iPad Rise Coinciding With Netbook Decline

Has the launch of Apple's iPad and other tablet devices putting the future of the netbook in jeopardy? A new study suggests that many customers who were thinking about buying either netbook or iPad are leaning towards the iPad.

According to Retrevo Pulse Report's latest numbers, of the respondents who were considering buying a netbook when the iPad was announced, 30 percent held off and bought an iPad, while 40 percent held off while eventually opting for a netbook. However, when respondents were asked if they are “planning on buying an iPad or netbook,” 78 percent leaned towards Apple's device.

Meanwhile, of those who decided in the past year between a netbook and traditional laptop, 65 percent chose the laptop, numbers that were identical for respondents deciding to buy one this year.

“Don’t expect to see the record growth continue for netbook sales in the U.S.,” the study concluded. “As consumers find the iPad irresistible and inexpensive laptops more practical we predict netbook sales will get squeezed from two sides and will not be able to maintain past growth rates.”