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Google Violated Antitrust Laws in Online Search, Judge Rules

NYT Technology - Mon, 08/05/2024 - 15:24
The landmark ruling by Judge Amit P. Mehta was the first antitrust decision of the modern internet era in a case against a technology giant.

Smart home deals that'll make you wonder how you ever lived without them

Mashable - Mon, 08/05/2024 - 13:13
Our top picks: Best smart speaker deal Echo Dot (5th gen) with a free Sengled Smart Color Bulb $49.99 at Amazon (save $19.99) Get Deal Best smart plug deal Kasa Smart Plug HS103P2 (2-Pack) $13.99 at Amazon (save $6) Get Deal Best smart thermostat deal Google Nest Learning Thermostat $169 at Amazon (save $80) Get Deal

Disney’s Smart Home wasn’t too far off when it predicted our homes would one day be able to answer our every need. I mean, did you think we’d be able to order pizza or turn off the lights with a simple voice command? I definitely didn't.

SEE ALSO: Move over Roomba! An Apple smart home robot is reportedly in the works

Now, smart home tech is everywhere, and it’s here to help you with everything from ordering groceries to setting the temperature to automating safety features like leak detection. And while some of these gadgets may seem unnecessary, the comfort and convenience they provide make them well worth the investment — especially if you can find them at a discount.

Here are our top picks for the best smart home devices on sale this week:

Best smart speaker deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Our pick: Echo Dot (5th gen) with a free Sengled Smart Color Bulb $49.99 at Amazon
$69.98 Save $19.99 Get Deal Why we like it

Read our full review of the Echo Dot (5th Gen) here.

During Prime Day, we saw discounts on just about every major smart speaker model, but those deals have since dried up. This week, the best smart speaker deal we could find is actually a bundle deal.

Amazon’s offering the Echo Dot (5th gen) with a free Sengled Smart Color Bulb for $49.99 (a savings of 19.99). This bundle is a pretty good “starter kit” for anyone who either doesn’t already have a smart speaker at home or wants to expand their existing smart home setup.

The Echo Dot (5th gen) is pretty much the same functionality-wise as the Echo Dot (4th gen), except this model is smaller and doesn’t have Dolby audio. But it’s still a great smart speaker for basic voice commands, smart home control, and Alexa skills.

The smart bulb included in this bundle works with Alexa, so you can set routines or turn it on/off with your voice.

More smart speaker deals Best smart plug deal Opens in a new window Credit: Kasa Smart Home Our pick: Kasa Smart Plug HS103P2 (2-Pack) $13.99 at Amazon
$19.99 Save $6.00 Get Deal Why we like it

The Kasa Smart Plug HS103P2 (2-Pack) is our top pick for the best smart plug deal. One major perk? No hub needed! Just plug it in, connect to WiFi, and you're in control.

This smart plug deal includes two Kasa Smart Plugs for $13.99. That’s 30% off the list price and a budget-friendly way to get a taste of what smart home tech can do. Perfect for night lights, holiday decorations, or anything you want to control on a schedule or remotely.

More smart plug deals Best smart thermostat deal Opens in a new window Credit: Google Store Our pick: Google Nest Learning Thermostat $169.00 at Amazon
$249.00 Save $80.00 Get Deal Why we like it

One nice thing about living alone is that you can set the temperature as low or as high as you want to without worrying about annoying anyone else in the house. But that’s not exactly cost- or energy-efficient unless you have a smart thermostat.

The Google Nest Learning Thermostat is a programmable smart thermostat that learns just how you like your home's temperature. You can also control it remotely via the Nest app (so you can turn it up or down while you’re away) or with your voice through Google Assistant or Alexa. There’s also a little leaf symbol that appears when you set an energy-efficient temperature, so you know you're saving money on your utilities.

More smart thermostat deals

OpenAI has a '99% effective' ChatGPT-detection tool ready. So why aren't they releasing it?

Mashable - Mon, 08/05/2024 - 13:07

Thanks to a report from The Wall Street Journal, Microsoft-backed OpenAI has admitted to having a tool that can watermark ChatGPT-generated text. According to OpenAI, the system has been ready for over a year now; however, there's been debate on whether or not to release it.

SEE ALSO: OpenAI rolls out ChatGPT's new Voice AI (without Scarlett Johansson mode)

The admission comes in the form of an update to a May blog post from OpenAI titled "Understanding the source of what we see and hear online." According to the WSJ report, the system works by changing the way ChatGPT generates its words. Thus, the changes made by the system would leave a pattern or watermark that can be detected by the anti-cheating tool.

Internal documents obtained by WSJ show that the watermark system is 99.9 percent effective "when enough new text is created by ChatGPT."

The tool would be a godsend for teachers and educators across the country who are struggling with students using ChatGPT to cheat on assignments and essays. And despite how effective internal tests of the tool have shown — as high as 99 percent effective — OpenAI has been reluctant to release it.

The reasoning behind this, according to a statement to the WSJ from a company spokesperson, is OpenAI's belief that "the tool could disproportionately affect groups such as non-native English speakers." However, another primary reason could be an April 2023 survey that revealed that 30 percent of ChatGPT said they'd stop using the generative AI if watermarking was deployed.

This internal debate on releasing the tool has raged on for two years at OpenAI, with one source in the company telling WSJ, "It’s just a matter of pressing a button."

Apple will upgrade every Mac model to M4

Mashable - Mon, 08/05/2024 - 12:53

Waiting to see if your favorite Mac model will get the latest M4 chip upgrade before buying a new computer?

Good news: Whether you're a MacBook Pro, Mac Mini, or even a Mac Pro user, the M4 will soon be coming to your favorite Mac.

According to a new report from Bloomberg's Apple insider Mark Gurman, Apple is planning to roll its M4 Silicon chipset out to every single Mac computer model.

Ever since Apple released its first M4 product earlier this year with the iPad Pro, Mac users have been speculating not only when Apple's new most powerful chipset would come to their Mac desktop or laptop of choice – but also if the M4 was coming to their favorite Mac model.

