Why 2025 is an exciting moment for tech upgrades.
Consumer electronics (CE) brands are in the middle of a major opportunity for growth. Riding a wave of AI product releases, shifting behaviors and cultural milestones, 2025 is a promising upgrade window for tech.
The natural tech lifecycle
Based on our relationships with over 200M tech shoppers, we deeply understand the rhythm of tech replacement. Most consumer tech shoppers follow a natural upgrade lifecycle of 3–7 years—driven by fresh features, sunsetting software and more.
Typical tech habits are enough to sustain this steady stream of upgraders. But in 2025, we’re set to see one of the largest movements yet.
3-7
Years is the historic tech upgrade and replacement cycle
1 in 3
Computer purchases are made at Best Buy
A new wave of "stay at home" products.
In 2020, we witnessed a spike in tech purchases as consumers built new routines. With more time spent indoors, people quickly invested in products to transform their homes into hubs for work, learning, entertainment and connection.
Fast forward to today, and that first wave of pandemic-era tech is undergoing a turnover. This isn’t simply about customers treating themselves. Pandemic-era buyers—now hobbyists, creators and remote workers—need the latest tech to maintain the new lifestyles they nurtured over the past five years.
The thrill of new tech.
Starting in summer 2024, we saw a surge of innovation from CE brands—one that’s only getting stronger. Leading the charge is, of course, artificial intelligence (AI), which has evolved from a novelty into a necessity.
Tech products with AI services and smart assistants are rapidly filling the in-store and online shelves at Best Buy. One standout example is CoPilot+PCs—the fastest and most intelligent Windows laptops yet, designed to elevate work and play with built-in AI.
An additional factor influencing tech upgrades will come as Microsoft prepares to sunset Windows 10. With support ending, many users will take the opportunity to replace aging devices—opening the door to faster, smarter laptops that showcase just how far PC performance and AI features have come.
Consumers see that the future of tech is here—and they want to be a part of it.
Best Buy is where tech lovers discover what’s next
Nearly every category of tech shopper turns to Best Buy as their upgrade destination. As the #1 CE specialty retailer, we reach millions of engaged shoppers through our stores, website, in-home services and more.
Take a closer look at three audiences who rely on us to keep up with the latest in tech.
Mobile Phone Owners
One of the most ubiquitous tech categories, our mobile phone shoppers are seeking more speed, storage and AI capabilities.
10M+
Active mobile phone customers at Best Buy
145M
Annual mobile phone page visits
Home Theater Enthusiasts
More customers than ever have an in-home cinema experience—and they’re ready to treat themselves by investing in sharper pictures and higher-quality sound.
1 in 3
Of all large TVs are sold by Best Buy
>50%
Of home theater shoppers purchase from Best Buy
PC Gamers
Gaming upgrades aren’t simply about leveling up for personal entertainment. Gamers are motivated to buy thanks to the connections they create with friends and family.
#1
Best Buy is the top brick-and-mortar retailer for PC gaming
5M+
Active Best Buy PC gamer customers
155M
Annual PC gaming visits to BestBuy.com
Let’s build an exciting future for CE shoppers
A larger audience than ever is imagining how to create new experiences with tech. Ready to give them a fresh start?
Best Buy Ads has the audience relationships and advertising solutions to meet the moment.
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