Wi-Fi-only phones could theoretically replace cellular phones for some users, but respondents that participated in an In-Stat Web survey around Wi-Fi phones and communication devices had only a lukewarm response to the concept, reports In-Stat. Although the majority of respondents expressed at least marginal interest in Wi-Fi-only phones, nearly 25% expressed absolutely no interest, the high-tech market research firm says.

"Overall survey results indicated that Wi-Fi is a desirable buddy technology to cellular," says Gemma Tedesco, In-Stat analyst. "The majority of respondents were interested in having a Wi-Fi communication device together with their cellular phones, albeit only if the Wi-Fi phone or communicator device is cheap."

Recent research by In-Stat found the following:

• Current pricing for Wi-Fi-only phones is way out of line with what most consumers are willing to pay.
• Respondents expressed a general satisfaction with their cellular handsets for mobile voice communication.
• Respondents indicated they would pay a premium for a Wi-Fi personal communication device, such as the Sony mylo, compared to a standard Wi-Fi phone.

The report, "Wi-Fi for Voice?: Consumer Research Around Wi-Fi Phones", examines market demand for Wi-Fi phones. It includes results from, and analysis of, an In-Stat consumer survey regarding attitudes and perceptions of Wi-Fi-only phones. Additionally, it provides analysis of the current Wi-Fi phone landscape. For more information on this research or to purchase it online, please visit: http://email.in-stat.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/e6hd0HWMdu0K560D88C0AR