The mobile PC market is experiencing a significant shift as major players like Hewlett-Packard and Motorola vie for a larger share, threatening Apple’s position as the market leader. Recent reports indicate that Apple, which has dominated mobile PC sales with 10.2 million units shipped in the last quarter, may face stiff competition from these emerging rivals. The iPad’s impressive tablet sales have contributed heavily to Apple’s 17.2 percent market share, but consumer interest in alternatives like the Motorola Xoom and HP’s TouchPad hints at a potential upheaval in mobile PC rankings. This landscape is evolving rapidly, especially with projections that global tablet PC growth could exceed 200 percent in 2011, further intensifying the competition. As established and new entrants navigate this dynamic environment, the mobile PC market remains a hotspot for innovation and strategic maneuvering.
In the realm of portable computing devices, the term “mobile PCs” encompasses a wide array of products, including laptops, notebooks, and tablet PCs, all of which are increasingly popular among consumers. The competition in this segment is heating up, with various brands like Hewlett-Packard and Motorola stepping up to challenge the status quo and provide robust alternatives to well-known products like the iPad. With tablet PC sales skyrocketing, brands are refining their strategies to capture a larger slice of this lucrative market. Enterprises like HP are making impressive moves to improve their standing, leveraging innovative tablets to disrupt traditional market dynamics. As this sector expands, it opens doors for a plethora of new technologies and consumer choices, exemplifying the rapid evolution of modern computing.
Apple’s Reign in the Tablet PC Market
Apple has long been considered the titan of the tablet PC market, primarily driven by the success of the iPad. Despite a stronghold, various competitors have begun tightening their grip on this lucrative sector. The third quarter of 2010 saw Apple leading tablet sales with 10.2 million units shipped, accounting for 17.2 percent of the market share. However, with emerging players like Motorola and their Xoom tablet, it seems that the competition is heating up, potentially impacting Apple’s dominance. Motorola’s aggressive marketing strategies and features designed to rival the iPad could shift consumer preferences, leading to a dramatic change in the landscape of tablet sales in the coming months.
The evolution of the tablet PC landscape is evident as major manufacturers outside of Apple are making significant strides in innovation. Hewlett-Packard (HP) entered the fray with its TouchPad, marketed as an ‘iPad killer’, indicating HP’s intention to disrupt the status quo established by Apple. Analysts like Richard Shim suggest that this increased competitive pressure could result in a reconfiguration of the mobile PC rankings. While Apple may still hold the top position in tablet sales specifically, the overall mobile PC market—including laptops and notebooks—could witness notable shifts thanks to new entrants and advancements in technology.
Frequently Asked Questions
What impact will Apple competition have on the mobile PC market this year?
Apple’s competition in the mobile PC market, especially from companies like Hewlett-Packard and Motorola, is expected to significantly influence market dynamics. With HP’s TouchPad and Motorola’s Xoom entering the arena, the mobile PC rankings may shift as these competitors aim to challenge Apple’s dominance.
How are tablet sales affecting Apple’s position in the mobile PC market?
Tablet sales, particularly of the iPad, have been crucial to Apple’s hold on the mobile PC market with a 17.2% market share. However, as new tablets like HP’s TouchPad and Motorola’s Xoom are introduced, they may impact Apple’s sales and its overall ranking in the mobile PC sector.
What is Hewlett-Packard’s market share in the mobile PC rankings?
According to DisplaySearch, Hewlett-Packard captured a 15.6% market share in the mobile PC market last quarter. With new products like the TouchPad, HP is positioned to contest Apple’s lead in mobile PC sales and may see an increase in its market share.
What factors contribute to tablet PC growth in the mobile PC market?
Tablet PC growth in the mobile PC market is driven by advancements in touchscreen technology, consumer demand for portable computing devices, and the introduction of competitive products like the iPad, TouchPad, and Xoom. The anticipated production of around 56 million tablets in 2011 indicates strong growth potential.
Which brands are leading in the mobile PC market and what are their rankings?
The top brands in the mobile PC market include Apple, Hewlett-Packard, Acer, Dell, and Toshiba. According to DisplaySearch, these five brands together account for approximately 65% of the mobile PC market, demonstrating their significant presence and competitive positioning.
How will the launch of new tablets impact the mobile PC market overall?
The launch of new tablets such as the HP TouchPad and Motorola Xoom is likely to lead to a shakeup in the mobile PC market rankings. As these products become available, they will compete directly with Apple’s iPad, potentially altering the existing market share and driving overall growth in mobile PC shipments.
What are the expectations for mobile PC shipments in the upcoming year?
DisplaySearch forecasts that worldwide mobile PC shipments will continue to rise, with an expected 59.6 million units shipped in the fourth quarter, reflecting a 17% year-on-year growth. This trend is likely to persist as the tablet PC sector grows and new devices are introduced.
| Manufacturer | Mobile PC Shipments (Q4 2010) | Market Share (%) | Key Products | Market Insights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apple | 10.2 million | 17.2 | iPad | Potential loss of top position due to competition. |
| Hewlett-Packard (HP) | N/A | 15.6 | TouchPad | Expected to climb ranks with its TouchPad tablet. |
| Motorola | N/A | N/A | Xoom tablet | Potential to elevate in rankings. |
| Acer | N/A | N/A | N/A | Holding 3rd position in mobile PC market. |
| Dell | N/A | N/A | N/A | Holding 4th position in mobile PC market. |
| Toshiba | N/A | N/A | N/A | Only top five brand with YoY growth. |
Summary
The mobile PC market is undergoing significant changes, with Apple facing the challenge of maintaining its leadership position. As Hewlett-Packard and Motorola make strides into the mobile PC sales territory, analysts predict potential shifts in rankings driven by the success of new tablet innovations. Apple’s stronghold, especially in the tablet segment, may still keep it ahead, but the overall market dynamics suggest an increasingly competitive landscape.