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Computer industry

Software and Hardware Updates: Industry Insights and Developments

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Market researchers have reported a significant growth in the demand for notebook computers, with Japan's Toshiba emerging as the top seller in 1994. Toshiba's 15 per cent share of the global market was a notable gain from 12.2 per cent in 1993. Meanwhile, Intel Australia has restricted supplies of Pentium and 486 processors due to high demand and backlogs caused by the recent Pentium refit, hitting clone makers particularly hard. Microsoft is stepping up enforcement actions against retailers suspected of illegally copying and distributing Microsoft products. The industry is also predicting a significant increase in PC sales, with annual sales expected to double to 100 million units by 1998.

Key Takeaways:

  • Toshiba became the No 1 seller of notebook computers in 1994, gaining a 15 per cent share of the global market.
  • Intel Australia has restricted supplies of Pentium and 486 processors, affecting clone makers.
  • Microsoft is taking legal action against retailers suspected of distributing illegal copies of Microsoft software.
  • The industry predicts annual PC sales will double to 100 million units by 1998.
  • IBM's OS/2 operating system is gaining traction on the desktop, and the company is developing bundles to compete with Microsoft's Back Office offerings.
  • Novell is developing a wireless version of its NetWare Connect remote access technology, allowing users to access corporate networks via wireless connections.

Statistics:

  • 7.8 million portable computers were sold in 1994, a 33 per cent increase from 1993.
  • Toshiba sold more notebook units than any other company in 1994, gaining a 15 per cent share of the global market.
  • Intel's 1994 sales data shows that Compaq slipped to No 2 with 12.9 per cent market share.
  • 33 per cent growth was recorded in the notebook computer sales market in 1994.
  • 100 million PC sales are projected by 1998, representing a doubling of current sales.

Sources:

  • PC Week, a trade magazine
  • IDC, market researcher
  • Intel Australia
  • Microsoft
  • Toshiba
  • IBM
  • Novell
  • PC Sales industry reports

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