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As of Tuesday morning, reliable predictors were saying a roiling tropical storm called Helene just south of Cuba was on track to intensify over the coming days, and almost certainly hit Florida as a hurricane on Thursday.
Now is the time when we all love to stare at cones and "spaghetti models" showing potential paths as the storm makes its approach, but right from the jump: Please be careful about how you consume this notoriously misunderstood information.
Tweet may have been deleted SEE ALSO: Why it's impossible to forecast the weather too far into the future NOAA's cone graphic of storm HeleneAccording to NOAA, as of 11 a.m. ET, a Hurricane Watch is in effect for much of the Mexican state of Quintana Roo, the Cuban province of Pinar del Rio, a swath of Florida spanning "Englewood to Indian Pass," and the densely populated Tampa Bay. In graphic form, that looks like this:
NOAA's cone graphic of Tropical Storm Helene showing threats to parts of Mexico, Cuba, and Florida. Credit: NOAAAs a reminder, NOAA's cone graphic is a fairly reliable prediction of the range of paths the center of the storm may take. The cone is not — as it may appear at first glance — a prediction of an ever-widening storm exploding into the inland United States. Severe wind and storm surge can, and probably will, occur outside the cone, and some areas inside the cone will emerge from the storm totally unscathed.
SEE ALSO: U.S. government plane snaps intense footage inside mighty Hurricane BerylIf you're reading this, and it turns out you end up directly in the path of a hurricane, an evacuation order will be hard to miss. At this phase, rather than speculating about whether your specific neighborhood will face the high winds and storm surge that come from a direct hit from a hurricane, in most areas it would be wiser to just heed NOAA's broader warning:
Heavy rainfall will likely result in locally considerable flash flooding across portions of Florida, with isolated flash and urban flooding possible across the Southeast, Southern Appalachians, and the Tennessee Valley Wednesday through Friday.
Spaghetti model for HeleneSpaghetti models, like the NOAA cone model, visualize mathematical possibilities.
Unlike the cone, they present the actual paths predicted by a collection of computer models, all spilling out like spaghetti from Strega Nona's magical pasta pot. And like the cone, the spaghetti model can be deceptive. All the paths in the spaghetti model are both speculative and contradictions of one another. The actual storm will only follow one path, and it's almost certain that none of the predicted paths in this splatter of noodles will be perfectly predictive.
Tweet may have been deletedThe above model, posted online by Baton Rouge meteorologist Malcolm Byron appears to show about 20 potential paths, with one particularly ominous spaghetti strand in the far east clobbering Tampa Bay directly. Such outliers should be absorbed with caution by the public.
Predicted outlier events most often do not come true. But events also don't conform to averages of predictions. Though top weather models can be astonishingly accurate, the weather simply occurs, and its precise schema is, and will always be, totally alien thanks to the incalculable number of tiny natural and man-made factors that contribute to outcomes.
Microsoft is bringing Apple's "Handoff" functionality to Windows 11 with a new feature called…Hand Off.
X user @techosarusrex first posted a screenshot of the "Hand Off" feature toggle in the Settings of the Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22635.4225 which was released late last week.
Tweet may have been deletedWhat does "Hand Off" do? Well, Mac users will be very familiar with this feature because it already exists with Apple's similarly-named "Handoff" feature.
Microsoft's Hand Off vs. Apple's HandoffHand Off basically allows users to continue whatever they were doing on one device seemingly on another device. For example, if a user utilizes the continuity feature on the Mac, they can pick up where they left off reading an article on Safari for iPhone. The Windows 11 feature will work similarly, allowing both iPhone and Android users to hand off what they were doing on their mobile device to their PC.
SEE ALSO: Microsoft Copilot can now help with Excel formulas, make PowerPoints, and moreAs the MSPowerUser blog points out, Microsoft has previously experimented with device syncing features, although none of those attempts quite replicated exactly what's possible on the Mac.
Microsoft has tested out a "Continue from Phone" feature in OneDrive that lets users sync what they were doing with their OneDrive files between their PC and mobile device. In addition, Microsoft has the "Link to Windows" app in Apple's App Store which helps share data like notifications and contacts between the iPhone and PC. However, this experience is no where near how intuitive Mac's Handoff feature is.
With Apple's Handoff, all a user needs to do is check their macOS dock to see the mobile version of the app they have open on their iPhone. By just clicking on that app icon, the iPhone and Mac sync their experiences.
Will Windows 11's Hand Off feature work just as well? As this feature is still only available as a test in a beta build, we may have to wait a bit longer to find out.
TikTok parent company ByteDance is pulling the plug on TikTok Music, its short-lived music streaming service, by November. Launched just over a year ago in July 2023, the platform debuted in Indonesia and Brazil as part of the company's effort to expand its TikTok empire into music streaming.
