According to a Jupiter Research report, "Video on Cell Phones: It's Real in 2005, but a Paying Consumer Audience Isn't," 44 percent of online consumers surveyed are interested in viewing video on their cell phones for free, but only 19 percent indicate they would be willing to pay anything for those services. Wireless carriers in the U.S. have launched mobile video applications demonstrating both the progress and the potential of the technology. The Jupiter report also finds the lack of network coverage, high prices for both handsets and service, and limited access to real time content, however, will dampen consumer interest in the near term. "Although consumer interest in mobile video is strong, the cell phone will remain a voice-centric device in the near term," stated Julie Ask, research director at Jupiter. "Only 4 percent of consumers cited the ability to watch video as a priority feature for them when purchasing their next handset. Carrier subsidies will be required to develop a mass market base of higher end handsets with the most advanced video functionality," added Ask.
Technology is a compelling catalyst for economic growth across the globe. Artificial intelligence (AI) rides a seismic wave of transformation in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region — a market bolstered by bold government initiatives, swelling pools of capital, and vibrant tech ambition. The latest IDC analysis sheds light on this dynamic market. Despite a contraction in deal volumes through 2024, total AI venture funding surged to an impressive $15.4 billion — a signal of the region’s resilience and the maturation of its digital-native businesses (DNBs). Asia-Pacific AI Market Development The APAC AI sector’s funding story is not just about headline numbers but also about how and where investments are shifting. Even as the number of deals slowed, the aggregate value of investments climbed, reflecting a preference among investors for fewer but larger, high-potential bets on mature or highly scalable AI enterprises. The information technology sector led the AI investment charge. Top area...