The firm predicted a slight drop for 2013 from their previous forecast in May, to 227.4 million from 229.3 million units shipped. Even with the downgrade, the number is still 57.7 percent higher than 2012's shipments, showing a healthy market for the devices.
IDC believes wearable devices will lead to tablets peaking sooner than expected, with devices including smartwatches and Google Glass. Additionally, 'phablets,' which are now above 6-inches, will cannibalize their larger siblings, as well.
Samsung will unveil their Galaxy Gear smartwatch next week, and Apple is expected to unveil a flexible-display iWatch in 2014.
Written by: Andre Yoskowitz @ 1 Sep 2013 13:44
