Smartphone and tablet makers looking to find success in the auxiliary device market should concentrate on accessories that are wireless, portable and compatible with a long list of gadgets, according to a new study from Strategy Analytics.

After evaluating consumer interest in 27 different smart accessories, the research firm found that add-ons like docks, controls and musical gadgets can indeed help OEMs and retailers extend the lifecycle of a particular mobile device – if of course the accessory follows the aforementioned criteria.

"Accessories that provide additional value to devices and a better user experience can help to improve levels of satisfaction and brand loyalty, as well as provide additional revenue sources," said Paul Brown, a Director in the Strategy Analytics User Experience Practice.

In addition to providing an enhanced user experience, successful mobile accessories must be as wireless and as portable as the device itself, added study author Taryn Tulay. Accessories that need to be plugged in for either power or use were found to be much less attractive than supplementary devices that are wireless and battery-powered.

Compatibility was also a theme of the focus groups. Respondents were most intrigued with devices that work with multiple devices across multiple operating systems.

"Consumers want smart accessories that connect using standard protocols such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Micro-USB or 3.5mm jacks, and that will work with devices of multiple shapes and sizes," said Tulay, an analyst in the Strategy Analytics Wireless Device Lab. "Additionally, compatibility with multiple devices beyond the smartphone and with multiple operating systems is essential."

Of the long list of smart accessories included in the study, musical docks were found to be the most impressive. Participants ranked the Nokia Play 360, the Jawbone Up and the HTC Rhyme Dock as the top three device accessories. The study included both U.S. and U.K. consumers.