Convergence or divergence?: A comparison of acceptance and use of technology for smart phones and tablets

The market position of smart phones is similar to that of tablets, since many similar new products co-exist in the market, i.e., the “phablet.” Therefore, we applied the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology 2 (UTAUT2) model to explore the differences and similarities between smart phones and tablets. Six hundred and seventy questionnaires, including 365 for smart phones and 305 for tablets, were collected. The result shows that these two devices differ in some aspects. For smart phone users, the factors Facilitating Conditions, Price Value, Hedonic Motivation, and Habit affected Behavioral Intention and Use Behavior. For tablet users, the factors Performance Expectation, Hedonic Motivation, and Habit affected Behavioral Intention and Use Behavior. The no significant effects were seen for any moderating variables (i.e., age, gender, experience). Finally, we concluded that mobile device users choose a device on the basis of different needs. People who use smart phones need more software resources and capabilities and tend to compare prices before purchasing a smart phone. However, tablet users tend to consider how the device can help them improve work efficiency or the quality of their daily life. The results can serve as a reference for manufacturers of these devices to improve their products and services.