New data from Research and Markets (http://www.researchandmarkets.com) says the iPad will "energize" the tablet computer market over the next four years.

The research group says the tablet is entering a crowded market of mobile devices, but it has the opportunity to carve out a portion of the fast growing mobile electronics market segment for those that can deliver a complete solution that includes the device, content, applications, and wireless services that offer a unique usage model to users at an attractive price. The debut of the iPad promises significant opportunities well beyond just Apple, says Research and Markets.

The iPad promises to energize the emerging tablet computer segment, creating a potential semiconductor opportunity of over US$4.1 billion in 2014. Other component vendors will capitalize on the new opportunity for batteries and displays, as well. Tablets have quickly become a high priority for competitors across the value chain, including mobile operators, says Jim McGregor, an analyst at the In-Stat research group. Even more important, is that the opportunity in tablets is complementary to other mobile devices, particularly smartphones and netbooks, he adds.