Since the numbers show a growing amount of cell phone users ranging in age from middle school children to grandparents, it was inevitable that cell phone providers would look for yet another way to customize communication.
So, from ringtones to cell phone skins, and funky colors to smaller sizes, the cell phone and technology industry is always looking for ways to make calling experiences unique. One such way is with ringback tones.
Who Uses Ringback Tones?
Ringback tones got their use start when Verizon first introduced their ringback tones to its American customer base back in the spring of 2004. It was done after careful research showed that ringback tones would be a hit with the younger generation which thrives on being on the cutting edge of technology and often lives by the mantra “I just gotta be me!”
Ringback tones (the sound heard by callers while waiting for their call to be answered) are one of the fastest growing trends in cell phone technology today. From its conception to now, it continues to be a feature used by many-from teens to business professionals, stay at home moms to retirees. Who knew so many people would be that thrilled with the option of being able to customize their cell phone!
Matter of fact, M:Metrics analyst Mark Donovan stated in an interview with Reuters, a London news agency which focuses on financial market data, that “The growth of ringbacks is among the fastest trajectory for growth of any services we are tracking.” The number of people using ringback tones has grown by 68% since 2008 and has become $200 million dollar a year industry.
Ringback Tone Business Predictions
It is predicted by Richard Conlon of New Media and Strategic Development that ringback tones will hit a new high in 2009 because mobile phones are “a multi-format device and have become a distribution outlet for entertainment for the consumer.” He goes on to state, “The relationship with the mobile phone has transcended voice communication and the increase usage in music and audio-visual offerings illustrates that…it’s a music-use area that we see continued growth rate.”
The only thing that is truly slowing down the use of ringback tones is awareness. This is because ringback tones are not heard by everyone around like a ringtone is. Like most things, the best method of advertising is “word of mouth” or in the case of ringback tones through “the lack of ring-ring” heard by callers. But despite much of the public’s awareness of ringback tones, it is still predicted to overtake ringtones in 2010.
Where to Find Ringback Tones
Ringback tones can be found on a number of websites like Funtones, Jamster, or an individual’s cell phone provider. They range in cost from $1.99 per tone per month to bundles of ringback tones that may cost as much as $20 for 12+ songs. The ringback tones can be customized with songs covering virtually every music genre, TV/Movie sound clips, and even personalized with caller’s names.
Ringback tones are a great way to make one’s phone unique. Mobile phone providers are offering new features and options all the time so that ringback tones are easier to use. Why not check them out today?
Sources:
BMI/Film Music Magazine; M:Metrics/Reuters
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