Oddly 75% of Malaysians purchase their smartphones from stores and brand outlets, this is contrary to what many believed especially smartphone manufacturers who rushed to set up online stores or worked with eCommerce platforms to acquire customers.

The trend for purchasing big ticket items online is high in countries like China but this is clearly not the case here as shown in the infographic, a report supplied by Google. Seems items like smartphones which is regarded as a necessary investment, makes Malaysians to become meticulous and only make their selection after careful and serious consideration. From rash purchasers (flashback to the queuing days) they have now become smart shoppers only deciding to change their smartphones every 2 years as oppose to every 18 months recorded in the past.

Smartphone brands have been ramping up promotions to get users to upgrade at a shorter time-frame but the fact remains whereby low end to mid tiers that cost below RM1500 are already spec’d up enough to operate all the functions needed today. Including super good camera’s and high quality display.  Brands like OPPO and VIVO have caught up, giving consumers options with better battery life, top components and reliable operating system.

Interesting to note that 80% of buyers do thorough research before making their investment, this goes to show sites like LiveatPC.com which provide reviews and opinions are go to sources for potential customers who seek for genuine assessment of these smartphone models. Brands need to be more forthcoming and honest with their offerings, as the report also states that only 20% are loyal and would not flinch to change their brand choice. Consumers tend to gravitate towards pricing and features rather than flashy advertising or highly paid celebrity endorsement.

Malaysian consumers show maturity in their retail activity and how they spend their money, a trait we welcome and hope to see grow further.