Tablet strategy must evolve with consumers

Before designing any product, developers should ensure that their strategy is in alignment with how consumers are using the device. In a rapidly evolving technological landscape, this is particularly essential for tablet computer manufacturers.

Tablet computing is a very young technology, and both form and function preferences can be subject to rapid changes. To gain an up-to-date understanding of the market, several studies have recently investigated how consumers are using their mobile devices.

One of the most important takeaways has been the realization that smartphones and tablets may have fewer similarities than commonly thought.

Consumers appear to access smartphone content more frequently throughout the day, but for brief intervals. According to CurrentResults, smartphone users typically access their phones between 10 and 200 times a day for sessions lasting 10 seconds to four minutes.

Tablet users access their devices less frequently, but for longer average times. According to reports from Nielsen, tablet owners typically engage content while in bed or watching TV. Peak usage is typically early in the morning and again in the evenings.

Much of the time consumers spend with their tablets seems to include more engaging experiences, such as reading books and magazines or streaming movies. Manufacturers may be wise to ensure media-rich capabilities on their devices, while savvy application developers may benefit from a focus on deep and rewarding content experiences that can hold the attention of consumers.