Mashable

Google's next round of Pixel phones is finally here.

As part of its Made by Google event on Wednesday, Google announced the new Pixel 11 lineup. There are also Pro models and a foldable device, but let's focus on the regular Pixel 11 for now. The base model this year starts at $899, which is $100 more than last year, but there's a caveat: The starting storage is now 256GB instead of 128GB. Last year's Pixel 10 was also $899 for 256GB of storage, so it's only technically a price increase.

SEE ALSO: Made By Google: Live updates as new Pixel 11 phones launch Google Pixel 11: Colors and specs Very thin indeed. Credit: René Ramos / Mashable

Pixel 11 also comes in four colors: Frost, Pistachio, Hibiscus, and Obsidian. Here are the basic specs for the device:

• Display: 6.3-inch display with 1080x2424 resolution and 60-120Hz refresh rate

• Processor: Google Tensor G6 processor

• Storage: 256/512GB

• Memory: 12GB

• Battery: 4,985mAh

• Rear cameras: 48MP wide, 13MP ultrawide, 10.8MP telephoto with 5x optical zoom

• Front camera: 10.5MP

Google didn't revolutionize the base Pixel model for 2026. This is a very incremental upgrade over last year, but there are some noteworthy changes. For instance, the camera bar is about 40 percent thinner, so the phone appears almost fully flat with a case on. Unfortunately, that camera bar does not include HiLight, a new hardware feature exclusive to the Pro devices that uses multicolored lights to convey notifications when the phone is lying face down.

SEE ALSO: How to watch Made By Google 2026

As for other changes, we already covered the exclusion of a 128GB model, but it's also worth mentioning that there's a new 512GB variant of the base model this year. The new Tensor G6 processor delivers faster performance and a few minor new AI features, such as Magic Capture, which automatically captures, crops, and unblurs moments as you film.

Aside from that, though, the Pixel 11 seems very similar to the Pixel 10. We'll have a full review to determine just how much better it is in the near future.

Want to learn more about getting the best out of your tech? Sign up for Mashable's Top Stories and Deals newsletters or get Mashable push alerts today.

The top finds from Target's 2026 Halloween lineup: Nerds Halloween Gummy Clusters Candy $3.49 Shop Now Easy Grip Halloween Pumpkin Carving Kit $5 Shop Now Lit Plastic Ghost in Dome - Hyde and EEK! Boutique $5 Shop Now Pokémon Pikachu Kids' Jumpsuit $20.99 Shop Now 60-inch Poseable Lifesize Skeleton $25 Shop Now Demon Hunters Rumi Kang Classic Costume $25.49 Shop Now

Halloween shopping keeps creeping earlier every year, and Target is betting its 2026 Halloween lineup will get shoppers in early before the leaves even start turning. The retailer just unveiled this year's assortment, and prices stay cheap, with 60% of the decor under $10 and half of all costumes and accessories under $25.

Target's decor splits into two styles this year. Hyde & EEK! Boutique keeps it playful and affordable, with most pieces $10 or under — the standout is a $25 posable skeleton that can strike a new pose every day.

Later this month, Target's own Threshold brand adds a more grown-up Halloween collection: glass pumpkins, rattan pieces, and haunted village sets. For kids, the upcoming Pillowfort Monster collection turns kid-drawn artwork into plush toys and hooded blankets.

Target's exclusive K-Pop Demon Hunters costumes headline the costume collection, including a Rumi look built to be the centerpiece of any group costume. Pokémon gets a major expansion too — up to 26 costumes this year, more than double last year. There are also picks from Toy Story and Super Mario covering most of the big fandoms.

The candy aisle mixes nostalgia with new flavors. Target-exclusive picks include the Nerds Gummy Clusters Halloween Mix, Nutty Fruity Dubai Chocolate, and Drizzilicious in Pumpkin Spice and Apple Pie. For families looking to make an activity out of it, Target's DIY lineup includes Mondo Llama Pumpkin Mosaic Art Kits and Favorite Day Brain Cupcake Kits — easy, mess-contained projects that don't require a trip to the craft store first.

The Halloween lineup is ready to shop at Target now — in store, through Drive Up, or with Order Pickup.

Insta360 has launched the X6, its new flagship 8K 360 camera. Following last year's X5, the new X6 offers larger sensors, a higher frame rate, and 10-bit colour in an even more compact and rugged body.

The Insta360 X6 had been rumoured for a while, with an FCC filing hinting at its release earlier this year. The X5 was — and still is —  an impressive 360-degree camera, helping to cement Insta360 as a leader in the category upon its 2025 release. Now we finally know how Insta360 plans to improve upon it, with the X6 providing multiple upgrades.

SEE ALSO: Insta360 unveils cute Hello Kitty-themed action camera

Firstly, the X6 boasts larger dual Sony 1/1.1-inch sensors as opposed to the X5's 1/1.28 sensors. This allows the X6 to take in more light, improving performance in dim environments and where there is significant contrast. Like the X5, the X6 has two dedicated imaging chips and one AI chip. However, the X6's AI chip has been upgraded from 5nm to 4nm, Insta360 stating that the camera has five times more computing power than its predecessor, while also having a reduced power draw.

