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The MacBook Neo officially launches today, and as I noted in my MacBook Neo review, Apple is sure to sell a billion of these colorful laptops.
OK, maybe not a billion, but the point stands. The MacBook Neo is Apple's new budget MacBook, and it has an unbeatable price of $599 (or $499 with education pricing). Asus's co-CEO called its price a "shock" to the Windows laptop market, before throwing some obligatory shade its way.
Get a quick download on everything you need to know about the MacBook Neo on launch day.
Apple MacBook Neo (A18 Pro, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD) $599 at AmazonThe MacBook Neo is Apple's first true budget MacBook, and it brings premium MacBook features to the budget category. The Neo has all but one of the MacBook's signature features. It has an all-aluminum build, a Liquid Retina Display, macOS, and, of course, the Apple cool factor. (It's been a long time since I've been in college, but from what I hear, it's still a status symbol on campus.)
To keep the price low, the Neo is Apple's first MacBook without M-series silicon since 2020, and it instead uses the A18 Pro chip first introduced with the iPhone 16 Pro Max. Some critics have been dismissing the device as a "computer phone," but the reviews so far are nearly unanimous: It's a surprisingly capable laptop.
I recommend citrus or indigo, personally. Credit: Joe Maldonado / MashableIn my testing, it scored nearly identical to the legendary M1 MacBook Air on benchmark tests. For students, casual users, and non-super-users, it should be able to handle your daily workload with ease. I was able to create simple videos in Final Cut Pro and edit massive image files in bulk.
Crucially, it also comes in fun colors: citrus, blush, indigo, and silver. I recommend citrus and indigo, personally.
SEE ALSO: MacBook Neo review: I think Apple's going to sell millions of these The MacBook Neo: Will it sell out?Users were reporting low stock during the preorder period, but as of this writing, all four colors were available for order at Amazon. However, due to an ongoing global memory shortage, you never know when that might change.
The MacBook Neo costs $599, but a version with Touch ID and 512GB of SSD is also available for $699. Both versions have 8GB of RAM.
Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple MacBook Neo (A18 Pro, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD) $599 at AmazonTL;DR: As of March 11, Norton is offering its VPN Standard plan for £29.99 for the first year. That works out to just £2.50 per month.
Opens in a new window Credit: Norton Norton VPN (1-Year Plan) Get DealIf you spend a lot of time online, cybersecurity is always worth keeping in mind. And if you're looking to boost your online security, a VPN is a great investment.
A VPN can make sure your online activity is safe and private, block annoying ads, and much more. If this is something you've been thinking about, Norton is offering an excellent deal on its VPN Standard plan right now. For the first year, you can score the VPN Standard plan that covers up to five devices for just £29.99. This amounts to just £2.50 per month.
After the promotional period comes to an end, the subscription will rise to its usual price of £59.99 per year unless you cancel. Think of this as a great way to test it out for 12 months. It's a plan that's packed with a lot of features for you to explore, after all.
Mashable Deals Be the first to know! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Loading... Sign Me Up By signing up, you agree to receive recurring automated SMS marketing messages from Mashable Deals at the number provided. Msg and data rates may apply. Up to 2 messages/day. Reply STOP to opt out, HELP for help. Consent is not a condition of purchase. See our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. Thanks for signing up!The Norton VPN Standard plan can cover up to five devices, making it a good pick if you're planning to share it with family or roommates. It also boasts a variety of protective features. Here's what you can expect from the Standard plan, per Norton:
IP masking to hide your online activities
Access your favorite content across borders
Ad Blocker to browse without annoying ads
No-log policy to ensure your privacy
Kill Switch to help prevent privacy exposure
IP Rotation and Double VPN for extra privacy
It's never too late to set yourself up with improved online security. Don't miss out on this great opportunity to get your first year of Norton VPN Standard for £29.99.
Apple's MacBook Neo doesn't officially support fast charging, which is a bummer. With a 20W charging adapter in the box (except in Europe; more on that later), the charging times can be rather long.
There's good news for prospective buyers, though: If you use a more powerful charging adapter, the MacBook Neo will charge significantly faster.
SEE ALSO: MacBook Neo review: I think Apple's going to sell millions of theseMacworld put this to the test by charging the MacBook Neo for 30 minutes with Apple's 20W USB-C power adapter, and with a 96W power adapter. When charged with the more powerful adapter, MacBook Neo got 30 percent battery life, as opposed to just 15 percent it got with the weaker, 20W brick.
So why doesn't Apple list the MacBook Neo as having fast charging? It may have to do a bit with marketing, as the company might not want the Neo to cannibalize MacBook Air sales too much. Also, Apple defines fast charging as getting up to 50 percent of battery life in half an hour, which the Neo isn't capable of with any charger.
Still, this is great news, as it means that using a more powerful power adapter will get the Neo charged significantly faster. Note that the Neo cannot charge at a rate faster than about 24 watts, so it doesn't make sense to go overboard with a super-powerful charger.
So what about users in Europe? Well, Apple ships the Neo without a charger in the box (partially due to European Union regulations, and partially because it's simply cheaper for Apple to do so). This means that buyers in the EU should probably opt for something a bit more powerful than a 20W power adapter to get the most of their MacBook Neo.
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SAVE $50: As of March 11, the RayNeo Air 4 Pro glasses are on sale for $249 at Amazon. Access this all-time low price with the on-page coupon.
Opens in a new window Credit: RayNeo RayNeo Air 4 Pro glasses $249 at AmazonThe RayNeo Air 4 Pro glasses are down to their best-ever price at Amazon, so if you've been eyeing them up since release, now is the time to order.
As of March 11, Amazon has added a $50 off coupon to the listing. Simply tick the orange coupon box below the price and then head to the checkout where you'll see your discount applied. This coupon brings the price down from $299 to $249, marking its lowest-ever price according to camelcamelcamel.
Mashable Deals Be the first to know! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Loading... Sign Me Up By signing up, you agree to receive recurring automated SMS marketing messages from Mashable Deals at the number provided. Msg and data rates may apply. Up to 2 messages/day. Reply STOP to opt out, HELP for help. Consent is not a condition of purchase. See our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. Thanks for signing up!These glasses offer a HDR10 AR display with over 10 billion colors and ultra-deep contrast on a massive 201-inch virtual screen. They're powered by the Vision 4000 chip with AI SDR-to-HDR upscaling, so color is enhanced and incredibly sharp.
