The preliminary research results of the global quarterly personal computing device tracking report released by International Data Corporation (IDC) show that PC shipments continued to decline in Q3 2023, with global shipments reaching 68.2 million units, a year-on-year decrease of 7.6%.
IDC stated that although the global economy and market demand remain sluggish, personal computer shipments have increased in the past two quarters, and the year-on-year decline rate has slowed down. This indicates that the market is gradually coming out of a trough, and inventory levels have returned to a near healthy state. However, major manufacturers still need to work hard to address price challenges in the commercial and consumer sectors.
From a data perspective, the top ranked manufacturer in the global PC market remained unchanged in Q3 2023, while Lenovo continued to maintain its top spot in terms of shipment volume and market share. Although Lenovo's shipment volume experienced another year-on-year decline, the decline has slowed to single digits. Meanwhile, HP is the only supplier to achieve year-on-year growth, with shipments increasing in all regions. Dell reported that due to its strong position in the market and weak demand for corporate personal computers, its shipment volume has decreased for the sixth consecutive quarter. Apple's shipment volume has significantly decreased compared to the same period last year, partly due to a significant increase in its shipment volume in Q3 2022 after the supply interruption caused by the Chinese blockade eased earlier in 2022. In Q3 2023, Apple's shipment volume followed a seasonal trend, mainly driven by demand from students and educators.
IDC officials stated that due to the upcoming end of the device update cycle and Microsoft's support for Windows 10, it will help drive sales in the second half of 2024 and beyond. Prior to this period, the PC industry will experience a period of pain due to various factors. As personal computers purchased during the pandemic enter the early stages of the update cycle, consumer demand for personal computers should also begin to recover. With more new products incorporating artificial intelligence technology, it is possible to revive sales of desktops and laptops next year.