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In Memoriam: The tech that died in 2024

Mashable - Sat, 11/30/2024 - 05:00

Another year is coming to a close. As we say goodbye to 2024, let us take a moment to remember the tech that won't be continuing on with us into 2025.

As it goes with the passing of time, tech products that were once shiny and new have been rendered obsolete. Others lived short lives at the expense of companies pivoting to different, more lucrative goals. On that note, the generative AI boom shows no signs of slowing down.This year's AI offerings highlighted the challenges of finding killer use cases that deliver genuine, transformative technology that, at best, provide minor productivity gains and, at worst, create frustrating inaccuracies.

Some AI tech gadgets like the Humane AI pin and the Rabbit R1 simply fell flat, unable to provide the bare minimum of reliable features, let alone something revolutionary. However, you won't see them on this list because they're technically still alive, albeit on life support.

Instead we've rounded up the most noteworthy tech deaths that have officially departed this world. Join us as we look back and reflect on their impact, whether it was significant, trivial, or downright baffling (looking at you, Meta).

Google Jamboard and Google Podcasts

It wouldn't be a tech death roundup without some entries from Google. The tech giant is notorious for ambitiously launching new products, only to ruthlessly cut them down a few years later. This year, Google Jamboard and Google Podcasts were on the chopping block. 

Google Jamboard was a whiteboard device and accompanying app for Google Workspace users to collaborate on projects in an interactive, scrapbook-esque way. Back in 2016, Mashable said it "makes collaborative work feel like playtime." But in September 2023, Google announced it would be winding down Jamboard by the end of 2024. Instead, Google said it would integrate Google Workspace with third-party partners FigJam by Figma, Lucidspark by Lucid Software, and the visual workspace Miro for its collaborative whiteboard tools. 

Say goodbye to Google Jamboard. Credit: Kiyoshi Ota / Bloomberg / Getty Images

It's not proper to speak ill of the dead, but discontinuing Google Podcasts kind of makes sense. Google announced it would be sunsetting the standalone podcast-hosting app this year and migrate its listeners over to YouTube Music. 

It's a logical choice given consumers' listening habits. "According to Edison, about 23 percent of weekly podcast users in the US say YouTube is their most frequently used service, versus just 4 percent for Google Podcasts," said the Google announcement. Plus, forcing users to listen to podcasts on YouTube Music means more eyeballs for ad revenue and subscriptions to the premium version, which costs $11 a month.

And that's not even all the stuff Google killed this year. In 2024, we also said goodbye to Chromecast, VPN by Google One, DropCam, and Keen. If you want to pay your respects, we recommend visiting the Google Graveyard.

Meta AI celebrity avatars

Another year, another installment of Meta missing the mark with technology that no one asked for. This time it was a confusing collection of AI personas that used the likenesses of celebrities, that weren't even AI versions of those celebrities. Instead we got Kendall Jenner as an AI bestie, Tom Brady as a fitness guru, and bafflingly, Snoop Dogg as a Dungeon Master for Dungeons and Dragons. 

Meta's confusing AI personas were not long for this world. Credit: David Paul Morris / Bloomberg / Getty Images

Despite reportedly paying millions of dollars per celebrity to license their likenesses, the investment did not pay off.  After launching at Meta Connect in September 2023, Meta scrapped the AI personas in August 2024. The company didn't provide any reasoning for its decision to discontinue the feature, but the AI personas never gained much traction based on their follower count. 

So you're no longer able to chat with a bot that has Kendall Jenner as its profile picture and a vaguely similar influencer girly vibe. But don't worry, we still have Meta AI's celebrity voices, so at least these AI voices are clones of who they claim to be? As ever, we remain confused with Meta's strategic vision.

Meta Quest 2 and Quest Pro

Old versions replaced by new and improved ones are part of the tech gadget lifecycle. But saying goodbye to the Meta Quest 2 and Meta Quest Pro VR headsets was a tough loss. In its place, Meta introduced us to the Quest 3S, which combines Quest 2 and Quest Pro specs like full-color passthrough and XR capabilities, thereby making the older devices more or less obsolete. In a stirring eulogy, Mashable Tech Reporter Alex Perry wrote: 

While the Quest 2 wasn't the first VR headset to work without a powerful gaming PC (obviously, there was a Quest 1), its sub-$500 price tag (which included controllers) at launch in 2019 made it an incredibly appealing option for the VR-curious. 

For many, the Quest 2 may have provided their first VR experience. The Quest Pro never seemed to catch on quite as much, most likely due to its $1,499 price tag, but its full-color passthrough and AR features felt ahead of their time.

The Meta Quest 2 was one of the best early VR headsets. Credit: Yoshikazu Tsuno / Gamma-Rapho / Getty Images

Alas, such is the cycle of life. But the Quest 2 and Quest Pro will be remembered for bringing VR headsets to the masses, which is more than can be said for the Apple Vision Pro.

Kindle Oasis

As far as e-readers go, the Kindle Oasis had a good long life. Amazon launched the Kindle Oasis in 2016 with a thicker edge on one side that housed physical buttons to turn the pages. 

The design gave users a convenient way to hold the e-reader without obscuring or accidentally tapping the screen, and the buttons provided a pleasing tactility. But by this year, it was the only device in the Kindle lineup that had physical buttons, which seems to signal imminent death for tech gadgets. "Once current inventory of Kindle Oasis sells out online and in stores, we will not restock the device," Amazon confirmed to The Verge this October. "Today, all of our devices are touch-forward, which is what our customers are comfortable with." 

Kindle Oasis fans will miss the buttons. Credit: Joni Hanebutt / Shutterstock

Kindle Oasis users took to Reddit to express their grief. "Bought my Oasis when it was released solely for the page turn buttons and can't imagine living without them," said one Redditor. "I'm just not buying another Kindle without page turn buttons. It's a deal breaker for me," said another. But for Amazon. it's RIP buttons. Long live touch screens.

Jabra Elite earbuds

This was the year Jabra succumbed to the highly competitive earbud market. This past June, Jabra's parent company GN announced that it would be "winding down its Elite and Talk product lines." Jabra's lineup of Elite wireless earbuds regularly made "best of" lists for sound quality, usability, and features like noise cancellation. They were also more budget-friendly compared to premium earbuds from brands like Apple and Bose.

Jabra can no longer compete in the cutthroat earbud market. Credit: David Paul Morris / Bloomberg / Getty Images

Jabra was one of the first companies to start making wireless earbuds. But as CEO of GN Store Nord Peter Karlstromer said, "the markets… have changed over time." Simply put, competing in a saturated market has become too costly. 

However, Jabra isn't going away for good. Instead it will focus on OTC hearing aids, gaming, and office communication products lines; markets where Jabra has stronger positions. But it's the end of the line for Jabra's consumer-focused audio tech.

Apple Pay Later

Apple Pay Later didn't last long in this world. The BNPL (Buy Now Pay Later) tool launched in October 2023, but was shut down less than a year later. Apple confirmed to 9to5Mac saying "we will no longer offer Apple Pay Later in the U.S." 

Instead of Apple Pay Later, the tech giant will offer installment loans through third parties. Credit: Apple

Apple Pay Later was only available in the U.S., which suggests it never gained much traction. But it's likely that the company found it more practical to offer installment loans through third-party services rather than managing microloans directly — exactly the approach Apple has recently adopted. Instead of the self-funded Pay Later model, Apple now offers the ability to apply for "installment loans" through participating banks and lenders like Affirm and Klarna. 

So Apply Pay Later is dead, but its replacement is more or less the same for users. 

Black Friday win — get a lifetime of Windows 11 Pro for just $19.97

Mashable - Sat, 11/30/2024 - 05:00

TL;DR: Take advantage of holiday sale pricing to upgrade to Microsoft Windows 11 Pro with a lifetime license for just $19.97 (reg. $199).

Opens in a new window Credit: Microsoft Microsoft Windows 11 Pro $19.97
$199.00 Save $179.03 Lifetime license Get Deal

Looking for a smarter, sleeker, and faster way to use your PC? With Microsoft Windows 11 Pro, you’ll get an operating system built for productivity, creativity, and next-gen gaming. Now, for a limited time, grab a lifetime license for only $19.97 (reg. $199) during this Black Friday sale.

