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Netflix's 'Culinary Class Wars' trailer looks like a cross between 'Iron Chef' and 'MasterChef'

Mashable - Tue, 08/20/2024 - 01:37
Netflix's trailer for South Korean cooking competition series 'Culinary Class Wars' looks 'Iron Chef' crossed with 'MasterChef.'

Never delete another picture with lifetime cloud storage — save 85% with this code

Mashable - Tue, 08/20/2024 - 00:00

TL;DR: Through Sept. 3, secure your files forever with a lifetime subscription to 1TB of Koofr Cloud Storage, now just £92.36 when you use the code KOOFR40 (reg. £623.56). 

Opens in a new window Credit: Koofr Koofr Cloud Storage: Lifetime Subscription (1TB) £92.36 at the Mashable Shop
£623.56 Save £531.20 Use the code 'KOOFR40' Get Deal

Do you have a camera roll full of selfies, dog photos, and scenes from your holidays? Then you probably have to periodically delete your favourite pictures to free up storage space on your phone or computer. Even cloud storage services like Google Photos and iCloud can fill up quickly. With this cloud storage deal, you'll never have to sacrifice one of those precious snaps again.

For a limited time, you can get 1TB of storage for life with a one-time payment for Koofr Cloud Storage. When you use the discount code KOOFR40 (offer available through Sept. 3), you can save 85% on the cost of a lifetime 1TB plan and pay just £92.36.

Koofr Cloud Storage gives you all the space you need to securely store your most important photos, videos, and personal files. A 1TB allotment of cloud storage is enough to save more than 250,000 high-resolution photos, 500 hours of HD video, or 6.5 million PDFs.

Most cloud storage services require you to pay a monthly or annual fee, and those auto-renew payments and subscriptions can really be a nasty surprise. They also add up surprisingly fast. Instead, KOOFR lets you get all the storage you need with a single payment. Once you sign up, you'll have a secure spot for your data. And because your files will be encrypted, your documents, photos, and other files will be safe at all times.

What about the files you have on other cloud storage accounts? Koofr lets you connect and access files across other accounts, giving you easy access to all of your data. Plus, with tools like Koofr Duplicate Finder, you can quickly organise and delete any files that you don't really need.

Again, you can score major savings on a lifetime subscription to Koofr for just £92.36 (reg. £623.56) with coupon code KOOFR40 through Sept. 3.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

How to watch Lille vs. Slavia Prague online for free

Mashable - Tue, 08/20/2024 - 00:00

TL;DR: Watch Lille vs. Slavia Prague in the Champions League for free with a 30-day trial of Prime Video. Access this free live stream from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The Champions League is arguably the biggest club competition in the world of football, so naturally, everyone wants to be involved.

Unfortunately, there simply aren't enough spots for every successful team. And so, teams are forced to battle it out in Champions League playoffs. There are some really tasty matchups in these playoffs, including Lille vs. Slavia Prague.

If you want to watch Lille vs. Slavia Prague in the Champions League for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Lille vs. Slavia Prague?

Lille vs. Slavia Prague in the Champions League starts at 3 p.m. ET on Aug. 20. This fixture takes place at the Stade du Hainaut in Valenciennes, France.

How to watch Lille vs. Slavia Prague for free

Lille vs. Slavia Prague is available to live stream on Prime Video in the UK, but you don't need to be subscribed to Amazon Prime to watch all the action. Instead, you can watch Lille vs. Slavia Prague (plus more Champions League fixtures) for free with a 30-day trial of Prime Video.

Fans from outside the UK will need to use a VPN to watch the Champions League for free on Prime Video. This process is straightforward:

  1. Sign up for a 30-day Amazon Prime trial (if you're not already a member)

  2. Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

  3. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

  4. Open up the app and connect to a server in the UK

  5. Watch Lille vs. Slavia Prague for free from anywhere in the world on Prime Video

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Year Subscription + 3 Months Free) $99.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but most do offer free-trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can watch Lille vs. Slavia Prague on Prime Video without committing with your cash. This isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to stream select Champions League fixtures before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for Prime Video?

ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport on Prime Video, for a number of reasons:

  • Servers in 105 countries including the UK

  • Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more

  • Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

  • Fast connection speeds free from throttling

  • Up to eight simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

Stream Lille vs. Slavia Prague in the Champions League for free with ExpressVPN.

How to watch Seattle Storm vs. Washington Mystics online

Mashable - Tue, 08/20/2024 - 00:00

TL;DR: Watch Seattle Storm vs. Washington Mystics in the WNBA with WNBA League Pass. Avoid blackouts and watch the WNBA from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The Seattle Storm vs. Washington Mystics is next on the court as the WNBA season continues. Both teams have had strong performances so far, so it's set to be an exciting game.

