AI-powered shopping tools significantly boosted U.S. online spending on Black Friday, reaching a record $11.8 billion, up 9.1% from 2024. Shoppers increasingly turned to chatbots for price comparisons and discounts amidst economic concerns. Adobe Analytics reported a remarkable 805% rise in AI-driven traffic to retail sites, as consumers sought efficient shopping experiences during a holiday season marked by tighter budgets and rising prices. Mastercard SpendingPulse noted a 10.4% growth in e-commerce sales on Black Friday, contrasting the modest 1.7% increase in in-store sales. Key sellers included LEGO sets, gaming consoles, and tech products. Despite increased spending, fewer items were purchased due to higher average prices driven by inflation and tariffs. Looking ahead, Cyber Monday is expected to achieve $14.2 billion in sales with significant electronics discounts. Overall, consumers are adapting their shopping habits in response to economic pressures, leveraging AI tools for more directed and efficient purchases.
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