Study considers how Android tablets could affect iPad sales
Consumer electronics shopping and review site Retrevo (always happy to surf on the newsworthiness of the Apple tablet) has conducted another study, this time about the iPad's rise in popularity. Could it dominate its market like the iPod has done or become as popular as the iPhone? The study addressed these questions by asking 1,000 participants about their buying plans, plus their thoughts on an Android tablet and e-readers.
When asked, "What's preventing you from buying an iPad?", 52% of respondents answered, "I don't need one," and that's understandable. If you've got a functioning computer that you're happy with, or perhaps an iPod touch or an iPhone, there's no pressing need to buy an iPad.
The 2nd most common answer was, "Too expensive." Five hundred bucks is a decent amount of money for many people, especially those who already own a laptop or iPod. However, those with modest computing needs looking for a machine will find the iPad much less expensive than even an entry-level MacBook (although it's comparable to, or pricier than, a netbook).
The study then went on to ask about e-readers and the possibility of an Android tablet. They noted that 40% of people who own or plan to own a reading device also plan to buy an iPad. Finally, subjects were asked, "What would make you buy an Android-based tablet over an iPad?" The top answer was price. 53% of respondents said they'd buy one if it was less expensive than an iPad. Another 33% said they were holding out for Verizon.
What have we learned? First, that Apple has sold a boatload of iPads. Second, the most serious competition could come from less expensive tablets running Android.
