Android tablets surge; Apple to unveil iPad 2

New York, Feb 1: A new study revealed that the technology giant Apple Inc is losing its domination in global tablet market with the emergence of Google Android running tablets like Samsung Galaxy Tab and Dell Streak.

The study conducted by market researcher Strategy Analytics found that the Android tablets marked an impressive 22 percent increase in shipments in the fourth quarter of 2010. Even though Apple iPad continued the domination with 75 percent of total market share.

According to the study, Apple iPad had a market share of 95 percent in the third quarter of 2010, but it decreased to 75 percent in the Dec quarter. The reason behind the decline is the advancement of Android tablets by different manufactures.

Anyhow, iPad's shipment increased by 74 percent in the Q4. Apple shipped 7.3 million tablets compared to 4.2 million units in third quarter. Meanwhile, more than 2.1 million Android tablets shipped in fourth quarter compared to 100,000 in the third quarter of 2010.

Impressive specifications, advanced features and comparatively low cost helped Android tablets to win the heart of millions around the globe. Samsung Galaxy Tab was the main opponent for Apple iPad.

This new study surfaced when rumors of Apple iPad 2 was doing rounds. Gadget market analysts predicted that Apple will launch iPad 2 by Mar or Apr. There are thousand of rumors about the specifications of Apple iPad 2. Most of us expect cameras, new powerful processor, SD support and Retina Display technology on Apple iPad 2.

The Tablet market is growing enormously with the launch of the new tablets. In the coming months, we can expect Motorola Xoom and Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 also. Hence, it is becoming difficult for Apple iPad to dominate the market. Let's wait and see for the miracles of Apple CEO Steve Jobs, who always enthrall us with impressive gadgets.

OneIndia News