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People might like Threads. Or, at least, they're willing to sign up for it — and use it.
Adam Mosseri, the head of Instagram and Threads, posted on Sunday night that Threads had reached 275 million monthly active users.
"A big thank you to everyone who’s helped us get this far. There’s a lot more to do, and plenty of things to fix, but there’s something exciting about this place. 🙏🏼," he posted.
SEE ALSO: Meta promises a fix to Threads' engagement bait problemThreads was launched last summer as people were fleeing Twitter in an exodus when Elon Musk bought the platform and rebranded it as X.
While Threads is seen as a Twitter/X replacement, the use cases aren't identical — and the numbers are pretty stark. In comparison, Musk, who owns X, posted in May that X has "600 million monthly active users, about half of which use the platform every day." It's unclear how true that is, and a report from the Financial Times shows that fewer people have used Musk's platform since he took control. Threads, on the other hand, has reportedly been rapidly growing.
SEE ALSO: Elon Musk's X sucks and I'm not leavingTL;DR: Get 15 bottles of red, white, or mixed wines for $69 and elevate any occasion with this affordable deal.
15-bottle wine bundle featuring red, white, or mixed options to suit your taste
Ideal for hosting holiday gatherings, gifting, cozy nights, or stocking up your personal collection
Curated selection with flavors that work for both casual sipping and meal pairings
Variety of reds and whites with balanced flavors and unique tasting notes
No subscription required — perfect for trying new wines
Great price for quality wine at less than $5 per bottle, ready to be delivered to your door (shipping not included)
Enjoy affordable and versatile wines with this delicious 15-bottle bundle from Swirl Wine Shop for only $69 (reg. $225).
StackSocial prices subject to change.
Opens in a new window Credit: Swirl Swirl Wine Shop - 15 Bottles of Red, White or Mixed Wines for just $69 (Shipping Not Included) $69.00TL;DR: Get lifetime access to Microsoft Visio Professional 2024 available for $79.97 and make pro-level diagrams in a snap.
Need a way to make sense of your ideas and share them with others? Microsoft Visio Professional 2024 is here to make everything look better, from flowcharts to floor plans. It’s the perfect tool for anyone who wants to whip up logical and aesthetically pleasing visuals without spending hours figuring out complicated design software. A lifetime license is on sale for $79.97 through November 21.
Visio comes with an extensive library of templates, covering everything from organizational charts and network diagrams to building layouts and data flow maps. These templates give you a head start, so you’re not starting from scratch every time you need to create something. Whether you’re a student working on a group project, a professional creating a business plan, or someone who simply likes things to look organized, Visio’s ready-made designs help keep everything neat and accessible.
One of Visio’s major benefits is its integration with Microsoft 365, allowing you to share and collaborate on your diagrams seamlessly. This feature makes it simple to get feedback from colleagues, present your ideas to others, or even work together on a project in real time. And because it’s a familiar Microsoft product, navigating and using Visio feels intuitive.
With this deal, you’ll have pro-level tools for everything from corporate diagrams to family tree projects — all with that familiar, easy Microsoft feel.
Through November 21, get a lifetime license to Microsoft Visio Professional 2024 for $79.97.
StackSocial prices subject to change.
Opens in a new window Credit: Retail King Microsoft Visio Professional 2024: Lifetime License for Windows $79.97A hot new hippo bombshell has entered the internet's virtual villa — and she's coming for Moo Deng's crown.
If that sentence sounds completely ridiculous, well, it's because it is. But Edinburgh Zoo has a baby pygmy hippo named Haggis, and the zoo is taking on Moo Deng, the viral hippo that captured the internet's heart over the past couple of months.
SEE ALSO: From Moo Deng to Pesto the Penguin, here are the cutest animals taking over our feedsThe Edinburgh Zoo threw some shade at Moo Deng in a tweet announcing Haggis' birth.
"Moo Deng? Who deng?" it wrote. "Introducing… Haggis [...] Otto and Gloria have welcomed an ADORABLE pygmy hippo calf! She is doing well, but we’ll be keeping the hippo house closed for the time being so that our expert keepers can keep a close eye on mum and baby at this sensitive time."
Tweet may have been deletedPersonally, I wonder why we must pit these two queens against one another. The world is big enough for two adorable pygmy hippo babies.
But Edinburgh Zoo, seemingly in an attempt to have Haggis to be the next viral animal, has leaned into the anti-Moo Deng bit. They made lots of jokes in their replies, and It even issued a Notes app apology, a nod to the common celebrity move after making a mistake.
Tweet may have been deletedThe move has seemingly worked. The original post about Haggis' birth has racked up 12,000 likes and 1 million video views in just six hours. Edinburgh Zoo might've called the beef off with Moo Deng, but perhaps Haggis will be a viral star after all.
TL;DR: This fast-charging Flexi Pro USB-C Cable is just $14.99 (reg. $24) and makes a terrific grab bag gift.
