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Jenny Hoyos wants to be your internet best friend.

That might sound ambitious for someone with more than 12 million YouTube subscribers. But for Hoyos, the feeling of accessibility is a fundamental part of being a creator.

"I don't want to feel like someone that just shows [up] once a week or once a month," Hoyos told Mashable and other journalists during a roundtable at the Made On YouTube event in New York City on Wednesday. "I want them to see, 'Wow, Jenny's accessible 24/7. She is responding all the time. She is posting every day, several times.'"

Then she laughed. "Does she sleep? Maybe not. Not enough."

SEE ALSO: MeganPlays has been on YouTube for 13 years. Here's what she's learned.

Maintaining that level of intimacy with millions of people is, unsurprisingly, a lot of work. At Hoyos' scale, it's also become a team effort. "I basically have someone to do everything," she said. "I don't think that there's a single task that I have to do [alone]."

Hoyos has people helping with community posts and a community manager who assists with engagement and moderating unwanted comments. She still has final say, she said, but much of the work surrounding her online presence can be delegated. There is one obvious exception.

"Other than being on camera, that is the only thing I cannot outsource," Hoyos said. "I try to maximize the amount of time that I can on camera, just so I can show up for my viewers as much as possible."

It's a revealing look at what community building looks like at the highest levels of the creator economy. The intimacy between creator and fan might feel casual — a reply to a comment here, a livestream shoutout there — but maintaining that relationship at scale requires an increasingly sophisticated operation behind it. And YouTube wants to give creators more of the tools to run that operation without leaving YouTube.

At Made On YouTube, the video-sharing platform announced a slate of new and upcoming features designed around creator communities, including members-only Communities and more ways for fans to interact directly on the platform. Users will be able to share videos directly with friends through YouTube, with group chats coming soon. At the same time, members-only Communities will give paying channel members their own spaces to interact. YouTube is also expanding the ways viewers can participate in comments, including reaction GIFs and the ability to leave voice-to-text comments from their TVs.

YouTube is giving creators and fans more ways to interact. Credit: YouTube

Livestreaming is getting more interactive, too. Live Showdowns will turn fan participation into a kind of game, with viewers contributing to an on-screen battle as they watch. YouTube is also working to make livestreams easier to discover, including surfacing them alongside videos, Shorts, posts, and podcasts in personalized feeds. Taken together, the updates give creators more ways to turn watching YouTube into something viewers do with them and with each other.

Hoyos said that although she never deliberately set out to foster relationships among her viewers, she's watched those relationships emerge in her Community posts.

"I post almost every day," she said. "People just respond to each other, communicate with each other, and get connected."

Because Hoyos shares details about her own life and interests, fans will respond with their own, she said. Other viewers see those exchanges and discover people who like the same things.

Barbara Macdonald, Google's product manager for Live, said she sees the same phenomenon play out in livestream chats, particularly among smaller communities.

Voice comments let viewers join the conversation without leaving the couch. Credit: YouTube

"People know each other's birthdays. They know what everybody is interested in," Macdonald said of her own YouTube community. She also maintains a Discord, where some of those relationships continue outside YouTube.

But unsurprisingly, YouTube appears to be building features that could keep more of that activity on its platform. Hoyos certainly sees the appeal.

"As a creator, I want everything in one place," she said. Creators already have enough work without maintaining separate spaces for every facet of their fandom, she argued. A creator might have a YouTube channel for videos, a Discord for their community, and a Patreon for exclusive content. Each new platform doesn't just create more work for creators; it also asks fans to follow them elsewhere.

"It's a lot," Hoyos said. "It's not even just a lot for us as the creator, but also the audience, getting them to convert."

"You have all these CTAs to download all these apps," she added. "It's so much easier for everyone [to have everything in one place]."

The business of being accessible

Of course, bringing more of a creator's fandom to YouTube also creates more monetization opportunities.

YouTube has spent more than a decade building ways for fans to financially support creators, from channel memberships and Super Chats to newer products such as Hype with Jewels and the upcoming Live Showdowns.

But Hoyos said she is cautious about directly monetizing the relationship she has built with her audience. "I don't like to monetize directly through just the fans, just because I do feel bad," she said.

Hoyos offers channel memberships, but unlike some creators, she doesn't put significant amounts of exclusive content behind them. Instead, membership largely gives fans a better chance of being noticed during her livestreams. Their badges make their messages stand out in a fast-moving chat, and Hoyos said she's more likely to acknowledge them or respond to their comments.

A closer look at Hype With Jewels. Credit: YouTube

She doesn't see that as shutting everyone else out. "I still give energy and attention to everyone," Hoyos said. "It's just the ones that are members, I immediately see it first."

That distinction gets at a complicated part of the modern creator-fan relationship: Fans are no longer only consuming content — they're being asked to participate in the economy surrounding it.

According to Macdonald, YouTube's research has found that viewers spend money on creators for several different reasons. Some simply want to support someone whose work they enjoy. Others want exclusive content. And some are paying for a moment of recognition.

"If they happen to be doing a livestream and you send a Super Chat, and then they say your name, they shout you out, they answer the question that you've asked in Super, you just — you feel it," Macdonald said.

The culture around that exchange has changed dramatically since YouTube first began developing fan-funding products around 2015, she said. At the time, Macdonald recalled creators being uncomfortable with the idea. "'I don't know how I feel about having my fans pay to hang out with me,'" she recalled creators telling her.

Eleven years later, Macdonald said creators are actively asking YouTube for those tools, and viewers are now accustomed to using them.

Hoyos has noticed the shift, too. "It's definitely become more part of the culture to support your favorite creators," she said.

You can't outsource showing up

YouTube can build more tools to help creators find viewers, talk to them, moderate them, and eventually monetize them. But Hoyos doesn't think the platform can do the most important part of community building for them.

