Mobile phone sales to reach 800 mln units in 2005, average price $146

Mobile phone makers are expected to sell more than 800 mln units worldwide in 2005, up from earlier estimates of around 775 mln handsets. Q3 2005 sales will amount to 209 mln units. Global shipments for Q1-Q3 2005 were 566 mln handsets ahead of the traditionally strong Q4, said Strategy Analytics. 2004's sales were around 680 mln units. Average selling prices per phone have fallen 11% to $146 in Q3 2005 compared with Q3 2004, due to the emphasis on cheaper models and competition. The cell phone market is on track for $120 bln in total annual wholesale revenues 2005, Strategy Analytics said.