5 Questions: Technology needs of phone customers vary

Source: Tulsa World, Okla.倉Jan. 24--1: What are the top-selling models of smartphones at U.S. Cellular?Since U.S. Cellular launched Apple devices in November, the iPhone 5s, 5c and 4s have been very popular among our current customers and for new customers coming in the door. The Samsung Galaxy S 4 continues to be a top-seller, as well. It really all comes down to how smartphones and tablets can simplify and enhance your life. Each customer has different needs, so our associates really enjoy helping them find the device that fits those needs. As more people realize the personal and business benefits of having a tablet, we see sales of the iPad Air and iPad mini increasing. Our wireless hotspots are also popular and can provide customers with Internet on-the-go on any device.2: As time goes on, are the same amount of people reliably upgrading their smartphones every time they're due for a subsidized upgrade, or are more people holding onto devices longer?As technology changes, new devices are being introduced all of the time. The latest devices can do so much to enhance and simplify our lives, whether it be using a high-quality camera, the ability to multitask on one screen or keeping me connected to everything important to me with the touch of a button. It's not a scientific measurement, but from what I've observed, most people tend to upgrade when it's available to them in order to stay up with smartphone trends. More and more customers want the latest and the greatest. New devices like the iPhone 5s and iPhone 5c allow our customers to enjoy faster Web browsing and quick app downloads at 4G LTE speeds. Through our rewards program we also see customers use their points to upgrade to the newest devices throughout the year and not wait for their upgrade time. It is a great perk that customers take advantage of so they can have the latest cutting-edge devices when they want them.3: What percentage of customers use nonsmartphones? What type of customer generally goes for this option?Right now about 47 percent of our customers have smartphones, so there is still a market out there for people who prefer basic or messaging phones. The number of our customers choosing smartphones has continued to rise over the last few years as they are increasingly using their phones for more than just calling and texting. Customers who purchase nonsmartphones include parents that are getting their kids their first cellphone and want to have more control over their phone usage. People who need a cellphone jus24小時迷你倉 for emergencies or simply don't want the bells and whistles also tend to go for nonsmartphones.For people who might be intimidated by the idea of a smartphone or who don't know how to utilize all the features they offer, we provide free device workshops that are open to everyone -- not just U.S. Cellular customers -- at our retail locations across the state. At the workshops, our associates offer attendees hands-on assistance to get the most out of the features on their smartphones and tablets. It's a great opportunity to ask questions in a judgment-free environment. Specific times, dates and locations are on our website.4: Are sales trends in Tulsa close to the national average, or are their certain categories Tulsans particularly like?From the information I have, I can tell you that our stores are busy with people coming in looking for a variety of devices. Tulsans are a knowledgeable group and know a lot about what they are looking for when they come in. The trend of smartphone users using more data across more devices is true here in that we are seeing more tablet and hotspot purchases. We expect that to continue as customers see the benefits of those products as well as new services such as Vehicle Monitoring, Home Phone and Home Internet solutions.5: What are your favorite apps?I have the Samsung Galaxy Note 3, and I love it. CamScanner is one of my favorite apps. It allows me to convert photos into PDF documents, helps me manage my expenses and quickly scan documents and email or text them from my phone. Key Rings is an app that allows me to keep track of all of my rewards memberships with one app instead of carrying around rewards cards in my wallet. I can keep up with all my accounts in one simple app. As a parent of two children, I also really enjoy using the U.S. Cellular Family Organizer app. It helps manage shopping and to-do lists, as well as coordinate and share family calendars. Finally, RedBox is a family favorite. I can easily select and reserve the movie I want and pick it up at a convenient location for family movie nights.Joe Cabrera is an area sales manager for U.S. Cellular in Tulsa, Oklahoma City and Joplin, and was formerly the director of sales for the company's Washington and Oregon markets. Cabrera is a graduate of Texas A&M University, and has 17 years of wireless experience, 10 of those with U.S. Cellular.Copyright: ___ (c)2014 Tulsa World (Tulsa, Okla.) Visit Tulsa World (Tulsa, Okla.) at .tulsaworld.com Distributed by MCT Information Services迷你倉旺角