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When it comes to powerful sound (and noise cancellation), Bose has a reputation for being among the very best. While the brand touts premium prices to match, today we're seeing select Bose earbuds and headphones at their lowest prices yet.

Here are today's best Bose deals as of Feb. 2: Best over-ear headphones deal Bose QuietComfort Noise Canceling Headphones $379 (save $50) Get Deal Best earbuds deal Bose QuietComfort Noise Canceling Earbuds $249 (save $50) Get Deal Best portable speaker deal Bose SoundLink Flex Bluetooth Speaker $129 (save $20) Get Deal

As of today, Feb. 2, select Bose earbuds, headphones, and speakers are on sale for up to 17% off, including the newest models of Bose QuietComfort earbuds and headphones. (Both of which have hit their lowest prices we've seen to date.) These deals are only available at Amazon for a limited time, so we recommend taking advantage of them while you can.

Best over-ear headphones deal Opens in a new window Credit: Bose Our pick: Bose QuietComfort Noise Canceling Headphones $379 at Amazon (save $50) Get Deal Why we like it

The last time we saw Bose QuietComfort Noise Cancelling Headphones on sale for under $429, it was over Black Friday and the holiday season. Now, the premium Ultra Wireless headphones have returned to their lowest price, putting $50 back in your pocket. At $379, these headphones are still no small purchase. However, if you're looking for state-of-the-art headphones, these are hard to beat thanks to three different noise-cancellation modes, spatial audio, and cushy, luxurious ear cushions. It even can analyze your ears to customize the sound experience just for you. Plus, these headphones have a 24-hour battery life that will keep you covered all day. And when you're in a pinch, you can recover 2.5 hours of battery life off a quick fifteen-minute charge.

Best earbuds deal Opens in a new window Credit: Bose Bose QuietComfort Noise Canceling Earbuds $249 at Amazon (save $50) Get Deal Why we like it

If over-ear headphones aren't your style (or you want the QuietComfort experience at a lower price point), Bose QuietComfort Noise Cancelling Earbuds might be the upgrade that you've been looking for. Just like their over-ear counterparts, these earbuds have three different noise cancelling modes that adapt to your needs in any environment, plus spatial audio and CustomTune technology. You're guaranteed a comfortable in-ear fit, too, thanks to the nine different ear tips and stability bands that they come with. As for battery life, these earbuds give you up to 6 hours. While that's not as much as the headphones, they have the same quick-charge feature: 20 minutes of charging will bring your headphones back up to 2 hours of battery life. And at the lowest price we've seen since Black Friday and the holidays, today's deal makes for a great value.

Best portable speaker deal Opens in a new window Credit: Bose Bose SoundLink Flex Bluetooth Speaker $129 at Amazon (save $20) Get Deal Why we like it

For those who want to bring the noise and not block it out, there's the Bose SoundLink Flex Bluetooth Speaker, a compact waterproof speaker that's ready for wherever your adventures take you. (It even floats!) Whether you're getting a party started indoors or relaxing outside, Bose SoundLink uses Proprietary Position Qtechnology to analyze the space and provide optimal sound quality based on where it's positioned. We also appreciate its significant 12-hour battery life, and ability to make and receive calls. While we've seen this powerful speaker drop to $119 in the past, it's only happened once before and today's price is still its second-lowest on record.

SAVE $14: As of Feb. 2, you can score a four-pack of Apple AirTags for just $84.99, down from $99.99. That's $14.01 off the listing price or a 14% discount.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple AirTag (4-pack) $84.99 at Amazon (save $14.01) Get Deal

Whether you're going on a big trip and have a (very rational) fear of losing your luggage, have a furry friend you'd like to keep track of, or are tired of misplacing your keys, a handy tracker could easily eliminate those headaches. Apple AirTags are little GPS-tracking devices that you can attach to any item (or animal) you want to keep tabs on. All you have to do is sync the AirTag with your iPhone or iPad using the Find My app, and you'll be able to locate whatever you've lost in no time — and there's a great deal on a pack of AirTags today.

Right now, you can get four of these nifty gadgets for $84.99. That's $14.01 off the original listing price, or a 14% discount. They usually retail for $29 each on the Apple website, so this deal saves you some cash while gifting you peace of mind.

