Apple has announced a one-day shopping event for Friday, November 27th. Traditionally known as Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving marks the beginning of the holiday shopping season.
Apple's Black Friday Event
This year, Apple is promising free shipping on all purchases made from the online store, but hasn't disclosed any of the deals that will be available. Rumors abound, and quite frankly, I think some are wishful thinking. Last year's deals from Apple were not significant; better deals could be found from Apple authorized retailers.
However, this year may be like no other for Apple. Ever since the downturn in the economy, Apple has come under pressure to narrow some of its product margins. While Apple is unlikely to reduce margins, it may like the idea of a sale, particularly a one-day event.
From Apple's announcement:
The special Apple one-day shopping event. November 27.
Come back to the Apple Online Store this Friday for a special one-day-only shopping event. You'll find lots of great iPod, iPhone, and Mac gift ideas -- all with free shipping.
Put it in your calendar now. Until then, start by browsing the Apple Online Store to find iPod, iPhone, and Mac gifts for everyone on your list.
Hype I say!!! Every year I see the same pattern of teases, rumors, and “fabrications” during the few weeks leading up to the Black Friday event, followed as surely as the Sun rises by the same old tired, fairly tame ~10% discounts.
I now hold out zero hope of seeing any kind of real deals from Apple. Nonetheless, 10% off is still better than the full list price Apple commands the other 364 days each year, making Black Friday the day to buy if you are already planning to buy anyway.
This sale is unlikely to drive me to want to buy something I wasn’t already planning to buy anyway.