The latest figures from International Data Corp paint a gloomy picture for Australia’s personal computer industry this year. Despite shipments being up 9.1% or 126,230 units on 1997, IDC says the value of the industry will diminish by 12.8% this year. The Australian PC Market, Review and Forecast 1997-2002 says key influences on the decline are low-cost consumer PCs, the new generation of microprocessors, restructuring of the big industry players, and new channels. The low-cost PC is singled out for special attention, as it delivers lower revenue growth and generates a need to boost unit volume, along with the realignment of business and volume models among vendors. Generally speaking the life cycle is slowing, says senior IDC analyst Bernie Esner.
