It seems like everyone wants to get their hands on a compact tablet (with screens smaller than 8.5 inches diagonally). These devices have quickly captured the top spot in the product category. Deloitte estimates the installed base of compact tablets is now about 165 million units, compared with 160 million units for classic tablets (8.5 inches or larger).
Although the difference in screen size may seem small, the impact on the user experience can be significant. A tablet with a 7-inch screen has about half the area of one with a 10-inch screen. The smaller screen area can make it harder to read content and fill out forms, particularly on websites designed for PCs. As more web access moves to the compact tablet’s smaller touch screen, designers will likely need to adapt the size, shape, and function of HTML links, buttons, and other features.
People are more likely to carry compact tablets outside their home or office because these devices are also significantly lighter than classic tablets. Compact tablets’ greater portability creates an opportunity for operators to sell mobile broadband subscriptions to owners of devices capable of using cellular networks. Operators could also encourage owners of tablets that only use Wi-Fi to pair the device with their smartphone’s tethering capability to access a cellular network.
The greater diversity of tablet models means that CIOs will likely need to expand the portfolio of devices that IT supports. The best course may be to select the few options that will support the broadest range of roles and activities at the company.
Source: Deloitte
