Global PC shipments declined more than anticipated during this year\'s first quarter as economic woes caught up with the industry. Research firm iSuppli reported figures that are lower than they\'ve ever recorded. Sales sunk to 66.5 million units in the first quarter of 2009, an 8.1% decrease from 72.3 million in the year ago quarter, and 77.6 million in the closing quarter of 2008. Eating most of the blame, the desktop sector saw a 23% drop in unit sales from 2008’s opening quarter, whereas notebook shipments rose 10%.

Read the whole story

As soon as people figure out it's easier (and cheaper) to build and load a PC with their own software than order one from the main-stream companies with all of their proprietary software and hardware - well, they're going to be out of business.

Its already happening, its not effecting the bigger companies much, the economy is in a slump at the moment. I dont think they're suprised at the figures really.

Some people are just realizing that these things are nothing but fun and fancy expenses. I've actually had a few people tell me they are getting rid of the internet to save money for now, they simply have higher priorities in life.

11!!ZOMGWTFBQ!!11
Getting rid of the internet? Sacrilege!

Recent storms blew out my old computer so ... I've done my part to "stimulate" the economy!