Apple Expected to Overtake HP as Leading Global PC Vendor

Apple is expected to overtake HP as the leading global PC vendor, following the release of a new iPad next spring, according to Canalys.

In a new report issued today, the research firm announced that when including tablets, Apple should overtake HP before the second half of 2012. Canalys estimates full-year 2011 global PC shipments to reach 415 million, up 15% year-on-year.

Total pad shipments are expected to reach 59 million units by the end of 2011, with Q4 volumes predicted to exceed 22 million. While the iPad will dominate in Q4, the recently announced Kindle Fire and Nook Tablet are also anticipated to impact the US market.


"Apple has seen its PC market share expand from 9% to 15% in just four quarters, though iPad shipments in its core market – the United States – are likely to come under pressure in Q4 due to the launch of the Fire and Nook at extremely competitive price points," said Canalys Analyst Tim Coulling. "HP and Apple will fight for top position in Q4, but Apple may have to wait for the release of iPad 3 before it passes HP."

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