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Report: iPhone Played a Major Role in Boosting Phone Sales During the Singles’ Day Event in China

A recent analysis from Counterpoint Research reveals that the resurgence of the iPhone in China continues to flourish.

### iPhone 17 Series Rescued the Smartphone Market from a Year-over-Year Drop

Recent findings from China have underscored Apple’s triumphant turnaround, as the tech giant has successfully reversed a sustained sales downturn and is witnessing strong demand for its iPhones. This positive momentum commenced even prior to the launch of the iPhone 17 series, and since these new devices hit the market, Apple has regularly surpassed the overall smartphone market performance.

As reported by Counterpoint Research, the iPhone emerged as the top performer during China’s Singles Day sales festival, which ended on November 11. The iPhone 17 represented 26% of all smartphones sold during this event, an impressive feat when considering that overall smartphone sales only rose by 3% year-over-year. In the absence of the iPhone 17 series, the smartphone market would have encountered a 5% decline rather than this slight increase.

The report further highlighted that Huawei faced the most substantial drop among major brands, with its market share decreasing from 17% to 13%. The company’s premier Mate 80, introduced shortly before the sales event, did not manage to leverage the occasion. In contrast, Xiaomi secured the second-largest sales share at 17%, although its sales also declined in comparison to the previous year due to the earlier rollout of its Xiaomi 17 series.

These insights correspond with Apple’s forecasts outlined in its most recent quarterly report, where the company signaled that it was entering what could be its most prosperous holiday quarter to date. With a significant portion of the holiday season still to come, Apple seems poised to realize this optimistic outlook.

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Causes of the Apple Store Downtime in the United States

Users in the U.S. attempting to access Apple’s online store are currently seeing a “be right back” message, signifying a temporary outage. This scenario reflects a similar incident earlier today in Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and much of Europe. The outage is part of Apple’s preparations for its Black Friday sales event, which continues until December 1.

Throughout this event, Apple is providing gift cards valued up to $250 with the purchase of qualifying products, such as Macs, iPhones, iPads, and Apple Watches. For instance, purchasing an iPad Air, iPad (A16), or iPad mini makes customers eligible for a gift card of up to $100, whereas an eligible Apple Watch purchase will earn a $50 gift card.

Although the gift card offer is attractive, it’s crucial to remember that it necessitates an additional purchase to redeem its value, which might not represent the most advantageous deal available. For instance, Apple’s official Amazon store currently has discounts on various items, such as AirPods Pro 3 for $30 off, AirPods 4 for $60 off, and AirPods Max for $150 off. Moreover, several MacBooks and iPads are priced such that they could exceed the value of Apple’s gift cards.

For shoppers seeking the best bargains this season, it is recommended to explore platforms like 9to5Toys for thorough listings and comparisons of available offers.

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Snowy Provides Complimentary Christmas Lights, Snow Effects, and Water-Themed Wallpaper for Mac Users

### Infuse Your Mac with Holiday Spirit Using Snowy

As the festive season draws near, numerous users seek ways to infuse their devices with seasonal cheer. For Mac enthusiasts, **Snowy** is a delightful and complimentary app found on the Mac App Store that brings a whimsical flair to your desktop. This application showcases Christmas lights, an enchanting snow effect, and a one-of-a-kind Aqua-inspired wallpaper, making it a perfect companion for the holidays.

#### Snowy’s Features

**Accessibility from the Menu Bar**
Snowy runs directly from your Mac’s Menu Bar, ensuring convenient access and management. Users can easily activate or deactivate the snow and holiday lights with a single click. You also have the choice to keep the snow consistently visible or conceal it behind open app windows. For those who desire a personalized touch, the app allows adjustment of the snowfall intensity, providing a spectrum from a gentle flurry to a robust snowstorm.

**Customization of Holiday Lights**
The holiday lights feature within the app is notably captivating, presenting two primary settings: pattern and color. Users can select from various patterns, such as twinkle, wave, steady, and classic. The classic mode, reminiscent of vintage 16-bit graphics, remains a favorite among many users. Regarding color, Snowy offers multiple selections: multicolor, warm white, candy cane, blue, and rainbow, enabling you to craft a festive ambiance that reflects your taste.

