Global PC Shipments Plummet by 30% in Q1 2023: What Lies Ahead for the Industry?

Recent reports from market research firms IDC and Canalys revealed a significant decline in global PC (including Mac) shipments for the first quarter of 2023. Both companies presented similar findings, indicating a drop of around 30% in worldwide PC shipments during 2023 Q1.

IDC's data showed a 29% decrease in shipments, totaling 56.9 million units, while Canalys reported a 33% decline, amounting to 54 million units. Among the top five manufacturers, Apple's Mac series experienced the most significant drop in shipments. IDC data revealed a year-over-year decrease of 40.5% for Macs, while Dell PCs saw a 31% decline.

Canalys reported a 45.5% year-over-year drop in Mac shipments. Despite the M series chip's potential to boost sales, the demand for new PCs has diminished. Many people purchased new PCs during the work-from-home trend in previous years, leaving little need for additional purchases in the short term.

Canalys analysts stated that the issues plaguing the industry in the latter half of last year have persisted into early 2023. Interest rate hikes in the United States and Europe continue to impact the market, making inflation reduction a priority.

IDC analysts believe that the Windows 11 upgrade wave could help alleviate the industry's slump, though this rebound may not occur until the end of the year. By 2024, older PCs are expected to be gradually phased out. If the economy regains its momentum by then, businesses and consumers may consider purchasing PCs capable of running Windows 11.

Canalys analysts also expressed optimism for PC shipments in 2024, anticipating a gradual global economic recovery. At that time, enterprise and school equipment upgrades are expected to become key driving factors.

Due to the continued slump in the PC industry last year, many manufacturers announced production cuts, affecting the entire supply chain, including CPU and NAND manufacturers as well as the foundry industry.

The entire PC industry is currently hoping to overcome these challenges. However, as of now, a clear path to recovery remains elusive.