Reticle Research Report Update: November 2021
Welcome to the free edition of The Reticle Research Report (R3), where we share the focus of recent posts that subscribers can access as well as highlight other commentary by principal analyst Ross Rubin. As always, you can sign up for a two-month trial subscription to R3.
Research Delivered in the Paid Edition of R3
MacBook Pro "unleashed" but not untethered as Apple passes on 5G
We looked at Apple’s omission of cellular connectivity in its speedy new Mac Pros through the data-driven lens of consumer attitudes about 5G in laptops. Our takeaways included a discussion of the double-edged sword the smartphone represents in getting laptops online. We also looked at per-device fees that carriers charge as an inhibitor in light of the opportunity to reduce or eliminate these fees.
Addressing disinformation in this generation. And the next.
In that window before the Facebook Papers become the Meta Papers, we shared exclusive, original research about factors consumers say they take into account when trying to ascertain the veracity of online information, and how they may contribute to the echo chamber effects.
More than 95% of respondents said that disinformation on social media is at least a somewhat serious problem.
We also shared data about the percentage of U.S. adults who believe that schools should be teaching children how to be critical consumers of online media in order to avoid the spread of disinformation.
Our recently launched survey driving the coming months of R3 includes further research on Facebook and will enable some of our first trended data.
Other Commentary
ZDNet
We looked at Amazon’s breakthrough Astro robot both from a category creation potential and experiential perspective, looked at some alternative consoles to the still-elusive PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X, and discussed how Nvidia’s upgraded GeForce Now service may be just the remedy for the MacBook Pro user bemoaning a lack of leading PC games.
Techspansive
Our weekly podcast with economist Shawn Dubravac of Avrio Institute discussed major tech news events, including Microsoft’s Surface lineup launch, comparing Apple’s and Google’s custom silicon usage, and Facebook’s rebranding.
In the Media
We spoke to The Washington Post about the promise of mixed reality. We were also quoted about Apple’s new MacBook Pro lineup Amazon developing a connected refrigerator and moving Alexa into senior care settings, and the Netflix-Walmart merchandise tie-up. Members of the media seeking commentary for stories can contact us at media@reticleresearch.com or visit Reticle Research’s media page for more information.
About R3
Powered by analysis of exclusive, original, proprietary, timely, and independently produced data, The Reticle Research Report (“R3”) helps tech industry stakeholders gain deeper, more actionable intelligence on topics shaping the tech economy. These include Big Tech sentiment, extended reality, 5G and mobility, voice agents, privacy, hybrid workplace dynamics, and the evolution of computing and wearables. R3 offers the value of data-driven insights associated with a syndicated research service, but with the accessibility and timeliness of a newsletter.
R3 is available via a monthly or (highly recommended) annual subscription; a 60-day trial is available. To share feedback, suggest a colleague who might want to receive R3, or explore any topic discussed in the newsletter for custom research, please email info@reticleresearch.com. Complimentary subscriptions are available for select members of the media.
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About Ross Rubin
Ross Rubin is the founder and principal analyst at Reticle Research and the editor of R3. The former chief research fellow at Jupiter Research (acquired by Forrester Research) and executive director at The NPD Group, he has been a technology industry analyst for over 20 years and developed research services delivering consumer insights at four market research firms. He is also a contributor to ZDNet and Fast Company, hosts the Techschanges interview series (YouTube and podcast), and co-hosts the Techspansive podcast.
Ross takes no investing position in any technology companies. Companies mentioned in R3 may be past or current clients of Reticle Research. They are not consulted regarding its content.