A new report out of research organization Pew Internet & American Life Project tells us that Android tablets have risen to 48 percent of U.S. market share.  Moving from 15 percent over the same period just one year ago, it shows that Android is finally getting serious traction in the tablet space.  That’s a lot of Xyboards and Jetstreams, right? Not exactly.

That has lessened Apple’s dominance in the market. Now, just over half, 52%, of tablet owners report owning an iPad, compared with 81% in the survey a year ago. Android-based devices make up the bulk of the remaining tablet ownership, 48% overall, dominated largely by the Kindle Fire.

It’s worth pointing out that the Pew report does not factor in the Kindle Fire HD or the Nexus 7.  Taking out the Amazon tablet, Android would hold around 27 percent market share.  On the other hand, we understand that the Nexus 7 was not included in the research.  Perhaps Android is doing even better in just the few months since data was collected?

Things could get really interesting with the Kindle Fire family and new NOOK HD stuff coming this fourth quarter.  Factor in the rumors of an iPad Mini, though, and the balance could tip in the opposite direction.

Pew advises that 25% of all U.S. adults have a tablet computer.  Do you own a tablet or share one with members in your household?

Pew