Need a Secret Santa or grab bag gift that’s practical, unique, and universally useful? The Flexi Pro USB-C to USB-C Soft-Touch Silicone Fast Charge Cable is here to be that for you.
With its tangle-free design and fast charging capability, this six-foot cable is ideal for anyone on your list who uses electronics. At just $14.99, it’s a thoughtful and affordable gift that anyone with a USB-C device will love.
Designed to keep up with the fast-paced lives of modern users, Flexi Pro combines durability with an extra touch of softness, all in a cable that bends without kinking. It’s crafted with a premium silicone coating that’s ten times stronger than standard cables yet still gentle to the touch and easy to handle.
It even holds its shape, so no more tugging or wrestling with stubborn cables. The Flexi Pro is ideal for home, travel, and work, making it a gift that’s sure to be used often.
This cable powers up devices with impressive speed. Supporting up to 60W USB-C Power Delivery, it can boost a device from 0 to 50 percent in just 25 minutes. It’s a true power player compatible with iPhones, Androids, tablets, and even some laptops.
And for those who love multitasking, Flexi Pro’s high-speed data sync at 480Mbps makes transferring files quick and efficient.
The extra-long 6-foot reach of Flexi Pro makes it easier for users to stay connected. And with an included silicone strap, it’s easier to keep organized in a bag or drawer. Packaged in reduced-plastic materials, Flexi Pro also has an eco-friendly appeal, adding an extra thoughtful touch to this perfect little gift.
Don't scramble for last-minute Secret Santa gifts or stocking stuffers.
Grab this handy Flexi Pro USB-C to USB-C Soft-Touch Silicone Fast Charge Cable for $14.99 and be done.
Flexi Pro USB-C to USB-C Soft-Touch Silicone Fast Charge Cable - $14.99
Get It Here
StackSocial prices subject to change.
Opens in a new window Credit: HyperGear Flexi Pro USB-C to USB-C Soft-Touch Silicone Fast Charge Cable $14.99TL;DR: Get Windows 11 Pro for only $19.97 and enjoy a secure, stable OS that supports a wide range of hardware and software.
Looking for a tried-and-true operating system with solid compatibility, excellent performance, and premium security features—all without breaking the bank? Windows 11 Pro was made to deliver a seamless experience at the affordable price of $19.97 (regularly $199) through November 3.
This makes it a definite option for anyone who needs robust functionality without the steep learning curve and cost of the latest software. Windows 10 Pro is particularly valuable for those who rely on a range of compatible hardware and software and want the best balance of price, stability, and performance. Plus, its familiarity means you’ll feel right at home, even if it’s been a while since your last OS update.
Windows 11 Pro has a lot going for it beyond just its budget-friendly price point. With support for a broad array of hardware and legacy software, it’s ideal for anyone with older devices or specialized programs that might not work with newer systems.
And with its refined interface and Cortana integration, you can easily search and manage tasks with voice commands. Plus, with three-device activation, Windows 11 Pro offers terrific flexibility for business, remote work, or just making the most of home office setups.
This system’s stability, cost-effectiveness, and array of built-in security features—such as data encryption and remote desktop access—make it a fantastic option for users who prioritize functionality, simplicity, and peace of mind over flashier upgrades.
Upgrade to Windows 11 Pro for just $19.97 and access top-notch performance and familiarity without overspending. Take advantage of this limited-time offer to enjoy Microsoft’s proven operating system and make the most of your device’s potential.
Microsoft Windows 11 Pro is just $19.97 (reg. $199) through November 3.
Microsoft Windows 10 Pro - $19.97
Get It Here
StackSocial prices subject to change.
Opens in a new window Credit: SmartTrainingLab Microsoft Windows 11 Pro $19.97ChatGPT Search is here, challenging Google's dominance in the search engine realm.
Curious about whether ChatGPT Search can replace Google, a search engine that has captured nearly 90 percent of the market share? Well, there's a way to find out. How? Make the OpenAI tool your default search option.
How to make ChatGPT Search your default search engineTo make ChatGPT Search your default search engine, you'll need the Google Chrome browser to download an extension from the Chrome Web Store.
1. Go to ChatGPT Search's announcement page Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / MashableClick on "Download Chrome Extension," which will lead you to ChatGPT Search's official Chrome Web Store page.
2. Click on "Add to Chrome" Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable 3. A pop-up window will appear Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / MashableClick on "Add extension."
You'll also see another pop-up window that says, "ChatGPT Search has been added to Chrome."
3. Make sure ChatGPT Search is pinned to your 'Extensions' Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / MashableClick on the puzzle-piece icon on the top-right corner (i.e., your Chrome extensions) and click on the "pin" next to ChatGPT Search, ensuring it turns blue.
4. Start searching Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / MashableType in your query into the address bar in Google Chrome.
5. ChatGPT Search will populate your results Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / MashableMake sure the blue globe icon is selected, which indicates ChatGPT Search is active.
In order to use ChatGPT Search, you must have a ChatGT Plus account. This subscription is priced at $20 per month.