If you want to watch Seattle Storm vs. Washington Mystics in the WNBA from anywhere in the world, keep reading to find out all the information you need. Don't miss out.

When is Seattle Storm vs. Washington Mystics?

Seattle Storm vs. Washington Mystics in the WNBA starts at 7 p.m. ET on Aug. 20. This fixture takes place at the Entertainment and Sports Arena in Congress Heights, Washington D.C.

How to watch Seattle Storm vs. Washington Mystics

WNBA fans can live stream Seattle Storm vs. Washington Mystics plus the rest of the 2024 WNBA season from anywhere in the world with the WNBA League Pass.

However, it's worth noting that the WNBA League Pass may not show locally televised games live in the participating teams' local areas. But you can beat these geo-restrictions by using a VPN. These tools work by hiding your real IP address so you'll be able to connect to secure servers in other locations, meaning you can bypass blackouts to watch every WNBA League Pass game live, excluding games hosted by Amazon Prime Video.

You can access every WNBA League Pass game by following these simple steps:

  1. Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

  2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

  3. Open up the app and connect to a server in a location with no broadcast deals for the WNBA

  4. Log in to WNBA League Pass

  5. Stream every WNBA game live (barring games hosted by Amazon Prime Video)

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Year Subscription + 3 Months Free) $99.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal What is the best VPN for the WNBA?

ExpressVPN is the best choice for hiding your real IP address and streaming more sport, for a number of reasons:

  • Servers in 105 countries

  • Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more

  • Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

  • Fast connection speeds free from throttling

  • Up to eight simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

Stream Seattle Storm vs. Washington Mystics in the WNBA from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

How to watch Dallas Wings vs. New York Liberty online

Mashable - Tue, 08/20/2024 - 00:00

TL;DR: Watch Dallas Wings vs. New York Liberty in the WNBA with WNBA League Pass. Avoid blackouts and watch the WNBA from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The WNBA season continues and next up it's the Dallas Wings vs. New York Liberty. New York Liberty are one of the top-performing teams this season, so it's set to be an exciting game as the Dallas Wings challenge them for a place in the playoffs.

If you want to watch Dallas Wings vs. New York Liberty in the WNBA from anywhere in the world, keep reading to find out all the information you need.

When is Dallas Wings vs. New York Liberty?

Dallas Wings vs. New York Liberty in the WNBA starts at 7 p.m. ET on Aug. 20. This fixture takes place at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York.

How to watch Dallas Wings vs. New York Liberty

Basketball fans can watch Dallas Wings vs. New York Liberty plus the remainder of the WNBA 2024 season from anywhere in the world with a WNBA League Pass.

However, it's important to note that the WNBA League Pass may not show locally televised games live in the participating teams' local areas. However, you can get around this by using a VPN. VPNs are tools that work by hiding your real IP address (i.e. digital location). With this, you'll be able to connect to secure servers in other locations and watch every WNBA League Pass game live, excluding games hosted by Amazon Prime Video.

To access every WNBA League Pass game, follow these easy steps:

  1. Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

  2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

  3. Open up the app and connect to a server in a location with no broadcast deals for the WNBA

  4. Log in to WNBA League Pass

  5. Stream every WNBA game live (except games hosted by Amazon Prime Video)

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Year Subscription + 3 Months Free) $99.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal What is the best VPN for the WNBA?

ExpressVPN is the best choice for hiding your real IP address and streaming more sport, for a number of reasons:

  • Servers in 105 countries

  • Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more

  • Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

  • Fast connection speeds free from throttling

  • Up to eight simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

Stream Dallas Wings vs. New York Liberty in the WNBA from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

How to watch Los Angeles Sparks vs. Connecticut Sun online

Mashable - Tue, 08/20/2024 - 00:00

TL;DR: Watch Los Angeles Sparks vs. Connecticut Sun in the WNBA with WNBA League Pass. Avoid blackouts and watch the WNBA from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The WNBA season continues and next to go head-to-head are the Los Angeles Sparks and Connecticut Sun.

The Connecticut Sun are one of the top-performing teams this season but they'll face stiff competition from the Los Angeles Sparks as they fight to make it to the playoffs.

If you want to watch Los Angeles Sparks vs. Connecticut Sun in the WNBA from anywhere in the world, keep reading to find out all the information you need.

When is Los Angeles Sparks vs. Connecticut Sun?

Los Angeles Sparks vs. Connecticut Sun in the WNBA starts at 7 p.m. ET on Tuesday, Aug. 20. This fixture takes place at the TD Garden Arena in Boston, Massachusetts.

