Apple has managed to pull further ahead of its Windows-running rivals when it comes to consumer contentment, with the news that the Cupertino company has maintained its pole position in the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI). According to ACSI’s research among buyers, satisfaction with Apple machines has grown over the past twelve months compared to rivals Dell, Acer and HP, who hold joint second place.
Apple’s ACSI score was 86 – up 2-percent on 2009′s figures – which gives the company a nine point lead over its rivals. However, there’s good news for the PC manufacturers too; after a few years of dire feedback thanks to Vista, the arrival of Windows 7 has seen satisfaction levels bounce back to their previous levels, or in some cases surpass them.
Falling prices of HDTVs and home entertainment gadgets like Blu-ray players have also helped boost buyer happiness in those segments. ACSI is taking that to suggest that an economic rebound could be on the way.