Tablets to make up 50% of PC market in 2014, says Canalys

Tablets to make up 50% of PC market in 2014, says Canalys: In 2014 tablets will almost out-ship all other PC form factors combined, forming almost 50% of the total client PC market (desktops, notebooks, and tablets), according to a prediction by Canalys. The worldwide client PC market grew 18% in the third quarter of 2013, despite desktop and notebook shipments continuing to decline. Tablet PC shipments accounted for 40% of PC shipments in the quarter, less than half a million units behind global notebook shipments. Tablet domination is set to continue, with Canalys forecasting 285 million units to ship in 2014, growing to 396 million units in 2017. Apple and Samsung are expected keep ahead of their competitors in the medium term, but there could be challenges for both vendors as competition in the tablet market continues to heat up.