Global Tablet PC Market hits 15.5 Million Shipments in Q3 2011
The consumer tablet market hit a global high of 15.5 million units shipped in Q3 2011 climbing from 4.5 million in Q3 2010, according to the latest Tablet Tracking report from Futuresource Consulting.
Exploring the ownership and uptake of tablet devices across the USA, Europe and Japan, the latest report in Futuresource’s Tablet Tracking Service quantifies the industry position for Q3 2011, highlighting market movements and trends, as well as providing forecasts for Q4 2011 through to 2015.
This recent update highlights significant industry growth across the three key territories, demonstrating that a product with little consumer demand prior to development and launch can experience a massive upsurge in approval, thus proving that an unsurpassed reputation, expert technological development and streamlined marketing activities can quickly turn an item into that ‘must have’ product.
The USA leads the way in tablet adoption accounting for 46% of global ownership, and exceeding an installed base of 24 million devices at the end of Q3. Europe has seen a slower uptake at just 4.2 million shipments in Q3 compared to 7.1 million in the US, however this still represents over 300% growth year-on-year.
In terms of brand positioning, Apple continues to dominate the global market. This is certainly true in the US where it accounts for over 70% of unit shipments, though Samsung, HP and Acer are beginning to gain some traction. Europe is more fragmented with Apple still on top but with other brands shining through, although the competitive landscape varies country by country.
Looking to the immediate future, the emergence of major sporting events in 2012 is expected to fuel a rise in the uptake of tablets as consumers demand connection while away from home to view TV content or keep on track of results. The associated size and features of the tablet mean that consumers can enjoy a higher quality viewing experience in comparison to that of a smartphone.
Long-term prospects for the tablet industry are positive with strong growth throughout the forecast period out to 2015, driven by a widening array of mobile content for tablets including apps, declining prices making the product widely available to an increased user-base and product replacement as consumers look to update and modernise. Multiple ownership per household will also drive market growth as advances are made in the range of uses and applications available.
The Tablet Tracking Service from Futuresource Consulting delivers expert forecasting, strategic assessments and insight into market trends and the expected life-cycle of tablets with reports delivered every quarter. There is also the option to track additional markets across 26 countries worldwide besides those featured.
To find out more visit www.futuresource-consulting.com, or alternatively contact Simon Bryant on +44 (0) 1582 500 152 or via simon.bryant@futuresource-hq.com.
Futuresource Consulting is proud to be a media partner for Digital Content Monetisation Europe 17-19 January 2012, where David Sidebottom, Senior Consultant for Digital Media and Content at Futuresource Consulting will be chairing the Mobile Summit. Visit the website to find out more. www.dcm-eu.com
Futuresource Consulting is a specialist research and knowledge-based consulting company, providing organisations with insight into consumer electronics, digital imaging, entertainment media, broadcast, storage media, education technology and IT. With a heritage stretching back to the 1980s, the company delivers in-depth analysis and forecasts on a global scale, advising on strategic positioning, market trends, competitive forces and technological developments.
www.futuresource-consulting.com.
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Amy Martin
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