According to a new and updated technical market research report from BCC Research, the global market for mobile computing was almost US$55.6 billion in 2005 and US$63.5 billion in 2006. At a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.0%, this market will reach more than US$88.9 billion by 2011.
Smartphones have the highest growth potential through the forecast period. With a 15.7% CAGR through 2011, this market will reach almost $17.8 billion by 2011. The largest market share belongs to notebook computers. In 2006, notebook computers held 84% of the total global market. By the end of 2011, this share will be worth $69.2 billion, more than 96% of the market.
Applications will clearly reflect the presence of mobile computing and advanced functions throughout the period. By 2011, office related, communications-based and global positioning will account for approximately 67% of the total applications installed in handheld devices and mobile phones.
Portable computers represent a growing percentage of personal computers shipped today and many workers use them for computing applications on the road or at home. Many handheld devices have become capable of more than just calendar maintenance and emails. PDAs and advanced wireless phones offer business related functions as well as high level entertainment such as electronic games and advanced functions such as global positioning service. The importance of mobile computing will continue to grow at a rapid pace.
Global Market Forecast for Mobile Computing, Through 2011 ($ Millions)
| Sector | 2005 | 2006 | AAGR% 05-06 | 2011 | CAGR% 2006-2011 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Notebook computers | 47,147.6 | 53,653.6 | 13.8 | 69,202.1 | 5.2 |
| Tablet PCs | 690.5 | 771.2 | 11.6 | 953.7 | 4.3 |
| Handheld devices | 436.1 | 524.4 | 16.0 | 1,008.0 | 14.0 |
| Smartphones | 7,310.1 | 8,569.0 | 17.2 | 17,794.0 | 15.7 |
| Total | 55,584.3 | 63,518.2 | 14.3 | 88,957.8 | 7.0 |
Posted to the site on 7th March 2007