Android tablets increase in global sales… but it’s not what it seems

Apple iOS tablet sales are still on top in the world, but recent figures show that Android has made a considerable increase in sales. Global sales of Android tablets reached 25-million in the third quarter of 2012, an increase of 43% from the previous year, according to Strategy Analytics.

While Apple still rules the roost in tablet sales, its tablet shipments only increased from 11-million to 14-million, with Android showing an increase from five-million to 10-million.

However, it is important to note that the 14-million tablets shipped by Apple are spread over just a few models, most notably the iPad 3 and iPad 2. Android is represented by a multitude of devices with differing sizes, brands and prices. The most popular single Android tablet in countries like the US is the Kindle Fire, and there are many more from smaller brands.

Of the 25-million tablets that were shipped, iOS represented 57%, with Android catching up at 41%. It is expected that the new iPad mini will significantly boost sales for Apple, and the Microsoft Surface will also make its entry into the market, with pre-orders for the cheapest Surface having been sold out.