How to watch Los Angeles Sparks vs. Connecticut Sun

WNBA fans can live stream this fixture plus the rest of the 2024 season from anywhere in the world with the WNBA League Pass.

However, it's worth noting that the WNBA League Pass may not show locally televised games live in the participating teams' local areas. But don't worry, you can get past these geo-restrictions by using a VPN. VPNs are tools that work by hiding your real IP address (i.e. digital location). This means you'll be able to connect to secure servers in other locations, bypass blackouts, and watch every WNBA League Pass game live (barring games hosted by Amazon Prime Video).

You can access every WNBA League Pass game by following these simple steps:

  1. Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

  2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

  3. Open up the app and connect to a server in a location with no broadcast deals for the WNBA

  4. Log in to WNBA League Pass

  5. Stream every WNBA game live (except games hosted by Amazon Prime Video)

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Year Subscription + 3 Months Free) $99.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal What is the best VPN for the WNBA?

ExpressVPN is the best choice for hiding your real IP address and streaming more sport, for a number of reasons:

  • Servers in 105 countries

  • Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more

  • Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

  • Fast connection speeds free from throttling

  • Up to eight simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

Stream Los Angeles Sparks vs. Connecticut Sun in the WNBA from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The best petrol lawn mowers

Mashable - Mon, 08/19/2024 - 23:41

Cutting the grass can be an uphill battle. Quite literally. And if you do have a hilly, hard-to-manage garden with tough terrain, it's worth investing in a petrol lawn mower that will give you the power to get the job done.

Of course, lawn mowers come in all kinds of shapes and sizes, with electric, cordless, manual, and petrol devices, which offer something different for every type of garden and gardener. For more casual, low-demand gardening, we'd usually point you towards a cordless option for pure convenience, but those mowers just don't always, well, cut it.

There are plenty of impressive petrol lawn mowers from names such as Hyundai and Einhell. In fact, there are so many brands and models to choose from that it can be seriously difficult to pick just one. Here’s some helpful information to get you started.

What are the benefits of a petrol lawn mower?

Being powered by petrol, rather than the electric mains or batteries, means some hefty plus points. Petrol lawn mowers are powerful and robust, meaning they can tackle rough areas and dense, tricky-to-cut grass. The lack of electric cable is also a bonus — that allows you the freedom to roam way beyond the range of a corded lawn mower and tackle otherwise unreachable areas. The power and freedom also means they’re ideal for large gardens. It’s no coincidence that petrol lawn mowers are usually the mower of choice for landscaping professionals.

What are the drawbacks of a petrol lawn mower?

It’s fair to say that a petrol lawn mower isn’t for everyone – or indeed, every garden. As with any purchase of this ilk, assess your specific needs first and decide if a petrol lawn mower is right for you. Petrol lawn mowers are great for big and tough gardens, but they do require a certain amount of maintenance and are generally more expensive than electric and cordless models – not to mention the ongoing petrol costs. They’re heavier and noisier too, but that’s what you get with power.

What are the different types of petrol lawn mower?

This is where it gets tricky, because there isn’t just one type of petrol lawn mower. Different types of petrol-powered mowers include push lawn mowers, self-propelled lawn mowers, mulching lawn mowers, and — if you want to get really serious — ride-on lawn mowers.

What size garden is best for a petrol lawn mower?

Advice varies on this, and depends on the type of petrol lawn mower you have, but a self-propelled petrol lawn mower tends to be for lawns of 700 square metres and over. Petrol mowers can be used in smaller gardens, of course. A push petrol mower is best for lawns of under 700 square metres in size.

What is the best petrol lawn mower?

There are plenty of great petrol lawn mowers out there. But it’s all down to personal preference and what best suits your garden. To help you pick the right model for your lawn, we have shortlisted a selection of top mowers from some of the biggest gardening brands. We have considered customer reviews, features, and price.

These are the best petrol lawn mowers in 2024.

NYT Strands hints, answers for August 20

Mashable - Mon, 08/19/2024 - 23:00

If you're reading this, you're looking for a little help playing Strands, the New York Times' elevated word-search game.

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

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections today: See hints and answers for August 17 SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Here's the answer hints for August 17

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

NYT Strands hint for today’s theme: I think we're covered

These words keep you dry.

Today’s NYT Strands theme plainly explained

The answers are garments or articles worn in the rain.

NYT Strands spangram hint: Is it vertical or horizontal?

Today's NYT Strands spangram is horizontal.

NYT Strands spangram answer today

Today's spangram is RainGear.

NYT Strands word list for August 20
  • Umbrella

  • Slicker

  • RainGear

  • Hood

  • Poncho

  • Galoshes

  • Gaiters

Looking for other daily online games? Find one you might like – or hints for another game you're already playing – on Mashable's Games page.

