2026 PC shipment forecast slashed amid memory shortages — IDC says total PC market value to nonetheless increase to $274 billion due to ongoing price hikes

IDC has revised its 2026 PC and tablet market forecast due to memory shortages and supply chain disruptions, predicting an 11.3% decline in PC shipments and a 7.6% drop in tablet shipments. Despite the decrease in unit shipments, higher average selling prices are expected to push the total PC market value to $274 billion, a 1.6% increase. The tablet market is also projected to grow by 3.9% to $66.8 billion. IDC anticipates ongoing memory shortages until 2027, leading to sustained price increases and a shift towards higher ASPs in the tech market.