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We thought the rumored new iPad Pro 2024 features were set in stone: new OLED display, new M3 chip, a slightly bigger screen (12.9 inches to 13 inches), and other minor changes.
However, according to a new report from Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, an Apple prognosticator with an impressive track record, it looks like at least one of those rumors are incorrect. As it turns out, the iPad Pro may not be getting the M3 chip after all.
SEE ALSO: iPad Pro 2024: 6 new features coming to the rumored new Apple tablet iPad Pro 2024 plot twistGurman claims that there's a "strong possibility" that the next-generation iPad Pro tablets will be equipped with the M4 chip, a shift from his August 2023 report where he claimed that they'll be equipped with M3 chips.
At first, in a mid-April report, Gurman said that M4 chips would be featured in the following next-generation Apple hardware:
iMac
entry-level 14-inch MacBook Pro
high-end 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro
Mac mini
Now, as mentioned, there's some scuttlebutt that the iPad Pro 2024 may be added to the list.
The M4 chips, according to Gurman, will add some novel AI capabilities to the new crop of Apple hardware this year, thanks to a new neural engine. In other words, Apple is reportedly skipping the M3 chip for the iPad Pro models, going straight to introducing an AI-focused M4 processor for the high-end tablet line.
"I believe Apple will position the tablet as its first truly AI-powered device — and that it will tout each new product from then on as an AI device," Gurman said. "This, of course, is all in response to the AI craze that has swept the tech industry over the last couple years."
On top of that, with the new M4 chip, iPad Pro 2024 will likely be wicked fast compared to the current-generation, M2-based iPad Pro, which launched in 2022.
We're expecting Apple to drop new iPads during the highly anticipated May 7 "Let Loose" livestream. Only then will we know whether Gurman's prediction will hold true. Stay tuned for Mashable's in-depth coverage of the event.
Amazon is closing out the month of April and heading into May on a high note with top-notch deals on big brands. To kick off the week, we're seeing some impressive discounts on our favorite hybrid robot vacuum, the Apple pencil, Amazon's Echo speakers, JBL speakers, and more.
We've sorted through the listings and handpicked a few excellent deals you can shop on April 29. Here are our top picks for the best Amazon deals of the day.
Our top pick Opens in a new window Credit: Narwal Amazon deal of the day: Narwal Freo X Ultra robot vacuum and mop $1,099.99 at AmazonOne of our top picks for a self-emptying robot vacuum and a self-sufficient hybrid, the Narwal Freo X Ultra is the ultimate hands-off cleaning companion. It features self-washing and drying mopping pads, a self-filling water tank, a two-month dust bin capacity, and enough power to clean up to 2,000 square feet before needing a charge. The futuristic design isn't exactly subtle, but this CES 2024 standout has set the standards high for robot vacuums that also mop, with "genius case-by-case mopping features that tailor the task to the status of the floor it's cleaning." As of April 29, the powerful vac has received its first big discount on record. Snag it on sale for $1,099.99 — that's a savings of 21%.
Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Echo Dot (5th Gen, 2022 release) $27.99 at AmazonBasically like a smaller form version of the baseline Echo, the Echo Dot is made to seamlessly add some smart benefits into your daily routine. It's small enough to sit on a bedside table, shelf, countertop, or desk and can be used for everything from receiving reminders, saving recipes, setting timers, scheduling tasks, playing white noise, communicating with friends and family, lighting up your room, and of course, listening to music. The 5th generation Dot boasts more vibrant sound, clearer vocals, and deeper ass, although it doesn't have Dolby audio like its bigger cousin, the Echo. It does, however, feature new motion sensors and a front-firing speaker (versus a woofer and tweeters). As of April 29, it's on sale for just $27.99 — that's 44% in savings and just $5 shy of its all-time low price.
Read our full review of the Echo Dot (5th Gen) here.
Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple Pencil (2nd Generation) $79.00 at AmazonIf you're looking to take your iPad experience to new heights, you need the Apple Pencil. And as of April 29, the 2nd generation stylus is on sale for just $79 — that's 39% off and matches its lowest price to date. That's likely the most expensive pencil you've ever owned, but there's a reason for that. This thing allows for seamless note-taking, drawing, annotating, and sketching with no lag. It has tilt sensitivity for impressive shading, low latency that makes it feel like writing on paper, automatic paring, double-tap support that allows you to switch modes, and a magnetic home on the side of an iPad so it won't get lost.
