Steve Jobs’ recent unveiling of the Apple iPad 2 has many thinking tablet computers will become the future. For instance, Gartner Inc. expects worldwide PC shipments to grow 10.5% in 2011, down from an earlier forecast of 15.9% growth. Gartner decreased their estimate after Steve Jobs mentioned that tablet computers are stealing demand from PCs. Many estimates are calling for 40 million tablet sales in 2011, with Apple dominating the market.
Personally, I do believe tablets will decrease overall PC sales. Those who do not use PCs for work related purposes will probably opt for the more practical iPad. However, I cannot picture white-collar workers using tablet computers to conduct their normal day to day activities. There is no question that many will have a tablet device as an accessory to their laptops, but tablets are impractical. It is difficult to type on a tablet for an extended period of time. It is also difficult to imagine businesses buying tablets for their daily functions.
As mentioned, these are my personal opinions and others may feel differently about the future of tablet computers. Nevertheless, there is no question that tablet devices will become more present in daily life. There benefits should be utilized in the business world to help drive greater profitability and efficiency.
Sources: Worthen, Ben. “The Wall Street Journal Online”. 4 March 2011 http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703300904576178381437662352.html?mod=WSJ_Tech_LEADTop
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