World PC Market Rising More Steeply Than Expected: Gartner

Global PC shipments will rise by 22 per cent in 2010, a 2 per cent increase than the 20 per cent previously predicted in March, according to new research by industry analyst Gartner.

The company says shipments are set to rise due to a surge in consumer demand, and because companies are looking to replace old, outdated systems with newer technology.

Both factors indicate that the global economy is recovering more quickly than expected.

Speaking to Reuters, Ranjit Atwal, principal research analyst at Gartner, said: “Consumers are now viewing PCs as necessities rather than luxury items. PCs remained the electronic device of choice on which to spend household income in mature markets and we do not expect this to change either in 2010 or beyond.”

Gartner also said that the emerging market in tablet computers such as the Apple iPad will see a significant increase this year, with companies expected to sell 10 million units in 2010.