Credit: Insta360

The Insta360 X6 can capture 360-degree footage at resolutions up to 8K at 50fps — up from the X5's maximum of 8K at 30fps. Its flat, traditional filming mode has also received a boost, reaching 5K at 60fps as opposed to the X5's maximum of 4K on the same frame rate. Photo mode now reaches 120MP for 360-degree images, or 42MP for flat pictures, compared to the X5's 72MP 360-degree and 18MP flat photos.

Another significant change is the X6's form factor. While it is slightly wider than the X5, measuring in at 50mm as opposed to 46 millimetres, its much shorter height more than makes up for this. The X6 reduces the X5's already fairly compact build by almost 25 millimetres, measuring approximately 100 millimetres tall. While nowhere near as small as Insta360's GO action cameras, the X6 can easily fit in a jacket pocket.

Credit: Insta360

This shorter build houses a 2.32-inch OLED touchscreen which can reach up to 1200 nits brightness, making it easier to preview footage in light environments. In addition to operating as a regular touchscreen, the X6's screen can also be used as a giant button for recording. This allows users to operate the camera even wearing thick gloves, or if you're struggling with the X6's typical controls.

The X6 further adds both 10-bit colour and Dolby Vision, features that aren't available in the X5. Alongside its ability to film in I-Log (Insta360's proprietary log profile), these shooting options enable the X6 to capture a wider dynamic range and more colours, providing a richer image and more flexibility when colour grading in post. 

Insta360 states that the X6 can record 8K 30fps 360-degree video for up to 140 minutes on a single charge, surpassing the X5's runtime by 40 minutes. The X6 is also waterproof to 20 metres, an increase in depth of five metres, and has new replaceable lenses which the company claims are five-times more scratch-resistant (as well as more affordable). Mashable got to try replacing some X6 lenses, and found them not only simple to swap out, but also very satisfying.

The Insta360 X6 is available now, and comes in two colourways: Midnight Black and Arctic White. The Standard Version will set you back $699.99, and includes the X6 camera, a USB-C cable, a protective pouch, and a lens cloth. The $799.99 Essentials Bundle also includes these, but adds on an extra battery, invisible selfie stick, lens cap, fast charge case, and an extended warranty.

Want more tech and digital culture news delivered to your inbox daily or sent straight to your device? Sign up for Mashable's Top Stories newsletter or get Mashable push alerts today.

I love Pure for so many reasons. (It's particularly useful for anyone who's looking for no-fuss, hot AF phone sex.) But that level of sauciness isn't for everyone — and to be fair, Pure isn't the only place you'll find randos sending you unsolicited photos of their unruly trunks among the forest.

If you're a Woman on the Internet and you've used a dating app, you may have (unfortunately) received an unsolicited explicit photo, which is known as cyberflashing. According to the Pew Research Center, about four in 10 online dating users (38 percent) report receiving a sexually explicit message or image they didn't ask for. For women ages 18 to 49, that number jumps to 56 percent.

So, Pure — one of the most sex-positive dating apps I've ever tested — is stepping up to stop cyberflashing with a brand-new feature called My Media Rules.

SEE ALSO: My favorite dating app just got even cooler with a new feed redesign

Developed directly from community feedback, My Media Rules takes the anxiety out of opening your messages. The tool lets you set your own universal boundaries for the app, meaning you can choose to auto-block all nude pics, turn off media sharing completely, or keep things open. You can even toggle these permissions on a chat-by-chat basis. Plus, if a graphic image appears for the first time, Pure prompts you to adjust your filters right then and there — and lets you decide whether you want to keep talking to the person who sent it.

No consent? No nude. Pure's built-in privacy tools blur sensitive content automatically. Credit: Pure

"We love bringing fun and spontaneity to our community, but we believe that only works when it's backed by privacy, respect, and consent," Vicki Rool, Head of Trust & Safety at Pure, said in a statement. "People consistently told us they wanted more control over incoming media while keeping the spontaneity that makes Pure unique. We listened and built it. My Media Rules put that feedback into practice, giving people the choice of what type of media they receive."

This new feature adds to Pure's robust list of existing privacy tools, which includes native anti-screenshot protection, sensitive content blurring, and self-destructing photos and videos. (Which, honestly, is exactly why I recommend it for sexting!)

SAVE $200: As of Aug. 12, the Hisense M2 Pro projector is on sale for $1,099.99 at Amazon. That's $200 off its full price of $1,299.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Hisense Hisense M2 Pro $1,099.99 at Amazon
$1,299.99 Save $200   Get Deal

If you're thinking about making the jump from a TV to a projector setup for future movie nights or marathons of a show, the Hisense M2 Pro is a model worth checking out. Our reviewer had high praise for it, saying it "proves you don't need a normal TV anymore," and it's even discounted right now at Amazon.