For smaller creators struggling to find an audience, Hoyos argued that the problem isn't always discovery. Sometimes, they simply aren't making compelling enough live content.

"It's on the creator to actually have good content and not just go live and, like, 'Oh, I hope people show up,'" she said. Creators should promote their livestreams, have something resembling a show planned, and, crucially, actually talk to the people who arrive.

"If you're not interacting with people, why are they going to tell their friends [to watch you]?" Hoyos said. "Why are they even going to continue watching?"

It's perhaps the simplest explanation of Hoyos' "internet best friend" strategy. YouTube can make it easier for creators to gather their communities in one place. AI can help moderate their comments. Teams can schedule posts, manage communities, and handle the day-to-day logistics of running a creator business.

But someone still has to show up. For Hoyos, that's the part she isn't willing to outsource.

Next Thursday, Google is sending an experimental satellite into orbit that will have enough computing power to answer simple A.I. queries from space.

Google is preparing to launch a satellite that can run its A.I. technologies from the heavens. But this is just a first step.

Matchmaking is having a moment, whether it's an AI matchmaker for college students or human matchmakers with decades of experience. And while singles are increasingly vexed by dating apps, the platforms are trying to pull in loved ones to help them date, too — like with Hinge's recent feature Friend's Take.

Amid these trends, a new app for both singles and wannabe matchmakers launches today: Rivet. Founded by former Tinder and Match Group executive Taru Kapoor, Rivet is a "social matching" app that will attempt to replace algorithms with the wisdom of crowds. Users sign up as Daters or Matchers, and all are encouraged to pair up others.

SEE ALSO: I tried Co-star's Readme, the dating app for readers. It's fine.

"Dating has always been social," said Kapoor in a press release shared with Mashable. She spent years thinking that dating apps were removing friction from meeting each other, but instead, "we removed the people."

Dating apps created matches by connecting people who wouldn't have met otherwise, Kapoor continued, but a side effect was that they turned something fundamentally social and human — dating — into a transactional, isolated activity.

"I built Rivet to change that," she said. "Rivet is built on a simple truth: humans understand chemistry and compatibility in a way that no algorithm can. You don't have to find your person entirely on your own, let people help you find your person."

How does Rivet work?

On Rivet, all Daters are also Matchers, but not all Matchers are Daters, Kapoor told Mashable. "Even if you're married, in a relationship or simply not currently looking to date, you can still join Rivet to be a Matcher and help people find meaningful connections," she said over email. You can make a Dater profile later if you'd like, but you're never required to.

Matchers provide their opinions on potential pairs and recommend introductions for users they believe would be a good couple. Pairs who receive high "Social Matching scores" are then introduced to each other on the app, and each person decides whether to match and start a conversation.

You can be on Rivet solely as a Dater, Kapoor continued, though the app encourages Daters to participate in matching others.

More than two-thirds (68 percent) of Gen Z and millennials said they'd be interested in helping someone they don't personally know find a potential romantic match (if they can do so anonymously, and the pair themselves made the final decision), according to a national survey of over 2,000 U.S. adults commissioned by Rivet.

And some prizes can sweeten the deal, too. Matchers can receive rewards for helping people find love, according to Rivet's website. "Match a pair that you think will click or call a mismatch, and you earn Karma. Karma gets you bragging rights and can be redeemed for rewards," it states.

Currently, reaching 15,000 Karma with a strong MQ (Matcher Quotient, the app's way of displaying a Matcher's thoughtfulness and accuracy) can be redeemed for $30 equivalent in cash or gift cards, Kapoor said. The team is working on making more reward and redemption options available soon.

Those with high MQ might also be bestowed as Elite Matchers.

In addition to the app, Rivet also hosts live events, such as a dating show in New York City in early Oct.

More dating apps are adding AI — meaning, more algorithms — and Rivet is bucking the trend. It's now available for free on iOS and Android.

TL;DR: Sign up for a 7-day free trial of Apple TV+ through Prime Video Channels to watch select F1 races for free. Watch the Azerbaijan GP for free with the Prime Video app.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Apple TV Prime Video Channel Watch the Azerbaijan GP for free with a 7-day trial Shop Now

Kimi Antonelli tops the F1 standings coming into an electric weekend of action in Azerbaijan. The talented Italian secured a dramatic victory in the Spanish GP, extending his lead over teammate George Russell.

McLaren continues to show pace after the last round of updates, but Norris now has a mountain to climb. The defending champion is over 100 points behind Antonelli, a margin that's probably too great. Still, Norris will be aiming to cut the deficit at the Baku City Circuit.

SEE ALSO: ExpressVPN review: A stylish VPN service with proven privacy and a large U.S. presence

If you want to watch F1 2026 for free from anywhere in the world, we've got all the information you need.

When is the Azerbaijan GP?

The Azerbaijan GP is the 15th race of the 2026 F1 season. Here's the full schedule from the Baku City Circuit:

• Practice 1 — 4:30-5:30 a.m. ET on Sept. 24

• Practice 2 — 8-9 a.m. ET on Sept. 24

• Practice 3 — 4:30-5:30 a.m. ET on Sept. 25

• Qualifying — 8-9 a.m. ET on Sept. 25

• Race — 7 a.m. ET on Sept. 26

Fans can follow all the action from this race weekend without spending anything.

How to watch the Azerbaijan GP for free

Amazon Prime delivers fast shipping, Prime Day discounts, and access to the Prime Video library.

For F1 fans in the U.S., Prime Video is absolutely key this season. Apple TV holds exclusive U.S. broadcasting rights for F1, and you can sign up for a seven-day free trial of Apple TV directly through Prime Video Channels.

