### ZDNET’s Approach to Product Recommendations
When you see a product labeled "ZDNET Recommends," it signifies a carefully curated endorsement based on thorough testing, independent research, and detailed comparison shopping. The editorial team at ZDNET invests significant time in evaluating products. They consult a wide array of sources, including official vendor and retailer listings, independent review sites, and most importantly, real customer feedback. This multi-layered approach ensures that they provide recommendations that truly matter to everyday consumers. The team’s objective is to help readers make smarter, more informed decisions about technology and a variety of other products and services.
It’s important to highlight that ZDNET may earn affiliate commissions if readers purchase products via links on their site. However, this does not impact the editorial integrity of their reviews. ZDNET and its authors are not compensated for positive coverage, and the company adheres to strict guidelines to ensure that advertisers have no influence over what is covered or how it’s presented. In addition, editors meticulously fact-check all articles, and any errors or misleading information are promptly addressed and corrected.
### Black Friday: What to Expect
As Black Friday approaches, shoppers can expect substantial discounts across a wide range of merchandise, with tech products like smartwatches being among the most attractive deals. Black Friday, occurring this year on November 28, is a major sales event in which retailers such as Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, and Target slash prices on thousands of items. Unlike Amazon Prime Day, which primarily focuses on Amazon-branded products, Black Friday is universal, with more retailers participating and thus greater competition, which often leads to even better deals.
Retailers recognize Black Friday as the unofficial kickoff to the holiday shopping season, so discounts tend to be especially steep on older models of popular gadgets. For example, while the latest Apple Watch Series 11 may see modest discounts, the previous year's models like the Series 10 are likely to be offered at much lower prices. Shoppers looking for the best value on tech items should focus on these slightly older but still highly capable devices.
### Apple Watch Deals: A Closer Look
Apple launched three new smartwatches in September: the Apple Watch Series 11, Ultra 3, and SE 3. With the release of these new models, significant deals are already appearing on the Series 10, Ultra 2, and SE 2, making Black Friday an ideal time to purchase an Apple Watch, whether for personal use or as a holiday gift.
#### Apple Watch Ultra 3
The Ultra 3 is Apple's most rugged smartwatch yet, boasting the largest display, longest battery life, and comprehensive safety and health features. Designed for outdoor enthusiasts, it offers excellent connectivity even off the grid, which can be crucial in emergencies. The Ultra 3 is now seeing its first discounts since its launch, making it an appealing option for those seeking a high-end smartwatch. In hands-on testing, the Ultra 3 impressed with its multi