Mashable

You might have to shell out more for your Star Wars, Disney, or Marvel fix. Disney+ began its password-sharing crackdown this week.

Following in Netflix's frustrating footsteps, Disney+ has limited subscription access to just one household. It detailed the new rules in a blog post in which it actually had the gall to tout the new "features and capabilities" that would expand "its paid-sharing program." In reality, it really just means you can't share your account outside your household without paying extra.

Let's get into the details.

How much will adding an "extra member" cost?

To add an "extra member" to an ad-supported plan, it will cost you $6.99 per month, while adding an ad-free plan costs $9.99 per month.

That's a pretty steep cost considering a Disney+ subscription with ads costs $7.99 per month and ad-free costs $13.99. Though those prices are set to rise to $9.99 and $15.99, respectively, next month.

No matter what, it's a pretty big increase to upgrade as an "extra member" or to get a new account entirely.

SEE ALSO: Which streaming service should you cancel? All of them (most of the time). What does an "extra member" have access to?

You might think that a hefty increase like this would get this "extra member" everything a regular user would receive. You'd be wrong.

The "extra member" is limited to one account and streaming/downloading on a single device at a time. They also "cannot have an active Hulu subscription, or an active or canceled Disney+ or ESPN+ subscription," Disney noted. The "extra member" feature is also not available to subscriptions that are part of a Disney Bundle.

So...there are definitely some limitations.

What now?

If you're stuck figuring out your next move, it seems like you might have to pay more. There may be ways to get around it, but those methods often prove time-consuming or annoying.

It's just another blow to people who stream their TV, amid frequent price hikes and constant advertisements on platforms that were once ad free. Of course, if you want to be brave, it could be time to start canceling subscriptions altogether.

Sometimes good things come with small price tags. Amazon' Prime Day sales are always a great time to snag some new gear, but if you're sticking to a budget this fall, here are some great deals that cost under $25.

October Prime Day deals under $25 Best earbuds deal Soundcore by Anker P20i True Wireless Earbuds $19.99 at Amazon (save $20) Get Deal Best wireless charging deal Anker PowerWave Magnetic Wireless Charger $23.99 with code ANKER2561 (save $16) Get Deal Best home security deal Blink Mini $17.99 at Amazon (save $12) Get Deal

Life feels pretty expensive these days, which means that many of us are sticking to a strict budget lately. But that doesn't mean you can't enjoy Amazon's upcoming Prime Big Deal Days event. Starting on Oct. 8, the retailer is hosting another major sale that's a great time to upgrade any tech that's starting to feel old and sluggish.

However, if you're anxious to get a good deal before the sale officially starts, we have some good news. We're already seeing some noteworthy price drops, including budget-friendly items that cost under $25 thanks to early October Prime Day discounts. Here are some sweet deals to shop today.

Best earbuds deal Opens in a new window Credit: Soundcore Our pick: Soundcore by Anker P20i True Wireless Earbuds $19.99 at Amazon
$39.99 Save $20.00 Get Deal Why we like it

The ultra-affordable Soundcore by Anker P20i True Wireless Earbuds are on sale at Amazon for just $19.99 which means they're half-off the usual price of $39.99. At this price, you can use them as stocking stuffers or grab a few pairs for your family to always have on hand in case somone's earbuds go missing.

The P20i earbuds use 10mm drivers, focusing on bass while also offering about 30 hours of playtime on a single charge. They're also water resistant, so no worries if you're out in the rain or in the muggy summer heat.

The compact and lightweight design of the Soundcore earbuds paired with the attached lanyard means these earbuds are also great for travel, taking to school, or bringing along to the office.

Best wireless charging deal Opens in a new window Credit: Anker Our pick: Anker PowerWave Magnetic Wireless Charger $23.99 at Amazon
$39.99 Save $16.00 use code ANKER2561 at checkout Get Deal Why we like it

If you have an iPhone 12, 13, or 14, you're in for a great deal today. The Anker PowerWave Magnetic Wireless Charger is on sale for just $23.99 at Amazon with checkout code ANKER2561. The magnetic stand means your iPhone can recharge while still being visible and totally usable. You can charge vertically or horizontally, and you can also change the angle to make viewing better.

Below the magnetic charger, you can place AirPods 2, AirPods Pro, Galaxy Buds, or Libery Air earbuds on the charging base to simultaneously charge up your phone and earbuds.

