SAVE $151.99: Amazon has the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones on sale for $248, down from the list price at Sony of $399.99. That's a 38% discount.

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Credit: Sony

Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones

$248 at Amazon
$399.99 Save $151.99

 

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When it comes to tech, it's not always necessary to have the newest model. Sometimes, the older generator has plenty of features that still hold up well, and buying the previous model can come with major savings. If you've been shopping for Sony headphones, check out this Amazon deal.

As of July 30, the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones are on sale for $248 at Amazon, marked down from the list price at Sony of $399.99. That's a 38% discount that shaves $151.99 off the price.

When Sony launched the XM5 headphones, they earned a Mashable Choice Award for their sound quality, noise cancellation, and overall design. Mashable Deputy Shopping Editor Miller Kern wrote in her review, "As for comfort, the headphones’ ear cups and band are nice and cushiony. I didn’t feel any uncomfortable head squeezing or ear pressure."

Last year, Sony launched the new XM6 headphones, which have slightly improved sound compared to the XM5 headphones and folding ear cups. Aside from that, there's "nothing too major over the past generation," according to Mashable Lead Shopping Reporter Bethany Allard, who compared the Sony XM6 to the older Sony XM5.

Today's sale price of $248 at Amazon applies to the black, midnight blue, smoky pink, and silver colorways. They get up to 30 hours of battery life with a single charge, and a quick three-minute charge will earn you three hours of listening time. They also come with a protective carrying case.

The Sony XM5s have convenient features like speak-to-chat, which automatically pauses music when you speak. They also pause audio when you take them off and automatically restart when they're put back on.

If you're shopping for a pair of headphones for back-to-school season, consider today's sale price on the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones. You'll be saving over $150 while getting some of the best sound quality available and a major savings over the $459.99 price of the Sony XM6 headphones.

It's already been a very busy year for Apple. Tim Cook announced he'll be stepping aside for John Ternus, Senior Vice President of Hardware Engineering. Siri AI finally made its big debut at the WWDC 2026 keynote. The company released a new budget MacBook, and then raised prices just months later.

But, don't forget: We're still expecting the launch of the iPhone 18, the first folding iPhone, and a ton more Apple devices in the back half of the year.

So, Mashable and the rest of the CNET Group (ZDNET, PCMag, CNET, and Lifehacker) are hosting the Big Guessing Game: Apple Edition to give our readers a chance to predict the biggest Apple news. Every correct answer earns you one chance to win the new Apple Watch announced in September. (Read the full content rules.) Ahead of the September iPhone launch event, we have our readers' answers from round two of the game.

Question 1: Will Apple announce that a foldable iPhone will be released in 2026?

The foldable iPhone — rumored to be called the iPhone Ultra, or some variation thereof — is the biggest open secret in Silicon Valley right now, but Apple still hasn't confirmed its existence. However, 68 percent of respondents said they expect the phone to arrive this year, while just 32 percent answered in the negative.

Question 2: Will the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max include a black color option this year?

The lack of a black color option was a major disappointment for some Apple fans after the launch of the iPhone 17 Pro. (Scratchgate may have been the reason why.) Rumor has it we won't get a black phone this year either. The breakdown here was almost identical to question one, with 68 percent of you expecting that we will get a black iPhone.

Question 3: Will Apple announce a touchscreen MacBook in 2026?

Rumors of MacBook Pros with OLED screens and touchscreens have been spreading for awhile, and it's very possible these high-end laptops will launch in 2026.

But what do Mashable readers think? Our readers are split on this question, with 55 percent saying yes, and 45 percent saying no.

Question 4: Will Apple release new AirPods in 2026?

On this question, only 26 percent our respondents said no, with the majority (74 percent) answering in the affirmative.

Question 5: Will an M6 series chip be announced in 2026?

An M6 chip is expected to arrive this fall based on Apple's previous schedule of releases. When we posed this question to Mashable readers, 35% predicted we wouldn't see an M6 chip, while 65% believe that we will.

Don't forget to participate in the third and final round of the Big Guessing Game for another chance at winning a new Apple Watch. The last round will take place in the weeks before the iPhone launch event, which we believe will take place in mid-September.

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY to enter or win the "CNET Group Big Guessing Game" Giveaway. Open to legal U.S. residents in the 50 U.S. & D.C., 18+ yrs of age. Other restrictions apply. Begins May 19, 2026 at 12:01 pm ET and ends Sept. 1, 2026 at 11:59 pm ET. Void where prohibited. Subject to Official Rules: https://www.mashable.com/article/mashable-big-guessing-game-apple-edition-official-contest-rules/. Sponsor: Ziff Davis, LLC.

Apple is not a sponsor of, affiliated with, or endorser of this sweepstakes. Apple Watch is a trademark of Apple Inc.

Have you ever explored around Google Earth and thought to yourself, "I wish there were some generative AI features in here?" No? Well, you're getting it anyway.

Google announced that it's integrating Nano Banana, the company's generative AI image creator, directly into Google Earth.

To be more specific, Google has added its latest AI image generation model, Nano Banana 2, to its mapping platform and has rolled out a number of ways that users can utilize AI in Google Earth as well. Nano Banana has proven to be very popular, and Google previously integrated the tool with Chrome, Photos, Search, Gemini Notebook (previously Notebook LM), and Google Messages.

According to Google, Nano Banana in Google Earth can be used for a variety of purposes. Users can ask Nano Banana to:

• Generate infographics based on specific locations or landmarks

• View what a location looked like during a certain historical period

• Generate real estate plans for a lot of land

• Visualize a project before any construction starts

• Give a location or even a specific building a makeover

However, our friends at ZDNet received early access to the feature before it launched today and found that the Nano Banana implementation in Google Earth isn't really all that useful. At least not yet.

For example, according to ZDNet, the Create Image button, which deploys Nano Banana in the Google Earth toolbar, isn't provided when in Street View. ZDNet found it was easier to just take a Street View screenshot and paste the image into Gemini for AI image generation.

Furthermore, one of Google's own recommended use cases, "Bring history to life," doesn't appear to be historically accurate. ZDNet had Nano Banana generate the area around Philadelphia's Independence Hall in different time periods. While Nano Banana generated an image with the general look and feel of the time, it didn't seem to pull from any data that would show which buildings were actually around Independence Hall at the time.

The Infographic suggested use case also didn't pan out in ZDNet's tests, either. Generated infographics changed the actual layout of a location in the image and included nonsensical, garbled AI text as well.

The real estate industry has been a fairly big adopter of generative AI imagery, as they can show prospective buyers visualizations of what can be done with a home or plot of land. Google clearly had this in mind for at least some of its suggested use cases. However, Nano Banana in Google Earth seems very much like an early experimental feature at this point.

(Disclosure: Mashable and ZDNet are both owned by the same parent company, Ziff Davis.)

Maika Monroe stars as Winifred Notty, "the sanest person she's ever met," in Victorian Psycho, a bloody horror-comedy that'll have you frankly terrified of the Longlegs and 100 Nights of Hero star.

Described by Mashable entertainment editor Kristy Puchko in her review as "what if gothic horror were an eat-the-rich comedy?" the film follows the plot of a murderess governess (Monroe), appointed to teach the spoiled children of the aristocratic Pounds in late 19th century England.

Directed by Zachary Wigon (Sanctuary) with a screenplay by Virginia Feito (on whose 2025 novel the film is based), Victorian Psycho has a brilliant and brutal trailer out today, all scored to Die Spitz's impeccable "Throw Yourself to the Sword."

The Pounds family — played by Jason Isaacs, Ruth Wilson, Wednesday's Evie Templeton, and Hamnet's Jacobi Jupe — have no idea what they're in for with the arrival of Miss Notty. But the trailer gives us a terrible idea.

Victorian Psycho hits cinemas Sept. 25.

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SAVE UP TO $200: The ABOK Ark3600 portable power station is on sale for $1,099 at Amazon, down from the normal price of $1,299. The Ark3600 extra battery is on sale for $934.15, down from the normal price of $1,099.

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Credit: ABOK

ABOK Ark3600

$1,099 at Amazon
$1,299 Save $200

 

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Credit: ABOK

ABOK Ark3600 + Extra Battery

$934.15 at Amazon
$1,099 Save $164.85

 

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We have portable power stations for almost every situation. Small models are great for short camping trips, while fridge-specific models like the Jackery FridgeGuard are great for keeping food from spoiling. But if you're looking for a beefy model with plenty of power, check out this Amazon deal.

As of July 30, the ABOK Ark3600 portable power station is on sale for $1,099 on Amazon, down from the regular price of $1,299. For even more power, the Ark3600 extra battery is on sale for $934.15, down from the normal price of $1,099.

The ABOK Ark3600 portable power station comes packed with 15 outlets and a 3,840Wh LiFePO4 battery. That power capacity mixed with its design that includes a telescoping handle and durable wheels makes it a great model for longer camping trips, RV adventures, or for using at home when grid power fails.

With an uninterrupted power supply of under 10 milliseconds, you won't notice a lapse in power. That's great news for using with a refrigerator, desktop computer station, CPAP machine, or an aquarium. The Ark3600 can recharge with standard AC or up to 2,000W of solar input. In full sun with 2,000W solar, the Ark3600 can recharge in about two hours.

In addition to the ABOK Ark3600 portable power station, the expansion battery is also on sale. The ABOK Ark3600 expansion battery connects to the main power station to provide an additional 3,840Wh, doubling the power. It has a similar physical design, with a handle and wheels for easy transport. The ABOK Ark3600 can pair with two expansion batteries for a total capacity of 11,520Wh.

Upgrade your camping trips and home power supply with the ABOK Ark3600 portable power station and expansion batteries, both on sale today at Amazon.

SAVE $54.95: As of July 30, the Nespresso Vertuo Next cofee and espresso maker is on sale for just $125 at Amazon. That's a 31% price drop from its usual cost of $179.95.

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Credit: Nespresso

Nespresso Vertuo Next

$125 at Amazon
$179.95 Save $54.95

 

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You know what's even better than getting your beloved caffeine fix? Getting it on demand and at a discount.

As of July 30, the Nespresso Vertuo Next coffee and espresso maker is on sale for just $125 at Amazon. That's 31% off, or $54.95 off compared to its usual list price of $179.95. While it's been cheaper before, that's still a pretty great deal.

While many countertop espresso makers are large, clunky eyesores, the Vertuo Next is sleek and slim (just 5.5 inches wide) and won't take up much space on the countertop. The water tank is even removable to truly optimize your space, making it a particularly perfect pick for compact spaces like apartments, dorms, or even cubicles. It heats up in just 30 seconds and gives you on-demand coffee in various formats at the touch of a single button.

Choose from six different brewing styles: 5, 8, 12, and 18-ounce coffees, as well as single and double espressos brewed hot or over ice. Fill up the 37-ounce water tank, pop in a Nespresso Vertuo capsule, select your brew size, and let it do its thing. Vertuo machines are smart enough to read the barcode on each capsule and automatically adjust the settings to brew it perfectly each and every time.

If you want to take your single-serve coffee to new heights at home, Nespresso is where it's at. A piping hot shot of espresso any time you desire at the press of a button? Say no more. There's no telling how long the discounted $125 price tag will stick around, so snag the 31% savings while you can.

DJI has officially launched its Osmo Pocket 4P handheld gimbal camera across the UK, Europe, Canada, and Australia, following its Asian launch earlier this year. It still isn't coming to the U.S., though.

Previously unveiled at the Cannes Film Festival in May, the DJI Osmo Pocket 4P is an upgraded version of the Osmo Pocket 4 released earlier this year, which itself is a successor to 2023's Osmo Pocket 3. The Pocket 3 has become a favourite tool among content creators, with the 4 and 4P intended to build upon its legacy.

However, the Osmo Pocket 4P differentiates itself by having a more professional audience in mind. While it can still be used by creators who focus on making videos for social media, DJI has designed the Pocket 4P with features that specifically appeal to filmmakers and cinematographers.

The Osmo Pocket 4P's most obvious distinguishing feature is its dual lenses. Its main lens is a one-inch CMOS sensor which has 17 stops of dynamic range —  an increase from the 14 stops on the Pocket 4 — while the other is a 60-millimetre telephoto lens suitable for portrait shots. Boasting a maximum resolution of 4K at 240fps, the Pocket 4P also debuts DJI's new 10-bit D-log two-colour profile. The company states that this profile is capable of capturing over one billion colours, giving filmmakers more options and flexibility when it comes to colour grading in post-production.

The Pocket 4P is compatible with the Osmo FrameTap remote as well. Included in the 4P's Vlog Combo bundle, the FrameTap allows users to monitor and control the camera from a distance.

Credit: DJI

DJI's Osmo Pocket 4P will come in both Black and Pearl White colourways, with the latter to arrive at a later date. However, neither colour will be arriving in the U.S. for the foreseeable future.

Sadly, the Osmo Pocket 4P doesn't have a U.S. release date, as DJI is still awaiting authorisation to launch from the U.S. government. DJI's U.S. business has been severely impeded by the government's hostility toward the company, which has prevented it from bringing its products to the country. The U.S. has therefore been left out of all of DJI's most recent global launches, including the Mic 3, Osmo Mobile 8 phone gimbal, and Avata 360 drone.

As such, there's no official U.S. pricing for the Osmo Pocket 4P. However, the official UK pricing places it at £529 (approximately $706) for the Standard Combo bundle, and £605 (approximately $807) for the Vlog Combo. In comparison, the Osmo Pocket 4 Standard Combo costs £445 (approximately $594), with the Vlog Combo priced at £548 (approximately $731).

TL;DR: Get the iPhone 17 for free from T-Mobile when you trade in your eligible phone on an Experience More or Experience Beyond plan. Alternatively, the Apple iPhone 17 Pro is free when you switch to T-Mobile and bring your number on an Experience Beyond plan (no trade-in needed).

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Credit: Apple

T-Mobile: Apple iPhone 17 for free

 

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Samsung is still the center of attention. Samsung just dropped three new foldables smartphones, two smartwatches, and smart glasses, so it deserves its moment in the spotlight. But can we hold some space for Apple?

Apple prices are bumping in the face of RAMageddon, but you can still secure a limited-time offer on iPhones from T-Mobile. This popular mobile carrier has just dropped a fresh batch of free iPhone deals on the latest handsets.

You can switch to almost any T-Mobile plan and get a free iPhone 17e with no trade-in required. Alternatively, you can score the iPhone 17 for free when signing up for 24 months of an Experience More or Experience Beyond plan and trading in an eligible phone. For power users, the Apple iPhone 17 Pro is free when you switch to T-Mobile and bring your number on an Experience Beyond plan (no trade-in needed).

T-Mobile will charge taxes on these free deals, as well as a $35 device connection fee. That's a small catch, but that's how it often goes with this kind of deal.

If you’re still rocking an iPhone 12 or 13, you’re missing out on some genuinely game-changing features. The iPhone 17 is the first base model built specifically to handle Apple’s most advanced AI features. Mashable's Stan Schroeder said it's an "excellent phone that matches the iPhone Pro models in many ways that matter." That's enough for us to consider upgrading.

Get the Apple iPhone 17 for free this week with T-Mobile.

TL;DR: Lego is livestreaming a demo of its new Pokémon Smart Play sets on July 31 at 12 p.m. ET / 9 a.m. PT, just ahead of the collection's official Aug. 1 launch.

If you're the kind of person who still gets excited seeing Pikachu, Lego's new Pokémon Smart Play sets are about to make your day. Lego is livestreaming a demo of the collection, giving fans a first look at how these sets work before they officially launch Aug. 1.

The demo streams July 31 at 12 p.m. ET / 9 a.m. PT on Lego's site. If you're near a Lego Store, it's also worth stopping by during the stream — Lego says visitors can score extra rewards on that day.

What makes these sets so much fun

Mashable's Timothy Werth got hands-on with the sets ahead of launch, and by his own account, he came away completely won over — despite not even being a big Pokémon fan going in.

The sets are built around Lego's Smart Brick, a modified 2x4 piece packed with an accelerometer, microphones, speakers, LED lights, a gyroscope, and a color sensor. It responds to Smart Tags and Smart Minifigures included in the sets, meaning your Pokémon can "talk" to each other, and light up or make noises as you play with them.

According to Werth, some of the small details are what really sell it: Pikachu, Squirtle, Bidoof, Geodude, Charmander, and Eevee all make adorable noises, chattering when placed near each other, and the Pikachu Treehouse Set even hides a tiny Murphy bed where Pikachu can lie down and snore.

However, not every set includes a Smart Brick, so if you want the interactive features, you'll need at least one all-in-one set (starting at $69.99) — cheaper add-on sets start at $19.99. The full lineup launches Aug. 1, with a few sets already on Amazon and the rest up for preorder at Lego's online store.

Even a casual Pokémon fan will get something out of this — Aug. 1 is coming for your wallet either way.

Seth Meyers had a lot of Donald Trump material to wade through during his "A Closer Look" Late Night segment on Wednesday, from the president having to sit through some awkward press awards at the White House Correspondents' Dinner to Trump's unusual remarks during the memorial of Senator Lindsey Graham.

Another area that he spent some time on? Trump being called a "pedophile protector" during a recent rally, due to his association with convicted child sex offender Jeffrey Epstein — the president responded by calling the heckler a "communist".

"If someone calls you a 'pedophile protector', calling them a communist is not a great comeback. 'You're covering up for sex traffickers!' 'Oh yeah, well you want the workers to own the means of production, soooo ya burnt!" says Meyers in the clip above.

"Trump just can't get away from this Epstein thing. It's in his rallies, press conferences, Correspondents' Dinner...You know the new Trump coin they're releasing? He OK'd it before flipping it over and checking the other side," Meyers jokes, bringing up a photoshopped image of the coin engraved with one of the many photos of Trump and Epstein together.

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SAVE $10: As of July 30, select colors of the 40oz Owala FreeSip Tumbler are on sale for $34.98 at Amazon. That's $10.01 off their list price of $44.99.

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Credit: Owala

Owala FreeSip Tumbler Stainless Steel Water Bottle 40 oz

$34.98 at Amazon
$44.99 Save $10.01

 

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If you're spending a lot of time in the heat this summer, it's important to stay hydrated.

As of July 30, a selection of 40oz Owala FreeSip Tumblers are on sale for $34.98 at Amazon. That's just over $10 off their full price of $44.99. And as for what colors are on sale at this price, you can choose between strawberry fields, summer sweetness, foggy tide, daybreak, and iced breeze. Some are even at their lowest-ever price with this deal.

There's also a selection of colors on sale for $35.99, if your favorite color isn't on the maximum discount.

This durable stainless-steel tumbler is ready to join you on your summer adventures this year. Alongside its sturdy build, it has a versatile design. With its 2-in-1 FreeSip spout, you can either drink through a built-in straw or tilt it back to drink from the spout. Its push-button lid also helps keep the spout clean.

For keeping your drink cold, the Owala FreeSip Tumbler features double-wall insulation. This can keep it cool for up to 24 hours, which is great news if you're taking it along for longer periods in the day.

Some colors are marked as limited-time deals right now, so act fast to save on these 40oz Owala FreeSip Tumblers at Amazon.

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SAVE OVER $600: As of July 30, the LG 45-inch Ultragear 5K2K WUHD OLED curved gaming monitor is on sale for $1,329.99 at Amazon. That's $670 off its list price of $1,999.99.

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Credit: LG

LG 45-inch Ultragear 5K2K Gaming Monitor

$1,329.99 at Amazon
$1,999.99 Save $670

 

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As tech prices continue to rise, we're keeping an eye out for solid discounts across a wide range of items. If a new gaming monitor is something you've been hoping to buy, Amazon recently dropped a great deal on the LG 45-inch Ultragear 5K2K WUHD OLED curved gaming monitor that's worth checking out.

Normally listed at a hefty $1,999.99, this LG gaming monitor is now $1,329.99 at Amazon. Overall, that makes for $670 in savings, which is a pretty great price cut for such a high-quality display.

For PC gamers, this LG monitor is worth every cent. Its huge 45-inch OLED screen with an 800R curve is sure to immerse you right into your favorite games, and its 5K2K WUHD (5120 x 2160) resolution will make sure they look sharp, too. It also boasts a 0.03ms response time for smooth gameplay and a Dual Mode feature that lets you switch between 5K/WUHD at up to 165Hz and Wide Full HD at 330Hz.

On top of that, it also has AMD FreeSync Premium Pro and NVIDIA G-SYNC compatibility. With these, you won't have to worry about screen tearing while you're jumping into your favorite games.

If it's caught your eye, don't miss out on this great deal on the LG 45-inch Ultragear 5K2K WUHD OLED curved gaming monitor at Amazon.

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SAVE $1,202: As of July 30, TCL's 85-inch QM8L Series Mini-LED QLED Smart TV is back to its record-low price of $2,797.99 at Amazon. That's 30% off its $3,999.99 list price.

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Credit: TCL

TCL 85-inch QM8L Smart TV

$2,797.99 at Amazon
$3,999.99 Save $1,202

 

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TCL's 85-inch QM8L Mini-LED TV is back to its record-low price. Right now it's $2,797.99 at Amazon, down from $3,999.99. That's a 30% discount, saving you $1,200. It's a massive TV with premium hardware underneath, so seeing it drop back to this price is a welcome surprise.

This TV really flexes in picture quality — the Mini LED backlighting, combined with what TCL calls its "Halo Control System," is meant to give you deep, accurate blacks and colors without the halo effect you sometimes see around bright objects on lower-end Mini LED TVs.

It supports over 4,000 dimming zones and can hit up to 6,000 nits of peak brightness, which is a lot of headroom for HDR content specifically. And thanks to wide viewing angles, the picture doesn't wash out or shift in color even if you're sitting off to the side instead of dead center.

Sound is handled by Bang & Olufsen-tuned speakers, and if you want to go bigger, there's an optional wireless subwoofer and satellite speakers you can add on. For gamers, it supports a 288Hz refresh rate with variable refresh rate tech and AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, which together mean smoother motion and less input lag if you're playing competitively.

Grab TCL's 85-inch QM8L Series Mini-LED QLED Smart TV while it's at its best-ever price — before it climbs back to $3,999.99.

These days, Pokémon cards are harder to come by than human teeth, the latter being a longtime outré collectible of choice for pop star Kesha.

The Grammy-nominated artist has been collecting fans' teeth via X since 2011 (when it was Twitter), per Complex. And on Wednesday, Kesha renewed her collection's crowdsourcing mode, hitting X with a casual PO box for fans to send over their personal pegs.

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Kesha's love for collecting human incisors, canines, and molars started back in 2011, when her album Animal was topping every chart and a fan sent her a tooth (on Kesha's request) that the pop star made into a necklace — a moment that became a legendary Twitter post.

Las Culturistas podcast hosts Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang asked Kesha about the lore around her tooth fairy collection during the latest episode (it came up when they were talking about narwhals).

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"Do you know that I collect teeth?" she said. "Send 'em over."

"The teeth started when I became obsessed with my fans," Kesha added. "Someone was like, 'My child lost their teeth.' And I was like, ‘Can I have them? I want to make jewellery out of it.' So then I made a necklace, an earring, and then a belt, and then a crown. The crown's wild."

Kesha told Yang and Rogers she just "started putting [teeth] all over my home," where they're held "in little jars."

"I just started collecting them because it kind of freaks out straight men," she said.

There's honestly no better way to say it than Rogers and Yang chanting in unison: "She's a pop star and she needs your teeth." You've got the PO box address.

Donald Trump has already made plenty of confusing comments in response to the death of Senator Lindsey Graham, so it's probably no big surprise that his memorial speech went the way it did.

In the Daily Show clip above, host Jordan Klepper breaks down some of the most memorable moments, starting with the president saying: "Virtually everyone, Republican or Democrat, liked Lindsey. Well, not everybody, but it sounds good."

"I can't believe I have to say this to Donald Trump, but can you just lie to us?" says Klepper. "It's a memorial, you could paint a rosier picture. I didn't go to my Uncle Lou's funeral and tell everyone he was the Zodiac Killer, I said he was good with numbers."

Klepper then plays a clip of Trump describing how he shared Graham's personal cell phone number back in 2016 when the two were feuding.

"OK, interesting choice," says Klepper. "I might have chosen a moment that highlights Lindsey's character, but I guess the time he got 10,000 calls from guys named Mike Roch and Hugh Jazz is also equally good."

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If you've ever been to a pub quiz or a trivia night, you know folks can get granular on the details. And one X user's experience has struck a chord with fellow trivia fiends.

On Thursday, film critic Mattie Lucas (@cinemattie) posted of her experience at a local trivia night, in which punters were seemingly asked to answer one question: "Who won the Oscar for Best Actress in 2025?"

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Sounds simple enough, but if your whole category of prowess is entertainment, you're going to take issue with the phrasing of such a question.

"I asked 'for the ceremony that happened in 2025, or the year 2025?'" wrote @cinemattie. "And everyone turned to look at me like '...fuck.'"

Lucas was right to raise her hand on this. To clarify, the Oscars honour films released through the previous calendar year. So the 98th Academy Awards, held in March 2026, gave out the gold to films from 2025. The 97th Academy Awards, held in March 2025, awarded films from 2024.

So, in Lucas' trivia case, the answer could have been Mikey Madison for Anora (Best Actress at the 97th Academy Awards, held in 2025), or Jessie Buckley for Hamnet (Best Actress at the 98th Academy Awards, for a film that came out in 2025). (Lucas got it right.)

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Lucas' tweet really resonated with fellow trivia-goers on X, gaining 1.2 million views and a flood of comments backing her up.

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Look, there's often money and/or bragging rights on the line at trivia nights, she was right to ask!

SAVE $40: As of July 30, the newly-launched Wolfbox HyperFlow 60D Portable Air Compressor is $299.99 on Amazon. That's 19% discount off its $369.99 list price.

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Credit: Wolfbox

Wolfbox HyperFlow 60D Portable Air Compressor

$299.99 at Amazon
$369.99 Save $70

 

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Wolfbox just launched a new off-road air compressor, and it's already on sale — right now the HyperFlow 60D is $299.99 at Amazon. That's a 19% discount, saving you $70.

It's built specifically for off-roaders, overlanders, truck owners, and RV travelers who've dealt with cheaper compressors overheating or slowing down mid-use. The HyperFlow60D can run nonstop for up to 60 minutes, which is enough to air up all 16 tires on a 4-vehicle group trip. That's handy if you're with a group and don't want everyone standing around waiting between vehicles.

Thanks to dual 60mm cylinders and a 1080W motor, it can take a 37-inch off-road tire from 10 to 40 PSI (pounds per square inch) in under three minutes, or top off a smaller trailer tire in about a minute. The dual cooling fans make the long runtime possible by keeping the motor from overheating, even during back-to-back use.

For setting your pressure, there's a digital display that shows your PSI in real-time, and you can set a target and walk away — it automatically shuts off once it hits your number, accurate within a couple of PSI. At 18 pounds, it's light enough to toss in a truck bed or RV storage without much thought.

This compressor doesn't quit — grab Wolfbox HyperFlow 60D Portable Air Compressor at Amazon before it's back to full price.

Best Dyson vacuum deals at Amazon:

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Best upright vacuum deal

Dyson Ball Animal 2 Plus Corded Vacuum

$314.99 (save $135)

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Best cordless vacuum deal

Dyson V8

$299.99 (save $90)

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Best robot vacuum deal

Dyson 360 Vis Nav Robot Vacuum

$299.99 (save $700)

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Dyson has long been known for its incredible vacuums. Before the Airwrap and beauty devices that went viral, the brand was revered for creating some of the most reliable vacuums around. But a reputation like this doesn’t come cheap, so shopping around for deals is always a good idea when looking for a Dyson.

Amazon has dropped the price on a range of Dyson vacuums, from cordless stick vacuums to robot vacuums. We’ve rounded up some of our favorites below.

Best upright vacuum Dyson deal

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Credit: Dyson

Dyson Ball Animal 2 Plus Corded Vacuum

$314.99 at Amazon
$449.99 Save $135

 

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Why we like it

This Dyson Ball Animal vacuum is perfect for larger homes with pets. It has a powerful suction with Ball technology that makes it easy to maneuver around furniture and obstacles. Its self-adjusting cleaner head, whole-machine filtration, and five included accessories help tackle stubborn dirt, allergens, and pet mess throughout the home.

Best cordless vacuum Dyson deal

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Credit: Dyson

Dyson V8

$299.99 at Amazon
$389.99 Save $90

 

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Why we like it

The Dyson V8 cordless vacuum is a lightweight option that offers up to 40 minutes of runtime and two cleaning modes. It features a Motorbar cleaner head that can cope with all floor types, plus anti-tangle technology for long and pet hair. It can even convert into a handheld vacuum for cleaning the car or upholstery.

Best robot vacuum Dyson deal

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Credit: Dyson

Dyson 360 Vis Nav Robot Vacuum

$299.99 at Amazon
$999.99 Save $700

 

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Why we like it

The Dyson 360 Vis Nav robot vacuum uses powerful suction, intelligent navigation, and a wide brush bar to tackle dirt across all kinds of floors. It has a runtime of up to 65 minutes and can map your home via the MyDyson app. Plus, it's currently $700 off at Amazon, so it's a great chance to buy a Dyson robot vacuum for less.

More Dyson vacuum deals

• Dyson Cyclone V10 Origin — $399.99 $479.99 (save $80)

• Dyson Ball Animal Total Clean Upright Vacuum — $399.99 $554.99 (save $155)

• Dyson V15 Detect Plus Cordless Vacuum — $569.99 $649.99 (save $80)

• Dyson V16 Piston Animal Cordless Vacuum — $849.99 $979.99 (save $130)

SAVE $400: As of July 30, the Roborock Qrevo S5V is on sale for $499.99 at Amazon. That's a 44% discount on the list price.

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Roborock Qrevo S5V

$499.99 at Amazon
$899.99 Save $400

 

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The big news in the world of robot vacuums is that the FCC has banned all foreign-made mobile robots in the U.S. The ban doesn't revoke FCC authorization for previously approved devices, meaning you can continue to buy robot vacuum models already on the market. But that stock will drop, and prices might start to climb as a result.

Robot vacuum deals have never been more important. As of July 30, the Roborock Qrevo S5V has dropped from $899.99 to $499.99 at Amazon. According to price tracker camelcamelcamel, this is the lowest price for this model.

It's a powerful robot vacuum that uses 12,000Pa HyperForce suction alongside a brushless motor to lift stubborn dirt and pet hair. It also uses optimized airflow to reach awkward areas where dust might gather, such as under furniture or in hard-to-reach corners. The FlexiArm design is also well-suited for this, allowing the mop pads to extend into corners and around furniture.

The Qrevo S5V also benefits from an all-in-one smart dock. This is where all device maintenance is managed. It automatically recharges, empties dust into a storage bin for up to 10 weeks, washes and dries the mop pads, and refills the water tank for continuous cleaning.

Navigation is also handled automatically, thanks to the LiDAR scanning and structured light sensors. This allows the robot to create maps and avoid obstacles as it moves around your home. And all this can be managed through the Roborock app, where you can schedule cleans, set no-go zones, and adjust settings.

Find this robot vacuum deal at Amazon now.

