FRAMINGHAM, MAInternational Data Corp. has increased its forecast for the worldwide market of media tablets to 107.4 million units for the year, up from a previously forecast 106.1 million units.

IDC also revised upward its 2013 forecast from 137.4 million units to 142.8 million units. By 2016, worldwide shipments should reach 222.1 million units, the firm says.

The research firm also updated its forecast to shift a larger percentage of future units toward iOS and away from Android. IDC now expects iOS to grow its share of the market in 2012 to 62.5%, up from 58.2% in 2011. Meanwhile, Android's share will slip from 38.7% in 2011 to 36.5% in 2012. IDC expects third-place Blackberry to slip from 1.7% to 1%.

IDC significantly lowered its forecast for eReaders in 2012. After a disappointing first quarter, and strong indications that low-priced tablets are significantly impacting demand, IDC now expects 2012 shipments to be stable at around 28 million units, down slightly from the 28.2 million units that shipped in 2011.

Submit to FacebookSubmit to Google PlusSubmit to TwitterSubmit to LinkedInPrint Article