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iRobot enters a new era with a Roomba that finally auto-washes and dries its mop

Mashable - Tue, 07/23/2024 - 12:03

PRE-ORDER NOW: On July 23, iRobot announced a new flagship robot vacuum and mop that finally comes with a self-cleaning station: the Roomba Combo 10 Max robot and AutoWash dock. It is available to pre-order now for $1,399.99 and will start shipping in early August.

Opens in a new window Credit: iRobot Roomba Combo 10 Max Robot + AutoWash Dock $1,399.99 at iRobot
Pre-Order Here

We hope the likes of Roborock, Ecovacs, and Narwal fully enjoyed the peace of having a leg up on iRobot for the past year. Because the new Roomba rectifies the one glaring blind spot that held it back against competitors, and "best robot vacuums" lists across the internet are in for a shake-up.

Announced on July 23, the 2024 Roomba Combo 10 Max Robot + AutoWash Dock finally fills the major gap in the Roomba lineup: self-washing and drying mopping pads.

Credit: iRobot

iRobot skipped this feature with the Roomba Combo j9+ that came out last September — an odd choice since the Combo j9+ did upgrade to a dock that automatically refilled the bot's water tank, which I found to be a bit of a futile glow-up if you're still having to manually wash soggy mopping pads after each mopping run.

But after the full-fledged self-cleaning station emerged as the clear robot vacuum trend at CES 2024 in January, even the most advanced Roomba was left in the dust with a price tag that was just too high for the lack of all-encompassing mopping maintenance.

SEE ALSO: Shark vs. Roomba: Comparing top-rated robot vacuum lineups

So of course, iRobot's official graduation to the self-washing and self-drying mopping pad system is the big headline of the day. But the underlying tea is the uncharacteristically reasonable price tag. In the past, I've found that Roombas tend to be more expensive than similar counterparts without necessarily offering more to back that cost up (until those Roombas start going on sale regularly, at least.) This was most recently exemplified with the two budget Roombas that came out in April 2024.

So while the $1,399.99 price tag on the Roomba Combo 10 Max Robot + AutoWash Dock still may seem steep, it's totally in line with the other robot vacuum and mop hybrids with the self-cleaning mopping pad stations. Potentially more noteworthy is that $1,399.99 is the exact same price that the Combo j9+ debuted at last year. iRobot literally redesigned its dock to match the self-sufficiency consumers were asking for and left the price as is.

Overall, the new AutoWash dock will hold debris for up to 60 days at a time and can supply up to a week of clean water. The dust bin and water tank can be accessed from the front of the dock, meaning the top can be used as a full-time end table.

Like the Combo j9+, the Roomba Combo 10 Max's dock can blend in as furniture. Credit: iRobot What does the "Max" nomenclature mean for Roomba?

Armed with the same suction power and scrubbing pressure that the Combo j9+ dishes out, the Roomba Combo 10 Max technically doesn't clean harder — but it does clean smarter. This is what iRobot means by "Max," which will become a completely new tier of Roombas.

The front-facing camera originally seen on Roombas to avoid running over small obstacles like pet waste and cords (creating what I think is the most reliable small obstacle avoidance on the market) is now also used to visually detect debris on the floor, triggering extra passes in that area. iRobot says that this visual pinpointing of dirty areas plus an enhanced version of the Dirt Detect sensors Roombas were already using will lead to dirty areas being tended to up to eight times more frequently.

The Roomba Combo 10 Max completes smart mapping faster than previous Roombas. Credit: iRobot

This attention to detail also applies to SmartScrub (the mopping mechanism of iRobot's retractable mop when it's in use). Compared to the Combo j9+, the Combo 10 Max's SmartScrub wipes back and forth more vigorously when grime is sensed, more closely mimicking the back and forth elbow grease a human administers when manually mopping.

Both vacuuming and mopping can be completed in the same cleaning run, with the retractable mop automatically avoiding getting carpet or rugs wet. And FWIW, the cleaning performance on both Combo j9+ and Combo 10 Max is still iRobot's most powerful ever. We're talking suction that's 100 times more powerful than the i Series Roombas, and two times deeper scrubbing than the other mopping Roombas.

Amazon deal of the day: A new record-low price on Samsung's Galaxy Tab S6 Lite has surfaced

Mashable - Tue, 07/23/2024 - 11:45
Amazon deals of the day at a glance: OUR TOP PICK Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite (64GB) $209.99 at Amazon (save $120) Get Deal BEST TV DEAL Amazon 75-inch Omni Fire TV $699.99 at Amazon (save $350) Get Deal BEST EARBUDS DEAL Google Pixel Buds A Series $69 at Amazon (save $30) Get Deal BEST LAPTOP DEAL LG gram 14 (Intel Core Ultra 5, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD) $697 at Amazon (save $402.99) Get Deal

If you missed out on Prime Day 2024, all hope is not lost. We were still able to wrangle a few great deals at Amazon a week after the official kick off of the shopping extravaganza — and on great brands, too.