Opens in a new window Credit: JBL JBL Clip 4 $49.95 at AmazonOne of our favorite portable Bluetooth speakers, the JBL Clip 4, is on sale for just $49.95 as of April 29. That's a savings of 38% and about $5 shy of its all-time low. The Clip 4 is the definition of portable — not only is small enough to slip into any bag, but it also has a built-in carabiner to "clip" it onto a backpack, belt loop, or just about anything else. But that doesn't mean it skimps on other features. It also boasts 10 hours of battery life, an IP67 waterproof and dust-proof rating, and a quirky design with a variety of color options.
None of these deals catching your eye? Check out Amazon's daily deals for even more savings.
Mother's Day weekend is just under two weeks away, and if you don't want to be caught scrambling for a gift the day before, securing a gift now is the way to go.
Thankfully, there are plenty of online retailers that specialize in fresh flower delivery that have already started running Mother's Day promotions. Shopping ahead of time isn't only less stressful — it means you have access to these early deals (and likely on a greater selection of bouquets before they start to sell out).
So far, we've seen deals crop up from Urban Stems, 1-800 Flowers, and The Bouqs Co., but we'll be updating this list in the lead up to the holiday on May 12, so you can show your appreciation for the mom in your life (without emptying your wallet).
Best for delivery on Mother's Day: Urban Stems Opens in a new window Credit: Urban Stems Urban Stems Take 15% off your entire order with code LOVEMOM Get Deal Why we like itWant to surprise Mom with her flowers on the day itself? Right now, your best bet is shopping from Urban Stems, which is offering 15% off your entire order with the code LOVEMOM. That does mean you can add more than one bouquet and save on all of them, though some exclusions do apply (we found that we couldn't put house plants in the same order — even those under their Mother's Day section). You might find that you'll want to add a couple bouquets, or pick up a more extravagant one just to save on shipping, which is free with purchases over $160.
Best for larger bouquets: The Bouqs Co. Opens in a new window Credit: The Bouqs Co. The Bouqs Co. Save $20 on select deluxe bouquets with code 2XBLOOM Get Deal Why we like itIf you know your mom will appreciate an extra-full bouquet, the Bouqs Co. is running the perfect sale: for a limited time, you can save $20 on select deluxe-sized bouquets with the code 2XBLOOMS. The site's deluxe bouquets are double the size of their original arrangements — the originals typically have 12 or 14 stems, meaning with this deal you'll be getting bouquets with either 24 or 28 stems. You will want to place your order before the sale ends on May 1 at 11:59 PST. At the time of writing, you can order flowers the week of Mother's Day, or on May 11 if you pay $12 more.
Best for variety: 1-800 Flowers Opens in a new window Credit: 1-800 Flowers 1-800 Flowers Save up to 40% for Mother's Day Get Deal Why we like itNo promo code is needed for you to save up to 40% on the bouquets of flowers, succulents, and even garden decor that's a part of 1-800 Flowers Mother's Day sale. While these savings are nice (and good for a mom who might not want the traditional bouquet), it is worth noting that free delivery becomes $2.99 delivery on May 9, and gets progressively pricier until you hit $14.99 delivery on May 11. At the time of writing, you cannot schedule delivery for Mother's Day itself.
The Falcon and the Winter Soldier is finally getting a physical release, and what better way to celebrate than with a gag reel?
In this exclusive behind-the-scenes clip, watch actors Anthony Mackie, Sebastian Stan, Wyatt Russell, and Daniel Brühl goof off, crack up, and dance around while shooting the Marvel show. And when I say "dance around," I really mean it. There is so much boogying on display here, especially from Mackie, who ends a take by saying, "I'm not even gonna ask how they got my fingerprints — but I am gonna dance!"
To see more of The Falcon and the Winter Soldier's gag reel (including a nod to "dancing Zemo"), check out the clip above.
UP TO 40% OFF: As of April 29, you can get up to 40% off select JBL headphones at Amazon.
Our top picks: Best deal overall JBL Tune 760NC noise-canceling headphones $89.95 at Amazon (save $40) Get Deal Best runner-up deal JBL Live 660NC noise-canceling headphones $139.95 at Amazon (save $60) Get Deal Best budget pick JBL Tune 510BT headphones $29.95 at Amazon (save $20) Get DealEarbuds are cool, but they're not always the best option for true audiophiles who crave in-your-face sound and deep bass. Sure, they'll do the job for runners, short commutes, or casual listening, but over-ear headphones are the way to go if you want a truly immersive audio experience (or don't want to deal with those annoying tips stuffed in your ears).
