Handset makers said to be expecting double-digit growth in 4Q

Global handset demand has recovered recently, and with international handset vendors looking to makers to increase their inventory levels by 10-20% for the fourth quarter, handset shipment growth is expected to have related double-digit sequential growth in the fourth quarter, according to market watchers.

International handset chipset suppliers also indicated handset demand currently is a lot stronger than it was in late June and early July. Inventory issues seen in the second quarter have been resolved, and the suppliers have an optimistic outlook for the fourth quarter.

The suppliers added that the fourth quarter is the peak period for handset vendors to promote new products, and handset sales in the fourth quarter are usually better than they are in the third quarter.