Here are our top picks for the best Amazon deals of the day on July 23. Be sure to check out our selections from July 22 as well — some of those deals are still live.

Our top pick Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite (64GB) $209.99 at Amazon
$329.99 Save $120.00 Get Deal

The new Amazon-exclusive Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite offers the same basic design as its previous iteration, but packs an updated Exynos processor and comes with Android 14 out of the box. Its predecessor is one of our favorite tablets for kids, so we can only expect that the extra boost of processing power will make us like it even more. It weighs only 1.03 pounds, has a large 10.4-inch screen, and lasts up to 14 hours on a single charge. Both the 64GB and 128GB versions are on sale, but only the 64GB version is down to a record-low price of $209.99. That's 36% in savings.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon 75-inch Omni Fire TV $699.99 at Amazon
$1,049.99 Save $350.00 Get Deal

In the market for a new TV? You can snag a huge 75-inch Omni Fire TV for only $699.99 instead of its usual $1,049.99. That's a savings of 33% and matches its all-time low. The second-best TV in Amazon's lineup, the Omni series offers 4K everyday entertainment, Dolby Vision, Dolby Digital Plus, hands-free Alexa control, and slimmer bezels for a theater-like viewing experience. To kick off your cinematic experience, you'll even get a free six-month subscription to MGM+.

Opens in a new window Credit: Google Google Pixel Buds A Series $69.00 at Amazon
$99.00 Save $30.00 Get Deal

Released in 2021, the Google Pixel Buds A pretty much replaced the previous Pixel Buds. They feature the same great audio, comfortable fit, battery life, and Google Assistant. They're not great for iOS users and the bass is just OK, but as Mashable's Alex Perry noted, "if price and sound quality are all that matter to you, you'll have a tough time finding a better value than the new Pixel Buds." As of July 23, they're down to just $69 at Amazon — that's a savings of 30%.

Opens in a new window Credit: LG LG gram 14-inch laptop (Intel Core Ultra 5, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD) $697.00 at Amazon
$1,099.99 Save $402.99 Get Deal

A worthy MacBook alternative for PC people, the LG gram 14-inch laptop is impressively light at just 2.47 pounds. For comparison, the 13-inch MacBook Air weighs 2.7 pounds. It packs an all-new Intel Core Ultra 5 125H processor, offers flexible connection options (HDMI, USB 4, USB-C, USB 3.2, and aux), and lasts up to 12 hours on a single charge. As of July 23, the 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD configuration is on sale for only $697. That's 37% in savings and $3 cheaper than Prime Day. That also drops it to a new all-time low.

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

Hurry to get the Google Pixel Watch 2 for the lowest price ever at Amazon

Mashable - Tue, 07/23/2024 - 11:36

SAVE $80: The Google Pixel Watch 2 (WiFi) is on sale at Amazon for just $269.99, down from the usual price of $349.99. That's a 23% discount and the lowest we've seen at Amazon.

Opens in a new window Credit: Google Google Pixel Watch 2 (black case, black band, WiFi) $269.99 at Amazon
$349.99 Save $80.00 Get Deal

Prime Day officially left us last week, but Amazon is still wowing us with epic discounts. Today's price drop includes a deal that'll appeal to Android users who are in need of a new smartwatch with impressive features.

As of July 23, the Google Pixel Watch 2 (black case, black band, WiFi) is just $269.99 at Amazon, down from the normal price of $349.99. That's a 23% discount, or a savings of $80. This sale price is also the lowest we've ever spotted at Amazon.

Since Google acquired Fitbit in 2021, the Google Pixel Watch 2 comes equipped with some great features you'd expect from both Google and the fitness tracking brand. In Mashable's showdown between the Google Pixel Watch 2 and the Apple Watch Series 9, the verdict was clear that Android users should opt for the Google Pixel Watch 2. The review also highlighted just how lightweight the Pixel Watch is, which could be perfect if heavy watches bother you.

In terms of performance, the Google Pixel Watch 2 comes with standard smartwatch features like getting texts, emails, and weather updates on your wrist. You can also access Google Maps and Google Calendar. Plus, you get all the fitness tech like heart rate and skin temperature tracking, stress monitoring, fall detection, and more. Google says you'll get about 24 hours of battery life with an always-on display, and re-charging takes about 75 minutes.

