Mashable

Subscribe to Mashable feed
Mashable is a leading source for news, information & resources for the Connected Generation. Mashable reports on the importance of digital innovation and how it empowers and inspires people around the world. Mashable's 25 million monthly unique visitors and 10 million social media followers have become one of the most engaged online news communities. Founded in 2005, Mashable is headquartered in New York City with an office in San Francisco.
URL: https://mashable.com
Updated: 6 hours 56 min ago

October Prime Day gaming laptop deals: Alienware M16 R2 and Acer Nitro V at new record lows

Tue, 10/08/2024 - 15:31
A glance at the best Prime Big Deal Days gaming laptop deals Best gaming laptop deal under $1,000 Acer Nitro 16 (AMD Ryzen 5 7640HS, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD) $799.99 at Amazon (save $200) Get Deal Best premium gaming laptop deal Acer Predator Triton Neo 16 (Intel Core Ultra 9 185H, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD) $1,499.99 at Amazon 🔥 (save $400) Get Deal

LIVE BLOG: Get the latest news on October Prime Day 2024

Best Buy is typically a much bigger threat than Amazon when it comes to laptop deals, including gaming ones. But during any Prime event, like Prime Big Deal Days (happening Oct. 8 and 9), there are definitely a few solid options to choose from. These include several Acer Nitro models and our favorite overall gaming laptop, the Alienware M16 R2, down to a new record-low price according to Amazon price history tracker Camelcamelcamel.

SEE ALSO: 'Metaphor: ReFantazio' review in progress: The 'Final Fantasy XV' I've always wanted

We'll be tracking the best gaming laptop deals at Amazon throughout the end of October Prime Day, though we'd definitely recommend taking a peek at Best Buy's conveniently-timed 48-hour Flash Sale before making your final move on your gaming laptop purchase.

Note: All newly added deals are marked with a ✨, while deals with a 🔥 have dropped to an all-time low price. Deals with a strikeout were either sold out or expired at the time of writing.

Best October Prime Day gaming laptop deal Our pick: Acer Nitro 16 (AMD Ryzen 5 7640HS, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD) $799.99 at Amazon
$999.99 Save $200.00 Get Deal Why we like it

"The Nitro 16 is a big-screened budget gaming laptop that's equipped with an AMD Ryzen 5 7640HS CPU from early 2023, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050 graphics, a flashy RGB backlit keyboard, and a 165Hz display. Its measly 8GB of memory is a drawback, but that's totally workable if you only plan on playing lower-end games like Fortnite and Minecraft. (Otherwise, you can put your savings towards a memory upgrade.)" — Haley Henschel, Senior Shopping Reporter

More gaming laptops on sale

Hurricane Milton: See Florida coast webcams live as the storm approaches

Tue, 10/08/2024 - 15:25

After "explosively intensifying," Hurricane Milton is now growing into a larger storm.

The Florida-bound cyclone is projected to hit the central coast of west Florida as a major hurricane, and for those interested in following or better understanding the potentially historic impacts, you can watch the livestreams below (unless they are dismantled by winds or storm surge).

The hurricane is tracking towards the Tampa region, but its wind field is expansive, meaning high winds and storm surge will impact other sections of the Florida Peninsula. Milton is expected to make landfall late Wednesday.

"If the storm stays on the current track, it will be the worst storm to impact the Tampa area in over 100 years," the National Weather Service's Tampa Bay office posted online.

SEE ALSO: Why it's impossible to forecast the weather too far into the future

Though a number of factors influence the formation of strong hurricanes (opposing winds that can break apart storms, moist or dry air, etc.), a vital influence is warm sea surface temperatures of over 80 degrees Fahrenheit (27 degrees Celsius). Warm oceans act as jet fuel for hurricanes, storm scientists explain. That's because warmer oceans fuel tropical storms as more water naturally evaporates into the air, giving storms energy and moisture to intensify. Crucially, the oceans, which absorb most of the heat created by burning fossil fuels, are relentlessly warming.

Today, Atlantic hurricanes are already twice as likely to develop from a milder storm into a major hurricane.

Tweet may have been deleted Tweet may have been deleted Tampa Bay Riverfront webcam Siesta Key Beach

(You may to click the video to watch it on YouTube.)

Clearwater Beach Hilton Clearwater Beach Pier Cam Fort Myers Beach Naples Pier Cam

(This camera may switch to different Milton livestreams.)

And remember, as you're watching the slightly shifting track updates of Hurricane Milton, the track forecast cone is not an impacts cone. Other regions will see extreme deluges of rain, surge, and flooding.

