Sales of laptop computers in the US have outstripped desktop PCs for the
first time, according to figures released by analyst firm Current Analysis.
Laptop sales made up 53.3 per cent of total retail PC sales in May, compared
to 45.9 per cent during the same period last year.
Current Analysis said that, while laptop sales may have temporarily
outstripped desktops in the past due to special promotions, the latest figures
represent a long-term trend.
Sam Bhavnani, a senior analyst at the firm, said that laptop performance has
increased to close the gap with desktop systems, and that prices for portable
computers are falling much faster than for other systems.
Greater competition is also driving sales, the analyst noted, as lesser known
manufacturers like Acer achieve more shelf space in retail outlets.
Current Analysis also noted that Wi-Fi is expected as
standard by consumers. Some 90 per cent of new laptops now have the wireless
technology built in, up from 80 per cent last year.
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