-must work together to build more efficient equipment and programs. These changes will occur, but it should not be expected overnight.

Texting, not voice calls, becomes the preferred method for quick communication
Smartphones are credited with altering wireless usage patterns. While text messaging is not new, the new smartphones with easier-to-use physical or digital keyboards allow consumers to quickly type and send messages across the network-meaning consumers are making and receiving fewer calls. Much quicker than placing phone calls, text messages accurately deliver the message and there is a written record that can be stored and accessed at a later point. According to the study, the average wireless customer receives 136 text messages per month, an increase of 21 percent over the previous six-month period.

Verizon Wireless ranks high with a low number of customer-reported problems
Ranking highest in five different regions (Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, Southeast, Southwest and West), Verizon Wireless excels in the study for delivering fewer customer-related problems with dropped calls, initial connections and echoes. U.S. Cellular ranks highest in the North Central region-an honor it has held for the ninth consecutive reporting period.

About the study
The 2010 Wireless Call Quality Performance Study-Volume 1 is based on responses from 24,345 wireless customers. The study was fielded between July and December 2009.

For More Information:

• View Wireless Call Quality Ratings by Region
• View Other Telecom Ratings
• Read more Telecom Articles
• Read the 2010 Wireless Call Quality Performance Study-Volume 1 Press Release
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