They also support smooth 120Hz visuals for PS5, Steam Deck, Switch 2, as well as mobile gaming. And you can even watch native 3D movies or convert 2D content to 3D with AI depth enhancement. The audio is next level too, provided by none other than Bang & Olufsen, so you'll get an immersive 360° spatial sound with an optional Sound Tube accessory to boost volume.
The glasses also connect universally via USB-C to iPhones, Android devices, MacBooks, iPads, Steam Decks, and PlayStation consoles, so they are nice and easy to use without complicated setup.
Get this great RayNeo coupon deal at Amazon now.
Pete Hegseth's defense department hasn't been shy about its spending, according to a new report that claims the department blew through $93 billion in September 2025 alone — and Jimmy Kimmel is unimpressed.
"Just in September, he spent $2 million of taxpayer money on Alaskan king crab, he spent $6.9 million on lobster tail, $140,000 on donuts, $124,000 on ice cream machines, $26,000 on sushi preparation tables, and $15.1 million on ribeye steak," says Kimmel. "How are they eating so much food? Can you imagine the size of the egg Sean Hannity would lay if a Democrat had spent millions of dollars on lobster tails and sushi preparation tables? He would never walk again."
Among the other items Kimmel calls out are the fruit basket stands, which reportedly made a notable dent all by themselves.
"They racked up quite a bill, $12,000 on fruit basket stands," says Kimmel. "Which is so funny, you know he's been going round saying, 'We're making the military manly again! We're war fighters! Now where is the stand for my basket of fruit?'"
Elsewhere, Stephen Colbert also had some things to say about Hegseth's spending habits.
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Pete Hegseth's department of defense has been burning through money like it's going out of fashion, according to new reporting that claims spending reached $93 billion in September 2025 alone — and items forked out for included everything from $5.3 million on new iPads to $12,000 on fruit basket stands.
"You're ordering fruit baskets so fancy they come with a stand?" says Stephen Colbert in the Late Show clip above. "Come on, Pete, if you need food at work do the normal thing: put a clementine in your tote and find it three weeks later when it's a furry grey golfball."
Colbert goes on to mention the Pentagon reportedly spending over $15 million on rib eye steak, $2 million on Alaskan king crab, and $6.9 million on lobster tale.
"No 'boo', they're just harkening back to our founders," says Colbert. "As Paul Revere declared on his famous ride, 'One if by surf, two if by turf.'"
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TL;DR: The 39-inch LG UltraGear OLED curved gaming monitor is down to $876.99 at Amazon, which knocks $723 off its $1,599.99 list price. That’s a 45% discount on a premium ultrawide display with a 240Hz refresh rate, 0.03ms response time, and LG’s dramatic 800R curve.
Opens in a new window Credit: LG LG 39-inch UltraGear OLED Curved Gaming Monitor $876.99 at AmazonOLED monitors are one of the best gaming setup upgrades, but they usually come with a high price.
As of March 11, the 39-inch LG UltraGear OLED curved gaming monitor is available for $876.99 at Amazon, down from its $1,599.99 list price. That’s a hefty $723 discount on what’s regarded as one of LG’s more premium ultrawide gaming displays.
Mashable Deals Be the first to know! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Loading... Sign Me Up By signing up, you agree to receive recurring automated SMS marketing messages from Mashable Deals at the number provided. Msg and data rates may apply. Up to 2 messages/day. Reply STOP to opt out, HELP for help. Consent is not a condition of purchase. See our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. Thanks for signing up!The 39-inch screen size alone makes it a more commanding option than a typical desktop monitor, but LG’s 21:9 WQHD resolution and aggressive 800R curve makes it a display meant for immersive PC gaming. Plus, the curved OLED panel is designed to pull more of your field of view into the action, whether you’re diving into expansive single-player games like Resident Evil Requiem or parking yourself in front of something more competitive, like League of Legends.
LG lists this UltraGear with a 240Hz refresh rate and a near-instant 0.03ms response time, which is exactly the kind of spec combo you want from a high-end gaming display. Add in NVIDIA G-SYNC compatibility and AMD FreeSync Premium, and it’s built to keep motion smooth when frame rates start climbing.
It also has the kind of OLED picture quality you’d expect at this level. LG says the monitor supports DisplayHDR True Black 400, a 1.5M:1 contrast ratio, and up to 98.5% DCI-P3 color coverage, which should translate to richer blacks, brighter highlights, and more vivid color than you’d get from a more standard LCD panel.
There’s a little extra versatility here thanks to built-in webOS support. That means you’re not just looking at a pure PC monitor, but also LG’s baked-in access to streaming apps and cloud gaming services like GeForce NOW and Amazon Luna directly from the display.
The 32-inch ASUS ROG Strix is on sale for $200 off at Amazon. As for Samsung, the 32-inch Odyssey G5 is available for only $249.99 at Amazon.
I haven't always been an iOS user. Before I finally gave into peer pressure and bought my first iPhone, I was a satisfied Android user. But while testing out the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, I was tempted to make this stunner of a smartphone my new go-to.
Now, the fact that I'm opening a review of the new flagship Samsung Galaxy smartphone with a reference to Apple kind of gives away the game. In January, Apple eclipsed Samsung to become the top global smartphone brand. This, despite the fact that Apple still doesn't have a foldable phone. (Yes, I'm still lusting after the Galaxy Z TriFold.)
For my Galaxy S26 Ultra review, I spent two weeks with this flagship. I took 1,461 photos and 93 videos. I doomscrolled in bed. I made so many frivolous demands of Gemini, Perplexity, and Bixby. I even used it to report live from an Apple event.
And the more time I spent with it, the harder it was to go back to my iPhone.
Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra: First impressions Credit: Joe Maldonado / MashableIn this era of iterative upgrades, let's answer an important question right off the bat: What's new?
For once, a decent amount.
The S series is overdue for camera upgrades, and Samsung delivered. (Keep scrolling for unedited photos from my camera tests.) You also get a new custom processor, the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy processor. As Samsung — along with every mobile brand — adds more and more AI features, updated chips let you do more on-device. Better processors also mean better battery life.
