Get Ready for the Best Black Friday Tech Deals of the Year

Changing Dynamics in Black Friday Shopping

The most wonderful time of the year is upon us, as after indulging in a feast on Thanksgiving, it’s time to prepare for searching for Black Friday technology deals. However, Black Friday is no longer just about rushing through big stores; Artificial Intelligence has also become part of the shopping process, complicating the shopping experience alongside customs tariffs that drive up prices.

Aaron Cheris from Bain & Company summarizes this situation: “The electronics category is the most affected in terms of price elasticity and costs.” Many products, from headphones to keyboards and computer mice, will be impacted by this effect.

The surge in data center construction means that prices of certain PC components, such as memory and graphics chips, will increase. However, that doesn’t mean everything will be expensive this year; with the right information and strategy, it is quite possible to shop smartly.

Online shopping has significantly simplified the process of getting gifts. You can fill your shopping cart without leaving your couch. OpenAI has enhanced this experience with a shopping research tool that helps you compare products by providing a AI-powered guide.

Amazon’s Rufus AI shopping tool can help you find specific products or get gift recommendations. For example, when searching for a gift for an eight-year-old who loves Legos, Rufus suggests products like Lego-based video games and portable soccer goals.

Google and Microsoft also offer AI features that provide similar capabilities, connecting you to suitable retailers with gift idea suggestions. According to Bain, between 30%-45% of consumers in the U.S. are already using generative AI to research products.

A key rule for using AI bots when searching for gifts is to provide as much detail as possible in your query. This will help you obtain the best ideas for the gift you are looking for. However, while AI makes shopping easier, customs tariffs can drive up prices.

President Trump's customs tariff policy has pressured some consumer electronics manufacturers, causing them to raise prices on their most popular products. However, if you’re buying a new iPhone or laptop, there are specific exemptions for these items. Small tech products, from headphones to various accessories, can affect your shopping budget.

On the other hand, prices of PC components are rising due to the increase in global data center construction. However, retailers can balance these increases with promotional opportunities. Others may offer private label alternatives.

Sony raised the price of PlayStation 5 consoles by $50 in August, while Microsoft increased the prices of Xbox Series S and X twice. The new Xbox Series X, released in 2020, is currently selling for $649. Nintendo increased the original Nintendo Switch price from $299 to $339.

Console manufacturers have the opportunity to sell these systems at attractive prices by offering additional controllers or games during the holiday season. The key is to keep track of the best deals and to pay attention to where and how you shop.