Global PC shipments grew by 14.6 percent to 69.5 million units in the first quarter of 2008, which beat previous estimates of 13.2 percent according to IDC’s Worldwide Quarterly PC Tracker.
The U.S. market showed signs of the economic slowdown, but growth remained positive at 3.5 percent for the quarter. The other international markets compensated for the U.S. coming in more than 2 points above estimates due to continued strength in developing countries.
Most of the growth came from notebook markets, specifically the consumer notebook segment in retail environments.”Notebook purchases are driving consumers beyond one PC per household to one PC per person and manufacturers are reacting by focusing their attention on customization and personalization,” said Bob O’Donnell, vice president, Clients and Displays.
“The ability to see and touch these devices in the retail environment and pick one out that matches a consumer’s unique style is a critical part of the buying process for consumers.”
Dell had its best quarter in almost two years due to its new retail presence and its growing strength in the portable market. The company saw a 21.6 percent improvement in year over year shipments.
HP shipment growth rates outpaced the overall market, but were the lowest among the top five vendors this quarter at 17.4 percent.
“With the weak economy in the United States, PC shipments were negatively impacted by cautious PC buying in the consumer and commercial markets,” said Doug Bell, research analyst, U.S. PC Tracker Program.
“Despite the tough economic environment, shipment growth remained in positive territory, essentially driven by the sustained shift to mobility, combined with Dell’s renewed competitive stance.”
