Computer sales overseas

U.S. computer sales this year were virtually stagnant despite international success and Apple's 30 percent jump year-over-year last quarter, according to research firm IDC. While Europe and other regions saw a jump of over 10 percent in sales compared to 2005, the U.S. saw only a third of that growth at 3.5 percent. IDC quickly put to rest fears that delays to Windows Vista, which have triggered coupon programs to maintain holiday sales, are the primary factor in the slowdown. The business market -- where buyers rarely adopt new software the moment it becomes available -- proved the hardest-hit segment, which IDC says is due to slower update cycles with system builders and generally poor performance by those companies. Apple is poised to set an all-time record for the company by the end of 2006, according to Electronista.

by MacNN Staff