Local maker NEC still accounts for one of every two computers sold in the country, but according to one estimate, foreign brands such as Compaq, Apple and Packard Bell now have 40% of the market, up from 10% a few years ago.

CNN: Getting Ready for Asia's PC Wars

But after the closing bell, Apple reported a forecast-busting rise in first-quarter net profit, following a jump in iPhone sales.

WSJ: Weaker Yen Lifts Tokyo Exporters

When the iPad Mini was released in November of last year, there were few opening-bell lines at Apple stores, few foaming-at-the-mouth fanboys crossing out the days on their calendars, and few folks who viewed the device as much more than Apple getting in the seven-inch tablet game because, well, they pretty much had to at that point.

FORBES: How The iPad Mini Became A Stealth Success

Intel announced today that we have hired Mike Bell-a veteran of both Palm and Apple-as vice president and director of Smartphone Product Development in the company's Ultra Mobility Group (UMG).

ENGADGET: Intel snaps up former Palm and Apple VP Mike Bell for its smartphone push

Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL) is set to report earnings after the bell on Wednesday.

FORBES: Two Things to Watch for in Apple's Earnings Report

When the tech bubble burst, Bell watched Globix, which once had a bigger market cap than Apple (nasdaq: AAPL - news - people ), sink into bankruptcy.

FORBES: Dangerous Curves

Apple will release its first post- Steve Jobs quarterly results on Tuesday, October 18 after the bell.

FORBES: Apple Earnings Preview: Revenue To Jump 46% In First Post-Steve Jobs Quarter

Many have followed, but Braben co-founded this genre (along with Ian Bell), so for space gamers, his return is equivalent to Steve Jobs returning to Apple.

FORBES: The 10 Best Moments in Gaming in 2012