SEE ALSO: Google and Apple are closer to making AirTags stalker free

If you're worried about privacy (who isn't?), Apple says that all communication within the Find My network is encrypted and anonymous, so your location data remains secure — location data and history are never stored on the AirTag itself. Plus, the battery (included) lasts more than a year, so you won't have to worry about replacing it for a while.

Grab this deal while it lasts, and know where your most valuable goods and furry friends are at all times.

Finally, a way to blast photos of your weekly lunches at all your friends and family.

Android Authority found some code in the Google Photos APK that references an unreleased feature called "My Week." The text in the code implies that My Week is a feature that will round up and automatically send photos you take to friends of your choosing on a weekly basis.

It seems to be an expansion of the already existing "Memories" feature, which turns your photos into a customizable timeline that you can send to people individually.

SEE ALSO: Google releases sneak peek of its Super Bowl commercial

The difference here, of course, would be that My Week would do this on a regular basis. The text in the code also suggests you can choose not only who gets your pictures, but what pictures get sent, which is crucial. You don't want your grandparents getting every photo you take, after all.

As long as this is something you opt into, this seems fine. It could easily become a creepy nuisance if it's turned on by default, but judging by the text Android Authority uncovered, that probably isn't the case. As always, this feature may never even see the light of day.

But if it does, be very careful about what you send out to people.

The Apple Vision Pro officially hit store shelves on Friday, attracting Apple enthusiasts to brick-and-mortar stores all over the U.S. However, we've got our sights set on Apple's Fifth Avenue Store in New York City.

Mashable's Elizabeth de Luna decided to check out the scene this morning at the Manhattan location, and as it turns out, Apple CEO Tim Cook made an appearance, too.

Tweet may have been deleted

The energy surged further as the store's first Apple Vision Pro customer walked out with a headset box that must've set him back at least $3,499.

SEE ALSO: Apple Vision Pro: 3 features it shares with Meta Quest 3 that may shock you First Apple Vision Pro customer from NYC store attracts applause Crowd erupts in applause over the store's first customer. Credit: Elizabeth de Luna

The Fifth Avenue Apple store's first Vision Pro customer stepped out, and suddenly, the Apple employees erupted in applause and praise.

Tweet may have been deleted

The massive box nearly took up the length of his torso as he showed off the package like a championship trophy.

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The hubbub over the first-generation headset likely stems from the fact that this is Apple's first new product in seven years.

According to CNN, about 200 people lined up ahead of the 8 a.m. store opening to either grab a $4,000 headset or demo the head-mounted display for themselves.

The Vision Pro, particularly with the likes of the $500 Quest 3 on the market, will be a tough sell. As mentioned, its price tag is a difficult pill to swallow. According to the New York Times, a maxed-out Vision Pro headset can set you back $4,600.

Schitt's Creek's most fashionable citizen may be coming soon to a zombie apocalypse near you.

That's right: Catherine O'Hara, the Emmy-winning actor behind Moira Rose and star of Beetlejuice and Home Alone, is in talks to join The Last of Us Season 2.

SEE ALSO: Previous 'The Last of Us Part II' owners can get 'Remastered' for just $10 — here's how to upgrade

O'Hara revealed the news on the after show of Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen, where she and Bryan Cranston were promoting their new film Argylle. Fans called into the show to ask if there was any truth to the rumors that she would be joining the cast of The Last of Us.

"How do you know these things?" a stunned O'Hara asked, following up with confirmation that the rumors were true.

"My son's a set dresser on the show," she added, noting both her children with Beetlejuice production designer Bo Welch, followed in their father's footsteps in that regard.

SEE ALSO: 'Beetlejuice' could have been a drama

O'Hara would be the latest new cast member to join The Last of Us for Season 2, with new faces including Kaitlyn Dever as Abby, a member of the Fireflies; Isabela Merced as Dina, Ellie's girlfriend; and Young Mazino as Jesse, one of Ellie friends and Dina's ex.

Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey are returning as Joel and Ellie, with filming on Season 2 set to begin in Canada this Feb. for a 2025 release.

The Last of Us Season 1 is now streaming on Max.

Ben Armstrong, better known as BitBoy, was once the most popular cryptocurrency YouTuber in the world. Now his empire has collapsed.

Linda Yaccarino, the chief executive of the platform formerly known as Twitter, is relying on her TV industry ties to recruit established stars to the site.

SAVE $109 AND GET TWO YEARS OF APPLECARE+: Upgrade to the iPad 10th gen with two years of AppleCare+ and save $109.01 on all models.

