Tablet market sluggish in India

Tablet market has taken a hit in India. The market fell by nearly 20% in the last quarter of 2015, as compared to the previous quarter. Some 3.8 million units were sold last year, registering an increase of over 8.2% over the previous year. The consumer demand for tablets is expected to reach saturation this year. The detachable category of tablets is expected to pick up demand, but it is expected to be gradual. The detachable category priced at $200 to $300 are being marketed by local brands. Large screen tablets of 7-inch are gaining share, but these are facing competition from Phablets (large screen smartphones). Overseas shipments of 8" to 9.9" screen tablets are also growing. People browsing Phablets is a common feature in the country because these can be put in the shirt pocket. Tablet requires wi-fi and becomes difficult to operate in public. But big smartphones are held by almost everyone in trains or buses.