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Save $100: As of Oct. 14, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones are back on sale for their Prime Day price of $329 at Amazon, if you go for the pair in lunar blue. Overall, you'll save 23% on the $429 list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Bose Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones $329.00 at Amazon
$429.00 Save $100.00 Get Deal

This is not a drill: the comfiest headphones we've ever tried dropped back down to their Prime Day price.

As Mashable's shopping reporter on the headphone beat, I've tried headphones from Bose, Sony, Bowers & Wilkins, JBL, and more — and without a doubt the Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones are the most comfortable out there. And as of Oct. 14, they're on sale for $329, dropping $100 in price back down to the record-low we saw last week during Amazon's Prime Big Deal Days sale. (They're sold out at Walmart for the same price).

Mashable Shopping reporter Sam Mangino also reviewed these headphones, agreeing that these were the comfiest she'd tried, writing, "I wear glasses daily and love hoop earrings—two things that are normally incompatible with over-ear headphones. However, I worked a whole day while wearing glasses and my favorite earrings without discomfort."

SEE ALSO: Shop the 6 best headphones for 2024 during Prime Big Deal Days

However, there is more to these headphones than how they wear. While the sound profile and noise-cancelling is generally on par with what you'd expect from premium-priced headphones, Mangino found that their noise-cancelling wasn't the best she tried, noting that it suffered particularly for higher pitched sounds. While the sound quality was generally rich, she also found that the Immersive spatial audio seemed to rely on bumping up the volume more than anything.

For my part, I found that these headphones performed excellently on a flight for blocking out your standard plane sounds, but wished that I could've used them passively, and was surprised that at this price point, I needed to have the headphones powered on to use the corded connection. I was also surprised that these headphones sometimes struggled with switching between devices, or turning on and easily pairing to devices they'd been last connected to.

Still, at $329, you're getting the comfiest headphones money can buy, and noise-cancelling that still sits on the higher end of the headphone market.

SAVE HUNDREDS: Now through Oct. 20, you can save on TVs, soundbars, and more during Best Buy's Samsung Savings Event.

Our top picks: Best TV deal Samsung 55-inch Class DU7200 Series Crystal UHD 4K Smart Tizen TV (2024) $379.99 at Best Buy (save $50 ) Get Deal Best soundbar deal Samsung 7.1.2 Channel wireless Dolby Atmos soundbar and rear speaker system $749.99 at Best Buy (save $350 ) Get Deal Best laptop deal Samsung Galaxy Book4 Edge Copilot+ (Snapdragon X Elite, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) $1,149.99 at Best Buy (save $300 ) Get Deal

We just got done with October Prime Day (and tons of competitor sales, including Target Circle Week, Walmart’s Holiday Deals event, and Best Buy’s 48-hour flash sale). Now, Best Buy’s offering hundreds off TVs, soundbars, and more during its Samsung Savings Event (which was not listed in its fall savings schedule, btw).

This special event ends on Sunday, Oct. 20, so you’ve got plenty of time to peruse the sale. And, if you’re a Best Buy Plus or Total member, you’ll get a $50 reward on purchases totaling $500 or more.

From flat screens to laptops, here are some of the best Samsung deals we've spotted so far:

Best TV deal Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Our pick: Samsung 55-inch Class DU7200 Series Crystal UHD 4K Smart Tizen TV (2024) $379.99 at Best Buy
$429.99 Save $50.00 Get Deal Why we like it

You can get the Samsung 55-inch Class DU7200 Series Crystal UHD 4K Smart Tizen TV (2024) for just $379.99 — that’s $50 off the list price. This TV features PurColor tech, so you can enjoy whatever you’re watching in bright, true-to-life hues. It also features Motion Xcelerator for a smoother picture.

With Samsung TV Plus, you can watch tons of free channels (as long as you have WiFi), and Samsung Tizen OS lets you easily access all your favorite streaming apps.

Best soundbar deal Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Our pick: Samsung 7.1.2 Channel wireless Dolby Atmos soundbar and rear speaker system $749.99 at Best Buy
$1,099.99 Save $350.00 Get Deal Why we like it

The Samsung 7.1.2 Channel wireless Dolby Atmos soundbar and rear speaker system is $350 off right now, bringing the price down to $749.99. With 7.1.2 Ch. True Dolby Atmos Sound and the included rear speaker kit, you can fill the room with immersive surround sound. (Think how great it will be to watch movies or play games with this soundbar!) Plus, the Active Voice Analyzer keeps the dialogue clear, so you won’t have to strain to hear what the characters are saying.

Best laptop deal Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Our pick: Samsung Galaxy Book4 Edge Copilot+ (Snapdragon X Elite, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) $1,149.99 at Best Buy
$1,449.99 Save $300.00 Get Deal Why we like it

The 16-inch Samsung Galaxy Book4 Edge Copilot+ (Snapdragon X Elite, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) is $1,149.99, $300 off the list price. This laptop features everything you’d want or need out of a Windows machine, including a Snapdragon X Elite processor, 16GB of RAM, and 512GB of storage.

With Windows 11 pre-installed, you can get all your tasks done and have plenty of room for your favorite apps. If you have a Galaxy AI phone, you can call or text friends right from your laptop using Galaxy AI; just press the Copilot key to get started.

TL;DR: Live stream the NHL for free on Laola1 and Prime Video. Access these free streaming platforms from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

There is no other sport that combines skill, grace, elegance, and people punching each other quite like ice hockey. We love the merging of elements, and so do millions of fans from all around the world. The issue for these legions of dedicated hockey fans is that it's not easy to follow the sport for free. But nothing is impossible in this golden age of streaming.

If you are interested in watching the NHL for free from anywhere in the world, we've got all the information you need.

What is the NHL?

The National Hockey League (NHL) is a professional ice hockey league in North America made up of 32 teams (25 in the United States and seven in Canada).

When is the NHL?

The NHL season is typically held from October to April, with each team playing 82 games. After the regular season, 16 teams advance to the Stanley Cup playoffs, a four-round tournament that runs into June to determine the league champion.

How to watch the NHL for free in the U.S.

It's possible to stream the NHL for free on these platforms:

• Austria — Laola1 (select NHL games for free)

• Canada — Prime Video (Monday Night Hockey for free with 30-day trial)

These free streams are geo-restricted, but anyone can bypass these restrictions with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to secure servers in Austria and Canada meaning you can access these streaming services from anywhere in the world.

Stream the NHL for free by following these simple steps:

1. Sign up for a VPN (like ExpressVPN)

2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

3. Open up the app and connect to a server in Austria and Canada

4. Connect to Laola1 or Prime Video

5. Watch the NHL for free

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Year Subscription + 3 Months Free) $99.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but they do tend to offer money-back guarantees or free trials. By taking advantage of these offers, you can watch NHL live streams before recovering your investment. This isn't a long-term solution, but it does mean you can watch select games without actually spending anything.

If you want to retain permanent access to free streaming sites from around the world, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for streaming live sport is on sale for a limited time.

What is the best VPN for the NHL?

There are a number of streaming-friendly VPNs, including popular services like NordVPN and CyberGhost VPN. Those are strong choices, but ExpressVPN is the best service for streaming the NHL for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries including Austria and Canada

• Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more

• Strict no-logging policy

• Fast streaming speeds

• Up to eight simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Watch the NHL for free with ExpressVPN.

TL;DR: Live stream Montreal Canadiens vs. Pittsburgh Penguins for free with a 30-day trial of Prime Video. Access this free live stream from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

Monday Night Hockey is coming to Prime Video, which is great news for sports fans looking to live stream top-quality action without spending anything. All you need to do is follow a few simple steps to secure free access to games like Montreal Canadiens vs. Pittsburgh Penguins from anywhere in the world.

If you want to watch the Montreal Canadiens vs. Pittsburgh Penguins for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Canadiens vs. Penguins?

Montreal Canadiens vs. Pittsburgh Penguins takes place at 7:30 p.m. ET on Oct. 14. This fixture will be played at the Bell Centre.

How to watch Canadiens vs. Penguins for free

Prime Video is the home of Monday Night Hockey in Canada, starting with Montreal Canadiens vs. Pittsburgh Penguins.

Canadiens vs. Penguins is available to live stream on Prime Video in Canada, but you don't need to be subscribed to Amazon Prime to watch this game. Fans can watch Montreal Canadiens vs. Pittsburgh Penguins (plus more Monday Night Hockey fixtures) for free with a 30-day trial of Amazon Prime.

