Tag Archive: George Shiffler

Market research firm Gartner has released estimates for 2007 worldwide computer sales, forecasting an overall 11.1 percent increase compared to 2006. But the surprise is that Gartner finds this increase is being driven by strong demand for PCs in emerging markets, while last year’s release of Windows Vista is not a strong factor in encouraging sales of new PCs.

“The release of Microsoft Windows Vista operating system at the end of January has, so far, failed to stimulate the market in the way many hoped,” said George Shiffler, research director for Gartner’s Client Platforms Markets Group. “Our market data suggest Vista has had very limited impact on PC demand or replacement activity. We don’t see Vista having a significant effect on these going forward unless Microsoft becomes much more aggressive in its marketing efforts.”

Gartner analysts previously projected worldwide PC shipments would increase 9.9 percent.

Worldwide mobile PC shipments are expected to grow 26.5 percent in 2005, while deskbased units are now forecast to grow 4.6 percent. Mobile PCs currently make up just under 30 percent of all PC shipments.

“Mobile PCs are continuing to attract more new users as mobile prices fall and wireless becomes more pervasive,” said George Shiffler, principal analyst for Gartner’s Client Platforms research. “Growing numbers of users are replacing their old desktops with more portable mobiles, and this is one of several factors helping to boost mobile PC growth.”  Read more...