Computers have become important productivity and communications tools and have brought an endless stream of content via the web to the majority of U.S. homes. In doing so, these hardware portals to the online world have become a significant, $48 billion market according to Mintel’s estimates. However, as user needs have shifted from productivity tasks to entertainment and on-the-go-accessibility, this mature industry is facing tremendous change. Smartphones and tablets have become a potent competitive threat, and companies that have been able to deliver the combination of features consumers are looking for—such as Apple—have been able to claim market share from the previous leaders, HP and Dell. Furthermore, players that previously primarily focused on PC software—including Google and Microsoft—are emerging as additional potential competitors.

Mintel’s report will help companies better understand this rapidly changing marketplace, so they can adjust their plans and drive for success. The following issues will be discussed:

What opportunities for growth remain for PC makers, given the maturity of this sector?

How is the growing focus on tablets and smartphones reshaping the PC market?

Which industry players have been most successful at navigating the rapidly changing technology marketplace?

Which PC brands have been best able to capture consumer interest and loyalty?

How are consumers interacting with PCs today?

How aware are consumers of new features, such as 3-D and touchscreen PCs, and will these features lead to higher levels of purchasing?

Do consumers feel their current PCs are “good enough” today, and will manufacturers be able to continue to rely on upgrades and replacements to fuel the market?