Just as happened with the original release of the iPad, more conservative tech buyers (who don't fit the "early adopter" profile) had only moderate interest in an iPad mini -- but unlike most electronics, interest in the scaled-down version of the iPad has increased significantly since its introduction, according to a report from deal site
TechBargains. When it did a survey just prior to the iPad Mini's release, only 18 percent planned to buy it -- now, interest has nearly doubled to 33 percent. Customers also reported on what they'd like to see in future iPad models.
Longer battery life and a faster processor were the most frequent wishes, with more than 75 percent saying they'd also like the next iPad mini to have a Retina display, while 53 percent want the device to be even thinner and lighter than it is now. The survey did not deal with realistic issues such as the enormous cost increase that would have to happen to achieve all of the goals consumer say they want.
Also desired by survey takers were a USB port (76 percent), better speakers (71 percent) and just under half would like to see multiple user accounts. The full-size iPad was also of interest to TechBargain's customers, similar percentages wanting the same features as for the iPad mini. Buying interest was also similar, with a third of those surveyed saying they intended to purchase the next model of iPad or iPad mini, with another 41 percent undecided. The 33 percent figure for the full-size iPad represents a drop from a year ago, when 48 percent were planning to buy the third-generation iPad.
The survey was conducted last month and featured responses from 889 customers. About a quarter of those surveyed do not yet own a tablet, while three quarters own at least one iOS, Android or Windows tablet.
Top