SEE ALSO: The best headphones for 2024 (and why they made our list)Right now, you can get a pair of JBL over-ear headphones for a fraction of the price. As of April 29, select JBL headphones are up to 40% off at Amazon, meaning you can snag a pair of JBL Tune 510BT for just $29.95, down from $49.95. That's $20 off the original price. (If you prefer to shop at Best Buy, you can get 'em for $29.99 there.)
Here are some of our favorite JBL over-ear headphones on sale at Amazon right now:
Best deal overall Opens in a new window Credit: JBL JBL Tune 760NC noise-canceling headphones $89.95 at AmazonThe JBL Tune 760NC noise-cancelling headphones feature active noise cancellation and a deep, bass-boosted sound, perfect for blocking out distractions and listening to your favorite tunes.
These headphones have long-lasting battery life, with 35 hours of playtime with active noise canceling on (or 50 hours with ANC off). You can also get a full recharge in two hours. With the on-ear controls, you can take calls or trigger voice assistants like Alexa without fumbling for your phone.
Get 'em at Amazon for $89.95 or Best Buy for $89.99. Either way, you're saving $40.
Best runner-up deal Opens in a new window Credit: JBL JBL Live 660NC noise-canceling headphones $139.95 at AmazonThe JBL Live 660NC noise-cancelling headphones are a little pricer at $139.95 at Amazon and $139.99 at Best Buy, but you're still saving $60.
These headphones feature 40 mm drivers and adaptive noise-cancelling technology, so you can tune in and out of the world as you please. They also have a TalkThru function that automatically lowers the music and amplifies speech, allowing you to have conversations without taking off your headphones.
With 50 hours of listening time and a quick charge function that'll get you four hours of listening time within 10 minutes, these headphones might be worth the extra investment.
Best budget pick Opens in a new window Credit: JBL JBL Tune 510BT headphones $29.95 at AmazonThe JBL Tune 510BT headphones are on sale for just $29.95. They come in a variety of colors, like rose, blue, and white, and offer a great balance of quality and affordability. These babies have more than 57,000 reviews on Amazon, with an average rating of 4.6 stars.
While these headphones aren't noise-cancelling, they do have Bluetooth connectivity, so you can pair them with your phone, tablet, or computer wirelessly and enjoy your favorite music or podcasts without any tangled wires getting in the way. They have a 40-hour runtime on a single charge and a five-minute recharge will give you up to two hours of additional listening.
The iOS 18 hype train is building up speed.
Apple's next iteration of iPhone software is set to be announced at WWDC 2024 in June, but as always, we're learning a lot about it ahead of time. The latest scoop comes from Mark Gurman at Bloomberg, who claimed in his latest Power On newsletter that four key iOS apps are getting revamped or redesigned for iOS 18.
Which iOS 18 apps are getting big changes?According to Gurman, the following built-in apps are getting significant updates:
Fitness
Photos
Notes
Unfortunately, Gurman didn't go into specific details about what to expect from the aforementioned changes. However, that doesn't mean we're completely out of luck. Thanks to leaks and industry whispers, we can make some educated guesses. Recent rumors suggest that the Notes app could get mathematical notation and built-in voice memos, putting it more on par with Microsoft's OneNote app.
Between that and a rumored partnership with OpenAI for on-device AI features, Apple seems to be building toward changes that could fundamentally affect how one uses an iPhone. Or, they could be features you use once and never think about again. We'll find out later this year.
Save $200: The Apple iPad Air is available for its lowest price ever at Best Buy. This limited time deal saves you 33% off the 5th generation tablet.
Opens in a new window Credit: Apple iPad Air 2022 (64 GB) $399.99 at Best BuyA new generation of iPad is hotly anticipated, and expected to finally drop on May 7th after its release was pushed back several months. In the meantime, the iPad Air 5th generation is still available, offering powerful performance at a lower price than the iPad Pro.
The already affordable model is now available at its lowest price thanks to this Best Buy deal of the day. Today only, you can save $200 on the 64 GB tablet.
