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From working in construction to helping labour shortages and performing surgeries, robots have been keeping busy this year. In no particular order, here are the mechanical creatures that impressed, excited and, well, freaked us out a little, in 2024.

SAVE $50: An Amazon Echo Auto with one month of Amazon Music Unlimited is just $14.98, down from the typical bundled price of $64.98. That's a 77% discount.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Echo Auto with one month of Amazon Music Unlimited $14.98 at Amazon
$64.98 Save $50.00 Prime member exclusive Get Deal

Ahh the open road. It offers us freedom to explore, see new and exciting areas, or just drive into work five mornings each week. Regardless of how often you drive or how you feel about driving, listening to music makes the activity far more enjoyable. Thanks to today's deal at Amazon, rocking out to tunes in the car just got a lot cheaper.

As of Dec. 16, an Amazon Echo Auto and one month of Amazon Music Unlimited is just $14.98, down from the typical price of $64.98. That saves you $50, working out to a 77% discount. It also means the Amazon Echo Auto device costs just $4.99, instead of the usual $54.99.

The Amazon Music Unlimited subscription will auto renew at $9.99 per month, but you're free to cancel at anytime. To score this deal, you'll need to be an Amazon Prime member and a new customer to Amazon Music Unlimited.

The Echo Auto adds Alexa to your car with a slim and simple device. That means you'll have all the hands-free features that come with Alexa like making calls, answering text messages, changing the song, or tuning into a podcast. You can connect the Echo Auto to your car's Aux input or through Bluetooth. It also comes with an adhesive car mount, so you'll be able to safely secure it near your car's stereo.

If you have Alexa-enabled devices at home, you can also use the Echo Auto to give those gadgets instructions. Tell Alexa to turn up your home's thermostat as you're driving home or turn on the lights.

In addition to the Echo device, this bundle includes one month of Amazon Music Unlimited, giving you access to millions of songs and podcasts with zero ads. It also includes audiobooks from Audible. All of this means your time spent in the car will no longer feel wasted, but rather be time spent catching up on your favorite podcasts and discovering new music.

If you'll be taking to the road this holiday season, employ the company of the Amazon Echo Auto bundled with Amazon Music Unlimited. Together, they're 77% off today for Prime members.

In what must be the least anticipated recap of the year, British online bank Monzo has dropped its answer to Spotify Wrapped for another brutal round.

Debuted last year to many, many memes, Monzo's 2024 wrap-up released once again to low moans across the UK. No, I don't need to know how much I spent on [REDACTED], I already know. But this year, the team listened — you can customise what the banking app tells you about your year of spending, whether "nice" or "savage."

"The nation’s favourite spending summary is back," the website reads. "And this time, you choose how we recap your year. We can be nice or savage. Your call."

SEE ALSO: Porn viewers wanted 'demure' tradwife content this year, Pornhub's Year in Review shows

If you pick "nice," the app "goes easy on you" when telling you the top places you've shopped, where you've eaten out, and where you spent on entertainment. You'll also see who you split bills most with, how much you saved, and the countries you spent money in if you used your card there.

If you pick "savage," it shows you the same things — but it's meaner about it. It's exactly the same data, but the library is open.

The app literally mocked me for my choices. "Okay fancy pants," it spat at me for my M&S snack purchases. "Newsflash: your fridge is closer," it barked showing my preferences for eating outside of my house. "Money can't buy friendship. But you sure did try," it says, showing me the friends I split bills with.

You've got to hand it to Monzo, they took those memes into consideration.

A wedding abroad, two ex partners and a long journey stuck in a camper van is the recipe for Paramount+'s romantic dramedy The Road Trip, based on Beth O'Leary's novel of the same name.

In the trailer above a car accident forces former girlfriend and boyfriend Addie (Emma Appleton) and Dylan (Laurie Davidson) into a long trip from England to Spain, while the friends (and one stranger) they're stuck with try to to get to the bottom of what went wrong between them.

The Road Trip is streaming on Paramount+ from Dec. 26.

Apple released MacOS Sequoia 15.2 last week for its laptops and desktop computers. As usual, this MacOS update brings some new features as well as some fixes and upgrades to existing ones.

But, as MacOS Sequoia is the first with Apple Intelligence, the new features that come with MacOS Sequoia 15.2 mostly involve new additions to Apple's own AI model.

So, what's new in MacOS Sequoia 15.2? Here are the biggest new features.

Apple Intelligence: Image Playground

If you have a Mac powered by Apple's Silicon chipset, the new Apple Intelligence features are by far the biggest new releases in MacOS Sequoia 15.2.

SEE ALSO: Apple's iOS 18.2 arrives: Here's 4 new features to be excited about

The latest MacOS update brings Image Playground to Mac. Image Playground allows users to generate AI-generated images with text prompts. Apple lets users choose from animation or illustration styles and images can be created in existing Mac apps like Messages and Freeform for direct usage in those applications.

Apple Intelligence: ChatGPT integration

The new MacOS Sequoia 15.2 also brings OpenAI's ChatGPT directly to Mac via a direct Apple intelligence integration. ChatGPT can be accessed through Siri or Writing Tools. 

SEE ALSO: WatchOS 11.2 is here. This new feature alone is worth the update

Users don't need a ChatGPT account to use ChatGPT via Apple Intelligence. Mac users will be able to anonymously make ChatGPT requests and their data won't be used to train OpenAI's models. ChatGPT users can login to their account if they'd like to though to take advantages of their account benefits.

Additional Apple Intelligence features

Apple has one more addition to Apple Intelligence with MacOS Sequoia 15.2.

Users can now tell Writing Tools exactly how they want a text document rewritten. For example, if a user writes a paragraph but wants it rewritten into a poem, the user can just tell Apple Intelligence that they want it to be rewritten as poetry.

Photos

The Photos app also has some updates in MacOS Sequoia 15.2.

Viewed and Recently Shared album history can now be cleared in the latest update. The Favorites album also appears in the Utilities collection as well as the Pinned Collections.

Safari

Safari has received some updates in MacOS Sequoia 15.2 too.

