Tablet Shipments Experience Largest Decline since Inception
June 29, 2015 | Business WireEstimated reading time: 1 minute

For branded tablets, the year 2015 is off to a rocky start. For the first time since inception, the popular consumer item experienced its largest QoQ decline to date of 35%. In addition, tablets experienced its largest YoY decline of 16%. According to marketing intelligence firm ABI Research, there is no denying the market is losing its momentum and leading vendors are feeling the squeeze.
Apple and Samsung have been key market players and continue to dominate a significant majority of the tablet market. “2015 is the pivotal year for smaller, competing vendors to step-up, build their business, and gain market share in advanced and emerging markets,” says Senior Practice Director Jeff Orr. “The tablet market lacks a truly competitive playing field needing a strong third even fourth vendor to drive the market out of stagnation.” Acer, ASUS, and Lenovo all show promise for claiming those spots but need to focus on building their businesses especially in markets where purchase decisions are still largely to be made.
The slowdown does not necessarily mean the end of the tablet market. Tablets are still popular among consumer households and even have a practical purpose for many businesses and the education sector. The underlying issues of this specific device are longevity of use, price, and market competition. The market is simply adjusting to tablets finding their niche. “That initial growth the market experienced may never happen again for tablets, but they are still a strong force in the market,” continues Orr. This year could be defining for tablets with ABI Research expecting the market to remain relatively stagnant unless smaller vendors manage to shake up the market and create a truly competitive landscape. And the potential for that realignment still remains.
About ABI Research
ABI Research provides technology market research and technology intelligence for industry innovators. From offices in North America, Europe and Asia, ABI Research’s worldwide team of experts advises thousands of decision makers through 70+ research and advisory services. Est. 1990. For more information visit www.abiresearch.com, or call +1.516.624.2500.
Suggested Items
I-Connect007’s Editor’s Choice: Five Must-Reads for the Week
07/04/2025 | Marcy LaRont, I-Connect007For our industry, we have seen several bullish market announcements over the past few weeks, including one this week by IDC on the massive growth in the global server market. We’re also closely watching global trade and nearshoring. One good example of successful nearshoring is Rehm Thermal Systems, which celebrates its 10th anniversary in Mexico and the official opening of its new building in Guadalajara.
Weather RADAR Market Set to Hit Valuation of US$ 816.19 Million by 2033
07/04/2025 | PRNewswireThe global weather RADAR market was valued at US$ 158.43 million in 2024 and is projected to reach US$ 816.19 million by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 21.42% during the forecast period 2025–2033.
Philippines PC Market Falls 12.2% in Q1 2025 as Education Demand Slows
07/04/2025 | IDCAccording to the International Data Corporation (IDC) Worldwide Quarterly Personal Computing Devices Tracker, Q1 2025, the Philippines' traditional PC Market (desktops, notebooks, and workstations) dropped by 12.2% YoY in Q1 2025 to 617 thousand units.
SMT007 Magazine July—What’s Your Competitive Sweet Spot?
07/01/2025 | I-Connect007 Editorial TeamAre you in a niche that’s growing or shrinking? Is it time to reassess and refocus? We spotlight companies thriving by redefining or reinforcing their niche—what are their insights? In the July 2025 issue of SMT007 Magazine, we spotlight companies thriving by redefining or reinforcing their niche and offer insights to help you evaluate your own.
Global Dry Film Photoresist Market Set for Robust Growth with Expanding Semiconductor Ecosystem
06/24/2025 | PRNewswireIn 2024, the global market size of Dry Film Photoresist was estimated to be worth US$939 million and is forecast to reach approximately US$1191 million by 2031 with a CAGR of 3.5% during the forecast period 2025-2031.