In addition, Samsung has a cool new hardware feature, which isn't something we often see anymore. I'm talking, of course, about Privacy Display, by far its coolest trick.
Apple's big mobile innovation recently was the iPhone Air, which has largely fallen flat. Meanwhile, Samsung phones are folding, folding again, and bringing new display tech like Privacy Display.
Credit: Timothy Werth / MashableAs ever, the phone's got impressive specs:
Display: 6.9-inch AMOLED display
Refresh rate: Adaptive refresh rate up to 120Hz
Processor: Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy processor
Resolution: 3120x1440
Storage: 256GB, 512GB, 1TB storage options
Battery: 5000 mAh (31 hours of video playback)
Durability: IP68 rated, Corning Gorilla Armor 2, Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2
Main camera: 200MP
Privacy Display lets you hide the contents of your screen from anyone nearby. Until now, you needed a separate privacy screen to achieve this. But here's what's really cool: Privacy Display works on the pixel level. Not only can you turn the feature on and off with the tap of a finger, but you can black out a specific part of the screen. I activated Privacy Display specifically for notifications and specific apps.
Seeing a notification black out as you tilt the screen feels like a magic trick the first time you see it.
This is really frickin' cool. Credit: Joe MaldonadoAs someone who spends a lot of time scrolling through Instagram, X, and other social media apps on the subway, you never know when an NSFW image might pop up. There are tons of potential use cases here: drama-filled group chats. Smutty romance books on the Kindle app. Checking your bank balance.
One word of caution: Privacy Display doesn't black out your screen quite as much as pictures make it seem. The effect is noticeable and should stop casual snoopers, but it's not a total blackout.
All the tech reporters I know (myself included) have been geeking out over Privacy Display. But when I've shown non-techies the feature, they've sometimes been underwhelmed.
Left: Privacy Display in action. Credit: Joe Maldonado / Mashable Right: Credit: Joe Maldonado / MashableI still think it's really frickin' cool, FWIW.
Galaxy S26 Ultra: Performance, handfeel, and being too muchWhy did I say that the Galaxy S26 Ultra is too much phone? Just check out the Geekbench 6 performance score.
The new Ultra received a multi-core score of 10,827, which is 10.7 percent higher than the iPhone 17 Pro Max's 9,778 score. It's also a sizable jump from the S25's 10,049 (and a huge leap from the S24 Ultra's 6,675). It also received a single-core score of 3,524.
For context, that means the new Snapdragon 8 Elite could power a laptop (Apple just proved that mobile chips can power laptops with the MacBook Neo). Its single-core score, a good measure of everyday performance, is higher than some elite gaming laptops.
I pushed this phone to the limit, shooting 4K videos in 120 frames per second while running dozens of apps, yet the phone never slowed down. And thanks to the newly improved vapor chamber, overheating wasn't a problem. It's all very impressive.
Credit: Timothy Werth / MashableSo, with such impressive performance, why am I not convinced this will be my new daily smartphone?
Because size matters, and it's just too damn big. I have large hands, but the S26 Ultra is super unwieldy. I've been describing it as a two-hander phone. Fortunately, it's slim enough that it fits easily into my pockets (it's a little slimmer than the last model). And yet. The feel in my hand never felt quite right because of the size.
Ultimately, I'm not sure I need this much phone, both literally and figuratively. That said, I think this is a very future-proofed smartphone for hardcore techies.
Galaxy S26 Ultra: The display Credit: Joe Maldonado / MashableStrangely, while Samsung initially said the new Ultra has a 10-bit display, the company later clarified it's actually an 8-bit display. That means the display natively displays 16.7 million colors and simulates 10-bit (1.07 billion colors), using software to make up the difference.
Maybe you'll be able to tell, but I doubt it. Here's what really matters: The 6.9-inch 120Hz Dynamic AMOLED display is gorgeous. It's also an HDR10 display with peak HDR brightness of 2,400 nits.
What more could you want?
The latest AI featuresSamsung has started describing its flagship handsets as "AI smartphones," and the Korean tech giant has added enough AI integrations to justify the name. That's either a positive or a negative, depending on how you feel about AI.
Gemini, Perplexity, and Samsung's AI assistant Bixby all come preloaded on the phone. You can even long-press the side button to instantly pull up Gemini. You can ask questions by text or voice, share your screen and go live with Gemini, or use the new Circle to Search feature. Gemini even customizes the options based on what's on the screen, so if you're on a website, it will offer to read or summarize the page.
Samsung also added a lot of AI image features to the Galaxy experience. You can generate images, add or edit photos with AI, and erase details from the background. Crucially, Samsung labels AI-generated content, which I'm really glad to see, as deepfakes and AI slop are a growing problem.
You can edit images with AI in seconds. Credit: Timothy Werth / MashableIn the Camera and Gallery apps, you can circle details you want to edit or remove (the included S Pen makes this really easy). This includes large items like a passing truck, or small details, like an unsightly puddle in the corner of the screen. In my testing, these AI features work intuitively and consistently provide impressive results.
Left: Now you see it... Credit: Timothy Werth / Mashable Right: ...now you don't. Credit: Timothy Werth / Mashable Left: Credit: Timothy Werth / Mashable Right: Credit: Timothy Werth / MashableNow, speaking of photos...
The Galaxy S26 Ultra camera upgrades Credit: Joe Maldonado / MashableTechnically, both the Galaxy S25 Ultra and S26 Ultra have the same exact camera array:
200MP wide lens
50MP ultra-wide lens
50MP telephoto lens with 10x optical zoom
10MP lens with 3x optical zoom
Front-facing 12MP selfie camera
However, the new model has wider camera apertures, allowing more light to enter and giving you clearer and more detailed photos. For video, the phone has improved Super Steady capabilities and Enhanced Nightography Video for low-light shooting. Night photography is also improved.
I've been very impressed with the cameras on this phone across the board. As with the iPhone 17 Pro Max, the Pixel 10 Pro, and other elite handsets, it's hard to imagine how flagship phone cameras can get much better in the years ahead.
Naturally, this is one area of my Galaxy S26 Ultra review where it's better to show than tell.
