Tablet Computer Sales

We recently read an interesting article on worldwide Tablet computer sales. According to the latest Tablet Tracking report from Futuresource Consulting global sales in Q3 2011 were 15.5 million units compared to 4.5 million in Q3 2011. Here’s an excerpt from the report we read:

The USA leads the way in tablet adoption accounting for 46% of global ownership, and exceeding an installed base of 24 million devices at the end of Q3. Europe has seen a slower uptake at just 4.2 million shipments in Q3 compared to 7.1 million in the US, however this still represents over 300% growth year-on-year.

In terms of brand positioning, Apple continues to dominate the global market. This is certainly true in the US where it accounts for over 70% of unit shipments, though Samsung, HP and Acer are beginning to gain some traction. Europe is more fragmented with Apple still on top but with other brands shining through, although the competitive landscape varies country by country.

While these numbers are impressive, I can’t wait to see what Q4 sales numbers are! It seems like everyone had a Tablet on their Holiday gift list and that should have produced tremendous results.

A year ago I wasn’t sure if Tablets would really catch on but I think that question has been answered emphatically. It’s still an iPad heavy market but there are enough excellent competitors to keep things going and the market growing.