Fans from outside Canada will need to use a VPN to watch the NHL for free on Prime Video. This process is straightforward:

1. Sign up for a 30-day Amazon Prime trial (if you're not already a member)

2. Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

3. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

4. Open up the app and connect to a server in Canada

5. Watch Montreal Canadiens vs. Pittsburgh Penguins for free from anywhere in the world on Prime Video

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Year Subscription + 3 Months Free) $99.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but top VPNs do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can gain access to free live streams of the NHL without actually spending anything. This is obviously only a short-term solution, but this gives you enough time to watch select NHL fixtures before recovering your investment.

If you want to retain permanent access to free live streams from around the world, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for streaming live sport is on sale for a limited time.

What is the best VPN for the NHL?

ExpressVPN is the best service for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream the NHL, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries

• Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is always secure

• Fast connection speeds

• Up to eight simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95, saving you 49% on list price. This deal includes a bonus three months of coverage, a year of unlimited cloud backup, and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Live stream Montreal Canadiens vs. Pittsburgh Penguins for free from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The Internet Archive's Wayback Machine is back up in read-only mode following massive data breaches last week.

Brewster Kahle, founder and digital librarian of the Internet Archive, posted an update on Monday morning on X (formerly Twitter) announcing the site's return in a "provisional manner."

"Safe to resume but might need further maintenance, in which case it will be suspended again," he wrote. "Please be gentle."

Tweet may have been deleted

Kahle wrote the site will not yet reinstate its "Save Page Now" feature, which archives the page as it currently appears and generates a permanent URL.

SEE ALSO: Internet Archive data breach: Hacker claims to ‘See 31 million of you' on Have I Been Pwned

Last week, the Internet Archive came under distributed denial of service (DDoS) attacks from hacker groups, who accessed sensitive user data for millions of people. The non-profit site keeps saved versions of websites and other forms of digital media, accessible to anyone through its platform The Wayback Machine.

Mashable's Matt Binder has everything you need to know about the Internet Archive's data breaches and DDoS attacks.

Meta Quest 3S made me feel like Tony Stark without needing his billionaire bank account. For just $299, I got to step into my own Iron Man suit right in my living room (shout out to Marvel's Iron Man VR). Did I almost break my hand from being too into it? Maybe. But hey, if Iron Man can take a few hits in his suit, so can I.

Meta’s decision to launch a budget-friendly Quest 3 model took me by surprise, but it’s a welcome one. At $499, the original Quest 3 was already priced reasonably compared to other VR headsets on the market. And the now-discontinued Quest 2 — which got its price tag sliced down to $199 in April — was an even sweeter deal.

Still, with these stellar prices and features, it’s baffling why more people haven’t jumped into VR yet. Trust me, they’re missing out on an extraordinary experience.

SEE ALSO: Meta Quest 3S vs. Meta Quest 3: What are the differences? Meta Quest 3S price and specs

As mentioned, the Meta Quest 3S is a cheaper version of the Meta Quest 3, with a starting price tag of $299.99. This configuration comes with the following specs:

• Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2

• 8GB of RAM

• 128GB of storage

• VR and AR capabilities

• 1,832 x 1,920-pixel resolution for displays

• 72Hz, 90Hz, and 120Hz refresh rate support

• Fresnel lens

The unit I tested in this review costs $399.99 and upgrades your storage to 256GB.

In my experience, 128GB is sufficient. Even with a 64GB Quest 2, I managed to store 40 games and apps with 12GB of storage left over. Titles range between 400MB and 4GB, so if you're not a hoarder and you continue to delete games once you're done with them, 128GB should be fine.

However, if you plan to take a lot of photos and videos (perhaps you're a VR streamer), you'd be better off with the 256GB variant.

Opens in a new window Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable Meta Quest 3S $299.99 at Amazon
Get Deal Meta Quest 3S design

If you're wondering what you're sacrificing in opting for the Quest 3S over the Quest 3, I'd definitely say out-of-the-box comfort.

Meta Quest 3S Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

The Quest 3S may be alright for casual activities, but for more high-movement games and services like Supernatural, Beat Saber, Gorilla Tag, and Superhot VR, you'll want something with a lot less pressure on your cheekbones.

However, there is something you can get to make Quest 3S more comfortable: the $69 Elite Strap. What's the Elite Strap? It's an accessory that improves the weight distribution of the headset, as well as its adjustability, compared to the straps that ship with it. It alleviates pressure points and minimizes discomfort. If $70 is too pricey, the CNBEYOUNG Adjustable Head Strap and BOBOVR M3 Pro are awesome alternatives.

Get the Quest 3S sans the Elite Strap (or any of its alternatives) first. Test the comfort for yourself. After all, everyone is different. If you feel that you need a lil somethin' somethin' to help alleviate the facial pressure, the Elite Strap is what you'll need.

Although the Quest 3S is bulkier in design, I was surprised to find out that it's actually slightly lighter than the Quest 3 (514 vs. 515 grams). It is, however, heavier than the Quest 2 (503 grams). That being said, the Quest 3 has better weight distribution, which is why it's slightly more comfortable than the Quest 3S.

Durability

The main concern I have with the Quest 3S are the fabric straps. Frequent use and sharing of my Quest 2 and Quest 3 caused wear and tear on the straps within a year, so handle the Quest 3S carefully to avoid extra stress on them.

Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

I'm serious; don't just yank it off your head or pull it down your cranium. Be careful with it.

You'll also have to keep in mind that the all-white straps get dirty quickly — especially if you're sharing the headset often. To keep them pristine, you'll likely have to clean it every two or three times of usage. If you don't care to do that, that's fine, but say hello to your new off-yellow straps.

But even if something happens to the straps, they can always be replaced.

There's also a soft foam padding on the Quest 3S that is designed to enhance comfort with an ergonomic shape that fits the contours of your face. It's breathable and lightweight, but it can collect a lot of sweat.

Aesthetics

I understand that Meta likely wants to stand out from the crowd with the mostly-white chassis of its Quest line, but I would be ecstatic of the company could make a black variant, similar to the Quest Pro. I mean, how can I snack on Doritos and Cheetos worry-free with a milky headset?

Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

The Meta Quest 3S has its sensors arranged in two sets of three, forming triangular patterns on either side of the front panel. There's nothing particularly eye-catching about the Quest 3S except for the fact that it's pretty insect-like, with the dual clusters making the Quest 3S look like a half-bot, half-arachnid creature. Despite not being mind-blowing, I appreciate the practical design. I don't need my VR headset to look pretty to enjoy it.

No annoying wires

The best part of the Quest 3S is that, like the Quest 3 and Quest 2, it's a standalone headset.

Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

This means you don't need to worry about wires, gaming rigs, tracking stations, connection cables, etc. You need absolutely nothing but the Quest 3S, a Wi-Fi connection, and a decent-sized play area to operate the new budget-friendly headset.

No seamless IPD adjustment

The one thing the Quest 3 has over the Quest 3S (that I miss dearly) is the IPD adjustment wheel. For those who aren't familiar with IPD adjustment, this feature lets you position the lenses in a way that provides the clearest, most focused visuals. However, the Quest 3S only has three levels of IPD adjustment whereas the pricier Quest 3's adjustment wheel allows for more precise calibration to find that "sweet spot."

Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

As such, for me, the Quest 3's focus is a lot more clearer and easier on my eyes because I'm able to find a "lens spacing" position that is right for me. But because the Quest 3S only has three levels, the focus is always slightly off.

Meta Quest 3S displays

The Quest 3S' displays, emanating 1,832 x 1,920-pixel resolution, are a downgrade from the pricier Quest 3, which has 2,064 x 2,208-pixel resolution panels. The Quest 3S shares the same display specs as the Quest 2.

Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

Is there really a big difference between the Quest 3 and Quest 3S as far as the display is concerned? I didn't notice it right away. But when I compared my Quest 3S and Quest 3 headsets side-by-side, there is definitely a recognizable upgrade, with the latter offering slightly more detail and more vividness. Since the Quest 3S uses fresnel lenses, which are less advanced than the Quest 3’s pancake lenses, I noticed some "god rays." However, if you’re new to VR or haven’t used headsets with better lenses, you might not even notice them.

However, even with the Quest 3, you have to temper your expectations. The displays are still quite middling, but they're sufficient enough for you to enjoy games in the Meta Quest Store.

When it comes to streaming videos, the quality is impressive. No, it's not as vivid and rich as the display on my M2 MacBook Air nor my Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, but the details are shockingly crisp and sharp. I watched this "Costa Rica in 4K" YouTube video on the Meta Quest 3S, and it does a great job at capturing textures, like the glistening body of a tree frog and the scaly skin of a snake.

