February 08, 2004

By: Yannick Allan
Website: http://www.1st-in-cell-phones.com

NPD Intelect® reports headset sales soar as new cell phone laws kick in

Statewide bans on driving while using a handheld cellular phone are forcing consumers to purchase "hands-free" devices, most notably cellular headsets. According to leading marketing information provider NPD INTELECT® Market Tracking, sales of headsets in March 2001 were more than double sales during the same period one year earlier. Headset sales at U.S. department stores, mass merchants, office and computer superstores, and electronic specialty stores increased 123%.

The average price of a headset has decreased by almost one-third, making it easier and more affordable for consumers who have to purchase headsets to be able to do so. According to NPD INTELECT, the average price of headsets slipped from $28.07 in March 2000 to $19.83 in March 2001.

Cellular carriers are also responding to increasing market demand. Several service providers, such as AT&T and VoiceStream, are offering free or discounted headsets with purchase of a cellular phone.

Over-the-head, over-the-ear, in-the-ear, and convertible headsets are currently on the market. In March 2001, over-the-head headsets were the best sellers. According to NPD INTELECT, forty-three percent of headsets sold that month were over-the-head types, followed by over-the-ear (31%), in-the-ear (20%), and headsets that can be worn more than one way, appropriately named 'convertible headsets' (6%).

Also See: cheapest cell phone plans.

Author Notes:

Yannick Allan contributes and publishes news editorial to http://www.1st-in-cell-phones.com.  A cellular phone industry resource featuring articles, comparisons and reviews of cellular phone and service plans.