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Get $50 off the Xbox Series X plus a free $50 gift card at Best Buy

Mashable - Wed, 07/17/2024 - 10:15

GET $50 OFF PLUS A $50 GIFT CARD: As of July 17, you can get $50 off the Xbox Series X plus a $50 gift card.

Opens in a new window Credit: Xbox Our pick: Xbox Series X 1TB Console $449.99 at Best Buy
$499.99 Save $50.00 Plus a free $50 gift card with purchase Get Deal

It’s Prime Day 2, and the internet is swirling with discounts across multiple retailers, all vying for our attention and begging us to spend, spend, spend.

Best Buy is even getting in on the competitive action by offering a console deal we haven’t seen before. For a limited time, you can score a $50 discount on the Xbox Series X, the latest and more premium console in Microsoft’s lineup, plus a free $50 gift card to use on anything else in the store.

SEE ALSO: 250+ Prime Day deals our shopping experts have deemed worth it: Save on Apple, Echo devices, TVs, headphones, and more

Sure, this isn’t the best deal we’ve seen on the Xbox Series X ever (it was $350 last December), but it’s the best console deal we’ve seen this year. Also, Xbox hasn’t gotten much love since the PS5 launched, so it’s nice to see Microsoft's flagship console getting some love.

If you consider the $50 gift card a rebate, you’re really only paying $399.99 for the actual console. This is a pretty good deal when you factor in the supply chain issues and chip shortages that have plagued both Sony and Microsoft over the past couple of years.

And, yes, Amazon does have the Xbox Series X console for the same $449.99 price tag, but they aren't throwing in a free $50 gift card. You can, however, get a free $50 Xbox gift card if you purchase the bundle for $499.99, so Best Buy essentially wins on this one.

It's official: Best Buy's Black Friday in July sale is coming for Prime Day

Mashable - Wed, 07/17/2024 - 10:03
A quick look at the best summer deals at Best Buy Best TV deal Toshiba 75-inch C350 4K Fire TV $449.99 (save $200) Get Deal Best Apple deal 5th gen Apple iPad Air, 10.9-inch (M1, 64GB, WiFi) $399.99 (save $200) Get Deal Best laptop deal Asus Vivobook Pro QLED, 16-inch (Intel 13 Gen i9, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD) $1,399.99 (save $600) Get Deal Best headphones deal JBL Tune Buds $69.99 (save $30) Get Deal Best Dyson Deal Dyson V15 Detect Extra Cordless Vacuum $549.99 at Best Buy (save $250) Get Deal

UPDATE: Jul. 15, 2024, 10:25 a.m. EDT Best Buy's Black Friday in July has officially kicked off. We've updated this list with most up-to-date deals from the retailer's sale.

In the same way that Black Friday has become more of a season than a singular day, at this point, the entire month of July could aptly be called Prime Day season. Besides the shopping behemoth that started it all, it's become tradition for other huge retailers like Best Buy to host a major sale event of their own — which coincidentally falls on or near Prime Day, of course.

Hot on the heels of Best Buy's 4th of July sale, the retailer is hosting Black Friday in July sale from July 15 through 17. (Did anyone put money on that?) That not only sucks up some attention from actual Prime Day on July 16 and 17, but also offers one extra day for shopping — though a huge chunk of Prime Day deals are already live on July 15.

SEE ALSO: Just in time for Prime Day, Target's Circle Week is back July 7 through 13

Now that Best Buy's sale has officially begun, we're sorting through the retailer's Prime Day-esque deals. Plus, based on past Best Buy sales, we can pretty confidently predict the categories where the tech retailer will outshine Amazon.

Where Best Buy beats Amazon

Amazon's discounts cover a wider variety of product categories, but Best Buy has a history of beating Amazon's deals in several major tech categories. Best Buy tends to have a more reliable slew of TVs and laptops on sale, especially compared to Amazon's smaller variety of laptop brands and iffy third-party sellers. Meanwhile, Amazon typically wins when it comes to the home and kitchen category, including robot vacuum deals.

Best Buy doesn't gatekeep its deals quite like Amazon does, generally leaving most discounts available to the public and reserving a handful of exclusive discounts on premium brands like Samsung or Dyson for paid My Best Buy members. Amazon does, however, surprise some shoppers with access to invite-only deals, which features some pretty jaw-dropping price cuts on items like headphones or Fire TVs that you definitely won't find anywhere else.

SEE ALSO: Walmart vs. Amazon: Which retail giant has the best deals?

Best Buy also hosts regular "Best Buy Drops," a feature found only on the retailer's mobile app. Drops give mobile shoppers exclusive access to discounts on high-profile products in categories like gaming, cheap TVs, fan-favorite pop culture merch, high-profile hair tools, kitchen gadgets, and more. As long as you have the Best Buy mobile app, you can preview what's coming so that you're ready to click "add to cart" when the deal goes live.

Check out our favorite Best Buy deals below and our running list of the best Prime Day deals in every category. We'll be looking closely for Best Buy deals that match or beat Amazon pricing.

Best Buy's July 15 bonus reward

Right as the sale begins, Best Buy is offering a special cash back offer for 24 hours. When you spend $500 on select computing, home theater, and appliances, you'll receive a $25 bonus reward. To enjoy the savings you must have a My Best Buy account — including the free option.

Best TV deal at Best Buy Opens in a new window Credit: Toshiba Toshiba 75-inch C350 4K Fire TV $449.99 at Best Buy
$649.99 Save $200.00 Get Deal Why we like it

If you're eyeing a Fire TV this Prime Day season, don't automatically opt for the Omni on name recognition alone. While Amazon's own in-house Fire TVs are on sale, you definitely won't be seeing one of those 75-inch bad boys go on sale for less than $500. However, Toshiba's well-reviewed C35 Fire TV is a different story. Sure, the C350 is admittedly a basic 4K TV, but it's definitely decent enough for casual watching or light gaming, especially if you care more about getting the biggest screen for your buck over specs.

More TVs on sale at Best BuyBest Apple deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple 5th gen Apple iPad Air, 10.9-inch (M1, 64GB) $399.99 at Best Buy
$599.99 Save $200.00 Get Deal Why we like it

The iPad Air from 2022 was the first Air to wield the snappy M1 chip that powers several MacBooks and iPad Pros. With it, the 5th generation Air performs about 60 percent faster than the older Airs, making undertakings like 4K video editing, 3D designing, or graphics-heavy gaming a breeze on the most portable iPad. The 5th gen Air also sees upgrades like an Ultra Wide 12MP front camera and faster wireless connectivity.

More Apple deals at Best BuyBest laptop deal at Best Buy Opens in a new window Credit: Asus Asus Vivobook Pro QLED, 16-inch (Intel 13 Gen i9, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD) $1,399.99 at Best Buy
$1,999.99 Save $600.00 Get Deal Why we like it

For $150 less than the 14-inch MacBook Pro, you can bump up to a 16-inch display with OLED backlighting by snagging the Asus Vivobook Pro during Best Buy's 4th of July sale. That beast of a display comes with a NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 graphics card and runs a 120Hz refresh rate, making it one of your best bets for securing a high-powered work laptop that's just as upstanding for gaming.

