The news comes in the amidst of increased scrutiny over TikTok national security concerns, with American lawmakers calling for more stringent regulations on Chinese-owned tech platforms. Though information is limited, Trump’s assertion has raised further speculation regarding the fate of TikTok in America. After a small ban, Tiktok has returned to U.S. app stores as the President delayed the ban due to undergoing negotiations.

Tiktok’s Chinese parent company, Bytedance, is engaged in the ongoing conversation about the future of the platform. Bytedance’s TikTok negotiations are inspired by growing concerns with American authorities, arguing that the app poses data protection risks and foreign influences. Trump saved the U.S. Tiktok services by delaying the ban as he proposed a 50% American ownership of the social media platform.

Who Are the TikTok Sale Bidders?

While Trump did not disclose the identity of four Tiktok sales bidders, reports suggest that the leading American technology firm and investment groups are among interested parties. As Tiktok has a massive user base and impact in the U.S., the deal is expected to attract significant interest from companies expanding their digital appearance.

So far known bidders include a group led by billionaire Frank McCourt and Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian, including another group that includes Tech Entrepreneur Jesse Tinsley and YouTube star Mribst, and a merger from San Francisco-based Perplexity AI. Additionally, Trump has mentioned Larry Alison, the founder of Oracle Corp, while Tikokok has previously collaborated with Oracle to host its American user data. Out of all of them, Perplexity AI revised merger conditions with Tiktok as it gave a 50% stake to the U.S. government.

TikTok Acquisition Deadline Approaches

The deadline for Tiktok acquisition is approaching fast on April 5, 2025, the law makers soon established expectations for a proposal. If ByteDance fails to reach a deal, the company may face regulatory action that will severely affect its operations in the US market.

For now, Tiktok’s fate is uncertain, but the president’s comments show that a deal may be adjacent. Though Trump’s tactics to delay the ban have turned TikTok U.S. sales into a bidding war. Whether it is complete acquisition or reorganization of US Operations of Tikok, results will have permanent implications for technical industry, international relations and millions of ticket users across the country.

The post Trump Says Four Bidders in Play as Efforts to Acquire TikTok Gain Momentum appeared first on Tech Research Online.

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How Biopharma Companies Are Transforming Their Presentations With AI

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What is effective business communication?

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Technology is evolving rapidly, and new digital marketing trends are transforming how businesses connect with customers. Today, more sales happen online, thanks to social media advertising and influencer marketing. In addition, video content has proven to capture attention more effectively than text or static images.

We can’t also deny the massive impact of artificial intelligence and machine learning in marketing. The digital marketing industry has evolved from simple banner ads and email campaigns to highly targeted, AI-driven strategies that engage consumers across multiple platforms. These digital marketing trends are shaped by evolving technology, changing consumer behaviors, and rising expectations.

With the rise of AI’s use in marketing, SEO, PPC, social media, automation, voice search, and new digital marketing strategies like data privacy, businesses now have more tools than ever to reach and convert their audiences effectively.

As digital marketers, keeping up with emerging trends and technologies is key to shaping successful strategies in 2025. While there are many ways to stay ahead, knowing the latest technology trends will help you plan effectively and gain a competitive edge.

10 Game-Changing Digital Marketing Trends for 2025

1. Artificial Intelligence in Marketing Trends

One of the most current trends in digital marketing is Artificial Intelligence (AI), transforming how brands create content, analyze customer behavior, and automate processes.

AI-powered tools like ChatGPT, Deepseek, Jasper, and MidJourney now help marketers effortlessly generate high-quality content, ad copies, and personalized customer interactions. A report by Mckinsey indicates that 65% of businesses are using AI in at least one business function.

With AI-driven marketing, you can optimize your advertising campaigns, predict user behavior, and offer hyper-personalized experiences at scale.

In addition, social media platforms like TikTok are gradually incorporating Artificial Intelligence (AI) advancements to enhance content recommendations, automate customer interactions, and optimize ad targeting.

Moreover, AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn improve customer support by providing instant responses and tailored recommendations, enhancing the overall user experience.

Stay ahead of the competition in 2025 by embracing AI. Your competitors already use it to streamline their marketing strategies, personalize customer experiences, and drive better results. Don’t get left behind in a tech-driven digital marketing world where AI is redefining how brands connect, engage, and convert their audiences.

2. Voice Search Optimization Trends

Another latest digital marketing trend is voice search and voice commerce. With the increasing popularity of smart assistants like Apple Siri, voice search is transforming how people access information online. To help users make informed decisions, we recently compared the features of Amazon Alexa vs Google Home, highlighting their strengths for business use.