I also watched some episodes of The Boys via the Prime Video app, and I loved expanding the virtual window to great lengths while kicking back and enjoying the show.

Unfortunately, it looks like the Quest headsets no longer support a dedicated Netflix app, which is a bit of a bummer because it had one of the best viewing experiences on the headset. On the plus side, you can always access Netflix through the browser. It's arguably better than the now-defunct Netflix app, too, because it streams at 1080p, up from the app's 480p cap.

Meta Quest 3S ports

Unlike the Meta Quest 3, the Quest 3S doesn't have a 3.5mm audio port. In other words, you won't be able to connect wired earbuds to the Quest 3S, but it's not necessary. The audio that emanates from the Quest 3S is crisp and sharp, and it gets sufficiently loud, too.

Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

However, there are instances where you may want to connect some earbuds. (Perhaps your rowdy family is in earshot and you want to don't want to break the audio immersion.) In this case, you can still use USB-C headphones or Bluetooth-supported variants. You'll find the power button on the left of the headset, but if you want to reduce or increase the volume, you'll find the rocker nestled on the chassis' underside.

Of course, there's a USB-C port, too, allowing you to play some PCVR games by connecting Oculus Link to a VR-ready PC or gaming laptop. This will free you from the confines of the Meta Quest Store, allowing you to explore Steam VR for more graphics-intensive games.

Meta Quest 3S controllers

The Quest 3S borrows the new Touch Plus controllers that were introduced with the Quest 3 last year.

Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

I don't know which Meta engineer came up with their brilliant design, but they deserve a raise. The Touch Plus controllers scream ergonomic, with a comfortable shape that closely follows the natural contours of my hands, allowing for a secure grip. The buttons and thumbsticks are positioned for easy access, so I don't need to stretch my fingers much to reach them.

The black part of the controllers, located at the top, is slightly tilted, which thoughtfully aligns with my thumbs' range of motion.

The Quest 3S controllers are a joy to use, but make sure to make use of those wrist straps. If you accidentally let go of them, the wrist straps ensure they don't go flying across the room.

Meta Quest 3S games

I've must've played at least 100 Quest games. My top three are Laser Tag from Rec Room (free), I Expect You to Die 2, and Superhot.

Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

However, while testing the Quest 3S, I've discovered two new awesome games: Marvel's Iron Man VR and The Light Brigade.

The first game taught me a lesson, though. Don't be lazy and move everything out of the way. While being too immersed as Tony Stark in Marvel's Iron Man VR, I swung my arms to fly across the sky. And it was exhilarating — until I hit my hand so hard against a wooden chair that I thought I broke my fingers. Ouch! Moral of the story? Get obstacles out of your playroom, stat!

Did that stop me from playing though? Only for an hour. I hopped right back into the game as Iron Man, and even saved Pepper Potts from a burning plane while zipping around the sky in a heroic metal suit. The Light Brigade is another badass game with a lot of action, allowing me to wield a rifle and take down enemies.

And the best part is that there's something for everyone. If you enjoy silly sim games, you may like I Am Security and Job Simulator. If you like sporty action, you'll enjoy Nock, Eleven Table Tennis, and Sports Scramble.

If you prefer a laid-back puzzler, I highly recommend Moss and Moss 2.

The sheer number of Quest 3S games may be overwhelming, but filtering them so that the Meta Quest Store only shows games that are four stars and up has never failed me.

Meta Quest 3S mixed-reality

There are more mixed-reality games this year compared to last year when Meta debuted AR capabilities with the Quest 3. However, compared to VR games, AR games are still catching up. For the uninitiated, VR games give you total immersion while AR games merge your environment — thanks to its color passthrough capabilities — with virtual effects.

For example, First Encounters, Meta's free game that showcases the headset's AR prowess, continues to be one of the best AR games you can play. With my living room in sight, I got swarmed by tiny, fuzzy alien invaders. And with my weapon, I can shoot them to reclaim my home. I have yet to find any AR other game that beats First Encounters, but I will say that Starship Home comes close.

Screenshot of 'Starship Home' mixed-reality game Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

Similar to First Encounters, it has an alien theme, but it's not as action packed. It transformed my living room into a spaceship. I traveled to new planets and even owned my own extraterrestrial plant that I got to water.

Another interesting mixed-reality game is Hello, Dot, which lets you play around with a little pet critter, and showcases the Quest 3S' hand-tracking capabilities.

There's a cutie patootie in my living room! Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

It's not as seamless and smooth as the Apple Vision Pro, which makes sense because its costs just a fraction of the value of that high-end headset, but isn't half bad. If I could put an arbitrary figure on it, I'd say that the hand-tracking is responsive about 80% of the time, which is OK for a sub-$300 VR headset.

Meta Quest 3S concerts

For those who don't give a rat's behind about games, perhaps you'll enjoy the concert series on Quest 3S. I got to see some of my favorite artists, Sabrina Carpenter and Doja Cat, right before my very eyes as they performed some of my favorite songs, from "Espresso" and "Feather" to "Say So" and "Kiss Me More."

Sabrina Carpenter concert in VR Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

I discovered these concerts in Meta Horizon Worlds, which also features the likes of BLACKPINK, Victoria Monét, and The Kid LAROI.

In most cases, it feels as if you're right front of the artist. In the Carpenter concert, it felt like I was actually on stage with her. There are some times, like the Doja Cat concert, that you'd be thrown back into the nosebleed seats, which always perturbed me. But this is only for a few seconds to give you some perspective of the "vibe" of the stadium, giving you a view of fans enjoying the Doja Cat concert just as much as you are.

Doja Cat concert in VR Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

Overall, the Quest 3S is one of the best ways to consume concert content nowadays.

Meta Quest 3S performance

The Meta Quest 3S is packed with the same Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 as the Quest 3. I've tested 13 games on the Quest 3S so far. For almost all of them, I experienced relatively fast load times, smooth gameplay, and zippy graphics rendering. However, just as the PS5 is a powerful console, but still has games that may suffer from bugs and other issues due to developer shortcomings, you may encounter similar experiences with the Quest 3S.

YUKI Space Ranger game on Quest 3S Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

For example, Iron Man VR, the Moss series, Pistol Whip, and Beat Saber run like a dream. But the likes of I Am Cat, a simulator where users step into the shoes of a furry pet, and Hello, Dot are a little rough around the edges when it comes to ensuring that real-life controller maneuvers translate well in the game. To be fair, though, these are early access games, which means they're bound to have some hiccups.

Meta Quest 3S battery life

Meta claims that the Quest 3S has a battery life rating of 2.5 hours.

I put this to the test while playing the Quest 3S nonstop; I didn't take a single break. To my surprise, the runtime matched Meta's claims on the dot. According to my testing, the Quest 3S lasted 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Is the Meta Quest 3S worth it?

Absolutely. For under $300, the Quest 3S delivers an impressive entry into the world of VR with its solid mixed-reality capabilities and access to Meta’s expansive content library. The budget-friendly price point makes it an attractive option, especially for newcomers or casual users looking to dip their toes into VR without splurging. The Quest 3S makes VR accessible, offering immersive experiences at a fraction of the cost.

That said, it does come with trade-offs — most notably, the lack of a precise IPD adjustment and the fresnel lenses that fall short of the clarity provided by higher-end models. While it may not rival its pricier counterparts, the Meta Quest 3S still provides a compelling and affordable VR experience that’s hard to pass up. If you’re willing to embrace a few limitations for the sake of affordability, then the Quest 3S is definitely worth it.

For under $300, the Quest 3S delivers a stellar VR experience that feels like a steal — offering incredible immersion at a fraction of the cost.

Opens in a new window Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable Meta Quest 3S $299.99 at Amazon
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It's Florida, Man is here to make you rethink the meme that simultaneously celebrates and denigrates a particular brand of American eccentric. From the producers of The Righteous Gemstones, this new HBO Original plays like Drunk History meets The Jinx, walking a fine line between enlightened empathy and smirking exploitation. 

For those unfamiliar, the title of "Florida Man" comes from the headlines of shocking news stories out of the Sunshine State, specifically those that succinctly paint a ludicrous picture of debauchery, destruction, or embarrassment. From this, the Florida Man meme rose to prominence on social media, sharing snippets of outrageous stories for easy laughs, carelessly turning perpetrators and victims alike into punchlines.

Created by Mark Herwick, It's Florida, Man offers those who survived their brushes with being the butt end of the meme to speak for themselves. Bringing buoyancy and a bit of star power to the show's dedicatedly humorous re-enactments is a cavalcade of guest stars that includes Anna Faris, Randall Park, Jake Johnson, Juliette Lewis, Simon Rex, Ego Nwodim, and Sam Richardson. 

