4 June 2007
According to a new report from InfoTrends, the future remains bright for individual imaging vendors that are prepared to help move consumers to the next stage in digital photography, which is characterized not only by photo capturing and printing but also by robust 'manage and share' solutions.
The InfoTrends study assesses the level of consumer interest in the ability to view, receive, manage, and share images between devices at any time, regardless of where the images are stored. It also sizes and forecasts the market opportunity for these types of services, which are in the rapid growth stage of the product lifecycle curve.
The study affirms that sharing is still the top reason why people take photos. E-mail remains the most prevalent method of sharing, as 3 billion images were shared via e-mail in the US in 2006. Factoring in sharing conducted via Web sites, social networks, and MMS, InfoTrends reports that well over 8 billion images were shared during the last calendar year, and a healthy compound annual growth rate of over 8% is expected through 2011.
The report shows a strong correlation between the use of the Web and satisfaction with digital imaging. The research also identifies distinct differences in imaging behavior by demographics and psychographic attributes. For example, consumers younger than 25 years old engage in more sharing activities; those older than 45 are more concerned with the storage and preservation of their memories; and those between 25 and 44 are prime candidates for participating in all aspects of the digital imaging ecosystem.
Personal computers and laptops are still viewed by consumers as the primary mechanisms for viewing and editing photos, but InfoTrends forecasts indicate that the use of the TV as an image-viewing device will rise over the course of the forecast period. Prints will remain an important part of the market, but there are significant differences in print activity by age of consumer.
The complete study is available for purchase. For more information about the study or to make a purchase, contact Matt O'Keefe at +1 781 616 2100 ext. 115 or matt_okeefe@infotrends.com