Global PC shipments slip 5% as memory costs push prices up, Apple defies trend

In the second quarter of 2026 worldwide shipments of personal computers fell by about 5% to 68.2 million units, the first decline after two years of growth. The drop is linked to a shortage and price increase of memory components, which has raised production costs and led manufacturers to raise retail prices even as demand softened.

Apple was the sole major PC maker to record higher sales during the quarter, moving against the overall market downturn. The combination of reduced shipments and higher prices creates a challenging environment for both producers and consumers.

The memory‑related cost pressure is expected to keep the PC market volatile through the rest of the year.