Ultrabooks to take 12 percent of notebook market in 2012, iSuppli says

The emerging Ultrabook™ computer is expected to be a hit right out of the gates, as research from independent analyst firm IHS iSuppli predicts the computers will account for 12 percent of all notebook shipments in 2012.

In a report on the study, UK news provider the Register notes that this will account for 29 million units, putting the Ultrabook on pace to close the gap on traditional notebook sales. Still, the Ultrabook has quite a way to go, as iSuppli predicts 211 million traditional notebooks will ship in 2012.

The Ultrabook's market share is expected to climb rapidly in the coming years, accounting for 42 percent of all notebooks sold by 2015. Though sales of traditional notebooks and laptops will slip, a strong showing from the Ultrabook will keep the market afloat. In total, iSuppli estimates that 324 million notebooks -- including Ultrabooks -- will ship in 2015.

The Ultrabook is very much a newcomer to the PC market, but it is already garnering enthusiasm. This will be especially evident at the upcoming 2012 Consumer Electronics Show in January, where nearly 50 new Ultrabook models are expected to be unveiled.