#### Aqua Winterscape Wallpaper

Beyond its interactive functionalities, Snowy offers a free desktop wallpaper named **Aqua Winterscape**. This wallpaper displays a beautifully adorned Christmas tree decorated with Aqua-design Mac window controls as ornaments. Should you wish to revert to your former wallpaper, Snowy simplifies the process with just a click from the Menu Bar.

#### How to Obtain Snowy

Snowy is a newly launched application available for complimentary download from the [Mac App Store](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/snowy-by-pingie/id6755752326?mt=12) or directly from the developer’s website at

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The 5 Best Budget-Friendly Smart TV Offers for Cyber Monday

the most dependable smart TV brands such as Sony, Insignia, and Samsung. The benefit of a smart TV is its ability to connect to the internet, enabling you to stream movies, shows, and music directly from popular applications like Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, and YouTube without the need for an external device like a streaming stick.

Additionally, many smart TVs provide features like voice control, screen mirroring, and compatibility with smart home assistants such as Alexa or Google Assistant. The primary advantage is undoubtedly convenience, allowing for effortless switching between live TV, streaming services, and gaming, all with a single remote.

Whether you’re looking for an impressive 75-inch display for captivating movie nights or a more compact option for the kitchen or bedroom, there are fantastic discounts available on various models. With breathtaking 4K visuals and high-definition audio, these TVs are guaranteed to enhance your home entertainment experience without breaking the bank.

Amazon Fire TV 75 Omni Series

To start, you can purchase a 75-inch Amazon Fire TV Omni Series for only $539.99, which is $300 less than the standard price of $839.99. You can savor

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Buy Samsung’s Initial Smart Ring at a Reduced Cost Before Possible Legal Complications with Oura

A Galaxy Ring priced at $279 with no subscription necessary? That’s truly an incredible offer.

(Image credit: Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central)

Although the Galaxy Ring’s debut fell short of some people’s high hopes, much of that sentiment stemmed from its steep $399 price tag. With Samsung now offering a discount of $120 post-Black Friday, it’s far easier to justify this purchase!

Given that Oura is currently engaged in lawsuits (and winning) against competitors, now might be the ideal moment to acquire a Samsung smart ring that does not require a subscription to use. While all major retailers have the Galaxy Ring available

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Wear OS Device Offering Maximum Battery Life Now $100 Discounted for Black Friday Weekend

Owning a Wear OS smartwatch typically requires sacrificing at least one aspect: excellent battery life, sophisticated health monitoring, or availability of third-party applications (similar to what you miss on Garmin running watches). Nevertheless, the OnePlus Watch 3 is a smartwatch that excels in all these areas.

The OnePlus Watch 3 effortlessly provides up to 5 days of battery longevity, features a robust combination of health and fitness tracking capabilities, and, thanks to Wear OS, supports a wide range of Android applications. While we recommended acquiring this smartwatch even at its initial U.S. launch price of $350, this Black Friday offer makes it nearly irresistible, as Amazon has reduced the price of the OnePlus Watch 3 by $100.

The OnePlus Watch 3 stands out as one of the most comprehensive Wear OS smartwatches available, and at this Black Friday rate, it’s almost unbeatable since it provides everything you desire from a smartwatch without putting a strain on your budget.

✅Recommended if: You seek a smartwatch with multi-day battery life, reliable health tracking, and a vibrant AMOLED display complemented by excellent Wear OS app compatibility.

❌Skip this deal if: You favor a slim, lightweight design and anticipate long-term software support.

OnePlus has been manufacturing smartwatches for several years now, and the OnePlus Watch 3 represents their peak achievement. It features a large AMOLED display that’s easily viewable outdoors, whether you’re running to your job or trekking. The watch’s screen remains bright and legible in almost any scenario.

However, the standout feature of this smartwatch isn’t Wear OS, its build quality and design, or even the vibrant display. It is, in fact, the battery life. Android Central reviewer Nicholas Sutrich was unable to deplete the OnePlus Watch 3 in over four days with all features activated, including Always-On Display.