SEE ALSO: No more TikTok FYP? California social media bill could totally reshape kids' online world"We will be closing TikTok Music at the end of November in order to focus on our goal of furthering TikTok’s role in driving even greater music listening and value on music streaming services, for the benefit of artists, songwriters, and the industry," Ole Obermann, TikTok's global head of music business development, said in a statement.
ByteDance has long had a strained relationship with the music industry in the United States. Earlier this year, a royalties dispute with Universal Music Group (UMG) led the publisher to pull its entire music library from the platform. While TikTok denied UMG’s claims, the two eventually resolved the disagreement and reached a new deal.
TikTok plays a major role in music discovery, with about 107 million users in the U.S., and 67 percent of those users saying they're more likely to seek out a song after hearing it on the app. TikTok music, initially called Resso, was rebranded to TikTok Music in 2023 and had expanded to Singapore, Australia, and Mexico on a possible path toward the United States. However, it faced setbacks, including being banned in India earlier this year.
TikTok Music, like Spotify, operates as a freemium subscription service. With the service shutting down on Nov. 28, Apple users have until then to request refunds. Google Play subscribers with plans extending beyond Nov. 28 will automatically receive a refund or can request one through Google Play before the service sunsets.
If you thought Lego building sets were purely a child's pastime, think again. Lego sets for adults make for a relaxing distraction from the current news cycle, a fun way to unwind, and a more productive and creative way to spend your downtime than endlessly scrolling TikTok. They also make great gifts for practically anyone in your life. In short: we love Lego.
Through Sept. 28, Target is having a Lego sale on kits for both adults and kids, with a variety of themes and interests included. Ahead of the bullseye retailer's Circle Week event, you can save 20% on select Lego Star Wars, Lego Icons, Lego Friends, and Lego City sets both in stores and online.
Check out some of our top picks from the sale.
Best Lego deal Opens in a new window Credit: Lego Lego Icons Atari 2600 video game console set $159.99 at TargetBefore there was PlayStation and Xbox, there was Atari. This 2,532-piece building kit lets you bring the 1980s gaming icon to life in a faithful 1:1 replica. Besides the console itself, it also includes a joystick build, authentic replica gaming cartridges, a storage system and a hideen 1980s scene. There's also three mini builds depicting themes from three popular Atari games. The full set is usually $200, but during Target's Lego sale through Sept. 28, it's down to just $159.99.
Best Lego Star Wars deal Opens in a new window Credit: Lego Lego Star Wars Millennium Falcon building set $108.79 at TargetRecreate the fastest ship in the galaxy in 1,351 pieces with this Lego Star Wars Millennium Falcon building set. Great for kids and adults alike, play or display, the ship features an array of details, like rotating top and bottom gun turrets, two spring-loaded shooters, a lowering ramp, an opening cockpit, and top panels that open out to reveal the detailed interior. It also has a crew of classic mini figures. Get it on sale at Target for $108.79 during the Lego Sale, which runs through Sept. 28.
Best budget Lego deal Opens in a new window Credit: Lego Lego Icons Dried Flower Centerpiece Set $31.99 at TargetThis 812-piece Lego set designed for adults builds into a fall-themed floral arrangement for your table or wall. It makes for a quirky Thanksgiving centerpiece or fall-themed decor for the whole season. The best part? It won't die and it requires zero maintenance. Through Sept. 28, you can pick up this Lego Icons Dried Flower Centerpiece set for only $31.99 instead of $39.99. That's 20% in savings.
More Lego dealsLego Star Wars Pirate Snub Fighter — $22.39 $27.99 (save $5.60)
Lego City 2024 Advent Calendar — $26.39 $32.99 (save $6.60)
Lego Star Wars: The Mandalorian Spider Tank — $31.99 $39.99 (save $8)
Lego City Custom Car Garage — $38.39 $47.99 (save $9.60)
Lego Star Wars Invisible Hand 25th anniversary set — $39.99 $49.99 (save $10)
Lego Star Wars Endor Speeder Chase Diorama — $40.59 $61.99 (save $12.40)
Lego Friends Botanical Garden Greenhouse — $59.99 $74.99 (save $15)
Lego Star Wars: Ahsoka New Republic E-Wing vs. Shin Hati's Starfighter — $75.99 $94.99 (save $19)
Lego Star Wars Mandalorian Fang Fighter vs. TIE Interceptor — $79.99 $99.99 (save $20)
Lego Icons Corvette Classic Car model kit — $119.99 $149.99 (save $30)
Lego Star Wars Chewbacca Figure — $127.99 $159.99 (save $32)
Lego Icons Chevrolet Camaro Z28 model car set — $135.19 $168.99 (save $33.80)
Amazon's Big Deal Days is still a few weeks away, with the official start date happening on Tuesday, Oct. 8. But if you're in the mood for some early savings, Amazon is happy to oblige. In addition to spotting plenty of kitchen deals already, we've seen some nice discounts on Instant Pot kitchen appliances. Here are some of our favorites if your kitchen appliances could use an upgrade.
