Hybrids Set to Rule the World in 2015

With the advancement in computing technology, the boundary between laptops and tablets is getting blurred. This is quite evident with the launch of various 2-in-1 devices this year which are easy on pocket and offer full desktop computing functionality.

These 2-in-1 devices are little more than traditional tablets as they come with detachable keyboards that make them work like a full laptop when required and can be easily carried in detachable mode. These sleek and portable devices with their versatile adaptability to different situations make them a perfect choice for students and professionals.

The hybrids launched this year such as iBall Slide WQ149 Windows tablet (Rs. 24,999), Notion Ink Cain 2in1, ASUS Transformer Pad TF103 tablet, Lenovo Yoga Tablet 2, etc. werevery well received by consumers.

Content adaptability for 2-in-1 devices in 2015

The problem with hybrid devices is the display of content as all applications have to be configured according to their mode of usage. And this is the reason why tablets and 2-in-1s based on Windows 8 are not doing well in market as compared to Android or iOS based devices. That’s why the final version of Microsoft’s Windows 10 will come with “Continumm”, a feature that will make Windows 10 ready for all touch and non-touch devices. This will definitely increase the market share of Windows 10 based devices in the coming year.

Lenovo Miix 2-in-1, 8” Windows based tablet

Lenovo Yoga Tablet 2

Notion link
Cain 2-in -1

New processors to power up the 2-in-1 devices
The hybrid devices in 2015 will be powered by new processors that will be based on 14nm manufacturing technology as compared to the 22nm which is used currently. Intel is working on its new Core M processor series that will be targeted on detachable 2-in-1s, ultrabooks, convertible 2-in-1s and tablets with various screen sizes ranging from 10.1, 11.6, 12.5 and 13.3-inches.
Tablet sales will surpass PCs in 2015
The market observed a shipment of 294 units of tablet in 2014 and it is expected that the figures will rise to 321 million units by the end of next year. The impact of this rise of shipments will be directly seen on the sales of desktops and laptops. Samsung is expected to introduce the new “Galaxy Note 10.1” with Snapdragon 805 CPU and the latest Android 5.0 Lollypop.

And we can also see some foldable tablets from the Korean giant as the foldable screen technology is going to be the next interesting step in smart devices. Sony will also bring its Lollypop based premium tablet “Z4 Tablet pro” with a screen size of 12.2 inch in the first quarter of 2015.

HTC 2015 Tablet prototype

Chinese tech giant Xiaomi is also expected to bring its much anticipated Mi Tab in the first quarter of next year that will definitely spark up the competition because of its high end specs at an aggressive price point. Surprisingly Nokia has made a comeback with its first Android based tablet “N1”and is expected to increase its portfolio in the coming year. After the huge success of its smartphones, Motorola is expected to bring a 7-inch Android tablet. Some other manufacturers such as Blackberry, HTC, Toshiba, Jolla, LG and Foxconn will also introduce tablets in various screen sizes.

Predictions for 2015
1.    Applications and operating systems will be modified for 2in1 devices
2.    Processors based on 14nm technology will power the hybrid devices
3.    Samsung will update its Note 10.1 series with Snapdragon 805 CPU
4.    Sony will launch its premium flagship tablet Z4 Tablet pro
5.    Chinese manufacturer Xiaomi will bring its Mi Tab in the first quarter of 2015
6.    HTC , Motorola, LG will come out with tablets of various screen sizes