The Connected Decade:

A Look at Consumer Demand for Interconnectivity over the Next 10 Years through Assurant's Research & Innovation Project

The Pandemic Kicked Tech Adoption into High Gear

We're using deep insights to help you win business and connect to consumers around the world.

The COVID-19 pandemic had a major impact on the way consumers interact, especially online and how they focused on device interoperability. Unsurprisingly, that led to the increased adoption of smart products that help us connect to each other. And it turns out that, once consumers adopt a smart product, they have a much more positive outlook on smart technology overall.

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60%

of consumers have already upgraded or plan to upgrade to a 5G-capable device
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39%

increase in those consumers who regularly use the connected devices they own

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35%

of consumers are interested in refurbished devices as a way to support sustainability
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44%

of consumers would purchase a connected device if it offered a value-added service

The 2023 Connected Decade Report

What's Driving Connected Consumer Behaviors?

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Assurant's latest research explores U.S. consumer attitudes towards connected devices. There was a 39% increase in device usage last year, where the majority of consumers surveyed (60%) connected at least one new or replacement device to their Wi-Fi for the first time.  

But while device usage is on the rise and 5G has been a catalyst for driving smartphone upgrades during the past year, U.S. consumers facing inflation and the global cost of living crisis are cautious in their approach to spending on connected devices this year. 

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Excitement Around New Tech Declines

Desire for Value-Added Services Rises

At the height of the pandemic in 2021, when asked if connected consumer technologies have made things better or worse, every generation unanimously agreed: technology improved lives.

Sentiments settled in 2022, likely due to device saturation in the market. Only 39% of consumers revealed they'd upgrade their smart devices in the coming year.

How do retailers continue to command market share and consumer loyalty? Consumer demand trends point to value-added services. Almost half (44%) of consumers are likely to go commit to a purchase of a connected device if it comes with the promise of further technical support after the sale.

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Younger generations continue to gain buying power and influence buying behavior trends. In the Connected Decade research, roughly 50% of Gen Z and millennials were interested in buying refurbished devices if it meant it'd contribute to sustainability.

Regardless of the consumer's device preference, 48% of all connected consumers would be at least somewhat likely to pay an optional monthly fee  to pay a monthly fee to support sustainability initiatives. 

Global Reach

35% of consumers

are interested in buying a refurbished device it if meant it would contribute to sustainability.

eBooks - The Latest in Connected Decade Research

Evolving Behaviors for Connected Consumers Across the Globe

Kicked off in 2020, Assurant will be analyzing and sharing insights into connected consumer buying behaviors around the world over the next ten years. The Connected Decade research is designed to provide actionable insights that help us work together to enhance existing programs and create new programs that meet your consumers' needs during this evolution.

Our study spans eight countries, surveying participants who represent shifting consumer attitudes across the United States, Mexico, Australia, Canada, Brazil, Japan, the United Kingdom and Germany. Consumer sentiments outlined in the study reveal substantial opportunities for connected living companies.

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From the Americas to APAC:Connected Trends Around the World

In this eBook, we examine each of the eight countries included in our Connected Decade International study, providing an in-depth understanding of the varying consumer attitudes prevalent across different regions

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The New Connected World

The COVID-19 pandemic kicked consumer adoption of smart protects into high gear and, for the first time, all generations are in agreement when it comes to their tech outlook.

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Connectivity is Now King for Renters

With more renters working and learning from home, in-unit connectivity and smart amenities are a top priority for property management companies.

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5G’s Evolution in the Connected Decade

5G will be a game-changer, but carriers are likely to see modest  5G adoption rather  than an all-out wave.  Trade-in offers will play a critical role in overcoming the price barrier to entry.

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Connected Trends Around the World

It’s critical for companies to tailor product & service offerings based on local needs, establishing the right levels of support that help consumers feel confident in new smart purchases.

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5 Types of Connected Consumers & How They Buy

The connected future is here. Thanks to technological advancements, connected products are everywhere. They’re changing how people live, work and unwind. 

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Latest Connected Decade Insights from Assurant

Lower latency, increased data capacity, automation and truly intelligent technology will create virtually endless possibilities for connected consumers in the next decade. ‘Smart cities’ are now within reach. Real interoperability between smart homes, cars and mobile devices will be solidified. And enterprise applications for industry-specific advancements are expected to be enormous.

Article
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Mobile and the Connected World

Q3 2023 Mobile Trade-In and Upgrade Industry Trends Report

The Mobile Trade-In and Upgrade Industry Trends Report reveals that $999M was returned to U.S. consumers through trade-in programs helping to fuel a strong secondary market where pre-owned devices are in demand.

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eBook
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Automotive

F&I’s Role in The Next EV Wave

Our report outlines factors driving EV car demand and the opportunities they’re opening for your dealership’s F&I team. Learn more about EV market trends and the opportunities they’re opening for your dealership’s F&I team.

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Article
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Mobile and the Connected World

Q2 2023 Mobile Trade-in and Upgrade Industry Trends Report

Assurant mobile trade-in and upgrade industry trend report show mobile upgrade program growth as trade-in values continue to increase.

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