What prevents tablets from becoming truly mobile devices?

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Tablets Remain Largely Stationary Due to Cost and Usage Patterns

Four years after their introduction, tablets have largely failed to transition from home-based devices to truly mobile accessories. This stagnation is primarily attributed to the combined costs of cellular-enabled models and data plans, as well as established user habits that favour Wi-Fi connectivity within the home. Consequently, mobile operators have not realised the anticipated revenue streams from tablet data usage.
High Acquisition and Data Costs Deter Mobility

The adoption of cellular connectivity in tablets is hindered by a two-tiered cost structure. Firstly, tablets equipped with mobile network capabilities carry a higher initial purchase price compared to their Wi-Fi-only counterparts. This acquisition premium is then compounded by the ongoing expense of data plans. Analysts suggest that mobile operators have not sufficiently innovated in their pricing strategies, often offering data plans for tablets that are comparable in cost to those designed for smartphones.
User Habits Reinforce Home-Based Usage

User behaviour patterns further contribute to tablets remaining primarily home-bound devices. A Google poll conducted in 2012 indicated that only 21 per cent of tablet users regularly took their devices outside their homes. More recent data from a September 2013 survey by Gartner Inc. revealed that the peak usage times for tablets are between 7pm and 10pm, a period often associated with activities like watching television. This suggests that tablets are predominantly used for media consumption and entertainment while users are stationary at home, rather than as portable tools.
Limited Perceived Value for Mobile Data Plans

The perceived value proposition of mobile data plans for tablets appears to be low for many consumers. Given that the majority of tablet usage occurs within Wi-Fi enabled environments, the necessity and benefit of a dedicated cellular data connection are diminished. Mobile operators have been criticised for not developing more creative or attractive data plan options that would incentivise users to connect their tablets to cellular networks, thus limiting the revenue potential for these companies.
Evolving Form Factors and Networks Offer Future Potential

While current trends indicate a preference for home-based usage, evolving market dynamics may foster greater mobility for tablets. The increasing popularity of mini tablets, which are more portable and some of which offer voice call capabilities, could encourage their use outside the home. Furthermore, the expansion of high-speed fourth-generation (4G) networks is expected to facilitate more seamless connectivity for tablets. However, analysts caution that for 4G connectivity to drive tablet mobility, network costs must become more accessible and affordable for consumers through cheaper data plans.

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What prevents tablets from becoming truly mobile devices?

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