Best home security deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Our pick: Blink Mini $17.99 at Amazon
$29.99 Save $12.00 Get Deal Why we like it

Keeping an eye on the inside of your home or apartment while you're away can offer some serious peace of mind. Get reassurance the dog didn't destroy the couch or check that the kids arrived home from school on time with the Blink Mini indoor camera. You'll get a clear and crisp view with the 1080p resolution while also getting night vision views when it gets dark. Two-way audio on the camera means you can let the dog know you see what it's up to should it choose chaos and start chewing on the couch.

You'll get alerts on your smartphone when motion is detected or you can customize your notifications or detection zones. Setting up the Blink Mini includes plugging it into a power source and connecting it to your home's WiFi.

The Blink Mini usually costs $29.99 but thanks to this early October Prime Day deal, you can get the camera for just $17.99. That's an impressive 40% discount.

More October Prime Day deals under $25

• TP-Link Tapo 2K pan tilt security camera — $19.99 $34.99 (save $15)

• Energizer Weatheready rechargeable LED flashlight — $21.99 $28.99 (save $7)

• Logitech MK270 wireless keyboard and mouse combo — $22.99 $27.99 (save $5)

• Amazon Alexa Voice Remote Pro — $24.99 $34.99 (save $10)

• Logitech Brio 101 webcam — $24.99 $39.99 (save $15)

• Paris Hilton enameled cast iron Dutch oven — $24.99 $39.99 (save $15)

Hurricane Helene is a formidable category 2 Hurricane creeping north through the Gulf of Mexico as of Thursday midday — and, importantly, it's still gaining strength. The situation is serious, with NOAA warning Floridians in particular to prepare for landfall this evening, and noting that "preparations to protect life and property should be rushed to completion."

Tweet may have been deleted

Where will it land? When? How severe will it be at or near landfall? Where will it go once its incursion into the mainland has begun, and what will conditions be like there? There are no hard answers to any of these, only forecasts — typically doled out as illustrative maps. But the good news is that forecasts are, broadly speaking, powerfully accurate.

Tweet may have been deleted

Here's the latest on what the immediate future holds in the form of maps:

Latest forecast cone for Hurricane Helene: SEE ALSO: Why it's impossible to forecast the weather too far into the future

According to NOAA's forecast cone as of 11:00 a.m. ET Thursday, coastal residents should be prepared for hurricane conditions as far west as Panama City, and as far east as the Clearwater area (though Tampa might want to batten down the hatches too, as of this writing, just in case).

The cone itself — meaning the geographical range likely to contain the path of the center of the storm — was showing potential direct hits anywhere from the area of St. George Island near the Bryant Patton Memorial Bridge in the west, to the proximity of Steinhatchee in the east.

Credit: NOAA

To refresh your memory, NOAA's cone graphics predict the range of potential paths likely to be taken by the center of the storm. Storm surge and other severe conditions may well occur outside the cone, while inside the cone, there will always be some areas that experience relatively mild conditions.

SEE ALSO: Hurricane Helene: Watch Florida webcams live, including Panama City, Port St. Joe Landfall times for for Hurricane Helene Tweet may have been deleted

According to the North Carolina Local CBS affiliate WNCT, Helene was expected to make landfall at approximately 8:00 p.m. CT (which is 9:00 p.m. ET). Their forecast showed the storm weakening from 120 mph winds at landfall to 65 mph when it reaches the vicinity of North Carolina about 12 hours later.

Spaghetti and "wobble" maps for Helene Tweet may have been deleted

The above map, posted by a storm chaser calling himself Reed Timmer, PhD shows a grouping of potential paths as of Wednesday night or early Thursday morning, nearly all of which appear to be making a beeline for the Big Bend.

As the landfall approaches, some of what were called "spaghetti" models when the storm was further out begin to narrow and look much less spaghetti-like. They also hint at the capricious storm's final plan of attack. Crucially, a storm ends up charting a course outside of the forecast cone 1/3 of the time, according to NOAA.

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The above maps, posted by Orlando meteorologist Noah Bergren, hint that Helene's eye may be turning slightly east, or may just be wobbling slightly off course before it returns to the cone — either is possible. Though, importantly, Bergren points out that the true "center of circulation" may well still be in the cone. The storm still appears to be headed toward the vicinity of the Big Bend, but it could also veer off the expected course, impacting — for instance — Gainesville more than previously expected.