Best iPad 10th gen deals at Amazon Smallest storage option Apple iPad (10th gen, 65GB, WiFi) + 2 years AppleCare+ $408.99 at Amazon (save $109.01) Get Deal Largest storage option Apple iPad (10th gen, 256GB, WiFi) + 2 years AppleCare+ $558.99 at Amazon (save $109.01) Get Deal Largest storage option with cellular Apple iPad (10th gen, 256GB, WiFi + Cellular) + 2 years AppleCare+ $708.99 at Amazon (save $109.01) Get Deal

There are two kinds of people in this world: Those who spring for the insurance (whether it's a rental car, expensive jewelry, or tech gadgets) and everyone else who says, "It'll probably be OK."

Sure, we've all skimped on the protection plan to save a few bucks. But when it comes to tech, it's probably better to be safe than sorry. Good news, though: we found a deal where the safety net comes built-in.

Amazon's running a special promotion on the Apple iPad (10th gen), offering two years of AppleCare+. Not only that, but every model is on sale (saving you exactly $109.01 — a strange and specific amount, but whatever, a deal's a deal).

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPad (10th gen, WiFi + cellular) save $109.01 + get 2 years of AppleCare+ Get Deal

The Apple iPad 10th gen features iPad OS, so you can multitask without the lag most older tablets have. You can use the Apple Pencil (not included) to scribble notes, annotate documents, or edit photos and videos like a pro. And with the A14 Bionic chip and an all-day battery life, you'll have the power to handle any task, whether streaming movies, playing games, or working on creative projects.

SEE ALSO: The best Apple deals this week: The iPad Air is at its lowest price ever

This offer applies to every model (64GB, 256GB, and 256GB WiFi + cellular), but prices vary depending on color. Double-check the pricing and availability of your preferred color before purchasing. (Currently, the 64GB pink option seems the most affordable.)

From the Dune 2 Bucket to Tiny Big Bird, host Josh Burstein takes us on a comedic journey through the week's top stories.

SAVE $50: As of Feb. 2, the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro is on sale for $129.99 at Best Buy, down from $179.99. That's a discount of 27%. It's our favorite gaming headset that we've ever tested, so get one at a discount while you can.

Opens in a new window Credit: Razer Razer BlackShark V2 Pro gaming headset $129.99 at Best Buy (save $50) Get Deal

In our opinion, every great gaming setup needs to include a few staples. One of the most important ones? A comfortable and high-quality gaming headset for you to get more immersed in your games and have the ability to chat with your friends online.

The Razer BlackShark V2 Pro is both of those things and more, and it's currently on sale if you pick one up at Best Buy — $50 off the usual price. $129.99 is an actual steal for this headset, so if you need one, look no further.

SEE ALSO: The best handheld gaming consoles of 2023

The Razer BlackShark V2 Pro is a fantastic gaming headset for a lot of reasons, but where it excels the most is in its comfort factor. The pair of headphones feature FlowKnit memory foam ear cushions, as well as a padded, adjustable headband to match. If you often find yourself gaming for multiple hours at a time (don't worry, we aren't judging), this headset will ensure that you'll stay comfortable for the whole session and not have sore ears afterward. Sound quality is top-notch, too — the headset supports THX Spatial Audio for extra immersion and has pretty decent passive noise cancellation.

The HyperClear cardioid mic is also a highlight, and we love the amount of onboard controls that you can tinker with on the fly. All of that paired with the headset's remarkable build quality make it a piece of gear that you simply must have in your gaming setup. Grab it at this price while you can.

Stealing the Vision Pro's thunder, Meta announced on Thursday that the Quest 3 headset will support not one, but two new features the Apple headset boasts.

This comes as Apple Vision Pro headsets officially hit store shelves on Friday.

SEE ALSO: Apple Vision Pro: 3 features it shares with Meta Quest 3 that may shock you Meta Quest 3 supports two new Vision Pro-esque features

The Quest 3, thanks to the new v62 software update, will now support 3D spatial videos created with the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max.

In other words, you can now upload your stereoscopic content to the Meta Quest mobile app. Next, Meta will convert the video into Quest-compatible playback and send it to your headset.

Meta says that users can find their spatial video content by navigating to the Files menu.