That trial gives you access to select races for free, including this weekend's Azerbaijan Grand Prix. The subscription rolls over to $12.99 per month after the seven-day trial, but you can disable the automatic renewal and still stream the entire race weekend for free.

Of course, if you're already paying for Amazon Prime, calling it "completely free" is questionable. But if you don't have an active membership, Amazon offers a 30-day free trial for new users. Stacking that Prime trial with the seven-day Apple TV channel trial means you're truly spending nothing to stream this weekend's race.

If you've already made use of this method, you still have a few workarounds:

• Apple TV: New standalone subscribers qualify for a direct seven-day free trial through Apple's app.

• Apple One: If you want more than just streaming, the Apple One tier packages Apple TV alongside Apple Music, Apple Arcade, Apple Fitness+, Apple News+, and 50GB of iCloud storage — and it comes with a full one-month free trial ($19.95 per month after the promotional period).

• Apple: The most generous Apple TV offer is tied to new hardware purchases. Buying an eligible iPhone, iPad, Mac, or Apple TV grants new subscribers three months of free service. You obviously have to spend money on hardware, but if you were already planning an upgrade, it effectively unlocks a massive chunk of the F1 season for free.

TL; DR: Samsung TV Plus is turning on House of Hallows for October, bringing a massive collection of free, subscription-free horror directly to Samsung Smart TVs. The lineup features AVOD premieres of A24 hits like Heretic and MaXXXine, iconic blockbusters like The Sixth Sense and Resident Evil, and paranormal series on the Fear Zone channel.

If you are looking to queue up a spooky movie marathon without adding another paid subscription to your monthly bill, Samsung has you covered. Throughout October, Samsung TV Plus — the global, subscription-free streaming service available on Samsung Smart TVs — is launching its House of Hallows hub.

Designed to be a one-stop destination for horror classics, paranormal series, and nightly frights, the event delivers an absolute mountain of horror content straight to your living room with no logins or credit cards required. Whether you want to stream blockbuster movies on demand, binge ghost hunts on live channels, or just leave eerie visuals running in the background during a fall party, here is everything landing on Samsung TV Plus this Halloween season.

Featured movies and classic thrillers

Available across Movie Hub, the Samsung Television Network (STN), and on-demand streaming, the October film lineup ranges from nostalgic sci-fi and slasher hits to international thrillers and family-friendly spooky flicks:

• The Sixth Sense

• Resident Evil and Resident Evil: Apocalypse

• Mars Attacks!

• Suspiria

• Urban Legend and Urban Legends: Final Cut

• You're Next

• Cobweb

• Exhuma

• Labyrinth

• R.L. Stine’s Zombie Town

• Tourist Trap

• In the Cut

• Salmokji: Whispering Water

SEE ALSO: What's new to streaming this week? (Sept. 25, 2026) The A24 Horror Collection

For fans seeking acclaimed, modern genre hits, the dedicated A24 collection brings together psychological thrillers, supernatural scares, and unsettling cinema. This channel includes several major free ad-supported streaming (AVOD) premieres alongside beloved cult favorites:

• AVOD Premieres — Heretic, The Front Room, and MaXXXine

• Modern Classics and Cult Favorites — Talk to Me, Hereditary, Midsommar, X, Pearl: An X-traordinary Origin Story..., The Blackcoat's Daughter, Lamb, Under the Skin, Life After Beth, The Monster, Climax, In Fabric, and Enemy

If you prefer unscripted ghost hunting and real-world paranormal investigations, the Fear Zone channel features primetime spots spotlighting a different series each night on a weekly rotation:

• Most Haunted

• Paranormal Survivor

• The Other Side

• Death Walker

• Boogeyman

For moments when you need a break from intense jump scares, Samsung TV Plus is adding a couple of lighter seasonal options:

• AFV with Alfonso Ribeiro — Watch continuous runs of favorite Halloween-themed episodes from America’s Funniest Home Videos.

• Halloween Vibes Channel — Turn your television into a cozy seasonal backdrop with ambient fall-aesthetic visuals, eerie nightscapes, and haunted hideaways to set the mood for spooky gatherings.

Skip the extra $15 streaming subscription this month — grab your popcorn, dim the lights, and turn on your Samsung Smart TV this fall.

TL;DR: As of Sept. 24, the XTEINK X4 Classic Pocket eReader is marked down to $78.99 at Amazon. That's $10.01 off the list price of $89.

Opens in a new window Credit: XTEINK XTEINK X4 Classic Pocket eReader $78.64 at Amazon
$89 Save $10.36   Get Deal

You may have been one of the Kindle fans who were alarmed by news that Amazon would be hiking prices across its devices — more fallout from the ongoing AI-enforced RAMageddon crisis, which is driving up tech prices.

The bad news for Kindle readers is that upgrading your Kindle is going to come at a literal cost — and more than you normally expect to pay for a Kindle. Fortunately, the XTEINK X4 Classic Pocket eReader, which is one of the trendiest Kindle alternatives, is currently marked down as part of the early October Prime Day deals.

As of Sept. 24, the XTEINK X4 Classic Pocket eReader is down to $78.99. It's usually priced at $89, so that's a $10.01 saving.

The big selling point of this e-reader is just how practical and compact it is. It attaches magnetically to the back of your smartphone, so your e-books are right there on the phone and in your pocket. You can also turn pages with either physical buttons or by just shaking the device. The main catch with this one is that it requires DRM-free EPUB files, so you won't get the full range available to Kindle.

Pick up the XTEINK X4 Classic Pocket eReader today for just $78.99.