More laptops on sale at Best BuyBest headphones deal at Best Buy Opens in a new window Credit: JBL JBL Tune Buds True $69.99 at Best Buy
$99.99 Save $30.00 Get Deal Why we like it

Despite every pair of AirPods dropping to record-low pricing the week before Prime Day, your itch for a pair of budget ANC earbuds may still not be scratched by the price tags that still exceed $100. You can find a solid alternative in the JBL Tune Buds True — at $69.99, they're just $20 away from the lowest they've ever dropped, which was only seen during the 2023 Black Friday season. The Tune Buds True can last for up to 32 hours on a single charge, unassumingly booming bass, and honestly, look a lot like the AirPods Pro.

More headphones on sale at Best BuyBest Dyson deal at Best Buy Opens in a new window Credit: Dyson Dyson V15 Detect Extra Cordless Vacuum $549.99 at Best Buy
$749.99 Save $200.00 Get Deal Why we like it

As one of the newer models in Dyson's "Detect" line of cordless stick vacuums, the V15 has powerful suction. Crucially, it also has the laser attachment, which lets you go full search-and-destroy mode on dust hidden around your home. This vacuum also comes with 10 different cleaning attachments and a two-year warranty. This vacuum is on sale for a similar price at Amazon ahead of Prime Day, but only from third-party sellers.

More Dyson deals at Best Buy

Today's your last chance to grab these Prime Day mesh router deals

Mashable - Wed, 07/17/2024 - 09:48
Our top picks for the best Prime Day mesh router deals: Best deal overall Amazon eero 6+ mesh Wi-Fi router 199.99 (save $100) Get Deal Best bundle deal Amazon eero Pro 6E mesh WiFi router + Amazon Echo Dot $159.99 at Amazon (save $139.99) Get Deal

It's Prime Day 2, and the deals are still going strong. We've seen discounts on everything from TVs and laptops to mesh router systems. Speaking of mesh routers, today’s your last chance to snag these Prime Day deals before prices jump back up.

SEE ALSO: 250+ Prime Day deals our shopping experts have deemed worth it: Save on Apple, Echo devices, TVs, headphones, and more

We’re seeing discounts of $100+ off some of our top picks, including the eero Pro 6 and TP-Link Deco AXE5400. With deals like these, there’s no better time to upgrade your WiFi setup. Here’s an overview of the best Prime Day mesh router deals that are still available.

Best deal overall Opens in a new window Credit: eero Our pick: Amazon eero 6+ mesh Wi-Fi router $199.99 at Amazon
$299.99 Save $100.00 Get Deal Why we like it

The Amazon eero 6+ mesh WiFi router system covers 4,500 square feet with fast WiFi speeds up to a gigabit. It’s one of the most affordable systems on the market, and at $100 off, it's an absolute steal. With three units included, you can get whole-home coverage and connect to more than 75 devices.

Best bundle deal Opens in a new window Credit: eero Our pick: Amazon eero Pro 6E mesh Wi-Fi router $139.99 at Amazon
$159.99 Save $20.00 Get Deal Why we like it

The Amazon eero Pro 6E mesh WiFi router and Amazon Echo Dot bundle is ideal for students or anyone who wants to expand their smart home. With this deal, you’ll get an eero Pro 6E mesh WiFi router and one Echo Dot. Separately, these products would cost every bit of $300. But with this bundle, you can grab both for just $159.99, a $139.99 savings.

More Prime Day deals on mesh routers and WiFi network systems

I'm a mom of 2 little kids and these are the best Prime Day deals for new parents

Mashable - Wed, 07/17/2024 - 09:34

First things first: You are an amazing mom. You are an incredible dad. And you are doing a great job.

The early days of becoming a parent are hard — like, really hard. When my daughter was first born, it was a months-long haze where I was merely just surviving. I had no idea what I was doing and she had such a hard time sleeping.

I have a very vivid memory of being up with her in the middle of the night (every night) and scrolling through Amazon, shopping for the latest thing I needed that would most definitely change my life as a parent and get her to magically sleep through the night.

Then when the boxes arrived at my door over the next few days, it was as if they'd been ordered in a fever dream — I could hardly remember even buying anything in the first place.

The truth is that there is no such magical product that will make parenting easy, but through trial and error, I did find a collection of gear that made things easier. When my son was born last year, I knew which items were worth doubling down on, and even discovered a few new things to add to my parenting arsenal.

As Mashable's former Shopping Editor, I have spent the better part of the last nine years studying deals and guiding our Prime Day coverage across the site. This year, I'm jumping back in to help assist with coverage and have put together this list of the best Prime Day deals for parents, based on years of expertise.

Best for late-night diaper changes: Touch light Opens in a new window Credit: MediAcous / Amazon Dimmable touch-control night light $19.19 at Amazon
$29.99 Save $10.80 Get Deal

These rechargeable lights have quickly become the workhorse of our family.

When the babies were brand-new, I used these dimmable, touch-control lights to illuminate middle-of-the-night diaper changes and feeding sessions. Then as the kids have gotten into the toddler years, these sweet little lights (which toggle between white and multi-color outputs) have become a mainstay for couch cushion forts, as travel night lights, and are a must-have for nighttime car rides.

We recently lost power during a storm, and I grabbed these lights instead of candles to illuminate our staircase. It's also the thing I most often gift to friends as they have new babies of their own.

Best for finding your lost keys: Tile Trackers Opens in a new window Credit: Tile Tile Trackers (set of 3) $47.99 at Amazon
$70.46 Save $22.47 Get Deal

After packing up the entire car on our way out the door for one of our first vacations as a family of four, my husband and I realized we couldn't find the car keys.

Anyone with kids knows that departure timing is an art: Both kids were packed into their car seats, we had coordinated the drive to align with their shared nap time, and we had our podcast all queued up so we could spend the drive decompressing. Except when we couldn't find the keys, we were stuck. We actually had to delay our trip, they were that lost.

In the end, it turned out that the keys were in the diaper bag, which we located hours later. This incident prompted us to immediately invest in Tile trackers, which we attached to just about everything we owned and which are paired with our smartphones so we can find commonly lost items in a pinch. (Highly recommend putting the Tile Sticker one on your TV remote, as both kids like to squirrel it away in the most unexpected of places.)

Best deal for getting things done: BabyBjorn Carrier Opens in a new window Credit: BabyBjorn BabyBjorn Carrier $77.99
$99.99 Save $22.00 Get Deal

My daughter has a hard time sleeping, so for the first year of her life, she took almost every single nap in a carrier. And because I work from home, this meant that she was often strapped to me as I worked, taking calls and editing stories with her for hours at a time. Hey, you do what you have to do.

During particularly tough nights when she just wouldn't settle, I would strap her into this BabyBjorn carrier (which works for newborns all the way up to approximately 12 months) and walk circles around my house, listening to podcasts or watching reality TV. (Shoutout to the entire RuPaul's Drag Race universe of shows, which kept me company through my second post-partum experience.)

