Brian Jeffrey
Major telecom providers have proclaimed the cessation of 2G network support starting September 16, prompting a rush among consumers to switch from 2G-only phones to 4G push-button phones and cost-effective smartphones.
Experts note a significant surge in sales of budget 4G smartphones by 30%, along with a dramatic rise in push-button 4G phone sales by 10-15 times.
Customers opting to upgrade from their 2G phones to 4G smartphones predominantly choose models priced between VND2-7 million, leading to a 30% increase in sales in June and July compared to the previous months.
Reports confirm a spike in demand as nearly 500 Viettel Stores nationwide witness a bustling trade-in program for mobile phones, recording a 30% surge in customer requests post the 2G network shutdown announcement.
Sales of 4G mobile phones have witnessed a sharp increase, particularly feature phones priced under VND1.5 million, experiencing a 4-5 times growth from the previous month, whereas products under VND5 million saw a growth rate of 30-40%.
Customers shopping at CellphoneS are offered subsidies ranging from VND100,000-500,000 on selected models from reputable brands like Samsung, Oppo, and Xiaomi.
Leading retail chain FPT Shop initiated a trade-in program last year, enabling customers to replace their old phones with new ones while receiving subsidies up to VND600,000, presenting an opportunity to buy a new smartphone for just VND2.49 million.
With 20% of sales from products below VND3 million and 10% from those priced between VND2-3 million, customers are spoiled for choice across various brands like Samsung, Realme, Xiaomi, and Honor.
Masstel and Nokia have commenced introducing products to supplant 2G phones in early 2023. Brands like Samsung, Xiaomi, and Realme are actively promoting the shift from 2G to affordable smartphones rather than 4G feature phones.