The best deals this week, hand-picked by our shopping experts

• Apple iPhone 18 Pro — free at T-Mobile 

• Paramount+ — $0.99 for 2 months with code p2mcs26prem

• Apple AirPods Pro 3 — $199 $249 (save $50)

• Apple iPad Pro — $1,899 $2,099 (save $200)

• TCL 85-Inch Class QM8L Series TV — $2,497.99 $3,999.99 (save $1,502)

SAVE OVER $100: As of Sept. 24, the Hisense 65-inch E6SR Hi-QLED 4K UHD Smart TV is on sale for $399.99 at Amazon. That's $150 off its full price of $549.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Hisense Hisense 65-Inch Class E6SR Series Hi-QLED 4K UHD Smart Roku TV $399.99 at Amazon
$549.99 Save $150   Get Deal

Amazon's stacked with great early deals ahead of its October Prime Day sale, especially on TVs.

In the sweet spot of 65-inch screen sizes, we've found some discounted models that are well worth checking out right now, including the Hisense 65-inch E6SR Hi-QLED 4K UHD Smart TV. This is our favorite budget find so far in this size range, with a $150 discount ahead of Prime Big Deal Days.

While it's normally priced at $549.99, this discount has brought the price down to $399.99. Amazon notes that this is a 30-day low for the model, but the price-tracking tool camelcamelcamel lists it as the best-ever price.

SEE ALSO: How to sign up for Amazon Prime in time for the next Prime Day

If you've been looking to upgrade to a bigger screen, Hisense's 65-inch model is a great mid-range pick that offers a larger display without taking up most of your wall space. It has high-quality specs, too. 4K resolution and Hi-QLED technology pair together to bring a crisply detailed and colorful picture to your screen, which is further boosted by Dolby Vision.

It also comes with DTS Virtual:X, which enhances the sound quality of what you're watching, so you don't miss a beat of dialogue as it unfolds. And on top of that, streaming from your favorite apps is simple and easy since it's a Smart Roku TV.

Amazon's sale is still a little way away, so why wait to jump on this deal? Be quick to save on the Hisense 65-inch E6SR Hi-QLED 4K UHD Smart TV at Amazon right now.

The best deals this week, hand-picked by our shopping experts

• Apple iPhone 18 Pro — free at T-Mobile 

• Paramount+ — $0.99 for 2 months with code p2mcs26prem

• Apple AirPods Pro 3 — $199 $249 (save $50)

• Apple iPad Pro — $1,899 $2,099 (save $200)

• TCL 85-Inch Class QM8L Series TV — $2,497.99 $3,999.99 (save $1,502)

Where to buy Adidas’s limited-edition Pokémon collection: Adidas See the collection Shop Now Foot Locker See the collection Shop Now Sole Play See the collection Shop Now

Adidas has officially dropped another limited-edition Pokémon collection, marking the latest release in a wild string of collabs celebrating the franchise’s 30th anniversary. We've covered Owala bottles, Stance socks, Polaroid cameras, and much more, but this might be the coolest Pokémon drop to date.

The collection features over 10 new footwear designs across staple silhouettes like the Samba OG. Prices range from $60 to $180, with listings on every pair live online right now across major retailers. Charizard, Pikachu, Mewtwo, and other favorites are featured, so you can expect these to sell fast.

Here's everything you need to know about the lineup and where to secure your size before stock runs dry.

What's included in the collection?

There really is something for everyone in this wild collection, from fuzzy sneakers with Pikachu ears to more understated Sambas featuring lavender suede:

• Pikachu (Superstar II in Yellow and White): The bold yellow pair features a fuzzy upper with plush Pikachu ears attached to the tongue. The clean white option keeps things subtle, with yellow stripes and lightning-bolt embroidery on the heel.

Credit: Adidas / Pokémon

• Charmander (Superstar II): Cream white leather base accented with shock-orange stripes and a custom graphic of Charmander using Ember across the side panel.

Credit: Adidas / Pokémon

• Charmeleon (Superstar II): Shifts to deep crimson shades with textured shell toes and character-specific tongue tags.

• Charizard (Superstar Vintage): Features an orange dragon-scale leather upper, removable wing overlays, and custom lace jewels.

• Mewtwo (Samba OG) Soft lavender suede terrace silhouette with iridescent sheen, glossy purple heel tabs, and an acrylic lace tag referencing Mewtwo's signature Psystrike move.

• Gastly (Adistar Control 3): Dark smoke-grey and deep purple breathable open-mesh runner.

• Haunter (Adistar Control 5): Deep purple performance runner built with extended tongue tags and hidden pink accents.

• Gengar (Adistar XLG 2.0): A chunky 2000s-inspired silhouette where raised side panels mimic Gengar's glowing eyes.

• Rayquaza (Adistar Control 5): Emerald green mesh performance model featuring textured dragon-scale cage overlays and metallic gold accents.

Collabs can be lazy, but this 30th Anniversary collection stands out for its high-grade materials and character-driven designs. We expect popular sizes to sell quickly, so don't hesitate to grab your size at Adidas, Foot Locker, or Sole Play while stock remains available.

Josh Johnson enjoyed his "last meal" on Mythical Kitchen, and halfway through, he called his mom. What a gem.

The comedian, writer, Daily Show host, and Mashable 101 alum joined host and chef Josh Scherer for a tasty stroll down memory lane. They dine on fruit slushes, a giant charcuterie board, lychee milk tea boba, pad thai, New York-style pepperoni pizza, pumpkin soup, chicken and shrimp gumbo, young coconuts (served as a soup), all with different spoons — “You didn’t have to do different spoons for me,” Johnson says — as the comedy star talks through memories.

It's a delightful chat, with Johnson stopping during the soup course to call his mother to check gumbo details and tell her that "someone's doing it right out here."

