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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 2024Here 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:
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 behalfGemini 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.
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 AmazonLast 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 AmazonThe 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 AmazonThe 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 AmazonIdeal 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 AmazonA 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' InfoWarsThe 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 DealGifting 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 DealAmazon 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 DealIf 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 loversAs 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 TargetYou 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 TargetThe 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 TargetPlenty 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 DealHard 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 luggageThe 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.
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 GiphyThe 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.
Cyber Weekend ushered in some of the best gaming laptop deals of the entire year — but if you didn't buy then, you're not completely out of luck. Best Buy, HP, Dell, Lenovo, and other tech retailers have put current and last-generation configurations of gaming laptops on sale for up to $700 off ahead of the holidays, as well as some likely refreshes at CES.
SEE ALSO: The best laptops of 2024, tested and approved by Mashable's expertsRead on for a brief rundown of the best gaming laptop deals across the web as of Dec. 11. That includes three of Mashable's current favorite models, one of which is still chilling at its Cyber Monday price (with a freebie to boot).
Our top pick Opens in a new window Credit: Alienware Alienware m16 R2 (Intel Core Ultra 7 155H, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD) $1,499.99 at Best BuyRead Mashable's full review of the Alienware m16 R2.
Former Mashable Tech Editor Kimberly Gedeon was impressed by this 16-incher's mid-range performance and build quality, especially its "super clicky" keyboard. She also liked its inclusion of a Stealth mode hotkey to dial back its RGB lighting, and its support of Nvidia Advanced Optimus for automatic GPU switching depending on the task. (There's an MUX switch to do it manually, too.) "The Alienware m16 R2 blends portability and power to deliver a laptop that can handle both play and work," she wrote. It snagged a 4.5/5 rating and a Mashable Choice Award.
The model Gedeon tested featured an Intel Core Ultra 7 155H processor, RTX 4070 graphics, 16GB of memory, and 1TB of storage. It's currently on sale for $1,499.99 at Best Buy (normally $1,899.99). That's not quite as good as its Black Friday price of $1,299.99, but $400 off is still pretty decent. For reference, that same discount made it sell out on Dell's website earlier in the week; it's now back in stock there, but it doesn't ship until late December.
Best budget pick Opens in a new window Credit: Acer Acer Nitro V 15 (Intel Core i5-13420H, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) $599.00 at WalmartRead Mashable's full review of the Acer Nitro V 15.
Another Mashable Choice Award winner, the 2023 Nitro V 15 is our No. 1 budget gaming laptop largely because it's fully capable of handling graphically intense games Cyberpunk 2077 without getting too hot (though its fans will make themselves known). Gedeon also liked its understated design, deeming it "the perfect balance of fun and serious"; she rated it a 4.7/5 overall. Its dim 1080p display and its passion for clinging to fingerprints are the two biggest things you'll have to reckon with, but its current sale price might push those cons aside.
Walmart has a model with an Intel Core i5-13420H CPU, RTX 4050 graphics, 16GB RAM, and 512GB of storage on sale for just $599, or $200 off — a still-live Cyber Monday deal that includes a free copy of Assassin's Creed Shadows, which is set for release in February. It's slightly pared down compared to the configuration we tested, which had an Intel Core i7-13620H processor and 1TB of storage (but the same GPU), but if it's shipping with that Triple-A game, it should be plenty powerful for most titles.
Best splurge Opens in a new window Credit: Asus Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 (AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD) $1,649.99 at Best BuyRead Mashable's full review of the Asus ROG Zephyrus G14.
Thin, light, and understated, this 14-incher "is perfect for those who want to bring a respectable, MacBook Pro-esque laptop to the office — before gaming at night with a beastly gaming rig," Gedeon wrote. She gave it a 4.3/5, praising its design, performance, speakers, keyboard, and pretty OLED display, but docking a few points for its tendency to run hot.
