Phablets replacing tablets for mobile web usage, according to Adobe

Adobe has published a new report on the continued growth of mobile usage around the world, particularly when it comes to web access. The report, which highlights the fact that though mobile web access is rising, the use of tablets is actually shrinking, with customers instead opting for so-called "phablets," large-screen phones like the iPhone 6s Plus.

From Adobe:

"There was a time when tablet browsing surpassed smartphone browsing, and that trajectory was expected to continue," said Tamara Gaffney, principal at ADI. "Since then, however, browsing growth by these devices has decreased significantly, and we think this is mainly because smartphone screens are getting bigger. Now, instead of buying both a smartphone and a tablet, people are opting for 'phablets' and relying on just this one device—with a larger screen—for all of their browsing."

In 14 of the 17 countries in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa that Adobe analyzed, mobile web usage grew by 30% or more over the course of 2015. All 17 countries saw growth of at least 22%.

Mobile is growing even faster in Asia-Pacific countries and the Americas. The nine countries Adobe looked at for its report saw growth of at least 28 percent. China, in particular, saw 50% growth in mobile usage, while also seeing a large decrease in tablet usage.

Joseph Keller

Joseph Keller is the former Editor in Chief of iMore. An Apple user for almost 20 years, he spends his time learning the ins and outs of iOS and macOS, always finding ways of getting the most out of his iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, and Mac.