Galaxy S26 Ultra camera test: The main cameraAll of these photos are unedited, unless specifically noted in the caption. Some images have been cropped and resized; your internet browser may also load a lower-quality version of the photographs.
The hard part about reviewing phones in 2026? You have to be a photographer, and I am far from one. On top of that, ever since Samsung sent me this phone, the sun has remained stubbornly behind an overcast sky. (It's been a long, hard winter, folks.) New York City is also particularly ugly this time of year, with barren trees, trash, and dirty, half-melted snow everywhere.
So, to try and bring some cheer to this camera test, I found an elegant solution: Dog pictures.
Behold, Lelu the Boston Terrier. Credit: Timothy Werth / MashableLots and lots of dog pictures.
Credit: Timothy Werth / Mashable Credit: Timothy Werth / MashableSeriously, though, the S26 Ultra captures color really well without oversaturating your photos. It also captures an incredible amount of detail in each photograph.
Credit: Timothy Werth / Mashable A New York City street scene. Faces blurred to protect privacy. Credit: Timothy Werth / Mashable A New York City streen scene. Credit: Timothy Werth / Mashable Galaxy S26 Ultra cameras: Zoom!The zoom capabilities on the S26 Ultra are mighty. While you can see the results of the Pixel 10 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max zoom tests in our reviews, I think this one is going to be hard to top.
When working with 2x and 3x zoom, you barely lose any sharpness, and the color is just as good.
Enhance... Credit: Timothy Werth / Mashable ...enhance! Credit: Timothy Werth / MashableWhen you activate the digital 100x Super Zoom, the results get pretty rough, but it's remarkable just how far you can zoom without sacrificing quality.
With optical zoom, you can choose from 1x (normal), 2x, 3x, 5x, and 10x. You can zoom in all the way to 100x with the software.
See for yourself how well the main wide lens and telephoto lenses work.
The Highline in New York City with 30 Hudson Yards in the background. Credit: Timothy Werth / Mashable 30 Hudson yards and The Edge observation deck. Credit: Timothy Werth / Mashable Left: 30 Hudson yards and The Edge observation deck. Credit: Timothy Werth / Mashable Right: Look at all the lonely people. Credit: Timothy Werth / Mashable Left: Credit: Timothy Werth / Mashable Right: Credit: Timothy Werth / Mashable Left: Credit: Timothy Werth / Mashable Right: Credit: Timothy Werth / Mashable Galaxy S26 Ultra cameras review: Night-time photographyFlagship phones have had impressive night-time photography capabilities for a while, but just like Privacy Display, it always feels a little bit like a magic trick.
You can tell the camera is leaning on AI and processing software to fill in some gaps, but the results are impressive. In fact, they're so impressive they're not quite realistic.
Compare a screenshot of a video without fancy nighttime photography with the Galaxy software's take on the same scene.
Left: Credit: Timothy Werth / Mashable Right: Credit: Timothy Werth / Mashable Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra: The $1,299 questionSo, here's the question that really matters: Is the Galaxy S26 Ultra worth it? And if you're an Android-curious iOS user, is it worth defecting from Apple-land to Galaxy-world?
I'm sorely tempted, even if the Galaxy S26 Ultra isn't quite for me. Frankly, it's too much phone for me. In the meantime, I'm saving myself for the Galaxy Z Flip 8. (Or, if it ever comes back in stock, the one-of-a-kind Galaxy Z Trifold.)
However, for dedicated Android users — or anyone who loves big phones and hates Liquid Glass — the S26 Ultra is worth the investment. If you're a professional creator, an AI superuser, or a developer who can make the most of the snappy Qualcomm processor, then I think you'll be very happy.
Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra AI Smartphone Free Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra at AT&T With Trade-in and Unlimited Plan at AT&T WirelessAnd...
...a couple more dog photos, just for fun.
Again, her name is Lelu. Credit: Timothy Werth / Mashable Credit: Timothy Werth / Mashable Credit: Timothy Werth / MashableSAVE OVER $300: As of March 11, the Hisense 85-Inch Class QLED 4K S7N CanvasTV is on sale for $1,896.99 at Amazon. That's $301 off its list price of $2,197.99.
Opens in a new window Credit: Hisense Hisense 85-Inch Class QLED 4K S7N CanvasTV $1,896.99 at AmazonHisense CanvasTVs are great for those looking to have a TV in their home that can double as a sleek art display. If you've been hoping to go big with a huge model this year, the Hisense 85-Inch Class QLED 4K S7N CanvasTV has dropped to $1,896.99 at Amazon.
This is just over $300 off this Hisense TV's usual price of $2,197.99, which is a very decent discount. Keep in mind that Amazon has it marked as a limited-time deal right now. If it looks like the perfect pick-up for your home, act fast to grab it at this low price.
Mashable Deals Be the first to know! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Loading... Sign Me Up By signing up, you agree to receive recurring automated SMS marketing messages from Mashable Deals at the number provided. Msg and data rates may apply. Up to 2 messages/day. Reply STOP to opt out, HELP for help. Consent is not a condition of purchase. See our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. Thanks for signing up!No matter what you watch on this Hisense TV, its massive 85-inch screen size will help you catch every detail, as will its high-quality 4K QLED display. It even has a low-reflection coating on the display that helps reduce glare, which is nice for both watching TV and viewing art. It looks like actual canvas-mounted works of art on your wall, which is very cool.
Gamers can also enjoy a Variable Refresh Rate of 48Hz to 144Hz on this Hisense TV, and it even comes with Google TV. For those who love to stream movies and shows, this allows you to easily access all of your favorite apps.
Since it's a limited-time deal, this TV may not be on sale for long. Now's your chance to save on the Hisense 85-Inch Class QLED 4K S7N CanvasTV at Amazon.
SAVE $500: As of March 11, the DJI Mini 5 Pro Fly More Combo is on sale for $1,099 at Amazon. That's a 31% discount on the list price.
Opens in a new window Credit: DJI DJI Mini 5 Pro Fly More Combo $1,099 at AmazonDespite the recent bans on DJI products in the U.S., you can still buy drones that are already in stock. The new rules brought in earlier this year only target future imports, so drones already in stock can still be sold. That said, when they're gone, they're gone. So if you've been hoping to get your hands on something from DJI, we wouldn't hang around.
