Teens prefer connected mobiles

Cell phones could be the most popular gadget for the teen set. But, according to a new study from OTX Research, teens don't just want a new phone. They want a new phone that is connected. Text messaging, web-based applications, photo sharing and social networking are among the favorites of the teen populace.

by Kristina Knight

The Teen Topix study was conducted by the Mobile Online Testing Exchange and eCrush, a social networking hub. Being able to quickly connect with friends (71%) and family (63%) were the top reasons behind teens love of cell phones.

Bruce Friend, President, Media and Entertainment Insights for OTX said, "As media companies move into the mobile space, it's critically important to understand how the teen demographic uses mobile technology for entertainment and the extent to which this usage affects their other media and leisure time behaviors."

Text messaging (SMS) is the most used feature with 72% of teens saying they used the platform. Taking photos followed (63%) as did playing games (56%), picture messaging (MMS, 51%) and downloading ring tones (51%).

Teens are also looking for more connectivity. Roughly 24% said they wanted to have the ability to surf the Internet or download music via their mobiles and 21% wanted to be able to watch regular television.