With mobile voice services becoming increasingly commoditized, network operators are turning to mobile data-related offerings to boost falling revenues. Mobile gaming applications will be a key part of that strategy. By attracting a huge pool of customers and boosting network traffic, gaming promises to raise profits and become a mainstay of operators’ mobile data strategies.

This Frost & Sullivan study analyzes the world markets for messaging-based, web-based, and downloadable mobile gaming. It examines the potential for variety of game types, evaluates a range of business models, and pinpoints the most successful strategies. With such an essential guide to the marketplace, users of this study will be poised to capitalize on a burgeoning field.

“BOBO” Holds Key to Success for Mobile Gaming Service Providers

"Most network operators in North American and Europe will have to work hard to implement micro-billing systems for third-party content," says the author. Because consumers are apprehensive about making over-the-air payments with credit cards for mobile services, network operators will need to implement billing-on-behalf-of-others (BOBO) systems to collect revenues for content providers.

"Although all operators recognize the importance of the BOBO model, few had micro-billing systems in place at the end of 2001," according to the analyst. Until these secure systems are installed, consumers are likely to avoid mobile gaming. This study highlights potential industry obstacles and monitors leading participants’ efforts to overcome them, helping your firm develop the most effective business plan.

From "Free" to "Fee" Content: An Industry Paradigm Shift

"Network operators will face an uphill challenge in getting consumers to pay for premium mobile content such as games," says the author. "The Internet model of free content has been well engraved in consumers’ attitudes, especially in North America." Many Internet content providers have shown how difficult it can be to persuade users to pay for information and entertainment services. The question is whether mobile operators will fare any better.

To convince users to pay for content, operators will have to demonstrate and promote the need for compelling content and facilitate easy billing methods. This in-depth study assesses the impact of consumer attitudes on the industry, offering your company a privileged view of the marketplace.