The latest figures out by IDC, show that Apple’s iPad dropped to 43.6% tablet share in Q4, Samsung took second with 15.1%, and Amazon settled for 11.5%.

In 4th and 5th place respectively were Asus 3.1% and Barnes & Noble 1%.

Tablets had a 73% increase in sales overall, with 52.5 million bought last year.

Some big numbers, but 2 noteable powerhouses Amazon and Samsung are clawing back tablet share. I expect in 2013 Apple’s market share to lower slightly, and Amazon and Samsung to slog it out for 2nd and 3rd.

The biggest weakness for anyone but Apple is tablet optimised apps. iOS just has a staggering advantage by several hundred thousands.