Furthermore, more consumers now speak their searches, making traditional keyword-based SEO less effective. According to a DemandSage report, about 71% of consumers prefer voice search over typing for quick answers.

To optimize for voice search in 2025, focus on natural language content, question-based queries, and featured snippets. The way people type vs. speak is different, so your content should match how users actually ask questions.

3. Influencer Marketing Trend

As part of our analysis of digital marketing trends 2025, we examined how businesses increasingly leverage influencers to drive marketing success.

Influencer marketing continues to dominate, but authenticity is now the key factor. Brands are shifting from one-time influencer promotions to long-term partnerships with micro-influencers who have engaged, loyal audiences.

Instead of just picking influencers with millions of followers, brands now prioritize real engagement, niche audiences, and storytelling. In 2025, word-of-mouth recommendations via social media influencers will be more powerful than traditional ads.

4. SEO Trends

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is evolving. Google prioritizes EEAT (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness), and marketers are now using Google AI overviews.

Simply stuffing your content with keywords no longer works. Your website must provide real value and build trust. So, it is important to prioritize valuable content that solves the searcher’s intent.
Also, creating high-quality, shareable content, using structured data, and improving Core Web Vitals will help your site rank higher on Google. If your website isn’t optimized for user experience and mobile-first indexing, you’ll struggle to stay visible in search results.

One of the biggest SEO shifts in 2025 is Zero-Click Marketing, where Google provides instant answers without users needing to visit a website. Featured snippets, People Also Ask sections and knowledge panels are driving more traffic away from websites.

Backlinko analyzed nearly 4 million Google search results and found that 65.2% of all Google searches end without a click. To stay ahead, focus on ranking for zero-click searches by providing concise, high-value content directly within Google’s search results. The more quick, digestible insights you offer, the higher your brand’s visibility.

5. The Rise of Video Content

Video marketing is one of the most powerful digital marketing trends to note in 2025. These days, social media users are attracted by any video posted online. Incorporating video content into your digital marketing strategy will help your brand drive engagement across platforms like TikTok, YouTube Shorts, and Instagram Reels. Short-form videos, livestream shopping, and shoppable videos make it easier for brands to connect with audiences.

You’re missing out on massive brand exposure and sales opportunities if you’re not creating highly engaging, short-form videos. According to a video marketing statistics by Wyzowl, 95% of marketers see video as an important part of their marketing strategy in 2025. Also, the same report indicates that about 89% of businesses use video as a marketing tool.

6. Augmented Reality (AR) in Marketing

Augmented Reality (AR) is changing online shopping by allowing customers to visualize products in real-time. From trying on virtual outfits to seeing how furniture fits in their space, AR enhances the customer experience and reduces product return rates.

Brands that integrate AR marketing strategies will see higher engagement, better conversion rates, and improved user satisfaction. As e-commerce grows, expect AR-powered shopping to become the norm rather than a novelty.

7. Privacy-First Marketing Trend

With cookie-less browsing and stricter data privacy laws, businesses must now rely on first-party data strategies to reach their audiences. Consumers demand more transparency about how their data is used, and brands that fail to adapt risk losing trust.

To stay compliant, focus on ethical data collection, consent-based marketing, and zero-party data strategies. If your marketing strategy still depends on third-party cookies, 2025 will force you to rethink your entire approach.

8. Social Commerce Evolution

Social commerce is revolutionizing online shopping by allowing consumers to purchase directly through social media apps. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook Shops are making in-app purchases seamless, removing the need for users to leave the platform.

You’re missing out on millions of potential customers if your business isn’t leveraging shoppable posts, live shopping events, and social media ads. In 2025, the brands that fully integrate social commerce will dominate online retail.

9. Interactive Content Trend

Interactive content is taking over as consumers prefer engaging experiences rather than static content. Instead of just reading blog posts, people now interact with quizzes, polls, calculators, and gamified experiences that keep them hooked longer.

If you want to boost engagement and conversions, your website should feature dynamic, interactive content that adds real value to the user’s journey. The longer users stay on your site, the higher your chances of converting them.

10. Automation Marketing Trend

Another trend of digital marketing is marketing automation, which is transforming how businesses engage with their audiences by streamlining repetitive tasks and optimizing customer interactions. In 2025, automation tools are more advanced, integrating AI-driven personalization, predictive analytics, and omnichannel marketing to enhance efficiency and drive conversions.

With the rise of data-driven marketing, businesses leverage marketing automation tools like Hubspot and Marketo to manage email campaigns, lead nurturing, social media scheduling, and customer segmentation effortlessly. These tools help marketers deliver highly targeted content, improve user engagement, and scale their strategies without manual intervention.