And right now there's a great deal at Amazon on the DJI Mini 5 Pro Fly More Combo, currently down to its best-ever price of $1,099. That's a huge $500 discount. With this bundle you'll get the Mini 5 Pro drone, DJI RC 2 controller, three batteries, spare propellers, a charging hub, and a ND filter. Basically, everything you need to get out and shoot great content.
Mashable Deals Be the first to know! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Loading... Sign Me Up By signing up, you agree to receive recurring automated SMS marketing messages from Mashable Deals at the number provided. Msg and data rates may apply. Up to 2 messages/day. Reply STOP to opt out, HELP for help. Consent is not a condition of purchase. See our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. Thanks for signing up!Despite its small, compact size (it weighs just 249.9 grams), this drone has some seriously powerful qualities, including a 1-inch CMOS sensor that records 4K video at up to 60fps with HDR for vibrant colours and strong detail. The flexible gimbal supports true vertical filming and up to 225° rotation, helping you get creative, cinematic shots.
It also has safety features like omnidirectional obstacle sensing, which uses LiDAR and vision sensors to detect objects in all directions, even at night. The upgraded ActiveTrack 360° system can also follow subjects smoothly during activities like cycling.
For battery life, you'll get up to 36 minutes of flight per battery. And when that runs out, fast charging will top up three batteries in about 115 minutes.
Get this DJI deal from Amazon now (while you still can).
TL;DR: You don’t necessarily need the newest version of Office to get real work done. For most people, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook from Office Professional Plus 2019 still handle everyday tasks just fine — especially if you can grab them at a good price. Right now, you can snag it on sale for just $19.97 (reg. $229).
Opens in a new window Credit: Microsoft Microsoft Office Professional Plus 2019 for Windows $19.97Microsoft Office Professional Plus 2019 remains one of the most widely used productivity suites for work and home. It includes the familiar tools people rely on to write documents, build spreadsheets, create presentations, manage emails, and organize data.
This version of Office also introduced several upgrades across its core apps. Excel added new data analysis features, PowerPoint gained improved presentation tools, and Outlook expanded its email management capabilities. Office 2019 also introduced enhanced inking support across programs, making it easier to annotate or mark up documents if you’re working with a stylus or touchscreen device.
Mashable Deals Be the first to know! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Loading... Sign Me Up By signing up, you agree to receive recurring automated SMS marketing messages from Mashable Deals at the number provided. Msg and data rates may apply. Up to 2 messages/day. Reply STOP to opt out, HELP for help. Consent is not a condition of purchase. See our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. Thanks for signing up!With this license, you’ll get lifetime access to several classic Microsoft apps:
Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote, Publisher, and Access
A one-time purchase installed on one Windows PC for use at home or work
Instant delivery and download, with license keys provided after purchase
Access to customer support if you need help installing or activating the software
Before buying, it’s worth noting that Office 2019 only runs on Windows 10 or Windows 11 — it won’t work on older systems like Windows 7 or 8. The software also requires about 1GB of RAM, which most modern PCs should easily meet.
Normally priced at $229, Microsoft Office Professional Plus 2019 for Windows is currently available for just $19.97.
StackSocial prices subject to change.
TL;DR: Create the perfect signature for any occasion with this lifetime subscription to EmailSignatures, on sale now for $39.
Opens in a new window Credit: EmailSignatures EmailSignatures: Lifetime Subscription $39We do a lot of things by email. If you want to make the right impression virtually, a good email signature can make a big difference. That’s where EmailSignatures comes in, offering an easy way to design stunning signatures for Gmail, Outlook, and Apple Mail. And you can currently score a lifetime subscription to this handy service for just $39.
Stop sending out the basic ‘Sent with my iPhone’ email signature. These days, you don’t need to be a graphic designer to have an eye-catching sign off. EmailSignatures allows you to create stunning signatures with a few clicks. An intuitive drag-and-drop editor makes it simple to craft your ideal signature, and a real-time preview lets you check it out as you go.
Mashable Deals Be the first to know! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Loading... Sign Me Up By signing up, you agree to receive recurring automated SMS marketing messages from Mashable Deals at the number provided. Msg and data rates may apply. Up to 2 messages/day. Reply STOP to opt out, HELP for help. Consent is not a condition of purchase. See our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. Thanks for signing up!Curious how EmailSignatures works? Just choose a template from the impressively curated library of professionally designed signatures, with options for every industry and style. Once you’ve found the best option for your brand, you can fully customize it to your liking with everything from your name, title, company and contact information to social links and branding elements.
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Build and Battle Boxes in the Pokémon TCG usually sit in the middle ground between casual pickups and pricier sealed products, but Walmart’s latest preorder price on Perfect Order makes the investment a lot easier.
As of March 11, Walmart has the Pokémon TCG Mega Evolution Perfect Order Build and Battle Box listed for $49.98, ahead of the expansion’s release date on March 27. Amazon has the same box up for $58.95 — meaning Walmart is currently cheaper by almost $9. It's not a huge difference, and some shoppers might prefer the convenience of Amazon.
Mashable Deals Be the first to know! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Loading... Sign Me Up By signing up, you agree to receive recurring automated SMS marketing messages from Mashable Deals at the number provided. Msg and data rates may apply. Up to 2 messages/day. Reply STOP to opt out, HELP for help. Consent is not a condition of purchase. See our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. Thanks for signing up!The Build and Battle Box format is one of the more approachable ways to jump into a new Pokémon TCG set before going all in on an Elite Trainer Box or Booster Box. That’s because each comes with a 40-card ready-to-play deck, four Mega Evolution Perfect Order booster packs, and a code card for Pokémon TCG Live. It also includes one of four unique foil promo cards, which adds a little extra appeal for collectors who like pre-release products with some built-in variety.
These promo trading cards can either be Serperior, Barbaracle, Tyrantrum, or Doublade, all designed to help players get quick games going in the pre-release format.
The best retailer for Pokémon TCG: Perfect Order booster pack preorders is Amazon at $10.79 each, meaning four (the same number you’d get in the Build and Battle Box) would cost you $43.16. When compared to Walmart’s $49.98 for the whole Perfect Order Build and Battle Box, that extra cost will get you a whole 40-card deck that’s ready to play, along with the added promo card. If you want to start playing a Perfect Order deck right away for the best price, securing a preorder like this is the best way while stocks last.