SAVE OVER $10: As of July 30, the 512GB Samsung P9 Express microSDXC is on sale for $185 at Amazon. That's $14.99 off its full price of $199.99.

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Credit: Samsung

Samsung P9 Express microSDXC (512GB)

$185 at Amazon
$199.99 Save $14.99

 

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If the Nintendo Switch 2 is your go-to gaming device, it's important you have enough storage space for your games. That's where the Samsung P9 Express microSDXC comes in handy. The 512GB model offers a solid storage boost, and you can even grab it on sale right now at Amazon.

As of July 30, the 512GB Samsung P9 Express card has received a $14.99 discount off its list price, bringing it down to $185. It may not be a massive discount, but considering memory prices continue to climb, it's a deal worth checking out before the price shoots back up.

Alongside its 512GB of extra storage for your Switch 2, this memory card also boasts quick transfer speeds for booting up your favorite games, with sequential read speeds up to 800 MB/s. It also features a Dynamic Thermal Guard that helps reduce overheating, so your games run smoothly and fast.

If extra storage has been on your shopping list, this is a great opportunity to save on the 512GB Samsung P9 Express microSDXC at Amazon.

If you're curious about what else is worth buying for your Nintendo Switch 2, it's also worth checking out our breakdown of the best Nintendo Switch 2 accessories for more items we recommend grabbing.

Want to learn more about getting the best out of your tech? Sign up for Mashable's Top Stories and Deals newsletters today.

SAVE $800: As of July 30, the Samsung 77-inch Class OLED 4K S85F Series is on sale for $1,397.99 at Amazon. That's a 36% discount on the list price.

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Credit: Samsung

Samsung 77-inch Class OLED 4K S85F Series TV

$1,397.99 at Amazon
$2,197.99 Save $800.00

 

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Looking for an impressive TV deal to upgrade your living room? Look no further than this latest discount on the Samsung 77-inch Class OLED 4K S85F Series. As of July 30, this huge TV is discounted by $800, taking the price down from $2,197.99 to $1,397.99.

If you care about how your TV shows and movies look, this TV is a great choice. It's a 4K TV powered by the NQ4 AI Gen2 processor. This uses 20 AI neural networks to improve both picture and sound, so you're getting the best possible viewing experience. Plus, it benefits from AI-powered 4K upscaling, which helps improve the quality of lower-resolution content.

The processor also analyzes each scene to optimize brightness and contrast, adjusting picture quality on a scene-by-scene basis. The Pantone-validated color reproduction feature helps to display more accurate colors and natural-looking skin tones, so you'll have a more realistic viewing experience.

And it's not a bulky device that ruins the aesthetic. This Samsung TV features a slim design that's intended to blend into a range of living spaces.

This TV deal is available at Amazon right now.

TL;DR: The Motorola Razr is free with T-Mobile. To qualify for this limited-time promo, simply activate a new line on an Experience More plan.

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Credit: Motorola

Motorola Razr

Free when you activate a new line on an Experience More plan.

Shop Now

We're in the age of foldables. Samsung just dropped a bunch of new foldable devices at Samsung Unpacked, everyone is expecting Apple to do the same at their next event, and Motorola has quietly released some of the best folding phones around.

If you're interested in the latter, T-Mobile has a deal you should carefully consider.

For a limited time, T-Mobile is giving away the new Motorola Razr for free. The best part? You don't need to trade anything in to qualify for this offer. You simply need to activate a new line on T-Mobile's Experience More plan. It's as easy as that.

Of course, T-Mobile isn't handing over the phone without some strings attached. Each month, your statement will display a standard finance charge for the phone, followed by an equal credit that balances that charge. You're essentially signing up for a two-year commitment with the network. If you decide to cancel your service, switch to another carrier, or upgrade to a different plan before the end of the 24-month period, the remaining unpaid balance will become due immediately.

Is the Motorola Razr right for you? The 3.6-inch outer screen is big enough to check notifications, reply to texts, and glance at maps without opening the device. Pair that with a dual 50MP camera setup and a 4,800mAh battery that easily outlasts most compact foldables, and you get a snappy daily driver that actually fits in a front pocket.

Score the new Motorola Razr for free with T-Mobile.

TL;DR: Spin Master is launching Hellbreak, a horror-themed trading card game featuring characters from Universal, Blumhouse, AMC, and Lionsgate, including Dracula, The Bride of Frankenstein, and Jaws. It launches fall of 2026 with fully custom card art from more than 43 artists.

Ever wondered who'd win in a fight between Dracula and Jaws? Spin Master's new trading card game, Hellbreak, is here to answer that question.

It's a head-to-head TCG where players pick a monster to lead their deck, then build resources and launch attacks until one player's monster goes down — and this fall, it's bringing together horror characters from multiple major studios into one game.

Universal Products & Experiences is the cornerstone partner, and the first card set already confirms some recognizable names: Dracula, The Bride of Frankenstein, and Steven Spielberg's Jaws. Spin Master has also just added AMC, Blumhouse, and Lionsgate to the lineup, meaning the roster will expand well beyond Universal's horror catalog as more sets roll out.

Credit: Spin Master

Developed with Ghost Galaxy, the first set features fully custom art from more than 43 artists — a lot of original work rather than reused film stills. Blumhouse founder Jason Blum described the collaboration as translating the studio's unsettling style directly into gameplay, calling it "exactly the kind of fan-obsessed play we love."

The first set, Dawn of Terror, comes in a few formats. The 2-Player Starter Set has everything two people need to play, plus exclusive Jaws and Dracula cards to lead each side. Booster Packs give you 13 cards each, with one foil, one borderless, and one rare-or-higher card. There's also a Booster Bundle with 9 packs and some collector extras, or a full Booster Display with 24 packs for anyone going all in.

Dracula vs. Jaws is the kind of matchup horror fans would argue about, and now there's a game to settle it. Hellbreak arrives soon, so keep an eye out for more character reveals in the months ahead.

With nearly 80 percent of Gen Z daters reporting some level of swipe fatigue, according to a Forbes Health survey, and IRL dating experiencing a slow death as fewer people take the risk of asking someone out, what is a single young person supposed to do these days? 

If you're over hookup apps but don't see yourself going to a bar or singles meetup, there are online alternatives that deserve your attention, especially legacy dating sites that predate the swipe phenomenon. Typically, these sites feature more robust communities and more extensive personal bios, both of which make them a welcome alternative to the swipe-based mechanics of the most popular dating apps. 

One site in particular deserves your attention, probably because it's so easy for younger daters to overlook: AdultFriendFinder. Founded in 1996, AFF has three decades of history, so if you're burned out or striking out on the apps, it's worth a closer look.

Here's a short list of the pros and cons of AFF for Gen Z daters:

Pro: Built-in communities

Modern dating apps can feel very isolating, especially when you're not getting any matches. You may put in hours swiping or liking profiles, carefully taking your time to assess compatibility, only to discover at the end of the week that all your attention hasn't been reciprocated. To call that a bummer is a major understatement … 

Thankfully, there are alternatives to this doom cycle, and AFF cracked this code long ago: spaces where singles can meet in groups, have organic chats, and assess attraction more slowly and carefully, either through words, images, or webcam feeds. 

AdultFriendFinder has a Community tab, prominently displayed on the top-center ribbon, where you can interact with other users in public spaces such as blogs, contests, polls, stories, and interest groups. In addition, there's a Live Action tab where you can either broadcast your own webcam feed in hopes of attracting interested viewers or join someone else's live feed if you happen to catch their eye.

In all these cases, AFF has created pathways to connection that transcend the swipe, making it a great option for Gen Z daters dealing with app burnout.  

Con: Age distribution

One thing that's immediately striking upon logging into AdultFriendFinder is that the site hosts a wide range of ages, from the early 20s to the mid-60s and beyond. AdultFriendFinder has not responded to our requests for specifics about their age demographics, but past estimates have placed the majority demographic somewhere in the 30-38 age range, which means Gen Z, who are still not in their 30s, are not widely represented. 

In one sense, that's a definite con: you'll have a hard time meeting people your age. On the other hand, if you're not opposed to dating cross-generationally — and there's evidence that singles are becoming more open to this — this can work in your favor.

Pro: A site-only dating experience

Because it hosts nudity, AdultFriendFinder has never been allowed to offer an app in either the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store, and while there is a sneaky workaround for those who really want a phone experience, the truth is that a huge contributing factor to dating app burnout is the omnipresent nature of dating apps. If you can swipe on public transit, in between work sessions, at the gym, or on the toilet, you're never really away from the app. On the other hand, a dating website that requires a computer or tablet to access is a lot less accessible. 

If you can self-diagnose as suffering from swipe fatigue, compartmentalizing your dating life from, well, the entire rest of your existence is a good first step on the journey to recovery. It's also a good way to insist on taking the whole process seriously. It's easy to be casual about an app, especially one you can access anywhere, but navigating a dating site requires time and intention, both of which are the antidotes to the app burnout plaguing Gen Z. 

Con: Paid memberships are a necessity

In general, younger daters spend less on dates these days, so it's no small hurdle to ask them to drop precious cash on a monthly dating app subscription when there are other, totally free alternatives, but AdultFriendFinder offers some enticing, member-only perks, chief among them the ability to actually message people one-on-one. 

If you want to restrict yourself to a free membership, you can totally get away with it in public areas, where it's easiest to start conversations with strangers. But if you do happen to meet someone you vibe with, it will frustrate you that you can't take that conversation private. 

Subscription costs vary by location and the length of your commitment, but expect to pay between $20 and $35 per month for the Gold membership. It's not cheap, sure, but it's also a small sum to conquer swipe fatigue and give you a more community-based dating experience.

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Credit: AdultFriendFinder

AdultFriendFinder

 

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TL;DR: Pick up a 1-year BJ’s Club Card Membership while they’re only $15 (reg. $60).

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Credit: BJ's Wholesale Club

1-Year BJ's Club Membership with BJ's Easy Renewal® (Terms apply.)

$15
$60 Save $45

 

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Stretching your budget through the month is hard enough without also factoring in the cost of gas as you burn through a quarter tank just getting you to the stores you have to shop at. If you want a smarter way to shop, try going to BJ’s. Instead of doing a bunch of little trips, you can consolidate all your shopping to one stop, whether you need groceries, clothes, or bulk essentials like paper towels. Right now, a BJ’s Club Card Membership is also only $15 (normally $60).

BJ’s Wholesale Club is a place to shop for family essentials, including fresh foods, produce, deli items, household staples, and more. BJ’s members can save up to 25% off grocery store prices, but that’s not the only reason to shop there. You can also look out for new clothes, seasonal décor, toys, tech, and furniture.

Tank running low? Fill up on your way out, and don’t forget you could get extra savings through the BJ’s Fuel Saver Program when you buy eligible products in the club. That’s a whole lot easier than making one more stop on top of all your other errands.

You don’t have to shop in-store to use the membership. BJ’s has an app that lets you shop online and choose curbside pickup or same-day delivery when it’s available in your area. You can also add digital coupons directly to your membership card, so the discount applies automatically at checkout.

This deal is for new members only and gives you a code you can redeem directly on BJ's.com to create your membership. Your membership comes with auto-renewal enabled, but you can switch it off in your account settings if you want to control when you re-up.

Give your family a little breathing room this month. Get a 1-year BJ’s Club Card Membership for $15.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Looking for something great to watch at home? Streaming subscribers are spoiled for choice between Hulu, Netflix, HBO Max, Disney+, Apple TV, Prime Video, Shudder, Paramount+, Peacock, and more. And that's before you even look at the vast libraries of movies and television programs within each streamer!

Don't be overwhelmed or waste an hour scrolling through your services to determine what to watch. We've got your back, whatever your mood. Mashable offers watch guides for all of the above, broken down by genre: comedy, thriller, horror, documentary, and animation, among others. But if you're seeking something brand new (or just new to streaming), we've got you covered there, too.

16. The Super Mario Galaxy Movie

This sequel to 2023's smash hit The Super Mario Bros. Movie brings in new characters — including Yoshi, Princess Rosalina, Bowser Jr., and Fox McCloud — for a befuddling adventure across the Nintendo galaxy of IP. While there's technically a plot about Bowser Jr. abducting Rosalina so he and Bowser can build a new domain together, the movie is more interesting in tapping into gamer nostalgia. It functions more as a commercial than a film.

As I wrote in my review, "I don't hate this movie. I hate what it so nakedly stands for. With the rise of the internet and streaming, movie theaters are in a grim battle to keep audiences interested. And despite seeing such heartening box-office successes for original movies like Sinners, Weapons, and KPop Demon Hunters, we're also being served horrendously unoriginal, ugly, and uninspired trash like this. It's not meant to challenge us or thrill us. Movies like this are meant to distract us briefly from the world on fire and then urge us to buy something. It's the worst part of TikTok and Saturday morning cartoons invading theaters masquerading as cinema. Like its predecessor, it may make tons of money, but that won't make it good."* — Kristy Puchko, Entertainment Editor

Starring: Chris Pratt, Anya Taylor-Joy, Charlie Day, Jack Black, Keegan-Michael Key, Benny Safdie, Donald Glover, and Brie Larson

How to watch: The Super Mario Galaxy Movie is now streaming on Peacock.

15. The Death of Robin Hood

It's admittedly lazy to critique a film by saying, "But why, though?" And to my credit, I did a full review of Michael Sarnoski's bleak and inexplicable reimagining of The Death of Robin Hood. But weeks since its theatrical release, the performances of Hugh Jackman and Jodie Comer don't stand out as much as the echoing "why, though?" of it all. Of all the mythical figures to reimagine, why reinvent Robin Hood as a not a champion for the have-nots and reckoning of the haves, but a selfish, reckless thief and murderer, looking back on his violence with a grudging acceptance?

As I wrote upon its release, "This deeply cynical spin on the legend of Robin Hood has no discernible message beyond some trite platitude of the power of second chances. Despite its star-studded cast, and a powerful blend of hard-hitting sound effects and jolting on-camera violence, The Death of Robin Hood feels politically, spiritually, and emotionally hollow." — K.P.

Starring: Hugh Jackman, Jodie Comer, Bill Skarsgård, Murray Bartlett, and Noah Jupe

How to watch: The Death of Robin Hood is now available for rental or purchase on Prime Video.

14. The Devil's Mouth

It's summer! So, 'tis the season to be traumatized by shark movies. Named for a (fictional) cave system in Thailand, The Devil's Mouth plunges into a vacation-gone-wrong tale about a gaggle of post-grad college friends, who find their bright futures threatened by a ravenous sea creature.

Director Jeff Wadlow has previously served up such twisted horror offerings as Imaginary, Fantasy Island, and Cry Wolf. So, adjust your expectations accordingly. Will The Devil's Mouth be on par with Jaws or even Deep Blue Sea? Probably not. But will it be a splashy/thrashy fun time. Probably! — K.P.

Starring: Kathryn Newton, Lana Condor, Nico Hiraga, Gavin Casalegno, Tommi Rose, and Tayme Thapthimthong

How to watch: The Devil's Mouth is now streaming on Prime Video.

13. Snoopy Presents: There’s No Place Like Home, Snoopy

Summertime means yard sales, and that's bad news for Charles M. Schulz's beloved doggo, Snoopy. See, amid the bustle, Sally Brown accidentally sold his dog house. This pitches Charlie Brown into a quest to recover the iconic red dog house. And along the way, there'll be life-affirming scenes and heart-warming humor. — K.P.

Starring: Riley Vargas, Terry McGurrin, Rob Tinkler, and Kitai O’Garro

How to watch: Snoopy Presents: There’s No Place Like Home, Snoopy premieres on Apple TV on July 31.

12. The Bombing of Pan Am 103

Based on the events surrounding the 1988 Lockerbie bombing, The Bombing of Pan Am 103 is a docudrama that you might want to avoid if you've got a flight coming up.

Created by Jonathan Lee, this six-part BBC limited series begins with the disaster, which was the deadliest terrorist attack in British history, and follows the transnational investigation into it. Stories of personal grief and the fight for answers and justice are sure to make this show hit hard. — K.P.

Starring: Connor Swindells, Merritt Wever, Patrick J. Adams, and Eddie Marsan

How to watch: The Bombing of Pan Am 103 is now streaming on Netflix.

11. Lollapalooza Livestream

Even if you couldn't snag tickets to Lollapalooza, you can still get into the festival fun by livestreaming select sets from your own home with Hulu and Disney+. This year's festival has something for everyone, whether you want to catch Charli XCX's first festival performance since the release of Music, Fashion, Film; groove along with Grammy–winning Best New Artist Olivia Dean; or rock out with the Smashing Pumpkins. Other headliners include Lorde, John Summit, Jennie, Tate McRae, and the XX, so start planning out your virtual festival itinerary! — Belen Edwards, Entertainment Reporter

How to watch: Lollapalooza Livestream begins on Hulu and Disney+ on July 30.

10. Diarra from Detroit, Season 2

Creator and star Diarra Kilpatrick is back with season 2 of Diarra from Detroit, a series that blends neo-noir thrills with side-splitting comedy.

Kilpatrick stars as Diarra Brickland, a schoolteacher with a sharp wit and a bad habit of tumbling into amateur detective shenanigans. In Season 2, she's trying to live her hot girl summer dreams, but instead she gets tangled in a nightmarish triple homicide case. Naturally, this demands her going undercover, pursuing urban legends like "ghetto Goonies," and handling some "it's complicated" relationship issues. — K.P.

Starring: Diarra Kilpatrick, Morris Chestnut, DomiNque Perry, Claudia Logan, Bryan Terrell Clark, Shannon Wallace, Jon Chaffin, and Phylicia Rashad

How to watch: Diarra from Detroit Season 2 debuted on Paramount+ with two episodes on Wednesday, July 29, followed by one new episode every Wednesday through September 9.

9. The Idaho Murders: College Nightmare

It's the quadruple homicide that shocked the nation, and left us with no satisfying answers as to motive. On November 13, 2022, the remains of four University of Idaho students — Madison Mogen, Kaylee Goncalves, Ethan Chapin, and Xana Kernodle — were found in a rental house in Moscow, Idaho. The resulting murder investigation would uncover a killer who'd be convicted in 2025. But The Idaho Murders: College Nightmare can't give us the why of it all.

The new doc series speaks to the friends and family of survivors, along with interviews with the police who worked the case and reporters who covered it. Documentarian Skye Borgman, who helmed such Netflix true crime docs as Abducted in Plain Sight and Unknown Number: The High School Catfish, explores the investigation across three episodes. Including interrogation footage with the surviving roommates, this is the deepest dive into the University of Idaho murders I've seen on TV yet. But be warned: Even when you know the facts of the case, this doc will give you chills. — K.P.

How to watch: The Idaho Murders: College Nightmare is now on Netflix.

8. Soulm8te

Soulm8te is being billed as "from the creators of M3GAN," to lure fans of the freaky, funny horror hit. But be warned, aside from "AI femmebot kills people," the films have very little in common.

Co-written and directed by Kate Dolan, Soulm8te centers on a widowed engineer (David Rysdahl) who's tasked to test a prototype for a companion bot (Lily Sullivan). Naturally, he begins messing her code to make her more human, and he turns his life into Fatal Attraction with a robo-twist. Low budget and derivative, Soulm8te will remind you of a lot of better movies, including Species, M3GAN, and Companion, without adding anything interesting to the ongoing AI discourse. But it does offer cheap thrills in terms of onscreen sex and violence. So there's that. — K.P.

Starring: Lily Sullivan, David Rysdahl, and Claudia Doumit

How to watch: Soulm8te comes to digital on Aug. 1.

7. The Drama

Between The Drama and Euphoria, it's a big year for Zendaya and disastrous onscreen weddings. One of the buzziest films of 2026 so far, The Drama pairs Zendaya and Robert Pattinson as a seemingly perfect engaged couple named Emma and Charlie. In the days leading up to their wedding, the couple — prompted by friends Rachel (Alana Haim) and Mike (Mamoudou Athie) — confess the worst things they've ever done. Emma's admission leaves jaws dropped, and Charlie in a spiral.

What follows is a harrowing interrogation of Emma and Charlie's relationship and how people perceive it. While Zendaya and Pattinson are tremendous, Mashable Entertainment Editor Kristy Puchko was less impressed with writer/director Kristoffer Borgli's execution, writing in her review (which, fair warning, contains spoilers should you want to go into the film blind), "But much like [Borgli's prior film] Dream Scenario, his actors give more than his undercooked script deserves."* — B.E.

Starring: Zendaya, Robert Pattinson, Mamoudou Athie, Alana Haim, Hailey Gates, and Zoë Winters

How to watch: The Drama begins streaming on HBO Max on July 31.

6. Nightborn

In 2022, Finnish filmmaker Hanna Bergholm brought horror fans the unique maternal terror of Hatching. Now, she's back with a sister flick of sorts, Nightborn.

Seidi Haarla stars as a Saga, a married new mom who fears there's something off about her new baby. He's covered in hair, growls at the nearby forest, and can't abide sun on his skin. Plus, he brings out a feral side of Saga that scares her and her befuddled husband (Rupert Grint). A psychological thriller with a folklore edge, Nightborn is a slow-burn offering that's sure to creep out new parents. —K.P.

Starring: Seidi Haarla, Rupert Grint, Pamela Tola, Pirkko Saisio, Rebecca Lacey, and John Thomson

How to watch: Nightborn debuts on Shudder and AMC+ on July 31.

5. Supergirl

After bringing chaotic glee to the end of 2025's Superman, Milly Alcock reprised her role as Clark's hard-partying cousin Kara in director Craig Gillespie's Supergirl.

Based on the comic miniseries Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow, the story follows the eponymous heroine as she chases down Krem of the Yellow Hills (Matthias Schoenaerts), a multihyphenate of villainy who pillages, rapes, kidnaps, and murders people across space. In tow is a vengeance-seeking girl named Ruthye (Eve Ridley). Plus Aquaman's Jason Momoa is back in the DC Universe, this time as the bounty-hunting anti-hero Lobo.

Critics panned Supergirl. In my review, I wrote, "While I enjoyed myself, I was never really blown away by this superhero movie. I left pleased, but not in awe, not craving a chance to see it again immediately. Still, if Warner Bros. greenlit a sequel, I'd be game to give Kara and her crew another go." — K.P.

Starring: Milly Alcock, Matthias Schoenaerts, Eve Ridley, David Krumholtz, Emily Beecham, David Corenswet, and Jason Momoa

How to watch: Supergirl is now available for rent or purchase on Prime Video.

4. Crazy Ex-Girlfriend

One of the best comedies of the 2010s is streaming — for free! — starting this week, so if you missed the boat on this gem when it aired, you now have a chance to right that wrong. 

Created by and starring Rachel Bloom, Crazy Ex-Girlfriend introduces successful lawyer Rebecca Bunch (Bloom), who uproots her whole life to West Covina, California, after a chance run-in with her old camp boyfriend, Josh Chan (Vincent Rodriguez III). Will her new home and pursuit of Josh finally win her the happiness and fulfillment she seeks? As the show's earworm of a theme song explains, it's actually a lot more nuanced than that, and Crazy Ex-Girlfriend proves to be a clever, thoughtful examination of mental health and romantic tropes. Oh, and did I mention the whole thing is a musical? The songs are absolute bangers, smartly parodying everything from show tunes to power ballads to '80s girl-power anthems. They'll get stuck in your head, but you'll be grateful for it. — B.E.

Starring: Rachel Bloom, Vincent Rodriguez III, Santino Fontana, Donna Lynne Champlin, Pete Gardner, Vella Lovell, Gabrielle Ruiz, David Hull, Scott Michael Foster, and Skylar Astin

How to watch: Crazy Ex-Girlfriend is now streaming on Pluto TV.

3. The Devil Wears Prada 2

The word "iconic" gets thrown around a lot these days. But there's no denying that The Devil Wears Prada movie adaptation was iconic. The fashion had audiences gagging on the eleganza of Andy Sachs' (Anne Hathaway) stylish journey of self-discovery working under the iron fist that was Runway magazine's editor-in-chief Miranda Priestly (Meryl Streep) — herself a thinly veiled Anna Wintour. Who among us hasn't yelled, "Gird your loins!" in a clumsy Stanley Tucci impersonation? Or felt smug about cerulean ever since we first heard that epic monologue?

Twenty years later, this chic sequel picks up with the tables turned. Andy is a successful journalist, while Miranda's reign at Runway is threatened by a current scandal. Will Andy aid her? Or expose her?*

Mashable's Shannon Connellan wrote in her review, "Offering the season's most anticipated collection of high fashion, celebrity cameos, and sweeping statements on modern media, The Devil Wears Prada 2 delivers an expertly tailored sequel, made-to-measure and unmistakably its own brand."* — K.P

Starring: Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, Emily Blunt, Stanley Tucci, Lucy Liu, Justin Theroux, B. J. Novak, Simone Ashley, and Pauline Chalamet

How to watch: The Devil Wears Prada 2 is now streaming on Disney+ and Hulu.

2. Leviticus

We saw Leviticus after we locked our list of best horror films of 2026 so far around the mid-year mark. But make no mistake, Leviticus is one of the best horror movies of 2026 and maybe the decade.

From my review: "Australian writer/director Adrian Chiarella makes his sensational feature directorial debut with Leviticus, a title that refers to a book of the Bible in which homosexuality is declared an 'abomination.' However, rather than being a film that condemns the queer boys at its center, Leviticus empathizes with their yearning and the terror caused by the parents who should love them. Brewed with equal parts desire and dread, this Australian horror thriller explores how homophobia can be the real monster in the closet."

Be warned, you can rent or buy this one. And I predict you'll want to rewatch. So plan accordingly. — K.P.

Starring: Joe Bird, Stacy Clausen, Jeremy Blewitt, and Mia Wasikowska

How to watch: Leviticus is now available to rent or purchase on Prime Video.

Best of streaming this week: Furious

Our must-see pick for the week is the latest TV series from Elizabeth Meriwether (New Girl and Dying for Sex). Furious centers on the cat-and-mouse dynamic between an FBI agent (Emmy Rossum) and a female serial killer (Lola Petticrew) on a mysterious mission for vengeance.

You can watch the first three episodes now, and dive into our spoiler-rich interviews with Meriwether, Rossum, and Petticrew. And you should, because as I cheered in my review of the whole season, "Meriwether has built a slow-burn thriller where the cop and the killer share a complicated relationship with violence. The murder scenes of men are brutal, but this provides a strange balance to the flood of media where the rape of women is treated like a naughty spectacle. The exploration of trauma and the messiness of healing is thoughtful and thought-provoking. The humor is dark yet humane. And the finale will have you cheering, gasping, and craving more." — K.P.

Starring: Emmy Rossum, Lola Petticrew, Quincy Tyler Bernstine, and Scoot McNairy

How to watch: The first three episodes of Furious are now streaming on Hulu and Disney+. New episodes stream Mondays, with the season finale arriving on Aug. 31.

(*) denotes a blurb came from a prior list.

TL;DR: Get Babbel lifetime access for $159 through Aug. 16 with code LEARN and learn all 14 languages with lessons designed by expert linguists.

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Credit: Babbel

Babbel Language Learning: Lifetime Subscription (All Languages)

$159
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Learning a new language isn’t easy, but it also might not be as hard as some apps make it seem. If memorizing vocab lists isn’t working for you, check out Babbel. They take a more practical approach to teaching, and there’s even an AI conversation partner who can help you practice your pronunciation.

Through Aug. 16, new U.S. users can get a Babbel Language Learning Lifetime Subscription for $159 with the exclusive StackSocial code LEARN.

Babbel gives you lifetime access to courses in 14 different languages, and the format is designed to fit into real life. Each lesson takes around 10 to 15 minutes, so you can actually stick with it whether you’re commuting, traveling, or just squeezing in some study time between meetings.

Here are a few of the included languages:

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Unlike other apps that focus heavily on word games or repetitive matching drills, Babbel centers its content around practical conversation topics. You’ll get lessons on travel, shopping, business, culture, and more, all developed by expert linguists and backed by academic research.

Speech recognition helps fine-tune your pronunciation, while the new AI-powered conversation partner lets you practice speaking in real time.

Lessons sync across devices, so you can start on your computer and finish on your phone. There’s also an offline mode if you want to download lessons in advance. You can move at your own pace, revisit review sessions, and jump between beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels based on your comfort.

Use code LEARN by Aug. 16 at 11:59 p.m. PT to get a Babbel lifetime subscription for only $159.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Jane Wickline's sense of humor is a unique flavor of absurdist. Her delivery is devotedly flat. Her perspective is off-kilter with a tendency toward the perverse. Yet her charm is undeniable as she sings about overstaying her welcome at a party or the trouble of falling in love with a psychic. Whether on TikTok, Saturday Night Live, or in her sketch-comedy-musical Dukes opposite collaborator Liva Pierce, her performance style evokes that surreal point at a slumber party where your sleep-deprived brain is giggly, maybe a bit confused, but ultimately blissful.

Her powers are only enhanced when combined with Pierce, so Dukes, now playing at SoHo Playhouse in New York, is a real trip, like in the way you might wonder if someone slipped you an edible beforehand. Thankfully, it's a collective trip, so surrounded by 170+ fellow passengers, you journey through this bizarre tale of friendship, firemen aspirations, and financial despair, buoyed by waves of laughter.

What's Dukes about?

Jane Wickline and Liva Pierce star in "Dukes." Credit: Dev Bowman

Written by Wickline and Pierce, Dukes is about two roommates — named Jane and Liva — who hate their jobs and dream of greater things, like finding a missing crystal goose for a handsome reward.

Walking into this show on a Friday night, I was coincidentally carrying with me recent rewatches of two extraordinary buddy comedies, Barb and Star go to Vista Del Mar and Romy and Michele's High School Reunion. It's with no small measure of delight that I tell you Dukes is well-paired with either.

Wickline and Pierce play clownish versions of themselves, passionate but deeply idiotic. Liva is the Romy, more headstrong and effectively the decision-maker of the two, setting up a double date or instigating a sapphic cucking scene with a willing neighbor. Jane's more the Michele, blithely following her passions for haphazard engineering with little concern for the consequences (like losing her survival job).

But perhaps I'm overemphasizing the plot of Dukes, which is ultimately a framework for ludicrous songs, several of which can be seen on Wickline's TikTok account.

Dukes is at its best in the musical numbers.

Jane Wickline and Liva Pierce star in "Dukes." Credit: Dev Bowman

Wickline and Pierce's comic personas offer an intentionally stilted awkwardness, reminiscent of another musical comedy duo, Flight of the Conchords. However, while Dukes has toured across America, its stars haven't locked into a thoroughly engaging through line. The sketches, though funny, can feel flimsy, even episodic. But the songs are solidly hilarious.

As with Flight of the Conchords, these zany tunes spring from the lives of Jane and Liva, offering heightened versions of themselves that are outright ludicrous. For instance, in the opening song where they wish for a "new kind of porn," rather than talking graphic sex, they suggest — with straight faces — innovations like "claymation." And it's supremely silly while also feeling like a sly critique of film-bro snobbery. Such a cheeky critique would tie back to the title, Dukes.

Early on, the pair ponder their dream, to have enough money and power that they could quit their dumb office jobs and focus on their eccentric hobbies. They could live like dukes — not aristocracy, mind you — but dykes who are dudes. The dream.

