Android Tablets Shipped, Not Sold
The industry research firm IDC estimates that iPads will account for 46% of tablets shipped to resellers in 2013. That’s a decrease of 5% from last year’s numbers.
Android tablets on the other hand are on the rise. Jumping from laat year’s 42% to 49%. No data is available as far as a breakdown of what tablet manufactures make up this number, but the number of smaller tablets are on the rise.
Apple currently offers two sizes available for the iPad. Contrast that with Android tablets that range in size from 7 inch to over 10 inches. Clearly more choices for consumer.
IDC also increased their tablet shipment forecast to 190.9 million units, up from a prior forecast of 172.4 million. iPad or Android, that’s a lot of tablets being sold, and a lot more laptops sitting on the shelves of retailers.
Keep in mind tablets shipped does not always mean those tablets will be sold. iPad’s may still outsell Android tablets, even though Apple shipped less. That’s just good inventory management.
Windows About Windows Tablets?
The long term forecast for Windows 8 tablets looks promising, going from 1% last year to 7.4% by 2017.
Windows RT however will not see this type of growth, and that comes as no surprise to anyone. IDC had this to say:
“Consumers aren’t buying Windows RT’s value proposition, and long term we think Microsoft and its partners would be better served by focusing their attention on improving Windows 8”
Windows RT will see it’s share stay below 3% through 2017. It’s really no surprise as we see some tablet makers taking a wait and see approach before releasing any RT tablets.
2013 will be big for tablets. What tablet will be in your backpack by the end up the year?