You can still preorder the Pokémon TCG: Perfect Order Elite Trainer Box for just over $105 at TCGplayer. Meanwhile, the six-pack Perfect Order Booster Bundle is available for under $60 at Amazon.
The Mini is a bite-sized version of The New York Times' revered daily crossword. While the crossword is a lengthier experience that requires both knowledge and patience to complete, The Mini is an entirely different vibe.
With only a handful of clues to answer, the daily puzzle doubles as a speed-running test for many who play it.
So, when a tricky clue disrupts a player's flow, it can be frustrating! If you find yourself stumped playing The Mini — much like with Wordle and Connections — we have you covered.
SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable SEE ALSO: How to play Pips, the newest NYT gameHere are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Wednesday, March 11, 2026:
AcrossStudy of the human mind, informallyThe answer is Psych.
The answer is Scale.
The answer is HoHum.
The answer is Anon.
The answer is We OK.
The answer is Pshaw.
The answer is Scone.
The answer is Yahoo.
The answer is Clunk.
The answer is Hem.
If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.
Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.
Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Mini Crossword.
TL;DR: Amazon has the Pokémon TCG Mega Evolutions Perfect Order 3-Pack Blister (Chikorita) down to $29.45, which puts it $11.05 below the current market price.
Opens in a new window Credit: The Pokémon Company Pokémon TCG Mega Evolutions Perfect Order 3 Pack Blister (Chikorita) $29.45 at AmazonThe Pokémon TCG’s Perfect Order expansion isn’t even out for a couple of weeks, but sellers are already competing to sell you booster packs.
As of March 11, the Pokémon TCG Mega Evolutions Perfect Order 3-Pack Blister (Chikorita) is available for $29.45 at Amazon. That undercuts the current $40.50 market price by $11.05, which is a sizable gap compared to TCGplayer.
Mashable Deals Be the first to know! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Loading... Sign Me Up By signing up, you agree to receive recurring automated SMS marketing messages from Mashable Deals at the number provided. Msg and data rates may apply. Up to 2 messages/day. Reply STOP to opt out, HELP for help. Consent is not a condition of purchase. See our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. Thanks for signing up!As the name implies, the 3-Pack Blister contains three packs of 10 trading cards from the expansion, along with a Chikorita promo card.
Perfect Order centers around Mega Zygarde ex and features other Pokémon that made their debut in the Pokémon Legends: Z-A video game, including Mega Zygarde, Mega Clefable ex, and Mega Starmie ex. The expansion altogether includes over 120 cards, more new Mega Evolution Pokémon ex, more than 25 Trainer cards, and more than 30 Pokémon and Trainer cards with special illustrations.
Sleeved boosters for Perfect Order currently cost $10.79 each on Amazon. So when compared to the cost of this 3-Pack Blister, you’re actually saving $2.92 compared to buying three individually — with the Chikorita card as an added bonus for free.
On Amazon, you can also preorder the Perfect Order booster bundle (six packs) for $59.95. Plus, the Perfect Order Elite Trainer Box is still available to preorder at TCGplayer for $105.18.
SAVE OVER $20: As of March 11, you can get a free Soundcore Select 4 speaker when you pick up the Soundcore Sleep A30 earbuds at Amazon.
Opens in a new window Credit: Soundcore Free Soundcore Select 4 with Soundcore Sleep A30 Get DealWe can't resist a freebie, so we feel the need to shout about the latest Soundcore promotion. You need to head to Amazon and check out the limited-time bundle on Soundcore Sleep A30 earbuds.
As of March 11, anyone who buys Soundcore Sleep A30 earbuds (currently priced at $199.99) can get a Soundcore Select 4 speaker for free. To claim yours, simply add the earbuds to your basket and click the “how to claim” button on the product page. Then switch the toggle from “qualifying items” to “benefit items,” and the free speaker will appear. Add the speaker to your basket, and when you checkout, its price will drop to $0.
Mashable Deals Be the first to know! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Loading... Sign Me Up By signing up, you agree to receive recurring automated SMS marketing messages from Mashable Deals at the number provided. Msg and data rates may apply. Up to 2 messages/day. Reply STOP to opt out, HELP for help. Consent is not a condition of purchase. See our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. Thanks for signing up!The earbuds do exactly what they say on the tin: they help you sleep better. If you're a light sleeper and noises wake you up often, you'll love these. They use advanced active noise cancellation to block out disturbing noises, and offer AI-powered binaural beats as well as different white noise options to help you sleep deeper. And if you're a side sleeper, these will still feel comfortable thanks to their soft design.
The Select 4 speaker is also pretty great. Currently priced at $24.99, it's a portable Bluetooth speaker with an IP67 waterproof rating, so it's ideal for pool or beach days. The battery life lasts up to 20 hours, and you can even pair it with another Soundcore speaker to create a bigger sound.
Head to Amazon to score this great audio deal now.
SAVE $550: As of March 11, the EcoFlow Delta 2 Max is on sale for $848.99 at Amazon. That's a 39% discount on the list price.
Opens in a new window Credit: EcoFlow EcoFlow Delta 2 Max $848.99 at AmazonThere's a great new portable power station deal at Amazon right now, so if you've been looking for a powerful, reliable backup solution, go check out the EcoFlow Delta 2 Max. As of March 11, this unit is down to its lowest-ever price at Amazon, now $848.99 down from $1,399. That's a saving of $550 on list price.
This unit features a long-lasting LFP battery that's rated for around 3,000 cycles. And even after that long, it only drops to around 80% capacity. You'll also get up to 2,400W of output (or 3,400W using X-Boost mode), so you can use it to run pretty much every household appliance through its 15 available outlets.
Mashable Deals Be the first to know! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Loading... Sign Me Up By signing up, you agree to receive recurring automated SMS marketing messages from Mashable Deals at the number provided. Msg and data rates may apply. Up to 2 messages/day. Reply STOP to opt out, HELP for help. Consent is not a condition of purchase. See our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. Thanks for signing up!Charging is impressively fast, reaching 80% in about 43 minutes when combining solar and AC input, or around 1.1 hours using AC alone. And it's quiet. It only runs at around 30dB, so if you need to use it overnight it won't keep you awake. And it's easy to use thanks to the EcoFlow app. On the app you can monitor energy use, set automations, and more.
