Consumer smartphone analytics: network usage

This report provides insights into why, when and where smartphone users connect to Wi-Fi or to cellular networks by analysing data collected in real-time from more than 8000 smartphones in Germany, India, the UK and the USA. It assesses the implications of the survey for mobile-centric operators and for integrated quadruple-play service providers.

This report: 

• analyses real-world smartphone usage data to provide a detailed view of when, where and why smartphones connect with either cellular networks or fixed/Wi-Fi networks
• examines how network selection varies by geography, time of day, demographic, app, and downstream and upstream usage
• provides recommendations for operators on data and bundle pricing strategies.

Survey data coverage

The analysis is based on data provided by Verto Analytics, and was collected using a passive on-device monitoring app called Smart Panel during July and August 2016. The app runs in the background of the device. It registers actions undertaken by the user and relevant activity on the device, namely:

• app download and usage
• system processes
• data traffic from each app/process
• web browser activity.

Geographical coverage

• Germany
• India
• UK
• USA.