Is Buying the Only Option Despite High Smartphone Prices? A Survey on Smartphone Rental Awareness

Smartphone prices have been soaring in recent years, with the latest models often exceeding 100,000 yen, increasing the financial burden on users year by year. In response, we conducted a 'Smartphone Usage Survey' in collaboration with X-Mobile Co., Ltd., a smartphone rental service provider, targeting 500 men and women aged 20 to 59 across Japan. This survey analyzes awareness, usage, reasons for non-use, and future intentions regarding rental services to explore the potential for new usage styles in the smartphone market. Key findings: 42.8% feel that smartphones priced at 50,000 yen or more are expensive. Awareness of rental services is low at 19.8%. Only 7.0% have used such services. The primary reasons for not using them are the belief that buying is standard and the perception that purchasing is cheaper in the long run. However, there is potential for growth if providers address concerns regarding cost, ease of use, and reliability.