Smartphones and Tablets Give a Tough Time for Handheld Gaming Devices

It should be said once again, we are living in a world where a smartphone or a tablet can do just about anything, most of the times, at the cost of some other technology. This time it is Sony and Nintendo paying the price as smartphone and tablet use for the purpose of gaming continues to be on the rise.

A new study from ABI Research found that two companies are expected to ship more than 38 million handheld gaming devices in 2013, a number significantly lower than the previous peak of 47 million units in 2008, with the forecast relatively flat through 2017. So basically the mobile devices are turning handheld gaming devices into a niche.

Senior ABI analyst Michael Inouye explains that mobile devices will compete with dedicated handheld gaming devices, but select consumer segments like core gamers and those individuals who do not want or have a smartphone or tablet will still provide some demand.

Inouye added that the addition of mobile gaming is not necessarily a zero sum situation; in fact, many feel there is plenty of room in the gaming market for both portable and mobile gaming.

Gaming companies are trying hard to not be brought down by mobile devices. Recent announcements from Nintendo, Microsoft and Sony, make clear that mobile experiences will be integrated into dedicated gaming experiences.

The News Source: http://www.gizmocrave.com/12740-smartphones-and-tablets-give-a-tough-time-for-handheld-gaming-devices/