This is a limited-time deal at Amazon, so don't miss out.
UPDATE: Mar. 11, 2026, 5:00 a.m. EDT This review was originally written in January 2023. Since then, I've gone from one cat to two and have added a Litter-Robot to the mix in my household. In November 2025, we switched to the ScoopFree Crystal Plus model, though it essentially functions identically to the older Legacy Pro model. This review has been refreshed to encapsulate my overall experience with the PetSafe ScoopFree series.
I have the smallest Litter-Robot, and it could easily still be a tight squeeze for many home or apartment layouts. That's not the only reason so many people are looking for a good Litter-Robot alternative. A $600 to $800 automatic litter box is hardly a casual purchase, and a lot of cats (including one of mine) are sketched out by the big enclosed rotating designs. Luckily, the PetSafe ScoopFree exists.
Litter-Robots may not be for everyone, but automated scooping definitely can be. In size and shape, the PetSafe ScoopFree is essentially like putting a self-scooping grate on the traditional rectangular litter box that your cat is already used to. Three and a half years ago, that was the sole litter box setup for my cat, Sansa. Since then, Sansa has gotten a sister named Leota, and we've expanded to a second automatic litter box. We had the Leo's Loo Too for three years, and are currently trying the Litter-Robot Evo.
Sansa wanted me to tell you that she does not vibe with those big scary litter boxes, and that I better never get rid of the ScoopFree. Leota is chill with either. As the person who has to maintain both litter boxes, I have a lot to say about the PetSafe ScoopFree experience.
This ScoopFree is a great option for limited floor spaceIt's abundantly clear that apartments do not design bathrooms with cat owners (who can't put the litter box in the common area) in mind. I was able to slide the ScoopFree right between my toilet and cabinets, taking advantage of the small amount of open space for my cats to sit comfortably while they do their business. (My cats don't mind having no hood, but PetSafe does make a covered version of the ScoopFree.)
Sansa was intrigued by the ScoopFree in 2023. Credit: Leah Stodart / Mashable Sansa still chases the grate on the new ScoopFree model in 2026, and she has a sister. Credit: Leah Stodart / MashableWe had the PetSafe ScoopFree Crystal Pro Legacy model for three years until a plastic piece of the lifting lid snapped off. Sansa messes with the lid constantly, so I think it was more her fault than it was the build quality. At any rate, we switched to the PetSafe ScoopFree Crystal Plus, which functions identically, minus the screen that tracks scoops.
How does the PetSafe ScoopFree work?The PetSafe ScoopFree uses motion sensors and a metal grate to keep the litter bed clear. A few minutes after your cat has finished its business, the grate slowly rakes the length of the box, pushing any solid pieces into the covered compartment. (The moving grate gets a butt wiggle and pounce out of Sansa every single time.) The compartment's cardboard lid attaches magnetically to the hood-shaped end of the litter box and lifts by itself when a new scoop is coming in. The absorbent crystal litter contains silica gel that soaks up urine and dries out droppings to prolong the stench.
Refills consist of a new cardboard tray, bagged litter, and a lid that can go on the old box. Credit: Leah Stodart / Mashable Inserting the new tray takes seconds, and then the litter is ready to be spread. Credit: Leah Stodart / MashableSwapping trays is quick and easy. The only permanent piece of the litter box is the frame, attached to which are the grate and the plastic waste compartment lid. The entire bottom of the litter box is disposable, and you'll be changing it out for a new one every couple of weeks, depending on how many cats are using it. To perform the switcheroo, the ScoopFree frame needs to be lifted completely off of the old tray and set elsewhere while you place the new tray and add litter. (This is always a struggle with limited floor space, but I make it work.)
To ensure I'm getting the max number of days out of each tray, I "refresh" the current tray every few days by scooping any turds out of the compartment and any super mushy litter from the bed. To me, the recommended number of days between tray changes applies more to the cardboard's level of sogginess, which can hold up for the full month. But the ScoopFree will definitely start to smell earlier than any of the recommended tray swap windows, so I've learned to just maintain the ScoopFree based on vibes.
SEE ALSO: What is the best robot vacuum for pet hair? After testing, my cats and I chose 4 top picks for 2026 so far.Some ScoopFree models have a screen that tallies each scoop so that you know when a tray is nearing its soil limit. The ScoopFree Crystal Plus model I have now just flashes a red light and will simply refuse to rake once the current tray has hit 50 rake cycles. Sensors in the frame scan each tray, so the ScoopFree will know when you've replaced the old one with a fresh one.
The old tray can simply be thrown away. That's super straightforward unless you're dealing with a trash chute with an arbitrarily small opening, like the one in my apartment. The monthly trashing also feels crappy if you care about the eco-friendliness of it all, which I do. More on that later.
The automatic raking isn't the fanciest, but it's still so convenientI've gone on countless overnight, long weekend trips, and weeklong vacations in the past three years with a PetSafe ScoopFree. And let me tell you: Not having to make arrangements for litter box upkeep rocks, even if the ScoopFree may smell a little bit worse than a Litter-Robot does when you get back. Taking periodic excursions out of the equation for a sec, the ScoopFree's self-scooping is also clutch when you're home, feeling lazy, and just need to offload a chore or two. (The automatic litter box and robot vacuum combo is chef's kiss.)
While I technically have roommates who will take care of my cats while I'm away, it's always nice to sweeten the deal with, "But you won't have to scoop the litter box!" The same surely goes if you're looking for a friend to come over to cat sit, or finding a sitter on an app like Rover.
Can you use any litter in the ScoopFree litter box?PetSafe obviously recommends that you use its branded crystal litter. That's easy enough since a bag of it comes with each tray refill. But if you have the reusable stainless steel tray like I used to, you're safe to branch out to other silica crystal litters. I always just bought whatever brand was in stock at Target.
The main thing to know is that the PetSafe ScoopFree does not work with clumping litter. Dried clumps of pee quickly get too heavy for the rake to pick up, or the clumps get stuck to the bottom of the tray. It's just a matter of time before a rake error occurs.
