Amit Sharma, Analyst, CMR, “Among all the technology segments, 4G witnessed maximum traction in the third quarter, and the fourth generation services could be instrumental in providing content-first strategy. Content could be a magic bullet for infusing growth in the, otherwise, stagnant tablet market, especially through sectors such as education and healthcare. Content-related strategies will help in imparting education in a proper manner to country’s hinterlands too.”

“The tablet players should explore adopting content network strategy, replicating something which LeEco is doing in the Indian handset market. The tablet vendors should try to build the ecosystem of content, services and platform and forge deals with various content providers in the country. Targeting specific sector with respect to content could prove advantageous. For example, in healthcare, medical content coupled with medical videos for the practitioners could be very helpful,” Amit added

Future Outlook

The tablet industry may see the survival of the fittest in the next couple of years, with only 6-7 serious players remaining in the sector. We are likely to see more exists from the market as handset manufacturers such as Intex, Lava gradually make their presence felt and channelize upon their existing distribution features. In the past 3-4 years, about 40 players have exited the market, indicating stiff competition from the smartphones makers and as these handset players flex muscles, many incumbent tablet players need to think out-of-the-box or exit the market. However, with state elections slated for next year, the tablet market may witness an upswing with a handful of government deals. As 4G becomes the buzzword, the demand for the fourth generation tablets is bound to rise only.