How Are Tablets Used?
BBC Tablet
services should
be...
Considerate of context,
Focused,
Clearly navigable,
Responsive
In contrast to the desktop or television platforms, the consumption of content and services on tablet devices is similar to mobile in that it doesn't always happen in ideal viewing circumstances.
Tablets can be used whilst commuting, at home watching television (second screening), or in social situations. This means that variations in contextual behaviour can affect the types of content consumed and the device distance from the viewer (Close, Medium & Far).
As a result, users demand the flexibility to modify content presentation should their viewing context change, by changing device orientation or increasing font sizes for example. See Font Size & Reading Distance.
Tablets are most commonly used for playing games, checking email & social networking sites, watching videos/films and reading news.
You should consider the following:
Websites
Users browse the Web on tablet devices more extensively than on smart phones. Therefore sites should be optimized to deliver the best experience possible on this platform. See Linking & Interaction
Location Services
Tablets are currently viewed as small computers rather than big smart-phones. They tend to be used more at home than on the move, utilising known WiFi hotspots rather than 3G connections. This means that location-specific services are less important to users than core functionality. This is likely to change as tablets become more popular and the adoption of mobile broadband increases.
Security
As tablets are known to be shared devices, security can be a concern for users. Many are unfamiliar with the platform and prefer to use their computers for financial transactions and other complex interactions. As a result, users are less likely to enter their personal details when using a tablet device and will be reluctant to stay permanently signed in on an application.
Applications
As web browsing is better suited to tablets, device specific applications need to add value, especially when compared to their web service counterpart (e.g. BBC iPlayer application versus BBC iPlayer website). Applications should be designed to have a simple, specific purpose and provide a fast, intuitive and enjoyable experience. They also need to be well integrated with the in-built features of the device itself.
Shared Devices
Studies show that tablets are currently shared devices within households. This contrasts with the much more personal nature of mobile phones. While tablets are likely to become truly personal devices in the future - as competition drives down the cost - services should be designed for a multi-user device.