As she got bigger, my husband would use this same carrier facing out to keep our daughter contained and entertained while doing laundry and other things around the house. I truly don't know how anyone can parent without a baby carrier, and that is the honest truth. This one from BabyBjorn, which we have used for both kids, is on sale during Prime Day for $22 off.

Best for taking kids everywhere: Osprey Poco Plus Opens in a new window Credit: Osprey Osprey Poco Plus Child Carrier $240.00 at Amazon
$320.00 Save $80.00 Get Deal

After the kids outgrew the baby carrier, my husband and I graduated them to this backpack-style carrier from Osprey. We have used this to hike with the kids and during family vacations walking around new cities, plus I've used it to get things done around the house, have schlepped both kids (at one time or another) while working in the garden, and have even popped them in it while I made dinner. (It's especially good for that post-5 p.m. time when they just want to be close to you, but you have so many things to get done.)

During one particularly epic mom moment when I was home alone with both kids, I wore one of them in this backpack while carrying the other in my arms to fall asleep for a nap. Am I bragging? Yes. It was badass.

A spacious pocket underneath can stow an impressive amount of gear, plus a removable shade that they can't rip off keeps the sun off their delicate skin. The best part is that it folds down almost completely flat so you can easily pack it in the car or store it away when not in use. Snag it for $80 off during Prime Day.

Best for nipple care: Medela hydrogel pads Opens in a new window Credit: Medela Medela hydrogel pads $7.99 at Amazon
$11.19 Save $3.20 Get Deal

If breastfeeding is a part of your parenting journey, then it might be helpful to know that there is an adjustment period when your body adapts to this new situation. After going through it with my daughter, I didn't give it much thought the second time around with my son. I figured that my body had already adapted and it would be super easy the next time.

Dear reader, I was wrong. The second time was just as painful, and I frantically stocked up on these soothing gel pads to alleviate the pain. Take it from me: the pain is temporary and you will get through it, but you definitely need these. During Prime Day, you can knock off a few bucks from each package, so stocking up is wise.

Prime Day drone deals: Shop all-time lows on certain DJI and Holy Stone copters

Mashable - Wed, 07/17/2024 - 08:42

It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... a drone you got on sale at a deep discount. We're keeping track of the best Amazon Prime Day drone deals right here.

The best Prime Day drone deals at a glance: Best overall deal DJI Mini 4K $239 at Amazon (save $60 with Prime) Get Deal Best budget pick Holy Stone HS440 $69.98 at Amazon (save $60.01 with on-page coupon and Prime) Get Deal

After Black Friday, Amazon Prime Day is one of the best times of year to buy a drone. We spend hundreds of collective hours poring through the massive sitewide sale every time it rolls around, and we always stumble upon a handful of worthwhile discounts on copters at a range of price points. (The event's timing smack-dab in the middle of summer is also pretty convenient — get out there and take full advantage of the nice weather once your new copter arrives.)

SEE ALSO: 250+ Prime Day deals our shopping experts have deemed worth it: Save on Apple, Echo devices, TVs, headphones, and more

With Prime Day 2024 now live through the end of Wednesday, July 17, we're keeping a running list of the best Prime Day drone deals below. Note that we've included models from the popular brand DJI, which is no longer on the U.S. government's chopping block, per a PetaPixel report.

FYI: Deals with a 🔥 have dropped to an all-time low price. If you notice a discrepancy between any Amazon MSRP and a price we've listed, it's because we found a different MSRP on the manufacturer's website and corrected the deal accordingly.

Best Prime Day drone deal Opens in a new window Credit: DJI DJI Mini 4K 🔥 $239.00 at Amazon with Prime
$299.00 Save $60.00 Get Deal Why we like it

The DJI Mini 4K is a pint-sized 4K foldable camera drone that has a 31-minimum maximum flight time and an HD video transmission of just over six miles. It also comes with its own remote controller. It's a good option for a beginner, and Prime Day has ushered in a new record-low price for it. Amazon is also selling a DJI Mini 4K Fly More Combo bundle that includes two spare batteries, a shoulder bag, and a two-way charging hub; it's also marked down to a record-low price right now.

If you're not a Prime member (and you've already used Amazon's free trial), head to Best Buy: The electronics store is selling the DJI Mini 4K and its Fly More Combo bundle for just 99 cents more than Amazon during its concurrent Black Friday in July sale.

More Prime Day drone deals

Shop the best deals on security cameras and video doorbells during Prime Day

Mashable - Wed, 07/17/2024 - 08:25
The best Prime Day deals on security cameras and video doorbells Best security camera system deal Blink Outdoor 4 (4th generation) five camera system $159.99 at Amazon (Save $240) Get Deal Best video doorbell deal Blink video doorbell and outdoor security cameras $119.99 at Amazon (Save $199.99) Get Deal Best security camera deal Eufy SoloCam S220 solar security camera $69.99 at Amazon (Save $60) Get Deal

The sheer number of deals on Prime Day is overwhelming. We've gathered over 150 deals across Amazon, many of which are on products at their lowest price ever. The sales are spread across all categories, including home security and video doorbells.

If you're looking to equip your home with some extra eyes and ears, now is the time. During Prime Day, you can find major deals up to 63% off for hundreds of dollars in savings. But not all security systems are created equal.

SEE ALSO: Everything you need to know about Prime Day 2024, according to our team of professional deal hunters

In this roundup of deals you won't find products from Ring or Wyze. Ring has a long history of exploiting user data, so much so that the FTC announced customers can now receive a settlement. Plus Wyze has faced numerous security breaches that have effected 13,00 customers. Both of these companies have products on sale this Prime Day, but we do not recommend purchasing.

Instead look to these deals on home security.

Best security deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Blink Outdoor 4 (4th generation) five camera system $159.99 at Amazon
$399.99 Save $240.00 Get Deal Why we like it

The Blink Outdoor 4 security cameras give you extra peace of mind when you're away from home. With two-way audio, HD viewing, and enhanced motion detection, these cameras alert you to expected movements around your home. During Prime Day, look to this unbeatable deal on Blink's five camera system. Typically $399.99, you'll find 63% savings knocking the price all the way down to $159.99. This is the bundles lowest price ever, serving up $240 off.

More security camera and video doorbell deals

The best Prime Day soundbar deals we could find

Mashable - Wed, 07/17/2024 - 08:00
Our top picks for the best Prime Day soundbar deals: Best Sony deal Sony S100F soundbar $98 at Amazon (save $31.99) Get Deal Best Bose deal Bose TV Speaker $179 at Amazon (save $100) Get Deal Best JBL deal JBL Bar 500 $399.95 at Amazon (save $200) Get Deal

It’s Prime Day 2, and the deals are still rolling in (until 11:59 p.m. PT or 2:59 a.m. ET tomorrow morning). From laptops to TVs, Amazon’s mega-sales event has enough deals to turn any mediocre home entertainment setup into a next-level audio experience that’ll make the neighbors green with envy.

