Global tablet market, 4Q 2022

Fourth-quarter 2022 global tablet shipments amounted to 35.46 million units, declining 7.7% from the prior quarter as consumers tightened their spending on non-essentials amid the weakening economy, rising inflation and high interest rates.

Looking into first-quarter 2023, in view of the weak economy and consumer confidence, tablet brands will continue to scale back their shipments. Traditional slow season effects will keep global tablet shipments on a downward trend, estimated to decrease 20% from the prior quarter.

Apple has lowered its production forecast for the coming quarters, while non-Apple brands such as Amazon and Lenovo have also cut their orders to OEMs for first-quarter 2023. The reduced volumes are expected to lead to a nearly 20% sequential decline in global first-quarter 2023 tablet shipments.