PCs sales slow as new technology emerges

A report from market research firm the NPD Group shows that PC sales remained stagnant in July 2011, as the technology world adjusts to new technology and a shaky economy.

According to NPD's data, PC sales in the United States grew by a meek 4 percent during the month compared to a year ago. Meanwhile, sales in the "subnotebook" category, which includes netbooks, slipped 13 percent, largely due to the growth of tablet computers.

The slump in PC sales represents a trend that has been developing in the months leading up to July. According to earlier estimates by the NPD Group, PC sales increased by the same 4 percent margin in June, following 9.5 percent growth in May.

However, despite this stagnation, Windows® computers continue to account for the largest portion of the desktop and laptop markets. And, according to reports, a total of 400 million PCs are expected to ship worldwide before the year's end.

An August 2011 study from research firm IDC also shows a slowing PC market. According to IDC's report, 73.5 million PCs are slated to be sold in the United States this year. This number is expected to increase to only 76.6 million next year.