There are new background image customization options on the Safari Start Page. HTTPS upgrade will try to use secure HTTPS on all websites. And there is a new simplified import and export process for history, bookmarks, and passwords.

Additional updates: Weather in the menu bar, Sudoku, and more!

That's not all with the MacOS Sequoia 15.2. Alongside the bigger aforementioned updates, there are additional upgrades and changes to other Mac features.

Weather is now accessible in the menu bar and allows users to get current weather conditions. For more detailed forecasts, users can click through on the menu bar to get more weather information. 

Find My has a new Share Item Location feature that helps users locate and recover misplaced and lost items by allowing them to securely share the location of an AirTag of accessory with third parties.

SEE ALSO: United launches Apple AirTag-powered baggage location

The Podcasts app allows users to choose favorites and get show recommendations based on them with the Favorite Categories feature. A new Personalized Search page in Podcasts will also highlight relevant categories and bring editorially curated collections to users.

Users can now describe what content they're looking for in Apple Music and the Apple TV app with new natural language search.

There's also a few more additional features such as Sudoku for News+ subscribers and a presenter preview which lets users choose whether to share a specific app or the whole screen when connecting to an external display via AirPlay.

MacOS Sequoia 15.2 is available now as a free update for all compatible Mac and MacBook users. However, Apple Intelligence features only work with Macs with the Apple Silicon chipset, such as the M1, M2, M3, or M4 line of computers.

A magic potion is the only thing standing between a tiny village and the invading Roman force in Netflix's upcoming Asterix and Obelix: The Big Fight series, based on René Goscinny and Albert Uderzo famous graphic novels.

In the teaser above the animated duo swill beer while comfortably fending off an entire legion of invading troops, knocking them aside like bowling pins before accidentally crushing their own potion master – and the secret to their superhuman strength – beneath a boulder. Uh-oh.

Asterix and Obelix: The Big Fight is coming to Netflix in 2025.

By now, you've likely heard all about the post-election exodus from Elon Musk's X, formerly known as Twitter.

Users on X, which Musk has branded the "everything app," have been fleeing the platform. The ripple effects of the election season and Musk's support of Donald Trump have given a rise to a deluge of misinformation and toxic discourse on the platform being forced into users' feeds. As a result, X alternative Bluesky has seen a sudden surge in user signups and daily active users.

This may seem like a blip for X. It might appear like just a temporary reaction to the result of the election. However, new data points to X's woes being much bigger than a post-election backlash. 

Musk's X has been steadily losing users even preceding the election. And, based on the current trajectory, millions of X users are poised to leave over the next year as well.

X's election day traffic was a flash in the pan

Since the days of being called Twitter, X has traditionally seen a significant spike in traffic and daily active users based on big current events. Elections, specifically the U.S. Presidential elections are big traffic drivers for X. 

SEE ALSO: Elon Musk hints that X throttles posts with links

According to data from SimilarWeb, as reported by the Guardian, this was indeed the case in 2024 as well – at least, on election day and a day or two immediately following the election as well. 

However, in the broader leadup to the elections, X actually continuously shed daily active users. In fact, for the entire month of October, X saw a drop in anywhere from 300,000 to 2.6 million daily active users in the U.S. each day. Since early October, daily active U.S. users have fallen from 32.3 million to 29.6 million, a drop of 8.4 percent.

X likely to continue losing users in 2025

Mashable previously reported on X's declining user base just one month prior to the time period covered by the latest data. In September, we published data showing that X lost nearly one-fifth of its daily active user base with a similar downward trend in the UK and EU.

However, according to analysts, it appears like X will continue its decline in 2025.

According to analysts at Emarketer, from when Musk acquired X in 2022 until 2025, they expect X to have lost 7 million monthly active users in the U.S.

The declining user base pales in comparison to the decline of X's brand and value. According to a recent report from Brand Finance, X's brand is now worth 673 million. The brand was valued at $5.7 billion before Musk's takeover in 2022. When it comes to revenue, X's revenue fell by 40 percent when compared to the prior year based on internal company data from June 2024.

A staff report by the Senate labor committee, led by Bernie Sanders, uncovered evidence of internal concern about high injury rates at the e-commerce giant.

We've been hearing it for years, be it through rumors, whispers, or actual patent applications: Apple is working on foldable devices. But the reports always come with a caveat: Those plans are still very far from realization, and they might change in the future.

Well, judging by the new crop of reports that showed up in the past couple of days, Apple's foldables are getting real, though it still may take a while until they launch.

SEE ALSO: Apple Intelligence appears to have falsely claimed that Luigi Mangione shot himself

In a new report Sunday, the Wall Street Journal said that Apple is planing two foldable devices. The larger is "intended to serve as a laptop," and would have a display that unfolds to be at about 19 inches in diagonal.

A smaller model would be more akin to a phone, with a display that's larger than that of the iPhone 16 Pro Max when fully unfolded, the report said.

The company has experimented with various designs, but seems to have settled down to an inward-folding design for its foldables. According to the report, the foldable iPhone might actually hit the market in 2026 (though there are still technical challenges to overcome), and the foldable laptop/tablet would come later.

In the latest edition of his newsletter, Bloomberg's Mark Gurman also said Apple is working on a couple of foldables, though his report differs from WSJ's in a few key ways. Gurman thinks that the larger foldable is likely to be "akin to a giant iPad" (instead of an all-screen MacBook), and would likely run iPadOS. However, this device will is coming to market "around 2028."

Gurman also said Apple is looking into launching a foldable iPhone, which might come in 2026 "at the earliest."

The WSJ's report also reiterated previous reports that Apple is working on a super-thin iPhone (perhaps called the iPhone Air), which should launch next year. Details are scarce, except that the phone would be thinner than current models, with a simplified camera. As for the price, it should be "cheaper than the Pro models."

The Mini is a bite-sized version of The New York Times' revered daily crossword. While the crossword is a lengthier experience that requires both knowledge and patience to complete, The Mini is an entirely different vibe.

With only a handful of clues to answer, the daily puzzle doubles as a speed-running test for many who play it.