The version we tested featured an AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS CPU, a GeForce RTX 4060 GPU, 16GB of memory, and 1TB of storage. It's typically priced at $1,599.99, and it's not currently on sale. But Best Buy has the upgraded version with RTX 4070 graphics and 32GB of RAM marked down to $1,649.99, which is $350 off its $1,999.99 MSRP.
More gaming laptop deals under $1,000Asus TUF Gaming A15 (AMD Ryzen 7 7435HS, Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD) — $499 $719.99 (save $220.99)
MSI Thin 15 (Intel Core i5-13420H, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) — $649.99 $899.99 (save $250)
Acer Nitro V 15 (AMD Ryzen 5 7535HS, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) — $699.99 $949.99 (save $250)
HP Victus 16t-s100 (AMD Ryzen 5 8645HS, Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) — $729.99 $1,099.99 (save $370)
MSI Cyborg 14 (Intel Core i7-13620H, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) — $749.99 $1,099.99 (save $350)
Dell G15 5535 (AMD Ryzen 7 7840HS, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) — $799.99 $1,049.99 (save $250)
Lenovo LOQ (Intel Core i7-13650HX, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) — $959.99 $1,319.99 (save $360)
Asus TUF Gaming F15 (Intel Core i7-13620H, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD) — $999.99 $1,399.99 (save $400)
Asus ROG Zephyrus G16 (Intel Core i7-13620H, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) — $1,149.99 $1,599.99 (save $450)
HP Omen Transcend 16t-u100 (Intel Core i7-14700HX, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) — $1,199.99 $1,599.99 (save $400)
Lenovo Legion 5i Gen 9 (Intel Core i7-14650HX, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD) — $1,249.99 $1,789.99 (save $540)
Dell G16 7630 (Intel Core i9-13900HX, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD) — $1,299.99 $1,749.99 (save $450)
Lenovo Legion Pro 5i Gen 9 (Intel Core i7-14700HX, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD) — $1,569.99 $2,099.99 (save $530)
Acer Predator Helios 16 (Intel Core i9-13900HX, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD) — $1,699.99 $1,899.99 (save $200)
Alienware m18 R2 (Intel Core i7-14700HX, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD) — $1,899.99 $2,299.99 (save $400)
Alienware x16 R2 (Intel Core Ultra 9 185H, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD) — $1,999.99 $2,699.99 (save $700)
Acer Predator Helios 18 (Intel Core i9-14900HX, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4090, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD) — $2,399.99 $2,999.99 (save $600)
Lenovo Legion Pro 7i Gen 9 (Intel Core i9-14900HX, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4080, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD) — $2,749.99 $3,219.99 (save $470)
MSI Stealth 18 AI Studio (Intel Core Ultra 9 185H, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4080, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD) — $2,799.99 $3,299.99 (save $500)
Razer Blade 18 (Intel Core i9-14900HX, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4090, 32GB RAM, 2TB SSD) — $3,999.99 $4,499.99 (save $500) + free Razer Skin, 1-month Xbox Game Pass Ultimate membership, Assassin's Creed Shadows, 6-month Ubisoft+ Classics subscription, and Indiana Jones and the Great Circle Digital Premium Edition
Apple's upcoming Watch Ultra 3 is getting a feature that might actually save your life.
According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, the next Ultra will come with the ability to send emergency texts via satellite, similar to the functionality Apple introduced to the iPhone 14 in 2022.
SEE ALSO: Apple Music launches three new radio stations, including Apple Music ChillThe feature could be of massive importance to hikers, who could send a distress signal even when cell reception is non-existent. The feature would not require an iPhone nearby (though it could be a good backup option if you do carry a phone but it gets broken, lost, or loses battery).
I tested the feature out when it launched, and it worked as expected; I was able to get a satellite signal and send a text within seconds. Gurman's report does not have any additional details about the feature, but I reckon it would work similarly on Apple Watch Ultra.
If the report is accurate, it's a pretty big deal, as it would make Apple's Watch Ultra the first mainstream smartwatch that has this capability.
