China's tablet computer shipments fell 4.8% year on year to 8.11 million units in the first quarter of 2026, according to a new report from IDC.

IDC said the market is shifting away from growth driven by device replacement demand and government subsidy policies toward a more rational phase led by product competitiveness and real consumer demand.

The research firm said the transition is likely to put short-term pressure on shipments, but reflects a broader maturation of China's tablet market.