The holiday shopping frenzy is underway, with millions of shoppers gearing up for discounts during the 2024 Black Friday and Cyber Monday events. Preliminary data reveals record online spending, particularly as consumers increasingly turn to digital platforms to capitalize on the best deals available. With each passing year, the stakes seem to raise, driving retailers to offer competitive sales to attract line-happy customers.
This year, U.S. online spending on Black Friday hit unprecedented heights, reaching $10.8 billion, surpassing last year’s record by 10.2% according to Adobe Analytics. Americans have begun to embrace e-commerce as their primary shopping method, and the infusion of artificial intelligence tools has aided them by helping to navigate the crowded marketplace. Adobe reports traffic on sites utilizing AI technologies shot up by 1,800% compared to last year. Consumers are finding it easier than ever to find precisely what they need thanks to these innovative tools, and as it turns out, it’s also leading to smarter buys.
While Black Friday typically steals the limelight, many retailers have extended their sales well beyond this day, with Cyber Monday promising additional opportunities for savings. Analysts expect to see similar outcomes throughout the weekend, as consumers hold out for promotions on tech products, home electronics, and other hot items. Major players like Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart have already begun showcasing enticing deals, drawing customers to their digital storefronts with offers too good to pass up.
Apple products—known for their quality and performance—remain popular among consumers, and this sale season provides ample discounts on their flagship devices. Retailers such as Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart are offering attractive promotions on Apple products, particularly the iPhone 16, new MacBook Pros, and AirPods. While Apple itself engages minimally with direct discounts, third-party retailers are graciously filling the gap, ensuring consumers enjoy substantial savings this season.
Haley Henschel, Senior Shopping Reporter at Mashable, is particularly excited about the breadth of laptop deals available this year. With brands like Dell, HP, Lenovo, and Microsoft introducing steep markdowns on popular models, customers can find exactly what they’re seeking—whether it be gaming laptops or reliable work computers. For example, the Microsoft Surface Laptop 7 and Lenovo LOQ gaming laptop are highlighted as two noteworthy finds at reduced prices this season.
When it came to Cyber Monday, Apple had its fair share of deals, though many new models weren't eligible for significant discounts. The best deals were clearly coming from retailers rather than the brand itself. For those networking during the sale, offers like up to $200 gift cards with the purchase of distinct products caught attention, giving shoppers something to mull over before making final decisions.
Shoppers are advised to act quickly on deals for popular gaming laptops, such as the Alienware m16 R2 and budget options like the Lenovo LOQ, which is currently listed at $699. These types of promotions are generating buzz among avid gamers and tech enthusiasts eager to upgrade their machines just in time for the holidays.
While laptops have taken center stage, it's important to note the wider range of products also being targeted during these sales. From kitchen gadgets to smart devices, many categories are experiencing noteworthy discounts—this includes appliances, toys, and health and beauty items. It’s estimated the biggest sales are coming from categories like toys and clothing, but consumers shouldn’t overlook the appealing technology investments they can make.
Notably, consumers are also gravitating toward AI-driven commerce, which has proven invaluable, especially for those who may not be well-versed on the latest releases. Using AI tools for recommendations and price comparisons has allowed many to seize sales previously off their radar, finding great deals by merely browsing online.
The rush doesn’t stop at electronics. Once the confetti from Cyber Monday settles, shoppers will transition to the next wave of holiday savings, keeping engagement alive as they look to finish off their gift lists. Retailers have capitalized on this by launching new deals daily, ensuring the competition remains fierce right through this shopping season.
Overall, this year has promised to deliver shopper-friendly deals all at the click of a button. With many consumers now accustomed to online shopping and quickly finding notable discounts through sophisticated technology, this season is shaping up to define future shopping trends. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or searching for the perfect gift, the possibilities for savings are considerable this holiday season.
Here’s the bottom line: if you’re waiting to grab the latest gadgets or just about any other product on your wish list, now is the perfect time to take action. With the odds clearly stacked on the side of consumers, enjoyment, smart shopping, and great savings are closer than ever.
