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In two days, the all-new 2024 Apple iPad Air tablet will officially hit the market. While waiting for the big drop, shoppers can make sure they're among the first to get their hands on the new iPads by pre-ordering from the Apple Store, Amazon, and others. Today, they're already getting their first discounts.
Best Apple iPad Air 2024 deals: Best budget-friendly Apple iPad Air 2024 deal Apple iPad Air 2024 (11-inch, WiFi, 128GB) $569.99 at Amazon (save $29.01) Get Deal Best splurge Apple iPad Air 2024 deal Apple iPad Air 2024 (13-inch, WiFi, 128GB) $769.99 at Amazon (save $29.01) Shop NowAs of today, May 13, Amazon has launched its very first discount on the all-new Apple iPad Air. The 11-inch and 13-inch models are both on sale for $29.01 less than their list prices, putting a little extra money back in your wallet as you upgrade.
Best budget-friendly Apple iPad Air 2024 deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPad Air 2024 (11-inch, WiFi, 128GB) $569.99 at AmazonWhile a 5% discount may not sound like much at first glance, this discount makes the $599 Apple iPad Air 2024 (11-inch, WiFi, 128GB) more affordable by bringing the price down to $569.99. Significantly, this limited-time deal positions the brand-new model as cheaper than its 5th-generation, 2022-release predecessor, which is on sale today for $599. If you've been in the market for a new iPad Air, this discount makes preordering the 2024 release a no-brainer.
While the 5th generation is ultra-powerful thanks to the Apple M1 Chip (which is used to power Macbooks), the 2024 release has gotten a chip upgrade, with the even more powerful Apple M2 chip that facilitates smooth multi-tasking and supports graphics-heavy games. It also has an all-day battery life to fuel your work and play. Plus, its liquid retina display enhances visuals and creates a captivating viewing experience.
Best splurge Apple iPad Air 2024 deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPad Air 2024 (13-inch, WiFi, 128GB) $769.99 at AmazonThe Apple iPad Air 2024 (13-inch, WiFi, 128GB) touts the same impressive upgrades as its smaller counterpart: the supercharged Apple M2 Chip, beautiful liquid retina display, all-day battery life, impressive storage, and advanced ultra-wide cameras. The key difference is in screen size. With a 13-inch screen, this model makes games feel even more immersive and video chats that much more lifelike. Plus, it gives creatives ample space for working on projects, which is easier than ever with the compatible Apple Pen Pro. Today's discount brings the price down from $799 to $769.99, so we recommend preordering at this discounted price.
If you have Squarespace stock in your portfolio, it's time to cash out — whether you want to or not.
On Monday, Squarespace announced it was acquired by Permira, a private equity firm based in the UK, in an all-cash deal valued at $6.9 billion. As a result of the acquisition, Permira will take the company private.
Squarespace is a popular website builder and hosting company founded in 2003 and went public on the stock market in 2021. According to BuiltWith, which provides comprehensive technology usage data for online platforms and websites, more than 3.3 million websites powered by Squarespace live on the internet. This ranks Squarespace as the second most popular website host service in the U.S., right behind Shopify. (Note: WordPress is not ranked on this list because many of the hundreds of millions of websites using the popular CMS are self-hosted and not using WordPress' hosting service.)
According to the press release, Squarespace stockholders will receive $44 per share, which puts it at a "premium of 29% over the 90-day volume weighted average trading price of $34.09."
Tech going privateReaders are likely used to tech companies going public over the years. This has long been a goal of many software companies, social media platforms, and other tech-related services. Reddit, for example, just recently went public earlier this year.
However, a new trend seems to be emerging in tech: Some are taking these companies in the opposite direction and going private.
For example, Elon Musk infamously overpaid for Twitter, now known as X, and took the company private in late 2022.
As TechCrunch points out, Permira has also been involved in other recent "take-private" deals, such as when it acquired Zendesk for $10.2 billion in 2022 along with San Francisco-based private equity firm Hellman & Friedman. In the past two months alone, private equity firm Thoma Bravo acquired the cybersecurity company Darktrace for $5 billion and the event management software company Everbridge for $1.8 billion and took both companies private.
As for where Squarespace is headed, Permira will keep its CEO and founder, Anthony Casalena, so users who create and host their websites with the company shouldn't expect too much of a difference — at least in the near future.
Your flights are booked and the itinerary is planned. Summer vacation is right around the corner, and it's time to pack the summer reads accompanying you. Whether you need in-flight entertainment or a beachside book, the Amazon Book Sale has got you covered.
The Amazon Book Sale runs from May 15th through May 20th, offering deals across physical books plus Kindles, e-books, and audiobooks. No matter what format you prefer to read in, the savings are abundant. Physicals books are up to 60% off while e-books are as low as $0.99.
The Kindle Scribe lets you annotate on the e-book page. During the dale, it's down to its lowest price ever at $239.99, saving you $100. If you already have an e-reader you love, sign-up for Kindle Unlimited during the sale and enjoy 3 months free, where you'll gain access to Kindle's collection of 4 million books.
