iPhone Demand Strong, Samsung Riding 'Wave of Momentum'

Apple's iPhone remains the most coveted smartphone among prospective buyers, though rival Samsung is riding an "explosive wave of momentum," according to a new survey from 451 Research's ChangeWave service.

The December survey of 4,061 consumers in North America looking to buy a smartphone in the next 90 days found that half plan to purchase an iPhone. That's down from 71 percent during the previous quarter's survey, which was conducted as the iPhone 5 made its debut, but still a "solid showing" for Apple, ChangeWave said. That despite recent reports that indicated Apple slimmed down iPhone component orders amidst sluggish demand.

Meanwhile, 21 percent of potential smartphone buyers are planning to get a Samsung device, up from 13 percent in September. Of those planning to buy a Samsung phone in the next 90 days, 69 percent are interested in the Galaxy S III , while 23 percent prefer the Galaxy Note II.

"Consumer buying intent for Samsung smartphones has been extraordinary to start the year," Paul Carton, vice president of research for ChangeWave, said in a statement. "Considering the Galaxy S III has been out for several months we'd normally expect a slowdown by now — but it's still red hot. We're also seeing strong interest in Samsung's large-screen phone — the Galaxy Note II. Supersize smart phones are taking the industry by storm in 2013."

ChangeWave also queried current smartphone owners to find out how satisfied they are with their device. Broken down by mobile operating systems, Apple's iOS came out on top with 71 percent of users saying they are very satisfied with their iPhone. Interestingly, Windows Phone took the second spot, garnering high satisfaction ratings from 53 percent of users. Google's Android came in third with a very satisfied 48 percent of users, followed by fourth-place RIM, which earned high marks from 26 percent.

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