- Help
- Google+
LIVE BLOG: Get the latest news on October Prime Day 2024
The difference between Prime Day and Black Friday — their roots, anyway — probably isn't a mystery to anyone who has dabbled in online shopping before.
Most of us know that Black Friday is the big sale frenzy that happens around Thanksgiving as a precursor to the holidays, and that almost every store you can think of participates. Alternatively, the name "Prime Day" suggests that the event is indeed an Amazon-specific event made up by Amazon for members of its Prime subscription.
SEE ALSO: Target Circle Week is back...just in time for October Prime DayThe lines between these two shopping holidays also aren't quite as blurred as they are between Black Friday and Cyber Monday, which have become pretty indistinguishable from each other due to 1. being just a few days apart on the calendar, and 2. Black Friday relying just as heavily on online shopping as Cyber Monday does.
But back to the question at hand. Most people aren't concerned with these shopping holiday semantics. The people just want to know: Does Prime Day or Black Friday have better deals?
Does Amazon have better deals on Prime Day or Black Friday?Amazon hypes Prime Day up so much that you can't help but assume those two days in July and two days in October are its Olympics. In the case of October Prime Day, specifically, Amazon can't possibly have the bandwidth to turn around and do the same damn thing a month later for Black Friday, right?
Jeff Bezos is heard cackling in the distance.
Amazon price history shows us that, in many cases, Amazon does go as hard for Black Friday as it does for Prime Day. It's not uncommon to plug the URL for any popular item from Amazon into price tracker Camelcamelcamel to see a handful of very consistent dips to that item's all-time low pricing — those few instances being middle of July (Prime Day) and the end of November (Black Friday), plus a common third dip in mid-October (Prime Big Deal Days, which we know is essentially another Prime Day).
SEE ALSO: What not to buy during Amazon's October Prime Day saleBlack Friday deals also tend to be a little more accessible than Prime Day deals, as you don't have to be a paying Prime member to unlock them (most of the time) like you do for Prime Day deals. (It's the same story for Walmart's Walmart+ events and Walmart's Black Friday sale, though being a paid Walmart+ member still has its perks, like getting early access to Black Friday deals.)
In terms of what's on sale, there's a ton of overlap between Prime Day and Black Friday deals. Robot vacuums, headphones, Apple devices, laptops, and kitchen gear are likely to get similar treatment for both, so if you find a stellar deal on one of those items, there's probably no need to hold out until the other event to see if the deal is better then.
A few categories are better to shop on Black Friday than Prime DayA few categories do play favorites, though. Black Friday is a better time of year to find TV deals — aside from its own Fire TVs, Amazon doesn't go super hard with TV deals at any time throughout the year. Best Buy has a much wider selection on its (virtual) shelves at any given point, specifically offering way more big screen premium options than Amazon. Though Best Buy does hold competing sales during Prime Day, it tends to put on the bigger show during Black Friday.
Toy deals also tend to pop off more heavily for Black Friday in true nostalgic holiday prep. If you're looking to sign up for a streaming service for cheaper than usual, many of the big ones (Hulu and Peacock come to mind) are almost guaranteed to have a Black Friday sale, while they wouldn't exactly have any reason to participate in Prime Day.
Best October Prime Day deals live right now:Apple MacBook Air, 13-inch (M2, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD) — $749 $999 (save $150)
Apple AirPods Max (Lightning) — $394.99 $549 (save $154.01)
Amazon Fire HD 8 (32GB) — $54.99 $99.99 (save $45)
Amazon Echo Pop — $17.99 $39.99 (save $22) + free TP-Link Tapo Smart Color Bulb
Amazon 50-inch 4-Series 4K Fire TV — $279.99 $449.99 (save $170)
Hisense 85-inch U8 Mini LED ULED 4K TV — $1,797.99 $2,799.99 (save $1,002)
Ecovacs Deebot T30S with handheld vacuum All-in-One Station — $899.99 $1,199.99 (save $300)
Roborock Qrevo Master — $950 $1,399.99 (save $449.99 with on-page coupon)
Breville Barista Touch Espresso Machine — $799.95 $999.95 (save $200)
Keurig K-Mini Coffee Maker — $59.99 $99.99 (save $40)
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra (Unlocked, 256GB) — $997.48 $1,299.99 (save $302.51)
Gaming is my favorite hobby, but if I have one big complaint about it, it's that it's just way too expensive. I mean, have you seen the price of the PlayStation 5 Pro? Games are also regularly $70 now. It's wild. That's why I highly recommend taking advantage of sales to stock up on gaming-related items that you maybe wouldn't normally have the budget for. Luckily, Amazon is on the second day of its Prime Big Deal Days sale, and there are a pretty good amount of gaming deals that are live, if I do say so myself.
Below, check out my top picks for the best gaming deals during the sale.
SEE ALSO: More than 300 Amazon Prime Day deals you won't want to miss before the sale ends tonight Best console dealsIf you're just getting into console gaming, the October Prime Day event is a perfect opportunity to pick up a PlayStation 5 Slim or Xbox Series S (the Series X isn't included in the sale, but I did find it for $50 off at Best Buy). Both consoles are sitting at decent discounts right now — the PS5 Slim at $50 off, and the Series S at $15 off. It's not the best Xbox Series S deal I've ever seen, but even a few bucks shaved off the already budget-friendly console isn't anything to scoff at. The PS5 Slim deal, however, is an all-time low price. It might be better during Black Friday, but if you're not down to wait until November, I think you should probably just snag this deal now. You can't go wrong with either one, but what I usually tell people who are between the two new-gen consoles is to go with the PlayStation 5 if you're more interested in big-budget, exclusive single-player titles, and go with the Xbox if you want access to a lot of different games at once via Game Pass.
Opens in a new window Credit: PlayStation PlayStation 5 Slim Console $449.00 at AmazonFile this under "annoying but necessary purchase." Unfortunately, the new-gen consoles just don't come with enough built-in storage (at least, not for me). If you're downloading a lot of games, you're most likely going to need over 1TB of storage at some point, and neither of the heavy-hitter options allows for that out of the box. So unless you want to be playing the "storage shuffle" forever (that fun chore of having to choose which games to delete so you can make room for new ones), you'll want to add an expansion card into the mix. These are the best two options on the market, and both of them are on sale — so do your future self a favor and snag them while you can save some cash.
Opens in a new window Credit: Western Digital WD_BLACK 2TB SSD Storage Expansion for PS5 $169.99 at AmazonThe stock Xbox controller that you get with the Series X or S is actually pretty good as is, but if you want to upgrade, you shouldn't look anywhere other than Xbox's Elite series controllers. The Elite Series 2 Core controller is almost $40 off, and comes with a bunch of cool extras like back paddles, hair trigger locks, and a more premium feel overall. If you're more of a mobile or cloud gamer, check out the Backbone One controller, which can plug directly into your smartphone and works way better than using on-screen controls. I just recently played through Grand Theft Auto: Vice City using my Netflix app with the Backbone One, and it was a fantastic experience.
Opens in a new window Credit: Xbox Xbox Elite Series 2 Core Controller $140.00 at AmazonRazer's keyboards are my absolute favorite, and the Huntsman Mini is at a huge discount for Prime Big Deal Days — just $69.99, $50 off the usual price. I'm a big fan of mini keyboards because it allows me to still have that amazing mechanical keyboard experience even with minimal desk space. The Huntsman feels amazing to type on and features a ton of cool functions that'll help competitive gamers perform much more efficiently, like Snap Tap strafing. I honestly don't use mine for gaming all that often, but it's great even as a daily driver keyboard for work and other basic tasks. So even if you don't see yourself hopping into Overwatch anytime soon, this keyboard is still a good get.