KitchenAid mixers, attachments, and more are all on sale during Prime Big Deal Days

Tue, 10/08/2024 - 15:04
Best KitchenAid deals from October Prime Day Best stand mixer deal KitchenAid Artisan Series 5-Quart Stand Mixer $349.95 at Amazon (save $110.04) Get Deal Best stand mixer attachment deal KitchenAid Stand Mixer Pasta Roller and Cutter Attachment $134.99 at Amazon (save $15) Get Deal

Prime Big Deal Days is in full swing, and we've been covering all the best deals you can get across various categories. This time, we're looking at the iconic kitchen brand, KitchenAid, as they've showed up to October Prime Day in a big way. We've already found a few great offers on their popular stand mixers, as well as their attachments and a few other miscellaneous items.

Check out our favorite KitchenAid deals below and give your kitchen a serious glow-up.

SEE ALSO: A list of 25+ Ninja kitchen gadgets on sale for October Prime Day Best stand mixer deal Opens in a new window Credit: KitchenAid KitchenAid Artisan Series 5-Quart Stand Mixer $349.95 at Amazon
$459.99 Save $110.04 Get Deal Why we like it

Need we even tell you why KitchenAid stand mixers are great? Probably not. If you're looking to pick up one of the iconic kitchen mainstays during the Prime Big Deal Days sale, the Artisan Series 5-Quart version is up for $110.04 off the usual price. There's no better time to buy one than right now (except for maybe Black Friday).

More stand mixer dealsBest stand mixer attachment deal Opens in a new window Credit: KitchenAid KitchenAid Stand Mixer Pasta Roller and Cutter Attachment $134.99 at Amazon
$149.99 Save $15.00 Get Deal Why we like it

Once you get your stand mixer, the journey isn't quite over yet. Now, you can have fun picking out all the fun attachments you want to add to the mix. This pasta roller and cutter attachment makes crafting homemade pasta way easier, and it's a nice $15 off during October Prime Day. Warning: Once you make pasta from scratch, boxed pasta will never hit the same way again. Bon appétit!

More stand mixer attachment dealsMore KitchenAid deals from October Prime Day

Small appliances

Misc.

Prime Day deal gives 50% off a Grubhub order

Tue, 10/08/2024 - 14:50

Save 50%: Prime members can get 50% off a GrubHub order of at least $20 for Prime Day through Oct. 9.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Half-off Grubhub order Get 50% off any Grubhub order of at least $20. Get Deal

Prime Day might be the perfect time to get delivery for dinner. That's because Grubhub has a Prime Day deal for 50% off any order of at least $20.

Let's be real, it's difficult to keep a delivery order under 20 bucks these days — you'll get to that number pretty easily.

SEE ALSO: Live Blog: The latest news on October Prime Day 2024

All you have to do to redeem the deal is enter the code "PRIME50" when you checkout on the Amazon app, Grubhub app, or Amazon website. You do need to be a Grubhub+ member, but anyone with Amazon Prime can get Grubhub+ for free. That's a deal in and of itself because Grubhub+ members get access to $0 delivery fees, special deals, and perks like credits earned over time.

The deal from Grubhub runs through Wednesday, Oct. 9. So go ahead and put away the pots and pans — your favorite delivery restaurant just got a whole heck of a lot cheaper for the next couple of days.

The best gifts under $50 that are great for absolutely everyone

Tue, 10/08/2024 - 14:43

Generating the best affordable gift ideas is an art, much like gift-giving in general. And it's an art that Mashable shopping experts take very seriously, which is why we're bringing you these awesome gifts under $50.

Yes, some people possess an innate talent for finding gifts on a budget. No matter the occasion (anniversary, Valentine's Day, Mother's Day) or recipient (wife, boyfriend, teens, in-laws), they somehow nail it every time — winning the unofficial "best gift-giver" award among those who are lucky to know them.

If you're not the most intuitive gift giver, fear not. We've put together a list of 25+ of the best gift ideas for under $50. These unique, budget-friendly gifts won't break the bank, and you might even see some solid discounts on them if you're lucky.

Get $100 off the Dyson Airwrap, plus other October Prime Day Dyson deals

Tue, 10/08/2024 - 14:39
October Prime Day Dyson deals: Best vacuum deal Dyson V8 Plus cordless vacuum $419 at Amazon (save $50.99) Get Deal Best air treatment deal Dyson Hot+Cool (AM09) $299.23 at Amazon (with Prime) (save $170.76) Get Deal Best hair care deal Dyson Airwrap $499.99 at Amazon (with Prime) (save $100 ) Get Deal

LIVE BLOG: Get the latest news on October Prime Day 2024

Prime Day is the time to score a deal on a vacuum or other high-ticket item, and this October, Amazon’s offering exclusive discounts on Dyson products, including the cult-fave Dyson Airwrap.

SEE ALSO: I tested the best Dyson Airwrap dupes under $300: The Shark FlexStyle is no longer your only option

Here’s all the info you need to know about the Dyson deals happening during the October Prime Day event, including how to get $100 off the Airwrap and where to find the best prices on Dyson vacuums, fans, and more.