Windows 11 Pro takes the best of Windows 10 and elevates it with powerful tools and AI-driven features like Copilot. You'll be able to streamline your workdays and ask your PC to adjust settings, summarize web pages, or even generate code — all hands-free. It's an upgrade designed for professionals, gamers, and multitaskers alike.

Wind down the year and kick off the new one with a better PC experience. Features like snap layouts and virtual desktops help you multitask effortlessly, while DirectX 12 Ultimate enhances gaming with any visuals. Advanced security tools such as TPM 2.0 and BitLocker encryption protect your data, giving you peace of mind.

If you’re upgrading an older PC or need a new license, Windows 11 Pro provides a sleek, modern interface and powerful tools for both work and play. And with this lifetime license, there’s no subscription to worry about — just a one-time payment and lifetime access and Microsoft customer support.

At this low price that saves you $179 off the retail price, it's an undeniable way to set yourself up for success going forward.

Get a lifetime license to Microsoft Windows 11 Pro for just $19.97 (reg. $199) during this Black Friday sale when you order through December 8.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Launch a coding career with Microsoft Visual Studio and 15 courses for just $56

Mashable - Sat, 11/30/2024 - 05:00

TL;DR: This Black Friday offer includes Microsoft Visual Studio 2022 and a 15-course learn-to-code bundle for just $55.97.

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

Give the gift of code this holiday season! Whether you’re shopping for an experienced developer or an aspiring coder ready to take on the tech world, this Black Friday deal has it all. For just $55.97, unlock Microsoft Visual Studio Professional 2022 plus The 2024 Premium Learn to Code Certification Bundle with 15 courses covering Python, JavaScript, C++, OpenAI, and more.

Visual Studio — the Developer’s Ultimate Tool

Visual Studio is a powerhouse IDE that enables developers to craft mobile, desktop, and web apps with efficiency and precision. With IntelliCode for smarter suggestions and CodeLens for better insights, this 64-bit IDE is perfect for tackling big projects while boosting productivity. From cross-platform builds with .NET MAUI to responsive Web UIs with Blazor, Visual Studio can be your partner in innovation.

Comprehensive Courses for Every Skill Level

Want to master Python? Build interactive web projects with JavaScript? Explore OpenAI fundamentals? This bundle has it all. Hands-on projects and real-world applications make these courses practical, whether you’re a total beginner or looking to sharpen your skills.

Python for Beginners helps you get started with one of the most in-demand languages. And the CHATGPT Series: OPENAI Fundamentals 2024 course explores the cutting edge of AI-powered coding.

This bundle doesn’t just save you money—it opens doors to endless possibilities. Whether you’re helping a friend launch their career or you’re diving into coding for the first time, this duo gives you the tools you need to succeed.

Grab the Microsoft Visual Studio 2022 + Learn-to-Code bundle for just $55.97 during this Black Friday sale.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Give old memories new life with the Kodak Slide N Scan

Mashable - Sat, 11/30/2024 - 05:00

TL;DR: Digitize and preserve your old film and photo memories with the Kodak Slide N Scan Scanner — on sale now for just $164.97 for the holidays.

Opens in a new window Credit: Kodak Kodak Slide N Scan Film & Slide Scanner $164.97
$224.99 Save $60.02 Get Deal

Pretty much every family has those old photo albums and boxes of slides somewhere. You know they’re filled with priceless memories, but they’re gathering dust because digging through them feels like a project. While they are treasure chests of nostalgia, they don't really fit into the modern world.

The Kodak Slide N Scan Film and Slide Scanner is an incredibly easy way to bring those moments into the digital age. You can pick it up for just $164.97 (reg. $224) through December 8.

Think of it as a time machine for your family photos. With the Kodak Slide N Scan, you can digitize color and black-and-white negatives (135, 110, 126) and standard slides into high-quality JPEGs. Once scanned, those images can be safely stored online, turned into photo books, or shared on social media.

Your Instagram feed need a little retro flair? You can surprise your followers with a stunning shot from your parents’ honeymoon or your grandparents’ first car — captioned with a dash of nostalgia.

The Kodak Slide N Scan is designed to be intuitive, with a bright five-inch LCD screen that lets you preview your scans in real time. You can even make quick edits like rotating, cropping, or adjusting colors right on the device.

And if you're looking for a gift that’s both unique and meaningful, the Kodak Slide N Scan could be a hit for the family historian or creative mind in your life.

Get the Kodak Slide N Scan Film and Slide Scanner while it's available for just $164.97 (reg. $224) through December 8.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Get a travel adapter to charge up anything, anywhere for just $25

Mashable - Sat, 11/30/2024 - 05:00

TL;DR: This HyperGear 4-in-1 WorldCharge Adapter is just $24.99 and will help you stay charged in 150+ countries.

Opens in a new window Credit: HyperGear HyperGear WorldCharge Universal Travel Adapter with USB-C $24.99
$29.99 Save $5.00 Get Deal

When you’re off exploring new destinations or visiting old favorites, there’s one travel companion you can’t leave behind — a reliable way to keep your devices charged.

The HyperGear WorldCharge Universal Travel Adapter is your ultimate sidekick, built to handle outlets in over 150 countries. From the bustling streets of Berlin to the beaches of Australia, this compact adapter ensures your devices stay powered no matter where your adventures take you.

This 4-in-1 travel adapter is cleverly designed with retractable prongs for US, UK, EU, and AUS outlets, making it your go-to solution for global compatibility. Its lightweight and compact size means it’ll slip into your suitcase without a fuss, while its ability to charge up to four devices at once makes it ideal for powering your smartphone, laptop, tablet, and more, all from a single outlet.

The built-in 15W USB-C port offers blazing charging speeds, capable of boosting your devices to 70 percent in under an hour. Pair this with two high-speed USB-A ports and a universal AC socket, and you’ll wonder how you ever traveled without it. Whether prepping for a business presentation or capturing photos of your trip, this adapter helps keep your tech ready to go.

Safety is key when charging abroad, and HyperGear delivers with built-in overload protection. Rest easy knowing your devices are safeguarded against short circuits and overcurrents. Plus, with certifications from the FCC, CE, and RoHS, you can trust this adapter to perform wherever you plug in.

Get ready to power up anywhere. Have this travel MVP delivered in time for holiday gifting when you order through December 15.

Ideal for any traveler on your holiday list, this HyperGear 4-in-1 WorldCharge Adapter is just $24.99 for a limited time.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Black Friday extended: Refurbished iPad Pro for creatives, still 60% off

Mashable - Sat, 11/30/2024 - 05:00

TL;DR: While supplies last, get a refurbished 2020 iPad Pro for $519.97 with this extended Black Friday sale.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Refurbished Apple iPad Pro (128GB, WiFi) $519.97
$1,299.00 Save $779.03 Get Deal

I have a secret: I’ve been running my small art business for four years, all from my iPad Pro. It was originally supposed to be a design tool, but now it’s my go-to for updating my website, email, video chats, and everything else. My only regret? I didn’t buy it on sale.

If you couldn’t decide on a Black Friday iPad deal yesterday, here’s your second chance. This iPad Pro 12.9-inch is an excellent choice for those who want a large screen, enough power for creative tasks, and some fun on the side. A refurbished model is only $519.97 until they sell out (a $1,299 value).

Here’s why I recommend it

Anyone who wants an iPad for digital art should seriously consider a Pro model. This one has an Apple A12Z Bionic chip, which basically means your art apps won’t crash. Previously, I had an iPad mini that would freeze with Procreate, which was a nightmare. 

Plus, you’ll have a gigantic screen. Honestly, at first, I worried it was too big, but once I was designing stickers, I appreciated the extra screen space — it’s so much easier on the eyes.

Other notable features:

  • 128GB of storage to download all your favorite apps and store files

  • 10-hour maximum battery life for interrupted work sessions

  • Front and rear HD cameras, plus Face ID for fast sign-ins

  • It’s compatible with the Apple Pencil 2 (sold separately)

How good can pre-owned be?

