The global PC market is forecasted to see a moderate growth in 2024, with shipments reaching 265.4 million units, marking a 2 percent increase from the previous year.
International Data Corporation (IDC) Worldwide Quarterly Personal Computing Device Tracker indicated that the year 2024 will mark an expansion year for the market, fueled by the introduction of AI PCs, paving the way for further growth in the coming years.
The IDC report said introduction of AI PCs will be a significant driver, propelling the market to reach 292.2 million units by 2028, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.4 percent over the forecast period spanning from 2024 to 2028.
The gradual ramp-up of growth is expected to align with the availability of AI PCs and coincide with the commencement of a commercial refresh cycle in 2025, IDC said in its report.
Jitesh Ubrani, research manager with IDC’s Worldwide Mobile and Consumer Device Trackers, highlighted the impending refresh cycle among commercial buyers, projecting it to commence later in the year and peak in 2025.
“Many of these buyers are expected to be among the first in terms of AI PC adoption. The presence of on-device AI capabilities is not likely to lead to an increase in the PC installed base, but it will certainly lead to a growth in average selling prices,” Jitesh Ubrani noted.
While commercial PCs are anticipated to dominate shipments, there is also an expectation for a resurgence in consumer purchases, albeit at a slower pace.
Linn Huang, research vice president for Devices and Displays, outlined several factors driving consumer PC growth in the coming years. “Economic recovery should help loosen the wallet just as many PCs bought in the early days of the pandemic come due for replacement. Gamers and creators alike will also have much to look forward to in the coming AI era,” Linn Huang stated.
Overall, the IDC report underscores a cautiously optimistic outlook for the global PC market, with the integration of AI technology poised to stimulate demand and drive future growth in both commercial and consumer segments.
