Boston, MA (AHN) - Technology research firm Gartner has lowered its projection of PC sales for 2008, predicting 10.9 percent growth rather than 11.6 percent rise announced in December. The high cost of oil, the U.S. economic downturn and a potential slowdown in China's economy are cited for the revised numbers.

Gartner warned the estimate could fall into single-digits if "economic headwinds strengthen."

The new figures foresee 293 million PC shipments in 2008, much of it through steady demand for laptop computers and growth in emerging nations. Gartner said PC demand in emerging nations comprised 60 percent of industry growth.

The market research firm held out some hope that PC demand could increase in late 2008 as companies enter a period of computer replacements. However, that upswing may not be as strong as usual.