The results of a new web poll survey, conducted by Rock radio consultants Jacobs Media, shows that iPod/personal mp3 player growth continues to be impressive. But iPod owners — in particular — want an FM radio in that next nano or Shuffle.
The study was conducted in late February through early March, and consisted of more than 25,000 respondents from over 69 Rock-formatted stations from all over the U.S.
“iPods are showing no signs of stopping,” according to Fred Jacobs, President of Jacobs Media. “Last year, our data showed that the growth of personal mp3 players was far from over. This year, our new study confirms that this phenomenon continues to have lots of life, and we expect strong growth throughout ’07.”
Since this poll was started in February ’05, year-to-year personal mp3 player penetration has steadily increased. From the ’06 to ’07 studies, ownership is up to 47% of the Rock sample, an impressive jump of 34%. And among Alternative listeners, two-thirds (67%) now own an iPod-like device.
The study asked those who still don’t own one of these devices if they intend to do so in 2007. Nearly half (45%) of these iPod-less respondents say they are very or somewhat likely to take the plunge. One in ten (12%) has a strong likelihood to buy one sometime during 2007. It should be another great year for Apple and other personal mp3 player manufacturers.
The study asked about the most important new feature that consumers desire in their next personal mp3 player. Overwhelmingly, these respondents want an FM tuner (33%). That feature outpaces increased capacity, a larger screen, and video playback in importance. It is noteworthy that Apple owners are especially desirous of being able to receive FM radio in their next iPods. In fact, more than four in ten (43%) make this choice.