I wish I had purchased a refurbished iPad Pro instead of spending four figures because I could’ve saved 60%. The only difference is that you might notice some minor cosmetic blemishes, but it has a grade “A” refurbished rating, so probably not even that.

Take home one of these iPad Pros for creatives while they’re $519.97 with this extended Black Friday sale (reg. $1,299). No coupon is needed, but they’re selling out fast.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

You can still save 30% on the Crucial X10 Pro 2TB SSD after Black Friday

Mashable - Sat, 11/30/2024 - 04:53

Save $62: As of Nov. 30, the Crucial X10 Pro 2TB Portable SSD is on sale for $146.99 at in the Amazon Black Friday sale. That’s 30% off its $208.99 list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Crucial Crucial X10 Pro 2TB $146.99 at Amazon
$208.99 Save $62.00 Get Deal

Cloud Storage is excellent, but it's always good to back up your files, projects, and other essential things, such as family photos, locally. No one likes forgetting their password, after all. Black Friday sales are still out in full force, with the Crucial X10 Pro 2TB Portable SSD deal a highlight on Amazon. At $146.99, buyers get a 30% Black Friday discount off its usual $208.99 price tag.

This SSD has great read and write speeds, which is ideal for big editing projects or storing those huge games that won't fit on a PC's internal hard drive. It's a straightforward means of achieving read speeds of 2,100MB/s and write speeds of 2,000MB/s. Need to get a render done at home and then take that into the office? This is the solution.

SEE ALSO: 2024 Black Friday ads: Best deals from Amazon, Target, Walmart, Best Buy, Home Depot, and more

Your backups will be safe on here, too, thanks to its IP55-rated water and dust resistance. It's also drop-safe up to 7.5 feet; this external SSD can survive just about anything short of a circular saw. So don't worry about being out and about with this bad boy; it's covered your data.

SEE ALSO: Get both Hulu and Disney+ for $2.99 per month for Black Friday

Its USB interface is compatible with almost anything, including Windows PCs, Macs, iPads, Android phones, and even the iPhone 15. You'll have a USB-C to lightning or USB-A lead for anything without a USB-C port, but you'll also be throttling read and write speeds as a result.

At just 65 x 50 mm in size with an anodized aluminum shell, the X10 Pro is sleek, portable, and even comes with a lanyard hole for added convenience. Its 2TB storage offers plenty of space for your photos, videos, and files, making it a steal at this price. Ready to boost your storage game? Grab this Black Friday deal before it's gone.

These Black Friday Deals Are Still Live. Get Them Before They're Gone.

Save over $500 on the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 in the Amazon Black Friday sale

Mashable - Sat, 11/30/2024 - 04:45

Save $505: As of Nov. 30, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 (512 GB) is on sale for $1,514.99 in the Amazon Black Friday sale, 25% off its $2,019.99 list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 (512 GB) $1,514.99 at Amazon
$2,019.99 Save $505.00 Get Deal

In Amazon's Black Friday sale, you can snag the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 foldable phone for $1,514.99, saving 25% (or a hefty $505) off its usual $2,019.99 price tag. The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6 is an improvement over the Fold 5 (which was pretty much the Fold 4) in every way. Tiny adjustments include a wider front screen and a better hinge that sees the Fold 6 collapsing flat instead of resembling a school folder.

Thanks to its 7.6-inch AMOLED screen, the Galaxy Z Fold 6 is more than just a mini tablet in your pocket. It's perfect for gaming, multitasking, or enjoying your favorite content. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor ensures smooth, lightning-fast performance for multitasking and creative processes such as image and video editing.

SEE ALSO: 2024 Black Friday ads: Best deals from Amazon, Target, Walmart, Best Buy, Home Depot, and more

Circle to Search makes browsing easier than ever. Just draw a circle around something on your screen, and the phone helps you find it online. If you're traveling, the Handsfree Live Interpreter makes navigating language barriers seamless, offering translations in up to 16 languages right on the dual screens in FlexMode.

SEE ALSO: Get both Hulu and Disney+ for $2.99 per month for Black Friday

Photography buffs will love the AI-powered photo editing tools. It lets you fine-tune shots, remove unwanted objects, or boost colors on the fly. And with 512GB of storage, you'll have ample space for all those high-resolution pictures, apps, and more.

Available in navy, pink, and silver, the Z Fold 6 has a colorway for everyone. Are you worried about the screen breaking or moving to a foldable handset? A one-year manufacturer warranty and free returns are included, making it a low-risk way to jump into foldable tech. Ready to fold? Grab this Black Friday deal while it lasts.

This Is Your Last Chance To Save

Snag $75 in free credit with the Meta Quest 3 Black Friday deal

Mashable - Sat, 11/30/2024 - 04:39

FREE $75 CREDIT: As of Nov. 30, the Meta Quest 3 512GB is available for $499.99 with a free $75 Amazon digital credit, Batman: Arkham Shadow, and a three-month trial of Meta Quest+.

Opens in a new window Credit: Meta Quest 3 Meta Quest 3 (512 GB) Get Deal

This isn't a Meta Quest 3 Black Friday deal; it's an opportunity to become the dark knight with some promo credit in the back bat pocket. We're joking (kind of), but Meta Quest 3 (512 GB) is here to make your mixed-reality dreams a reality with a deal you don't want to miss.

Amazon is offering the Meta Quest 3 for $499.99 with an extra $75 digital credit, a free copy of Batman: Arkham Shadow, and a three-month trial of Meta Quest+ ($70 combined value).

This is the most powerful Quest, thanks to a 4K+ Infinite Display that sharpens visuals and expands your field of view for a truly immersive experience. Explore new worlds and create your dream home gym or virtual movie theater; Quest 3 thinks outside the box without being tethered to an external unit or gaming PC/console.

SEE ALSO: 2024 Black Friday ads: Best deals from Amazon, Target, Walmart, Best Buy, Home Depot, and more

The strap and weight of Quest 3 are a massive upgrade from Quest 2. This headset stays put without killing your neck after an hour or so. Plus, its Touch Plus Controllers offer incredible precision. Controllerless hand-tracking lets you interact with content naturally. No controller is required for casual browsing or productivity apps, but it's a better overall experience.

SEE ALSO: Get both Hulu and Disney+ for $2.99 per month for Black Friday

When it comes to storage, the 512GB model ensures there's plenty of space for games, apps, and videos. And thanks to the Batman: Arkham Shadow Black Friday bundle, you can jump straight into the action with one of the year's most talked-about VR titles.

The $75 promotional Black Friday Amazon credit is a tidy way to upgrade your Meta Quest 3 setup. The Kiwi K4 strap is a battery pack head strap, which is a better fit and more valuable than the standard one that comes in the box, for example.

Bag These Black Friday Deals Before It's Too Late

The best Black Friday Samsung Galaxy S24+ deal is still live at Amazon

Mashable - Sat, 11/30/2024 - 04:31

SAVE $258: As of Nov. 30, the Samsung Galaxy S24+ is on sale for $741.75 in Amazon's Black Friday sale. That’s 26% off its $999.99 list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung Galaxy S24+ $741.75 at Amazon
$999.99 Save $258.24 Get Deal

The best time to grab a beast of an Android handset is Black Friday, and Amazon has you covered with the Samsung Galaxy S24+. It's currently 26% off, usually a $999.99 price tag, with a slashed price of $741.75, including free returns. These kinds of deals make Black Friday.

What makes the Galaxy S24+ stand out? It boasts a stunning 6.7-inch AMOLED display with a crisp 3120 x 1440 resolution and a buttery-smooth 120Hz refresh rate. Under the hood, you'll find 12GB of RAM and the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy processor. That's a lot of tech jargon. All of this means you'll get the smoothest Android phone experience with pop colors and enough power to handle multitasking, gaming, and streaming without breaking a digital sweat.