Apple seemingly skipped out on upgrading some of its Mac models, such as the Mac Mini and Mac Studio, with the M3 chip. The most recent models currently available in those Mac lines are powered by the M2 chip.

When will the new M4 Macs come out?

Consumers looking to buy a new MacBook Pro, Mac mini, or iMac will be the first to score a new M4 Mac. According to Gurman, Apple is planning on releasing the M4 models for each of those Mac lines later this year.

Current MacBook Pro, Mac mini, or iMac users looking to upgrade should likely wait before doing so if they're looking to get their hands on the latest model. Last year, Apple held a rare October event just before Halloween to launch the M3 MacBook Pros and iMacs. It wouldn't be surprising to see Apple run a similar event this year to launch the first M4 Macs just before the 2024 holiday season.

SEE ALSO: Apple started paying out its $50 million settlement over MacBook's defective butterfly keyboards SEE ALSO: Score an affordable MacBook Air for your college-bound student

MacBook Air, Mac Studio, and Mac Pro users will have to wait a little bit longer for the M4 chip. Those models will be upgraded to M4 in 2025.

With the latest MacBook Air refresh happening just earlier this year, the release date for the M4 version makes sense. Apple launched the M3 MacBook Air line in March.

According to Gurman, Apple will focus on the benefits of the new M4 chip in its marketing for the new M4 Mac lines. Apple says that the M4 is its most powerful neural engine yet and was designed to provide the processing power necessary for the company's new upcoming AI features.

However, Gurman adds that there is "at least one Mac model that will get more dramatic changes" than just the M4 upgrade. With the M4 Mac release gossip now satiated, It looks like Apple fans have something new to speculate about.

The Dyson Supersonic Origin deal that takes $100 off the price and gives you two free attachments makes this hair dryer actually a decent value

Mashable - Mon, 08/05/2024 - 12:48

Save $100: As of Aug. 5, you can grab the Dyson Supersonic Origin on Dyson's website for $299.99, netting you a 25% discount on the $399.99 hair dryer. Plus, you'll get two free attachments with your purchase.

Opens in a new window Credit: Dyson Dyson Supersonic Origin $299.99 at Dyson
$399.99 Save $100.00 Get Deal

From the Dyson Airwrap to the Supersonic, I've had my fair share of experience with Dyson beauty products (and their dupes). The question that leads my testing is basically always, "Is this price tag worth it?"

This question is what made me not the biggest fan of the Dyson Supersonic Origin when it was announced last August, but I can admit when a good deal is a good deal. And folks, Dyson's Aug. 5 offering of the Supersonic Origin for $299.99 with two free attachments is a good deal.

As I wrote in my initial post about the hair dryer, the list price of $400 is simply too much for the Origin, considering it comes with only one attachment. The regular Supersonic is $29 more and comes with five, and as I wrote last year, Dyson sells the attachments separately starting at $40 a pop, meaning "If the math was actually mathing, the Supersonic Origin would be retailing for $160 less, coming out to $269.99, which absolutely feels like a better deal."

SEE ALSO: We tested the best Dyson Airwrap dupes under $300 — including the Shark FlexStyle

While this sale price doesn't quite match up, it does offer the some of the best value I've seen on this hair dryer to date. Before you get too excited, I do have to mention that you don't get your pick of free attachment — in addition to the styling concentrator that comes with the dryer, the two offerings are the flyaway attachment and gentle air attachment, which are usually priced $39.99 each.

I also have to take this opportunity to paraphrase my Supersonic review once more and say that Dyson would make bank if they allowed folks to bundle the attachments they actually wanted.

My free business ideas aside, if you've been looking to get the Dyson Supersonic, this is likely one of the best deals you can grab, especially if you don't want to buy refurbished, and if you don't want any attachments that cater to drying hair with natural texture.

It's almost back to school: Score the Kindle Paperwhite Kids for $35 off

Mashable - Mon, 08/05/2024 - 12:21

SAVE $35: Today, Aug 5, the Kindle Paperwhite Kids is on sale at Amazon for $167.97. That's 17% less than its regular list price of $202.97.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Kindle Paperwhite Kids $167.97 at Amazon
$202.97 Save $35.00 Get Deal

August is here, and that means lazy summer days will soon be eclipsed by getting ready for back-to-school. If part of getting ready for the school year means getting your child on track with their reading goals, then it might be time to scoop up a Kindle Paperwhite Kids.

As of today, Aug 5, the Kindle Paperwhite Kids is on sale for 17% off. This saves shoppers $35, bringing the price down from $202.97 to $167.97. This price is only $15 higher than the Kindle Kids' lowest price ever, which we haven't seen since about this time last year. This deal also comes with a one-year subscription to Amazon Kids+.

If you love the idea of mobile e-readers but aren't so comfortable with the distractions of games and apps that come along with tablets, then the Kindle Paperwhite Kids is a trusted solution. With a 10-week battery life, the Kindle Paperwhite Kids supports your child's growing love for reading, giving them access to thousands of ad-free, age-appropriate books thanks to Amazon Kids+. Unlike a tablet, the Kindle mimics the look of paper, offering a glare-free reading experience. It's also waterproof, so kids can have range to read by the pool or out on the beach without having to worry.

Help your child read more when you buy the Kindle Paperwhite Kids for 17% off today at Amazon.

Shop tablets from Apple, Samsung, and Google — some at their lowest prices ever

Mashable - Mon, 08/05/2024 - 12:07

Save up to 36%: The week of August 5, shop the best deals on tablets from Apple, Samsung, and more. Score a Samsung tablet up to 36% off or the iPad Mini for 24% off.

Best tablet deals Best Apple deal Apple iPad Mini, 8.3-inch (A15 chip, WiFi, 64GB) $379.99 at Amazon (Save $119.01) Get Deal Best Samsung deal Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite, 10.4-inch (WiFi, 64GB) $209.98 at Amazon (Save $120.01) Get Deal Best Google deal Google Pixel Tablet, 11-inch (128GB) $349 at Amazon (Save $50) Get Deal

If you're in the thick of summer travel and realizing that your laptop is too clunky and the airplane TVs don't cut it, it's time to invest in a tablet. While we're past Prime Day and there are technically no big sale events flying, there are still deals to be had.