Best vacuum deal Opens in a new window Credit: Dyson Our pick: Dyson V8 Plus cordless vacuum $299.99 at Amazon
$469.99 Save $170.00 Get Deal Why we like it

The Dyson V8 Plus cordless vacuum (silver/nickel) is lightweight and powerful and can handle most daily cleaning tasks. It has a detachable wand for cleaning stairs, upholstery, and hard-to-reach areas, and it converts to a handheld vac for quick cleanups. It comes with four accessories, including a hair screw tool for pet hair.

With a runtime of up to 40 minutes on a single charge, this little vac is ideal for small apartments and quick cleanups.

You can get it at Amazon for a whopping 299.99 in a Big Prime Deal (originally $469.99). It’s out of stock at Dyson.

More Dyson vacuum deals Best air treatment deal Opens in a new window Credit: Dyson Our pick: Dyson Hot+Cool (AM09) $299.23 at Amazon
$469.99 Save $170.76 Get Deal Why we like it

The Dyson Hot+Cool (AM09) is a heater and a fan, so you can use it year-round. Its Jet Focus tech gives you both a diffused airflow for evenly distributed heating or cooling and a concentrated stream of air for targeted cooling. It also has a sleep timer and oscillation for even air distribution.

Prime members can buy it at Amazon for $299.23 (regularly $469.99), or if you’re not interested in signing up for Prime, you can get it at Dyson for $299.99.

More Dyson air treatment deals Best hair care deal Opens in a new window Credit: Dyson Our pick: Dyson airwrap $499.99 at Amazon
$599.99 Save $100.00 Get Deal Why we like it

The Dyson Airwrap is $100 off for Prime members, bringing it to $499.99. (It's not on sale at Dyson.) That’s still a lot of money to pay for a hair styler, but it’s a cult-fave for a reason. It’s designed to dry and style hair without super-high heat, so it's healthier for your hair and cuts down on styling time. You’ll also get a fancy storage case and multiple styling attachments.

Mashable’s shopping reporter, Bethany Allard, says it best: “If you have the cash to spare, heat style regularly, and don't mind that your curls won't be locked in all day, the Dyson Airwrap is worth the investment.”

More Dyson hair care deals

A list of 25+ Ninja kitchen gadgets on sale for October Prime Day

Tue, 10/08/2024 - 14:21
A quick look at the best Ninja deals during Prime Big Deal Days Best air fryer deal Ninja Foodi 8-in-1 XL Pro Air Fry Oven $129.99 at Amazon (save $100) Get Deal Best coffee maker deal Ninja Dual Brew Pro Hot and Iced Single Drip Coffee Maker $149.99 at Amazon (save $90) Get Deal Best dessert maker deal Ninja Creami Deluxe Ice Cream Maker $159.99 at Amazon (save $40) Get Deal

LIVE BLOG: Get the latest news on October Prime Day 2024

Foodi, Creami, Thirsti, you name it — if there's a Ninja appliance that you've been thinking about splurging on, it's probably on sale for Prime Big Deal Days.

After a stellar showing during Prime Day in July, Ninja's section of our October Prime Day kitchen deals list is, once again, huge. Whether you're looking to ditch a few old appliances and consolidate with a multitasking air fry grill and oven, need to replace your nonstick pans that aren't so nonstick anymore, or just need to know if the hype around the Ninja Creami is legit, you can save up to 50% on a new Ninja gadget on Oct. 8 and 9.

SEE ALSO: Testing the Ninja Slushi by making a frozen version of every drink I can think of

Weirdly enough, the only Ninja category not getting a ton of traction for Prime Big Deal days are its Foodi pressure cookers — guess they're letting Instant Pot have this one.

We're keeping a running list of the best October Prime Day Ninja deals below, updating as soon as any new deals drop. Note: All newly added deals are marked with a ✨, while deals with a 🔥 have dropped to an all-time low price. Deals with a strikeout were either sold out or expired at the time of writing.

Best October Prime Day kitchen deals Opens in a new window Credit: Ninja Our pick: Ninja Foodi 8-in-1 XL Pro Air Fry Oven $129.99 at Amazon
$229.99 Save $100.00 Get Deal Why we like it

One of the juicier discounts we found on any Ninja Foodi so far during Prime Big Deal days is a 43% slash on this XL air frying oven, which is now $100 cheaper than its regular price. This 8-in-1 oven has buttons for air fry, air roast, bake, whole roast, broil, toast, bagel, and pizza, and it can do two of those at once. The two-shelf design is seriously spacious, fitting two 12-inch pizzas, a tray of veggies and a five-pound chicken, or a full 12-pound turkey if you remove the shelf.

More Ninja kitchen deals

Pressure cookers, air fryers, and other countertop cookers

Coffee makers, blenders, and more drink makers

Cookware, cooking irons, and accessories

When is the next Prime Day? Here's how long you'll have to wait for more deals.

