I had lots of interesting views when I posted this question on LinkedIn after attending the Handset Fashion and Style Congress in London a few weeks back. What do you think?

http://www.linkedin.com/answers/technology/wireless/TCH_WIR/218888- 183437?browseIdx=0&sik=1210892224074&goback=%2Eamq

For the average consumer, I think the Modu approach is the way ahead. We like our familiar interfaces, how we've set up our applications, emails, URLs, contacts, etc. We resist changes that are inconvenient but we are equally tempted by the prospect of a new gadget. Being able to retain the familiar and yet have a brand new exterior is like having your cake and eating it - a win-win situation. Until device management for the consumer becomes more mainstream and relatively stress-free, the ability to have a new shell over our familiar phone will be increasingly attractive. Plus it will be more affordable than replacing a phone in certain markets where phone subsidies are minimal or non-existent.

When it comes to true luxury phones - those with the brand names, the expensive materials and the blink - we are talking about a customer sector where price is hardly an issue. These customers are also more than likely to have someone take care of making the new phone work as well or better than the old one. Or, the service aspect of the luxury phone contract will ensure a smooth transition. So for them, the acquisition of a new toy to impress at the next event is of primary importance (a thought - will phones replace blink as a status symbol??). So while this is a very small market (comparatively), it is a high margin market. Not one to ignore.