So while forecasting maps are clues about the future, it's wise to follow NOAA's more general advice at times like this, particularly the part that says "Residents in [affected] areas should follow advice given by local officials and evacuate if told to do so."

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Mashable Tech Editor Kimmie G breaks down why Apple's latest fleet of iPhones could be worth the upgrade.

Shop the best early Prime Big Deal Days deals on soundbars:

Best Prime Day soundbar deals Best soundbar deal Roku TV Wireless Soundbar $99.99 at Amazon (Save $50) Get Deal Best Sony soundbar deal Sony S100F 2.0ch Soundbar $98 at Amazon (Save $31.99) Get Deal Best Amazon soundbar deal Amazon Fire TV Soundbar $104.99 at Amazon (Save $15) Get Deal

Another Prime Day is coming. This time, Amazon is bringing back its October event, Prime Big Deal Days — expect two days jam-packed with deals. As we prepare for the sale to run October 8 and 9, we're ramping up our deal hunting; we already found the best Bluetooth speaker deals, and now we're rounding up the best soundbar deals.

Now that we're in the thick of football season, WNBA playoffs, and just general cozy season, we're spending a lot more time at home in front of the TV. If your TV is just right, but maybe your sound system just isn't cutting it, October Prime Day is a great right time to get a soundbar. We're tracking the best early deals ahead of Prime Big Deal Days.

Best soundbar deal Opens in a new window Credit: Roku Roku TV Wireless Soundbar $99.99 at Amazon
$149.99 Save $50.00 Get Deal Why we like it

Soundbars provide advanced sound to your home theater, but getting one can feel like you're signing up for another thing that requires yet another remote that will inevitably get lost in the couch. Luckily, Roku streamlined their system with this wireless soundbar that seamlessly connects to your Roku TV or streamer. Unfortunately, this soundbar is only compatible with Rokus, but the good news is that Rokus are some of the best streaming devices out there.

Normally $149.99, ahead of Prime Day, the Roku TV wireless soundbar is down to $99.99, saving you $50 for 33% off.

More soundbar deals

• VIZIO 2.0 Home Theater Sound Bar — $69.99 $79.99 (save $10)

• Sony S100F 2.0ch Soundbar — $98 $129.99 (save $31.99)

• Amazon Fire TV Soundbar — $104.99 $119.99 (save $15)

• VIZIO V-Series 2.1 Home Theater Soundbar — $129.99 $159.99 (save $30)

• Samsung HW-S50B/ZA 3.0ch Soundbar — $217.99 $247.99 (save $30)

• Sony Bravia Theater Bar 8 Soundbar — $1,444 $1,599.97 (save $155.97)

If you own an LG TV, hit up the settings menu ASAP.

That's because full-screen screensaver advertisements have infected LG televisions, FlatPanelsHD reported. These ads appear before the normal screensaver kicks in, and can be for either LG-centric promotions or third-party partners like car companies. According to FlatPanelsHD's testing, the ads are muted...for now.

SEE ALSO: Get a smart TV for less than $150 ahead of October Prime Day How to turn off screensaver ads on LG TVs

The obvious first response to this, if you own an LG TV, is "can I turn these ads off?" The good news is that, at least at the moment, you can. Here's how:

1. Open the TV's settings menu

2. Navigate to "Additional Settings"

3. Navigate to the "Screen Saver Promotion" toggle and turn it off

LG seemingly turned this on without announcing it ahead of time, and it has infected even the company's newest, most high-end sets, according to the FlatPanelsHD report. That may not sit well with people who paid more than $1,000 for a TV, especially if the ads ever, at any point, start making noise. Ditto if LG ever disables the ability to turn them off.

Shopping for early savings at Amazon's Prime Day Big Deal event? While the event doesn't kick off until the second week of October, we're already seeing some purchase-worthy sales. If you have a budget of under $50, here are some great sales to shop ahead of next month's Prime Day event.

