US householders planning to install a home network in the next year are more likely to use different media functions than those currently networked, according to a survey by the NPD Group.
Some 28% of respondents claimed to have home network systems and of those people, 33% said they would like to share personal media on their networks. However, an even greater proportion (40%) of those intending to install home networks want to do the same.
Other popular activities include sharing personal photos and videos and distributing music but in all cases, it is people still planning to introduce a home network who are most excited about the opportunities available.
“Spurred by the current wave of digital convergence, home networking will be one of the first technologies to which consumers will be exposed,” said Stephen Baker, director of industry analysis at the NPD Group. “As the survey indicates, more and more consumers see the clear benefits of home networking. TheyÂ’ll share pictures and music across multiple digital devices, and will integrate new-to-market products into their networks.”
The survey found that 40% of those who plan to install home networks in 2004 covet Wi-Fi networks but only 22% of those currently networked have wireless LAN access.
| Top Uses For Home Networks Among US Consumers |
| |
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| Activity |
Plan To Install Home Network In Next 12 Months |
Current Home Network Owners |
| Share Personal Media |
40% |
33% |
| Share Personal Photos & Videos |
32% |
27% |
| Distribute Music Across The Network |
24% |
18% |
| Distribute Movies & TV Across The Network |
16% |
8% |
| Home Security |
11% |
4% |
| Create ‘Smart Home’ |
7% |
3% |
| Source: NPD Group, January 2004 |
