The Apple iPad has been a massive success for Apple, and with the new iPad 2 scheduled to be announced next week, it looks like Apple will dominate the tablet market for the foreseeable future.
According to a recent report, there were around 4.5 million tablets shipped in the third quarter of 2010, and out of these 4.5 million tablets, Apple shipped 93 percent.
Of those, about 93% were Apple iPads. Senior practice director Jeff Orr notes that, “Over time, Apple’s first-to-market iPad advantage will inevitably erode to some extent. ABI Research has been tracking media tablets since December 2009; future quarterly editions of this Market Data product will include market share tracking of all the major media tablet vendors.”
The Competitive Landscape
Whilst Apple’s overall share of the tablet market may reduce this year as more and more tablets launch from a different range of manufacturers, Apple will probably end up selling more tablets than they did last year and more than any other manufacturer in 2011. The competitive landscape is becoming increasingly crowded with new entrants like Samsung, Google, and Microsoft all vying for a piece of the pie. Samsung’s Galaxy Tab, for instance, has been well-received and offers a viable alternative to the iPad with its Android operating system and robust feature set.
Google has also entered the fray with its Nexus series, providing a pure Android experience that appeals to tech enthusiasts and developers alike. Microsoft, on the other hand, has introduced the Surface series, which aims to blend the functionality of a tablet with the productivity of a laptop. Despite these formidable competitors, Apple’s ecosystem, which includes the App Store, iCloud, and seamless integration with other Apple products, continues to give it a significant edge.
Future Prospects and Innovations
Looking ahead, the future of the tablet market appears to be one of continued innovation and growth. Apple is expected to introduce new features and improvements with the iPad 2, such as a faster processor, better graphics, and possibly even new form factors. Rumors suggest that the new iPad may also include enhanced camera capabilities, making it even more versatile for both personal and professional use.
Moreover, the integration of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies could open up new possibilities for tablets. Apple has already made strides in AR with its ARKit, and future iPads could leverage this technology to offer immersive experiences in gaming, education, and beyond.
Another area of potential growth is in the enterprise sector. Tablets are increasingly being adopted in business environments for tasks ranging from presentations to data analysis. Apple’s iPad, with its robust security features and a wide range of productivity apps, is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend.
In conclusion, while the tablet market is becoming more competitive, Apple’s iPad continues to lead the pack. With the upcoming release of the iPad 2 and ongoing innovations, Apple is likely to maintain its dominant position for the foreseeable future. The company’s ability to integrate hardware, software, and services into a cohesive ecosystem remains unmatched, ensuring that the iPad will continue to be a popular choice among consumers and businesses alike.
via Mobile Whack
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