ABI research reports that about 200 million tablets have been shipped globally since 2009, while another one billion tablets are anticipated to be shipped over the coming five years.
"Tablets are quickly becoming the go-to transaction screen within the home," said ABI Research mobile devices senior practice director, Jeff Orr.
According to the report, spending on-device of physical and virtual goods has not yet affected retail storefronts which have already been worried about their venues transforming into showrooms for eventual e-commerce purchases.
About 50% of tablet shoppers in the last 3 months have searched for logistics through coupon and location-based searches while shopping.
"The opportunity to keep consumers buying in-store squarely remains with the retailer," Orr said.
"So far, the presence of a media tablet during the shopping experience has not altered the sales channel where consumers finally buy products."
