Apple is expected to see the share of its iOS-based iPad and iPad mini in the tablet segment continue to be eroded by an array of Android-based tablets by other branded vendors in the first half of 2013. The iPad and iPad mini saw their combined market share drop to around 50% in the second half of 2012.
Since Apple is likely to launch its next-generation tablets in the second half of 2013, several non-Apple tablet brands are aggressively releasing new devices in the first half with attractive prices and specifications to boost demand, according to sources from tablet brand vendors.
With Amazon's Kindle Fire and Google's Nexus 7 doing well in the market, while Acer's recently launched Iconia B1, Asustek Computer's MeMO Pad and Samsung's upcoming Galaxy Note 8.0 and new 10.1-inch tablet are all scheduled to launch in the first half, the sources believe Apple may see its tablet market share during the period drop further from the second half of 2012. |