From there, each comedian takes on a new role, courtesy of some abused Party City wigs. Pierce in a pink wig becomes a femme love interest for a love song, in which Wickline breaks the fourth wall to eye roll to the audience to sensational effect. Later, she'll plop on a blonde monstrosity that looks like a last-minute Halloween costume of Nicole Kidman. In this guise, Wickline plays a "milf" who asks probing questions about gender identity to Liv, her teenage nonbinary babysitter, who was hoping for a May-December hookup, not a buzzkill heart-to-heart.

Jane Wickline plays a "milf" opposite Liva Pierce in "Dukes." Credit: Dev Bowman

Through these scenarios, Wickline and Pierce paint a side-splitting portrait of queer friendship, relishing in the sublimely stupid. The show becomes a celebration of being seen as the oddball you are.

Those who love Wickline's socially awkward appearances on Weekend Update will revel in Dukes, where she is not hemmed in by any expectation to appeal to a commercial audience. In this space, she and Pierce spread their wings and rather than soar, do a chaotic call for weirdos. And it works.

Dukes is running at the SoHo Playhouse.

BTS will not be entering their album ARIRANG for consideration at the 2027 Grammy Awards.

In syndicated Instagram stories shared across all seven members' accounts, RM, Jin, SUGA, j-hope, Jimin, V, and Jung Kook issued a statement on their decision. Translated from Korean by the Meta-owned platform, each statement reads:

"We have decided not to enter the Grammys this year. I hope music itself can be heard and loved rather than being distinguished by region or language."

Each member then thanked BTS fans, known as ARMY, and "all of you who are always with me," to close the statement.

The K-pop powerhouse's decision to not put their sixth studio album forward for the Grammys comes a month after the Recording Academy's addition of five new award categories in June, including Best Asian Pop Music Performance. This award in particular came under scrutiny from K-pop fans and journalists alike, called out as another example of the Grammys splitting awards when non-white artists and artists who perform in languages other than English dominate the cultural zeitgeist and deservedly take home the gold.

The Grammys' description for Best Asian Pop Music Performance describes the award as one that "recognizes artistic excellence in Asian pop music performances originating from or widely recognized within Asian markets, including but not limited to K-pop, J-pop and C-pop, with meaningful use of one or more Asian languages." The rules have a few more paragraphs of detail, but essentially, the award groups "Asian pop" into one generalised category, which is separate from major categories like Album of the Year and Record of the Year.

Teen Vogue's Ayan Artan placed the Grammys' new Best Asian Pop Music Performance award "as part of a history of gatekeeping non-white artists from major award categories."

"There seems to be a pattern emerging here, and it becomes increasingly difficult to dismiss it the more you pay attention," Artan writes. "It goes like this: A non-white artist breaks into mainstream-music consciousness by delivering a critically acclaimed project and looks likely to win a Grammy in a major category. Soon after, a new category is announced by the Recording Academy to help segregate these artists."

Beyoncé's Cowboy Carter wins Album of the Year? The Grammys splits the Best Country Album category into Traditional and Contemporary. In response, social justice advocate Terrell Couch wrote for Essence, "A separate but equal country album category does not broaden the genre’s influence; rather it reflects an ugly truth about America."

Bad Bunny’s Debí Tirar Más Fotos wins Album of the Year with a Spanish-language record? The Grammys adds an award for Best Latin Song.

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BTS' ARIRANG landed in March, marking the anticipated return of the K-pop superstars after a four-year hiatus, during which they fulfilled South Korea's mandatory military service and spent time on solo projects. ARIRANG, as well as lead single "SWIM," both debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard charts. The album was critically heralded. The group's 34-city, 82-show ARIRANG world tour is essentially completely sold out. To say BTS' comeback album is leading mainstream music conversation is an understatement.

And it's BTS' own statements that show just how aware of the Grammys award-splitting the group seems to be: "I hope music itself can be heard and loved rather than being distinguished by region or language."

BTS has five Grammy nominations, the first K-pop artists to be nominated, and have performed at the Grammys several times, including the 64th Grammy Awards in 2022 in Las Vegas, Nevada, before their hiatus.

BTS perform during the 64th Grammy Awards in April 2022 in Las Vegas. Credit: Matt Winkelmeyer / Getty Images

Fans have reacted to BTS' decision with wholehearted support, with ARMY hitting social media with praise.

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Mashable has reached out to the Recording Academy and HYBE, the company that owns BTS' label Big Hit Music, for comment.

On Thursday, Grammy CEO Harvey Mason Jr. issued a statement on BTS' decision, per Variety, saying he was "saddened to hear that BTS has chosen not to participate in the Grammy Awards process this year, but as a music creator, I understand and respect their decision."

Mason Jr. explained in his statement that "the Asian Pop category was created to celebrate the depth, diversity and extraordinary growth of pop artistry coming out of Asia. The spirit of this new category is to shine a dedicated spotlight on these important artists. More categories mean more artists’ work is recognized. It’s never to divide, but to expand who is recognized by our 15,000 Grammy voters."

The CEO also maintained that "submitting music in a genre category such as Asian Pop, or Jazz or Country does not exclude an artist from also submitting and being considered in the General Field categories, including Record of the Year, Album of the Year and Song of the Year."

UPDATE: Jul. 30, 2026, 9:46 a.m. GMT Added statement from Grammy CEO Harvey Mason Jr.

The best Apple deals of the week:

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Best iPad deal

Apple iPad Pro, 13-inch (M5, WiFi, 512GB)

$1,549.99 (save $149.01)

Get Deal

---

Best MacBook deal

Apple MacBook Pro, 14-inch (M5 Pro, 24GB RAM, 2TB SSD)

$2,499 (save $500)

Get Deal

---

Best AirPods deal

Apple AirPods 4

$99 (save $30)

Get Deal

---

Best Apple Watch deal

Apple Watch Ultra 2 (GPS + Cellular, 49mm)

$629.99 (save $269.01)

Get Deal

---

Best Apple accessory deal

Apple AirTag (2nd Generation), 4-Pack

$89 (save $10)

Get Deal

The Apple Store's Back to School promo is in full swing right now, meaning college students who buy a new MacBook or iPad direct get a free gift card worth up to $150. It's a pretty good deal when you factor in Apple's usual $100 education discount, too. But if you're ineligible, fret not: There are plenty of other great Apple deals to be had around the web this week.

The best ones I've spotted at third-party retailers are going to premium "prosumer" Apple devices like the MacBook Pro, iPad Pro, and Apple Watch Ultra 2. Of particular note, Amazon and Best Buy have a 14-inch MacBook Pro with a 15-core M5 Pro chip, 24GB of RAM, and 2TB of storage listed for $2,499, or a whopping $500 off. For reference, it cost $2,599 before Apple's price hikes earlier this summer, and the Apple Store currently sells it in refurbished condition for $2,539.

If you're working with a particularly tight budget, you might also consider leasing a new Apple device through the all-new Apple Upgrade program, which launched in the U.S. this week. Shoppers can rent a new MacBook, iPad, Apple Watch, or iPhone for as little as $11.99 per month for up to 36 months through Klarna. It's a decent short-term solution for cash-strapped folks, but know that you won't automatically own your device at the end of your leasing period. You either have to upgrade it, return it, or pay the difference between your leasing fees and its MSRP to make it officially yours. (In other words, you won't save money in the long run if you plan on buying your rental eventually.)

For actual savings on a new device upfront, check out my exhaustive list of the best Apple deals as of July 30.

Best iPad deal

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Credit: Apple

Apple iPad Pro, 13-inch (M5, WiFi, 512GB)

$1,549 at Amazon
$1,699 Save $150

 

Get Deal

The M5 iPad Pro is our top pick for professional creatives and other power users. It's a splurge, to be sure, but it's prettier and pepper than any other tablet on the market. (Mashable tech editor Timothy Beck Werth was wowed by its Tandem OLED display when he tested it.) Amazon's current discount on the 13-inch Space Black model with 512GB of storage almost nullifies Apple's $200 price increase. The Silver version was slightly more expensive at the time of writing, FYI.

Read Mashable's full review of the Apple iPad Pro (M5).

More iPad Pro deals

• Apple iPad Pro, 11-inch (M5, WiFi, 256GB) — $1,139.99 $1,199 (save $59.01)

• Apple iPad Pro, 11-inch (M5, WiFi, 512GB) — $1,327.50 $1,399 (save $71.50)

• Apple iPad Pro, 13-inch (M5, WiFi, 256GB) — $1,424 $1,499 (save $75)

• Apple iPad Pro, 11-inch (M5, WiFi, 1TB) — $1,710 $1,799 (save $89)

• Apple iPad Pro, 13-inch (M5, WiFi, 1TB) — $1,994 $2,099 (save $105)

• Apple iPad Pro, 11-inch (M5, WiFi, 2TB) — $2,181 $2,299 (save $118)

• Apple iPad Pro, 13-inch (M5, WiFi, 2TB) — $2,464 $2,599 (save $135)

iPad Air deals

• Apple iPad Air, 11-inch (M4, WiFi, 128GB) — $689 $749 (save $60)

• Apple iPad Air, 13-inch (M4, WiFi, 128GB) — $902 $949 (save $47)

• Apple iPad Air, 13-inch (M4, WiFi, 256GB) — $979.99 $1,049 (save $69.01)

• Apple iPad Air, 11-inch (M4, WiFi, 512GB) — $1,011 $1,049 (save $38)

• Apple iPad Air, 13-inch (M4, WiFi, 512GB) — $1,196 $1,249 (save $53)

• Apple iPad Air, 11-inch (M4, WiFi, 1TB) — $1,299.94 $1,349 (save $49.06)

• Apple iPad Air, 13-inch (M4, WiFi, 512GB) — $1,472 $1,549 (save $77)

iPad deals

• Apple iPad, 11-inch (A16, WiFi, 128GB) — $426.99 $449 (save $22.01)

• Apple iPad, 11-inch (A16, WiFi, 256GB) — $522 $549 (save $27)

• Apple iPad, 11-inch (A16, WiFi, 512GB) — $712 $749 (save $37)

iPad mini deals

• Apple iPad mini (A17 Pro, WiFI, 128GB) — $569 $599 (save $30)

• Apple iPad mini (A17 Pro, WiFI, 256GB) — $664 $699 (save $35)

• Apple iPad mini (A17 Pro, WiFI, 512GB) — $874 $999 (save $25)

Best MacBook deal

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Credit: Apple

Apple MacBook Pro, 14-inch (M5 Pro, 24GB RAM, 2TB SSD)

$2,499 at Amazon and Best Buy
$2,999 Save $500

 

Get Deal

The M5 Pro-powered MacBook Pro is wayyy overkill for the average user, but perfectly suited for the demanding workloads of video editors, graphic designers, and programmers. Spec highlights include a super bright 3K mini-LED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, Apple's latest N1 wireless chip, and three Thunderbolt 5/USB-C ports.

More MacBook Pro deals

• Apple MacBook Pro, 14-inch (M5, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD) — $1,849 $1,999 (save $150)

• Apple MacBook Pro, 14-inch (M5, 24GB RAM, 1TB SSD) — $2,046 $2,199 (save $153)

• Apple MacBook Pro, 14-inch (M5 Pro, 24GB RAM, 1TB SSD) — $2,259.99 $2,499 (save $239.01)

• Apple MacBook Pro, 14-inch (M5 Pro, 48GB RAM, 1TB SSD) — $2,799 $3,099 (save $300)

• Apple MacBook Pro, 16-inch (M5 Pro, 24GB RAM, 1TB SSD) — $2,799 $2,999 (save $200)

• Apple MacBook Pro, 14-inch (M5 Pro, 64GB RAM, 1TB SSD) — $3,399 $3,699 (save $300)

• Apple MacBook Pro, 16-inch (M5 Pro, 48GB RAM, 1TB SSD) — $3,419 $3,599 (save $180)

• Apple MacBook Pro, 14-inch (M5 Max, 36GB RAM, 2TB SSD) — $3,599 $4,099 (save $500)

• Apple MacBook Pro, 16-inch (M5 Max, 36GB RAM, 2TB SSD) — $3,999 $4,399 (save $400)

• Apple MacBook Pro, 16-inch (M5 Max, 48GB RAM, 2TB SSD) — $4,499 $4,999 (save $500)

MacBook Air deals

• Apple MacBook Air, 13-inch (M5, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) — $1,199 $1,299 (save $100)

• Apple MacBook Air, 13-inch (M5, 24GB RAM, 512GB SSD) — $1,349 $1,499 (save $150)

• Apple MacBook Air, 13-inch (M5, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD) — $1,499 $1,599 (save $100)

• Apple MacBook Air, 15-inch (M5, 24GB RAM, 512GB SSD) — $1,499 $1,699 (save $200)

• Apple MacBook Air, 13-inch (M5, 24GB RAM, 1TB SSD) — $1,699 $1,799 (save $100)

• Apple MacBook Air, 15-inch (M5, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) — $1,399 $1,499 (save $100)

• Apple MacBook Air, 15-inch (M5, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD) — $1,699 $1,799 (save $100)

• Apple MacBook Air, 15-inch (M5, 24GB RAM, 1TB SSD) — $1,899 $1,999 (save $100)

Best AirPods deal

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Credit: Apple

Apple AirPods 4

$99 at Amazon and Walmart
$129 Save $30

 

Get Deal

Somehow, the entry-level AirPods are still chilling at their Prime Day price of $99 (or 23% off). Our audio experts were impressed by their excellent sound quality, clear mic, and effortless connectivity with other Apple devices in their testing. They offer up to five hours of listening time on their own; with their charging case, they can last for up to 30 hours away from an outlet.

Read Mashable's full review of the Apple AirPods 4.

More AirPods deals

• Apple AirPods 4 with ANC — $144.99 $179 (save $34.01)

• Apple AirPods Pro 3 — $199.99 $249 (save $49.01)

• Apple AirPods Max — $449 $549 (save $100)

Best Apple Watch deal

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Credit: Apple

Apple Watch Ultra 2 (GPS + Cellular, 49mm)

$629.99 at Best Buy
$899 Save $269.01

 

Get Deal

Best Buy has the rugged Apple Watch Ultra 2 with a premium Black Titanium Milanese Loop on clearance for only $629.99 — that's 30% off its $899 sticker price. Compared to the newer Apple Watch Ultra 3, which costs $244 more with the same wristband, it just has a slightly smaller display, a slightly worse battery life, and one missing feature (Emergency SOS via satellite).

Apple Watch Series 11 deals

• Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 42mm) — $299.99 $399 (save $99.01)

• Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) — $329.99 $429 (save $99.01)

Apple Watch SE 3 deals

• Apple Watch SE 3 (GPS, 40mm) — $219.99 $249 (save $29.01)

• Apple Watch SE 3 (GPS, 44mm) — $249.99 $279 (save $29.01)

Apple accessory deals

• Apple AirTag (2nd Generation), 4-Pack — $89 $99 (save $10)

• Apple Pencil Pro — $99 $129 (save $30)

• Apple Magic Keyboard Folio for iPad (A16) — $224 $249 (save $25)

• Apple Magic Keyboard for iPad Air (11-inch) — $242 $269 (save $27)

Hinge's founder recently left the app to start an AI matchmaking service, but he isn't the only one with that startup idea. Ditto is an AI matchmaker specifically for college students — and it does all the work in iMessage.  

"For the past 20 years, we've connected in primitive ways. We manually scroll. We manually search. We manually swipe," Ditto AI's manifesto reads on its website. "Spending hours trying to find the right people — because all we have are static and dead profiles."

"But now, everything changes," Ditto promises.

Ditto was founded by Eric Liu and Allen Wang, two University of California, Berkeley students who dropped out around four years ago to create a new consumer product, Liu said in an interview with Mashable.

"We are both pretty outgoing people, and we see a lot of gaps in the current dating apps," he said. These gaps are apparent in the manifesto: "No more wasted hours. No more missed connections. No more 'what ifs.'"

Liu reiterated that dating apps are primitive, and he's sure there'll be a new platform in the next five years, and that the whole social landscape will be very different a decade from now. "All the existing platforms are by no means efficient at all," he told Mashable. In ten years, however, people will be able to make a new connection in hours, not weeks. If you're free for dinner tonight, an agent can set it up, he said.

Traditional dating apps have too many layers and too much churn, making an eventual date unlikely, he explained. "Users don't need to you know swipe left and right to find a mutual match, and they don't need to repetitively introduce themselves, make small talk, and arrange dates."

Ditto offers something different, and the founders aren't shy about it. "I dropped out of Berkeley with Eric Liu to kill Tinder with AI," Wang posted on LinkedIn last year. But Ditto still has marketing tricks in the mix, too, like flyers on college campuses and yacht parties.

How Ditto AI works

According to Ditto's website, users submit "preferences" by midnight on Wednesday morning, and then later that evening, Ditto will send a match. From there, you schedule a date. (Users must be verified college students.)

When asked about how Ditto learns a user's preferences, Liu said the answer is complicated. "I believe we reinvented a lot more than just the technology," he said. "We actually also have to spend a lot of time on the user experience, because it's drastically different." Ditto works within one's iMessage, not a separate app. 

Credit: Ditto

Credit: Ditto

The site's FAQ states that Ditto pairs one student with another by analyzing their profiles and comparing preferences. Apparently, "this process employs rigorous computation and simulation to provide the best insights for curating a successful date."

Ditto leverages the reasoning abilities of LLMs and an agentic system that includes insights from experts in analysis, matchmaking, scheduling, and more, according to the site. 

Liu said that pre-filled profiles from users (like those used by traditional dating apps) have nothing to do with predicting chemistry. Instead, more important data is people's feedback from the dates, which is why they want to speed up the process. The more dates, the more data. 

Credit: Ditto

If a user signs up on Tuesday, they can get a date the next day. "That's pretty much unimaginable on traditional apps," he said. Though if you've been on Tinder or Feeld, you've likely met someone who's down to meet that night — and that is even more true on an app like Grindr.

There are people on Ditto who have gone on 20 dates, and the AI is trained based on that data. It's also trained on user conversations with the matchmaker, user interactions with each other, and feedback for how the date went.

On Ditto's website, it looks like there's a facial scan component as well. "I'd say definitely facial features, physical appearances are part of our algorithm," Liu said. (There's also a "bodycount detector" on the website, which Liu said one of the interns made, and that it's not part of Ditto's product. It requires a "facial scan," and much like the viral Check Her Body Count site, has an unsavory taste to it.)

Do AI matchmakers work?

The site also claims it has a 65 percent success rate, which is based on how many matches go on dates. "The match-to-date ratio on our platform is much higher than on other platforms," he said. 

In testimonials he sent to Mashable, users praised the quality of matches and the ease of getting them.

"Talking or chatting with Ditto through messages [has] also been easy. It's been good so far," said Adriana, a University of Southern California student. 

"It's a different thing. It's also easier. There's less friction for me," said Noah, a student at Berkeley. He initially thought it was confusing when cofounder Allen [Wang] explained it to me, "But it's easier than that app, because then it's like, okay, download this app to make an account, to do all this. I don't really want to do all of that."

And the company is doing something right, as it raised over $9 million earlier this year, according to Business Insider.

On Reddit, however, Ditto's reviews aren't so positive. Complaints include the company "spamming" campuses with fliers, that it's a "scam," and that it permits advertisers to track user data.

But it seems like, much like LLMs themselves, that AI matchmakers aren't going away. In addition to Ditto, there's Sitch AI (Mashable interviewed its founder last year), Amata, and Keeper. (And, of course, Overtone from Hinge founder Justin McLeod — which is launching later this year.) 

Major dating apps like Tinder, Bumble, and Hinge have also integrated AI features into the app, such as Tinder's AI matchmaker Chemistry and Hinge's AI Convo Starters feature. Bumble is eliminating its swipe feature and ushering in a more AI-forward experience by the end of 2026.

And just as Tinder and Bumble are leaning into in-person events despite utilizing the latest technology, though, so is Ditto, in the form of yacht parties. 

Credit: Ditto

"The team is just like super excited to be able to create these in real-life events and see people making new friends or like finding finding more loves during during these events," he said. As of this writing, Ditto is hiring a "Chief Yacht Officer." Duties include planning 10 yacht parties across the U.S. and designing the event flow "to facilitate fun and meaningful blind-date connections between Ditto users."

They're also great marketing campaigns. In addition to yacht parties, Ditto also has run clubs, reading clubs, and walking clubs in San Francisco. 

Given technological advancement and changes in social culture, Liu believes Ditto is the next thing. According to him, it's about time the next generation of social media — a lower-effort, higher-efficiency social network — is born. 

"We are almost there," he said.

The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has banned all foreign-made mobile robots from the country — including robot vacuums. This means that people in the U.S. won't be able to get new robot vacuums from brands such as Roborock, Ecovacs, Dreame, and Samsung.

On Tuesday, the FCC announced that it has added "advanced robotic devices" made outside the U.S. to its Covered List. This list documents communications equipment and services that the U.S. government believes pose an "unacceptable risk" to national security. Products on the Covered List are prohibited from receiving FCC equipment authorisation, which is mandatory for most electronic devices imported or sold within the country. 

As such, this update means that foreign-manufactured advanced robotic devices cannot be imported or sold in the U.S. The FCC's announcement specifically mentioned limbed robots such as humanoids and quadrupeds, leaving no doubt that tech such as XPENG's humanoid IRON robot and Unitree's Go2 Pro Robot Dog will be barred from the country. 

However, robot vacuums also neatly fit within the ban's scope. As cited by the FCC, the National Security Determination defines "advanced robotic devices" as:

A mechanical mobile device, including autonomous mobile robots, humanoid robots, and quadrupeds, that – 

i. Is capable of locomotion, obstacle avoidance, navigation, or movement on the ground;

ii. Operates at a distance from a human operator or supervisor based on commands or in response to sensor data or any combination thereof; and 

iii. The combined weight of the device and, if applicable, ground station or docking station is over 4.4lbs; and 

iv. Contains a component falling within each of the below subparagraphs: 

i. a sensor capable of perceiving its environment; 

ii. a component that is capable of providing network connectivity (wired or wireless, including Bluetooth/WiFi, cellular, or satellite) with connection speeds of at least 200 kbps in either direction; and 

iii. software running either locally or remotely, including firmware and AI or machine-learning model weights, that controls the robot’s autonomous navigation or movement perception, data collection, or remote command-and-control

Such features are integral to robot vacuums' operations, which require them to independently navigate areas in order to clean them. The FCC has since confirmed that the U.S. ban does include robot vacuums, as reported by The Verge. 

Mashable has reached out to Roborock, Ecovacs, Dreame, and Samsung. At the time of writing only Roborock has responded, and they declined to comment.

The National Security Determination also specifically referred to an incident involving a robot vacuum when outlining the U.S. government's concerns. Earlier this year, a software engineer accidentally hacked his DJI Romo robot vacuum and gained access to video, audio, and map data from thousands of devices across the world. (DJI devices have already been barred from the U.S. for some time, the government having classified it as a "'Chinese military company.")

Security vulnerabilities such as this aren't exclusive to foreign-made devices, and aren't necessarily an indication of sinister intentions. U.S. companies such as Amazon, Meta, and Uber have all experienced their own safety and security incidents as well. No technology is infallible, regardless of where it was made or who it was made by. Even so, the U.S. government considers such incidents in foreign technology as demonstrative of a national security threat.

"The networked capabilities of advanced robotic systems create extensive vulnerabilities and vectors for attacks that can manipulate the data and physical operation of the advanced robotic system," the National Security Determination reads. "Relying on foreign-produced advanced robotic devices presents unacceptable supply chain and cybersecurity vulnerabilities."

Fortunately, the U.S. robot vacuum ban won't force you to throw out your current device. The FCC states that consumers are still allowed to use devices they already own, so there's no need to rush out to look for a replacement. The ban doesn't revoke FCC authorisation from previously approved devices either, meaning those in the U.S. can continue to buy and sell robot vacuum models that are already in the market. 

However, new robot vacuums that have not yet received FCC authorisation are now barred from entering the country, leaving U.S. consumers with older models and significantly fewer options. The vast majority of robot vacuums are made outside the U.S., with the top five manufacturers based in China. Combined, these five companies held almost 70 percent of the global robot vacuum market share as of 2025. 

In comparison, the U.S. has practically no robot vacuum companies. While Roomba maker iRobot was founded in California, the company filed for bankruptcy last year and was acquired by Chinese robotics company Picea.

The Department of War (DOW) and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) are authorised to grant exemptions to the U.S. robotics ban upon conducting a national security assessment. However, the FCC does not list any at time of writing.

Earlier this year, the FCC banned all foreign-made consumer-level WiFi routers, also labelling them a danger to national security. The vast majority of routers are manufactured outside the U.S., including those from trusted brands such as TP-Link, ASUS, and Netgear.

HUD — named the best new hookup app by Mashable — and sex toy site Girls Get Off partnered to release the Pleasure Census, an anonymous survey of over 2,100 participants from 63 countries.

While not a nationally representative sample (68 percent of respondents are female), the survey says a lot about where daters are at today, especially in terms of desire. Namely, how big a role performance and body image play in young adults' sex lives.

Critics like to call Gen Z a "sexless" generation due to various reports of declining sexual activity over the years, but what the Pleasure Census found is that 73 percent say concerns about their appearance make it harder to enjoy sex or pleasure. Forty-four percent of respondents overall said this, too, so while it's not just a Gen Z issue, it is more pervasive among them.

Credit: The Pleasure Census

Over half (54 percent) of Gen Z respondents have caught themselves "performing" — during solo pleasure. That number jumps up to 70 percent overall, and an additional 15 percent say they're not sure if they do. This is a phenomenon known as spectatoring, or focusing on yourself from a third-party perspective rather than on your (or your partner's) sensations.

Credit: The Pleasure Census

It doesn't help that talking openly about sex is also a challenge for many of the respondents: 50 percent are only somewhat comfortable telling a partner what they want. For 38 percent, sex was rarely discussed growing up, and for 35 percent, it was framed negatively or not spoken about at all. For 16 percent, it was discussed openly — but awkwardly — and a mere 10 percent said it was talked about openly and positively.

Most people learned about sex from personal experience (60 percent), and 17 percent from online content. What about formal sex education? A measly one percent. (In the U.S., only 19 states mandate medically accurate information for any sex ed topic as of last year.)

Credit: The Pleasure Census

All this led the researchers to suggest that pleasure is self-taught, the orgasm gap is a conversation gap, and that honesty is the hardest act. Despite all the fraught feelings towards sex, 80 percent of participants want to have more of it. While this knowledge won't solve all the sexual hangups, self-awareness is the first step.

The Full Moon may have passed, but the Moon is still shining brightly in the night sky. Here's what you can spot on its surface as it begins to move into its next phase/

What is today’s Moon phase?

As of Thursday, July 30, NASA's Daily Moon Guide tracker tells us the Moon phase is in Waning Gibbous phase, with 100% of its surface visible.

Without visual aids, tonight you should still be able to see the Mare Tranquillitatis, Copernicus Crater, and the Tycho Crater. If you have binoculars will help you see the Gassendi Crater, Mare Frigoris, and the Clavius Crater. Finally, a telescope will help you see all this plus the Apollo 15 and 17 landing spots, as well as the Caucasus Mountains.

When is the next Full Moon?

The next Full Moon will take place on August 28.

What are Moon phases?

According to NASA, the Moon goes through a complete cycle of eight phases roughly every 29.5 days. As it travels around Earth, the angle between the Sun, Earth and Moon constantly changes, meaning we see different amounts of the Moon's sunlit side. This is what causes the familiar progression from a thin crescent to a half Moon, then a Full Moon, before the cycle repeats.

The eight phases are:

New Moon - The Moon is between Earth and the sun, so the side we see is dark (in other words, it's invisible to the eye).

Waxing Crescent - A small sliver of light appears on the right side (Northern Hemisphere).

First Quarter - Half of the Moon is lit on the right side. It looks like a half-Moon.

Waxing Gibbous - More than half is lit up, but it’s not quite full yet.

Full Moon - The whole face of the Moon is illuminated and fully visible.

Waning Gibbous - The Moon starts losing light on the right side. (Northern Hemisphere)

Third Quarter (or Last Quarter) - Another half-Moon, but now the left side is lit.

Waning Crescent - A thin sliver of light remains on the left side before going dark again.

TL;DR: Unblock Pornhub from anywhere in the world with a VPN. The best service for unblocking porn sites is ExpressVPN.

Access to Pornhub is in turmoil. Early in 2025, more than a third of U.S. states introduced age verification laws. In response, Pornhub banned visitors from those states from accessing their website. The same situation then took place in France, and although Pornhub is complying with the UK's age verification law, users are now required to provide personal information to access the site.

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Credit: ExpressVPN

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Welcome to your guide to Pips, the latest game in the New York Times catalogue.

Released in August 2025, Pips puts a unique spin on dominoes, creating a fun single-player experience that could become your next daily gaming habit.

Currently, if you're stuck, the game only offers to reveal the entire puzzle, forcing you to move on to the next difficulty level and start over. However, we have you covered! Below are piecemeal answers that will serve as hints so that you can find your way through each difficulty level.

How to play Pips

If you've ever played dominoes, you'll have a passing familiarity with how Pips is played. As we've shared in our previous hints stories for Pips, the tiles, like dominoes, are placed vertically or horizontally and connect with each other. The main difference between a traditional game of dominoes and Pips is the color-coded conditions you have to address. The touching tiles don't necessarily have to match.

The conditions you have to meet are specific to the color-coded spaces. For example, if it provides a single number, every side of a tile in that space must add up to the number provided. It is possible — and common — for only half a tile to be within a color-coded space.

Here are common examples you'll run into across the difficulty levels:

• Number: All the pips in this space must add up to the number.

• Equal: Every domino half in this space must be the same number of pips.

• Not Equal: Every domino half in this space must have a completely different number of pips.

• Less than: Every domino half in this space must add up to less than the number.

• Greater than: Every domino half in this space must add up to more than the number.

If an area does not have any color coding, it means there are no conditions on the portions of dominoes within those spaces.

Easy difficulty hints, answers for July 30 Pips

Number (5): Everything in this space must add up to 5. The answer is 5-6, placed vertically.

Equal (1): Everything in this space must be equal to 1. The answer is 4-1, placed horizontally; 1-6, placed horizontally.

Equal (6): Everything in this space must be equal to 6. The answer is 5-6, placed vertically; 1-6, placed horizontally.

Less Than (4): Everything in this space must be less than 4. The answer is 1-5, placed vertically.

Number (10): Everything in this space must add up to 10. The answer is 5-5, placed horizontally.

Medium difficulty hints, answers for July 30 Pips

Number (15): Everything in this purple space must add up to 15. The answer is 5-4, placed vertically; 6-3, placed vertically.

Number (5): Everything in this space must add up to 5. The answer is 1-4, placed vertically.

Equal (3): Everything in this space must be equal to 3. The answer is 2-3, placed horizontally; 6-3, placed vertically; 3-5, placed horizontally.

Greater Than (2): Everything in this space must be greater than 2. The answer is 3-5, placed horizontally.

Number (15): Everything in this purple space must add up to 15. The answer is 0-5, placed horizontally; 4-6, placed horizontally.