In another highlight of the video, Johnson invites the Mythical Kitchen crew including Ash Guenin, Colby Bleistein, and Tony Manlutac to join the table so he can congratulate them on their cooking skills. Bon appétit.

From YouTubers and TikTok stars to streamers and podcasters, Mashable talks to creators about how they built their platforms, the gear they swear by, and the trends they see coming next. Read more of our creator coverage, sign up for our Trending Now and Top Stories newsletters or get Mashable push alerts to discover the internet's most exciting voices.

TL;DR: As of Sept. 24, the LG Ultragear OLED gaming monitor is now available for $499.99 at Amazon. That's a $400 saving on the list price of $899.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: LG LG Ultragear OLED Gaming Monitor $499.99 at Amazon
$899.99 Save $400   Get Deal

Top-level gaming gear doesn't come cheap, so whenever you find a good deal on gaming hardware, it's a serious 1-up moment.

The good news for gamers is that we expect plenty of gaming deals as part of October Prime Day, which runs Oct. 6-7. Even better news is that some super early deals are already available, including a good selection of price drops on gaming monitors. For instance, check out the mega discount you can currently get on the LG Ultragear OLED gaming monitor, a 27-inch model from one of the best names in TV and monitor tech.

As of Sept. 24, the LG Ultragear OLED gaming monitor is available for $499.99 at Amazon. That's a total saving of $400 from the regular list price of $899.99.

There are plenty of reasons to pick up this deal — other than the $400 price reduction, that is. Not least of all is the OLED display, widely considered one of the best screen technologies. It's not quite 4K, but it delivers QHD resolution, a 240Hz refresh rate, 0.3ms response time, DisplayHDR True Black, and compatibility with both Nvidia G-Sync and AMD FreeSync Premium Pro.

At just $499.99, the LG Ultragear OLED gaming monitor is more than worth grabbing to upgrade your gaming setup. Get it now and save a massive $400 off the usual price of $899.99.

The best deals this week, hand-picked by our shopping experts

• Apple iPhone 18 Pro — free at T-Mobile 

• Paramount+ — $0.99 for 2 months with code p2mcs26prem

• Apple AirPods Pro 3 — $199 $249 (save $50)

• Apple iPad Pro — $1,899 $2,099 (save $200)

• TCL 85-Inch Class QM8L Series TV — $2,497.99 $3,999.99 (save $1,502)

TL;DR: As of Sept. 24, the Samsung 27-inch Odyssey G8 gaming monitor is now available for $699.99 at Amazon. That's a $250 saving on the list price of $949.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung 27-inch Odyssey G8 Gaming Monitor $699.99 at Amazon
$949.99 Save $250   Get Deal

If you're a dedicated gamer, you'll know that top-quality hardware is the difference between winning and losing — spec absolutely matters when you're competing in fine margins. The problem is price. Good gaming hardware costs top dollar, which is why any gamer who knows their stuff is firmly locked in on major sales like October Prime Day.

Sure, we're still a few weeks out, with Prime Day officially set for Oct. 6-7, but there are already some gaming deals available — including gaming monitor deals we think are worth highlighting. That includes the Samsung 27-inch Odyssey G8 gaming monitor, a high-end model that goes beyond most other monitors thanks to 5K resolution.

As of Sept. 24, the Samsung 27-inch Odyssey G8 gaming monitor is available for $699.99 at Amazon. That’s a $250 discount from the regular list price of $949.99.

Sure, it's not the biggest monitor you'll find — there are some curved display options that are absolute beasts — but it's a great fit for mid-size gaming setups. And that's not to say it doesn't go big on spec, because it's loaded with features to improve both your gaming experience and performance: a 360Hz refresh rate, a 1ms response time, a Fast IPS panel, Nvidia G-Sync compatibility, HDR10+ plus AMD FreeSync.

At just $699.99, the Samsung 27-inch Odyssey G8 gaming monitor is a great value hi-spec addition for any gaming station — $250 is a significant saving. Don't miss your chance to level up with this deal.

The best deals this week, hand-picked by our shopping experts

• Apple iPhone 18 Pro — free at T-Mobile 

• Paramount+ — $0.99 for 2 months with code p2mcs26prem

• Apple AirPods Pro 3 — $199 $249 (save $50)

• Apple iPad Pro — $1,899 $2,099 (save $200)

• TCL 85-Inch Class QM8L Series TV — $2,497.99 $3,999.99 (save $1,502)

TL;DR: Launching Nov. 1 exclusively at Best Buy and direct from EverBoard, the EverBoard is a 21.5-inch tabletop digital console designed for up to six players. It packs licensed Hasbro classics like Monopoly, Connect 4, Chutes and Ladders, and Scrabble into a controller-free touchscreen

If your family game night usually ends with missing dice, lost cards, or arguments over house rules, a new digital tabletop console wants to save your game night. The EverBoard is an all-in-one digital game system launching at select Best Buy stores and online, built to bring family and friends around the same screen without the physical clutter. Built around a 21.5-inch touchscreen, the board supports up to six players at once — no extra controllers, plastic pieces, or mobile app downloads needed.

At launch, EverBoard is partnering with Hasbro to offer digital versions of classic favorites like Monopoly, Connect 4, Chutes and Ladders, and Scrabble. Players access these titles through EverPass, a monthly service with over 50 games out of the box.

But the real party trick here is the EverVibe Game Creator, an AI feature that lets you build original games using simple voice or text prompts. Instead of sticking to pre-made rules, you can describe a custom game idea out loud and watch the board generate a playable version right on the screen.

The physical hardware is built to fit almost any setup, offering four distinct modes that let you play flat on a table, propped up at an angle, locked vertically, or packed into a portable hardshell case for trips. Since the multi-touch screen registers inputs from all sides, anyone around the table can take their turn naturally.