The iPad Air, which debuted in 2022, comes outfitted with an M1 chip that also powers the Apple Macbooks. In other words, this small tablet has all the power of a laptop in a compact size.
SEE ALSO: Apple iPad Air (2022) review: Sweet spotMashable's Stan Schroder applauded the device, awarding it a Mashable Choice Award, for its processing speed, high-quality selfie camera, and large displays. It possesses all the key features of the iPad Pro, but comes at a lower price.
What the iPad Air lacks is storage. 64 GB might be fine for most, but gives limited space for downloading shows and movies to stream off of WiFi. You can upgrade to a model offering 256 GB, but it'll cost you. Unfortunately, Best Buy's deal only covers the 64 GB model.
With the release of the next generation iPad Air right around the corner, now is the time to grab Apple's current model for its lowest price at just $399.99.
GET A FREE $20 STARBUCKS GIFT CARD: Purchase a Delta gift card worth $300 or more and get a free $20 Starbucks e-gift card.
Opens in a new window Credit: Delta / Starbucks Get a free $20 Starbucks e-gift card with purchase of a $300+ Delta gift card Get DealMother's Day is just a few weeks away, which means that it's time to start thinking about a gift and make sure it will arrive on time. If your mom travels often, Delta Air Lines has one of the most extensive networks throughout the U.S., as well as some pretty awesome international destinations. If you're wanting to treat mom to a flight this year, buying a Delta gift card comes with an extra perk for either you or her thanks to this promo deal.
Buy a Delta gift card of $300 or more and you'll receive a free $20 Starbucks e-gift card. This promotion runs until May 13 at 11:59 p.m. ET or until the deal maxes out at 7,000 customers.
If you or your mom is planning to book a trip with Delta anytime soon, this deal is a no brainer. Grab a gift card to Delta for $300 or more and you'll get a free $20 Starbucks gift card. Use that for your next coffee run or save it for your pre-departure airport coffee, which would start the trip off right with a free treat.
It's smart to hurry on this deal, though. It expires on May 13 at 11:59 p.m. ET or when 7,000 people buy the deal — whichever happens first. Both the Delta gift card and Starbucks gift cards will arrive digitally via email. You can indicate which email address during purchase, so you can send the flight or the coffee card to yourself or a lucky recipient.
If travel and coffee are in your wheelhouse, today is a great day to buy a Delta gift card. In return, you can grab a few free coffees — there's no better coffee than free coffee.
Years before Simba learned what "Hakuna Matata" meant, his father Mufasa went on an epic journey of his own. That journey is the subject of Mufasa: The Lion King, Disney's latest live-action reimagining of their animated properties.
SEE ALSO: You'll have to pay for Disney+ password sharing soonBarry Jenkins (Moonlight, The Underground Railroad) directs this prequel, which tells the story of young Mufasa's (voiced by Aaron Pierre, Genius: MLK/X) rise to power. The film's first teaser reveals that Mufasa wasn't actually born in the Pride Lands. An orphan, he wanders alone until meeting a friendly lion named Taka (voiced by Kelvin Harrison Jr., Chevalier). Not only is Taka heir to a royal bloodline, he's also a young Scar. How will these two lions become close as brothers, then draw apart?
The trailer also teases loads of sprawling wildlife — including an elephant stampede that echoes The Lion King's traumatic wildebeest stampede — and the film's voice cast, which includes Tiffany Boone, Kagiso Lediga, Preston Nyman, Mads Mikkelsen, Thandiwe Newton, Lennie James, Anika Noni Rose, Keith David, and Blue Ivy Carter.
Many members of The Lion King's (2019) voice cast also return to reprise their roles, with John Kani as Rafiki, Seth Rogen as Pumbaa, Billy Eichner as Timon, Donald Glover as Simba, Beyoncé Knowles-Carter as Nala. Lin-Manuel Miranda will also be crafting new original songs for the film.
Boy Kills World creator Moritz Mohr is joined by Famke Janssen, Brett Gelman, Isaiah Mustafa and Andrew Koji in breaking down how the film was made.
Boy Kills World is exclusively in theaters on April 26th.
This content originally appeared on Mashable for a US audience and has been adapted for the UK audience.
With the ever-growing selection of smart devices, you sometimes have to ask yourself: what will they think of next? In the case of the smart lock, it's like a gadget from a science-fiction film — a self-unlocking door that you control from your smartphone.