So, when a tricky clue disrupts a player's flow, it can be frustrating! If you find yourself stumped playing The Mini — much like with Wordle and Connections — we have you covered.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable

Here are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Monday, December 16, 2024:

AcrossPetting zoo animal

• The answer is Goat.

Important feature of the sentence "I like cooking, family and friends"

• The answer is Comma.

Labor alliance

• The answer is Union.

"All ___ are off!"

• The answer is Bets.

Triage centers, for short

• The answer is ERs.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for December 16, 2024 DownOne who's doomed to fail

• The answer is Goner.

Leaves out

• The answer is Omits.

"Famous" cookie maker

• The answer is Amos.

Original color of peanut M&Ms, introduced in 1954

• The answer is Tan.

Rubik's ___

• The answer is Cube.

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Featured Video For You The Wordle Strategy used by the New York Times' Head of Games

Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Mini Crossword.

SAVE $200: As of Dec. 16, Samsung 75-inch Class DU6950 Series Crystal UHD 4K TV is on sale for $549.99 at Best Buy. That’s $200 off its usual price of $749.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung 75-inch Class DU6950 $549.99 at Best Buy
$749.99 Save $200.00 Get Deal

If you've been dreaming of a larger screen for movie nights, sports events, or binge-watching your favorite shows, this Samsung 75-inch DU6950 Crystal UHD 4K TV deal is one to snag. Now available for $549.99 at Best Buy ($200 off its regular price), it's a fantastic opportunity to upgrade your home entertainment system without breaking the bank.

This 2024 model delivers breathtaking picture quality, thanks to Samsung's Crystal Processor 4K, which upscales content for sharper images, vibrant colors, and enhanced detail. From streaming your favorite series to enjoying blockbuster hits, every frame comes to life in dazzling clarity. The PurColor technology widens the color spectrum beyond traditional RGB models, making everything from lush landscapes to vivid sunsets feel more lifelike.

SEE ALSO: How 'The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim' adapts two pages of Tolkien lore into a whole movie

The TV also features HDR (High Dynamic Range) and Mega Contrast, ensuring brightness and contrast are fine-tuned in every frame, letting you see deeper shadows and brighter highlights. Action scenes and sports are smooth and blur-free with the Motion Xcelerator. At the same time, Object Tracking Sound Lite enhances your audio experience with 3D virtual surround sound that follows the movement on-screen.

This Samsung TV is more than just a visual powerhouse — it's a smart home hub, too. Powered by Samsung's Tizen OS, it gives you access to popular streaming apps, games, and even workout programs. With Samsung TV Plus, you can enjoy free live TV channels via WiFi, keeping you entertained without additional subscriptions. And suppose you pair it with a Samsung Q-series or S-series soundbar. In that case, the Q Symphony feature unlocks an immersive audio experience by seamlessly syncing the TV speakers and soundbar.

This model doesn't just prioritize picture and sound — it's built for convenience. The intuitive Tizen interface ensures smooth navigation, while a sleek design makes it an eye-catching addition to any room.

Priced at $549.99, the Samsung DU6950 4K TV offers excellent value for its size and features. With a solid 4.3-star rating from Best Buy customers, this TV clearly delivers on its promise of quality. Deals like this don't last long, so grab it today and enjoy an unparalleled viewing experience just in time for the holidays.

SAVE $7,000: As of Dec. 16, Kyota Kizuna M688 Dual Mech Massage Chair is on sale for $2,999 at Best Buy. That’s a massive $7,000 saving off its regular $9,999 price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Kyota Kyota Kizuna M688 Dual Mech Massage Chair $2,999.00 at Best Buy
$9,999.00 Save $7,000.00 Get Deal

If luxury relaxation is on your wishlist, this deal on the Kyota Kizuna M688 Dual Mech Massage Chair might be your dream come true. This high-end, feature-packed chair is designed to turn your home into a personal spa, and right now, it’s available for $2,999 at Best Buy — an incredible $7,000 off its usual price of $9,999. Kyota Kizuna has it all for sore muscles, decompressing after a long day, or treating yourself.

What sets the Kizuna apart is its dual massage mechanisms, which work to provide targeted therapeutic relief to your back and glutes. Add the Truefit body scanning technology, which adapts to your body’s unique size and shape, ensuring every massage is tailored just for you. It even includes AI-powered health monitoring, measuring your heart rate and blood oxygen levels to create a fully customized massage program.

SEE ALSO: How 'The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim' adapts two pages of Tolkien lore into a whole movie

Comfort and convenience are built into every aspect of the chair. Zero Wall Fit technology means you only need a few inches of space behind the chair to fully recline. In contrast, the zero-gravity recline elevates your feet above your heart, relieving spinal pressure and improving circulation. For even more relaxation, the chair features both cooling and heating in the lumbar area and heating modules in the legs to soothe muscles and reduce inflammation.

The Kyota Kizuna M688 doesn’t stop at physical relaxation. Built-in Bluetooth speakers allow you to stream meditative music, guided relaxation tracks, or any audio you choose, immersing you in a full sensory experience. Meanwhile, a wireless charging pad and USB port keep your devices powered up as you recharge yourself. And if you’d instead go hands-free, its intelligent voice command system lets you adjust settings and activate programs with a simple phrase.

This chair also includes dual foot rollers and reflexology. It offers complete coverage of the soles and targets pressure points to improve overall wellness. Air compression therapy with strategically placed airbags ensures increased blood flow and a relaxing hug-like sensation throughout your body.

At its original price of $9,999, the Kyota Kizuna M688 is a significant splurge. But at $2,999, it’s too good to pass up. With a perfect five-star rating from Best Buy customers, this massage chair is worth every penny. Don’t wait too long — this level of luxury at such a steep discount might not last.

SAVE $30: As of Dec. 16, Woojer Haptic Strap 3 is on sale for $149.99 at Best Buy. That’s $30 off its regular price of $179.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Woojer Woojer Haptic Vest 3 $149.99 at Best Buy
$179.99 Save $30.00 Get Deal

Suppose you’ve been curious about haptic technology but aren’t ready to commit to a full vest setup. In that case, the Woojer Haptic Strap 3 is an excellent (and budget-friendly) starting point. Currently on sale for $149.99 at Best Buy with a $30 discount, this compact device offers immersive and dynamic feedback for gaming, VR, or music lovers.

