Gary Shapiro CEO at Consumer Technology Association | Official website
A report by the Consumer Technology Association (CTA) forecasts that 233 million U.S. adults, or 89% of the population, are expected to purchase tech products during the 2024 holiday season. This represents an eight percent increase over last year and an 11% rise compared to 2022.
The annual Consumer Technology Holiday Purchase Patterns report highlights a trend towards high-touch devices for daily use, covering general use, productivity, and entertainment categories. Laptops, tablets, smartphones, and wearables like smartwatches and rings top this year's wish lists. Gaming consoles have notably replaced televisions in the top five product list from last year.
"The surge in U.S. consumer interest in technology products this holiday season reflects a growing demand for smart devices, AI-driven solutions, and home automation tools that offer convenience and enhanced connectivity," stated Steve Koenig, vice president of Market Research at CTA. "As hybrid work and digital lifestyles continue to evolve, consumers are investing in tech that improves productivity, entertainment and everyday living. This trend highlights how technology is not a luxury but a necessity in modern households."
Research indicates that more consumers plan to start their holiday shopping before November than ever before since 2014; however, most intend to begin shopping during Thanksgiving week and Black Friday.
Additional insights reveal:
- Smart or AI-powered devices are popular choices this season.
- Interest is increasing in streaming media devices and video subscription services as gifts.
- Thanksgiving week is perceived as offering the best deals.
- A quarter of consumers expect to complete their holiday shopping by Cyber Monday.
- Tech gift purchases are nearly evenly split between physical stores (51%) and online retailers (49%).
The CTA conducted its survey among 1,205 U.S. adults planning to shop for tech during the holiday season from August 27 to September 4, 2024. The margin of error is +/- 2.8% at a confidence level of 95%.
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