Actually, smart locks have been around for a few years and they're certainly nothing new to security-conscious homeowners. They give your home a level of protection that a regular lock and key just can't. They also connect with other smart devices and systems. If you're upgrading to a smart home, it's a no brainer.
Before you part with your cash, it's worth knowing a little more about what smart locks are and exactly what they can do. Here's a quick guide on smart locks — and how to unlock the technology's full potential for your home.
What is a smart lock?In the simplest terms, it's a device that you fit to your door or existing door lock that allows you to unlock the door without a key. You can control when the door unlocks — and who gets access — with a smartphone app. Smart locks can be attached to the interior of the door, acting as a kind of smart deadlock, while others are designed to entirely replace your door handle and lock mechanism.
What can smart locks do?In addition to remote control via an app, you'll find features that include geofencing, which unlocks the door when you come home, or virtual guest keys to let in specific people. Other features include timers for unlocking the door — which you can set to let in delivery drivers, for instance — or auto-locking when you leave the house.
How do you access a smart lock?It depends on the smart lock, but there are a variety of ways. In some cases your smartphone may act as a key — the lock will open when the phone connects to it — while other locks use fobs, NFC cards, pass codes, or fingerprints. Some apps will allow you to add an extra level of security with biometric verification. The important thing is that you'll never need to rely on a key or leave a key under the doormat ever again.
Do smart locks work with Alexa?For the most part, yes, you can control your smart lock with Alexa and numerous other smart home voice assistants, such as Google Assistant. It's especially useful if you have a smart home that's already synced by one system and assistant.
Do you need a smart lock?There are lots of reasons to fit your home or business with a smart lock, aside from the novelty factor of being able to open your place with your phone or fingerprint. (That in itself is a pretty convincing reason, though.) You can greatly improve the accessibility of your property, keep tabs on comings and goings, beef-up security, or simply add another device to your smart home set. There are other reasons, too. If you rent your property — through Airbnb, for instance — a pin code-enabled smart lock is a good way of giving renters temporary access to your home.
What is the best smart lock?Owing to the popularity of smart home security systems, the market is loaded with high quality smart locks, promising all kinds of functionality. Picking the best device from this selection isn't easy though, especially with so many brands and features to consider. To keep things simple, we’ve gone through all of the latest and greatest products, and put together a list of the best smart locks in the UK. The devices we have chosen offer up a selection of different functions, ranging from the simple to the not-so-simple. We think we’ve picked something to cover everyone.
These are the best smart locks for 2024.
This content originally appeared on Mashable for a US audience and has been adapted for the UK audience.
When it comes to the ladies' self-care practices, juicing, yoga, and mindfulness apps are all the rage. But here's something that might surprise you: sex toys are the ultimate self-care purchase. They give you more than just a little buzz down below.
Orgasms release oxytocin, the anti-stress hormone that gets you warm and fuzzy when cuddling, while dopamine, a neurotransmitter that regulates sleep, also makes an appearance. It stands to reason, then, that "I need to get laid" is a thing that actually makes sense to say when you're having a rough week.
Sex toys will give you that needed boost whenever you need it. And, hey, it's empowering when you don't have to rely on someone else. Though don't forget: sex toys are great for spicing things up with a partner, too. Not only that – getting to know your body helps develop a positive relationship with yourself. After all, it's the most important relationship you'll ever have. So treat it to some sexy fun.
What are the different types of sex toys for women?When it comes to sex toys for women. there are plenty of options. To get you started, here are some of the most commonly bought sex toy types:
Clitoral massagers — Little handheld gadgets that target the clitoris and simulate oral sex with a sucking or blowing sensation, usually achieved by pumping air. Some of these don't even need to make contact. This work by pulsing mini sonic waves towards the right spot.
Dildos and plugs — Dildos and plugs come in various shapes and sizes, and are simply used for straight-up penetration. Turns out there is a substitute for men.
Rampant rabbits — Rabbit vibrators are the go-to for simultaneous internal and G-spot stimulation. They may have two motors, which really ramps up the number of vibration modes and pleasure options.
Tech toys — We're finding all kinds of 21st Century ways to get our rocks off. There are app-assisted sex toys on this list, and there are plenty more out there.
Vibrators — Still the undisputed classic of the sex toy world. For both an external and internal buzz, vibrators have multiple speed and vibration patterns to help you get off exactly how you want.