The Google Pixel Watch 2 has a maximum brightness of 1,000 nits, which makes is a clear winner over the Fitbit Charge 6, for example, which only reaches 450 nits. In Mashable's comparison between Fitbit watches and Apple Watches, writer RJ Andersen says Fitbit (and therefore, Google) is the clear winner when it comes to durability and longevity.

If you're an Android user looking for a new smartwatch or fitness tracker, Amazon has your solution on sale. Score the powerful and feature-rich Google Pixel Watch 2 today for 23% off.

Save $120 on the Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite with S Pen at Amazon

Mashable - Tue, 07/23/2024 - 11:28

SAVE $120: As of July 23, get the Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite for just $209.99 at Amazon. That's a discount of 36% off its normal price of $329.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite $209.99 at Amazon
$329.99 Save $120.00 Get Deal

If you're shopping for a new tablet, there are plenty of choices on the market. You aren't locked into iPads. But if you want something sophisticated enough to double as a portable workstation, one of Samsung's offerings works fantastically. And you don't even have to drop an entire paycheck to bring one home, thanks to a new deal from Amazon.

As of July 23, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite is just $209.99, down from its normal price of $329.99. That's $120 off and a discount of 36%. This is the 64GB model, and all three colorways (Chiffon Pink, Mint, and Oxford Gray) are included in the sale.

This 10.4-inch tablet is an excellent option for working on the go. It boasts a 14-hour battery life, 64GB of expandable storage via microSD, and a slim and lightweight frame. It also comes with an S Pen that you can use as a stylus to sketch, write or draw if you'd prefer not to use your finger.

It's capable of powering your favorite mobile games and streaming content, thanks to its latest Samsung processor, crisp display and Dolby Atmos surround sound. Plus, with Samsung DeX, you can turn the tablet into an expanded desktop and control multiple windows on Samsung devices from your Galaxy Tab S6 Lite.

Be sure and snag this perfectly portable powerhouse while it's still in stock for less than $250.

Mark Zuckerberg Stumps for ‘Open Source’ A.I.

NYT Technology - Tue, 07/23/2024 - 11:21
The chief executive of Meta said in an open letter that it was important that the technology was not controlled by a handful of giant companies — including his own.

Transportation Department to Investigate Delta After Flight Delays

NYT Technology - Tue, 07/23/2024 - 11:02
Pete Buttigieg, the transportation secretary, made the announcement after the airline suspended travel for unaccompanied minors.

Grab a refurbished Dyson Supersonic for just over $200

Mashable - Tue, 07/23/2024 - 10:56

Save $140: As of July 23, you can grab a refurbished Dyson Supersonic for $209.99 at Walmart, down from its usual price $349.99. This price cut saves you 40%.

Opens in a new window Credit: Dyson Refurbished Dyson Supersonic $209.99 at Walmart
$349.99 Save $140.00 Get Deal

Take it from someone who's tested it out: the Dyson Supersonic is a seriously luxurious hair dryer that's way too expensive to justify recommending to 90% of folks, especially when dupes exist.

However, when the price of the hair dryer gets slashed to just over half of what it would cost at its full price brand-new (basically, when it falls to the price of a normal hair dryer) I can give it a more wholehearted recommendation. As of July 23, if you're willing to buy refurbished, you can get the Dyson Supersonic at Walmart for just $209.99, placing it firmly at one of the lower prices we've seen it.

Typically, even buying a refurbished model will run you $349.99 (as compared to a new model's $429.99). At the time of writing, Dyson is also offering a deeply discounted refurbished model directly on their website, but for $10 more at $219.99.

So what do you get with the Dyson Supersonic? For starters, the dryer comes with five magnetic styling attachments, including a wide tooth comb, diffuser, styling concentrator, and gentle air attachment. Like I wrote in my review, it's hard to imagine someone who will use all these attachments, but this sale price makes that less of an issue.

SEE ALSO: Is the Dyson Supersonic still worth it?

As for how it performs, you'll have your pick between three speed and four heat settings. Dyson claims that the dryer never exceeds 212 degrees and helps prevent extreme heat damage. While I couldn't independently verify these specific claims when I tested the dryer, I can say that my hair dried quicker, shinier, and with less frizz than other dryers. It's also marginally quieter and more lightweight than other options, making hair drying generally feel like a more luxe experience.

Though the difference wasn't drastic enough for me to recommend it when it was twice the price of other dryers, it's much easier when it's on sale when it's in the same range. If you've been waiting for your moment to grab the Dyson Supersonic, now is an excellent time.

How to use Slack's new iPhone widgets

Mashable - Tue, 07/23/2024 - 10:56

If there's one thing we need, it's to be more logged on. And Slack has found a way to do that for us.

If you have Slack on your phone, first of all, I'm so sorry. But apparently some smartphone app users who totally have a regular relationship with their jobs have been begging for widgets.