Opens in a new window Credit: Razer Razer Huntsman Mini Gaming Keyboard $69.99 at AmazonListen, I promise I'm not sponsored by Razer or anything. I just really like their stuff, okay? Sue me! Two of my favorite headsets from them are on sale for Prime Day: the BlackShark V2 Pro and the Hammerhead Pro. The BlackShark V2 Pro is by far the most comfortable over-ear gaming headset I've ever used, but it also sounds great and has crystal-clear microphone output (according to my online gaming buddies, at least). If you're more of an earbud person, the Hammerhead Pro buds are also a great option. I'd describe them as AirPods for gaming, basically.
Opens in a new window Credit: Razer Razer BlackShark V2 Pro Gaming Headset $179.99 at AmazonThis one is hard to pass up. If you don't want to buy a console just yet but are intrigued by cloud gaming, this bundle has everything you need to get started: An Xbox controller, a Fire TV Stick 4K Max, and one month of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, which is basically a massive, Netflix-style library of games that you can download and play from at your leisure. At just $79.99, this is a pretty sweet value. I might even grab this deal myself...
Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon / Xbox Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max + Xbox Core Wireless Controller + 1-Month Game Pass Ultimate Bundle $79.99 at AmazonHave you thanked Beyoncé today?
If you've been on TikTok over the past few days, you've probably noticed users thanking Beyoncé for seemingly anything. While lots of these posts are seemingly pretty innocent, the root of the new trend is not that great.
There's a (completely unhinged) theory that celebrities thank Beyoncé at awards shows because the star wields so much godlike power that they bend to her whim. The conspiracy theory started with the passing of Aaliyah, the "Queen of Urban Pop" who redefined contemporary R&B in the 1990s. Some people argue that her passing gave Beyoncé the space to become the icon she is today. In J. Cole's 2013 song "She Knows," he mentions Aaliyah's death. Some of the more deranged TikTok users connect that song with Beyoncé's friendship with P. Diddy, who has been at the center of conspiracy theories connected to Aaliyah's death. The theory goes like this: Thank Beyoncé or face the consequences.
Celebrities do tend to thank Beyoncé for a lot. Kanye rushing the stage when Taylor Swift beat Beyoncé for album of the year; Adele losing her gourd over Beyoncé when she won album of the year; Britney Spears, Lizzo, Lady Gaga, the list goes on.
The celebrity thanking has reached TikTok, where users are thanking Beyoncé at Thanksgiving, or for their dog not having cancer, or for... nothing?
Yes, Beyoncé uses a lot of religious iconography — and even some nods to the illuminati — in her songs and music videos. But no, Beyoncé is probably not tied to some horrifying cult of celebrities who murder other celebrities if they don't thank her on stage.
Silent Hill 2 is for the sickos. Yeah, I said it.
After that initial launch trailer that had even the die-hard Silent Hill fans biting their nails in worry, the Polish developer Bloober Team actually pulled off something incredible. Who saw that coming? It's not just a solid remake; it’s the kind of shot in the arm this series has been begging for. In a twist of fate, Silent Hill 2 just got its very own Resident Evil 2 Remake moment — an adaptation so well-executed, it might just be what the franchise needed to claw its way back from the fog.
SEE ALSO: 'Metaphor: ReFantazio' review in progress: The 'Final Fantasy XV' I've always wantedRemakes are a tricky balancing act. On the one hand, they need to stand on their own, offering something fresh and modern. On the other, they’re forever tethered to the original, carrying the weight of fan expectations and nostalgia. The balance must be respected.
Striking that sweet spot is no easy feat, but Bloober Team nails it here. They’ve taken a beloved horror classic and given it a sleek, modern facelift, all while paying serious respect to its roots and the lasting impact it’s had on the genre. It's both a love letter and a fresh chapter — and it works.
Silent Hill 2 plot and characters Credit: Konami / Bloober TeamDisclaimer: I’ve never played the 2001 original Silent Hill 2. First off, I was three when it came out, and second, I used to hate scary video games. It wasn’t until my freshman year of college (thanks, Resident Evil 7) that I finally got over my aversion to horror games. So, with all that said, Bloober Team’s remake absolutely scared the hell out of me at times. And you should know right now — this review isn’t going to nitpick gameplay or story differences compared to the original. This is purely about my fresh experience, and yeah, it was terrifying.
SEE ALSO: 'Resident Evil Village' is the f*cked up fairytale of your dreamsThe plot of Silent Hill 2 centers on James Sunderland, a man still reeling from the loss of his wife, Mary, who passed away three years ago. Out of nowhere, James receives a mysterious letter from Mary herself, claiming that she’s waiting for him in their "special place" — a spot in the quiet town of Silent Hill where they once vacationed.
When James arrives, it doesn’t take long for things to spiral into full-blown nightmare territory. The town is drenched in an eerie fog, and it quickly becomes clear that something is very wrong. As James presses on, he finds himself grappling with disturbing, surreal encounters that challenge everything he knows about his sanity, his morality, his memories, and even who he really is. The further he goes, the more Silent Hill turns into a twisted reflection of his deepest fears and guilt.
Along his journey, James encounters a handful of other lost souls who, like him, have been drawn to the fog-choked town of Silent Hill. There’s Angela Orosco, a deeply troubled young woman searching for her missing mother, whose unstable mental state makes her interactions unsettling and tragic. Then there’s Eddie Dombrowski, an insecure man harboring a lot of anger, especially after years of being bullied about his weight. He’s on the edge of breaking — and wandering into Silent Hill isn’t helping.
Credit: Konami / Bloober TeamJames also crosses paths with Laura, a strange, seemingly fearless child who has an inexplicable connection to Mary, James’ late wife. And finally, there’s Maria, a woman James meets who bears an uncanny resemblance to Mary, yet with a more provocative, almost unsettling presence. Each character is caught in their own personal nightmare, mirroring James’ dark descent, and adding to the town’s suffocating mystery.
As a character, James can feel like a bit of a wet blanket. He’s barely holding it together, forgetful, and often reckless in ways that make you want to shake some sense into him. But that’s also the point — something is clearly off about him. Luke Roberts brings James to life with a performance that nails the mild-mannered, almost painfully dull nature of the character. There’s a sense that something inside James is broken, and whether that’s from his wife’s death or something far more sinister is part of the mystery. You can never quite tell what’s going on beneath the surface, and Roberts walks that line well.
The rest of the English voice cast is equally impressive, delivering performances that bring out the character's motivations and inner turmoil in a way that keeps you hooked. Every interaction feels purposeful, and the chemistry between characters adds to the tension. There’s a distinct Twin Peaks-esque vibe to the whole thing, with the schlocky, surreal edge working as a kind of dark, twisted relief from the heavier moments. The voice work, paired with Akira Yamaoka’s haunting score, really elevates the atmosphere, giving the game a quirky yet deeply unsettling quality.
Silent Hill 2 gameplay mechanicsCombat in Silent Hill 2 is downright unsettling — not because it’s poorly executed, but precisely because it’s effective. While the game uses a standard third-person action shooter approach, the melee combat feels viscerally uncomfortable, perfectly matching the game’s eerie atmosphere.
