PC show features nerves and wish lists; computer makers worry about pricing picture, and consumers love it
Article Abstract:
The 1997 Fall Comdex trade show is expected to be bombarded with discussions on the under $1,000 PC and other even less-expensive alternative to access the Internet. Many industry analysts are hopeful that the low hardware prices will result in an expansion of technology in the home and an economic upswing in several technology markets. Meanwhile the low prices for computers and components is causing alarm in several high-technology companies that are concerned about profits. Economic uncertainty is also resulting from the troubled Asian market, which is causing numerous US-based companies to not meet their expected overseas revenue for the year. DRAM makers in particular are affected by the upheaval in Asia. Intel has announced it will reduce the price of its Pentium II microprocessors in Jan 1998.
Publication Name: The Wall Street Journal Western Edition
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0193-2241
Year: 1997
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PC sales slowed sharply in second period
Article Abstract:
International PC sales dipped in the 2nd qtr 1998 because of inventory problems and competitive pressures, according to separate reports from market-research companies International Data (IDC) and Datquest. PC shipments increased by only 7% from the 2nd qtr 1997, compared to 10% growth in the 1st qtr 1998, IDC reported. US sales growth dropped to an estimated 10%, compared to 14% in the 1st qtr 1998. Dataquest, meanwhile, said the international sales growth of approximately 13.9% roughly matches the 1st qtr 1998. US market growth slipped from 16% in the 1st qtr 1998 to 12% in the 2nd qtr 1998. Huge inventory buildups by PC makers such as Compaq and IBM were the largest factors for the decline. Other considerations were the sub-$1,000 PC trend as well as weakening demand in market that include Asia.
Publication Name: The Wall Street Journal Western Edition
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0193-2241
Year: 1998
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Oracle chief to unveil 'info appliances,' but will consumers want to buy them?
Article Abstract:
Oracle is preparing to release its version of the information appliance, a highly-publicized networking computer that has inspired a degree of controversy within the computer industry. Oracle CEO Lawrence Ellison has promoted the concept of the information appliance for months, and Oracle has compiled a group of 15 computer manufacturers to create the hardware for Oracle's software. Prominent companies such as IBM, Sun Microsystems and Netscape Communications are developing specifications in anticipation of a growing market for network computers. However, numerous analysts are skeptical about the technology's chances for market acceptance, suggesting that home users do not have the bandwidth capabilities to make downloading practical.
Publication Name: The Wall Street Journal Western Edition
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0193-2241
Year: 1996
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