Major retailers and tech companies are introducing advanced AI tools for holiday shopping, including personalized recommendations, price tracking, and automated purchasing, aiming to enhance consumer experience and increase online sales, though widespread adoption and impact are still developing.
Sony has quietly added a new feature to the PS Store that shows the 'Lowest Price in the Last 30 Days' for games, helping users identify better deals, although a 'Lowest Ever Price' metric would be even more useful. This update is part of Sony's ongoing efforts to improve the storefront, bringing it closer to industry standards like Steam.
Google Search is introducing new shopping features including customizable price tracking alerts, virtual try-on for clothing using AI, and upcoming shoppable outfit and room inspiration in AI Mode, enhancing personalized shopping experiences.
Researchers are monitoring the real-time impact of tariffs on consumer prices, finding that prices for both domestic and imported goods are generally rising despite trade policy adjustments, with domestic prices also increasing due to higher input costs and demand shifts. Retailers appear to be reacting quickly to tariff shocks, and price increases for Chinese goods are more significant and persistent than for Canadian and Mexican products.
The Orzorz Galaxy star projector, praised for its vivid colors and high-definition images, is available for $79.99 during Cyber Monday, though this price has been consistent since July 2024. Despite the misleading discount claim, it remains a top-rated, affordable option compared to more expensive models, offering features like 13-foot projections, 180-degree rotation, and compatibility with various projection disks.
Google is updating its Search and Chrome shopping tools to improve the display of deals and products. In Google Search, a new carousel of categories will show upfront deals, making it easier to find gifts in various sections. Chrome's new Price Insights feature provides comprehensive information about products, including price history, and allows users to track prices and save items for future reference. These updates aim to bring deals and savings to the forefront for a better shopping experience.
Google Flights introduces a new feature that provides guidance on the cheapest time to book flights, in addition to existing price tracking alerts and a price guarantee option. The most-searched winter holiday destinations on Google Flights include Cancun, Miami/Fort Lauderdale, London, New York, and Tokyo. Google also advises that the best time to book flights for Christmas vacations is around early October, with average prices being lowest 71 days before departure.
Google Flights is introducing a new feature that leverages historical trend data to help travelers determine the cheapest time to book flights. The insights will inform users whether it's better to book now or wait for lower prices, based on past price trends for their chosen destination and selected dates. The feature complements existing insights on price comparisons and offers price tracking and a price guarantee badge for select itineraries. Google also shared flight booking trends for 2023, revealing that average prices for Christmas flights have been lowest 71 days before departure, and there is no longer a "sweet spot" for U.S. trips to Europe.
Amazon Prime Day is approaching, and shoppers can sign up for "invite only" alerts on top items likely to sell out. Electronics, including TVs and headphones, as well as Amazon's branded items, are expected to have significant discounts. Shoppers should be cautious of items already marked down on Amazon, as they may not be sold at the normal price. It is recommended to use price tracking sites like camelcamelcamel.com to verify the actual discount. Additionally, with the Fourth of July weekend, other major retailers are offering sales, so it's worth shopping around. Those without an Amazon Prime account can sign up for a trial, but should remember to cancel if they don't wish to continue.