Microsoft tablets start strong in Europe
C|Net | at | by Mike
Sales of portables running Microsoft's Tablet PC software started strong out of the gate in Europe, according to market researcher Context. The majority of manufacturers use a flat design with 10.4-inch or 12.1-inch display. Toshiba's model is a more typical subnotebook that morphs into a tablet. Users can either input written text or drawings with a stylus or attach a keyboard for input.
Europe suggest potentially stronger numbers than previously forecast. "Normally when a new technology or form factor is launched, these tend to be aimed at early adopters willing to pay premium prices," said Context analyst Jeremy Davies. "Take-up is therefore slow as the product eventually goes mainstream." "What we are seeing here is a substantially innovative development in portable PCs that is coming in at relatively low prices," Davies said. "We'll know quite soon if tablet PCs are striking the right chord with users."