CompaniesandMarkets.com: Japan Computers and Peripherals Market: New insights: Computers and Peripherals in Japan

The termination of Windows XP and rise of Windows tablets stimulated volume sales in the computers category in 2014. Microsoft Corp terminated a service of the long-lived Windows XP, stimulating the replacement purchases amongst consumers. Many consumers who used to own desktops decided to purchase laptops with a larger screen. Domestic manufacturers responded to the change in consumer preferences by offering large laptops with faster processors, which enable users to execute heavy-load tasks.NEC Corp and Lenovo Japan Corp were strong players in computers in 2012, though Apple Inc leads. After the establishment of a joint venture company, NEC Lenovo Japan Group, in 2011, the two companies accelerated their collaboration to maximise synergy effects. With the use of Lenovo's sources, NEC introduced the world's lightest ultrabook (875g La Vie Z) in 2012. This model fits well with the ultrabook trend and it adds a new aspect to NEC's product line-up.The rise of the ultrabook was the key trend in computers and peripherals in 2012. The key features of ultrabooks, such as light, thin and quick to start, were welcomed by Japanese consumers, despite higher unit prices than desktops and laptops. Increased product line-ups from leading brands offered consumers a variety of options in ultrabooks. For example, in 2012, NEC launched La Vie Z, at 875g the world's lightest ultrabook, Fujitsu introduced lower-priced models at ¥80,000 to capture new customers, and Sony released a convertible tablet to laptop model. With the growing popularity of ultrabooks, netbooks registered strong growth in 2012.Tablets and other portable computers, one of a few bright spots in computers in Japan, is expected to post the fastest retail volume CAGR of 12% over the forecast period. Consumer electronics manufacturers such as Sharp Corp, Toshiba Corp and Fujitsu are increasingly looking to capitalise on the growth opportunities offered by tablets.For more information on the "Computers and Peripherals in Japan" market analysis, see the latest research: Computers and Peripherals in JapanFollow us on Twitter @CandMResearch

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