AI renaissance: Tablets set for revival in 2024 with innovative integrations

In 2024, the tablet market, after experiencing a prolonged period of decline, is showing signs of a potential turnaround, albeit modest. According to IDC’s latest report, global tablet shipments saw a marginal year-on-year growth of 0.5% in the first quarter, reaching 30.8 million units. This growth is anticipated to gain momentum in the upcoming refresh cycle, driven largely by increased adoption in educational and gig economy sectors.

Despite these positive indicators, tablets continue to face stiff competition from PCs and smartphones, contributing to an overall lackluster outlook for the market. Apple, a dominant player in the tablet arena, experienced an 8.5 per cent decline year-on-year due to economic challenges and a lack of new product releases in the previous year. However, with the imminent launch of new iPad models, Apple aims to reinvigorate consumer interest and regain lost ground.

The entry of major tech players like Apple and Samsung into the Artificial Intelligence (AI) domain signals a potential shift in tablet innovation. Apple’s recent foray into AI includes the release of proprietary generative AI models for commercial use and active engagement in the development of Open-source Efficient Language Models (OpenELM). 

Leveraging AI technologies could enable tablets to enhance user interactions, optimise performance, and offer personalised experiences, potentially revitalising the market.

Moreover, the integration of AI-driven features, such as Elon Musk’s X platform introducing a ‘Stories’ feature powered by Grok AI technology, demonstrates the growing role of AI in enhancing user engagement across platforms. 

This trend underscores the potential for AI to drive transformative changes in tablet functionalities, making them more competitive in the evolving landscape of personal computing.

Looking ahead, while challenges persist with strong competition from PCs and smartphones, AI-driven innovations hold promise for tablets to regain relevance and appeal to consumers. The forthcoming advancements in AI technologies are poised to reshape the tablet market, offering renewed opportunities for growth and innovation in the years to come.