38 percent of iPad owners now won't buy handhelds

Theories that iPad would effect sales of e-readers were as good as confirmed within weeks of its debut, with manufacturers across the board slashing prices of devices and planning high spec follow ups.

Conversely, any supposed hit on handheld sales has been less obvious, with the DS continuing to perform robustly in most markets and even PSP receiving something of a boost post Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker's release.

Results for a report conducted by Resolve, however, suggests that while the launch of iPad is unlikely to drive handheld sales down, those who do stump up the cash for iPad are far less likely to pick up a DS or PSP afterwards.

No hunger for handhelds

Resolve's statistics suggest 38 percent of iPad owners expressly stated that they now won't buy a portable gaming device, despite only 23 percent believing Apple's tablet is the most enjoyable device for playing games.

Indeed, just 28 percent of those asked stated gaming would be primary activity they would indulge in on iPad, suggesting Apple is mopping up the casual market consumers who don't spend hundreds of pounds on devices solely designed for gaming, but are happy to play games on any systems they own if possible.

Further details on Resolve's findings can be found over at Mashable.