Surging smartphone penetration in Saudi Arabia is propelling Internet use across the Kingdom, presenting infinite possibilities to both businesses and the country's tech savvy consumers, according to industry experts. Home to one of the world's largest online communities, Saudi Arabia's expanding virtual presence has been bolstered by continuous developments in mobile technology, and the country's advanced telecommunications network. "We have a relatively young population of technologically savvy Saudis who have embraced mobile technology as a basic necessity in their daily lives," said Faisal Al Bannai, Managing Director at axiom. "They recognize the promise of the digital world - allowing them to share experiences, acquire information, and communicate in a way they never have before. Mobile technology has been a significant enabler of this online experience, allowing them to stay connected no matter where life takes them." The average Saudi consumer now owns 2.3 connected devices, with 86% of the Kingdom's consumers online daily, according to Google's latest Saudi Arabia Connected Consumer Survey. In addition, about 9 out of 10 Saudis own a smartphone, an impressive 26% increase over the last three years, and 86% of Saudis go online at least as often via smartphone as a computer, a whopping 42% increase since 2012. "The smartphone has essentially become the must-have tool for remote access to information," said Al Bannai. "In a single compact device, you can place calls, send emails and texts, take photos, find a location – what other device allows you to do perform all these functions? At axiom we are constantly releasing new technologies with life-enhancing capabilities, and it has become clear that the possibilities of mobile technology are infinite." A whopping 89% of Saudis use their smartphones while watching TV, according to the Google survey. Meanwhile, 77% watch videos on their smartphone at least weekly, 69% reported making their last purchase on a smartphone, and 71% said they use their smartphones to search for local businesses. For the Kingdom's technology mavens, smartphones are just the beginning of an ever-growing universe of mobile connectivity, added Al Bannai. "International manufacturers have recognized our country's passion for all things digital, and that is why Saudi Arabia will continue to be a priority market for many of the world's leading mobile brands," Al Bannai said. "This not only means that our customers will have access to the latest technology, but also that they will be among the first to do so. It is truly an exciting time for the Kingdom's tech enthusiasts." — SG
