Gartner forecasts increase in PC shipments

Research firm Gartner now predicts PC shipments will reach 409 million during 2011, along with a 14.3% increase in shipments for the current year.

The new report comes after Gartner previous estimated PC shipments would record 17.9% growth for the year to September and 18.1% growth for 2011.

The new report says people are still buying PCs, but are holding on to them longer “because there will be less need to replace them as often”.

The report also states that PCs are being replaced with new gadgets such as tablets, such as the iPad, and that easier access to high-powered components means high-end models are now cheaper for the everyday user.