2-in-1 units, Windows 10 to propel Windows tablets demand

Analysts foresee Windows tablets taking a larger market share from Android- and iOS-powered units, thanks to rising popularity of commercial-use hybrid devices and the launch of Windows 10 this fall.

Global tablet market share of Windows-powered units is currently making modest gains but analysts are optimistic that numbers will increase significantly in the next five years.

In a recent report released by IDC, total shipment volume of Windows tablets in 2014 amounted to 11.6 million units or 5.1 percent of the total tablet market share. Android and iOS remain the one-two punch of all operating systems, with 154.7 million and 63.4 million units shipped, respectively. These figures cover 67.3 and 26.6 percent of the overall market.

This year, shipment volume of Windows tablets is expected to reach 16.3 million. This is a more than 40 percent upsurge from the previous year, improving the category's share of the market to about 7 percent.

2019 numbers are even better, with manufacturers predicted to ship an estimated 38 million units, bolstering the OS' global market share to 14.1 percent.

IDC noted, however, that Windows' growth over the next five years will come almost entirely from hybrid devices that combine the attributes of tablets and laptops, and not from slate-types that resemble the iPad. Demand for these 2-in-1 units is especially strong in the business and commercial sectors.

The research firm also anticipates the launch of Windows 10 this fall to ignite interest in the line.

"Microsoft is doing a lot of good things right now and we believe the launch of Windows 10 this year will not only have a significant impact on Microsoft's share of the market, but on the industry as a whole," said Jean Phillippe Bouchard, research director for tablets at IDC.

He also added that bringing the functionality of computers to tablets is what will likely drive sales and this is where Windows could establish major gains.

"There is an appetite for a platform that can provide productivity experience that remains consistent across multiple form factors and device types, and we believe Microsoft is well positioned to capture some of that demand," Bouchard said.

Below are IDC's 2014 figures and 5-year forecast for global tablet shipment volume and market share.

Key trends

2-in-1 devices with large screens
Hybrid Windows-powered devices, which integrate the features of both tablets and laptops, have become theflagship product of many China manufacturers in the line. Such units are drawing increased interest from the businesses and professionals who are seeking mobile devices with the functionality of computers.

Most models come with FHD screens that measure 10in and above, with versions between 10 and 13in most popular. Keyboards that double as docking stations are typical inclusions. Standard RAM capacity is 2GB to 4GB while flash memory is 16GB and can be expanded up to 128GB.

Dual-OS capability
The latest releases adopt Intel's Bay Trail Z3735F or Z3735G quadcore processors that support Windows and Android. These components also allow units to deliver faster performance with low power consumption.

In terms of graphics and display, resolution can reach 2560x1600 pixels at 60Hz. Retinal and dual displays are likewise enabled.

Some dual-OS tablets can alternate between Windows and Android with single touch of a key.

China makers acquire Windows OS licensing from two channels. A number of large enterprises, including featured supplier Shenzhen Ramos Digital Technology Co. Ltd, obtain direct authorization from Microsoft. Many small and midsize suppliers, however, purchase the operating systems from licensed solutions providers.

Additional features
Most Windows tablets from China connect to the Internet via 3G or 4G. Many 7 to 8in slate-types likewise allow phone calls. Other add-ons include fingerprint recognition, 3D cameras and built-in projectors.

Price guide
The majority of China-made Windows tablets are entry-level units priced at $55 to $100. These run on Intel Bay Trail Z3735F or Z3735G quadcore CPUs, and incorporate 1 or 2GB RAM and 16 or 32GB flash memory. Most are slate-type devices with touchscreens that measure 7 to 8.9in. Dual-cameras have a maximum resolution of 2MP. Models support Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. Some enable phone calls. The housing is often made of plastic.

Listing for $101 to $200, midrange devices adopt the same processors as entry-level versions but have larger memory capacity and displays. RAM and flash memory can reach 32 and 64GB, respectively. Touchscreens are 8.9 to 10.9in. Models that go for above $150 typically integrate independent GPUs, FHD screens and dual-OS capability. A number of devices have CNC aluminum housing. Keyboards and docking stations are optional.

Upscale releases are quoted between $250 and $400, and are mostly intended for professional and commercial purposes. Intel Bay Trail Z3735F or Z3735G quadcore processors are popular but some upgrade to faster CPUs such as Intel Broadwell Core M. Most units are 2-in-1 devices with detachable keyboards and docking stations, 3D cameras, independent GPUs, sound card, Media Hi-Fi, NFC function, fingerprint recognition and digitizer. Models are Bluetooth-, Wi-Fi and GPS-supported. Casings are made of metal.