The Apple Watch Ultra got only minor updates since it launched in 2022 (the Apple Watch Ultra 2 had a brighter display, and the 2024 version was unchanged except for the new, black color option). This makes it likelier for Apple to launch a bigger upgrade next year. Gurman also claims that the new version might come with blood pressure monitoring, though that feature has been delayed in the past.
When Apple launched iOS 18 in September, it was perhaps the first time that the company's round number release was the most important iOS release of the year.
That's because the company opted for a slow, staggered launch of its AI (Apple Intelligence) features, most of which weren't available in iOS 18. Today, with the launch of iOS 18.2, nearly all of these features are live on the iPhone, the iPad, and on the Mac.
SEE ALSO: Apple Intelligence on Mac: 5 AI-powered features you can test right now What's launching today, and where?Apple is launching iOS 18.2, iPadOS 18.2, and macOS Sequoia 15.2.
However, these new versions are only available to users who have device and Siri language set to localized English for Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, South Africa, the U.K., or the U.S.
Not all Apple Intelligence features are available in the EU; they will start rolling on the iPhone and iPad in April. The exception is the Mac, where Apple Intelligence features are available even in the EU.
Which new Apple Intelligence features are available today?In addition to the AI features introduced in iOS 18, and iOS 18.1, today iPhone, iPad and Mac users are also getting:
Genmoji
Image Playground
Image Wand for Notes
Describe Your Change option in Writing Tools
Visual Intelligence features for the Camera
Seamless integration of ChatGPT in Siri, as well as Writing Tools
For a more detailed overview, check Mashable's guide to iOS 18.2 and the Apple Intelligence features you can test now,
Is this all Apple Intelligence has to offer?Nope. According to Apple, additional Apple Intelligence capabilities will be available in the "months to come."
This includes a more capable Siri with onscreen awareness and the ability for Siri to take "hundreds of new actions" in Apple's own apps, as well as third-party apps. Priority Notifications, which will notify you only of the most important things on your phone are also coming, and Image Playground will get the ability to create images in a Sketch style.
Which devices support these new features?Apple Intelligence features are available on iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, iPhone 16 Pro Max, iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, iPad with A17 Pro or M1 and later, and Mac with M1 and later.
Breakups suck — but they arguably suck more than ever thanks to social media. Before our modern era, people floated in and out of our lives. You might've forgotten someone you've previously dated. If not, at least you couldn't see their daily moves at your fingertips.
"Social media has changed the way that people naturally come in and out of your life," said the author of I Do (I Think) and the Emotional Support Lady Substack, Allison Raskin. "While it's nice to still see updates from your elementary school friends, it can be uncomfortable to still be privy to the lives of people we've let go for a reason."
SEE ALSO: Hinge unveils new dating concept to help you get more dates in 2025A childhood friend is one thing, but what about dodging your ex's social media accounts? Mashable asked the experts what to do — and not do — on platforms after a breakup.
Getting over a breakup in the digital ageBefore we dive into the dos and don'ts, let's dig into why breakups are so difficult — especially today. There are biological, psychological, and evolutionary reasons behind the pain.
Hormones and neurotransmitters that are active when we fall in love — such as dopamine, serotonin, cortisol, norepinephrine, and oxytocin — also activate when we're going through a breakup according to relationship coach for politicized people and Ph.D. in human sexuality studies, Melissa Fabello. This could be because both falling in and out of love activates our primal need for connection.
For example, dopamine (the "feel good" hormone) is high when we're with a new partner. When we get the "reward," our new partner's attention, we get a hit of dopamine. But during a breakup, we're not getting that reward. You're not getting that dopamine hit, and you may end up feeling off-balance.
"The way that I think social media plays into this so strongly in both cases, falling in love and a breakup, is you have so much access to information," Fabello said. When you have a crush, you check their Instagram posts, stories, what they did for their birthday last year, and such. When you're going through a breakup you can do the same thing, but now the questions change: Are they seeing someone new? Are they happy?
Fabello encourages people going through this to ask themselves: How do I regulate myself enough that I'm making choices around social media that serve me and don't cause the other person harm? Are you hurting yourself by looking through your ex's profile? Are you doing this to upset yourself, or make yourself angry?