Explore all the deals here or read on for our favorites.
Best Kindle deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Kindle Scribe (16 GB) with Basic Pen $239.99 at AmazonIf you've been known to annotate every margin of your physical books but want the convenience of an e-reader, the Kindle Scribe is the answer. And during the Amazon Book Sale, you can find it for just $239.99, its lowest price ever. You'll save $100, scoring 29% savings on the device.
The Kindle Scribe has 16GB of storage and comes with its basic pen to get you writing. In addition to writing in your e-books, the Scribe includes a notebook feature for a journal on the go. Plus, it converts handwritten notes to text and allows you to write-up PDFs too. The anti-glare screen is perfect for reading in the sun and the weeks of battery life means you can leave the charger at home while on vacation. This deal is live now and available through the end of the Amazon Book Sale.
Best subscription deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Kindle Unlimited at AmazonVoracious readers need Kindle Unlimited. The subscription service includes millions of e-books, audiobooks, and magazines for just $11.99 per month. But thanks to the Amazon Book Sale, you can get your first three months free. That saves you $35.97 while giving you access to millions of reads.
There's no commitment with the Kindle Unlimited subscription — cancel at anytime. If you're not into it after your three-month trial, go ahead and cancel for no charge. And the good news is, you don't have to wait until May 15th to get this deal — it's live now.
Best book deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Books up to 60% off during the Amazon Book Sale Get DealFor loyal readers of physical books, the Amazon Book Sale is for you too. Limited time deals are available across all genres from cookbooks to romance. Find major savings on classic like Toni Morrison's The Bluest Eye to new releases like Expiration Dates by Rebecca Serle.
More book dealsMiddlesex by Jeffrey Eugenides — $7.50 $21 (Save $13.50)
Call Me by Your Name by André Aciman — $7.90 $17 (Save $9.10)
By the Book by Jasmine Guillroy — $8.33 $15.99 (Save $7.66)
The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein — $8.41 $18.99 (Save $10.58)
Such a Fun Age by Kiley Reid — $8.50 $17 (Save $8.50)
The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison — $8.56 $16 (Save $7.44)
Artemis by Andy Weir — $10.27 $18 (Save $7.73)
Expiration Dates by Rebecca Serle — $11.73 $27 (Save $15.27)
Kitchen Gear: The Ultimate Owner's Manual by Lisa McManus and Hannah Crowley — $23.70 $40 (Save $16.30)
If you're picky about the books you want to read, then maybe Kindle Unlimited isn't for you. The good news is, during the Amazon Book Sale, e-books are available at jaw-dropping prices. Seriously, you can save up to 90% on buzzy books like Babel by R.F. Kuang. Plus, you don't have to wait for May 15th, as the prices have already dropped.
More e-book dealsBabel by R.F. Kuang — $1.99 $20 (Save $18.01)
The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkein — $1.99 $30 (Save $28.01)
Wool by Hugh Howey — $1.99 $19.99 (Save $18)
Finding Me by Viola Davis — $2.99 $12.04 (Save $9.05)
The Jasmine Throne by Tasha Suri —$2.99 $16.61 (Save $13.62)
Rouge by Mona Awad — $3.99 $18.99 (Save $15)
Did your iPad Pro get a little bent in 2018? Apple claims that won't happen with its new model.
The 2018 version of the iPad Pro notoriously became a little bendy for some users due to a manufacturing error, but Apple has fixed this in the model that was unveiled last week. In an interview with tech YouTuber Arun Maini, Apple executive John Ternus explained that a new metal cowling Apple installed in the device will keep the new iPad Pro from bending like the old one did.
SEE ALSO: 'We missed the mark': Apple apologises for tone-deaf iPad ad Tweet may have been deletedOf course, without extensive hands-on time with the new iPad Pro, it's impossible to tell just how sturdier it is than the 2018 model. Apple claims the 13-inch version of the new Pro is the thinnest product it has ever made, so durability will naturally be a concern until proven otherwise.
But at least the company did something to alleviate the issue.
Looking for some sweet tech deals to kick off your week? Whether you're in the market for a solid pair of travel headphones, a Bluetooth speaker to accompany your outdoor adventures, a robot vacuum worth its salt, or a gaming monitor to immerse yourself in play, we've got a deal for you. You can save up to 50% at Amazon today with our top deal picks — we already did the hard part for you.
Here are the best Amazon deals of the day for May 13.
Our top pick Opens in a new window Credit: Beats Amazon deal of the day: Beats Solo 4 wireless headphones $149.95 at AmazonJust released earlier this month, the Beats Solo 4 wireless headphones just got their first discount — and it's a good one! As of May 13, you can snag a pair for only $149.95 instead of the usual $199.95 and enjoy the latest Beats technology for your spring and summer travels. A refreshed take on the previous generation (the Beats Solo 3), the Solo 4s include upgraded drivers, rebalanced acoustics, and an improved frequency response. Translation: more dynamic sound. They also pack an extra 10 hours of battery life compared to their predecessor, clocking in at 50 hours total. Sadly, they dropped the ball on including noise-cancelling technology, but they're still a worthwhile purchase — especially at $50 off.
Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung 49-inch Odyssey G9 gaming monitor $699.99 at AmazonIf you have the desk space and want to really take your gaming experience to a new level, check out this deal on the 49-inch Samsung Odyssey G9 monitor. It's basically the equivalent of having two 16:9 QHD monitors mashed together and its curved design surrounds your field of view, making for a more immersive experience. This also helps eliminate image distortion and makes long gaming sessions more comfortable for your eyes. Other features include HDR 1000 for better color and contrast, a speedy 240Hz refresh rate, and fast 1ms response times. As of May 13, it's on sale for just $699.99 — that's 50% off its usual cost and a new low.
Opens in a new window Credit: Roborock Roborock Q5+ Pro robot vacuum and mop $419.99 at AmazonMake your spring cleaning more hands off by snagging this deal on the Roborock Q5 Pro+, one of our favorite self-emptying robot vacuums (that also mops!). An ideal choice for pet owners with larger homes, the Q5 Pro+ is a great hair picker upper and packs a 240-minute battery life that doubles the runtime of many of its competitors. That extended battery life means its able to clean up to 3,700 square feet in one charge (allegedly). It also features an impressive 5,500 Pa in suction power, making it one of the most powerful vacuums in its price range. Typically $699.99, you can save 40% at Amazon as of May 13 and pay just $419.99 for this hybrid machine.
Opens in a new window Credit: Anker Soundcore Motion 300 portable speaker $63.99 at AmazonBack at its all-time low from Amazon's Big Spring Sale, the Soundcore Motion 300 makes a great summertime companion for outdoorsy folks. Its IPX7 waterproof rating ensures it'll keep bumping out tunes at the beach or pool, while its 13-hour battery life will ensure the music doesn't stop during a hike or other excursion. It also packs BassUp technology, 30W sound, and customizable EQ via the Soundcore app. As of May 13, it's on sale for only $63.99 instead of $79.99. That's a 20% discount.
None of these deals catching your eye? Check out Amazon's daily deals for even more savings.
Tinder has introduced a slew of safety features in recent years, working to improve the wellbeing and comfort of daters. From verification checkmarks to guardrails for preventing scams and inappropriate messages, these tools aim to protect Tinder users in all sorts of ways.
The latest: a tool to share key information with friends and family before meeting up with a date. The feature, in the form of a shareable link, holds metrics about the date, including the person's photo and link to their profile, along with details of the date itself, like the time and location.
SEE ALSO: Tinder's new Matchmaker feature lets friends and family recommend matches"Discussing plans with friends and family is a time-honored dating ritual," Tinder CMO Melissa Hobley explains. "Share My Date streamlines this basic info-sharing so singles can jump right to the exciting part, from figuring out what to wear to prepping conversation topics."
If you want to try the tool out for your next date, here's how to do it.
How to use "Share My Date" Credit: Tinder. Total TimeStep 1: Head to your DMs with the person you're about to meet.
Step 2: Click on the three dots on the top-right corner.
Step 3: Select "Share My Date".
Step 4: Add all the necessary details here.
Tinder will direct you to add the name of the person and the details of the date, including the day, time, and location. There's also a note section at the bottom where you can add any other information you want to share.
Step 5: Select "done" and send the created link to your friends and/or family.
You can also edit the link and all its details in the app, and the link will be updated in real time.
SAVE $150: The Apple iPad Air is available for the lowest price we've seen listed at Amazon. This limited-time deal saves shoppers 20%, taking the price down from $749 to $599.
Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPad Air (5th generation) $599.00 at AmazonWhile many are out preordering the brand-new iPad Air this week, the previous generation is on sale at Amazon for a significantly reduced price.
As of today, you can shop the Apple iPad Air (5th generation) for $599 at Amazon. Normally listed for $749, this deal saves you $150. This price marks the lowest drop we've seen for the iPad Air at Amazon. However, a few weeks ago, Best Buy beat this price, listing the model for $399.99.
While the ultra-thin and light design is certainly a plus when it comes to the iPad Air, what really makes this iPad special is that it has an Apple M1 Chip — the very same chip that's used to power Apple Macbooks. This means you're getting all of the power of a laptop packaged into a sleek iPad.
While the new iPad Air has an even more advanced chip, the Apple M2 Chip, the 5th generation model is still highly efficient and capable of keeping up with all that you need to get done.
As you weigh your options, today's sale makes the Apple iPad Air (5th generation) a worthy contender.
GET $60 OFF: As of May 13, the eero 6+ mesh router (3-pack) is just $239.99 at Amazon, down from $299.99. That's a 20% discount or $60 off.
Opens in a new window Credit: eero eero 6+ mesh Wi-Fi router $239.99 at AmazonIf you’re a remote worker, student, or anyone who uses the internet at home, you know the frustration of a slow, unreliable WiFi connection. Buffering, laggy video calls, and ridiculously slow download speeds can make it difficult to stay productive and connected.
