BYOD EdTech trends and the wave of opportunities for device manufacturers

Bring-your-own-device (BYOD) schemes have been part of the educational landscape for more than a decade, yet they have undergone accelerated growth since 2020. According to Futuresource Consulting, BYOD has become a cornerstone of technology integration in education, offering a blend of enhanced accessibility and cost savings. 

In Futuresource’s new wave of K-12 BYOD end-user research, a notable shift towards 1:1 device schemes has emerged. This comprehensive study, conducted across the USA, UK, Australia, Germany, India and Japan, surveyed 7,863 parents and 488 school IT decision-makers. The findings reveal that nearly three-quarters of parents reported their child’s school now offers a 1:1 device scheme, signalling its growing prevalence in modern education systems.  

"This rising BYOD trend is not just about new technology practices, convenience and ease of use,” says Tom Bartlett, Quantitative Analyst at Futuresource Consulting. “It's about empowering students and creating a more engaging learning environment. Our latest research shows that when students have access to their own devices, they are more motivated and better prepared for the digital future. It's exciting to see how BYOD is transforming education and opening up new opportunities for students and educators alike." 

Opportunities for device manufacturers

The report identifies several opportunities for vendors. With over 60% of the schools surveyed planning to introduce or expand their 1:1 programmes within the next two years, there is a growing demand for affordable and high-quality devices.  

The report also highlights a growing opportunity around secondary devices. More than four in ten of the parents who made a BYOD purchase said that their school has either provided one or recommended that they purchase one. This includes devices such as tablets and additional laptops, which can enhance the learning experience by providing students with more versatile tools. 

BYOD challenges and considerations

Despite the positive outlook, the report highlights some challenges that need to be addressed. Affordability remains a key concern for both parents and schools, with many expressing concerns about the cost of BYOD devices.  

“This could be of particular concern to parents who may have to purchase devices for multiple children,” says Bartlett. 

Additionally, schools are more prescriptive regarding brand and OS (as opposed to technical features), creating opportunities for manufacturers to become the recommended brand for educational institutions. 

Future projections

Looking ahead, Futuresource expects the BYOD market to continue along a positive trajectory. This latest report indicates that the adoption of BYOD schemes will increase, driven by the need for personalised learning experiences and the benefits of 1:1 computing programmes. As schools and parents recognise the educational advantages of BYOD, the demand for devices and related accessories is set to rise. 

Futuresource Consulting’s BYOD End User Report provides detailed end-user perspectives alongside a comprehensive framework for vendors looking to seize the BYOD opportunity.For more information or to purchase Futuresource Consulting’s BYOD End-User Report 2024, please contact Ben Thrussell at ben.thrussell@futuresource-hq.com.