Hard difficulty hints, answers for July 30 Pips

Number (3): Everything in this space must add up to 3. The answer is 3-1, placed vertically.

Number (4): Everything in this space must add up to 4. The answer is 4-0, placed vertically.

Number (3): Everything in this space must add up to 3. The answer is 3-4, placed horizontally.

Number (4): Everything in this space must add up to 4. The answer is 3-4, placed horizontally.

Number (1): Everything in this space must add up to 1. The answer is 3-1, placed vertically.

Equal (0): Everything in this space must be equal to 0. The answer is 4-0, placed vertically; 0-2, placed vertically; 0-5, placed vertically.

Number (4): Everything in this space must add up to 4. The answer is 5-4, placed horizontally.

Number (2): Everything in this space must add up to 2. The answer is 0-2, placed vertically.

Number (5): Everything in this space must add up to 5. The answer is 0-5, placed vertically.

Number (10): Everything in this space must add up to 10. The answer is 5-2, placed vertically; 5-4, placed horizontally.

Number (4): Everything in this space must add up to 4. The answer is 4-2, placed horizontally.

Number (2): Everything in this space must add up to 2. The answer is 4-2, placed horizontally.

Number (1): Everything in this space must add up to 1. The answer is 1-4, placed vertically.

Number (2): Everything in this space must add up to 2. The answer is 5-2, placed vertically.

Number (2): Everything in this space must add up to 2. The answer is 2-1, placed vertically.

Number (0): Everything in this space must add up to 0. The answer is 0-1, placed vertically.

Equal (1): Everything in this space must be equal to 1. The answer is 1-5, placed vertically; 2-1, placed vertically; 0-1, placed vertically.

Number (10): Everything in this space must add up to 10. The answer is 6-3, placed vertically; 1-4, placed vertically.

Number (5): Everything in this space must add up to 5. The answer is 1-5, placed vertically.

Number (0): Everything in this space must add up to 0. The answer is 0-3, placed horizontally.

Number (3): Everything in this space must add up to 3. The answer is 3-2, placed horizontally.

Number (2): Everything in this space must add up to 2. The answer is 3-2, placed horizontally.

Equal (3): Everything in this space must be equal to 3. The answer is 6-3, placed vertically; 0-3, placed horizontally; 3-5, placed horizontally.

Number (5): Everything in this space must add up to 5. The answer is 3-5, placed horizontally.

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Today's Connections: Sports Edition will be easier if you've ever played hockey.

As we've shared in previous hints stories, this is a version of the popular New York Times word game that seeks to test the knowledge of sports fans.

Like the original Connections, the game is all about finding the "common threads between words." And just like Wordle, Connections resets after midnight, and each new set of words gets trickier and trickier — so we've served up some hints and tips to get you over the hurdle.

If you just want to be told today's puzzle, you can jump to the end of this article for the latest Connections solution. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

What is Connections: Sports Edition?

The NYT's latest daily word game has launched in association with The Athletic, the New York Times property that provides the publication's sports coverage. The sports Connections can be played on both web browsers and mobile devices and require players to group four words that share something in common.

This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed.

Each puzzle features 16 words, and each grouping of words is split into four categories. These sets could comprise anything from book titles, software, country names, etc. Even though multiple words will seem like they fit together, there's only one correct answer.

If a player gets all four words in a set correct, those words are removed from the board. Guess wrong and it counts as a mistake — players get up to four mistakes before the game ends.

This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed.

Players can also rearrange and shuffle the board to make spotting connections easier. Additionally, each group is color-coded with yellow being the easiest, followed by green, blue, and purple. Like Wordle, you can share the results with your friends on social media.

Here's a hint for today's Connections: Sports Edition categories

Want a hint about the categories without being told the categories? Then give these a try:

• Yellow: Team graphic

• Green: Basketball team

• Blue: Stick makers

• Purple: G___

Here are today's Connections: Sports Edition categories

Need a little extra help? Today's connections fall into the following categories:

• Yellow: A Team's Symbol

• Green: NBA Teams, Informally

• Blue: Hockey Stick Manufacturers

• Purple: What "G" Might Mean

Looking for Wordle today? Here's the answer to today's Wordle.

Ready for the answers? This is your last chance to turn back and solve today's puzzle before we reveal the solutions.

Drumroll, please!

The solution to today's Connections: Sports Edition #675 is...

What is the answer to Connections: Sports Edition today?

• A Team's Symbol: BADGE, CREST, EMBLEM, LOGO

• NBA Teams, Informally: CLIPS, GRIZZ, MAVS, WOLVES

• Hockey Stick Manufacturers: BAUER, CCM, SHER-WOOD, WARRIOR

• What "G" Might Mean: GAMES, GATORADE, GOALTENDER, GUARD

Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be new sports Connections for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.

Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Connections.

The NYT Connections puzzle today is not too difficult if you always do what's right.

Connections is the one of the most popular New York Times word games that's captured the public's attention. The game is all about finding the "common threads between words." And just like Wordle, Connections resets after midnight and each new set of words gets trickier and trickier—so we've served up some hints and tips to get you over the hurdle.

If you just want to be told today's puzzle, you can jump to the end of this article for today's Connections solution. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

What is Connections?

The NYT's latest daily word game has become a social media hit. The Times credits associate puzzle editor Wyna Liu with helping to create the new word game and bringing it to the publications' Games section. Connections can be played on both web browsers and mobile devices and require players to group four words that share something in common.

This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed.

Each puzzle features 16 words and each grouping of words is split into four categories. These sets could comprise of anything from book titles, software, country names, etc. Even though multiple words will seem like they fit together, there's only one correct answer.

If a player gets all four words in a set correct, those words are removed from the board. Guess wrong and it counts as a mistake—players get up to four mistakes until the game ends.

This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed.

Players can also rearrange and shuffle the board to make spotting connections easier. Additionally, each group is color-coded with yellow being the easiest, followed by green, blue, and purple. Like Wordle, you can share the results with your friends on social media.

Here's a hint for today's Connections categories

Want a hint about the categories without being told the categories? Then give these a try:

• Yellow: Righteous

• Green: Games

• Blue: "I'm on a boat!"

• Purple: Exact

Meet The Mashable 101: Our list of the content creators shaping the internet today

Here are today's Connections categories

Need a little extra help? Today's connections fall into the following categories:

• Yellow: Virtuous

• Green: Activities with multiple balls

• Blue: Cruise lines

• Purple: On the ___, to mean "precise"

Looking for Wordle today? Here's the answer to today's Wordle.

Ready for the answers? This is your last chance to turn back and solve today's puzzle before we reveal the solutions.

Drumroll, please!

The solution to today's Connections #1145 is...

What is the answer to Connections today

• Virtuous: FAIR, GOOD, JUST, RIGHT

• Activities with multiple balls: BEER PONG, BINGO, JUGGLING, POOL

• Cruise lines: CARNIVAL, CELEBRITY, PRINCESS, VIKING

• On the ___, to mean "precise": DOT, MARK, MONEY, NOSE

Are you also playing NYT Strands? Get all the Strands hints you need for today's puzzle.

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Connections.

Today's NYT Strands hints are easy if you're crafty.

Strands, the New York Times' elevated word-search game, requires the player to perform a twist on the classic word search. Words can be made from linked letters — up, down, left, right, or diagonal, but words can also change direction, resulting in quirky shapes and patterns. Every single letter in the grid will be part of an answer. There's always a theme linking every solution, along with the "spangram," a special, word or phrase that sums up that day's theme, and spans the entire grid horizontally or vertically.

By providing an opaque hint and not providing the word list, Strands creates a brain-teasing game that takes a little longer to play than its other games, like Wordle and Connections.

If you're feeling stuck or just don't have 10 or more minutes to figure out today's puzzle, we've got all the NYT Strands hints for today's puzzle you need to progress at your preferred pace.

NYT Strands hint for today’s theme: Trade names

The words are related to crafts.

Today’s NYT Strands theme plainly explained

These words describe crafty professions.

NYT Strands spangram hint: Is it vertical or horizontal?

Today's NYT Strands spangram is horizontal.

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NYT Strands spangram answer today

Today's spangram is Artisans.

NYT Strands word list for July 30

• Copper

• Artisans

• Weaver

• Smith

• Potter

• Joiner

• Mason

• Tanner

Looking for other daily online games? Mashable's Games page has more hints, and if you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now!

Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Strands.

If you like playing daily word games like Wordle, then Hurdle is a great game to add to your routine.

There are five rounds to the game. The first round sees you trying to guess the word, with correct, misplaced, and incorrect letters shown in each guess. If you guess the correct answer, it'll take you to the next hurdle, providing the answer to the last hurdle as your first guess. This can give you several clues or none, depending on the words. For the final hurdle, every correct answer from previous hurdles is shown, with correct and misplaced letters clearly shown.

An important note is that the number of times a letter is highlighted from previous guesses does necessarily indicate the number of times that letter appears in the final hurdle.

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If you find yourself stuck at any step of today's Hurdle, don't worry! We have you covered.

Hurdle Word 1 hint

New Zealand is full of them.

Hurdle Word 1 answer

SHEEP

Hurdle Word 2 hint

Greek letter.

Hurdle Word 2 Answer

ALPHA

Mashable 101 Fan Fave: Nominate your favorite creators today

Hurdle Word 3 hint

Thirst-quencher.

Hurdle Word 3 answer

DRINK

Hurdle Word 4 hint

Moron.

Hurdle Word 4 answer

IDIOT

Final Hurdle hint

Winner.

Hurdle Word 5 answer

CHAMP

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Today's Wordle answer should be easy to solve if you're outdoorsy.

If you just want to be told today's word, you can jump to the bottom of this article for today's Wordle solution revealed. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

Where did Wordle come from?

Originally created by engineer Josh Wardle as a gift for his partner, Wordle rapidly spread to become an international phenomenon, with thousands of people around the globe playing every day. Alternate Wordle versions created by fans also sprang up, including battle royale Squabble, music identification game Heardle, and variations like Dordle and Quordle that make you guess multiple words at once. 

Wordle eventually became so popular that it was purchased by the New York Times, and TikTok creators even livestream themselves playing.

What's the best Wordle starting word?

The best Wordle starting word is the one that speaks to you. But if you prefer to be strategic in your approach, we have a few ideas to help you pick a word that might help you find the solution faster. One tip is to select a word that includes at least two different vowels, plus some common consonants like S, T, R, or N.

What happened to the Wordle archive?

The entire archive of past Wordle puzzles was originally available for anyone to enjoy whenever they felt like it, but it was later taken down, with the website's creator stating it was done at the request of the New York Times. However, the New York Times then rolled out its own Wordle Archive, available only to NYT Games subscribers.

Is Wordle getting harder?

It might feel like Wordle is getting harder, but it actually isn't any more difficult than when it first began. You can turn on Wordle's Hard Mode if you're after more of a challenge, though.

Here's a subtle hint for today's Wordle answer:

A canyon.

Does today's Wordle answer have a double letter?

There are no recurring letters.

Meet The Mashable 101: Our list of the content creators shaping the internet today

Today's Wordle is a 5-letter word that starts with...

Today's Wordle starts with the letter F.

The Wordle answer today is...

Get your last guesses in now, because it's your final chance to solve today's Wordle before we reveal the solution.

Drumroll please!

The solution to today's Wordle is...

FLUME

Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be a new Wordle for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints. Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.

Reporting by Chance Townsend, Caitlin Welsh, Sam Haysom, Amanda Yeo, Shannon Connellan, Cecily Mauran, Mike Pearl, and Adam Rosenberg contributed to this article.

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Wordle.

What's new this month

In late July 2026, I updated this guide with one fresh pick. I also replaced or removed three previous picks that were no longer available. The Asus Zenbook A14 remains my top choice for most people.

The Asus ExpertBook Ultra is my new favorite Windows laptop for work: It's incredibly thin and light yet impressively powerful, and its display is dreamy. The Acer Swift Edge 14 AI succeeds the sold-out Lenovo Yoga 7 14 as the best Windows laptop for college students. Its ultraportable design, decent battery life, and competitive value won over our reviewer.

I'm currently looking for replacements for Acer Aspire 16 AI and the Alienware 16X Aurora, our former picks in the budget and gaming categories, respectively. Both of them were out of stock at the time of writing.

As a quick note before we get into the picks, Mashable evaluates laptops on the basis of performance, battery life, design/build quality, and value. We do so using a combination of synthetic benchmarking and real-world usage. You can read more about our testing process below.

What's on deck

I just finished testing the new Dell 14S and was very impressed by its build quality and battery life. For the average everyday user, it's a smarter buy than the snazzy-but-splurgey Dell XPS 14. I plan on naming it a new top pick in the next update to this list. In the meantime, you can read more about it in my guide to the best laptops for college students.

The Mashable team has several other Windows laptops in hand for testing right now, including the Dell 16S, HP OmniBook Ultra 14, LG gram Max 17, Alienware 16 Area-51, Lenovo LOQ Essential 15, and MSI Prestige 16 AI+. We're also waiting on a review unit of the new Dell XPS 13, a very promising budget option. (At $599 for students, it's a direct competitor to Apple's MacBook Neo.) Stay tuned to see if any of them make the cut.

A note about ARM-based Windows laptops

Asus' Zenbook A-series laptops are two of the best ARM-based laptops I've tried. Credit: Haley Henschel / Mashable

Qualcomm's Snapdragon X series chips use ARM-based architecture, not traditional x86 architecture like Intel and AMD chips. As such, their compatibility differs. ARM-based laptops don't work natively with certain specialty software (like AutoCAD), nor can they run as many PC games.

ARM compatibility issues are a non-concern for the majority of general-purpose Windows users, but they'll be dealbreakers for some demographics — PC gamers being an obvious one.

College students should also steer clear of ARM laptops. When I examined the 10 top public universities' hardware recommendations for the 2026 fall semester, I found that a couple schools explicitly advised their students against getting ARM-based laptops to make sure they can run all of their necessary coursework without emulation. (This is one big reason why I recommend the Acer Swift Edge 14 AI for rising freshmen: It has an x86-based Intel chip.)

The good news is that ARM compatibility has gotten better over the past couple years, and it will definitely continue to do so now that Nvidia is coming out with its own Windows on ARM chips.

In Spider-Man: Brand New Day, you can still feel the impacts of Spider-Man: No Way Home's tragic ending.

At the end of that film, Doctor Strange (Benedict Cumberbatch) casts a devastating spell that makes the world forget that Peter Parker (Tom Holland) ever existed. Yes, it saves the multiverse, but at the cost of Spider-Man fans' hearts everywhere, as Peter's girlfriend, MJ (Zendaya), and best friend, Ned (Jacob Batalon), now no longer remember him. Separated from his support network, Peter is more isolated than ever by the time Brand New Day rolls around.

However, could Doctor Strange's forgetfulness spell ever come in handy? What if you wanted to re-experience a beloved film, TV show, or book for the first time?

In an interview Mashable Entertainment Reporter Belen Edwards, Spider-Man: Brand New Day stars Tom Holland, Jacob Batalon, Jon Bernthal, and Sadie Sink, as well as director Destin Daniel Cretton, revealed which pieces of media they'd love to look back on with totally fresh eyes. From Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey to Donna Tartt's The Secret History, which of their picks would you want to forget and revisit?

Check out the full interview above, and stick around for Bernthal's sweet response that sends Holland and Batalon scrambling for new answers.

Spider-Man: Brand New Day is now in theaters.

TL;DR: Get a lifetime license for Microsoft Visual Studio Professional 2026 for $29.97 through Aug. 9 and code faster with AI-assisted development, cross-platform tools, and built-in collaboration.

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Microsoft Visual Studio Professional 2026

$29.97
$499.99 Save $470.02

 

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Development tools are one of the few things you use every day, so it’s worth having an IDE that keeps up with the way you work. Through Aug. 9, you can get Microsoft Visual Studio Professional 2026 for $29.97 as a one-time purchase instead of paying for another recurring software subscription.

The latest version is built for modern development, whether you’re creating desktop apps, web projects, cloud services, or cross-platform software. Along with better performance, it adds deeper AI integration and collaboration features designed to speed up everyday coding.

Some of the biggest reasons developers are upgrading include:

• AI-assisted coding with IntelliCode for smarter code completions, suggestions, and refactoring

• 64-bit architecture that handles larger projects and more demanding workloads

• Cross-platform development for Windows, Linux, containers, .NET MAUI, Blazor, C++, and .NET applications

• Live Share collaboration so teammates can edit and debug together in real time

• CodeLens insights that surface references, authors, commit history, and test status directly in your editor

• Hot Reload to see code changes instantly without restarting your application

• Azure and GitHub integration for smoother development and deployment workflows

Whether you’re building side projects, enterprise software, or client applications, having these tools in one IDE can simplify your workflow and reduce context switching throughout the day.

Get Microsoft Visual Studio Professional 2026 for $29.97 through Aug. 9 and build your next project with Microsoft’s latest professional development environment.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Apple is likely to wait until WWDC 2027 to unveil its own take on smart glasses. That's in part because of additional work on privacy features, and other product safeguards, at a time when Meta's smart glasses are coming under fire.

According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, Apple views privacy as its top priority, with engineers and marketers trying hard to distinguish the company's approach from Meta's. Apple is expected to avoid using facial recognition in its smart glasses, while sending less data to the cloud and processing more in the device itself. The company also won't use customer recordings to train AI models.

Given the phrase "pervert glasses" has been gaining traction online in reference to the Meta Ray-Ban smart glasses, all of those moves from Apple make sense. Meta's glasses helped establish the consumer market for AI-powered eyewear, but have also become associated with problems of privacy and consent.

We've reported on prank creators and pickup artists using Meta Ray-Ban glasses to discreetly record strangers for viral social media content, even as concerns were raised around the legality of recording in public spaces. Privacy advocates note wearable cameras make covert recording easier, and could encourage businesses to restrict the devices.

Meta's latest smart glasses launch, including new fashion-focused frames, sparked even more debate over the visibility of the glasses' recording indicators. They're drawing scrutiny from lawmakers, and consumers are increasingly uneasy.

No wonder Apple has considered limiting or removing video-recording capabilities altogether, according to Gurman. However, doing so might undermine one of the biggest selling points of smart glasses — legitimately capturing priceless moments with family and friends.

If Apple introduces smart glasses — whether at WWDC 2027 or after — the company will be judged by whether it can convince consumers that its camera-equipped eyewear is more deserving of trust than the devices that came before it.

When the first trailer for Children of Blood and Bone debuted in Brooklyn this week, the excitement inside the room was palpable.

Director Gina Prince-Bythewood described years of research into African history and spirituality. The cast spoke about identity, ancestry, and the responsibility of bringing Orïsha to life. For fans who have spent years imagining Tomi Adeyemi's bestselling fantasy world, it was the first real glimpse of one of BookTok's most anticipated adaptations.

Outside the theater, however, the conversation surrounding the film has been far more complicated.

Long before audiences saw a single frame of footage, the adaptation had become the subject of debates over colorism, questions about representation, and, more recently, the stunning decision by Adeyemi herself to publicly distance herself from the project she helped develop.

Adeyemi expanded on her decision to distance herself from the film adaptation in an emotional TikTok posted Wednesday, July 29, alleging that she has continued to be "antagonized" behind the scenes by "everyone involved...at the highest level." She said she left the set in South Africa "hyperventilating and sobbing" and returned home experiencing severe panic attacks and physical somatic pain.

"This film, which I worked on to make it a little better for us to be alive, is also the worst thing I have ever had to live through," Adeyemi said. While she did not identify any individuals or elaborate on the specific circumstances behind her allegations, she said she decided to speak publicly because the film's marketing campaign had renewed the behind-the-scenes conflict.

The casting sparked immediate debate.

When Paramount announced the cast in 2025, many readers celebrated seeing a predominantly Black ensemble led by Thuso Mbedu, Regina King, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Cynthia Erivo, Damson Idris, Lashana Lynch, and Idris Elba.

But the announcement also reignited conversations that had followed the adaptation for years.

Much of the criticism centered on the casting of Amandla Stenberg as Princess Amari. In the novel, Amari is described as having "dark copper skin" and is notably darker than the rest of her royal family, a physical difference that contributes to her feeling like an outsider long before she begins questioning the kingdom's treatment of the maji. Many readers argued that casting the lighter-skinned, biracial actor weakened a key aspect of the character's identity and reflected a broader pattern of colorism in Hollywood.

Other fans questioned why relatively few Nigerian actors had been cast in a story so deeply inspired by Nigerian history, Yoruba spirituality, and pre-colonial West African cultures. Those conversations unfolded across Reddit, X, and BookTok, where readers debated what authenticity should look like in a film adaptation of a novel so closely tied to Nigerian identity.

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At the time, Stenberg said she understood why readers felt protective of the books and noted that Adeyemi had personally encouraged her to take the role.

Tomi Adeyemi publicly stepped away from the project.

The conversation shifted dramatically earlier this month. In a TikTok (since deleted) addressing fans who had asked why she had stopped promoting the movie, Adeyemi announced she was "officially separating" herself from the adaptation.

"There is a reason I will not post anything about the adaptation of my work," she wrote. She later added that she had not seen the finished film and did not plan to watch it.

Adeyemi, who is credited as an executive producer and co-writer of the screenplay alongside Prince-Bythewood, said she had "tried everything" behind the scenes before deciding to step away, describing the experience as emotionally painful. She encouraged fans to support the film if they wished, but asked those who wanted to support her directly to purchase the books from independent bookstores.

Perhaps the most surprising part of her statement was a series of screenshots showing messages she allegedly sent to Stenberg, telling the actor not to contact her or mention her publicly, before blocking her. The message appears to be from Feb. 28, 2025, and reads: "Do not ever use my name in an interview or video again. Do not text me. Do not call me." Stenberg's previous message in the chain is partially blocked, but the words "my only hope was to reconnect as human beings" can be seen at a point.

The posts immediately reignited online speculation about what had happened behind the scenes, though Adeyemi has not publicly detailed the circumstances that led to the falling out.

Adeyemi's comments have also been viewed through the lens of previous public disputes. In 2018, she accused bestselling romance author Nora Roberts of plagiarizing the title of Roberts' novel Of Blood and Bone. After speaking with Roberts, Adeyemi retracted the allegation, saying she believed the titles had been created independently and apologized. That history has complicated the public response to her latest statements.

While many fans have expressed concern about the adaptation, others say they are hesitant to draw conclusions without more information about what actually happened to lead Adeyemi to sever ties.

What actually happened?

That's the question fans continue to ask, and one that remains largely unanswered.

Neither Paramount nor Prince-Bythewood has publicly addressed Adeyemi's comments, and the author has declined to elaborate beyond describing the experience as painful and saying she was "attacked behind the scenes." In a message dated July 18, posted under a 2025 behind-the-scenes video from set in South Africa, Adeyemi replied to a commenter, saying, "Making an impossible dream come true is a beautiful thing. Even if the dream becomes a nightmare. No one, not this film or you, will ever take away what I achieved."

That uncertainty has left fans in an unusual position. The film continues to generate excitement, buoyed by Prince-Bythewood's reputation following The Woman King, an acclaimed ensemble cast, and a trailer widely praised online. At the same time, some readers say it's difficult to separate that excitement from the knowledge that the creator of Orïsha no longer wants her name associated with the adaptation. Others argue that the work of hundreds of artists, craftspeople, and performers deserves to be judged independently of whatever happened behind closed doors.

Until someone involved chooses to explain further, both realities will likely coexist.

Children of Blood and Bone remains one of the most anticipated fantasy films of 2027. It also arrives carrying questions that no trailer, no matter how spectacular, can answer.

Children of Blood and Bone hits theaters on Jan. 15, 2027.

This article has been updated with new information. It was originally published on July 28, 2025.

There appears to be a brewing consensus about whether or not screens are a threat to learners in our nation's classrooms.

Amid a growing educational debate on tech's presence in schools, two new reports released today highlight widespread concern about the presence of screens and personal devices among school children. A new Pew Research poll found that a majority (77 percent) of Americans support policies that ban cell phone use during instruction periods, and around half support banning cellphones during the entire school day, also known as a “bell-to-bell” phone ban.

The same poll conducted in 2024 found only a third of Americans were in favor of bell-to-bell policies. Since then, support has increased across all age groups.

Meanwhile, teachers around the world are increasingly concerned about device use, according to the latest Global Education Insights Report conducted by education solutions giant McGraw Hill. Among 1,300 global educators surveyed by the company, the majority listed excessive screen time as the number one obstacle to student success.

Almost half of those polled said they have witnessed a decline in focus and emotional well-being among students compared to five years ago, and around two-thirds said they were concerned about their students' mental health.

A growing coalition of parents, child safety advocates, and even lawmakers have been calling for a reevaluation of device use in classrooms across the U.S., including pushing for new school policies that ban phones outright, limit screen time during specific school periods, and institute moratoriums on generative AI tools. They cite concerns about cognitive decline and critical thinking, as well as social and emotional regulation.

But there are many who believe shunning classroom technology completely is the wrong move. They see potential in technologies that are developmentally appropriate for their users while acknowledging screen time's effect on young brains. For example, a majority of teachers (81 percent) surveyed for the Global Education Insights Report said they were comfortable with students using AI when it is integrated into existing courseware or curriculum. Far fewer said they were in favor of students using general purpose AI tools like ChatGPT.

"The impact of social media and screen time is clear," Philip Moyer, president and CEO of McGraw Hill, said in a press release. "In the AI era, we have a responsibility to build tools that strengthen — not diminish — the teacher-student relationships, critical thinking, and human connection at the heart of learning."

New details have emerged about a security incident in which an OpenAI AI model broke out of its testing environment and compromised Hugging Face's infrastructure.

An update OpenAI published on July 28 filled in details that weren't part of the original disclosure. The AI agent also identified and used exposed credentials on four accounts across four other publicly available services, using one as a relay point and another for data storage, while accessing the remaining two in a read-only capacity. OpenAI said it has since notified the affected service owners and hasn't found evidence of broader impact to those platforms.

On Wednesday, the cloud computing service Modal identified itself as one of those four affected parties.

However, in its statement, Modal said its systems were never actually breached. According to Modal, the AI got in through a customer's own application that was set up without a password requirement, allowing code submitted by literally anyone on the internet to run. The AI's activity was limited to that one customer's isolated space and didn't spread to any other Modal customers, the company said.

The OpenAI-Hugging Face hack first came to light in mid-July, when Hugging Face disclosed an intrusion into its systems that it described as "different from anything we had handled," driven entirely by an autonomous AI agent. OpenAI followed with its own blog post explaining that the breach originated during an internal evaluation designed to test its models' hacking capabilities. The models involved — GPT-5.6 Sol and an unreleased, even more capable prototype — were running with reduced safety restrictions specifically for the test and were confined to a sandboxed environment with no direct internet access.

According to OpenAI, the models exploited a previously unknown security flaw in Artifactory, a package registry cache proxy, to escalate privileges and move laterally within the testing environment until they reached a node with internet access. Once it got online, the AI figured out that Hugging Face's servers might contain the answers to the very hacking test it was trying to pass. So, it used a combination of stolen login credentials and additional security flaws to break into Hugging Face's servers and go looking for those answers.

OpenAI also tried to clear up confusion about which AI systems were involved. The company clarified that the not-yet-released version mentioned in its original explanation was purely an internal research tool, never meant for public release, and that it has since shut that version down entirely and locked it away.

In OpenAI's initial statement, a quote from Hugging Face co-founder and CEO Clem Delangue has framed the incident as proof that AI safety issues are better tackled openly, saying that the situation shows AI safety "will be solved in the open, collaboratively, with broad access to AI for every defender, everywhere."

OpenAI, meanwhile, called the incident "unprecedented" and said it's tightening its security controls while its investigation continues.

Disclosure: Ziff Davis, Mashable’s parent company, in April 2025 filed a lawsuit against OpenAI, alleging it infringed Ziff Davis copyrights in training and operating its AI systems.

Before hockey romance gave us Shane and Ilya, anime gave us Yuri and Victor. For months in 2016, it felt nearly impossible to open Tumblr without seeing the pair somewhere on your dashboard.

Now, a decade after Yuri!!! on Ice first captivated fans around the world, Crunchyroll is marking the anime's 10th anniversary by streaming the entire 12-episode series for free on YouTube. Rather than uploading each episode individually, the platform opted for a single four-hour-and-41-minute marathon, complete with every opening and ending theme for one uninterrupted binge.

The marathon will remain available through Aug. 25, giving longtime fans a chance to revisit one of the defining anime of the 2010s — or introducing a new generation to the series that turned figure skating into appointment viewing.

When Yuri!!! on Ice premiered in October 2016, it became more than just another sports anime. The story of Japanese figure skater Yuri Katsuki and Russian champion-turned-coach Victor Nikiforov fueled a fandom that spilled far beyond the screen. Every new episode flooded Tumblr with GIF sets and fan art, inspired countless works of fanfiction (over 37,000 and counting on Archive of Our Own), and sparked hours of analysis as viewers dissected everything from the show's breathtaking skating sequences to its nuanced portrayal of anxiety, ambition, and love.

The series also became a landmark for LGBTQ+ representation in mainstream anime. While director Sayo Yamamoto often preferred to let the story speak for itself, describing it as "an irreplaceable bond," many viewers embraced Yuri and Victor's relationship as a meaningful milestone, particularly after the pair shared an intimate embrace (seemingly with their mouths) in Episode 7 and exchanged gold rings in Episode 10.

Its popularity also extended outside of anime circles. The opening theme "History Maker" became instantly recognizable among fans, the soundtrack found new audiences through skating edits, and professional figure skaters — including Olympic athletes like Johnny Weir — performed routines inspired by the series in competition and exhibition programs.

Even after the show's original run ended, fans never really stopped talking about it. For years, the community eagerly awaited Yuri!!! on Ice the Movie: Ice Adolescence, which was first announced in 2017. Production delays stretched on for years before MAPPA officially canceled the project in 2024, leaving many fans heartbroken and uncertain whether the franchise would ever return in any form.

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While this anniversary celebration isn't a new season or the long-awaited film, it is an invitation to revisit the series that once meant so much to fans — and still does.

The YouTube release also arrives at a time when anime is more accessible than ever. By making the entire series free on the world's largest video platform, Crunchyroll is removing nearly every barrier to entry. Longtime fans can revisit favorite moments with a single click, while newer viewers can finally see what all the hype is about without needing a subscription.

Some anime don't need new episodes to remain culturally relevant. Sometimes, all it takes is making them easy to watch again. Ten years later, Yuri!!! on Ice still knows how to make history.

Martha Stewart just launched an app that uses AI to analyze the soil quality in your lawn. And yes, every part of that sentence is true.

The app is called Hint, from a startup of the same name that counts the popular former TV host as a co-founder. It's available now on iOS and coming soon to the Google Play Store.

Hint uses AI to create personalized insights for home maintenance, perhaps one of the few areas of modern life that hasn't already been overrun by AI apps.

"My life’s work is showing people how to care for and beautify their homes," Stewart says on Hint's website. "Hint brings that philosophy to more people, making the knowledge and expertise behind thoughtful homeownership accessible to everyone."

Hint asks users to enter their home addresses, which may be a turnoff for some customers given the potential for privacy issues. If you do feel like sharing, Hint will use your address to start analyzing things like the soil and air quality on your property, available utilities, and anything else it can dredge up using public property records.