SEE ALSO: 250+ Prime Day deals our shopping experts have deemed worth it: Save on Apple, Echo devices, TVs, headphones, and more

One category that stood out this year is Amazon’s wide selection of discounted soundbars, with some of the most popular models hitting all-time low prices. So, if you’re looking for a soundbar, now’s probably the best time to buy one.

Here are our top picks for the best Prime Day soundbar deals:

Best Sony deal Opens in a new window Credit: Sony Our pick: Sony S100F soundbar $98.00 at Amazon
$129.99 Save $31.99 Get Deal Why we like it

The Sony S100F soundbar is a budget-friendly option that’s easy to set up and delivers impressive sound for its size. It's a 2.0-channel soundbar with a compact design that fits neatly under most TVs. With a built-in tweeter, Bass Reflex speaker, and Bluetooth connectivity to stream your faves from your smartphone, the S100F packs an affordable punch at just $98.

This soundbar also includes a 90-day free trial of Amazon Music Unlimited to get you started. (Renewal subscription fees apply after the trial ends.)

Best Bose deal Opens in a new window Credit: Bose Our pick: Bose TV Speaker $179.00 at Amazon
$279.00 Save $100.00 Get Deal Why we like it

The Bose TV Speaker is pretty basic as far as soundbars go, but it gets the job done. (More than 11K reviews on Amazon can’t be wrong.) Two angled full-range drivers and an enhanced dialogue feature make it a great option for anyone who’s unimpressed by their TV's built-in speakers.

It also features Bluetooth connectivity and HDMI, optical, and AUX inputs, so you can connect up to three devices. At Just $179, which is the lowest price we’ve seen on this soundbar to date, it’s a solid option from a trusted brand.

Best JBL deal Opens in a new window Credit: JBL Our pick: JBL Bar 500 $399.95 at Amazon
$599.95 Save $200.00 Get Deal Why we like it

This soundbar roundup wouldn’t be complete without at least one JBL recommendation. The JBL Bar 500 is a 5.1-channel soundbar with Dolby Atmos MultiBeam surround sound, built-in WiFi with AirPlay, Chromecast, and voice control capabilities, and a 10-inch wireless subwoofer for deep, booming bass.

Usually, this feature-packed setup would set you back a couple hundred (or more), but you can snag it right now for $399.95 — $200 off the original price and a mere $20 above its all-time low.

More Prime Day soundbar deals

I went through all of the Prime Day tech deals and these 5 are the best

Mashable - Wed, 07/17/2024 - 07:43

Amazon Prime Day is big. It's humongous. It's preposterously huge. You get the picture: There's a bajillion deals out there, and even if you follow our very, very in-depth coverage (check our live blog here, and our super-duper mega-list of deals here), you may end up feeling lost as there's just too many deals to cover.

While you're sitting there and pondering whether you really need that bonsai tree trimmer, let me offer a different approach: Here are five deals that are really worth it.

Wait, why would you listen to me? Good question. Well, I kinda look at tech each day, every day. I buy tons of gadgets, and companies often send me even more gadgets to look at. And yeah, I'm aware that everyone has different needs and wants when it comes to electronic devices, gizmos, and gadgets of all kinds. But sometimes, just sometimes, there just happens to be a moment in which you find a really good thingamajig at a really good price and go to yourself: Damn, this is probably worth buying.

So when the Shopping team at Mashable asked me to dig into their giant bag of deals and pick the best five, that's what I was looking for.

Without further ado, here's what I found.

Apple AirPods Max Apple AirPods Max Credit: Apple

Look, I don't even need the AirPods Max. I've got at least five pairs of headphones at home, and probably another pair or two that I've lost. And honestly, I don't like the look of that Smart Case the AirPods Max comes with. It looks weird. What's up with that, Apple?

However, the AirPods Max are stupidly comfy, they sound amazing, look good, and play nice with Apple gadgetry, which is a big deal as not all of my other wireless headphones are as easy to connect with (or switch between) my Apple devices.

This year, you can get the AirPods Max for $394.99, a full 28% off the regular, $550 price. I don't remember seeing them this cheap, ever. Even better, they're available at this price in all of the five different colors they come in: Green, Pink, Silver, Sky Blue, and Space Gray.

Most of all, I think this is a good deal because the AirPods Max are something that I wouldn't normally buy. The AirPods Pro deal ($168.99 right now, down from $249) is nice, but I already have a pair and honestly, if I lost them, I'd buy a new pair no matter what. But purchasing the AirPods Max, at a big discount, is something that would raise my dopamine to levels unseen since...my last impulse online purchase. That means in years. Yes, years. OK, months. Weeks? Please don't judge me.

Apple AirPods Max $394.99 at Amazon
$549.00 Save $154.01 Get Deal Amazon Kindle Scribe Amazon Kindle Scribe Credit: Amazon

When people ask me which Kindle they should get, I say: Just get the Kindle Paperwhite. And I do mean it: As an e-book reader, it's a no-nonsense buy with all the features you need and Amazon's massive library behind it.

This year, however, the deals on Kindles are...not great (the Paperwhite is $15 off, and can be had for $134.99). Except for one: the Kindle Scribe.

The Kindle Scribe, if you're not familiar with it, is the Kindle that lets you take notes with a digital pen (included), and convert handwritten notes to text. Does everyone need one? Absolutely not. But if you're eager to try it out to see if it fits, this is the moment, as Amazon has reduced its price from $339.99 down to $234.99, a 31% discount.

For your money, you get the device itself, in all its 10.2-inch glory (the display is a 300 ppi Paperwhite), with 16GB of storage, and a Basic Pen. More than enough to start you on your reading/note-taking journey.

Amazon Kindle Scribe $234.99 at Amazon
$339.99 Save $105.00 Get Deal Samsung 75-inch QN85C QLED 4K TV Samsung Neo QLED QN85C 4K TV Credit: Samsung

You know what they say about TVs: They're never too big. No, seriously. Never. Even if it doesn't fit on your living room wall. Get a bigger living room wall. But I digress. Say you want to go big this year, and finally get that 75-inch TV to wow your friends and neighbors, and possibly annoy your significant other who wants your living room wall to be something else than just a giant TV.

The one to get this Prime Day is Samsung's 75-inch QN85C QLED monster. It's a clean $1,000 off, and costs $1,497.99 right now. That's manageable territory at under 20 bucks per inch.

I'll admit this much: I have not tried this particular TV out for myself. But it's got good reviews, and the "QN85C" marking places it roughly in the middle of Samsung's QLED TV range, and the N in particular means it's a NEO QLED, which has a brighter, more vibrant image than regular QLEDs. Are there better TVs out there? Yeah, but it'll be hard to find one at this price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung 75-inch QN85C QLED 4K TV $1,497.99
$2,497.99 Save $1,000.00 Get Deal Ultimate Ears Megaboom 3 Ultimate Ears Megaboom 3 Credit: Ultimate Ears

Aside from phones, people most often ask me which portable speaker to buy. There's something about the portable speaker that makes it the perfect gadget to own even if you're not into gadgets. Going camping? Grab a speaker. Travelling basically anywhere? You might need a speaker. Pool party? Waterproof speaker.

