Nov 2, 2010 11:35 GMT  ·  By

Apple is calling the shots in what is described as the tablet wars in today’s consumer electronics market, but only for now, warns Strategy Analytics. With 95% of the global share grabbed during Q3 2010, Apple’s lead will be short-lived, the consulting firm believes, as Android devices are tailing it close.

Neil Mawston, of Strategy Analytics, the author of the firm’s latest report on “Global Tablet Vendor Market Share: Q3 2010”, asserts that the iPad has done remarkably well so far.

“The tablet wars are up and running. Apple's iPad has jumpstarted the market and rapidly captured 95% global share during Q3 2010,” the company’s Director of Wireless Device Strategies notes.

“However,” he notes, “Apple's huge lead will be shortlived.”

The analyst foresees a wave of Android-based tablets coming to eat away at that market-share, suggesting that the Apple tablet will be left with crumbs.

He claims that “a wave of Android models is set to flood the market in the fourth quarter.” Models expected to launch soon include the ViewPad 7 and 10, Notion Ink's "Adam" tablet PC, and the Galaxy Tab (which still hasn't arrived in the U.S.).

Mawston concludes his short introduction over at strategyanalytics.com, saying “This report contains quarterly global tablet shipments and forecasts by operating system from Q1 2010 through Q4 2010.”

Neil Mawston is the Director of Wireless Device Strategies (WDS) at Strategy Analytics. He is responsible for delivering analysis, insight and recommendations to mobile operators, handset vendors, component makers, investment banks, PC suppliers, software vendors and media firms worldwide.

The author of the report in question is a recognized authority on global cellphone trends, according to his description at strategyanalytics.com. The report - “Global Tablet Vendor Market Share: Q3 2010” - is available for individual purchase for $6,999.

The table of contents is provided as follows: 1. Title Page; 2. Analysis; 3. Tablet Shipments; 4. Tablet OS; 5. definitions; 6. Methodology; 7. Contacts.