Cox Adds Apple Assortment
Cox Communications launched Cox Mobile at CES 2023, introducing another cable MVNO option for customers. Initially the company offered only Samsung smartphones in its lineup, but at the end of March Cox began offering the full range of iPhone 12 through 14 models, and with a $100 off promotion. Cox Mobile also supports older models of iPhone for customers who choose to bring their own, as well as eSIM service, an essential for the iPhone 14.
The Circana Take:
- Having the latest smartphone models is essential for new carriers to gain credibility and entice customers to switch. This is especially true for loyal Apple users and if a carrier does not stock the model customers are looking for they will probably pick a different carrier. As such, adding iPhone to the portfolio was an essential move for Cox Mobile.
- There is a BYOD (bring your own device) offer for switchers to Cox Mobile as well. According to our February 2023 Mobile Connectivity survey, 64% of cell phone owners who switched providers did so at the time they purchased a new phone, rather than afterward. With this in mind, it is very important for customers to see that a new carrier stocks the devices they’re looking to purchase if they have the potential to switch.
The Next Generation of G Power
Motorola is releasing the 2023 version of the Moto G Power smartphone this month. Along with the addition of 5G capabilities, other improvements include a more advanced processor, a 1080p LCD screen and a 5,000mAh battery advertised to last up to 36 hours. The phone will keep its same 50-megapixel main camera. Priced starting at $299, this is a very affordable option for customers looking to upgrade on a budget. It is expected to release April 13, unlocked at first and then branching to carriers later on.
The Circana Take:
- Motorola has a wide selection of smartphones on the market, and with the rising number of 5G devices available, it makes sense that the Moto G Power join those ranks at an affordable price. The fact that the brand was able to upgrade the phone’s feature set and keep the price from rising too much from the 2022’s $249 price tag is a good way to attract budget-conscious consumers, which is why it makes sense that it will first release unlocked and on prepaid and MVNO carriers. Motorola is securing its footing as a high-quality value brand, which is an important role especially with LG’s exit, as well as economic headwinds customers are facing.
- According to Circana’s Mobile Certified Pre-Owned Smartphone study from November, battery life is an important factor to 67% of people when purchasing a smartphone followed closely by price. The advertised 36-hour battery life means that the phone may not need to be charged each night; an an added incentive for customers with this concern.