You can also upload vital documents like mortgages and warranties to the app, if you trust Hint that much. The idea is to give users a comprehensive, personalized outlook on things like energy usage, insurance risks, and anything else that can come up in the process of owning a home.

Hint's website claims its insights come from experts such as Stewart herself. There's also an in-app AI chatbot you can talk to if you have questions about home ownership.

If you can get over the trust issue, Hint could well provide intriguing practical insights on one of the more complex and tedious areas of daily life. And that, in theory, is a good thing.

50% OFF: Celebrate National Orgasm Day on July 31 with Babeland's one-day flash sale. Save 50% on best-selling vibrators, rabbits, wands, and more.

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Credit: Babeland

National Orgasm Day Sale

Get up to 50% off best-selling toys.

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July 31st is National Orgasm Day! (You're welcome for your positive news dopamine shot of the day.) And, to celebrate, retailers everywhere are slashing prices on best-selling toys, kits, and more. One of my fave retailers, Babeland, is offering up to 50% off its best sellers, including The One Supreme Wand (54% off right now, so it may go even lower by this weekend!) and The One Rabbit (also on sale right now).

There isn't an official sale tab marked on the site just yet, but I've received an email confirmation from the brand that there will be a National Orgasm Day Sale landing page hitting the site soon. It's a one-day sale, so I thought I'd tell you to mark your calendars now.

If you can't wait for the sale or you prefer something a little kinkier, Babeland is currently offering up to 50% off BDSM and kink products (handcuffs, restraints, and the like) now through July 31. There are also a ton of vibrators on sale right now, including The One Le’Moan, which is a knockoff of the internet-famous Hello Nancy Lem. And, if you use the code GETHOT at checkout, it'll get you an additional 10% off select items.

SAVE $600: As of July 29, get the Hisense 75-Inch U6 Pro Mini-LED ULED 4K UHD TV for $799.99 at Amazon, down from its usual price of $1,399.99. That's a discount of 43%.

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Hisense 75-Inch U6 Pro Mini-LED ULED 4K UHD TV

 

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If you've been planning on doing a massive TV refresh as of late, now's the time to do so. We've found an especially great deal on a living room display, one you'll absolutely love adding to your home. And the best part is, you're getting a 75-inch TV without having to spend the better part of a paycheck.

As of July 29, get the Hisense 75-Inch U6 Pro Mini-LED ULED 4K UHD TV for $799.99 at Amazon, down from its usual price of $1,399.99. That's $600 off and a discount of 43%.

This massive screen comes equipped with 4K resolution and Mini-LED tech to bring you the clearest, sharpest picture possible. It features a gorgeous picture with bright, crisp color that looks close to reality, with a native 144Hz refresh rate and motion rate of 480, powered by Dolby Vision IQ. In short, this is the TV you want in your living space when you want to show off a bit, and you can have it for a deep discount.

With support for Dolby Atmos and HDR10+, you're covered with all the additional graphical and audio tweaks you'd want to make to get this display looking its absolute best. It even has a built-in subwoofer so you don't have to supply one. And at the end of the day, it's an Amazon Fire TV, so it has Alexa+ support and you can watch all your favorite shows and movies on it without needing an additional streaming peripheral.

If you've been waiting for a great TV at an even better price, this is the time to go ahead and buy -- before all the fall TV starts pouring in.

If you've been couch-potatoing this summer, the new trailer for Fall 2: Deadpoint will likely have you feeling validated. Go outside? To what — climb a cliff face, only to be stranded with your best friend in mid-air?

Being in a very high place with no cell reception and only your bestie was a recipe for disaster in 2022's Fall, which had a sensationally WTF ending.

For its sequel, the concept is similar, but the cast is new. Harriet Slater and Arsema Thomas star as two climbers eager to tackle Thailand's Mount Kwan. But when their climb goes sideways, they'll have to combat vertigo-inducing heights, exposure, and maybe even hallucinations as they struggle to survive.

Having seen Fall but not its sequel (yet!), my takeaways for summer travel are: Do make plans with your bestie! Don't do it at great heights, and avoid activities that may require using your friend's corpse as a DIY phone case.

Might we suggest a movie night instead?

Fall 2: Deadpoint opens in theaters Sept. 2.

SAVE $500.99: The Ecovacs Goat 01000 robot lawn mower is on sale at Amazon for $999, down from the normal price of $1,499.99. That's a 33% discount.

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Credit: Ecovacs

Ecovacs Goat O1000 robot lawn mower

$999 at Amazon
$1,499.99 Save $500.99

 

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Now that we're squeaking out the last bits of summer enjoyment, it's no time to focus on chores. Household tasks can wait until the chill and dark months. Some tasks can handle waiting, but others will still need attention. That's very true of lawn maintenance since we'll all be in the backyard as much as possible. Instead of pushing the mower yourself, employ the help of a robot lawn mower.

As of July 29, the Ecovacs Goat 01000 robot lawn mower is on sale at Amazon for $999, down from the normal price of $1,499.99. That's a 33% discount that matches the record-low price at Amazon.

Just like we've come to use robot vacuums inside, a robot lawn mower can keep the yard tidy outside. The Ecovacs Goat 01000 can mow up to a quarter of an acre with wire-free mapping and intelligent obstacle avoidance.

Instead of pushing a loud mower around, let the Ecovacs take over with a quiet mowing experience. From the app, set your desired mowing schedule and kick back with a hands-off way of tackling chores. You also get to set the desired cutting height between 1.2 and 3.1 inches.

When it comes to precision, the Ecovacs has the smarts to avoid over 200 common obstacles, and it can handle mowing on slopes of up to 45 degrees. The narrow mower can fit through spaces as narrow as 2.6 feet which is ideal for yards with raised garden beds or landscaping.

Since the Ecovacs Goat 01000 robot lawn mower is sitting at a record-low price and no one has time for more summer chores, make the upgrade for under $1,000. You'll be able to sit back and watch the robot do the hard work while sipping a chilled beverage.

Tragic news out of Dublin: Glen Hansard, the Oscar–winning Irish musician, has died in a motorbike crash. He was 56.

In life, Hansard was the frontman of The Frames, and made his screen debut in the Irish musical dramedy The Commitments in 1991. But his global breakthrough came in 2006, as he fronted John Carney's Once, an indie romance about a busker who falls for a fellow musician (Markéta Irglová) in Dublin. Hansard, a former busker himself, not only won praise from critics for his work in the film, but also an Academy Award alongside Irglová for Best Achievement in Music Written for Motion Pictures, Original Song. That song was their duet, "Falling Slowly."

The pair went on to form the Grammy–nominated folk band The Swell Season and tour, while Once went on to become a Broadway musical.

The BBC notes Hansard also was a key figure in a fundraiser for unhoused people, participating in the annual Christmas Eve charity busk in support of the Dublin Simon Community. They included condolences from the organization, reading in part, "Glen's talents will indeed be his legacy but so too will his commitment to social justice. We will be forever indebted to him for the difference he made in the lives of the people we serve."

On social media, more friends and fans are sharing their admiration for Hansard and their grief over his passing.

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To revel in more of Hansard's work, we'd recommend streaming The Commitments, Once, or Cyrano, in which Hansard steals the movie as a singing guard.

How to watch: Once is now streaming on BroadwayHD, which offers a free trial on Amazon, where it's also available for rental or purchase.

How to watch: The Commitments is now streaming free on YouTube.

How to watch: Cyrano is now streaming on Prime Video.

You can also enjoy Hansard's music on Apple Music and Spotify.

TL;DR: Just in time for back-to-school shopping, Sticki Rolls launched its new Series 3 collection and Sticki Mates bag charms at Target. Prices start at $4.99 for wearable sticker bracelets, craft sets, and three-inch refillable sticker-dispensing charms.

If you spent your childhood swapping stickers, wearing slap bracelets, or trading friendship bands in the '90s and early '00s, you can finally share that obsession with your kids. Sticki Rolls took classic sticker collecting and turned it into a wearable, shareable trend, racking up over 1.86 million YouTube subscribers and more than 1 billion views.

Now, they're expanding their lineup with two new releases: the Series 3 Collection and Sticki Mates.

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The Series 3 Collection introduces 1,200 sticker designs with new and returning characters. It also uses a five-tier rarity system (stickers range from common everyday prints to ultra-rare holographic finishes), so kids can hunt for special ones to trade with friends. The drop includes wearable sticker-dispensing bracelets, holographic Jumbo Stickies for lockers, and crafting kits like the Sticki Station and Rolluxe handbag.

Sticki Mates are little, three-inch collectible figures that clip onto a bookbag or tote and double as working, refillable sticker dispensers compatible with existing Sticki Rolls. There are 10 characters to collect in the initial launch, including an ultra-rare "Golden Chillin Charlie."

SAVE $200: The 27-inch LG Ultragear OLED QHD gaming monitor is on sale at Amazon for $399.99, down from the list price of $599.99. That's a 33% discount and the lowest price we've seen at Amazon.

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Credit: LG

27-inch LG Ultragear OLED QHD gaming monitor

$399.99 at Amazon
$599.99 Save $200

 

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Some tech can be considered nice to have. Other gadgets tend to fall into the category of necessary to function in modern society. A crisp and clear gaming monitor isn't necessary to survive in the real world, but it might be necessary to survive the in-game world. If your current gaming monitor is causing issues, check out this deal.

As of July 29, the 27-inch LG Ultragear OLED QHD gaming monitor is on sale at Amazon for $399.99, marked down from the normal price of $599.99. That's a 33% discount that takes $200 off. It's also the lowest price we've seen at Amazon.

With a 27-inch OLED display, a 280Hz refresh rate, and 0.03 millisecond response time, the LG Ultragear is well worth the investment for your home gaming setup. LG says this is the brand's brightest OLED gaming monitor yet which means you're in for crisp and clear contrast, reaching up to 1,500 nits.

The LG Switch app allows for customization of the monitor like adjusting the brightness, applying setting with a hotkey, and selecting between 11 split-screen layouts. Plus, the gaming monitor comes with two HDMI 2.1 ports.

Since this is a record-low price at Amazon, consider upgrading to the 27-inch LG Ultragear OLED QHD gaming monitor. It'll enhance your in-game and out-of-game experiences for under $400.

Apple has launched Apple Upgrade, a new leasing program for iPhone, Apple Watch, Mac, and iPad, available online, in the Apple Store app, and at Apple retail locations across the United States. The program replaces the old Apple iPhone Upgrade program, which is winding down for new customers, and shifts financing duties from Citizens One to Klarna.

As tech prices continue to climb and smartphone sales decline, Apple Upgrade would give customers a new way to try the latest Apple devices. The program arrives just a couple of months before Apple is expected to unveil the iPhone 18.

Unlike the previous program, which functioned as a loan that eventually transferred ownership of the device to the customer, Apple Upgrade is structured explicitly as a lease. Customers pay a monthly fee to use a device for a fixed term, and at the end of that term, they can upgrade to something new, pay a purchase fee to keep the device, or return it and walk away. If they do nothing, the lease automatically converts to a month-to-month arrangement for up to six months, with payments that may increase during that stretch.

If you're considering leasing your next iPhone or Apple Watch, we've put together answers to some of the most common questions about how the new Apple lease program works.

What is the Apple Upgrade program?

Apple Upgrade is a Klarna-backed leasing program for U.S. shoppers that launched on July 28, and it allows customers to lease new Apple devices for a period of 12, 24, or 36 months, depending on the product. For the Apple iPhone upgrade program, leasing prices start at just $17.99 per month, but users can lower their monthly payments by trading in their current iPhone through Apple Trade In. You can learn more about the program at the Apple newsroom or sign up to enroll at Apple's website.

What devices are eligible?

The Apple Upgrade covers most new iPhone, Apple Watch, Mac, and iPad devices. The eligible devices are:

• iPhone 17

• iPhone 17e

• iPhone 17 Pro

• iPhone Air

• Apple Watch Series 11

• Apple Watch Hermès Series 11

• Apple Watch Ultra Watch 3

• Apple Watch Hermès Ultra 3

• M5 MacBook Air

• M5 MacBook Pro (M5 Pro and M5 Max also included)

• M4 iPad Air

• iPad Mini (A17 Pro Chip)

A handful of older or budget models are excluded, including the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, Apple Watch SE, MacBook Neo, Mac Mini, iPad (A16), and Studio Display. The Vision Pro is also excluded.

How long are the lease terms?

iPhone and Apple Watch leases run for either 12 or 24 months. Mac and iPad leases run 24 or 36 months. Not every term is available on every device.

How much does it cost per month?

Pricing starts at $17.99 for iPhone, $11.99 for Apple Watch, $24.99 for Mac, and $11.99 for iPad, though actual payments vary by device, storage tier, and lease length. No security deposit is required, and trading in a current device through Apple Trade In can lower the monthly rate.

Do I own the device at the end of the lease?

No, not unless you pay the device's purchase fee at the end of the term. Otherwise, you're expected to either upgrade to a new lease or return the device in acceptable condition. Returning a damaged, lost, or stolen device can trigger additional fees, and insurance isn't included in the lease itself.

Is there a credit check?

Yes, but it's a soft inquiry that doesn't affect your credit score. Final approval, including any monthly payment you're offered, depends on Klarna's assessment of your creditworthiness.

What about AppleCare?

AppleCare isn't automatically bundled with Apple Upgrade the way it was with the old iPhone Upgrade Program. Customers can add AppleCare+ or AppleCare One separately to cover accidental damage, theft, loss, and battery service.

Can I use Apple Card with this?

Yes, payments made with Apple Card earn 3 percent Daily Cash back, and Apple Card Monthly Installments remain a separate, distinct financing option outside of Apple Upgrade for customers who'd rather buy a device outright over time.

What happens to people already in the iPhone Upgrade Program?

Existing members aren't required to do anything. They can keep making their monthly payments under their existing agreement with Citizens One, and once they complete their 24-month term, the device is theirs to keep, no purchase fee required.

When they're ready for a new iPhone, they'll have the option to switch into Apple Upgrade, finance through Apple Card Monthly Installments, buy a device outright, or go through carrier financing instead.

Who's eligible to lease through Apple Upgrade?

You need to be a U.S. resident at least 18 years old, have a valid Social Security number or ITIN, hold an Apple Account in good standing, have a Klarna account, and have an accepted credit or debit card on file.

Leasing an iPhone requires enrolling in a postpaid plan with AT&T, T-Mobile, or Verizon — prepaid plans don't qualify, though leased iPhones are unlocked.

What happens if I miss a payment?

Recently, 9to5Mac found code in the iOS 27 beta that suggested Apple and lenders could place phones in "Restricted Mode" if a user falls behind on payments. However, that's not part of the Apple Upgrade program. Instead, missed payments will automatically be added to the next month's bill.

MacRumors also reports that there are no late fees for missed payments, but three missed payments will result in Klarna terminating your contract.

SAVE $579: As of July 29, you can pick up the DJI Power 2000 portable power station at Amazon for just $719.98. That's a savings of 45% or $579.02.

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DJI Power 2000 portable power station

$719.98 at Amazon
$1,299 Save $579.02

 

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Portable power stations aren't just for backup power during outages. They also serve as must-have camping companions, thanks to our growing number of devices and increasingly complex power needs. If you're in the market for one of these reliable and movable power sources, one of our favorites is on sale at Amazon for over $500 off.

As of July 29, the DJI Power 2000 portable power station is just $719.98. Sure, that still seems like a lot, but compared to its current list price of $1,299, that's a steal. You'll save 45% or $579.02, to be exact.

Mashable contributor Lauren Allain tested this power station last year and raved about it, calling it "a beefy option that’s awesome for camping, backyard parties, or content creators out on projects." It earned a spot on our list of the best portable power stations, particularly as the top choice for content creators.

The DJI Power 2000 features three standard AC ports, a 30-amp plug, four USB-A ports, four USB-C ports, and two SDC ports for quick recharging of drones. We wish it has even more AC ports, given its 2,048Wh capacity, but it is what it is. It operates quietly, recharges quickly, and offers an impressive amount of power for its physical size (under 50 pounds). It's also compatible with up to 10 DJI Expansion Battery 2000s, which would increase the power to over 22,000Wh, enough for a whole-home backup. Its pretty gnarly on its own, though. Allain was able to charge both her phone and camera battery while cooking dinner in the air fryer all at the same time.

With camping season (and hurricane season) in full swing, it's as good a time as any to make the investment in a portable power source. And we highly recommend grabbing the DJI Power 2000 while it's over $500 off.

If you have a Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra or S25 Ultra, maybe keep an eye on your battery.

Owners of those two older Ultra devices are complaining on places like Reddit and Samsung's own forums (as spotted by Android Headlines) about significant battery issues following a recent security update released in July. According to some S24 and S25 Ultra owners, the update caused substantial battery drain; one user reported going from 85 percent to 5 percent in just two hours of screen time.

As one user wrote, "My s24 ultra battery is draining very fast after July 26 update even heating like cook top. Why this happening?" Other users cited problems with WhatsApp in particular.

Additionally, some users have noted their phones running hotter than usual and even charging more slowly than they should. Samsung has not officially commented on the matter yet. Mashable reached out to Samsung about the user complaints and will update this article if we hear anything back.

This sort of issue happens every now and then, but usually it's just one issue arising on some devices after an update. This time, it's seemingly three separate (but possibly related) problems that users say only materialized after what should have been a minor security patch. If the issues are related to the recent July update, then hopefully Samsung is able to figure out the problem and fix it promptly.

SAVE $700: As of July 29, get the Roborock Qrevo CurvX robot vacuum and mop for $799.99 at Amazon. That's a discount of 47%.

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Roborock Qrevo CurvX robot vacuum and mop

$799.99 at Amazon
$1,499.99 Save $700

 

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No matter what your regular cleaning routine looks like, a robot vacuum can definitely make it easier for you. And if you want one to completely cut all the effort you have to put into this regular ritual, you'll want to take a look at the model that's on sale at Amazon right now. Not only does it look futuristic, but it behaves that way, too.

As of July 29, get the Roborock Qrevo CurvX robot vacuum and mop for $799.99 at Amazon. That's $700 off and a discount of 47%.

This powerful robot vacuum boasts 22,000Pa of suction with a zero-tangling design to make sure it can continuously cut through even tough messes with ease. It's the slimmest Roborock vacuum in the lineup according to the company, so it can reach those difficult areas and get to all the problem cleaning spots that you can't normally vacuum. And that's just the start of its set of abilities.

This robot vacuum is also a mop, and it uses 80-degree hot water to both work through grease and other stubborn stains. The mop heads are cleaned between uses, so things stay sanitary while you're tidying up. It also uses a special AdaptiLift Chassis to lift the robot's entire body to reach specific areas, whether vacuuming or mopping, to tackle the more difficult problem spaces in your home.

If you've been looking for a great option to scrub down your home (without your input, unless you want to provide it) this is an excellent robot vacuum that can only improve your routines. Grab it while it's available for such a deep discount.

SAVE $110: The DJI Mini 5 Pro Fly More Combo is on sale at Amazon for $989, down from the list price of $1,099. That's a 10% discount and the lowest we've ever seen at Amazon.

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DJI Mini 5 Pro Fly More Combo

$989 at Amazon
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There's something freeing about taking to the skies under your own control. Short of becoming an airplane pilot, there's a much easier and less time consuming way to get up in the air — with a drone. Check out your surroundings like never before thanks to this Amazon deal.

As of July 29, the DJI Mini 5 Pro Fly More Combo is on sale at Amazon for $989, down from the list price of $1,099. That's a 10% discount and the lowest we've ever seen at Amazon.

DJI drones are well known as some of the best around. They come with pro-level features that are friendly for even first-time fliers. The DJI Mini 5 Pro drone records in 4K with a one-inch CMOS camera. It can capture true vertical footage as well as a 225 degree roll rotation. DJI also focused on making this drone model easy to fly in low-light conditions. It's equipped with DJI's Nightscape Omnidirectional Obstacle Sensing to help for a stable flight with a single return-to-home function.

Active Track 360 is perfect if you'll be filming a moving subject like a cyclist, skier, a motorcycle, or a sporting event. It's also ideal for capturing clear portraits and landscapes thanks to the 48 millimeter Med-Tele mode. There's also the cinematic 120 fps slow motion in 4K.

The Fly More Combo that comes with this drone is packed with all the accessories you'd want for creating top-tier content. Aside from the DJI Mini 5 Pro drone itself, the bundle includes the DJI RC 2 for easy navigation and maneuvering, three intelligent Flight Batteries, spare propellers, a shoulder bag, an ND Filter Set, and even more.

Before this sale price of $989 disappears, make the upgrade to the DJI Mini 5 Pro Fly More Combo. It's well worth the pro-level features and added accessories in this bundle.

Presumably, Apple will release the iPhone 18 in September. That's all fine and good, but let's look even further into the future.

Believe it or not, there are already credible reports and leaks floating around about a potential 20th anniversary "iPhone 20" arriving in fall 2027. (If the rumor mill is correct, Apple will skip the iPhone 19, and this wouldn't be the first time Apple has gotten creative with numbering.) The iPhone 20 would commemorate the 20th anniversary of the original model, which was released on June 29, 2007.

To mark 20 years of the iPhone, Apple is reportedly prepping a big redesign that makes use of curved glass and a waterfall display. If true, this would be one of the biggest shakeups to the iPhone in years.

So, here is everything we know about the iPhone 20.

iPhone 20: When will it come out?

First things first, the release date. Apple always launches its flagship iPhone models in September of every year, and there's currently no reason to believe that's going to change soon.

In other words, it's widely expected that this phone will be announced and will subsequently launch in September of 2027. The 20th anniversary iPhone is also the perfect opportunity for Apple to do some weird, fun stuff with its signature device.

iPhone 20: What will it look like?

This is the big point of interest regarding the iPhone 20. In 2025, there were multiple credible reports that the iPhone 20 model would undergo a major redesign that uses significantly more glass than the typical phone.

More recently, Bloomberg and The Information both reported in May of this year that it will have an all-glass, edge-to-edge display. That means curved glass wrapping around the edges of the device, and perhaps more importantly, a seeming lack of a notch or Dynamic Island cutout for the selfie camera. The Dynamic Island has proven divisive, and it will be interesting to see if Apple can deliver on the promise of a true edge-to-edge display.

We've seen wrap-around and waterfall displays on other devices like TVs, but a more sculptural, curved glass iPhone would definitely stand out in the mobile market.

In June, Bloomberg also reported that there will be two iPhone 20 models launched in 2027, likely in the Pro category, and that they will measure in at around 6.3 inches and 6.9 inches. Those are pretty similar figures to what's expected from the iPhone 18.

iPhone 20: New buttons!

Lastly, for now, leaker Instant Digital posted on Weibo late last year that Apple is working on "solid-state" (in other words, non-moving and non-mechanical) buttons for the iPhone 20. The unique feature here would be haptic feedback for power, volume control, and camera control. I could see this being somewhat controversial, like when Apple got rid of the home button, but we'll have to wait and see.

SAVE $100.99: As of July 29, get the Ecovacs Winbot W2 Pro Omni for $399 at Amazon, down from its usual price of $499.99. That's a discount of 20%.

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Ecovacs Winbot W2 Pro Omni

$399 at Amazon
$499.99 Save $100.99

 

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You already know that when it comes to cleaning your floors, a robot vacuum is the way to go. But what about when you want to tidy up your windows? Toss the Windex and paper towels and let a robot handle that, too. We've got a great option for you thanks to this Amazon deal that can tackle the streakiest, filthiest windows while you sit back and relax, all at a great discount.

As of July 29, get the Ecovacs Winbot W2 Pro Omni for $399 at Amazon, down from its usual price of $499.99. That's $100.99 off and a discount of 20%.

All you have to do to get this robot started is attach it to your window and let it get to work. It uses two different methods of cleaning depending on what kind of windows you have: battery mode for areas without outlets, and plugged-in for larger areas when you need additional power.

Its 6-in-1 multifunction station has an all-in-one attachment to let it handle everything about each window cleaning job from start to finish. It uses three different nozzles for wide-angle cleaning as well as a wet cloth to make it easier to tackle streaky and super soiled windows. With intelligent path planning and a brushless motor to power it all, you can skip the frustrating paper towel wash and feel confident that the robots are getting the job done.

This is a great gift for anyone who needs help cleaning, but it's also good to treat yourself. So, spoil yourself with a window-cleaning robot that can take one more item off of your to-do list.

SAVE $30: As of July 29, you can sign up for a full year of anime streaming on Crunchyroll for just $69.99 instead of the usual $99.99. That's 30% off its usual cost.

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Crunchyroll Fan annual subscription (Prime Video add-on)

$69.99
$99.99 Save $30

*for one year*

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Everyone's favorite anime streaming service, Crunchyroll, raised its prices earlier this year after nixing its free streaming plan. It's an unfortunate trend amongst streaming services in 2026. If you cut ties due to the jacked up prices, now's your chance to jump back on board for less.

As of July 29, you can sign up for the Crunchyroll Fan annual subscription for only $69.99 instead of the usual $99.99. That's 30% or $30 in savings and even cheaper than its pre-price hike cost. The deal is available through the Crunchyroll app or website directly or as a Prime Video add-on subscription.

The Crunchyroll Fan subscription unlocks ad-free access to the entire Crunchyroll library, including brand new episodes shortly after they air in Japan. You'll also get offline viewing access. The only limitation is that you can stream on just one device at a time. If you want to stream on more than one at a time, you'll need the Mega Fan subscription, which is also on sale for just $99.99 for one year (reg. $139.99).

If you sign up through Prime Video, just be sure to select the annual plan at checkout instead of the monthly plan if you want to secure the savings. You'll be billed directly through your Amazon account and charged automatically for the next year at full cost unless you cancel before then. (Set your calendar alerts now).

Whether you're a longtime anime lover or you're curious and want to explore the genre, Crunchyroll is the subscription to get. It has a vast selection of popular titles, Crunchyroll Originals, and simulcasts, including the beloved Witch Hat Atelier, One Piece, Gachiakuta, Solo Leveling, and Demon Slayer.

SAVE 42%: As of July 29, you can get the Jackery HomePower 3600 Plus portable power station bundled with two 200W solar panels for $2,149 at Amazon. That's a 42% discount or $1,550 in savings.

Jackery HomePower 3600 Plus

$2,149 at Amazon
$3,699 Save $1,550

 

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Living on the East Coast has taught me that a stiff breeze is all it takes to lose power. Since I live in an apartment, buying a traditional gas generator isn't practical, but a heavy-duty portable power station offers the same peace of mind without the fumes, noise, or installation hassle.

Right now, you can get the Jackery HomePower 3600 Plus portable power station bundled with two 200W solar panels for $2,149 at Amazon. That's a 42% discount or $1,550 in savings.

The Jackery HomePower 3600 Plus runs on a battery, so it's safe for indoor use. (It has built-in wheels and a retractable handle so you can roll it from room to room like carry-on luggage.) With a 3,584Wh capacity and 3,600W AC output, it's enough to keep your refrigerator, WiFi router, lights, and phones running through a prolonged blackout.

You can charge it from a standard wall outlet in just 2.5 hours before a storm rolls in, or set up the included solar panels to recharge it in (roughly) four hours if the grid stays down.

Reader, I love an art heist film, and there are very few good ones. The Mastermind is one. Entrapment is another (don't look at me like that). But The Thomas Crown Affair has always been been top of this list, both the Steve McQueen/Faye Dunaway 1968 version and the 1999 versions, the latter Pierce Brosnan gem a video store classic in this house.

Now, Michael B. Jordan is restarting the affair, directing his own version with a screenplay by Drew Pearce and Jason Hall and a sublime cast: the Oscar-winning Sinners star himself, alongside Adria Arjona, Lily Gladstone, Danai Gurira, Kenneth Branagh, and Pilou Asbæk.

The trailer promises Vincent Van Gogh's "Sunflowers" as a target, high-speed chases, and plenty of luxurious destinations. You son of a bitch, I'm in!

The Thomas Crown Affair hits cinemas March 5, 2027.

Will your next takeout food delivery arrive by air? That's what DoorDash is preparing for.

On Wednesday, DoorDash announced that it had just received Part 135 air carrier certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). As a result of this approval, the company also announced the launch of an in-house drone program called DoorDash Air.

"This certification means that DoorDash is authorized to operate as an air carrier and offer an even more deeply integrated drone delivery experience, opening up new possibilities for local businesses," the company said in a statement.

According to DoorDash, the company is only the eighth drone operator to earn the FAA's Part 135 certification. DoorDash was required to pass a five-stage evaluation process that verified aircraft airworthiness, maintenance programs, and safety procedures.

“We want drone delivery to work for any merchant, anywhere. We're building the full stack to make that possible from the ground infrastructure to the drone itself, and the handoff systems that make it work together seamlessly,” said Head of DoorDash Air Harrison Shih in a blog post. “Advances in hardware, compute, and AI are creating extraordinary new capabilities for local commerce, and becoming a certified air carrier accelerates everything we're building.”

Human Dashers will continue to play a main role within the company, DoorDash says. The company mentioned how Dashers will still fulfill deliveries that drones and other autonomous delivery systems can't handle, such as apartment deliveries and fulfilling deliveries with large orders. 

According to the company, drones fulfilled deliveries in an estimated average of 25 minutes last year. The company says that some locations that took part in its drone partner pilot found their order volume grow by around 30 percent during the program.

DoorDash also has a good idea of which type of deliveries would benefit the most from drones. DoorDash says that 20 percent of DoorDash orders need to be delivered between three to five miles. However, those orders took roughly 25 percent longer to be fulfilled than shorter deliveries. The company says this is because it's more difficult to find Dashers willing to take on mid-range trips. DoorDash hopes that drone deliveries can fulfill these orders, allowing human Dashers to focus on shorter trips, which could maximize their earnings.

Of course, DoorDash wouldn't be the first company to experiment with drone deliveries. Amazon, Alphabet's Wing, and most recently, Walmart have all deployed drone delivery systems. These companies have all touted their delivery drone program; however, there have been some speed bumps along the way.

DoorDash says it's currently "designing and building" its first-party drone program with the company's in-house robotics and autonomy team, DoorDash Labs. The company says that this is "only the beginning" and expects to have further updates about DoorDash Air later this year.

TL;DR: Matthew and Camila McConaughey's Pantalones Organic Tequila has teamed up with Yeti on "A Lot Cooler," a limited-edition cooler featuring a custom Pantalones design, sized to hold a full case (six bottles) of tequila. It's priced at $250 and available for preorder.

Matthew McConaughey's tequila brand is putting its own spin on his most famous line.

Pantalones Organic Tequila, which he co-founded with his wife Camila, has teamed up with Yeti to launch "A Lot Cooler" — a limited-edition cooler that's more or less an inside joke turned real product, referencing McConaughey's "It'd be a lot cooler if you did" line from Dazed and Confused. Priced at $250, it's now available for preorder.

The launch comes with a new video, and it's delightfully ridiculous. McConaughey's whole pitch is that a margarita makes everything better — and he means everything. The two eventually kick back on the tailgate of a pickup truck next to the custom Yeti cooler, margaritas in hand.

