Apple’s iPhone 5 Ranks 5th in User Satisfaction Behind Motorola and HTC

A new survey suggests that iPhone 5 owners aren't as satisfied with their choice of smartphone as several of their Android-toting brethren. Based on a large sample size of nearly 94,000 mobile users living in the U.S., On Device Research found that the iPhone 5 ranked fifth in customer satisfaction, trailing behind the Samsung Galaxy Note II, HTC Rezound 4G, Motorola Droid Razr M, and Motorola Artix HD, in that order.

"Although Apple created one of the most revolutionary devices of the past decade, other manufacturers have caught up, with some Android powered devices now commanding higher levels of user satisfaction," On Device Research said.


Source: On Device Research

One thing On Device Research found particularly interesting is the effect that 4G connectivity has on user satisfaction. The top 5 devices in the U.S. are all 4G capable, and users with a 4G subscription reported a higher level of satisfaction than those without 4G subscription, the firm said.

iPhone 5

Unfortunately for Apple, 4G alone isn't enough to turn the tide, nor was the decision to increase the iPhone's screen size to 4 inches. Less expensive and/or better equipped Android devices are proving not only just as popular as the iPhone, but even more so, in many cases. This is the challenge Apple faces as it decides what to do next with its iPhone series.