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Internet Tablet Computer Market Opportunity

Tablet computers are the next significant device trend or simply another fad, depending on your point of view. The iPad promises to energize the emerging tablet PC segment and the opportunities extend well beyond just Apple.

According to the latest market study by In-Stat, the potential unit Total Available Market (TAM) for tablets could be as high as 50 million in 2014, but the success is highly dependent upon two key success factors.

The first requirement is to follow other successful devices in the market by offering a complete solution that includes the device, the wireless service, and the content.

In-Stat believes that the most recent successes in the mobile market highlighting the value of a complete solution is the Amazon Kindle Wireless Reading Device. The iPhone comes close, but still requires a separate mobile service provider contract.

The second requirement is to find the right combination of new technology, content, applications and services that provide a unique usage experience, then combine it with the appropriate business model.

Finding the right business model for monetizing the combination of device, connectivity and content has become a critical element in successfully launching new platforms.

In-Stat's market study found the following:

- Positioned between smartphones and PCs, tablets are attracting the interest of consumer electronics (CE) and computing OEMs.

- Thus far, only Apple and ICD have indicated carrier strategies, and only Apple offers a solution that includes content and applications.

- None of the tablets announced thus far offer all the benefits of e-readers or computing platforms, but new technologies and applications could help create a unique value proposition.

- The potential semiconductor opportunity in Table PCs, assuming that device adoption grows beyond the early-adopter segment, is over $4.1 billion in 2014.

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