SEE ALSO: The best WiFi routers for every homeFortunately, there's a solution that can transform your home network and eliminate those pesky WiFi woes — the eero mesh router system. Eero is a top-rated mesh WiFi system that provides seamless, whole-home coverage, and as of May 13, you can get $60 off the three-pack at Amazon.
Mesh WiFi systems are designed to provide better coverage and reliability than traditional single-router setups, especially in larger homes or those with challenging layouts that can create WiFi dead spots. With the eero 6+, you can cover up to 4,500 square feet with fast, reliable WiFi.
It’ll also connect to your existing internet service provider, so you won't have to worry about switching providers or complicated installation. Just plug them in and follow the prompts on the eero app, and you'll be up and running in no time.
Last year, I called the Google Pixel 7a a “great potential swan-song” for Google’s budget Pixel A-series line of phones. I couldn’t have been more wrong about the “swan-song” part, though, because I’ve been using a Pixel 8a for the past several days.
That’s fine, though, because Google’s track record of making really good $500 Android handsets has remained consistent over the years, and is unchanged in 2024. While I’m not totally enamored with every “new” feature packed into the Pixel 8a (enough with the AI stuff), its remarkable parity with a phone that was $200 more back in October makes Pixel 8a a compelling option for anyone who’s overdue for an affordable Android upgrade.
SEE ALSO: Google I/O 2024: What to expect What I like about the Google Pixel 8aIt’s important to note up-front that much of what makes the Pixel 8a good also made the Pixel 8 a quality handset late last year. Its design and specs are nearly identical in all the ways that matter, but again, you’re paying $200 less for this one, so that’s cool.
Google didn’t fix what wasn't broken Looks like a Pixel, alright. Credit: Joe Maldonado/MashableWhen I say the design and specs are similar, I mean it.
Pixel 8a looks like the spitting image of Pixel 8, with Google’s now-distinctive horizontal camera bar situated in the upper portion of the phone’s backside. Its corners are rounded and its back has a matte finish in one of the four following colorways: Aloe, Bay, Obsidian, and Porcelain.
Our review unit came in the cool blue Bay color and I personally adore it. The other colors are fine, I guess, but Bay is definitely the way to go this year.
Here are the basic specs of the review unit Google provided us:
6.1-inch Actua display with 2400x1080 resolution and up to 120Hz adaptive refresh rate
Google Tensor G3 chipset
128GB of storage
8GB of RAM
You can also upgrade to 256GB of storage this year, which bolts an extra $60 onto the Pixel 8a’s $500 starting price tag.
Those specs are all right in line with the Pixel 8, with the exception of display size, which is a tenth of an inch smaller than the 6-2-inch glass present on last year’s entry-level Pixel. Despite that, Pixel 8a is actually a tenth of an inch taller than Pixel 8 and two-tenths of an ounce heavier, to boot.
Look, these aren’t big differences, but they are differences, and they need to be noted, folks.
Almost everything you want is here I like the new colorway a lot. Credit: Joe Malonado/MashablePoint being, this is basically a Pixel 8 with a few small cuts around the edges that barely impact the everyday experience at all. That means all of the AI features that made their debut in Pixel 8 are here, and how you feel about that depends on how you felt about them last year.
The Pixel 8 experience has been pretty faithfully recreated in a cheaper phone. You can use Circle to Search to draw a little circle around anything on the screen and have Google’s AI bring up a relevant web search for you. You can also use the AI call screening feature to have conversations with service workers without actually talking to them.
That means AI camera features like Magic Editor and Audio Magic Eraser also make their return in Pixel 8a. Best Take allows you to composite together a “perfect” group photo based on several tries, and Magic Eraser is back to remove photobombers from your vacation pictures.
I have…feelings about some of these features that I’ll get to in a bit, but it’s at the very least commendable that Google included so much of the Pixel 8 in the comparatively more affordable Pixel 8a.
Flagship-level performanceThat goes for performance, too.
There isn’t a ton to say about it, honestly. Pixel 8a uses the same Tensor G3 chip as Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, and my experience from an everyday performance standpoint has been pretty much the same as it was on those phones. It doesn’t ever hitch even when several apps are open, everything is smooth as can be, and I haven’t found heating to be a problem.
The 120Hz refresh rate doesn’t hurt, either. It just makes everything feel more responsive and quick. Points to Google for getting it into the Pixel 8a this year after the 7a could only go up to 90Hz. For reference, the base iPhone 15 is still stuck at 60Hz.
What I dislike about the Google Pixel 8aThere’s nothing functionally wrong with Pixel 8a that I can discern. My main concern is philosophical.
It’s time for some new ideas Don't change the camera bar, though. Credit: Joe Maldonado/MashableBasically, the Pixel 8a suffers from being an iteration of the Pixel 8, which wasn’t the most exciting Pixel in years. At least, not for me.
I just don’t think most of these AI features are all that useful or would even be desirable if they were useful. I’ve seen the TV commercial where a woman edits a photo so it looks like her husband is throwing a baby dangerously high in the air hundreds of times during basketball games and I still don’t understand who exactly Magic Editor is for.
