Sluggish Chinese demand for PCs dents global shipment figures

The company also estimated earlier this month that the growth potential in emerging markets is declining and becoming closer to that of developed regions.

Shipments in emerging markets dropped 1.4 percent last year, the first decline in history. Although a minor 0.6 percent increase is expected this year, the growth will remain in the single digits through 2017, said IDC.

"The PC market is still looking for updated models to gain traction and demonstrate sufficient appeal to drive growth in a very competitive market," Loverde added.

The PC market is also set to see continued constraints on demand as buyers favor other devices for their mobility and convenience, he said.

"We still don't see tablets as functional competitors to PCs, but they are winning consumer dollars with mobility and consumer appeal nevertheless," Loverde said.

gaoyuan@chinadaily.com.cn