Apple's iPad Leads Tablet Market Growth
The global tablet market experienced a notable upswing in the first quarter of 2025, with total shipments reaching 36.8 million units—an 8.5% year-over-year increase. Driving this growth was a surge in replacement demand, fueled by the aging of devices purchased during the initial phases of the COVID-19 pandemic and bolstered by recent hardware upgrades within Apple's iPad lineup.
Apple solidified its position as the market leader, capturing a commanding 37.3% share. The company shipped 13.7 million iPads, representing a 14% year-over-year growth, surpassing even the overall market expansion. This success stands in contrast to the intense competition from Chinese manufacturers like Xiaomi, Huawei, and HONOR, who strategically targeted budget-conscious consumers with extensive product portfolios and integrated ecosystems.
Increased Competition from Chinese Brands
Despite the competitive pressure, Apple's market dominance remained unchallenged. Xiaomi, notably, experienced a remarkable 56.1% year-over-year growth in tablet shipments, reaching 3.1 million units and overtaking Lenovo to secure a significant market position. This aggressive expansion highlights the evolving dynamics within the tablet market and the increasing sophistication of strategies employed by Chinese manufacturers to gain market share.
The ongoing demand for tablets, coupled with Apple's consistent innovation and strong brand recognition, positions the company for continued success in the competitive tablet landscape. The robust growth witnessed in the first quarter of 2025 signifies a healthy and expanding market with significant opportunities for key players.
Source: Mac Rumors