From episode to episode, the tone can shift radically, as the team behind It's Florida, Man seems uneasy in turning everything into comedy fodder. But overall, there's something undeniably charming about these Florida men and women who refuse to be defined by internet snark and 15 minutes of infamy. 

What's It's Florida, Man about? Ego Nwodim and Sam Richardson co-star in "Toes" in "It's Florida, Man." Credit: HBO

Before each of six episodes, an opening narration from King of the Hill alum and native Floridian Stephen Root promises the following: 

"What you're about to see may be dangerous, petty, misguided, but most definitely stupid. But it's also all true. Sort of." 

The first four episodes released to critics involve a saucy plan for vengeance, a feud between a professional mermaid and a practicing witch, an alligator-attacked optimist, and a pair of friends who take on a terrifyingly toe-curling Craigslist ad. In each of these instances, It's Florida, Man sits down with the subjects, allowing them to tell these stories in their own words. Some of these words will be repeated by the comedic performers, bringing a broad humor to the re-enactments. But some lines are best from the source. 

For instance, in episode two, "Gator," self-proclaimed Florida Man Eric Merda declares of the dubious distinction, "I'm not the sharpest tool in the shed, but I'll stab you with the sharpest tool!"

It's Florida, Man proudly showcases a rough-edged charm. 

Of the first four episodes, "Gator" is the most compelling. Simon Rex stars as Eric Merda, whose brush with an alligator left him with one arm. Leaning into the same crooked comedic sensibility of the critically acclaimed dramedy Red Rocket, Rex is radiant with a sunburned vulnerability. Whether gathering trash on the side of the road or swimming peacefully in a gator-infested lake, Rex carries with him a jubilance that is not only appealing but also reflects the energy of Merda in his interviews.

This Florida Man tells the documentarians that many see his story as a tragedy, but he sees it as a new beginning. "Gator" portrays that version convincingly through Merda's lens. In this way, It's Florida, Man evangelizes for the fantastic freedom of letting go of other people's perceptions of you. Who cares what social media or an interviewed psychic might say about the spiritual vision Merda swears he encountered in the swamp? As goofy as this story begins, Merda's moxie and message of personal renewal are inspiring.

Merda's the first to admit he was a "piece of shit" who made a wildly foolish mistake that got him grievously injured. But he's happy with where he ended up, so he appreciates the whole of the experience, limb loss and all! This joyous portrait complicates the idea of a Florida Man, which seems to be the purpose of this curious series. People who have been written off by the internet as rednecks or worse are given a chance to share not only their internal logic behind these questionable decisions, but also their personality, their humor, and their humanity.

However, not every episode is so successful.

"Mermaids" is a low point in It's Florida, Man. Anna Faris appears in "Mermaids" in "It's Florida, Man." Credit: HBO

In the trailer, "Mermaids" seems absolutely delightful, featuring Anna Farris and It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia's Mary Elizabeth Ellis as warring professional mermaids in a kitschy battle that would be well-suited to a Kristen Wiig movie. However, gruff words poolside lead swiftly to unemployment, online harassment, and ultimately police corruption being exposed.

While "Toes" and "Saucy" involve more violent incidents, "Mermaids" veers the most into true crime drama, specifically recalling the tense docuseries Fear Thy Neighbor (also on Max). Sure, mermaid costumes involving shimmery, rubber fish tails and naked witchcraft rituals make for flashy headlines. But within this show, that’s not enough to make this story funny, especially when the suffering is ongoing.

At one point, harassed mermaid Whitney Fair (whose story is at the heart of this episode) breaks down into tears recounting the events. The documentarians let the camera run as a crew member comforts her through this rough moment on camera. Moments like this are common in straight-faced true crime documentaries. Such shots reveal the raw pain that lies beneath a practiced brave face — the kind that victims are socialized to wear when recalling the worst day of their life for an audience that's a little too eager to witness it. The same is true in It's Florida, Man.

Fair's guard is dropped, and we can see the emotional strain this feud has had beyond the headlines. With that, it’s much harder to laugh at the re-enactments, no matter how gleefully kitschy Ferris and Ellis are in their roles. As such, this episode doesn't bolster Fair's perspective; it seems to mock her, undercutting the show's overarching empathy and revealing us as the detail-hungry audience members we truly are.

It's Florida, Man is downright addictive. Juliette Lewis appears in "It's Florida, Man." Credit: HBO

There is certainly an element of parody to the comic portrayals, which use the interview subjects as a launching pad for physical comedy, goofy mugging, and kooky quips. But as is the case with The Righteous Gemstones or the work of the Coen Bros' country crime comedies, there’s also a joyous appreciation for this wonky American outlaw.

They may be petty, reckless, and even stupid, but there is a reason they fascinate us. Perhaps you read a Florida Man headline and chuckle. But don’t you also wonder what led to that moment? Incredibly, hearing the full story doesn’t make these tall tales any smaller. It personalizes them, urging us to see their subjects as people are not punchlines. You’ll likely be giggling, guffawing, and repeating in shock some of the witticisms or rejoinders that these interviewees share with incredible generosity of spirit. But you also walk away with a deeper respect for the people who had a really wild time and came through the other side — perhaps not unscathed but still unapologetically themselves. 

It's Florida, Man debuts on HBO Oct. 18 11:00 ET, and will also be available to stream on Max. New episodes air weekly.

John Oliver spoke about election interference conspiracy theories during the latest episode of "Last Week Tonight".

Apple's Vision Pro headset is incredibly powerful, but also very expensive and quite bulky. The company is reportedly planning to launch a much lighter wearable device — though don't expect it to arrive very soon.

According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, Apple's Vision Products Group is working on (at least) four new devices, including a second generation Vision Pro, and a cheaper variant that might arrive as early as this year.

SEE ALSO: Ray-Ban Meta Glasses can be used to dox strangers via facial recognition, according to Harvard students. Here's how to protect yourself.

We've already heard quite a lot about the rumored, more affordable Vision Pro variant, but Gurman claims that Apple is also working on a pair of smart glasses, similar to the Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses. Very little is known about the product, but it should share some tech with the Vision Pro, namely the ability to scan its surroundings and supply useful data.

Featured Video For You Apple Vision Pro: I tried it on a plane and it was chaotic

Apple is also reportedly working on a version of AirPods with cameras. As we've previously reported, the idea is for the earbuds to enable new spatial audio experiences, perhaps when combined with the Vision Pro. Both the smart glasses and the AirPods might arrive as early as 2027.

If the report is accurate, Apple might be speeding things up due to competition from Meta, which recently launched a cheaper version of its Quest headset, as well as demoed the powerful, yet lightweight Orion smart glasses. The company also keeps updating its Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses, which aren't incredibly versatile but they have been on the market for a few years now. Put all of that together, and it does appear like Apple has its work cut out if it wants to catch up with Meta's smart glasses/headset lineup.

Clips from Canada's Dragons' Den have gone viral after guest Simu Liu called out bubble tea business Bobba for cultural appropriation. Now investing Dragon Manjit Minhas has withdrawn her $1 million investment offer, Bobba is scrambling to do damage control, and Liu is calling for calm as they receive a significant amount of criticism online.

If you've missed the firestorm that's completely taken over Asian TikTok during the past few days, here's the rundown.

SEE ALSO: The 'hear me out' cake TikTok trend, explained What happened during Simu Liu's viral appearance on Dragon's Den?

In the latest episode of Dragon's Den, Québec City entrepreneurs Sébastien Fiset and Jess Frenette sought a $1 million investment from the Dragons in exchange for 18 percent of their ready-to-drink bubble tea business Bobba. Describing their business as "unique," the duo expressed a desire to sell their pre-prepared boba company to Pepsi for $1 billion within the next five years.

Unfortunately for them, Shang-Chi actor Simu Liu is a guest Dragon this season. And as the show's first Chinese-Canadian Dragon, he actually knew enough about bubble tea to have reservations about what they're doing to this very Asian drink.

Tweet may have been deleted

First, Liu pushed back on Fiset and Frenette's description of bubble tea as "that trendy, sugary drink that you queue up for and you're never quite sure about its content," and their bold declaration that "those days are over with Bobba."

"Hang on, hang on, I'm quite sure about its content, but continue," Liu interjected. 

Though it varies depending on the specific flavour, standard bubble tea is quite famously made from tea, milk, brown sugar, tapioca starch, and water.