Game night is officially getting an AI upgrade — look for the EverBoard at Best Buy and online starting Nov. 1.

TL;DR: The Pokémon TCG 30th Celebration Night Pikachu Mini Tin is available to preorder for $44.99 at Walmart, nearly $5 below its current market price.

Opens in a new window Credit: The Pokémon Company Pokémon TCG 30th Celebration Night Pikachu Mini Tin $44.99 at Walmart
  Pre-order Here

Amazon is missing one of the Pokémon TCG 30th Celebration expansion’s core products, but not only is the Pikachu-themed variant available elsewhere, but you can preorder now for under market value. 

As of Sept. 24, the Pokémon TCG 30th Celebration Night Pikachu Mini Tin is $44.99 at Walmart. The preorder is sold and shipped by marketplace seller T. Gaming, with free shipping and an estimated Oct. 15 arrival at the time of writing. That’s nearly two weeks after its Oct. 2 release date, but Walmart’s preorder price guarantee is also included, so you’ll pay the lower price if it drops again before launch. 

With this new low for preorders, you’re paying $4.91 below market price — estimated by trading card selling platform TCGplayer. As for TCGplayer listings, the lowest currently available is $45.99, making it a nice backup if Walmart runs out of stock. 

SEE ALSO: Shop the best early Prime Day deals on Pokémon, including 30th Celebration trading cards for under market price

Inside are two Pokémon TCG 30th Celebration booster packs, a sticker sheet, a Pokémon art card matching the Pikachu-, Unknown-, and Toxitricity-decorated tin, and a Pokémon TCG Live code card. 

Night Pikachu is one of 10 Mini Tin designs. Collect all of their matching art cards, and they combine into two larger scenes.

If you’re a Pokémon collector who’s keen to complete the set from the get-go, you can buy the 10-unit 30th Celebration Mini Tin Display Box for $352.24 on TCGplayer. 

TL;DR: Target is hosting a nationwide Pokémon 30th Anniversary event on Sept. 27 from 12-4 p.m. local time. Attend to claim custom card crafts, free goodie bags, and limited-edition 30th Celebration TCG drops.

Nothing surprises me anymore when it comes to Pokémon. It doesn't matter how many collections and expansions hit the market. I know the world will collectively lose its mind whenever anything new drops. Nothing is changing anytime soon.

So when I heard that Target is planning a huge nationwide Pokémon 30th Anniversary event with merch, games, and giveaways, the hairs stood up on my neck. This is going to be big, so I want you to be prepared.

SEE ALSO: The Pokémon 30th Celebration box is way below market price — act fast to buy for $89.99 on Amazon

Here is everything you need to know if you plan to attend, what you can actually get, and how to prepare for the inevitable crowds.

When is the Target Pokémon event?

Target's Pokémon 30th Anniversary event takes place on Sunday, Sept. 27 from 12-4 p.m. local time at participating brick-and-mortar locations.

Store participation and stock allocations will vary by location, so I recommend checking the full list of participating stores or calling your local store beforehand to confirm they are hosting. It's also worth asking about their line policies, so you don't go home disappointed.

What freebies, activities, and demos are offered?

Target is setting up dedicated Pokémon areas in participating stores featuring a mix of interactive activities and freebies. You can expect a "draw-your-own Pokémon card" craft station that includes a plastic slab cover resembling a PSA-graded collectible. Select Target locations will also feature playable demos for Pokémon Pokopia on the Nintendo Switch 2.

Credit: Target

Everyone loves a freebie, and the good news is that you can expect promotional giveaways while supplies last. Target hasn't confirmed exactly what will be on offer just yet, but we're seeing rumors around goodie bags for attendees. According to reports, the first ~98 attendees in line will receive a bag of freebies, which includes a Mewtwo promo card and a special event ticket. That ticket can be redeemed to purchase two 30th Celebration Tins, if the rumors are true.

Demand during the Sept. 16 launch was massive, so what are your chances of actually getting your hands on anything during this event? You're going to be going up against scalpers, but what's new?

It's been less than a year since the Melania doc came out, but apparently the people want more?

In the clip above, Daily Show host Desi Lydic gives a detailed breakdown of Melania Trump's recent appearance on Fox & Friends, during which the First Lady announced an upcoming docuseries.

"Another Melania documentary?" asks a confused Lydic. "Melania, I love you, but unless you're living with Nathan Fielder in this thing, no-one is asking for this."

Lydic finishes with a parody trailer for the docuseries, inter-spliced with some impressively unenthusiastic Fox & Friends interview clips.

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TL;DR: As of Sept. 24, the Pokémon 30th Celebration Elite Trainer Box is available for $89.99 at Amazon. That's well under market price.

Opens in a new window Credit: The Pokémon Company Pokémon 30th Celebration Elite Trainer Box $89.99 at Amazon
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For Pokémon fans, there are few greater pleasures than finding product at way below market price. And that's exactly what you'll get with Amazon's current price on the Pokémon 30th Celebration Elite Trainer Box.

As of Sept. 24, the Pokémon 30th Celebration Elite Trainer Box is available on Amazon for just $89.99. According to the market price listing at TCG Player, that's a total saving of $88.64 vs. the current market price of $178.63.

The catch is that you can't just rock up on Amazon and buy one. It's so in-demand that Amazon requires potential buyers to click the "request invite" button, which puts you in a random ballot to actually purchase one.

SEE ALSO: The Pokémon TCG 30th Celebration Sylveon ex Tin is under market price at Walmart — buy for under $60 while stocks last

If you're randomly selected, you’ll get an email to let you know that you’re eligible to buy Pokémon’s 30th Celebration Elite Trainer Box. The email will contain a purchase link valid for 72 hours. But don't wait around — at this price, there's no guarantee that this Elite Trainer Box will still be in stock.