To turn off ChatGPT Search as your default search engine, click on the ChatGPT Search icon in your Chrome Extensions bar and click on "Manage Extension" before switching off the "On" toggle.
GET 24 FREE GAMES: Prime members get free PC games every month! Claim November's lineup and start playing today.
Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Claim free games with Prime Gaming Get DealAmazon’s Prime membership comes with so many perks, from discounted fuel to free two-day shipping. But did you know it also includes free PC games each month? And the best part is once you claim a game, it's yours to keep, even if you cancel your membership.
SEE ALSO: Amazon Prime Day vs. Black Friday: When are the deals better?This month, Prime members can get their hands on 24 free games, including a mix of big-name titles like Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy and Tomb Raider: Anniversary and more niche games.
How to claim your free Prime Gaming titlesIf you’re already a Prime member, all you have to do is go to gaming.amazon.com/home and click on the "Free Games" section. From there, click “claim game” and follow the on-screen instructions.
Most of these games have a time limit on the free claim, so you'll want to act quickly if you see something you want. And remember, once you claim it, it’s yours forever.
If you’re not a Prime member, you can sign up for a free 30-day trial and take advantage of the free games, Prime exclusive deals, and more. Just go to amazon.com/amazonprime and get started.
Credit: AmazonHere’s a breakdown of November's free PC game lineup:
Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy
Mafia: Definitive Edition
Dishonored: Definitive Edition
Duck Paradox
Close To The Sun
Disney Pixar Cars
Bang Bang Racing
Snakebird Complete
Ms. Holmes: The Case of the Dancing Men Collector’s Edition
Chasm: The Rift
House of Golf 2
Tomb Raider: Anniversary
Blade of Darkness
Max: The Curse of Brotherhood
Overcooked: Gourmet Edition
Gloomy Tales: One-Way Ticket Collector’s Edition
Super Meat Boy
Moonscars
RIOT — Civil Unrest
Elite Dangerous
Sir Whoopass — Immortal Death
Jurassic World Evolution
Mystery Case Files: The Dalimar Legacy Collector’s Edition
Shogun Showdown
Prime members can also get free Luna games (Amazon’s cloud-based gaming service) this November, including:
Jackbox Party Pack 7
Saints Row: The Third — Remastered
Moving Out
Endling — Extinction is Forever
Infinite Minigolf
Fallout 3: Game of the Year Edition
Fallout New Vegas: Ultimate Edition
XDefiant
Fortnite
LEGO Fortnite
Rocket Racing
Fortnite Festival
Fortnite Battle Royale
Trackmaina
SAVE $22.02: As of Nov. 4, Final Fantasy XVI for PlayStation 5 is on sale for $24.97 at Walmart, down from its usual price of $46.99. That's a 49% discount.
Opens in a new window Credit: Walmart Final Fantasy XVI $24.97 at WalmartLooking for something new to play? You could grab one of the newest releases like Dragon Age: The Veilguard. Or you could look back a bit and dive into a game you might have missed in the recent past. Final Fantasy XVI is an excellent RPG that you may not have made time for, and now that it's up for grabs at a great price at Walmart, it might be a good candidate to dive into next.
As of Nov. 4, you can get Final Fantasy XVI on PlayStation 5 for $24.97 at Walmart. That's $22.02 off its normal price of $6.99 and a 49% discount. This deal is for a physical version of the game, not a digital code, so you'll have to wait for it to be shipped to you to play and you will need a PS5 with a disc drive.
This installment in the Final Fantasy series is a bit divisive, but that's part of what makes it interesting. Mashable reviewer Alex Perry urged us to "take it on its own merits," adding that it "doesn't always feel like Final Fantasy, and that's OK."
"I could easily spend all my time with FFXVI wondering why it’s not more like other, better games in the series, but that’d be a waste of energy," Perry wrote. "It’s not like those games because it’s not trying to be like those games. It has its own goals and ambitions, as it should. The core premise of Final Fantasy has always been that each game is unique and self-contained."
If you want something a little different from your pre-conceived notions of what Final Fantasy should be, grabbing this installment for just $25 is a good idea. It's fun to try new things, after all.
Olivia Rodrigo's latest iconic line might not be a song lyric, but it's resonating just as much.
In an interview posted by Netflix to promote her GUTS concert film, the singer shows off some of her favorite white tank tops she wore on tour. After holding up one that reads "Dump Him" — an homage to Brittney Spears — she says, "The biggest red flag... OK, this is a very oddly specific question that I ask guys on first dates. I always ask them if they think they would want to go to space. And if they say yes, I don't date them."
SEE ALSO: Social media feeds toxic fandoms. Is there a solution?"I just think that if you want to go to space, you're a little too full of yourself. I think it's just weird," Rodrigo continued.
The "love is embarrassing" singer's take stirred discourse after pop culture aggregator account Pop Crave shared it. One user posted a meme about how great earth enjoyers are. Another user wrote, "no, because any guy obsessed with space exploration is the worst guy you will ever meet. this prophetess...."