I hate hospitals. Credit: Konami / Bloober TeamThe physicality of the melee attacks feels sluggish and raw, adding to the game’s unsettling tone, while the firearms give you a brief sense of power — until the next grotesque creature lunges at you. I hope you're not squeamish because the sounds and sheer brutality of James' every stomp on a downed enemy are downright disturbing. Each hit feels savage, with the accompanying sickening crunches, squishes, and wails from James, adding an unsettling layer to his character.
What I love about this is that it’s more than just a gameplay mechanic — it’s a window into the darker side of James. He may deny it, but there’s a violent streak within him, and his brutality hints at deeper, unresolved issues. The fact that many of the enemies he faces are grotesque, feminine figures raises unsettling questions about his views on women and his relationship with his wife.
It's just great storytelling. Here, everything fits — James' inner turmoil, his violent tendencies, and the distorted nature of the enemies all bleed seamlessly into both the narrative and the gameplay.
Mama, that's a bad bad man. Credit: Konami / Bloober TeamThat said, combat encounters with the game’s main enemies are thankfully sparse. Most of the time, Silent Hill 2 won’t force you into battles with more than one enemy at a time. But when it does — and it will at key moments — it can be truly frustrating. The combat isn’t designed to handle swarms of enemies, and juggling multiple threats at once feels clunky and awkward. It’s a deliberate choice that amps up the tension, but it also exposes the limitations of the game’s combat system. When you’re cornered by a group of foes, you really feel the pressure, but not always in a fun way.
Enemies in Silent Hill 2 hit hard, and they don’t take kindly to being underestimated. The game has a nasty habit of punishing reckless combat with a surge of aggression from its monsters. Take the Bubble-Head Nurses, for example — they’ll grab your weapon if you’re too overzealous, tossing you aside and leaving you wide open for serious damage. It’s a reminder that you can’t just button-mash your way to safety; strategy and patience are crucial here.
One of my personal favorite enemies is the Mannequin, a bizarre, headless, armless creature with four legs that moves in unsettling, jerky motions. These creepy dummies will hide before jumping out at you, making encounters with them especially tense. The game provides you with a radio that emits static, getting louder as enemies draw near. Mannequins, however, are tricky, as they tend to hide in shadows or behind objects. The static is often faint, giving you just enough warning without a clear idea of where they’re lurking. They’ll pop out from behind tight corners, under beds, or any spot you least expect. To make matters worse, even during combat, they’ll retreat and hide if you move too far away, forcing you to chase them down or risk getting ambushed all over again.
Throughout James’ nightmarish trek, there are eight different combat weapons at his disposal, though players will only have access to six during their first playthrough. These include the Wooden Plank, Steel Pipe, Great Knife, Handgun, Shotgun, and Hunting Rifle. For much of the game, you’ll primarily rely on the Plank, Pipe, Handgun, and Shotgun.
These weapons form the backbone of the combat loop, paired seamlessly with the game's intricate puzzle-solving. Much of your time in Silent Hill 2 will be spent exploring large, central locations like the Wood Side Apartments or Brookhaven Hospital. In these eerie, labyrinthine spaces, you’ll be scouring for keys, codes, and other items that unlock doors, slowly unraveling the path forward. Each of these areas acts as a major hub — solving them opens up new parts of Silent Hill that were previously blocked off by towering walls, sinkholes, or other nightmarish barriers.
Silent Hill 2 sound design and soundtrack Don't go that way. Credit: Konami / Bloober TeamI have to take a moment to talk about the sound design in Silent Hill 2 — it’s incredible. The atmosphere it creates is genuinely unnerving, veering between moments of eerie quiet and bursts of disturbing, otherworldly sounds. It keeps you constantly on edge, and there are times when the silence itself is scarier than the monsters.
That said, if I had one gripe with the sound design, it’s that there are moments where the backing track while exploring feels oddly out of place. Specifically, at times, it makes a sound that’s almost identical to the “you’re about to be caught” music from The Last of Us. It’s loud, overbearing, and makes me think I’m about to get jumped by an enemy, even when there’s nothing around. But not in a way that feels intentional — it’s legitimately distracting. Every time it happens, it pulls me out of the experience, and it’s frustrating when the soundtrack is unintentionally working against you, instead of immersing you further into the game’s world.
Regardless of those minor hiccups, the sound design does a massive job of immersing you in the eerie, fog-filled world of Silent Hill. The haunting soundtrack that accompanies you as you wander through the town is pitch-perfect. There’s a slow, ominous hum that builds tension in the quieter moments, creating an ever-present sense of dread. And when things do get loud, the shift is jarring, ratcheting up the intensity to match the horror on screen.
What really sells the atmosphere, though, is the attention to detail in the environmental sounds. You can hear every squelch of James’ footsteps as he trudges through water or mud, every drip and creak that echoes through the empty halls of dilapidated buildings. It’s these small, unnerving sounds that keep you constantly on edge, reminding you that even in silence, you’re never truly alone.
Silent Hill 2 performanceFor the most part, Silent Hill 2 runs like a gem, and that’s saying something given how many games that have come out in the middle of the PlayStation 5’s lifecycle have been plagued with performance issues.
Credit: Konami / Bloober TeamIt’s a testament to the work Bloober Team has put in, especially when compared to recent releases like Dragon’s Dogma 2, Final Fantasy XVI, and Black Myth: Wukong — all fun games, but with a tendency to run like absolute crap at times.
That’s not to say Silent Hill 2 is perfect. I did encounter a couple of hiccups. One particularly annoying bug left me stuck on the back of a pickup truck while trying to fight an enemy, forcing me to reload a save. And yeah, there were a few instances of screen tearing, but nothing game-breaking. Overall, the game performs smoothly, which, in this era of day-one patches and constant updates, is a rare treat.
Graphically, Silent Hill 2 looks stunning, but it’s also clear as day that this was made in Unreal Engine. There’s something distinct about Unreal Engine 3D models — they’ve got this particular look with slightly stiff movements and that weird uncanny valley effect in their faces. It’s not a deal-breaker, but it's jarring, to say the least.
Is Silent Hill 2 worth it?Whether you're a longtime fan of the original or stepping into Silent Hill for the first time, Bloober Team's remake delivers a haunting experience that’s hard to shake.
This is a Laura safe space. Credit: Konami / Bloober TeamFrom the unsettling atmosphere to the visceral combat and psychological depth, the game excels at drawing you into its twisted world. The storytelling is gripping, with characters like James Sunderland and the cast of disturbing personalities he meets adding layers of complexity that go beyond typical horror fare. The remake respects the source material while modernizing it for today’s audience, and even if you’ve never played the 2001 original, it still stands as a deeply unsettling and rewarding journey.
That’s not to say it’s perfect. The combat, while serviceable, can feel clunky — especially when dealing with multiple enemies — and the occasional technical hiccup can pull you out of the immersion. The sound design, while mostly excellent, has its frustrating moments with an overbearing soundtrack that can confuse more than terrify. And sure, the Unreal Engine's telltale stiffness and uncanny valley visuals might make you feel like you’ve wandered into The Room at times, but it’s a minor distraction in an otherwise gorgeously realized world.
Ultimately, Silent Hill 2 is a love letter to psychological horror fans and a solid step forward for the franchise. With its chilling atmosphere, well-paced story, and genuinely terrifying moments, it’s definitely worth your time.
For more Mashable game reviews, check out our OpenCritic page.
SAVE $151: As of Oct. 9, get the Hisense CanvasTV 4K QLED TV for just $848 for Prime Day at Amazon, down from its regular price of $999.99. That's a discount of 15%.
Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Hisense CanvasTV 4K QLED TV $848.00 at AmazonReady to bring home a new TV? The holiday season has almost officially begun, and what better time to grab a new place for friends and family to gather round this year than Prime Day? If you're planning on leveling up your home entertainment system, a great centerpiece of a TV is a good way to do it, especially when it can double as an art piece for when it's not in use. And no, we aren't talking about Samsung's The Frame lineup, but an even more affordable option that you should absolutely consider at its Prime Day price.
As of Oct. 9, you can get the Hisense CanvasTV 4K OLED TV for just $848. That's $151 off its normal price of $999.99 and a discount of 15%. This price applies to the 55-inch version, but the 65-inch display is also on sale for $1,098 if you want a larger screen.
SEE ALSO: The best October Prime Day TV deals are on Fire TVsThis 4K QLED TV boasts rich, deep colors and multiple levels of dark shades to create a sharp and attractive LED picture. Its ultraslim profile makes it perfect for hanging on the wall, as does the snappable CanvasTV frame that lets you swap out multiple options for the one that works best for your decor. That's all because you can use this TV to display photos or artwork when not in use. Choose just one picture or make a slideshow and let the CanvasTV shuffle through your favorite photos and images while not in use to act as an interactive art gallery.
Beyond its artistic features while not in use, this is a sharp TV that's perfect for catching sports, watching some of the biggest movies this year, or gaming; its 144Hz game mode and variable refresh rate of 48Hz to 144Hz make it a great TV for pairing with the console of your choice this fall.
If you want a TV that pulls double duty, this is the one to snag for Prime Day now.
More TV deals you may likeSAVE $300: If you want to snag the best laptop of 2024, now is your chance. The Microsoft Surface Laptop is on sale for $1,699.99 — 15% off its $1,999.99 listing price.
Microsoft Surface Laptop (2024), Windows 11 Copilot+ PC, 13.8" Touchscreen Display, Snapdragon X Elite (12 core), 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD Storage, Black $1,499.92 at AmazonThe laptop excels across the board and boasts the longest battery life of a laptop ever tested by Mashable, a whopping 23 hours! Additionally, its Snapdragon X Elite processor outperforms all M3-based MacBooks earning it the second-highest Geekbench 6 performance score of laptops tested by Mashable. It also supports Microsoft's new AI features which Mashable tech editor, Kim Gedeon, wrote makes Windows fun again in her review.
However, the Microsoft Surface Laptop lacks some app compatibility like Apple Music for example, and is not a gaming laptop. Some Reddit users point out that it might not be the best choice for students, but if you're not a student, app compatibility isn't an issue, and you're not a gamer then this might be the best laptop for you. As Gedeon wrote, "I can't believe I'm saying this, but the Surface Laptop 7 is the better choice over M3 MacBooks." You could be saying this too.
Samsung's next flagship Galaxy phones are a few months away, but the leaks are already rolling in.
Prominent leaker @IceUniverse posted a photo on X (formerly Twitter) that purported to show all three Samsung Galaxy phones that are expected to launch early next year: Galaxy S25, Galaxy S25 Plus, and Galaxy S25 Ultra. It’s unclear if the devices in the photo are operable or just dummy units, as the screens are turned off.
SEE ALSO: The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra is down to its lowest-ever price at Amazon Tweet may have been deletedIf the leak is to be believed, pretty much all we can glean from this photo is the general size and shape of each phone. The S25 Plus and Ultra appear to be similar in size (the Ultra is slightly bigger), while the regular S25 is much smaller than the other two. As TechRadar pointed out, all three phones have rounded corners, which leaves the S25 Ultra looking more like its less-expensive brethren than last year's model.
If Samsung goes about its business the same way it usually does, expect to hear more about these phones sometime in January.
T-Mobile customers impacted by Hurricane Milton will get free emergency satellite texting thanks to Starlink.
On Tuesday evening, SpaceX, which owns Starlink, shared that it has activated its Direct to Cell satellites for T-Mobile carriers in Florida, which is expected to bear the brunt of the hurricane. "We have now enabled basic texting (SMS) for those on T-Mobile phones in hurricane affected areas," said SpaceX in a post on X. "Text messages have already been sent and received. You can text loved ones, text 911 and continue to receive emergency alerts."
SpaceX has also delivered 10,000 Starlink kits to areas affected by Hurricane Helene.
SEE ALSO: Hurricane Milton: See Florida coast webcams live as the storm approaches Tweet may have been deleted How does satellite texting work?Activation of satellite-based texting was made possible by the Federal Communications Commission, which granted approval for "special temporary authority" to provide cell service in affected parts of Florida.
Hurricane Milton, currently fluctuating between a category 4 and 5 with up to 160 mph winds, is expected to make landfall on Wednesday afternoon on the Gulf Coast of Florida. Residents in southwestern Florida have been ordered to evacuate and experts are predicting devastating impact. "Milton has the potential to be one of the most destructive hurricanes on record for west-central Florida," said the National Hurricane Center in an announcement on Wednesday.
Featured Video For You Land, air, and space footage captures the surging Hurricane MiltonT-Mobile users won't have to do anything or buy anything extra to get Starlink connectivity, although some devices might require the user to turn on the satellite connectivity option in settings, said a T-Mobile spokesperson in a comment on the SpaceX post.
Tweet may have been deletedIf a phone connects to a Starlink satellite, it will show one to two bars of connectivity and say "T-Mobile SpaceX" as the network name, the SpaceX post explained. It also recommended trying multiple times if a message doesn't go through at first — it works best outdoors or indoors near a window.
For people impacted by Hurricane Milton that don't have T-Mobile, there might be other options for satellite connectivity. Apple has an Emergency SOS via Satellite feature on iPhone 14 models and newer via a partnership with Globalstar, and the Google Pixel 9 has a similar Satellite SOS feature, thanks to a partnership with Skylo.
I'm a senior shopping reporter at Mashable who hunts down the best laptop deals for our readers, and I think my approach is best described as obnoxiously picky.
When scouring online retailers for discounts, I look for significant price drops and cross-check them with the laptops' manufacturers to verify those numbers. I also run them through price-tracking tools and revisit our past deals coverage to see if they've ever been cheaper. I always stick to models with recent specs, and avoid anything that comes from an unfamiliar third-party seller I don't fully trust (if the site allows them). I think it's important to be this picky because laptops tend to be big investments that people rely on for daily work and expect to last for several good years. That's what I tell myself, anyway.
This Prime Big Deal Days, I'm going to do something I don't normally do: I'm going to hand it to Amazon.
SEE ALSO: We've been covering Prime sales for almost 10 years. Here are the best October Prime Day deals we've found.The retail giant isn't usually my go-to source for incredible deals on the PCs we've reviewed and loved (aside from newer MacBooks, which it tends to put on sale regularly). Its everyday selection is smaller than that of competing retailers like Best Buy, and much of it comes from third parties. It also stocks a lot of older and outdated configurations that I don't consider worth it if you're someone who's looking to upgrade. But Amazon's whipped out some abnormally great deals on newer laptops it's selling itself for its members-only "October Prime Day" sale (live now through Wednesday, Oct. 9).
The honest truth? The deals I've seen over the past 48-ish hours are eons better than the ones Amazon featured during its flagship Prime Day sale this past July, and now I have unreasonably high expectations for its Black Friday programming. (No pressure!)
Below, I've rounded up three standout picks from Prime Big Deal Days that star some of Mashable's best-reviewed laptops. They get my seal of approval. You can also head to our live blog to read all the latest live coverage of October Prime Day.