Early October Prime Day deals on Instant Pot Best classic Instant Pot deal Instant Pot Duo Crisp $149.99 at Amazon (save $20) Get Deal Best Instant coffee maker deal Instant Dual Pod Plus Coffee Maker $169.95 at Amazon (save $60.04) Get Deal Best Instant air fryer deal Instant Essentials 4-quart Air Fryer $50.94 at Amazon with on-page coupon (save $29.01) Get DealOnce again, Amazon is offering us to a second Prime Day sale event. On Oct. 8, we'll be treated to the Prime Big Deal Days sale, and we expect to see some solid discounts. If you prefer to get your holiday shopping done before the chaos of Black Friday arrives, this is your golden opportunity.
If your shopping list includes Amazon devices, Kindles, Apple products, or robot vacuums, we think you're in for some awesome discounts. However, check in on items we think you should avoid during the sale in order to keep from getting disappointed.
In true Amazon fashion, prices are already dropping on some great items like a huge lineup of Instant Pot kitchen appliances. No longer just a manufacturer of pressure cookers, the brand has expanded into many kitchen appliance arenas and many pack in the features. Here are some great Instant Pot deals to shop as part of the early sales at Amazon ahead of October's Prime Day event.
Best classic Instant Pot deal Opens in a new window Credit: Instant Our pick: Instant Pot Duo Crisp $149.99 at AmazonMore than just a pressure cooker, the Instant Pot Duo Crisp is an air fryer, steamer, dehydrator, slow cooker, pressure cooker, and more. In total, the appliance has 11 functions which means it's a super versatile addition to your kitchen. The six-quart capacity is a generous size for whipping up food creations. Plus, the lid, inner pot, and accessories are dishwasher safe.
Thanks to today's sale price at Amazon, the Instant Pot Duo Crisp is just $149.99 instead of the usual $169.99. That means you can save $20 and use that toward ingredients for your first recipe in the Instant Pot.
Best Instant coffee maker deal Opens in a new window Credit: Instant Our pick: Instant Dual Pod Plus Coffee Maker $169.99 at AmazonCoffee is a non-negotiable part of a morning routine for many people. But things have gotten a bit complicated since the days of a black cup of drip. Today, we have many convenient pod options that all require a specific individual machine. But fear not because the Instant Dual Pods Plus Coffee Maker can accept Nespresso capsules, K-cup pods, and ground coffee. That means you'll have the ultimate versatility in how you make a quick morning cup. The machine allows you to choose your ideal coffee cup size and strength of brew to get your day started just the way you like it.
Best Instant air fryer deal Opens in a new window Credit: Instant Our pick: Instant Essentials 4-quart Air Fryer $50.94 at AmazonWhat's better than a sale? A sale with a stacked coupon that'll save you even more. That's exactly the case today at Amazon with the four-quart Instant Essentials Air Fryer. With the on-page coupon, the air fryer's total comes to a low $50.94, marked down from the usual price of $79.95. The size could be ideal for a first apartment or a couple who like to make quick weekday meals in the air fyrer. The two dials on the Instant air fryer control the temperature and the time, so you'll be in complete control of your cook.
When it comes time to clean up, the included non-stick cooking tray and the air fryer basket are both dishwasher safe.
More Instant deals at AmazonInstant Superior Cooker — $59 $79.99 (save $20.99)
Instant Cold Brew Coffee Maker — $59.95 $69.99 (save $10.04)
Instant 20-Cup Rice Cooker — $89.95 $99.99 (save $10.04)
Instant Pot Duo Plus — $149.95 $169.95 (save $20)
Mabel Mora has always been something of a lone wolf. Played by Selena Gomez in Only Murders in the Building, the amateur sleuth tells Eva Longoria (playing a heightened version of herself) in Season 4, "Do you want to know about Mabel? Mabel works alone." Although Mabel may be referring to her signature approach to investigations, the line pretty much sums up her arc this season: Mabel Mora is working on herself, by herself.
SEE ALSO: 'Only Murders in the Building' Season 4 review: Murder at the moviesYes, for the first time in the show's history, our young heroine finds herself with no love interest in sight. Not only is it a breath of fresh air, it's a quietly subversive move for a mainstream comedy.