Well, I guess features like that and Best Take are for people who want to strip their social media presences of all imperfection and genuine humanity, but that’s not me.
In other words, the things that separate the Pixel 8a from the Pixel 7a (aside from the boosted refresh rate and new chip) aren’t all that enticing. This is a very good phone for the price, but the need to upgrade to Pixel 8a is not especially urgent if you bought a Pixel in the last two or three years.
What’s ‘meh’ about the Google Pixel 8aSomewhere along the line, Google has to make cuts to justify dropping the price of the 8a to $500. This year, the only difference that really bothers me is one little cut camera trick.
One missing camera featurePixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro both had a Macro Focus feature that allowed you to position the camera way up close against objects with small, fine details and get snazzy looking shots.
[Insert macro shot here]
As you may have guessed by now, Pixel 8a can’t do that. Bummer! That said, the camera is still pretty good for what you pay for.
Google Pixel 8a cameraI’m going to keep this section relatively brief because Google didn’t do much to the Pixel 8a’s cameras compared to the Pixel 7a. In fact, specs-wise, Google didn’t do anything at all. Both Pixel 7a and Pixel 8a share the exact same physical camera specs:
64MP wide rear lens
13MP ultra-wide rear lens
13MP front lens
That’s not necessarily a bad thing because this isn’t a flagship phone. The Pixel 8a’s cameras combined with Google’s computational photo software can still create nice-looking shots, even when New York City conspires to be gloomy and grey outside for an entire weekend:
Sorry for the lack of blue skies. Credit: Alex Perry/MashableAs someone who loves the 30x zoom in the recent Pixel Pro phones, I’m a little sad the Pixel 8a’s zoom lens only goes up to 8x, but I get it. That said, shots taken at 8x zoom do look very sharp.
No zoom. Credit: Alex Perry/Mashable All the zoom. Credit: Alex Perry/MashablePortrait mode is back and does portrait mode things.
Who wouldn't hang this in their estate? Credit: Alex Perry/MashableNight Sight continues to work wonders in the right circumstances, such as my nearly totally pitch-black backyard at night:
You couldn't see this with your eyes at all. Credit: Alex Perry/MashableThis is a perfectly fine camera array for a $500 phone. Hopefully Google finds some more interesting improvements for Pixel 9a that don’t involve AI.
Google Pixel 8a battery lifeAnother very marginal cut from Pixel 8 came in the form of battery size. Last year’s baseline Pixel had a 4,575mAh battery, while the Pixel 8a has a reduced 4,492mAh engine powering itself.
As tends to be the case with recent Pixel phones (at least in my experience) though, that doesn’t really matter. I was able to go about 24 hours between charges while using the phone regularly for video streaming, web browsing, and social media. That’s right in line with both the Pixel 8 and Pixel 7a in my testing. It’s also more than good enough for me.
Google Pixel 8a final thoughtsWhether or not you should buy the Pixel 8a really depends on where you’re at in your personal phone upgrade journey.
If you’re on an older Android device and desperately need something affordable that will get years of software upgrades and general reliability, the Pixel 8a is a great choice. Its elite performance coupled with a flagship-esque display and decent enough camera specs are more than enough to make up for some lackluster returning AI features.
But if you have a more recent Pixel (even an A-series from the last year or two), I would recommend waiting until the Pixel 9 announcement later this year. Pixel 8a is an appealing option for those in need of an urgent upgrade, but it doesn’t create any urgency by itself.
If you're the type of person who loves a late night gaming session with the sound up but also cares about your roommates and neighbours getting decent sleep, you might want to try headphones. And they don't have to be mega cans, earbuds will work just fine.
Luckily, it's really easy to pair your Xbox console with your AirPods. And let's face it, playing with the sound down is a prime strategy for scaredy-cats like me getting through horror games but music and score, sound effects and foley, and voice over work is half the art of gaming.
So, let's pair your AirPods with your Xbox Series S, Series X, or Xbox One.
SEE ALSO: How to connect Xbox controller to PCBefore you start, make sure you've downloaded the Xbox app on iOS or Android and sign in/sign up with a Microsoft account.
How to use AirPods with Xbox Total TimeStep 1: Turn on your Xbox and go to Settings.
You can find Settings by pressing the Xbox button in the middle of your Xbox controller, pushing the left stick across to your account profile, then pushing the stick down to "Settings".
Step 2: Select "Devices & connections."
Push the left stick down the menu to find this.
Step 3: Select "Remote features" and tick "Enable remote features."
Your Xbox will test your setup for remote connection. If you're good to go, a message will display on your TV screen telling you this.
Step 4: Connect your AirPods to your phone.
We've got whole guides for how to connect your AirPods to your iPhone or Android, but TL;DR open your AirPods case with the buds sitting inside it, hold down the button on the back of the case until the light on the front goes from green to white, then pick the AirPods in your Bluetooth settings.
Step 5: Open your Xbox app on iPhone or Android.
Make sure you're signed into your Microsoft account.
Step 6: Tap the "Remote play" icon in the top right corner of the Xbox app.