As competition grows, brands that adopt intelligent automation solutions will gain a competitive edge, reducing workload while ensuring consistent and personalized customer experiences. If you’re not utilizing these tools, you risk falling behind in an industry where efficiency and precision define success.

Conclusion: Recap of Digital Marketing Trends 2025

With digital marketing evolving rapidly, staying ahead of the curve is crucial. You might be wondering where to focus your marketing strategy or how much the industry will change in 2025. The truth is that brands that embrace emerging trends early will have a clear advantage over competitors.

To future-proof your digital marketing efforts, identify the key tech-driven trends that will shape consumer behavior and business growth.

Whether it’s AI-powered automation, voice search optimization, or social commerce, understand the tech trends that will influence your digital marketing strategies and maximize results.

While AI remains the dominant force, with tools like Deepseek challenging ChatGPT, the real question is, which trends align with your business goals and audience needs?

The best approach isn’t to chase every new development but to prioritize trends that will enhance your marketing effectiveness and drive measurable ROI.

So, which of these latest digital marketing trends will you integrate into your strategy for 2025? Consider what matters to adapt, innovate, and lead in the fast-changing digital landscape.

The post 10 Digital Marketing Trends You Can’t Ignore in 2025 appeared first on Tech Research Online.

As per Reuters, the return of the Tiktok was confirmed after President Donald Trump delayed the ban on the Chinese app and reassured the tech giants that they would not be fined if they distributed its content. In January 2025 as well Trump signed an order to protect TikTok from getting banned in the U.S. but the order was temporary as it was only valid for 75 days.

The Ban and Its Reversal

The ban of TikTok from Apple and Google app stores emerged because of security concerns about user data alongside worries related to Chinese government relationships. The new President Donald Trump initiated an action to ban TikTok because he believed it endangered U.S. security and attempted to direct American operations to Oracle and Walmart. The latest delay in restrictions allows TikTok to return to the market while authorities inspect data security and allow the company to establish new terms to dodge permanent removal from the market.

The TikTok return happened during continuous dialogue between elected U.S. lawmakers and the ByteDance management team. The company keeps denying claims about data handling but regulators hold firm in their study of TikTok user data management and assessment of security threats to national defense. The government seems to be developing a strategy for making the sale of TikTok in the U.S.

Impact on TikTok and Users

The return of TikTok to the app stores represents significant benefits to its platform. The app maintains considerable social media dominance in the United States where it serves more than 150 million local users primarily from younger generations. The temporary removal from app stores created confusion for all groups including influencers and businesses that used TikTok for content creation and monetary purposes. Sensor Tower reports that TikTok received more than 52 million downloads throughout 2024. Each year Google Play and the Apple App Store collectively collected 102 million downloads during 2023 with Apple App Store performing 52% of the task and Google Play handling the remaining 48%.

The TikTok return to app stores provides users with access restoration alongside a show of TikTok’s capacity to defend itself against regulatory hurdles. The merger between Perplexity AI and TikTok was also revised as the AI maker decided to give 50% of the stake in the deal to the U.S.

The TikTok return received approval from Apple and Google because their executives faced complex challenges between government requirements and user needs. At the time of previous government directives, both tech companies complied by removing TikTok yet reinstated it after the ban was lifted.

The post TikTok Returns to Apple and Google App Stores as Trump Delays Ban appeared first on Tech Research Online.

Swift Deal

The fate of the popular video-streaming company in the US continues to hang in the balance. But there are major players lining up to take part in what could be a multi-billion-dollar deal. Such a deal will enable the platform to circumvent the ban imposed by the divest-or-ban law. Trump says he wants a deal finalized in 30 days.

“I like bidding wars because you make your best deals,” the President said.

Trump signed an executive order on day one in office to give ByteDance, the company that owns TikTok until April 4 to fix the ownership issue. The US President said he wants a deal done in 30 days. An executive order he signed on his first day in office actually gives TikTok’s Chinese parent company, ByteDance, until April 4 to figure something out.

Big Names in Tech

Trump’s TikTok involvement has seen him float big names as possible buyers. They include Tesla CEO Elon Musk, Oracle Chairman Larry Ellison, and Microsoft’s Satya Nadella. It’s still unclear whether any of these tech leaders have had actual discussions on the issue.

Microsoft is not a stranger to the TikTok bidding process. In 2020, the Windows maker along with Walmart, attempted to acquire TikTok’s US operations during Trump’s first term. Microsoft CEO, Satya Nadella described this attempt as the strangest thing he had ever worked on after the deal stalled due to federal requirements. With the clock ticking, it remains to be seen whether Microsoft will revisit its previous bid.