Mabel's romantic history is decidedly underwhelming.First, a glimpse back over Mabel's rather lukewarm romantic past. In the first season of the show, Mabel found herself reconnecting with Oscar Torres (Aaron Dominguez), an old friend and flame who was blamed for the death of their mutual "Hardy Boys" friend, Zoe (Olivia Reis). Oscar vanished from the show after just one season, with Mabel explaining his disappearance away, saying, "The trauma bond is strong but I think Oscar and I are just both waiting for the 'let's just be friends' text." Show creator John Hoffman later confirmed to Deadline: "We made a call that we didn’t want to see Mabel develop a relationship where the trauma bond is strong."
In the second season, Mabel explored a connection with artist and gallerist Alice Banks (Cara Delevingne). Despite Gomez and Delevingne being longtime friends, the on-screen chemistry between the two actors was lacking. Although she ultimately posed as the killer to help the show's core trio catch the real murderer, Alice was gone by the end of Season 2, with Mabel telling her she wouldn't be a part of her mural.
Credit: Craig Blankenhorn / HuluThen came documentary filmmaker Tobert (Jesse Williams) in Season 3. They connected during the investigation into the death of Ben Glenroy (Paul Rudd), finding themselves stuck in a closet and discussing Tobert's love of filming the animal world. They went on a sexy, boozy date. Then, they had a rather bland farewell in the season finale as Tobert set off for Los Angeles and Mabel unconvincingly promised to visit. The news that Tobert's time was up came when Williams told People rather bluntly, "I'm not on that show anymore."
But Mabel needs a love interest…right?Mabel has had her fair share of romances, all conveniently within the walls of The Arconia, but none have been particularly gripping. They have always felt inevitable. After all, it is a truth universally acknowledged that a young single woman on TV must be in want of a love interest, right? In fact, aside perhaps from The Bear's ambitious sous-chef, Sydney (Ayo Edebiri), it's hard to find a character fitting this description who isn't looking for love or caught in the middle of a long drawn out will-they-won't-they dance toward Happily Ever After. Abbott Elementary, Emily In Paris, Sex Education, Fleabag, Sex and the City, Gilmore Girls, Friends, New Girl — the list goes on and on and on. For young female characters heading up TV shows, love has always been part and parcel of the gig, either because the show itself hinged around the characters' romantic lives, or simply because the character was single and therefore had to have a little romance to keep things interesting. But in Season 4 of Only Murders In the Building, the tired, uninspiring parade of Mabel's love interests seems to have come to a blissful end. So far, there is no sign of any romance for the show's heroine. Nor has she or anyone else even so much as mentioned the idea.
SEE ALSO: I haven't had a boyfriend for a decade. Here's what I've learned.Steering her journey away from romance is a quietly bold move on the part of the show's writing team. For one thing, it reflects the reality of romance in her own generation. After all, many young people have chosen to embrace being single, focusing on self-love and single positivity. And the movement isn't new — it has a long history. In recent years, the number of young people having sex has begun to decline, with a quarter of Gen Z American women in 2021 claiming to have had no sex the previous year. A recent survey found that almost half (47.5 percent) of adolescents aged 13-24 think sex and sexual content isn't necessary for the plot of most TV shows and movies, while 44.3 percent believe romance is overused in media. Mabel's new story arc shows that TV is perhaps beginning to catch up to the single and powerful movement.
Plus, with no love interest to flirt with or go on dates with, Mabel suddenly has screen time for in-depth character development — and so far, her journey in Season 4 has been wonderfully nuanced.
Mabel is taking a good, long look at herself — or rather, at her double.The fourth season of Only Murders in the Building sees Mabel, Charles (Steve Martin), and Oliver (Martin Short) investigating the murder of Sazz (Jane Lynch), Charles' long-time friend and stunt double. Meanwhile, they are also working with a team of Hollywood filmmakers as their podcast is set to be turned into a film.
Themes of doubles and twins are found everywhere this season. There's Sazz and her life as a stunt double. Then, there's the Hollywood actors — Longoria, Eugene Levy, Zach Galifianakis as Mabel, Charles, and Oliver, respectively — who are tasked with stepping into the shoes of the main trio for the adaptation. For our core three, these doppelgängers naturally lead to some self-reflection as their onscreen counterparts become walking, talking mirrors offering a new perspective of themselves. Charles is confronted with a neurotic worrier. Oliver finds in his double a needy narcissist. Funnily enough, Mabel is confronted with everything she is not. Her counterpart, Longoria, has decided to play Mabel a little differently, even changing her "old person name" to "Mabelle."
Credit: Disney / Patrick HarbronLongoria's "Mabelle" is "bold, she pops, she sells t-shirts." In other words, she knocks back wine at 10 a.m. and has no qualms about bursting into a suspect's home and accusing them of murder. And this is exactly what Longoria does.
Although the suspect in question was, in fact, not the murderer, Mabel is surprised to see how her own cautious, measured approach to detective work (and, we must presume, to life in general) sometimes leaves her a little stuck. "Maybe your Mabel's approach isn't that bad," she confesses.
