Apple is on track to become the single largest PC maker in the world topping the current leader, HP. That projection comes courtesy of the research firm Canalys who includes the iPad along with Mac sales in its estimates.
“Apple has seen its PC market share expand from 9 percent to 15 percent 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,” commented Canalys Analyst Tim Coulling.
The iPad may make Apple the top PC vendor
Mac sales have been on the rise despite the multi-quarter downward trend for other PC vendors. Apple sold some 4.89 million Macs during its September quarter continuing the company’s overall rise in computer sales. iPad sales for the same quarter hit 11.12 million units.
Canlays expects overall PC sales will hit 415 million in 2012, up 15 percent year over year. Much of that potential growth is being attributed to tablet sales, and the iPad’s popularity will help keep Apple ahead of the pack.
Despite Apple’s growth in the PC market, don’t expect to see the company overtake HP quickly. ” “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,” Mr. Coulling said.