Majority of Tablets Shipped in 2015 Will Embed 3G/4G Modems, says In-Stat

In order to access the Internet, engage in social networking, and share multimedia content, consumers of portable and computing devices require constant wireless connectivity. In fact, it has become essential in today’s digital lifestyle.

New In-Stat research suggests that this trend represents an opportunity for mobile operators to move beyond the maturing handset market and into connecting emerging wireless device markets, like e-readers and tablets. The research firm’s latest study reveals that by 2015, tablets will have the highest 3G/4G attach rate among all cellular-enabled portable and computing devices. According to In-Stat (News - Alert), nearly 78 percent of tablets shipped in 2015 with include a 3G/4G modem.

“The emerging tablet market represents one of the strongest opportunities for embedded 3G/4G technology,” says Stephanie Ethier, In-Stat senior analyst, in a statement. She added, “Cellular connectivity will also continue to find its way into e-readers, as well. By 2015, 65 percent of e-readers worldwide will ship with an embedded 3G/4G modem.”

Additional research findings show that approximately 16 million portable and computing devices were shipped with 3G/4G cellular connectivity in 2010. While over 50 percent of all 3G/4G tablets in 2015 will have long term evolution (LTE (News - Alert)) WAN connectivity.

Likewise, by 2015, 52 percent of cellular-connected portable and computing devices in Asia will be GSM devices, predicts In-Stat. Also, the In-Stat study shows that the Asia/Pacific region will experience the highest sustainable growth rate among 3G/4G portable and computing devices throughout the forecast period.

The data comes from new In-Stat research, Worldwide 3G/4G Portable and Computing Connected Device Database (#IN1104921ID), which provides worldwide and regional unit shipment forecasts of non-traditional cellular-connected consumer electronic devices, specifically e-readers, personal navigation devices, and digital photo frames. This year's update includes tablets, as well, according to In-Stat.

Want to learn more about the latest in communications and technology? Then be sure to attend ITEXPO West 2011, taking place Sept. 13-15, 2011, in Austin, Texas. ITEXPO (News - Alert) offers an educational program to help corporate decision makers select the right IP-based voice, video, fax and unified communications solutions to improve their operations. It's also where service providers learn how to profitably roll out the services their subscribers are clamoring for – and where resellers can learn about new growth opportunities. To register, click here.