The best laptop deal overall Opens in a new window Credit: Microsoft Microsoft Surface Laptop 7, 13-inch (Snapdragon X Elite, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD) $1,699.00 at Amazon, Best Buy, and the Microsoft StoreRead Mashable's full review of the 13-inch Microsoft Surface Laptop 7.
This upgraded 13-inch configuration of Microsoft's new Copilot+ PC features a Snapdragon X Elite processor, a hefty 32GB of RAM, and 1TB of storage. With M3 MacBook-beating performance, a battery life of just under 23 hours, and some new AI-powered features that "make Windows fun again," per Tech Editor Kim Gedeon, it's not just a Mashable Choice Award-winner; it's easily the best laptop we've tested so far in 2024, nabbing a score of 4.8/5. Just make sure you won't into any app compatibility issues with Windows on ARM.
I was cautiously hopeful that we'd see a decent deal on it during Prime Big Deal Days, and Amazon delivered: It's currently on sale there for $1,699.99 (normally $1,999.99) — a 15% savings and its lowest price since launch. Note that Best Buy and the Microsoft Store were both matching that.
The best MacBook deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple MacBook Air, 13-inch (M2, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD) $749.00 at Amazon and Best BuyRead Mashable's full review of the 13-inch Apple MacBook Air (M2).
An oldie but a goodie, the M2 MacBook Air from mid-2022 is another Mashable Choice Award titleholder. It got a 4.6/5 rating from tech and games reporter Alex Perry, who commended its "[rock]-solid battery life" and deemed its keyboard "to die for." Apple has released a newer Air with an M3 chip in the past year, but if you don't need dual-display support and just want a solid laptop for everyday tasks, this guy's a bargain (and our current favorite budget MacBook).
Prime Big Deal Days and a rumored M4 refresh have created the perfect storm for a returning all-time low on the base configuration: Amazon has it on sale for only $749, or 25% off its $999 MSRP. This is only the second time this deal has materialized, the first being during Best Buy's Labor Day sale — though it was only available to paid My Best Buy members. (It's currently price-matched there without a paywall, FYI.)
The best 2-in-1 laptop deal Opens in a new window Credit: Asus Asus Zenbook Duo (Intel Core Ultra 7 155H, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD) $1,274.99 at AmazonRead Mashable's full review of the Asus Zenbook Duo (2024).
Can confirm: "The Asus Zenbook Duo is as badass as it looks," Gedeon wrote. This unique hybrid laptop is made for multitasking, combining two gorgeous touchscreen OLED displays with a relatively long battery life and a peppy Intel Core Ultra 7 155H processor whose performance rivals that of the M2 MacBook Air. It also comes with a built-in kickstand, a stylus, and a detachable keyboard, which really ups the value factor. It scored a 4.8/5, and its Mashable Choice Award nod was a given.
It usually retails for $1,499.99, but it's yours during Prime Big Deal Days for just $1,274.99. (That's 15% off and an unprecedented record low.) Meanwhile, it's $1,410.99 at Best Buy and full price at Asus.
Day 2 of Prime Big Deal Days is here, and the clock is ticking! Most of these deals will likely be gone by midnight tonight. If you’ve yet to browse what’s available, we’ve covered everything from robot vacuums to gaming laptops. But that’s not all Amazon has up its sleeve — surprisingly, the retail giant’s Prime Big Deal Days includes some pretty decent travel deals, too.
SEE ALSO: Save hundreds on Samsonite, American Tourister, and more luggage on October Prime DayWhile you won’t find any flight deals via the Amazon site (we’ll show you where to find those a bit later), Prime members can score discounts of up to 40% off on select Carnival and Princess cruise packages, up to 35% off car rentals, and 20% off Viator travel experiences.
Here are some of the top travel deals we spotted during Prime Big Deal Days:
Best travel deal overall Opens in a new window Credit: Princess Cruises Princess Cruises 40% off select cruises + free room upgrade Get Deal Why we like itAmazon’s partnered with Princess Cruises to offer up to 40% off select cruises and a free room upgrade with just a $99 deposit. Cruise destinations include Alaska, the Caribbean, Europe, and more. This deal’s only available for another 40 hours (so, longer than Prime Day itself) — make sure to book fast.
Best flight deal Opens in a new window Credit: Southwest Southwest One-way as low as $69 Get Deal Why we like itOctober Prime Day hasn’t included any flight deals (that we've seen), but Southwest is offering a non-Prime deal where you can get a one-way flight for a low as $69. Of course, restrictions apply, but for $69, it’s worth it to put up with a little fine print.
Here's the deal: you need to book by October 10 at 11:59 p.m. Pacific Time, and plan your trip at least 21 days in advance. Travel within the continental U.S. is valid from October 29, 2024, to January 31, 2025, while flights to Hawaii, international destinations, and San Juan, Puerto Rico are valid from October 29, 2024 to March 5, 2025. Remember: there are some blackout dates for certain routes, so be sure to check those before you book. Also, this deal is nonrefundable, and seats and travel days are limited, so don't wait too long!
More October Prime Day travel dealsTL;DR: Live stream 49ers vs. Seahawks for free with a 30-day trial of Prime Video. Access this free live stream from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.
It's time for Thursday Night Football and we're already at Week 6 of the 2024 NFL season. The next game sees the San Francisco 49ers visit the Seattle Seahawks.
The 49ers started the season as one of the Super Bowl favorites though it's been a tricky start to their Quest for Six. They've been hit by injuries and they're yet to win on the road. The Seahawks are on a two week losing streak and have conceded a grand total of 71 points across those two games. Can the Seahawks' defence hold back the 49ers? Or will the 49ers get their first win on the road this season?
The good news for football fans is you can watch all the action without spending a dime. So if you want to watch the San Francisco 49ers vs. Seattle Seahawks for free, here's all the information you need.
When is 49ers vs. Seahawks?San Francisco 49ers vs. Seattle Seahawks takes place at 8:15 p.m. ET on Oct. 10. This fixture will be played at Lumen Field in Seattle, Washington.
How to watch 49ers vs. Seahawks for freeSan Francisco 49ers vs. Seattle Seahawks is available to live stream on Prime Video in the U.S., but you don't need to be fully subscribed to Amazon Prime to watch this game. Simply watch San Francisco 49ers vs. Seattle Seahawks (plus more Thursday Night Football fixtures) for free with a 30-day trial of Amazon Prime.
Fans from outside the U.S. will need to use a VPN to watch the NFL for free on Prime Video. This process is straightforward:
Sign up for a 30-day Amazon Prime trial (if you're not already a member)
Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)
Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)
Open up the app and connect to a server in the U.S.
Watch Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Atlanta Falcons for free from anywhere in the world on Prime Video
The best VPNs for streaming are not actually free to use, but the top VPN providers do tend to offer free trial periods or money-back guarantees. Simply leverage these deals to gain access to free live streams of the NFL and you won't have to spend anything. Sure, it's a short-term solution but this gives you enough time to watch select NFL fixtures before recovering your investment.
What is the best VPN for the NFL?ExpressVPN is the best service for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream the NFL, for a number of reasons:
Servers in 105 countries
Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more
Strict no-logging policy so your data is always secure
Fast connection speeds
Up to eight simultaneous connections
30-day money-back guarantee
A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is currently available for $99.95. That's an impressive 49% off altogether. As part of this limited time deal you'll get a bonus three months at no extra cost, an entire year of unlimited cloud backup, and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Live stream 49ers vs. Seahawks for free from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.
Prime Big Deal Days is here. The sale kicked off on October 8 and runs through the 9. There are some big savings to be had across all categories. We've been digging through the Amazon price history on every product to find the lowest prices ever on headphones, laptops, tablets, and more. While all of these tech deals are great, Prime Day is also a great time to stock up on the small stuff.