At the heart of the Woojer Strap 3 is its patented Osci TRX2 transducer, which delivers precise and powerful vibrations across a frequency range of 1 to 250Hz. Action-packed FPS and vibing to bass-heavy music come alive thanks to the unique haptic experience Woojer offers. This kind of immersion brings your entertainment experience to the next level without taking up much space in your gaming setup.

SEE ALSO: How 'The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim' adapts two pages of Tolkien lore into a whole movie

The strap’s connectivity options are just as versatile as its feedback. Dual Bluetooth 5 allows you to use your favorite wireless headphones. At the same time, analog and digital inputs ensure compatibility with almost any device, including PCs, smartphones, game consoles (like PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo systems), and VR headsets. Just remember that some systems, like VR setups, may require a TRRS 3.5mm headset cable, which is sold separately.

Comfort is a priority, too. With a one-size-fits-all design and lightweight construction, the Woojer Strap 3 is easy to wear for extended gaming or VR sessions. You can even personalize the look with mix-and-match ring and belt colors, adding flair to your gear. The battery life is impressive: up to eight hours of playtime on a single charge, ensuring you won’t need to stop mid-session to recharge.

The strap is also great for users who want flexibility in their setup. It features an advanced DSP control system, letting you fine-tune audio signals in real-time for optimal performance. Thanks to its wired headphone amplifier, you’ll enjoy powerful, crystal-clear audio alongside the haptic effects.

If you’ve been looking for an affordable way to experiment with haptics, the Woojer Strap 3 delivers on performance, comfort, and value. With a discounted price of $149.99 at Best Buy, this deal is perfect for those wanting to upgrade their gaming, VR, or music experience. Grab one before the sale ends!

A company called Empower is trying to take on Uber, Lyft and local regulators as it piles up fines and draws new passengers to its service.

SAVE $70: As of Dec. 16, Woojer Haptic Vest 3 is on sale for $429.99 at Best Buy. That’s a $70 discount on its usual $499.99 price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Woojer Woojer Haptic Vest 3 $429.99 at Best Buy
$499.99 Save $70.00 Get Deal

If you're ready to take your gaming, music, or VR experiences to the next level, the Woojer Haptic Vest 3 has you covered. This wearable device doesn't just deliver sound; it makes you feel it. As of Dec. 16, it's $70 off at Best Buy, bringing its price down to $429.99. This deal is worth considering for anyone looking to immerse themselves fully in their entertainment.

The Woojer Haptic Vest's standout feature is its six patented Osci TRX2 transducers. These deliver precise vibrations across a wide frequency range of 1 to 250Hz, allowing you to feel every deep bass note, dramatic explosion, or subtle vibration as though you were in the middle of the action.

SEE ALSO: Get the Beats Solo 4 for half off at Amazon

Its ability to deliver 360-degree haptic feedback creates a sense of spatial awareness that pairs perfectly with VR. Imagine feeling the reverberations of footsteps behind you or the rumble of a spaceship as it zips past in a video game. Even music buffs can enjoy the vest for a more immersive concert-like experience, especially with genres like EDM or hip-hop, where bass is king.

Woojer Vest 3 includes Dual Bluetooth 5 support, so you can easily pair it with most Bluetooth headphones for a wireless audio experience. It also features analog and digital inputs, meaning PCs and game consoles are ready for next-generation haptics. Some systems require a standard TRRS 3.5mm headset cable, sold separately.

Battery life won't hold you back, either. The vest can provide up to eight hours of playtime on a single charge and uses a fast Power Delivery Charge system so you can quickly recharge it between sessions. It's lightweight, breathable, and generally comfortable, even for festively plump chaps like me.

The Woojer Haptic Vest 3 isn't just about gaming, either. It's equally suited for movie lovers who want to feel every car chase or battle scene or use haptics to enhance meditation or relaxation sessions.

While this vest typically costs $499.99, today's $429.99 price at Best Buy makes it more accessible for exploring the future of immersive entertainment. Woojer products rarely go on sale, so snap this bad boy up for Christmas.

TL;DR: Learn to code apps and games with this $55.97 bundle of 15 online courses and Microsoft Visual Studio — codes are limited.

Everyone is talking about Bluesky and Nintendo’s new My Sims Cozy Bundle, but what do they have in common? They started as someone’s idea. You probably have one of your own, maybe a video game or app, but don’t know how to make it a reality — until today.

This bundle of online coding courses and Microsoft Visual Studio for Windows can help you code your own apps, games, websites, and more for $55.97 (a $1,999 value). Codes are limited, so get yours before seats sell out.

First, take some courses

Ready to learn how to code? This bundle comes with 15 courses, but you don’t have to take them all if you’re only interested in one type of project. 

Here’s a suggestion of what you might take depending on what you want to make:

• Apps: Python, Java, and Dart (Flutter)

• Games: C++, Python, and JavaScript

• Websites: HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Ruby on Rails, and SQL

You get lifelong access, so you never have to rush through lessons. This also means you can always refer back to videos and lesson material whenever you’re working on projects.

Next, practice your skills in Visual Studio

Now it’s time to see if those courses taught you anything. Microsoft Visual Studio, though advanced, is a great development environment for beginners. It basically has autocorrect and -complete as you type, helping you fix mistakes and work faster.

The tool also lets you see the changes you make to your code in real time while working on apps and web pages. There’s no need to refresh every time to see your project come together.

Grab this beginner’s coding bundle for $55.97 (a $1,999 value) before codes sell out.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Retail King Microsoft Visual Studio Professional 2022 + The 2024 Premium Learn to Code Certification Bundle $55.97
$1,999.00 Save $1,943.03 Get Deal

TL;DR: The Kinhank Super Console has 70K+ games, can stream movies, and is only $99.99 (reg. $159). 