Last week, the President hinted at Oracle founder Larry Ellison playing a role in the TikTok sale as he announced the company’s investment in AI infrastructure. The Trump administration is reportedly developing a plan to shift TikTok control to Oracle. In such a scenario, TikTok parent company, ByteDance would have a minority stake in the company and Oracle would control the app’s data collection and algorithm. Oracle currently stores videos and other content for TikTok in its data centers. Trump has however denied discussing the issue with Oracle.

“No, not with Oracle. Numerous people are talking to me, very substantial people, about buying it and I will make that decision probably over the next 30 days,” he said.

Perplexity AI is among other potential bidders that Trump is yet to mention. The AI startup is backed by big tech heavy weights including Nvidia and Amazon founder Jeff Bezos. Perplexity AI reportedly submitted a proposal that would see it merge with TikTok’s US business to ByteDance this past weekend. The startup would give 50% of the new company’s ownership to the US government after an IPO.

The Musk Factor

One of the big names floated by Trump is Elon Musk. The Tesla CEO and X owner is known for making bold moves in the tech world. Musk’s involvement in the TikTok deal could be a game-changer due to his opposition to the TikTok ban.

“I have been against a TikTok ban for a long time, because it goes against freedom of speech. That said, the current situation where TikTok is allowed to operate in America, but X is not allowed to operate in China is unbalanced. Something needs to change,” Musk posted on X.

Trump has shown interest in Musk’s potential bid. When asked whether he would approve of Musk’s TikTok purchase, his response was positive. Musk is yet to comment on the matter in detail, but antitrust experts believe that he could face fewer legal obstacles compared to other potential buyers.

TikTok and X serve different user bases, which means a Musk-TikTok deal would attract less scrutiny from US regulators. Musk’s close relationship with the current administration could also help make the process smooth. Musk supported Trump’s reelection campaign and is now leading the newly created Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Musk’s global business ties include Tesla’s strong presence in China where he sells lots of EVs in the Asian country.

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5 Strategies to Improve
Your Pipeline Performance
with B2B Appointment
Setting

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Additional Verification

Telegram already had a feature for verifying organizations and public figures on the platform. With the latest Telegram update, the chat app introduces a new project where third-party authorities that have been verified can verify other accounts. Third-party authorities include educational consortiums and regulators.

Accounts that third-party authorities verify will have a new logo replacing the blue checkmark. The social media platform says the new logo will appear next to the name of the verified account.

“This decentralized platform for additional verification will help prevent scams and reduce misinformation- with a unique proactive solution that sets a new safety standard for social platforms,” Telegram said in a blog post.

Third-Party Authentication

Telegram’s new feature comes soon after its CEO Pavel Durov announced a new privacy policy. The policy paved the way for verification of close to 1 billion users on the platform following his arrest by French authorities last year. Durov was arrested for failing to prevent child abuse and drug trafficking on the social media app.

Organizations or users who wish to be authenticated will first have to undergo a verification process. This includes completing an application before becoming eligible for the verified mark. According to the company, authenticated third-party entities will be allowed to use the Telegram Bot API to remove or assign verifications.

This is very similar to entities purchasing verifications on X and verifying accounts that are affiliated to them. Once verified, affiliated accounts will have the logo of the verifying entity on their profile.

Gift-NFT Conversion

Besides Telegram’s third-party verification, the social media platform also announced a new way of converting gifts to NFTs with customized icons and backgrounds. With this feature, users will be able to send gifts they buy using Telegram Stars. Gifts can be purchased via the app or fragment sites by linking TON crypto wallets.

According to the messaging app, users can trade their NFTs on various platforms. The social media platform charges users to upgrade gifts to collectibles in order to cater for blockchain transaction fees. Collectible gifts are unique pieces of art that feature random combinations of background colors, numbers, or icons. Some collectibles gifts are more rare than others.

Telegram uses cryptocurrencies for mini app and game payments, as well as to facilitate creator monetization. Other updates on the platform include advanced search filters for private groups, chats, and channels as well as emoji reactions for messages.

Telegram’s Profitability

Telegram says that the monetization features launched in 2021 have paid off. Last year, the chat app attained profitability through privacy-focused ads, premium subscriptions, and Telegram Stars.

This has enabled it to focus on user privacy through the Telegram safety feature while improving the platform’s UX design. User safety took prominence in 2024 with leading social media giants like Meta and TikTok taking big hits. Last year, Meta-owned Instagram launched a teen account feature in a bid to improve minor safety.