If you're savoring the last few drops of face wash or your lips are starting to feel a bit chapped from the crisp autumn air, look to all the great deals on beauty and skincare products during October Prime Day. Time to stock your bathroom and save while doing so.
SEE ALSO: Get $100 off the Dyson Airwrap, plus other top October Prime Day Dyson deals Best skincare deal Opens in a new window Credit: Biodance Biodance Bio-Collagen Real Deep Mask $12.90 at AmazonAfter a long day outside, whether you've been raking leaves or out on an autumnal hike, it's nice to give your skin a little TLC. Last Prime Day, I stocked up on the Biodance Bio-Collagen Real Deep Mask as a little treat and my skin has been thanking me. While most face masks you wash off after 20 minutes, this one stays on for hours. Put it on, kick back, and watch several episodes of Love is Blind while the mask gets to work.
It's full of hydrating and plumping ingredients to restore the skin barrier, but it's also safe on sensitive skin. As someone with acne-prone skin, I'm nervous to use new hydrating products as they can often lead to breakouts, but this kept my skin totally clear. Pro tip: store these masks in the fridge for an extra refreshing experience.
During Prime Day, this mask is down to $12.90, saving $6.10.
More skincare dealsCosrx Snail Mucin Essence — $12.99 $25 (save $12.01)
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Purifying Foaming Facial Cleanser — $13.49 $17.99 (save $4.50)
Hero Cosmetic Mighty Patch — $16.49 $21.99 (save $5.50)
Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré — $21.75 $29 (save $7.25)
Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid — $28 $35 (save $7)
Youth To The People Kale and Green Tea Cleanser — $29.25 $39 (save $9.75)
EltaMD UV Physical Tinted Sunscreen — $35.20 $44 (save $8.80)
Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream — $46.90 $67 (save $20.10)
Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm — $48.30 $69 (save $20.70)
The Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask is a little bit of luxury in a .7 ounce container. I'm on my third jar of this lip mask, which is made with hydrating shea butter to protect against dry lips. Especially in the colder months, if you feel like you constantly need to reapply product to prevent chapped lips, this mask is a life saver. While it's marketed as an overnight mask, it's lightweight enough to wear all day. The berry flavor is my favorite, but if you've got a sweet tooth, there are a variety of candy-flavored options to try.
Shop the Laneige lip mask for $16.80 during Prime Big Deal Days, saving $7.20.
More lip care dealsMario Badescu Moisturizing Lip Balm — $4.56 $8 (save $3.44)
Laneige Lip Glowy Balm — $13.30 $19 (save $5.70)
Kiehl's Buttermask — $19.60 $28 (save $8.40)
You don't need a fancy body wash, but it certainly feels good. The body washes from Salt & Stone smell divine and linger even after you've rinsed off. It comes with nourishing ingredients like niacinamide and hyaluronic acid to keep skin soft, while remaining free of parabens, sulfates, and phthalates. My personal favorite scent is the Bergamot & Hinoki, but all of the Salt & Stone scents are divine.
You can find the Salt & Stone body washes for 30% off during Prime Big Deal Days, saving you $10.80 on your next bottle.
More body care dealsFirst Aid Beauty KP Bump Eraser Body Scrub — $8.04 $12 (save $3.96)
Nécessaire The Body Wash — $20 $25 (save $5)
Bioderma Atoderm Shower Oil — $20.99 $29.99 (save $9)
L'Occitane Cleansing & Softening Almond Shower Oil — $23.20 $29 (save $5.80)
Osea Undaria Cleansing Body Polish — $38 $48 (save $10)
Osea Undaria Algae Body Oil — $41 $52 (save $11)
While I haven't gotten to test the Dyson Supersonic myself, my colleague Bethany Allard has spent a lot of time with this hair dryer, assessing its performance and value. While Allard commends the hair dryer for its lightweight design, quick drying, and user-friendliness, its downfall comes with its $429.99 price tag. However, Prime Day presents a fantastic saving opportunity.
During Prime Big Deal Days, get the Dyson Supersonic for $329.99, saving $100 on the device.
More hair care dealsLiving Proof Dry Shampoo — $21 $30 (save $9)
Ouai Fine Shampoo and Conditioner Set — $50.99 $64 (save $13.01)
Drybar The Double Shot Oval Blow Dryer Brush — $77.49 $154.08 (save $76.59)
Bio Ionic Long Barrel Styler — $104.30 $149 (save $44.70)
Shark SpeedStyle Hair Dryer — $149.99 $199.99 (save $50)
Shark FlexStyle Air Styling & Drying System — $234.94 $299.99 (save $65.05)
Dyson Airstrait Straightener — $449.99 $599.99 (save $150)
Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz — $15 $25 (save $10)
Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara — $20.30 $29 (save $8.70)
It Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream — $32.90 $47 (save $14.10)
Spooky season is upon us, so what better time to wear your friend's skin as a costume?
Want to experience the freaky fun of the body-swap thriller It's What's Inside firsthand? We get it. Out of SXSW, Mashable contributor Siddhant Adlakha praised writer/director Greg Jardin's jaw-dropping film as "a ludicrous, metaphysical midnight romp that forces its ensemble to look at each other — and at themselves — in surprising ways."
Following this wild movie's Netflix debut, the streaming service has launched It's What's Inside: The Game, in which you can walk in the shoes of suitcase-toting Forbes and his crew of dramatic college friends. The Mashable crew played it, and the results were hilarious and horrifying!
But how does this game work? Thankfully, there's no sketchy suitcase involved. According to Netflix: "Using cutting-edge technology, you’ll swap faces and voices with each other as you try to guess who is in whose body. Head-spinning? Absolutely. Nerve-wracking? You bet. But don’t worry, the game is totally safe. Your friendships, however, might not be." Dun dun dunnnn!
Are you game?
How to play It's What's Inside: The Game Credit: NetflixAll you'll need is a laptop or desktop computer (mobile devices can't participate), three to five friends, and 15 minutes of free time.
The It's What's Inside: The Game site offers a tutorial and private rooms so you can experience the thrills of this mind-bending movie in an exhilarating new way. But how do you swap bodies? The site invites you to take a selfie and record two minutes of audio, so your friends can essentially use your face and voice as a filter within the game.
Don't worry about your data. Mashable has confirmed with Netflix that "players’ likenesses and voices are accessed for the game, but they will not be stored or used beyond that. Once the game is over, that data is deleted immediately."
Here's how to play It's What's Inside: The Game:
Visit www.itswhatsinsidegame.com — the Chrome browser is recommended for best results.
There, clicking the Start Game button will prompt you to accept terms and conditions. Click "Next" to accept, and you'll be offered a code, which you can share with your friends to build your private playroom. From there, you'll be instructed to record audio from a creepy script and take a selfie. Here are some tips for the best user experience in recording your audio:
Allow the site access to your microphone.
Make sure you’re in a quiet space with low background noise.
Speak clearly like you’re having a conversation with a friend.
Scroll as you normally would to reveal more of the script you need to read.
Once you’ve seen the "recording complete" prompt, click the Next button.
From there, you'll take your selfie using your computer's camera. Here are Netflix's tips for the best user experience:
Don’t lean in too close to the camera, and make sure you take your photo in a position that you’re comfortable in. You’ll need to stay in a similar position when you swap bodies with your friends.
Note: There’s a small flash of soft yellow light when we take your photo.