How to watch the 'Love Island USA' Season 6 reunion

Mashable - Mon, 08/19/2024 - 14:24
The best Peacock deals to watch 'Love Island USA' at a glance: BEST LONG-TERM DEAL Peacock Premium annual subscription $79.99 per year (save 17%) Get Deal BEST FOR XFINITY CUSTOMERS Peacock Premium free for select customers Get Deal BEST FOR STUDENTS Peacock Premium $1.99 per month for 12 months (save $6 per month) Get Deal BEST FOR FIRST RESPONDERS Peacock Premium $1.99 per month (save $6 per month) Get Deal BEST FOR TEACHERS Peacock Premium $2.99 per month for 12 months (save $5 per month) Get Deal BEST TRIAL Instacart+ with Peacock Premium free 2-week trial, then $99.99 per year (save $79.99 per year) Get Deal BEST FOR JETBLUE FLYERS Peacock Premium free for Mosaic status members (save $79.99 per year) Get Deal

The show of the summer isn't over yet, y'all. Your faves from Love Island USA Season 6 are returning to hash things out in a reunion special, just a few weeks after the finale in Fiji.

If you want to catch up with the cast and relive the drama and dumpings — and find out which couples are still together — here's everything you need to know to watch the reunion episode.

Tweet may have been deleted How can I watch the Love Island USA reunion?

The Love Island USA Season 6 reunion, which was filmed in New York City last week, airs Aug. 19 at 9 p.m. ET exclusively on Peacock. It's only fitting, given that all episodes of Season 6 are also available to stream on Peacock.

Who will be on the Love Island USA Season 6 reunion?

The Season 6 cast flocked to New York City and took to the pink carpet on Aug. 14 for the taping of the reunion show. A clip on social media featured winners Serena Page and Kordell Beckham, as well as former Islanders Aaron Evans and Kaylor Martin, Leah Kateb and Miguel Harichi, Kendall Washington and Nicole Jacky, Liv Walker, Sierra Mills, Coye Simmons, Harrison Luna, and more. Host Ariana Madix was also in attendance.

Can I get Peacock for free?

Peacock no longer offers a free trial of its streaming service, but there are a couple of ways to get a subscription for free or at least at a discount. We've rounded up the best Peacock streaming deals below to help you out.

The best Peacock streaming dealsBest long-term Peacock deal Opens in a new window Credit: Peacock Peacock Premium annual subscription $79.99 per year or $139.99 per year (save 17%) Get Deal

Your best bet for saving money on a Peacock subscription is to commit to a year upfront. While a monthly subscription will cost you $7.99 per month ($95.99 per year) with ads or $13.99 per month ($167.88 per year) without ads, a yearly subscription is only $79.99 or $139.99. That's about 17% in savings and breaks down to about 12 months of streaming for the price of 10.

Best Peacock deal for Xfinity customers Opens in a new window Credit: Peacock / Xfinity Peacock Premium Free for select Xfinity customers Learn More

Select Xfinity customers are eligible for free Peacock subscriptions. So, if you're an Xfinity customer and haven't checked your status through your account, be sure to jump on that. Here's a brief breakdown of who is eligible:

  • Xfinity Internet users on the Gigabit or Gigabit+ plans can score free Peacock Premium (with ads) for two years (offer ends June 25, 2025).

  • Xfinity Internet customers who are Diamond or Platinum Xfinity Rewards members can get Peacock Premium for free by redeeming a reward for it. Sign in at xfinity.com/rewards and choose Peacock as a reward. Then, wait for your email (it may take a few hours) with instructions on activating the offer.

  • NOW TV customers can also receive Peacock Premium as part of their service.

  • New customers with Xfinity Internet and an X1 TV Box, Flex streaming TV Box, or a Xumo Stream Box from Xfinity can get Peacock Premium for free for six months.

Best Peacock deal for students Opens in a new window Credit: Peacock Peacock Premium for Students $1.99 per month for one year Watch Now

If you're a current college student, you can snag a Peacock Premium subscription for only $1.99 per month for the whole year. You just have to prove your student status through SheerID and retrieve the unique promo code to secure the discount. Just note that the code can only be used once (aka, don't share it with your friends).

Best Peacock deal for first responders Opens in a new window Credit: Peacock Peacock Premium for First Responders $1.99 per month Watch Now

Similar to students, first responders can score Peacock Premium for just $1.99 per month so long as they can verify their first responder status via SheerID. Sign up using the unique promo code you receive and the discount will be reflected. If you continue to meet first responder verification qualifications, you can renew the deal annually. You'll just have to go through the process each time to receive a new promo code and secure the discount. Head over to Peacock's promo page to learn more about eligibility terms and requirements.

