Mobiles ring changes for dealers

The mobile industry, worth about $126bn in 2005, will move away from an integrated, vertical business model towards complex, layered structures with more distributors and retailers, according to research carried out by analyst Informa Telecoms.

Mobile operators and handset makers have traditionally run the business, but this is changing. New retail channels and distribution routes will increase.

The research also says the industry will move away from handsets and accessories towards mobile content such as games and ringtones.

Content will mainly be sold directly rather than through shops. The analysts believe the mobile data retail market will grow to $47bn by 2010. ®