SEE ALSO: 2024 Black Friday ads: Best deals from Amazon, Target, Walmart, Best Buy, Home Depot, and more

Samsung Galaxy S24+ comes unlocked out of the box, so you can bet on it working with your existing mobile carrier. It's a perfect upgrade scenario, although most new phones bought outright like this are unlocked these days, so don't sweat it. The cameras in S24+ are on fire, with the highlight being the 50MP rear camera that captures detailed, vibrant shots, whether you're snapping sunsets or selfies. Thanks to features like Generative Edit, you can touch up your photos directly on the phone without needing fancy editing apps.

SEE ALSO: Get both Hulu and Disney+ for $2.99 per month for Black Friday

Other highlights include Live Translate and Circle to Search, which lets you snap a picture to look up anything that catches your eye. Understanding foreign languages on the go is perfect for trips abroad. With Super Fast Charging, you will only briefly be chained to an outlet.

Available in sleek onyx black and other fun colors like amber yellow and cobalt violet, the S24+ is a tech powerhouse. These deals tend to sell out faster than you can say "Android 14." Grab it on Amazon while it's still on sale.

Best Black Friday deals you need to shop right now:

Samsung Galaxy phones are still at record-low prices for Black Friday

Mashable - Sat, 11/30/2024 - 03:57
The best Black Friday Samsung Galaxy phone deals at a glance: BEST OVERALL Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra (256GB, Unlocked) $941.43 (save $358.56) Get Deal BEST FOLDABLE PHONE DEAL Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 (256GB, Unlocked) $1,389.98 (save $510.01) Get Deal BEST BUDGET PHONE DEAL Samsung Galaxy A35 (128GB, Unlocked) with Galaxy Buds FE $357.97 (save $142.01) Get Deal BEST MID-RANGE PHONE DEAL Samsung Galaxy S24+ (256GB, Unlocked) $743.93 (save $256.06) Get Deal

Black Friday is always a treat for anyone shopping for new tech — and 2024 is no different. If a new phone is on your wishlist, 'tis the season to grab one. Samsung Galaxy phones, in particular, are popping off with Black Friday deals a day before the official shopping holiday begins. All of the best Galaxy phones, including the S24 Ultra and Z Fold 6 are seeing record-low prices. Yes, even better than Prime Day.

We've rounded up our top picks below for the best Samsung Galaxy phone deals and will update the list as any new ones roll in.

Best Samsung Galaxy phone deal Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra (256GB, Unlocked) $941.43 at Amazon
$1,299.99 Save $358.56 Get Deal Why we like it

Released in early 2024, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra was dubbed "the best Android phone" by Mashable Tech Editor Kim Gedeon. It's a close rival to the iPhone 15 Pro Max (maybe even better in certain categories) and packs a rear telephoto lens with outrageous zoom capabilities, a bunch of neat AI features, and a durable titanium design. And, of course, it comes with the S Pen stylus we know and love that doubles as a remote. Beating out its Prime Day price, the 256GB, unlocked version is down to just $941.43 at Amazon for Black Friday. That's a savings of 28% on the titanium gray model. If you prefer another shade, it'll cost you a few bucks more — most other colors are down to $949.99 at both Amazon and Best Buy.

Check out Mashable's full review of the Galaxy S24 Ultra.

Best Samsung Galaxy foldable phone deal Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 (256GB, Unlocked) $1,389.98 at Amazon
$1,899.99 Save $510.01 Get Deal Why we like it

Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 6 made a big splash at the Galaxy Unpacked 2024 event over the summer. It's seen a few discounts since its debut, but none this big: for Black Friday, you can slash 27% off and get the 256GB model for only $1,389.98 (in select colors, pink and navy) instead of $1,899.99 at Amazon. The Z Fold 6 stuck to its original winning formula when it comes to the fundamentals — cameras, battery capacity, and memory. But a few tweaks and add-ons make this phone even better than the Z Fold 5 (which we already loved), including a thinner, wider, and brighter display with enhanced resolution, a boost in Snapdragon power, and a boat load of AI-powered tools from the Galaxy AI suite. Need more storage? The 512GB version is also on sale for $1,479.68 (down from $2,019.99).

More Samsung Galaxy phone deals at AmazonMore Samsung Galaxy phone deals at Best Buy

The best Black Friday Dyson deals still live

Mashable - Sat, 11/30/2024 - 03:56
The best Dyson early Black Friday deals at Amazon Best Dyson cordless vacuum deal Dyson V12 Detect Slim Cordless Vacuum $399.99 at Walmart (save $250) Get Deal Best Dyson hair care deal Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer $329 at Amazon (save $100.99) Get Deal Best Dyson air purifier deal Dyson Purifier Cool TP07 Smart Air Purifier and Fan $349 at Amazon (Save $300.99) Get Deal Best Dyson headphones deal Dyson OnTrac $449.99 at Amazon (save $50) Get Deal

Black Friday and Cyber Week are in full effect, and retailers have marked down a whole fleet of Dyson products. Whether you’re getting a premium blow dryer as a gift, or a vacuum for your own dust-bunny defense, now is a great time to invest in new Dyson tech — especially when it’s up to 46% off or more.

Dyson vacuums dominated our list of the best cordless stick vacuums. Similarly, Dyson’s beautifully designed air purifiers and advanced hair care products make waves in a sea of frizz. Here are the Dyson Black Friday sales we’re writing home about:

Best Dyson cordless vacuum deal Opens in a new window Credit: Dyson Dyson V12 Detect Slim Cordless Vacuum $399.99 at Walmart
$649.99 Save $250.00 Get Deal Why we like it

"I crowned the Dyson V12 Detect Slim Dyson's best bang for your buck when it was full price. Let that sink in while reading that the V12 Detect Slim is now $250 cheaper — up for grabs for less than $400 now — thanks to the Black Friday sale happening at Dyson's website.

For just $50 more than the Dyson V11's Black Friday price, the V12 Detect Slim brings aboard Dyson's absolute best feature: a green laser that highlights all the dust on the floor that you definitely would have missed otherwise. That's a no-brainer in my eyes. For plush carpeting, a motorized cleaning head is also included, and all debris collected is sent through a HEPA filter." — Leah Stodart, Senior Shopping Reporter

More Dyson cordless vacuum dealsBest Dyson hair care deals Opens in a new window Credit: Dyson Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer $329.00 at Amazon
$429.99 Save $100.99 Get Deal Why we like it

There are plenty of different types of hair, and we deserve beauty tech that works with all of them. The cult-favorite Dyson Supersonic is made for all types of hair and all styles, and right now it’s 23% off for Black Friday at Amazon.

With magnetic attachments, this hair dryer delivers varied hair treatments that give you the look you want. It also has four heat settings to promote different drying speeds and styles.

SEE ALSO: All of our favorite Dyson Supersonic dupes are all on sale for Black Friday More Dyson hair care dealsBest Dyson air purifier deals Opens in a new window Credit: Dyson Dyson Purifier Cool TP07 Smart Air Purifier and Fan $349.00 at Amazon
$649.99 Save $300.99 Get Deal Why we like it

In the world of air purifiers, you can’t get much more aesthetic than the Dyson Purifier Cool TP07 Smart Air Purifier and Fan. However, this advanced air purifier isn’t all looks, it packs advanced air purification systems including a HEPA 13 filter as well as a cooling fan. An advanced air quality sensor reports changes in your home’s air to complete the picture.

Whether you’re worried about wildfires from the outdoors, or carbon monoxide from your stove, an air purifier is a great investment for home health.