Tue, 10/08/2024 - 13:55

We're in the thick of Amazon's Prime Big Deal Days event — unofficially known as October Prime Day. You may be wondering if you should pull the trigger on deals you've been eyeing or wait for the next Prime event. We're here to lay out all the details to help you decide, including when to expect the next Prime Day.

When is the next Prime Day?

While it may seem like Amazon is holding Prime events every other month, Prime Day technically only happens once a year in the summer. However, Amazon has also been holding another major sale event the past three years in the fall (called Prime Big Deal days in 2024). For all intents and purposes, it's essentially Prime Day 2. Running Oct. 8 and Oct. 9 this year, there's still an entire day to shop Prime Day deals.

Once the Prime Big Deal Days event concludes at 3:01 a.m. ET (12:01 a.m. PT) on Oct. 9, you'll have to wait until next summer for another Prime-centric shopping event. The next Prime Day likely won't take place until July 2025 (unless, of course, Amazon decides to throw us all a curveball).

In 2022, 2023, and 2024, Prime Day was held in the second full week of July in the Tuesday-Wednesday slot. If we assume Amazon will stick with a similar schedule as the past few years, the next Prime Day will probably fall on July 15 and 16 in 2025.

In the meantime, however, Amazon's Black Friday event is also a beast of its own kind. We often see record-low prices that either match or beat Prime Day prices and stick around for much of November. Mark your calendars now for Black Friday 2024, which falls on Nov. 29, and Cyber Monday, which will take place on Dec. 2.

What are the best October Prime Day deals?

If you're wondering about the next Prime Day because you aren't sure whether the deals during Prime Big Deal Days 2024 are worth it, just know that there are lots of record-low prices on top brands like Apple, Samsung, Amazon Echo, and more. Check out our guide on what to buy and what not to buy on Prime Day if you need a little more clarity.

Here are some of the best deals to shop on day one of the sale.

The best live deals on Prime Big Deal Days: BEST APPLE DEAL Apple MacBook Air, 13-inch (M3, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD) $849 (save $250) Get Deal BEST FITNESS TRACKER DEAL Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 (Bluetooth, 40mm) $161.49 at Amazon (save $138.50) Get Deal BEST LAPTOP DEAL LG gram 14 2in1 (Intel Core Ultra 5 125H, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) $759.99 at Amazon (save $540 with Prime) Get Deal BEST KINDLE DEAL Kindle Scribe (16GB) $254.99 at Amazon (save $85) Get Deal BEST HEADPHONES DEAL Amazon Echo Buds with noise cancellation $34.99 at Amazon (save $85) Get Deal BEST TABLET DEAL Amazon Fire HD 8 (32GB) $54.99 at Amazon (save $45) Get Deal

Meta promises a fix to Threads' engagement bait problem

Tue, 10/08/2024 - 13:52

Threads is notorious for engagement bait, and Meta knows it. And they're going to try to fix it, too — allegedly.

This revelation came as many updates on Threads do: through a conversation on the app itself.

Two days ago, a Threads user posted a fake image of an old lady wearing a miniskirt on the subway.

"Don't tell me that it's okay to wear mini-skirts after 50! There should be a point when we acknowledge our age and start dressing accordingly, right? Or am I the only one who feels this way?" the poster wrote.

This is, obviously, engagement bait, a post specifically designed not to say something interesting but to get other people to interact with it. And it worked: The post has over 4,400 likes, 20,200 replies, 316 reposts, and was sent 202 times. It's just one example of a myriad of engagement bait posts created by the account, and it isn't the only account doing it.

In response to the post, Dave Lee, a tech columnist for Bloomberg Opinion, said, "You’d think Meta would have learned the lesson of 'engagement = good' after all these years."

Another user responded to Lee, pointing out that Mark Zuckerberg, the head of Meta, which owns Threads, said in an interview with Verge earlier this year that "the fundamental defining aspect of [Twitter's] format is that when you make a post, the comments aren't subordinate to the post. The comments are kind of at a peer level." To the user, this indicated that Zuckerberg "explicitly said he believes more comments = better content."

Adam Mosseri, the head of Instagram and Threads, and a pretty consistent replier, responded to the users' post.

"Not all comments or replies are good. Mark's comment is more about the Twitter pioneering a format where the reply can be elevated, which is a good thing, but that doesn't mean that every reply should be," Mosseri posted.

He added that they have "seen an increase in engagement-bait on Threads and we're working to get it under control. More to come."

M4 MacBook Pro: Another YouTuber claims to have gotten his hands on one

Tue, 10/08/2024 - 13:26

The leaked M4 Macbook Pro saga just keeps getting worse for Apple.

SEE ALSO: M4 MacBook Pro: YouTuber claims he secured one before Apple even announced it

What started with one Russian YouTuber showing off the yet-to-be-announced laptop has now escalated with a second video from a channel dubbed Romancev768. His unboxing may be less thorough, but it’s another piece of evidence fueling the growing speculation that Apple’s next-gen hardware is on the horizon. This follows claims from just last week on X (formerly Twitter) that someone was trying to flip an M4 MacBook Pro on Facebook Marketplace.

