Smartphone demand during Q1 2009

According to the company, the surge in Smartphone purchases is due to consumer demand for innovative and cutting-edge multimedia capabilities, and increased, cost-effective data packages offered by domestic telecom providers.

The top leading brands in the Smartphone segment are the BlackBerry, HTC, Nokia and Imate.

"The UAE's Smartphone penetration rates have improved as a result of better and more affordable data packages offered by local telecom providers. Etisalat and du are offering various subscription plans that are cost-effective, convenient and include international roaming services to suit the needs of business executives wanting to access their emails anywhere in the world," said Jimmy Patel, General Manager, Jacky's Electronics.

"We believe that the demand for Smartphones will be sustained despite the current economic turmoil as niche consumers are willing to spend on new technologies that make their life simple and easy. This year, we will continue to see mobile manufacturers aggressively introducing a wide range of sleek products with good features and competitive prices. This is being further supplemented by developers, such as Intel, designing mobile net devices for better function."

Popularity in the growth of Smartphones can be further attributed to their enhanced role as portable computers with top-of-the-line capabilities. Most now offer unique touch screen interfaces or full QWERTY keyboards and excellent features such as messenger, internet surfing, MP3 players and portable video devices.

In addition, sleek, convenient designs, unique touch screen interfaces and wide network support, along with high speed data synchronisation and GPS capabilities, further add to their status within the market.

"We are a very transient society, always on the move. Traditionally these 'road warriors' were forced to lug around heavy laptops, now they can do everything they need in the palm of their hand,"

added Patel.

Currently, Jacky's Electronics is offering free Cross pen for any purchase of BlackBerry Smartphones from 16th April to 2nd May, This exclusive Smartphone promotion will be available in all 13 Jacky's outlets across Dubai, Sharjah and in the recently opened outlet at Bawadi Mall in Al Ain.