22 December 2008
Sales of mobile phones will fall at their fastest pace on record next year, according to a poll conducted by Reuters.
A total of 36 analysts were questioned and on average they predicted a decline in global mobile phone sales of 6.6% in 2009.
"Fear and uncertainty are causing many suppliers and consumers to delay purchasing their next handsets," said Neil Mawston from Strategy Analytics.
According to Reuters, mobile phone manufacturer Nokia has warned that its sales are likely to fall by at least 5% next year.
Meanwhile, electronics group Laird, which supplies mobile phone components, said it thinks 2009 global handset volumes will fall by 10%.
Just two of the analysts polled said they expect the mobile phone market to grow next year, while predictions of market contraction ranged from 3% to 13%.
Last month, the chief executive of T-Mobile told the Independent that SIM card-only mobile phone deals are becoming more popular as consumers look to save money.