Tweet may have been deleted Tweet may have been deletedBut the definitive response to Rodrigo was from Grimes, who wrote, "It's true. Only women should want to go to space." While Grimes seems to miss Rodrigo's point, she did date the definitive man who wants to go to space, Elon Musk, and he's definitely not good 4 u.
Tweet may have been deletedYet another Black Friday is quickly creeping up on us, with its arrival often bringing flashback's to last year's frantic shopping — including the items that you didn't end up buying, and then wished you had all year. If a robot vacuum didn't make the cut last year, let Black Friday 2024 be the time to finally treat yourself to a significantly shorter chore list.
After dealing with your current bumbling vacuum all year, there's no reason to wait until Nov. 29 to find an upgrade-worthy robot vacuum deal. At this point, "Black Friday" is basically code for "the entire month of November." Retailers like Best Buy, Walmart, and Target have already announced their official Black Friday plans for the month, and tons of (unofficial) early robot vacuum deals at Amazon are already popping up. (More robot vacuums than I can count on one hand are cheaper the first week of November than they were in the weeks after October Prime Day.)
SEE ALSO: How to choose a robot vacuum in 2024: Consider these 5 features before buyingBelow, I'm tracking the robot vacuum deals live ahead of Black Friday. Deals are organized into two sections: robot vacuums that don't mop and robot vacuum and mop combos, with self-emptying docks noted when applicable. Within each category, all robot vacuum deals are ordered by price from cheapest to most premium.
This list will be updated weekly with new deals in the lead-up to Black Friday week, so check back frequently to see if the model you're eyeing drops. (Need help deciding which robot vacuum to buy? I have suggestions.)
Best robot vacuum deal ahead of Black Friday Opens in a new window Credit: iRobot Our pick: iRobot Roomba Combo j5+ $399.99 at AmazonThis nearly 50% off discount on the Roomba Combo j5+ is stellar on its face, but it looks like an even sweeter deal when compared to the current deal on the less-smart Roomba Combo i5+. As of Nov. 4, you can officially snag the Combo j5+ for $100 less than the Combo i5+.
Both models mop and require you to be home to manually click the water tank on, and both can map your home and avoid (or tackle) carpeted rooms on command. But there's one huge difference between the Combo i5 and Combo j5 that lead me to crown the Combo j5+ as the best mopping Roomba value: The j5 is the cheapest Roomba that uses iRobot's obstacle avoidance tech to avoid eating phone chargers or smearing pet waste if the vacuum finds an accident before you do. This capability, which I first experienced when testing the Combo j7+, is an absolute game changer if your previous gripe with robot vacuums was that you had to tidy up before sending them out to clean.
More robot vacuums (that don't mop) on saleIonvac SmartClean 2000 — $79.99 $129 (save $49.01)
Eufy L50 — $151.98 $199.99 (save $48.01)
Eufy L60 — $179.99 $279.99 (save $100)
Eufy L60 with self-empty station — $279.99 $398.99 (save $119 with on-page coupon)
Eufy X8 Pro with self-empty station — $349.99 $649.99 (save $300)
Shark IQ 2-in-1 RV2402 — $249 $449.99 (save $200.99)
Roborock Q7 Max — $239.99 $599.99 (save $360 with on-page coupon)
Roborock Q8 Max — $279.99 $399.99 (save $120 with on-page coupon)
iRobot Roomba Combo j5+ with self-empty station — $399.99 $729.99 (save $330)
Shark Matrix Plus 2-in-1 with XL self-empty station — $399.99 $699.99 (save $300)
Roborock S8 — $399.99 $749.99 (save $350 with on-page coupon)
Eufy Omni C20 self-empty station — $449.99 $599.99 (save $150)
Roborock Q8 Max+ with self-empty station — $459.99 $819.99 (save $360 with on-page coupon)
Roborock Q Revo S with self-empty station — $549.99 $799.99 (save $250)
Yeedi M12 Pro+ with self-empty station — $599.99 $999 (save $399.01 with on-page coupon)
Shark RV2820YE PowerDetect 2-in-1 with self-empty station — $649.99 $899.99 (save $250 with on-page coupon)
Narwal Freo with self-empty station — $699.99 $899.99 (save $200 with on-page coupon)
Eufy X10 Pro Omni with self-empty station — $699.99 $799.99 (save $100 with on-page coupon)
Shark AV2800ZE PowerDetect 2-in-1 with self-empty station — $739.99 $1,199.99 (save $460 with on-page coupon)
If you can believe it, Black Friday and Cyber Monday are just around the corner. We know, it seems like we just got done with another massive sale in Amazon's Prime Big Deal Days event, but there's simply no rest for dedicated deal hunters. So, let's keep the momentum going, shall we?
While Black Friday is a good time to buy pretty much anything you're looking for, it's especially kind to gamers. From discounts on individual games, consoles, accessories, and more, you're bound to save a ton this holiday season if you're an avid player. That includes gaming laptops, too, which are a fantastic way to dip your toes into the realm of PC gaming if you're not ready (or able) to commit to a desktop setup just yet.