Best for teachers Opens in a new window Credit: Peacock Peacock Premium $2.99 per month for 12 months Get Deal

Teachers looking to watch the Love Island USA reunion can score a Peacock Premium subscription for only $2.99 per month for 12 months. Just verify your educator status and use the unique promo code you receive to sign up for the discount.

Best for Instacart users Opens in a new window Credit: Instacart / Peacock Instacart+ with Peacock Premium free two-week trial, then $99.99 per year Watch Now

Peacock and Instacart partnered up last year to offer paid Instacart+ members access to Peacock Premium. That's a $79.99 per year value for free. An Instacart+ account costs you $99.99 per year and includes free grocery delivery on orders over $35, lower fees, and credit back on eligible pickup orders, among other perks. Plus, the best part is that you get a two-week free trial to test things out. Grabbing this freebie will allow you to tune into the Love Island USA Reunion and more. Just remember to cancel before the trial ends if you don't want to be charged.

Best for JetBlue members Opens in a new window Credit: Peacock / JetBlue Peacock Premium Free for one year for Mosaic status members Watch Now

JetBlue TrueBlue members can earn 1,000 free TrueBlue points when they sign up for Peacock through July 2025. Meanwhile, if you have Mosaic status, you can sign up for your first year of Peacock Premium for free. That's a $79.99 value. Learn more about eligibility and terms over on Peacock's special offer page.

Netflix's 'Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft' trailer has her backpacking to find herself

Mashable - Mon, 08/19/2024 - 14:00
Netflix's teaser trailer for animated series 'Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft' has Lara (Hayley Atwell) pursing a thief.

Procreate's anti-AI stance is music to artists' ears

Mashable - Mon, 08/19/2024 - 13:35

A popular illustration and animation app for iPads has proudly declared that it's AI-free.

On Sunday, Procreate posted a video on X of CEO James Cuda, saying, the app won't be introducing any generative AI into its products.

"I really fucking hate generative AI. I don't like what's happening in the industry and I don't like what it's doing to artists," said Cuda. "We don't exactly know where this story is going or how it ends, but we believe that we're on the right path supporting human creativity," he continued.

Tweet may have been deleted

On Procreate's website, a page explaining the app's decision says it won't use generative AI, that it doesn't have access to user work, and that user activity is not tracked by Procreate. The inference here is that Procreate won't use artists' works to train and implement generative AI tools, unlike other creative tools that are doing just that. Unlike, Cuda who didn't mince words, Procreate believes there's a place for generative AI, just not in the creative space: "We think machine learning is a compelling technology with a lot of merit, but the path generative AI is on is wrong for us."

SEE ALSO: Google’s new ‘Pixel Screenshots’ can search your screenshot library — and it’s the most useful AI feature of 2024

Procreate's anti-AI stance reflects a growing sentiment in artist communities that generative AI devalues human-created art. Companies like Adobe and Canva have jumped on the AI bandwagon by offering generative AI tools for generating and editing multimedia. Such tools not only threaten to replace jobs in creative industries, they're trained on human-created art, sometimes without credit or consent. The implementation of generative AI features for creativity tools has stoked fear and mistrust amongst creatives who feel that their livelihoods are being snuffed out by the very tools they rely on.

Recently, a very tone-deaf Apple ad that literally crushed artist tools into a sleek iPad Pro — that comes packed with AI-powered creative tools — all but confirmed users' suspicions about tech. "I heard the underlying message loud and clear," wrote Mashable's Mike Pearl. "Companies don't have to pretend they respect their customers; they just have to get them to part with their money."

A lot has changed in a year, since many generative AI tools were let loose on the masses. Wall Street's demand for AI investment has waned, and consumer response to using generative AI for creative tasks, like writing a fan letter to an Olympian, has not been received as positively as expected.

Last year, Procreate's declaration would have been considered business suicide. But today, it might be the key to customer loyalty. Cuda's post, which has 60,000 likes and counting, is filled with comments of support and appreciation, aside from the occasional comments that said it was short-sighted. "I am an occasional user of this software, but now I will enjoy using it all the way more," said one X user.

Tweet may have been deleted

"Makes me incredibly happy to continue using the app. Please never sell out to suits that don’t care even if the money is big," said another. "In a world full of companies putting AI in everything they make, this sounds so nice," echoed another X user.

Tweet may have been deleted

Donald Trump is courting Taylor Swift and Swifties' endorsements on Truth Social

Mashable - Mon, 08/19/2024 - 13:35

Donald Trump seems to think he's going to get the Swifties on his side. Or at least he's trying.

