Ever since the Apple iPad went on sale, it has been the most popular tablet available on the market. It still holds a significant share today, but it looks like tablets running Google’s Android OS are beginning to eat into Apple’s tablet market share.
In the third quarter of 2011, iPad sales made up a total of 96 percent of all tablet sales. However, things were a little different in the fourth quarter of 2010, with the iPad making up 75 percent of all tablet sales.
Tablets running Google’s Android OS made up 22 percent of all the tablets sold in the fourth quarter of 2011. This surge was obviously helped by the likes of Samsung and their Galaxy Tab, which sold around 2 million units in the last quarter.
The Rise of Android Tablets
The rise of Android tablets can be attributed to several factors. One of the most significant is the variety of choices available to consumers. Unlike the iPad, which is only available from Apple, Android tablets are produced by multiple manufacturers, including Samsung, ASUS, and Lenovo. This variety allows consumers to choose from a range of devices that fit different budgets and preferences.
Samsung’s Galaxy Tab series has been particularly influential in this growth. The Galaxy Tab offers features that rival the iPad, such as high-resolution displays, powerful processors, and expandable storage options. Additionally, the flexibility of the Android OS allows for more customization, which appeals to tech-savvy users.
Another factor contributing to the rise of Android tablets is the integration with other Google services. Android tablets seamlessly integrate with Google apps like Gmail, Google Drive, and Google Photos, making them an attractive option for users who are already invested in the Google ecosystem.
Future Prospects for Tablet Computers
The year 2011 certainly is going to be very interesting for tablet computers. Google has their tablet-specific version of Android launching, known as Android Honeycomb. This version is designed specifically for tablets, offering a more optimized and user-friendly experience. Features like a redesigned user interface, improved multitasking, and enhanced app compatibility are expected to make Android tablets even more competitive.
On the other hand, Apple is gearing up to launch the iPad 2. Rumors suggest that the iPad 2 will come with a range of new features, including a thinner design, a faster processor, and possibly even a front-facing camera for video calls. These enhancements are likely to keep Apple at the forefront of the tablet market, at least for the time being.
Moreover, other tech giants are also entering the tablet market. Companies like Microsoft and HP are developing their own tablets, which could further diversify the market and provide consumers with even more options. Microsoft’s tablet, rumored to run on a version of Windows optimized for touchscreens, could attract users who prefer the Windows operating system.
In conclusion, while the Apple iPad continues to dominate the tablet market, the increasing popularity of Android tablets and the entry of new competitors are beginning to shift the landscape. The variety and flexibility offered by Android tablets, combined with the continuous innovation from other tech companies, suggest that the tablet market will become even more competitive in the coming years. This competition is likely to drive further innovation, benefiting consumers with better and more diverse tablet options.
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