As global consumers shop mobile, Apple outshines rivals

FASCINATED: A boy viewing an iPad 2 tablet computer at an Apple dealership in Wuhan, China, in this April 28, 2012 file photo. Apple products remain a big draw to many consumers worldwide due to the ease of use of its devices. - Reuters

PARIS/PALO ALTO: APPLE's stock may be sliding as investors fret about growing competition, but store visits and interviews with smartphone and tablet shoppers in 10 cities around the world suggest consumers share little of that negativity.

With tablets and other mobile devices the gadgets of choice this holiday season, Reuters canvassed over 70 shoppers and store employees across Sydney, Seattle, Palo Alto, Shanghai, Bangalore, Singapore, Paris, London, Mexico City and Boston for insight into what does and doesn't beckon.