Kids Want iPads

Parents had better have deep pockets this year. According to Nielsen, 31% of kids aged 6 to 12 want an iPad. The next two items on the list include a computer (29%) and an iPod Touch (29%). If you think the desire for tech ends there, however, think again.

Other devices on the kiddies' minds: 25% want a Nintendo DS/DS Lite; 21% want a Sony PS3/Slim; 21% want a non-Apple smartphone, 21% want a regular mobile phone; 20% want an iPhone; 20% want a Nintendo 3DS; and 20% want a Nintendo Wii (hey kids, you can have mine).

Nielsen said in a blog post, "Apple’s iPod Touch is also popular choice among kids, generating similar levels of interest as computers. Of note, the iPod Touch outpaces the perennial handheld gaming favorites Nintendo DS and Sony PlayStation Portable – though look for the Nintendo 3DS to make a splash with young gamers when it releases in Spring 2011."

Keep in mind, most of these devices cost $199 and up, and some cost more than $1000. What else to people want when it comes to gadgets?

Nielsen says, "For the rest of U.S. consumers, electronic upgrades look to be a popular trend this year, with future interest in commonly owned devices such as computers, televisions, and smartphones outpacing other electronic offerings among consumers ages 13+. Kids aren’t the only ones interested in the iPad: fully 18% of the 13+ population is also eyeing this hot new offering."

While it's great for Apple that tons of kids want the iPad, it's more important that adults (i.e., parents) actually be willing to pay for it. Nielsen doesn't share any data about what adults think of the iPad and its $500 starting price.