Core Viewpoint - The global laptop market is experiencing a significant downturn, with TrendForce revising its 2026 shipment forecast from a 9.2% decline to a 14.8% decline due to weakening consumer demand and rising supply chain costs [4][5]. Demand Side Analysis - Consumer market recovery is weaker than expected, influenced by a poor overall environment and rising prices that diminish purchasing willingness [4]. - The trend of increasing prices for key components is expected to lead to multiple price hikes for laptops in the coming quarters, further suppressing actual shipment momentum as consumers adopt a more cautious purchasing approach [5]. Supply Side Analysis - Supply constraints, particularly in memory components, are driving up overall costs, while fluctuations in CPU pricing and supply schedules are negatively impacting the cost structure of complete systems [5]. - The demand for AI computing is reshaping semiconductor resource allocation, prioritizing advanced processes and packaging capacities for high-performance computing products, which may crowd out mainstream and entry-level processors [5]. Brand Differentiation - The laptop market is expected to face increasing structural pressures by 2026, with a more pronounced differentiation among brands. Major brands are likely to maintain relative stability in resource acquisition and cost control due to their scale advantages and long-term supply chain relationships [5]. Apple’s Position - Apple has launched a new low-end MacBook Neo, leveraging its self-developed Apple Silicon chips to reduce reliance on external CPU suppliers, enhancing capacity allocation and cost negotiation flexibility. This strategic move is expected to result in a 7.7% year-on-year increase in Apple’s laptop shipments in 2026 [6]. Overall Market Outlook - The global laptop industry is concurrently facing three major pressures: weak demand, rising costs, and supply restructuring. TrendForce anticipates that without effective price relief and clear recovery in terminal demand, the global laptop market will remain under pressure, with potential for further downward adjustments in shipment volumes in the short term [6].