The global PC market has shown modest growth in the fourth quarter of 2024, with Canalys reporting 67.4 million units shipped, reflecting a 4.6% year-over-year increase.IDC’s figures are slightly higher, noting 68.9 million units delivered, marking a 1.8% growth. Despite these gains, the overall annual growth remains stagnant at just 1%, falling short of earlier predictions of a 2% increase. The consumer segment benefited from year-end promotions and subsidies in China,while the professional market saw a rise in upgrades ahead of windows 10’s support expiration. However,the anticipated surge in AI-enabled PC sales has yet to materialize,as industry experts caution that high costs and tight budgets may hinder adoption. Looking ahead, analysts predict that AI-compatible PCs could account for 35% of global shipments by 2025, as manufacturers expand their offerings across various price points and regions.
Interview with PC Industry Expert on 2024 Market Trends
Time.news Editor: Welcome, and thank you for joining us today to discuss the global PC market’s latest developments. We’ve seen some interesting numbers recently,with Canalys reporting a modest increase in unit shipments.Can you shed some light on this growth?
Expert: absolutely, it’s a fascinating time for the PC industry. Canalys reported that 67.4 million units were shipped in the fourth quarter of 2024, reflecting a solid 4.6% year-over-year increase. On the other hand, IDC’s figures noted a higher shipment count at 68.9 million units, marking a 1.8% growth. This divergence highlights the varying perspectives within the industry regarding sales performance.
Time.news Editor: Those figures sound promising,but you mentioned that the overall annual growth remains stagnant at just 1%. Could you elaborate on the factors contributing to this stagnation?
Expert: Certainly.While the fourth quarter showed some recovery, the full-year performance dropped short of earlier predictions, which anticipated a 2% growth rate. This stagnation can largely be attributed to global economic uncertainty and shifting consumer behavior. The consumer segment did benefit from year-end promotions and subsidies, particularly in China, which provided a boost. Meanwhile, the professional market majority saw upgrades ahead of windows 10’s support expiration, but these factors alone haven’t been sufficient for robust growth overall.
Time.news Editor: It’s interesting to note the impact of software support expiration.In your opinion, what does the market’s response to AI-enabled PCs suggest about consumer readiness for new technology?
Expert: This is a critical point. Many expected a surge in AI-enabled PC sales as a major driver by now, but the reality has been different.High costs and tight budgets are meaningful barriers to consumer adoption. While there’s enthusiasm about AI-compatible PCs, especially as analysts predict they could account for 35% of global shipments by 2025, many consumers and businesses are still hesitant. Manufacturers are begining to expand their offerings to more price-sensitive segments,which is essential for wider adoption.
Time.news Editor: Moving forward, what practical advice can you provide to both consumers and businesses looking to navigate this evolving market landscape?
Expert: First, consumers should keep an eye on the price trends for AI-enabled PCs as manufacturers start to diversify their offerings. Look for promotional deals,particularly as we near product launches,which can provide significant savings.For businesses, focusing on upgrading existing hardware before support deadlines, like for windows 10, is critical.Planning for future investments in AI technology can yield significant advantages, especially as the ecosystem develops. Ultimately, staying informed and adaptable will be key to effectively capitalizing on emerging opportunities in the market.
Time.news Editor: Thank you for sharing your insights on the current state of the PC market and what lies ahead. It’s clear that despite some growth, challenges remain, and strategic planning will be crucial for both consumers and businesses.