Best October Prime Day deals under $50 Best entertainment deal Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max $34.99 at Amazon with code FTVMAXUP24 (save $25) Get Deal Best headphones deal Soundcore Anker Life Q20 Hybrid Headphones (black) $39.90 at Amazon (save $20.09) Get Deal Best home security deal Blink Outdoor 4 $39.99 at Amazon (save $60) Get Deal

The temperature and leaves are beginning to fall, which means it's almost time for Amazon's third major sale of the season. Starting on Oct. 8, Amazon will treat us to the Prime Big Deal Days event, and we expect to see solid discounts on Amazon devices, small kitchen appliances, headphones, robot vacuums, and plenty more. But before you add it all to your cart, check out the Mashable guide to items you don't want to buy during Prime Day.

Like most Amazon sales, the deals have already started trickling in ahead of the official start date. If you're looking for some upgraded tech items or you're already getting some holiday shopping taken care of, here are some great deals that'll cost you under $50 during Amazon's October Prime Day sale.

Best entertainment deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Our pick: Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max $34.99 at Amazon
$59.99 Save $25.00 with code FTVMAXUP24 Get Deal Why we like it

If your streaming stick doesn't support 4K, it's time for an upgrade. Thanks to an early Prime Big Deal Days sale, you can grab the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max for just $34.99, down from the normal price of $59.99. With the streaming stick, you'll be in for smooth 4K streaming with quick loading and navigation. The stick even supports the blazing fast WiFi 6E.

The Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max comes with an Alexa voice-controlled remote, so you can tell Alexa to start playing the latest episode of your favorite show. The remote also has four pre-programmed buttons so you'll have easy access to your favorite streaming apps like Netflix and Prime Video.

Gamers can also benefit from the streaming stick since you can play Xbox games with no console required, so long as you have the stick and an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate.

Best headphones deal Opens in a new window Credit: Soundcore Anker Our pick: Soundcore Anker Life Q20 Hybrid Headphones (black) $39.90 at Amazon
$59.99 Save $20.09 Get Deal Why we like it

Noise-cancelling headphones tend to cost several hundred dollars, putting them out of range for many folks. But that's not the case today — you can grab the Soundcore Anker Life Q20 Hybrid Headphones in black for just $39.90 at Amazon.

Are these top-of-the-line Bose headphones? Nope. But they do an excellent job with sound quality and noise cancellation, especially considering the affordable sale price. The ear cups are made with a soft memory foam so you'll be comfortable for all-day wear, and they get about 60 hours of playtime before you'll need to recharge. You'll also get a convenient travel pouch with the headphones for easy storage.

Best home security deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Our pick: Blink Outdoor 4 $39.99 at Amazon
$99.99 Save $60.00 Get Deal Why we like it

Home security cameras can be a great addition to your tech collection. The wireless Blink Outdoor 4 is on sale at Amazon for just $39.99, down from the list price of $99.99 which means you'll be getting a massive 60% discount. The security camera has a battery that'll keep it powered for up to two years while also offering crisp and clear 1080p HD resolution. Come night time, the camera will switch to an infrared night live view.

Mashable sister publication PCMag (both owned by Ziff Davis) gave the Blink Outdoor 4 an "excellent" review, noting its wider field of view and optional people alerts as pros.

Plus, since the camera is wireless, you won't have to worry about a complicated set-up process.

More deals under $50 at Amazon's Big Deal Days event

• Soundcore P30i earbuds — $29.99 $49.99 (save $20 with on-page coupon)

• Blink Video Doorbell — $29.99 $59.99 (save $30)

• Sony SRSXB1 Portable Speaker — $38 $59.99 (save $20)

• Apple iPhone FineWoven Wallet with MagSafe — $46.99 $59 (save $12.01)

Best Prime Day Bluetooth speaker deals Best Bluetooth speaker deal Sony SRS-XE200 X-Series Speaker $68 at Amazon (Save $61.99) Get Deal Best UE speaker deal Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 4 Speaker $69.99 at Amazon (Save $30) Get Deal Best JBL speaker deal JBL Clip 5 Speaker $69.95 at Amazon (Save $10) Get Deal Best for Bass lovers Sony ULT Field 1 Waterproof Speaker $98 at Amazon (Save $31.99) Get Deal

Each day is another closer to Prime Big Deal Days. While we wait for October 8 and 9 to finally arrive, we're tracking all the early deals, which are not quite rolling in. Maybe trickling is a better word to describe it? All this to say, there aren't an abundance of early Prime Day deals at the moment.

I've been on the headphone and speaker beat this week, watching for the latest drops on our favorite brands. Unfortunately, there haven't been a ton yet, but that's not to say the deals aren't coming. Historically, we've seen big price drops on speakers from Sony, Ultimate Ears, JBL, Bose, Sonos, and more during major Amazon shopping events.