SEE ALSO: Slack's new AI 'Recap' feature will send you a daily digest of important convos

"Three new Slack iOS widgets are here to make your workday a whole lot easier," Slack said in a post on X announcing the addition. "Add the Catch Up widget, Status widget, and Slack Launcher widget to your device and stay in the know on the go."

Tweet may have been deleted

The Catch Up widget occupies a 2x2 space and lets users see a quick overview of what they missed, as the name implies. You can see unread messages and mentions without having to actually open the app. The Status widget also takes up a 2x2 space on your phone and lets users select and change their status quickly. The largest of the three new widgets is the 4x2 Status widget, which allows users to use one of three predetermined options: one-hour "focus" and "lunch" statuses and a half-hour "take a break" status.

All jokes aside, if you have to have Slack on your phone, this might make it a bit easier to get done what you need to get done — and get back to your regular life quicker.

Netflix reveals 'Bridgerton' Season 4 is all about Benedict

Mashable - Tue, 07/23/2024 - 10:52
"Bridgerton" Season 4's romantic lead is none other than Benedict Bridgerton (Luke Thompson), who might finally settle down.

Snag a Samsung Galaxy Book 4 Edge for less and get a free 43-inch Smart Monitor

Mashable - Tue, 07/23/2024 - 10:28

SAVE $499.99, GET FREE MONITOR: As of July 23, buy the Samsung Galaxy Book 4 Edge for $1349.99 at Samsung and get a free 43-inch Smart Monitor ($499.99 value) with purchase.

Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung Galaxy Book 4 Edge $1,349.99 at Samsung
$1,849.98 Save $499.99 Free 43-inch Smart Monitor Get Deal

Ready to splurge on a new laptop? Samsung's new Galaxy Book 4 Edge rolled out just last month, equipped with Galaxy AI and Windows Copilot as well as some impressive hardware specs, including a Snapdragon X Elite processor and decadent screen sizes. If you've had your eye on one, now's a great time to lock in a purchase, especially since Samsung has sweetened the deal considerably.

As of July 23, you can get the Samsung Galaxy Book 4 Edge for $1,349.99 at Samsung. That's $499.99 off its normal price of $1,849.98. You also get a free 43-inch Smart Monitor M7 with your purchase, which is a $499.99 value. Just make sure to select it on the Samsung store page before continuing to the checkout.

The Galaxy Book 4 Edge boasts a 14-inch touchscreen display, a Snapdragon X Elite 3.4 GHz 12-core processor, 16GB of RAM, 512 GB of storage, and comes in the Sapphire Blue colorway. It's a great option for work or play on the go, with more than enough power to handle image editing, creating documents and spreadsheets, or you catching your favorite shows on streaming services while commuting.

The included 43-inch Smart Monitor M7 even makes a good external display for your new laptop if you plan on keeping it in one place. Watch your favorite shows in 4K HDR, connect via Wi-Fi, and take advantage of Samsung TV Plus separately from your computer to watch free live shows with no downloads or subscriptions. No matter what you plan on using it for, a free monitor with your new laptop plus savings on the computer itself is a deal worth grabbing. Be sure and pounce before this deal expires.

Attention Prime members: Score a GoPro Hero10 bundle for under $200

Mashable - Tue, 07/23/2024 - 10:14

SAVE 23%: Amazon Prime members can grab the GoPro Hero10 bundle for just $199.99, down from the usual price of $259.99. That's $60 off and the lowest we've seen at Amazon for the bundle of camera and accessories.

Opens in a new window Credit: GoPro GoPro Hero10 bundle $199.99 at Amazon
$259.99 Save $60.00 Get Deal

Amazon Prime Day might have already come and gone, but if you missed out on the massive sale, there's still hope: we're still seeing some awesome deals drop from the mega-retailer. One of the best deals today includes a perfect GoPro camera bundle if you've been meaning to capture more of life's best memories.

As of July 23, the GoPro Hero10 bundle is just $199.99 at Amazon for Prime members, down from the usual price of $259.99. That's a 23% discount, or a savings of $60. This sale price is the lowest we've ever seen offered at Amazon. To get this sale price, you'll need to be signed up and logged into Amazon as a Prime member. If you aren't yet, you can sign up for a monthly membership for $14.99 or save some money in the long-run with an annual membership for $139.

SEE ALSO: When is the next Prime Day? Here's how long you have to wait.

