Telephone Tablets Gaining Steam in Emerging Markets

Telephone tablets: As a consumer in the United States, you are probably comfortable purchasing both a smartphone and a tablet. While this holds true in many other parts of the world as well, there are some emerging markets where this is not the case.

For this reason, tablets with telephone capabilities are expected to gain stem in emerging markets in the years to come. This may not sound like something you would be interested in, but remember one thing: consumers in many other parts of the world are looking to get the most bang for their buck, especially if they are only in position to buy one type of device.

According to a recent report by Digitimes, tablets with seven inch displays and telephone features are “expected to enjoy strong demand in emerging markets due to their friendlier prices and characteristics that suit the demand of consumers in these markets, according to sources from tablet players..”

As you can see, these consumers are interested in two things: tablets with telephone capabilities and devices with a lower price.

Sources noted that consumers in emerging markets are most interested in watching multimedia on their mobile devices. For this reason, a larger display, such as seven inch compared to six inch, as well as a cheaper price, can turn consumers towards tablets as opposed to smartphones.

Many vendors have realized this trend and have already released devices to pick up some of the market share. This includes but is not limited to Samsung’s Galaxy Tab 2, Asustek Computer’s Padfone, and Lenovo’s A1000 and A3000.

Take for instance the Samsung Galaxy Tab 2. In addition to name recognition, this device is selling for roughly $300 in the Taiwan market. Despite the fact that this tablet has been on the market for an extended period of time, sales remain strong thanks to its combination of features and affordability.

Tablets with telephone capabilities, a larger screen, and an affordable price are attracting consumers in emerging markets. In the quarters to come, it will be interesting to see how many people purchase these devices as well as which vendors decide to make the strongest push for market share.

What are your thoughts on tablets with telephone capabilities? Which company is in best position to succeed?

Many would assume that Google Inc (NASDAQ:GOOG) and its Android operating system would achieve big gains. If so, these hedge fund managers are sure to be pleased: Robert Karr, Daniel Benton, Sandy Nairn, Gregory Bylinsky, and Christopher Hansen. Check back here for more updates on telephone tablets.

Recommended reading:

Most Expensive Android Apps

Google Real Estate

iPhone Sales in China

Disclosure: none