Black Friday 2025 is unfolding as a mix of record-low prices, aggressive tech development, and major corporate missteps. From accidental deep discounts to AI-driven automation, this year’s shopping season highlights the increasingly turbulent intersection of commerce and technology.
Retail Errors and Deep Discounts
Several major retailers have experienced pricing errors, with MediaWorld accidentally selling iPads for just 15 Euros to loyalty cardholders before retracting the offer. This incident underscores the complexities of managing mass discounts during high-volume sales events. Meanwhile, Best Buy and Dell are offering significant savings on tech, including laptops dropping to $500 for a limited time, signaling an intense price war.
Amazon’s AI Push and Labor Concerns
Amazon is accelerating its artificial intelligence integration, employing specialized AI agents for bug hunting and pushing an “all-costs-justified” approach to development. This strategy has sparked backlash from Amazon Employees for Climate Justice, with over 1,000 workers signing a petition raising concerns about the aggressive rollout of AI tools. The company’s venture, Project Prometheus, has quietly acquired an agentic computing startup (General Agents) while raising over $6 billion in funding.
The Expanding Black Friday Season
Black Friday has expanded into a month-long series of sales, making it harder for consumers to discern genuine deals from marketing hype. Experts recommend strategic planning to navigate this prolonged shopping period effectively. Despite the confusion, retailers are reporting strong early sales, and analysts predict record-breaking revenue this year.
Underrated Games and Outdoor Gear Deals
Beyond the mainstream tech offerings, several smaller video games (Blippo+, Sektori, Dispatch) have gained traction in 2025, providing alternatives to blockbuster titles. Outdoor gear retailers are also offering substantial discounts on tents, packs, and merino wool, catering to consumers preparing for the next season of outdoor activities.
The Bottom Line: Black Friday 2025 is more than just sales; it’s a snapshot of the current tech landscape. Corporations are doubling down on automation, labor tensions are escalating, and retail errors are inevitable. This year’s event demonstrates how rapidly both consumer behavior and industry practices are evolving.