As Mabel tries to take a bolder, more committed approach to life, she starts making real, tangible career moves. In the past, she's always been something of a millennial drifter, unsure of what she really wants to do or how she'll get there, even when offered major opportunities in Season 2 in the form of Cinda Canning's podcast. Now, she's finally brave enough to tackle her imposter syndrome and give herself an actual job title: podcast producer. Watching Mabel recognize and own her worth is far more rewarding than yet another mediocre love story.
Credit: Disney / Patrick Harbron Only Murders hasn't given up on love altogether.Of course, this isn't to say that romantic love can't be an interesting theme. While Only Murders hasn't found a satisfying love interest for Mabel, or, for that matter, for Charles, who fell for Season 1's murderer, Jan (Amy Ryan), it has found a long-term romance worth focusing on in Oliver and Loretta (Meryl Streep). Loretta joined the narrative in Season 3 as an experienced actor who never had her big break. Cast in the production of Death Rattle/Death Rattle Dazzle!, Oliver recognised her talent while she recognised his. They fell in love while championing each other's work and it was utterly beautiful to watch.
Streep is back this season as Oliver and Loretta's love story continues. After Loretta leaves New York for a TV job in LA, Oliver finds himself struggling with jealousy and insecurity. Their entire love story has been treated with the sincerity and gravitas of a love story between younger characters, from their timid first attraction to each other's talent, to their painfully awkward, bumbling first date, to their communication issues this season. Now, theirs is the only main romance on the show — a bold reminder that TV shows can and should expand their criteria of what makes a good and worthwhile love story.
Credit: Disney / Patrick HarbronThis season, we have a young heroine who isn't even thinking of romance. Meanwhile, we have an older couple tackling the same relationship problems many couples face in their 20s. Only Murders in the Building is pushing the boundaries of what love on TV looks like — and it's high time someone did.
Only Murders in the Building Season 4 is now streaming on Hulu, with a new episode every Tuesday.
Prime Big Deal Days is just two weeks away. That mouthful of an event is really just another Prime Day, this one landing on October 8 and 9 to be specific. While we still have lots of time before the event, we're on the early deals, looking to see what's available before everyone else gets in on the action.
We're on the headphone beat, seeking out early deals, especially on wireless earbuds. Unlike clunky, over-the-ear headphones, wireless earbuds give the freedom of movement so you don't get tied up while you're on the move or working out. However, even with wireless earbuds, you can enjoy the benefits of noise-cancellation. Here are the best early deals on wireless earbuds.
Best wireless earbud deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple AirPods Pro 2 $189.99 at AmazonFor iOS users, AirPods are the ultimate wireless earbuds. Just cracking open the lid of the AirPods connects them to your iPhone. Ahead of Prime Big Deal Days, you can find savings on the Apple AirPod Pros. With sweat and water resistance, they make a fantastic pair of earbuds for working out. When I tested them in my bustling city neighborhood, I was in near-disbelief at how they shut out the world around me. If you need peace and quiet, you can't beat the Apple AirPod Pros, especially when they're on sale.
Ahead of October's Prime Day event, you can find the Apple AirPods Pro for just $189.99. That saves you $59.01 for 24% off.
More earbud dealsSoundcore by Anker P30i Noise-cancelling Earbuds — $29.99 $49.99 (save $20 with on-page coupon)
Soundcore by Anker A40 Earbuds — $50.15 $79.99 (save $29.84 with on-page coupon)
Soundcore by Anker A40 Earbuds — $59 $79.99 (save $20.99)
Google Pixel Buds A-Series Earbuds — $64 $99 (save $35)
Sony WF-C700N Earbuds — $84.49 $119.99 (save $35.50)
Apple AirPods 4 — $119 $129 (save $10)
Apple AirPods 3 — $129.99 $169 (save $39.01)
Apple AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation — $169 $179 (save $10)
Beats Powerbeats Earbuds — $199.95 $249.95 (save $50)
Even if Amazon won't give us a break on their sales events, at least we can get a little peace with a pair of noise-cancelling headphones. On October 8 and 9, Amazon is running its now annual October event, Prime Big Deal Days. While we still have two weeks until the official start, the deals are trickling in. For the earlier and savvy shopper, there are deals to be had.
Currently, we've clocked early sales on noise-cancelling headphones. Fall is the ideal time to upgrade your headphones. Maybe over the summer yours took a hit during all the travels. Or you're on campus and realizing you need a pair to deal with a noisy roommate. Either way, we've got you covered on the best noise-cancelling headphones to shop now.