The week of August 5, there are a decent amount of discounts on tablets across retailers and brands. Are these life-changing prices? Not really. But there are some highlights, including the lowest price ever on the iPad Mini. Here are the best tablet deals to shop this week.

Best tablet deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPad Mini, 8.3-inch (A15 chip, WiFi, 64GB) $379.99 at Amazon
$499.00 Save $119.01 Get Deal Why we like it

Among the iPads we've tested, the iPad Mini is the best for reading. It comes in the most compact size, just 8.3-inches, making it more comfortable to handle. Plus, it will take up less space in your carry-on. While the iPad Mini doesn't have the power of the M-series of Apple chips, its A15 Bionic chip has plenty of speed and performance for you to read, stream, and work on the go.

It's currently down to its lowest price ever. At $379.99, we've yet to see a better price. This week's savings knock $119.01 off the price for a discount of 24%.

More tablet deals

The Google Pixel 8 line is down to its Prime Day prices, plus more of the best phone deals this week

Mashable - Mon, 08/05/2024 - 12:00
Best unlocked phone deals the week of August 5 Best Google Pixel deal Google Pixel 8 (128GB) $499 at Amazon (Save $200) Get Deal Best Samsung deal Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra (256GB) $949 at Amazon (Save $350.99) Get Deal Best Motorola deal Motorola razr (128GB) $399.99 at Amazon (Save $300) Get Deal

Just because you missed Prime Day by a few weeks doesn't mean you missed out on your chance to get a smartphone on the cheap.

This week, we're seeing plenty of phone deals we saw live around Prime Day, like the 2023 Motorola razr's 50% discount and the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Amazon gift card bundle. You can also grab the same markdowns on the Google Pixel 8 line that was live during the shopping holiday.

SEE ALSO: From Roomba to Shark, here are the best robot vacuum deals you can shop the week of August 5

If you're in the market for a new phone, check out the 11 best deals of the week below.

Best unlocked phone deal this week Opens in a new window Credit: Google Our pick: Google Pixel 8 (128GB) $499.00 at Amazon
$699.00 Save $200.00 Get Deal Why we picked this

Check out our full review of the Google Pixel 8.

The Google Pixel 8 wasn't last fall's most exciting phone upgrade, but it was still a solid one. Google didn't mess with features that didn't need fixing (which isn't always a given in the tech world), offering the same great camera, all-day battery life, and a 120Hz refresh rate. While these features might not have been worth an upgrade at their full price, at $200, or 29%, off the phone's list price, now may just be the time to buy. Though the Pixel 8 is available in five different colors, you'll only be able to score this deal on the obsidian colorway.

Best Google Pixel deals this weekBest Samsung phone deals this weekBest Motorola phone deals this weekEven more best unlocked phone deals

So, uh, why did everyone keep falling off the balance beam at the Olympics? The internet wants to know.

Mashable - Mon, 08/05/2024 - 11:58

The balance beam at the 2024 Paris Olympics made more than a few enemies today.

Monday's Women's Balance Beam Finals — the second to last gymnastics event Team USA competed in — featured not one but four athletes falling, including Team USA's beloved all-around champs Simone Biles and Sunisa Lee. After their falls both Biles and Lee were shut out of medaling, much to commentator and fan dismay. Biles, the most decorated gymnast of all time, received a 13.1 placing her in fifth, while Lee, the Olympic all-around-champion in Tokyo, finished sixth.

SEE ALSO: 9 Olympians to follow on TikTok right now

"It was just crazy to kind of see how everybody was going down like that," Lee told the New York Times. "I think it’s just because there’s just so much pressure, you could feel the tension in the room."

Many fans echoed her sentiment on X / Twitter. One user wrote, "That balance beam final was….insane? 6 gymnasts falling including suni and Simone, two gymnasts who fell making podium, and Rebecca, Suni and Simone all falling off the podium? Whack asf" The post garnered nearly 6,000 likes.

Tweet may have been deleted

Commentator and former Team USA gymnast Laurie Hernandez felt similarly. During the broadcast, she made an offhand remark, "Not to be a silly goose, but can someone check the beam." One user pointed out that they all fell on a similar part of the beam, inciting conspiracy theories about a loose beam.

Tweet may have been deleted Tweet may have been deleted

Fans of Lee were particularly upset by the outcome as it was her last chance to earn another medal because she didn't qualify for Floor Finals. One wrote, "god take suni lee’s pain from falling off the beam and give it to ME." Another posted a video of an angry woman captioned, "Me and the beam that made suni fall."

Tweet may have been deleted Tweet may have been deleted Tweet may have been deleted

There's always the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics for a balance beam comeback. Do you think Biles has one more Olympics in her?

Vanguard, Fidelity, Charles Schwab and other trading sites crash after stock market drop

Mashable - Mon, 08/05/2024 - 11:58

Several online trading sites are down after the U.S. stock market took a nosedive on Monday morning.

After the Nasdaq, Dow Jones, and S&P 500 indexes all sharply dropped, Downdetector (which shares Mashable's parent company Ziff Davis) reported outages with financial sites. Currently, major outages on Downdetector include Charles Schwab, Vanguard, Ameritrade, and Fidelity. Bloomberg also reported that Robinhood and E-Trade are experiencing issues.

The Charles Schwab site is completely down and says it is "experiencing technical difficulties." On the Fidelity site, users have reported that they can't access their account balances.

Following last week's report from the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics that showed unemployment rising to 4.3 percent and fewer-than-expected 114,000 jobs added, a major selloff occurred. Major tech stocks Apple, Microsoft, Nvidia, Alphabet, Amazon, Meta, and Tesla all opened at lower valuation, resulting in a $1.2 trillion loss in market value (per Forbes). The market has regained some ground although tech stocks still remain negative.

