Versatile Mobile Devices Expected to Grow in 2017

Western European personal computing devices (PCDs), including traditional PCs (a combination of desktop, notebook, and workstations) and tablets (slates and detachables), will total 76.4 million shipments in 2017, a 6.1% YoY decline, according to IDC. However, some product categories, such as convertibles, ultraslims, and detachables, will continue to expand and will undergo 19.1% growth in 2017, with convertibles being the smallest in volumes but catching up the fastest (31.3% YoY growth).

This outlines a stark shift in consumer and enterprise preferences from traditional solutions to thinner, lighter, and more versatile mobile solutions. In 2017, the traditional PC market will contract by 9.0%, while tablets will experience a 2.2% decline. Traditional solutions will continue to retain the majority of share thanks to their affordability and ability to address price-sensitive customers. More evolved and flexible solutions are gaining traction, representing an opportunity to reach market stabilization.

The Mobile World Congress saw a stack of new products being launched, in particular a significant number of detachable announcements. Some of the most established brands like Samsung, HP, Lenovo, and Panasonic showcased new models, confirming the confidence industry players lay on detachables. The announced models will target different market segments. This alludes to the versatility of detachables in terms of user scenarios, on which they can replace notebooks.

Despite versatility and mobility continuing to increase interest and drive shipments, the PCD market will experience several market challenges amid all the current political and economic uncertainties. The first half of 2017 will witness price increases resulting from currency fluctuations and component price increases.