Personal computer (PC) sales worldwide are likely to be flat in 2024 at about 260.2 million units, according to a new forecast from market research firm International Data Corp. (IDC).
The forecast calling for a lack of growth is surprising as many analysts have been expecting a global PC refresh driven by computers that can run artificial intelligence (A.I.) software.
PC and laptop makers such as Dell Technologies (DELL) and HP Inc. (HPQ) have announced plans to begin selling A.I. computers in coming months.
Analysts have also been expecting PC sales to get a boost this year as companies around the world replace hardware and equipment purchased during the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020.
However, IDC says that industry forecasts have not factored in weak demand in China, where PC inventory levels remain elevated.
Excluding China, IDC said that PC shipments this year should increase 2.6% from 2023 levels. The firm doesn’t expect China’s market to recover until the second half of 2025.
IDC said that A.I.-enabled personal computers share of the overall market will grow from about 20% this year to more than two-thirds (67%) in 2028.
The firm added that it expects that A.I. PCs will boost average selling prices and give a financial lift to computer manufacturers.