As of Aug. 12, Amazon has knocked $200 off the cost of the Hisense M2 Pro, dropping it from $1,299.99 to $1,099.99. This deal is only available for a limited time, so if you've been hoping to grab it, now is the time to act.

SEE ALSO: Google Pixel 11 Pro: Everything we know ahead of Aug. 12 Made By Google event

The Hisense M2 Pro is quite impressive when it comes to screen size, as it can adjust from 65 to 200 inches. It also has a gimbal that can move it around 360 degrees horizontally and 135 degrees vertically, so you can find the perfect viewing angle. Plus, it boasts 4K resolution for picture quality, so you can enjoy every detail of what you watch.

Writer Lauren Allain, who reviewed it, wrote that this projector is worth it "for anyone looking to break it off with a standard TV and go with a projector." She continued on to say that the "4K triple laser display is excellent, the built-in stand is convenient, and the onboard speaker is decent enough that you’re not forced to connect to an external sound system."

However, she does add that "this isn’t the right model if you don’t have space to project a display of at least 65 inches. Any smaller and you’ll end up with a blurred display." If the Hisense M2 Pro fits the bill of what you're looking for, though, don't miss out on this great deal on it at Amazon.

Want to learn more about getting the best out of your tech? Sign up for Mashable's Top Stories and Deals newsletters today.

TL;DR: Watch Newcastle United vs. Everton in a 2026 pre-season friendly for free on SportyNet. Access this free live stream from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The new Premier League season is fast approaching. Top teams are now at the stage where they need to stop experimenting and start building momentum before the opening weekend.

It has been a summer of turmoil for Newcastle United, but they've still got a talented squad that could do well next season. They come up against Everton this week, as both Premier League teams look to get a real measure of where they stand.

If you're interested in watching the 2026 Nations Championship from anywhere in the world, we've got all the information you need.

When is Newcastle United vs. Everton?

Newcastle United vs. Everton in a 2026 pre-season friendly kicks off at 12:15 p.m. ET on Aug. 12. This fixture takes place at Murrayfield Stadium.

How to watch Newcastle United vs. Everton for free

Newcastle United vs. Everton in a 2026 pre-season friendly is available to live stream for free on SportyNet.

SportyNet is geo-restricted to Brazil, but anyone can secure access with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the UK, meaning you can livestream Newcastle United vs. Everton for free from anywhere in the world.

Live stream Newcastle United vs. Everton for free by following these simple steps:

1. Sign up for a streaming-friendly VPN (we recommend ExpressVPN)

2. Download the app to your device of choice

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

4. Visit SportyNet

5. Watch Newcastle United vs. Everton for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.99 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but they do tend to offer generous money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can watch Newcastle United vs. Everton without committing your cash. This is obviously not a long-term strategy, but it gives you enough time to stream this fixture before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for SportyNet?

ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport on SportyNet, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries, including Brazil

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

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

• Fast connection speeds free from throttling

• Up to 10 simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $68.40 and includes an extra four months for free — 81% off for a limited time. This plan includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and usually offers a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.99.

Live stream Newcastle United vs. Everton for free with ExpressVPN.

Best phone plans for seniors: Best overall phone plan for seniors T-Mobile Experience More 2.0 $70/line/month with AutoPay (save $5/line per month) Get Deal Best phone and internet combo for seniors AT&T 55+ $99/month Get Deal Best budget phone plan for seniors T-Mobile Essentials Choice 55 2.0 $45/month with AutoPay (save $5/line per month) Get Deal Best no-contract plan for seniors Boost Mobile Senior Savings $10/month for new customera (save $15/month) Get Deal Best low-cost unlimited plan for seniors Mint Mobile 55+ Unlimited Plan $15/month (save $15/month) Get Deal

Phone bills shouldn't get more confusing as you get older — but most carriers make it feel that way.

Some carriers offer real, age-restricted pricing built specifically for people aged 55 and up, complete with perks like built-in scam-call protection. T-Mobile, AT&T, and a handful of carriers all run age-restricted phone plans that undercut their standard pricing — sometimes by a lot.

Here's what's actually worth switching to:

Best overall phone plan for seniors Opens in a new window Credit: T-Mobile T-Mobile Experience More 2.0 Unlimited data, 4K streaming, and Scam Shield Premium — starting at $70/month for one line with AutoPay. Get Deal Why we like it

With the T-Mobile Experience More 2.0, you're paying $70 per month for one line, $100 for two with AutoPay — but you get unlimited data instead of a 50GB cap, and streaming maxes out at 4K instead of getting stuck at 480p.

So if you watch lots of videos on your phone or use it without thinking about data limits, this plan takes that worry off the table. It's T-Mobile's way of giving seniors more of the "normal" plan experience without the full price tag.