If you're in a hurry to score a deal on a Bluetooth speaker, you do have options. Some of our favorite new speakers are on sale, including the bass-heavy Sony ULT Field 1 speaker and the new Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 4. So, while we patiently wait for more savings, here are the early Bluetooth speaker deals to shop now.

Best Bluetooth speaker deal Opens in a new window Credit: Sony Sony SRS-XE200 X-Series Bluetooth Speaker $68.00 at Amazon
$129.99 Save $61.99 Get Deal Why we like it

Did your Bluetooth speaker kick the dust this summer after one too many pool parties? Then October Prime Day is an especially great time to hit "Add To Cart."

The Sony SRS-XE200 X-Series Bluetooth speaker is 48% off ahead of Prime Big Deal Days. It comes with a corded strap, making it easy to tote around on your adventures. With a IP67 rating, it's water- and dust-proof, giving it a rugged build. Not to mention the 16 hours of battery life that keep the party going all day.

More Bluetooth speaker deals

• Oontz Angle 3 Speaker — $24.99 $39.99 (save $15)

• Anker Soundcore 2 Speaker — $29.99 $39.99 (save $10 with on-page coupon)

• Sony SRSXB13/B Extra Bass Speaker — $38 $59.99 (save $21.99)

• JBL Clip 5 Speaker — $69.95 $79.95 (save $10)

• Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 4 Speaker — $69.99 $99.99 (save $30)

• JBL Flip 5 Speaker — $89.95 $99.95 (save $10)

• Sony ULT Field 1 Speaker — $98 $129.99 (save $31.99)

• Ultimate Ears Boom 4 Speaker — $104.99 $149.99 (save $45)

Check out the best Amazon deals of the day as of Sept. 26: OUR TOP PICK Blink Outdoor 4 3-camera system $99.99 at Amazon (save $160) Get Deal BEST KITCHEN DEAL Nespresso Vertuo Pop+ coffee and espresso maker $99 at Amazon (save $50) Get Deal BEST LEGO DEAL Lego Star Wars 2024 Advent calendar $35.99 at Amazon (save $9) Get Deal

Can we let you in on a little secret? You don't have to wait until Amazon's Prime Big Deal Days event on Oct. 8 and 9 to score epic deals. In fact, there are plenty of pretty awesome deals already live at Amazon as of Sept. 26. We did the honor of rounding up a few that we think are worthy of adding to your cart ahead of the big day.

Here are our top picks for the best Amazon deals of the day. If none of these do it for you, be sure to take a look back at our picks from Sept. 24 and Sept. 25. Many of those are still live, including a Blink Video Doorbell already sitting at its Prime Day price and a record-low price on the Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 4 speaker. Happy shopping, folks.

Our top pick Opens in a new window Credit: Blink Blink Outdoor 4 3-camera system $99.99 at Amazon
$259.99 Save $160.00 Get Deal

When it comes to budget-friendly security cameras, the Blink Outdoor 4 is hard to beat — especially when a three-pack is down to its lowest price on record. Great for pet owners, frequent travelers, or any homeowner hoping to keep an eye on things that go bump in the night, the Blink Outdoor 4 works seamlessly with other Alexa-enabled devices, comes with customizable motion zones, offers infrared night vision and two-way audio, and has a battery life that'll last two years. That's why it's one of our top overall picks for security cameras. As of Sept. 26, you can grab a three-pack of these cameras and cover your home's perimeter for just $99.99. That's 62% in savings and a new record-low. You basically get two cameras for free.

Opens in a new window Credit: Nespresso Nespresso Vertuo Pop+ coffee and espresso maker $99.00 at Amazon
$149.00 Save $50.00 Get Deal

May the summer of "Espresso" never die. Get in on the espresso craze with your very own Nespresso Vertuo Pop+ machine while it's on sale for 34% off. It allows you to make a piping hot shot of espresso any time you desire at the press of a button. It's not a one-trick pony, though. It can brew coffee in five different ways: five-, eight-, and 12-ounce cups, or single or double espresso shots. Just pop in a Nespresso pod, fill up the 37-ounce water tank, give it about 30 seconds to heat up, and boom — you're ready to brew. Usually $149, you can pick up the sleek and slim Vertuo Pop+ machine for only $99. That matches its lowest price on record.

