Worldwide PC shipments plunged 13.9% in the first quarter according to IDC, which noted that Microsoft's introduction of Windows 8 hurt overall sales by confusing consumers.
"At this point, unfortunately, it seems clear that the Windows 8 launch not only failed to provide a positive boost to the PC market, but appears to have slowed the market," Bob O’Donnell, IDC Program VP Clients and Displays, said in a statement. "While some consumers appreciate the new form factors and touch capabilities of Windows 8, the radical changes to the UI, removal of the familiar Start button, and the costs associated with touch have made PCs a less attractive alternative to dedicated tablets and other competitive devices. Microsoft will have to make some very tough decisions moving forward if it wants to help reinvigorate the PC market."
The report notes that touchscreen capabilities on some Windows 8 machines have done little to slow consumer migration to tablets. Overall, IDC characterized consumers' reception to Windows 8 as "weak." IDC Analyst Jay Chou also told The Wall Street Journal that businesses have been slow to adopt Windows 8.
The 13.9% decline — the biggest since IDC began tracking quarterly shipments in 1994 — was exacerbated by other factors as well, including Dell and HP's respective reorganizations.
Microsoft could not be reached for immediate comment on the report.
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