Retail
Demand Estimation with Text and Image Data
Compiani, Giovanni, Morozov, Ilya, Seiler, Stephan
We propose a demand estimation method that leverages unstructured text and image data to infer substitution patterns. Using pre-trained deep learning models, we extract embeddings from product images and textual descriptions and incorporate them into a random coefficients logit model. This approach enables researchers to estimate demand even when they lack data on product attributes or when consumers value hard-to-quantify attributes, such as visual design or functional benefits. Using data from a choice experiment, we show that our approach outperforms standard attribute-based models in counterfactual predictions of consumers' second choices. We also apply it across 40 product categories on Amazon and consistently find that text and image data help identify close substitutes within each category.
Amazon Spring Sale 2025: The best tech deals from Apple, Bose, Sonos, Beats, Anker and others
This year's Amazon Spring Sale is in full swing, and as promised, a ton of household, fashion and outdoor gear has dropped to record-low prices. Tech isn't a huge focus for this sale, but there are a decent number of devices on sale right now for some of the best prices we've seen all year. The selection may not be as good as that of Amazon Prime Day in July, but it still provides a good opportunity to save on things like headphones, robot vacuums, air purifiers and more. We've collected the best Amazon Spring Sale deals on tech gear here so you don't have to go searching for them. The Spring Sale runs through March 31, so check back here for all of the latest deals as they drop.
The Amazon Spring Sale 2025 is live: The best tech deals from Apple, Bose, Sonos, Anker and others
The Amazon Spring Sale has arrived, bringing a slew of discounts on household essentials, fashion, outdoor gear and even furniture. We at Engadget are focused on tech, and while the selection this time around isn't quite as good as that of Amazon Prime Day in July, there are some decent discounts to be had. Some of our favorite robot vacuums, air purifiers, headphones and storage gear are on sale right now for some of the best prices we've seen this year so far. Below, you'll find all of the best tech deals we could find in the Amazon Spring Sale. The shopping event runs through March 31, so be sure to check back for the latest deals as they become available.
Anker's Eufy 3-in-1 E20 robot vacuum is 150 off during the Amazon Big Spring Sale
Anker's Eufy 3-in-1 E20 robot vacuum is 150 off right now, as part of Amazon's Big Spring Sale. That brings the price down to 450, which is a record low. For those averse to using Amazon, the deal is also available directly from the company. The E20 made our list of the best robot vacuums, and with good reason. We loved the hybrid functionality, as this robovac quickly transforms into a cordless stick vacuum and a handheld unit.
iRobot's 2-in-1 vacuum and mop drops to 149 for the Amazon Spring Sale
If you're looking for a budget-friendly robot vacuum that can handle both vacuuming and mopping, iRobot's Roomba Combo Essential just hit its lowest price ever. Thanks to the Amazon Spring Sale, it's down to 150 from 275, matching the lowest price we've seen. It previously dipped to 149 during the holiday season and earlier this year, but it's unclear how long this deal will stick around this time. As you can see in our roundup of the best budget robot vacuums, we've consistently rated iRobot's machines highly for their reliability and ease of use. The Roomba Combo Essential is a simple, no-frills option that both vacuums and mops, making it a solid pick for small apartments, dorm rooms or anyone who wants a cleaner floor without spending a fortune.
Amazon Spring Sale robot vacuum deals: The best sales from Shark, iRobot, Dyson and others
One notable trend at CES earlier this year was the quirky robot vacuum. It seemed every third booth had a new model that could climb stairs, pick up socks, serve drinks and, oh yeah, suck up dirt from your floor. Now that Amazon's Big Spring Sale is here, we're seeing lots of discounts -- not on those wacky prototypes, but on robo vacs that easy and automatically keep your floors clean. Engadget has two guides to these handy home gadgets, based on years of testing and reviewing products from brands like iRobot, Shark, Dyson, Eufy and more. Here are the best deals on robot vacuums and cordless stick vacs we could find for the Big Spring Sale. This is a version of one of our top picks in our best robot vacuums guide.
85 Best Amazon Spring Sale Deals (2025)
Black Friday is months away. Amazon has spied a gap in the calendar and plans to cram it full of deals. Amazon's Big Spring Sale runs from March 25 to March 31. With no other big sale events in view, this could be a good time to snag that mesh router, set of headphones, or robo vac you've had your eye on. As usual, Amazon has discounts on all sorts of stuff, but many deals are exclusive to Amazon Prime members. Now, we're not suggesting you harvest this spring deal crop indiscriminately; we are here to help you sort the wheat from the chaff. The WIRED Gear team has run its many eyes over the list to tease out deals that are for gadgets worth owning and actually deals. Everything we highlight here has been hand-tested by one of us and deemed worthy of a spot in your home. Get best-in-class reporting that's too important to ignore for just 2.50 1 per month for 1 year. Includes unlimited digital access and exclusive subscriber-only content. The Eero Pro 6E (7/10, WIRED Recommends) mesh system is one of the easiest to set up and will deliver speedy, stable Wi-Fi across your home. Amazon's Eero makes some of our favorite mesh systems, ideal for busy families seeking a set-and-forget mesh. The Pro 6E is a tri-band system with a 6-GHz band for fast Wi-Fi at close range, and with the jump to Wi-Fi 7 systems still costly, this system is worth considering right now. But you need an Eero Plus subscription at 10 per month or 100 per year to unlock the best features, including parental controls, advanced security, and ad blocking. There are discounts on other Eero systems, so check our Eero buying guide to decide which is best for your home. DJI's debut portable power station can put out 2,200 watts steadily (2,600 watts surge), has two USB-C PD 3.1 ports (140 watts), and boasts DJI's proprietary SDC ports for fast-charging drone batteries. It can juice up phones, run microwaves or small tools, and meet most of your portable power needs, but it's an especially great choice for folks with DJI drones because it can fast charge most models.
Amazon Spring Sale vacuum deals: Shark robot vacuums are up to 47 percent off
The Amazon Spring Sale has brought a number of discounts to Shark vacuums, both cordless and robotic varieties. On the robot vacuum side of things, you can get the well-regarded Shark AI Ultra robovac for 300, or more than 100 off its regular price. This is a version of one of our top picks for the best robot vacuums. It has strong suction power, an easy-to-use mobile app and an extra-large, self-emptying base that can hold up to 60 days worth of debris. This is part of a larger sale on many Shark products.
20 books by female authors for Women's History Month
These authors made history with their powerful books. March is Women's History Month, a time dedicated to honoring the powerful, inspiring and trailblazing women who have contributed amazing things to our world. What better way to celebrate this month than by diving into books written by women? Female authors have written a diverse range of books, from novels to memoirs, to science fiction and horror. Get your bookmarks ready and prepare to be captivated by these must-read books for Women's History Month. Follow an eccentric artist and her daughter through this short novel.
Shark robot vacuums are up to 47 percent off as part of the Amazon Spring Sale
Many Shark robot vacuums and related products have been deeply discounted as part of the Amazon Spring Sale. This includes the well-regarded Shark AI Ultra robovac, which is now 300 instead of 438. The Shark AI Ultra not only made our list of the best robot vacuums, but it was our very favorite. This is a fantastic machine. The suction is strong, particularly for a robot vacuum, and the mobile app is easy to use.