Opens in a new window Credit: Lego Lego Star Wars 2024 Advent calendar $35.99 at Amazon
$44.99 Save $9.00 Get Deal

Lego makes a bunch of great Advent calendars for kids and Lego-loving adults. The Lego Star Wars one is one of the most popular, and the 2024 edition is on sale ahead of the holiday season. It contains 368 pieces that eventually assemble into 18 collectible mini toys and six Star Wars figures, including holiday Princess Leia, holiday Luke Skywalker, Millennium Falcon, TIE Fighter, Yoda's Jedi Starfighter, and so much more. The packaging also serves as a festive backdrop for all the builds. Slash 20% off and pick up the Lego Star Wars Advent calendar for just $35.99 as of Sept. 26.

None of these deals catching your eye? Check out Amazon's daily deals for even more savings.

The PlayStation 5 Pro is now up for grabs. Hope you started saving for it yesterday.

Priced at $699.99, preorders for Sony's upcoming mid-gen console began at around 7 am PT/10 am ET on Thursday, Sept. 26 — and for the time being, U.S. shoppers can only purchase it through the PlayStation Direct storefront. Preorders will open at other participating retailers starting Thursday, Oct. 10, including Amazon, Best Buy, Target, and Walmart. The PS5 Pro will start shipping four weeks later on Thursday, Nov. 7.

Opens in a new window Credit: Sony PlayStation 5 Pro $699.99 at PlayStation Direct
Pre-Order Here

Mashable reached out to Sony to find out whether the company expects the PS5 Pro to sell out quickly at launch since initial availability is limited to one retailer, and if it had any plans to avoid inventory shortages. At the time of writing, we hadn't heard back.

A 30th Anniversary Limited Edition Bundle featuring a special variant of the PS5 Pro will also be available for preorder today, according to a PlayStation blog post. It includes a PS5 Pro decked out in the '90s gray aesthetic of the very first PlayStation, plus matching DualSense and DualSense Edge controllers, a DualSense charging station, a disc drive cover, a vertical stand, and a handful of collectibles.

The bundle is limited to 12,300 units, with each PS5 Pro individually numbered, and it will presumably be very expensive; Sony hasn't confirmed how much it will cost yet. A PS5 Digital Edition 30th Anniversary Limited Edition Bundle that omits the DualSense Edge controller and charging station will also be for sale.

So beautiful... so much money... Credit: Sony

The PS5 Pro was formally unveiled earlier this month during a nine-minute "Technical Presentation" led by Mark Cerny, Lead Architect of the PS5, on the PlayStation YouTube channel. The announcement followed months of speculation and leaks, including one that seemed to come from inside the house.

With a larger GPU than the original PS5, ray tracing upgrades, and new custom hardware for AI-powered upscaling, Cerny said the PS5 Pro is the "most powerful console we've ever built." It also brings support for WiFi 7, 8K gaming, and a new "Pro" version of the PS5's Game Boost feature that can upgrade the performance of over 8,500 backward-compatible PS4 titles. It includes 2TB of storage, which is double the capacity of the original PS5 (which is now nearly four years old).

Notably, the PS5 Pro does not come with a disc drive: You have to purchase it separately for $79.99. (Our sister site IGN reports that it's been selling out consistently across major retailers ever since the PS5 Pro was announced.) A vertical stand that's compatible with the console is also available for $29.99.

Next-gen upgraders who balk at the price of the PS5 Pro and its add-ons might consider purchasing a used system at a discounted price. Certified refurbished PS5 and PS5 Digital Edition consoles are "Coming Soon" at PS Direct, as the X account Wario64 pointed out. They'll cost $399.99 and $349.99, respectively, or $100 less than their new counterparts.

The PS5 Pro marks the fifth iteration of Sony's current flagship console (not counting any bundles), which had a much sloppier launch and faced years of pandemic-related supply issues after the fact. Along with the standard PS5, it joins the PS5 Digital Edition, the PS5 Slim, and the PS5 Slim Digital Edition.

Coralie Fargeat, writer / director of 'The Substance' and 'Revenge' speaks candidly about how her own experiences inspired the script for her latest film.

Spotify is expanding its Open Access API, allowing you to see your favorite creators' subscriber-only podcast episodes in the same feed as free content.

