US internet users pegged Tokyo-based Canon as the best manufacturer of digital cameras, with Kodak, Sony, and Nikon also receiving support for the title, according to a larger-scope, technology-based study conducted in the spring by Ipsos Insight, MarketingCharts reports.
Some 24 percent of Internet users chose Canon as best manufacturer out of a list of 15 brands. Canon's endorsement is highest among those who are younger, college-educated, and with high annual incomes.
Kodak received the strongest support from older, less-educated consumers.
The Ipsos study also examined ownership of various consumer tech devices. US consumers are eager to use their amateur photography skills and print their own images: 70 percent of US internet users reported owning a digital camera, and nearly the same amount (61 percent) reported owning a home printer capable of printing photos.
The strongest ownership of digital cameras occurs among young internet users, while strongest ownership of home printers occurs for more mature internet users.
"This suggests that while the younger digital camera owners with children in their household are using their cameras to capture family pictures, the grandparents have printers for the pictures they're receiving via PC," said Leslie Rich, VP with Ipsos Insight's Media, Entertainment, and Technology practice.
"Aside from mobile phones, these two products - digital cameras and home printers - are the most common technological devices in households right now. Americans are embracing their love for digital photography and sharing images within their social networks. The online photo storage and sharing industry will benefit from this and continue to grow."
Provided a list of features and functionalities they would be most interested in, consumers also indicated an overwhelming desire for cheaper ink cartridges. HP and other manufacturers face stiff competition in the ink cartridge business from non-traditional players like Walgreen's and even local grocery stores.
Higher-quality digital photos and all-in-one devices (scan, fax, print) were the second- and third-most expressed desires, respectively.