Fiset and Frenette then stated that Bobba has "transformed this beloved beverage into a convenient and healthier ready-to-drink experience," claiming that they were "disturbing" the boba market with "high quality tea, fruit juice, and our famous popping boba." Setting aside judgements regarding the quality of the tea, none of these ingredients are new to boba, and can easily be found at any standard bubble tea shop.

"I'm concerned about this idea of disrupting or disturbing bubble tea, because it's something that's very near—" started Liu.

"Why?" Minhas interrupted, cutting Liu off while he was in the middle of explaining exactly why. "There can be new takes on things."

"Sure," said Liu. "But I'm looking at —"

"Not everything has to be traditional," said Minhas.

"Then there's also the issue of cultural appropriation," Liu continued. "There's an issue of taking something that's very distinctly Asian in its identity and quote unquote 'making it better,' which I have an issue with." 

Liu did state that he was open to hearing Bobba's pitch before forming a solid opinion, with Dragons Wes Hall and Minhas making light of his "heavy" approach. However, the entrepreneurs' presentation ultimately failed to satisfy Liu.

"[I]t's not an ethnical [sic] product anymore," said Fiset. "Not with the popping bobas. So we took the version, the Asian version, and we made it with fruit, with juice."

Tweet may have been deleted

Fiset and Frenette did note that they have a partner in Taiwan after Liu asked what respect was being paid to bubble tea's Asian origins. Even so, this wasn't enough to address his apprehension about the venture.

"I am studying your can, and I am looking for anything that tells me where boba came from, and where boba came from is Taiwan," said Liu, explaining why he would not be investing in Bobba. "I started this venture company [Markham Valley Ventures] for a lot of reasons, but really primarily to uplift minority entrepreneurs. And not only do I feel like this is not happening here, but that I would be uplifting a business that is profiting off of something that feels so dear to my cultural heritage. I want to be a part of bringing boba to the masses, but not like this."

Despite Liu's concerns, Bobba received investment offers from Dragons Arlene Dickinson, Michele Romanow, and Minhas. Fiset and Frenette ultimately accepted Minhas' agreement to their originally proposed terms, seemingly securing $1 million in exchange for 18 percent of the company.

"The popping boba is new," Minhas commented, displaying a complete lack of knowledge about bubble tea. "I can't say I've had that."

Popping boba is in fact not new, which will be immediately apparent to anyone who does a quick Google search of the phrase. Fiset even stated that he initially got into the bubble tea business after seeing data indicating that popping boba was rising in popularity. 

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

Despite Liu's misgivings, the entrepreneurs happily left the stage with encouraging words and the promise of a $1 million deal from Minhas. However, the discussion still wasn't over. Liu and Minhas then continued to talk about Bobba, with the former stating that its success actually saddened him.

"It makes me sad that people are — you know, they're drinking boba with the raccoon with the [sunglasses]," said Liu, referring to Bobba's promotional imagery.

Minhas then responded that Bobba had the opportunity to change, with Liu countering that he refused to invest without knowing they were willing to do so.

"They didn't say no," said Minhas, despite the fact that they didn't say yes either. "The collaboration that they've had to this point is with their supplier in Taiwan. And if nobody else has told them that before, you can't put that all on them."

One would think the onus would be on the entrepreneur to research their chosen industry, rather than wait for others to come along and educate them. Then again, I'm not a venture capitalist, so maybe that's the accepted standard of due diligence when making million-dollar deals.

Dragons' Den and Simu Liu responds to Bobba fury View this post on Instagram

The Dragons' Den episode aired last Thursday, and TikTok has been in an uproar ever since. Users have blasted Bobba and its founders, accusing them of racism and cultural appropriation. 

"That is literally the same container of popping bobas at the Asian grocery store with a different marketing sticker," commented TikTok user golf Catty.

The Dragons haven't gotten away unscathed either, with viewers criticising them for dismissing Liu's legitimate concerns. Unsurprisingly, the majority of the blowback has been aimed at Minhas.

"I find it really disappointing to see someone who is literally Asian — Manjit — to see her investing in a company that's very obviously profiting off of a minority culture, and to see her be so dismissive of Simu every time he makes a very reasonable point, in my opinion," said heyimhershy. "People will ditch their communities for a cheque very quickly."

Dragons' Den responded to the furore over the weekend, posting a message from Liu to the show's social media accounts. In it, Liu reminded viewers that while they're free to express their anger, it isn't acceptable to harass or threaten people.

"I stand by my thoughts, but I do not believe [the entrepreneurs] deserve any negative ill will," Liu wrote in the Instagram post. "It is a learning moment and a lesson that they have surely already understood."

Liu later elaborated on his statement in a video on his personal TikTok, attempting to direct the conversation back to education and asserting that the other Dragons had been more receptive to his perspective after the cameras had stopped rolling.

"I think we're starting to lose the plot of what ultimately the positive energy of this is, which is let's educate people, let's make the world a better place, let's make people aware that, you know, certain things aren't okay from a cultural perspective," said Liu.

Of course, few people were satisfied by the statement from Dragons' Den. Many were incredulous that the production chose to issue a message from Liu, the only person deemed to have behaved appropriately, rather than any of the other individuals involved in this fiasco. While the comments on the Dragons' Den Instagram post have been turned off, other posts on the account have quickly filled with users venting their frustrations.

"The way the Dragon’s Den has reposted a defence by Simu Liu rather than posting an apology is absolutely tone deaf," wrote orchidblvd in a highly liked post. "DO NOT victimise yourself after actively participating in the erasure of Asian culture. It’s very disappointing."

Several further criticised Dragons' Den for characterising Liu as being the one out of line on the show, labelling a video showing part of the segment as "Simu Liu interrupts entrepreneur's pitch."

"The way you captioned this video implies that Simu was being disrespectful to the entrepreneurs when clearly he was being disrespected by everyone else in the room who dismissed, ignored and attempted to invalidate his feelings," commented lilhoneycinnabunny.

 Manjit Minhas withdraws from $1 million Bobba investment View this post on Instagram

Minhas has issued a statement via her own personal Instagram as well, echoing Liu in condemning hate messages. She also revealed that, while she believes that "sharing cultures increases understanding and brings peace on Earth," she wouldn't be investing in Bobba after all.

"Last week’s episode had a pitch from entrepreneurs about Bobba Tea that has sparked a big conversation," said Minhas. "After more reflection, due diligence and listening to many of your opinions I will not be investing in Bobba Tea."

Attempting to align herself more closely with Liu in the eyes of Dragons' Den's audience, Minhas said that both of them "always try to use these platforms to educate and enjoy and explore all cultures," making specific reference to naan ("not naan bread") and chai ("not chai tea"). 

Unfortunately, her response has led many to believe that Minhas doesn't actually understand what the issue was in the first place. 

"The problem isn’t that people of other cultures can’t enjoy boba," commented hand.xowns. "The issue is that you were blatantly gaslighting Simu about valid concerns over cultural appropriation. Your attitude and aggression towards his concerns rather than trying to listen and understand what he was trying to say. How can this boba company say that they take something that is culturally Asian and say they 'can make it better'? And you defending them that they may not know better is BS cause how do you not do thorough research on a product before you start a business? This 'apology' feels like you missed the whole point."

Further, some have sceptically speculated that Minhas is only pulling out of her investment because the current backlash is likely to impact Bobba's profitability.

"Translation: 'The business appears to no longer be lucrative so I will not be investing anymore,'" wrote jennay_win. "'I don't see the cultural appropriation everyone is mentioning — but here is a script. Please leave me alone.'"

Bobba's apology fails to quell criticism regarding cultural appropriation View this post on Instagram

The last to publicly address the controversy, Bobba finally released a lengthy statement on Sunday via social media, slaying that they had needed time to do "due diligence and fully understand the gravity of this situation." 

"First and foremost, we want to deeply apologize for the harm we have caused by our words and actions on the show," they wrote. "While it was never our intention to cause harm or disrespect the community that created and popularized this beloved drink, we take full responsibility for the impact of our actions."

Noting that English is their second language, Fiset and Frenette acknowledged that Liu had made some "very valid points," and attempted to explain the objectionable assertions they made during their Dragons' Den appearance.

"When we said 'you're never quite sure about its contents,' we were not referring to the traditional bubble tea formula found in specialized shops, nor were we criticizing it," they wrote. "What we were comparing it to is the other ready-to-drink products like ours found in big box stores."

Unfortunately, this defence doesn't actually do as much for Bobba as they seem to think it does. Like the vast majority of pre-packaged food products, currently available ready-to-drink bubble tea tends to come with a list of ingredients printed on said packaging, letting consumers know exactly what's in it.

