ABI Research Calls Bluetooth Automotive Markets a Good Bet for Continued Growth

OYSTER BAY, N.Y.--Feb. 1, 2006--Bluetooth automotive markets have historically been impeded by many issues that have slowed uptake and effectively stalled the market. In its recently published report entitled "Automotive Bluetooth - Handsets, Headsets, Telematics, OEM and Aftermarket Installed Devices", ABI Research has found that the market grew significantly in 2005 and is showing healthy signs of this growth being a long term prospect.

Principal analyst of wireless connectivity Stuart Carlaw observes that "several key factors have fallen into place and have driven the market to an unprecedented level: 141% growth in 2005, when compared to 2004." Although a number of factors affect the uptake of Bluetooth in the automotive environment, three drivers are clearly head and shoulders above the rest.

Awareness, familiarity and use of Bluetooth within the wider consumer base has grown significantly, and this has resulted in Bluetooth becoming a feature demanded by consumers, rather than pushed by manufacturers. Cellular handset penetration rates have continued to rocket, and appear set to continue in the same direction. Finally, the growing trend for hands-free driving legislation has played directly into the hands of the Bluetooth community and can be seen as the most influential driver.

All this may point to a rosy future for Bluetooth in the automotive markets; however, Carlaw goes on to state that "there are still some significant barriers standing in the way of outright success for Bluetooth in this sector," adding, "Resolving the issues of interoperability, reducing silicon and equipment costs, and penetration into consumer devices outside of the cellular handset will all be crucial to securing a solid future for Bluetooth in the automotive environment."

ABI Research's new study, "Automotive Bluetooth" examines the potential market for Bluetooth enabled OEM car kits, aftermarket car kits, speakerphones and headsets. The report includes detailed regional forecasts as well as a comprehensive profile of the Bluetooth-enabled cellular terminal market and all major products currently occupying the automotive Bluetooth supply chain.

The study forms part of the subscription "Short Range Wireless" and "Automotive Infotainment" Research Services, which include research reports, industry and forecast databases, Vendor Matrices, regular market updates, ABI Insights and analyst inquiry time.

Founded in 1990 and headquartered in New York, ABI Research maintains global operations that support annual research programs, intelligence services and market reports in wireless, automotive, semiconductors, broadband, and energy. For more information please visit www.abiresearch.com, or call +1.516.624.2500.