Feed aggregator

Meta companies — namely giants Instagram, Facebook, Threads, and WhatsApp — all appeared to have had issues and, in some cases, crashed for users on Wednesday.

Reports of problems with the major social and messaging platforms spiked on Down Detector — which, full disclosure, is owned by the same parent company as Mashable — around 1 p.m. EST. User generated reports on Down Detector showed all Facebook, Instagram, Facebook Messenger, WhatsApp, and Threads all having a major spike in issues at the same time.

People posted on social media about the apps going down.

Tweet may have been deleted Tweet may have been deleted

There wasn't an immediate confirmation of issues from Meta and the spike in reports did appear to be subsiding on Down Detector. As of about 1:41 p.m. EST I was able to load the major Meta apps and websites, so perhaps the issues were resolving as quickly as they appeared.

The latest in a string of announcements from OpenAI is the official release of ChatGPT on Apple Intelligence.

With new ChatGPT integration, iPhone users can invoke ChatGPT through Siri, as part of Apple Intelligence's Writing Tools, and with Camera Control on iPhone 16 which can process visual data.

SEE ALSO: 'LLM Siri' aims to rival ChatGPT — but don’t expect it until iOS 19

The Apple and OpenAI partnership was announced last summer's WWDC which unveiled Apple's suite of AI tools called Apple Intelligence. Through the partnership, iPhone users can connect with ChatGPT as an extension of specific tasks. Coinciding with this announcement, Apple released the iOS 18.2 update on Wednesday. You can learn more about that from Mashable's iOS 18 coverage.

In the livestream, CEO Sam Altman, joined by engineering manager Dave Cummings and product manager Miqdad Jaffer demoed how to use ChatGPT with iOS 18 and macOS Sequoia 15.2. Taking a picture on an iPhone, they showed how iPhone 16's Visual Intelligence feature works with ChatGPT to answer when a user asks the chatbot about the image. Cummings then opened a Mac and demonstrated how to use type to Siri to ask a question about a document. Siri then gave the option to send the query to ChatGPT, which provided a response, including a visual breakdown of the request.

This story is developing...

SAVE $40: As of Dec. 11, the Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 4 is just $59.99 instead of $99.99 at Amazon. That's 40% in savings and its lowest price on record.

Opens in a new window Credit: Ultimate Ears Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 4 $59.99 at Amazon
$99.99 Save $40.00 Get Deal

Whether you need a Bluetooth speaker to blast holiday tunes during your gift-wrapping sessions this season or are looking for an affordable option for someone on your list, the Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 4 is the best speaker we've tested under $100. And we have good news: it just dropped to the lowest price It's ever been.

As of Dec. 11, the Wonderboom 4 is on sale for just $59.99 at Amazon, down from the usual $99.99. That's 40% in savings and beats its previous low by $10. It also beats its Black Friday price by $20.

SEE ALSO: The Sonos Era 100 is my favorite speaker, and it's on sale at its lowest-ever price after Cyber Monday

This tiny powerhouse fits in the palm of your hand, but can get as loud as a larger speaker without losing much clarity. The fourth-generation speaker has less muddiness than the previous one, especially at higher volumes, as well as an Outdoor Boost Mode and Podcast Mode. Plus, it has a new USB-C port for easy charging. Otherwise, it's pretty much identical to the Wonderboom 3 (which we also loved). Like its predecessor, the Wonderboom 4 can survive drops from up to five feet and plunges into water for up to 30 minutes (thanks to an IP67 rating). It also packs a healthy battery life of 14 hours.

The only reason we'd pass on this speaker is if you already own the Wonderboom 3. Otherwise, at 40% off, we can't recommend the Wonderboom 4 enough. It comes in four fun colors and all of them are on sale.

You might be able to get paid (kind of) for using TikTok, which, let's be honest, you might be doing habitually anyway.

Bloomberg reported that TikTok has enacted a few different promotions that gift folks TikTok Shop credits to increase users and time spent on the app. The business outlet reported that TikTokkers can receive $50 in Shop credits for recruiting a first-time user and up to $350 in bonuses for bringing in more new users. TikTok is also reportedly offering credits for checking TikTok every day for a week and for "scrolling through 10 TikTok Shop items five times per week." Users can also get up to an $80 credit for making a TikTok Shop purchase.

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The move comes at a precarious moment for TikTok. It could be a ploy to add users and engaged time on its app ahead of its potential ban. A Jan. 19 deadline looms for TikTok's parent company ByteDance to find a buyer or face a ban in the U.S.

SEE ALSO: When will TikTok be banned in the U.S.? And what can stop it from happening?

Mashable's Christianna Silva has the full details on the latest updates but a legal fight remains ongoing in the final month or so before the potential ban. Signing up more American users and logging more TikTok Shop sales could be a way to garner public support against a potential ban.

TikTok may be gone in a month in the states but, until then, you might be able to earn some rewards. Bloomberg reported the promotions appeared on users' For You Page, so be on the look out.

The country’s largest oil company is designing a natural gas power plant outfitted with carbon capture technology to meet the voracious power demand of technology companies.