Then there's also the fact that on Dragons' Den Frenette was clearly referring to bubble tea "that you queue up for and you're never quite sure about its content." Lining up for bubble tea is synonymous with specialised shops, rather than ready-to-drink alternatives grabbed from supermarket shelves. As such, Bobba's statement has rung as disingenuous to many.

Credit: Dragons' Den/CBC

"[N]o one is 'queueing up for' bubble tea drinks at a big box store," commented layssaleite on Instagram. "You knew what you meant with that comment which was directed at traditional bubble tea shops. Attempting to backtrack that comment by saying you were referring to other ready to drink products in big box stores comes across as insincere and diminishes your apology." 

"For people who are claiming that words were lost in translation, this apology was well written and skillfully composed to divert blame," said shutupandeatmtl.

Fiset and Frenette also tried to clarify that, rather than their current product, they had presented the Dragons their newest, unlaunched formula which is absent "all artificial colouring, flavouring, and preservatives, while maintaining a lower sugar content." They further addressed concerns about cultural appropriation, apologising for their "choice of words."

"This is what we were referring to when we mentioned a 'healthier' option on the show," they stated. "We never claimed that boba is new; what we explained during the show is that we have produced a different way to package it with a ready-to-drink glass bottle that minimises the environmental impact."

No glass bottles or new formulas were mentioned during the Dragons' Den episode, though we could give Bobba the benefit of the doubt and assume that these portions of their presentation were left on the cutting room floor.

"Our Taiwanese partners were heavily involved in the research and development of this product, which we believe helped us achieve such early success," wrote Bobba. "At no point did we mean to insinuate that our Bobba bubble tea is better than traditional bubble tea in any way."

Bobba concluded its apology by stating that they would re-evaluate their branding, packaging, and marketing to "ensure that they reflect a respectful and accurate representation of our Taiwanese partnership and bubble tea's cultural roots."

"We will also commit to further learning about the impacts of cultural appropriation to ensure we are equipped with the skills to effectively work cross-culturally," they wrote. "We understand that actions speak louder than words, and as such, are committed to taking these necessary steps to ensure our future decisions reflect our values and the deep level of respect we have for Taiwanese culture."

Even so, critics remain skeptical.

"This apology statement seems more of worrying about the sale than a true learning experience," commented chloe_js.

During the Dragons' Den episode, Fiset and Frenette indicated that they were considering adding a word to their brand name Bobba in order to make it more distinctive. It wouldn't be surprising if they're now hoping that a rebrand will help to distance them from this debacle.

This content originally appeared on Mashable for a US audience and has been adapted for the UK audience.

We've all heard the rumours that Macs don't need antivirus software. We hate to break it to you but that just isn't true. As security software brands will tell you: Any machine is susceptible to attack. Even the mighty Apple Mac.

Sure, Macs are generally more secure than PCs. Windows does tend to have more security vulnerabilities because, while Apple does everything in-house, Windows operates on hardware from a handful of manufacturers. Apple's closed-loop system simply makes holes smaller, which means Mac systems are harder to infiltrate.

Antivirus software is still a worthwhile purchase whatever computer you use. That said, buying tech is always tricky — especially if you’re not a dedicated tech-head. But fear not, Mac users: We're here to help with some useful information and a roundup of the best antivirus software for Macs.

Do Macs need antivirus software?

In our opinion, yes. The chances of hackers deliberately going after Mac users are definitely in the minority, but not zero. And hackers know that most Mac owners are under the impression that their Macs, Macbooks, iPads, and iPhones are invincible

Mac's malware problem has not just caught up to the PC infection rate but actually outpaced it. Adware, or advertisement-supported software, is also a problem. Though not as dangerous as a virus, they bombard your device with ads, and can go as far as to change your browser’s homepage and add spyware.

What's the difference between a virus and malware?

Malware (short for malicious software) is an umbrella term covering any software intentionally to cause damage to a computer, server, network, or the user of any of these things. Malware can be as dull and irritating as adware (pop-ups that don't go away) or as dangerous and invasive as webcam spying.

A virus is a form of malware that self-replicates in different programs by using malicious code. The infection can stem from emails or text attachments, links on social media or streaming sites, pop-ups where you really thought you just X-ed out, or seemingly-safe internet downloads like a game or browser add-on. Ransomware is another kind of malware to know about, too. This blocks access to a system until a ransom is paid — essentially holding it hostage.

What is a password manager?

If you're one of those people who recycles the same password over and over, the number of websites or apps where that password and your email (and credit card info, or worse) are connected is concerning. Vulnerable login credentials are constantly passed around the dark web after major security breaches.

Many antivirus software options consider password-related threats to fall under the security threat umbrella and will include some type of password manager in their package. These programs take on the task of creating and remembering a super-random password unique to each website you log into.

What is the best antivirus software for a Mac?

It's hard to say for certain because it depends on you and your Mac usage. What we do know, however, is that research is time-consuming part, so we've taken care of that for you. We've looked at some of the best antivirus solutions for Macs, ensuring an extra layer of security between your data and viruses. We’ve also evaluated their effectiveness at detecting viruses and laid out any additional security features. 

These are the best antivirus software options for your Mac in 2024.

This content originally appeared on Mashable for a US audience and has been adapted for the UK audience.

All those hours you've spent searching for the perfect reaction GIF or drooling over recipes on YouTube seem insignificant in the grand scheme of things — but to Google, hackers, your internet service provider (ISP), and even certain government agencies, that browsing history is a valuable commodity.

And guess what? They're probably tracking and logging every digital move you make. Like, right now. The best thing you can do to make sure your online activities are undetectable and untraceable is to invest in a VPN.

What is a VPN?

A VPN is a service that makes your web presence more difficult to track and trace, and if someone can't track or trace your web presence, they can't collect your personal data and do suspect things with it — like sell it to advertisers or use it to incriminate you in nefarious activities.

A VPN improves online privacy because the user's IP address is replaced with one from the VPN provider. Those subscribed to a VPN can obtain an IP address from any gateway location the VPN service provides. A VPN is like an encrypted tunnel through which all of your online traffic passes through. Nobody can see into the tunnel, and everything inside the tunnel is protected against online threats like viruses, hackers, and malware

Do you need to pay for VPNs?

There's no such thing as a free lunch.

A VPN keeps you anonymous online by masking your IP address and encrypting your traffic through its secure servers, and while it would be nice of providers to give away and maintain this technology for free, they have to make money somehow. So, if they're not charging you a monthly or annual fee to use their service, they're likely logging and selling your data in order to pay their bills. Some even have the audacity to seed their products with spyware. In the best-case scenario, that data will be used to generate eerily specific ads based on your browsing history. At worst, your privacy will be compromised.

What is the best cheap VPN?

We've found that many VPN providers are willing to offer their services for cheap so long as you commit to a long-term subscription. We have looked at everything on offer to line up a short selection of your best options, including popular providers like NordVPN and CyberGhost VPN.

We recommend taking your time and properly considering all the options in this list. There is something for everyone right here. You just need to weigh up each service against your own set of priorities, and pick a favourite.

These are the best cheap VPNs in 2024.

What would we do without movies? It's honestly not worth thinking about. A good movie has the ability to capture your attention and keep it for hours, which is especially useful if all you've got planned is staying in and doing as little as possible.

The good news for anyone planning on a movie marathon is that we're living through a golden age of streaming services. Nowadays, film buffs can pick from Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, Hulu, and many more sites to get their fix. Put simply, we're not short of options when it comes to settling down on the sofa for a day sat in front of a screen.

It's not all good though, because the demand on these sites is probably at an all time high. It's great that we have so much choice, but there is still a finite amount of content tucked away on these sites. It's inevitable that the most dedicated viewers will reach a point where their options are actually quite limited. We know this is a scary thought, but it's important to prepare for this difficult moment.

The most obvious solution to this crisis would be to subscribe to another streaming service, and binge on all of that extra content. This might work in the short-term, but it's not realistic to think that you can just keep subscribing to new sites. This is an expensive tactic, and definitely not something we would recommend. Instead, you should consider investing in a virtual private network (VPN).

What is a VPN?

These security services are primarily used to protect your online identity and data. They do this by providing an encrypted tunnel that your online traffic can pass through. Everything going through this tunnel is protected from prying eyes, meaning that your identity is kept under wraps. This is certainly useful, especially when you come to understand just how exposed you are in the online world. The web is full of threats, including hackers, viruses, and malware, and it's important that you stay safe out there. VPNs are great for cybersecurity, but a large portion of VPN subscribers use these services for a completely different reason, and it all comes down to streaming.