While the site gets to work swapping your virtual bodies, you'll watch a brief tutorial video on how gameplay works. You'll take turns answering question prompts as your friends. As they answer, you can guess who's who by placing their "Polaroid" (selfie) on the board over their new identity. The player with the most correct guesses and the player who tricked the most players will win.
Before entering your private playroom, the game will notify you which "body" you've swapped into, so you know who to act like. Once everyone is ready, the host will click the Start Game button.
Tips to win at It's What's Inside: The Game Credit: NetflixHere are more tips from Netflix on how to get the best experience out of It's What's Inside: The Game:
Once we drop you all into the game, we’ll give you about 20 seconds to get familiar with your new face, and all your friends' new faces. Use this time to get your body and face in a good spot so that your body swap is convincing. Once that 20 seconds is up, it’s time to get into Q&A.
Try replicating the image your friend took, the way they positioned their body, their face in frame, the angle of their head. The better you match that image, the better your swap will be.
Note: you will be muted until it’s your turn to speak in the Q&A. Everyone will answer the same question that shows up on the top of the screen. You will be unmuted when it’s your turn to answer, and then placed back on mute when your turn has ended.
Keep an eye out for the bright green prompt that will tell you when it’s your turn to answer. Also, the timer at the top will show you how long you have left to answer the question. If you end up not using the whole 20 seconds, feel free to click the End Turn Early button.
At any time throughout the Q&A, if you think you know who’s who, then drag their Polaroid onto the body they’re hiding in. Gameplay will last for 10 minutes. At the end of the 10 minutes, all will be revealed, and you’ll be able to see who was in whose body. Everyone will be revealed one by one, and you’ll be able to talk freely over a video call.
After you’ve all been revealed, we’ll move on to the post-game lobby, and you’ll see the final scores. You’ll have roughly 5 mins to talk through the scores. For one minute, you’ll be able to see who was the best guesser and best imposter. For the remainder of the time on the clock, you’ll be able to see the group scores and who guessed who.
You can exit the game at any point by clicking the Finish Game button. Once you’ve finished the game, you’ll be able to download a shareable asset that you can share on social media.
Play it while you can. It's What's Inside: The Game will be live from Oct. 9-14. It's What's Inside is now streaming on Netflix.
Running is really important to me. I try to get out of the house and hit the road at least three times a week. It's therapy in the form of sweat and chafe, and I keep coming back for more.
Things have changed considerably since I was a skinny boy competing for my school in local cross country events. Back then I bounced around the park in nothing but my school uniform and sneakers. There were no carbon-plated running shoes giving me an extra few seconds per mile. No running watch tracking my pace and heartrate. And definitely no supplements giving me an edge over the competition. Things were probably better back then, but I won't deny that I'm very much into anything that promises to make me just a little bit faster.
And I am fast, OK? I can run a 5K in under 18 minutes, so I feel confident in my ability to recommend the products that will actually make a difference. I'm not just some guy with all the gear and no idea. I have at least some idea of what I'm doing. And just to be very clear, there's nothing humble about that brag. I will race you.
The problem with the best running gear is that it doesn't exactly come cheap. And that's why you should target major shopping events (like Prime Day) to stock up on everything you need to shave some seconds off your PB, speed up your recovery, improve your levels of comfort, and look your best when plodding around town.
As Mashable's Global Shopping Editor, I have spent the last six years investigating what constitutes a genuinely good deal. This year, I have put together this quick list of the best Prime Day deals for runners, based on years of expertise.
Best for workouts: Garmin Running Watch Opens in a new window Credit: Garmin Garmin Forerunner 55 $168.99 at AmazonI avidly follow a few running YouTubers, in an effort to glean some pearls of wisdom that can bring my times down. Something they all seem to agree on at the moment is that Coros running watches are the best in the business. I'm not saying those professional athletes are wrong, but I'm all about Garmin.
And I also firmly believe that if you're just running, you don't need a smartwatch with all the bells and whistles. You need something that focuses on the metrics that matters, like the Garmin Forerunner 55. I've been using this running watch for a couple of years now, and it has never let me down. The GPS is speedy to connect and reliable, the watch face is easy to read (even when your vision is blurred), and you can easily add personalized workouts through the Garmin Connect app.
Best for comfort: Danish Endurance Socks Opens in a new window Credit: Danish Endurance Danish Endurance Long Distance Running Socks $21.21 at AmazonThe best thing I can say about these socks is that you forget all about them, even on those really long runs that seem like a good idea on a Sunday morning. I've always been someone who struggles with blisters and random running-induced foot wounds, but no more!
Danish Endurance socks were introduced to me by a friend who doesn't run, so I guess they are a versatile option as well. I only wear these socks for running, and I can attest to the fact that they are comfortable on long runs, offer effective protection against blisters, and are light enough for those moments when you want to push the pace.
Best for convenience: MVRK Running Pack Opens in a new window Credit: MVRK MVRK Water Resistant Chest Pack $27.99 at AmazonOnce upon a time, I didn't bring my phone out with me on runs. But that was before I became a big Podcast runner. There's nothing that can take your mind off the mild discomfort of a run like the grizzly descriptions of a murder. And even after I started always listening to something while running, I opted for the armband approach. I was a caveman.
Nowadays I keep my phone, bank card, keys, and maybe a gel in a MVRK Water Resistant Chest Pack. Unlike the armband, this chest pack feels like an extension of my body. And unlike some other running packs I've tried, this model comes with actual zips. I'm fed up with velcro that deteriorates over time. Bring back the humble zip.
Best for indoors: NordicTrack Treadmill Opens in a new window Credit: NordicTrack NordicTrack T Series $479.00 at AmazonI don't actually own a treadmill, so I can't speak to my experience of using the NordicTrack T Series. What I can say is that I have access to a basement that would be absolutely perfect for a treadmill. At least, that's what I say to myself when I look out the door and it's pouring with rain. And if I do eventually take the plunge and purchase a treadmill, I am likely to go with NordicTrack. I'm not willing to spend thousands on a Peloton, and NordicTrack is a reliable name in fitness tech.
The NordicTrack T Series promises heart-pounding studio workouts and trainer-guided workouts from around the globe, so you can run along the beaches of Hawaii instead of through the mean streets of my home town.
SAVE OVER $170: As of Oct. 9, the iRobot Roomba i3+ EVO robot vacuum is on sale for $249.99 at Amazon. That's a saving of 40% on the regular list price of $420.
Opens in a new window Credit: iRobot iRobot Roomba i3+ EVO $249.99 at AmazonOctober Prime Day is made for picking up the kind of luxury items that you can’t always justify buying. One such luxury item is a smart robot vacuum cleaner. We’d all love one for a robot maid to do our dirty work around the home, but they’re not exactly cheap. Even budget Roombas like the i3+ EVO are priced at $400 or more. Fortunately, Amazon's got a great deal on a high-end model from iRobot, one of the leading names in robot vacuum cleaner technology.
The iRobot Roomba i3+ EVO is currently discounted to $249.99 for a markdown of 40% from the list price. That’s $170.01 back in your pocket as you put your feet up and let the robot vacuum get on with the housework. But don’t dawdle on this deal. Oct. 9 is the final day of Amazon’s Prime Big Deal Days. Be sure to check out our live blog for real-time updates as the sale comes to a close.
SEE ALSO: The best October Prime Day deals on robot vacuumsThe iRobot Roomba i3+ EVO is packed with technology that will make your life easier and your home cleaner. It’s fully compatible with Alexa and has smart mapping, automatic emptying, and advanced navigation features.