"To give you a taste of what spatial video has to offer, we’ve made demo videos available for viewing on your Meta Quest headset in the spatial videos section of the Files menu," Meta said in a press release.

In addition to 3D spatial videos, Meta also announced that, similar to the Vision Pro, the Quest 3 will support gamepads like the PS5 DualSense controller.

This new software update will roll out to users gradually. "If you don’t see the v62 update yet, remain calm. It’s on its way and should be in your virtual hands soon," Meta said.

Opens in a new window Credit: Meta Meta Quest 3 $499 Get Deal

Apple Vision Pro has a starting price of nearly $4,000, and yet, some of its best selling points can be found on the $500 Meta Quest 3 headset.

Of course, according to journalists who have reviewed the Vision Pro, its cutting-edge internals deliver crisp and clear visuals that the Quest 3 can't compete with — as well as top-of-the-line eye tracking.

However, for just a fraction of the price, the Quest 3 has a slew of similarities that it shares with the Vision Pro that may surprise the average Joe.

SEE ALSO: Apple has sold 200,000 Vision Pro headsets, report says 1. You can use your MacBook inside the headset

One feature Apple pushes with the Vision Pro is its ability to mirror your MacBook display. Would you believe me if I told you that the Quest 3 can do the same?

Horizon Workrooms Credit: Meta

When I tried Horizon Workrooms in 2021, a VR app that attempts to bring the office into the "metaverse" (yes, I know, I'm sick of that word, too), I was blown away when the developers behind the project showcased how they brought their MacBooks inside the Quest 2 headset. (It also, as you might have guessed, works with the Quest 3.)

Inside the app, one could see what's displayed on their MacBook screen.

However, the process of making this happen is a little more convoluted, involving a screen-mirroring Mac app, a prompt that guides you to track your MacBook's keyboard, and an onboarding process that invites you to map your real-world desk.

Apple Vision Pro demo shows MacBook screen mirroring Credit: Apple

With the Apple Vision Pro, however, it appears that you simply need to look at a MacBook, and voila, its screen will appear inside the headset.

2. Hand tracking

You may not be aware, but the Quest 3 does, indeed, support hand tracking. By pinching your fingers together, you can drag virtual windows inside the headset, moving them wherever you want in your simulated environment.

Via Giphy

For example, with the hovering main menu inside the Quest 3, you can pinch-and-hold a corner and place it wherever you please. You can also scroll through virtual windows, like Mashable.com via the Meta Quest Browser, by pinching and dragging the UI.

However, as someone who owns a Quest 3, hand tracking is admittedly buggy. The headset isn't the best at "sensing" whether I've grasped a virtual artifact, but scrolling and making selections typically work seamlessly.

Credit: Apple

Unlike the Quest 3, the Apple Vision Pro exclusively relies on eye and hand tracking (the Quest 3 comes with controllers). TechCrunch said Vision Pro's ability to track users eyes and hands are "near perfect." ZDNet said it was "smooth" and "easy to learn."

3. 3D spatial video support

Thanks to a new software update Meta rolled on Feb. 1, Quest 3, like Vision Pro, now officially supports 3D spatial video.

Users can now upload captured spatial 3D footage through Quest's mobile app. Consequently, Meta will auto-convert your content and send it to your headset.

Credit: Apple

Interestingly, these spatial videos will feature a similar "cloudy border effect" that the Vision Pro delivers.

Final thoughts

As a bonus, it's also worth noting that both headsets share AR capabilities.

When Meta unleashed the Quest 3 last fall, it boasted about its new augmented reality (AR) support. In other words, the Quest 3 can blend your real-world environment with virtual artifacts. This is a step up from the Quest 2 which, for the most part, is just a virtual reality (VR) headset.

Credit: Meta

The Quest 3 can do both. It allows the user to dive into immersive experiences (e.g., VR) where the user is completely surrounded by a simulated environment. On the other hand, it also lets you invite your own surroundings to the headset, thanks to four cameras that work together for spatial tracking and full-color rendering.

The Apple Vision Pro also supports AR and VR. But unlike the Quest 3, it has a whopping 12-camera system.

Thanks to a reality dial on the headset, you can increase the immersion until you're experiencing full VR. You can also dial it back, allowing more of your real-world surroundings to seep into the headset.

Credit: Apple

Both the Apple Vision Pro and Meta Quest 3 can stream movies and TV shows, play AR games like Demeo (a turn-based table-top game), and juggle multiple windows for productivity inside a simulated environment.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Meta Quest 3 128GB $499 Get Deal

Apple's first-ever spatial computer is here.

