iPad 'synonymous for tablet' among businesses

About 73 percent of small- to medium-sized US businesses -- those with under 1,000 workers -- are planning to buy tablets within the next 12 months, according to an NPD Group survey. The amount is up from 68 percent in a second-quarter poll. The NPD also notes that 90 percent of the latest poll group anticipated spending the same or more on tablets in the next 12 months; the average spend is expected to top $21,000, although larger businesses have skewed the results.

Of the firms with 501 to 999 workers, 89 percent intend to buy new tablets. 95 percent are expecting to maintain or increase spending. On average, the group is expected to spend a little under $39,000 on tablets.

By contrast, companies with under 50 workers are predicted to spend less than $2,000 on average. Only 54 percent are planning for new tablet purchases, and 89 percent see themselves maintaining or growing spending.

Of special interest is that the NPD ranks the iPad as the "most considered" option among companies intending to buy new tablets. The iPad is in fact described as "synonymous for 'Tablet'" in both the business and consumer worlds. The NPD adds, moreover, that "iPad purchase preference is higher among larger firms than smaller ones, which is an important indicator that Apple is gaining traction far outside its typical consumer space." Apple generally avoids catering directly to businesses outside of some minor services and products.

By Electronista Staff