Taiwan-based tablet supply chain makers, viewing that Apple and Samsung Electronics have increased their tablet shipments, have upward adjusted estimated iPad shipments in the fourth quarter of 2013 from nearly 20 million units originally to 23-25 million units, and those of Samsung tablets from over 10 million units to 12 million units.

　　There has been large demand for the iPad Air and iPad mini with Retina display since their launch, Taiwan-based supply chain makers pointed out.

　　Retail chains in North America have lowered prices for Samsung's 7-inch Galaxy Tab 3 to US$149, and this is expected to boost sales of Samsung tablets, the sources indicated. Apple is expected to ship about 85 million iPads and Samsung over 50 million units in 2014, the sources cited Canalys as indicating.