India’s tablet market saw a remarkable 42.8% increase in 2024 compared to the previous year, according to the latest report from the International Data Corporation (IDC). In total, 5.73 million tablets were shipped, with demand soaring for both detachable tablets and slate models. Detachable tablets grew by 30% year-over-year (YoY), while slate tablets fared even better, achieving a growth rate of 47.2% YoY. Although the last quarter of 2024 experienced a 17% decline due to some delays related to government contracts, the overall performance of the market remained strong.
One of the main reasons behind this growth in the tablet sector is the consumer market’s 19.2% increase YoY. This surge was largely driven by aggressive promotions, discounts, and cashback offers offered by online retailers. Samsung led in this area, capturing a significant 24.4% share of online sales in 2024. The commercial sector, which includes sales to businesses and institutions, also saw impressive growth, jumping 69.7% YoY, largely thanks to various government-funded education initiatives.
When it comes to the leading companies in the Indian tablet market, Samsung took the top spot with a commanding 42.6% market share in 2024. They excelled in both consumer and commercial sales. Following Samsung, Acer Group captured the second position with an 18.7% share, particularly strong in the commercial space. Apple ranked third, holding an 11% market share while performing well in both segments. Both Xiaomi and Lenovo each claimed a 9% share to tie for fourth place.
The growing popularity of Android tablets has also contributed to the tablet market’s expansion. These devices are now offering better cameras, improved software updates, and more applications, making them appealing for light work tasks and entertainment. A notable trend is that over 60% of the tablets shipped were entry-level models priced at or below $300, making them more accessible to a broader range of consumers.
Looking ahead, IDC predicts steady growth for the tablet market in 2025. This optimism is primarily driven by the ongoing expansion of 5G technology, which enhances connectivity and productivity features. Additionally, advancements in artificial intelligence are helping to boost productivity applications. Government initiatives focused on digitizing education and various other sectors are also expected to fuel this growth. It’s important to note that as the market evolves, there is a clear transition from 4G to 5G tablets, indicating a significant shift in the industry. Meanwhile, Wi-Fi-enabled models continue to be popular in education and corporate settings.
Overall, the Indian tablet market is poised for continued growth, influenced by technological advancements and strategic initiatives that cater to the diverse needs of consumers and businesses alike. With the increasing integration of digital tools into everyday life, the tablet device is becoming a staple for work, learning, and entertainment.