The latest trend in mobile computing, the tablet is making an impact but Ypartnership/Harrison Group raises the question of how much of an influence it might have on travelers.
“Given the wired standard of living for most Americans, it’s surprising to see that less than one in ten (7 percent) active travelers currently has access to the Internet from a tablet computer,” says the group in its “2011 Portrait of American Travelers.”
Travelers typically use the device to find local restaurants or shops, comparison shop for airfares and hotel rates, and search for the latest updates on flight schedules and delays.
Approximately one-quarter have navigated a destination using the GPS function, viewed a virtual visitor guide, or shared information and photos on their tablet device while traveling, says the group.
Roughly one-third of travelers use their tablet computer during the planning process to book air travel or lodging, and evaluate ratings and reviews to determine hotel, restaurant or destination selections.
“It is interesting to note that tablet utilization habits mirror those observed on smartphones with one important exception: tablet users are significantly more likely to use their device to comparison shop airfares and hotel rates,” says the group.
By David Wilkening
