According to a survey of more than 2,000 consumers (aged 40+) by Consumer Cellular (which provides cellular deals for AARP members), 60% of non-smartphone consumers aged 40 and above are considering or plan to buy a smartphone with their next purchase. Of those that already owned a smartphone, 87% said they are likely or extremely likely to buy another one.
According to the survey of more than 2,000 consumers, 67% of the respondents were active on Facebook (saying a smartphone would help in social networking), and 60% said they'd use the device to download financial applications, travel discounts and other coupons.
That is a rather offensive headline. The Baby Boomers are early adopters. Research indicates that they lead rather than follow technology trends. They are the wealthiest demogrpahic group and have the money to spend even during tough economic times. Unlike previous genrations, as they age they remain young in their mindset and their willingness to try new products. That is why marketers need to target them heavily, or otherwise miss the opportunity to establish a relationship with potentially their best customers.