DON'T: Creep or obsess over your ex on social mediaWe're curious by nature, and if you catch yourself looking at your ex's Instagram stories once in a while and having feelings about it, that may not be a big deal, Fabello continued. But are you creating a fake account to check your ex's account because they blocked you? That would be crossing boundaries.
"Don't check their friends' profiles and definitely don't become a detective to find out who they might be dating.""Resist obsessively checking your ex's profile," echoed eharmony sex and relationships expert Todd Baratz, LMHC. "Don't check their friends' profiles and definitely don't become a detective to find out who they might be dating. This prolongs the healing process and keeps you emotionally stuck," Todd said.
The line is: Are you hurting yourself or someone else with your behavior?
DO: Unfollow, mute, or block if needed"Unfollow or mute accounts (including your ex’s) that trigger negative feelings," said Baratz, who also suggested following accounts like mental health advocates, wellness pages, or people who inspire self-growth and positivity.
Raskin advised the same. "If you have complicated feelings toward someone who you don't talk to anymore and seeing their posts causes you discomfort or even outright pain, I think it's better to avoid their profiles altogether," she said. "The mute function is a beautiful thing!"
"The mute function is a beautiful thing!""Social media is always a distortion of the truth and checking can become obsessive so steering clear of your ex online is the greatest gift you can give yourself as you try to heal. It will also help you establish a new daily routine and move forward faster," she continued.
SEE ALSO: How to break up with someone in the digital age DON'T: Gossip about your exDon't blame, express anger, or post intimate details about the breakup online, Baratz said.
"Don't make passive-aggressive posts or cryptic messages about your exit," he noted. "It’s not a productive use of your time or emotional energy. Instead, channel your focus toward your growth, which will pay off in the long run."
It's cool to vent to friends privately about your feelings. Doing so in public might bring unwanted attention to both you and your ex, and you might regret it later.
DO: Enlist the help of friends…well, certain friends. If a friend enables you to check and recheck your ex's feed, or can't stop dishing about your ex's new partner, they may not be the best person to come to when you're feeling out of sorts about the breakup.
Do you have friends who will tell you that checking your ex's Instagram stories isn't a good idea? Will one hold you accountable if you ask them to? Say, if you're talking too much about the breakup, maybe they can send you a certain emoji as a signal to pause and take a second to breathe, Fabello offered.
DON'T: Post thirst trapsResist posting things intended to get your ex's attention, Baratz said.
There's nothing wrong with posting a spicy photo of yourself, but reflect on your motives. "Am I being manipulative? Am I being passive aggressive?" are two questions Fabello encourages you to ask yourself.
With all of these don'ts, also ask yourself whether you're acting like the person you want to be. "Is that the person I want to be in the world?" Fabello asked. "Having a pause to ask yourself is important."
SEE ALSO: Apple Intelligence will summarise your breakup texts DO: Consider a social media detoxWe know that social media impacts our mental health. Baratz pointed out that millennials and Gen Z agree that their biggest insecurity while dating is actually their mental health (32 percent for millennials and 27 percent for Gen Z, according to a recent eharmony report).
When we're going through a life transition, that can be compounded. "Consider stepping away from social media entirely for a while. A break can help you focus on processing emotions without distractions or comparisons which can cause unnecessary pressure," Baratz said.
DO: Regulate your emotionsThis might be easier said than done, especially if you don't have access to mental health help. But breakups can be devastating: Research shows that "love rejection" can result in depression and, in extreme cases, violence towards oneself or others.
If you're feeling down, angry, or anxious, know that it's okay — and there is a scientific explanation. "It can be helpful sometimes [to know] the science piece just for the logical part of your brain to be like, 'I'm not crazy. I'm just heartbroken and I'm grieving,'" Fabello said. What's not okay, however, is not keeping your behavior in check.
If you're able to, talk to a therapist about how you're feeling. You can practice emotional regulation skills like practicing mindfulness or taking a walk. Before you type your ex's name into the Instagram search bar, for example, take a breath. Do you really want to do that right now? Will you hurt your own feelings over what you see?
