Acer's founder Stan Shih isn't the slightest bit modest about the company's rapid growth, predicting the end of US-based computer manufacturers. AFP quotes Shih as saying, "The trend for low-priced computers will last for the coming years... But US computer makers just don't know how to put such products on the market... US computer brands may disappear over the next 20 years, just like what happened to US television brands."
Looking 20 years ahead in the PC industry seems nearly impossible, but Shih's claims aren't entirely unfounded. Acer recently surpassed Dell to become the world's second largest computer maker, representing some 13.4% of global shipments in the third quarter of 2009. The Taiwanese firm still has its work cut out though, as HP still has a strong grip on the number one position, holding around 20% market share.