I had a little bit of luck with more sustainable non-clumping options like ökocat paper litter and Naturally Fresh walnut litter, but they get gross and dissolve into powder pretty quickly. Most natural non-clumping litters are pellets, which often piled up at the end of the litter box instead of falling through the grates to create an even layer.
Downsides: Light manual upkeep is needed every few daysThe PetSafe ScoopFree litter box doesn't mask the smell as well as a Litter-Robot and its filter do. So while my Litter-Robot is pretty much odorless and hands off until the drawer needs to be emptied, my ScoopFree requires a light refresh every few days between tray changes to keep it from stinking.
SEE ALSO: As an anxious cat mom, I love my robot vacuum with a livestream cameraThe blue litter mixed with pee turns green and melts down into the texture of kinetic sand. Since it's not clumping litter, the soggy dissolved crystals just sit there for the cats to step on until you scoop that area — and of course, one of my cats pees in the same exact corner every time. If I were to leave it completely untouched for the 10 to 15 days that PetSafe claims for two cats, I'd need a gas mask to enter my bathroom. This might be less of an issue if your litter box is in a basement or a room that's not used daily.
To be clear, I personally don't mind light scooping once or twice a week, even if taking the whole frame off is a little inconvenient. The automation is still so clutch for overnight or weekend trips, and it's better than scooping a traditional litter box every day.
The "disposable" aspect isn't eco-friendly and involves recurring costsAny product banking on being "disposable" as a selling point should be concerning on sight for anyone who cares about the planet — the one that, you know, makes it possible for you to live a life with a pet in the first place. Let's also consider the animals whose habitats are being taken over by the local landfill.
It's good that the ScoopFree trays are cardboard and not plastic, which would take hundreds of years to decompose. Though I understand why the tray's shiny coating is necessary for preventing sogginess, I do question the cardboard's ability to biodegrade normally. In general, crystal litter is one of the least environmentally friendly litter types.
I felt better when I made the switch to PetSafe's stainless steel litter tray. It's $50 upfront, but you're then off the hook from buying new $25 tray refills each month. This also means that you won't be receiving the bag of litter that comes with each cardboard tray, so you'll have to buy full bags of litter every so often.
SEE ALSO: The Mill food recycling bin is the easiest indoor composter alternative, and my all-time favorite applianceTray refills go for $25.99 each or $74.99 for three. That $26 per month may not be a totally egregious bill for a one-cat household only using one tray per month. But it's significantly costlier than a traditional litter box setup — $26 could get you like 80 pounds of clumping clay litter. The recurring cost adds up even more for multi-cat households that require more frequent tray swaps.
Is the PetSafe ScoopFree worth it?If a $600+ Litter-Robot isn't feasible for whatever reason, you're not sentenced to a life of daily litter box cleaning by default. I've recommended the PetSafe ScoopFree to countless people in real life who had no clue that this in-between option existed.
The PetSafe ScoopFree successfully decreases your interactions with the litter box each week. It correctly recognizes when your cat has gone to the bathroom and effectively rakes solid waste, leaving behind a clean, smoothed-over bed of crystals. However, the convenience also comes with recurring costs of pricey tray refills and way more trash than your traditional litter box ever produced. In my experience, the ScoopFree also requires light upkeep by hand every few days to divert the smell. Despite its quirks, the PetSafe ScoopFree is a worthwhile upgrade from any manual litter box.
A comet swept through the solar system carrying a strange chemical recipe — one that has astronomers taking a closer look at what kinds of worlds might form around distant stars.
Astronomers studying the interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS detected two gases streaming off its icy surface: methanol, a type of alcohol molecule, and hydrogen cyanide, a compound made of hydrogen, carbon, and nitrogen. They spotted them using a powerful radio telescope network, called the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array, in Chile.
Comets release gases in space when sunlight warms their frozen surfaces. The ice turns straight into vapor and forms a hazy cloud around the comet's head, known as a coma. By measuring the gases in that cloud, astronomers can figure out what ingredients are locked inside the comet's ancient ice.
What grabbed researchers' attention wasn't simply the gases but the balance between them. The comet appears unusually rich in methanol compared to hydrogen cyanide — one of the highest ratios astronomers have ever measured in any comet.
That matters because comets preserve the ingredients that existed when they formed, within the same disk of gas and dust that built a system's planets. Because 3I/ATLAS formed somewhere else entirely, its chemistry offers a rare glimpse of how another planetary system differs from our own.
SEE ALSO: NASA demonstrates humanity may be able to stop an Earth-bound asteroidAround the sun, most comets formed where water ice dominated. But the chemistry seen in 3I/ATLAS hints that its birth environment may have favored the production or preservation of methanol-rich ice. That could mean its native region was colder or awash in stronger radiation.
Whatever the exact cause, the comet's exotic chemistry suggests planet-forming disks can create icy bodies quite different from those in our own solar system. If those ingredients diverge from star system to star system, then the starting chemistry for planets — and, therefore, for life — may vary widely across the Milky Way.
"Observing 3I/ATLAS is like taking a fingerprint from another solar system," said Nathan Roth, a professor at American University, in a statement. "The details reveal what it's made of, and it's bursting with methanol in a way we just don't usually see in comets in our own solar system."
The new research, led by Roth, was published in The Astrophysical Journal Letters on March 6.
Comet 3I/ATLAS came from another part of the galaxy and was later ejected — likely by a gravitational jolt from a planet or passing star — before drifting across interstellar space for hundreds of millions of years. Scientists only know about two other interstellar visitors having passed through our cosmic neighborhood: 'Oumuamua in 2017, which turned out not to be a comet, and Comet 2I/Borisov in 2019.
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The latest find reinforces the idea that alien planetary systems may make comets with different chemical fingerprints. Earlier observations with NASA's James Webb Space Telescope showed that 3I/ATLAS' halo contains an unusually large amount of carbon dioxide compared to water — another odd trait.
Astronomers tracked the interstellar comet for several months in 2025 as it moved toward the sun, passing just inside the orbit of Mars before beginning its long trip back out of the solar system. Because it was traveling roughly 137,000 mph when it arrived, it was far too fast for the sun's gravity to capture it.
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