Tweet may have been deleted

Apple, of course, hasn’t announced these laptops yet. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, an Apple analyst and leaker, says late October is the target date for an announcement, which leaves plenty of room for doubt. Are these actual M4 models or just elaborate fakes?

TechCrunch points out that both unboxings feature the same model numbers and packaging, hinting they could either be from a leaked batch of real devices — or the same knockoff unit is being passed around the Russian tech scene for clicks. Either way, it’s not exactly the product rollout Apple had in mind.

Gurman’s Power On newsletter reports that Apple is set to launch new 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models powered by M4 chips, which debuted in the iPad Pro earlier this year. The lineup also includes a redesigned Mac mini with M4 and M4 Pro chips, a refreshed iMac with M4, and a new iPad mini. Expect these releases soon as Apple continues its M-series expansion.

The leaked videos show the 14-inch M4 MacBook Pro with 512GB in Space Black — a color previously exclusive to the 16-inch model. It features three Thunderbolt 4 ports instead of the usual two and starts with 16GB of RAM. Under the hood, it’s powered by a 10-core variant of the new M4 chip.

How these Russian YouTubers managed to get their hands on these M4 MacBook Pros is a real mystery. Apple is prohibited from selling its products in Russia, and the model numbers suggest these laptops were meant for the U.S. market. It’s hard to believe that a security-obsessed company like Apple could lose multiple flagship laptops in an embargoed country.

For Apple's sake, let's hope these are some super well-made dupes.

Save hundreds on Samsonite, American Tourister, and more luggage during October Prime Day

Tue, 10/08/2024 - 13:17
October Prime Day luggage deals: Best overall Samsonite Winfield 3 DLX hardside expandable luggage set $208.34 at Amazon (with Prime) (save $280.66) Get Deal Best carry-on deal Travelpro Maxlite 5 softside expandable carry-on $108.79 at Amazon (with Prime) (save $61.20) Get Deal Best budget pick Amazon Basics expandable hardside luggage (30-inch) $68.89 at Amazon (with Prime) (save $41.10) Get Deal

Summer may be over, but that doesn’t mean the travel season has to end. And now that Prime Day fall edition is finally here, you can get your hands on discounted luggage that’ll last you a lifetime (depending on the brand and how you treat it, of course).

SEE ALSO: Live Blog: The latest news on October Prime Day 2024

Whether you’re in need of a small carry-on for business trips, a roomy checked bag for your next family vacation, or something in between, Amazon’s got hundreds of options from top brands like Samsonite, American Tourister, Travelpro, and more with price cuts that’ll likely disappear once the big event wraps up.

From hardside to softside spinner sets, durable backpacks, and even kids' luggage, we've done the hard work of rounding up some of the best October Prime Day luggage deals.

Here are our top picks:

Best deal overall Opens in a new window Credit: Samsonite Samsonite Winfield 3 DLX hardside expandable luggage set $208.34 at Amazon
$489.00 Save $280.66 Get Deal Why we like it

The Samsonite Winfield 3 DLX hardside expandable luggage set is one of the best deals we've seen during Prime Day. This durable two-piece set was originally priced at $489, but you can snag it for just $208.34 right now — that's over 50% off. But you have to be a Prime member to get this deal.

The set comes with one 20-inch carry-on and one 24-inch checked bag, both with expandable hardside shells, multi-directional spinner wheels, and a built-in TSA-approved lock. This set also includes a 10-year warranty, so you can literally use it for years to come.

More October Prime Day luggage deals

More than a dozen states sue TikTok for its allegedly addictive algorithm

Tue, 10/08/2024 - 13:08

TikTok's already long list of legal troubles continue, with 13 states and the District of Columbia filing new lawsuits that claims its "addictive algorithm" is part of a profit model that harms children.

The lawsuit, filed individually by each party Tuesday, accuses TikTok of falsely advertising its platform's content moderation and safety policies for minors. Through its intentionally addictive software, the lawsuit claims, children are incentivized to keep watching videos for as long as possible, resulting in poor mental health and body image issues, as well as harm from viral TikTok challenges.

As New York Attorney General Letitia James said in a statement: "TikTok claims that their platform is safe for young people, but that is far from true. In New York and across the country, young people have died or gotten injured doing dangerous TikTok challenges and many more are feeling more sad, anxious, and depressed because of TikTok’s addictive features."

California Attorney General Rob Bonta wrote that a state investigation found "TikTok cultivates social media addiction to boost corporate profits." The platform "intentionally targets children," said Bonta, "because they know kids do not yet have the defenses or capacity to create healthy boundaries around addictive content."

