Apple’s M4 MacBook Air Fuels 17% Year-Over-Year Growth in Q1 PC Shipments, Leading All Manufacturers Amid Tariff Worries

In the first quarter of this year, Apple’s introduction of the new M4 MacBook Air sparked significant momentum, propelling the company to achieve a remarkable growth rate, outpacing any other computer manufacturer globally. However, recent reports indicate that this growth could be short-lived due to potential import tariffs enforced by the Trump administration.

Apple’s M4 MacBook Air Drives Strong Q1 Results Amid Tariff Concerns

The technology giant is currently grappling with shifting import policies that may compel it to raise prices across its product range, including the popular iPhones and MacBooks. Although Apple is benefiting from a temporary reprieve, it is actively negotiating with government officials to craft a deal to prevent price hikes on its devices.

The M4 MacBook Air stands out as a compelling upgrade, showcasing vibrant new Sky Blue color options. Its reception within the tech community has been overwhelmingly positive, positioning it as a highly recommended choice for consumers. With the base model starting at $999, it presents itself as an attractive option for many. Nevertheless, the looming threat of import tariffs casts a shadow over its future prospects.

According to analysis from Counterpoint Research, global PC shipments witnessed a 6.7% year-over-year increase in Q1 2025. Apple, in particular, excelled with a substantial 17% growth in shipments, significantly surpassing other manufacturers. Lenovo was the only other competitor to achieve a double-digit growth rate.

Global PC shipments grew 6.7% YoY in Q1 2025 to reach 61.4 million units, according to Counterpoint Research’s preliminary data. The growth was mainly driven by PC vendors accelerating shipments ahead of US tariffs and the increasing adoption of AI-enabled PCs amid the end of Windows 10 support […]

Apple and Lenovo delivered strong performances in the quarter, largely due to new product launches and market dynamics. Apple experienced 17% YoY growth in shipments, driven by its AI-capable M4-based MacBook series. Lenovo’s 11% growth reflected its expansion into AI-enabled PCs and its diversified product portfolio.

Despite these impressive numbers, Apple’s market share witnessed only a slight increase from 9% to 10%.This limited gain in overall shipments suggests that while initial demand surged, the impact of Trump’s import tariffs could hinder continued growth.

This surge may be short-lived, as inventory levels are likely to stabilize in the next few weeks. The impact of the US tariffs is expected to dampen the growth momentum in 2025 […]

Despite recent US exemptions removing tariffs on laptops, uncertainty persists as the Trump administration is planning to impose new duties on semiconductors and other tech products within the next quarter.

The resolution regarding the thickening import tariffs remains uncertain for Apple, raising questions about its ability to navigate this challenge. Stay tuned as we continue to update you on the M4 MacBook Air’s performance and market demand.

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