Despite the release of Windows 10, the worldwide sales of PCs is expected to drop with 6.2%, according to market research company IDC. It's the fourth year in a row that PC sales decline. The PC market mainly suffers from competition of tablets and smartphones and low demand.
The end of support of Windows XP caused the market to stabilize for a while but that stage is over now. Suppliers also keep their stock low while waiting for the release of Windows 10 this summer. Windows 10 should be a significant contributor to the PC market. However, Microsoft offers Windows 7, 8 and 8.1 users a free upgrade and this decision won't stimulate the sales of new PCs, according to IDC. Companies will first evaluate the operating system before they deploy it and most new commercial PCs will be replacement systems.
"The consumer transition to Windows 10 should happen quickly, but the free upgrade reduces the need for a new PC and IDC expects many consumers will continue to prioritize spending on phones, tablets, and wearable devices like the Apple Watch during the holiday season", IDC writes.
Microsoft and PC manufacturers will also need to convince users of the advantages of the new operating system and new PCs, which will take time, according to analyst Loren Loverde. IDC expects the PC market to stabilize next year followed by limited growth in the years after.
