The global laptops market will drop 7 percent in unit shipments in 2015 despite the recent launch of Microsoft Windows 10 operating system in H2 2015.
Laptops form the bulk of the Notebook PC category.
The ABI Research forecast on portable computing — netbooks, laptops, Chromebooks, and ultraportable PCs –segment indicates that the revamped operating system software will not trigger a replacement opportunity for aging laptops, according to ABI Research.
ABI Research said the shipments for portable computing will reach 165 million units in 2015 because much of the Windows installed base are likely to use their current computer hardware for at least a while longer.
“Segment growth is occurring in Chromebooks, much in part due to purchases by schools. Growth for 2015 is also in ultraportable PCs where thin and light designs are looking to tackle more mobile use cases by reversing the display panel flat like a tablet or having the screen separate entirely,” said ABI Research Director Jeff Orr.
ABI Research said Chromebook shipments are expected to grow 35 percent annually to 7 million units in 2015. Sales led until now by North American educational buyers will yield to purchases in other geographic markets over the next 5 years, resulting in a 22 percent CAGR.
Ultraportable PCs, including the 2-in-1 convertible and detachable display models, posted 24 percent drop in quarter-over-quarter shipments to 7.2 million units.
Apple’s MacBook Air leads all ultraportable PC OEMs, though Lenovo and Dell are closing the gap, said ABI Research.
The image is for illustrative purpose.
Baburajan K
editor@infotechlead.com
