Mobile phone users are increasingly happier with devices and willing to pay more for feature-rich handsets and data services, according to a new report by J.D. Power and Associates.

Sony Ericsson's handsets rank tops with wireless phone users when it comes to design, operation, features, durability and battery function. The handset maker scored 739 on the study's 1,000-point scale, and took first place for the third consecutive time in the bi-annual study.

A study from J.D. Power last week found Apple's iPhone topped business users in overall satisfaction. This survey was focused on general consumers and not business users.

Mobile device users are paying more for handsets and services this year, said the report, and that is likely the reason for a more satisfying device experiences. The average purchase price is $107, $15 more than last year.

The news comes as handset makers and wireless carriers battle a depressed economy and increased market competition in a heated race to keep current subscribers while also working to lure new ones into data and services contracts.

The biggest influence factor related to improved satisfaction and increasing spend is the growing popularity of smartphones, such as the iPhone and Research in Motion's BlackBerry devices, according to the research firm.

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