Apple doesn't consider its MacBook Air as an "ultrabook," but that hasn't stopped it from topping the "ultrabook competitive assessment" from ABI Research (www.abirsearch.com).

Apple’s leading position in the mobile computing market is reflected in its average score for innovation and implementation which was 84.7 out of a possible 100, says the research group. Lenovo placed in second position and Samsung in third spot with respective scores of 77.5 and 74.4.

Even though Apple ranks at the top overall, both Lenovo and Asus beat Apple in the innovation segment, according to ABI Research. There is no one section in which Lenovo scores outstanding marks; nevertheless, the company scores consistently across all categories, never dropping below 65%.

The ultrabook competitive assessment" evaluated the vendors' leading devices on form factor and weight (portability), features and performance, new product launches, product portfolio, price and value proposition, emphasis on vendor’s ultrabook products, present/potential product potential, style and design, and user experience.

Apple outscored its rivals significantly in implementation. A large portion of this success is due to the company's global presence, market strategy, and dominant market share for its MacBook Air line, says ABI Research.

"We project that the company will ship almost three times as many ultraportables by end of 2012 as its nearest competitors," says Josh Flood, senior analyst. "Samsung placed in second spot – its market support activities for marketing and advertising, strategic partners, and product portfolio proving to be very impressive. Lenovo was ranked in third position, scoring well with its strong market strategy and diverse array of ultrabooks."