According to the latest report from research firm In-Stat, the global handset market is about to undergo a major change during the next five years. The research consultancy expects four key factors to shape the future of handsets: Apple's iPhone; alternative networks, such as Wi-Fi and WiMAX; mobile video and television; and more corporate-liable subscriptions.

"These influences will have a powerful effect on the design of mobile devices, as well as the semiconductors and applications used in them," said David Chamberlain, In-Stat analyst, in a statement.

Recent research by In-Stat found that the iPhone introduced a number of technologies that were not yet common in mobile phones including touchscreens and acceleration and proximity sensors. It also said that both business and consumer users are expected to drive development of dual-mode cellular/Wi-Fi handsets. deployment of mobile video will require changes to handset applications, semiconductors and displays to provide the best viewing experience and that WiMAX could lead to a new generation of devices that combine cellular and Internet functions.

In-Stat's report "Big Trends Influencing the Global Handset Market: 2007-2012" is based on results of a U.S. consumer survey about current handset usage, as well as consumers' feedback on problems and desired enhancements to their handsets.