Obviously the iPad has generated plenty of interest, but we are all waiting anxiously to find out just what the demand is. Well, according to a new survey, the iPad should do slightly better than the iPhone did initially. The survey found that of the 3,200 surveyed, 13% were somewhat likely or very likely to buy an iPad, compared to the 9% who said the same thing about the iPhone when it was first launched.
They also say that the iPad’s relatively low price is a significant factor. Only 8% of those surveyed were unwilling to pay Apple’s prices for the iPad, compared to 28% that said the initial iPhone prices were out of the question for them.
[Engadget]
TAGS:
iPad demand, iPhone, sales, Survey
This survey really has nothing to do with actual reality – the problem is the survey is of Early Adopters. These are people who’s jobs and hobby’s it is is to get the latest, greatest, statest of the art tech and fool with it and find out it’s true potential.
Problem with these numbers – supposedly 28% said “We think the iPhone is too pricey.” That didn’t stop anyone from buying the iPhone till it was out of stock last time… in fact there was so much demand that Apple sold the device only at Apple stores and a select few AT&T locations…
The Differences: There isn’t a lot of demand for the iPad. There WAS demand prior to the announcement because folks were expecting a full computer from the iPad – not a extra large iPod Touch… Thus those expecting a full OSX device priced anywhere from 899 to 1199 were actually disappointed to see the device shown. “Where is the proof?” – you may ask – that there is going to be lower demand?
Apple is on the Defensive – Heavily Defensive. CFO’s making statements about it NOT being an Apple TV, CFO trying to add value to the iPad, ect…
Apple is trying to increase market penetration – Never has Apple done this for their launch products before… You can get an iPad, not just at an Apple Store, but at BBY as well… That means this:
Apple has enough inventory of these devices to give to multiple locations
Apple has enough lack of confidence that it cannot sell-out at a single location.
Apple has mass produced these devices in such a way to try to limit the massive cost they have to themselves…
Here’s the biggest problem – Because Apple has decided to use it’s own Silicon (why I have NO Idea…) they have no choice but to manufacturer an insane amount of these devices before launch – ie – the batch sizes of these need to be larger than iPhone… Problem: There is going to be a massive supply – but even apple seems to feel that the demand won’t be high enough to run out of devices on launch – other wise they’d keep this within Apple stores.
Point is This: Apple doesn’t have any other choice but for iPad to be a smash hit – if it even is “Popular” or “Strong” it’s going to loose money – they must sell all inventory on launch week or the iPad looses apple money – lots of money.