Apple’s iPads continue to suffer from the new iPhone and Mac product line. IDC expects Apple to record negative growth until the iPad portfolio is significantly refreshed, either with the expected increase in screen sizes or by introducing a dedicated version of iOS for its tablet lineup.
Samsung managed to maintain its position despite a significant decline in shipment volumes. The market shift to connected tablets will likely benefit the Korean vendor as they can and should leverage their mobile expertise and carrier relationships.
Lenovo is one of the few tablet vendors that continues to grow in a declining market.
Asus’ new Transformer lineup — launched in mid-February – is leading to less-than-expected growth in the first quarter. In emerging markets, Asus’ Fonepad 7 continues to gain traction as the demand for voice capabilities grows in emerging regions.
Since returning to the tablet business in late 2013, LG has been able to leverage its relationship with local telecoms, garnering 10 percent growth in a market that declined 38 percent and capturing a spot in the Top 5.