A long time ago I bought an Ultimate Ears Megaboom, and it was perfect. It's waterproof, sounds great wherever you put it, and the battery lasts long enough for any party.

Then I sold it and got a different portable speaker. Then another one, and another one. And you know what? I still wish I had that old Megaboom. These other speakers may sound better in certain scenarios, or perhaps they look flashier, or have more features. But the Megaboom is just perfectly sized and so darn simple to use, that it remains my recommended portable speaker to this day.

You can get the Ultimate Ears Megaboom 3 for $129.99 (a $70 discount) during Prime Day. Alternatively, get the Boom 3 — it's not as loud, but it's easier to lug around while still sounding pretty great. It can be had for $100.99 this Prime Day (a $49 discount).

Ultimate Ears MEGABOOM 3 Portable Wireless Bluetooth Speaker (Night Black, Large) $199.99 at Amazon
Get Deal Apple Watch SE (40mm) Apple Watch SE Credit: Apple

What can I say, I'm a sucker for Apple gear. But this is an entirely different type of purchase than the aforementioned AirPods Max. Just like the AirPods Max, the Apple Watch SE (40mm) can be had at an all-time-low price of $169.99 this Prime Day (that's down from $249).

But this is not something you buy to satisfy your urge for owning shiny objects. This is a "is this for me?" type of purchase. Sitting at the bottom of Apple's Watch lineup, the SE is the entry-level smartwatch, an ideal buy for someone who's not really sure they need one, and also someone who doesn't want to spend a ton of money on it.

Frankly, the regular asking price is (in typical Apple fashion) just slightly over what I feel most people would give for a device like that. Now that it's discounted all the way down $169.99, though, perhaps it's time to go for it.

For the price, you get a surprisingly capable smartwatch with a fitness and sleep tracker, a heart rate monitor, voice control, and a few Apple specials like Crash Detection and Emergency SOS. You won't be able to get it in all colors at this price, and it seems to be selling out fast, so don't @ us if it's no longer available by the time you get to it.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple Watch SE ¤169.99 at Amazon
¤249.00 Save ¤79.01 Get Deal

These five products are cheaper on Prime Day than they were on Black Friday

Mashable - Wed, 07/17/2024 - 07:27
5 products cheaper this Prime Day than Black Friday Best headphone deal Bose QuietComfort headphones $229 at Amazon (Save $120) Get Deal Best speaker deal Bose SoundLink Flex speaker $99 at Amazon (Save $50) Get Deal Best tech deal HP Envy Inspire 7958e all-in-one color printer $99.99 at Amazon (Save $90) Get Deal Best wearable tech deal Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 smartwatch $159.99 at Amazon (Save $140) Get Deal Best home deal SodaStream Art sparkling water bundle $104.99 at Amazon (Save $95) Get Deal

Big shopping events like Prime Day and Black Friday make big promises, offering products at their lowest prices ever. It's easy to be jaded, especially when these sales happen so often, but usually there are some true deals, with products at their lowest price. But are retailer-based sales like Prime Day better than widespread sales like Black Friday? Sometimes!

SEE ALSO: Everything you need to know about Prime Day 2024, from a team of professional deal hunters

We've sorted through a lot (and we mean a lot) of products, checking their prices to see which have dropped the lowest and which are....meh. Luckily, we've spotted five deals that have dropped to their lowest price since Black Friday that are actually worth shopping.

Best headphone deal Opens in a new window Credit: Bose Bose QuietComfort headphones $229.00 at Amazon
$349.00 Save $120.00 Get Deal Why we like it

Bose makes some of the best headphones we've tested — the QuietComfort Ultra headphones are the most comfortable over-the-ear option and the earbuds provide exceptional sound quality. The base QuietComfort headphones give all exceptional performance we've come to expect in Bose, and this Prime Day, they're down to $229 saving you $120. Around Black Friday, we last saw them drop to $249, so you're getting an extra $20 in savings this go around.

More Prime Day deals that beat Black Friday prices

Instagram now lets you add multiple tracks to a Reel

Mashable - Wed, 07/17/2024 - 07:08

Instagram will now let you pummel your followers with multiple songs in a Reel.

In a post on Wednesday, the social media company announced a feature that lets you add up to 20 tracks in one Reel. Instagram also added the ability to make text, stickers, and clips align with your audio when you're editing a Reel, a feature long available on competitor TikTok.

SEE ALSO: Is posting a photo dump on Instagram cringe now?

Notably, when you add multiple tracks to a Reel, Instagram will generate "your own unique audio mix that will be attributed to you.” Instagram adds that “your fans can save and reuse your audio mixes."

View this post on Instagram

It's one of a number of changes you may have seen on Instagram of late, including AI labels, a new 'prompts' feature and 'reveal' sticker, chatbot versions of creators, and deeply unpopular unskippable ads. The feature could also be another way to satiate and support creators; Instagram pissed off creators last year when it shut down its Reels Play Bonus, but this year the platform has announced several initiatives to get back in creator good books.

macOS Sequoia public beta: 5 new features that may convince Windows users to switch

Mashable - Wed, 07/17/2024 - 06:00

The macOS Sequoia public beta has finally arrived, offering a new-and-improved productivity experience on MacBook. When I announced my official departure from the Windows world, I proclaimed that I didn't regret the switch to Mac. However, there is one thing I miss the most from PCs: Snap Layouts.

Now, macOS Sequoia has its own version of Snap Layouts, so users no longer need to rely on third-party apps like Magnet to do the job. Here are the top five utilities we've spotted on macOS Sequoia public beta that may make you fall in love with your Mac all over again. (And possibly make convince some PC users to make the switch.)

SEE ALSO: I switched to MacBook, but here are 5 things I miss about Windows macOS Sequoia public beta: 5 top features you need to try

Before I dive into the best new features of Mac's next big update, you'll need to install the macOS public beta. But don't say we didn't warn you — this is a beta, so you'll want to make sure that your Mac device is backed up.

Now that we've got that out of the way, let's narrow down macOS Sequoia's vast feature set into a top five list.

1. Windows Tiling

Windows Tiling lets you "snap" windows into place. For example, you can affix Mashable on the left side of the screen while placing Spotify on the right side, allowing you to scroll through our site while jamming to the latest music jams.

Windows Tiling with Spotify and Mashable Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

You can use Windows Tiling by hovering your mouse over the green dot on the top-left of the window. (Make sure the window is not in full-screen mode.) Next, you can snap the window to the left, right, top, or bottom. You can do the same with other windows for a seamless multitasking experience.

2. Voice-activated commands

In the Accessibility menu, there's a new option called Vocal Shortcuts. What does it do? It allows you to teach your Mac a custom phrase that prompts it to perform a specified action.

You can turn it on by navigating to System Settings (via Apple logo) > Accessibility > Vocal Shortcuts. Next, click on "Set Up" before clicking on "Continue."