Opens in a new window Credit: Kinhank Kinhank Super Console X2 Pro Retro Gaming Emulator & Streaming Console $99.99
$159.99 Save $60.00 Get Deal

Finding the perfect gift for a gamer can be a challenge, especially if you want something that isn’t just exciting in the moment, but actually has lasting value. So many modern games rely on online multiplayer, but then once the community moves on to the next thing, there's not much game left to play. 

That's why, this year, maybe it's time to go a little retro. Gamers across the board may love the Kinhank retro console. This old-fashioned gaming console comes preloaded with over 70,000 games spanning decades of gaming history, and it's on sale for $99.99 (down from $159). 

A gift gamers can enjoy for years

There's a generation of games loaded into this console, but don't worry, it's equipped to play everything from retro classics to recent hits. The quad-core Cortex-A53 processor and Mali-G31MP2 GPU keep gameplay smooth, even for more demanding titles. And it comes with two controllers, so you're ready to play out the gate. 

The dual operating systems (EmuELEC 4.6 for gaming and Android 9.0 for apps) make this device more than just a gaming console. The Android system lets you access streaming services, browse the web, and even install apps. 

Setting up your console is straightforward. Just connect it to your TV, projector, or monitor via HDMI, and you’re ready to dive in. The 4K UHD output looks great whether you’re revisiting pixelated classics or streaming modern media.

Shipping is free, too

Why buy one game for someone when you can get them a gaming library? 

Get the Kinhank Super Console X2 on sale for $99.99. 

StackSocial prices subject to change. 

TL;DR: The Hushed Private Phone Line gives you a lifetime second number for calls and texts, ideal for work, dating, and more — and it's $19.99 with code HOLIDAY20.

Opens in a new window Credit: Hushed Hushed Private Phone Line: Lifetime Virtual Number Subscription $19.99
$150.00 Save $130.01 with code HOLIDAY20 Get Deal

Imagine having a phone number that’s yours forever — no contracts, no extra bills, just pure privacy. The Hushed Private Phone Line makes that a reality for just $19.99 (normally $150) when you use code HOLIDAY20 at checkout.

Whether you’re juggling work calls, testing the waters in online dating, or selling your old bike on Craigslist, this virtual number ensures your personal number stays personal.

Hushed gives you access to a second phone number through its secure app, allowing you to make calls and send texts without ever revealing your real number. You’ll choose from hundreds of area codes across the US and Canada, customize your voicemail, and even forward calls if needed — all while using Wi-Fi or data to bypass service charges.

With 6,000 SMS or 1,000 phone minutes per year included, you’ve got plenty of room to stay connected. There are even options available that give you more for a little extra money.

Professionals can keep work and personal calls separate without carrying two phones. Business owners can manage customer communication more efficiently. Online daters can safeguard their privacy, and anyone dealing with strangers online (hello, online marketplaces) can feel more secure.

Even better, there are no monthly fees. For a one-time payment, you get a lifetime virtual number that you can use as long as you need it. Plus, the app makes managing your calls and texts a breeze, putting privacy, convenience, and functionality right at your fingertips.

Use code HOLIDAY20 at checkout to get an extra 20% savings and get this Hushed Private Phone Line for just $19.99.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

TL;DR: Through Dec. 22, save 40% on this refurbished iPad and Beats headphones bundle.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPad (7th gen, 32GB, WiFi) $199.97
$299.99 Save $100.02 Refurbished, with Beats Flex Headphones Bundle Get Deal

You’ve (hopefully) checked off everyone on your holiday shopping list, but what about you? You work hard and deserve to treat yourself to something you’ve always wanted, like an iPad. This deal means you don’t even have to splurge.

When you buy this refurbished Apple iPad (7th gen, 32GB, WiFi) for $199.97, you’ll get a free pair of Beats Flex headphones and a complete set of tablet accessories: a case, screen protector, stylus, and charging set. This offer ends Dec. 22, but we’re expecting to sell out sooner, so don’t wait.

iPad specs

Some people talk about getting an iPad so they can read more, FaceTime family, or start journaling, but we say it’s worth the buy even if you’re only after a bigger screen for social media or want to stream movies in bed.

This refurbished model arrives in grade “A” condition, so you probably won’t even notice — or care — that it had a previous life. Since it comes with a case and screen protector, any monitor blemishes will be concealed anyway. 

Here’s what else to know about the iPad:

• Display: 10.2 inches

• Storage: 32GB

• OS: Updates to current

• Battery: Up to 10 hours

Free Beats headphones

What’s sweeter than an iPad paired with wireless Beats headphones? The fact that those headphones are free.

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We've had strong back-to-back years for horror, with 2022 and 2023 both containing movies that'll likely be scaring people for decades to come. And the good news is, 2024 looks set to carry on the trend.

From the religious horror of Scott Beck and Bryan Woods' Heretic and Arkasha Stevenson's The First Omen to the creeping dread of Daniel Kokotajlo's Starve Acre and Parker Finn's Smile 2, we've rounded up the strongest picks of the year.

Counting down to our very favourite, here are the best horror movies of 2024.

SEE ALSO: The 25 best movies of 2024, and where to watch them 22. Trap

Trap may be more of a straight-up thriller than a horror flick, but for its serial killer shenanigans, it earns a spot on this list. From the concept alone — a murderer must escape a pop concert designed to trap him — you know you're in for a blast. Yet M. Night Shyamalan takes this premise to even more bonkers levels, all fueled by Josh Hartnett's pitch-perfect turn as a serial killer on the verge of snapping. I'll never forget his bizarre suggestion that he and his daughter Riley (Ariel Donoghue) just pop through a trap door in the concert floor because it would be "cool." Or how pop star Lady Raven (Saleka, Shyamalan's own daughter) suddenly snaps into detective mode. Or how Trap doubles as a film about the anxieties of fatherhood — and somehow pulls it off. — Belen Edwards, Entertainment Reporter

How to watch: Trap is available to rent or purchase on Prime Video and Apple TV+.

21. The First Omen

Taking on Immaculate in the nun-themed horror arena and winning, The First Omen acts as a prequel to The Omen franchise, taking things back to 1969 Rome as Margaret (Nell Tiger Free) battles terrifying visions in a new convent.

