Tariffs and Windows 10 transition send PC sales on a choppy course

The article discusses the fluctuating PC sales in the United States, influenced by the upcoming Windows 10 to Windows 11 transition and the impact of tariffs. Key points: - U.S. PC sales dipped 1.4% in Q2 2025 due to a small glut caused by tariff-driven purchases earlier. However, PC sales are expected to grow, reaching 71.04 million units in 2025, a 2.6% increase from the previous year. - The Windows 10 to Windows 11 transition has been made easier by Microsoft's concessions, such as extending the Windows 10 support window. This has contributed to a "ho-hum" attitude among consumers. - Economic factors, including inflation and weak job reports, have led to cautious consumer spending, with premium electronics like PCs not being prioritized as much as essential expenses. - Canalys predicts overall PC sales in the U.S. could increase 3.5% in 2026 to 73.518 million shipments, before falling 3.7% in 2027 to 70.793 million. Consumer PC sales are expected to dip in 2025, grow in 2026, and fall again in 2027.