SEE ALSO: Alienware m16 R2 review: The best RTX 4070 gaming laptopIf you're one of those people, take a look at some of our favorite gaming laptop deals ahead of Black Friday 2024, including offers from big brands like Razer, Asus, and plenty of others.
Best early Black Friday gaming laptop deal Opens in a new window Credit: Asus Asus ROG Zephyrus G16 (Intel Core Ultra 9, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD) $1,599.99 at Best BuyAsus is known for its high-quality gaming laptops, and the ROG Zephyrus line is one of the very best to come from the lineup (we loved the G14). The Asus ROG Zephyrus G16 comes packed with some great internals right out of the box, including an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 GPU and a sizeable 1TB SSD for storage. Better yet, this model features a stunning OLED display that'll have all of your games looking their best, whether you're playing at home or out in the wild. Ahead of Black Friday, the gaming machine is only $1,599.99 at Best Buy, saving you $400 off the usual asking price.
More early Black Friday gaming laptop dealsGigabyte G6 KF 16 (Intel i7-13620H, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD) — $1,049.99 $1,199.99 (save $150)
Asus TUF Gaming F16 (Intel Core i7-13650HX, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) — $1,099.99 $1,299.99 (save $200)
Asus ROG Strix G16 (Intel Core i7-13650HX, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD) — $1,262.21 $1,399.99 (save $137.78)
Lenovo Legion Pro 5i (Intel 14th Gen Core i9, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD) — $1,399.99 $1,499.99 (save $100)
Acer Predator Helios Neo 16 (Intel Core i9-14900HX, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD) — $1,449.99 $1,699.99 (save $250)
HP OMEN Transcend 16 (Intel Core i9-14900HX, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD) — $1,849.99 $2,199.99 (save $350)
Alienware X16 R2 (Intel Core Ultra 7-155H, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD) — $2,249 $2,399.99 (save $150.99)
Acer Predator Helios 16 (13th Gen Intel Core i9-13900HX, GeForce RTX 4080, 32GB RAM, 2TB SSD) — $2,599.99 $2,799.99 (save $200)
Razer Blade 18 (Intel Core i9 14900HX 14th Gen, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD) — $2,799.99 $3,099.99 (save $300)
Razer Blade 16 (13th Gen Intel 24-Core i9 HX, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4080, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD) — $2,999.99 $3,799.99 (save $800)
Black Friday season is creeping up on us, which means deals are already flooding in. If you want to start ticking off your shopping list, there are plenty of gadgets worth grabbing at a huge discount at Amazon. Some products from our favorite brands like Apple, Bose, and Echo are at all-time low prices that match or even beat Prime Day. And it's only Nov. 4.
Here are our top picks for the best Amazon deals of the day. If you don't see anything that catches your eye, stay tuned the rest of the week as we select new deals each day.
Our top pick Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple MacBook Pro (M3, 8GB RAM, 1TB SSD) $1,299.00 at AmazonWith the arrival of the brand new M4 MacBook Pro comes the inevitable (and welcome) price drop on the M3 MacBook Pro. The model with 8GB RAM and 1TB of storage is now down to just $1,299 at Amazon — that's $500 or 28% in savings and the lowest price it's ever been. It's also currently cheaper than the model with 512GB of storage. Although its no longer the newest MacBook generation, it's still crazy fast with an insanely good battery life (over 16 hours) and "divine" built-in speakers. Our reviewer was blown away by it and found it to be even faster in our testing than advertised. You could splurge on the M4 if you have the dough, but the M3 will probably suit you just fine if you want to save some money.
Read our full review of the M3 MacBook Pro.
Opens in a new window Credit: Echo / Globe Electric Echo Pop with free Globe Electric smart color bulb $17.99 at AmazonThe small but mighty Echo Pop is the least expensive way you can add Alexa into your home. Plus, it adds a fun pop of color (get it?). It's basically a pared down Echo Dot, built for those who like to keep music playing throughout the day and who use Alexa as a home assistant. While it's not particularly groundbreaking, as our reviewer noted, it's a budget-friendly speaker that sounds great in any room. And you truly can't beat the price. As of Nov. 4, you can grab the Echo Pop for only $17.99 (reg. $39.99) and get a free Globe Electric smart color bulb. That's 65% in savings.
Read our full review of the Echo Pop.
Opens in a new window Credit: Bose Bose QuietComfort headphones $199.00 at AmazonIf you're looking for a solid pair of noise-cancelling headphones and don't want to spend a fortune, you can't go wrong with the Bose QuietComforts. As of Nov. 4, they're down to just $199 at Amazon — that's 43% in savings and matches the record-low from October Prime Day. While they're not quite as impressive as their more expensive sibling, the QuietComfort Ultras, our friends at PCMag (also owned by Ziff Davis) say "they absolutely won't disappoint if you want to save a bit of money." The review calls the active noise cancellation "top-tier" and credits the rich, crisp audio and comfortable fit for their 4-star review.
