Apple's stronghold in the tablet market is facing a significant challenge from Samsung as the Cupertino-based tech giant grapples with an 18-month hiatus in tablet releases. Recent data reveals a shifting landscape that could undermine Apple's longstanding dominance.
Tablet Market Competition Intensifies Between Apple and Samsung
With the arrival of the One UI 6.1 update, Samsung will introduce 10 new AI features to select Galaxy and foldable lineups including Galaxy S22 and Fold 4.
According to Phone Arena (citing data from IDC), Apple's tablet sales experienced an 8.5% year-over-year decline in the first quarter of 2024, shipping 9.9 million units. Despite this decline, Apple managed to maintain its position as the leading tablet vendor.
Meanwhile, Samsung saw a smaller decline of 5.8% in tablet shipments, selling 6.7 million tablets in the same quarter. This performance indicates a growing threat to Apple's dominance in the tablet market.
According to IDC, the tablet market as a whole saw modest year-over-year growth of 0.5% in the first quarter of 2024. This growth was attributed to the initiation of a refresh cycle and an increasing preference for premium tablets among consumers.
Despite facing challenges in its smartphone business, Huawei posted impressive growth in tablet shipments, with a year-over-year increase of 43.6%. The Chinese company shipped 2.9 million units in the first quarter of 2024, further intensifying competition in the tablet market.
An analysis from IDC stresses the potential for growth within commercial segments, particularly in the education sector and the gig economy. However, long-term prospects remain uncertain due to competition from PCs and smartphones.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MAY 21: Recently released iPad Pros are seen at the 5th Avenue Apple store on May 21, 2021 in New York City. Apple recently launched new consumer products.
Apple to Release New iPad Models
All eyes are now on Apple's upcoming 'Let Loose' event scheduled for May 7, where the company is expected to make big announcements across its product line. Anticipation surrounds unveiling new iPad models and potential features that could help Apple regain momentum in the tablet market.
Rumors suggest that Apple may introduce two new iPad Pro models featuring OLED panels, redesigned chassis, and adopting the advanced M4 chip tailored for AI features. Additionally, two new models of the iPad Air are anticipated, powered by the M2 chip for improved performance.
Alongside new hardware, Apple may introduce a redesigned Apple Pencil offering improved control and a revamped Magic Keyboard tailored for the new iPad Pro and Air models. The company may also expand the availability of its Vision Pro headset to more countries.
What's In the News
Apple's tablet dominance is threatened by Samsung amidst an 18-month hiatus in product releases. The May 7 event presents an opportunity for Apple to showcase its latest offerings and potentially regain momentum in the tablet market.
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