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Thanksgiving is one of the most popular and cherished holidays in the United States, symbolizing gratitude and togetherness. Not only does it mark the beginning of the festive season, but it also kicks off the holiday shopping sale season. During this time, people tend to grab the best deals on their favorite products which they have been waiting to go on sale for the longest time.

For businesses, Thanksgiving is the golden opportunity to connect with buyers through creative campaigns that stand out amidst the plethora of marketing ideas. These Thanksgiving campaigns left a lasting impression on society by giving a great message while promoting the use of technology to go beyond traditional ideas and thoughts.

With Thanksgiving 2024 just around the corner, let’s have a look at some of the most memorable campaigns by the brands in the past 10 years.

Top 8 Thanksgiving Campaigns That Made a Buzz

• Samsung

  
  Samsung brought virtual reality (VR) into the spotlight with a campaign that connected with the holiday spirit. The company offered buyers of the Galaxy S7 Edge or Galaxy S7 along with a VR headset gift package that included an Oculus Content Bonus.

  Samsung’s ‘Unwrap the Feels’ Thanksgiving campaign made people explore new worlds from the comfort of their homes. Using VR devices, users could experience exciting adventures, such as standing on the top of mountain peaks or taking deep dive into the depths of the ocean.

  Set in a familial setting, Samsung called it the Gift of Galaxy as it brings you closer to your friends and family, even when you are sitting miles away.

  This campaign not only showed cutting-edge technology but also aligned perfectly with the themes of wonder and togetherness during the holiday season.

• Delta Airlines

  In the middle of the pandemic, Delta Airlines launched a Thanksgiving campaign that focused on ensuring safety and peace of mind for travelers. Knowing that the holiday season is a time for family reunions, Delta took active measures to eliminate travel anxiety among the travelers.

  The airline introduced a policy of not booking the middle seats on all flights to make sure that proper social distancing was being followed. Travelers connected deeply with this thoughtful act and appreciated Delta’s commitment to their well-being.

  This campaign laid great emphasis on the importance of making people feel secure while enabling them to reunite with loved ones during challenging times.

• Roku

  
  Roku used the idea of the chaos of family get together with its witty thanksgiving campaign, “Less Screaming, More Streaming.”. This clever marketing initiative was designed to relate with families that deal with the lively hustle and bustle of Thanksgiving gatherings.

  The Thanksgiving campaign humorously depicted family members arguing over remote control issues, with younger members quietly going back to their rooms to stream their favorite shows on Roku.

  By focusing on the convenience of personal streaming, Roku presented itself as the perfect escape from holiday commotion, making its campaign relatable and memorable.

• Walmart

  
  Walmart’s Thanksgiving campaign engraved the spirit of gratitude by showing the importance of being thankful for our chosen families and communities. Whether it’s the friendship of an army unit, the warmth of a daycare, or the support of an orphanage, Walmart asked people to appreciate the bonds that make life happy and peaceful.

  Through heartwarming stories and thoughtful messaging, Walmart reminded everyone that Thanksgiving is about cherishing the bonds and connections that make our lives more joyful. This campaign struck a chord with the people, making them believe in the spirit of holiday season.

• Publix

  
  Publix’s Thanksgiving campaign celebrated the happiness of being at a place where they feel truly welcome. Using digital storytelling, the campaign follows the journey of a young boy’s journey during Thanksgiving dinner.

  Initially wanting to sit at the adult table, the boy eventually returned to the kids’ table, where he found warmth, acceptance, and happiness.

  This heart touching Thanksgiving campaign celebrated the idea of being at home, regardless of the setting. The Publix beautifully captured the essence of Thanksgiving as a time to share moments of love, gratitude, and togetherness.

• Postmates

  On one of the Thanksgiving, Postmates teamed up with NFL star Aaron Rodgers to deliver heartfelt gifts and goodies. This Thanksgiving campaign was dedicated to frontline and community workers. During the pandemic, Postmates ensured that meals, gear, and goodies reached those who worked tirelessly to keep everyone safe.

  Rodgers personally delivered these tokens of appreciation, spreading joy and gratitude among the unsung heroes of the time. This campaign underscored the importance of giving back and made a lasting impression on audiences by celebrating the spirit of service and generosity.

• REI

  REI redefined Thanksgiving marketing with its bold campaign, #OptOutside. Rather than promoting holiday shopping, the apparel brand closed all its stores and offices across the country. This was done to encourage the employees and customers to celebrate the day outdoors with their friends and family.

  The campaign celebrated the beauty of nature and the value of spending quality time with loved ones. By prioritizing meaningful experiences over material pursuits, REI’s campaign resonated deeply with audiences, setting a precedent for socially conscious marketing.

