Despite some high-profile underperformers, Android-based tablets may occupy some 20 percent of the market, according to new data from ABI Research.
That being said, Apple’s iPad continues its domination of the space. “Many vendors have introduced media tablets, but none are separating themselves from the pack to pose a serious threat to Apple,” ABI Research Mobile Devices Group Director Jeff Orr wrote in an Aug. 11 statement. “In fact, most have introduced products at prices higher than similarly configured iPads.”
The firm also cited Android fragmentation as a source of significant headwinds for the OS. On top of that, a flood of lower-cost devices onto store shelves could ultimately harm the whole tablet segment. “This will certainly help bolster year-over-year growth for the category,” Orr added, “but it also creates a negative perception in the minds of the mass consumer audience about the readiness of media tablets to be fully functional within the next several years.”
In the end, he added, “good user experiences and product response are needed to propel this market beyond the ‘early adopter’ stage.”
In recent months, Android tablets have entered the marketplace in ever-greater numbers. Some, such as the Motorola Xoom, failed to perform up to their pre-release hype; others, including Samsung’s Galaxy Tab franchise, could end up attracting more market share. Despite some of those crash-and-burns, tablets are enjoying something of a renaissance. Research firm IHS recently predicted tablet shipments would reach 61.9 million units this year, versus 19.7 million in 2010, helping drive rising adoption of Internet-enabled devices.
To read the original eWeek article, click here: Android Tablets Occupy 20 Percent of Market: Report