Best phone and internet combo for seniors Opens in a new window Credit: AT&T AT&T 55+ Two unlimited lines plus home internet for $99/month, with ActiveArmor scam protection built in. Get Deal Why we like it

AT&T's 55+ plan earns its spot by doing something none of the other plans on this list do: bundling two unlimited wireless lines with home internet for a flat $99 per month. If you're already paying for both separately, that's easy savings in one bill. It also comes with AT&T ActiveArmor built in to screen out spam and scam calls, and Fiber customers get automatic internet backup, so a home outage doesn't cut you off from the outside world.

It's a great fit for anyone ready to simplify their bills and consolidate services under one carrier. The one extra step is that signup happens over the phone rather than online, since AT&T verifies age and applies the discount directly — a quick call, and you're set.

Best no-contract plan for seniors Opens in a new window Credit: Boost Mobile Boost Mobile Senior Savings Unlimited talk, text, and data for $25/month — locked in for life, no contract required. Get Deal Why we like it

Boost's pitch is refreshingly simple: $25 a month, unlimited talk, text, and data, and that price is locked in for good — no surprise hikes, no fine print about rates jumping after a year. New customers even get a head start at $10/month for the first three months before it settles into the standard rate.

With 30GB of high-speed data included before speeds slow down, it's plenty for most day-to-day use without needing to think too hard about it. It's also flexible — no contract means you can leave anytime, and you're free to add family members of any age to the account. Simple, affordable, and built to stay that way.

SAVE OVER $200: As of Aug. 12, the Shark AV2511AE AI Ultra robot vacuum is on sale for $299.99 at Amazon. That's a $299.01 discount off the list price of $599.

Opens in a new window Credit: Shark Shark AI Ultra Robot Vacuum $299.99 at Amazon
$599 Save $299.01   Get Deal

The Shark AV2511AE AI Ultra robot vacuum has received a huge 50% discount at Amazon, but it won't be on sale for long. If you've been thinking your home could benefit from the cleaning assistance of a robot vacuum, especially if people are spending more time inside to keep out of the summer heat, you'll want to make a move fast on this limited-time deal.

As of Aug. 12, this robot vacuum has dropped from $599 to $299.99. Don't wait too long to grab it, as it has a "limited-time deal" stacker attached.

SEE ALSO: Google Pixel 11 Pro: Everything we know ahead of Aug. 12 Made By Google event

This Shark robot vacuum is a reliable pick for people who just want help with vacuuming around the house. Whether it's carpets, rugs, or hard surfaces, its powerful suction can pick up any dust, crumbs, or pet hair. It even comes with a Matrix Clean feature, which moves in a grid pattern to make multiple passes over areas for a deeper clean.

There's no need to worry about emptying the bagless base frequently, as it can hold up to 60 days' worth of dirt and debris. And on top of that, this robot vacuum can last for up to 90 minutes on a charge. The store page also notes that when it runs out of battery, it returns to the dock for a recharge, then resumes where it left off once it's done, which is very helpful.

Act fast to score 50% off the Shark AV2511AE AI Ultra robot vacuum at Amazon.

Want to learn more about getting the best out of your tech? Sign up for Mashable's Top Stories and Deals newsletters today.

Flock cameras are swiftly becoming the bane of citizens' existence, with the U.S.-wide network of automated license plate readers (ALPRs) increasingly coming under public scrutiny.

Now, there's an app that can show you how many devices owned by surveillance company Flock Safety are in your neighbourhood. Reported by the New York Times, DeFlock Maps is a crowdsourced app aiming for "surveillance transparency" that pinpoints ALPRs including Flocks on a map.

SEE ALSO: What are Flock cameras and why are they so controversial?

The map uses crowdsourced data from contributors to DeFlock and is powered by open-source project OpenStreetMap. According to the app's website, "Camera locations come from volunteers and the OpenStreetMap community, not a private company or government agency."

Devices pinned include not just Flock cameras but those of Motorola Solutions, Genetec, and other unnamed tech companies. However, Flock cameras make up over 80 percent of the devices mapped.

"Mass surveillance infrastructure is expanding rapidly in our communities, often without public awareness or consent," DeFlock's user guide reads. "DeFlock makes surveillance infrastructure visible. By documenting these devices and uploading the data to OpenStreetMap, we create a transparent, searchable record of the surveillance apparatus in our communities. Knowledge is power, and transparency is the first step toward accountability."

The fleet of devices, which capture and analyse images of passing vehicles using cameras, have become controversial as "creepy surveillance", with one Minnesota city seeing all of its devices stolen. Flock says its nationwide network includes over 120,000 cameras across 49 states, "giving agencies a broader view of vehicle movement and a deeper pool of investigative leads."

As Mashable's Olivia Tauber writes, "Police departments, businesses, schools, and homeowners associations use the cameras, which can turn a passing car into a searchable record containing its license plate, location, color, model, and even details such as bumper stickers or dents."