It's the little rectangle with radio waves coming out of it, next to the notifications bell.
Credit: Shannon Connellan / XboxStep 7: Tap "Remote play on this device."
You'll see the name of your Xbox, whether Xbox Series S, Series X, or Xbox One. You'll also get a reminder to make sure your Wi-Fi is on.
Step 8: Tap "Allow" to let Xbox find and connect to devices on your local network.
Once connected, you'll see your Xbox screen mirrored to your phone screen.
Step 9: Now just pop your AirPods in and the sound will mirror that of your Xbox!
If you want to talk to other players while you're using your AirPods, you can just tap the the two vertical lines of dots on the top left of your phone screen, then tap the three horizontal dots, and tap the "Mute" button. This allows Xbox to access the microphone and enable chat.
Credit: Shannon Connellan / MashableYour roommates are so welcome.
If you have a Nintendo Switch, right this way.
So, you can't quite figure out how to connect your AirPods to your computer. Stuff happens! It's OK, because the problem is easy enough to solve.
We've got a quick rundown for you, but there's also a helpful page from Apple itself that can point you in the right direction for any model computer.
SEE ALSO: Yes, you can stick your AirPods to your MacBook screen, if you absolutely mustNow, first things first. The process of pairing your AirPods (2nd and 3rd generation) or AirPods Pro (1st and 2nd generation) via Bluetooth might look different depending on what type of computer you use. Let's go with a Mac first.
How to connect AirPods to a MacFirst you want to make sure that your Mac's operating system is up to date. To do that, click on the Apple icon in the upper left hand corner of your desktop screen and click on "About this Mac." A screen will pop up, and there you can click on "Software Update."
It's always best to update to the latest, which is macOS Sonoma 14.4.1. According to Apple, 2nd generation AirPods require macOS Mojave 10.14.4 or later (3rd generation needs macOS Monterey or later), and AirPods Pro require Catalina 10.15.1 or later (2nd generation needs the latest, Sonoma).
Now that you've made sure your Mac is up to date, follow these simple steps to connect your AirPods.
Total TimeStep 1: Open System Preferences.
If you can't find it, it's the icon on your desktop that looks like a gear. You can also search for System Preferences using Spotlight (the magnifying glass in the upper right hand corner of your desktop.)
Step 2: Select Bluetooth.
I happen to use a Mac, so here's what I'm talking about. This is the icon you're looking for.
The Bluetooth icon is easy to find in system preferences. Credit: Screenshot: apple / system preferencesStep 3: Place both AirPods in the case and open the lid.
Simple enough.
Step 4: Hold the button on the back of the AirPod case.
You should see the light start to blink white. Once it does, you can let go of the button.
Step 5: Wait for your AirPods to show up on your devices, then click Connect.
Presto. That should be it. Note: If you do not see your AirPods, double-check that Bluetooth is turned on, then restart the process.
Connecting AirPods to your Mac is easy. Credit: Screenshot: AppleNow, what if you don't use a Mac? Well, the process should be pretty much exactly the same. Pretty much.
How to connect AirPods to a PC or Windows laptopThe only thing that's really going to change is how you navigate to the Bluetooth page. Here's a few different ways you might get there:
Total TimeStep 1: On a PC, open Settings from your Start menu.
Step 2: Select devices, navigate to Bluetooth and other devices, then hit the plus sign where it says "Add Bluetooth or other device."
Step 3: Open the AirPods' case lid, hold the button, and select your AirPods once they pop up on the screen.
Step 4: The headphones should connect, then you'll click "Done."
Not all PCs come equipped with Bluetooth, especially desktops. However if you have a laptop, it's quite likely that your PC does have Bluetooth capabilities.
There you have it, folks. Enjoy your brave new world in which your AirPods pair seamlessly with your computer.
Meanwhile, if you want to properly clean your AirPods, reset them, or even stick them to your MacBook screen, we've got you covered.
If you were unfamiliar with Twitch in the past, you probably know about the popular livestreaming platform now.
The Amazon-owned streaming service has grown exponentially over the years, now with more than 30 million daily viewers and around 7 million creators going live on Twitch every month, according to the platform.
Are you a first-time streamer looking to get in on the Twitch action? Or maybe you're a longtime YouTuber who feels like Twitch, which focuses on live video, might be a better platform for your livestreams? Then you've come to the right place. Going live on Twitch is quick and easy, and we'll teach you everything you need to know about how to do it.
SEE ALSO: Meet Sketch, the streamer taking over the sports worldBut, before we dive in, make sure you sign up for a Twitch account first as that's required for going live. Just go to Twitch.tv and click the Sign Up button in the upper right corner. Choose your username and fill out your personal info and you'll be ready to go.
How to stream live on Twitch from your mobile deviceThe fastest way to start streaming on Twitch is to go live from your mobile device.
Total TimeStep 1: First, download the Twitch app on your smartphone.
If you have an Android device, you'll find the app in the Google Play Store. If you're an iPhone user, just head over to the App Store.