And if it's really difficult, put stopgaps in place: Block your ex. Sign out of the social media app for a while, or delete it from your phone altogether. Odds are, you're not missing much — except maybe a post from your elementary school friend.
TL;DR: Live stream Golden State Warriors vs. Houston Rockets in the NBA with Sling TV.
It's the second annual Emirates NBA Cup, previously known as the In-Season Tournament. The Golden State Warriors are looking to end a string of road losses when they face the Houston Rockets at the Toyota Center in Houston. The Rockets are third in the Western Conference and currently boast a 9-3 home record.
The Warriors are led by Clutch Player of the Year Steph Curry and Draymond Green. The Rockets are led by Jalen Green, who scored 31 points in a win over the Los Angeles Clippers on Sunday.
The two teams have faced off twice this season. In an early NBA season matchup, the Warriors outlasted the Rockets 127-121 in overtime. They faced each other again just last week and the Warriors took the win for the second time, in a close 99-93 battle.
When is Golden State Warriors vs. Houston Rockets?Golden State Warriors vs. Houston Rockets in the NBA starts at 9:30 p.m. ET on Dec. 11. This game takes place at Toyota Center in Houston.
The game will air on TNT.
How to watch Golden State Warriors vs. Houston RocketsYou need to choose a streaming service to watch the NBA without cable or satellite TV. We've found some of the best streaming services to consider for the Warriors vs. Rockets basketball game on TNT.
Most affordable: Sling TV Opens in a new window Credit: Sling TV Sling Orange Plan Get DealSling TV suggests the streamer's Orange Plan for the game, which costs $20 for the first month and $40 monthly after that.
Sling TV’s sports channels feature ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPN3, ESPNews, ESPNU, FOX, FS1, FS2, NBC, NFL Network, and SEC Network.
How to watch Warriors vs. Rockets from anywhere in the worldIf you're traveling outside of the U.S. during this game, you might need to use a VPN to unblock this free live stream. VPNs can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server, meaning you can unblock free live streams of the NBA from anywhere in the world.
Live stream Golden State Warriors vs. Houston Rockets for free by following these simple steps:
Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)
Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)
Open up the app and connect to a server
Sign in to your favorite streaming app of choice
Watch Golden State Warriors vs. Houston Rockets for free from anywhere in the world
The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but leading VPNs do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can gain access to free live streams of the NBA without actually spending anything. This obviously isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to live stream Golden State Warriors vs. Houston Rockets before recovering your investment.
What is the best VPN for the NBA?ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport, for a number of reasons:
Servers in 105 countries
Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more
Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure
Fast connection speeds free from throttling
Up to eight simultaneous connections
30-day money-back guarantee
A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.
Live stream Golden State Warriors vs. Houston Rockets in the NBA for free with ExpressVPN.
I may have thrived in a Pink Pilates Princess Strut Phase in this year's Spotify Wrapped, but what about the games I played?
PlayStation announced the 2024 edition of PlayStation Wrap-Up on Tuesday, joining the rest of the tech and entertainment industry in promising to show you exactly, precisely, how you've been spending your time over the last 12 months.
However, users started reporting error messages when attempting to access the Wrap-Up site. Currently, the site appears with a placeholder message saying, "We'll be back soon." Mashable has reached out to PlayStation for comment.
The Wrap-Up site at the time of writing. Credit: Mashable screenshot: PlayStationWhen it finally works, the Sony gaming version of Spotify Wrapped will tell you all your gaming achievements for the year, including the games you played the most, how many hours played (own it), trophies, gaming stats by month, and your gaming "style". Were you more of a Final Fantasy VII: Rebirth or Helldivers 2 fiend? Or maybe you loved less juggernaut titles?
SEE ALSO: The 10 best video games you may have missed in 2024In a blog post, Sony said there are a few new PlayStation Wrap-Up features this year, including "personalized historical statistics, such as the total number of games a player has experienced since creating their account for PlayStation Network, as well as a look back at trophy milestones and personalized recommendations for games that are available on PlayStation Plus Game Catalog."