If your invitation request isn't selected, Amazon will keep it on file, and you may receive an invitation after restocks. 

The Elite Trainer Box includes nine Pokémon 30th Celebration booster packs, a full-art foil Nidorina promo, 16 foil Basic Energy cards, 65 sleeves, dice, a coin, dividers, a player’s guide, and a Pokémon TCG Live code. 

Don't miss the chance to grab the Pokémon 30th Celebration Elite Trainer Box at $89.99 — almost half of the current market price.

The best early October Prime Day Amazon device deals: Best tablet deal Amazon Fire HD 10 $72.99 (save $82) Get Deal Best Fire TV deal Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Select $17.99 (save $32 with code 4KFTVSAVE) Get Deal best blink camera deal Blink Outdoor 2K+ with free Blink Battery Doorbell 2K+ $34.99 (save $134.99) Get Deal Best eero deal Amazon eero Pro 7 $269.99 (save $30) Get Deal

Amazon's Prime Big Deal Days (aka October Prime Day) is coming in hot, and with it, a boatload of discounts on Amazon's own devices. It officially runs from Oct. 6 through Oct. 7 this year and presents the perfect opportunity to kickstart your holiday shopping.

It only makes sense that Amazon would offer the biggest markdowns on its own devices. And since Amazon decided to swiftly jack up prices across its hardware range last month by as much as 60 percent(!), the October Prime Day sale couldn't come at a better time.

Things are starting a bit slow, but there are already several Fire tablets, Blink cameras, Fire TV streaming sticks and soundbars, and eero devices on sale. We're hoping to see some big price drops on Kindles and Echo devices, as these were the gadgets hit the hardest in the price hike, but so far they're MIA. Don't worry — we'll keep a watchful eye out and update this story if and when those deals appear.

Aside from devices themselves, Amazon's typical subscription deals for newcomers (and returning users) are already live. You can score three free months of Kindle Unlimited, four months of Audible Standard for 99 cents per month, or four free months of Amazon Music Unlimited.

We'll be tracking all the best Amazon device deals below, leading up to and throughout the Prime Big Deal Days sale. You do need to be a Prime member to score the biggest discounts during the event, so be sure to sign up before it kicks off.

Best Fire tablet deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Fire HD 10 tablet $72.99 at Amazon
$154.99 Save $82.00   Get Deal Why we like it

While it's hardly a new device, the Fire HD 10 tablet is still a solid pick for anyone who just wants a tablet to stream shows, check emails, and browse social media. Mashable's reviewer SaVanna Shoemaker called it "lighter and faster than its predecessors, with a long battery life and vivid picture that makes it great for on-the-go entertainment." Compared to other well-known tablets, she also adds that it's an "excellent value." It's not going to knock your socks off, but it'll get the job done and won't break the bank — especially now that it's on sale for only $72.99, a full 53% off its list price.

More Fire tablet deals

• Amazon Fire 7 Kids — $49.99 $99.99 (save $50)

• Amazon Fire HD 8 — $79.99 $129.99 (save $50)

• Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids — $94.99 $169.99 (save $75)

• Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids Pro — $104.99 $179.99 (save $75)

• Limited Edition Harry Potter Amazon Fire HD 10 — $132.99 $189.99 (save $57)

Best Fire TV Stick deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Select $17.99 at Amazon
$49.99 Save $32 *with Prime-exclusive code 4KFTVSAVE* Get Deal Why we like it

The entire Fire TV Stick lineup was affected by the August price hike, so we're surprised that the discounts are still at pre-hike levels. Prime members can score the 4K Select for only $17.99 with the code 4KFTVSAVE, which is 64% in savings.

The 4K Select is Amazon's newest 4K Fire TV Stick with HDR10+ support and the first to feature its new Linux-based operating system. That means a few things: it's speedier and more streamlined than older Fire Sticks, but also more limited. If you like sideloading apps, this streaming stick won't let you (go with the 4K Plus instead). It also offers support for Alexa+, Amazon Kids+, Amazon Luna, Xbox Game Pass, and NordVPN.

More Fire TV deals

• Amazon Fire TV Stick HD — $15.99 $39.99 (save $24 with code HDFTVSAVE)

• Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Plus — $24.99 $69.99 (save $45 with code STREAM4K)

• Amazon Fire TV Alexa Voice Remote Pro — $24.99 $34.99 (save $10)

• Amazon Fire TV Soundbar — $99.99 $119.99 (save $20)

• Amazon Fire TV Soundbar Plus — $189.99 $249.99 (save $60)

Best Blink camera deal Opens in a new window Credit: Blink Blink Outdoor 2K+ with free Blink Battery Doorbell 2K+ $34.99 at Amazon
$169.98 Save $134.99   Get Deal Why we like it

Who doesn't love free stuff? In this early October Prime Day deal, you can get the Blink Battery Doorbell 2K+ for no extra cost when you purchase the Blink Outdoor 2K+ for $34.99. That's 65% off the camera itself and nearly 80% off the combined cost. If you're looking to enhance your home security but don't want to spend a fortune, this bundle is an excellent start. You'll get sharp 2K video, enhanced audio, and night vision with no installation hassle. Everything is battery-powered and lasts for months at a time.

