I found the 11 best early Memorial Day Apple deals: Save hundreds on iPad, Apple Watch, and more
Original reporting by ZDNet

Memorial Day weekend not only ushers in the unofficial start of summer but also brings a prime opportunity for significant savings. As retailers unveil their holiday discounts, Apple products invariably take center stage. This Memorial Day is no exception, presenting compelling price drops across some of the brand's most sought-after devices and accessories.
From immersive audio experiences to advanced wearable technology, the discounts span a wide array of the Apple ecosystem, including the premium sound of AirPods Max 2, the robust health tracking capabilities of the Apple Watch Series 11 or Ultra 2, and the precision of the Apple Pencil Pro for creative endeavors. Even smaller, essential items like the versatile AirTag and the ergonomic Magic Mouse are seeing attractive markdowns.
Unearthing the value
Our experts have meticulously identified genuine savings among the early offerings on these coveted Apple products. We prioritize deals that are truly noteworthy, often representing discounts of 20% or more, or on items rarely found on sale. This guide distills the best opportunities, ensuring you can make informed decisions and secure top-tier Apple tech at exceptional values this holiday weekend.
Memorial Day weekend reliably ushers in a wave of consumer opportunities, and this year’s Apple product sales underscore the enduring appeal of the tech giant’s ecosystem. From the advanced audio of AirPods Max 2 to the health monitoring capabilities of the Apple Watch Series 11 and the precision input of the Apple Pencil Pro, these discounted offerings present a strategic entry point or upgrade opportunity for users deeply embedded in the Apple universe. The availability of such coveted devices at reduced prices highlights the cyclical nature of retail promotions, designed to stimulate demand and onboard new users into a tightly integrated suite of hardware and software.
Beyond the discount
However, the true significance of these ubiquitous devices extends far beyond their momentary price reductions. Each Apple product, from smartwatches to wireless earbuds, increasingly serves as a sophisticated node within a broader network of artificial intelligence. Features like advanced health tracking, adaptive noise cancellation, and precise item location are powered by complex algorithms and on-device machine learning, constantly processing user data to deliver personalized and intuitive experiences. Looking ahead, the evolution of these consumer staples will be inextricably linked to advancements in AI. Future iterations will likely offer even more predictive capabilities, seamless inter-device intelligence, and hyper-personalized interactions, transforming them from mere gadgets into indispensable AI companions that shape daily life and bridge the digital and physical worlds with ever-greater sophistication. This Memorial Day’s sales, therefore, offer not just a deal, but a glimpse into an AI-powered future already taking root in our pockets and on our wrists.