Market research firm Gartner predicted that Apple’s second-generation tablet, the iPad 2, will keep on dominating the market, thanks to its attracting price tag, countless apps and striking hardware specifications.

Several manufacturers are launching their respecting tablets to snatch some market share from the iPad. The current year will see the launch of new ipad rivals such as RIM’s PlayBook and HP’s TouchPad.

But, Apple’s excellence in harware, user experience and ability to reach customers will help iPad 2 to continue enjoying dominating position.

Samsung’s Galaxy Tab so far reported considerable success against the iPad but is still far from challenging its dominance in the market. Lower price tag of the Apple’s tablet is its greatest strength. The entry-level iPad 2 is available for $499, much lower that the likes of the Motorola Xoom.

By the end of last year, Apple shipped 14.8 million iPads, and market analysts forecast that Apple will sell 5-6 million iPads within the first three months of this year.