Convertible 2-in-1 tablet-notebook devices are proving a hit in Australia with sales set to triple from more than 500,000 in 2015 to nearly 1.5 million by 2017, according to the recent half-yearly study conducted by analyst firm, Telsyte.
The Australian Media Tablet Study 2015-2019 indicates the tablet market has continued to decline by 16 per cent on the corresponding period in 2014 with only 1.5 million units sold in the first half of 2015.
Telsyte managing director, Foad Fadaghi claimed the market has been impacted by larger screen smartphones and buyers seeking greater functionality from their next tablet purchase.
According to Telsyte, Microsoft stands as the third largest player after Apple and Samsung in the Australian tablet market.
The analyst claimed that Apple iOS devices maintained sector leadership with 48 per cent of the market, but Android devices recorded a four per cent decline in market presence to 38 per cent. Telsyte said Android devices lost ground to Windows-based devices which currently make up 14 per cent of the market.
The firm said Australia should expect a battle between the Surface Pro 4 and iPad Pro as both are professional devices suitable for workplace applications.
Once the devices hit the market, a boost in sales in the second half of 2015 to 1.8 million units can be expected, according to Telsyte.
The analyst firm claimed new user growth will come from those under 16 years of age and those above 65, given the market saturation in other age groups.