Downdetector outage reports spiked around 10 a.m. ET, but have been decreasing.

This story is developing...

This week's best earbuds and headphones deals: Sony, Bose, and Apple deals

Mashable - Mon, 08/05/2024 - 11:47

Whether you're already back-to-school shopping or your current buds are failing on the job, there are plenty of good deals this week on Amazon for shoppers looking for their new favorite pair of headphones or earbuds. The best deals we've found for this week so far include favorite models from Apple, Bose, Beats, and more.

Best headphones and earbuds deals for the week of Aug 5: Best earbuds deal Apple AirPods (2nd Generation) $79.99 at Amazon (save $49.01) Get Deal Best noise-cancelling headphones deal Bose QuietComfort 35 II Noise Cancelling Headphones $320 at Amazon (save $29) Get Deal Best affordable headphones deal Beats Solo3 Headphones $119 at Amazon (save $80.95) Get Deal

Some of the best earbuds and headphones deals we're seeing for this week of Aug 2 include Apple AirPods for under $100 and Beats Solo3 over-ear headphones for just $119. While these earbuds and headphones (like a lot of what we're seeing this week) aren't at their lowest-ever prices, these deals are still bringing in significant savings that make scoring high-quality earbuds and headphones a bit more budget-friendly.

Take a look at some of the best earbuds and headphones deals for the week ahead.

Best earbuds deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple AirPods (2nd Generation) $79.99 at Amazon
$129.00 Save $49.01 Get Deal Why we like it

This week at Amazon, you can score a pair of Apple AirPods (2nd Generation) for just $79.99. At 38% off, the classic earbuds are a great value buy. They offer 24 hours of battery thanks to the included Lightning Charging Case, effortless Bluetooth setup, and Siri voice control. They're also powered by the Apple H1 headphone chip that's designed to deliver high-performing, clear sound. Apple AirPods (2nd Generation) are a great place to start if you're looking for a quality pair of everyday earbuds.

Best noise-cancelling headphones deal Opens in a new window Credit: Bose Bose QuietComfort 35 II Noise Cancelling Headphones $320.00 at Amazon
$349.00 Save $29.00 Get Deal Why we like it

The Bose QuietComfort 35 II Noise Cancelling Headphones come with a premium price tag. While 8% off isn't a whole lot, every bit counts on these investment-worthy headphones. This week, we're seeing the Alexa-enabled headphones list for $320, putting $29 back in your pocket. Whether you're an audio purist or just want to drown out the noise of the world on your commute, you'll how these headphones have three different levels of noise cancellation to help you find your perfect listening experience. These headphones are also helpful for making phone calls thanks to their dual microphone system that blocks out outside noise and focuses on the pickup of your voice.

Best affordable headphones deal Opens in a new window Credit: Beats Beats Solo3 Headphones $119.00 at Amazon
$199.95 Save $80.95 Get Deal Why we like it

Don't feel like dropping a couple hundred bucks on headphones? Don't sweat it. While the Beats Solo3 headphones aren't noise-cancelling, they're reliable, high-performing over-ear headphones built for everyday use. They have an extensive 40-hour battery life which can easily be replenished thanks to Fast Fuel charging. (Just 5 minutes of charging can bring you back to three hours.) Today at Amazon, you can score the Apple H1-chip powered headphones for just $119. While this isn't the lowest price we've seen, it brings the headphones down to a much more budget-friendly price.

More headphones and earbuds deals:

Amazon deal of the day: The iPad mini 6 is back at its Prime Day price

Mashable - Mon, 08/05/2024 - 11:31
Amazon deals of the day at a glance: OUR TOP PICK Apple iPad mini, 8.3-inch (A15 Bionic, WiFi, 64GB) $379.99 at Amazon (save $119.01) Get Deal BEST SAMSUNG TABLET DEAL Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite (WiFi, 64GB) $209.98 at Amazon (save $120.01) Get Deal BEST FITNESS DEAL TheraGun Mini $149 at Amazon (save $50) Get Deal BEST SPEAKER DEAL Bose SoundLink Revolve+ $229 at Amazon (save $100) Get Deal BEST KINDLE DEAL Kindle Paperwhite Kids Bundle $167.97 at Amazon (save $35) Get Deal

Looking to start your week with a little shopping? We've rounded up the best deals we could find at Amazon on Aug. 5 — including top brands like Apple, Samsung, Kindle, and more. What better way to kick off the month?

Here are our top picks for the best Amazon deals of the day.

Our top pick Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPad mini, 8.3-inch (A15 Bionic, WiFi, 64GB) $379.99 at Amazon
$499.00 Save $119.01 Get Deal

With the rumored iPad mini 7 expected to hit shelves soon, it comes as no surprise that the current model just got a big price drop. The 2021 iPad mini 6 (WiFi, 64GB) is back down to its record-low price of $379.99. That's a savings of 24% and matches its Prime Day price. When it debuted in 2021, Mashable's Stan Schroeder called it "the best iPad if you want a small iPad" and "a better deal than the iPad Air." He credited the sleek new design, camera upgrade, speed, stereo speakers, and practical Touch ID features for his high rating.

Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite (WiFi, 64GB) $209.98 at Amazon
$329.99 Save $120.01 Get Deal

An Amazon-exclusive tablet, the Samsung Galaxy S6 Lite offers the same design as its previous iteration, but adds an updated Exynos processor and comes with Android 14 out of the box. Its predecessor is one of our favorite tablet options for kiddos (thanks to its included S Pen, dazzling display, Dolby Atmos stereo speakers, and the ability to switch from kid mode to parent mode with a PIN), so we only expect that extra boost of processing power to make us like it even more. The 64GB version is regularly $329.99, but you can snag it on sale for just $209.98 as of Aug. 5. That's 36% in savings and one cent cheaper than its previous all-time low.

