Global sales of personal computers continued their downward trend in early 2015 after a slight increase late last year – but the launch of Windows 10 might reinvigorate sales later in the year.
This is the word from Christopher Riley, MD of The Notebook Company, who adds: “A drop of only 5% in PCs is pretty impressive if one notes the high tempo of sales when it comes to mobile PCs and tablets. I think PCs are holding out quite well – and Windows 10 might give them a boost as some users opt for the new operating system.
“Moreover, I believe there are a significant number of PC users out there, including companies, who have been holding back on PC upgrades for some time now,” he adds. “During 2015 many of these users could opt for an upgrade – many jumping to Windows 10. This will arguably give PC sales an extra fillip.”
A survey by Gartner showed worldwide PC shipments totalled 71,7-million units in the first quarter, a 5,2% decline from the same period a year ago.
A separate report by IDC showed a deeper 6,7% drop in the quarter to 68,5-million units.
“The PC industry received a boost in 2014 as many companies replaced their PCs due to the end of Windows XP support, but that replacement cycle faded in the first quarter of 2015,” says Mikako Kitagawa, analyst at Gartner. “However, this decline is not necessarily a sign of sluggish overall PC sales long term. Mobile PCs, including notebooks, hybrid and Windows tablets, grew compared with a year ago.”
Gartner is predicting “a moderate decline” of PC sales in 2015, with an expectant consistent growth over the next five years.
But Windows 10 is waiting in the wings.
“The upcoming launch of Windows 10 will consolidate the best of Windows 7 and Windows 8.1,” says IDC analyst Rajani Singh.
“In addition to the free upgrade for consumers for a year after the release, Windows 10 should be a net positive as there is pent-up demand for replacements of older PCs. Only part of the installed base needs to replace systems to keep the overall growth rate above zero for rest of the year.”