Some eight months after it was originally announced at WWDC, and after a two-week pre-order period, Apple's Vision Pro has finally launched.

Apple CEO Tim Cook called the Vision Pro the "most advanced consumer electronic device ever created," and initial reviews praised the tech, though it remains uncertain whether paying the steep entry price of $3,499 is worth it right now.

The company announced on Thursday that the Vision Pro will launch with 600 new apps built exclusively for the device, but users will have access to more than 1 million compatible iOS and iPadOS apps.

SEE ALSO: 5 reasons Apple Vision Pro will be the hottest new travel accessory

Even if you're ready to dive in, you won't be able to get it right away as it was essentially sold out in the first couple of days after pre-orders went live. The customers who pre-ordered early, however, should start receiving their units soon.

Apple's homepage has been taken over by Vision Pro. Credit: Apple

Users who aren't ready to dish out all that money now can also book a free demo at their local Apple Store.

As a frequent flyer, I've noticed an uptick of passengers wearing the AirPods Max. However, there may be another Apple product joining the popular headphones as the next hottest travel accessory: the Vision Pro.

Although many journalists and influencers have praised the Vision Pro for its slick, cutting-edge features, some publications, including The Verge, have one question. How does this headset fit into real life? In other words, what, exactly, will people use it for?

SEE ALSO: Apple Vision Pro reviews are in: Here are 8 key takeaways 5 reasons why Apple Vision Pro will be the hottest new travel accessory

If WWDC 2023 is anything to go by, the event that first debuted the Vision Pro, Apple hints that it has multiple use cases, from a spatial computing device that lets you juggle multiple windows simultaneously to a visual entertainment headset that delivers multi-dimensional content right before your very eyes.

However, as someone who has tried to "work" inside headsets, productivity with head-mounted displays ain't happening (eye strain is real). And although entertainment may be one of Vision Pro's use cases for users, it won't be the main one. My guess? You'll be seeing this bad boy on flights — and I have five reasons that back this theory up.

1. It's designed to help users escape

Many people who bring devices to planes, whether it's a phone, a handheld console à la the Steam Deck, an iPad, or an e-reader, seek to escape from their humdrum flight environment.

Credit: Apple

However, what's better than using a virtual-reality headset that helps you dissociate from the real world? Apple boasts that the Vision Pro lets you watch movies and TV shows inside the headset. Plus, you can control how immersed you want to be by rotating the headset's reality dial. For example, you can see the entire real world around you or you can enjoy 360 degrees of virtual reality.

2. Breakthrough mode Apple demonstrates 'Breakthrough mode' in demo. Credit: Apple

If you don't want to miss the flight attendant passing out snacks and drinks, the Apple Vision Pro has a "Breakthrough mode" that lets you see people nearby, even if you're totally immersed.

3. It has a surround-sound audio experience

The Vision Pro has spatial audio, thanks to the audio pods that sit just outside the ears. According to a recent demo, Apple boasted that they deliver a surround-sound experience.

Credit: Apple

I haven't tried the Vision Pro myself, so I don't know if it has audio leakage or if it's enough to drown out the drone of a plane. But if these audio pods are as immersive as Apple claims, they may be a game changer for in-flight entertainment.

4. It has a mindfulness app

Flying can be stressful AF. Between TSA, delays, and the chaos of boarding, airports can be a hassle.

Credit: Apple

Fortunately, the Vision Pro has a mindfulness app, helping users create a moment of calm amidst all the frenetic activity.

5. After spending $3,499, users will want to show it off

Most people who purchase a Ferarri aren't going to let it sit in the garage. They're going to show it off, driving around town while passersby drool with envy.

Credit: Apple

In the same way, while Apple tries to market the Vision Pro has a home-bound device that serves as an immersive extension of the Apple ecosystem, there's no way in hell big spenders are going to let their $4,000 luxury headset collect dust in their living rooms. You best believe they'll be taking the Vision Pro outside, and the most practical place to wear the Vision Pro is on flights.

At first, onlookers will snort at early adopters adorning these funky head-mounted displays on flights. However, I theorize that these Vision Pro pioneers will eventually kick off a trend that will one day destigmatize the act of wearing headsets in public.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple Vision Pro $3,499 Get Deal

Amazon is entering a new stage of AI-powered shopping with the launch of Rufus, its new shopping assistant chatbot.