Featured Video For You The digital tool protecting Ukrainian architecture from war

DeFlock currently has 128,988 devices tracked, 82 percent of which are marked as owned by Flock Safety, which means the site has 105,770 Flock devices pinned (just under 90 percent of Flock's stated total).

Notably, DeFlock says in its user guide that it collects no user data, stipulating that "everything stays on your device except what you choose to upload to OpenStreetMap."

You can learn more about Flock cameras in Mashable's explainer, and check your neighborhood for devices on DeFlock Maps.

Want more tech and digital culture news delivered to your inbox daily or sent straight to your device? Sign up for Mashable's Top Stories newsletter or get Mashable push alerts today.

The Daily Show is 30 years old, and what better way to celebrate than by digging out all the audition tapes of cast members past and present?

In the clip above we see everyone from Jordan Klepper and Josh Johnson to Jessica Williams and John Oliver, typically accompanied by Jon Stewart attempting to hold back laughter.

There are many, many highlights, but Ed Helms' ice-cold delivery near the end is one to stick around for.

Want more film and TV news and reviews delivered straight to your inbox? Sign up for Mashable’s Top Stories newsletter or get Mashable push alerts today.

The phone summer continues: Next up is Google, which is launching new Pixel 11 phones and more at its "Made by Google" event, held in New York on Wednesday, Aug. 12, starting at 6 p.m. ET.

During the event, we expect to see four new Pixel phones: Pixel 11, Pixel 11 Pro, Pixel 11 Pro XL, and the foldable Pixel 11 Pro Fold. The company is also rumored to launch the new Pixel Watch 5 and yes, we'll probably hear a lot (A LOT) of chatter about Google's Gemini AI. For a full list of what we expect to see today, go here.

In this live blog, we'll be chronicling the event as it unfolds, so stay tuned for all the latest updates.

SAVE OVER $100: As of Aug. 12, the DJI Neo Motion Fly More Combo is down to its lowest-ever price of $369 at Amazon. That's $160 off its full price of $529.

Opens in a new window Credit: DJI DJI Neo Motion Fly More Combo $369 at Amazon
$529 Save $160   Get Deal

Drones are a cool investment, no matter if you're a content creator or just looking to start up a new hobby. It's even better when you can snag a bundle that comes with everything you need to take to the skies, like the DJI Neo Motion Fly More Combo.

As of Aug. 12, this popular bundle is down to its lowest-ever price at Amazon. Shoppers can grab the DJI Neo Motion Fly More Combo for $369 for a limited time. That's a 30% cut from its original price of $529. The third-party seller is reliable, with a 98% positive rating over the last 12 months.

SEE ALSO: Google Pixel 11 Pro: Everything we know ahead of Aug. 12 Made By Google event

The DJI Neo Motion Fly More Combo is a stacked bundle, coming with the drone, three flight batteries, a two-way charging hub, a pair of propeller guards, a spare pair of propellers, four spare propeller screws, a gimbal protector, the DJI RC Motion 3, DJI Goggles N3, a screwdriver, a lanyard, and a Type-C to Type-C PD cable. With all of that in your hands, you'll be ready to capture beautiful scenes without delay.

The DJI Neo will make sure those views shine with 4K video at 30 fps and 12MP photos. Plus, with the help of DJI stabilization technology and level-4 wind resistance, footage will remain smooth. This tiny device weighs just 135 grams, so it does not require FAA registration or Remote ID.

Enjoy the views from above this summer with the DJI Neo Motion Fly More Combo. Don't miss out on this great deal at Amazon.

Want to learn more about getting the best out of your tech? Sign up for Mashable's Top Stories and Deals newsletters today.

TL;DR: The MSI Katana 15 HX gaming laptop is on sale for $1,869.99 at Amazon, down from its $2,199.99 list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: MSI MSI Katana 15 HX Gaming Laptop $1,869.99 at Amazon
$2,199.99 Save $330.00 Get Deal

Getting over $300 off a gaming laptop packing an RTX 5070 during RAMmageddon sounds more like a dream these days, but Amazon has just done exactly that with MSI’s Katana 15 HX.

As of Aug. 12, the MSI Katana 15 HX gaming laptop is available for $1,869.99 at Amazon as part of a limited-time deal. With $330 off its $2,199.99 list price, you’re getting a 15% discount on the 14th Gen Intel Core i9 configuration with 32GB of memory and 1TB of storage.

The two components that make this a major draw for us here are the Intel Core i9-14900HX processor and the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 GPU with 8GB of GDDR7 memory. Paired with 32GB of DDR5 RAM and a 1TB NVMe SSD, you’re effectively getting enough muscle for demanding games, streaming, and even multitasking between work and other bits of content creation — all without wishing you could have an even beefier drive installed. 

Plus, the Blackwell-based GPU also brings DLSS 4 and ray-tracing support for games that can make use of them — making must-plays like Cyberpunk 2077 and Marvel Rivals look more stunning than ever. 

