When it comes to mobile, smartphones get the lion's share of love. Yet tablets are slowly but surely making their mark in this always dynamic sector.

Last week we looked at mobile stats, today we're have a deeper look into the overlooked world of tablets.

Big brother

When Apple launched the first iPad in 2010 it was met with derision in some corners, while others accused it of being nothing more than an oversized iPhone.

Fast-forward four years and tablets are now a firm favourite among users.

World domination

There are now an estimated 300 million tablets worldwide, while 20 per cent of all US internet users own a tablet.

In 2013 tablet sales were worth US$72 billion.

Apple ahead

The iPad still leads the tablet pack, accounting for 33 per cent of the market. 

Samsung comes in second place, selling 23 per cent of all tablets. Next comes Asus, Lenovo and Amazon.

In terms of operating systems iOS still leads with 51 per cent of the market, ahead of Android on 40 per cent. 

Size does matter

Less is more when it comes to tablet devotees.

Tablets with eight inch screens make up 55 per cent of the market, ahead of 44 per cent for their larger 11 inch cousins.

Business burst

Business are slowing getting on board the tablet train.

In 2012 just 11 per cent of business owned a tablet, in the next three years this figure is estimated to top 18 per cent.

App frenzy

Tablet owners are mad about apps, and often spend more than smartphone users. In 2013 tablet users spent US$8.8 billion on apps, which accounts for 35 per cent of total mobile app revenue.

Over 80 per cent of these apps are for games, publishing, email and social networking. 

Changing landscape

And just in case you ever wondered, most tablet users (60 per cent) prefer using their device in landscape mode. 

Only 40 per cent favour portrait.

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