Available today in beta to a small group of users in the U.S., Rufus is rolling out more widely across the country in following weeks. "Select customers" will be able to access the tool by updating the Amazon Shopping app, according to the company.

The e-commerce AI bot will be trained on Amazon's catalogue, customer reviews, the community Q&As sitting on product pages, and, as the company somewhat broadly puts it, "information from across the web."

SEE ALSO: Should we trust Amazon's AI-generated review summaries?

According to Amazon, Rufus will provide product recommendations and comparisons, as it's designed to answer specific search questions (as opposed to product type searches) like: "what are the differences between trail and road running shoes?" and "what to consider when buying running shoes?" — notably, terms users would usually punch into a search engine like Google, not Amazon itself.

People can use the AI tool by typing their questions into the search bar on the platform's mobile app. Rufus will then begin the conversation in a chat dialogue box, where customers can ask follow-ups. Other facets of the bot include shopping by occasion or purpose (from parties to sports), and getting recommendations for specific people and products ("best dinosaur toys for a five-year-old").

There are several questions to be asked here — like why is it called "Rufus" specifically? This feels almost like a "Grok" moment. Bloomberg reporter Matt Day pointed out on X that this link back to an early Amazon employee who had a dog of the same name, who reportedly frequented the company's offices in its early days.

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There's also the more pertinent question of the company's wider intentions: Amazon dominates product search online, so is this AI tool a way to side-step Google's own search-based shopping recommendations and Amazon's lofty ad spends on the platform, as the NYT suggests? Time will tell.

Rufus is also just the latest AI-centric shopping tool Amazon has invested in. The tech giant has recently been flooded with AI-generated summaries of products, a feature announced last August. As Mashable's Cecily Mauran noted, the reviews are helpful in theory, but a quick search on the platform reveals some problems: "One could — very cautiously — argue that the answer to that question is 'trust, but verify, by understanding the technology's flaws and weaknesses.'"

Other companies have hopped on the AI shopping assistant-bandwagon. Google Search's AI image generator lets you dream up products and shop the real versions, and the company's virtual try-on (VTO) tool aims to make shopping more diverse and size-inclusive. Other shopping giants like Walmart have introduced similar AI-powered features that make recommendations and chat with customers.

If you want human-based shopping recommendations instead? Mashable's got a whole team of real people helping you with just that.

A game in which celebrities surprise call their famous friends while live on the radio sounds like fun, but — as we quickly learn in the BBC Radio One clip above — it's actually tense.

Playing a game of "Sit Down, Stand Up" with host Greg James, Mr. and Mrs. Smith stars Donald Glover and Maya Erskine take turns calling their famous friends, guessing whether they'll be sitting down or standing up when they answer.

The problem? Not all of them do answer — although fortunately for Glover, Michaela Coel returns his call right at the end to help him clinch the win.

They may have spent many hours together filming the highly anticipated Dune: Part Two, but that doesn't mean Zendaya, Timothée Chalamet, Florence Pugh and Austin Butler know everything about each other.

In the Jimmy Kimmel Live! show above, the cast play a game of "True or False", taking it in turns to have a statement read about them before their co-stars try to guess whether it's real or a lie.

Some of the revelations? Pugh's mother got high with Snoop Dogg at an Oscars afterparty, Zendaya had to repeat kindergarten, and Butler was discovered at an Orange County fair. Who knew?

Introducing DJ TaskRabbit.

Valentine's Day is quickly approaching — and according to Tinder's Year in Swipe, one of the biggest dating trends on TikTok over the past year was the humble car date. 

The concept is straightforward: You pick up your date in your car, drive somewhere remote with a nice view — or to a drive-through food place — and have your date in the parked car. The rest is like any other meetup: Getting to know each other, bonding, tensions rising, you know how it goes. And car dates work for cohabiting couples too; beat cabin fever and get some bonding time locked-in by taking your car to a park for dinner instead of sitting in the kitchen. 

SEE ALSO: Diary of an OnlyFans queen at AVN

It might sound simple and it certainly isn't bougie (unless you have a Bentley), but car dates are undeniably intimate. That's why TikTokkers have shared their love of car dates, calling them "essential," "unbeatable," and "the best kind of date." 