More Dyson air purifier dealsBest Dyson headphones deal Opens in a new window Credit: Dyson Dyson OnTrac noise-cancelling headphones $449.99 at Amazon
$499.99 Save $50.00 Get Deal Why we like it

"I went into testing Dyson's headphones very skeptical — I mean Dyson is a vacuum company and the headphones are $500. However, I was actually blown away by how comfortable the headphones are, how great they sound, how amazing the noise cancellation is, and how freakin' long the battery life is. At only $50 off, this deal is nothing to get too excited about, but it is the first time we've seen the Dyson OnTrac go on sale, and they're definitely worth the splurge if they fit your budget." —Miller Kern, Deputy Shopping and Reviews Editor

Kindles arent the only e-readers still on sale after Black Friday 2024

Mashable - Sat, 11/30/2024 - 03:56
Best Black Friday e-reader deals Best e-reader deal Kobo Libra Colour $199.99 at Amazon (save $20) Get Deal Best Kindle deal Amazon Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition $154.99 at Amazon (save $45) Get Deal Best budget e-reader deal Amazon Kindle $84.99 at Amazon (save $25) Get Deal

'Tis the season for giving gifts to your loved ones — and yourself. Black Friday provides the perfect opportunity to get yourself a little something without the guilt. For book lovers, it's the right time to finally splurge on an e-reader. We know that it's hard to escape the magic of the print, but the convenience of an e-reader really makes up for it.

Kindles are the biggest names in e-readers but there's more out there than these Amazon devices. Kobo is challenging Amazon's reign with its line-up of e-readers that provide the same ease and convenience. However, no matter what e-reader you're in the market for, our top picks are on sale ahead of Black Friday. And PS: don't forget to stock your e-reader full of digital books.

Best Kobo e-reader deal Kobo Libra Colour $199.99 at Amazon
$219.99 Save $20.00 Get Deal Why we like it

Yes, Kindles are the most common and popular e-readers available, but have you considered... anything else? Kobo's e-readers offer a tempting alternative to the Kindle. The Kobo Libra Colour is fantastic and having tested it alongside the Kindle Paperwhite, I'm a fan of both in equal measure.

Like the Kindle Paperwhite, it has a 7-inch screen, but it runs larger overall because it has one thing the Kindle does not: page-turning buttons. The buttons provide a nice grip for holding the Kobo Libra Colour. Out of all the e-readers I've tested, the Kobo Libra Colour is the easiest to use one-handed. Plus, it even offers a colorful display so you can enjoy graphic novels or multi-color in-book annotations.

Compared to the Kindle deals, Kobo's sale on e-readers is more conservative, however, we'll take what we can get from these rarely on-sale devices. You can find the Kobo Libra Colour for under $200 ahead of Black Friday. It's down to $199.99, knocking $20 off the price.

More Kobo e-reader dealsBest Kindle deal Amazon Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition $154.99 at Amazon
$199.99 Save $45.00 Get Deal Why we like it

The new batch of 2024 Kindles is the fastest yet, turning pages quickly and with less delay when switching between books in your library. The Kindle Paperwhite and Signature Edition both have bright, high-contrast screens, so you can read in any environment. While I prefer the Kindle Paperwhite over the Signature Edition most of the time, right now you can't beat the SE's Black Friday price.

The Amazon Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition is 23% off, bringing it down to $154.99. That's some big savings ($45 to be exact) on a device that's usually $200. You get everything you love in the Paperwhite, lightweight and waterproof design, with the added benefits of double the storage, wireless charging, and auto-adjusting brightness.

More Kindle deals

Some of our favorite Dyson Supersonic dupes are still on sale for Black Friday

Mashable - Sat, 11/30/2024 - 03:54

UPDATE: Nov. 29, 2024, 6:35 p.m. EST This post has been updated with the most recent pricing and availability on Dyson Supersonic dupes during Black Friday, plus some more hair dryer deals.

Best Dyson Supersonic dupe deals ahead of Black Friday Best overall deal Laifen Swift $97.99 (Save $42 at Laifen) Get Deal Best under $70 Dreame Gleam hair dryer $64.99 (Save $35 at Amazon) Get Deal Best for minimizing heat damage Zuvi Halo $209 (Save $140 at Zuvi) Get Deal Best for smoothing and attachments Shark SpeedStyle Pro Flex $179 (Save $50.99 at Amazon) Get Deal Best if you also want an Airwrap Dreame Pocket hair dryer $99.99 (Save $60 at Amazon) Get Deal

Black Friday may be a great time of year to pick up the $429 Dyson Supersonic on sale (it is currently down to $329), but as someone who's tested Dyson's beauty tech lineup and the many dupes it's inspired, I wouldn't necessarily recommend going straight for the Supersonic just because it's $100 cheaper.

For starters, the Supersonic does drop down $100 in price over the course of the year, not just Black Friday — if you're willing to wait a few weeks from when you think to buy it, you'll almost certainly be able to score a deal. But maybe more importantly, you can actually save a lot more money if you opt for a dupe — and as of Black Friday on Nov. 29, each of the top picks I've personally tested for the best Dyson Supersonic dupes are on sale.

SEE ALSO: All the best early Black Friday deals at Amazon, Target, Best Buy, and Walmart

As it stands, Mashable recommends five different hair dryers to serve as worthy Dyson dupes, with each being suited to different needs, whether you want the cheapest dupe on the market (less than $100) or the dupe that'll minimize damage to your hair (infrared light does some heavy lifting here). Below, you'll find more info on each of the five picks on sale.

Best Supersonic dupe deal overall Opens in a new window Credit: Bethany Allard / Mashable Laifen Swift $97.99 at Laifen
$139.99 Save $42.00 Get Deal Why we like it

The Laifen Swift is compact, lightweight, dries hair quickly, and looks and sounds like a Dyson Supersonic. While you won't get the five attachment versatility that you do with the Supersonic, you might find that you prefer the simplicity of the Swift (or that this is a sacrifice you can make for a hair dryer that clocks in under $100 on sale). Attachment-wise, it's maybe a better one-to-one dupe of the Supersonic Origin, but at a much more reasonable price point.

With cheaper dupes, I like to test out their longevity as much as I can — I've used the Swift regularly for just under two years, and haven't seen it show its age at all. Yes, the hottest setting is a little too hot for me and the attachment options are limited, but in my experience, those have been the biggest cons. If you are looking for a diffuser, Laifen also offers a model that includes one for just a few dollars more.

Best Supersonic dupe deal under $70 Opens in a new window Credit: Bethany Allard / Mashable Dreame Gleam hair dryer $64.99 at Amazon
$99.99 Save $35.00 Get Deal Why we like it

Usually, the Dreame Gleam hair dryer is our best Supersonic dupe under $100, but Black Friday upped the ante. If you have a Prime membership, you can grab this hair dryer on sale for just $64.99 at Amazon. If you don't have Prime, you can also pick this dryer up directly from Dreame's website. So what's the $33 difference between the Dreame and the Laifen dryers? To be honest, not a whole ton, but I can't personally attest to how the Dreame holds up over time (I tested it for the first time in Oct. 2024). What I will say is the Gleam doesn't have a diffuser attachment you can bundle, it doesn't sound like a Supersonic, and it is the slightest bit bulkier than the Laifen Swift.

Best Supersonic dupe deal for minimizing hair damage Opens in a new window Credit: Bethany Allard / Mashable Zuvi Halo $209.00 at Zuvi
$349.00 Save $140.00 Get Deal Why we like it

The Zuvi Halo certainly isn't the cheapest dupe we recommend, but it's maybe the most unique. Unlike other options, this dryer doesn't try to outright copy Dyson's idea for a heat-minimizing dryer so much as offer an alternative that's just as innovative, thanks to the ring of infrared lights it uses in tandem with its airflow. While I was initially skeptical of how much these lights would actually do anything, I found that the Halo often left my hair feeling soft and shiny, and used noticeably cooler air than either of the above two dupes.

Instead of heat and air settings, the Halo has "care" modes you choose from, which automatically set the heat and intensity of the air you're getting. That might be a bit annoying for someone who craves more customizability, but for set-and-forget types, this feature might just be a godsend. At this sale price of $209, the Halo is still less than half the price of the Supersonic at full price, and $120 cheaper than the Supersonic on sale.

Best Supersonic dupe deal for the smoothest hair possible Opens in a new window Credit: Bethany Allard / Mashable Shark SpeedStyle Pro Flex $179.00 at Amazon
$229.99 Save $50.99 Shop Now Why we like it

Shark is known for making some of the best Dyson dupes on the market, and though the SpeedStyle Pro Flex doesn't look anything like a Supersonic, if your goal is smooth hair and a good selection of attachments, this is the hair dryer to get. In addition to a standard drying nozzle, the Pro Flex comes with a QuickSmooth brush, a diffuser, and a FrizzFighter finishing tool. Each of these attachments automatically adjust the heat and speed setting for what Shark would consider the most optimal for each, but unlike the Zuvi, you can easily manually adjust each, too.