"In the end, The First Omen offers generous splashes of gore, jump scares, and dread," wrote Mashable's Kristy Puchko in her review. "So if you're up for seeing something more spooky than scary, or more haunting than horrifying, this religious thriller will scratch that itch with a long, putrid claw." — Sam Haysom, Deputy UK Editor

How to watch: The First Omen is now streaming on Disney+.

20. Abigail

A group of criminals find themselves trapped in a house with a monstrous little ballerina in this vampire horror/comedy that Mashable's Kristy Puchko described in her review as "a fresh tale of predator and prey" that's "pretty damn fun".

"Despite the sentimental detours, stodgy staging, and indulgent pacing, Abigail is a blast," she wrote. "It's exactly the kind of gonzo, gory, goofy crowdpleaser you'd hope for, considering its very well-promoted premise." — S.H.

How to watch: Abigail is now streaming on Prime Video and is available for rent or purchase on Apple TV+.

19. Alien: Romulus

Director Fede Álvarez takes the Alien franchise back to basics in this story of young space colonists exploring a space station overrun with Xenomorphs. Alien: Romulus falters at points, with an overreliance on fan service (including one ill-advised cameo) threatening to undercut the film's best moments. But when Romulus hits, it hits. Facehuggers, chestbursters, set pieces bursting at the seams with gloppy goodness… It's enough to make you hoot, holler, and hide in terror. And that's all before Romulus hits us with a gonzo third act featuring one of the franchise's gnarliest creatures yet. — B.E.

How to watch: Alien: Romulus is now streaming on Hulu.

18. Apartment 7A

A Rosemary's Baby prequel was a big gamble to take, but it paid off. Set months before the events of the 1968 classic, Relic director Natalie Erika James takes minor character Terry (Julia Garner), a neighbor of Rosemary who only has a single scene in the original, and fleshes her story out to terrifying effect.

"With Relic, Natalie Erika James spun an intimate tale of mother-daughter relationships and family curses into a rivetingly scary thriller," wrote Mashable's Kristy Puchko in her review. "Here, she uses that gift of emotional intelligence and skill for crafting unsettling scenes to tell a story that's familiar yet all the more frightening for it. We know where Terry's story will end because of Rosemary's Baby. Yet James keeps us at the edge of our seats as she expertly spins a web of rich drama and sly horror, working in heartfelt conversations, shattering jump scares, and defiant dazzle. From Polanski's foundation, she builds a glittering tale of girlhood stolen that is sick, stunning, and horrifyingly relevant." — S.H.

How to watch: Apartment 7A is now streaming on Paramount+.

17. Monolith

Micro-budget Monolith follows a disgraced journalist trying to revive her career with a podcast delving into the unexplained. But when a story about mysterious black bricks lands in her inbox, she finds herself getting sucked into something she genuinely can't make sense of.

"It almost sounds like a challenge: Can you make a feature-length movie with only one on-screen actor, one location, and a budget of less than half a million?" I wrote in my review for Mashable. "Written by Lucy Campbell and directed by Matt Vesely, eerie sci-fi mystery Monolith exists within these potentially tricky parameters. Almost the entire movie takes place in a modern, isolated house in the rolling Adelaide Hills, South Australia, following a disgraced journalist (Lily Sullivan) as she yarn-balls a weird global enigma for her new podcast series. The film could easily have been a dismally failed experiment, but Monolith's logistical restrictions actually help it shine, adding a claustrophobia and sense of realism that only heightens the core mystery."

Once you've watched the movie, see if you agree with our interpretation of the ending. — S.H.

How to watch: Monolith is now streaming on Prime Video in the U.S., on Now TV in the UK, and on Binge in Australia.

16. Starve Acre

Daniel Kokotajlo's nightmare folk horror – based on Andrew Michael Hurley's novel of the same name – will make you never look at rabbits the same way again. Following a university professor (Matt Smith) and his wife (Morfydd Clark) in the aftermath of their son's tragic death, the movie deals in local legends and the mysterious presence of a figure named Jack Gray — an unseen spirit that haunted their son and seems determined to continue haunting the couple. A truly upsetting meditation on unimaginable grief with some stunning performances and horrifying moments (if you're a bit confused after the ending, we have an explainer on Mashable).* — S.H.

How to watch: Starve Acre is now streaming on BFI Player via Prime Video in the UK and is available to rent or purchase on Prime Video in the U.S.

15. Caddo Lake

OK, so you could definitely argue that this one is more sci-fi/mystery than horror, but the combination of missing children and weird time distortion is scary enough for it to make the cut. Celine Held and Logan George's genre-blender follows Paris (Dylan O'Brien), a man struggling to understand the strange illness that led to his mother's death, and Ellie (Eliza Scanlen), a student desperately trying to find her missing stepsister. What follows is a tense and twisty reality-bending puzzle that you may require an ending explainer to make sense of. — S.H.

How to watch: Caddo Lake is now streaming on Max.

14. MadS

One of the most uniquely chilling horror movies of 2024 was this biting zombie thriller out of France, all shot as if in one continuous take. Centering on a devil-may-care squad of hard-partying teens, MadS begins with a party-drug run, in which rich and reckless 18-year-old Romain (Milton Riche) collides with a stranger covered in blood. While he tries to brush it off for his night out, he's carrying more than trauma with him as he connects with his girlfriend Anais (Laurie Pavy) and her chic bestie Julia (Lucille Guillaume). Only horror will follow.

As I cheered in my review, "MadS binds us to these characters, allowing us to experience the claustrophobic frenzy and fear at their sides. No cutaways will offer an escape to another location or from the tension. Doggedly, we follow them as they run, bike, and clamor for salvation. We watch helpless as they transform from frivolous to ferocious, their teeth gone from points of pride to pointed weapons. And we share in their horror as the world around them goes from glowing and full of thrills to wretchedly caked in gore and rife with terror." — Kristy Puchko, Entertainment Editor

How to watch: MadS is now streaming on Shudder.

13. In a Violent Nature

A slasher movie shot almost entirely from the perspective of the killer (Johnny, played by Ry Barrett), I described In a Violent Nature in my Mashable review as "a fun squirm-fest with visuals to delight and appall." Writer/director Chris Nash's movie is a beautifully filmed play on the classic high-school-teens-stalked-by-masked-killer-in-the-woods subgenre that uses its murder-y POV to its advantage.