SEE ALSO: 3 signs of online grooming you're likely to miss

Washington D.C.'s filing also accuses the company of operating an unlicensed money transmission business through its live streaming and virtual currency features, Reuters reported, which also facilitate the sexual exploitation of underage users. Illinois, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Mississippi, New Jersey, North Carolina, Oregon, South Carolina, Vermont and Washington state also filed suit against TikTok.

Only a few days prior, the state of Texas announced its own lawsuit against the Chinese-owned social media giant, accusing the platform of violating the state's Securing Children Online through Parental Empowerment Act by not providing proper privacy settings for minor accounts and advertising to them indiscriminately. In August, the U.S. Justice Department sued TikTok for allegedly violating the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA), which requires websites obtain parental consent before collecting personal information from children under 13.

These filings are the latest legal blows to the social media platform, following a 2022 report and subsequent investigation of the company's knowledge and complicity in fostering an unhealthy online environment for young people.

Other social media sites have also been under fire for jeopardizing the mental health and safety of their users. Last week, New Mexico filed a lawsuit against Snap (Snapchat), accusing the company of deceptively marketing its platform to children despite known problems of grooming and sexual scams targeting minors. The state has taken similar action against several other websites. Meta (Instagram, Facebook) has also weathered several lawsuits, including ones directly implicating CEO Mark Zuckerberg.

The best Xbox deals from October Prime Day 2024: Consoles, accessories, and more

Tue, 10/08/2024 - 13:01
Best Prime Big Deal Days Xbox deals Best console deal Xbox Series S (512GB) $284.99 at Amazon (save $15) Get Deal Best accessory deal Xbox Elite Series 2 Core controller $140 at Amazon (save $39.99) Get Deal Best bundle deal Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max + Astral Purple Core controller + 1-month Game Pass Ultimate bundle $79.99 at Amazon (save $61.98) Get Deal

Prime Big Deal Days is finally here, and it's brought with it a bevy of worthwhile gaming deals that you should definitely check out. Xbox fans are particularly lucky when it comes to discounts during the October Prime Day event — we've already found some pretty sweet offers on consoles, accessories, and individual games, and we expect to find more as the sale continues.

SEE ALSO: These are the best October Prime Day deals that cost under $50

Below, find our top Xbox deals from Prime Big Deal Days so far. (If you're looking for an Xbox Series X discount, we couldn't find any at Amazon, but Best Buy has them in stock for $50 off.)

Best console deal Opens in a new window Credit: Xbox Xbox Series S (512GB) $284.99 at Amazon
$299.99 Save $15.00 Get Deal Why we like it

This isn't the best Xbox Series S deal we've ever seen, but it's something! The Xbox Series S is one of the best consoles you can get on a budget — just $284.99 during Prime Big Deal Days, which saves you $15. It's not as powerful as its Series X counterpart, but it's close, and if you also pick up an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription, we're certain that you'll be happy with the overall package.

Best accessory deal Opens in a new window Credit: Xbox Xbox Elite Series 2 Core controller $140.00
$179.99 Save $39.99 Get Deal Why we like it

There's nothing wrong with the Core controller that comes with your Xbox console, but if you're looking to upgrade, there's no better option than Xbox's Elite line. The Elite Series 2 Core controller comes with a more premium-feeling build-quality, adjustable thumbsticks, a rubberized grip, hair trigger locks, back paddles, and more great customization options. During October Prime Day, you can get one for $140, saving you $39.99.

Best bundle deal Opens in a new window Credit: Xbox / Amazon Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max + Astral Purple Core controller + 1-month Game Pass Ultimate bundle $79.99
$141.97 Save $61.98 Get Deal Why we like it

This is easily the best gaming bundle we've found during Prime Big Deal Days so far. It comes with an Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max (which includes the Xbox streaming app), an Xbox Wireless Core controller, and a 1-month membership to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. That's a $141.97 value for just $79.99. If you're into streaming games, this deal is a no-brainer — pick it up and save $61.98.

More October Prime Day Xbox deals

Games:

Accessories:

Eufy's X10 Pro Omni robot vacuum gets a $250 Prime Day discount

Tue, 10/08/2024 - 12:58

SAVE $250: The Eufy X10 Pro Omni robot vacuum with a bunch of nifty self-cleaning features is on sale now for $549.99 for Amazon Prime Day. That's a savings of $250 off the normal list price of $799.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Eufy/Amazon Eufy X10 Pro Omni robot vacuum and mop $549.99
$799.99 Save $250.00 Get Deal

Let's face it: Cleaning floors stinks. No one likes doing it. It's one of those things we'd all be happy to leave to the robots, and thankfully, Amazon's October Prime Day is a great opportunity to get one of those robot vacuums to clean for you.

