I can actually remember a time when not only the desktop computer was a luxury, but a status symbol. Not that long ago, people did just about everything on desktop. But now, with so many other options, I have a question to ask: Is the desktop dying?
I ask this because time spent online with the desktop computer has dipped and continues dipping. Online desktop use declined 9.3% in December 2015, 7.6% in January 2016, and 6% in March 2016. Some tech industry leaders say people are ditching desktop habits for mobile ones. But not so fast. For much of 2015, desktop online use actually went up. Some data suggests the desktop era is still very active. March 2015 was the most active use of desktops in the past three years. But that was March 2015. March 2016 paints a difference picture, as desktop online use dwindles over 20% from just a year before. However, some research says mobile and desktop Internet usage were increasing at the same rate. These stats aren’t only important for consumers, but for publishers, media leaders, marketers, and social media leaders. Many of them depend on social media growth and smartphone use growth to feed their businesses. But one thing is obvious: the Internet business is here to stay forever! In March 2015 alone, nearly 1.6 trillion minutes were spent online, whether it be through desktop or mobile device.
I have to laugh at people who say, “The desktop is going to be dead in five years.” No it’s not. Sure, mobile technology is taking over and probably will be. But ten years from now, I can almost guarantee somebody’s going to using a desktop, just like somebody is using a radio or television today. ?Offices around the country will be using them. Teachers and students at school will be using them. Many other professions will use them. Do you think the desktop is dying?