New Delhi: The tablet market in India is experiencing a resurgence in 2024, with record sales on the horizon after a period of decline.
Factors such as parents purchasing affordable devices for their children, large-scale orders from state governments, and the revival of procurement by the edtech sector are driving the increased demand this year, as per industry experts and analysts.
Tablet sales saw a significant increase of 2.3 times year-on-year in the quarter ending in June, reaching 1.84 million units, according to a note by International Data Corp. (IDC) India.
The shift in demand was influenced by the effects of the covid-19 pandemic, leading to a 56% surge in tablet sales in 2021 and further growth of 24% in 2022, reaching a peak of 5.3 million units. The need for remote work and education devices was a driving force behind this surge, with tablets catering to educational needs, especially in rural areas.
“In 2022, we sold 2.3 million tablets geared towards rural education sectors through government contracts,” mentioned Harish Kohli, president of Acer India. “Affordability was a key factor, with tablets being a more accessible option compared to laptops.”
After a sluggish year in 2023 due to political uncertainties and edtech issues, the tablet market has bounced back in 2024 with renewed orders from states and the edtech sector. Analysts predict a growth of nearly 50%, with sales expected to hit 5.8-6 million units this year.
The increasing demand for tablets is attributed to factors such as the adoption of 5G, remote work and learning, and the preference for larger-screen devices. Tablets are seen as versatile tools for both education and enterprise use, with significant potential for growth.
Procurement orders from state governments and enterprises have been pivotal in driving tablet sales, with affordable pricing playing a key role. Tablets are becoming indispensable in various sectors, offering a balance between affordability and functionality.
Overall, the tablet market in India is poised for a record-breaking year in 2024, with sales expected to surpass $1 billion for the first time, fueled by diverse factors driving demand across different segments.
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