Called Synched Feeds, the update gives users a more streamlined experience on the app. Because through Synched Feeds, creators can now display their free and subscriber-only content in one feed.

SEE ALSO: Spotify wants to make you an AI Playlist for every occasion

Previously, a creator might have posted a teaser of a premium episode with a link to their content elsewhere or had two separate podcast feeds one for free and the other for subscriber-only content. Now, a subscriber-only episode will appear within the creator's feed on Spotify with the option to subscribe to listen to it.

To participate, creators enable Synced Feeds through their Spotify for Podcasters account. Creators must use Spotify's Open Access API to enable distribution on Spotify from another platform. Then, listeners link their premium account from the other platform to their Spotify account, unlocking the subscriber-only content. Spotify does not take a cut of creator revenue from subscribers.

Spotify launched Open Access in 2021 as its work around for manually uploading RSS content to the platform. According to TechCrunch, it's the only major podcasting platform that doesn't allow manual uploads, which is how users listen to subscriber-only episodes on other platforms. Last year, Open Access integrated with Patreon, Memberful, Supercast, and Supporting Cast. And beginning next month, The New York Times will make its audio subscription available for purchase through Spotify.

According to a press release, since launching Open Access with Patreon last year, nearly half of podcasters earning money on Patreon take advantage of it. Those same creators saw 15 percent of their Spotify listeners who visited their Patreon sign up for a paid membership.

A new VR immersive tool by Orbis is training ophthalmologists in low- and middle-income countries.

Stephen Colbert has responded directly to Trump's recent Truth Social post ranting about him and calling him "boring".

There is a lot of money in YouTube if you can build a big enough audience.

It's been some time since folks had to be stars in traditional media — like TV, film, and music — to rake in the big bucks. Influencers and YouTubers, especially, can make millions upon millions of dollars creating content. That's because YouTube has a direct correlation between views earned and dollars made and provides a platform to build a loyal fanbase.

Here are 10 of the highest-earners in the YouTube space, in no defined order, and how they're making their money.

MrBeast

There can hardly be a list of rich YouTubers without mentioning MrBeast, whose real name is Jimmy Donaldson. His main schtick is giving away tons of money while also, you know, making tons of money. Forbes estimated he made $82 million in 2023.

SEE ALSO: MrBeast breaks the ultimate YouTube record

To be clear, the MrBeast brand is hardly limited to YouTube. He's launched snack foods and burger restaurants and inked a deal with Amazon Prime Video. But still, his bread and butter is his YouTube channel, which has a record 317 million subscribers.

Jake Paul

The Paul brothers have long been stalwarts of the internet, having first garnered an audience on Vine and then on YouTube. Jake Paul certainly hasn't slowed down in popularity. Forbes estimated he made $34 million last year. Paul has reinvented himself more than a few times, though recently, he's focused on a career in the ring. As a professional boxer, he's scheduled to fight Mike Tyson—yes, the Mike Tyson—live on Netflix in November.

Tweet may have been deleted Rhett and Link

While YouTube — and being online, in general — often thrives on controversy, lifelong friends Rhett and Link have thrived on a more wholesome image. Rhett James McLaughlin and Charles Lincoln "Link" Neal III are comedians who've basically created a mini-empire. Their company, Mythical, puts out their shows Good Mythical Morning and Mythical Kitchen and a number of podcasts. Forbes estimated they made $35 million last year.

Tweet may have been deleted Ms. Rachel

If you have young children — or even if you have friends with toddlers — then Ms. Rachel is a household name. The former teacher makes educational videos for young kids that captivate their attention. Ask any parent, and they'll espouse their love for Ms. Rachel's work. Her videos rack up hundreds of millions of views since toddlers often watch the same thing over and over. Social Blade estimated she could make up to $16.5 million yearly on her videos.

Ryan Kaji

As we said for Ms. Rachel, there is money to be made in making content geared toward kids. Kaji is a child creator who gained popularity testing out toys. His channel, Ryan's World, has nearly 38 million subscribers. His videos rack-up millions of views, but he also makes money via endorsements, brand deals, and his own game/toy company. Forbes estimated the 12-year-old made $35 million last year.

Vlad & Niki

Again: Kids' content makes bank on YouTube. Vladislav "Vlad" Vashketov and Nikita "Niki" Vashketov have a channel with 125 million subscribers. Their videos, obviously, focus on kids activities, typically playing games or trying out toys. They even have a toy line at Walmart. Parents noted they make $54 million per year, though even for YouTubers, that seems like it could be on the high end of what's possible.