Step 2: Next, sign in to your account and tap your profile image in the upper left corner.
Credit: Mashable Screenshot
Step 3: On your account page, click the "Go Live" button.
Credit: Mashable Screenshot
Step 4: You'll then be presented with two options: "Stream Games" and "Stream IRL".
The "Stream IRL" option utilizes your device's camera.
Credit: Mashable ScreenshotStep 5: If you want to "Stream Games", choose your title.
If you pick the first option, you'll be presented with a screen where you pick the game you want to stream.
Credit: Mashable ScreenshotStep 6: Choose a name for your stream and adjust audio settings.
After choosing this category, you'll be given options where you can title your stream and adjust the audio volumes for your smartphone's mic and the gameplay volume.
Credit: Mashable ScreenshotStep 7: Click on the record button.
You'll see a prompt that lets you know that Twitch will screencast your device to your Twitch livestream. This pop-up warns you that any notifications that show on your screen will be broadcast as well, so it's best to turn off notifications or turn on "Do Not Disturb" options.
Credit: Mashable ScreenshotStep 8: Tap on "Start Broadcast" and you're live!
If you choose the "Stream IRL" option, you'll be broadcasting yourself from your mobile device's camera. You'll receive similar stream options menus where you can set the title of your broadcast and then tap "Start Stream" to go live.
How to stream live on Twitch from your PC or MacIf you'd like to stream while you're on your Mac or gaming on your PC, you're going to need software to broadcast from.
There are popular free options like OBS, which works on both PC and Mac. There are also paid options like the Mac-native Ecamm Live.
However, Twitch now has its own free Twitch Studio application to help you get started on PC or Mac. If you're just starting out, it's probably best to use that before you spend money on a third-party app or learn the more complicated OBS software.
Total TimeStep 1: First, download Twitch Studio.
You can get this from Twitch's official website.
Credit: Mashable ScreenshotStep 2: Login to Twitch, then connect your mic and camera.
After you install the software on your PC or Mac, open Twitch Studio and login to your Twitch account. You'll be greeted with an onboarding prompt that will walk you through connecting your mic and your webcam.
Step 3: Customize your stream.
Twitch Studio will also help you make your stream unique with different scenes and customizations. In addition, users can set up on-air Twitch notifications, chat boxes, and more from within the application. Play around with these and change them once you get a hang of how you'll be utilizing these options during your livestream.
Credit: Mashable ScreenshotStep 4: When you're ready to go live, click "Start Stream" at the bottom of the Twitch Studio app.
Credit: Mashable Screenshot
Step 5: Choose your stream category, enter your livestream title, and click "Go Live" to start streaming.
And that's it! Whether you decide to livestream your favorite game or just go live for a casual chat stream, you now know everything you need to quickly broadcast on Twitch.
There are a few things you'll need while planning your next trip: earplugs in case you're seated next to a toddler on an airplane; a neck pillow if you have the ability to rest on flights; and distractions from the doldrums inherent to any travel experience that doesn't go awry. For most people, those helpful items include a book or a podcast, some music or a Nintendo Switch, or maybe just a bit of work. Since you don't typically have excellent access to WiFi on a plane or train, a downloaded TV show or movie (or several) could also prove helpful.
SEE ALSO: 75 TV shows you can binge from start to finish on a flightOutside of travel, of course, there are plenty of times watching Netflix is simply easier if you have the shows or movies downloaded so you can view them offline whenever you want. Note: Netflix's terms are, "Ad-free plans can have up to 100 active downloads at a time per device based on the number of devices included in your Netflix plan." On plans with ads, it's 15 downloads per device per month.
Here's how to do it.
How to download Netflix movies and shows for offline viewing Total TimeStep 1: Download the Netflix app.
In order to download movies and TV shows from the Netflix app, you'll first need the latest version of the app. You can get it on your iPhone or iPad running iOS 16 or later, on your Android phone or tablet running Android 5.0 or later, on your Amazon Fire tablet running Fire OS 5.0 or later, on your Windows 10 or 11 tablet or computer (only on ad-free Netflix plans), and on Chromebook through Google Play Store. Make sure you keep the app updated for it to work the best. To see if your app needs to be updated, navigate to your App Store and tap updates.
Credit: Apple screenshotStep 2: Choose your TV show or movie.
Once you're in the app, you'll find that not all movies or TV shows are available to download on Netflix. Some of them will not have the little down arrow download button. Netflix says this is because content rights are exclusive to another company, the rights aren't available for Netflix to purchase, or a whole host of other reasons, like popularity, cost, availability, or seasonal and other localized factors. To find a movie or TV show that is downloadable, tap on your choice and look for the Downloads icon — a downward-facing arrow located near the play button. On a Windows 10 device, you'll need to open the Netflix app and select Menu, then navigate to See What You Can Download, Find Something to Download, Find More to Download, or Available for Download, depending on your device. You can also filter for shows by what is available for download.
Credit: Apple screenshotStep 3: Download your TV show or movie.
