It’s not just iPhones that investors and analysts are keeping a close eye on, sales of Macs, iPads, and other Apple devices are also being closely watched. With just a few weeks to go until the announcement of new M4 Macs at an event rumored to take place in October, we’re learning that Mac sales are particularly strong in the United States!
Mac sales are doing well in the US
The US computer market, both desktop and laptop, had a favorable second quarter in 2024, according to Canalys analysis. Stable Mac sales allowed Apple to maintain a comfortable position, despite a slight decline in its market share.
The overall market in the United States recorded an interesting progression: year-on-year, shipments increased by 4%, reaching 18.9 million units in the second quarter of 2024. This dynamism is particularly visible in the professional sector, with a record growth of 12% in shipments, a performance not seen since the peaks caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Mac Shipping Stability
In this generally positive context for all manufacturers, Macs have seen a slight evolution, with shipments remaining almost unchanged, going from 2.31 million in the second quarter of 2023 to 2.322 million for the same period in 2024. Although this progression remains rather modest, it reflects stability for Apple, especially in comparison with other market players who have experienced more significant fluctuations.
Despite this stability in shipments, Apple’s market share has declined slightly, from 12.7% to 12.3%. However, this minor decline is nothing to be alarmed about, especially considering previous years when Apple has seen much larger declines. Rest assured, with the imminent arrival of the new M4 Macs, this trend could reverse quickly.
The next generation of Macs (equipped with the M4 chip) is expected for October 2024, it could significantly boost Mac sales in the US, but also internationally. The new Macs should be designed to fully exploit the advanced features of Apple Intelligence, which will undoubtedly be one of the main axes of the Cupertino company’s marketing communication. The 14- and 16-inch MacBook Pros will probably be the first to integrate the M4, M4 Pro and M4 Max versions, which promise significantly higher performance.
In addition, rumors are circulating about the launch of a more compact Mac mini, which could be offered in M4 and M4 Pro versions. This model could appeal to a wide audience, especially those looking for a powerful machine in a reduced format and price.
A promising end to the year for Mac sales
Apple plans to launch its new M4 Macs as early as November, in time to take advantage of the traditionally lucrative holiday season. Expectations for the M4 models should help boost sales in the fourth quarter.