SEE ALSO: Our favorite Roomba deals during October Prime Day

The Eufy X10 Pro Omni got nearly a third of its list price slashed off for Prime Day. Not only does it vacuum, but it's also a robot mop. What makes this robot vacuum unique is that you get high-end features like AI-driven obstacle avoidance and self-cleaning and drying mop pads without paying a ton of money for them. You'll spend less time worrying about things like refilling water tanks and cleaning mop pads yourself, in other words.

According to our reviewer Leah Stodart, the X10 Pro Omni is a reliable vacuum and mopping tool with only minor issues, like weirdly ignoring a bath mat and considering it an obstacle to avoid. Most importantly, it's $250 off right now.

Sebastian Stan, Aaron Schimberg and Adam Pearson reveal the significance of the karaoke scene in 'A Different Man'

Tue, 10/08/2024 - 12:57
The karaoke scene in 'A Different Man' is a pivotal one in the A24 film. Sebastian Stan, Adam Pearson and filmmaker, Aaron Schimberg break down the scene and it's significance in the film.

Our favorite tech gifts for the gadget-loving set

Tue, 10/08/2024 - 12:54

Once upon a time, kids (and kids at heart) longed for the biggest present in the pile. But size doesn't matter when picking out the best tech gifts. Some of the year's top gadgets are small enough to fit inside your pocket, and thanks to digital downloads, many popular gaming gifts take up no physical space whatsoever.

Our tech gift guide includes some of the best new releases of the year, most of which we've written about and reviewed. From the new Nintendo Switch OLED Mario Red Edition to new Amazon devices, we've focused on the gadgets our editors really loved this year — the true drool-worthy I can't believe you got this for me gifts.

Here are over 50 of Mashable's favorite gift-worthy gadgets and tech gifts.

National Weather Service releases dire Hurricane Milton storm surge video

Tue, 10/08/2024 - 12:24

Hurricane Milton, a storm expanding in size, will force high surges of ocean into the west Florida coast.

In response, the National Weather Service's Tampa Bay office released a succinct, stark video showing the consequences of the looming hurricane, which exploited warm waters and favorable conditions to intensify into a monstrous cyclone.

"We're going to witness some historic, life-threatening storm surge," meteorologist Christianne Pearce says in the video, posted online.

SEE ALSO: Why it's impossible to forecast the weather too far into the future

At 20 seconds in, Pearce shows the average height of storm surge from recent Hurricane Helene, which was over most people's heads at seven feet. Then, the meteorologist shows the 10-foot surge expected for southwest Florida, which is the height of most home ceilings. Finally, at one minute, Pearce shows the 10 to 15 feet of surge expected where the storm's eyewall — where a hurricane's strongest winds rotate around the eye — makes landfall, along with areas directly south of the landfall.

"Fifteen feet is to our roof."

"Fifteen feet is to our roof," Pearce says, pointing to the top of the Tampa weather service office while urging people to heed evacuation orders.

Tweet may have been deleted Tweet may have been deleted

The storm's track may change slightly over the coming two days, but the big picture is clear. The west coast of central Florida will see a historic storm. It will likely make landfall Wednesday night.

"If the storm stays on the current track, it will be the worst storm to impact the Tampa area in over 100 years," the National Weather Service said.

Tweet may have been deleted

Though a number of factors influence the formation of strong hurricanes (opposing winds that can break apart storms, moist or dry air, etc.), a vital influence is warm sea surface temperatures of over 80 degrees Fahrenheit (27 degrees Celsius). Warm oceans act as jet fuel for hurricanes, storm scientists explain. That's because warmer oceans fuel tropical storms as more water naturally evaporates into the air, giving storms energy and moisture to intensify. Crucially, the oceans, which absorb most of the heat created by burning fossil fuels, are relentlessly warming.

Today, Atlantic hurricanes are already twice as likely to develop from a milder storm into a major hurricane.

Our favorite Roomba deals during October Prime Day

Tue, 10/08/2024 - 12:01
Best October Prime Day robot vacuum deals Best budget pick iRobot Roomba Q011 robot vacuum $139.99 at Amazon (save $110) Get Deal Best combo pick iRobot Roomba j5+ self-emptying robot vacuum and mop $450 at Amazon (save $279.99) Get Deal

Roomba is one of the more popular robot vacuum models, and honestly, it's for a good reason: They make really great products. In honor of October's Prime Day event, a bunch of different Roomba models are on sale at pretty steep discounts. There will probably be more as the event goes on, so keep checking back. If you're interested in one of the more premium Roomba companions, we're actually hoping to see better deals on those during the Prime event now that the new Combo 10 Max is out.

If you hate doing chores as much as we do, check out our top Roomba deals ahead of Prime Big Deal Days, including price cuts on regular vacuums, mop combos, and more.