SAVE $10: As of Dec. 11, you can snag Astro Bot (PS5) for just $49.99 at Best Buy. That's $10 off the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Sony Interactive Entertainment Astro Bot (PS5) $49.99 at Best Buy
$59.99 Save $10.00 Get Deal

If you have a PS5, you’re probably already well-acquainted with a little guy named Astro. (If you have no idea what I’m talking about, you definitely need to check out Astro’s Playroom — a free game that comes pre-installed on every PS5 console.)

Right now, you can get the newest Astro Bot (PS5) game for just $49.99 at Best Buy. That’s $10 off and a great deal for a genuinely fun-to-play PlayStation game. I’ve already beaten the game twice and can, without a doubt, attest to its undeniable cuteness.

SEE ALSO: AstroBot review: The most 'Super Mario Galaxy' game that isn’t actually 'Super Mario Galaxy'

In this edition of Astro’s adventures, the lovable little robot hero is on a mission to save all his Bot friends and the mothership — both of which have been scattered across different planets after an alien takeover. (You’ll also see surprise cameos from some iconic PlayStation characters, including Crash Bandicoot and Spyro the Dragon.)

The actual challenges within the game are pretty straightforward, but still fun to work through. I found the single-bot islands the toughest to beat. Another cool thing about this game is the hidden secrets and collectibles dispersed throughout each level.

If you’re looking for a lighthearted game to clear your mind, Astro Bot can be completed in a single weekend, but there's definitely enough content to keep you engaged for longer. It also makes for a great stocking stuffer for kids or PlayStation stans who could use a little more whimsy in their lives.

Check out our full review of Astro Bot by Mashable’s Alex Perry.

The holidays just may be the most wonderful time of the year for scammers.

As consumers part with their cash to fill stockings and spread cheer, scammers see countless opportunities for deception, theft, and fraud.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation highlights some of their go-to tactics, including failing to ship merchandise you purchased, asking you to pay for items with a pre-paid gift card, and phishing for your personal information.

SEE ALSO: How one man lost $56,000 when he opened an Amazon store

These scams may not be different from others that run year-round, but they tend to increase during the holidays.

Jaeson Schultz, technical leader for Cisco Talos Security Intelligence & Research, said that any time there's an increase in information volume, it "provides good places for criminals to blend in and hide."

The spike in data means more work for security teams that look for and filter malicious communication, increasing the odds that something may inadvertently slip through.

Consumers may also let their guard down as they hunt for deals. Eager to make convenient purchases for the right price, some may be duped — even on platforms they know and trust, like Ebay and Amazon.

Because scams are so widespread, Schultz recommends using a credit card with fraud coverage when shopping.

Unlike with other types of currency, including cash and debit and pre-paid gift cards, a standard credit card typically offers protection from fraud. Consumers who've been deceived into buying fake goods, for example, can ask for and receive a refund.

While it's impossible to track every type of scam, here are five schemes that should be on your radar:

Deals too good to be true

If you've never seen an iPhone or PlayStation for such a low price, it might not be the real thing. These days, scammers can easily take advantage of the holiday shopping frenzy by posting fake listings on pretty much any platform.

Schultz says scammers can simply open a Shopify or Square account and look like a legitimate business or store, or open their own ecommerce outfit on a platform that hosts third-party sellers, like Amazon, TikTok, or Walmart.

They might sell inauthentic merchandise or repackage returned goods and advertise them as brand new. Scammers can even use artificial intelligence to produce compelling phony reviews.

If the deal you've spotted seems too good to be true, and you're not buying it directly from the manufacturer, Schultz recommends pausing and assessing the situation. It may hurt to pass on a bargain-basement price, but you're likely better off doing exactly that.

Purchases that never arrive

If you mostly shop online, it can be hard to track what has arrived, and what's still missing. Even the most organized shoppers can sometimes just forget that they're expecting a package.

Scammers are counting on the chaos to go undetected as they accept your money for a purchase but then never ship it. The FBI lists this scam as one of the top schemes that holiday shoppers will encounter.

It's a time-consuming task but try to stay on top of your expected shipments. You can note and follow the tracking progress if you receive a tracking number.

If you purchase an item but never receive the tracking number or the package itself, try contacting the seller first. If you get silence or an unsatisfactory response, consider filing a fraud complaint with your credit card company as well as reporting the seller to the Better Business Bureau.

In addition, you can also publish a truthful but negative review online about your experience, and report the company to your state's attorney general.

Gift card scams

Gift-card draining scams are a year-round concern but can escalate during the holidays as shoppers hand the convenient presents out to friends, coworkers, and family.

For this scam, a thief physically tampers with a card sold at a retail shop in order to obtain the barcode and PIN, then puts it back on the shelf. Once the card is loaded with cash, they spend the card before the recipient has a chance to enjoy their gift.

If you buy a gift card, inspect the packaging for signs of tampering. Also consider buying gift cards directly from the brand online rather than purchasing them from a third-party retailer.

