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Consumers satisfied with DVD, delay Blu-ray purchases

August 5th, 2008 • Related • Filed Under

Most consumers are very satisfied with their current DVD players and that is playing a major role in sluggish growth for Blue-ray players, according to a study.

ABI Research is a leading market research firm focused on the impact of emerging technologies on global consumer and business markets. A new consumer study from ABI Research indicates a widespread reluctance to commit to Blu-ray players in the near future. Over half of the 1000 participants in the study said they have no plans to buy a Blu-ray player in the near future and a further 23% are not likely to buy until sometime in 2009.

The primary reason for the delay is perceived value proposition of the Blu-ray. 40% of the research participants considered quality of Blu-ray “somewhat better” compared to about 50% calling it “much better”. However, most of the participants were satisfied with the quality of their current DVD player.

Another important reason for the reluctance was a need to upgrade both the TV as well as the player to get the intended quality of the Blu-ray, a costly affair and considered not worth the price.

Detailed results of the ABI survey along with analysis can be found here.