Televisions, phones and tablets are big items to look out for this holiday season. (Courtesy of freestocks/Unsplash)
By Micha Green
AFRO D.C. and Digital Editor
mgreen@afro.com
With Black Friday, Cyber Monday and the Christmas holiday quickly approaching, new technology has already begun to hit the markets. As the holiday season gets into gear, consumers are wondering what gadgets, gizmos and technology they should be looking to gift those special people in their lives with tech tools they can use.
According to Balancing Everything, furniture, bedding, toys, Christmas decorations, outdoor essentials, diamonds and gift cards are all things to avoid purchasing on Black Friday and/or in November and December. That long list of purchasing no-nos leaves very little wiggle room for items, but alas, technology is not on that list.
In fact, for many, Black Friday is the precious time to get that brand new printer, television, speaker or electronic device.
Tech Radar reported that prices in big screen televisions (75 inches to 85 inches) have dropped tremendously, sometimes even half of what they were worth even five years ago, ($5,000 to $10,000). With Black Friday and Cyber Monday around the corner, television prices will likely drop even further. Some inexpensively priced televisions to look out for include: the 24-inch class D-Series LED Full HD Smartcast TV, which is as low as $87.99 with an open box on Amazon; or the 24 inch CLass F20 Series LED HD Smart Fire TV, which is in mid-November running for $99.99; or a for a little more bang for your buck, but still reasonably priced, consumers can check out the the 50 inch 4K TV from Sceptre, which can be found discounted from $248 to about $315.
Nothing says, “I love you,” like communication, and cell phones are big on the buy list this time of year. The iPhone 13 and 13Pro are both new devices and though there are not major changes for those with advanced iPhone generations, this reporter has checked out some of the cool features that set Apple’s newest iteration of cellular phones apart from the rest. First of all, while one is supposed to be able to record underwater beginning with the iPhone 11, the recording quality while taking a dip in the pool is crystal clear with the iPhone 13. Further, this newer phone makes it safer (ish) to bring in the water. In addition, the iPhone 13’s night vision on the camera is also very clear and can pick things up in the distance that make it appear clear as day. The phones’ cameras have bigger sensors allowing for better image stabilization when recording videos. The Apple iPhone 13 begins at $799 and the iPhone 13 Pro begins at $1,000.
Another phone to look out for is the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3. This is not your average flip phone. No, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 is a sturdy, folding smartphone that allows one to sit their phones up while speaking, looking at directions or checking out their favorite videos and shows. According to New York Magazine, the phone, which starts at $1,000, has a far more durable construction than like models.
The AFRO spoke with National Manager of DMV Computerman Jarrett Harrington about smart buying of technology during this holiday season and what to look out for when purchasing new gadgets.
“The most popular gadget this holiday season are iPads, or the equivalent tablet, which would be a Microsoft Surface Pro. From parents with elementary aged children, to children with senior aged parents- they’re all looking for one as a gift for their loved one,” Harrington explained. “Now, with that being said, you don’t have to go out and buy the latest and greatest of the iPads. As long as you don’t choose a product that is considered ‘obsolete.’ If you choose to go Windows-based, just be sure it’s already running Windows 11, or can upgrade to it.”
Harrington, who said we should have an idea of what we would like to use products for when we purchase them, also advised on what to look out for when it comes to purchasing technology.
“Compatibility. Very often, consumers go in looking to purchase something for a specific task(s), but want to compromise when it comes to price point. Be sure the product you’re purchasing has the capability to accomplish what you need it to. You wouldn’t buy a Toyota Prius if you’re intending to do a drag race,” Harrington added.
The tech expert also shared the importance of supporting Black businesses during the holiday spending season.
“Whether you’re a regular patron of the business or just referring people and giving exposure on social media- any support is good support. I can assure you, it’s all appreciated,” Harrington said. “I’d also like patience. Please demonstrate some patience with our Black businesses. They truly don’t receive the same benefit and forgiveness as their White counterparts.”
DMV Computerman, 714 Ritchie Road, Capitol Heights, Maryland, is a perfect place to shop Black if looking for computers this holiday season. To learn more about the company and their products, visit: https://dmvcomputerman.com/.
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