The PC market experienced an explosive downfall in 2020 and 2021, but the road to recovery has been challenging. While signs of growth are returning, there have been obstacles.
According to IDC’s projections, PC shipments are expected to grow 3.7% in 2024 compared to the previous year, reaching 261.4 million units. This volume would surpass 2018 but still fall short of 2019 levels. Similarly, US smartphone shipments dropped 24% YoY in Q2 2023, the third consecutive quarterly decline. Samsung, Motorola, and TCL-Alcatel faced the sharpest shipment decreases.
In 2023, PC shipments are expected to decline by 13.7% to 252 million units due to economic challenges and competition from smartphones and tablets. In the first quarter (1Q23), worldwide PC shipments saw a decline of 25.8% year over year, totaling 87.6 million units. Weak consumer demand for PCs is caused by the competition from smartphones, tablets, and consoles, as well as economic factors.
Notable changes in the commercial PC market include shifts in processor share, the rise of generative AI, and the impact of remote work. The integration of generative AI affects budget decisions and future considerations for AI-capable PCs in businesses.
Remote and hybrid work arrangements remain significant as companies consider employee preferences for PC types and brands. The impending end of support for Windows 10 in 2025 is anticipated to spur commercial PC refresh cycles, regardless of whether businesses are waiting for more advanced PCs or simply upgrading their current infrastructure.
Overall, it’s a complex landscape for the PC market, with changing consumer preferences, technological advancements, remote work trends, and more. The recovery from the challenges of recent years is ongoing, and various factors contribute to both opportunities and obstacles in the market.
via DigiTimes
