axxxr Joined: Mar 21, 2003 Posts: > 500 From: Londinium PM, WWW
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A recent survey conducted by the Bluetooth Special Interest Group of approximately five thousand college students from across the country displayed a promising future for the short range wireless technology. Over half of the respondents recognized Bluetooth wireless technology, and 11 percent are currently using the technology to connect and share information between consumer electronic devices.
"Current college students are the technology decision makers and purchasers of the future," said Mike Foley, executive director, Bluetooth SIG. "We believe these results give us a preview of Bluetooth demand in the coming years -- for the technology in general, as well as for specific applications such as hands-free in the automobile, wireless printing, and peer-to-peer gaming."
When asked about using mobile phones in the automobile, 35 percent responded that they talk on their phones while driving one to three times a week. Twenty-four percent use their phones while driving at least once a day, and 13 percent admitted to using their mobile phones every time they drive. Showing interest in safety, as well as convenience, 58 percent of the on-the- go respondents would be interested in paying more money to access a technology that would allow them to talk and keep both hands on the wheel. Using Bluetooth wireless technology, this group has three options for connecting to mobile phones -- hands-free solutions built into new cars, after-market car kits for their current cars, or wireless headsets.
Of those surveyed, 41 percent own digital cameras and/or camera phones and would be interested in products that allow them to print their digital images wirelessly. Of gamers who use a PDA/or mobile phone for entertainment purposes, 56 percent are interested in developments in wireless head-to-head play.
"Wireless technology is a major part of college these days," said Jennifer Puno, from the University of Texas at Austin. "We have Wi-Fi access in most classrooms and libraries and most students use a laptop to take notes and email professors and classmates while on campus. Most students use mobile phones and other devices like PDAs to stay in touch and organize their schedules and information. As far as Bluetooth goes, I just found out I have it in my mobile phone which means I'm now on the lookout to purchase a wireless headset with Bluetooth."
The results of the survey showed promise not only for Bluetooth, but for the advancement of wireless technology across the board. Of the responses collected, 73 percent use cellular technology and 33 percent use Wi-Fi. Wireless technologies are fairly new and already seeing a wide acceptance of use among the young consumer.
Via:dailywireless
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