VPNs can be used to bypass geo-restrictions and unblock leading streaming sites from all over the world. How does this work? If for example you wanted to stream all of the films on American Netflix from the UK, you could open up your VPN and select an American server in order to spoof your IP to a U.S. address. This makes Netflix think you're in the U.S. when you're actually in the UK, so you can watch everything that is normally unavailable in your location.

There are plenty of VPNs that can trick streaming sites into thinking that you're based in another country, so you can watch all the films hosted by that version of the site. This simple trick can significantly boost your content options without the need to subscribe to a new service. You'll still need to be subscribed to whatever site you are streaming on, but there's no need to look elsewhere.

If you're considering investing in a VPN for streaming films, there are some features that you will need to look out for. It's important to carefully consider these features before making any sort of decision.

What should you consider when selecting a VPN for streaming?

We have done you a solid and researched everything that matters when it comes to streaming with a VPN, so you don't have to. These are the most important VPN features to consider for streaming movies:

• Bandwidth — Some VPNs have monthly caps on network bandwidth, meaning you can only download a certain amount of data. Avoid these services at all costs. We want you to be able to enjoy as much online content as you want, so you should always seek out a VPN with unlimited bandwidth.

• Connection speed — Don't even try and start streaming a movie if your VPN doesn't offer solid connection speeds. It's perfectly normal for a VPN to produce a drop in speed, but anything significant is going to result in a lot of buffering, and that's no fun for anyone. Make sure you don't select a VPN that negatively impacts your connection speed to the point that you can't watch a movie without constant interruptions. We're not asking for a lot.

• Number of connections — This feature differs greatly between providers. There are some VPNs that will allow an unlimited number of connections, whilst others limit you to just a single device. Naturally, it's better to have the possibility of multiple simultaneous connections, so you can watch movies on all your devices at any time. Plus, if you have a large family or group of friends using the same account, you can all watch your favourite content without being bumped off by other members.

• Price — There are free VPNs out there that offer a decent set of features, but there is always going to be a catch. Free VPNs almost always have limits on data, server network, and connection speed, so if you want to stream freely, we recommend opting for a paid plan. There are a lot of different types of paid plans on offer from the leading services, and the cheapest monthly rates are reserved for the longest contracts. If you find a VPN that ticks all of the boxes, it might be worth making a commitment.

• Server network — Most of the best VPNs provide access to thousands of servers located all around the world. Connecting to these servers is what grants you access to foreign libraries of movies, so it's crucial that your VPN of choice offers a strong selection. It's also useful if a VPN has a lot of servers in key locations like the U.S., so if a particular server is struggling to connect, you can simply try another.

It's important to take all of this into consideration when selecting a VPN for streaming films, but there's one more thing to note. It's worth taking some time to research whether a service can actually unblock your preferred streaming site. A VPN can offer everything we have just outlined, but some services simply aren't able to bypass the restrictions of a site like Netflix. These sites have a lot of protections in place that can detect some VPNs, meaning you aren't guaranteed access with every VPN.

Fortunately, the best VPNs for streaming films are one step ahead and can remain undetected.

What is the best VPN for streaming movies?

There are plenty of VPNs that can unblock streaming sites and provide a user-friendly viewing experience, but we know you're only interested in the best VPNs for watching films.

We have checked out everything on offer and lined up a selection of the very best VPNs for watching films on sites like Netflix and Prime Video. There should be something for everyone and every budget on this list, with popular providers like ExpressVPN and NordVPN making the cut. All you need to do is consider the options we have highlighted, and pick the service that suits you best. It's that easy.

These are the best VPNs for watching films in 2024.

There is a fairly long list of things that you should care about when it comes to VPNs. These services are primarily designed to provide data and identity protection when you're navigating the online world, so they need to provide powerful encryption that secures all of your traffic.

With this in mind, you should only consider investing in a VPN that provides advanced security features like split tunnelling, IP protection, ad blocking, and a kill switch. All of this is vital for securing your online identity and data, which is really important at the moment. The online world can be a dangerous place, and VPNs are effective tools for protecting yourself against viruses, malware, hackers, and other threats.

Interest in VPNs is booming, although it's not only down to an increased awareness of the importance of cybersecurity. A lot of people are investing in VPNs for an altogether different reason: streaming TV shows and movies from all around the world. VPNs hide your real IP address, and by connecting to a server in another country, you can bypass geo-restrictions to unlock streaming sites from other countries. This is the quickest and easiest way to increase your content options without subscribing to a new streaming service.

SEE ALSO: The best VPN for travel

There are some VPNs that specialise in streaming, and others focus on security. Something that connects both camps is connection speed, because nobody wants to use a slow VPN. Whether you're looking for a VPN to hide your idenity, protect your data, or bypass restrictions, you'll need something that delivers when it comes to speed. We're not saying that connection speeds trumps every other feature. We're saying that speed is an essential partner to everything else that's offered by a VPN.

Should you use free VPNs?

When you come to consider investing in a VPN, you will find a few different subscription options. Firstly, you are likely to come across free versions of popular services. Then, you might check out free trials of VPNs with full access to everything a premium plan offers. And after that you're left with paid subscriptions. So which direction should you go?

Not many VPNs offer a free version of their service, but you can sign up to something popular like TunnelBear without spending a penny. There is always a catch with these free versions though, and it's normally in the form of limited data usage. If you're only an occasional user, these plans will be perfectly fine. If you're planning on streaming or downloading anything, then we would not recommend even trying to make a free plan work. It's just not going to happen.

There are some VPNs that offer a free trial to new users, like PureVPN. These trials generally come with everything you get in a paid plan, which is great for deciding whether you want to subscribe or not. Obviously, these trials don't tend to last very long. So by all means try a trial, but this isn't a long-term solution.

We know this probably isn't what you want to hear, but the best option for streaming securely and accessing the online world without restrictions is with a paid subscription to a VPN. For access to advanced security features without limitations on usage, you're going to have to dig into your pockets. Fortunately, there are plenty of services that offer cheap plans, especially if you're willing to make a serious commitment.

As with most services and products, you get what you pay for. The very best VPNs are generally the most expensive, and that's why it's so important to make the most of the deals that drop fairly regularly.

Why is connection speed important with VPNs?

We've already made it clear that connection speed is really important when it comes to VPNs, but why? Connection speed has an impact in a couple of key areas:

• Latency — You've probably heard about latency before, especially in the context of video games, but what is it exactly? It's a measure of the time between when your computer sends a request and when it receives a response — also known as ping time. Latency is absolutely crucial when playing video games with a VPN, as lower latency results in a more responsive experience with less lag. Latency can be the difference between success and failure, so if you're planning on gaming with a VPN, connection speed should be at the top of your list of priorities.

• Download and upload speed — We shouldn't really need to explain what download and upload speed is, but we're going to anyway. Download and upload speeds measure how much data is moved over your connection in a certain amount of time. It's normal for a VPN to decrease both download and upload speed, but the impact can't be too great, otherwise you are going to struggle to get stuff done. Nobody wants to wait all day for a file to download, even if you are totally secure whilst doing it.

Connection speed takes all of this into consideration, so it's obvious why it matters. If you want to get anything done online, you'll need a speedy VPN. Understood?

What is the fastest VPN?

We have checked out a wide range of VPNs, including popular names like ExpressVPN and NordVPN. We've tried to find a nice balance between speed and security, so whilst this list might be missing a particularly fast service, it's probably because it doesn't offer the advanced security features that every user needs.

We have lined up the fastest VPNs that still offer powerful encryption, multiple connections, diverse servers, and more. Most of these providers are also pretty handy when it comes to streaming, so if that's your objective, this list should work nicely.

These are the fastest and best VPNs in 2024.

SAVE OVER $100: As of Oct. 14, the Logitech G915 TKL gaming keyboard is on sale for $118.74 at Amazon. That's a saving of 48% on list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Logitech Logitech G915 TKL Gaming Keyboard $118.74 at Amazon
$229.99 Save $111.25 Get Deal

Gaming accessories can be an extra expense to an already costly hobby, so sales are always welcome. And you're in luck, because there’s a great deal on the Logitech G915 TKL gaming keyboard at Amazon.

As of Oct. 14, you can take it home for a reduced price of $118.74, saving you over $100 on list price. Not only that, but this is the lowest it has ever been priced at Amazon. This specific deal is for the Black, TKL, Tactile patterned keyboard, but you can find discounts across all options.