Best noise-cancelling headphone deals Opens in a new window Credit: Beats Beats Studio Pro $249.95 at AmazonBefore there were AirPods, there were Beats. Despite the former taking on immense popularity, Beats are still a really fantastic pair of headphones. If you're seeking out a pair of noise-cancelling headphones, the Beats Studio Pros are a fantastic option with long battery life and top-tier sound quality. Beats have the same easy connectivity that you get with AirPods, connecting to iOS systems just by turning on. However, they also connect to Android devices with the same swiftness, something that AirPods can't say.
The biggest knock Mashable's Alex Perry had to give the Beats Studio Pro headphones in his review, is the $349.99 price tag. Luckily, ahead of Prime Big Deal Days, they're $100.04 off, bringing the price down to $249.95. That's 29% savings before the October Prime Day even kicks off.
More noise-cancelling headphone dealsSoundcore by Anker Life Q20 Headphones — $39.90 $59.99 (save $20.09)
Sony WH-CH720N Headphones — $104.99 $149.99 (save $45)
Sennheirser Accentum Headphones — $119.96 $149.95 (save $29.99)
Beats Studio 3 Headphones — $159 $349.95 (save $190.95)
Sennheiser Momentum 4 Headphones — $249.95 $379.95 (save $130)
Sony WH-1000XM4 Headphones — $298 $348 (save $50)
Sony WH-1000XM5 Headphones — $348 $399.99 (save $51.99)
Apple AirPods Max Headphones — $429 $549 (save $120)
Until this past month, Apple AirPod Pros were the only earbuds in the brand's line-up to feature active noise cancellation. Despite the AirPods 4 entering the picture, the Pros are still the most sophisticated buds you can get from Apple. With sweat and water resistance, they're a great pair of headphones for working out. Plus you really can't beat their noise-cancellation. When I tested them, I was shocked at just how well they quieted the world of my busy neighborhood.
Ahead of October's Prime Day event, you can find the Apple AirPods Pro for just $189.99. That saves you $59.01 for 24% off.
More earbud dealsSoundcore by Anker P30i Noise-cancelling Earbuds — $29.99 $49.99 (save $20 with on-page coupon)
Soundcore by Anker A40 Earbuds — $50.15 $79.99 (save $29.84 with on-page coupon)
Sony WF-C700N Earbuds — $84.49 $119.99 (save $35.50)
Apple AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation — $169 $179 (save $10)
While many of us associate summer with camping season, heading outdoors during the beautiful autumn months can be a joy. If your outdoor gear could use some upgrades, we're seeing some sweet sales during early Amazon Prime Big Deal Days offers. Here are some top values.
Best Prime Day outdoor deals Best overall deal Solo Stove Bonfire Essential Bundle 2.0 (silver) $279.99 at Amazon (save $145) Get Deal Best camping deal Coleman OneSource Rechargeable Built-In Pump Camp Shower Sprayer $118.30 at Amazon (save $46.69) Get Deal Best cooler deal Igloo BMX Hard Cooler (72-quarts, yellow) $129.99 at Amazon (save $40) Get DealWe're still a few weeks away from the official start date of the Prime Big Deal Days event that starts on Oct. 8, but Amazon knows better than to make us wait. We've already spotted some great price drops on kitchen items, Fitbit fitness trackers, Echo devices, and many more at Amazon.
If you're shopping for outdoor gear this fall, Amazon has some sweet deals arranged ahead of the big sale. However, we expect to see some crop up as the kick-off date gets closer, so check back as we update this page with new deals. In the meantime, here are some of our favorite outdoor deals at Amazon today.
Best overall deal Opens in a new window Credit: Solo Stove Our pick: Solo Stove Bonfire Essential Bundle 2.0 (silver) $279.99 at AmazonIs it even camping if there isn't a campfire? Thanks to an early sale during Amazon's October Prime Day event, you can snag the Solo Stove Bonfire Essential Bundle 2.0 for just $279.99, a 34% discount off the list price at Solo Stove of $424.99 for the bundle. You'll want to grab the silver/stainless steel model to get this sale price.
Solo Stove focuses on providing a smokeless fire experience and the Bonfire 2.0 is ideal for four to six people to enjoy. The bundle also comes with a carrying case, stand, lid, heat deflector, and shield. It weighs about 22 pounds so you'll be able to enjoy it at home in the backyard this fall or while out on a weekend camping trip.
Best camping deal Opens in a new window Credit: Coleman Our pick: Coleman OneSource Rechargeable Built-In Pump Camp Shower Sprayer $118.30 at AmazonNo matter how hard you try, camping inevitably leads to getting dirty. The dog ran into the biggest mud puddle around, the kids tracked sand from the beach into the tent, or you just ended up on a super hot hike. For whatever reason, having a quick way to rinse off can make a huge difference in camping comfort. The versatile Coleman OneSource Rechargeable Built-In Pump Camp Shower Sprayer might be your new camping bff, serving as both a rinse-off solution and a portable charger. The collapsible three-gallon basin attaches to a six-foot hose with nozzle so you can clean up when things get too dirty.
