8.8 Million Tablet PCs Are Being Used Within US SMBs, Says Techaisle Survey; 71 Percent Are Using as Additional Device; iPad Dominates But Android Making Strong Inroads in Larger SMBs

SAN JOSE, Calif., April 7, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- A total of 8.87 million Tablet PCs are being used by US SMBs, Techaisle's survey of 1,356 SMBs reveals. It is estimated that slightly over 50% have been purchased by consumers and used for business. A large percentage of SBs do not yet have any formal policy of supporting Tablets, whereas 48% of MBs have already established such a policy.

Healthcare and Financial Services verticals are early adopters of Tablet PCs.

Reflecting its strong consumer roots, the iPad dominates among very small businesses but Android is making inroads among larger SBs and MBs. Overall, 64% of SMBs are single OS adopters.

71% of SMBs are using Tablets as an additional device rather than replacements. Of the SMBs who plan to buy a Tablet in the next 12 months, 77% are repeat buyers. While most Tablet purchases are intended to be add-ons to existing PCs, larger SMBs express a desire to replace notebooks with these devices. Actual purchase decision will likely be driven by a more logical analysis of capabilities of both devices, for example, lighter notebooks with better battery life and instant on capabilities could hinder replacement by Tablet PCs. Security, lack of keyboard and compatibility are key inhibitors in adopting Tablet PCs.

Tablets are currently found in corner offices and executive suites. SMBs plan to expand usage among employees but broader adoption depends upon the availability of apps supporting line of business, productivity applications and pricing.

Above results were released today by Techaisle as part of its SMB Mobility Adoption and Trends Reports covering Tablet PCs, Smartphones, Mobile Work Environment and Mobility Applications. Reports are also being compiled for additional countries- UK, Germany, Brazil, Australia, France and Italy.

About Techaisle

Techaisle is a global SMB IT Market Research and Industry Analyst organization delivering forward looking insights. Each of Techaisle's Senior Analysts has been with major research companies such as IDC and Gartner. Techaisle conducts surveys with SMBs and channels to understand market trends, opportunities, buying behavior, purchase intent, and IT priorities. Techaisle offers its clients: SMB & Channels focused Syndicated Research, Custom Consulting, Market Forecast and SMB Segmentation. For more information on Techaisle or its global products/services, please visit www.techaisle.com.

SOURCE Techaisle