IHS: Tablet sales to grow 85 percent in 2012

After finding their way into millions of homes around the world throughout the past two years, tablet computers show few signs of slowing down, as research firm IHS iSuppli predicts tablet sales will grow 85 percent this year compared to 2011.

In total, IHS estimates tablet sales will reach 126 million units in 2012, an impressive leap from the 68.4 million sold in 2011. The research firm says the growth will continue at a remarkable rate, eventually reaching 360.4 million units sold by 2016.

Interestingly, IHS' figures do not only include the sales of media tablets, like the iPad® and dozens of Android™ devices. The numbers also account for so-called "PC tablets," which IHS suggests include Ultrabooks and hybrid devices. These devices are poised to see some significant growth, although IHS predicts media tablets will grow more quickly.

IHS says the release of Windows® 8 could be crucial to the success of PC tablets -- a notion that has been expressed before. Industry observers will find out during the 2012 winter holiday season, when the first Windows 8-based Ultrabooks, hybrids and tablet computers are expected to hit the market.