According to a research study by Gartner, sales of PDAs in Q1 of 2005 are exceedingly better than the same time period in 2004. Generally, the sales of PDAs are at a record level high, according to data obtained by the research firm.

Gartner reported that general PDA sales went up 25 percent to 3.4 million units in Q1, 2005 from Q1, 2004. The average price per unit also increased by 15 percent to $406.00, which is the highest recorded since 2000 with a peak interest in high-end units.

Research In Motion’s Blackberry showed immense growth, as its shipments grew to 75.6 percent. PalmOne, however, showed poor sales with an overall drop of 26.3 percent in shipments; the company’s market share dropped by 18 percent as well. Garter said the 18 percent drop in shipments is the lowest in Palm’s history. HP emerged as the third place winner with a mere 4.4 percent increase in shipments, and Nokia took the fourth place with its recently announced PDAs, 9300 and 9500 models.

Gartner research also pointed out an increase in operating system market share with Microsoft taking the lead with 46 percent overall for its Windows CE. RIM took the second place while Palm’s operating system managed to take the third place. The research firm pointed out that Linux shipment fell slightly in the first quarter of 2005.

Gartner analysts pointed out that the primary reason for the increase in PDAs is due to high demand for wireless e-mail, possibly larger sized keyboards and larger displays for Internet browsing and other usage.