SEE ALSO: The best Dyson vacuums: A guide to the latest versions of stick, ball, and handheld cleaners Best budget pick Opens in a new window Credit: iRobot Our pick: iRobot Roomba Q011 robot vacuum $139.99 at Amazon
$249.99 Save $110.00 Get Deal Why we like it

If you've never had a robot vacuum and don't want to blow a ton of money on one before you even know if you like it, this budget Roomba vac is only $139.99 ahead of Prime Big Deal Days ($110 in savings). It's got all the basics you need: Powerful suction, smart navigation, smartphone app controls, self-recharging, and Alexa support. It's easy to clean, too.

Best combo pick Opens in a new window Credit: iRobot Our pick: iRobot Roomba j5+ self-emptying robot vacuum and mop $450.00 at Amazon
$729.99 Save $279.99 Get Deal Why we like it

Combo robot vacuums are much more well-rounded devices compared to their vacuum-only counterparts. The Roomba j5+, for example, is also a mop and can clean itself. It's also $279.99 off ahead of October Prime Day, taking its price down to just $450. The j5+ features more powerful suction over Roomba's more budget-friendly options, smart mapping, and a sensor that'll help the vacuum steer clear of any pet-related accidents. If you want to knock three items off your chore list with one device (vacuuming, mopping, and cleaning the machine), you'll want to consider picking up this Roomba model.

More October Prime Day robot vacuum dealsPROMOTED ROBOT VACUUM DEALS Opens in a new window Credit: Roborock Roborock Q8 Max Roborock Q7 Max $219.99 at Amazon
$599.99 Save $380.00 Shop Now eufy X10 Pro Omni $549.99 at Amazon
$799.99 Save $250.00 Shop Now

Products available for purchase here through affiliate links are selected by our merchandising team. If you buy something through links on our site, Mashable may earn an affiliate commission or other compensation.

Get up to 50% off board games during October Prime Day (Day 1)

Tue, 10/08/2024 - 12:00
October Prime Day board game deals: Best overall CATAN $29.99 at Amazon (save $30 ) Get Deal Best runner-up Ticket to Ride $29.99 at Amazon (save $25) Get Deal Best board game for kids Candy Land Kingdom of Sweet Adventures $9.99 at Amazon (sav e $2) Get Deal

Today’s the day: October Prime Day is finally here, and Amazon’s gifting us with hundreds of deals on all sorts of products, from TVs and soundbars to gaming consoles and more. But tech isn’t the only thing getting discounted — we’re also seeing some major deals on top-rated board games.

SEE ALSO: The PlayStation 5 Slim is down to its lowest-ever price on October Prime Day

Whether you’re seriously into board games, want to bulk up your collection, or make family game night a regular thing, October Prime Day is one way to do it on the cheap. From classics like Catan and Monopoly to adult party games like Tipsyland, here are the best October Prime Day board game deals we could find:

Best board game deal overall Opens in a new window Credit: CATAN Catan $29.99 at Amazon
$59.99 Save $30.00 Get Deal Why we like it

Catan is a classic strategy game that’s perfect for families and game nights. And, at 50% off — down to just $29.99 — it's a steal. (You can get the five-to-six-player extension for $24.49). In this game, you’ll need to collect resources, settle the land, and trade with other players to build the biggest settlements. If you like any of the digital empire-building games, Catan is a great tabletop version that requires tight strategy, some luck, and a good dose of diplomacy to win.

More board game deals

Sign up for 3 months of Audible Premium Plus for just $3 on October Prime Day

Tue, 10/08/2024 - 11:41

SAVE $41.88: A 3-month subscription to Audible Premium Plus is just $2.97 ($.099 per month), down from the usual price of $44.85, or $14.95 per month. That's a 93% discount.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon 3-month subscription to Audible Premium Plus $2.97 at Amazon
$44.85 Save $41.88 Get Deal

Audiobooks might be the best form of entertainment. It's all the enrichment that comes from reading a book but with a hands-free ability. That means you can "turn pages" while taking the dog for a walk, driving into work, or flying home for the holidays. If you enjoy audiobooks, listen in to this Amazon Prime Day Big Deal Days offer.

Until Dec. 31, sign up for a 3-month subscription to Audible Premium Plus for just $.099 per month, or $2.97 total, down from the normal price of $14.95 per month, or $44.85 total. Overall, you'll save $41.88.

SEE ALSO: October Prime Day Kindle deals aren't too impressive yet, but that could change

Audible Premium Plus gives you discounted or free prices on the Audible Plus Catalog of audiobooks, which includes Audible Originals and podcasts. You'll be able to browse a collection of audiobooks that includes some of today's bestsellers while also having access to old favorites. The Premium Plus membership also gives you one free title from the Audible premium selection, regardless of price. You also get 30% off any additional titles you'd like to purchase from the premium selection.

You're free to cancel your membership at any time, but keep in mind it'll be set to renew at $14.95 per month after the sale three-month period is over.

If you find yourself tuning into audiobooks often, an Audible Premium Plus membership could be a great way to get discounted titles for your listening pleasure. Thanks to Amazon's October Prime Day sale, you can start off with paying just $2.97 for the first three months.

Pages