"For the bulk of the movie, the camera hovers somewhere behind Johnny's broad shoulders as he makes his slow, unrelenting way through the forest towards his next victim. There's an inevitability to Johnny's nonstop trudging that heightens the tension in a way you don't really expect," I wrote. "The device could get repetitive, but crucially Nash knows when enough's enough — at several key moments in the film, including the campfire origin story that introduces us to the core characters, he switches the perspective up." — S.H.

How to watch: In a Violent Nature is available to rent or purchase on Prime Video, Apple TV+, Fandango at Home, and Microsoft.

12. Sleep

"Someone's inside." Two words begin writer/director Jason Yu's feature debut Sleep, uttered by a slumbering Hyun-su (Lee Sun-kyun) sitting at the end of his bed. This terrifies his wife Soo-jin (Jung Yu-mi) and is the beginning of a long line of erratic, disturbing behaviour. Is it a sleep disorder or something more sinister? A subtle horror about the anxieties of marriage and new parenthood, Sleep deprives its protagonists of vital rest, instead sending them into a waking nightmare of somnambulism and threat — mainly to the couple's extremely cute Pomeranian, Pepper, but also, you know, the baby.

Sleep doesn't reinvent the wheel as a slow-burn, possibly supernatural horror, instead leaning on well-worn markers of the genre — the increasingly shocking events, the enlisting of a medium, the race to discover the truth. However, Lee and Jung give intense performances that make the film feel fresh, while cinematographer Tae-soo Kim and editor Meeyeon Han find unique ways to capture the inside of a small apartment for maximum tension. Both Soo-jin and Hyun-su fear what the other is capable of, with the film pivoting from one parent's unconscious fears to the other's over the course of a sharp 90 minutes. — Shannon Connellan, UK Editor

How to watch: Sleep is available to rent or purchase on Prime Video.

11. The Platform 2

Galder Gaztelu-Urrutia's sequel takes us back to the nightmarish world of the original: A vertical prison with a table of food that travels slowly from the top to the bottom, with the prisoners at the top eating well — and the ones at the bottom starving to death.

"The original's nightmarishly simple concept was so compelling I wanted to see more from that world, but I also worried about what a sequel could say or show that the first movie hadn't," I wrote in my Mashable review. "I'm happy to report my fears weren't necessary. The Platform 2 is a powerful continuation of the bad dream that began with Galder Gaztelu-Urrutia's 2019 movie, building upon its brutalist universe while changing the rules just enough to send a new message."

Oh, and if you get to the end and you're scratching your head a bit, we have an explainer here.* — S.H.

How to watch: The Platform 2 is now streaming on Netflix.

10. Arcadian

Nicolas Cage takes on a monster-packed apocalypse alongside his teenage sons in this remote survival thriller from Ben Brewer that's as much about family drama as it is about nighttime critters.

"It's the monsters that bring the big, delicious, funky thrills of Arcadian, sparking screams and gasps and cheers. But it's Cage and his on-screen kids who give the movie stakes and the emotional center that is required for a great monster movie, be it Jaws or Alien," wrote Mashable's Kristy Puchko in her review. "Simply put, Arcadian is a rollicking thrill ride, fueled by creature-feature thrills. But what makes this good movie pretty damn great is the human story at its heart, which is compelling on its own." — S.H.

How to watch: Arcadian is now streaming on Shudder.

9. Smile 2

After the success of Parker Finn's Smile, expectations for the sequel were high — and you'd better believe that thing delivered. Following on from the events of the first movie, Smile 2 takes its cursed premise into the world of fame, following pop star Skye Riley (Naomi Scott) on a world tour-turned-nightmare.

"To match his superstar heroine, Finn goes all in on creating an unpredictable narrative that's full of jump scares, creepy imagery, and spine-tingling sound effects," wrote Monica Castillo in her Mashable review. "There are even more violent injuries, body horror, and bloody deaths to make an audience recoil, and plenty of upsetting details, from Skye's compulsive hair-pulling habit (aka trichotillomania) to a group of smiling backup dancers chasing Skye through her apartment in choreographed formation. These scares can feel delightfully over the top, almost like a carnival ride, but they're as creative and horrific as the best parts of the Final Destination series." — S.H.

How to watch: Smile 2 is now streaming on Paramount+.

8. Nosferatu

Robert Eggers sinks his teeth into F.W. Murnau's 1922 horror classic Nosferatu, delivering a reimagining that takes the original's psychosexual subtext to new heights. Thomas and Ellen Hutter's (Nicholas Hoult and Lily-Rose Depp) life as newlyweds gets off to a rocky start when Thomas must travel to Transylvania for business, but it only gets worse from there when it turns out his client, Count Orlok (Bill Skarsgård), is an undead vampire with an obsessive connection to Ellen. What follows is a seductive tale of creeping darkness (rendered literal by cinematographer Jarin Blaschke's impeccable work) and repression come to light. Boasting exquisite craftsmanship and impeccable performances — look no further than Orlok's decaying body or Depp's exceptionally committed take on Ellen's possession — Nosferatu has all the makings of a gothic horror classic. — B.E.

How to watch: Nosferatu premieres in theatres Dec. 25.

7. Cuckoo

Tilman Singer's horror about a teenager being stalked by a stranger in the mountains was described by Siddhant Adlakha as "a fun midnight genre romp that works despite its goofiest elements" in his Mashable review.

"A mountainous horror film reminiscent of The Shining — albeit with far more overt body horror — it follows the travails of a family of four as they take up residence near a fancy lodge in an isolated corner of the German Alps," he wrote. "When strange sounds emanating from nearby forests begin to have bizarre bodily effects on some of the guests, moody 17-year-old Gretchen (Hunter Schafer of Euphoria) ends up stumbling upon an ongoing investigation into something both silly and sinister. With its tightly wound atmosphere and an impeccable ensemble that throws everything at the wall, Cuckoo emerges as a largely unique work despite its many familiar elements, thanks in part to its increasingly twisted implications surrounding gender and biology. It's incredibly strange and deviously fun." — S.H.

