Detachables in the U.K. Expected to Return to Solid Growth in 2017H2

According to the latest personal computing device (PCD) figures published by IDC, the outlook for the overall PC and tablet market in the U.K. remained negative, with a 10.8% YoY decline expected for 2017Q2 and a 6.8% YoY decline for overall 2017.

The total volume forecast for 2017 was maintained at 3.2 million units. The strong momentum behind thin and light form factors , detachables, convertibles, and ultraslims, will continue, however, as features that support mobility are becoming increasingly important for both consumers and professionals.

Also, most OEMs are investing in high-end devices to tackle the issue of low profitability in entry-level PCs and tablets. After six months of slowdown, which is likely to extend into 2017Q2, detachables are expected to accelerate in the second half of 2017. IDC forecasts a 27.6% YoY increase for detachable tablets in 2017H2.

In terms of the other thin and light form factors, ultraslims and convertibles are expected to continue to increase. In 2017 ultraslims are expected to increase 9.8% YoY, while convertibles are expected to grow by 28.9% YoY. IDC expects the three form factors combined (ultraslims, convertibles, and detachables) to account for around 30% of the total PCD market in the U.K. in 2017, compared with around 25% in 2016.

The other devices are expected to contract as the combination of Brexit uncertainty, exchange rate fluctuations, and public spending cuts put pressure on device spending. By 2021, the three form factors are expected to account for around 43% of all PCDs.