The company says the Wrap-Up will continue to update until the end of the year — and of course, it will be shareable as a compact summary card.
An example of a summary card. Credit: PlayStationPlayStation Wrap-Up is only available for PS4 or PS5 players over 18 and who have played "for at least 10 hours between Jan. 1, 2024 and Dec. 31, 2024." The results will be viewable (when they're eventually up) from now until Jan. 10
Featured Video For You Grow plants from fantasy games with this IRL initiativeHere's what PlayStation also stipulated about PlayStation Wrap-Up:
Users who have not consented to the collection of "Full Data" from their PlayStation 5 system settings in 2024, will be unable to participate in the Wrap-Up campaign.Users located in Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Australasia, India, and Russia, who have not consented to the collection of "Additional Data" from their PlayStation 4 system settings in 2024, will be unable to participate in the Wrap-Up campaign.
This story is developing — we'll update it when we know more about the site's accessibility.
Xbox player instead? There's a Year in Review for you too.
TL;DR: Live stream Atlanta Hawks vs. New York Knicks in the NBA with Sling TV.
It's the second annual Emirates NBA Cup, previously known as the In-Season Tournament. The Atlanta Hawks are looking for their fourth straight road win as they head to Madison Square Garden to face the New York Knicks in the East Quarterfinal. It won't be an easy feat, as the Knicks are fourth in the Eastern Conference and 8-3 at home.
When is Atlanta Hawks vs. New York Knicks?Atlanta Hawks vs. New York Knicks in the NBA starts at 7 p.m. ET on Dec. 11. This game takes place at Madison Square Garden in New York.
The game will air on ESPN. Mike Breen is expected to do the play-by-play, while Doris Burke will join him in the booth, and Katie George will handle the sideline reporting.
How to watch Atlanta Hawks vs. New York KnicksYou need to choose a streaming service to watch the NBA without cable or satellite TV. We've found some of the best streaming services to consider for the Hawks vs. Knicks basketball game on ESPN.
Most affordable: Sling TV Opens in a new window Credit: Sling TV Sling Orange Plan Get DealSling TV suggests the streamer's Orange Plan for the game, which costs $20 for the first month and $40 monthly after that.
Sling TV’s sports channels feature ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPN3, ESPNews, ESPNU, FOX, FS1, FS2, NBC, NFL Network, and SEC Network.
How to watch Hawks vs. Knicks from anywhere in the worldIf you're traveling outside of the U.S. during this game, you might need to use a VPN to unblock this free live stream. VPNs can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server, meaning you can unblock free live streams of the NBA from anywhere in the world.
Live stream Atlanta Hawks vs. New York Knicks for free by following these simple steps:
Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)
Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)
Open up the app and connect to a server
Sign in to your favorite streaming app of choice
Watch Atlanta Hawks vs. New York Knicks for free from anywhere in the world
The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but leading VPNs do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can gain access to free live streams of the NBA without actually spending anything. This obviously isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to live stream Atlanta Hawks vs. New York Knicks before recovering your investment.
What is the best VPN for the NBA?ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport, for a number of reasons:
Servers in 105 countries
Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more
Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure
Fast connection speeds free from throttling
Up to eight simultaneous connections
30-day money-back guarantee
A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.
Live stream Atlanta Hawks vs. New York Knicks in the NBA for free with ExpressVPN.
SAVE $22: As of Dec. 11, the Amazon Echo Pop is on sale for $17.99. That's a whopping 55% off its list price of $39.99.
Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Echo Pop $17.99 at AmazonGift shopping ahead of the holidays can sometimes feel stressful, especially if it feels like you've missed the boat on Cyber Monday deals. Thankfully, Amazon's still offering some very nice discounts after the big seasonal sale events. If you've had your eye on an Echo Pop to pick up this year, you can grab it at an excellent price right now at the retailer.
