The International Data Corporation (IDC) has been at the forefront of providing market intelligence, advisory services, and events for the information technology, telecommunications, and consumer technology markets. Recently, IDC has made headlines with several significant developments that highlight its role in shaping the future of technology and business.
Surge in VR and AR Headsets Demand
One of the most notable recent reports from IDC is the projected surge in demand for Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) headsets. According to IDC, global shipments for AR and VR headsets are expected to grow by 41.4% in 2025, driven by more affordable devices and the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) features1. This growth is anticipated to expand the market to 22.9 million units by 2028, up from an estimated 6.7 million units in 20241.
Jitesh Ubrani, research manager at IDC, noted, “We’re seeing a slew of new startups and next-generation products from established brands targeting the ‘smart glasses’ space. The inclusion of AI along with thinner and lighter designs is catering to consumers’ needs”1. This trend indicates a significant shift in consumer preferences and technological advancements, positioning AR and VR as pivotal components of future digital experiences.
Recognition of Industry Leaders
IDC’s MarketScape reports continue to be influential in recognizing industry leaders. Recently,
SAS, a global pioneer in data and AI business solutions, was named a leader in the IDC MarketScape: Worldwide Decision Intelligence Platforms2. This recognition underscores SAS’s commitment to innovation and excellence in providing decision intelligence solutions that empower businesses to make data-driven decisions.
Financial Achievements and Challenges
The Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) also announced record funding approvals for the 2022/2023 financial year, amounting to R20.7 billion3. This achievement highlights IDC’s role in supporting economic development and financial sustainability, especially in the post-COVID-19 era. However, despite these record approvals, IDC faced challenges in meeting its transformation goals, indicating areas for improvement in aligning financial success with broader socio-economic objectives3.
Technological Advancements and Market Insights
IDC’s research and data offerings provide critical insights into various technology markets. For instance, the Worldwide Security Appliance Revenues report showed a 5% growth in Q2 2024 compared to Q1 2024, despite little year-over-year growth4. This data reflects the dynamic nature of the security appliance market and the ongoing demand for robust cybersecurity solutions.
Additionally, IDC reported that the global wrist-worn device market shipped almost 44 million units in Q2 2024, with China leading the growth at 10.9% year-over-year4. This surge in shipments underscores the increasing consumer interest in wearable technology and its applications in health and fitness.
Strategic Partnerships and Events
IDC continues to foster strategic partnerships and host influential events. Recently, IDC partnered with Wolfgang Reiter to deliver executive advisory services to clients in Austria4. This collaboration aims to provide tailored insights and strategies to IT executives, enhancing their decision-making capabilities in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.
Moreover, IDC and e& enterprise joined forces for the 14th Saudi Arabia CIO Summit, held in Riyadh4. This summit brought together industry leaders and experts to discuss the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities in the IT sector, fostering a collaborative environment for innovation and growth.
IDC’s recent developments highlight its pivotal role in shaping the future of technology and business. From projecting significant growth in the AR and VR markets to recognizing industry leaders and achieving financial milestones, IDC continues to provide valuable insights and support to various sectors. As technology evolves, IDC’s contributions will remain crucial in guiding businesses and consumers through the complexities of the digital age