• TD Bank

  
  TD Bank’s Thanksgiving campaign brought communities together through acts of kindness. The bank distributed $30,000 across 24 cities in North America, empowering individuals to help those in need within their communities.

  The bank chose 24 people from the pool of their customers across the cities and gave them $30000 for 24 hours to help people from their communities. One of the winners utilized to build a ramp for a lady who had not stepped out in 4 years due to her physical disability.

  Selected participants were chosen based on their inspiring stories and dedication to making a difference. This thoughtful initiative not only highlighted the importance of giving back but also reinforced the message that gratitude grows when shared.

Conclusion: Sharing the Spirit of Thanksgiving

These remarkable Thanksgiving campaigns remind us that holidays are not just about traditions but also about building connections, kindness, and gratitude. From technological innovations to acts of community service, these initiatives have shown that the true spirit of Thanksgiving lies in sharing joy with others.

As we gear up for Thanksgiving 2024, let’s carry forward the lessons of these campaigns—creating memories that inspire and bring us closer to the people and values that matter most.

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Though Black Friday falls on November 29, 2024, the deals have already rolled in to kick off one of the year’s most anticipated shopping events. Originally an American retail tradition, Black Friday has now evolved into a global shopping phenomenon.

Whether buying gifts for loved ones or treating oneself to something special, Black Friday deals bring a sense of excitement and anticipation to shoppers. It offers the best deals of the year, making it the ultimate shopping event to kick off the festive season.

Evolution of Black Friday Deals: Turning Chaos into Financial Success

The term “Black Friday” originated in the 1960s in Philadelphia, where local police officers used it to describe the overwhelming crowds and traffic during the holiday shopping rush.

By the 1980s, retailers began to redefine the term, emphasizing its association with profitability. They popularized the idea that Black Friday marked the transition from “red ink“, symbolizing losses, to “black ink,” signifying profits.

This change made merchants embrace the day as an opportunity to launch competitive Black Friday deals, boost sales, and solidify its significance in the retail world.

Today, Black Friday sale is a hallmark of the holiday season, drawing millions of customers to stores and online platforms alike. With the 2024 festive season upon us, excitement is building as shoppers eagerly anticipate the exclusive offers that define this iconic day.

Top Black Friday Tech Deals 2024 You Can’t-Miss

Best Black Friday Deals on Headphones & Earbuds

• Apple AirPods Pro (3rd Gen): Enjoy premium sound quality, advanced noise cancellation, and a sleek design, now available for up to 20% off at Amazon.
• Sony WH-1000XM5 Noise Cancelling Headphones: Experience superb sound and top-tier noise cancellation for an immersive listening experience, now 20% to 50% off at Best Buy.
• Bose QuietComfort 45 Headphones: Renowned for their comfort and premium sound quality, enjoy amazing Black Friday Deals on these by getting 20% to 50% off at Best Buy.
• Apple AirPods Max: These premium over-ear headphones offer stunning sound and design, now 10% to 40% off at Best Buy.

Best Black Friday Deals on Laptops & Tablets

• Microsoft Surface Laptop 5: A sleek, high-performing laptop built for productivity is available for up to 40% off at Walmart.
• Apple MacBook Air M2: Enjoy powerful performance with the M2 chip and a sleek design at up to 50% off at Best Buy.
• Dell XPS 13 Laptop: Get compact and powerful, which is perfect for professionals in the Black Friday Deals at Walmart up to 40% off.
• Lenovo Legion 5 Gaming Laptop: Discover your gaming potential with this powerful laptop, now available on Walmart at a discount of up to 40%.
• Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra: A top-performing tablet designed for both work and play, available for 15% to 30% off on Amazon.
• Apple iPad Pro: Get a versatile tablet for creativity and productivity now at up to 50% off at Best Buy.

Best Black Friday Deals on Smartwatches & Fitness Trackers

• Apple Watch Series 9: The latest smartwatch from Apple, perfect for staying connected and tracking your health, available for up to 30% off at Target.
• Samsung Galaxy Watch 6: Packed with features for fitness and style, now at 20% to 50% off on Amazon.
• Fitbit Charge 5: A sleek fitness tracker with advanced health features is on up to 40% off at Target.

Best Black Friday Deals on Home & Entertainment

• 65-inch OLED TV: Experience stunning visuals and vibrant colors with the OLED TV, available now at 20% to 40% off at Walmart.
• Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2: Enhance your home security with this smart doorbell available at 20% to 50% off at Best Buy.
• JBL Flip 6 Bluetooth Speaker: Enjoy durable and portable, delivering exceptional sound quality at a fantastic discount of up to 40% off at Target.
• GoPro HERO11 Black: Capture your adventures with incredible clarity by buying this camera now at up to 30% to 40% off on Amazon.
• Sony PlayStation VR2: Step into the next generation of gaming with this VR headset, now available at an amazing discount of up to 30% off on Amazon.
• Kindle Paperwhite: Enjoy a glare-free reading experience with this premium e-reader at a great discount of up to 40% off on Amazon.