GoPro has become the gold standard when it comes to recording life's best adventures, but the camera is easiest to operate with some accessories. Enter Amazon's deal on the GoPro Hero10 bundle. The package comes with the GoPro Hero10 camera, a rechargeable battery, carrying case, and a floating hand grip. You'll also get some necessary equipment like a USB-C cable for recharging, mounting buckle, and curved adhesive mount. The GoPro Hero10 camera itself is currently selling for $199.99 on the GoPro site, which means Amazon's deal adds in all those accessories essentially for free.

If you've been considering getting a GoPro for years now, today's sale bundle is a great beginner-friendly option. The Hero 10 packs in plenty of features, and you'll score some super useful accessories that make the recording experience easier and more seamless.

Hop on the GoPro wagon today by scoring the Hero10 with accessories for just $199.99 at Amazon.

I got my hands (and ears) on Dyson's colorful new noise-cancelling headphones

Mashable - Tue, 07/23/2024 - 10:08

When Dyson tells you it's debuting a top-secret new product, you pay attention. So, when Mashable was invited to preview and test a mysterious new Dyson product a few weeks ago, I was genuinely excited. And as of July 18, the British brand officially revealed the new product to the world — the Dyson onTrac headphones with active noise cancellation, set to debut in July 2024.

Also on July 18, I got my very own pair of onTrac headphones for testing and review. Check back for Mashable's full, in-depth review of these noise-cancellers. We're very eager to see how they compare to our favorite headphones, particularly other flagship noise-cancelling headphones.

So, what do we know, and what do we like, about these headphones so far?

Dyson onTrac Headphones in Copper colorway. Credit: Timothy Beck Werth / Mashable Dyson's testing the headphones market

Dyson certainly has some competition in the premium audio space. The elite headphone class already includes the Bose QuietComfort Ultra, Sony WH-1000XM5, and Apple AirPods Max (a rumored AirPods Max 2 could also be coming in Fall 2024). And that's without getting into $1,600 studio-style wired headphones from brands Focal and Sennheiser.

Previously, Dyson released the futuristic (and slightly dystopian) Dyson Zone Noise-Cancelling Headphones and Air Purifier. We'll give Dyson a pass on these headphones, released in the wake of Covid-19, when we were all a little off our game. Fortunately, the onTrac headphones are a fresh start — and they come with a big step-down in price. As such, they mark Dyson's first big foray into the consumer audio space.

SEE ALSO: As a Dyson stan, I wouldn't tell anyone to buy the Dyson 360 Vis Nav robot vacuum Everything we know about the Dyson onTrac Headphones

When can you get your hands (and ears) on these headphones? We don't have an exact launch date, but we expect to see a release in late July. As soon as preorders are available, we'll update this page. The onTrac Headphones will be sold at $499.99 at Dyson's online store.

The headphones will connect to a MyDyson app, where EQ presets will be available. Customization will be limited, but there will be presets for bass-heavy and high-range listening. Touch controls on the bottom of the earcups allow you to control the headphones. One of the controls is a mini joystick, which can be used to play, pause, skip, fast forward, rewind, and activate voice commands.

Dyson onTrac Headphones: The specs to know

These headphones have some unique features, including a ridiculous battery life. We're still in the process of testing the battery and sound quality, but Dyson promises these headphones will offer 55 hours of battery life with active noise cancellation engaged. That's enough to give other headphones an inferiority complex.

To pull this off, Dyson did what it does best — it made improvements to a universal design. At first glance, you'll notice that the headphones have three cushions on the headband, as is typical. However, while the top cushion is made from cushy foam, the side pieces aren't cushions at all — they're extra battery packs.

Dyson onTrac headphones feature two built-in battery packs. Credit: Timothy Beck Werth / Mashable

In terms of audio, Dyson uses 40mm neodymium drivers with a range of -6Hz to 21kHz, letting you appreciate details at the lowest lows and highest highs. And for noise cancellation, Dyson uses eight microphones that sample the environment 384,000 times per second. In total, the headphones provide up to 40dB of noise reduction. The Sony XM5s — our current top pick for noise cancellation — also have eight internal mics for ANC.

Finally with microfiber and foam earcups and a headband designed to adapt to all head sizes, they promise comfort too. In a perfect world, they'll offer the comfort of the Bose QuietComfort line with the audio quality of Sony — but we're not rendering a verdict yet.

Swappable ear plates

Our tech products are becoming part of our personal style. Your phone case, phone holder, headphones, and earbuds can all affect the impression you make as you move through the world. For listeners who like to show off their personal style, Dyson has added a pop of color and personality to these cans.

Some of the accessories available for the onTrac headphones. Credit: Timothy Beck Werth / Mashable Close-up showing details of Dyson onTrac headphone earcups. Credit: Some of the accessories available for the onTrac headphones.

