Acer and Asustek Computer are both expected to see their notebook sales register another increase of about 10% in 2022, while some ODMs have also expressed optimism about the overall notebook sales judging from the one-year supply agreements brand companies have already struck with them, according to industry sources.
Digitimes Research expects global notebook shipments to slip 6.3% on year to arrive at 219 million units in 2022, but the volumes will continue to stay at above 210 million every year all the way to 2024.
Although some brand vendors have struck long-term supply agreements with their ODMs, they have not decided the pricing of the orders, as rising prices of ICs quotes could still affect notebooks' final costs, according to sources from the upstream supply chain.
The sources pointed out that the orders now serve more as a guarantee from brand vendors to ensure their ODMs will continue pushing to obtain a sufficient supply of components for them, as those who cut orders may see their supply priority pushed back.
Orders for Chromebooks have seen a major deceleration recently due to weakening study-from-home demand in Europe and North America, while sales of regular notebooks are also expected to drop. Consumers have started shifting their spending on IT products or consumer electronics to tourism and outdoor activities.
Article translated by Joseph Tsai