Opens in a new window Credit: Blink Blink Outdoor 4 $39.99 at AmazonThe Blink Outdoor 4 is tough to beat when it comes to budget-friendly security cameras. One of our top overall picks, it works seamlessly with other Alexa-enabled devices in your home, comes with customizable motion-detection zones, offers infrared night vision and two-way audio, and will last two years with two AA batteries. If you're looking for a little peace of mind, grab the Blink Outdoor 4 camera for a second set of eyes and ears around your home. It's usually $100, but you can snag one on sale for just $39.99 as of Nov. 4. That's 60% in savings and matches its Prime Day low.
None of these deals catching your eye? Check out Amazon's daily deals for even more savings.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) issued an election disinformation warning on Saturday regarding two videos claiming to be from the FBI.
The first video "stat[es] the FBI has apprehended three linked groups committing ballot fraud and a second relating to the Second Gentleman." The Second Gentleman refers to Vice President and presidential candidate Kamala Harris' husband Doug Emhoff. "These videos are not authentic, are not from the FBI, and the content they depict is false," said the statement posted on the FBI's X account.
Tweet may have been deleted SEE ALSO: When will we know who won the 2024 election?With the 2024 presidential election looming, misinformation and disinformation has been a major concern. False information about rigged voting machines, postponing election day, and fabricated polls are just a few examples of falsehoods running rampant on social media. While some may be from trolls, part of it could be a coordinated effort by from American adversaries to incite discord and chaos.
On Friday, Nov. 1, the FBI issued a joint statement with the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI) and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) about two other videos believed to be the work of Russian disinformation efforts.
The first falsely depicts "individuals claiming to be from Haiti and voting illegally in multiple counties in Georgia." The Georgia Secretary of State has also refuted this video as false. The second is a Russian manufactured video "falsely accusing an individual associated with the Democratic presidential ticket of taking a bribe from a U.S. entertainer."
The agencies believe these videos are part of a larger strategy to undermine trust and inflame tensions relating to the election. "In the lead up to election day and in the weeks and months after, the IC [Intelligence Community] expects Russia to create and release additional media content that seeks to undermine trust in the integrity of the election and divide Americans."
Here's your reminder to stay vigilant about deepfakes and disinformation, especially AI-generated images and videos and use trusted sources for election information.
SAVE 50%: As of Nov. 4, get 50% off Lyft rides to polling booths with promo code VOTE24 on Election Day (Nov. 5). This discount is applicable for up to $10 off of your ride.
Opens in a new window Credit: Lyft 50% Off Lyft Rides on Election Day Promo Code: VOTE24 Get DealElection Day is Nov. 5, which means everyone will be making their way to the polls to make their voices heard. However, not everyone has equal access to the transportation they may need to get to the polling booths in their community. Lyft is doing its part to help those who need assistance with rides by offering a discount valid on Nov. 5 only, so if you're thinking about using the rideshare service to exercise your right to vote, you can save some cash by doing so.
As of Nov. 4, you can save 50% on your Election Day rides to the polls by using Lyft. Just use promo code VOTE24 when requesting your ride or preload the code and schedule it ahead of time. It's valid from 5 AM to 10 PM in every time zone and you can use it on a rideshare, bikeshare, or scooter ride – it's up to you.
You can save up to $10 off your ride with the code, so if it's $20 to get to your destination, you can score your polling booth transportation for just $10. Longer distances will obviously cost more, and your fare will depend on what type of Lyft ride you request, but if you need a quick and reliable way to get to the polls, this might be your best option.
Lyft will also have a slew of new features during Election Day, including new themed icons and other additions. If you apply the code for your discounted ride, you'll see red, white, and blue confetti appear. The code is only valid tomorrow, so be sure to get your rides in and requested when you're heading out to vote.
GET $12 OFF: As of Nov. 4, you can get a Kasa Smart Plug Mini (2 Count) for just $17.99. That's 40% off the original price or $12 off.
Opens in a new window Credit: Kasa Our pick: Kasa Smart Plug Mini (2 Count) $17.99 at AmazonHoliday lights create a warm and cozy atmosphere, but climbing behind whatever decor they’re attached to turn them off can be a real pain. Sure, you could buy one of those bulky timers, but they don't give you the flexibility to turn your lights on and off remotely. Enter the Kasa Smart Plug.
SEE ALSO: When do Black Friday sales start? Be on the lookout for early holiday deals.This handy smart home device lets you control your holiday lights from anywhere, whether you're curled up on the couch or miles away on vacation. Just open the app on your phone, set a schedule, or turn your lights on and off with the tap of a finger. You can also ask Alexa or Google Assistant to handle the job.
And, as of Nov. 4, you can get a two-pack of Kasa Smart Plug Minis for just $17.99, down from the usual $29.99. That’s a 40% discount or $12 in savings.