Mashable Deals Be the first to know! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Loading... Sign Me Up By signing up, you agree to receive recurring automated SMS marketing messages from Mashable Deals at the number provided. Msg and data rates may apply. Up to 2 messages/day. Reply STOP to opt out, HELP for help. Consent is not a condition of purchase. See our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. Thanks for signing up!

With its 15.6-inch QHD display, the 2560 x 1440 IPS-level panel runs at 165Hz and covers 100% of the DCI-P3 color gamut; with that, you’re getting both a sharper picture than standard Full HD alongside the higher refresh rate you’d want for faster shooters and competitive games (like Fortnite and Apex Legends) all in one powerful, portable package.

To keep all of these great games running safely at high specs, the Katana 15 HX’s Cooler Boost 5 feature uses dual fans and five heat pipes to help prevent the CPU and GPU from throttling during longer loads.

That said, there’s still some space to look stylish with its four-zone RGB keyboard — and you’ve got WiFi 6E, USB-C Gen 2, multiple USB-A ports, Ethernet, and HDMI support up to 8K for all the initial connectivity options you’ll need.

If you’re in the market for a new stylish monitor to extend your setup, LG's 32-inch 4K OLED UltraGear gaming monitor is now $750 at Amazon. Among other gaming laptop deals right now, you can also snag the Acer Nitro V 16 for under $1,000. 

TL;DR: The Acer Predator Helios Neo 18 AI gaming laptop is on sale for $2,199.99 at Amazon, down from its $2,799.99 list price. 

Opens in a new window Credit: Acer Acer Predator Helios Neo 18 AI Gaming Laptop $2,199.99 at Amazon
$2,799.99 Save $600 Get Deal

An 18-inch gaming laptop loaded with an RTX 5070 Ti was never going to sit in a budget-level price bracket, but Amazon has just pushed Acer’s oversized Predator to a slightly more manageable rate.

As of Aug. 12, the Acer Predator Helios Neo 18 AI gaming laptop has been knocked to $2,199.99 at Amazon, taking a full $600 off the $2,799.99 list price. The 21% discount has brought this model to its lowest-ever price, as recorded by the price tracker camelcamelcamel.

Sold and shipped directly by Amazon rather than a third-party marketplace seller, you’ll get free delivery as soon as Aug. 13 (at the time of writing) if you’re a Prime member — and you’ll have the retailer’s free 30-day refund/replacement guarantee if there are any problems.

As for what you’re getting in terms of hardware for your money, Acer pairs Intel’s Core Ultra 9 275HX processor with an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 Ti Laptop GPU sporting 12GB of GDDR7 memory, alongside 32GB of DDR5 RAM and a roomy 2TB PCIe Gen 4 SSD. Essentially, this gives you plenty of headroom for demanding games, heavier multitasking, and storing a sizeable library without immediately reaching for another drive.

Mashable Deals Be the first to know! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Loading... Sign Me Up By signing up, you agree to receive recurring automated SMS marketing messages from Mashable Deals at the number provided. Msg and data rates may apply. Up to 2 messages/day. Reply STOP to opt out, HELP for help. Consent is not a condition of purchase. See our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. Thanks for signing up!

NVIDIA’s Blackwell-based GPU also brings DLSS 4, Multi Frame Generation, enhanced Ray Reconstruction, and full ray tracing support, giving newer games like Assassin’s Creed Black Flag Resynced or Marvel Tokon: Fighting Souls extra tools for pushing higher frame rates without sacrificing as much visual detail.

As for the display, the Predator Helios Neo 18 AI uses an 18-inch 2560 x 1600 WQXGA panel with a 16:10 aspect ratio, 240Hz refresh rate, 3ms overdrive response time, NVIDIA G-SYNC, and up to 100% DCI-P3 color coverage. In other words, the screen is built to make good use of the hardware rather than bottlenecking it with a basic panel.

Acer rounds things out with Killer WiFi 6E, 2.5Gb Ethernet, Thunderbolt 4, HDMI 2.1, and its 5th Gen AeroBlade 3D cooling system. There’s also a four-zone RGB keyboard, and PredatorSense controls for tweaking performance modes, fan behavior, and lighting.

If you’re looking for a laptop with touchpad functionality, the ASUS ROG Flow Z13 is still on sale at Amazon. You can also grab the Acer Nitro V 16 gaming laptop on offer for under $1,000. 

Elon Musk's SpaceXAI (yes, that's the company name now) has introduced Grok Bot, a team of always-on AI agents that can accomplish tasks in the background while you work on other stuff.

There's some number confusion here: the feature is called "Grok Bot," but the introductory post keeps referring to it in the plural. In practice, it should resemble a "highly capable teammate" to which you can give tasks simply by chatting with it.

And yes, you can run several bots in parallel and even have one manage a team of bots, which can independently message each other as they work to accomplish a task. Bots can also be placed in a group chat where they can work and communicate together as a team of actual humans would. "They pass work, assign ownership, and only pull you in for judgment calls," says SpaceXAI.