The ear plates are made from CNC-machined aluminum (some also have a ceramic matte finish), and they can be swapped out. The ear cushions can be changed and the top band comes in a few different colors, letting you truly customize your headphones. Of course, you will have to purchase additional accessories to change the color. The headphones will come in four colorways at launch (copper, aluminum, cinnabar, and black nickel), with more colors for sale from Dyson and other retailers.

A Dyson rep told us they hope to have more color options available in the future. Between all the accessories, Dyson says more than 2,000 unique color combinations are already possible.

The onTrac headphones with ear cup plates removed. Credit: Timothy Beck Werth / Mashable The headphones have 2,000 possible color combos. Credit: Timothy Beck Werth / Mashable How do they sound?

You'll have to wait for our full review, unfortunately.

When testing headphones, I like to listen to particular Radiohead and Florence & the Machine songs ("National Anthem" and "Between Two Lungs," if you're curious about this millennial's musical tastes). My initial listening sessions have been impressive, as is the noise cancellation. That said, I'm reserving judgment until I've had a few weeks to listen and compare.

I do have one spoiler alert for my upcoming review: The noise cancellation seems top-notch to me so far. I love slipping on noise-cancelling earbuds and headphones to drown out street noise, my partner's work calls, or the sound of Below Deck on the TV in the other room. These headphones instantly put me into a cone of silence.

Trying out the new Dyson noise-cancelling headphones, coming soon. Credit: Timothy Beck Werth / Mashable

When I first saw the new Dyson onTrac headphones, I immediately spotted one feature that I didn't love. Personally, I'm not a big fan of products that include the brand name in prominent text. That's true for my clothing, and it's true for my tech. If these headphones didn't boldly say "Dyson" on the headband, I'd like the design a lot more. We'll see if I can get used to this detail as I test them out more.

In the meantime, you can head to Dyson to check out these headphones for yourself. And if you're a ride-or-die Dyson fan who isn't afraid to rep the brand (besides Apple, it's hard to think of a tech brand with more loyalists), you can sign up for updates on the Dyson website.

Opens in a new window Credit: Dyson Dyson onTrac Headphones with ANC $499.99 at Dyson
Coming soon Learn More

'Joker: Folie À Deux' trailer: Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga team up and sing

Mashable - Tue, 07/23/2024 - 10:03
"Joker: Folie À Deux," starring Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga as Joker and Harley Quinn, hits theaters October 4.

Microsoft says EU rules made CrowdStrike outage possible

Mashable - Tue, 07/23/2024 - 07:23

Editor's note: Check out our oft-updated live blog for all new developments about the Microsoft/CrowdStrike outage.

The recent global IT outage, in which a faulty update to cybersecurity company CrowdStrike's software brought down millions of Windows PCs, caused billions of dollars worth of damage across a number of industries, including airline transport, retail, and banking.

Mac devices, however, were not affected, as Apple's macOS operating system does not grant third party app makers kernel-level access, preventing the type of catastrophic error that resulted in the dreaded "blue screen of death" on Windows PCs.

Now, Microsoft is saying it wasn't able to put the same protections in place due to a long-standing agreement with the European Commission.

In a statement given to the Wall Street Journal, a Microsoft spokesperson said the company "cannot legally wall off its operating system in the same way Apple does because of an understanding it reached with the European Commission following a complaint."

This is referring to a 2009 agreement, in which Microsoft pledged to give third-party security apps developers the same level of access to its Windows OS as Microsoft itself gets. In contrast, Apple took away kernel access from third-party developers back in 2019, when it launched macOS Catalina.

SEE ALSO: Microsoft releases easier CrowdStrike fix

The faulty CrowdStrike update was devastating for IT systems around the globe as it caused a system crash on a multitude of Windows PCs. A fix could not easily be deployed as the systems would immediately crash again on reboot, causing a condition called "reboot loop."

In a letter to customers and partners, CrowdStrike CEO George Kurtz said it was taking steps to prevent "anything like this from happening again." The question, however, is what steps should Microsoft take to make sure one small update to a third-party software (CrowdStrike's or others') cannot wreak havoc on global IT infrastructure again.

We've asked Microsoft for comment on this issue, and will update this article when we hear back.

NASA shares 25 jaw-dropping space images from Chandra X-ray Observatory

Mashable - Tue, 07/23/2024 - 07:17

Space images never get old, do they?

To celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Chandra X-ray Observatory being launched into space, NASA has published 25 brand new images snapped by the telescope — everything from supermassive black holes to supernova remnants. The telescope's X-ray technology allows it to light up regions of space that scientists wouldn't otherwise be able to see, including the matter orbiting black holes and exploding star debris.

“For a quarter century, Chandra has made discovery after amazing discovery,” said Pat Slane, director of the Chandra X-ray Center. “Astronomers have used Chandra to investigate mysteries that we didn’t even know about when we were building the telescope — including exoplanets and dark energy.”

