This is really an obvious non-story. Smart phones came into existence because they became possible with the (currently) relentless march of Moore's Law. That same law and increasing demand is predictably driving down costs. Shock, horror.

As for those bemoaning the demise of feature phones, that too is inevitable. It suits the usage pattern of some. Also cheap phones will live for a long time due to markets in developing countries where price is a more important factor.

Also for those saying the data plans and service costs are a barrier: the US is a mobile backwater (compared to any other OECD nation). Service is woeful, costs are ludicrous... It's simply ridiculous. Being charged for receiving calls? Receiving SMSs?!? Huge data costs. Lack of data Goering (eg a small woeful 100-200mb plan and then an unlimited or 2-5gb plan with a huge step up and nothing in between).

In the US you're paying realistically $60/month minimum (more if you want to tether!). In Australia I'd pay as little as half that for superior coverage and service quality. In Asia it'd probably be even less.

I expect in the developed world dmartphones will outsell feature phones within 3 years.