Usually priced at $429, this self-emptying robovac is one of the most affordable smart Roomba vacuums — and you can get it on sale for a little while longer. Remember: October Prime Day ends at midnight PT, so take advantage of this 40% deal while you can.
SAVE OVER $69.96: As of Oct. 9, the Beats Studio Buds are on sale for $79.99 at Amazon. That's a saving of 47% on the regular list price of $149.95.
Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Beats Studio Buds $79.99If there’s one gadget we all need in this modern and Bluetooth-connected world, it’s a pair of high-quality earbuds. (Oh, and a smartphone. And a laptop. Okay, so maybe more than one thing.) And if great-sounding audio is a priority — and why wouldn’t it be? — then Beats products should be on your radar. The Apple brand makes stylish headphones that produce exceptional-sounding music. That’s why the Beats Studio Buds are an absolute steal this October Prime Day.
You can currently pick up the Beats Studio Buds for the discounted price of $79.99, which gives you a massive saving from the list price of $149.95. We used to get excited when these buds dropped to $100. After closely watching their price history on Amazon, we can confirm they're once again at their lowest-ever price. (Technically, they're $0.04 shy of a record low, but we're counting it.)
And don’t forget: Oct. 9 is the last day of Amazon’s Prime Big Deal Days, aka October Prime Day, so don’t miss your chance to snap up these noise-cancelling earbuds and save yourself more than $69.
SEE ALSO: The new Apple AirPods Max 2 just got their first discount for October Prime DayBeats Studio Buds are true wireless earbuds that have active noise cancellation and transparency mode, which allows certain ambient sounds through at your discretion, such as other people’s voices. They also offer spatial audio and one-touch pairing with iOS devices.
They’re Apple-made but compatible with both Apple and Android — and a bargain no matter which brand of smartphone you use. As a bonus, you’ll also get three months of Apple Music absolutely free with your purchase. Everything’s controlled by the buds themselves — just give them a tap.
If you want to keep track of the best savings, follow our live blog for up-to-the-minute coverage of all the latest October Prime Day deals at Amazon and beyond.
It's autumn, meaning it's time for Gilmore Girls marathons, pumpkin lattes, and cuffing season. Cuffing season, a phrase from African-American Vernacular English (AAVE), is the time of year when (in the northern hemisphere) temperatures dip and daters may be more apt to settle down and cuddle with one person for those cold winter months, as opposed to playing the field.
SEE ALSO: Welcome to the 'Lover Girl' dating era. It's time to embrace romance.To help prepare you for cuffing season, dating app Hinge has created a guide to first dates. Do you want a quick date, or are you down to devote more time? Indoors or outdoors? Activity or conversation-based? This logic tree has you covered:
Hinge's easy guide for first date ideas. Credit: HingeHinge's director of relationship science, Logan Ury, shared tips with Mashable on having fun first dates this season:
Don't put too much pressure on a first date. You're just meeting this person, don't jump into wondering whether you'll marry them. But if you think you'll feel anxious regardless, you can take pressure off by including a "third object." A "third object" is something other than you and your date to talk about, like art at a museum.
Try a group setting. This might also lessen the stress of speaking to one person all night, and Ury recommended this so you can see how your date interacts with other people. "This is a great way to get a sense of those hard-to-measure qualities that are so important, like kindness," she said.
Customize the date based on your match's interest. If they mention an activity or drink in their bio, you'll show interest by suggesting a first date that includes that interest.
Ultimately — and this might be difficult — have fun. Not every first date is going to turn into a cuddle buddy, but hopefully, you'll have one once winter begins.
SAVE $703: As of Oct. 9, the LG 55-Inch OLED evo TV is on sale for $1,296.99 at Amazon. That's a discount of 35% on the retail price of $1,999.99.
Opens in a new window Credit: LG LG 55-Inch OLED evo TV $1,296.99 at AmazonThe mighty television set is always one of the most sought-after items during big sales such as October Prime Day. Because who doesn’t love a great TV? You know, the thing that all your furniture points toward. We're following all the latest deals (including TV deals), in our Prime Day live blog, but one LG TV deal in particular deserves a callout.
The 55-inch LG C4 evo OLED 4K Smart TV is discounted by more than $700 on Oct. 9, the final day of Amazon's Prime Big Deal Days shopping event. And you can save even more by opting for the 65-inch model, which is 45% off as of this writing. This is the best LG TV deal of October Prime Day, so don't miss out.
The C4 OLED TV comes from a fine pedigree of award-winning TVs. The C3, C2, and C1 of years past all won numerous "best OLED TV" awards, and the C4 is widely considered by reviewers to be the top contender of 2024. The premium 4K smart TV is currently discounted to $1,296.99, 35% less than the normal list price. Here at Mashable, we keep a close eye on the Amazon price history for big products, and we can confirm this is the lowest price ever seen for the 55-inch version of the TV.
SEE ALSO: The best October Prime Day TV deals are on Fire TVsThis isn’t any old television set. As we already mentioned, LG has a well-earned reputation for making the best OLED TVs in the world, year after year. It’s fully smart, with Alexa built-in for voice control, and it comes equipped with an AI-powered magic remote. Not only that, there’s Doly Atmos and Vision, plus access to 300+ free digital channels and features for gaming. And, of course, a high-end OLED display with incredible color.
This October Prime Day deal will allow you to upgrade the centerpiece of your home cinema setup. And just at the right time of year, as you get ready to binge holiday season TV shows and movies.
And don’t wait around on this LG TV deal. Remember: Oct. 9 is the final day of Amazon’s Prime Big Deal Days.
SAVE $350: As of Oct. 9, the Samsung The Frame 55-Inch TV is on sale for $667.99 at Amazon. That's a saving of 41% on list price.
Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung The Frame 55-Inch TV $977.99 at AmazonAmazon's Prime Day is the perfect chance to secure incredible deals, and we at Mashable have been keeping an eye on which deals are worth your time and which aren't. We've seen incredible deals across laptops, earbuds, and TVs, but one of the best offers we've seen is the discounted Samsung Frame TV.
A stylish and aesthetic TV, the Samsung device has long been famous for its ability to camouflage as a painting on your wall. The 4K QLED display gives you a stellar viewing experience when bingeing your favorite shows, before giving you an amazing artwork image when not watching. Special mention to the matte finish, reducing reflections and making your displayed images pop even more.
Artwork aside, it also features a Tizen smart interface for a user-friendly experience for navigating apps and settings, voice control compatibility with Alexa and Google Assistant, and multiple HDMI ports and USB connections.
As of Oct. 9, you can purchase this TV for $977.99, an incredible 41% discount. Not only is this the lowest it has ever been priced at Amazon, but it's the first time it's been available for under $1,000. This particular discount applies to the 55-inch model, but there are similarly incredible deals across all other sizes (excluding the 85-inch).
There's not long left of October Prime Day, so move fast if you want to score this deal.
Take a New York Minute to Review Your Recovery Plan Don Henley is right: everything can change in a New York...
I Lost all of my Photos In every disaster I have ever responded to from here to...
Boston's most important responders: Bostonians The people of Boston are to be congratulated for being...
3 Values Your Business Continuity Plan Should Have Your business lives with risk every day from competitors...
Digital Privacy: A Catch 22 Mobility, convenience, accessibility and real-...
Take a New York Minute to Review Your Recovery Plan Don Henley is right: everything can change in a New York...
3 Values Your Business Continuity Plan Should Have Your business lives with risk every day from competitors...
I Lost all of my Photos In every disaster I have ever responded to from here to...