As for storage, this configuration of the ProFlex doesn't come with a storage case, but the folding neck does make the hair dryer a slightly less awkward shape to store. At $179, you'll save $50.99 on this hair dryer, grabbing it at the lowest price we've ever seen.

Best Supersonic dupe deal if you also want an Airwrap Opens in a new window Credit: Bethany Allard / Mashable Our pick: Dreame Pocket hair dryer $99.99 at Amazon
$159.99 Save $60.00 Get Deal Why we like it

If you've been eyeing the Dyson Supersonic, there's also a good chance you've checked out the Dyson Airwrap. If the $600 price tag scared you away, fair (though it is now $100 off for Black Friday). Sale price or not, that multistyler is expensive, and for many, the most interesting attachment can be the Coanda-air powered curling wands. With so many dupes on the market these days, this is no longer a Dyson exclusive option, even if you're looking at a more traditional hair dryer.

The Dreame Pocket hair dryer is super compact, with a neck that folds down and up, meaning you can use it as you would any hair dryer, fold it down for storing, or fold it up to use the curling nozzle (it also comes with a smoothing nozzle). While it does only go in one direction, it still gives a pretty, bouncy blowout — it didn't really curl my hair, but neither does the Airwrap curling wands, as both are more targeted at providing wavy blowout than true curls. The pocket also comes with a convenient storage bag that fits everything into a surprisingly compact package. I recommend it at full price, which makes it even easier to say it's worth giving a go at $99.99. (For a period of time on the actual day, this dryer dropped all the way down to $69.99 as an Amazon lightning deal.)

More Black Friday hair dryer deals

All the best Black Friday deals still live on Ninja

Mashable - Sat, 11/30/2024 - 03:52
A quick look at the best Ninja deals ahead of Black Friday Best Slushi alternative Ninja Creami $149.00 at Walmart (save $50) Get Deal Best air fryer deal Ninja 13-in-1 Double Oven and Air Fryer with FlexDoor (DCT402BK) $199.99 at Amazon (save $100) Get Deal Not on sale, but in stock Ninja Slushi $299.99 at Ninja Kitchen Shop Now Not on sale, but in stock Ninja Slushi $299.99 at Target Shop Now

If any certain type of countertop kitchen appliance is your 2024 Black Friday goal, Ninja probably has one on sale.

Black Friday Ninja deals are popping off this year, especially at Amazon, which has been in official Black Friday mode since Nov. 21. The list of classic Ninja air fryers and air frying toaster ovens, blenders, coffee makers, and more on sale is even beating that of October Prime Day Ninja deals in terms of the percentage off — several appliances have already beaten their previous record-low price just seen at Amazon last month.

Oddly enough, the one category where Ninja is slacking is pressure cookers, despite that being the category that originated the famous "Foodi" name in the first place. Ninja seems to be letting Instant Pot have that spotlight back (though it still uses "Foodi" in titles for its some other multitasking appliances) to focus on a new wheelhouse: little treat machines. Two of Ninja's most fun treat-making gadgets, the Ninja Creami ice cream maker and the Ninja Thirsti soda and sparkling water maker are, in fact, on sale for Black Friday, both for well under $200.

SEE ALSO: Get 25% off sitewide during Ruggable's Black Friday sale

Now for the bad news: I realize there's one major Ninja treat maker that ends with an "i" missing from that list. No, the Ninja Slushi probably won't go on sale for Black Friday, but it is still in stock. You could hold out hope for a surprise Cyber Monday price drop, but given the number of times it has sold out since July and the fact that even more people will be shopping now because of Black Friday, it's wiser to just order it at full price while you can still order it at all. You'll understand when you're happily sipping on a gingerbread milkshake or a frozen version of your favorite holiday cocktail in a week or two. (I would know— I was making frozen versions of all of my favorite drinks with the Slushi all summer, and it was an absolute delight to have in my kitchen.)

As of Nov. 27, the Ninja Slushi is currently in stock at Ninja's website and at Target for $299.99, and can also be pre-ordered at Crate & Barrel with an expected restock coming in early December. The Slushi occasionally pops up for immediate purchase at other big retailers, but if you see it going for more than $299.99, it's a gouged MSRP.

At any rate, I'm tracking all of the best Black Friday Ninja deals below, including deals on the Ninja Creami, which is my number one alternate suggestion if the Slushi isn't in the cards right now. Note: Any deal marked with a 🔥 has dropped to a record-low price at Amazon.

Best Ninja deal for something similar to the Slushi Our pick: Ninja Creami Ice Cream Maker (NC300) $149.00 at Walmart
$169.00 Save $20.00 Get Deal Why we like it

Before the internet was freaking out over the Ninja Slushi, it was freaking out over the Ninja Creami. And I get it: Being able to make ice cream in literally whatever flavor you want without leaving the house is a reason to live. If your sweet tooth would choose hand-dipped ice cream over a super sweet frozen marg anyway, your decision between the two isn't even hard.

The cheapest Ninja Creami I've seen so far this Black Friday season is at Walmart, where the Creami is on sale for $149. (This beats Amazon's price on a slightly different Creami model by $10). Though the Creami can't make frozen drinks like the Slushi can, it obviously has the ice cream advantage — both machines also have milkshake overlap. Sorbet is also exclusively a Creami thing (cranberry orange mimosa sorbet for the holiday party, hello?), and this version of the Creami even has a dedicated button for lite ice cream.

Mashable shopping reporter Samantha Mangino spent several weeks with the Creami, and identified one specific type of person (past the expected dessert lover) who would thrive with the Creami: meal preppers. My roommate can vouch for this — we also have a Creami, and she's gotten into a routine of prepping protein ice cream to look forward to after work throughout the week.

Best Ninja deal if you want an air fryer Ninja 13-in-1 Double Oven and Air Fryer with FlexDoor (DCT402BK) 🔥 $199.99 at Amazon
$299.99 Save $100.00 Get Deal Why we like it

We know some version of the Foodi immediately comes to mind when you think of Ninja deals, but Ninja makes other feature-stuffed appliances that would also get serious use on your countertop. Amazon's deal on one of Ninja's newer air fryer ovens is actually the first time this model has dropped below $200.

This countertop air frying oven has a double stack design that can cook two separate food items on different settings simultaneously: The rapid top oven is great for pizzas up to 12 inches, while the larger convection and air fry oven is ideal for roasts or larger snack portions like wings. In total, there are 13 cooking presets, including bake, broil, toast, whole roast, and dehydrate.

More Black Friday Ninja kitchen dealsPressure cookers, air fryers, and other countertop cookersCoffee makers, blenders, and more drink makersCookware, cooking irons, and accessories

The best Black Friday book deals still live

Mashable - Sat, 11/30/2024 - 03:52
Best Black Friday book deals Best book deal 'Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West' by Gregory Maguire $10 at Walmart (Save $9.99) Get Deal Best non-fiction deal 'The Demon of Unrest' by Erik Larson $10.81 at Amazon (Save $24.19) Get Deal Best YA deal 'Percy Jackson and the Olympians Box Set' by Rick Riordan $17.76 at Amazon (Save $27.19) Get Deal Best cookbook deal 'Start Here: Instructions for Becoming a Better Cook' by Sohla El-Waylly $14.52 at Amazon (Save $30.49) Get Deal

"Sure, you can load up your Black Friday cart with big ticket items like laptops and TVs, but the small stuff is just as fun. For us bookworms always looking to expand our library, there's nothing like a new book. Especially when you're not paying full price. If you're a dedicated e-reader user, the good news is a plethora of Kindle books are all on sale ahead of Black Friday. You can stuff your Kindle to the brim with new books for cheap.