The cooler is built for basically any outdoor plan you throw at it — beach days, backyard hangouts, tailgates, or boat trips. It's got Yeti's rugged, durable build quality, finished with exclusive Pantalones branding on top, so it's still functioning as a high-quality cooler. Pack it with tequila, margarita fixings, and snacks, and you're covered for the day.

Pre-order "A Lot Cooler" now at Pantalones.

Will Samsung and Google figure out ways for their glasses to overcome privacy concerns? Unclear, but here’s how they’ll work and what you need to know.

Social media bans for kids are quickly becoming the global legislation trend of the moment.

Children under 16 are finding themselves at the center of political conversations, with countries including Australia, the UK, Canada, Brazil, Austria, and Indonesia, and more attempting to wrangle Big Tech companies' hold on young people's attention.

Online age verification laws are taking shape by the month, with governments citing the need to address issues including child sexual exploitation, cyberbullying, self-harm, and the impact on kids' mental health, as well as "addictive" design, violent content, and porn. However, these laws have also come under severe criticism for efficiency and their impact on digital privacy and free speech.

Plus, kids are already finding ways around them.

So, where are we at, globally? Which countries have followed Australia's example and are rolling out their own social media bans? Here's the list, alphabetically, and incidentally starting with the one who started it all.

Australia

The first to do it, Australia set a global precedent in Dec. 2025 with its world-first social media ban for children under 16. The Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Act requires social media platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, X, and Snapchat to implement age verification and take "reasonable steps" to prevent kids under 16 from creating accounts. However, a July 2026 study by Australian government advisors found the ban so far ineffective.

Plus, Reddit is suing.

Austria

Following in Australia's footsteps with fewer letters, in March 2026, Austria announced a bill to ban social media use for children under 14. With a draft planned for completion by summer, Austria's legislation would also add a new compulsory subject, "Media and Democracy," to school curriculums to boost awareness of "how to recognise disinformation and radicalisation."

Brazil

Brazil's social media ban, the Digital Statute of Children and Adolescents, came into force in March 2026. The law requires kids under 16 to link their social media accounts with a legal guardian, and tech platforms must add age verification for users wanting to access adult content. It also means social media platforms must limit "features designed to artificially increase, sustain, or extend" time kids spend on the platforms, including automatically playing videos.

Canada

Canada is set to ban users under 16 from holding social media accounts, with a proposed law announced by the Canadian government on June 11, 2026. The Safe Social Media Act will enforce age verification to access online services and legally mandated safety requirements for social media platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram. But Canadian law will also apply to companies that use AI chatbots such as ChatGPT, Gemini, and Claude.

Denmark

Denmark is planning a social media ban for kids under 15, announced back on Oct. 8, 2025, by the country's prime minister, Mette Frederiksen. According to the Associated Press, the law could arrive in 2026, but there's no date or details yet. Reports also suggest parents could allow their children to use social media from the age of 13.

European Union

An EU-wide social media ban for kids under 13 could be coming, announced July 13, 2026. Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission (the EU's executive body), presented a report on online safety for children, which recommended age-appropriate restrictions on platforms (the EU has launched its own age verification app), parental supervision for social media use, and the insistence that digital platforms "must prove that their services do no harm."

But it won't just be social media that's impacted. As Mashable's Anna Iovine reports, it could apply to "other digital services such as AI companions, video-sharing platforms, and video games."

France

France is ready to approve its social media ban for kids under 15, with the government reaching a compromise on the bill on July 20, 2026. Once it's through, France will be the first European country to officially enact such a ban. According to Le Monde, the social media ban will block under-15s from creating new accounts as of Sept. 1, and in Jan. 2027, all existing accounts will come under the law.

Germany

Germany hasn't yet rolled out a social media ban, but the government is considering it.

Greece

Greece plans to ban social media for kids under 15, with Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis announcing the proposed law on April 8, 2026. In a TikTok video, translated by the BBC, Mitsotakis cited sleep issues and anxiety in children caused by "the pressure to always be online," and he criticized "the addictive design of certain applications." If passed, the measure will take effect on Jan. 1, 2027, and the PM said age verification is also needed.

Indonesia

Indonesia announced it would ban social media for children under 16 on March 6, 2026. As reported by the BBC, the country's minister of communication and digital affairs, Meutya Hafid, said anyone under 16 with an account on a "high risk" online platform would see it deactivated by the end of March, naming "YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Threads, X, Bigo Live, and Roblox."

Malaysia

Malaysia has banned social media for under-16s, with communications minister Fahmi Fadzil announcing the Online Safety Act 2025 (ONSA) in Nov. 2025. The law came into force on Jan. 1, 2026, but it really got started on June 1, 2026. As NBC News reports, requires social media companies to add age verification and to prohibit kids under 16 from creating accounts on platforms with at least 8 million users (that means YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook). The law also requires social media companies "to limit features that increase, sustain, or extend" kids' online time.

Poland

Poland is looking to ban kids under 15 from social media, with Education Minister Barbara Nowacka announcing plans on Feb. 26, 2026. Yes, that would mean age verification on social media sites and big fines for companies not enforcing them.

Slovenia

Slovenia is set to ban social media access for kids under 15, with draft legislation announced by Deputy Prime Minister Matej Arčon on Feb. 5, 2026.

Spain

Spain announced plans to ban social media for children under 16 on Feb. 3, 2026, with the country's prime minister, Pedro Sánchez, promising to "protect them from the digital Wild West." The proposed bill, which still needs to be passed by parliament, will hold social media companies (including their executives) liable for "illegal or harmful content" existing on their platforms. "We will turn algorithmic manipulation and amplification of illegal content into a new criminal offence,” Sánchez said at the World Governments Summit in Dubai in February.

Thailand

Thailand hasn't announced a social media ban yet, but there's a lot of discussion about it.

Turkey

Turkey passed a bill on April 23, 2026, that blocks kids under 15 from accessing social media platforms. According to the Associated Press, which cited state media reports, the law will require age verification on social media, rapid responses by companies to "harmful" content, and expanded parental controls.

United Kingdom

The UK confirmed an impending social media ban for under-16s on June 15, 2026, following the rollout of age verification in the country in July 2025 (it's kind of working?). The government explicitly said it "plans to use the same model for a social media ban as Australia," with the intention of broadening the law to cover other platforms, including livestreaming and gaming sites.

The UK is also considering overnight curfews for teens aged 16 and 17 and blocking infinite-scroll mechanisms for kids.

This story is developing and will be updated as laws are proposed and passed.

SAVE OVER $10: As of July 29, the Anker Soundcore 2 portable speaker is on sale for $29.98 at Amazon. That's $15.01 off its list price of $44.99.

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Anker soundcore 2 Portable Bluetooth Speaker

$29.98 at Amazon
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Portable speakers are great to have around while going to the beach, pool, camping, and more in the summertime. Picking one out can feel a bit overwhelming, though. With so many different models to choose from, we're here to help. We've spotted a great deal on the Anker Soundcore 2 portable speaker right now at Amazon that's well worth a look.

As of July 29, the black model of this speaker has been marked down to $29.98 at Amazon, which is just over $15 off its list price. According to price tracker camelcamelcamel, it's also pretty close to its lowest-ever price of $21.59, so it's a great time to scoop it up.

Unfortunately, only the black model is available at this price, though other colors are on sale for a few dollars extra. Among the discounts are the mocha brown model at $33.98 and the baby blue, beige, and navy blue models at $35.98 each. There's also the pink model on sale, though for a bit higher at $39.99.

While the Anker Soundcore 2's portable design is convenient for your summer excursions, it's also durable. With IPX7 waterproof protection, it's ready for a day at the beach or by the pool. Plus, it boasts great sound quality. According to the store page, this little speaker delivers 12W of power and enhanced bass from dual neodymium drivers, offering a nice boost for your favorite tunes.

On top of that, its battery can last up to 24 hours. With that kind of power, you can spend the whole day listening to your favorite music, audiobooks, podcasts, and more.

The Anker Soundcore 2 portable speaker currently has a "limited time deal" tag, so act fast to save at Amazon.

Want to learn more about getting the best out of your tech? Sign up for Mashable's Top Stories and Deals newsletters today.

TL;DR: Granola has launched an Apple Watch app that lets you record and transcribe meetings without pulling out your phone, available free starting today. Since a feature like this can place extra pressure on battery life, the Apple Watch Ultra 3 is the best pairing for heavy Granola use.

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Apple Watch Ultra 3

$779 at Amazon

 

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Granola just launched an app for the Apple Watch that lets you record and transcribe meetings without taking out your phone. It's built for the meetings that happen off your laptop: a walking one-on-one, a whiteboard brainstorm, or even a quick coffee chat. Tap your wrist to start, and your notes sync automatically to your iPhone and computer once you're done.

It's also easy to use throughout your day. Before a scheduled meeting, it gently taps you as a reminder to hit record, and for spontaneous chats, you can add Granola to your watch face so a new note is always one tap away.

If you've got back-to-back meetings all day and plan to keep Granola running through most of them, that'll wear down a standard Apple Watch fast. In that case, the Apple Watch Ultra 3 is worth considering.

We've covered the Ultra 3 a few times already, and battery life keeps coming up as its standout upgrade. Mashable's Stan Schroeder noted that most Apple Watch models severely lag behind other watches in battery life.

The Ultra 3 narrows that gap significantly, putting it at up to 42 hours of normal use, a solid jump if you're planning to run something like Granola day after day.

Granola for Apple Watch is free and available today, requiring watchOS 11 or later. If your calendar is packed and you want the app running the whole time, the Apple Watch Ultra 3 is your best bet.

We can't ask Homer what he thinks of Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey, but we can ask someone who knows it better than most.

Emily Wilson, the British-American classicist whose 2017 translation of the epic poem was one of the director's inspirations, has been asked for her opinion on The Odyssey film a few times since the film's release on July 17. And the reactions have gone from light criticism to scathing response.

Nolan has cited Wilson's work as among his influences for the film, notably Homer's opening line, "Tell me about a complicated man."

When asked for her response to The Odyssey by the Associated Press on July 20, Wilson said, "I want to celebrate the fact that so many more people are aware of The Odyssey and were brought back to the poem. But at the same time, I had the sense that Christopher Nolan was trying to pack everything in while missing themes that were essential to the poem."

However, in a rather brutal 4,000-word review for the London Review of Books, published July 24 in print and now online, the professor of classical studies at the University of Pennsylvania went to town on Nolan's adaptation.

"Nolan’s Odyssey lacks many of the elements that make the poem great," she writes. "It has nothing convincing to say about time, memory, history, war, or about the relationship between one warrior’s glorious return and the lives of his family, adversaries, comrades, friends and neighbours. It lacks psychological, emotional, political and ethical depth. Its narrative structure is gimmicky. The writing is abysmal. None of the characters has convincing motivation for their actions or words. There are no sex scenes, and all the food looks horrible."

Girl, tell us what you really think!

Wilson's translation famously reexamined the role of women in The Odyssey, like the characters of Penelope and Circe (played onscreen by Anne Hathaway and Samantha Morton, respectively). And Nolan's film does give women more agency than they've had in his previous work, as Mashable's Belen Edwards writes in her review, "Nolan makes sure to emphasize the women of The Odyssey's complexities, as opposed to letting them linger on the sidelines or in dead wife montages. Most importantly, he lets them be angry."

What did Wilson think? "There are more female characters than in most Nolan movies, thanks to the source material. But none of them has much to say, in contrast to the characterisations in the poem," she writes, particularly scrutinising an under-written Calypso (Charlize Theron) as "an unpaid therapist, soothing the soul of the bedraggled, PTSD-ridden Odysseus with drugs, and graciously listening to his disjointed tale of woe."

Granted, it's nothing short of a herculean task to try and fit every last element of Homer's 12,000-line poem into a film that runs just under three hours, despite that IMAX screen size. Nolan does hit the major plot points of The Odyssey's 20-year chronology — the Trojan Horse, Penelope's sleazy suitors, Odysseus (Matt Damon) and his men running into the cyclops Polythemus (Bill Irwin), the sirens, the Scylla monster, and the nymph Calypso along the way — he leaves many myths deliberately untold.

Wilson does eventually return to a shadow of her original response, seeing Nolan's film as "still an event to celebrate," with the film "bringing audiences back to cinemas." However, the review is still pretty withering, especially a section which reads, "My eyes stayed dry, even for Argos the dog," and one in which Wilson yearns for "a tub of wax for my ears" to survive the film's booming soundscape.

"I had hoped that Nolan’s affinity with these Homeric themes might push him to new creative heights, and enable him to conjure more believable characters," Wilson writes. "But The Odyssey features his usual combination of grandiosity and superficiality."

I'm going to leave the hand-wringing to the internet on this one (and it's happening), but it's interesting to hear scholars like Wilson's responses to The Odyssey, a text that has been reinterpreted for thousands of years through literature, art, film, video games, and myriad creative avenues.

As to what Homer would think? No one can ever know that, stop speaking for an ancient Greek poet on X.

The Odyssey is now in cinemas.

UPDATE: Jul. 29, 2026, 12:01 p.m. GMT This story was originally published on July 20, 2026, then updated and republished on July 29 after Emily Wilson's essay appeared in the London Review of Books.

Singles are growing increasingly disenchanted with dating apps, and those with the means are turning to matchmakers. But with such an investment — oftentimes thousands of dollars, which is way more than Tinder Gold — there's a lot at stake.

Matchmaker Sameera Sullivan told Mashable she's been a matchmaker in the U.S. for almost 15 years now, first at an international agency (though she didn't name which one) and then striking out on her own. Previously, she worked as a recruiter in the aerospace and defense industry, and then was recruited herself to be a matchmaker. Before matchmaking, she would always coach and help friends.

When she worked for the agency, "that's when I started realizing how crazy this industry can be," she said. Sullivan stayed there for less than a year and observed what they were doing "wrong," and then started doing her own thing. 

What did they do wrong? These "bigbox" matchmaking agencies are "living off their brand," she said. "The owners are not really involved [and] they will take on everybody," she explained. "Then there are newer companies who are doing a lot of marketing and SEO…which is fine, but they're marketing to every demographic." 

Matchmaking is a centuries-old practice in places like India and China, but what was once a community-oriented assist has now become a booming business, especially stateside. With arguably as many options for matchmakers out there as dating apps, you're going to need to be discerning. If you're in a position to hire a matchmaker, here's what to do, according to Sullivan and some of her clients.

Why hire a matchmaker?

Sullivan's clients who spoke to Mashable have paid thousands of dollars — in the five figures — for her services and those of other matchmakers. Why drop so much money when, in relative terms, a paid dating app subscription is much cheaper?

A male client, 65 to 70 years old, who requested anonymity when speaking to Mashable, said he had dating site fatigue and wanted to find an alternative. He wanted a boutique, bespoke service with better filtering.

"Just moving from dating sites to a matchmaker gives you, I think, a better pool," he said. The singles are pre-screened and are definitely interested in a relationship, unlike on dating apps, where users' desires range widely. And from a safety standpoint, it might be better, given increased vetting.

"Vetting is the most important thing in matchmaking," Sullivan said.

Sullivan told Mashable that her vetting process includes not just a criminal background check, but also a background check for their career history, if they've owned any homes, marriage history, and the like. If they were previously married, they would check to make sure they're fully divorced. She or her team also conducts interviews, typically 90 minutes long, to learn more about them and what they're looking for.

How thorough background checks are depends on the service you use, however. Cheryl, who has worked with Sullivan, had a bad experience when a previous service matched her with men out of her home state. Keeping an open mind, she flew to Florida to meet one, and during dinner (which he didn't pay for), he "joked" that he'd take her for everything she's worth.

"The waiter paused and looked at me, and I paused and looked at him, and… at one point I said, 'Hey, just so you know, you said that out loud, and I can see you,'" she said. "I think he was using the service as a way to find rich women." 

Cheryl reported the man to the service, and they did remove him. However, the experience didn't turn her off matchmaking entirely — she found Sullivan when looking for a matchmaker close by.

Matchmaker red flags

When you reach out to matchmaking services, they'll often have a consultation first before they take you on, usually through a phone call. During this call, you might be able to spot some red flags. 

Be on the lookout for any promises or guarantees they make. Some services guarantee match offerings, but beyond that, they can't tell you they're going to find you a spouse. Sullivan's client, Ro, tried a big matchmaking agency, and the salesperson who spoke to him sold him on it. When FaceTiming, Ro says she told him that finding him a partner would be a slam dunk — but then, after he signed up, she said she doesn't handle clients, and palmed him off to a colleague.

"That was a disappointment right away," Ro said. He was also promised weekly check-ins, but then didn't hear from the service for two or three weeks at a time.

"They promised me a minimum amount of dates. They came through with the minimum amount of connections, but I turned a lot of them down," he recalled. "They just didn't get me."

"I run a company, and we do sales, and I just don't love salespeople that are selling me on stuff," Richard, another client who has used multiple matchmaking services, said. He found Sullivan authentic because she didn't make those promises. She told him, "I'm not going to find you love. I'm going to find you candidates."

Another potential red flag (depending) is the clientele of the business. If they promise to provide services to every demographic, they may not be able to focus on a specific group and their needs (for instance, a certain religion or gender). Some matchmakers are specific to certain locations (if you search for "California matchmakers," for instance, you'll find some that tailor to singles in that state, and you'll also find services that are nationwide or global).

"We have a moral code," Sullivan said of matchmakers. "We have a responsibility that we have to be responsible for who we take on, because we cannot take on everyone. Not everyone is going to be our client who's willing to pay us."

Sullivan only takes on certain clients. She charges a premium price (some clients pay in the six figures), but it's not just about who can pay; it's about who wants to do the work. She employees a coach who assesses clients based on attachment styles and Dr. Helen Fisher's personality test, and uses the Gottman Method of couples' therapy. If potential clients aren't into this, she doesn't work with them.

"Some guys just want dates, and that's not my thing," she said. And while she has a free and priority (paid) database of women — who are also vetted — her clientele is only men.

Some services, though, are more focused on money than integrity, she said, and agree to take on anyone.

Questions for the matchmaker

When consulting with a matchmaker, you can ask them to show you some sample profiles of potential matches in their database. One of the most important things Sullivan tells people to ask is: Are the people you're showing me single and available today? Have they been pre-screened? (Meaning, have they spoken to the matchmaking service?)

"You need to have a very detailed conversation," Sullivan said. 

The matchmaker may say they can't show you because you haven't started with them yet (especially if they're waiting for your check to clear), but Sullivan said that's BS, because the person they're showing you during a consultation should be a fit. "If you're going to take somebody on and you're telling them, 'These are the five women we have [for you],' three of them should be available and single," she said. 

Another thing to ask is who you're going to be working with — the salesperson? If so, how long have they been with the company? That was an issue in Ro's case; he bonded with the salesperson, but didn't end up working with her. Who you end up working with depends on the matchmaking service. At Sullivan's, for instance, you could end up working with the first person who screens you.

Another important aspect to bring up is location. If you're only looking for a match in Arizona, for instance, the matchmaker should be able to show you singles in Arizona. Local is important, obviously, and there are matchmakers all over; if the one you're speaking to doesn't have clients where you are, they could refer you to someone who does.

Richard said the most important thing is connecting with your matchmaker, because you're going to spend a lot of time on the phone with them. Both he and Ro said to do your due diligence and research. You can look on Google or Reddit to see how people review different services (but, as with everything, take it with a grain of salt.)

Even if you do everything right, however, love and marriage aren't guaranteed. "It may or may not work." The difference, she said, is that you're not doing the looking. So measure your expectations because, as she said, "Love's tricky."

The Pokémon TCG has always thrown out incredibly valuable cards throughout the franchise’s 30-year run, but modern-day expansions have taken the game’s trading card economy into the stratosphere. Since the launch of expansions like Scarlet & Violet’s Prismatic Evolutions, seeing a new card like SIR Umbreon ex worth well over $1,000 is no longer a surprise. 

We’ve scoured the market prices across each "modern" collection of cards, found out which are the most valuable in terms of TCGplayer market price, and linked to every card so you can check listings to buy one yourself, if you wish. 

These are the five most valuable Pokémon cards from every modern expansion.

Scarlet & Violet

Scarlet & Violet might be a historically significant expansion, but it's not the most expensive.

At the time of writing, its five leading cards are all listed below $100, with Gardevoir ex narrowly holding first place over Drowzee, making this one of the most affordable modern Pokémon TCG expansions in terms of average price per card:

• Gardevoir ex — 245/198: $76.19

• Drowzee — 210/198: $60.37

• Ralts — 211/198:  $47.02

• Kirlia — 212/198: $46.72

• Slowpoke — 204/198: $41.86

Paldea Evolved

Paldea Evolved is worth considerably more at the top end, primarily because of an Illustration Rare that has grown into one of the Scarlet & Violet era’s biggest chase cards. 

Magikarp sits hundreds of dollars above everything else in the expansion, leaving an enormous gap between first and second place. Raichu, Maushold, Tyranitar, and Sprigatito still give the expansion an impressive set of runner-ups:

• Magikarp — 203/193: $406.04

• Raichu — 211/193: $111.65

• Maushold — 226/193: $99.92

• Tyranitar — 222/193: $72.82

• Sprigatito — 196/193: $66.06

Obsidian Flames

Obsidian Flames includes 230 cards, including the Dark-type Tera Charizard ex cards.

Compared with most modern expansions, Obsidian Flames remains relatively inexpensive. Only its leading SIR Charizard ex chase card is currently breaking into triple figures, according to TCGplayer’s market price:

• Charizard ex — 223/197: $114.13

• Ninetales — 199/197: $39.77

• Cleffa — 202/197: $39.68

• Charizard ex — 228/197: $36.55

• Gloom — 198/197: $24.83

Scarlet & Violet — 151

Scarlet & Violet — 151 is this era’s first special expansion, with all of the original 151 Pokémon represented across its 207 cards. 

Its combination of modern SIR artwork and classic card designs (plus Gen-1 nostalgia) has kept demand especially high, making it one of the most valuable early Scarlet & Violet releases. Unsurprisingly, the final evolutions of Kanto’s first-partner Pokémon — Charizard, Blastoise, and Venusaur — remain among its best pulls:

• Charizard ex — 199/165: $383.12

• Blastoise ex — 200/165: $145.86

• Venusaur ex — 198/165: $115.88

• Zapdos ex — 202/165: $102.74

• Pikachu — 173/165: $96.76

Paradox Rift

Paradox Rift contains 266 cards and greatly expands the Ancient and Future Pokémon introduced earlier in the Scarlet & Violet era. Its selection of chase cards includes fewer ex Pokémon compared to other expansions, but still packs plenty of well-designed Special Illustration Rares:

• Groudon — 199/182: $120.02

• Altaria ex — 253/182: $58.89

• Morpeko — 206/182: $50.81

• Plusle — 193/182: $49.19

• Minun — 194/182: $46.86

Paldean Fates

Paldean Fates is a 245-card special expansion dominated by Shiny Pokémon, including more than 100 alternate-color cards. Its broad selection of popular Pocket Monsters gives this expansion proper value beyond one or two pulls, but its upper end is in another league entirely:

• Mew ex — 232/091: $1,065.49

• Charizard ex — 234/091: $317.57

• Gardevoir ex — 233/091: $180.67

• Pikachu — 131/091: $84.74

• Snorlax — 202/091: $60.86

Temporal Forces

Temporal Forces features 218 cards and continues the Ancient and Future themes established by Paradox Rift. It also brought ACE SPEC cards back into the competitive game, although its collector value now centers more heavily on illustration and special illustration rares:

• Gastly — 177/162: $101.36

• Morty’s Conviction — 211/162: $73.59

• Raging Bolt ex — 208/162: $72.60

• Gengar ex — 193/162: $62.76

• Sawsbuck — 166/162: $59.79

Twilight Masquerade

Twilight Masquerade includes 226 cards inspired by Kitakami and the Pokémon Scarlet and Violet game’s Teal Mask DLC. Its Ogerpon-focused theme gave the expansion several competitive cards, but its market strength comes from a mixture of popular Pokémon and Trainer cards, along with well-drawn artwork:

• Greninja ex — 214/167: $382.74

• Perrin — 220/167: $178.19

• Eevee — 188/167: $93.96

• Carmine — 217/167: $56.69

• Chansey — 187/167: $56.65

Shrouded Fable

Shrouded Fable is a smaller special expansion containing only 99 cards, with its story revolving around Pecharunt and the Loyal Three. Still, its most valuable pulls have ended up being a broader mix of non-Legendary-based illustration rares and its Hyper Rare Energy card:

• Persian — 078/064: $75.70

• Basic Darkness Energy — 098/064: $65.40

• Duskull — 068/064: $60.87

• Houndoom — 066/064: $58.29

• Horsea — 067/064: $47.56

Surging Sparks

Surging Sparks contains 252 cards and continues the Stellar Tera mechanic introduced in Stellar Crown. Pikachu became the expansion’s main attraction, although several other special illustration rares have retained substantial value: 

• Pikachu ex — 238/191: $326.21

• Latias ex — 239/191: $183.88

• Milotic ex — 237/191: $129.26

• Pikachu ex — 247/191: $94.14

• Hydreigon ex — 240/191: $36.91

Prismatic Evolutions

Prismatic Evolutions launched as an Eevee-focused special expansion containing 180 cards. By giving Eevee and all eight of its evolutions their own major chase cards, the set immediately attracted enormous collector demand. It now sits comfortably among the most expensive modern Pokémon TCG expansions:

• Umbreon ex — 161/131: $1,509.18

• Sylveon ex — 156/131: $551.20

• Leafeon ex — 144/131: $340.25

• Espeon ex — 155/131: $309.82

• Vaporeon ex — 149/131: $304.15

Journey Together

Journey Together contains 190 cards and brings a focus on the Pokémon of popular Trainer characters, putting characters like Lillie, N, Iono, and Hop in the spotlight with their best-known partners:

• Lillie’s Clefairy ex — 184/159: $118.82

• Salamence ex — 187/159: $58.87

• N’s Zoroark ex — 185/159: $49.33

• Iono’s Bellibolt ex — 183/159: $41.29

• Hop’s Zacian ex — 186/159: $35.82

Destined Rivals

Destined Rivals contains 244 cards, continuing the Trainer’s Pokémon mechanic while introducing a conflict centered around Team Rocket. This expansion’s combination of major Trainers, Legendary Pokémon, and villain-themed artwork quickly created one of the most alluring buys of the Scarlet & Violet era:

• Team Rocket’s Mewtwo ex — 231/182: $533.30

• Cynthia’s Garchomp ex — 232/182: $261.91

• Ethan’s Ho-Oh ex — 230/182: $173.72

• Team Rocket’s Nidoking ex — 233/182: $109.43

• Team Rocket’s Moltres ex — 229/182: $108.04

White Flare

White Flare launched alongside Black Bolt, dividing the Pokémon of the Unova region between them. White Flare contains 173 cards once its secret rares are included, though its highest-value cards are especially expensive — led by two Black White Rare cards and a Reshiram special illustration rare:

• Victini — 172/086: $557.23

• Reshiram ex — 173/086: $504.21

• Reshiram ex — 166/086: $215.92

• Oshawott — 105/086: $93.12

• Hydreigon ex — 169/086: $87.04

Black Bolt

Black Bolt contains 172 cards and serves as the companion expansion to White Flare. Its Unova theme, monochrome Black-White Rares, and Legendary Pokémon have created an exceptionally valuable upper end:

• Victini — 171/086: $599.69

• Zekrom ex — 172/086: $593.30

• Zekrom ex — 166/086: $282.66

• Seismitoad — 105/086: $254.58

• Kyurem ex — 165/086: $80.59

Mega Evolution

Mega Evolution is an 188-card selection that brought Mega Evolution Pokémon back into the trading card. With its new gold Mega Hyper Rares, this expansion’s top five have quite an even spread in terms of value compared to some of the other collections released during the last couple of years: 

• Mega Lucario ex — 188/132: $274.82

• Mega Lucario ex — 179/132: $218.17

• Mega Gardevoir ex — 187/132: $209.98

• Mega Gardevoir ex — 178/132: $193.99

• Mega Venusaur ex — 177/132: $155.15

Phantasmal Flames

Phantasmal Flames is a more compact 130-card expansion centered around fire-and-darkness-themed Mega Evolution Pokémon — with Mega Charizard X unsurprisingly dominating the bunch, with three versions appearing among its five most valuable cards:

• Mega Charizard X ex — 125/094: $785.31

• Mega Charizard X ex — 130/094: $335.21

• Mega Charizard X ex — 109/094: $30.71

• Dawn — 129/094: $24.44

• Mega Sharpedo ex — 127/094: $21.36

Ascended Heroes

Ascended Heroes is a huge 295-card special expansion drawing from Pokémon Legends: Z-A and TCG collections of the past. Its combination of Mega Evolutions and jaw-dropping artwork has resulted in the most valuable cards we have seen since Prismatic Evolutions:

• Mega Gengar ex — 284/217: $1,262.19

• Pikachu ex — 276/217: $1,161.13

• Mega Dragonite ex — 290/217: $747.98

• Mega Charizard Y ex — 294/217: $506.61

• Team Rocket’s Mewtwo ex — 281/217: $394.60

Perfect Order

Perfect Order is a compact 124-card expansion inspired by the Pokémon of Lumiose City introduced in Pokémon Legends: Z-A. Its market values are noticeably more restrained than those of Ascended Heroes:

• Meowth ex — 121/088: $134.07

• Mega Zygarde ex — 124/088: $133.91

• Mega Zygarde ex — 120/088: $63.86

• Mega Clefable ex — 119/088: $59.37

• Rosa’s Encouragement — 123/088: $54.19

Chaos Rising 

Chaos Rising contains 122 cards — including many that were featured in Legends: Z-A. Unsurprisingly, the star of the expansion, Mega Greninja ex, takes up two of the top five positions by a wide margin:

• Mega Greninja ex — 116/086: $237.40

• Mega Greninja ex — 122/086: $195.17

• Cinccino ex — 119/086: $65.70

• Mega Dragalge ex — 118/086: $43.11

• Mega Floette ex — 117/086: $33.56

Pitch Black

Pitch Black launched with 120 cards — honing in on a darker Mega Evolution theme led by Mega Darkrai ex, while Morpeko, Mega Zeraora, and Mega Chandelure also appear among its largest pulls:

• Mega Darkrai ex — 116/084: $282.62

• Mega Darkrai ex — 120/084: $195.78

• Morpeko ex — 117/084: $129.05

• Mega Zeraora ex — 114/084: $70.73

• Mega Chandelure ex — 115/084: $52.83

SAVE $60: As of July 29, Shokz OpenDots One are on sale for $139.95 at Amazon. That's $60 off their full price of $199.95, and marks a return to their lowest-ever price.

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Credit: Shokz

Shokz OpenDots ONE Open-Ear Headphones

$139.95 at Amazon
$199.95 Save $60

 

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Shokz OpenDots One landed among our favorite open earbuds as the top pick for most people, offering "better audio quality than we expected and an impressive battery life." If they've caught your attention, we've spotted an excellent $60 discount on the vibrant red pair at Amazon, so this is a great time to grab them.