Opens in a new window Credit: Therabody TheraGun Mini $149.00 at Amazon
$199.00 Save $50.00 Get Deal

The TheraGun Mini is back down to its Prime Day price of $149 — 25% off its usual cost. We've tested this tiny massage gun and love its ergonomic and compact design, quick and easy setup, and three powerful speed options. It comes with three different head options to target specific muscle groups as well. Our reviewer called it an "effective handheld massager for both at-home and on-the-go care."

Opens in a new window Credit: Bose Bose SoundLink Revolve+ $229.00 at Amazon
$329.00 Save $100.00 Get Deal

We love the quality and durability of Bose products, but not so much the prices. With this discount on the SoundLink Revolve+ speaker, however, you can get 360-degree surround sound, 17 hours of battery life, improved bass power, and seamless portability for $100 off. While it doesn't beat its all-time low Prime Day price of $195, this 30% discount is still pretty impressive for a random Monday in August.

Opens in a new window Credit: Kindle Kindle Paperwhite Kids Bundle (16GB) $167.97 at Amazon
$202.97 Save $35.00 Get Deal

Considering the lack of deals on Kindles on Prime Day, we'll take anything we can get. It may not be the best deal we've ever seen, but as of Aug. 5, you can pick up the Kindle Paperwhite Kids bundled with a kids cover, power adapter, screen protector, and one year of Amazon Kids+ for just $167.97. That's $35 in savings and essentially gets you the device and a handful of accessories for less than the cost of the device alone. A step up from the basic Kindle Kids, the Paperwhite Kids adds key features like IPX8 waterproofing, a larger display, longer battery life, double the storage, and an adjustable warm light to cut down on blue light.

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

All the best speaker deals to shop this week

Mashable - Mon, 08/05/2024 - 11:22
Our top picks: Best portable speaker deal Bose SoundLink Flex $109 at Amazon (save $40) Get Deal Best bookshelf speaker deal KEP Q Series 5.25-inch 2-Way Bookshelf Speakers (pair, satin black) $349.99 at Best Buy (save $250) Get Deal Best tower speaker deal Klipsch Reference 800 Series Dual 8-inch 2-Way Floor Standing Speaker $499 at Best Buy (save $100.58) Get Deal

Music isn’t just noise, and whoever said that clearly doesn’t have a soul or they’ve never experienced just how magical a new speaker system can be.

Whether you’re a true audiophile looking to upgrade your entertainment setup or you can’t stand the thought of listening to those tired old speakers that sound like they’re broadcasting from a tin can, this week’s filled with speaker deals that’ll take your at-home listening experience to the next level.

SEE ALSO: 7 of the best speakers for those who want crisp, clear audio

We’ve sifted through hundreds of deals to bring you the best of the best, from premium like Sony and JBL to budget-friendly options that won't break the bank.

Here are our top picks for the best speaker deals this week.

Best portable speaker deal Opens in a new window Credit: Bose Our pick: Bose SoundLink Flex $109.00 at Amazon
$149.00 Save $40.00 Get Deal Why we like it

The Bose SoundLink Flex has been on sale for a few weeks now, but it’s still one of the best portable speaker deals we've seen. (According to CamelCamelCamel, it’s currently at its lowest price ever on Amazon.) This rugged, waterproof speaker is perfect for outdoor gatherings at the pool, beach, or campsite. And, despite its small size, it delivers that signature Bose sound quality the brand’s known for.

SEE ALSO: I went hands-on with Sony's new ULT Field 1 speaker

With up to 12 hours of playtime on just one charge and Bluetooth connectivity, the SoundLink Flex is a solid option for anyone looking for a portable speaker to take along on their next adventure, wherever that may be.

More portable speaker dealsBest bookshelf speaker deal Opens in a new window Credit: KEF Our pick: KEP Q Series 5.25-inch 2-Way Bookshelf Speakers (pair, satin black) $349.99 at Best Buy
$599.99 Save $250.00 Get Deal Why we like it

If your Echo just isn’t cutting it, the KEF Q Series 5.25-inch 2-Way Bookshelf Speakers (pair) are a great upgrade option. Plus, they’re $250 off right now at Best Buy.

These speakers come in satin black, walnut, and white and offer 51Hz-28kHz frequency response so you can jam out to your favorite tunes with crisp, high-quality sound. (Imagine Super Tramp coming through these babies.) The design of the bass reflex enclosure (with rear-firing port) and the Uni-Q driver let you experience what you’re listening to without restrictions, no matter where you are in the room.

More bookshelf speaker dealsBest tower speak deal Opens in a new window Credit: Klipsch Our pick: Klipsch Reference 800 Series Dual 8-inch 2-Way Floor Standing Speaker $499.00 at Best Buy
$599.98 Save $100.98 Get Deal Why we like it

When I was younger, my mom blasted Motley Crue, Martina McBride, Pearl Jam, and countless other artists on an old tower speaker system in our living room. Those memories of being immersed in the music will always be a part of me.

SEE ALSO: Sonos Move 2 Review: Fantastic sound and a price to match

Although her massive tower speakers have long since been retired (I think they’re in the attic), the Klipsch Reference 800 Series Dual 8-inch 2-Way Floor Standing Speaker is a modern-day alternative. It has a 4.8-star rating and a $100 discount at Best Buy.

This floor-standing speaker can handle up to 600W peak power (150W continuous) and features two eight-inch spun-copper TCP woofers for a deep, powerful, and resonant bass response that no smart home device could ever hope to match.

More tower speaker deals

'Half-Life 3' happening? These clues have fans on high alert.

Mashable - Mon, 08/05/2024 - 11:21

After 17 years without a proper, non-VR Half-Life title, fans have at least a little reason to hope again.

That's due to supposed leaks appearing in a couple of different places, per Eurogamer.

Evidence of Half-Life 3?

First, a voice actor's website was found to include a reference to something called "Project White Sands," which was attributed to Valve. That, alone, doesn't tell us much. Valve occasionally still makes new video games — even if they aren’t called Half-Life. It's worth noting that White Sands is the name of a national park in New Mexico, the setting of the original Half-Life.