You can see the full gallery here, but we've picked out five images below along with their descriptions to give you a taste.

SEE ALSO: Check out NASA's next space station. It won't orbit Earth. NGC 6872 Credit: NASA

"In this composite image, a large spiral galaxy has some of its superheated gas stolen by a smaller, nearby neighbor. Centered in the frame, NGC 6872 is a large spiral galaxy with two elongated arms that stretch toward our upper right and lower left. Near the white dot at the heart of the galaxy, a cloud of neon purple tints the arms, which appear steel blue at the tips. The purple represents hot gas detected by Chandra. Just to the upper left of NGC 6872 is a second spiral galaxy. Its spiraling arms are much smaller, but the bright white dot at its core is quite large, suggesting a supermassive black hole. Some of the steel blue matter and gas from NGC 6872’s lower arm appears to be floating toward the smaller galaxy, likely pulled toward the supermassive black hole."

NGC 1365 Credit: NASA

"This composite image features a close look at the supermassive black hole at the heart of the spiral galaxy known as NGC 1365. The brilliant black hole glows white at the center of the image, its outer edges tinted bright blue. From this core, two thick ropey red arms spiral out. Continuing their spiral curves, the arms extend well beyond the edges of the frame. Dotting the image are a series of white spots with neon blue outer edges. These are stars paired with smaller black holes or neutron stars, observed by Chandra."

MSH 15-52 Credit: NASA

"In this composite image, a pulsar, a pulsar wind nebula, and a low energy X-ray cloud combine to create an uncanny scene of a skeletal hand preparing to grab a glowing ember. The hand reaches up from the bottom of the image, the ghostly blue flesh and white bones representing pulsar wind nebula X-rays observed by Chandra. A bright white spot in the wrist is the pulsar itself. Just beyond the hand’s fingertips, near our upper right, is a mottled yellow and orange shape that appears to glow from within. This is the low energy X-ray cloud observed by Chandra."

Jupiter Credit: NASA

"In this composite image of Jupiter, the fifth planet from the sun is set against the blackness of space, flanked by neon purple blobs. Here, Jupiter is presented in exceptionally clear focus. More than a dozen bands of swirling gas streak the surface, each a different texture and shade of grey. The gas giant is encircled by a fine, sky-blue ring, the same color as the large storm which swirls on its surface at our lower right. At the top edge of Jupiter, tilted just to our right of center, is a neon purple strip. A similar, smaller line of neon purple can be found at the bottom edge of the planet. Capping the planet’s magnetic poles, these purple strips represent X-ray auroras, created when high-energy particles collide with gas in the planet’s atmosphere. At our right and left, large hazy blobs of neon purple flank Jupiter, some larger than the gas giant itself. Like the auroras, these purple clouds represent X-rays observed by Chandra."

M16 (Eagle Nebula) Credit: NASA

"This composite image features a region of star formation known as the Pillars of Creation. Here, tall columns of grey gas and dust emerge from the bottom edge of the image, stretching toward our upper right. Backed by dark orange and pink mist, the cloudy grey columns are surrounded by dozens of soft, glowing, dots in whites, reds, blues, yellows, and purples. These dots are young stars emitting X-ray and infrared light. Churning with turbulent gas and dust, the columns lean to our right with small offshoots pointing in the same direction. The misty glow, colorful stars, and lifelike grey dust formations combine to create an image of yearning cloud creatures at dusk, reaching for something just out of frame."

G.M. Will Restart Cruise Taxi Service

NYT Technology - Tue, 07/23/2024 - 06:30
General Motors said the self-driving division’s cars will operate in Dallas, Houston and Phoenix after an accident last year. Human drivers will supervise the cars.

Stephen Colbert shares his thoughts on Biden dropping out of the 2024 presidential race

Mashable - Tue, 07/23/2024 - 05:20
Stephen Colbert has shared his thoughts on Biden dropping out of the 2024 presidential race on Monday night's "Late Show."

Let a robot vacuum for you — this Roomba is 45% off

Mashable - Tue, 07/23/2024 - 05:00

TL:DR: Save time and money with help from this open-box iRobot Roomba Vacuum, on sale for $149.99.

Most of us don't take pleasure in cleaning. If you're not "most of us", please come clean our houses. If you're tired of constantly vacuuming or sweeping your floors, you may want a robot to do it for you so you don't have to.

The Roomba from iRobot is designed for just that, complete with a Smart Mapping feature that memorizes the layout of your home, as well as where it's already been. For a limited time, you can get an open-box version on sale for only $149.99, down 45% from the original price of $274. 