Amazon's Echo Pop is currently on sale for $17.99, a massive 55% discount off its list price of $39.99. According to price tracker camelcamelcamel, this is also its lowest-ever price so it's well worth taking advantage of. Not to mention, if this was something you had in mind as a gift idea, Amazon notes that it'll arrive 14 days before Christmas so there's no need to worry about delays.
SEE ALSO: The Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) is $60 off at AmazonWe also believe this affordable little smart speaker is worth picking up for your home, whether you enjoy blasting music, catching up on podcasts, or getting lost in an audiobook. In our review of the Echo Pop, writer SaVanna Shoemaker said, "For people who like to keep music playing, and who also use Alexa as a home assistant, the Echo Pop is a perfect addition to any room in the house."
Amazon has this smart speaker listed as a limited-time deal, so you'll want to act fast to save over 50% on the Echo Pop.
While some deals aren't quite as low as they were during Cyber Monday, there are still some offers worth checking out right now at Amazon. If you have a look through our roundup of Amazon's Cyber Monday deals, you can see if any items you were curious about buying are still on offer.
SAVE $60: As of Dec. 11, the Apple Watch SE (40mm, GPS) is on sale for $189 at Amazon. This is 24% off its list price of $249.
Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) $189.00 at AmazonThe holidays are right around the corner, but there's still plenty of time to pick up gifts at a discounted price. Amazon, in particular, is here to help as they've got some popular items still on sale with notes on when they'll arrive before Christmas. If you've been hoping to pick up an Apple Watch SE 2, whether for yourself or someone you know, it's currently discounted at the retailer and will even arrive in time for the big day.
The Apple Watch SE (40mm, GPS) is on sale for $189 right now at Amazon, 24% off its retail price of $249. This is a great price for such a sleek smartwatch, and if it's a gift idea on your list, Amazon notes it'll arrive 14 days before Christmas. That leaves you plenty of time to get it all wrapped up.
SEE ALSO: Score a 10th Gen Apple iPad for under $300 at Best BuyThe SE line is Apple's more affordable range of smartwatches, but they're still packed with plenty of great features. This includes the essentials like health, fitness, and sleep tracking alongside safety features like Fall Detection, Crash Detection, and Emergency SOS. In our comparison of Apple Watch Series 9 vs. SE 2, Mashable's Kimberly Gedeon said, "If you're more fitness-focused, and you don't mind the thicker bezels and lack of always-on display, the Watch SE is a solid choice."
Take advantage of this great deal on the Apple Watch SE (40mm, GPS) at Amazon.
If you're curious about other Apple devices being on sale after Cyber Monday, it's worth having a look through our list of Apple's Cyber Monday deals. While many discounts won't be as steep as they were during the sale event, there are still some options worth jumping on if they caught your eye.
SAVE $65: As of Dec. 11, the Echo Show 8 is on sale for $84.99 at Amazon. That's 43% off its list price of $149.99.
Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Echo Show 8 $84.99 at AmazonEven though the Cyber Monday deals are winding down, Amazon is still offering up a few discounts ahead of the holidays. Some of these deals aren't quite as low as Cyber Monday, but they're still definitely worth jumping on if you still want to get some shopping done. Some of Amazon's smart home devices are even still on sale, including the Echo Show 8.
Amazon's Echo Show 8 is down to $84.99 right now for a limited time, 43% off its list price of $149.99. If you've had it on your radar, now's a great time to pick it up. Amazon even has a note on its page saying it'll arrive 14 days before Christmas, so if you want to get it as a gift you don't need to worry about delivery times.
SEE ALSO: The 10 best Echo devices — which one are you buying this holiday season?This smart device is packed with exciting features, too, including spatial audio, an eight-inch HD touchscreen, and a 13 MP camera. It can also operate as a smart home hub for those with several different smart devices around the house.
This limited-time deal won't last for long, though. Pick up the Amazon Echo Show 8 at $84.99 before this deal disappears.
If you want to save on even more devices ahead of the holidays, have a look through our roundup of Amazon's Cyber Monday deals. As mentioned before, most deals won't be quite as low as they were during the sale events, but there are definitely still some offers worth taking advantage of.
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