Usually, these earbuds are listed for $199.95, but this deal has brought them down to $139.95, marking a return to their lowest-ever price at the retailer. Unfortunately, only the red pair is marked down to this price right now, but they're certainly worth grabbing while they're still on sale.

In addition to earning a spot in our roundup of the best open earbuds, our review of the Shokz OpenDots One had plenty of praise for them. Writer Alex Bracetti said they "dish out satisfying sound that increases stamina when running low on energy, and the addition of Dolby Audio gives music a bit more thump." He added: "Battery life is sufficient for about a week of use, depending how long you exercise. The stylish design also stabilizes fit when sprinting at fast speeds."

Battery life can last up to 10 hours on a single charge or up to 40 hours with the charging case. Their clip-on fit — with a flexible nickel-titanium plate and soft silicone grip — ensures they'll stay securely on your ear as you move around.

If the Shokz OpenDots One check the boxes of what you're looking for, act fast to save on the colorful red pair at Amazon.

Want to learn more about getting the best out of your tech? Sign up for Mashable's Top Stories and Deals newsletters today.

Donald Trump may have been doing everything he can to distance himself from the Epstein files, but he doesn't seem to be able to outrun his association with the deceased convicted child sex offender.

In the clip above, Daily Show host Jordan Klepper shares footage of people yelling "pedophile protector" at Trump on two different occasions.

"Wow, show some respect for the office. That's 'President Pedophile Protector'!" says Klepper. "Why does this keep happening? Is it the same guy? Is it something in the water? Is it because withheld millions of Epstein files and people are furious that nobody has been held accountable for it? We'll never know."

Want more of the best of late night? Sign up for Mashable's Top Stories newsletters.

TL;DR: The Pokémon TCG Mega Evolution Pitch Black Booster Bundle is on sale for $39.95 at Amazon, down from its typical $50.98 price.

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Credit: The Pokémon Company

Pokémon TCG Mega Evolution Pitch Black Booster Bundle

$39.95 at Amazon
$50.98 Save $11.03

 

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Pitch Black’s Booster Bundle has continued to tumble in price since launch, and Amazon has now taken the six-pack box below $40 for the first time.

As of July 29, the Pokémon TCG’s six-pack Pitch Black Booster Bundle is down to $39.95 at Amazon — $11.03 off its $50.98 list price. With that 22% discount, you’re looking at the lowest price this box of Pitch Black boosters has seen on Amazon yet, as confirmed by the price tracker camelcamelcamel.

Sold and shipped directly by Amazon, free delivery is currently scheduled for Aug. 3, or Aug. 1 for Prime members at the time of writing. Still, you should keep in mind that Amazon marks the Booster Bundle as a final sale, meaning it cannot be returned once ordered.

At this new low $39.95 sticker price, you’re paying roughly $6.66 per booster pack before tax, which is even better than the $43.13 Amazon deal we covered last week, which worked out to around $7.18 per pack.

If stock runs out, TCGplayer is matching this headline Amazon price, with unopened Pitch Black Booster Bundles starting at $39.95 with shipping included. You can also take comfort from the fact that you’re only spending 46 cents above market price right now.

The box grants you six sealed booster packs from Mega Evolution’s titular Pitch Black expansion. Each pack contains 10 trading cards, one Basic Energy card, and a Pokémon TCG Live code card, giving you 60 standard cards altogether before counting Energy cards.

The Pitch Black expansion contains multiple Pokémon chase cards worth hundreds of dollars (available to buy separately on TCGplayer) — the five most valuable are SIR Mega Darkrai ex, MHR Mega Darkrai ex, SIR Morpeko ex, SIR Mega Zeraora ex, and SIR Mega Chandelure ex. 

SAVE $30: As of July 29, the Ninja Creami 7-in-1 Ice Cream Maker is down to $189.99 at Amazon. That's $30 off its list price of $219.99.

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Credit: Ninja

Ninja Creami 7-in-1 Ice Cream Maker

$189.99 at Amazon
$219.99 Save $30

 

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Given how hot it has been this summer, ice cream is the best kind of pick-me-up. But why go out and buy a tasty treat when you can make it at home? The Ninja Creami 7-in-1 Ice Cream Maker can help you out there, and it's even on sale at Amazon.

As of July 29, the Ninja Creami is on sale for $189.99 at the retailer, making for a $30 drop from its full price. It's an ice cream maker we certainly think is worth buying, with Mashable's Samantha Mangino writing: "If you're a planner and/or an ice cream fanatic, the Creami will be a delightful addition as you plan your pints of the week."

The Ninja Creami boasts seven one-touch programs — Ice Cream, Gelato, Sorbet, Milkshake, Smoothie Bowl, Lite Ice Cream, and Mix-In — so you have quite a variety of options to choose from. According to the store page, it also has Ninja's exclusive Creamify Technology, which shaves through a frozen pint to get a smooth texture.

Prepping your preferred chilled treat is easy, too. All you have to do is prep the base you want, freeze it for 24 hours, and process it. Mangino's review highlights that, "it creates creamy, smooth ice cream in just minutes with the press of a button (or two)."

Don't miss out on this deal on the Ninja Creami 7-in-1 Ice Cream Maker at Amazon.

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TL;DR: 2K just dropped the official NBA 2K27 gameplay trailer, featuring cover athletes Victor Wembanyama, Caitlin Clark, and Derrick Rose, plus highlight moments from other NBA and WNBA stars. The full Preseason Breakdown reveal stream is set for Aug. 18 at 10 a.m. PT / 1 p.m. ET, ahead of the game's Sept. 4 launch.

NBA 2K27's official gameplay trailer is out, giving fans their first real look at how the game looks and plays before the bigger reveal drops later this month.

The trailer leans into highlight moments across both the NBA and WNBA, including Victor Wembanyama's playoff celebration, LeBron James doing his signature chalk toss as a Philadelphia 76er, and Derrick Rose hitting a buzzer-beating three over the Cavaliers. Check out the full trailer below.

What's coming Aug. 18

The trailer is just a preview — the full picture comes Aug. 18, when 2K hosts its first-ever "Preseason Breakdown: NBA 2K27 Game Reveal" stream. It's set for 10 a.m. PT / 1 p.m. ET, streaming live on Twitch, YouTube, TikTok, and X.

2K has already given a preview of a few bigger changes coming that day:

• A new dynamic Dunk Meter that reads defensive positioning in real-time, from takeoff through the finish

• A unified MyTEAM Auction House across PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and Switch 2 for the first time ever, meaning a much bigger shared pool of cards

• Rucker Park is back, serving as the setting for this year's MyCAREER story and Street Kings mode

• MyPLAYER Builder is expanding from 40 to 53 total Badges, with 19 brand-new ones

When you can play

NBA 2K27 launches Sept. 4 on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC via Steam, and Nintendo Switch 2. If you're getting the Deluxe or Ultra Edition, early access starts Aug. 28.

Aug. 18 is circled in red on our calendar — the rest of NBA 2K27's secrets land then.

SAVE $700: As of July 29, the Roborock Qrevo CurvX is on sale for $799.99 at Amazon. That's a 47% discount on the list price.

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Credit: roborock

Roborock Qrevo CurvX

$799.99 at Amazon
$1,499.99 Save $700

 

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There’s a reason robot vacuums have become a staple in many homes, and if you're ready to join the masses and say goodbye to manual vacuuming, check out this latest Amazon deal on the Roborock Qrevo CurvX.

Down by $700, this model is currently on sale for $799.99. It features powerful 22,000Pa HyperForce suction with a Zero-Tangling Design to help remove dirt, carpet debris, pet hair, and long hair up to 40cm. It also has a mopping function, so it cleans your floors with little to no effort needed from you.

It's a small machine, meaning it can reach under couches, cabinets, and other low furniture where dust can collect and linger. It also uses a Reactive AI Obstacle Recognition system with structured light and an RGB camera to detect and avoid up to 108 types of objects, helping it navigate around your home more efficiently. And the navigation is handled internally, using the RetractSense Navigation System and LiDAR sensors.

And if you have pets at home, this vacuum can more than cope. Plus, it has additional pet-friendly features like video calls, two-way voice interaction, pet recognition (to avoid getting in their way), and snapshots, so you can enjoy cute pictures of them when you're away from home.

Get this robot vacuum deal at Amazon now.

SAVE OVER $400: As of July 29, the iRobot Roomba Plus 405 is on sale for $398 at Amazon. That's a 50% discount on the list price.

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iRobot Roomba Plus 405

$398 at Amazon
$799.99 Save $401.99

 

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iRobot is one of the best-known names in robot vacuums, and for good reason. The brand is synonymous with effective devices that automate one of life's most arduous chores.

If you've been looking for a good deal before purchasing your own iRobot, Amazon has a great deal on the iRobot Roomba Plus 405. Not only is it currently 50% off at $398 (a total discount of $401.99), but it is also the best-ever price for this vacuum.

This is a robot vacuum and mop combo designed to tackle everyday dirt and spills. It uses DualClean Mop Pads, SmartScrub technology, a multi-surface rubber brush, and an edge-sweeping brush to clean across different floor types. And for deeper floor cleaning, the spinning DualClean Mop Pads apply downward pressure, and SmartScrub technology gives more thorough scrubbing to help remove tougher messes.

It also works with very little effort from you. For example, its navigation is handled by ClearView LiDAR navigation. This allows the vacuum to map your home quickly, plan efficient cleaning routes, and avoid obstacles, while sensors help prevent falls down stairs. Also, it has an AutoWash Dock that automatically empties the dustbin for up to 75 days, washes and dries the mop pads, and keeps them refreshed to ensure efficient mopping.

Say goodbye to manual floor cleaning for good with this iRobot deal at Amazon.

The Full Moon is here and this month it's called the Buck Moon. If you're planning to look up tonight, there are plenty of features to spot across the lunar surface, even without a telescope. Here's what you might be able to see.

What is today’s Moon phase?

As of Wednesday, July 29, NASA's Daily Moon Guide tracker tells us the Moon phase is in Full Moon phase, with 100% of its surface visible.

With so much of the Moon's surface illuminated, there's plenty to spot. Without visual aids, you should see the Oceanus Procellarum, Copernicus Crater, and the Tycho Crater. If you have them, binoculars will help you see the Gassendi Crater, Mare Humorum, and the Clavius Crater. Finally, a telescope will help you see all this plus the Apollo 14 and 16 landing spots, as well as the Rupes Altai.

When is the next Full Moon?

The next Full Moon will take place on August 28.

What are Moon phases?

According to NASA, the Moon goes through a complete cycle of eight phases roughly every 29.5 days. As it travels around Earth, the angle between the Sun, Earth and Moon constantly changes, meaning we see different amounts of the Moon's sunlit side. This is what causes the familiar progression from a thin crescent to a half Moon, then a Full Moon, before the cycle repeats.

The eight phases are:

New Moon - The Moon is between Earth and the sun, so the side we see is dark (in other words, it's invisible to the eye).

Waxing Crescent - A small sliver of light appears on the right side (Northern Hemisphere).

First Quarter - Half of the Moon is lit on the right side. It looks like a half-Moon.

Waxing Gibbous - More than half is lit up, but it’s not quite full yet.

Full Moon - The whole face of the Moon is illuminated and fully visible.

Waning Gibbous - The Moon starts losing light on the right side. (Northern Hemisphere)

Third Quarter (or Last Quarter) - Another half-Moon, but now the left side is lit.

Waning Crescent - A thin sliver of light remains on the left side before going dark again.

The July Full Moon is almost here, and this month it’s known as the Buck Moon. While it may sound like it has something to do with how the Moon looks in the sky, its name actually comes from the time of year and the seasonal changes happening on Earth.

Want to know more about July’s Full Moon? Keep reading to find out when to see it and why it has this name.

When is the July full moon?

The Full Moon will occur on Wednesday, July 29. Time and Date estimates it will peak at 10:30 a.m. ET.

What is the July full moon called?

The July Full Moon is known as the Buck Moon.

According to Royal Museums Greenwich, July’s Full Moon is known as the Buck Moon because it coincides with the time of year when male deer begin to grow their antlers again. The antlers, which are shed and regrown each year, start to appear during the summer months.

When is the next full moon?

The next Full Moon will take place on August 28.

What are the lunar phases?

The Moon goes through a complete cycle of eight phases as it travels around Earth, taking around 29.5 days to do so. Although we always see the same side of the Moon, the amount of its sunlit surface visible from Earth changes throughout its orbit. This makes the Moon appear to shift from fully illuminated to a small crescent and back again as the cycle repeats. The phases are:

• New Moon — The moon is between Earth and the sun, so the side we see is dark (so, we don't see anything).

• Waxing Crescent — A small sliver of light appears on the right side

• First Quarter — Half of the moon is lit on the right side. It looks like a half-moon.

• Waxing Gibbous — More than half is lit up, but it’s not quite full yet.

• Full Moon — The whole face of the moon is illuminated and fully visible.

• Waning Gibbous — The moon starts losing light on the right side

• Third Quarter (or Last Quarter) — Another half-moon, but now the left side is lit.

• Waning Crescent — A thin sliver of light remains on the left side before going dark again.

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SAVE $451: As of July 29, the Hisense 65-inch E7 Cinema Series is on sale for $548.99 at Amazon. That's a 45% discount on the list price.

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Credit: Hisense

Hisense 65-inch E7 Cinema Series

$548.99 at Amazon
$999.99 Save $451

 

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Want to make movie nights at home feel a little better? The Hisense 65-inch E7 Cinema Series TV brings a bigger-screen experience to your living room, and a much better viewing experience, and it's currently on sale.

As of July 29, this impressive Hisense TV is down to $548.99 from $999.99, saving you $451. According to price tracker camelcamelcamel, that's the lowest this model has ever been priced. This deal is for the 65-inch model only.

This TV supports 4K Ultra HD resolution with AI 4K upscaling, which uses deep learning technology to improve the quality of lower-resolution content by sharpening details, enhancing textures, and reducing noise, making older shows and movies look much closer to 4K quality.

It also features a native 144Hz refresh rate, Game Mode, and AI Smooth Motion with MEMC technology to reduce blur in fast-moving scenes, making it a great choice for gaming and live sports. Plus, the AI Picture processing automatically adjusts brightness, contrast, and color scene-by-scene, and an AI light sensor adapts screen brightness to match the lighting conditions of your room.

And for movie nights, the Filmmaker Mode makes everything appear as the creators intended, with built-in features that preserve the original picture settings, including aspect ratio, color, and frame rate.

Get this TV deal online at Amazon right now.

SAVE $40: As of July 29, the Soundcore AeroClip earbuds are on sale for $99.99 at Amazon. That's a 41% discount on the list price.

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Credit: Soundcore

Soundcore AeroClip

$99.99 at Amazon
$169.99 Save $70.00

 

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Looking for a new pair of open earbuds? As of July 29, there's a great deal on the Soundcore AeroClip earbuds at Amazon, now at their lowest-ever price of $99.99. All colorways are discounted, so you can choose between rosy brown, champagne mist, glacier blue, and midnight.

Open earbuds are growing in popularity, especially among runners and those who exercise outdoors. Instead of sitting inside your ear, they rest just outside it, letting you enjoy your music while staying aware of the sounds around you.

These earbuds use this technology in an open-ear clip-on design to provide a comfortable fit without sitting inside the ear canal. They feature a lightweight open-ring design that has been tested to withstand up to 20,000 bends.

And the music quality is impressive, supporting Hi-Res Audio and using a 12mm titanium-coated driver alongside virtual bass technology to deliver clear sound. They also use directional acoustic technology to direct audio towards the listener's ears, reducing sound leakage.

For calls, voice notes, and general audio output, the AeroClip earbuds use four microphones with AI-powered noise reduction to improve voice clarity and minimize background noise, even in loud environments. They are also IP55 water-resistant, so they can cope with sweat, rain, and dust for everyday use and workouts.

This is a limited-time deal at Amazon, so don't miss out.

Though most of the conversation around pet hair pickup will involve how well that robot vacuum performs on carpet, pets don't stop shedding when they cross over to a hardwood or tiled floor. If your home has a pretty even split of both types of flooring, you should eye one of the best robot vacuum and mop combos for pet hair on hard floors. Strong suction power alone isn't always guaranteed to pull up every tiny strand of fur (especially fur that has blown into the corners of the room), and fine dust like pet dander and kitty litter is stubborn to be sucked up as well. In that case, a wet mopping pad using pressure to wipe is much less likely to leave finer debris behind.

Thorough pet hair pickup is rooted in suction power, of course, but brush roll design plays a major role in how well a robot vacuum can pull pet hair out of soft flooring — and how often all that fur gets tangled. You'll want to look for at least 20,000 Pa of suction power for homes with multiple pets, though 30,000 Pa or more would be optimal. The brush roll's material should alternate between rubber or silicone fins and bristles, and ideally break in the middle as a method of preventing wrapping.

Recent changes to this guide

July 2026: The new, much more powerful Roomba Max 715 replaces the Roomba 705 Max as the best vacuum-only robot vacuum for pet here (and the best Roomba for pet hair).

February 2026: The Dreame X60 Max Ultra Complete takes over as the best robot vacuum for pet hair on carpet, replacing the Dreame Aqua10 Ultra Roller. The Roborock Qrevo Curv 2 Flow takes over as the best robot vacuum for pet hair on hardwood, replacing the Roborock Saros 10R.

September 2025: I added the Dreame Aqua10 Ultra Roller as the best robot vacuum for pet hair on carpet and shifted the Roborock Saros 10R (previously named the best robot vacuum overall) to the best robot vacuum for pet hair on hard floors.

July 2025: I removed the Shark Matrix RV2300S robot vacuum from this guide. While it was a solid budget mopping robot vacuum for its first year or so on the market, it's now a little bit too basic compared to other newer budget robot vacuums.

June 2025: I replaced the Shark Matrix RV2300S with the 3i G10+ as the best budget robot vacuum for pet hair. While the Shark was a solid budget cleaner when it first came out, its suction power isn't nearly as strong as the 18,500 Pa of the 3i G10+. The 3i G10+ also has small obstacle avoidance and a pet camera.

Most guys have a love-hate relationship with dating apps. But between work and life, meeting someone organically can feel nearly impossible. That's the promise of online dating — an unlimited number of meet-cutes right to your phone, no serendipity required. Of course, the reality of online dating is often quite different. But don't get discouraged. The Mashable Dating & Relationships team has spent years testing the most popular dating apps for men, and we can tell you which apps are most likely to connect you with the right person for you.

Do dating apps still work in 2026?

We get it, though. Dating as a man in 2026 is tough. It's not just the pressure to make the first move or the fear of rejection if you do — it's the endless swiping through fake profiles, scammers, AI-generated thirst traps, bots posing as potential matches, relentless Instagram models trying to lure you into their OnlyFans scam, and matches with impossibly high expectations (yes, the "6-6-6 rule" is a real thing, and apps are actively trying to monetize your height preferences).

But despite the challenges, dating apps do work. A 2026 SSRS survey found that 37 percent of all U.S. adults have used a dating app at some point, a number that jumps to over half for daters aged 18 to 49. While the experience isn't always perfect, the odds are in your favor: half of all dating app users have scored a committed relationship with someone they met on an app. While only a third of users call the app experience "mostly positive," nearly half say it's neutral — meaning the app is really just what you make of it.

The best dating apps for guys who know what they want

This guide is your cheat sheet for the best dating apps for men in 2026. We've done the research and found the apps that are actually worth your time. Whether you're looking for something casual or something serious, we have a dating app to recommend.

Pro tip: Don't be afraid to experiment. Try out a few different apps and see what works for you. And most importantly, don't get discouraged! Sometimes, the occasional bad date or disappointing flirtation is just the price you pay to meet the match of a lifetime.

Until recently, Marisol Jimenez was a novice power lifter. Without a budget for a personal trainer, the 23-year-old graduate student turned to the internet for heavy-lifting tips. 

When she discovered the limitations of online forum advice and video tutorials, she decided to do what she often does when humans can't provide the guidance she needs: consult the artificial intelligence chatbot Claude. 

It wasn't just power lifting. Jimenez has asked Claude to help her design a website, explore her feelings, and determine whether an acquaintance had a crush on her. Jimenez's sister calls her an AI power user.

Given the number of recent viral videos featuring college students jeering optimistic graduation speeches about AI, you might think Jimenez is an outlier amongst Generation Z. 

Yet an online YouGov survey commissioned by Mashable this spring tells a different story. YouGov asked 1,697 U.S. adults 18 and older who use AI chatbots about their experiences. Gen Z respondents led all other generations in high-frequency chatbot use, with 37 percent interacting with the technology once or more per day. Roughly a quarter of them consult chatbots multiple times a day. 

Jimenez, for one, estimates she starts a single task-oriented chat with Claude and returns to it throughout the day.  

Mashable commissioned the YouGov survey to hear directly from U.S. adults about their AI chatbot use. Generational trends emerged from their answers, and despite a seeming love-hate relationship with the technology, many adults are using AI chatbots like a personal Swiss Army knife, deployed to solve a variety of problems.  

How American adults think about chatbots

Gen Z AI users, the survey found, are more likely than their elders to assign personal roles, such as friend, therapist, and professional partner, to an AI chatbot. 

Jimenez uses hers as an assistant, professional partner, tutor, sounding board, consultant, and therapist. 

Compared with other AI users, Gen Z — plus high-frequency adult users of all ages — were more likely to say they'd be affected if they suddenly lost access to their chatbot. 

Nearly half of Gen Z AI chatbot users would be affected by losing their chatbot. Credit: Mashable

Jimenez told Mashable she'd be moderately affected by a permanent shutdown of her favorite chatbot. Nearly half of Gen Z AI chatbot users said they'd be moderately, very, or extremely impacted. Only a quarter of them claim they would be not affected at all.

Jimenez, who is studying computer science and pays $20 a month for a Claude subscription, is aware her AI use is complicated. On the one hand, it is helpful with practical matters. 

On the other hand, Jimenez says she endured a "dark time" when using a fine-tuned, user-created model of ChatGPT designed to act as a therapist. Her discussions with that chatbot were ultimately unhelpful; after consulting the AI, she found herself increasingly ruminating on painful feelings.

Jimenez thinks her ambivalent relationship to AI is a fairly common one — and she may be right. 

"Search aid" or "foe"?: What U.S. adults say about chatbots

When Mashable and YouGov asked chatbot users to characterize their relationship to AI, we received a range of responses, from negative to positive to ambivalent.

The majority framed the technology in utilitarian terms like, "tool to be used in various ways," "search aid," "reference librarian," and "help find best prices." 

AI users, however, also expressed displeasure with chatbots, describing their relationship with the technology as a "foe," "frustrating," "annoying," "irritating," and "generator of AI slop." 

Jimenez understands this tension. 

"I am not going to say it's good or bad," she told Mashable. "I use it and I simultaneously worry about my usage, and that's everybody."

Jimenez touched on a question without a clear answer: How do people maximize the benefits of AI while avoiding its pitfalls, such as overreliance, cognitive atrophy, and emotional dependency? We asked experts to interpret our survey results and share their perspective on this complex question.

Chatbot use by the numbers

First, there are some for whom the issue of dependency isn't a concern. The YouGov survey found that 35 percent of U.S. adults don't use AI chatbots. Of the 65 percent who do, only 23 percent of them turn to a chatbot multiple times a day. 

The same share of Gen Z and Millennial adults use chatbots. Credit: Zain Awais / Mashable

The generational differences in our survey indicate, perhaps unsurprisingly, that Baby Boomers and Generation X are less likely to use chatbots. Only 18 and 25 percent of Boomers and Gen X, respectively, report AI chatbot use multiple times a day. Thirty-one percent of Millennials use an AI chatbot one or more times a day.  

AI chatbot as romantic partner or consultant? Maybe both?

Regular AI use appears to breed closeness and potential reliance. 

Users who interact with chatbots multiple times a day are the most reliant, with only 12 percent reporting no perceived relationship, compared to 29 percent of the general user base. This group is about twice as likely as the average user to view their AI in an interpersonal or emotional capacity.

A look at how adult AI users perceive their chatbots. Credit: Zain Awais / Mashable

Still, a relatively small number of AI chatbot users view a chatbot as a romantic partner or friend. Twelve percent turn to chatbots for friendship, and only three percent do so for romance. But Gen Z tops both categories. Twenty percent of Gen Z AI users said they call an AI chatbot a friend, and six percent viewed it as a romantic partner. 

Thirty-one percent of AI users perceived their relationship with an AI chatbot as "consultant," making it the top functional role. This includes using the technology for expert advice and strategic input.

More than a quarter treated a chatbot like an assistant, trusting it to handle their schedule, tasks, and administrative work. Twenty-three percent asked a chatbot to act like a tutor by teaching them new skills and explaining complex topics. Smaller shares, 15 and eight percent respectively, reported using a chatbot for medical advice and therapy. 

For Jimenez, AI use requires constant reflection and adaptation. Though she leans on Claude to compose social media posts, sibling feedback about the staleness of that content prompted her to read Francine Prose's Reading Like a Writer to improve her writing. 

"If I lose something from AI usage, I need to build that skill back up," she said. 

What does effective AI chatbot use look like? 

Dr. Vivienne Ming, a theoretical neuroscientist and AI entrepreneur, recognized in Mashable's survey results something she's seen in her own research: "heterogeneity dominates." 

In other words, people chat with and make requests of AI in multiple unusual ways, defying neat categorization. 

In her own preliminary study, Ming and her fellow researchers asked 78 adults to predict future events, such as the price of oil, while working in small groups and accessing one of four major large language models. 

Ming, author of Robot-Proof: When Machines Have all the Answers, Build Better People, observed three different styles of engagement with the AI: automators, validators, and cyborgs. 

The automators, Ming explained, effectively outsourced their brain to AI by adopting its prediction with little questioning. The validators used the model to check their guess rather than challenge it. By contrast, the cyborgs remained skeptical and asked AI to be skeptical of them, too. This group was the most successful. They beat the models' error rate and significantly outperformed the automators. 

Ming and her colleagues also found that key predictors of whether a person would show such cyborg-style "hybrid intelligence" have nothing to do with AI. Instead, they were traits and skills like curiosity, intellectual humility, and perspective-taking. 

Ming plans to replicate the findings with a larger sample. But in the meantime, she encourages people to challenge AI rather than happily accept its output — and use the technology to push themselves. 

"So AI gives you a good enough answer," Ming said. "Do you keep asking for a better one?" 

What is a healthy relationship with an AI chatbot? 

Jimenez's thoughtfulness likely makes her a savvier AI user than most. In addition to studying computer science at Stevens Institute of Technology, she's also a collaborator and youth facilitator with The Rithm Project, which works with youth to navigate and shape AI's role in human connection. 

Even so, Jimenez has relied on Claude for "emotional processing." It's not that she stopped talking to humans in favor of AI. Instead, Jimenez still feels unresolved when seeking feedback from friends and family. 

Jimenez, for example, asked Claude to weigh in on whether an acquaintance had a crush on her because her confidants' perspectives differed. That prompted more confusion. 

In the past, Jimenez also found herself returning again and again to the fine-tuned ChatGPT model to discuss emotions she thought she'd settled. 

"I would leave a single chat one day feeling like I might have reached a conclusion," Jimenez said. She'd tell herself, "I'm never going to do this again" 

That proved to be a short-lasting refrain. Soon after, she'd confront a similar situation and bring a new scenario — with the same underlying themes about self-confidence — to the chatbot. 

"It was very honestly a dark time," she said. "I just kept going back, literally making circles around the situation." 

In January, exhausted by the pattern, Jimenez started seeing a therapist again and switched to Claude, because she'd heard ChatGPT was sycophantic. The chatbot seems to recognize when Jimenez is ruminating and suggests she save it for therapy. 

Are you a social or private processor?

Alison Lee, chief research and development officer of The Rithm Project, said she's not surprised Gen Z is leaning into AI chatbots to deal with their feelings.

Based on the Rithm Project's research among 13- to 24-year-olds, she said the trend makes sense given how adolescence and young adulthood are periods marked by social ruptures and comparisons to others. Of course, "that would come with increased desire for support," she said.

The Rithm Project identified two distinct groups of young people who turn to AI for their emotional needs: social and private processors. The former group checks in with human beings before, or in tandem, with consulting a chatbot. The latter indicates AI is their primary support. 

Lee and her colleagues uncovered three risk factors for this type of emotional dependence. Isolation, or feeling like there's no one to turn to in a moment of need, is the first. The second is feeling like a burden to other people. The last factor is the perceived or real inability to be one's authentic self around those closest to them. 

These barriers to connection, Lee said, make chatbots "incredibly attractive" for young people. 

"If you have no one to turn to for help, then AI is a really great place to get that help," she said. 

Lee points out that AI chatbot features like sycophancy and always-on availability can drive a wedge between a user and their human connections. Yet she also argues society has created a set of conditions in which young people feel afraid to ask for help or be vulnerable. 

Instead of shaming young people, Lee said adults can ask themselves, "Am I the kind of adult that a young person can turn to in a moment of need, and help?"

Trading big AI for small AI

Jimenez believes shifting away from general purpose models like Claude and ChatGPT and using custom, domain-specific and open source models instead could solve some of the AI pitfalls she and other users face. 

That would mean designing a small language model, run on a personal computer, for a single task, like tutoring. The user decides what data it uses and the model can't go from helping them with math homework to becoming their on-demand therapist. 

Jimenez is so dedicated to the idea of "small AI" she wants to create a step-by-step tutorial on the topic for people with no technical background. She's taking an online course and reading a related textbook for the project. 

And, of course, she's already tasked Claude with helping her. 

The survey was commissioned by Mashable, conducted online by YouGov from April 10-14, 2026. The total sample size was and surveyed 2,653 US adults aged 18+, of whom 1,697 adults 18+ and older who use a chatbot. The figures have been weighted and are representative of all US adults (aged 18+). Some participants responded to open-ended questions about their views on AI chatbots. 

Disclosure: Ziff Davis, Mashable’s parent company, in April 2025 filed a lawsuit against OpenAI, alleging it infringed Ziff Davis copyrights in training and operating its AI systems.

The majority of U.S. adults have used an artificial intelligence chatbot like Claude or ChatGPT, according to a recent YouGov survey commissioned by Mashable. We even know, generally speaking, how they view their chatbot in roles like assistant, tutor, consultant, therapist, and romantic partner — or all of the above. 

The nitty-gritty details of that use, however, are harder to grasp.

After all, people don't exactly go deep about their chatbot use with each other outside of social media platforms and Reddit forums. They might feel shame or stigma because they've turned a chatbot into their therapist or spouse. Or perhaps it's not fodder for conversation in the same way that Love Island takes over the group chat. 

So Mashable asked three very different people — a grandmother, an entrepreneur, and a technologist — how they use AI chatbots. 

Their answers reveal how a chatbot can become an essential utility for some people, even if they still grapple with the larger cultural shift artificial intelligence has wrought.

The grandma who knows what she wants from ChatGPT

Last fall, Barbara, 71, teamed up with her son and daughter-in-law to give ChatGPT a monumental task. They needed the large language model to help them understand whether Barbara's grandson, who has a learning disability, was achieving the learning goals set by his school district. 

Crucially, if the district answered this question affirmatively, they could argue Barbara's grandson no longer needed classroom support. She urgently felt he still did, and his parents agreed. 

