It has been reported by ABI research that Smartphone purchases are likely to rise in the coming year, despite an expected fall in the overall global handset sales. What this means is that even though there is an expected slowdown in cellphones in total, more advanced technology phones are likely to stay on a steady path upwards in sales.

The Global Financial Crisis is being selective in what it is effecting or perhaps there are some markets which are too resilient to be affected. Customers hungry for new feature heavy smartphones such as the Nokia N series, the Apple iPhone 3G, the new Blackberry models or the HTC line don’t seem to take notice of the other lagging markets. The desire for functions such as GPS, global internet and a variety of life-managing applications are fueling a relatively new industry which shows no signs of slowing down.

These figures are no surprise considering how much more access consumers have to reviews and technical specs and also the dropping price of manufacturing which is passed on to the buyer. Technology is improving and prices are dropping. Customers are now much less apt to buy almost disposable non-smartphones and much more likely to invest in a long lasting smartphone which can provide them with such features as internet, GPS and other features that are highly desirable.

A good example of this is the recent launch of the iPhone 3G in Taiwan. In a very short period of time the iPhone has managed to take 2.2% of the total handset market there and it doesn’t look to be slowing down any time soon.

What this means for you is that there will be more investment in smartphone technology which will speed up development and most likely bring prices down even more in the future. That means cheaper and more advanced smartphones for the consumer.

What’s your opinion? Do you see the rise in smartphone sales, but the fall in overall handset sales as a positive or negative to the industry? Is it safe to invest yet?

Have you been looking to turn your iPhone 3G or iPod touch into a killing machine lately? Are you wondering what the hell I’m talking about or if that picture above is real? Let me answer your questions.

Runaway App has developed the BulletFlight App which will assist you in lining up long distant sniper shots. This app has built-in profiles of three weapons that you can use in conjunction with your iPhone 3G or iPod. If you have a M110 semi-automatic precision rifle, KAC PDW, or 14.5in SR16 rifle you will be ready to go.

The app provides information regarding how to take your shot based on the distance to your target, wind speed and the type of ammunition you are using. All data and environmental conditions are fed into the application and it gives you a calculated point of where to aim your scope for the best chance of hitting your target.

Who this app is marketed for is a bit scary to think about, but it is an indication of how the use of your iPhone 3G is seemingly unlimited.