However, if you're dedicated to the physical page, there's even better news. You can find big early Black Friday deals on physical books. Whether you're buying for yourself or others, we've rounded up all the best deals on books." — Samantha Mangino, Shopping Reporter

Best Black Friday book deal Opens in a new window Credit: Walmart 'Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West' by Gregory Maguire $10.00 at Walmart
$19.99 Save $9.99 Get Deal Why we like it

It's safe to say that the Wicked craze is in full swing. Whether you're holding space for all the memes the press tour is delivering or already ready for your second in-theater watch, have you considered reading the source material? And we're not talking about The Wizard of Oz.

The musical is based on Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West, the novel by Gregory Maguire, and if you, or the biggest Wicked fan in your life, are eager to dive deeper into the world, now is a great time to pick up a copy. Ahead of Black Friday, Walmart is offering 50% off the novel, bringing it down to $10.

Wicked not your thing? Don't sweat because the Black Friday book deals are endless. Explore more deals on fiction, non-fiction, YA, and cookbooks below.

Best fiction dealsBest non-fiction dealsBest YA dealsBest cookbook deals

Sonos speakers and soundbars are still at their lowest-ever prices after Black Friday

Mashable - Sat, 11/30/2024 - 03:50
The best Sonos Black Friday deals at a glance: BEST SPEAKER DEAL Sonos Era 300 $359 (save $90 at Amazon) Get Deal BEST HEADPHONES DEAL Sonos Ace $349 (save $100 at Amazon) Get Deal BEST SOUNDBAR DEAL Sonos Beam Gen 2 $369 (save $130 at Amazon) Get Deal BEST PORTABLE SPEAKER DEAL Sonos Roam 2 $139 (save $40 at Amazon) Get Deal

We're major fans of the Sonos audio lineup. From the classic speakers and soundbars to its first pair of headphones, the Sonos ecosystem is hard to beat. Our only complaint is the steep pricing.

Black Friday — along with Prime Day and related events — is one of the only times throughout the year that we see sales on Sonos products. So, needless to say, we've had our eyes open waiting for this year's Sonos Black Friday deals to drop. And as of Thursday, Nov. 21, the Sonos sales event of the year is finally live, both at the official Sonos store and at retailers like Amazon and Best Buy.

For a limited time, you can save 20% on Sonos speakers, soundbars, and — yes — the brand-new Ace headphones. Below, we've rounded up the best Black Friday Sonos deals that are live. If any new deals pop up throughout Cyber Week, we'll update this guide with any worthy additions.

Best Sonos speaker deal Opens in a new window Credit: Sonos Sonos Era 300 $359.00 at Amazon
$449.00 Save $90.00 Get Deal Why we like it

Read Mashable's full review of the Sonos Era 300.

The first Sonos speaker to support spatial audio, the Sonos Era 300 is the "king of sub-$500 smart speakers," according to Mashable's Stan Schroeder. While it might look a bit bland on the outside, the inside is packed with fancy audio technology, including six amps, four tweeters, and two woofers. It also features Sonos Voice Control, as well as Alexa, customizable sound in the Sonos app, and the ability to connect seamlessly with other audio products from Sonos.

The Era 300 truly delivers on sound quality and power. As Schroeder wrote in his review, "It singlehandedly produces sound that can often match larger speakers, perhaps even entire hi-fi systems." Usually $449, it's back down to its all-time low of $359 for Black Friday across multiple retailers: Amazon, Sonos, and Best Buy.

Best Sonos headphones deal Opens in a new window Credit: Sonos Sonos Ace $349.00 at Amazon
$449.00 Save $100.00 Get Deal Why we like it

Read Mashable's full review of the Sonos Ace.

It's no surprise that the first Sonos headphones — the Sonos Ace — are hella impressive. Sonos already makes some of our favorite audio equipment, and these cans were three years in the making. Our biggest complaint about the Ace headphones? Once again, it's the price, so this $100 Black Friday discount is more than welcome. Usually $449, they're down to just $349 at Sonos, Amazon, and Best Buy — their lowest price ever.

They're an aesthetic knockout, have exceptional sound quality and spatial audio, and last for 30 hours with ANC. We do wish the ear cup seal was tighter to improve noise cancellation, but overall, Mashable's Deputy Reviews Editor Miller Kern said she would recommend them to "true audiophiles who value incredible sound quality above all else."

Best Sonos soundbar deal Opens in a new window Credit: Sonos Sonos Beam Gen 2 $369.00 at Amazon
$499.00 Save $130.00 Get Deal Why we like it

If you're looking to enhance your movie marathons, binge-watch sessions, or sporting events, a soundbar makes a great addition to your home theater setup. And our favorite soundbar to pair with your TV, the Sonos Beam Gen 2, happens to be on sale for just $369 for Black Friday. It's usually $499, so that's 26% in savings — and also a new all-time low price.

The second-generation soundbar boosts the already excellent design of the original Beam, which Mashable's reviewer said "hits the sweet spot on price, design, sound quality, and features." It features a better processor, a new grill, and Dolby Atmos compatibility on top of its already immersive audio, crystal clear clarity, and convenient voice assistant support. Snag it at Amazon, Sonos, or Best Buy.

More Sonos Black Friday deals

The best beauty tech deals still live after Black Friday

Mashable - Sat, 11/30/2024 - 03:48

UPDATE: Nov. 29, 2024, 11:00 p.m. EST This post has been updated with the latest pricing and availability on beauty tech deals as we head into the final hours of Black Friday.

The best Black Friday beauty deals Best hair dryer deal Zuvi Halo $209 at Zuvi (Save $140) Get Deal Best hot air tool deal T3 Aire 360 $249.99 at Amazon (Save $50 with on-page coupon) Get Deal Best skincare deal Solawave 4-in-1 Radiant Renewal Wand bundle $113.40 (Save $75.60 at Amazon) Get Deal Best hot tool deal Amika Blowout Babe thermal brush $70 at Amazon (Save $30 with on-page coupon) Get Deal

As Mashable's shopping reporter on the beauty tech beat, I know first-hand that beauty tech tools like hot air stylers or skincare wands can range from gimmicky to fun to irreplaceable parts of your daily routine. I also know that more often than not, these tools aren't cheap. Black Friday beauty deals take the sting out of high prices, but deals can be deceiving.

SEE ALSO: Amazon's official Black Friday sale is on, and a ton of new deals are here

Together, that doesn't make for the easiest Black Friday shopping experience. Sure, maybe that deal on a microcurrent device looks great, but if it doesn't do much and craps out in six months, it's not worth any amount of money. And with a saturated market, it's easy to waste your money — which is why I've put together this list of my favorite beauty products on sale.

For many of the below products, I've tested them, or at least tried out the brand, personally. (My hottest take: the Dyson Supersonic really is the best beauty tool from the brand). In addition to vetting the quality of the product — i.e. you won't find any sketchy TikTok Shop-esque deals below — I've also used my professional judgment as a shopping reporter who's covered the online deals beat for over three years. The result: 25 of the best Black Friday beauty tech deals.

Note: All newly added or updated deals have been marked with a ✨, while struck-through deals were either sold out or expired at the time of writing.

Best Black Friday hair dryer deals Opens in a new window Credit: Zuvi Zuvi Halo $209.00 at Zuvi
$349.00 Save $140.00 Get Deal Why we like it

With so many great hair dryers on sale, including many Dyson Supersonic dupes, it's hard to pick a favorite, but the Zuvi Halo is one of the most unique options on the market. Like the Dyson Supersonic, the Halo is meant to minimize hair damage, but unlike the Supersonic, it uses a combination of airflow and infrared light to dry your hair without exposing it to tons of heat. It sounds gimmicky, and I was certainly skeptical when I used it, but it genuinely felt like I was using less heat, all while drying my hair in about 15 minutes or less. You aren't able to adjust the heat and air speed within the four care modes that act as both settings, but it's not too big of an annoyance as there's a decent amount of variety between them.