Choose an action from the list (e.g., Zoom), type in the command phrase you'd like to vocalize (e.g., "Zoom in, please"), and hit "Continue." You'll then be asked to say the phrase three times. Hit "Continue."

3. Math Notes with 'Calculator'

When Apple first introduced Math Notes at WWDC 2024, it was on the iPad. The Cupertino-based tech giant showed off how one can use the Apple Pencil to scribble a math problem, and almost instantly, the Calculator app generates an answer for you once you write an equal sign.

However, this cool feature isn't just for iPad. Open up the Calculator app, tap on the Calculator icon, and hit "Math Notes."

via GIPHY

Start typing in your equation, and once you use the equal sign, the answer will appear in golden yellow.

4. Highlight your notes

Apple also made some tweaks to the notes app. If you're someone who loves to take notes with the native Notes app, you may be thrilled to hear that there are more ways to customize your notes and make them pop.

You can highlight your text in hot pink Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

For example, you can now add a pop of color to your text by highlighting them. You can do this by selecting the text, hitting the "Aa" icon, and clicking on the purple dot. You can also choose between Pink, Orange, Mint, and Blue.

5. Voice Memo can transcribe your words

Sometimes, you may not feel like typing notes. You just want to speak out into the world and have someone transcribe your words into text. Well, Voice Memo can double as your own personal transcriptionist on macOS Sequoia.

macOS Sequoia can transform your speech into text Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

Fire up Voice Memos via Launchpad and hit the red record button. When you're done, hit the talk bubble icon on the top-right corner, and you'll get a transcription of your speech.

Tinder announces AI tool to help select your profile pic

Mashable - Wed, 07/17/2024 - 06:00

After teasing an AI-powered tool to help pick profile photos last year, Tinder formally announced "Photo Selector" today. The feature uses artificial intelligence to assist with choosing profile photos from what you have on your device.

Here's how Photo Selector works: Take a selfie for facial recognition (if you're verified on Tinder, you're already familiar with this), allow Tinder access to your camera roll, and Photo Selector will curate images for you to review. You then decide which ones you want to add to your Tinder profile.

SEE ALSO: Is sexting right away on a dating app a red flag?

A majority of singles, 52 percent, said it's hard to select a profile image, while 68 percent said an AI feature for this task would be helpful, according to a recent Opinium survey Tinder commissioned of 7,000 18-25 year old singles who are on dating apps. The same survey reported that young adult singles spend an average of 33 minutes selecting the right profile picture — so Photo Selector would, in theory, cut that down.

Dating apps have jumped at the opportunity to add AI to its features even before the launch of ChatGPT. Tinder has features "Does This Bother You?" and "Are You Sure?", both of which use AI to sniff out potentially offensive messages. Tinder launched these in 2020 and 2021, respectively.

This year, Tinder competitor Bumble launched an AI-powered tool to weed out scam profiles. Bumble recently announced a different approach to using AI about profile photos: users can now report suspected AI-generated photos and videos.

First look at Tinder's Photo Selector AI tool. Credit: Tinder

CEO of Tinder Faye Iosotaluno commented in the Photo Selector press release that the app aims to develop AI to assist users in making decisions, "not to make them for you."

"Our commitment to our users is clear and equally applies to our view of AI: at Tinder, we develop innovative technologies to create a safer space for people to make authentic connections," Iosotaluno concluded.

Mashable predicted that daters will move away from apps in the latter half of 2024, so we'll see how the addition of AI features plays into that. Photo Selector will be available in the U.S. this month, and other countries later this summer.

Jon Stewart unpacks the RNC and internet conspiracies after Trump rally shooting

Mashable - Wed, 07/17/2024 - 05:44
Jon Stewart was back on "The Daily Show" desk to unpack the assassination attempt on Donald Trump and the Republican National Convention.

How Trump’s Running Mate J.D. Vance is Connected to Silicon Valley

NYT Technology - Wed, 07/17/2024 - 05:02
Mr. Vance spent less than five years in Silicon Valley’s tech industry, but the connections he made with Peter Thiel and others became crucial to his political ascent.

'The Acolyte's Sith Lord finale reveal raises one huge (and rather silly) question

Mashable - Wed, 07/17/2024 - 05:00

The Acolyte finale gave viewers everything they could have possibly wanted: lightsaber action, sisterly reconciliation, Jedi cover-ups, more of Bazil the tracker — and a hint at one of the most influential Star Wars Sith Lords yet to appear on screen.

The reveal comes as Osha (Amandla Stenberg) and the Stranger (Manny Jacinto) depart the Stranger's remote island hideaway in search of Mae (Stenberg) and Sol (Lee Jung-jae). As their ship takes off, a skeletal hand emerges from the shadows of an island cave, followed by a cloaked figure with glowing eyes. Based on vibes alone, there's no doubt that this is a Sith Lord. But which one could it be?

SEE ALSO: 'The Acolyte' sticks the landing with a banger of a finale — and I need more, stat

The likely answer is that this is Darth Plagueis, the Sith Lord who will one day train Darth Sidious (otherwise known as Emperor Palpatine). Palpatine mentions him to Anakin Sywalker in Revenge of the Sith, hitting him with that classic conversation-starter: "Did you ever hear the tragedy of Darth Plagueis the Wise?"

While there's a lot of juicy Darth Plagueis lore The Acolyte could dive into in a potential (but desperately needed) Season 2 — like his relationship with Palpatine and his supposed ability to create life and reverse death — I really only have one burning Plagueis question I'd like The Acolyte to answer. Just what the heck has he been doing on the Stranger's island?

What is Darth Plagueis up to on the Stranger's island? Manny Jacinto in "The Acolyte." Credit: Lucasfilm Ltd.

Seriously, does the Stranger even know Darth Plagueis is shacking up in his home? Is the island some kind of Sith timeshare? Do they have a roommate agreement drawn up? "You, Darth Plagueis, promise to hide yourself away while I, the Stranger formerly known as Qimir, attempt to recruit prospective acolytes to the Dark Side. In return, I'll make you soup."

Or maybe Darth Plagueis simply comes with the island, a feature like the cortosis mines, those adorable duck-like skura, and the hot springs that are perfect for Dark Side seduction. Really, that's all you need in a home.

You may wonder, "Why do you care so much about Darth Plagueis' island whereabouts?" To which I say, did you see episode 6? The Stranger and Osha spend the entire episode in a charged dance. He's skinny dipping in front of her, she's holding a lightsaber to his throat while he gently cups her wrist — it's enemies-to-lovers excellence, and the horniest Star Wars has been in a good long while. And you're telling me Plagueis might have had a front seat to all this?

So in much the same way that The Acolyte's third and seventh episodes revisited the catastrophe on Brendok from different perspectives, Rashomon-style, my fever dream wish for The Acolyte is that we get Plagueis's perspective on "Teach/Corrupt." That story could go so many ways — most of them ridiculous.