Best Black Friday Deal on Kitchen Appliances

• Ninja Foodi Dual Brew Pro Coffee Maker: Brew like a pro with this multipurpose coffee maker, which is now available at up to 35% off at Target.
• GE Profile 27.9 Cu. Ft. 4-Door French Door Smart Refrigerator: Enjoy smart features and ample storage with this French door refrigerator, now available at up to 40% discount at Best Buy.

Conclusion

Black Friday 2024 is set to break new records, offering shoppers the chance to grab incredible deals while retailers aim to make the most of the season’s sales rush. With amazing deals spread across all categories, consumers are eagerly waiting for the best prices of the year. Whether you’re looking for the best gadgets, refreshing your wardrobe, or getting holiday gifts for family, these Black Friday deals promise something special for everyone.

For businesses, this is a key moment to strengthen customer loyalty, attract new buyers, and drive high sales numbers. It also sets the tone for the rest of the holiday shopping season, ensuring they finish the year strong with impressive revenue figures.

The post The Best Black Friday Deals for 2024: Shop Smart, Save Big appeared first on Tech Research Online.

The holiday season is approaching, and the countdown for the much-awaited Black Friday Sale 2024 has begun. Known as one of the biggest shopping events of the year, many shoppers begin planning their purchases months in advance to make the most of the discounts.

Initially, a one-day event, Black Friday has evolved into a month-long shopping phenomenon. Companies now launch their promotions as early as October to build up the anticipation and attract new customers for November deals. This extended sales period has majorly increased consumer spending.

During the 2024 Black Friday Sale, electronics, clothing, and accessories are expected to remain the most popular categories. Moreover, the predictions say that consumers will be spending approximately $278.645 billion, globally over the weekend. This shift reflects the growing importance of Black Friday sales as a key driver for both holiday shopping and business profits.

Key Trends in Consumer Behavior for 2024 Black Friday Sale

The consumer pattern is as dynamic as it gets, it is constantly evolving and keeps on changing every year. This year Black Friday weekend is predicted to surpass all the sales records of the previous years.

According to Forbes, around 24% of the buyers are intending to spend more than they spent in 2023. While 52.6% of them intend to shop in the pre-Black Friday sale as well.

This year, shopping habits are expected to change, with 58.4% of customers predicted to opt for a mix of in-store and online shopping, while 34.6% are anticipated to prefer exclusively for online purchases.

What Challenges Businesses Face in Black Friday Sale

When a business makes a plan for the annual Black Friday Sale, it is important for them to understand the challenges business owners face while selling their products online and in-stores.

These challenges can range from managing catalog and inventory to handling payment issues and website slowdown. So here are some of the major issues that the businesses may face during the Black Friday Sale:

1. Issues in Maintaining Inventory

Maintaining inventory and managing supply chains can be a significant challenge, especially during peak shopping seasons like Black Friday sales. Unpredictable consumer behavior, delays in shipping, and raw material shortages often lead to stockouts or overstocking, resulting in an imbalance in inventory levels.

Businesses that rely on just-in-time inventory systems are particularly vulnerable, as even the smallest delays can disrupt the entire supply chain. Adapting to these challenges requires improved forecasting, more flexible supply chain models, and a proactive approach to risk management.

2. Challenges with the Logistics

It becomes really difficult for the businesses to maintain their logistics as the transportation and the warehousing industries operate to their fullest. With more people preferring to shop online, there is a lot of strain on transportation and fleet management. As the number of orders rises, the e-commerce platforms must be well-equipped to process a high volume of orders simultaneously.

All the goods carrier services including air, ocean or road, all of them experience congestion due to high demand. Without a well-established network of carriers and logistics partners, many businesses risk failing to deliver their orders on time.

3. Impact of Price Rise

Black Friday deals kick off the shopping season with great offers, but this year, inflation is weighing consumers down. With inflation beating all the records, the prices of necessities like groceries, rent, gasoline, and other household items have also touched the roof.

A lot of the consumers are demotivated by the rising prices as they are hardly able to make ends meet. Even after huge discounts on all the products a lot of these products are out of their budgets, making them change their priorities and options.

4. Technical Issues

Technical issues such as website slowdowns and payment errors are frequent during Black Friday sales due to high traffic. As per Demandsage, Black Friday shopping alone attracted 9.8 million online customers in 2023 that shows the strain on digital platforms. This year the number is predicted to grow by 9.9% and reach 10.8 billion.

