Last quarter, global PC shipments fell by nearly a third, and Apple’s shipments fell by more than 40 percent. These numbers are well below pre-pandemic levels and are indicative of significant changes in the technology landscape.
The COVID-19 pandemic has radically changed the way people work and learn: many people and companies have moved to remote work and virtual education. This led to a surge in demand for laptops and desktops, resulting in PC sales reaching record levels in 2020. However, that trend now seems to have reversed.
According to a report from research firm IDC, global PC shipments fell 8.6 percent in the first quarter of 2021, with Apple’s shipments down a staggering 41.2 percent. That’s a significant drop from the same period last year, when the pandemic was in full swing and PC sales were booming.
The report said the decline in PC shipments is due to several factors, including the resumption of schools and offices, a shortage of semiconductor chips and the availability of alternative devices such as tablets and smartphones.
The reopening of schools and offices means that many people are returning to face-to-face work and learning, reducing the need for remote devices. In addition, the global shortage of semiconductors is affecting the supply chain of many technology companies, making it difficult to produce enough devices to meet demand.
In addition, the availability of alternative devices, such as tablets and smartphones, is also contributing to the decline in PC supplies. Many individuals and businesses prefer these devices, which provide portability and convenience, to traditional desktops and laptops.
The decline in PC shipments is significant because it signals a changing technology landscape where alternative devices are becoming more popular. It also underscores the challenges facing technology companies in today’s global marketplace, including supply chain issues and changing consumer preferences.
It’s important to note, however, that the decline in PC shipments doesn’t necessarily mean the end of the PC market. Many individuals and businesses still use desktops and laptops for work and education, and the PC market is expected to recover in the coming months as supply chain issues are resolved and demand for remote devices continues.