But after people found that and flooded the webpage, all references to Project White Sands were removed. Then, Valve data miner Tyler McVicker posted a YouTube video explaining that he believes he has found explicit references to a non-VR, single-player game set in the Half-Life universe that is either actively in development, or was in development recently, in Valve's code updates.

Specifically, the project is called "HLX" and many of the files associated with it are obviously linked to Half-Life. The main character wears an HEV suit (as did protagonist Gordon Freeman in the first two games). There are also multiple references to "Xen," a prominent alien location in Half-Life. Enemies such as "Xengorilla" and "Xenjellyfish" are even named.

SEE ALSO: There's a new Deadpool Xbox controller — and it has butt cheeks

One has to wonder why Valve would put so many obvious references to Half-Life in a place where people could see it without using codenames, but still, this is the most substantial lead on a proper new Half-Life game in quite some time. 2020 saw the release of Half-Life: Alyx, which was well-received as the first extension of the series since 2007, but it remains a VR-exclusive title that requires both a powerful PC and a headset to play. Before that, a former series writer posted what may have been the story for a canceled Half-Life single-player game in 2017, but that was after he left Valve and what he posted probably shouldn't be seen as indicative of what Valve's future plans might be.

Since Half-Life 2: Episode 2 came out and ended on a massive story cliffhanger in 2007, Valve has shifted to mostly developing multiplayer games with some sort of live service elements, like Dota 2 and the recently data-mined Deadlock. These games, combined with all of the money that Valve gets from running the pre-eminent PC gaming digital marketplace Steam, have made it difficult to believe Valve would ever revisit Half-Life without a serious incentive to do so.

But maybe it's actually happening. Or maybe it isn't. At least we all have a reason to talk about Half-Life again.

'House of the Dragon' Season 2 finale: Who is Bloodraven, the man in Daemon's weirwood vision?

Mashable - Mon, 08/05/2024 - 11:19

House of the Dragon Season 2 had one more Harrenhal vision for Daemon Targaryen (Matt Smith) up its sleeve — and this one was a doozy.

In the Season 2 finale, titled "The Queen Who Ever Was," Daemon touches Harrenhal's weirwood tree and has a vision of the future, including images that any Game of Thrones fan would recognize, like White Walkers and Daenerys Targaryen herself. But she's not the only Game of Thrones character to feature prominently in Daemon's vision.

SEE ALSO: The 'House of the Dragon' Season 2 finale, explained

As Daemon's vision begins, we see a man (Joshua Ben-Tovim) sitting in a weirwood tree in the middle of a cave. He has Targaryen-pale hair and a red birthmark on his cheek and neck, which morphs into a three-eyed raven. That image, combined with the man's weirwood perch, signals that he is none other than the Three-Eyed Raven, Bran Stark's greenseer mentor in the later seasons of Game of Thrones. However, long before he taught Bran, the Three-Eyed Raven was known by a different name: Brynden Rivers.

Who is Brynden Rivers, or Bloodraven?

Brynden Rivers is the Targaryen bastard of King Aegon IV, meaning he's born several decades after the events of House of the Dragon. His birthmark, thought to resemble a raven made of blood, earns him the nickname Bloodraven.

SEE ALSO: 'House of the Dragon' Season 2 finale: Daemon's strange vision of Daenerys, explained

Throughout his life, Brynden is involved in the Blackfyre Rebellions, which pit House Targaryen against House Blackfyre, founded by a legitimized Targaryen bastard. Brynden also serves as Lord Commander of the Night's Watch for a time. He goes on to disappear behind the Wall, where he must have found a nice little weirwood cave where he could greensee in peace.

You don't really need to know any of this for House of the Dragon — again, Brynden is years from being born — but knowledge of Brynden might be useful for HBO's next Westeros-set series: A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms.

Featured Video For You Sorry to break it to you, the dragons in 'House of the Dragon' are actually wyverns What is A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms about, and how is Brynden Rivers involved?

A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms is based on George R.R. Martin's Tales of Dunk and Egg novellas, about Ser Duncan the Tall (Peter Claffey) and his squire Egg (Dexter Sol Ansell). Brynden Rivers appears in the third novella, The Mystery Knight, as Hand of the King. But could his appearance in House of the Dragon mean that he'll be popping up earlier in the onscreen stories of Dunk and Egg?

If so, Daemon isn't just seeing the in-world future of Westeros in his vision: He's seeing the rest of HBO's Westeros-based programming. Between hints at The Knight of the Seven Kingdoms and Game of Thrones itself, this weirwood is clearly a fan of cinematic universe-style storytelling (and HBO corporate synergy).

House of the Dragon Season 2 is now streaming on Max.

Cash App settlement: How to claim up to $2,500 if you're eligible

Mashable - Mon, 08/05/2024 - 11:12

If you're one of the 50 million Cash App users, you might be entitled to some money.

The mobile banking app was hit with a class action lawsuit for failing to protect its users from several security breaches that occurred in 2022 and 2023. Block Inc., which owns Cash App denies any wrongdoing but has agreed to settle for $15 million. That means, Cash App users are entitled to up to $2,500 by submitting a claim online.

Cash App, whose parent company Block Inc. (formerly known as Square) was founded by Jack Dorsey, surged in popularity on Reddit as a Robinhood alternative for trading Bitcoin and stocks. Then in 2021, a former employee downloaded investing reports, gaining access to users' personal financial data. Another breach occurred in 2023 by using recycled phone numbers linked to user accounts to access financial information. According to the complaint, given the multiple breaches, Cash App "utterly failed to properly secure and protect customer accounts."

Who is eligible to receive a Cash App payout?

According to the settlement website, users are eligible for compensation if:

  • You're a current or former Cash App user

  • Your personal information or account information was accessed or obtained without your authorization

  • You experienced fraudulent transactions between August 23, 2018 through August 20, 2024

How to submit a claim and get Cash App settlement money

Cash App users must submit a claim on the settlement website no later than November 18, 2024. Depending on the type of claim, users an receive reimbursement for out-of-pocket losses, lost time, or fraudulent charges. If fraudulent activity occurred as a result of the breach, users might also need to provide additional information like receipts or a police report.