You'd be forgiven if you missed it, but Trump posted about Taylor Swift and her legion of fans on his website Truth Social, where you can often find the former president ranting. Trump posted a bunch of images of people supposedly in "Swifties for Trump" shirts, writing, "I accept!" Now, to be clear, the vast majority of these "people" were AI-created. See for yourself.

Tweet may have been deleted

In two photos, there appeared to be one real woman wearing a Swifties for Trump shirt and then a few AI-generated women that people claimed were "supporting" Trump. The claim that these women are now supporting Trump after Swift's Vienna concerts were canceled due to terror threats is fake. The images and the story itself are not authentic. The image Trump shared is even clearly labeled "satire."

Tweet may have been deleted

So it seems like Trump is trying to court Swifties and Taylor Swift, which is undoubtedly a choice. Swift herself has proven time and again that she's not a fan of Trump. She publicly endorsed President Joe Biden and VP-turned-nominee Kamala Harris back in 2020. While she hasn't endorsed a candidate in 2024, imagining a world where she backed Trump is nearly impossible.

Tweet may have been deleted

Now, are there Swifties who support Trump? Of course. Swift is perhaps the most famous musician in the world. She has so many fans that there is bound to be some overlap. That doesn't mean a significant portion of the fandom backs Trump. It doesn't even mean that most of the fandom backs Harris, either. But, if anything, Swifties have mobilized in the VP's direction. A coalition of fans started Swifties4Kamala, which has racked up more than 200k followers across social media platforms. They plan to mobilize voters; thousands have already signed up for a Zoom call.

So yes, Trump appears to be courting Swifties, and no, it doesn't seem to be working at all.

Dropout cooks up the world's silliest culinary competition in 'Gastronauts' trailer

Mashable - Mon, 08/19/2024 - 13:30
"Gastronauts" sees talented chefs completing ridiculous challenges set for them by Dropout comedians.

Our favorite noise-cancelling headphones from Sony are on sale at their Prime Day price

Mashable - Mon, 08/19/2024 - 13:12

Save $101.99: As of Aug. 19, the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones are back down to their Prime Day price of $298 at Amazon. That saves you 25% on their $399.99 list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Sony Sony WH-1000XM5 $298.00 at Amazon
$399.99 Save $101.99 Get Deal

Throughout the year, I write and update most of Mashable's headphones content, which means I get to try the latest products from brands like Bose, Bowers & Wilkins, JBL, and Anker Soundcore, just to name a few. Yet, as I write this very post, I am wearing a pair of the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones, purchased with my own hard-earned money.

I purchased mine on Prime Day, and as of Aug. 19, they're back down at Amazon to the very same $298 I grabbed them for, making this a great deal that'll save you 25% on their $399.99 full price. If you're not a huge Amazon fan, you can also grab them at Best Buy for $299.99.

Even though these headphones are now a couple years old, I picked them up because I was looking for something with high-end noise cancelling, that sounded fantastic, had solid multipoint connection, and cost $300 or less. The XM5s checked those boxes. Considering my job allows me to test the latest in noise-cancellation, I can say confidently that though these Sonys hold up. Deputy Reviews and Shopping Editor Miller Kern had a similar take when she reviewed the headphones, saying with music on, "They completely blocked out all the normal office sounds like the AC and other people talking, but they also rendered silent the construction happening on the building next door."

SEE ALSO: The 6 best headphones for 2024, from wireless earbuds to the best noise-cancelling picks

I also appreciate the "Find Your Equalizer" setting, which helps your narrow down the equalizer settings you might like best while a song of your choice plays. As for how these headphones connect, I have no issues getting them to pair right on startup, or switching between devices (which I do a decent amount throughout the day) — I can't say the same for my old Bose QC 35 II's, or the newer QC Ultras.

A few of downsides — these headphones are comfortable, but not the most — the QuietComfort line still has them beat for all day wear. After about a few hours, I can start to feel the Sonys weighing down on the top of my head, which I never experienced with the Bose headphones. However, I can still wear them relatively uninterrupted for my workday, and the absolute best comfort isn't my top priority, so it's fine for me. What actually disappoints me most about the design is that the earcups don't fold in for travel, so they're a little more bulky when you're taking them on the go.

These headphones do also cost a pretty penny, even on sale. Yes, they're still cheaper than options from Bose or Apple, but if you're not ready to spend $300, the Sony ULT headphones are a much more affordable alternative.