Think about it: If Plagueis and the Stranger knew each other, maybe he was a supportive wingman. Imagine him hyping the Stranger up before Osha woke on the island, or giving him the cue on when to time his walk to the hot springs just right. Or maybe (and most likely) Plagueis was just a fly on the wall, watching the sparks fly between Osha and the Stranger. Was he into it, like the many Oshamir shippers out there? Or was he holding his spooky head in his spooky hands, baffled by the Stranger's methods? (They get results, though!)

As excited as I am to watch Osha train with the Stranger in Season 2 (please, please, please), I'm concerned on their behalf. Do they know some guy's just creeping on them? Would they be able to fend him off if he revealed himself and proved hostile? The Sith Lord call is coming from inside the island, guys! Be safe out there!

All episodes of The Acolyte Season 1 are now streaming on Disney+.

'The Acolyte' sticks the landing with a banger of a finale — and I need more, stat

Mashable - Wed, 07/17/2024 - 05:00

If I could sum up The Acolyte's Season 1 finale in one word, it would be "payoff."

Episode 8, titled "The Acolyte," answered most of our biggest questions about the season. How did Mae (Amandla Stenberg) survive her fall on Brendok? Getting sucked into a core tunnel. Would any more Sith Lords join the party? Darth Plagueis would like a word. And who was the Stranger's (Manny Jacinto) old Master? Vernestra Rwoh (Rebecca Henderson) — called it!

SEE ALSO: 'The Acolyte' review: Just what Star Wars needs

But more than providing answers, The Acolyte gifted us with satisfying resolutions to the arcs it had been building all season long. Most prominent among them was the push and pull between twins Mae and Osha (Stenberg), who we learn are essentially one person split in two thanks to the power of a Force vergence.

The Acolyte finale embraces the power of two — and of switcheroos Amandla Stenberg in "The Acolyte." Credit: Lucasfilm Ltd.

Ever since The Acolyte's initial twin reveal, we've known a switcheroo was in the cards. Not only in terms of one twin taking on the other's identity (which both Mae and Osha do over the course of the season), but in terms of ideology. Could the former Jedi fall to the Dark Side, and the Dark Side user rise to the Light?

As "The Acolyte" proves, the answer to that question is a resounding "yes." When Osha and Mae meet each other once again, the visuals leave no doubt that something has shifted. Mae is still in Osha's lighter civilian clothing, while Osha's now dressed in black. Her new hooded ensemble calls to mind an element of Mae's very first costume, especially the purple hood she wore when she killed Jedi Masters Indara (Carrie-Anne Moss) and Torbin (Dean-Charles Chapman). When Mae abandoned her mission to kill the four Brendok Jedi, she left that entire outfit behind. It's fitting, then, that Osha finishes the mission Mae set out on dressed just like her.

SEE ALSO: 'The Acolyte's Sith Lord finale reveal raises one huge (and rather silly) question

In the end, Osha is the Aniseya sister to kill Jedi Master Sol (Lee Jung-jae) without a weapon, not Mae. She Force-chokes him in response to learning he killed Mother Aniseya (Jodie Turner-Smith) and lied to her about it. Meanwhile, Mae would prefer that Sol face the Jedi Council and receive his punishment from them. It's a complete one-eighty from their positions at the beginning of the season: Mae wanted to murder Jedi, while Osha hoped to bring Mae to justice through the Jedi. Later, once the Stranger has wiped Mae's memories of him and Osha so that Mae won't give her sister away, Mae finds herself at the heart of the Jedi Order, while Osha prepares to train with the Stranger. The two haven't just switched sides, they've switched the systems of power they serve.

Beyond plot and character interactions, The Acolyte has visually hinted at this shift across the board, from the eclipsed moons of Brendok to the doubled "O" in its logo, which also mirrors the eclipse. Even promotional art for the show highlights a dark moon or planet as it passes across the sun. All this comes to a head in Sol's death and the moments that follow, when we see the kyber crystal in Sol's old lightsaber bleed as Osha wields it. Red eclipses blue, Dark overcomes Light, and Osha's transformation is complete. It's a phenomenal culmination of visual storytelling, and deeply satisfying to boot.

The Acolyte proves it's ready to keep trying new things Lee Jung-jae in "The Acolyte." Credit: Lucasfilm Ltd.

There's also a refreshing quality to Osha's journey to the Dark Side, as The Acolyte commits wholeheartedly to her "corruption" arc. That concept is nothing new for Star Wars: Anakin Skywalker is the defining example, while the sequel trilogy ever-so-lightly trod that territory with Rey. But in both cases, going to the Dark Side is treated as a tragedy, a black-and-white moral choice. Osha's turn, on the other hand, feels more like a liberation. It's a chance to feel all the emotions the Jedi told her not to feel, a chance to mourn (and avenge) the great loss of her childhood. When Mae asks Osha what she wants, this is what she embraces. When she and the Stranger hold hands and gaze off into the sunset, you sense she's more at peace there than she ever was with the Jedi.

This is not to say that The Acolyte presents the Jedi as universally bad or the Sith as universally good. It places itself in the grey area of individual human choices. Here, we see supposedly well-intentioned people like Sol twist their personal interests to fit their rigid ethos, leading to preventable tragedies like the one on Brendok. The coverup of that incident has haunted every Jedi involved, and given Vernestra's twisting of Sol's actions to cover up the Stranger's presence, it seems like some Jedi have yet to learn from these mistakes.

SEE ALSO: 'The Acolyte' keeps referencing 'The Last Jedi' — here's why

The introduction of Senator Rayencourt (David Harewwood) establishes that The Acolyte hopes to continue to put pressure on the impossible standards the Jedi hold themselves to. As he tells her, "it's only a matter of time before one of you snaps." You have no idea, Senator. We know Anakin is coming — but how many other Jedi like him erred on a smaller scale and covered their tracks? We're aware of Sol and Vernestra, and if we get more of The Acolyte, perhaps we'll learn of even more.

The Acolyte finale really has something for everyone — and hopefully it's a sign of more to come Amandla Stenberg and Manny Jacinto in "The Acolyte." Credit: Lucasfilm Ltd.

Aside from its strong storytelling and devastating story beats — I'll be thinking of Sol's last words to Osha and her parting with Mae for a while — The Acolyte has cemented itself as a Star Wars show that has a little something for everyone. Nowhere is that clearer than in the finale, which ricochets between action-adventure, political intrigue, and deeply felt family drama with ease. Classic Star Wars stuff, right there.

But there are also elements of The Acolyte and its finale that apply to smaller subsets of fans. If you love the flash and flair of lightsaber fights, the Stranger and Sol's final showdown is one for the ages. If you're an enemies-to-lovers fan (hello, Reylo shippers!), this finale doubles down on Oshamir and hints at big things ahead for them. Lore heads will cherish that brief Darth Plagueis cameo, while fans of the original and prequel trilogies will likely froth at the mouth over that quick flash we saw of the back of Yoda's head. (Could I have done without the gratuitous Yoda appearance? Yes, but it's a small grievance over an otherwise outstanding episode.)

