As Black Friday approaches, Apple has unveiled its promotional plans for 2024, set to commence on November 29.

However, rather than offering direct discounts, the tech giant will once again provide customers with bundled Apple Gift Cards ranging from $25 to $200, depending on the product.

The promotion allows buyers to use the gift card for future Apple purchases, which could benefit customers planning to buy multiple items. However, critics note the lack of outright price cuts, particularly as rival retailers have rolled out significant discounts on Apple products.

Apple's gift card offerings

The 2024 Black Friday gift card promotions apply selectively across Apple’s product range. Key details include:

iPhone 15, iPhone 14, iPhone SE: Gift card value up to $75
M3 and M2 MacBook Air (13-inch and 15-inch): Gift card value up to $200
iPad, iPad Air, iPad Pro: Gift card value up to $100
Apple Watch SE: $50 gift card
AirPods Max, AirPods Pro 2, AirPods 4: Gift card value up to $75
Apple TV 4K, HomePod: Gift card value up to $50
Beats products (Studio Pro, Solo Buds, Pill, Flex, and more): Gift card value up to $50
Accessories (Magic Keyboard, Apple Pencil, Smart Folios, etc.): $25 gift card

Missing products

Several popular items are conspicuously absent from the promotion, with no gift cards offered for:

MacBook Pro
Mac mini
iMac
iPad mini
Apple Watch Series 10, Ultra 2, Nike, or Hermès editions
iPhone 16 models

These omissions come as other retailers, including Amazon, step in with compelling alternatives. For instance, Amazon is offering up to $100 off the new M4 Mac mini, alongside discounts on other devices.

Resellers steal the spotlight

While Apple's approach may appeal to brand loyalists, critics argue it pales in comparison to direct discounts offered by third-party sellers. These competitive deals often sell out quickly, adding urgency for bargain hunters seeking the best value for money.

Apple is unlikely to alter its gift card strategy, though additional items could potentially be added to the promotional list before Black Friday kicks off. For now, customers seeking tangible savings may find better deals with resellers.

As the shopping frenzy unfolds, consumers are advised to monitor real-time updates on available deals to secure their preferred Apple products at the best prices.