I cant seem to find a more detailed breakout of the numbers....but the quotes certainly make it sound like 3G had a great quarter.
unstrung.com
GfK: Handset Sales Surge
01.13.05
NEW YORK -- Strong Q404 European Handset Sales
Sales of mobile handsets (cell phones) grew strongly in Western Europe in Q404, gaining 28% on a unit basis over Q304. Both retail and wholesale average selling prices were down about 3% in the quarter, in-line with seasonal trends, and signaling continued vital subsidy support from Europe’s operators. Sales of GSM phones tailed-off considerably, as WCDMA sales accelerated.
3G Driving the market
More than any other factor, the shift toward WCDMA (3G) handsets moved the numbers, as Hutchison Whampoa was joined by Vodafone, SFR, TIM, Orange, Wind, and other operators gaining traction in 3G. These more seasoned operators led with newer models and longer-term tariffs. Tom Dailey, Managing Director of GfK Equity Research, observed, “following considerable trial and lots of error, 2003’s shambolic WCMDA launch was finally supported in early 2004 by some good handsets, and in December by responsible tariffs.”
Together with traditional holiday handset gifting, handset suppliers to Hutchison could expect a ‘perfect-storm’ type effect, as inexpensive WCDMA handsets on pre-pay queue up to meet the demand spike.
Smaller brands focused on 3G won big
Not surprisingly, brands gaining significant share were those focused on 3G. Thanks to orders from Hutchison, both LG and NEC added about 25% to their share positions. The corresponding share loss was spread fairly evenly across the traditional brands, most of which moved little either up or down. At the same time, overall market strength will help all suppliers reach their Q4 goals.
Motorola gains on multiple fronts
There were some stand-out performances, particularly Motorola, who assembled a broad portfolio of WCDMA operator relationships and mounted a late sales surge in both GSM and 3G handsets. As a result, Motorola was able to build on the wholesale pricing premium it initiated in Q104, after two years trolling the European market’s bottom rungs. |