Well, I prefer a bot doing that instead of doing it myself. Credit: SpaceXAI

SpaceXAI provides a couple of examples of how its own teams are using Grok Bot. In one example, a Bot sends invites and follow-ups to collect NDA signatures for beta access to a feature; in another, a bot finds open invoices across portals and email, sends follow-ups in the same voice, logs replies, and only escalates the ones that are stuck or disputed.

SEE ALSO: Elon Musk’s Grokipedia reportedly hasn’t been updated since April

Grok Bot is in beta and is now available to SuperGrok Heavy, Cursor Ultra, and Cursor Teams Premium subscribers on desktop and iOS. As for Enterprise users, there's a waitlist they can join to get access in the future.

SpaceXAI's Grok Bot follows in the footsteps of other companies such as OpenAI and Anthropic, which offer similar, persistent AI agents that can do work in the background and as a team.

TL;DR: Unblock Pornhub for free with a VPN. The best service for unblocking porn sites from Australia is ExpressVPN.

The world of porn continues to be impacted by age-verification laws. Back in early 2025, more than a third of U.S. states introduced age verification laws for online adult content. Pornhub hit back by blocking users from those locations. A similar situation took place in France and the UK, and now Australians are facing the same set of challenges.

The porn blocks arrived just days before new online safety codes came into effect, requiring organizations to verify the ages of users. It's the same story we've seen before, with the same straightforward workaround.

SEE ALSO: T-Mobile is giving away the Apple iPhone 17 for free — here's how to claim

If you want to unblock porn sites like Pornhub for free from Australia, we have all the information you need.

How to unblock Pornhub for free in Australia

VPNs are tools that can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to secure servers in other locations. This process bypasses geo-restrictions so you can access sites like Pornhub from anywhere in the world.

Unblock Pornhub from Australia by following these simple steps:

1. Sign up for a VPN (we recommend 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 a location that supports access to Pornhub

4. Visit Pornhub

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.99 only at ExpressVPN Shop Now

The best VPNs for unblocking porn sites are not free, but most offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can unblock porn sites like Pornhub without spending anything. This is obviously not a long-term solution, but it does give you the opportunity to temporarily retain access to Pornhub before recovering your investment.

If you want to retain permanent access to sites like Pornhub, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for bypassing content restrictions is on sale for a limited time.

What is the best VPN for Pornhub?

ExpressVPN is the top choice for unblocking porn sites like Pornhub, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in locations all around the world

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

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

• Fast streaming speeds free from throttling

• Multiple simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantees

A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $68.40 and includes an extra four months for free — 81% off for a limited time. This plan includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.99 (with a money-back guarantee).

Unblock Pornhub for free in Australia with ExpressVPN.

Interested in what Google has up its sleeve when it comes to its next Pixel smartphone? You don't have too much longer to wait to find out more. Made by Google 2026 is almost here!

Plenty has already leaked regarding Google's next-generation Pixel 11 smartphone lineup. Along with announcements about its flagship smartphone line, there's a good chance we'll see a new Pixel smartwatch and some new Gemini updates. But all of the rumors and speculation will soon be 100 percent confirmed by Google.

The Made by Google 2026 live event will kick off from New York on Wednesday, Aug. 12, and there we will get all of those Pixel-related details. Here's how to watch.

How to watch Made by Google 2026

Google will be livestreaming the entire event at 6pm ET / 3pm PT right on its official Made By Google channel on YouTube.

Click here to watch on YouTube, or catch the stream when it goes live in the embedded livestream video below.

A mirror of the livestream is expected to go live on the Google Store at the start time.

According to reports, former The Daily Show host Trevor Noah will host the event, picking up the mantle from The Tonight Show host Jimmy Fallon, who hosted last year's event. 

The Made By Google event will also reportedly feature a slew of special guests, including Stephen Curry, Alex Cooper, Shubman Gill, Peggy Gou, Jesser, JuJu Watkins, Chari Hawkins, and PinkPantheress.

Don't be surprised if Mashable, as well as other outlets, start covering the big Pixel 11 releases before the livestreamed event. Both the Google Store and Best Buy have Pixel-related pre-order countdown clocks that end around 10am ET on Wednesday, hours before the livestream event is expected to kick off. Does Google have something extra special that it's holding off on announcing to surprise everyone at the event? We'll all have to tune in to find out.

TL;DR: Waffle's screen-free kids' phones — the Waffle Home ($119) and Waffle Go ($149) — are available to pre-order now and ship in October.

Opens in a new window Credit: Waffle Waffle Home $119 at Waffle
  Pre-order Here Opens in a new window Credit: Waffle Waffle Go $149 at Waffle
  Pre-order Here

Want your kids to be able to reach you, but not quite ready to hand them a phone that opens the door to social media and the internet? Waffle just opened preorders for two screen-free communication devices built specifically for kids, with shipping starting in October.

