PC market still dwindling, says IHS

According to market research firm IHS, total pc shipments reached just over 74million units during the April to June period, down 13% from the same time a year ago and the largest drop so far of the last eight quarters. "PCs have reached a point in time in which the machines have to prove that they still remain valid to the consumer," said HIS in a statement. "While no one disputes that computers will continue to exist, sales have been discouraging and consumers have defected in droves to smartphones and tablets instead - devices considered as more portable and appealing." Looking ahead, IHS says pockets of hope do still exist in the market. In desktops, for instance, Microsoft is ending support next year for Windows XP - a move which is expected to spur new pc purchases. The advent of ultrathin and Ultrabook laptops is also expected to help bolster the overall pc market.