This level of stamina is typically found only in dedicated running watches like Garmin or Coros, but here, you also gain that advantage with a Wear OS smartwatch. For context, this surpasses the battery performance of the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 or the Pixel Watch 4.

Extended battery life does not equate to a reduction in features, either. The OnePlus Watch 3 provides a comparable set of health-tracking functionalities to other Wear OS watches, along with a physical rotating crown that simplifies navigation through Wear OS with minimal screen interaction.

Of course, there are a few limitations, such as a bulkier design compared to some rivals, the absence of an LTE variant, and the fact that OnePlus will offer only two years of OS updates for the Watch 3. However, at this price point, these issues are easily overlooked.

In conclusion, if you prefer the Wear OS smartwatch experience but still desire the battery longevity typically associated with non-Wear OS watches, the OnePlus Watch 3 is undoubtedly one of the best choices you can make this Black Friday.

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PlayStation VR2 Currently Offered at 50% Off Alongside Free Horizon Call of the Mountain Game

The PlayStation VR2, which made its debut at a price point of $550, has experienced its largest price reduction to date. The Horizon Call of the Mountain bundle, which was previously sold for $599, is now priced at only $299, presenting a compelling option for PS5 players. This bundle comes with the PSVR 2 headset, two controllers, and the highly praised game Horizon Call of the Mountain, provided at no extra cost.

The PSVR 2 necessitates a PS5 for functionality, but with almost 100 million PS5 units sold, a significant number of gamers are already prepared to take advantage of this cutting-edge VR headset. The PSVR 2 boasts a diverse selection of games, featuring popular titles such as Resident Evil 7 and 8, Gran Turismo, and Hitman World of Assassination.

For anyone contemplating a VR headset, the PSVR 2 distinguishes itself with its OLED display, eye tracking, and haptic feedback capabilities. Additionally, it provides exclusive games that harness the PS5’s capabilities for enhanced graphics. However, for players lacking a PS5 or those who favor a wireless setup, the Meta Quest 3S serves as a suitable alternative. Offered at $199, the Meta Quest 3S is an independent VR console with a broad assortment of exclusive games and requires no extra hardware to operate.

Both the PSVR 2 and Meta Quest 3S are up for grabs at lowered prices, making it a perfect opportunity for gamers to dive into next-generation immersive gaming.

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Dbrand Provides 40% Discount on Cases, Screen Protectors, and Skins This Weekend

Score a case along with a Prism screen protector 2-pack at almost half the price and give your phone the style it deserves

(Photo credit: Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central)

Today’s smartphone aesthetics are subpar. The latest devices are difficult to grip and unattractive, but a case and skin from Dbrand can remedy that in no time. Luckily, Dbrand is offering a 40% discount off its standard pricing during its post-Black Friday event, which means you have precisely 2 days to act and purchase from Dbrand.

To make it even better, Dbrand is including a complimentary set of unique Dbrand playing cards and offering free shipping on orders exceeding $65. <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-100048248-15043618?sid=ac-gb-7536243325983996953&url=https://dbrand.com/black-friday/grip/google-pixel-10-pro-xl-cases?addons=prism&design=tmnp" data-url="https://dbrand.com/black-friday/grip/google-pixel-10-pro-xl-cases?addons=prism&design=tmnp" target="_blank" referrerpolicy="no-referrer-when-downgrade" rel="sponsored noopener" data-hl-processed="hawklinks" data-google-interstitial="false" data-placeholder-url="https://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-100048248-15043618?sid=hawk-custom-tracking&url=https://dbrand.com/black-friday/grip/google-pixel-10-pro-xl-cases?addons=prism&design=tmnp" data-merchant-name="dbrand" data-merchant-id

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Suggested Cyber Monday Running Offers: Timepieces, Earphones, and Additional Items from a Runner and Technology Evaluator

I’ve logged more miles in 2025 than ever, relying on these devices to maintain my focus and prevent injuries.

