Worldwide CD and DVD Drive 4Q07–3Q08 Forecast and Analysis

This IDC study presents data for and an analysis of the worldwide CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, CD-recordable/rewritable (CD-R/RW), combo, and DVD-recordable (DVD-Rec) markets. Data for 3Q06?3Q07 is based on actual sales figures; data for 4Q07?3Q08 is forecast. Storage formats are grouped into five categories: CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, CD-RW, combo, and DVD-Rec. Detailed data for each category is given in terms of market value and unit shipments. Market share is given for ROM versus recordable drives. Additionally, unit shipments are analyzed and forecast by slim versus half-height (HH) form factor. The CD/DVD drive market showed moderate growth in 3Q07. The PC market adoption of DVD burners is saturating. Also, some opportunities continue to exist for older technologies in the commercial PC market.

"CD/DVD drive vendors must be prepared to compete in a low-margin commodity market in 2008 because the DVD feature race is coming to an end, and mainstream blue laser?based products are still a year away," said Wolfgang Schlichting, research director, Removable Storage, at IDC.