From Roomba to Shark, here are the best robot vacuum deals you can shop the week of August 5

Mashable - Mon, 08/05/2024 - 11:08

Save 46%: The week of August 5, find major deals on robot vacuums including the iRobot j7+ for $429.99, knocking $370 off for 46% savings.

Best robot vacuum deals this week Best Roborock deal Roborock S8+ robot vacuum $619.99 at Amazon (Save $380) Get Deal Best iRobot deal iRobot Roomba j7+ $429.99 at Amazon (Save $370) Get Deal Best Shark deal Shark PowerDetect robot vacuum $449.99 at Amazon (Save $350) Get Deal

Big shopping events like Prime Day and Black Friday shower us with deals, blinding us from the weekly sales on top products. Sneaky deals are always popping up, so on a random Monday in August, you can score a Roomba and other robot vacuums for hundreds of dollars off.

This week, starting August 5, is no different. We've scoured the internet for the best robot vacuum deals and found them to be quite plentiful. Amazon and Best Buy especially have markdowns on all the best brands including iRobot, Shark, and Roborock. Here are the best deals on robot vacuums.

Best iRobot deal Opens in a new window Credit: iRobot iRobot Roomba j7+ $429.99 at Amazon
$799.99 Save $370.00 Get Deal Why we like it

While our very favorite robot vacuum from iRobot is the Roomba j9+, before that came the j7+. This self-emptying vacuum is fantastic at navigating your home and moving around the smallest of obstacles. It includes a self-emptying dock, making it virtually hands-free.

Right now, it's down to $429.99, saving you $370. This is an exceptional value, just $10 more than it's lowest price ever. Get it now from Amazon for 46% off.

More robot vacuum deals

Nvidia Shares Tumble After Reports of a Chip Delay

NYT Technology - Mon, 08/05/2024 - 10:45
The A.I. chip maker’s shares fell in early trading, but the stock pared some of its losses.

iPhone 15 vs. iPhone 15 Pro: What are the differences?

Mashable - Mon, 08/05/2024 - 10:17

This iPhone 15 vs. iPhone 15 Pro comparison will clarify the exact differences between the two popular iPhones. On top of price, design, display, battery life, and more, we'll explore how the cameras differ, too — a popular request among prospective iPhone 15 buyers.

The iPhone 15 costs $799, but the iPhone 15 Pro is more expensive at $999. That being said, I know what you're thinking. Is the iPhone 15 Pro actually worth an extra $200?

Don't expect me to stand on a soapbox and tell you which iPhone to get. Instead, I'm going to tell you all the differences between the two. Then, I'll let you decide which is the best phone for you. Let's dive into this iPhone 15 vs. iPhone 15 Pro face-off, shall we?

Note: While we're focusing on the iPhone 15 vs. iPhone 15 Pro in this comparative analysis, keep in mind that the next-gen iPhone is right around a corner. Check out our iPhone 16 series rumor hub for credible leaks about the iPhone 15 series' successor.

SEE ALSO: iPhone 16 rumors: Release date, price, specs, features, and more iPhone 15 vs. iPhone 15 Pro: price

The iPhone 15 has a starting price of $800 via Apple's official website — and it comes with the following specs:

  • 128GB of storage

  • 6GB of RAM

  • A16 Bionic chipset

  • 6.1-inch display

Keep in mind that you can get more storage, but it'll cost you. If you want 256GB of storage, the iPhone 15 will set you back $900. Speaking from experience, I'd recommend getting the 256GB variant, particularly if you love hoarding photos and videos. Otherwise, the 128GB model will haunt you with a "storage full" error, forcing you to delete your treasured media content within a year (or less) of use.

The base iPhone 15 model comes with 128GB of storage. Credit: Stan Schroeder / Mashable

If you're a big spender, you can get the iPhone 15 with 512GB of storage, which costs $1,100. But if you have enough money to spend on that, you'd be better off upgrading to the iPhone 15 Pro with 256GB of storage, which is exactly the same price.

Speaking of the iPhone 15 Pro, it has a starting price of $999 via Apple's official website and comes with the following specs:

  • 128GB of storage

  • 8GB of RAM

  • A17 Pro

  • 6.1-inch display

The most expensive iPhone 15 Pro, packed with 1TB of storage, will set you back $1,500. But again, if you have that kind of money to blow, you might as well upgrade to the iPhone 15 Pro Max with 512GB of storage, which costs $100 less at $1,400.

Again, I'd recommend upgrading to at least 256GB of storage if you have a treasure trove of media you'd like to store. However, if you don't mind deleting a few stuff along the way, or you have cloud storage, the 128GB variant should be fine.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple iPhone 15 Get Deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple iPhone 15 Pro Get Deal Featured Video For You A brief history of the iPhone iPhone 15 vs. iPhone 15 Pro: design

Cue Sia singing "Titanium" at the top of her lungs! The iPhone 15 Pro's biggest selling point is that it consists of a titanium frame, making it lighter and more durable than its predecessor's stainless-steel chassis.

The iPhone 15, wrapped in an aluminum enclosure, doesn't have a hint of titanium. Womp, womp! It is, however, a little lighter than its Pro sibling (6.03 ounces vs. 6.6 ounces).

As far as colors are concerned, I'd argue that the iPhone 15's colors are more fun and lively.

The iPhone 15 comes in five fun colors. Credit: Apple

It comes in five colors:

  • Pink

  • Yellow

  • Green

  • Blue

  • Black

The iPhone 15 Pro is a little bit more low-key — more mature and sophisticated.

The iPhone 15 Pro's colors are a lot more neutral. Credit: Apple

Its colors are more urbane, subtle, and minimalist:

  • Natural Titanium

  • Blue Titanium

  • White Titanium

  • Black Titanium

One subtle difference between the two phones is the iPhone 15 Pro's Action Button feature located on the left side of the chassis. The iPhone 15, on the other hand, still has a very boring mute switch instead. What's so great about the Action Button? You can customize it to launch any app or task you want.