More Blink camera deals

• Blink Mini 2K+ — $15.99 $39.99 (save $24)

• Blink Mini Pan-Tilt — $23.99 $39.99 (save $16)

• Blink Video Doorbell — $26.99 $69.99 (save $43)

• Blink Outdoor 4 — $27.99 $79.99 (save $52)

• Blink Battery Doorbell 2K+ — $30.99 $69.99 (save $39)

• Blink Arc 2K+ — $31.99 $99.99 (save $68)

• Blink Outdoor XR+ and Wired Doorbell 2K+ — $41.99 $169.98 (save $127.99)

Best Eero deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon eero Pro 7 $269.99 at Amazon
$299.99 Save $30   Get Deal Why we like it

If your WiFi is laggy, it may be a good time to invest in an Amazon Eero system. Ahead of Prime Big Deal Days, the Eero Pro 7 Mesh WiFi router is down to $269.99, which is $30 cheaper than usual. It supports over 200 devices, internet plans up to 5 Gbps, and covers up to 2,000 square feet, helping to optimize your connection and eliminate dead spots. Even if you're not a tech guru, it's a breeze to set up thanks to Eero's step-by-step guide in the app.

More Eero deals

• Amazon eero 7 — $154.99 $169.99 (save $15)

• Amazon eero Max 7  — $529.99 $599.99 (save $70)

The best October Prime Day kitchen deals at a glance: Best air fryer deal Ninja Foodi Air Fryer (10-Quart) $149.99 (save $80) Get Deal Best blender deal Ninja UltraCrush Pro Kitchen System 72 oz. Blender $159.98 (save $60.01) Get Deal Best ice cream maker deal Black+Decker Ice Cream Maker $129.99 (save $40) Get Deal Best espresso machine deal Casabrews 3700 Espresso Machine with Steam Wand $99.99 (save $10) Get Deal

Cooking at home is supposed to save money, but between grocery prices and the cost of decent appliances, it doesn't always feel like it.

Amazon's October Prime Day (officially Prime Big Deal Days) doesn't start until Oct. 6, but many early kitchen deals are already live. If you need a new air fryer, want to upgrade your morning coffee station, or just need to replace a worn-out pan without spending a fortune, we found the best early discounts to grab right now.

Best kitchen deal Ninja Foodi Air Fryer (10-Quart) $149.99 at Amazon
$229.99 Save $80   Get Deal at Amazon Why we like it

At $149.99 (down from $229.99), the Ninja Foodi 10-Quart DualZone is just 99 cents above its all-time low.

Instead of cooking in batches or relying on your oven, it gives you two separate 5-quart baskets that run at different temperatures simultaneously. The Smart Finish setting automatically syncs the timers so both baskets finish cooking at the exact same time, while Match Cook lets you duplicate settings across both sides for full 10-quart meals. It also includes six standard functions — air fry, broil, roast, bake, dehydrate, and keep warm — and has enough total capacity to handle about eight pounds of wings.

More early Prime Day kitchen deals

Air fryers and countertop appliances

• Instant Pot Vortex 6-in-1 — $65 $89.99 (save $24.99)

• Chefman 6-quart Compact Air Fryer — $74.99 $119.99 (save $45)

• Instant Pot Vortex Plus XL ClearCook Double Basket — $159.99 $189.99 (save $30)

• Ninja French Door Premier Air Fry Oven with Cutting Board — $199.99 $299.99 (save $100)

Coffee and espresso makers

• Keurig K-Mini Coffee Maker — $71 $99.99 (save $28.99)

• Keurig K-Express — $89.99 $109.99 (save $20)

• Keurig K-Elite — $149.99 $209.99 (save $60)

• Nespresso Vertuo Next Coffee & Espresso Maker by De'Longhi — $163.32 $189 (save $25.68)

• Ninja Luxe Café Premier Espresso & Rapid Cold Brew — $499.99 $599.99 (save $100)

Cookware and bakeware

• Carote Pots and Pans 21-Piece Set — $59.99 $99.99 (save $40)

• Cuisinart Stainless Steel Pots and Pans 7-Piece Set — $108.04 $119.95 (save $11.91)

• Carote Pots and Pans 26-Piece Set — $139.99 $219.99 (save $80)

• Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Stainless Steel Pots and Pans 11-Piece Set — $171.36 $179.95 (save $8.59)

• KitchenAid Hard-Anodized Induction Ceramic Pots and Pans 9-Piece Set — $246.49 $289.99 (save $43.50)

Blenders and ice cream makers

• Ninja Professional Blender 2.0 (72 oz) — $79.99 $109.99 (save $30)

• Oster Extreme Mix Blender — $129 $189.99 (save $60.99)

• Ninja CREAMi 7-in-1 Ice Cream Maker (NC301) — $207 $229.99 (save $22.99)

• Chefman Iceman Slush-Ease Slushie Machine — $179.99 $299.99 (save $120)

Products to watch (aka the stuff that will probably go on sale soon)

These items aren't on sale just yet, but if past sales have taught us anything, they usually drop as soon as Prime Big Deal Days officially begins. If you've been eyeing any of these, add them to your cart now and hold off on buying until Oct. 6.

• Our Place Wonder Oven — We typically see these get $60+ price cuts during major Amazon sales events. Hold off until next week if you want one.

• Ninja Crispi Glass Air Fryer — The Ninja Crispi saw a $50 discount during June's Prime Day event.

• KitchenAid Artisan, 5-Qt Tilt Head Stand Mixer — We saw this go for $379.99 during June's Prime Day event.

Days after Donald Trump revoked White House access for journalists from CNN, Politico, and MS NOW, the administration launched a 24/7 "Trump TV" YouTube stream. And on Wednesday Jimmy Kimmel had one brutal sentence to sum it up.

"So far it's going about as well as everything else with Donald Trump's name on it," Kimmel says in the clip above. "It peaked with an audience of about 8,500 people on Monday night. By this morning they were down to fewer than 500 viewers. The only channel doing worse is the Strait of Hormuz."

Kimmel finishes with yet another parody ad, this time for a lineup of made-up Trump TV shows including "The All-White Lotus" and "America's Most Dangerous Windmills".

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