Worldwide PC shipments grew by a healthy 12.

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6% in the first quarter of 2006. Although PC shipment growth slowed from 15.1% in 2004 and 16% in 2005, the market continues to exceed expectations and the outlook for 2006 has improved, according to IDC.

The outlook for shipment growth in 2006 increased to 10.8% from a March projection of 10.5%. The outlook for 2007 was boosted nearly 1% to 11.7% and 2008 growth projections also increased slightly. Although growth rates for 2009 and 2010 were reduced slightly, total volumes remain higher than earlier projections because of the higher near-term growth. Total shipment volume is expected to reach 284.5 million in 2008 and 333.7 million in 2010 with a value of US$253.9 billion, and US$271.1 billion, respectively.