We're sure you can find other types out there, but this is a good place to start.
Do women need sex toys?Whether you're taking some "me time" right now, or just want something to spice things up with your partner, a sex toy can help you explore new sensations and reach new levels of pleasure. The Journal of Sex and Marital Therapy asserts that 36% of women require sustained clitoral stimulation to orgasm. A sex toy could be the difference between an unfulfilled and satisfactory sex life.
What is the best sex toy for women?Not all sex toys are made equally: Your favourite could be an oral sex simulator or clitoral stimulation via sonic waves, or maybe something else entirely. Whatever your preference, there's so much more available to you than those £10 high street vibrators. We've checked out everything on offer, and lined up a broad selection.
These are the best sex toys for women in 2024.
Note: For the purpose of this article, we are looking primarily at toys that are intended for use by people who are assigned female at birth, which means they are recommended with the same enthusiasm for anyone with a vagina regardless of gender identity.
It's easy to rack up open tabs on your iPhone or iPad. But everyone knows it can be a nuisance.
If you're looking to shut down all tabs at once, there's a quick way to do it. You can close every Safari tab on an iPhone in a few easy steps, no matter which iOS model you have. Here's how to do it.
How to close all tabs on iPhone Total TimeStep 1: Click on one of your open tabs on Safari.
Step 2: On the bottom right side, click and hold on the tab icon.
Step 3: Select "Close All [X] tabs."
And they're gone!
Credit: Screenshot / Mashable.Looking for more iPhone tips and tricks? Mashable's got you covered.
There may be no new episode of Last Week Tonight this week, but John Oliver fans have a different reason to celebrate.
On Sunday, at the same as the weekly episodes normally go out, HBO decided to throw all of Season 1 up on the Last Week Tonight YouTube channel.
SEE ALSO: John Oliver takes an eye-opening deep dive into UFOsThe release was announced a few days ago on Last Week Tonight's social media.
"There’s no new episode this week!" reads the post on X/Twitter. "But we still have current events. From 10 years ago. This Sunday we’ll be dropping all of season 1 for free on YouTube!"
Tweet may have been deletedThe good news? There's more where that came from, too.
"Seasons 2-8 to come, whenever we don’t have a new episode," continues the post. "Trust us, some of this is still completely relevant. Some."
April 2024 marks the 10-year anniversary of Last Week Tonight's first episode, which probably explains the decision. Topics covered in Season 1 include everything from the death penalty and climate change to immigration and FIFA.
When he's not busy chatting to Ice-T on X (formerly Twitter) about horror movie recommendations, Stephen King likes nothing more than to give Elon Musk a hard time.
The horror master has previously criticised Musk's decision to charge people for blue ticks, sarcastically celebrated the launch of Musk's AI, and — of course — made his feelings about Twitter's name change abundantly clear.
And now he's back for round two.
SEE ALSO: Every single Stephen King movie adaptation, rankedOver the weekend, a post from a Musk parody account asking people if the name X was better than Twitter went viral.
Tweet may have been deletedKing quoted the post and made it obvious which side he was on.
Tweet may have been deleted"Twitter," wrote King, once again structuring his response like a mini poem. "Twitter. Twitter. Twitter. Twitter. Twitter. Twitter. Twitter. Twitter. Twitter."
Based on the responses to that original post, it seems as though King isn't alone.
Tweet may have been deleted Tweet may have been deleted Tweet may have been deletedIn fairness, people's thoughts about the name are the least of Musk's worries. A recent study found there's been a rise in anti-Jewish and anti-Muslim hate speech on X, while recent data showed that use is down almost a quarter since Musk took charge.
Why use a VPN? Well, why not? It's never been easier to become anonymous online, as you only need a reliable virtual private network (VPN).
Switching on a VPN is essential if you're concerned about your privacy; it keeps hackers, trackers, and even your internet service provider (ISP) at bay by hiding your IP address. However, its true value lies in its ability to access all the internet has to offer.
You're no longer bound by region-restricted content nor geo-blocked streaming services that keep you from watching your favorite movies; a VPN lets you be virtually anywhere in the world. There are plenty of VPN services out there, and some may be more suited to your needs than others. Our pick of the best VPNs covers all bases, but if you’re wondering why you need a VPN in the first place, read on.