Designed to take over the task with ease, this smart robot vacuum navigates your home efficiently, tackling dirt, dust, and pet hair on both carpets and hard floors. With its powerful suction and multi-surface brushes, the Roomba i4 EVO gets into those tricky corners and under furniture where traditional vacuums struggle, making your floors spotless without you having to lift a finger.

Smart Mapping knows your home's layout and directs the vacuum to clean in neat rows to remember where it's been, so that every inch is covered. It connects to WiFi so you can control and schedule cleaning sessions right from your phone; set it to clean while you're out and come home to freshly vacuumed floors. The Roomba i4 EVO even works with voice assistants, making it as easy as saying, "Start cleaning."

The open-box status of this product means that it either was excess inventory or was returned by a customer and repackaged — but it's a new item (for way less)!

Clean your home without having to do it yourself with this open-box iRobot Roomba Vacuum with Smart Mapping, on sale for just $149.99 (reg. $274).

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: iRobot iRobot Roomba i4 EVO Wi-Fi Robot Vacuum with Smart Mapping (New - Open Box) $149.99 at The Mashable Shop
$274.99 Save $125.00 Get Deal

Save 41% on an HP desktop the whole family can enjoy

Mashable - Tue, 07/23/2024 - 05:00

TL;DR: Great for shared use, score this HP Pavilion Desktop on sale for $349.99 (reg. $599).

Even though the "computer room" might be a thing of the '90s and early '00s, there's still a large population of families that share a computer, especially ones with kids who are too young to have one of their own. If you're looking for a computer that's made for everything from games to Zoom meetings — and are not looking to spend an arm and a leg — check out this open-box deal on an HP.

This open-box HP Pavilion Desktop that comes with Windows 11 Home is on sale for $349.99 (reg. $599). "Open-box" simply means the item has been returned and repackaged, or is excess inventory. Buying products that are labeled as such can be a great way to get new tech for a huge discount.

The HP Pavilion Desktop is designed to meet the diverse needs of every family member. With an Intel i5-12400 processor and 12GB of RAM, this desktop handles everything from demanding work tasks to casual web browsing and multimedia entertainment.

Whether the kids are doing homework, parents are working from home, or the entire family is streaming movies together, the Pavilion Desktop is built to deliver smooth and efficient performance. The 512GB SSD provides plenty of storage space and quick access to your files and applications, cutting down on wait times and boosting productivity.

Its sleek design fits nicely into any home office or living space. Its multiple connectivity options, like USB ports and HDMI, provide compatibility with various devices like printers, external drives, and even gaming consoles.

This computer comes with the Windows 11 Home operating system, which makes for a user-friendly experience, complete with a modern design and AI capabilities — the kids will love the lifelike DirectX 12 Ultimate graphics for gaming!

Take advantage of this open-box deal on an HP Pavilion Desktop computer featuring Windows 11 Home, on sale for $349.99 for a limited time.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: HP HP Pavilion Desktop (TP01-3003w) Intel Core i5-12400, 12GB RAM, 512GB SSD, Win 11 Home (New - Open Box) $349.99 at The Mashable Shop
$599.00 Save $249.01 Get Deal

Magnify your view into outer space with this 40% off telescope

Mashable - Tue, 07/23/2024 - 05:00

TL;DR: Get the Abotec 80090 Telescope for $119.99. Perfect for all skill levels, it offers clear views of the night sky and daytime landscapes.

Ever dreamed of exploring the stars from your own backyard? With this telescope, you can turn those dreams into reality, featuring a 90mm aperture and 800mm focal length, providing crisp views of the night sky. 

With a magnification range from 32x to 400x, you'll be able to observe the moon’s craters, Saturn, and Jupiter with help from this open-box Abotec 80090 Telescope on sale for $119.99 (reg. $199). This product is labeled "open-box" because it was either excess inventory or was returned by a customer and repackaged. But rest assured, it's brand-new.

But the fun doesn't stop when the sun comes up. The Abotec is also great for daytime viewing, allowing you to observe distant landscapes and wildlife with ease. Its durable tripod and high-quality lenses ensure steady and precise views, whether you're looking at mountains or birds. Plus, its sleek, white design makes it a stylish addition to any home.

What makes this telescope truly special is the sense of wonder it brings. Imagine hosting a star party with friends and family, sharing the awe of the sky! It also comes with a phone adapter so you can save stunning photos.

Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to explore the cosmos! 

Get a fascinating glimpse into the universe with this open-box Abotec 80090 Telescope in white for only $119.99.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: abotec ABOTEC 80090 Telescope, 90mm Aperture, 800mm Refractor 32X-400X - White (New - Open Box) $119.99 at The Mashable Shop
$199.99 Save $80.00 Get Deal

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