The rechargeable battery system can charge your phone or other devices when you're not using sprayer which makes the system a useful camping companion.
Best cooler deal Opens in a new window Credit: Igloo Our pick: Igloo BMX Hard Cooler (72-quarts, yellow) $129.99 at AmazonA good trip into the outdoors always comes with great meals. Keep everything nicely chilled with the 72-quart Igloo BMX Hard Cooler. In yellow, Amazon has the cooler discounted to just $129.99, a 24% discount off the list price of $169.99. With rubber T-latches on the lid, the cooler focuses on durability and functionality. Igloo included extra thick foam-insulated walls to keep your goodies cold for longer. Igloo mentions the 72-quart size can hold 101 12-ounce cans, so you'll be set for a long weekend away with the family in the great outdoors.
More outdoor deals at AmazonColeman Portable Camping Chair — $31.43 $44.99 (save $13.65)
Coleman Triton 2-Burner Propane Camping Stove — $59.99 $89.99 (save $30)
Cuisinart Cleanburn Smokeless Fire Pit — $159.99 $229.99 (save $70)
It turns out that Apple keeps a handy list of laptops you should definitely upgrade from if you're still using one of them.
Apple updated its official master list of "obsolete" products this week, as spotted by 9to5Mac. Particularly of note is the Mac section of the list, which is now home to six MacBook laptops that weren't there before. According to Apple, these six MacBooks are now obsolete:
13-inch MacBook Air, early 2015
13-inch MacBook Pro, 2016
13-inch MacBook Pro, 2016
15-inch MacBook Pro, 2016
13-inch Retina MacBook Pro, early 2016
12-inch Retina MacBook, early 2016
It seems an explanation is needed on what Apple considers an “obsolete” product and how it makes the list. Put simply, if Apple stopped selling a product over seven years ago, it’s deemed obsolete. This means Apple will no longer provide repairs — and third-party repair services can’t order replacement parts either.
There's a separate "vintage" category for products that Apple stopped selling between five and seven years ago to indicate that repair parts might be limited, but are still possible.
Unfortunately, if your MacBook is on that list, it's definitely not possible (or at least not easy) to get a repair done at this point if it breaks. It may be time to upgrade.
The countdown is on for Amazon's Prime Big Deal Days. And, as usual, Amazon wastes no time at all dropping prices. Deals are slowly trickling in and we're keeping an eye out for the best ones to shop ahead of the big event.
Here are our top picks for the best Amazon deals of the day for Sept. 24, so you can start shopping a little early. If none of these catch your eye, check out our picks from yesterday, Sept. 23, and keep your eyes peeled for brand new selections each day this week.
Our top pick Opens in a new window Credit: Ultimate Ears Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 4 $69.99 at AmazonIt's rare that our top pick comes from the same brand two days in a row, but this new price drop was too good to pass up. The Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 4, a newer iteration of our favorite sub-$100 Bluetooth speaker, is down to just $69.99 at Amazon ahead of its October Prime Day sale. That's 30% off its usual price and its lowest price on record. The Wonderboom is tiny, but it's quite the powerhouse. We haven't tested the fourth generation speaker, but we did try its predecessor and found it had "excellent sound for its size and plenty of useful features that come in handy when you're taking it on the go." Its rugged design can endure drops from up to five feet or be submerged in water for up to 30 minutes. Plus, its battery life is pretty impressive at 14 hours. While it comes in a few different color options, only the black version is on sale for this ultra low price. The other colors will cost you $10 more.
Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon / Disney Limited Edition Disney Jack Skellington Echo Dot (5th gen) bundle $62.98 at AmazonHalloween will be here before you know it. If you haven't started decorating, let this limited edition drop from Disney and Amazon be your incentive. When you bundle the Echo Dot (5th gen) with the new Jack Skellington shell from Disney, it'll only cost you $62.98 as opposed to $89.98. That's about $27 cheaper than purchasing both separately. The 5th gen Echo Dot sits atop your counter, desk, shelf, or bedside table and adds smart features to your daily life. Use it to receive reminders, save recipes, set timers, schedule tasks, talk to friends, listen to music, and more. The plastic Jack Skellington shell snaps on the outside of your Dot (without interfering with its features) and features a glowing grin (which comes from the light ring on your Echo Dot).
Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung T9 portable SSD (4TB) $299.99 at AmazonStop deleting old content to make space for new content and grab yourself a portable SSD instead. The Samsung T9 portable SSD, which made PCMag's (also owned by Ziff Davis) Best of the Year list for 2023, is on sale for just $299.99 at Amazon ahead of Prime Big Deal Days. That's 45% off its usual cost and its lowest price since February. It offers a massive amount of space — 4TB to be exact — and "achieves blazing throughput speeds when connected to a compatible PC, making it a go-to external SSD for content creators," as the PCMag reviewer noted.
None of these deals catching your eye? Check out Amazon's daily deals for even more savings.
If you're wondering how to delete your Telegram account, you're not alone.
Ridding yourself of the cloud-based instant messaging app isn't easy. Naturally, you'd think that you could delete your Telegram account by navigating to Settings, which would then lead you to a pathway that would help you escape Telegram's clutches.
However, it's a little more complicated than that.
Here's how to delete Telegram in just a few steps.
SEE ALSO: Telegram CEO arrested in investigation into criminal activity on platform How to delete Telegram account Total TimeStep 1: Type in "my.telegram.org" into your browser
You can use your phone or desktop. Next, type in the number associated with the Telegram account under "Your Phone Number."
Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / MashableStep 2: Type in your confirmation mode
The confirmation code will be sent to your telegram account, not your native text messaging system.
Credit: Kimberly GedeonStep 3: Click on "Delete account"
Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / MashableStep 4: Type in your number
Click on "Delete My Account." Keep in mind that you won't be able to re-sign up for Telegram for several days if you decide that you want a new account again. (It's not required for you to explain why you're leaving.)
Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / MashableStep 5: Click on "Yes, delete my account"
You'll be presented with two options: "Yes, delete my account" and "Nope, I'll give it another try." Click on the former to delete your Telegram account. If you successfully deleted your Telegram account, you should see a banner that says, "Your account was successfully deleted from our system. Come back soon."
Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / MashableSpotify is doubling down on artificial intelligence. First, the music streaming service launched its AI DJ in 2023, and today, Sept. 24, it's bringing AI Playlists to Premium users in the U.S., Canada, Ireland, and New Zealand.
SEE ALSO: Here are the 5 songs of the summer, according to SpotifyThe feature generates custom playlists based on niche prompts. It first became available for Premium users in the UK and Australia back in April 2024. The tool is still in beta and allows subscribers to choose from prompts or write their own. For example, if you're looking for the perfect Sunday morning cleaning playlist, then, theoretically, Spotify's AI should be able to generate one tailored to your tastes.
In a blog post the music streaming giant recommends subscribers stick to "genre," "mood" or "artist" prompts to generate the most successful playlists, but it stipulates that anything from movie characters to emojis can be used. Examples include, "Upbeat folk music for a scenic fall road trip," and "2000 era hype jams for the tailgate."
While some users might like not having to painstakingly curate their playlists, as Spotify leans further into AI, users stray further from their own unique taste. Instead of picking out the upbeat folk music that reminds you of fall memories or songs a trusted friend played for you, the AI Playlist tool encourages you to take a passive role in your listening, turning AI into a tastemaker.
SEE ALSO: Amazon Music Unlimited vs. Spotify Premium: A comparisonPreviously, if you opted out of making your own playlist, you might search on the platform for a tailgate playlist made by another human user. Now, Spotify wants an algorithm to do it for you. While you can still opt to make your playlists or listen to other user-generated playlists, the more "personalization" features Spotify launches, the less intuitive that behavior becomes.
To try out AI Playlist navigate to "Your Library" in the bottom right corner of your screen. Then, select the "+" sign in the top right corner and tap "AI Playlist." That should open up the chat tool, and from there, type out your playlist prompt.
One of OpenAI's official accounts just got hacked.
OpenAI Newsroom, "The official newsroom for OpenAI", shared the following scam post on X on Monday.
SEE ALSO: Sam Altman steps down as head of OpenAI's safety group“We’re very happy to announce $OPEANAI [sic]: the gap between Al and blockchain technology,” it read. “All OpenAI users are eligible to claim a piece of $OPENAI’s initial supply. Holding $OPENAI will grant access to all of our future beta programs.”
Tweet may have been deletedOh dear. The post has now been deleted, but clicking it took people to a phishing website that asked them to connect their crypto wallet in order to claim the non-existent "$OPENAI" token, per Techcrunch. Usually a scam like this would result in victims' wallets being drained after they connect and sign a malicious transaction.
This isn't the first time OpenAI has fallen victim to hacks. The individual accounts of key employees, including CTO Mira Murati, chief scientist Jakub Pachocki, and researcher Jason Wei, have all previously been compromised and used to promote fake tokens.
Tweet may have been deletedOpenAI itself was hacked in 2023, with the criminal allegedly making off with sensitive information obtained from an employee forum.
Mashable has reached out to OpenAI with additional questions and we will update this article if we hear back.
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