Research Note: Global Tablet Market Outlook 2024-2028
The global tablet market is showing signs of recovery and growth after several years of decline. According to IDC, worldwide tablet shipments grew by 22.1% year-over-year in Q2 2024, reaching 34.4 million units. This growth was driven by a combination of factors, including a favorable comparison to the prior year's quarter and increasing demand for tablets in both consumer and commercial segments. The market is expected to continue its upward trajectory, with Statista forecasting global tablet shipments to reach 136 million units by 2028.
Regional dynamics reveal varying growth patterns across different markets. North America remains a dominant force, with the U.S. tablet market projected to reach $9.8 billion by 2029, according to Statista. Meanwhile, emerging markets, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region, are experiencing rapid growth. India's tablet market, for instance, is forecast to grow at a CAGR of 6.10% from 2024 to 2029. China continues to be a significant player, with local brands gaining market share alongside global leaders.
In terms of market share, Apple maintains its leadership position in the global tablet market. In Q2 2024, Apple shipped 12.0 million iPads, capturing a 36% market share, as reported by Canalys. Samsung holds the second position with 6.8 million units shipped, while Huawei has shown strong growth, securing the third place with 2.7 million units. The market is also seeing increased competition from other players, including Lenovo, Amazon, and various Chinese manufacturers.
Key trends shaping the tablet market include the growing demand for larger screen sizes, increased adoption of tablets for educational purposes, and the integration of advanced technologies such as AI and 5G. The pandemic-induced shift towards remote work and learning has also contributed to sustained tablet demand. Additionally, the market is witnessing a trend towards premium tablets with higher specifications, catering to users seeking productivity-focused devices.
Looking ahead, the tablet market faces both opportunities and challenges. While the overall growth trajectory is positive, factors such as economic uncertainties, component shortages, and competition from other device categories could impact market dynamics. Gartner predicts that the global device market, including tablets, PCs, and mobile phones, will grow by 1.7% in 2024. As manufacturers continue to innovate and adapt to changing consumer needs, the tablet market is expected to evolve, with a focus on versatility, performance, and integration with broader ecosystems of devices and services.
Sources:
International Data Corporation (IDC)
"Tablet Market Finally Moves Past the Pandemic Era with Solid Growth in the Second Quarter of 2024"
Published: August 2, 2024
Statista
"Global tablet unit shipments forecast 2028"
Published: April 4, 2024
"Tablets - United States | Statista Market Forecast"
Accessed: October 2024
Canalys
"Global tablet market returns to growth in Q1 2024"
Published: May 6, 2024
"Worldwide tablet shipments up 18% in Q2 2024"
Published: August 5, 2024
Gartner
"Forecast Analysis: PCs, Tablets and Mobile Phones, Worldwide"
Published: May 1, 2024
TechInsights
"Analysis: Tablet Forecast Update Q4 2023 - Tablet Growth to Return in Post-COVID Refresh Cycle"
Published: September 24, 2024
Future Market Insights
"Tablet Market Size, CAGR, Sales Analysis & Opportunity | FMI"
Accessed: October 2024
Grand View Research
"U.S. Tablet Market Size, Share And Growth Report, 2030"
Accessed: October 2024
Technavio
"Global Tablets Market Growth Analysis - Size and Forecast 2024 - 2028"
Accessed: October 2024