Worldwide computer shipments dropped sharply this quarter. However, optimism remains.
The PC market has been in decline for several months now, but the situation seems to have worsened recently. Canalys and IDC estimate that global computer shipments will decline by 29-33% this quarter of 2023 compared to the first quarter of last year. This is a much larger drop than the one recorded at the end of the year, and this time none of the most important brands escaped it. HP, in second place on the podium, sees a 24% drop in shipments and is doing the best. Apple, for its part, at the foot of the podium recorded a decline of more than 40%. ASUS, Dell and Lenovo are around -30%.
Global computer shipments plummeted this quarter
The explanations for this dramatic slowdown are very familiar. Customers are reluctant to buy computers in a very volatile economy with very high inflation, and the pandemic boom and restrictions are clearly fizzling out. Either people can’t afford new cars, or they already have a relatively new and fully functional device. The two analyst firms don’t explain Apple’s more difficult situation, but difficult economic conditions often affect the high-end segment more. TechCrunch also notes that Apple’s switch to homemade chips helped the giant avoid the hard times Windows machine makers went through, but it looks like the good days are behind them.
However, optimism remains
However, analysts remain optimistic. Canalys believes this is the worst period the market will see in 2023, with both firms expecting shipments to resume in the second half of 2023. Old machines can then be replaced, including Chromebooks in schools, and companies will continue to migrate their fleets. on Windows 11. IDC also sees this slowdown as an opportunity for manufacturers to shift production outside of China.
However, be careful, IDC warns that the computer industry could face a real “big bang”if the recession continues into 2024. While the biggest drop in supply may be behind us, it could take a long time for the market to bounce back. Don’t be surprised if brands play it safe with cars they think are easy to sell rather than experiment with them.