Both devices skip apps, social media, and internet browsing entirely, focusing on the one thing a first phone is actually meant for: staying in touch. Parents manage everything through the Waffle Parent Hub app, and setup takes under five minutes.

Waffle Home ($119) reimagines the family landline for kids. It's cordless, so they can walk and talk freely, and it comes with a caller ID display, voice notes, and a satisfying "slam it down" hang-up. WiFi built-in keeps calls connected, and only approved contacts can get through, so there's no risk of strangers or spam calls. It's available in mint, purple, or graphite.

Waffle Go ($149) is built for kids on the move. It's rugged (IP65-rated), runs on Wi-Fi and 4G so it works away from home, and packs a three-day battery life. Parents can also track their kids' location in real-time, and only approved contacts can reach the device.

Both devices are fully refundable until they ship, and preorders are now open at Waffle. Two batches are sold out already. Pre-order the Waffle phone now.

TL;DR: Through August 20, it’s only $9.97 to get Windows 11 Pro.

Opens in a new window Credit: Microsoft Microsoft Windows 11 Pro $9.97
$199 Save $189.03   Get Deal

If you’ve been noticing your PC isn’t working like it used to, check the operating system. If you’re still running Windows 10, then you’ve gone almost a full year without important updates. Upgrading to Windows 11 Pro used to cost $199, but through August 20, it’s only $9.97.

This isn’t about chasing trends. It’s more about giving your computer the modern foundation it deserves. Windows 11 Pro brings a sleeker UI, better multitasking, and enhanced security, all in a one-time lifetime license. Think of it as the difference between driving a reliable car and suddenly upgrading to one with a smarter dashboard, smoother handling, and built-in security features.

Mashable Deals Be the first to know! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Loading... Sign Me Up By signing up, you agree to receive recurring automated SMS marketing messages from Mashable Deals at the number provided. Msg and data rates may apply. Up to 2 messages/day. Reply STOP to opt out, HELP for help. Consent is not a condition of purchase. See our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. Thanks for signing up!

Pro adds BitLocker full-disk encryption, which keeps your data locked down, even if someone else gets their hands on your computer. Hyper-V lets you spin up virtual machines, and Windows Sandbox gives you a throwaway space to test sketchy apps without touching your main setup. Azure AD ties the machine to business identity and access management, enabling IT to manage the device on a company network.

And yes, Windows 11 comes with Copilot, Microsoft’s AI-powered assistant that can summarize pages, change settings, or even help you generate code on the fly. It’s like having a co-pilot (literally) inside your OS.

This is a smart upgrade at a smart price, but it won’t stay on sale for very long.

Until 11:59 p.m. PT on Aug. 20, Windows 11 Pro is only $9.97.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

TL;DR: Speak words into polished, professional writing with a lifetime subscription to Contextli Pro Plus Plan, on sale now for just $199.99 (reg. $2,450).

Opens in a new window Credit: Ertiqah Contextli Pro Plus Plan: Lifetime Subscription $199.99
$2,450 Save $2,250.01   Get Deal

Sometimes the fastest way to get your ideas across is by speaking, but anyone who’s relied on speech-to-text tools knows they aren’t always accurate. Contextii Pro Plus puts an end to that, turning your natural speech into clean, formatted text.

Right now, you can lock in a lifetime subscription to the Contextii Pro Plus Plan for only $199.99.

Mashable Deals Be the first to know! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Loading... Sign Me Up By signing up, you agree to receive recurring automated SMS marketing messages from Mashable Deals at the number provided. Msg and data rates may apply. Up to 2 messages/day. Reply STOP to opt out, HELP for help. Consent is not a condition of purchase. See our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. Thanks for signing up!

If you’re tired of typing or simply have too much on your plate, Contextii Pro Plus is ready to improve your daily workflow with easy, clean, and formatted transcriptions.

This app delivers context-aware dictation and repeatable workflows for emails, messages, documents, code, support replies, journal entries, marketing notes, and more. You can import or export Contexts to manage your customized workflows, and your Contexts cloud-sync so you won’t lose them.

Contextii Pro Plus uses premium AI models, so it can handle complex reasoning, creative writing, and sophisticated workflows. If you frequently use certain terms, you can establish your own custom dictionary and even set up personalized shortcuts to save time. It also supports 99 languages, so if you need to dictate in another language, Contextii Pro Plus is ready.

Your lifetime plan comes with 48,000 one-time credits — each credit equals one minute of transcription — and they never expire. If you ever use up your credits, Bring Your Own Key mode uses your own supported provider API keys to provide unlimited usage at your provider’s cost.

You can use your Pro Plus Plan across multiple devices, with priority assistance available when you need help. Offline mode is available if you don’t want to use Contextii Cloud processing, and it works without using your credits. This lifetime subscription also includes future updates.

Score a lifetime subscription to Contextli Pro Plus Plan for only $199.99 today.

StackSocial prices subject to change.