This finale is a perfect storm of proof that The Acolyte knows what it's doing, both in terms of Star Wars as a franchise and in terms of plain old good storytelling. A Season 2 order (hopefully one with more than eight episodes) should be a no-brainer, allowing The Acolyte to keep building a space for itself in that famed galaxy far, far away. Sure, the power of one season is strong as is — but imagine the power of two. Or better yet, the power of many.

All episodes of The Acolyte Season 1 are now streaming on Disney+.

How to install macOS Sequoia public beta

Mashable - Wed, 07/17/2024 - 05:00

Apple has finally unleashed the macOS Sequoia public beta, the first beta version available to the general public (not just registered Apple developers).

The next big Mac update, dubbed macOS Sequoia at WWDC 2024, comes with a host of new features, including Window Tiling, iPhone mirroring, and the Passwords app.

SEE ALSO: 2 macOS Sequoia features that you won’t get if you have an Intel MacBook How to install macOS Sequoia public beta

Before even thinking about installing macOS Sequoia public beta, we highly suggest you back up your Mac. Apple has a really good explainer on how to do this with Time Machine.

Next, you must be enrolled in Apple's Beta Software Program.

Now that you're an official Apple beta tester, and you've (hopefully) backed up your Mac, let's get started on installing the macOS Sequoia public beta.

  1. Go to System Settings.

  2. Click on "General" followed by "Software Update."

  3. Click on the "i" icon next to "Beta Updates."

  4. In the new window, click "Off," which will lead to a new menu.

  5. Click on "macOS Sequoia public beta" and hit "Done."

  6. Back in the "Software Update" window, click on "Upgrade Now."

  7. In the new window, tap on "Agree."

This should kick off a progress bar indicating that macOS Sequoia is currently being installed. The download process should take less than 10 minutes.

The official, ready-for-primetime version of macOS Sequoia is expected to roll out later this year (likely alongside iPhone 16). However, many of the highly anticipated Apple Intelligence features will launch next year.

Enjoy peace of mind at your next Airbnb with a hidden camera detector for $40

Mashable - Wed, 07/17/2024 - 05:00

TL;DR: Relax at your rental this summer with this hidden camera and bug detector on sale for $39.99 (reg. $59.99).

Opens in a new window Credit: RochasDivineMart Hidden Camera-, Bug-, GPS- & RF-Detector $39.99 at The Mashable Shop
$59.99 Save $20.00 Get Deal

While you're gallivanting to a luxurious oceanfront Airbnb, mountain lodge rental, or cute small town bed-and-breakfast, you want to rid yourself of all your worries and truly unwind. To maximize your peaceful experience, you may want to bring a handy little gadget with you to ensure your privacy.

A hidden camera detector can give you peace of mind by helping you ensure there are no cameras, bugs, or GPS systems present in your oasis. For a limited time, you can get it marked down from $59 to just $39.99.

With a wide frequency range of 1MHz to 8000MHz, you can detect even the most sophisticated devices. The compact design makes it easy to carry, and the intuitive interface allows for quick and efficient scans.

Equipped with an advanced microprocessor, this detector offers high sensitivity and precision in identifying any suspicious signals. The adjustable threshold and sensitivity settings allow you to tailor the detection process to your specific needs, while the audible alerts and LED indicators make sure you never miss anything.

You can use it in hotel rooms, offices, public spaces, or even your car. It works for up to five hours without needing a charge via the rechargeable battery.

Prioritize your privacy by using this camera-, bug-, GPS-, and RF-protector on sale for $39.99 for a limited time.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Boost your productivity with a sleek Asus laptop for just $185

Mashable - Wed, 07/17/2024 - 05:00

TL;DR: This open-box, ultra-thin, 14-inch ASUS laptop (Intel Pentium Silver N5030, 4GB RAM, 128GB SSD) packs impressive power and storage in a sleek, portable design, on sale for $184.99 (reg. $199).

Opens in a new window Credit: ASUS ASUS laptop, 14-inch (Intel Pentium Silver N5030, 4GB RAM, 128GB SSD) $184.99 at The Mashable Shop
$199.99 Save $15.00 New, open box Get Deal

Looking for a laptop that blends style, performance, and affordability? It can get expensive real quick. But fear not, this sleek device boasts a modern design and a low price that make it an ideal choice for both students and professionals alike.

For a limited time, you can get this a new, open-box 14-inch ASUS laptop (Intel Pentium Silver N5030, 4GB RAM, 128GB SSD) on sale for $184.99 (reg. $199).The "open-box" label simply means that it was either returned and repackaged, or was excess inventory. But it is a brand-new item for a great price.

With its lightweight design and impressive capabilities, you'll be ready to tackle any task, whether you're working from a coffee shop or catching up on assignments at home.

What sets this laptop apart is its powerful N5030 1.1 GHz processor, which ensures smooth multitasking and efficient performance. Paired with 4GB of RAM, you can run multiple applications simultaneously without any hiccups. The 128GB of storage provides a good amount of space for your important files, documents, and multimedia. Plus, it comes with a Windows 11 Home operating system, which is equipped with a user-friendly interface, security features, and much more.

The 14-inch HD display delivers crisp and vibrant visuals, making your work, streaming, and browsing experience enjoyable and immersive. The ultra-thin design makes it incredibly easy to carry around and travel with.

Get this open-box ASUS 14-inch L410 ultra-thin laptop with Windows 11 Home on sale for $184.99 (reg. $199).

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Surf safely with a 5-year VPN for only $35

Mashable - Wed, 07/17/2024 - 05:00

TL;DR: Protect your digital life on up to 10 devices with a five-year subscription to AdGuard VPN, on sale for $34.97 (reg. $359.40) through July 21.

Opens in a new window Credit: AdGuard AdGuard VPN: 5-Year Subscription $34.97 at The Mashable Shop
$359.40 Save $324.43 Get Deal

When it comes to inputting information online, it can be scary sending your credit card or social security number into the unknown. It's a good idea to make sure your digital data remains safe and sound, and one way to do this is by investing in a VPN, or virtual private network.

Through July 21, you can take advantage of this deal on a five-year AdGuard VPN plan, which is on sale for $34.97 (reg. $359.40). 

AdGuard VPN offers powerful security features to keep your online activities private. As a data privacy tool with advanced encryption standards and a zero-logging policy, it not only keeps your data secure from hackers and trackers, it also doesn't track your IP address or the websites you visit — so literally no one else has access to your info. AdGuard VPN provides high-speed connections, allowing you to stream, shop, and browse without lag. The app is available on multiple platforms, so you can protect all your devices (up to 10) with a single subscription.

With servers in over 50 locations worldwide, you can easily switch to the best-performing server for your needs. Whether you're at home or on the go, AdGuard VPN is designed to deliver.

This VPN is user-friendly, and its intuitive interface makes it easy to set up and use, even for those who are not tech-savvy. Regular updates and 24/7 customer support ensure you always have the best protection and assistance whenever you need it.

Stay protected online with a five-year subscription to AdGuard VPN, on sale for $34.97 until July 21 at 11:59 p.m. PT.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

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