For example, with my iPhone 15 Pro Max, I've set the Action Button to launch the Notes app since I use it so frequently, but the possibilities are endless. You can set up the Action Button to launch whatever app you want.

iPhone 15 vs. iPhone 15 Pro: display

The iPhone 15 and the iPhone 15 Pro actually share the same display size: 6.1 inches. If you want something bigger (e.g., 6.7 inches), consider getting the iPhone 15 Plus or the iPhone 15 Pro Max.

Dynamic Island is here to stay. Credit: Stan Schroeder / Mashable

They also have the same resolution: 2,256 x 1,179 pixels

Although the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro Max share the same screen size, they do not have the same display tech. For example, the iPhone 15 does not have ProMotion technology nor does it have an Always-On display — but the Pro model has both of these perks.

What's ProMotion? It's just a fancy term for, "This phone has a variable refresh rate of up to 120Hz." In other words, the iPhone 15 Pro has a zippier display that adapts to your workflow. If you're simply scrolling through an article, the refresh rate will slowdown. However, if you fire up a fast-paced mobile game, the refresh rate will pick up.

Conversely, the iPhone 15 has a refresh rate of 60Hz, which will feel slower only if you've ever owned a phone with a refresh rate of 90Hz or higher. And for the uninitiated, an Aways-On display lets you get information like time, widgets, and more at a glance because — well — the screen is always on. I can't say the same for the iPhone 15.

Both have the snazzy Dynamic Island featured at the top of the display, and plus, the duo can climb to a peak brightness of 2,000, according to Apple.

iPhone 15 vs. iPhone 15 Pro: cameras

Cameras are one of the biggest selling points smartphones, and as you might have guessed, the iPhone 15 Pro has an edge over the iPhone 15. Here's a break down of the camera specs:

iPhone 15

  • Wide camera - 48MP

  • Ultrawide camera - 12MP

  • Selfie camera - 12MP

  • No telephoto

iPhone 15 Pro

  • Wide camera - 48MP

  • Ultrawide camera - 12MP

  • Selfie camera - 12MP

  • Telephoto - 3X optical zoom

Unlike the iPhone 15 Pro, the iPhone 15 does not have a telephoto lens, which means that zoomed-in shots will have a dip in quality. It's also worth nothing that the iPhone 15 Pro's ultrawide lens has a slightly wider aperture, which means low-light shots in dim environments should have a better outcome.

If you're a telephoto lens stan, you're going to want to go Pro. Credit: Stan Schroeder / Mashable

The iPhone 15, unlike the iPhone 15 Pro, does not support macro photography, Apple ProRAW, nor Night Mode portraits. (This isn't to be confused with Night Mode, which the iPhone 15 does have. It's just not available for portrait mode.)

iPhone 15 vs. iPhone 15 Pro: performance

The iPhone 15 Pro, without a doubt, is zippier and beastlier than the iPhone 15, thanks to its new A17 Pro Bionic chip. Meanwhile, the iPhone 15 sports the chipset featured inside the iPhone 14 Pro models: the A16 Bionic.

The iPhone 15 Pro is more of a powerhouse. Credit: Stan Schroeder / Mashable

Truth be told, the A16 Bionic is still a stellar, breakneck chip that is actually overpowered for what's needed for mobile tasks, so imagine the herculean power behind the A17 Pro.

Without getting into the weeds of things, just know that the A17 Pro is capable of cutting-edge AI computations and graphics. So much so that high-fidelity games like Resident Evil Village and Death Stranding are available on the iPhone 15 Pro. Assassin's Creed Mirage will also be available on the iPhone 15 Pro, but the release is June 6.

It's also worth noting that the iPhone 15 has 6GB of RAM while the iPhone 15 Pro has 8GB of RAM. This means that latter will do a better job at juggling multiple tasks simultaneously (e.g., switching between a bunch of apps should be faster).

iPhone 15 vs. iPhone 15 Pro: battery life

Apple ran a video playback test on the iPhone 15 and it lasted 20 hours on a single charge.

Compare that to the iPhone 15 Pro, which lasted 23 hours on the same test.

iPhone 15 vs. iPhone 15 Pro: Apple Intelligence

At WWDC 2024, Apple announced that it is jumping into AI head first with a suite of perks called "Apple Intelligence." These features will rollout alongside the launch of iOS 18, but keep in mind that not every iPhone will get Apple Intelligence.

The iPhone 15 will not support Apple Intelligence, but the iPhone 15 Pro models (e.g., iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max) will.

Some Apple Intelligence features that iPhone 15 Pro users will enjoy include Genmoji (generate your own emoji), ChatGPT integration, a new-and-improved Siri, new AI-powered summarization features, and more.

iPhone 15 vs. iPhone 15 Pro: Which should you buy?

To sum it all up, the iPhone 15 Pro has an Action Button that I believe is totally underrated — the iPhone 15 doesn't have one. Plus, the iPhone 15 Pro has a better camera system. If taking better zoomed-in shots are important to you, it'd be worth it to shell out an extra $200.

If you enjoy mobile gaming, with the iPhone 15 Pro getting a GPU boost from its A17 Pro chipset, the upper-tier model is a better choice for you.

Finally, if the aforementioned AI-powered features tickle your fancy, you'll have to get the iPhone 15 Pro. The iPhone 15 does not support Apple Intelligence.

However, if neither of those bells and whistles tickle your fancy, you'll be fine with the entry-level iPhone 15.

Apple iPhone 15 $0.01 at Amazon
$829.99 Save $829.98 Get Deal Apple iPhone 15 Pro $0.01 at Amazon
$999.99 Save $999.98 Get Deal

CrowdStrike Hits Back in Heated Spat With Delta Over Global Tech Outage

NYT Technology - Mon, 08/05/2024 - 10:08
The cybersecurity company said the airline should take the blame after it struggled to rebound from a software outage that caused disruptions worldwide.

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