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iPad shipments suffer "sharpest ever decline" in Q1

But tablet not in trouble, says Canalys

iPad shipments suffer "sharpest ever decline" in Q1

The latest quarter saw iPad shipments suffer their steepest decline since launch, research specialist Canalys has claimed, dropping 16 percent in Q1.

However, the firm claims this was due to Apple taking action to clear older inventory, rather than any longterm decline in demand, either for iPad itself or the tablet category as a whole.

Indeed, the firm claims tablets now account for 41 percent of the PC market, though Microsoft's move to discontinue support for Windows XP has stemmed the almost continuous decline in desktop PC sales.

Rise and fall

"The fall in iPad shipments in Q1 was the sharpest ever," offered Canalys senior analyst Tim Coulling.

"Apple took action during the quarter to run down its iPad inventory, a smart move as tablet stock in the channel rose due to strong seasonal shipments in the previous quarter.

"Longer term, we do not believe Apple’s Q1 performance points to a decline in the tablet category, despite growing pressure from larger-screen smart phones. Apple’s ecosystem and the recent launch of Office for iPad should ensure it is well placed to remain a leader for some time."

iPad mini

Overall, Canalys reports t was strong growth in the Middle East for tablets, with sales up 100 percent, as well as a 74 percent jump in China and a 47 percent leap in Central and Eastern Europe.

The firm claims rhe US market was adversely affected by a drop in Apple iPad shipments, which fell 40 percent.

[source: Canalys]

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With a fine eye for detail, Keith Andrew is fuelled by strong coffee, Kylie Minogue and the shapely curve of a san serif font.