Global shipments of personal computers (PCs) in the third quarter of 2026 fell by 20.1% compared to the same period last year—to 62.7 million units, according to preliminary data from the International Data Corporation (IDC).
This decline marks the second consecutive quarter of contraction. However, in April–June, the decline was less significant—3.8% year-over-year.
“A prolonged shortage of components and a rush to restock at the beginning of the year—when suppliers and distribution channels sought to purchase goods in anticipation of expected price increases for memory—led to demand being exhausted by the start of the third quarter,” the IDC report states.
This disrupted the usual seasonal pattern, under which third-quarter figures are typically higher than those of the second quarter. As a result, sales in July–September fell by 9.1% compared to the previous three months.
“Right now, channel partners are concerned about excess inventory in a market where high prices are holding back demand. This could lead to promotional campaigns and some short-term price reductions for consumers, but we do not expect prices to return to last year’s levels—they will remain high,” notes Jitesh Ubrani, IDC’s research director for consumer devices.
IDC, MARKET, PC, SHIPMENTS, TECHNOLOGY