More of the best hair dryer dealsBest Black Friday hot air styler deals Opens in a new window Credit: T3 T3 Aire 360 $249.99 at Amazon
$299.99 Save $50.00 Get Deal Why we like it

Yes, the cute pink Airwrap is on sale, but hear me out — the T3 Aire 360 is just as cute and pink, half the cost of the Airwrap's sale price, and in some ways, works better than the tool it's duping. The T3 comes with more limited attachments, with a standard drying attachment, a round brush, and two curling barrels (one for each direction), but it feels more curated than the Airwrap. That certainly helps with the storage solution the brand provides — a vegan leather pouch that is the best storage case of any multi-styler I've tried (and I've tried my fair share). Not for nothing, I also found the curls the T3 created to be more pronounced, and longer lasting, than the ones I got with the Airwrap (though that could be just the case for my hair).

More of the best hot styler dealsBest Black Friday skincare tech deals Opens in a new window Credit: Solawave Solawave Radiant Renewal Wand $113.40 at Amazon
$189.00 Save $75.60 Get Deal Why we like it

Red light wands aren't exactly a beauty necessity — if you don't have a skincare routine that you like already, even the best tech isn't going to be the magic answer that makes everything click. But, if you're looking to add a little luxury, the Solawave Radiant Renewal Wand is a great way to look more glowy and refreshed in a pinch. Plus, the warmth and vibration make for a nice facial massage to start or end your day. At 40% off, this tool is a little easier to splurge on.

More of the best skincare tech dealsBest Black Friday hot tools beauty deals Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amika Blowout Babe thermal brush $70.00 at Amazon
$100.00 Save $30.00 Get Deal Why we like it

Easy blowouts can feel like somewhat of an oxymoron, and while any tool requires a bit of practice (yes, even including the Airwrap), I found that the Amika Blowout Babe Thermal Brush gave one of the easiest, and longest-lasting soft and smoothed blowout-looking hair. With longer hair, it's possible to get more of a defined wave, while shorter hair will benefit most from the volume. Because it's a hot brush that doesn't use air, you will definitely want to use heat protectant (though you should be using heat protectant anyway!), but it's especially great for locking styles in place all day.

More of the best hot tool deals

Samsungs Black Friday deals are still live — save over $1,000 on TVs, tablets, phones, and more

Mashable - Sat, 11/30/2024 - 03:45

SAVE UP TO $1,900: The Samsung early Black Friday sale has major discounts on TVs, tablets, watches, earbuds, home appliances, and more. Slash $1,700 off the 4-Door Flex refrigerator.

Best early Black Friday deals at Samsung Best earbuds deal Galaxy Buds3 Pro $209.99 at Samsung (save $40) Get Deal Best home appliance deal Samsung Bespoke 4-Door Flex Refrigerator (full-depth) $3,299 at Samsung (save $1,700) Get Deal Best TV deal Samsung 55-inch Class Neo QLED 4K $999.99 at Samsung (save $400) Get Deal

From phones to watches to earbuds and almost every major home appliance, Samsung consistently makes some of the highest quality tech. If you're thinking of updating some of your personal tech in 2024, like earbuds or a smartwatch, the Samsung early Black Friday sale has discounted prices on tons of wearable tech.

There are also major discounts if you could use a new TV, refrigerator, or washing machine. All in all, the early Black Friday deals at Samsung are worth paying attention to. Here are some of our top recommendations:

Best earbuds deal Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro $209.99 at Samsung
$249.99 Save $40.00 Get Deal Why we like it

Less than a month since their release, the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro are already seeing a pretty sweet discount. While they usually sell for $249.99, Samsung's early Black Friday sale puts them at just $209.99, which saves you a nice $40.

The Galaxy Buds3 Pro focus on fit and comfort, with a redesigned ear canal form that's both more comfortable for wearing all day and better when it comes to immersive sound. The Buds3 Pro also feature some of Samsung's most advanced features, like hearing language translations in the buds during face-to-face conversations. If you have international travel coming up in 2025, the Buds3 Pro could be ideal for both the long flights and having a better understanding on the ground once you arrive with the translation feature.

More wearable tech dealsBest home appliance deal Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung Bespoke 4-Door Flex Refrigerator (full-depth) $3,299.00 at Samsung
$4,999.00 Save $1,700.00 Get Deal Why we like it

With incredibly convenient features, the Samsung Bespoke 4-Door Flex Refrigerator will become the reason people gather in the kitchen during holiday parties. For starters, the model comes with Samsung's Family Hub display, a large screen that lets you display photos, check on recipes, or stream your favorite shows and playlists.

This model also includes extra features like a door sensor that opens with a light touch, dual ice makers, and a flexible zone that you can use as a refrigerator or a freezer.

More home appliance dealsBest TV deal Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung 55-inch Class Neo QLED 4K $999.99 at Samsung
$1,399.99 Save $400.00 Get Deal Why we like it

Winter calls for enjoying some relaxing time at home with no pressure to be productive. A great excuse to add to your arsenal of reasons to chill at home this winter is enjoying a new TV. The Samsung 55-inch Class Neo QLED 4K is the perfect reason to enjoy football games, the new season of Squid Game in December, or learn from baking tutorials. The Samsung uses Quantum Matrix with mini LEDs that work to increase brightness and clarity in every scene.

Samsung also uses Motion Xcelerator, which gives off crisp images at the speed of 120 frames per second. Plus, enabling AI Energy Mode means you could be reducing energy consumption this winter.

More TV and home entertainment deals

The best Black Friday deals weve found for under $50

Mashable - Sat, 11/30/2024 - 03:44
Best Black Friday deals under $50 Best tech deal under $50 Amazon Echo $49.99 at Amazon (Save $50) Get Deal Best gaming deal under $50 'The Last of Us Part I' for PlayStation 5 $29.99 at Best Buy (Save $40) Get Deal Best home and kitchen deal BrüMate Era 40 oz. Tumbler $30.14 at Amazon (Save $14.85) Get Deal

Some of the best savings you'll find during Black Friday are on the small stuff. Yes, you can find hundreds of dollars of savings on big-ticket items like TVs and laptops, but when you actually look at those percentages, things are only maxing out around 25 or 30%.

While deal hunting this holiday season, some of the best sales are on products falling under $50. Whether you're looking for kitchen or smart home tech, or a new video game to play during your holiday PTO, here are the best deals under $50 to shop.

Best tech deal under $50 Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Echo $49.99 at Amazon
$99.99 Save $50.00 Get Deal Why we like it

Amazon's line-up of Echo devices is extensive so why not just make things simple and go with the original? This smart home hub is a speaker first, delivering premium sound while responding to voice controls. But you can maintain your home, too, with the Echo's built-in Alexa that helps set routines whether you need a daily alarm or want the lights to come on once the sun sets.

Right now, you can find the OG Amazon Echo for $49.99. That knocks a generous $50 off for 50% savings.

More tech deals under $50Best gaming deal under $50 Opens in a new window Credit: Best Buy 'The Last of Us Part I' for PlayStation 5 $29.99 at Best Buy
$69.99 Save $40.00 Get Deal Why we like it

The second season of The Last of Us is coming in 2025, and if you still haven't played the video game, now is your time to catch up. During Black Friday, find The Last of Us Part I for PlayStation 5 marked down 57%. It's down to $29.99, saving you $40. Plus, you can save 15% on Astro Gaming headsets with the purchase of a video game at Best Buy.

And while you're at it, you may as well pick up The Last of Us Part II Remastered for PlayStation 5, which is also on sale.

More gaming deals under $50Best home and kitchen deal under $50 Opens in a new window Credit: BrüMate BrüMate Era 40 oz. Tumbler $30.14 at Amazon
$44.99 Save $14.85 Get Deal Why we like it

I'm not here to pry your Stanley Cup out of your hand, but I am here to tell you that you have other options. An underrated entry in the 40 oz. tumbler market is the BrüMate Era 40 oz. Tumbler. It keeps beverages ice cold and every part is dishwasher-safe, but the real showstopper is the locking lid. The top of the lid slides to lock and unlock so when you're on the go, the tumbler becomes totally spill-proof if you want to toss it in the bag.

During Amazon's Black Friday sale, find the BrüMate Era 40 oz. Tumbler for $30.14, taking $15.85 off the price.

More home and kitchen deals under $50

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