How to watch: Cuckoo premieres on Hulu Dec. 17.

6. It's What's Inside

One of the most mind-bending movies of 2024 begins with a slasher setup: Years after a dramatic falling-out, a gaggle of college friends reunite on the eve of one of their crew's wedding to reconnect and party hard. But rather than a masked killer in their midst, the mayhem device in this clever thriller from writer/director Greg Jardin is a party game that offers players the power to swap bodies. Dare to give it a go?

Slipping into the skin of lovers, frenemies, and rivals, these twentysomethings flirt, fight, and deceive until a deadly turn raises the stakes. And every step of this movie is gleefully twisted. In his Mashable review, Siddhant Adlakha raved, "Wielding devilishly enjoyable visual language, it provides winking hints of catharsis that make even its most audacious, galaxy-brained genre swerves feel like a couple's therapy session atop the world's tallest, fastest roller coaster. It's a frenetic and fascinating film that can't be missed."* — K.P.

How to watch: It's What's Inside is now streaming on Netflix.

5. Heretic

Heretic is a thrilling foray into talkative horror from writer-directors Scott Beck and Bryan Woods (A Quiet Place, 65). Hugh Grant stars as Mr. Reed, a man who's trapped two young Mormon missionaries (Yellowjackets' Sophie Thatcher and The Fabelmans' Chloe East) in his tricked-out house of horrors. He claims that all he wants is a spirited debate about theology, but his methods — like the aforementioned trapping of women — leave much to be desired. Heretic's religious talking points can be a tad surface level, but Grant still sells the hell out them with a performance that takes the charm of any of his famed rom-com roles and flips it on its head. We may never watch Notting Hill the same way again. — B.E.

How to watch: Heretic is available to rent or purchase on Prime Video and Apple TV+.

4. I Saw the TV Glow

Urban legend intersects with childhood memory in Jane Schoenbrun's haunting and mysterious I Saw the TV Glow, an unconventional story about two kids becoming obsessed with a strange TV show that may not be all it seems.

"It's an attempt to place years of confusing, festering emotions surrounding unbelonging into something that has shape or form — something that makes sense — but emerges as a desperate, primal scream, exploding with color and shadow," wrote Siddhant Adlakha in his review for Mashable. "The film is the disturbing sum of its lingering sensations that burrow their way beneath your skin, refusing to leave even after you've left the theater, or once you've cried yourself to sleep. But at the same time, its totality — the sheer fact of its existence, as an unbridled, uninhibited expression of the self — is exuberant and overwhelming." — S.H.

How to watch: I Saw the TV Glow is now streaming on Max.

3. Late Night with the Devil

If you like your horror lean and mean, you must see this '70s-set indie from writers/directors Cameron Cairnes and Colin Cairnes (aka the Cairnes Brothers).

David Dastmalchian, a character actor who's unnerved us in The Boogeyman and Prisoners, headlines here as Jack Delroy, a talk show host who is so determined to best Johnny Carson's ratings that he invites an allegedly possessed girl to be a guest on his Halloween special. Part showbiz satire, part found-footage horror, Late Night with the Devil uses a low-fi look and keenly creepy effects to create a throwback tale of terror that is rank with fresh blood. While the film's been criticized for its use of AI, its scares are so satisfying that it earned praise from none other than the master of horror himself, Stephen King. So, take a cue from our review: "Tune in and hang on. Dastmalchian and his demon are coming for you."* —K.P.

How to watch: Late Night with the Devil is now streaming on AMC+, and available for rent or purchase on Prime Video.

2. The Substance

The Substance is one of the most critically heralded horror films of the year and also one of the most polarizing among our team. As the ferocious follow-up to her grisly and glorious directorial debut Revenge, French filmmaker Coralie Fargeat pulled no punches, delivering a thriller that's a gut-churning knockout.

Demi Moore stars as Elisabeth Sparkle, an actress whose star is fading as she ages, and heartless Hollywood execs (exemplified by a shellfish-chomping Dennis Quaid) hunger for young beauties and fresh blood. So when a miracle drug allows her to split her life with a perky younger model of herself (Drive-Away Dolls' Margaret Qualley), she leaps at the chance. But the brutal cost it takes is ugly.

A ghastly satire about the misogynistic beauty standards applied to women, The Substance shocked and awed critics and audiences alike with its giddily gruesome imagery. In his review for Mashable, Siddhant Adlakha argued "its style has no real substance." Others on our team were apoplectic over the movie's most twisted turns. But the majority of Mashable's team reveled in Fargeat's brutal honesty, which explored how vanity and insecurity can warp a person, inside and out. Speaking for those of us who loved The Substance, there's something undeniably exhilarating about a movie that's as proudly pink as Barbie but as unhinged as the gnarliest midnight movie.* — K.P.

How to watch: The Substance is now streaming on MUBI.

1. Oddity

In a year rich with sensational horror offerings, Oddity was among our very favorite. A follow-up to Irish filmmaker Damian McCarthy's deeply creepy Caveat, Oddity seamlessly blends a barrage of spooky subgenres with Irish lore to create something sickening, scary, strange, and timeless.

As I recounted in my review of the movie's SXSW premiere, this supernatural thriller begins with a seeming slasher setup. A woman home alone hears an unwelcome knock at the door, and then is offered an impossible decision that will determine life or death. Keeping his audience on their toes, McCarthy then leaps to a year later, introducing us to a visually impaired psychic and her oddity shop, full of cursed curiosities. From there, ghosts, witchcraft, and psychological thriller elements come into play, mostly within a remote home that looks just wrong from every angle. And that's before the creepy Wooden Man arrives as a grim gift. In this way, Oddity plays like an anthology, unfurling horrific surprises, intense scares, and strange stories, but all within one sophisticated, unnerving saga. The result is a movie that's not just a must-see for horror fans, it's a must-see over and over again to catch every cryptic detail.* — K.P.

How to watch: Oddity is now streaming on Shudder.

*This blurb has appeared on a previous Mashable list.