The sources pointed out that Microsoft's slow pace in responding to consumer demand has seriously damaged the software giant. Since the company also failed to seize the best opportunity to promote Windows, and the PC industry is already walking downhill, the sources believe Windows 8.1 is unlikely to contribute much.

However, brand vendors such as Acer, Asustek Computer, Lenovo and Hewlett-Packard (HP) are still optimistic about Windows 8.1 and have released new Windows 8.1-based notebooks.

The sources pointed out that orders from brand vendors for October remained at a high level similar to that of September, showing that brand vendors still have high expectations for the year-end holidays.

Windows 8.1 models unlikely to ignite PC demand
Photo: Michael Lee, Digitimes file photo