The recent mega-success of the Apple iPad has triggered a spark across all other hardware manufacturers to take internet media tablets (IMT) seriously. Until the iPad arrived, people didn’t quite understand the potential of this kind of computing device. IDC estimates that because of the example set by Apple, the collective shipments of IMTs will reach 7.6 million by the end of 2010. By 2014, several more manufacturers are likely to join the bandwagon taking the number up to 46 million.

The IMTs will have a typical screen size ranging from 7inch to 12inch and most likely be powered by mobile OS similar to the Apple iPhone OS and Google Android. But in case you think that netbooks will disappear soon, you are obviously mistaken. Estimates indicate that netbook shipments will reach almost 400million by 2014.

[source: idc.com]