"It seems like we were never getting a straight answer, and there were contradictory things being said," Barbara recounted to Mashable. She asked to go by her first name to protect her grandson's privacy.

The family trio turned to the chatbot for clarity amidst a brewing confrontation with school staff over the question. Barbara is a former educator and no stranger to the biannual meetings that typically determine whether a student receives classroom support, and to what extent. But even she felt overwhelmed by all the documentation her grandson had accumulated over years of elementary school. 

There were grades and test scores, of course. But her grandson's cognitive and intellectual abilities had also been tested by the district and medical professionals. They uploaded all of the paperwork and waited for ChatGPT to give its opinion. 

Via direct prompting, the model also considered the state's education disability law and regulations, as well as an uploaded copy of the Department of Education's Individuals with Disabilities Education Act handbook. ChatGPT ultimately sided with Barbara and her family. 

Barbara doesn't credit ChatGPT with returning a single smoking-gun finding or ironclad strategy. Instead, she said the chatbot's feedback made them feel better prepared for the discussion of her grandson's services. The family also hired an education advocate to help buttress their position. In the end, Barbara's grandson kept his classroom services. 

Aside from this critical assignment, Barbara told Mashable she asks ChatGPT for practical recommendations or product comparisons. She had the chatbot create an itinerary for a summer trip to Ireland with friends; asked it to identify a dupe of a discontinued drugstore perfume that she loved; and requested its advice for $800 worth of car repairs proposed by her mechanic. ChatGPT said replenishing her Honda CRV's transmission and brake fluid was reasonable but to avoid, among other things, transmission flushes using high-pressure machines. 

The one thing Barbara avoids when engaging with ChatGPT? Talking to it like a friend or confidant, which she finds "creepy." 

Nonetheless, ChatGPT is fairly well acquainted with Barbara. 

"It's amazing to me, and kind of disturbing, because I really try not to tell it a lot about myself," she said. "I try to just keep it very effective, and it's still amazing how much it knows about me."

The AI anthropologist who runs teams of agents

Matt Artz is the type of AI user you may have read about in news articles or viral social media posts. He can command a team of Claude agents to do his bidding without constant supervision. In other words, he's living the life AI evangelists promise is possible for the rest of us in the not-so-distant future. 

But Artz is unique compared to many AI users. First of all, he can afford a $200 a month Max subscription to Claude, which gives him far more compute, or processing power, than free or lower-tier subscribers receive. As a result, he says he gets more work done in the same period of time. 

By day, he's an AI product manager. On his own time, Artz, who's in his mid-40s, is pursuing a Ph.D. in computational anthropology. 

It's no surprise then that Artz deploys agents to perform tasks like building a personal website based on a style guide he developed; reviewing and critiquing his academic work prior to submission; and backfilling a catalog of 200,00 anthropological journal articles so their bibliometric data appears in Wikidata. That last project he took on in his capacity as a board member of the American Anthropological Association. 

At the same time, Artz is clear-eyed about the limitations of large language models; he doesn't treat them as infallible.  

Because their output is probabilistic, models can approach the same task differently each time. That's why Artz is deliberate about giving agents detailed structure and direction for any assignment. Without that, an agent is potentially more likely to improvise in ways he didn't intend. He hasn't lost any data to an agent — yet. 

"It is not perfect," he told Mashable. "I don't think current agentic AI is yet suited for the highest order tasks that are super sensitive and have to be, you know, 100 percent accurate." 

Still, he notes that most knowledge work is subjective, which means there's rarely one "right" answer in the first place.

Artz uses AI like a normie, too. He's asked Claude to select a couch based on his living room arrangements and render how it would look in different colors. Artz uploaded years of sleep data and observations to Claude to optimize his shuteye. 

He says Claude helped pinpoint variables, including aspects of his bedtime routine from a journal he kept, that ultimately lengthened his deep sleep by about 20 minutes a night on average.

Artz is worried, though, that some AI users don't realize how much the output depends on their ability to question and push back on the model. Those who don't grasp that AI is probabilistic might not realize they can push back, rephrase a question, or prompt it from the opposite angle to see if an answer holds up.

Additionally, many people may not appreciate that additional compute can yield more sophisticated and reliable output. 

Artz says these factors have created an "intelligence divide."

"[H]ow much intelligence can you even pay for, right?" he asks.

In other words, even if everyone has access to an AI chatbot, the results will differ based on what model or subscription you can afford. 

The anti-tech entrepreneur

By Chase DiBenedetto

Larissa (Larz) May, 32, has a complex relationship with screens. 

She's a well-known digital wellness advocate, for one, an early pioneer of the "digital detox" movement, spurred by her own public reckoning with social media's mental health harms. 

She later founded #HalfTheStory, aimed at building better relationships between teens and technology. The nonprofit provides training, mentorship, and digital civics engagement programs for teens and schools, and puts young people at the center of the AI safety conversation, May explains. It facilitates analog gatherings like phone-free proms. May even collaborated with Hillary Clinton and New York Gov. Kathy Hochul on a teen-guided, phoneless school policy, with hopes of encouraging a nationwide shift away from screens. 

She's also the co-founder of Ginko, an AI-powered parenting tool that helps families build healthier digital habits and foster communication. The app, she says, turns screen time into a "springboard for the real world."

Here's the kicker: May may be a vocal critic of Big Tech, but she's definitely not a Luddite. 

"AI is an incredible sparring partner in the workplace," May says. She uses chatbots she thinks are less sycophantic, like Claude, to talk through ideas or fine-tune pitches. "I oftentimes say, 'Hey, pretend you are a really critical CMO and rip this apart.'" 

She also uses Granola, an AI note taker and meeting synthesizer, and Wispr Flow, an AI that lets her dictate her thoughts and turn them into text.

May says she understands why young people turn to chatbots for support. The post-COVID world has rendered many early career professionals and recent grads without workplace connection or mentorship. Widespread fatigue, exacerbated by conflict-filled newscycles and misinformation, make it easy to turn to an answer engine that can talk to you clearly and kindly. May finds herself leaning more on chatbots when she is feeling wiped out, too.

For many, social media feels like a stage requiring constant performance, she says. AI chatbots can appear as a more private space.

"Chatbots are like a green room," May explains. "AI is that soft corner that young people are going to because the world is very hard, and because we're going through so much change."

But May has first-hand experience with the negative side of tech, too. Chatbots, she says, cannot replace human capacity for invention, connection, and critical thinking. She sees vast potential for harm in how easy it is to become attached to AI and questions the motives of large tech companies. 

"Social media hacked our dopamine," says May. "But AI, in many ways, is hacking our oxytocin — the human connection hormone."

May still advocates for disconnecting, but that means something different in the age of AI.

"It is no longer about tech time. It is more about the times that you're not on tech," she advises. "In the way that 10 years ago I would say go on a social media fast one day a week, what's even more important now is to actually take one day a week and not use AI at work. See how much you're relying on it, so you know how much of your cognitive skills you might be losing."

If our careers, education, even our lives are like the cars we drive, she says, then we have to think of AI as a GPS. Chatbots provide pathways, ones you can ultimately choose not to take. They aren't the engines. 

"You should be in the driver's seat," May warns. "You should be telling AI who you want it to become, to critique what you're doing, instead of the other way around. If not, AI will drive you."

TL;DR: Get 1TB of Koofr Cloud Storage Lifetime for a one-time $159.99 through Aug. 5 with code KOOFR and store, sync, and access your files without recurring subscription payments.

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Koofr Cloud Storage: Lifetime Subscription (1TB)

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Cloud storage has become one of those services that’s easy to forget about — until another monthly charge appears on your statement. If you’d rather pay once and move on, Koofr’s 1TB Lifetime Cloud Storage plan is worth a look.

Through Aug. 5, you can get 1TB of Koofr Cloud Storage for $159.99 with code KOOFR. Instead of paying a recurring subscription, you’ll have lifetime access to 1TB of storage for photos, videos, documents, backups, and everyday files.

Koofr works across Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iPhone, and the web, so your files stay within reach no matter which device you’re using. It also integrates with existing cloud services like Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive, and Amazon, making it easier to manage everything from one place rather than juggling multiple accounts.

Privacy is another selling point. Files are encrypted during transfer and while stored, and Koofr doesn’t track your activity.

Helpful extras like duplicate file detection, advanced file management tools, and customizable sharing links make organizing large collections a little less tedious.

The platform has also earned 4.6 out of 5 stars on G2, which suggests users appreciate its balance of simplicity, flexibility, and reliable cloud storage.

If you’re planning to keep growing your digital library, a lifetime storage plan can make more sense than adding another recurring subscription to your monthly budget.

Get the Koofr 1TB Cloud Storage Lifetime Subscription for just $159.99 through Aug. 5 with code KOOFR and keep your files accessible without another monthly storage bill, reg price $810.00.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

TL;DR: Get iScanner Lifetime for $39.99 and turn your phone into a document scanner, PDF editor, receipt organizer, and file manager with one app.

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iScanner App: Lifetime Subscription

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There was a time when scanning a document meant finding a bulky scanner, connecting it to a computer, and hoping the software still worked. These days, your phone can do the job — and iScanner packs just about everything you need into one app.

For a one-time $39.99 payment, you can get a lifetime subscription to iScanner, making it easy to scan, edit, organize, and share documents from your iPhone, iPad, or Android device. It’s available to new users only.

Whether you’re digitizing receipts for expense reports, scanning contracts, saving handwritten notes, or creating copies of IDs and passports, iScanner is designed to make the process quick and straightforward.

The app automatically detects document edges, straightens pages, improves scan quality, and uses OCR to recognize text in more than 20 languages, making scanned documents searchable and easier to work with.

You can even edit PDFs, sign documents, merge or split files, add annotations, insert text, watermark pages, and organize everything into folders protected with a PIN.

Additional scanning modes let you capture books, solve math problems, measure objects, count similar items, and scan QR codes, giving the app more versatility than a traditional scanner.

Get the iScanner Lifetime Subscription for $39.99 (reg. $199.90) and turn your iPhone or Android device into a portable scanner and document management tool.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

If you've been struggling to find the AdultFriendFinder app, there's a good reason: there isn't one. As one of the OGs of online dating, with a history that spans more than 20 years, AFF prefers to keep things decidedly old-school. But most AFF users can still access the platform and its content on mobile devices. They do this through the AFF site’s mobile version, which works with either Safari or Google Chrome, though the most committed AFF users have figured out a clever workaround that mimics the app experience.

What to know how you can do this too? Keep reading to find out more.

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Credit: AdultFriendFinder

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Why doesn’t Adult Friend Finder have an app?

Both Apple and Google strictly police the kinds of content they allow on their respective app stores. NSFW is a big no-no. And as Adult Friend Finder allows on-site nudity in profiles, chat forums, and live broadcasts (let's be honest: it's everywhere on AFF) — the site is barred from having an official app for the two most-used mobile platforms.

Unfortunately, these rules apply even if you don’t have nudity on your profile or have turned on all the filters that restrict the display of adult content when using AFF, so there isn’t even a censored version of the app available and likely never will be. It's non-negotiable, unfortunately. This is why users have sought an alternative method for using AFF on mobile devices.

What’s the best alternative?

If you really want to mimic the experience of using an app on your phone, you can simply create a home screen shortcut to the Adult Friend Finder site. And if you have cookies enabled, you can also stay logged in each time, which saves you from having to re-enter your login credentials.

To create a homescreen shortcut on your iPhone or iPad, follow these steps:

1. Navigate to AdultFriendFinder.com in your Safari mobile browser (no third-party browser will work)

2. Tap the ellipsis icon in the bottom right corner of your Safari app, and then tap the Share icon at the top of the pop-up menu

3. Scroll towards the bottom of the option list and select "Add to Home Screen"

4. You will be prompted to assign a name to the icon before you can hit "Add"

For Android users, the steps are slightly different:

1. Navigate to AdultFriendFinder.com in your Chrome mobile browser (no third-party browser will work)

2. Tap the menu icon in the upper right corner of your Chrome app, and then tap "Add to Home Screen"

3. You will be prompted to assign a name to the icon before you can hit "Add"

How secure is this home screen icon approach?

This method of accessing Adult Friend Finder is functionally no different than opening Chrome or Safari first, so it's no less safe than using the actual site, but there are a few things to consider:

• If you share your phone or tablet with someone else, they will be able to see the AFF icon and possibly even access your account just by clicking on the app

• If you prefer to keep your Adult Friend Finder use hidden, consider hiding the icon within a sub-folder or within a password-protected folder

• To ensure your login credentials aren't saved, create the icon itself using your mobile browser's incognito or private browsing function

National Chicken Wing Day lands on July 29.

Major chains across the country are dropping limited-time deals, BOGO promos, and wing discounts to celebrate this special day. Whether you take your wings bone-in, boneless, drenched in extra-spicy sauce, or coated in lemon pepper, this is officially your excuse to indulge in your passion.

These are our favorite National Chicken Wing Day deals in 2026:

7-Eleven

Get 10 wings delivered for $8 with the app. This offer is valid until Aug. 25.

Bad Daddy’s

Score $0.99 wings in classic Buffalo or sweet-and-spicy Thai chili on July 29 for dine-in guests. To qualify, you need to make a minimum order of six wings, with a limit of 18 wings per person.

Buffalo’s Cafe

Get $19.99 all-you-can-eat wings for dine-in guests on July 29.

Buffalo Wild Wings

Grab a free order of wings (bone-in or boneless) with any $15 dine-in purchase on July 29.

Dave & Buster’s

Score $0.50 boneless wings and $1 bone-in wings all day.

Hooters

Dine-in guests can get 10 wings (bone-in or boneless) for $7.29 with any beverage purchase on July 29.

Hurricane Grill & Wings

Get $0.99 bone-in or boneless wings all day on July 29 for dine-in guests.

Native Grill & Wings

Get $0.49 bone-in wings with any drink purchase on July 29. Valid for dine-in, takeout, or orders placed directly through the Native Grill & Wings app or website.

Pilot

On July 29, customers who order on the Pilot app can get five jumbo wings for $5.

Pizza Hut

Get a buy-one-get-one-free offer on wings at participating Pizza Hut locations with the code BOGOWINGS. This deal is valid when ordering online or in the Pizza Hut app.

Raise the Roost

Grab $1 single chicken tenders or traditional bone-in wings from July 27-30 at participating locations.

Red Robin

Anyone who purchases a limited-edition Jason Kelce collaboration T-shirt online at GarageBeer.com while supplies last will receive a free Red Robin gift card for an 8-count order of bone-in chicken wings.

Sonny's BBQ

Loyalty members get a free 6-count of Sauced & Tossed wings with any entrée purchase.

Speedy Cafe

Speedy Rewards members can grab special promotional pricing on 5-piece or 8-piece boneless wing orders through Aug. 25.

TGI Fridays

Order Matchday Wing Bites starting at $8.99 (six bone-in or eight boneless wings with fries and dip) or upgrade to the Matchday Goal Line Platter starting at $16.99 (eight wings, three chicken fingers, and golden onion rings).

The Greene Turtle

Get the $19.99 all-you-can-eat wing-and-fries special (valid for both bone-in and boneless wings, upon request).

Wings and Rings

Take 40% off all wings on July 28-29 for dine-in and online orders.

Wingstop

Club Wingstop members can unlock daily sweepstakes for concert tickets, $500 Ticketmaster gift cards, and VIP festival packages until July 31.

Zaxbys

On July 29, get 10 wings for $10.

TL;DR: Unblock Pornhub for free with a VPN. The best services for unblocking porn sites from Australia is ExpressVPN.

The world of porn continues to be impacted by age-verification laws. Back in early 2025, more than a third of U.S. states introduced age verification laws for online adult content. Pornhub hit back by blocking users from those locations. A similar situation took place France and the UK, and now Australians are facing the same set of challenges.

The porn blocks arrived just days before new online safety codes came into effect, requiring organisations to verify the ages of users. It's the same story we've seen before, with the same straightforward workaround.

If you want to unblock porn sites like Pornhub for free from Australia, we have all the information you need.

How to unblock Pornhub for free in Australia

VPNs are tools that can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to secure servers in other locations. This process bypasses geo-restrictions so you can access sites like Pornhub from anywhere in the world.

Unblock Pornhub from Australia by following these simple steps:

1. Sign up for a VPN (we recommend ExpressVPN)

2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

3. Open up the app and connect to a server in a location that supports access to Pornhub

4. Visit Pornhub

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ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan)

$12.99 only at ExpressVPN

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The best VPNs for unblocking porn sites are not free, but most do offer free-trial peiods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can unblock porn sites like Pornhub without spending anything. This is obviously not a long-term solution, but it does give you the opportunity to temporarily retain access to Pornhub before recovering your investment. The situation may have changed before the free-trial period comes to an end.

If you want to retain permanent access to sites like Pornhub, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for bypassing content restrictions is on sale for a limited time.

What is the best VPN for Pornhub?

ExpressVPN is the top choices for unblocking porn sites like Pornhub, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in locations all around the world

• Easy-to-use apps available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more

• Strict no-logging policies so your data is always secure

• Fast streaming speeds free from throttling

• Multiple simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantees

A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $68.40 and includes an extra four months for free — 81% off for a limited time. This plan includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.99 (with money-back guarantee).

Unblock Pornhub for free in Australia with ExpressVPN.

DJI’s Osmo Pocket 3 has become a must-have tool for content creators over the last few years. The handheld gimbal camera gained significant attention for being easy to operate and portable while also offering great stabilisation and subject tracking, enabling creators to film smooth footage with minimal fuss while on the go.

Now, DJI has released its follow-up: the Osmo Pocket 4. Building on the Pocket 3's success, the Pocket 4 makes several changes intended to improve the camera's operation and performance. But is it enough to make it worth upgrading from the Osmo Pocket 3 to the 4?

DJI Osmo Pocket 4: Build

Left: The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 in its protective case. Right: The DJI Osmo Pocket 4 with its gimbal clamp attached. Credit: A. Yeo

The DJI Osmo Pocket 4's form factor remains almost identical to the Pocket 3 at first glance. Even so, there are a few notable changes.

Right out of the box, the most immediately visible difference is the Pocket 4's redesigned gimbal protection. The Pocket 3 had a hard protective cover that cradled almost the entire camera on one side, protecting both the screen and the gimbal. Unfortunately, this cover was bulky and irritating to carry around, and it made the Pocket 3 too large to fit alongside accessories in its carrying bag.

The Pocket 4 does away with this protective cover, swapping it out for a small gimbal clamp instead. This clamp slides between the gimbal's moving parts to hold it secure, and easily fits in a jacket pocket when not in use. Paired with a new soft fabric carrying pouch that can fit the entire camera to protect the screen, it's a noticeably more elegant solution. 

Portability was already one of the Pocket 3's standout features, but the Pocket 4's changes make bringing it on outings practically a no-brainer. It may not hold up as well if you whack your camera against a wall, but it's a welcome upgrade for most reasonable use cases.

DJI has added two new buttons for easier control on the fly. Credit: A. Yeo

Turning to the camera itself, the Pocket 4's build is slightly larger than its predecessor, though this is only apparent when comparing them side by side. The single-lens gimbal camera still sports a rotatable two-inch touchscreen on its handle (though brighter at 1000 nits compared to the Pocket 3's 700) and has a USB-C port on the bottom for charging and file transfer. 

Where the Pocket 4 differs is in the addition of two new buttons underneath its screen, which only become accessible when it's twisted into landscape mode. One of these is a dedicated zoom button, which will go to 2x zoom with one press or 4x with two. The other button is customisable, but by default will switch the joystick to control the zoom or the gimbal with one press. This is a welcome addition as it makes the Pocket 4 less fiddly to operate on the fly, the Pocket 3 having managed such functions via its touchscreen.

DJI's fill light accessory easily attaches to the Osmo Pocket 4 via a magnet. Credit: A. Yeo

Another notable change is the addition of a magnetic accessory mount point on the Pocket 4. This is compatible with DJI's new pocket-sized fill light accessory, which easily attaches to offer three brightness and temperature settings.

To the casual user, this may seem like an unnecessary addition, particularly as DJI has also significantly upgraded the Pocket 4's low-light performance (more on that later). Still, Mashable saw a significant improvement in our test footage when we used the fill light. The light helped the Pocket 4 capture more detail, distinguishing subjects from their background and ensuring they were well-lit without blowing them out. While it's too small to light a whole scene, it's a handy boost to ensure you capture your subject in dim conditions, and pulls from the Pocket 4's battery, so you never need to charge it.

DJI Osmo Pocket 4: Settings and performance

The improvements become apparent once you get hands-on. Credit: A. Yeo

When comparing the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 and 4's specifications, the upgrades seem small on paper. The sensors are the same size, the gimbals' ranges of motion are identical, and they share a maximum video resolution of 4K at 60fps. The Pocket 4 can take 8K photos as opposed to topping out at 4K, but the overwhelming majority of Osmo Pocket users will be more focused on its video performance. Here, the Pocket 4 actually cuts a few video settings that were available on the Pocket 3, no longer allowing filming in 2.7K resolution or a 1:1 aspect ratio. 

Even so, it's a relatively minor trade-off considering the Pocket 4's improved storage capacity. While both the Pocket 3 and 4 use microSD cards, the former relied entirely on them as it had no built-in storage. In contrast, the Pocket 4 has 107GB of built-in memory in addition to accepting microSD cards. This is no doubt a contributor to the Pocket 4 being a little over 10 grams heavier than its predecessor, but that's still an excellent exchange for the amount of space you get (especially with the global memory shortage driving SD card prices up).

More changes under the hood include the Pocket 4's larger battery, with DJI stating that the Pocket 4 can run for a maximum of 240 minutes at its lowest video settings compared to the Pocket 3's 166 minutes. While the Pocket 3 had enough power to see most people through a day of vlogging (especially when paired with its battery handle accessory), no one has ever complained about more juice.

As such, with the exception of its expanded storage capacity, the Pocket 4's specifications don't look like a significant upgrade from the Pocket 3. It's when you get hands-on with the Pocket 4 and can see its image quality that the improvements quickly become apparent.

DJI Osmo Pocket 4: Image quality and gimbal

The Osmo Pocket 4's gimbal is noticeably more responsive than the Pocket 3. Credit: A. Yeo

While the Pocket 3 offered decent low-light performance, the Pocket 4 is an unquestionable advancement. The Pocket 4 has doubled the former's ISO range across photo, video, and slow-motion filming, resulting in images with noticeably more detail and less noise. 

As such, the Pocket 4 is able to capture dim environments with greater contrast, its dark scenes appearing richer and more dynamic when compared to footage from the Pocket 3. While the Pocket 4 did capture less detail in shadows when both cameras filmed the same dim scene, overall its image looked more true-to-life than the Pocket 3, which seemed artificially brightened and slightly flat in comparison.

Though the Pocket 4 can lose details in shadows when there is greater lighting variation, its ability to capture detail in generally dark environments is impressive. It handles transitioning between light and dark environments better as well, with smoother automatic exposure adjustment that's less obvious than in the Pocket 3. Subjects in shadow are well exposed, without overblowing the background. The Pocket 4 captures noticeably more detail in shadow when filming in brighter environments as well.

In fact, the Pocket 4's footage generally appears more true-to-life than the Pocket 3. While both cameras allow you to manually adjust their white balance, the Pocket 4 performs better out of the box, providing more accurate skin tones in a range of conditions. In low light shooting, the Pocket 3's footage even seems washed out when compared to the Pocket 4's richer and more saturated colours.

A screenshot of a video taken with the DJI Osmo Pocket 4. Detail isn't lost in shadow despite the brighter environment. Credit: A. Yeo

Interestingly, the Pocket 4 doesn't offer High Dynamic Range (HDR) video, while the Pocket 3 supports 10-bit HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma) video, an open-source HDR format. Despite this, the Pocket 4's image quality is a definite upgrade overall.

When it comes to controls, the Pocket 4's gimbal is more responsive than the Pocket 3, offering faster and smoother movement that makes the latter feel practically sluggish in comparison. Mashable's testing found its subject tracking has improved as well, with the Pocket 4 capable of following subjects in scenarios where the Pocket 3 lost them. This appeared to happen more in low light, which makes sense considering the Pocket 4's improved low-light capabilities.

Should you buy the DJI Osmo Pocket 4?

The battery handle accessory can help extend the Osmo Pocket 4's runtime. Credit: A. Yeo

Unfortunately, getting your hands on DJI products in the U.S. is more difficult than it once was. The U.S. government's hostile stance toward the company has significantly hindered its business in the country, leaving people unable to buy the Osmo Pocket 4 through the company's U.S. website. As such, those in the U.S. who want an Osmo Pocket 4 will need to go through an unofficial third party to get one.

While there's no official U.S. pricing for DJI's Osmo Pocket 4, the Standard Combo bundle will set you back $AU769 in Australia. This includes a USB-C charging cable, gimbal clamp, wrist strap, carrying pouch, and a handle with a 1/4-inch thread. Upgrading to the $AU959 Creator Combo adds the detachable fill light as well as a magnetic charging cable, wide-angle lens, mini tripod, carrying bag, and a DJI Mic 3 transmitter with accessories. Meanwhile, the top-end $AU1058 Creator Combo Plus includes all this plus a Battery Handle, which DJI states can extend the Pocket 4's operating time by 150 minutes. That's a total of 390 minutes of recording time, or six and a half hours.

It's a noticeable upgrade compared to DJI's beloved Osmo Pocket 3. Credit: A. Yeo

Whether the Pocket 4 is worth hunting down depends on your needs. If you already have the Osmo Pocket 3, you may see little point in upgrading. Starting at $AU679 for the most basic bundle, the Pocket 3 remains an impressive, easy-to-operate gimbal camera that will serve many content creators' needs.

However, if you don't already have a Pocket 3 and are tossing up between the two models, the Pocket 4 and its accessories provide enough upgrades that shelling out for the latest model feels worth it. With more physical controls, improved tracking, a smoother gimbal, and better low-light performance, the Pocket 4 is even easier to use than its already popular predecessor. You just have to get your hands on it to really feel and appreciate the changes.

Even so, serious filmmakers may want to delay slamming down their credit card. DJI announced the Osmo Pocket 4P in May, an even more upgraded version of its handheld gimbal camera that's designed for cinematic productions and will offer HDR video. If that's of interest to you, it may be worth holding off a little bit longer to see what the 4P has to offer.

DJI Osmo Pocket 4

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If you like playing daily word games like Wordle, then Hurdle is a great game to add to your routine.

There are five rounds to the game. The first round sees you trying to guess the word, with correct, misplaced, and incorrect letters shown in each guess. If you guess the correct answer, it'll take you to the next hurdle, providing the answer to the last hurdle as your first guess. This can give you several clues or none, depending on the words. For the final hurdle, every correct answer from previous hurdles is shown, with correct and misplaced letters clearly shown.

An important note is that the number of times a letter is highlighted from previous guesses does necessarily indicate the number of times that letter appears in the final hurdle.

Mashable 101 Fan Fave: Nominate your favorite creators today

If you find yourself stuck at any step of today's Hurdle, don't worry! We have you covered.

Hurdle Word 1 hint

Gross.

Hurdle Word 1 answer

NASTY

Hurdle Word 2 hint

Runny.

Hurdle Word 2 Answer

LEAKY

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Hurdle Word 3 hint

Colorful bird.

Hurdle Word 3 answer

MACAW

Hurdle Word 4 hint

Pole.

Hurdle Word 4 answer

SHAFT

Final Hurdle hint

Energetic.

Hurdle Word 5 answer

HYPER

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

American Airlines flights were briefly grounded on Thursday, with a nationwide ground stop preventing them from taking off. The company has now issued a statement attributing the disruption to an IT issue.

The ground stop was issued at approximately 6:30 p.m. ET / 3:30 p.m. PT, and appears to have impacted all American Airlines flights within the U.S. at the time. The company has over 1000 planes in its fleet, and is the biggest airline in the U.S. by capacity.

Fortunately, the issue was quickly resolved, with American Airlines stating that flights had resumed less than an hour after the ground stop began. According to the airline, an IT issue was to blame. 

"A technology issue briefly impacted connectivity for some of our systems on Tuesday evening," the official American Airlines X account posted at 7:21 p.m. ET / 4:21 p.m. PT on Tuesday evening. "Systems are coming back online now and flights are departing again. We put a temporary ground stop in place while our teams worked to resolve the issue. We apologize to our customers for the inconvenience."

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Exactly what said technology issue was has not been disclosed, however it does not appear to have posed a danger to ongoing flights. A ground stop is a standard measure used to manage aircraft traffic, and can be issued for incidents such as severe weather, significant equipment outages, or to prevent gridlock at an airport. As of writing, there are multiple ground stops at airports across the U.S. due to thunderstorms.

Even so, a nationwide ground stop is less common. The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) states that ground stops are one of the most restrictive traffic management methods, and that alternatives must first be considered before one is issued.

Today's Connections: Sports Edition will be easier if you've ever watched football.

As we've shared in previous hints stories, this is a version of the popular New York Times word game that seeks to test the knowledge of sports fans.

Like the original Connections, the game is all about finding the "common threads between words." And just like Wordle, Connections resets after midnight, and each new set of words gets trickier and trickier — so we've served up some hints and tips to get you over the hurdle.

If you just want to be told today's puzzle, you can jump to the end of this article for the latest Connections solution. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

What is Connections: Sports Edition?

The NYT's latest daily word game has launched in association with The Athletic, the New York Times property that provides the publication's sports coverage. The sports Connections can be played on both web browsers and mobile devices and require players to group four words that share something in common.

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Each puzzle features 16 words, and each grouping of words is split into four categories. These sets could comprise anything from book titles, software, country names, etc. Even though multiple words will seem like they fit together, there's only one correct answer.

If a player gets all four words in a set correct, those words are removed from the board. Guess wrong and it counts as a mistake — players get up to four mistakes before the game ends.

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Players can also rearrange and shuffle the board to make spotting connections easier. Additionally, each group is color-coded with yellow being the easiest, followed by green, blue, and purple. Like Wordle, you can share the results with your friends on social media.

Here's a hint for today's Connections: Sports Edition categories

Want a hint about the categories without being told the categories? Then give these a try:

• Yellow: Type of matchup

• Green: Poker

• Blue: Canadian sports

• Purple: Sounds like music

Here are today's Connections: Sports Edition categories

Need a little extra help? Today's connections fall into the following categories:

• Yellow: Contest

• Green: Stages in a Texas Hold'Em Hand

• Blue: Pro Teams in Montreal

• Purple: Start with a Music Genre

Looking for Wordle today? Here's the answer to today's Wordle.

Ready for the answers? This is your last chance to turn back and solve today's puzzle before we reveal the solutions.

Drumroll, please!

The solution to today's Connections: Sports Edition #674 is...

What is the answer to Connections: Sports Edition today?

• Contest: COMPETITION, FIXTURE, GAME, MATCH

• Stages in a Texas Hold'Em Hand: FLOP, RIVER, SHOWDOWN, TURN

• Pro Teams in Montreal: ALOUETTES, CANADIENS, CF MONTREAL, VICTOIRE

• Start with a Music Genre: COUNTRY CLUB, POPOVICH, RAPIDS, ROCKY

Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be new sports Connections for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.

Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to today's Connections.