Families flocking to iPad

One of the primary uses Apple has pitched for the iPad has been as an educational tool. According to new research, parents have been buying the idea hook, line and sinker.

With the unveiling of the new iPad less than 48 hours away, consumer support firm iYogi is releasing results of a customer study on parents views of the Apple tablet.

The survey found that 33 per cent of parents are wiling to buy their child an iPad, and 92 per cent of those parents see the iPad as an educational tool. Of those who do get an iPad for a child, an average of $14 is spent per month, with much of that going into game and e-book purchases.

Those who don't want their kids to have an iPad seem to be driven less by a distaste for Apple than a desire to get Junior off of the couch. Half of those who were unwilling to buy an iPad cited the desire to get the child outside for playtime, while 34 per cent worry that more time with an iPad will mean less time spent making friends.

Enthusiasm for the iPad amongst parents doesn't look to be letting up any time soon. Iyogi co-founder Vishan Dhar told V3 that sales should remain strong even with rumours of a higher retail price.

"I don't think it will be a negative impact, when you look at that 33 per cent you have a price point averaging $500," Dhar said.

"Where I see it having an impact is the people who currently are not buying it because it is too expensive, but when you are at that $500 price point there is flexibility there."