UAE: Mobile and PC prices slashed up to 50% to make way for AI-enabled devices
Using summer promotions and inventory clean up strategy retailers are gearing up to capitalize on products featuring AI
Dubai: The Tech market in Dubai is experiencing a significant price drop on smartphones and PCs, with discounts reaching up to 40% on even the latest models. This aggressive discounting strategy is twofold: capitalizing on summer promotions and clearing out existing inventory to pave the way for the highly anticipated launch of AI-enabled devices later this year.
Pre-AI upgrade wave
The current price cuts encompass notebooks, tablets (excluding the new Apple iPad with M4 chip), and even recently released smartphones. Discounts range from 10-20% on smartphones depending on the purchase channel, while some PC brands offer a staggering 50% reduction.
"This summer has the potential to be the best season for tech gadgets and smartphones since mid-2020," predicts an online retailer, referencing the surge in demand witnessed during the COVID-induced work-from-home and online schooling period.
The Next Big Thing?
The industry hopes to replicate the 2020 boom with AI-powered devices. "All tech brands are gearing up to launch new PC lineups that integrate AI capabilities," confirms Rajat Asthana, COO of Eros Group, a Dubai-based tech retailer. He anticipates AI to be the key driver for future growth, prompting the current inventory clearance efforts.
AI Explained
Artificial intelligence (AI) refers to the ability of machines to mimic human cognitive functions like learning and problem-solving. In consumer electronics, AI can manifest in features such as voice assistants, intelligent image recognition, and software that adapts to user behavior.
AI Devices
Early indications suggest that AI integration will come at a price. "Lenovo, Asus, and HP recently introduced Copilot-based notebooks priced above Dh4,000," reveals Asthana. The Asus Vivobook S15, one of the first models to hit the market, carries a price tag of Dh5,499.
Stocking up
The influx of super-charged chips from Nvidia suggests a major launch of AI-powered devices. Apple's latest iPad, boasting a comprehensive set of AI features, has already garnered strong initial demand in the UAE, serving as a potential glimpse into the future of the market.