SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA – Qualcomm, a global leader in wireless technology, has released its highly anticipated “2023 State of Sound Report,” shedding light on the evolving landscape of audio consumer behaviors and desires.
Delving into the factors shaping audio device purchases, as well as the current and anticipated usage scenarios, the report offers an illuminating perspective on the qualities that today’s consumers prioritize when selecting audio equipment. The primary focus of this year’s research revolves around the dynamic evolution of consumer preferences in the realm of wireless audio devices, encompassing a broad spectrum of use cases, ranging from conventional activities like music listening, voice calls, and video consumption to the burgeoning applications in workplaces, gaming, and hearing enhancement.
Work Environments Driving Demand for Innovation
In the wake of shifting work paradigms, the report highlights a significant trend: more than two-thirds of respondents now work in public spaces, such as coffee shops, communal home areas, or shared workspaces.
This shift has led to a growing demand for audio devices that excel at helping individuals “hear and be heard” in both traditional office settings and these new, dynamic work environments.
Global Reach and Extensive Research
The 2023 State of Sound report is the result of extensive research involving 7,000 smartphone users from various regions worldwide. Notably, South Korea was included in the study for the first time this year.
The report delves into the factors influencing audio device purchases, current and future usage scenarios, and seeks to understand the qualities that consumers prioritize when choosing audio equipment.
A Single Device for Multifaceted Use
One of the standout findings of the report is the increasing desire among consumers for a single wireless audio device that can seamlessly cater to multiple purposes.
A staggering 68% of respondents expressed their preference for using the same earbuds or headphones for activities ranging from music listening and gaming to voice calls.
The Quest for Premium Sound Quality
The report underscores that premium audio experiences are top-of-mind for today’s consumers. A remarkable 73% of respondents stated, “I make sure that sound quality on my devices gets better and better with every purchase.”
This marks a notable increase from the 67% recorded in the 2022 report. Additionally, the demand for superior music quality has reached an all-time high, with 69% of consumers highlighting lossless audio quality as a significant factor in their purchase decisions.
Comfort Takes Center Stage
In 2023, comfort emerged as the number one driver for the purchase of true wireless earbuds. This shift is attributed to the fact that consumers are wearing their audio devices for longer durations than ever before. As a result, comfort is now a pivotal consideration in the design and development of audio products.
To learn more and download the report, visit Qualcomm’s website here.
Source: Qualcomm