I have several of these smart plugs — one for my Christmas tree, one for my nightlight (aka string lights that sit atop my nightstand), and a few others scattered throughout my apartment. The setup process is super easy, and you only have to do it once. After they’re connected to your home's Wi-Fi network, these smart plugs let you control your lights (or other devices, like a fan, heater, or coffee pot, for example) from your smartphone.
If you’re curious, you can also monitor your energy usage via the Kasa Smart app.
SAVE UP TO 93%: Ahead of Black Friday, shop Kindle books up to 93% off. Find bestsellers like Hilary Mantel's Wolf Hall for just $1.99, saving $19 for 90% off.
Best Kindle Book Deals Best fiction deal "Wolf Hall" by Hilary Mantel $1.99 at Amazon (Save $19) Get Deal Best non-fiction deal "You Could Make This Place Beautiful" by Maggie Smith $2.99 at Amazon (Save $17) Get Deal Best YA deal "Legendborn" by Tracy Deonn $1.99 at Amazon (Save $12) Get Deal Best cookbook deal "Mary Barry's Complete Cookbook" by Mary Berry $2.99 at Amazon (Save $37.01) Get DealFor those of us with an endless appetite for reading, it can be an expensive hobby whether you're a fiend for hardcovers or dedicated to the e-reader life. Luckily, there's Libby and Kindle Unlimited, which can save you a pretty penny on all the latest arrivals. However, if you want to read exactly what you want and not wait around for your library holds to come through, it pays to splurge on an e-book.
With Black Friday on the horizon, deals are rolling in across retailers and categories. Kindle books have some particularly sweet savings right now. Here are the best early Black Friday deals on Kindle books.
When is Black Friday?With Thanksgiving falling on Thursday, Nov. 28 of this year, Black Friday follows on Friday, Nov. 29.
However, you don't need to wait that long for deals. "Early Black Friday" deals have already started to roll out, giving a jumpstart to the shopping season. While in-store deals may kick-off on Nov. 29, online sales will run all month long.
Do you need a Kindle to read Kindle books?Yes and no. Unlike a standard e-book that can be read on any device, Kindle books can only be read on Kindle devices or the Kindle app. The Kindle app gives you flexibility so you don't need to spend a hundred dollars on an e-reader. Although we do have to say, Kindles are totally worth it.
The Kindle app is available on iOS and Android devices so you can read Kindle books on your exisiting smartphone, tablet, or laptop.
Best fiction deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon "Wolf Hall" by Hilary Mantel $1.99 at AmazonHilary Mantel's Wolf Hall has reached classic status, inspiring stage and screen adaptations with its sprawling retelling of Thomas Cromwell's political power under Henry VIII's reign. Winner of the Man Booker prize, Wolf Hall is the first in Mantel's historical saga. This acclaimed novel is just $1.99 ahead of Black Friday. That knocks $19 off the price for 90% savings.
More fiction dealsApples Never Fall by Liane Moriarty — $1.99 $11.99 (save $10)
Bloodmarked by Tracy Deonn — $1.99 $13.99 (save $12)
Chain Gang All Stars by Nana Kwame Adjey-Brenyah — $1.99 $18 (save $16.01)
Imperium: A Novel of Ancient Rome by Robert Harris — $1.99 $18.99 (save $17)
Interesting Facts about Space by Emily Austin — $1.99 $18.99 (save $17)
Legendborn by Tracy Deonn — $1.99 $13.99 (save $12)
The Lying Game by Ruth Ware — $2.99 $18.99 (save $16)
My Murder by Katie Williams — $1.99 $18 (save $16.01)
Nine Perfect Strangers by Liane Moriarty — $2.99 $17.99 (save $15)
Shark Heart: A Love Story by Emily Habeck — $2.99 $13.99 (save $11)
The Story of the Lost Child by Elena Ferrante — $3.99 $17.99 (save $14)
Poet Maggie Smith rose to internet fame with her poem Good Bones, but her 2023 memoir tells the story of marriage and motherhood. Told through both poetry and prose, Smith explores the end of her marriage in You Could Make This Place Beautiful. Full of reflections on the expectations of gender roles and power dynamics, it's a moving, powerful read that you can find for just $2.99, bringing it down $17 for 85% off.
More non-fiction dealsThe Autobiography of Malcolm X by Malcolm X — $1.99 $9.99 (save $8)
Four Hundred Souls: A Community History of African America, 1619-2019 by Ibram X. Kendi — $1.99 $20.99 (save $19)
In Order to Live: A North Korean Girl's Journey to Freedom by Yeonmi Park — $1.99 $18 (save $16.01)
Mary Berry's Complete Cookbook: Over 650 Recipes by Mary Berry — $2.99 $40 (save $37.01)
The Meaning of Mariah Carey by Mariah Carey — $1.99 $17.93 (save $15.94)
Slouching Towards Bethlehem by Joan Didion — $3.99 $11.99 (save $8)
Why We're Polarized by Ezra Klein — $3.99 $18.99 (save $15)
If your iPhone's camera is having issues Apple might just fix it — and they'll do it for free.
