Android tablets have grabbed 14 percent of tablet market share, according to new research. While Apple’s iPad is still king, with up to 55 percent of third-quarter tablet shipments, tablets running the Google Android system are gaining ground, and fast.

ABI Research found data that shows the iPad losing more of its dominant position to Android competitors, as reported on CNET today. The iPad is showing a decline of 14 percent, the lowest its been since the iPad was introduced two years ago. Samsung, Amazon, and Asus tablets were among the tablet manufacturers that account for that Android increase, with the Google operating system powering over 44 percent of all tablets shipped.

“As the OS of choice for the majority of device OEMs [original equipment manufacturers], we expect the Android ecosystem to continue growing in numbers — new manufacturers, better device choices for reaching more markets, and more developers finding value from apps and content,” said ABI Research’s Jeff Orr in a statement.

Even the iPad mini isn’t expected to help get that market share back, predicts ABI. “With the introduction of a smaller, lower-cost iPad Mini,” said Orr, “Apple has acknowledged Android’s beachhead of 7-inch-class tablets, though at the same time, it has failed to deliver a knock-out punch through innovation, pricing, and availability during the most critical selling period of the year.”

While this all sounds doom and gloom, we are only talking 14 percent decrease, a 55 percent market share is still very good, and it’s held by a single company with a single product line. According to CNET, nearly half of children from 6 to 12 years of age list the iPad as their most wanted gadget, for the third year in a row. This year’s lists also includes the iPad mini, which should prove to be fairly popular with Santa.

• SourceCNET