This is a fantastic all-rounder. You can enjoy low-profile mechanical switches that give you the speed, accuracy, and performance of a mechanical switch, and at half the height. The wireless design also allows for a flexible setup, and you can enjoy up to 40 hours of use before needing to recharge.

As well as all the fancy stuff, it looks good too. It has a sleek aluminum design, and the keyboard has Lightsync technology with RGB lighting that synchronizes with content. You can even personalize each key or create custom animations, adding a cool, individual element to your gaming. And not to forget the tenkeyless design, this is perfect for space issues as it's easy to fit on any desk, big or small. It also makes it a perfect option for beginner gamers who don't need a full-sized keyboard.

Amazon has marked this as a limited-time deal, so don't wait too long.

Mashable reviews quite a few laptops every year, and one of the most reliable laptop brands we've tested is HP. That said, multiple great options can be a double-edged sword. How do you narrow it down to find the best HP laptop for your specific needs?

Well, it depends on what you need a laptop for.

Need an HP laptop for gaming? We prefer the brand's Victus line over its Omen line. Looking for a HP laptop with an insanely long battery life to last between classes or through long work days? Our pick lasted almost 19.5 hours in our battery test. Whatever you're looking for in an HP laptop, we've hopefully found something among our reviewed laptops that'll fit the bill.

FYI: We've listed the pricing and specs of our testing units, which may not apply to each laptop's base model.

TL;DR: Get lifetime access to this data science course bundle for only $29.99 (reg. $239.92) and learn valuable new skills for your career.

In today’s competitive job market, data skills aren’t just a nice-to-have — they’re often a must. Whether you’re aiming for a promotion or a new career in tech, this comprehensive data science bundle covers in-demand skills. With lifetime access for $29.99, you can dive into a range of tools and techniques at your own pace, building skills that can set you apart in the workplace.

This bundle covers some of the most important tools and skills in data science, like advanced Power BI visualizations, deep learning with TensorFlow, and big data analysis using PySpark. It’s packed with practical projects, so you’re not just learning concepts — you’re actually applying them. Imagine being the go-to person on your team for complex data insights, or even scoring that dream job as a data scientist.

Each course is designed with real-world applications in mind, making it easy to connect what you’re learning with your career goals. Plus, with a mix of Python, R, and other tools, you’re gaining a diverse skill set that can be used across various industries. Whether you’re in finance, marketing, or tech, these skills are highly transferable and always in demand.

Take the next step and equip yourself with the skills employers are looking for.

This data science course bundle offers a solid investment in your career, on sale for $29.99 for a limited time.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: GreyCampus Inc. The 2024 Advanced Data Science Course Bundle $29.99 at the Mashable Shop
$239.92 Save $209.93 Get Deal

TL;DR: The iQ Slim Foldable Walking Pad treadmill is available for just $349.99 (reg. $999) — a 65% discount — while supplies last.

Opens in a new window Credit: iQ Slim iQ Slim Foldable Walking Pad $349.99 at the Mashable Shop
$999.99 Save $650.00 Get Deal

If you've been looking for a way to stay active without relying on unpredictable weather, crowded gyms, or your motivation to go jogging at the end of the day, then maybe it's time to try something new. And during this walking pad sale, you can get the iQ Slim Foldable Walking Pad treadmill for 65% less than retail. Perfect for small spaces, this sleek and compact walking pad folds up easily for storage when you’re not using it, but it’s always ready to help you take control of your fitness.

Professionals who sit for long periods might want to take note of this walking pad sale from iQ. According to the Mayo Clinic, staying sedentary for too long is connected to a host of health problems, including diabetes, back pain, and high blood pressure.

Designed for those who want the flexibility to move more at home, the iQ Slim keeps you active while you work, watch TV, or take a break from your day. Whether you live in a cozy apartment and need to sneak in some steps between meetings or while the baby is sleeping, the walking pad’s quiet motor ensures you can move without disturbing others.

It’s all about making fitness easy and accessible. A small LCD display gives you real-time metrics on your distance, time, calories burned, and step count. And with the integrated app, you can monitor your performance and adjust your goals from your smartphone.

One of the standout features of the iQ Slim is its compact foldable design. When you’re done, just fold it up and slide it under your bed or into a closet. It’s lightweight and even has wheels, making it easy to move around. It weighs 75 pounds and is built to accommodate a maximum weight of 250 pounds.

Now, you can get moving right in the middle of a boring work meeting.

For a limited time, you can bring home this space-saving iQ foldable walking pad treadmill for just $349.99 (reg. $999.99).

StackSocial prices subject to change.

TL;DR: For a limited time, you can order the FlashMiniAIR 12-in-1 Micro Flashlight from the Mashable Shop for only $17.99, a 48% discount from the regular price.

With all the hurricanes and wildfires in the news recently, you've likely thought more about preparing for natural disasters. The easiest way to ready yourself? You'll want to put together a survival kit, whether the power goes out due to a storm or you're snowed in because of a blizzard.

There are plenty of items you'll need in your pack, but one of the most practical items you'll want is a reliable emergency flashlight. It's helpful during power outages, natural disasters, and car-related accidents that leave you stranded in the dark, and this compact 12-in-1 flashlight should do the trick. Grab it for only $17.99 (reg. $34.99) while supplies last.

A light source for every emergency

This emergency mini flashlight isn't like the flashlights your parents had stashed in their home. It's sleek, meaning it won't take up too much room in your preparation kit. While it's compact, it offers just as much light—if not more—than any other flashlight.

Whether you're caught in a major blizzard this upcoming winter, hunkering down ahead of the next Hurricane Milton, or the lights simply go out, you'll be glad that you added this flashlight to your emergency pack. Since it's just 2.5 inches long and weighs less than an ounce, it might get lost in your pack, but its glow-in-the-dark body will make it easy to spot. 

Here's what this flashlight comes with: 

• Five brightness levels at its front lights and six effects from the side lights, which include UV and emergency white and red strobe lights.

• A light output of 600 lumens with adjustable brightness and light modes.

• Magnetic tail base and a pocket and hat clip so you can adjust how your flashlight shines and use it hands-free. This might be handy if you're fixing your flat tire on the side of the road.

• Waterproofing and dust-proof design.

The FlashMiniAIR emergency mini flashlight also lasts up to 32 hours when it's fully charged. Just be sure to power it via USB-C before tossing it in your kit, or use a power bank if you're without light for longer.

Your emergency prep kit needs a reliable light source. Grab this micro flashlight with 12 lighting effects for just $17.99 while supplies are still available. 

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Mutant Design Lab FlashMiniAIR: 12-in-1 Micro Flashlight $17.99 at the Mashable Shop
$34.99 Save $17.00 Get Deal

TL;DR: Dreamscreens can turn your TV into a stunning 4K digital art gallery with over 1,000 classic paintings and photos for just $74.99 (reg. $89.99).

Opens in a new window Credit: DreamScreens DreamScreens Bundles: Turn Your TV Into a 4K Digital Art Gallery $74.99 at the Mashable Shop
$89.98 Save $14.99 Get Deal

When we have parties, dinner parties, or any type of gathering, the TV usually just sits there, taking up space. You can now add a touch of elegance and creativity to your home by transforming it into a stunning digital art gallery with the Dreamscreens Art and Photography Bundle. Compared to luxury art TVs from the big TV brands, it's an incredibly affordable alternative — especially considering some of those TVs make you pay for access to the best artwork.

For just $74.99 (reg. $89.99), this plug-and-play device brings hundreds of classic paintings and artistic photographs into your living space, creating ambiance and conversation starters. Perfect for tech-savvy homeowners and those who entertain, Dreamscreens lets you effortlessly elevate your room's aesthetic by displaying world-renowned masterpieces and breathtaking photography in ultra-high 4K resolution.

Dreamscreens allows you to enjoy over 500 famous paintings and over 500 stunning photographs from the comfort of your own home. Whether you're hosting a party or simply relaxing in your living room, Dreamscreens adds sophistication and charm to any space. Plus, the plug-and-play functionality means setting it up is as easy as inserting the USB into your TV, selecting the USB input, and watching the art come to life.

For those who love art but lack wall space, Dreamscreens is the ideal solution. Turn your living room into a rotating gallery of fine art, or display serene nature photography for a more calming atmosphere. With three USB drives included (two for paintings and one for photography), you can switch between different displays, making the most of your TV’s size and resolution.

For added ambiance, opt for the video slideshow with background music that instantly transforms your living room into a curated gallery.

At just $74.99, Dreamscreens offers a cost-effective way to bring 4K, high-quality art into your daily life. 

StackSocial prices subject to change.