Worldwide computer shipments down 14%, unparalleled in industry history
By Jeph Ajobaju, Chief Copy Editor
Worldwide shipments of personal computers (PCs) dipped 13.9 per cent year-on-year (YoY) in 2023, according preliminary results from the International Data Corporation (IDC) Worldwide Quarterly Personal Computing Device Tracker.
The drop, unparalleled in the industry’s history, came after the significant surge in PC purchases driven by the COVID-19 pandemic.
PC shipments declined 2.7 per cent to 67.1 million in the fourth quarter of 2023 (Q4 2023), the IDC said.
It disclosed Q4,2023 was the eighth consecutive quarter YoY shipment volume contraction, which it blamed on weak demand and reliance on substantial promotions for this.
But rhe report enthused that even though the market contracted in 2023, it is expected to grow in 2024.
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PC market in biggest roller coaster
“Across the major technology categories, the PC market has arguably been the biggest roller coaster in terms of ups and downs over the past four years,” said Ryan Reith, IDC Group Vice President, IDC’s Mobility and Consumer Device Trackers, per The PUNCH.
“While the market was down again in 2023 in terms of shipments, there is a lot of positive momentum for PCs looking forward.
“While AI has clearly captured everyone’s attention, it shouldn’t be overlooked that 2024 is expected to be a strong year for commercial PC refresh, and the advancements around gaming PCs continues to drive market excitement.”
On an annual basis, the market experienced unprecedented consecutive declines by 2023, a stark departure from historical trends tracked since 1995.
Shipment volume plummeted 16.5 per cent in 2022 compared to the previous year, and preliminary results suggested additional 13.9 per cent contraction in 2023 versus 2022.