A different popular gift card scam involves selling goods online and asking for payment via a pre-paid gift card, according to the FBI. Scammers use this transaction to steal the gift card PIN number, with no intention of ever delivering the item you thought you purchased.

The surefire way to avoid this scam? When shopping online, never pay for your purchase with a pre-paid gift card.

Phishing attempts

Scammers know that you are inundated with physical and digital mail and messages during the holidays, which is why you might see more attempts to steal your valuable data. Known as phishing, these tactics are designed to make you think you've received a legitimate letter, email, or text message from an important person or institution, like a coworker or your bank.

These messages ask you to click on a link or scan a QR code in order to respond to an urgent message or complete a timely form, for example. Particularly during the holidays these messages may have a tracking number purportedly sent by a shipping company.

The number of emails containing a QR code has increased in the last few years, Schultz says. He notes that scammers have realized they're an effective way of sending a link to victims, because they can often bypass messaging security systems.

Though the volume of these messages is low compared to other phishing tactics, people unknowingly scan the QR codes and are redirected to a malicious site that captures their personal data, according to Cisco Talos' research.

Schultz says consumers can lower their risk of being phished by remaining skeptical and wary of unsolicited links and QR codes. If you don't know where the link or code will take you, don't click or scan it. Instead, Schultz recommends navigating directly to your desired site.

Fake charities

The San Francisco bureau of the FBI recently warned consumers about fake charities preying on people who want to make a difference during the holiday season.

It recommended being on the lookout for solicitations via phone, email, crowdfunding platforms, and social media. Additionally, people might be duped by copycats attempting to mimic a legitimate charity in order to steal the funds.

If you want to donate to a worthy cause or nonprofit, consider only doing so via the organization's official website, which matches any profile they may have on a platform like Charity Navigator or the Better Business Bureau's Wise Giving Alliance.

In general, if you think you've been the victim of a scam, the FBI recommends reporting it to law enforcement and to the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center.

SAVE $10: Spend $50 or more on eligible toys and games at Amazon and automatically save $10.

Eligible toys and games at Amazon Best board game deal Monopoly Wicked Edition Board Game $23.99 at Amazon (save $6) Get Deal Best Nerf deal Nerf Basketball Hoop Hamper $41.91 at Amazon (save $3.08) Get Deal Best deal for toddlers Melissa & Doug Get Well Doctor’s Kit Play Set $24.97 at Amazon (save $7.52) Get Deal

It's crunch time when it comes to shopping for holiday gifts. In order for them to arrive on time and get wrapped, they'll need to be heading your way soon. If you're still shopping for kiddos or anyone who likes board games, Amazon has a nice deal in store.

As of Dec. 11, spend $50 on toys and games at Amazon to save $10. To grab this deal, browse the selection of over 1,000 eligible items, add at least $50 worth to your cart, and the discount will automatically apply during checkout.

Here are some of our favorite picks eligible for the deal at Amazon. The items listed below are already on sale, but they'll be further discounted with the $10 off deal when you spend $50 or more.

Best board game deal Opens in a new window Credit: Hasbro Gaming Monopoly Wicked Edition Board Game $23.99 at Amazon
$29.99 Save $6.00 Get Deal Why we like it

Anyone who's been enamored by the Wicked film is bound to love the Monopoly Wicked Edition board game. This edition uses the classic Monopoly gameplay goals while adding in Wicked touches. You'll be passing by locations from the movie like Shiz University and Emerald City. Plus, the movie-themed tokens include options like Elphaba's Broom, Glinda's Crown, and the Grimmerie.

The game is designed for anyone ages 8 and up, and gameplay typically takes about 30 minutes.

Best Nerf deal Opens in a new window Credit: Nerf Nerf Basketball Hoop Hamper $41.91 at Amazon
$44.99 Save $3.08 Get Deal Why we like it

Almost any kid would be thrilled to have a Nerf playset in their bedrooms, but how about one that's pleasing for parents too? Enter the Nerf Basketball Hoop Hamper which gamifies tossing dirty clothes into the hamper. Conveniently attaching over a standard size door, the Nerf set doesn't need any tools for installation. The mini basketball hoop and attached hamper means kids can get enjoyment out of tossing dirty clothes into the hamper. Not only does this equal less work for the parents, it's a fun way to encourage kids to keep their room clean.

Come laundry day, the bottom of the hamper unzips, making it easy to take clothes to the washing machine.

Best deal for toddlers Opens in a new window Credit: Melissa & Doug Melissa & Doug Get Well Doctor’s Kit Play Set $24.97 at Amazon
$32.49 Save $7.52 Get Deal Why we like it

For the kids who say they want to be a doctor when they grow up, the Melissa & Doug Get Well Doctor’s Kit Play Set is perfect. While the set usually sells for $32.49, it's discounted at Amazon to just $24.97, which will get even lower once you spend $50 and save $10.

Known for their quality toys, the Melissa & Doug set includes 25 pieces to role-play doctor, like a stethoscope, otoscope, eye cover, and blood pressure cuff. The whole set can fit into the included medical-themed tote bag for easy clean-up and storage after playtime.

More eligible toys and games at Amazon

• Educational Insights GeoSafari Jr. Kidnoculars — $7.75 $14.99 (save $7.24)

• Bluey Figure 4-Pack — $14.88 $15.99 (save $1.11)

• Hatchimals Alive Rainbow Splash Egg Carton Toy — $15.99 $19.99 (save $4)

• OXO Tot Stand Up Bath Toy Storage — $22.49 $27.99 (save $5.50)

• Exploding Kittens Party Pack — $24.99 $29.99 (save $5)

• Melissa & Doug Let's Play House Dust! Sweep! Mop! — $30.09 $42.99 (save $12.90)

• Azul Board Game — $31.97 $39.99 (save $8.02)

• Barbie 31-inch Lenticular Skateboard — $31.99 $39.99 (save $8)

• Splendor Board Game — $31.99 $39.99 (save $8)

• Baby Einstein Sea Dreams Soother Musical Crib Toy and Sound Machine — $33.90 $39.99 (save $6.09)

• Ticket to Ride Board Game — $43.97 $54.99 (save $11.02)

SAVE $80 + FREE $20 GIFT CARD: As of Dec. 11, get a pair of Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro for $189.99 at Amazon. Plus, get a free $20 gift card upon purchase.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro with $20 Amazon Gift Card $189.99 at Amazon
$269.99 Save $80.00 Get Deal

If Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales came and went without you being able to secure a new pair of headphones, you've still got a chance to do so now. Getting a new pair can significantly improve how you listen to your favorite songs, so it's well worth investing. Amazon has a deal that you can take advantage of with plenty of time to get a new pair of earbuds before the holidays and for a great price.

As of Dec. 11, get a pair of Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro for $189.99, down from $269.99. That's $80 off its normal price, plus you get a free $20 Amazon gift card with purchase. This deal is valid through Dec. 22, so you've got plenty of time to take advantage of it.

SEE ALSO: Score the Samsung Galaxy Tab S10+ at its lowest-ever price after Cyber Monday

These buds are a great option for both iOS and Android users, so don't let the Samsung branding scare you off. They're lightweight and comfortable in-ear with a design similar to AirPods and offer active noise cancellation with Galaxy AI power, so they can automatically adapt to your surroundings. They can also help you converse with others in different languages as they have the Real-Time Interpreter feature powered by said Galaxy AI.

Control your buds with their on-board touch controls and use the adaptive equalizer to customize their sound to your liking. Whether you choose to enjoy your music, calls, or podcasts, you can fine-tune your audio to fit the situation. Even if you're just bopping to your favorite playlist, making the smallest adjustments can make a difference.

If you're looking for an easy gift for an audiophile or just want a quick upgrade for yourself, these buds are worth picking up, especially with an additional $20 credit.

SAVE UP TO 50%: As of Dec. 11, you can score up to 50% off select gaming headsets at Best Buy. Shop Razer, Sony, and more.

Best gaming headset deals as of Dec. 11: Best budget pick Razer BlackShark V2 X Wired Gaming Headset $39.99 (save $20 ) Get Deal Best wireless gaming headset deal Logitech G733 Lightspeed Wireless Gaming Headset (PC, PS5, PS4, Switch) $91.99 (save $58 ) Get Deal Best earbud-style gaming headset Sony PULSE Explore Wireless Gaming Earbuds (PS5) $169.99 (save $30 ) Get Deal

If you have a gamer on your holiday gift list, or you’re looking to upgrade your own gaming setup, Best Buy has some pretty sweet deals on gaming headsets this week.

SEE ALSO: The best gaming laptop deals up for grabs before the holidays: Shop Alienware, Acer, and more

As of Dec. 11, you can score up to 50% off select gaming headsets from top brands like Razer, Sony, and Logitech. Shop wireless, wired, or earbud-style options depending on your setup and preferences.

Here are our top picks from the sale:

Best budget pick Opens in a new window Credit: Razer Razer BlackShark V2 X Wired Gaming Headset (PC, PS5, PS4, Switch, Xbox, X|S, Xbox One) $39.99 at Best Buy
$59.99 Save $20.00 Get Deal Why we like it

The Razer BlackShark V2 X Wired Gaming Headset (PC, PS5, PS4, Switch, Xbox, X|S, Xbox One) is a steal at just $39.99. This headset delivers stereo surround 7.1 sound with 50mm drivers for a richer, more immersive audio experience. The only con for some users could be that it's wired.

At just 240g, it's lightweight and comfortable to wear for long gaming sessions. Plus, the built-in HyperClear Cardioid Mic is designed to pick up your voice and filter out background noise.

Best wireless gaming headset deal Opens in a new window Credit: Logitech Logitech G733 Lightspeed Wireless Gaming Headset (PC, PS5, PS4, Switch) $91.99 at Best Buy
$149.99 Save $58.00 Get Deal Why we like it

If you prefer to be untethered while gaming, the Logitech G733 Lightspeed Wireless Gaming Headset (PC, PS5, PS4, Switch) is on sale for $91.99, down from $149.99. That’s a $58 discount.

This wireless headset comes in multiple colors, including lilac and bright blue, and features customizable RGB lighting with ~16.8 million color options. (You can also create your own color themes with G Hub software.)

The PRO-G drivers are designed to reduce distortion for clear audio quality. You’ll also get up to 66 feet of range and up to 29 hours of battery per charge.

Best earbud-style gaming headset Opens in a new window Credit: Sony Sony PULSE Explore Wireless Gaming Earbuds (PS5) $169.99 at Best Buy
$199.99 Save $30.00 Get Deal Why we like it

The Sony PULSE Explore Wireless Gaming Earbuds (PS5) are a compact, on-the-go option for $169.99, down from $199.99.

These Bluetooth-enabled earbuds feature AI-enhanced noise rejection for clear in-game communication via the built-in microphone. They have a decent battery life — you'll get around 10 hours with the case. And, whenever you’re not gaming, you can use them to take calls or listen to music.

Every year brings tons of new apps and games to Apple's app ecosystem. Now, the mothership itself has graced us with its list of the very best ones from 2024.

Apple released its 2024 App Store awards list on Wednesday. The list honors everything from everyday accessibility apps to games and even device-specific apps. It has 17 honors for the best app developers of the year.

Let's not waste any more time. Here are the App Store award winners for 2024.

SEE ALSO: The 10 best video games you may have missed in 2024 Apple App Store award winners for 2024

Here are all the apps Apple decided to honor this year.

• iPhone app of the year: Kino

• iPad app of the year: Moises

• Mac App of the Year: Adobe Lightroom

• Apple Vision Pro App of the Year: What If…? An Immersive Story

• Apple Watch App of the Year: Lumy

• Apple TV App of the Year: F1 TV

And here are Apple's best games of the year.

• iPhone Game of the Year: AFK Journey

• iPad Game of the Year: Squad Busters

• Mac Game of the Year: Thank Goodness You’re Here!

• Apple Vision Pro Game of the Year: THRASHER: Arcade Odyssey

On top of that, here are some apps Apple recognized for their cultural impact:

• Oko, a navigation app for low-vision users

• EF Hello, an app for people trying to learn new languages

• DailyArt, an app for, well, looking at art

• NYT Games, which you're probably already familiar with

• The Wreck, a narrative visual novel

• Do You Really Want to Know 2, a game about living with HIV

Not to be outdone by OpenAI's Sora drop, Google just released its new AI model Gemini 2.0.

On Wednesday, Google introduced Gemini 2.0 Flash, the first family member of the next generation of AI models. Gemini 2.0 Flash is described in the announcement as a "workhorse model" for developers, capable of powerful performance at scale. Flash supports image and audio generation, has native integration with Google Search, can write code, and works with third-party apps. Alongside the Gemini 2.0 Flash announcement, Google also introduced Deep Research, a Gemini feature that browses the web and compiles research reports based on the initial prompt.

Gemini 2.0 Flash is a step up from Gemini 1.0 in that has improved reasoning, longer context windows, ability to understand complex instructions, and native tool use — all of which has been designed to make the model more agentic, in other words capable of executing multi-step tasks on the user's behalf.

As part of this, Google said Gemini 2.0 would be available for Project Astra, a research prototype for testing a universal AI assistant. Google also shared other research prototypes: Project Mariner, which is specifically designed to explore "human-agent interaction," and Project Jules for developers.

SEE ALSO: Google adds Deep Research to Gemini for browsing the web on your behalf

Gemini 2.0 Flash is available as an "experimental model" via the Gemini API which can be accessed in Google AI Studio and Vertex AI. But casual users can also try out its improved chat capabilities in the Gemini desktop app, with mobile app support coming soon.

Check out the best Amazon deals of the day as of Dec. 11: OUR TOP PICK Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 4 $59.99 (save $40) Get Deal BEST SMARTHOME DEAL Amazon Echo Spot $44.99 (save $35) Get Deal BEST TABLET DEAL Apple iPad, 10th generation (64GB, WiFi) $279 (save $70) Get Deal BEST OUTDOOR DEAL Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 with Stand $197.99 (save $102 with on-page promotion) Get Deal BEST DEAL FOR KIDS Kindle Paperwhite Kids $144.99 (save $35) Get Deal

We're exactly two weeks away from Santa sliding down the chimney, so it's time to check off your shopping list. If you're on a bit of a budget this year, there's plenty of deals on gadgets and gizmos from major brands at Amazon (think Apple, Solo Stove, and Kindle). To help you on your mission, we've rounded up some of the best deals we could find on Dec. 11.

Here are our top picks for the best Amazon deals of the day. If none of these catch your eye, check out our picks from Dec. 9 and Dec. 10 as well. Many of those are still live, including a 71% price drop on the Amazon Echo Buds with active noise cancellation and a $100 Lyft gift card for only $85.

Our top pick: Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 4 Opens in a new window Credit: Ultimate Ears Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 4 $59.99 at Amazon
$99.99 Save $40.00 Get Deal

Last week, we featured the Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 4 as one of our best Amazon deals of the day when it was on sale for $79.99. This week, it's $20 cheaper and our top pick. This tiny powerhouse is our favorite sub-$100 Bluetooth speaker for its well-rounded sound profile that wows for a speaker of its size. It's also got an impressive battery life of 14 hours and a rugged design that can handle drops from up to five feet and be dunked in water for up to 30 minutes. Slash 40% off as of Dec. 11 and pick up the fourth-generation speaker for only $59.99 at Amazon. That's the lowest price it's ever been.

Amazon Echo Spot Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Echo Spot $44.99 at Amazon
$79.99 Save $35.00 Get Deal

The newest gadget in the Amazon Echo lineup, the Echo Spot is a basically a fancy alarm clock designed to sit atop your nightstand. It can help you wake up and wind down with smart features. Control your smart devices with your voice, ask for the weather, play your favorite morning tunes or white noise to fall asleep, and of course, set alarms. And don't worry, there's no integrated camera watching you sleep. Usually $79.99, it's on sale for just $44.99 as of Dec. 11. That's 44% in savings and matches its best price ever.

Apple iPad, 10th generation Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPad, 10th generation (64GB, WiFi) $279.00 at Amazon
$349.00 Save $70.00 Get Deal

The 10th generation iPad may not be the fanciest iPad in the Apple ecosystem, but it's the most affordable current model — and that certainly matters for something. It offers a powerful A14 Bionic chip, a Liquid Retina display, and comes in a variety of colors. However, only the silver option is left in stock at the time of writing. In our best iPad roundup, Mashable shopping reporter Sam Mangino writes, "It's perfect for someone who wants a portable screen for streaming, playing games, and reading. It's also a nice choice if you're interested in using your tablet as a laptop but don't want to spend a ton of money." Usually $349, it's on sale for just $279 as of Dec. 11. That's 20% in savings and just $20 shy of its record-low.

Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 with Stand Opens in a new window Credit: Solo Stove Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 with Stand $197.99 at Amazon
$299.99 Save $102.00 with on-page promotion Get Deal

Ideal for intimate hangs with friends this season, the Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 is designed with smokeless 360-degree airflow for four to six people to enjoy. Weighing in at about 22 pounds, it's also portable, making it ideal for camping trips and tailgates as well as backyard gatherings. The Bonfire 2.0 bundled with a stand is usually $299.99, but it's on sale at Amazon for just $197.99 with an on-page promotion. Just click "Redeem" next to the promo to apply it to your cart.

Kindle Paperwhite Kids Opens in a new window Credit: Kindle Kindle Paperwhite Kids $144.99 at Amazon
$179.99 Save $35.00 Get Deal

A step up from the basic Kindle Kids, the Kindle Paperwhite Kids is our favorite option for little readers. The newest version, released in October, comes in its thinnest, fastest form yet — and in a variety of new designs. The seven-inch display also packs a higher contrast ratio and 25 percent faster page turns. Otherwise, it's still the Paperwhite Kids we know and love, with a waterproof build, two-year worry-free guarantee, and six months of Amazon Kids+ included. It's usually $179.99, which we find to be a bit steep, but as of Dec. 11, it's down to $144.99 at Amazon. That's just shy of 20% in savings.

None of these deals catching your eye? Check out Amazon's daily deals for even more savings.

A federal bankruptcy judge has rejected The Onion’s unexpected effort to acquire the conspiracy-laden media outlet InfoWars from its founder, Alex Jones. The judge cited concerns that the satirical news site's winning bid drastically undervalued the property.

SEE ALSO: Yes, The Onion really bought Alex Jones' InfoWars

The Onion, owned by media conglomerate Global Tetrahedron, snagged auction rights to InfoWars last month with a sealed bid totaling roughly $1.7 million in cash and an additional noncash component that brought the offer closer to $7 million. That figure still fell short of a competing $3.5 million bid from Jones’ associates at First United American Companies, which helps market the supplements frequently advertised on InfoWars.

However, after reviewing the numbers, U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Christopher Lopez said even the higher offer might not have been enough. In a ruling that tossed out The Onion’s attempt to finalize the deal, Lopez made it clear that InfoWars could command a bigger payout.

"I don’t think it’s enough money," Lopez said in his ruling. "I’m not going to approve the sale… I think you’ve got to go out and try to get every dollar. I think that the process fell down."

In the fallout of a colossal $1.2 billion defamation judgment by families of the Sandy Hook shooting victims, Alex Jones has been forced into bankruptcy, and his signature platform, InfoWars, has landed on the auction block. But following a judge’s decision to reject The Onion’s bid — one initially expected to clinch the deal — Jones might be getting a shot at retaking control.

Ben Collins, the former disinformation reporter now heading Global Tetrahedron, isn't giving up. In a post on X, he vowed to keep chasing InfoWars, declaring that he'll "seek a path towards purchasing InfoWars in the coming weeks."

For now, though, the entire process is stuck in a holding pattern. Lopez handed the keys back to the court-appointed trustee, Christopher Murray, faulting him for mishandling the previous auction. Murray must now figure out a new game plan to sell off InfoWars.

SAVE $5: Etsy orders of $30 or more are eligible for a $5 discount when you use checkout code LASTCHANCE24.

Opens in a new window Credit: Etsy Save $5 on orders of $30+ use code LASTCHANCE24 Get Deal

Gifting is hard work, especially if you're shopping for people who have everything. It's also nearly impossible to shop for that friend who says they like something and buys it immediately after saying so. But have no fear because there's a great retailer that has something unique and thoughtful for everyone. And thanks to this last-minute shopping deal, you'll save $5 on your purchase.

Shop Etsy for holiday gifts and save $5 on any purchase of $30 or more when using code LASTCHANCE24. But you'll need to hurry because this promo code expires at 11:59 pm ET tonight, Dec. 11.

Etsy is packed with creative gifts that have a handmade touch. The Etsy list of sellers includes over 9 million creative entrepreneurs worldwide. To find the perfect gifts this holiday season, check out the selection of one-of-a-kind jewelry, thoughtful toys and games, or get a personalized gift that will be enjoyed for years to come.

If you're totally stumped on what to gift, Etsy has a really cool gift finder mode that allows you to browse based on interests or by selecting who you're shopping for.

And it's not too late to be shopping at Etsy because plenty of shopfronts are still packed with gifts that'll arrive before Dec. 25, and some even come with free shipping.

If you're still struggling with finding the perfect holiday gift, check out the massive selection of thoughtful options at Etsy. Choose your items tonight before midnight ET and use code LASTCHANCE24 to save $5 on any order of $30 or more.

FREE $5 TIP: As of Dec. 11, thank your Amazon delivery driver with a $5 tip at no cost to you. This offer is available for customers up to the first 2 million "thank you" requests. After that, your "thank you" notes will still be sent, but tips will no longer be.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Tip your Amazon driver Get Deal

Amazon delivery drivers have a lot to handle. They work to get your packages to you on time so you don't have to be empty-handed during the holidays. And they do it through the wind, sleet, and snow – kind of like the Postal Service. But it can be a thankless job, getting you all your doodads and your gifts. So why not thank your Amazon driver with a $5 tip courtesy of Amazon?

As of Dec. 11, Amazon will award the first 2 million drivers who receive "thank you" requests from customers with a $5 tip per delivery. You're limited to sending one tip per delivery, and all you have to do is click a button. Your gratitude will be shared, and your driver will get a quick monetary token of your appreciation.

All you have to do is head over to this page and click the button that says "Thank my driver" or use any Alexa-enabled device. Say "Alexa, thank my driver" and you'll be able to thank those veritable Amazon heroes for your most recent delivery from over the past 14 years.

Orders beyond your 14-day window won't be eligible to tip, and you can't send multiple $5 tips to the same driver over and over. But this is such a small, easy gesture to show your thanks, and well worth getting in on while there's still some cash floating around on Amazon's part.

Head on over, press the button, and share the love. Your drivers don't get enough of it.

SAVE $100: As of Dec. 11, Target is offering up to $100 off Apple products. Shop iPads, Apple Watches, and more.

Best Apple deals as of Dec. 11: Best deal overall 10.9-inch Apple iPad (WiFi, 10th Gen, 2022) $279.99 (save $70) Get Deal Best Apple Watch deal Apple Watch Series 9 (41mm, GPS) $299.99 (save $100 ) Get Deal Best accessory deal Apple 35W Dual USB-C Port Compact Power Adapter $39.99 (save $20 ) Get Deal

If you’re still looking to fill some gaps on your holiday gift list, Target has a pretty good sale going on right now that could be worth a look.

SEE ALSO: The perfect stocking stuffer for Apple Watch lovers

As of Dec. 11, you can get up to $100 off Apple products at Target. Shop discounts on iPads, Apple Watches, and accessories like the Apple Pencil. Whether you’re buying for a tech-savvy friend, need something else to pop in a stocking, or are just looking to treat yourself, this could be an opportune time to scoop up some Apple gear for less.

Here are the best deals we could find:

Best deal overall Opens in a new window Credit: Apple 10.9-inch Apple iPad (64GB, WiFi, 10th Gen, 2022) $279.99 at Target
$349.99 Save $70.00 Get Deal Why we like it

You can score a 10.9-inch Apple iPad (64GB, WiFi, 10th Gen, 2022) for just $279.99 at Target. That’s a 20% discount and $70 off the list price.

This iPad is available in blue, pink, yellow, and silver, so there are some fun color options. It has a 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display with True Tone and an A14 Bionic chip, which provides fast performance for browsing the web, streaming shows, or running apps.

With an all-day battery life, Apple Pencil (1st Gen) and Magic Keyboard Folio compatibility, and iPadOS 16, this tablet is built to handle everything from school work to creative projects.

Best Apple Watch deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple Watch Series 9 (41mm, GPS) $299.99 at Target
$399.99 Save $100.00 Get Deal Why we like it

The Apple Watch Series 9 (41mm, GPS) is on sale for $299.99, down $100 from the sticker price of $399.99.

This watch comes in a variety of colors, but not all stores may have every option in stock. It has an S9 chip and tons of features like GPS, fall and crash detection, workout tracking, and heart rate monitoring. It’s also IP6X-certified against dust and swim-proof up to 50 meters.

Plus, it comes with one year of hardware repair coverage through the Apple Limited Warranty.

Best accessory deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple 35W Dual USB-C Port Compact Power Adapter $39.99 at Target
$59.99 Save $20.00 Get Deal Why we like it

Plenty of Apple accessories are on sale right now, including the Apple 35W Dual USB-C Port Compact Power Adapter. It's normally $59.99 but is marked down to $39.99 at Target, so you're saving $20.

This power adapter has two USB-C ports, so you can charge two devices (e.g., MacBook Air, iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, or AirPods) at the same time.

TAKE 25% OFF: Use code HELLO2025 to get 25% off the base fare of JetBlue flights that take off between Jan. 7 and April 2, 2025 excluding a few blackout dates. Book by 11:59pm ET on Dec. 11.

Opens in a new window Credit: JetBlue Save 25% on JetBlue flights use code HELLO25 Get Deal

Hard to believe it, but we only less than three weeks left in 2024. If you can't wait for a fresh start, this might be an awesome realization. But looking back, one thing was certain in 2024 —the cost of travel was pretty hard to swallow. If you're looking to kick off 2025 in style with a vacation that doesn't cost a small fortune, check out this great deal from JetBlue.

Until 11:59pm ET tonight (Dec. 11) use code HELLO2025 when booking at JetBlue to take 25% off the base fare of non-stop flights. You'll need to be booking travel that takes place between Jan. 7 and April 2, 2025 to score this discount, excluding flights that take off on Fridays and Sundays. You'll also need to avoid the blackout period of Feb. 15 to 22.

For those who have getaway plans in the first several months of 2025, this JetBlue deal could save you hundreds of dollars. JetBlue's list of destinations is expansive, covering the entire continental U.S. which includes some great holiday destinations. Head to Denver for some winter skiing, Phoenix to get out of the cold, or New York to take in the best that Broadway has to offer.

SEE ALSO: The 5 best Bluetooth trackers for travel and lost luggage

The deal also extends to JetBlue flights in Mexico, Ecuador, and the tropical paradise of the Caribbean. Just keep in mind this deal excludes JetBlue flights take take you over the Atlantic to the carrier's European destinations.

This deal is the perfect excuse to get some friends together for a long weekend away, finally make it back home to visit family, or take the opportunity to head somewhere entirely new.

While you're planning the beginning of 2025, hop on this JetBlue flight deal that'll shave 25% off the base fare. But hurry because this deal ends tonight at 11:59 ET.

The experimental tool can browse spreadsheets, shopping sites and other services, before taking action on behalf of the computer user.

A new Google Gemini tool can do the work of researching the web for you.

On Wednesday, Google announced Deep Research, a feature for the paid version of its AI model, Gemini Advanced, which acts as a sort of AI research assistant. When using Deep Research mode in the dropdown, users can ask Gemini for help with research topics like grad school programs or a competitive industry analysis and Deep Research will compile a detailed report of what it has found on the web.

SEE ALSO: Anthropic releases AI tool that can take over your cursor

"It's these kinds of journeys where you're going to have to open many tabs and spend quite a lot of time hunting for information, and we really wanted to help speed up the process of going from like zero to 60 in a new topic, fast," said Gemini Senior Product Manager Aarush Selvan, during a demo for Mashable.

Google's Deep Research tool is indicative of the next phase of generative AI where models can execute multi-step tasks on the user's behalf. Anthropic's Claude has a programming feature that can take over your cursor and conduct computing tasks like clicking and typing. Microsoft recently released its Copilot Vision feature which visually processes what the user sees on the Edge browser to help with comparison shopping or research. OpenAI is rumored to be releasing an AI agent for coding and web browsing. Google is also reportedly working on a Chrome feature for similar web-browsing capabilities. All of these features have agentic AI properties that push generative AI towards autonomous behavior.

Deep Research starts by outlining a research plan for how it's going to compile information – genAI's way of showing its work. When you hit start, it gets to work browsing the web on your behalf and finding relevant information. Once it's finished, the new report opens up in a new canvas that shows citations that you can click into. You can also ask follow up questions or ask for specific edits like adding new sections of information. Plus, you can open the report in Google Docs, which is a useful perk.

Via Giphy

The feature works off of the existing Google Search architecture. So it's essentially doing a bunch of googling for you and compiling what you might have found on the web — just way faster. Since it leans on Google Search, Deep Research also inherits its rules around restricted or banned content, so it won't read adult sites or sites that violate its policies said Selvan.

Selvan also explained that Deep Research can't access websites that require a login, like many social media sites, and also can't bypass paywalled sites. When asked about how the feature responds to sites that block web crawlers, a spokesperson said, "Deep Research currently will not use any URLs opted out via Google-Extended to generate the research reports." Google-extended is the web crawler that Gemini uses to scrape sites for training data.

Deep Research is live today for Gemini Advanced, which costs $20 a month.