Function fatigue?

Ever get frustrated because you can’t figure out how to use all the features on your cellphone? You’re not alone.

Manufacturers have become so enamored of cool features – including cameras, recording devices and video-streaming capabilities – that they have lost sight of the fact that many consumers just want good voice reception, according to a survey by the Forum to Advance the Mobile Experience (FAME).

“Function fatigue” was the No. 1 complaint of mobile phone users, according to the survey of 15,000 consumers in 37 countries. It was conducted in late 2006 and was partially funded by Palm, a maker of mobile devices.

“There are too many product features that consumers don’t use, or don’t know how to use, and it frustrates them,” says Dave Murray, FAME director.

Consumers say they are overwhelmed by their phones, at least in part, because retailers do a lousy job of explaining things.

Source: Yahoo ! News

Related Links: FAME: Forum to Advance the Mobile Experience