14 DAY TRIAL // Tablet/notebook hybrids could be the next best thing, with new research indicating demand for 2-in-1 convertibles running Windows 8.1 has recently started to rise.
However, according to channel retailers reported by DigiTimes, this trend might negatively impact conventional notebook manufacturers that could see their shipments fall.
The reason why Windows 8.1 convertibles are starting to pick up seems to be due to the fact that brand vendors are applying aggressive pricing strategies. For example, a 10-inch model in Taiwan bears the price of $407 / €303. Microsoft has also been aggressively promoting the advantages of a Windows 8 hybrid through a series of commercials and promos.
ASUS is expecting 2-in-1 models to become an important part of their business. The tech giant believes it will end up selling 2 to 4 million units by year-end. In 2014, expectations are set higher with figures rising as much as 6 to 12 million units. This means hybrids are expected to account for 30% of the company’s business.