One reason I enjoy running is that it doesn’t require a hefty investment. You purchase a few quality items and make them endure. I’ve used one pair of Brooks running shoes for over 700 miles in 2025, my shirts stem from races I participated in years ago, and my Nordstrom Rack sock packs have lasted a decade.

That said, covering that many miles becomes simpler with the right technology and tools to assist you! I frequently assess fitness watches from Garmin, Google, COROS, and others, and I’ve dedicated Black Friday to scouting the finest deals on wearable tech, including this guide on Garmin Cyber Monday watch discounts.

Whether you’re shopping for yourself or for the runner in your life, these are the Cyber Monday deals on running technology and other running stocking stuffer offers that I either intend to purchase or would consider buying if I didn’t already have them.

Cyber Monday running watch discounts

Garmin Forerunner 165: $199 ($50 off) at Best Buy
Garmin Forerunner 265: $299 ($150 off) at Best Buy
COROS PACE Pro: $299 ($50 off) at Amazon
Google Pixel Watch 4 45mm LTE: $399 ($100 off) at Best Buy
Garmin Forerunner 965: $449 ($150 off) at Amazon

All of my top six running watch selections have Cyber Monday promotions, and that’s just the beginning. Personally, I use and adore my Garmin Forerunner 970 for its impressive 15-day battery life and remarkable insights into my body’s cardiovascular and biomechanical load. However, even at a record-low discount of $100, it remains $649, too pricey for a spur-of-the-moment purchase.

The Forerunner 165 is my initial recommendation for most novice or intermediate runners, and it’s the most affordable Garmin watch I’d still suggest buying; the Forerunner 55 or Venu Sq 2 (both $149 today) are outdated in critical aspects. It provides essential data to enhance your running efficiency and boost your VO2 Max without being overwhelming.

If you’re open to spending a bit more, the Forerunner 265 is a long-time favorite of mine, refining the 165 experience with slightly improved battery life, enhanced dual-frequency GPS that accurately pinpoints your location in urban or woodland settings, and crucial Garmin data screens like training load and training readiness that clarify whether you’re putting in enough effort to progress.

Moving up the scale, the Forerunner 965 boasts an impressive 23 days of battery life and enhances the 265 with important features such as topographic maps for hiking, real-time stamina warnings alerting you when you’re nearing your limits, and a Hill score evaluating your elevation training needs.

There are alternative running watch brands besides Garmin! I’m particularly fond of COROS watches as an alternative, offering comparable training insights at lower prices. The COROS PACE Pro, for instance, provides a 20-day battery life, training load, personalized workout plans, and topographic maps, all for just $299 ($50 off).

If you’re after a genuine smartwatch equipped with excellent fitness features, my personal recommendation is the Pixel Watch 4, which excelled in my fitness evaluation with remarkable GPS and solid heart rate accuracy, plus surprisingly good battery life for both GPS and music streaming to headphones. You even receive the new Fitbit Personal Health Coach, which leverages Gemini technology to guide you through your running objectives and create a flexible training regimen, whether for a 5K or a marathon.

Other Cyber Monday running tech I’d purchase

Shokz OpenFit 2: $119.95 at Amazon
COROS HRM: $79.00 at Amazon (with potential 25% off)
Polar H10: $89.21 at Amazon
Ray-Ban Meta (Gen 1) smart glasses: $262.99 at Amazon

While much of running tech is a luxury rather than a necessity, the only devices I require to maintain my pace are a running watch and workout earbuds. For the latter, I’ve been using and loving the Shokz OpenFit 2 series throughout 2025, and I absolutely enjoy their lightweight, open-ear design, rich sound quality, and convenient button shortcuts. It’s a fantastic deal currently, although if you’re willing to invest a bit more, the Shokz OpenFit 2+ is even superior with Dolby Audio quality.

The other “essential” tool for many runners is a heart rate chest strap or armband, synced to their watch. All wrist-based optical sensors may face inaccuracies, particularly in colder conditions, so a chest strap like the Polar H10 or Garmin HRM 200 is a great upgrade for the runner in your life who already owns a running watch. The H10 is recognized as the gold standard, while Garmin’s model is just as accurate and slightly lower in price.

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