The only improvement we'd suggest: adding sex to the equation. People are already having sex in self-driving cars, but the deed can also be done in a lower-tech vehicle. We spoke with sex educators to find out how to turn a cute car date into a sexcapade on wheels. 

Why have sex in your car? 

There's a bit of a running stereotype that teenagers frequently have sex in cars, or that people tend to have sex for the very first time in a car, for which we can probably thank American teen movies. But around half of car owners — of all ages — have had sex in their car at some point, according to car sales website Carwow, with the over 55s being the most likely to have car sex. 

For the other half of car owners, car sex hasn't been featured in their sexual menu. Maybe that's because they have a small car, they just don't tend to get horny when they're out and about driving, or it just hasn't occurred to them to try it. 

Sex therapist Melissa Cook at Sofia Gray — a selling platform for used underwear — thinks we should change that, as car sex can be exciting, adventurous, passionate, and really intimate. "It appeals to some individuals because of the spontaneity and the thrill of engaging in a sexual act in an almost public place and the risks associated with this," Cook explains. "The often confined and small space of a car also brings people together physically, which can create a strong connection." 

She adds that if you were one of those people who fooled around in cars as a teen, shagging in your car as an adult can remind you of times when you were younger and carefree. "If not, it could be a novel experience that is a first-time for those who are looking for something a bit different," Cook says. 

SEE ALSO: Love languages are fake, scientists say

Car sex also comes with some perhaps-unexpected pros. "Car sex is really convenient as you can do it in lots of different places. It's also great for couples who want to experiment and escape from their usual surroundings," Cook says. And for those who don't have a private place to go, car sex offers this experience, too. People who live with their parents, people with flatmates or children in the house: Car sex is about to change your life. 

The thrill of potentially getting caught can also heighten the excitement, and requires much less planning than a lot of other sexcapades on offer when you're looking to spice things up in the bedroom. Plus, most people in the UK already own a car (77 percent of households). 

Isabelle Uren, educator at sex toy review site BedBible, agrees that a car rendezvous can be thrilling and passionate when done right. "Sometimes it feels like one of those things people talk about doing, but [it] never actually materialises because of the limitations and awkwardness involved," she explains. "That's especially true for those of us with three-door drives." 

So, there are steps to consider to get car sex right: 

Preparation is key 

Cook says the most important part of car sex is preparation. Bring along condoms and lube so you're as safe and comfortable as possible, and some wipes or towels for the clean-up. 

As for the vehicle itself, make sure your car is parked and the engine is off. "Be aware of your surroundings and avoid busy areas. Keep the car locked to avoid unwanted interruptions," says Cook. "You should park in a discreet and safe location to ensure privacy, reduce the risk of being seen, and help you to feel more comfortable." 

Location scouting

Now, public sex is actually illegal in the UK, including within your car. So, you need to be incredibly careful where you choose to have your car fun. "Privacy is key when it comes to car intimacy," says Uren. "Seek out secluded spots, like quiet parking lots, deserted roads, or remote overlooks. Remember, the thrill of getting caught is fun, but getting arrested is not!" 

Other car sex safety tips: 

• Keep it legal: Always be aware of local laws regarding public indecency and tinted windows. The last thing you need is an unexpected visit from law enforcement.

• Keys accessible: Keep the car keys within reach in case you need to make a quick exit.

Setting the mood

Though it doesn't sound like the sexiest setting, Uren promises your car can be turned into a seductive haven with the right touches. She recommends dimming the lights to set the mood with soft, ambient lighting. "Consider investing in some battery-operated LED candles or fairy lights for added romance," she adds. 

Music will also do a lot of heavy lifting here. "Create a sexy playlist to enhance the mood. Slow jams or sensual tunes can set the stage for a memorable encounter," Uren explains. 

You also might want to bring some blankets and pillows to make your car's interior as cosy as possible (and maybe just keep them in there in case you're ever in a long traffic jam) and have a think about wardrobe choices. We've all awkwardly fumbled out of a non-sex-friendly outfit for spontaneous sex before, but that just won't cut it in a car. Your space is already limited, so Cook suggests getting ahead of that hurdle by wearing button-down clothes like shirts and dresses, and shoes that are easy to whip off.

SEE ALSO: TikTok's new favorite Wife Guy, Jett Puckett, loves his Pookie How to have car sex 

As for the nitty-gritty part, you'll need to think about your positioning for getting car sex started. Uren says that the best sex to have in a car is hand or oral sex. It's a little more subtle and less awkward for finding the right positioning with limited space. 

