Tablets, smartphones driving semiconductor diversity

The mobile market has exploded in recent years, led largely by tablet computers and smartphones. This, according to a report from market analysis firm Jon Peddie Research (JPR), has contributed to skyrocketing semiconductor sales.

In its report, JPR estimates that nearly 300 million tablets will ship by 2016. Smartphone sales are expected to top 750 million.

Many consumers may not be aware of the nuances delivered from each mobile device's chip. As more companies emerge in the competitive mobile market, they are looking to set themselves apart by offering features unique to their individual devices. Dual cameras, 3D graphics, wireless connectivity -- these are just a few of the capabilities that may separate one smartphone or tablet from another.

According to JPR's report, these differences necessitate diversity in the processor market. The firm estimates that 16 companies design chips for the mobile market, compared to just four or five in the PC market. Furthermore, the firm predicts more than 2 billion processors will ship by 2016.

In the tablet market specifically, several advances in processor technology have emerged. Dual-core chips are already making their way into the mobile devices, and some expect the first quad-core processors to arrive before the 2011 holiday season.