Mac sales take double-digit plunge
Apple’s unit volume computer sales also fell in February for a second straight double digit monthly dive even as low cost netbooks boosted numbers on the Windows side.
Reuters reports that Apple’s general unit sales fell 16 percent in February. Specifically, laptop units contracted 7 percent.
“I think the issue for them remains pricing in this kind of an environment,” said NPD analyst Steve Baker, adding that “demand is difficult everywhere … even though Apple unit volumes may be challenged right now, at the end of the day, they’re a lot more likely to be profitable than other manufacturers.”
By contrast, Windows PC unit sales jumped 22 percent overall with laptops, including netbooks rising 36 percent. However, without the small, low margin ultra portables taken out of the mix, Windows portable sales increased only 16 percent.
Further, the average PC selling price plunged 22 percent to $560, whereas the average Mac selling price declined 7 percent to $1,512.
iPodNN adds that iPod shipments are said to have fallen by 15 percent last month.
Twilight of the gods
The computer market is entering a new phase of development—PC makers are struggling to maintain revenue even as unit volumes rise. The trend underscores my belief in the current market that crap at any price and cutting prices won’t solve PC makers revenue and profit issues.
Windows PCs are devolving into just so much produce.
To date, Apple has ridden the crest of this wave with the iPod, iPhone and Mac being the one distinguishable brand. The question is where will Cupertino turn next and will they move in time…
What’s your take?
Related Posts:
