Feed aggregator

Sinners review: Ryan Coogler and Michael B. Jordan deliver a vampire movie for the ages

Mashable - Thu, 04/10/2025 - 12:00

Fruitvale Station. Creed. Black Panther. Together, Ryan Coogler and Michael B. Jordan have built a cinema collaboration transcending genre. They've leaped from heart-wrenching biographical drama to soul-warming sports drama to a politically daring superhero movie that is undoubtedly the best the MCU has produced. Now, they reunite for a vampire movie with Sinners, and not only make one of the greatest vampire horror movies ever made, but also easily one of the best movies of the year.

Written and directed by Coogler, Sinners re-imagines vampires, making them a uniquely American monster and, moreover, reflective of his experience as a Black artist operating in a society in which white men often have control over the financing of art. And though the film has a literal preacher, Sinners is not preachy. It's poignant, provocative, and profound. It's also scary, funny, and it will fuck you up.  I laughed. I gasped. I screamed, and I wept. Let's get into why.

Michael B. Jordan plays beguiling gangster twins in Sinners.  Michael B. Jordan plays twins Smoke and Stack in "Sinners." Credit: Warner Bros. Pictures

Following Mickey 17 and Alto Knights, Sinners is curiously the third movie Warner Bros. has released in 2025 that features an A-list actor playing two roles. In Sinners, Michael B. Jordan plays both of the Smokestack Twins. Nicknamed Smoke and Stack, they were born and raised in Clarksdale, Mississippi, but made bank up in Chicago, where, according to the rumors, they worked for Al Capone. Seven years later, it's 1932, and the twins are back in town and fixing to found a juke joint "for us, by us," as Stack puts it.

Mostly set in one 24-hour period, Sinners follows Smoke, Stack, and their awestruck cousin Samuel (Miles Canton, terrific in his debut role), who dreams of playing the blues, as the twins prepare for opening night. That means buying a local mill to house their juke joint and building a crew to run the bar, fry the catfish, play music, and guard the door. Within the rollicking excitement of this first act, Coogler creates a vivid world of complicated relationships, love, loss, lust, and Hoodoo. Meanwhile, Jordan gives not just the performance of his career, but two of them. 

SEE ALSO: The 21 best TV shows by Black creators on Netflix

At first sight, the twins are easy to tell apart: Smoke wears blue and Stack favors red. But even without this sartorial visual cue, they are instantly distinctive because of Jordan's firm grasp on their differences. The planner, Smoke, is rigid, standing tall and firm, his tone crisp and serious, even when he's cajoling his former lover, Hoodoo conjurer Annie (a radiant Wunmi Mosaku), into helping him out one more time. Meanwhile, Stack's posture is suavely relaxed, his attitude devil-may-care. His red fedora suggests he's a romantic rogue, as does the snarling unplanned reunion with his ex, Mary (a ferocious Hailee Steinfeld), who may be married to a rich, white farmer, but won't be ignored.

With seamless compositing and visual effects, Coogler knits Jordan's two performances into a series of face-offs as the brothers disagree over little things — like whether to accept wooden nickels from cash-strapped clientele or what to do about some unexpected guests to their opening night. Every step along the way, Coogler and Jordan are elegant in building the Smokestack Twins' world, rich with friends, family, and charismatic characters, like a happily drunken harmonica player called Delta Slim (a sublime Delroy Lindo). Their world building is so enveloping that I began to wish Sinners were a series instead of a movie, just so I could spend more time with them before their community is ripped apart by supernatural fangs. 

Sinners vampire seeks not just blood, but souls and music.  Michael B. Jordan and Miles Canton embrace in "Sinners." Credit: Warner Bros. Pictures

By the time the vampire comes careening into Sinners, you might have forgotten it's a horror story at all. Sure, a bloody opening scene promises that preacher's son Samuel will come through a horrid event. But the world of Sinners is so grounded in the rigorous rationale of Smoke and Stack that an immortal bloodsucker nearly seems out of place. This is keenly scripted by Coogler, because we, like the twins, might build our lives with all we understand to ignore the threats we don't — doing so at our own peril. 

This is the twins' world, but it is Samuel's story. His gift of playing the blues, weaving compelling tales as he sings his heart out while playing his gorgeous guitar, is a magical power. In a solemn, soulful voiceover at the film's start, a narrator connects this sacred tradition across cultures, including Western Africa, explaining that such artists can heal their communities through song, but also that their talent attracts evil.

Indeed, a white vampire named Remmick (a hauntingly creepy Jack O'Connell), who begins his coven with a couple of Ku Klux Klan members, is drawn to the juke joint's opening night by Samuel's music. This creative cousin's song is so powerful that it transcends time, which Coogler displays in a heady musical number.

SEE ALSO: 25 of the best movies by Black creators to watch on Netflix now

As Samuel plays his guitar and sings, dancers and singers across Black culture appear in the juke joint. Alongside the revelers in their 1930s attire pops up a '70s funk guitarist with an afro, rocking out while an '80s breakdancer busts a move in a sharp sweatsuit. A DJ spins records and spits bars as fly girls twerk alongside West African tribespeople, bedecked in shells, beads, and ceremonial masks. It's a glorious celebration of Black culture, rallying under one roof. And the vampires want in or — as a vision overlays the wooden structure — to burn it all down.

Their attacks will be manipulative, using the language of "fellowship." But it's ultimately the promise of money that gives them an opening. Like many movie bloodsuckers who've come before, Coogler's vampires are averse to garlic and must be invited inside to enter a building. But beyond blood, Coogler's creatures are carnivorous of the very spirit of their victims, adding their memories to a hive mind controlled by their master Remmick. He taunts the twins that he can see the memories of all he eats, and that if he gets Samuel in his clutches, those songs will be his.

This spiritual cannibalization deepens the horror of Sinners. On a surface level, Coogler satisfies on vampire carnage. His monsters boast gnarly fangs, glowing red eyes, and an invincibility that means they can be shot, stabbed, and bleeding out yet still cackle and run away — or even dance.

In sequences of vampire ambush, Black Panther editor Michael P. Shawver builds tension by cutting from outside the mill, where the monsters lurk, to an inside moment of human revelry. The blow the monsters strike will not be shown. In denying us the view of the hit, we are robbed of the relief of its conclusion; instead, our anxiety worsens as we wonder what else is coming. The violence these stalking vampires do will be grisly, leaving gaping wounds in necks and jaws. Yet it is the threat of their cannibalizing Samuel's music — and thereby Black culture — for their insatiable conquest that is the most rattling. 

Sinners is a stupendous and scary movie. Michael B. Jordan readies for war in "Sinners." Credit: Warner Bros. Pictures

For those with no interest in subtext, Sinners can function as a solidly scary vampire movie in the vein of Robert Rodriguez and Quentin Tarantino's From Dusk Till Dawn, which also featured brothers trapped overnight in a club by ravenous vampires. Coogler's riff on that idea is enriched by the period drama that is the first act, building intrigue with the Smokestack Twins' notorious reputation, the tension over Samuel's desire to chase the music despite his preacher father's warning that it's the devil's journey, and the women who want these men, despite the obstacles of reputation, racism, and husbands. Then, the heart-pumping music that plays within the film, sung by heroes and villains alike, brings a greater resonance to its drama and horror.

Moving deeper into the movie's meaning, it's easy to imagine that Coogler and Jordan are reflecting, through the lens of horror, their own experiences in Hollywood. Together, they've made five films, including Creed III, which Jordan directed; each one centered on Black heroes and Black culture. Like the twins and Samuel, they are building something for their community, by their community. And they are doing so in an industry in which Black characters have long been denied the spotlight by a studio system run predominantly by white men.

Take for example, Coogler and Jordan's Black Panther, the box office smash that finally put a Black hero in the lead, casting the late Chadwick Boseman, but only after 17 MCU films preceded it. For Sinners to focus on a blues musician reflects the historical cannibalization of Black culture within American art, particularly in music. The birth of rock n' roll is often credited to Elvis, but his inspirations were Little Richard, Fats Domino, and Big Mama Thornton. More recently, though Black artists pioneered the genres of hip hop and rap, a series of controversies — involving Macklemore and Kendrick Lamar, Miley Cyrus and Nicki Minaj — have centered on how white performers seem to have a critical advantage in this space, often getting Grammy notice over their Black peers or influences.

This reality plays into Remmick's hunger and the symbolism of the gold coins that he carries as a lure. Just let him in, and the gold is yours. But through Sinners, Coogler and Jordan warn the true cost of such a Faustian deal could be your creative soul. This rich white man views them not as artists, but as commodities to be acquired, not treasured.

In that, Sinners is more than a hell of a thrilling vampire movie. Like Black Panther, it expands beyond the expectations of its genre to become a magnificent film, emanating with spirit, power, and purpose. Smoothly blending vampire horror into a unique tale of regret, resilience, and redemption, Coogler and Jordan have made a cinematic marvel that is terrifying, satisfying, and unforgettable. 

Sinners opens in theaters and IMAX on April 18.

Want to avoid tariff price hikes? Shop our giant list of 91 refurbished tech deals.

Mashable - Thu, 04/10/2025 - 11:52
The best refurbished tech deals of April 2025: Best refurbished Amazon device deal Like-New Fire TV Stick $17.99 (save $17) Get Deal Best refurbished Apple device deal Refurbished Apple MacBook Pro, 14-inch (M4, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) $1,359 (save $240) Get Deal Best refurbished Dyson device deal Refurbished Dyson V15 Detect Total Clean Extra $399.99 (save $200) Get Deal Best refurbished Samsung device deal Geek Squad Certified Refurbished Samsung Galaxy S24+ (256GB) $699.99 (save $300) Get Deal Best refurbished gaming console deal Nintendo Switch (Refurbished) $259.99 (save $40) Get Deal

Buying refurbished is an excellent way to save on tech. That's true even when historic tariffs aren't threatening to raise prices on brand-new devices. (As an added bonus, you're also diverting still-usable products from a landfill.)

Refurbished devices are effectively immune from the recent price hikes triggered by President Donald Trump's tariffs on imported goods since they're already made and readily available. That could change if current-generation prices get so high that secondhand demand skyrockets, or if trade-in inventories dwindle as consumers hold onto their existing devices for longer. For now, there are still plenty of refurbished deals on tech gadgets, including popular laptops, smartphones, earbuds, smartwatches, gaming consoles, and vacuums.

SEE ALSO: Trump tariff news: iPhones getting snapped up, laptop sales disrupted – what we know

Read on for the Mashable Shopping team's running list of the best refurbished tech deals as of April 10. The U.S. tariff drama isn't ending anytime soon, so we plan on updating this guide every week.

How will President Trump’s tariffs affect you? Keep checking Mashable for our latest tariff news and explainers, from delayed Nintendo Switch 2 preorders to reports of iPhone 16 panic buying.

Refurbished Amazon device dealseero mesh WiFi routersFire tabletsFire TVs and media playersRefurbished Apple device dealsAirPodsApple accessoriesApple WatchesiMacsiPadsiPhonesMacsMacBooksRefurbished Dyson device dealsDyson air purifiersDyson beauty techDyson vacuumsRefurbished Samsung device dealsGalaxy BudsGalaxy phonesGalaxy WatchesRefurbished gaming console dealsNintendo SwitchPlayStationXbox

Here we go again: Rumor points to foldable iPads and iPhones coming in 2026

Mashable - Thu, 04/10/2025 - 11:46

It's time for yet another foldable Apple device rumor.

This one comes courtesy of analyst Jeff Pu, who said in a new research note seen by 9to5Mac that Apple is planning on mass producing not one but two foldable devices in late 2026. Specifically, Apple will allegedly sell a 7.8-inch foldable iPhone and an 18.8-inch foldable iPad.

You'd be wise to take this prediction with a grain of salt, not because Pu's credibility is in question (it's not), but because we've heard this many times before. We were hearing all the way back in 2021 that Apple would launch a foldable iPhone in 2023, and that didn't happen. Interestingly, there's also a recent contradictory Bloomberg report from Mark Gurman, a prominent Apple prognosticator, saying the foldable iPad is coming in 2028.

SEE ALSO: Apple, Dell, and Microsoft among tech companies rushing product shipments ahead of tariff deadline, report says

There is a chance a foldable iPhone could launch in 2026, as Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo recently said that is when Apple could start selling its long-rumored foldable. Kuo also said that prices could be as high as $2,000, and he didn't say anything about a folding tablet. Gurman has also stated he expects a foldable iPhone to go on sale in 2026. So far, Pu is alone in predicting a 2026 launch for the foldable iPad. That doesn't necessarily mean he's wrong, of course, but it does mean that someone is wrong.

Samsung has had a lot of success with its recent foldable devices, and Google hopped back into the fray with the Pixel 9 Pro Fold last year. That makes Apple the biggest phone manufacturer in the U.S. without a foldable device in its portfolio. Maybe in 18 months it will have one, or two, or zero.

Get a lifetime license for Microsoft Office Pro for just A$49

Mashable - Thu, 04/10/2025 - 11:37

TL;DR: Outfit your PC with a license for Microsoft Office Professional Plus 2019 for Windows for just A$49 (reg. A$374) through 27 April. 

Opens in a new window Credit: Microsoft Microsoft Office Professional Plus 2019 for Windows AU$49
AU$374 Save AU$325 Get Deal

When something has serious staying power, you know it's good. And what's been around longer in the computer world than Microsoft Office? These go-to programs got us through school in the '90s and '00s, and they're still helping us tackle our 9-to-5s today. 

Rediscover the power of these beloved apps with this Microsoft Office Professional Plus 2019 for Windows license. It's just A$49, A$325 off the usual price, now through 27 April. 

These Microsoft Office apps have always been there for us

If you've been living without Microsoft Office staples, you're in luck. You can rekindle your love for these classics with this Microsoft Office Professional Plus 2019 license for less than $5 an app.

You'll get lifetime access to Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote, Publisher and Access on your PC with this deal. It's an instant delivery and download, so right after purchase, you'll have your software license keys and download links to get started.

Wondering why you would want to go vintage with this 2019 version? Though it's not the newest, it's the most cost-effective. By owning your license, you avoid monthly subscription fees that Office 365 requires.

You can also easily work offline, a great option for those who spend a lot of time traveling. And there's no reliance on the cloud, offering better security and more control over your data.

Despite being an older version, all documents made with Office 19 are fully compatible with Office 365 and Office 2021. 

This Microsoft Office Professional Plus 2019 license is compatible with Windows 10 and Windows Server 2019, so it's a great option if you haven't yet moved to Windows 11. 

Secure your own license for Microsoft Office Professional Plus 2019 for Windows for just A$49 now through 27 April. 

StackSocial prices subject to change.

The Windows 95 reboot sound (yes, that chime) is officially historic

Mashable - Thu, 04/10/2025 - 11:33

The Windows sound — yes, that Windows sound — is now officially historic.

The United States Library of Congress this week added the Windows 95 reboot sound to its National Recording Registry (NRR). The sound you're thinking of is the soft chime jingle that's oddly calming.

The sound was actually created by Brian Eno, a legendary artist and producer. It was inducted alongside several other famous songs and sounds, including “My Heart Will Go On,” a recording of Hamilton, and Elton John's album Goodbye Yellow Brick Road.

“These are the sounds of America — our wide-ranging history and culture. The National Recording Registry is our evolving nation’s playlist,” Librarian of Congress Carla Hayden said in a statement. “The Library of Congress is proud and honored to select these audio treasures worthy of preservation, including iconic music across a variety of genres, field recordings, sports history, and even the sounds of our daily lives with technology.”

So that Windows reboot chime you heard back in the day — maybe with your first computer — is a bit of American culture that will be forever preserved.

Amazon deal of the day: The Fitbit Google Ace LTE is down to its lowest price on record

Mashable - Thu, 04/10/2025 - 11:30
Check out the best Amazon deals of the day as of April 10: OUR TOP PICK Fitbit Google Ace LTE $149.95 (save $30) Get Deal BEST SOUNDBAR DEAL Roku TV Wireless Soundbar $99.99 (save $50) Get Deal BEST HOME DEAL AeroGarden Harvest Elite Indoor Garden System $57.17 (save $62.82) Get Deal BEST TABLET DEAL Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids Pro $139.99 (save $50) Get Deal BEST VACUUM DEAL Bissell Cleanview XR Pet Cordless Vacuum $179 (save $50) Get Deal

While we don't encourage panic-buying (re: tariffs), we do think it's a good idea to grab tech at discounts while you can. And there's still plenty of them, despite being a week and a half out from the Amazon Big Spring Sale. We've done some digging and gathered a handful of deals we think are worth grabbing on April 10.

Here are our top picks for the best Amazon deals of the day. If none of these are catching your eye, be sure to check out our selections from April 8 and April 9. Many of those deals are still live, including the lowest price to date on the Sony SRS-XG300 Bluetooth speaker and the 2025 15-inch MacBook Air.

Our top pick: Fitbit Google Ace LTE Opens in a new window Credit: Google Fitbit Google Ace LTE $149.95 at Amazon
$179.95 Save $30 Get Deal

Released just last spring, Google's Fitbit Ace LTE has permanently dropped its starting price from $229.95 to $179.95. Plus, as of April 10, it's on sale for 17% off a Amazon, knocking it down to its best-ever price of $149.95. Designed for kids, the Ace LTE encourages movement and play by gamifying getting active. As kids increase their physical activity, they get more access to Fitbit games and in-watch rewards. Meanwhile, parents can keep tabs on their kids by calling, texting, and voice messaging, seeing real-time locations, controlling the contact list, and restricting game access during specific times (school, homework, etc.).

Roku TV Wireless Soundbar Opens in a new window Credit: Rokue Roku TV Wireless Soundbar $99.99 at Amazon
$149.99 Save $50.00 Get Deal

Have a Roku TV, but wish it sounded better? The Roku TV Wireless Soundbar can "drastically improve the sound your Roku TV can put out," our friends at PCMag (also owned by Ziff Davis) stated in their review. It's not packed with fancy features or anything, but it seamlessly fits into your entertainment space, is simple to set up (no cables), and adds enhanced stereo sound, crisp and clear dialogue, and a big volume boost to your existing Roku setup. As of April 10, it's on sale again for 33% off, dropping the price below $100.

AeroGarden Harvest Elite Opens in a new window Credit: AeroGarden AeroGarden Harvest Elite Indoor Garden System $57.17 at Amazon
$119.99 Save $62.82 Get Deal

If you've ever wanted to grow your own veggies and herbs, the AeroGarden Harvest Elite is a great place to start. Designed to fit on your kitchen counter at just 10.5 inches wide and 17.4 inches tall (including the adjustable light height), it has enough room to grow up to six different plants through its hydroponic system. You don't even need to buy soil or nutrients; it comes with liquid plant food and otherwise only requires water. As of April 10, it's on sale for just $57.17 — that's 52% in savings and its best price to date.

Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids Pro Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids Pro $139.99 at Amazon
$189.99 Save $50 Get Deal

Our favorite tablet for kids, Amazon's Fire HD 10 Kids Pro is built for kid-friendly adventures. Not only does it feature a durable case and built-in kickstand, but it's also lightweight and packed with a massive library of books, games, and educational apps for kids (thanks to a year of Amazon Kids+). The latest generation of the tablet includes a 10.1-inch 1080p full HD display, 3GB of RAM, 13 hours of battery power, and is 25 percent faster than its predecessor. As of April 10, it's also on sale for just $139.99. That's 26% in savings.

Bissell Cleanview XR Pet Cordless Vacuum Opens in a new window Credit: Bissell Bissell Cleanview XR Pet Cordless Vacuum $179 at Amazon
$229 Save $50 Get Deal

Sometimes you need more versatility in your cleaning routine, and that's where the Bissell Cleanview XR Pet shines. The cordless upright design doubles as a handheld, so you can maneuver into all of those hard-to-reach places in your home with ease. It packs 40 minutes of battery life that's removable for quick charging, four tool attachments including a deep cleaning fur brush, and a wall-mounted charging station for storage. It's usually $229, but as of April 10, you can snag it at Amazon for only $179. That's 22% in savings.

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

Save up to 47% on hundreds of games at Amazon to celebrate National Board Game Day

Mashable - Thu, 04/10/2025 - 11:23

SAVE UP TO 47%, PLUS BUY TWO GET ONE 50% OFF: Amazon has hundreds of board games on sale ahead of National Board Game day for as much as 47% off including fan-favorites like Catan, Cascadia, Jenga, and more. You can stack these sale prices with Amazon's buy one get on at 50% off deal on select games.

Best board game deals at Amazon Best overall board game deal Ticket to Ride $43.97 (save $11.02) Get Deal Best board game deal for two players Splendor $31.99 (save $8) Get Deal Best travel-friendly game deal Sushi Go Party! $21.49 (save $7.46) Get Deal

In the last few decades, board games have stepped up and now offer some of the most wholesome fun around. And Amazon has gone all-out with deals celebrating National Board Game Day on April 11 this year.

Amazon has hundreds of fantastic games on sale for up to 47% off. On top of those deals, Amazon has a buy-one-get-one-half-off sale happening that applies to plenty of already-discounted games. Stacked together, you could be in for some great savings. And these aren't just ho-hum games included in the sale. Amazon has marked down the price of hundreds of top-tier games that include deep strategy games, excellent family game night options, and some portable games that are worth packing along for summer vacation.

Here are some of our favorite sale options to help you celebrate National Board Game Day and refresh your closet of games.

Best overall board game deal Opens in a new window Credit: Days of Wonder Ticket to Ride $43.97 at Amazon
$54.99 Save $11.02 Get Deal Why we like it

Ticket to Ride is a fantastic option for both family game nights and getting together with friends. While it usually sells for $54.99, it's on sale at Amazon today for $43.97, which scores you a 20% discount. It's also included in the buy-one-get-one-half-off deal, so you can snag two new games to get extra savings.

Ticket to Ride is designed for two to five players and works well for those who are eight years old and up. It's a strategic game that takes players on a journey of connecting rail lines between iconic American cities. But it's not so deeply strategic that you can't hold a conversation between turns. Plus, this game is terrific for playing over and over again, without getting stale or boring.

Best game deal for two players Opens in a new window Credit: Space Cowboys Splendor $31.99 at Amazon
$39.99 Save $8.00 Get Deal Why we like it

Not all game nights need to be a party. Splendor is a terrific game that works great for just two players. The game gives each player an assignment of a Renaissance merchant and from there, you'll need to collect gems in order to purchase transportation means while also trying to attract the attention of nobles. It involves light strategy that makes the game fun to replay, trying out a new method with each game.

It takes about 30 minutes to play a round of Splendor, which is great for slotting into a game night with several board games. Splendor usually sells for $39.99, but it's 20% off at Amazon today, bringing it down to $31.99. Plus, it's part of the BOGO 50% off deal, so you can grab another eligible game to save even more.

Best portable game deal Opens in a new window Credit: Gamewright Sushi Go Party! $21.49 at Amazon
$28.95 Save $7.46 Get Deal Why we like it

Ready to pack into your luggage, Sushi Go Party! is the perfect travel companion. Suitable for parties of two to eight, it's worth taking along on summer vacation or a long weekend away. The card game centers around a pick-and-pass rhythm where you'll grab cards like nigiri, miso soup, edamame, tofu, soy sauce, and more. Make combinations of these cards to earn the most points, but you'll want to plan the menu carefully, since too many ingredients can be a bad thing.

Sushi Go Party! is great for two to eight players and playtime is about 20 minutes so you can get plenty of rounds in during a gaming night. Amazon has the game on sale for just $21.49 in honor of National Board Game Day, which takes 26% off the normal price of $28.95. Sushi Go Party! is also part of the Amazon BOGO 50% off deal, so choose another game to get an even deeper discount.

More board games on sale at Amazon

Get the new Google Pixel 9a for as low as $2.99/month

Mashable - Thu, 04/10/2025 - 10:28

FROM $499: The Google Pixel 9a is now available to shop. Buy now from the Google Store, AT&T, and more.

Shop Google Pixel 9a The Google Store Google Pixel 9a From $499 Shop Now AT&T Google Pixel 9a From $2.99/month Shop Now Verizon Google Pixel 9a From $499.99 Shop Now T-Mobile Google Pixel 9a From $499.99 Shop Now

In the back half of 2024, Google debuted its line of Pixel 9 Android smartphones. Starting at $799, the Google Pixel 9 brought its Gemini AI to the forefront. While we aren't quite taken with all the AI gimmicks it offers, the Google Pixel remains one of the best Android phones. Now, Google is expanding the Pixel 9 line-up to include the 9a, an entry-level option for those on a budget.

Starting at $499, the Google Pixel 9a costs $300 less than the Pixel 9. It features the Google Tensor G4 processor, the same as in the Pixel 9, a proprietary design used to power up Gemini AI. It features two storage options, 128 or 256GB, and four color options, Iris, Peony, Porcelain, and Obsidian.

It promises 30 hours of battery life and will support seven years of Pixel updates, assuring you won't have to exchange your smartphone after just a couple of years.

The most unique design feature on the Google Pixel 9a is the back camera. It doesn't come with the same camera bar you'll find on the Google Pixel 9. Instead, it has a completely flat back, so the camera sits flush with the chassis. The camera itself features a 48 MP main camera and 13 MP ultrawide camera.

The Google Pixel 9a is now available to order. It starts at $499 from The Google Store, but other retailers are offering enticing deals on the new device. At AT&T, get the Pixel 9a for just $2.99/month when purchased with an unlimited plan. Shop now for an affordable AI smartphone.

Opens in a new window Credit: Google Google Pixel 9a $499 at Google Store
Get Deal Opens in a new window Credit: Google Google Pixel 9a $519.99 at AT&T
$2.99/month when purchased with an unlimited plan. Get Deal

Stay ready for Player 2 with 42% off an Xbox Wireless Controller

Mashable - Thu, 04/10/2025 - 10:18

SAVE $25: As of April 10, get the Xbox Wireless Controller - Velocity Green for $34.99 at Lenovo, down from its original price of $64.99, with promo code SPRINGBACK. That's a discount of 42%.

Opens in a new window Credit: Lenovo Xbox Wireless Controller - Velocity Green $34.99 at Lenovo
$64.99 Save $30.00 Promo Code: SPRINGBACK Get Deal

If you spend a lot of time on your Xbox, you probably end up with a dead controller more often than not. Instead of having to charge or swap batteries, using an additional controller is a great idea, because that means you always have one at the ready in case the one you're using dies in the middle of a boss fight. Or when you're ready to play, perhaps worst of all, meaning you have to wait to juice one up before you can get your game on. Having options is awesome, and you can make sure you do by grabbing an additional controller.

As of April 10, get the Xbox Wireless Controller - Velocity Green for $34.99 at Lenovo, down from its original price of $64.99, with promo code SPRINGBACK. That's a discount of 42%. The discount only applies to this colorway, and you'll need to enter the promo code at checkout for it to automatically be applied.

This is the base Xbox controller, with no additional bells and whistles beyond what you'd expect from one out of the box when you buy a console. But that's all you need when it works this well. It has dual analog sticks, a textured grip, and a hybrid D-pad. Its buttons are remappable by way of the Xbox Accessories Pack too, so if you need to accommodate special play styles, it's capable of handling that, too.

Use AA batteries or a rechargeable battery pack to make sure this controller is ready when you need it. And it doesn't matter which Xbox model you have, as it's compatible with Xbox Series X, Xbox One, Windows 10 PCs, Android, and Steam. If you need an extra controller to make sure you're always ready to get in the game, this is a great option.

How Do the iPhone 16E and Google Pixel 9A Compare to More Expensive Models?

NYT Technology - Thu, 04/10/2025 - 09:00
With tariffs threatening to drive up the costs of most things, the new entry-level phones from Apple and Google present a timely opportunity to save some bucks.

The Beats Studio Buds + earbuds are back to their lowest-ever price for a limited time at Amazon

Mashable - Thu, 04/10/2025 - 08:10

SAVE $70: As of April 10, the Beats Studio Buds + earbuds are on sale at Amazon for $99.95, 41% off their list price of $169.95.

Opens in a new window Credit: Beats Beats Studio Buds + $99.95 at Amazon
$169.95 Save $70.00 Get Deal

If you're spending more time outside going on walks or traveling, a pair of earbuds is a must so you can keep busy with great music and more. If you're in the market for a new pair, you're in luck, thanks to some great deals now available at various retailers. At the moment, one of our favorite deals is on the Beats Studio Buds +, which are back to their lowest-ever price at Amazon.

The Beats Studio Buds + are on sale right now for $99.95, a 41% discount from their list price of $169.95. There are two color options available at this price, so you can choose between the transparent earbuds or the cosmic silver ones. They're currently listed as a limited time deal, though, so if they've caught your eye you'll want to be quick to add them into your cart.

SEE ALSO: The 7 best earbuds to buy in 2025 from Bose, Sony, and more

No matter if you're enjoying a new album or are completely absorbed in an audiobook, the Beats Studio Buds + boast high-quality, rich sound that's made all the better with noise-canceling features. When choosing between Active Noise Cancelling or Transparency mode, you can either completely block out noise around you or remain a bit more aware of your surroundings without cutting the music off entirely. They even offer spatial audio to surround yourself with the sounds you're listening to.

On top of the audio quality and noise-cancellation, the Beats Studio Buds + also boast up to 36 hours of battery life with the help of the charging case, so there's no need to worry about frequent charges.

There's no better time than now to treat yourself to an earbud upgrade. Pick up the Beats Studio Buds + at their lowest-ever price while the deal is still live.

Looking for more discounts on earbuds and headphones? Amazon's also offering a great deal on the Sony WF-C700N earbuds right now and, in the realm of headphones, you can also score $70 off the Beats Solo 4 at the moment.

Machine helps rebuild war-torn areas by turning rubble into bricks

Mashable - Thu, 04/10/2025 - 07:53

Founded by engineers from Perth, Australia, Mobile Crisis Construction is a nonprofit creating machines that turn debris – cement, glass, and local raw materials — into interlocking blocks, just like a Lego set. Their design allows even untrained workers to build housing, and do so quickly, which is crucial in areas where shelling has destroyed the homes of entire communities.

The nonprofit began operations in an attempt to help rebuilding efforts in Ukraine after witnessing the destruction imposed by Russia's full-scale invasion.

A long-term goal for Mobile Crisis Construction is to deploy their machines in other war-torn countries too, but the biggest challenge ahead is the cost of producing a single mobile factory, which currently amounts to $120 000 AUD per unit. To continue their work and expand beyond Ukraine, the nonprofit is currently raising donations.

Meet the 3D-printed robot that walks without electronics

Mashable - Thu, 04/10/2025 - 07:46

Researchers at Bioinspired Robotics and Design Lab, UC San Diego created a fully 3D-printed, six-legged robot that walks using compressed air. It has no electronics, motors, or batteries—just soft actuators powered by gas. Tested on various terrains, it operates continuously with a steady air supply.

Get 20% off the 40mm Samsung Galaxy Watch FE for a limited time at Amazon

Mashable - Thu, 04/10/2025 - 06:59

SAVE $40: As of April 10, the 40mm Samsung Galaxy Watch FE smartwatch is on sale at Amazon for $159.99, 20% off its list price of $199.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung Galaxy Watch FE 40mm Bluetooth AI Smartwatch $159.99 at Amazon
$199.99 Save $40 Get Deal

Smartwatches come in a variety of price ranges, depending on what kind of features you're looking for. If you don't care about splashing out on the fancier models and are just looking for a simple option that won't make a big dent in your wallet, there are a few picks out there that are worth a look. The Samsung Galaxy Watch FE is among them, and the good news is that you can pick it up right now at an even lower price than usual at Amazon.

At the moment, the 40mm Samsung Galaxy Watch FE has received a 20% discount at Amazon, dropping its price from $199.99 to $159.99. This is a deal worth taking advantage of while it's still live, as it's only a few dollars away from its lowest-ever price of $152.98. It's currently listed as a limited time deal, though, so you'll want to act fast to grab it at this price before the offer disappears.

SEE ALSO: The best smartwatch for every wrist

Now is a good time to pick up a smartwatch if you're spending more time outside in the warmer weather. The Samsung Galaxy Watch FE is a great workout companion to keep up with your outdoor activities. It has a variety of features to kickstart your fitness journey and keep you on top of your health goals this year, including step counts, showing how many calories you've burned, insights into your sleep patterns, heart rate tracking, and more. If you just want to cover the health and fitness basics, this smartwatch is here to help.

This limited time deal may not last for long, though. Don't miss out on 20% off the 40mm Samsung Galaxy Watch FE at Amazon.

If you're curious to see more fitness-focused smartwatch deals, you can also save on the Garmin vívoactive 5 right now at Amazon and, if you don't mind spending some extra cash, the fancy Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra is also discounted there at the moment.

I just snagged these open-ear Soundcore AeroFit headphones for $49.99 — 62% off and ridiculously comfy

Mashable - Thu, 04/10/2025 - 06:46

SAVE $80: As of April 10, Soundcore AeroFit open-ear wireless headphones are just $49.99 on Amazon, down from $129.99. That’s a 62% discount.

Opens in a new window Credit: Soundcore Soundcore AeroFit $49.99 at Amazon
$129.99 Save $80 Get Deal

I want headphones that don’t stab my ears after an hour. Is that too much to ask? Apparently not, because Soundcore AeroFit headphones are on sale for just $49.99 right now. That’s a 62% drop from their usual $129.99 price, and I’m honestly surprised these haven’t sold out already.

In my opinion, the open-ear design here is the real game-changer. Instead of jamming silicone tips into your skull, these AeroFits gently rest outside your ear canal with flexible, soft hooks that don’t dig in. They’re so comfortable I keep forgetting I’m wearing them, which is a dangerous game when your playlist includes ‘90s club bangers on shuffle.

SEE ALSO: Apple announces WWDC 2025 dates

These are also weirdly good at balancing situational awareness with audio quality. I can hear approaching traffic while still vibing to my very questionable running playlist. The sound isn’t just “good for open-ear,” it’s genuinely crisp, with titanium-coated diaphragms that deliver clear highs and full mids. No, the bass won’t knock your teeth loose, but that’s not the point here.

  • Price: $49.99 $129.99

  • Retailer: Amazon

  • Form Factor: Open-ear wireless headphones with ergonomic ear hooks

  • Battery Life: Up to 42 hours total

  • Waterproofing: IPX7 rated with Soundcore’s SweatGuard technology

  • Sound: Balanced audio with titanium-coated diaphragms

  • Call Quality: 4 mics with AI noise reduction

  • Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.3 with app controls

  • Design: Ultra-lightweight and comfortable for all-day wear

  • Extras: Keeps you aware of surroundings — perfect for commuting or outdoor workouts

Calls? No problem. There are four mics and some AI wizardry making sure your voice cuts through wind, noise, or whatever chaos is happening behind you. I’ve used these during outdoor walks and Zooms alike and haven’t gotten a single “you sound like you’re in a tunnel” comment.

The IPX7 waterproofing is the cherry on top. I’m not planning on swimming laps with them, but knowing they can handle sweat and rain without flinching is a relief. And 42 hours of playtime? I’ll forget where the charger even is.

I think $648 for this 75-inch Sony Google TV is absurdly good — $650 off and made for PlayStation 5

Mashable - Thu, 04/10/2025 - 06:24

SAVE $650: As of April 10, Sony 75-inch X85K 4K Google TV is available at Walmart for $648. That’s a wild $650 discount off its usual $1,298 price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Sony Sony 75-inch X85K 4K Google TV $648 at Walmart
$1,298 Save $650 Get Deal

I want to make it very clear that I’m not exaggerating when I say this might be one of the best bang-for-your-buck TV deals of the month. Sony’s 75-inch X85K is now down to $648 at Walmart, and if your first thought is “That’s got to be a typo,” trust me, I checked twice. You're saving $650 here. That’s half off a Sony TV with native 120Hz and HDMI 2.1. I need a moment.

In my opinion, the picture quality on Sony TVs has always been a few notches above your typical “big screen on a budget” options. This one uses the 4K HDR Processor X1 and TRILUMINOS PRO, which is Sony’s way of saying “we care about color accuracy more than your last landlord cared about plumbing.” It handles fast motion like a pro too, thanks to the native 120Hz refresh rate and Motionflow XR tech. Sports, action movies, and late-night Mario Kart marathons? All covered.

SEE ALSO: Apple announces WWDC 2025 dates

This is where it gets spicy. The X85K includes HDMI 2.1 with support for 4K at 120Hz, VRR, and ALLM. Translation: you’re getting buttery-smooth gameplay with reduced input lag and auto low latency. Sony even included PlayStation 5-specific features to make your games look better. It’s practically winking at PS5 owners.

  • Price: $648.00 $1,298.00

  • Retailer: Walmart

  • Display: 75-inch 4K UHD LCD with HDR

  • Processor: 4K HDR Processor X1

  • Color Technology: TRILUMINOS PRO for wider color range

  • Smart TV: Google TV with Google Assistant

  • Gaming Features: HDMI 2.1, 4K/120Hz, VRR, ALLM, PS5 enhancements

  • Refresh Rate: Native 120Hz with Motionflow XR

  • Audio/Video Support: Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos

  • Upscaling: 4K XR-Reality PRO upscaling for non-4K content

  • Design: Flush surface, narrow bezel

  • AirPlay 2: Stream from Apple devices

  • BRAVIA CAM Compatible: Optional camera for video calls and gesture control

Google TV is here too, organizing your apps and watchlists with the smug efficiency of a straight-A student who color codes their notes. Google Assistant is built in, and you can stream from Apple devices via AirPlay 2. Dolby Vision and Atmos support round things out for those who like their movies dramatic and loud.

The design doesn’t scream "budget" either. It has a slim, flush-bezel look that keeps the focus where it should be: on the fact that you now own a 75-inch TV for under $650.

The Daily Show mocks Trump over tariff pause

Mashable - Thu, 04/10/2025 - 06:04

It's over a week since "Liberation Day", and Trump's tariff-induced chaos shows no signs of slowing down.

The latest development? A 90-day pause on tariffs for countries engaged in negotiations with The White House, which saw tech stocks and crypto making a small recovery on Wednesday and has led to Republicans saying that this was the president's plan all along.

The Daily Show's Desi Lydic, meanwhile, remains unimpressed.

"Ah yes, The Art of the Deal," the host says in the monologue above. "Create a global crisis and then dig yourself halfway out. It's truly masterful, Donald."

I want this 85-inch Insignia Fire TV from Best Buy for $599.99, and you probably should, too

Mashable - Thu, 04/10/2025 - 05:48

SAVE $300: As of April 10, Insignia 85-inch F50 Series Fire TV is on sale for $599.99 at Best Buy. That’s $300 off its usual $899.99 price tag.

Opens in a new window Credit: Insignia Insignia 85-inch F50 Series Fire TV $599.99 at Best Buy
$899.99 Save $300 Get Deal

I never thought I’d say this, but here we are: I’m seriously considering hauling an 85-inch television into my living room because Best Buy is selling Insignia F50 Series 4K Fire TV for just $599.99. That’s a $300 discount, and yes, that price is real. For the cost of a mid-range smartphone or three semi-ironic trips to Erewhon, you can slap an 85-inch screen on your wall and turn your place into the cheapest IMAX in town.

In my opinion, you’re not sacrificing much to get this kind of size at this kind of price. It supports 4K UHD resolution and HDR10, so you still get solid contrast and clarity. The DTS Studio Sound isn’t going to rival a theater setup, but for casual watching, it’ll absolutely get the job done. Plus, with Fire TV built in, the interface doesn’t feel like it was coded by a toaster. It’s responsive, smooth, and loaded with every app you’d expect.

SEE ALSO: Apple announces WWDC 2025 dates

I’m also a sucker for hands-free everything, and the Alexa voice remote seals the deal. It’s one of those little conveniences that makes you feel like you’re living in the future. Say the name of a movie and boom, it’s on. Say you’re tired and boom, the volume’s down. Honestly, it’s probably the closest thing to actual magic in my apartment.

  • Price: $599.99 $899.99

  • Retailer: Best Buy

  • Display: 85-inch LED with 4K UHD resolution

  • HDR: HDR10 for solid contrast and detail

  • Audio: DTS Studio Sound with stereo playback

  • Smart TV: Built-in Fire TV interface

  • Voice Control: Alexa voice remote included

  • Ports: 3 HDMI inputs, composite AV, optical audio out, USB, headphone jack, Ethernet, coaxial

  • Connectivity: WiFi and Ethernet

  • Extras: Apple AirPlay support, HDMI ARC/eARC, parental controls, VESA 500 x 400 wall mount compatibility

If you’re into streaming, gaming, or just want a screen that’ll make your guests say “Are you serious?”, this is it. I think three HDMI ports are more than enough for a console, a soundbar, and something weird you bought off Etsy that needs its own screen. It even supports ARC and eARC if you want to keep things simple and cable-light.

And hey, Insignia even threw in a VESA-compatible wall mount design, sustainable packaging, and parental controls for the responsible adults among us. I can’t relate, but I respect it.

The White Lotus star Jason Isaacs gives Jimmy Fallon an accent tour of the UK

Mashable - Thu, 04/10/2025 - 05:19

The White Lotus Season 3's Jason Isaacs may be British, but in the show he adopts a fairly specific North Carolina accent.

Speaking to Jimmy Fallon on The Tonight Show about his own accent journey growing up, the actor uses a map of the UK to take the host on an accent-themed tour of his home country.

It's fair to say that Fallon finds a few of the accents tough, but you can't fault his effort.

NYT Mini crossword answers, hints for April 10, 2025

Mashable - Thu, 04/10/2025 - 05:17

The Mini is a bite-sized version of The New York Times' revered daily crossword. While the crossword is a lengthier experience that requires both knowledge and patience to complete, The Mini is an entirely different vibe.

With only a handful of clues to answer, the daily puzzle doubles as a speed-running test for many who play it.

So, when a tricky clue disrupts a player's flow, it can be frustrating! If you find yourself stumped playing The Mini — much like with Wordle and Connections — we have you covered.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable

Here are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Thursday, April 10, 2025:

AcrossSmoke tendrils

  • The answer is Wisps.

Undo, as "I do's"

  • The answer is Annul.

What's the point of church?

  • The answer is Spire.

Adorable flab?

  • The answer is Pudge.

Some prices and precipices

  • The answer is Steep.

DownApple orchard pests

  • The answer is Wasps.

Two cents, so to speak

  • The answer is Input.

Like a sarcastic dig

  • The answer is Snide.

Get rid of

  • The answer is Purge.

Succumb to a lullaby

  • The answer is Sleep.

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Featured Video For You The Wordle Strategy used by the New York Times' Head of Games

Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Mini Crossword.

Pages

Subscribe to Page Integrity, Inc. aggregator