The latest data from Canalys, a leading analyst firm in the PC market, reveals that while PC shipments in the US are still down compared to last year, the rate of decline has started to slow down. Canalys predicts that the market could see a bounce back by the end of the year. The decrease in shipments was primarily driven by a decline in desktops, while laptops, particularly Chromebooks, performed relatively well. The return in demand from education institutions, fueled by federal funding and ahead of a licensing cost increase for ChromeOS, contributed to the rise in laptop shipments. Apple saw the most significant year-on-year growth among the top five vendors, while Acer experienced a decrease in device sales.
Globally, the trend of eased decline in PC shipments is also observed, although fewer countries are spending as much as the US on PCs, resulting in an overall 11.5% decrease year-on-year. As the market shows signs of recovery, experts advise holding off on upgrading devices for now, as Black Friday could offer attractive deals and potential price cuts. Last year, record-breaking deals, including over $700 off certain laptops, were witnessed. This emerging market offers an opportunity for users to upgrade their devices before demand returns and prices potentially rise.
In conclusion, while PC shipments in the US continue to decline, the rate of decline has begun to slow down, and Canalys predicts a potential bounce back in the market by the end of the year. Factors contributing to the relatively better performance of laptops include the return in demand from education institutions, driven by federal funding and ahead of a licensing cost increase for ChromeOS. Among the top five vendors, Apple experienced the most significant year-on-year growth, while Acer saw a decrease in sales. Globally, the decline in PC shipments is slowly easing off, although fewer countries are investing as much as the US. Experts recommend waiting for potential Black Friday deals before upgrading devices, as the market shows signs of recovery and prices may reduce.