On your device, click the Download button — that downward-facing arrow again — next to a TV show episode or a movie. It'll download the fastest, and with the least data usage, if you're on good WiFi. Once the show is downloaded, you'll have access to it in your Downloads menu. All you have to do now is find the title you want to watch and press play. Downloads will expire after a period of time, and some have a limit on how many times they can be downloaded per year. Once you’re done watching, delete downloads from your device to make more room for — you guessed it — more downloads.
About to take a flight and looking for a Netflix show to download? Here's 75 TV shows you can watch from start to finish, depending on how long your flight is.
The Mini is a bite-sized version of The New York Times' revered daily crossword. While the crossword is a lengthier experience that requires both knowledge and patience to complete, The Mini is an entirely different vibe.
With only a handful of clues to answer, the daily puzzle doubles as a speed-running test for many who play it.
So, when a tricky clue disrupts a player's flow, it can be frustrating! If you find yourself stumped playing The Mini — much like with Wordle and Connections — we have you covered.
SEE ALSO: NYT Connections today: See hints and answers for May 13 SEE ALSO: 'Wordle' today: Here's the answer hints for May 13Here are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Monday, May 13, 2024:
AcrossBit of threaded hardwareThe answer is screw.
The answer is Erivel.
The answer is novel.
The answer is scarf.
The answer is esl.
The answer is sense.
The answer is Crocs.
The answer is rival.
The answer is ever.
The answer is wolf.
TL;DR: As of May 13, you can learn in-demand skills with the ethical hacking and penetration testing course package while it's on sale for $49.99 (reg. $351).
In the digital age, cybersecurity is essential. As such, the demand for skilled ethical hackers has skyrocketed. Whether you're a beginner looking to enter the field or a tech enthusiast aiming to upgrade your skills, this ethical hacking and penetration testing training bundle could be a good place to start. These training courses will help you learn skills you could one day use as a certified cybersecurity expert — whether that's in business, healthcare, the government, or other industries. And for a limited time, it's on sale for $49.99.
This comprehensive training bundle has nine courses totaling over 88 hours. Covering the latest security domains and hacking techniques, the bundle helps prepare you for top industry-recognized certifications, potentially setting you on the path to what could become a cybersecurity career.
The Hands-On Hacking course gives you the opportunity to test out your new hacking knowledge in practical applications. The instructor will help you hone your ethical hacking skills to scan, enumerate, access, and escalate privilege against vulnerable machines.
This learning bundle also includes instruction for industry certification exams. The CompTIA PenTest+ (PT0-002) course prepares you for the CompTIA exam by diving deep into the complexities of penetration testing and vulnerability management. You'll use your skills to discover and exploit vulnerabilities, analyze any detected weaknesses, and showcase your ability to adhere to ethical behaviors.
It must be noted that none of these courses gives you any actual certification. Instead, courses only offer a certificate of completion and preparation material for exams.
With the latest tools, techniques, and expert guidance, this bundle provides a way to learn from the comfort of your own home.
Get this 2024 ethical hacking and penetration testing online learning bundle while it's on sale for $49.99 (reg. $351).
StackSocial prices subject to change.
Opens in a new window Credit: Shutterstock The Complete 2024 Penetration Testing & Ethical Hacking Certification Training Bundle $49.99 at the Mashable ShopTL;DR: As of May 13, score this HOTO Air Pump Pro portable air compressor and tire inflator on sale for $79.99 (reg. $119.99) for a limited time.
Have you ever found yourself with low tire pressure on a cold night? Or perhaps needed to inflate camping gear without any power source in sight? With the HOTO Air Pump Pro Portable Air Compressor, these common inconveniences can be a thing of the past. This week, the handy electric tool is on sale for just $79.99, a 33% discount from the usual price.
The HOTO Air Pump Pro is a versatile, lightweight (2.5 pounds), and highly portable air compressor that lets you quickly inflate tires, sports equipment, pool floats, and mattresses without the usual hassle. It has a soft-carry handle, giving you a quick, reliable air supply no matter where you are. HOTO also has a reputation for designing tools with slick, minimalist designs, and the Air Pump Pro is no exception.
The air pump features four presets: Car, Motorcycle, Bicycle, and Ball modes. It also has a 12V pump motor that's designed to inflate a tire in just five minutes. After you set the PSI, you don't have to worry about over-inflating, as it has an auto-stop feature.
The HOTO Air Pump Pro features three 2500mAh high-capacity lithium batteries that. When fully charged, it can fill up to fifteen under-inflated tires. The large LED display makes everything your progress easy to read (and provides some extra light if you're on a dark road). It comes with nozzles and adapters to fit a variety of use cases, too.
This inflator is ideal for anyone who drives a vehicle, bicyclists, off road adventurers, those who use floats for the pool or lake, paddle board enthusiasts, and more.
Invest in safety, convenience, and peace of mind when you pick up the HOTO Air Pump Pro portable air compressor and tire inflator for $79.99 (reg. $119.99).
StackSocial prices subject to change.
Opens in a new window Credit: HOTO HOTO Air Pump Pro Portable Air Compressor/Tire Inflator $79.99 at the Mashable Shop
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