However, if you're daring enough to try it, there are a few tried-and-true classic positions for penetration in a vehicle, which Uren has aptly named:

• Backseat Delight: The backseat is the MVP of car intimacy. Try various positions, such as the classic missionary, doggy style, or cowgirl. Use the front seats for support and leverage.

• Passenger Seat Pleasure: For the adventurous, the passenger seat can provide an exciting angle. Your partner can straddle or kneel, creating an up-close-and-personal encounter.

• Trunk Tango: If you have a roomy trunk, it can be an unexpected hotspot for some kinky car fun. Lay down a blanket and let your imagination run wild.

Cook adds that you can bring along toys to spice things up even more, or you can use your car's equipment to add to the experience too. Seat belts, for example, can also be used as restraints for light bondage play. The steering wheel or gear shift can be used to support or leverage certain positions. If there's any time to get creative with sex, it's when you're doing it in a car. 

Cars can make an exhilarating and passionate environment for sex. Just stay safe, creative, and keep the laws in mind for a successful backseat (or any seat you like) jaunt. 

Japan's first moon mission has likely come to an end after a surprising late-game comeback, with the spacecraft taking one last photo of its surroundings before the deep-freeze of night.

The SLIM spacecraft, short for Smart Lander for Investigating the Moon, took the image with an onboard camera on Feb. 1, showing ominous shadows cast upon a slope of the Shioli crater, its landing site on the near side of the moon.

The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency — NASA's Japanese space counterpart known as JAXA — released the image three days after re-establishing contact with SLIM. The team had shut down the robotic spacecraft, which accidentally landed upside down, on Jan. 20 to conserve energy. Because SLIM's solar panels weren't pointing in the right direction, the lander was unable to generate power.

But mission controllers on Earth held out hope the sun's angle would change eventually, allowing them to reboot the lander. Nine days later, they got their wish, rousing SLIM from its sleep.

SEE ALSO: Japan’s moon landing picture might be the space photo of the decade Tweet may have been deleted

Since Monday, the spacecraft has analyzed rocks around the crater with a multi-band spectral camera. JAXA picked the landing spot because of what it could tell scientists about the moon's formation. A leading theory is that the moon was created after something enormous collided with Earth. If that's true, much of the moon's mantle could be similar to Earth rock. Astronomers speculate that some ejected lunar mantle material could be found near the surface of the crater, providing samples for further research.

The special camera completed its planned observation, able to study more targets than originally expected, according to an English translation of a news release from the space agency.

The SLIM spacecraft took one last photo of the lunar surface before entering a dormant state on Feb. 1, 2024. Credit: JAXA / SLIM The spacecraft has analyzed rocks around the crater with a multi-band spectral camera. Credit: JAXA / Ritsumeikan University / University of Aizu Astronomers speculate that some ejected lunar mantle material could be found near the surface of the crater. Credit: JAXA / Ritsumeikan University / University of Aizu

"Based on the large amount of data we have obtained, we are proceeding with (analyses) to identify rocks and estimate the chemical composition of minerals, which will help solve the mystery of the origin of the moon," JAXA said in a statement translated by Google.

Though landing the spacecraft on its head wasn't part of the plan, the JAXA team said the mission accomplished its primary goal of a "pinpoint landing" — that is, one with an accuracy of less than 100 meters, or about 100 yards. Data confirmed the lander was at most 10 meters off its mark, according to space agency officials, which is comparable to 11 yards or less.

The spacecraft has now entered a dormant state, prompted by nightfall on the moon. Because one rotation of the moon is about 27 Earth days, the so-called "lunar night," when the moon is no longer receiving sunlight, lasts about two weeks.

A moon rover that traveled aboard Japan's spacecraft to the lunar surface revealed the lander is upside down. Credit: JAXA / SLIM

Not much can survive the -270 degrees Fahrenheit brought on by darkness — not even robots. In this freezing temperature, soldered joints on hardware and mechanical parts break, and batteries die.

But rest assured, the JAXA team will try to communicate with its scrappy moon lander when the sun rises again.

"Although SLIM was not designed for the harsh lunar nights," JAXA said on X, formerly known as Twitter, "We plan to try to operate again from mid-February, when the Sun will shine again on SLIM’s solar cells."