Gartner predicts iPad will remain dominant for at least 4 more years

Rich Fiscus
23 Sep 2011 18:31

Gartner analysts are predicting Apple's iPad will finish 2011 with nearly three quarters of all tablet sales worldwide.
Last year, they say, Apple had an 83 percent share. Of course, when you consider they also predict total tablet sales in 2011 to triple last year's numbers, that's certainly good news for Apple.
Android tablets are expected to account for 17 percent of the market in 2011, increasing from just 2.5 million units last year to 11 million this year.
Despite major gains by Android, Gartner says the iPad will be the leading tablet through at least 2015.
Gartner's Robert Cozza said:

Most of Apple's competitors are struggling to meet Apple's prices without considerably sacrificing margins. Screen quality and processing power are the two hardware features that vendors cannot afford to compromise on. They should consider everything else ‘nice to have,’ rather than essential, in order to keep bills-of-materials costs competitive with those of the iPad.

One possible development which could throw off Cozza's prediction is Amazon's entry into the tablet market. Rumors suggest not only will they be selling an Android tablet soon, but it will be sold at or below cost.
It could be introduced as early as next Wednesday
Gartner's report indicates they have taken the Amazon tablet into account, meaning they apparently don't believe it will be a particularly big threat to the iPad.