Microsoft and RIM could be well placed to tap a shift in app developer’s focus from smartphones to tablets, Strategy Analytics predicts.
The research company notes Microsoft’s forthcoming Windows 8 and RIM’s BlackBerry 10 platforms could fare well as developers turn to tablets for growth. It predicts more developers will seek opportunities in the tablet space due to competition in smartphone apps, and claims the number of developers primarily working on tablet apps grew 65% in 2011.
“Since the phone apps ecosystem has matured, it is becoming increasingly difficult for smaller, niche developers to compete,” explains Josh Martin, director of apps research at Strategy Analytics, adding. “Tablets also present an opportunity for rebirth of Windows and BlackBerry as they seek to build out their developer ecosystems in order to complement the robust offerings of Apple and Android.”
However, Microsoft and RIM must implement their new platforms carefully to take advantage of the shift in focus, the firm cautions.