The company launched a service program for the Phone 14 Plus. Apple reported that "the rear camera on a very small percentage of iPhone 14 Plus devices may exhibit no preview." The company said the affected iPhones were manufactured between April 10, 2023 and April 28, 2024.
SEE ALSO: Apple iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max review: Battery life so epic, your charger will be jealousIf you have an iPhone 14 Plus and the rear camera isn't showing a preview, then you might qualify for the service program and a free repair from Apple. Helpfully, the service program's landing page has a form where you can submit your phone's serial number to see if it qualifies.
If you do qualify, then you can either take it an authorized repair shop, an Apple store, or arrange a mail-in repair.
Unfortunately for the folks out there having other camera issues, the service program covers only the rear camera problem with the iPhone 14 Plus.
UP TO 44% OFF: As of Nov. 4, you can snag select Funko Pop! advent calendars for up to 46% off.
Our top picks: Best overall Funko Advent Calendar: The Office — Michael Scott $26.99 at Amazon (save $22.91 ) Get Deal Best Pokémon deal Funko Pop! Holiday Calendar: Pokémon $30.99 at Amazon (save $19) Get Deal Best Harry Potter deal Harry Potter Funko Pop! Advent Calendar $33.99 at Amazon (save $26 ) Get DealLooking for the perfect gift for the Funko Pop! fan in your life? Tons of Funko Pop! advent calendars are on sale at Amazon right now.
SEE ALSO: Amazon released its top 100 holiday gifts: Get up to 45% off tech, toys, and moreFrom Pokémon to Pixar, these little collectibles make for a fun holiday countdown filled with daily surprises. And, as of Nov. 4, you can get up to 46% off select Funko Pop! advent calendars, bringing the prices down to as low as $26.99 — that’s a pretty good deal for 24 figurines.
Here are our top picks:
Best deal overall Opens in a new window Credit: Funko Our pick: Funko Advent Calendar: The Office — Michael Scott $26.99 at AmazonThe Funko Advent Calendar: The Office — Michael Scott is a best-selling Funko Pop! advent calendar featuring your favorite Dunder Mifflin employees. It includes 24 mini Funko Pop! figures, including Michael Scott, Dwight Schrute, Jim Halpert, and more.
Each figurine measures 1.87 inches tall, so you can display them around your home or office. And with a 46% discount, this calendar offers the best bang for your buck!
Best Pokémon deal Opens in a new window Credit: Funko Our pick: Funko Pop! Holiday Calendar: Pokémon $30.99 at AmazonIf you’re a Pokémon fan, the Funko Pop! Holiday Calendar: Pokémon is a must-have. It's the perfect way to "catch 'em all" in adorable Funko form. Behind each tiny door, you'll find a different Pokémon figure like Pikachu, Squirtle, Charmander, and more.
These figurines vary in height, but the maximum size is two inches tall. Plus, with a 38% discount, this is a great gift for the Poké-lover in your life. Just be prepared for the possibility of some impatient unboxing. Those tiny doors might not stand a chance against a determined Pokémon fan. (I could see my nephew going ham and ripping each door open as soon as he got this.)
Best Harry Potter deal Opens in a new window Credit: Funko Our pick: Harry Potter Funko Pop! Advent Calendar $33.99 at AmazonAccio, holiday cheer! This Harry Potter Funko Pop! Advent Calendar is a magical way to count down to the holidays. With 24 mini-figures, including Harry, Ron, Hermione, and others, you or your giftee can set up a miniature Hogwarts scene on your desk or shelf.
You can snag this advent calendar for $33.99, 43% off the list price.
SAVE $30: As of Nov. 4, get the Amazon Echo Spot for $49.99 at Amazon, down from its usual price of $79.99. That'a discount of 38%.
Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Echo Spot $49.99 at AmazonLooking for a little extra something to add to your menagerie of smart home devices? Why not something from Amazon's lineup of Echo products? The Amazon Echo Spot is a smart alarm clock and speaker that has several uses, and it can even be used as a smart hub for the rest of your Echo speakers or smart devices. It's also on sale right now, back down at a price that's near its Prime Day going rate.
As of Nov. 4, get the Amazon Echo Spot for just $49.99. That's $30 off its normal price of $79.99 and a discount of 38%. This sale price applies to all three colors: Black, Glacier White, and Ocean Blue.
The Echo Spot is a small but mighty speaker that not only wakes you up in the morning, but does so with panache. You can see the time, weather, and song titles at a glance when you use it during the day as well. And of course you can customize the clock face and use a variety of different colors to make it feel more like yours. It's also compatible with Alexa apps and routines to help you wake up and ease into the day gradually or help you fall asleep at night.
This companion is a great idea to add to your nightstand as well if you like to listen to music, podcasts, or audiobooks on the regular. Drift off to slumber with soothing songs or wake up to your favorite tunes. And then ask Alexa throughout the day to handle some of your tasks. It's a versatile, fun little Echo device that's well worth it with the $30 off, especially if you need a little push waking up in the mornings. Grab yours while it's hot.