Check out 15+ of the best Windows laptop deals this week

Mashable - Mon, 08/19/2024 - 12:48
Best Windows laptop deals this week Best Windows laptop deal under $600 Dell Inspiron 15 3520 $279.99 at Dell.com (Save $100) Get Deal Best Windows laptop deal under $900 HP OmniBook X $899.99 at Best Buy (Save $300) Get Deal Best Windows laptop deal under $1,200 Samsung Galaxy Book4 Edge $999.99 at Samsung (Save $350) Get Deal

We're well into back to school season, making it one of the best times of year to buy a new laptop.

Whether or not you're a student, you can enjoy the lowered prices of this time of year on laptops from brands like HP, Dell, Acer, Lenovo, and more. Windows laptops also tend to be more affordable overall than Apple laptops, making this purchase even kinder on your wallet.

SEE ALSO: I've reviewed over 59 laptops and this is the best Windows laptop of 2024

Below, you'll find the 20 best laptop deals of Aug. 19. You can go for super-budget friendly picks starting at just $280, or check out our favorite deals under $1,200 (that are going to have more comparable features to MacBooks).

Best Windows laptop deal Opens in a new window Credit: HP HP OmniBook X $899.99 at Best Buy
$1,199.99 Save $300.00 Get Deal Why we picked this

Check out Mashable's full review of the HP OmniBook X.

If you're looking for a processor to rival the M3 MacBook without the M3 price tag, the Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite fits the bill. Unlike basically all MacBooks under $1,200, this HP laptop also comes with 16GB of RAM and one TB of storage. Sure, it's design may not be as sleek as more premium options on the market, but this Mashable Choice Award winner blends fun AI-features and a touchscreen with the practicality of 16 hours of battery life, and the power to get you through most work-related tasks. Altogether, that's what makes it our favorite mid-range Windows laptop (even when it's not on sale).

Best Windows laptop deals under $600Best Windows laptop deals under $900Best Windows laptop deals under $1,200

Snag the Sonos Ace headphones for the first-time discounted price of $399

Mashable - Mon, 08/19/2024 - 12:28

SAVE $50: The Sonos Ace headphones are on sale for $399 at Amazon, down from the normal price of $449. That's an 11% discount and the first time this model has gone on sale.

Opens in a new window Credit: Sonos Sonos Ace headphones $399.00 at Amazon
$449.00 Save $50.00 Get Deal

A solid pair of headphones can really be a life-changer. While the outside world can toss chaos our way, blocking it all out with some awesome headphones can feel like one of the easiest life hacks. Sonos has become a heavy-hitter when it comes to awesome sound quality, and thanks to today's deal, you can snag the brand's newest headphones at a discounted price.

As of Aug. 19, the Sonos Ace headphones are on sale for $399 at Amazon, down from the usual price of $449. That's an 11% discount or a $50 savings. The sale price is also the first time this model has ever been discounted at Amazon since they hit the market just a few months ago.

Mashable deputy editor Miller Kern tested out the Sonos Ace headphones when they launched and noticed they truly excel when it comes to sound quality. "Other headphones I’ve tested pale in comparison to Sonos Ace when it comes to sound quality," she wrote in the review. In particular, Kern said songs with spatial audio sound pretty special with the Sonos Ace. "It’s immersive in a way I haven’t experienced from other headphones," she says.

SEE ALSO: Sonos launches its first-ever headphones, the Sonos Ace

However, she mentioned the noise-cancellation isn't the best with the Sonos Ace, but they did perform well in terms of comfort and Kern said they're the most comfortable pair she's ever tested. Sonos uses a plush memory foam in the ear cups on the Ace headphones and the extendable headband is designed to provide the best fit possible.

One of the coolest features of the Sonos Ace headphones is the ability to seamlessly connect them to compatible Sonos soundbars (Sonos Arc, Beam, or Ray) which makes for a pretty epic home theatre experience designed for one. This feature can also be great if you prefer to watch movies at night while the rest of your house is asleep.

If you're in the market for a top-of-the-line pair of headphones, consider this sale to be your sign that it's time to treat yourself to the Sonos Ace headphones. You'll be scoring them for at their first-ever discounted price.

Can you guess TikTok's song of the summer?

Mashable - Mon, 08/19/2024 - 12:12

FYPs are slowly morphing from Euro trips and Brat summer to back-to-school hauls and tips for being mindful and demure, marking the inevitable end of summer.

As the season winds down, TikTok has declared its songs of the summer, a list of the platform's most popular tracks that soundtracked the longest days of the year.

