According to a recent report, worldwide PC shipments fell by nearly a third in the last quarter. Even worse, Apple’s PC shipments fell more than 40 percent, well below pre-pandemic levels.
The pandemic caused a surge in demand for personal computers as people were forced to work and study at home. However, as vaccination rates rise and workplaces and schools gradually reopen, demand for PCs has declined.
According to research firm IDC, worldwide PC shipments totaled 84 million units in the first quarter of this year, down 8 percent from the same period last year. This drop in shipments was more pronounced for Apple, which had PC shipments down 41.2% from the first quarter of 2020. Thus, Apple’s share of the global market is only 6.5%.
The report states several reasons for this decline. The first is the global shortage of semiconductors, which has affected the production and distribution of various electronic devices, including PCs. This shortage has also led to higher component prices, making it difficult for manufacturers to maintain demand.
Another reason for the decline in PC shipments is the growth of other devices, such as tablets and smartphones, which are increasingly used for work and entertainment. These devices are more affordable, portable and convenient for many people, especially those who are constantly on the move.
In addition, many companies and educational institutions have begun to adopt hybrid work-study models, allowing their employees and students to work and learn remotely. This means that they may not need as many PCs as they used to.
The decline in PC shipments is expected to have a significant impact on the technology industry, especially for companies like Apple, which relies heavily on PC sales. It’s worth noting, however, that some experts believe that the decline in supply may be temporary and that demand for PCs could rise again as more people return to the office and school.
In the meantime, technology companies must adapt to the changing market and look for new ways to attract customers and increase their market share. This may mean developing new and innovative devices or offering better offers and promotions to entice consumers to buy their products.
In conclusion, the global decline in PC shipments is a troubling development for the technology industry, especially for companies like Apple. However, it is also an opportunity for innovation and growth, as companies must adapt to a changing market to stay ahead of the curve.