Survey: Teens Prefer Apple Inc. iPhone Over iWatch

Teenagers just want an Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) iPhone, says a new survey that analyzed young people’s choices among the top consumer electronics brands as well as other consumer names. Most teens own an iPhone, and most expect an iPhone to be their next mobile device.

According to Piper Jaffray’s fall survey of 7,200 teens, conducted in classrooms and electronically, Apple remains the premier brand for United States teenagers. Although teens are easily swayed by all things Apple, they still remain indecisive regarding the iWatch.

Last year, Apple CEO Tim Cook conceded that it would be difficult to encourage youth to sport wearable devices. The survey confirmed Cook’s suspicions: 17 percent of teens said they own a smartwatch, while only 16 percent would be interested in spending $350 to purchase the Apple iWatch, which is down from 17 percent this past spring.

Teen with iPhone

In terms of other Apple products, 67 percent own an iPhone and 66 percent own an iPad.

Piper Jaffray technology analyst Gene Munster projected that the company will sell 10 million Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) iWatches next year. In the meantime, Munster told the Business Insider that teenagers will take a wait-and-see approach when it comes to the iWatch and other wearable gadgets.

Other survey findings

When it comes to apparel, Nike is the top clothing brand amongst teenagers, while Amazon is the No. 1 online retailer for purchasing clothing.

For social media, Instagram is the most popular for teenagers, while Netflix is the top movie rental website.

Teens are still infatuated with video game consoles. Most are either interested in upgrading their console to the new PlayStation 4 or Microsoft Xbox One or they have already done so. A strong majority of teens (80 percent) play mobile games, but less than one-quarter (22 percent) spend money on virtual goods or additional levels.