Even though AMD still does not do any business with a number of PC makers, sales of retail AMD-based machines in the USA have been upticking since early this year, following extensive advertising campaign as well as widespread media coverage of AMD’s 64-bit initiative.

A recent market study released by Current Analysis indicates that AMD’s current share in desktops sold in the US retail stores is slightly above 50%, up about 30% from January, 2004. Intel’s share is down about 30% to slightly below 50%. The numbers only reflect desktop computers sold to customers via retail outlets: the figures do not indicate desktop sales to corporate customers, notebook computers as well as servers or workstations.

Diagram by The Register web-site

“Intel is not in danger of losing its CPU crown... [but] the fact that AMD can challenge Intel – even within the restrictive group of retail desktop sales – speaks volumes for the chip underdog,” said Toni Duboise, Current Analysis’ senior desktop PC analyst.

Intel is said to outsell AMD when it comes to corporate personal computers, notebooks, servers and workstations. This happens due to the fact that some large PC makers either restrict the number of AMD-based machines in the lineups aimed at corporate customers, or do not sell AMD-based computers at all. Furthermore, a lot of enterprises still feel reluctant in regards AMD’s processors and supporting infrastructure, such as chipsets.

AMD’s sales began to climb following  widespread media coverage and advertising campaigns in online and print web-sites and magazines. Additionally, with the release of AMD Athlon 64 and AMD Athlon 64 FX processors AMD regained position as the producer of the most advanced chips in terms of feature-set.

Current Analysis believes that AMD has more potential in retail PCs ahead with the recently launched Sempron processors.