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(May 20, 2008) SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — Ultra mobile devices (UMDs) will grow by 72.6% in 2008, encompassing ultra mobile PCs, mobile Internet devices, a percentage of high-end smartphones, and a percentage of high-end personal media players (PMPs). The technology sector is growing as other areas, such as desktop PCs, slow in the face of macro-economic downturns, reports In-Stat.
"For UMDs, concerns remain in the areas of infrastructure and the availability of connectivity beyond Wi-Fi" says Ian Lao, In-Stat analyst. Also of concern are lacking sustainable business models (whereby all levels of the ecosystem may make money without crushing the consumer with high prices); form factors that are conducive to, and align tightly with, specific usages; and pleasant, user-intuitive interfaces. Non-computer makers are making plays by entering the mobile Internet space and are even labeling their products "UMDs," adds In-Stat.
In-Stat predicts mobile PC growth to be 15.4% in 2008, whereas desktop PCs will see flat markets in 2008. Desktop PC growth is forecast to recover in 2010. The research, "Here Come UMDs: A Worldwide UMD and PC Forecast for 2008," covers the global UMD and PC markets, with global unit sales forecasts for UMDs, mobile PCs, desktop PCs, mobile phone handsets, and PMPs through 2012. Analysis of market drivers and barriers, including the current U.S. economic downturn, is included.
The research is part of In-Stat's "Ultra Mobile Devices service," which uses consumer and industry research to analyze the market and technology changes that affect current and future PC architectures. Through the use of short briefs, this service also provides quick analysis on key events and changes in market conditions.
For more information on this and related In-Stat reports, visit www.instat.com.
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