Apple likely to overtake HP as portable computer vendor

Apple is likely to replace HP as the global number one notebook vendor in 2012 if tablet computers such as the iPad are included in the calculation of global notebook shipments, reports “DigiTimes” (http://macte.ch/NRbP3), quoting unnamed industry sources.

Worldwide tablet shipments are expected to top 60 million units in 2011 with shipments from Apple likely to total 40 million units for a 60% share. Some market research firms are predicting global tablet shipments are to top 80 million units 2012 with iPads accounting for 60 million units, notes “DigiTimes.”

What’s more, Apple is also likely to ship 15 million MacBooks in 2012, bringing its combined shipments of notebooks and tablets to a total of 75 million units, accounting for 25-30% of the global notebook market, says “DigiTimes.” HP shipped 40 million notebooks in 2010 and is expected to ship 45-50 million units this year.