In a rare instance, Apple Computer Inc.'s iconic iPod music player surpassed beer drinking as the most "in" thing among undergraduate college students, according to the latest biannual market research study by Ridgewood, New Jersey-based Student Monitor.
Nearly three quarters, or 73 percent, of 1,200 students surveyed said iPods were "in" -- more than any other item in a list that also included text messaging, bar hopping and downloading music.
In the year-ago study, only 59 percent of students named the iPod as "in," putting the gadget well below alcohol-related activities.
This year, drinking beer and Facebook.com, a social networking Web site, were tied for second most popular, with 71 percent of the students identifying them as "in."
Hip College Gadgets
Apple Wins in Campus Poll, Even Over Beer
Trend Themes
1. Rise of Tech Gadgets - The increasing popularity of gadgets like iPods among college students presents opportunities for innovative technology solutions tailored for the younger demographic.
2. Shift in Social Activities - The preference for digital activities like text messaging and social media over traditional activities like bar hopping indicates a potential market for socializing platforms and apps that cater to tech-savvy college students.
3. Changing Student Preferences - The shift from beer drinking to iPods as the most 'in' thing suggests a changing landscape of student interests, creating opportunities for brands to adapt their marketing strategies and tap into new trends.
Industry Implications
1. Tech Gadgets and Accessories - The rise in popularity of iPods among college students highlights opportunities for companies to develop innovative tech gadgets and accessories that enhance the user experience and cater to this demographic.
2. Social Media and Networking - The high ranking of Facebook.com as an 'in' thing among college students indicates the potential for social media platforms to further engage this demographic and explore new features that resonate with their preferences.
3. Alcohol Industry - The decline in beer drinking as the top activity among college students suggests the need for the alcohol industry to adapt and explore new marketing strategies to connect with this demographic in different ways.