SEE ALSO: 'Very demure' demonstrates TikTok's ability to shape modern language

The most popular track on TikTok in the U.S. this summer was "MILLION DOLLAR BABY (VHS)" by Tommy Richman. It's soundtracked a whopping 7.5 million videos. The song's impact goes beyond its viral snippet — "I ain't never rep a set, baby..." — as it also appeared on Spotify's global midsummer list. Richman's song is followed by the endlessly meme-ed "Nasty" by Tinashe and Blood Orange's 2011 track "Champagne Coast." "Magic Johnson" by ian and "BIRDS OF A FEATHER" by Billie Eilish round out the Top 5.

It may come as a surprise that the ranking Sabrina Carpenter track isn't "Espresso," but instead her follow-up single "Please, Please, Please." GloRilla and Megan Thee Stallion's "Wanna Be" and Kendrick Lamar's Drake diss track "Not Like Us" also earned their spots in the Top 10.

Globally, "Gata Only" by FloyyMenor and Cris MJ took the cake. Despite her undeniable cultural impact this summer, no Charli XCX songs ranked on either list. Between the lack of "Espresso" and brat, you have to question what creators thought when selecting a song to soundtrack their summer highlights.

The 9th Generation iPad just hit its new record low price

Mashable - Mon, 08/19/2024 - 12:04

SAVE 40%: As of today, Aug 19, the 9th Generation Apple iPad has hit an all-new record low price of $199 at Amazon. This saves shoppers $130 off the iPad's regular list price of $329.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple 9th Generation Apple iPad (64GB) $199.00 at Amazon
$329.00 Save $130.00 Amazon Get Deal

Just in time for back-to-school, the 9th Generation Apple iPad has hit an all-new record-low price. If you've had a new iPad on your shopping list, the usual splurge just got a whole lot more budget-friendly.

As of today, Aug 19, the 9th Generation Apple iPad is on sale for $199. Typically $329, today's price saves shoppers $130 (or 40%). Not only is it the iPad's new lowest price, but it also marks the first time it has been listed for under $200.

The 9th Generation iPad makes for a reliable, high-performing everyday tablet. With 64GB of storage, a 10.2-inch screen, an all-day battery life, and an A13 bionic chip, it has the power and bandwidth to fuel your favorite activities like gaming, streaming, video calling, and reading. It's also compatible with the Apple Pencil, so the 9th Generation iPad can transform into your hub of creativity and productivity.

Take advantage of the 9th Generation Apple iPad's biggest price cut yet when you shop today's deal at Amazon.

A Personalized Brain Pacemaker for Parkinson’s

NYT Technology - Mon, 08/19/2024 - 11:55
In a new frontier for deep brain stimulation, researchers used A.I. to develop individualized algorithms, which helped a skateboarder and other patients with Parkinson’s disease.

Roborock, iRobot, and Eufy: Get up to 63% off robot vacuums

Mashable - Mon, 08/19/2024 - 11:54

Save $490.01: Shop the best robot vacuum deals of the week, including the Roborock Q7 Max+ that's down to $379.98. Save $490.01 for 56% off.

Best robot vacuum deal Best robot vacuum deal Roborock Q7 Max+ robot vacuum and mop $379.98 at Amazon (Save $490.01) Get Deal Best Eufy deal Eufy X10 Pro Omni robot vacuum and mop $699.99 at Best Buy (Save $100) Get Deal Best iRobot deal iRobot Roomba Combo j9+ robot vacuum and mop $999 at Amazon (Save $400) Get Deal Best Narwal Deal Narwal Freo X Ultra robot vacuum and mop combo $999.99 at Amazon (Save $400) Get Deal

Robot vacuums may be our favorite home appliance. Not only do they keep your floors free of crumbs and messes, they also don't require you to do any work. It's luxurious to sit back and watch your Roomba get to work, while you get to start a new show.

With back-to-school season in full swing, we know that means your free time is dwindling, making it the perfect time to upgrade your home with a robot vacuum. Luckily, this week brings a new stash of deals on our favorite robot vacuum brands. Here are the best deals to shop now.

The best robot vacuum deal Opens in a new window Credit: Roborock Roborock Q7 Max+ robot vacuum and mop $379.98 at Amazon
$869.99 Save $490.01 Get Deal Why we like it

Robot vacuums are an investment, with some of the best costing nearly $1,500. If you don't want to spend that or even anything north of $500, look to the Roborock Q7 Max+ robot vacuum and mop. We named Roborock's S8 MaxV Ultra the best robot vacuum for homes with pets, but currently that will cost your $1,799.99. Luckily you can find the brand's Q7 Max+ for just $379.98.

It comes with an auto-emptying dock that can hold up to seven weeks of cleaning detritus. Plus, it doesn't just vacuum. Roborock's Q7 Max+ includes a mopping feature with customizable water flow levels, to get your perfect clean.

Now you can get the Roborock Q7 Max+ for 56% off, saving you $490.01.

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