Tablet usage more common in the evening, study finds

Tablet computer users are more inclined to use their devices at night and on weekends, when school and work responsibilities aren't occupying their time, according to a study from UK-based research firm IAB.

In a survey of more than 600 respondents -- 413 of whom own a smartphone and laptop or desktop, and 256 who own a smartphone, PC and tablet -- IAB finds that more than 50 percent of tablet interactions take place between the hours of 7 and 12 in the evening. In contrast, most smartphone usage occurs in the morning, and laptop and desktop use in the afternoon.

The majority of tablet users evidently prefer to interact with their devices when they're relaxing. According to the report, a quarter of respondents say they use tablets during their downtime, and nearly half say they see the tablet as a device for entertainment.

This is not to indicate that tablet computers aren't being used for work-related purposes as well. According to a study from Dimensional Research, nearly three-quarters of enterprises have deployed tablet initiatives or support employees using their own devices. In the business world, tablets are proving to be valuable tools for improving workflow and productivity, as well as reducing reliance on paper.