The Mobile Market: Adults Aged 25 to 54

The mobile usage gap is closing nationwide, according to a study by Experian Consumer Research.

Consumers of differing ages are turning to mobile for activities such as text messaging, ring tones, photos, videos, games, music, online access, location awareness, streaming video, email, shopping and banking.

“While younger mobile users represent the most attractive target for mobile marketers, it seems that adults 25-54 will offer an excellent market for things like mobile shopping, banking and additional mobile features like GPS,” said Eileen Merken, director of analytics at Experian Consumer Research, Deerfield Beach, FL.

As more adults stay active even as they age, mobile phone GPS can play an important role in their lives, the research indicated. Even though usage of GPS through mobile phone is low, it can be promoted for use in sports, outdoor activities and going to restaurants.

GPS can also help to consolidate individual and separate devices into one unit – a phone, business applications instrument, computer, camera and MP3 player.

Experian research shows such consolidation will increase the usage and appeal from primarily younger users to older, upscale adults who are likelier to own personal electronic devices.

Another study finding confirmed that while younger mobile consumers ages 18-24 are more comfortable and likely to engage in text messaging and mobile shopping, those ages 25-34 are the group most likely to conduct mobile banking.

Banking and paying bills through mobile is a growing market. But it is key to understand the different needs of distinct segments of mobile consumers – low-income consumers, seniors or people with access to computers.

There's hope for us old folks yet!