Apple’s AirPods Pro 2 are currently on sale for their lowest price ever at $159, reduced from the original price of $249. This deal, available on Amazon, was prompted by a one-day Black Friday doorbuster offer from Best Buy on November 25, which was anticipated to be matched by Amazon. Since then, Amazon has continued to offer this price, providing a $90 discount.
This pricing shift contrasts with the AirPods 4, which feature Active Noise Cancellation but are priced at $179. Despite the popularity of the AirPods 4, the authentication and features of the Pro 2 make them a preferred choice for many users. The current $20 reduction on the AirPods 4 signifies heightened competition in the wireless earbud market.
AirPods Pro 2 steals the show with massive $90 discount ahead of Black Friday
Specific sales will continue on Black Friday, including deals tied to Apple’s latest event. Apple’s upcoming “Shopping Event,” which starts on November 29 and runs through December 2, will offer gift cards up to $200 with the purchase of select products. Notably, iPhone 15, iPhone 14, and iPhone SE purchases will yield gift cards up to $75. Meanwhile, iPad Pro, iPad Air, or iPad 10th generation buyers can expect up to $100 in gift cards.
Apple’s shopping strategy for Black Friday typically avoids blanket discounts, opting instead to incentivize purchases through gift cards. While these offers can seem appealing, they primarily target older devices instead of the most recent releases, like the iPhone 16 and iPad mini 7, which are not included. Shoppers interested in the AirPods Pro 2 or Beats products may receive gift cards worth $50 or more, with the potential for $75 upon purchasing premium items such as AirPods Max or AirPods Pro 2.
Several retailers are already marking down Apple products significantly lower than the suggested retail prices. This pricing strategy raises questions about the actual value remaining in Apple’s gift card offers compared to competitive discounts in the market.
As Black Friday approaches, the demand for discounted electronics remains high, and many customers are strategically navigating the options across various platforms. Apple’s incentives provide value, but adherence to traditional retail strategies could drive customers to seek better deals outside the Apple ecosystem. The effectiveness of these gift card perks as part of Apple’s broader marketing strategy will become more clear as the shopping event progresses.
Analyzing the total financial implications will be essential for consumers weighing the benefits of Apple’s gift card offers against available discounts from third-party retailers. The dynamics of Black Friday shopping are evolving, and the competition for consumer attention continues to shape how brands position their products. As the shopping season unfolds, the focus will remain on price as a leading factor.
Images credit: Apple
