SMS, Internet access and camera are passé, FM and MP3 is the ‘in’ thing as far choice of consumers in choosing a handset is considered. A study by TNS Global Technologies reveals that customers are increasingly opting for music-enabled mobile handsets.

Globally, the use of MP3 players on mobile phones has risen by 78 per cent last year and the use of radio through mobile phones by a massive 140 per cent, says the study.

In Asia and Latin America, 45 per cent of users list FM/AM radio as one of their top three choices for buying a handset thus making it the most popular choice for choosing a handset.