PC Shipments Rise 2.3 Percent as Acer Moves Ahead of Dell Worldwide, According to IDC

Global PC shipments rose 2.3 percent year on year in the third quarter of 2009 (3Q09), according to IDC's Worldwide Quarterly PC Tracker. The increase is an important continuation of recovery from year-on-year declines of 6.8 percent in the first quarter and 2.4 percent in the second quarter of this year. Seeing market growth ahead of the launch of Microsoft’s Windows 7 bodes very well for the fourth quarter and next year. All regions except Japan either met or surpassed expectations. Portable PCs continue to account for the majority of volume and growth, with mini notebooks are still making a substantial contribution.

"Despite the ongoing mix of gloom and caution on the economic front, the PC market continues to rebound quickly," said Loren Loverde, Program Director for IDC's Tracker Program. "The competitive landscape, the transition to portables, new and low power designs, growth in retail and consumer segments, and the impact of falling prices are all reflected in the gains by HP and Acer, as well as overall market growth."

"The continued strength of both the US and worldwide PC business in the face of difficult economic environments underscores the value that both consumer and corporate buyers place on PCs," according to Bob O'Donnell, Vice President, Clients and Displays at IDC. "With the forthcoming launch of Windows 7 and expected commercial refresh beginning in 2010, the prospects for future PC market growth are very solid."

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