ABI: Mobile Video Trumps Connected Devices

10 Feb, 2014 By: Erik Gruenwedel

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About 40% of consumers will watch video on mobile devices such as tablets and smartphones by 2018 — despite continued growth of online video viewing on connected CE devices, including Google’s Chromecast and new video game consoles from Microsoft and Sony, according to a new research report.

Global mobile video views represent more 20% of the total (in 2013) online video consumption, and this share will more than double during the five-year forecast window. Pay-TV services will continue to serve as the primary video entertainment solution for most consumers, but overall time spent watching online video is expected to pass 21 hours per month by 2019, up from 12.7 hours in 2013, according to ABI Research.

Computers will remain relevant as many expect these devices to continue serving as the primary viewing device during the workday hours — while tablets secure the most views in the evening. Connected consumer electronics tend to see more traffic in the early evening when families often share viewing time; this viewing replaces traditional linear or DVR TV viewing.

“Along with time of day, video content also plays a critical role in the type of devices consumers use to watch online video,” ABI practice director Sam Rosen said in a statement. “Short-form video, for instance, is quickly becoming the domain of mobile devices. For connected CE, it’s less about failing to compete with mobile, than it is a reflection of consumers’ lifestyles and how it dictates which devices are used and when.”

Senior analyst Michael Inouye said mobile video viewing creates additional touch-points, which he said increases the number of content plays per household. In other words, multiple household members watch on mobile screens or multitasking while sitting in front of the TV. 

“As pay-TV services continue to extend the reach of multiscreen services, we expect more content like live sporting events to play an increasing role on mobile devices,” Inouye said in a statement.
 

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