PC sales set to explode

PC sales across the world are set to grow over the next year due to sustained economic growth both home and abroad in the information technology sector, according to new forecasts from IDC.

The firm’s new predictions show growth of 13.9% in 2011, 12.7% in 2012, 11.5% in 2013 and 11.3% in 2014.

The company also said the market will be spurred on by the growth in the portable PC market, such as laptops and netbooks, which are expected to count for 70% of global shipments in 2012. In regards to the growing trend of tablet computers, IDC vice president of clients and displays Bob O’Donnell said in a statement the market will see massive growth over the next few years.

“IDC is keenly focused on the forthcoming tablet device market. However, we don’t expect these products, which do not meet the current IDC definition of a PC, will stunt the strong growth in PCs we’re expecting to see this year.”

Looking back, IDC said shipments in the second half grew by 2.9% year-on-year to 296 million, with US shipments growing 6.7% to 70 million.