Source: Nielsenwire.

Earlier this week, I reported that: 90% of Tablet Network Access Via WiFi. iPad Dominates Tablet Network Access One interpretation of this high WiFi usage is that tablets are mostly used in environments like homes, offices and venues like coffee shops with WiFi hotspots. So, what are people doing with their tablets while on WiFi? According to Nielsenwire, 42% of tablet users use them while sitting in front of a TV on a daily basis. Another 28% does the same at least several times a week. This means that more than two-thirds of tablet users plop down in front of TV with their tablets on a regular basis.

40% of Tablet and Smartphone Owners Use Them While Watching TV

Smartphone users show a similar behavior pattern with 40% reporting using their phone while watching TV on a daily basis and 24% doing so several times a week. The big surprise is that 14% eReader users report watching TV while using their device (reading a book?).

And, what are people doing with their devices while in front of an active TV? In rank order:

1. Check email during a program
2. Check email during a commercial
3. Web browsing during a program
4. Web browsing during a commercial
5. Visit a social network site during a program
6. Visit a social network site during a commercial
7. Check sports scores
8. Find information related to a TV program
9. Find information about a product in an advertisement
10. Look for coupons or deals related to an advertisement seen on TV