by Stephen Dow – NetSpeak Solutions
Based on a Forrester Marketing Research report by Sarah Rottman Epps (Sept 29th, 2011), Apple currently has the largest share of the Tablet market (with 28.7 million iPads sold worldwide). However, some swift changes appear to be in the air (as early as the fourth quarter of 2011).
This is because Amazon is poised to enter the Tablet market with lower cost device based on Microsoft’s “touch capable” Windows 8 operating system. In addition, Forrester’s Rottman Epps reports that Amazon’s system will be able to compete not just on price; but also on content and commerce.
If launched at the right price with enough supply, the report states that it foresees Amazon’s tablet easily selling 3 to 5 million units in Q4 alone – which will disrupt not only Apple’s product market share, but other tablet manufacturers’ as well. Recently, HP pulled out of the Tablet market altogether.
Forrester initially sees Apple holding its lead in the Tablet market. However, the report also expects Amazon to gain ground quickly – because it will shift product strategists (from media, software, retail, banking, and other firms) a reason to increase “app” development into high gear.
All things considered, it may be wise to wait a little bit if you are about to purchase a Tablet!