Why you should use a VPNFrom keeping your browsing activities on the down-low to nabbing the best deals while shopping, using a VPN comes with plenty of perks.
1. Stay protectedSince a VPN encrypts your internet traffic when connecting to a remote server, your browsing activity will be hidden from prying eyes. It makes it virtually impossible for ISPs, third-party advertisers, threat actors, and government entities to see what you’re doing. This is often backed by a near-impenetrable AES-256 encryption through VPN services, meaning you can scour the web without being paranoid that your data is being sold or stolen.
2. Bypass restrictionsOne of the main reasons anyone uses a VPN is to access websites and content that’s been restricted. This may be due to country-specific rules and regulations or your ISP limiting what websites you can visit. The culprit in denying you access is your IP address, as it indicates your immediate location. With a VPN, however, you can mask your real IP address by switching to a VPN server’s IP address based in another country that doesn’t have these restrictions. You can bypass restricted social platforms, banned websites, and X-rated stuff.
3. Stream without limitsResearch states that 46% of people use a VPN to access streaming services — and for good reason. There are hundreds of streaming services available worldwide, and a majority of them are stuck behind geo-restrictions. Moreover, major platforms such as Netflix and Disney+ have country-specific content libraries, meaning one subscription won’t give you the full catalog of shows a service has to offer. That is, unless you use a VPN. Simply switch to a country where the VPN service is available, and you'll gain access to watch any show from around the world.
4. Optimize speedsNo matter how much you pay for lightning-fast internet speeds, you could always be at risk of ISP throttling. Whether it be from overcrowded traffic from a single location (known as network congestion) or your ISP limiting your bandwidth due to an invisible data cap, your internet speeds can take a nosedive with a flick of a switch. However, a VPN can mask your online identity by hiding your IP address, meaning your ISP can’t recognize you. If it can’t see what you’re up to, it has no reason to throttle your speeds.
5. Find the best dealsDo you ever think, "Darn, I bet the price of a summer dress in Europe is far more affordable than the U.S.?” A tad specific, but you’d be right. It comes down to taxes, import costs, and inflation — and the same goes for all types of consumer products. Even Apple’s iPhone sees a significant jump in retail price from the U.S. to other countries.
If you’re on the hunt for a bargain, a VPN can help you find a whole new array of prices on the same products in their location. By searching through the same retailer websites via different server locations (and seeing if the delivery fees are worth the investment), you can grab a deal and compare prices in other regions.
TL;DR: Through April 30, this offer gets new users a lifetime subscription to a TubeOnAI Premium Lite Plan for $78.99 (reg. $224).
We live in a world in which efficiency is king. If you can do it faster and not sacrifice quality, then it's worth its weight in gold. That's why there's a lot of competition for hacks and apps that intend to help you streamline your work so you can get the same results in a fraction of the time. TubeOnAI takes that to the realm of videos and podcasts. A lifetime subscription is on sale for just $78.99 for a limited time.
TubeOnAI was made to help you get the highlights and key insights of any YouTube video or podcast, so you don't have to sit through the entire thing. It automatically downloads transcripts, which are then delivered to you in real-time in either audio or text form.
Ideal for anyone who needs more time to devote to personal growth, this method allows you to access all the main points of podcasts and videos you've been meaning to catch without the time commitment. TubeOnAI is able to do this because it utilizes the power of AI, namely ChatGPT, to summarize the content.
In addition, content creators can now use this app to get custom prompts to help them streamline their process. Use the Custom Prompt option to get ideas for YouTube videos, blogs, articles, or podcasts, which can keep your workday more efficient.
It's a useful tool for research projects, meeting or presentation prep, and more.
With this tool on your side, you may just be able to save time, improve the quality of your content, and increase productivity.
New users can get a lifetime subscription to TubeOnAI's Premium Lite Plan for $78.99 (reg. $224) for a limited time.
StackSocial prices subject to change.
Opens in a new window Credit: TubeOn AI TubeOnAi Premium Lite Plan: Lifetime Subscription $78.99 at the Mashable ShopTL;DR: Through April 30, you can grab a 1-year membership to Sam's Club for only $14.
Navigating the grocery aisles has become a wallet-wrenching ordeal, so much so that there's now a term for the dread it inspires: the supermarket scaries. With food prices hitting the roof, the age-old advice of cooking a home and resisting Postmates doesn't quite cut it anymore. Maybe it's high time to rethink where you shop — like opting for a warehouse club where your dollar stretches further.