According to Baymard, there are 22% of the customers abandon the cart due to long and complicated checkout process and 17% because of the website crashes, further emphasize the need of website optimization during peak periods. Implementing solutions like CDNs, caching, and mobile-friendly designs can help prevent these issues and ensure a seamless customer experience.

How Can Businesses Prepare for the Sale Season Using Technology

Black Friday presents an excellent opportunity for businesses to drive sales and enhance customer satisfaction. However, achieving success requires careful and strategic planning. Here are the few ways businesses can effectively prepare for the holiday season sales with the help of technology.

1. AI For Customer Support

AI is one of the most effective technologies for businesses to utilize during the holiday season sales. By integrating AI, companies can easily engage with multiple customers through messages and address their grievances without burdening customer support team.

During peak season, businesses can use AI to manage basic queries related to FAQs, payment issues and order status updates. This allows human teams to focus on more complex customer queries. Not only does this lessen the burden on the support teams but also ensures higher service during this busy period.

2. Block Chain in Supply Chain Challenges

Blockchain technology plays a key role in maintaining smooth supply chain operations during the Black Friday sales season. By providing a transparent and secure platform, it helps businesses to track inventory and shipments, ensuring timely delivery to warehouses or customers.

Moreover, blockchain helps in preventing fraud by verifying the authenticity of goods and securing payment processes. With its efficiency and accuracy, blockchain helps businesses in meeting high demand, managing inventory, and provides a seamless shopping experience during this busy period.

3. Cloud Computing to Prevent Website Crashing

Cloud computing is a game-changer in preventing website crashes, especially during high-traffic events like Black Friday sales. By using cloud services, businesses can scale their website’s resources dynamically to handle sudden traffic surges.

Rather than relying on fixed server capacities, the cloud offers on-demand resource allocation, ensuring that websites remain fast and responsive even during peak activity. With powerful backup systems and real-time monitoring, cloud computing ensures a smooth online shopping experience, minimizing downtime and keeping customers satisfied during the peak sales.

Conclusion

The upcoming Black Friday sale highlights the importance of how businesses can strategically navigate through technological and logistical challenges.

Technologies like blockchain can enhance supply chain transparency while cloud computing can help in ensuring scalable online operations to accommodate high traffic. AI-driven customer support systems can ensure higher service by addressing routine inquiries.

Addressing payment concerns, like transaction declines or limited payment options, is critical for a seamless shopping experience. With proper planning and active measures, businesses can transform these challenges into pathways for impressive sales and heightened customer satisfaction.

The post How Is Technology Helping Businesses In Driving Black Friday Success appeared first on Tech Research Online.

The Grok free version comes with limited usage. Users can only ask 10 questions every 2 hours on the Grok-2 model, three image analysis queries per day, and 20 queries every two hours on the Grok-2 mini model.

Regional Access

Several social media users and app researchers posted information about the X AI free access experiment and the availability of Grok free version in specific regions. It has been confirmed that X is already testing Grok with free users in New Zealand.

Grok was first unveiled in November 2023. At the time, it was part of the X Premium+ subscription plan. Users paid $16 each month or $201.60 yearly to use the feature. X has been promoting Grok as a witty alternative to other AI assistants. It’s capable of adding a sense of humor to user interactions and can access real-time information on X.

xAI unveiled Grok-2 in August 2024. The chatbot came with image generation capabilities and is backed by the FLUX.1 model, which is owned by Black Forest Lab. In October 2024, xAI boosted Grok-2’s capacity to understand images. These features were previously accessible to Premium+ and Premium users only.

User Requirements

To access the free version of Grok, users must have an X account that has been in existence for at least 7 days. Users should have linked the account to their phone number as well.

By giving free users access to Grok, xAI is looking to gather feedback about its products faster and from a significant range of its user base. This feedback is critical in improving Grok to make it more competitive in the market. Grok faces high competition from other models including ChatGPT search, Google’s Gemini, and Claude.

Impact on Premium Subscriptions

Although X users have welcomed the improvements that xAI added to Grok-2, some users criticized X for offering the X AI chatbot in limited regions. The timelines for the widespread release of the free version are still unclear even though such a rollout could expand the uptake of Grok AI chatbot.

X has been relying on X premium subscriptions to diversify its revenue streams. It remains to be seen how the current move will affect the social media giant’s revenues considering that Grok was one of the key features it offered Premium and Premium+ users.

The post Elon Musk’s X Platform Commences Grok AI Chatbot Testing On Free Users appeared first on Tech Research Online.