From this point of view, therefore, Retrevo's survey is more likely to measure the effect that anticipation and rumours have had on the market's expectations when it comes to the iPad than its actual sales potential.

One interesting fact, however, emerges from the report: a whopping 82 percent of the survey respondents were aware of the iPad after its announcement. Considering that the device is still weeks away from its actual launch, this clearly indicates that Apple's ability to raise awareness about its products is still second to none. Whether awareness will translate into sales is likely to remain difficult to gauge until the iPads is finally shipping and the consumers have had an opportunity to form their opinions.