Lucky for you, a 1-year membership to Sam's Club costs only $14 through April 30. If you've never been a Sam's Club member, or at least haven't been one in the past six months, now's the time to snatch up a membership.
With nearly 600 locations nationwide, a Sam's Club membership can help you save on your essentials by allowing you to score groceries, home products, electronics, clothes, jewelry, appliances, and more at top-notch quality. They also love throwing extra discounts into the mix so your savings could stack up even more.
But the perks don't stop at pantry staples. Sam's Club members also get to enjoy discounts on recreational items, including hotel bookings, car rentals, live events, movies, and more. Looking to save on gas? You can pay less at the pump at select locations. Car trouble? You'll get complimentary flat tire repairs, battery tests, and wiper blade installations.
And as a cherry on top, you can even share a free membership with someone in your household to spread the savings and kick supermarket scaries to the curb.
Stretch your dollar further with a 1-year membership to Sam's Club. It normally costs $50, but through April 30, you can grab it on sale for only $14.
StackSocial prices subject to change.
Opens in a new window Credit: Sam's Club Sam's Club 1-Year Membership with Auto-Renew $14.00 at the Mashable ShopTL;DR: As of April 29, pick up this Ride KAC Bicycle Storage Stand for $25.99 (reg. $69.99) with free shipping.
If you use a bike recreationally or to get to and from work, good for you! It's a great way to stay healthy and reduce carbon emissions. If you're looking for a practical and efficient way to store your bicycle, this could be a timely offer. The Ride KAC Bicycle Storage Stand is currently available for the reduced price of $25.99, down from $69.99, plus free shipping.
It is universally compatible and can store a wide variety of street bikes, mountain bikes, and kids' bikes. Whether you’re living in a compact apartment or need to maximize space in your garage, this stand offers a hassle-free solution to store your bicycle upright without requiring installation or wall mounting. Its freestanding design allows for the flexibility of being placed nearly anywhere. However, it can be wall-mounted.
Because it folds flat and weighs only a little over six pounds, you can take it with you on the go for vacations, longer trips with riding friends, or even use it trailside. It is a roll-on, spring-loaded system that allows you to store your bike without the scratches or scuffs that tend to come with storing it near other stuff in the garage or only relying on a kickstand.
Built from high-quality steel, the stand is made to be durable and reliable. It supports your bike securely by holding it at the front or back wheel base, ensuring stability and preventing tipping at home, work, or on the go.
Consider this bike storage solution that offers convenience and portability while it's on sale.
Get the Ride KAC Bicycle Storage Stand for $25.99 (reg. $69.99) with free shipping.
StackSocial prices subject to change.
Opens in a new window Credit: KAC Ride KAC Bicycle Storage Stand $25.99 at the Mashable ShopTL;DR: Through April 30, whether you need to replace a hard drive, clone an HDD/SDD, transfer data, or create a backup, EaseUS Disk Copy has you covered for life for $29.99 (reg. $59).
EaseUS Disk Copy is a comprehensive disk cloning software designed for Windows PC users seeking lightning-fast and hassle-free disk cloning solutions. Compatible with Windows 11 and a range of previous Windows versions, this user-friendly tool facilitates full disk and partition cloning, automatic detection of new disks, partition resizing, and support for SSDs, ensuring smooth PC migration experiences.
Transfer your data for lifeEaseUS is an all-in-one tool to help you upgrade your hard drive without losing data, migrate Windows installations from HDD to SSD, or clone SSDs to different kinds of drives.
The system clone even lets you load your data onto a USB drive to boot up later. Or if you're worried about losing data accidentally, try creating complete backups to instantly restore all your old data and apps. If your hard drive is partitioned, save time by using EaseUS to copy it exactly, partitions included. Pick up where you left off, even if you have to restore a backup to do it.
This disk copy software can be installed on one device for life, and updates are included. Make sure your device, Windows server, and file system are compatible before purchasing. Compatibility runs all the way back to Windows 7, so quite a few machines could work just fine.
Clone, transfer, and backup data for lifeRegularly $59, get a lifetime license to EaseUS Disk Copy on sale at half off for $29.99.
StackSocial prices subject to change.
Opens in a new window Credit: EaseUS Software EaseUS Disk Copy: Lifetime License $29.99 at the Mashable Shop
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