Logan Paul

Just like his younger brother, Logan Paul remains a stalwart online. His YouTube channel has nearly 24 million followers, but he also got into fighting in the ring and beverages with the uber-popular PRIME — a line of sports and energy drinks. Forbes estimated he made $21 million last year.

Markiplier

Markiplier, real name Mark Edward Fischbach, has a super-popular YouTube channel with 37 million subscribers that focuses mainly on gaming and tech. But, as Forbes noted, he also makes a lot of money running his Cloak clothing brand and via his podcast deal with Spotify. The outlet estimated he made $30 million last year.

Dude Perfect

What started as a bunch of bros doing trick-shots has turned into a major business. The college roommates began posting videos in 2009 and, more than a decade later, have more than 60 million subscribers. Axios reported they'd bring in around $50 million in revenue in 2024, while also receiving a $100 million investment from the firm Highmount Capital.

Marques Brownlee

Brownlee is perhaps the leading tech reviewer online. His videos are widely respected and his views can help shape public opinion on products — if you like tech, you've probably seen him at every major event. Decades of doing it has paid off, with his channel garnering nearly 20 million subscribers. Forbes estimated he made $8.5 million last year.

When astronomers pointed the James Webb Space Telescope at the early universe, they found an ancient galaxy with an unusual light signature. 

After a thorough study of the data, scientists determined stars within that galaxy aren't the direct culprit of its extraordinary brightness. It's space gas. 

This finding, published in Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society, could provide a missing link in cosmic history, revealing a previously unknown phase of galaxy evolution — one in which superheated gas clouds can actually outshine their stars. 

"It looks like these stars must be much hotter and more massive than what we see in the local universe," Harley Katz, an astrophysicist at the universities of Oxford in the United Kingdom and Chicago in the United States, said in a statement, "which makes sense because the early universe was a very different environment." 

SEE ALSO: Webb telescope is about to home in on these 2 exoplanets. Here's why. The James Webb Space Telescope found a galaxy in the early universe with brighter gas than stars. Credit: NASA / ESA / CSA / STScI / Alex Cameron

In astronomy, looking farther translates into observing the past because light and other forms of radiation take longer to reach us. Webb, a collaboration of NASA and its European and Canadian counterparts, was built to study an extremely early period of the cosmos, detecting invisible light at infrared wavelengths. In short, a lot of dust and gas in space obscures the view to extremely distant and inherently dim light sources, but infrared waves can penetrate through the clouds. 

Webb has been able to observe some of the oldest, faintest light in existence, including this strange galaxy, GS-NDG-9422, as it existed 1 billion years after the Big Bang. For perspective, the universe’s age is estimated to be somewhere in the neighborhood of 13.8 billion years. 

Scientists think the galaxy is undergoing intense star formation within a cocoon of dense gas that is churning out massive, hot stars. A barrage of light particles from the starlight could be bombarding the gas, causing it to shine extremely bright. 

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Astronomers used computer models of hot, massive stars heating up clouds of gas. Not only did they demonstrate that the gas could be more luminous, but that the results closely replicated the recent telescope observations of galaxy GS-NDG-9422.

In the Milky Way’s neck of the universe, hot, massive stars generally have temperatures between 70,000 to 90,000 degrees Fahrenheit. But this galaxy has stars upward of 144,000 degrees Fahrenheit, the researchers said. 

Cosmologists have predicted that gas could outshine stars in the environments of the universe’s first generation of stars, known as so-called Population III stars. Finding these pristine, pure-bred stars is one of the top priorities of modern astrophysics. 

Given that most of the chemicals in the universe are thought to have come from exploded stars, scientists have rationalized that the firstborn must have been composed almost entirely of hydrogen and helium, the primitive material that emerged from the Big Bang. Over time, as stars died and enriched the universe with heavier chemical elements, subsequent generations of stars formed with more diverse ingredients.

Though the studied galaxy does not appear to have those highly-sought-after Population III stars — their light is too chemically complex — they seem to be something in between the universe’s first primitive stars and the kind that would likely inhabit more-established galaxies. Now the team wonders whether this is a common phenomenon among galaxies of this period. 

"My first thought in looking at the galaxy’s [light] spectrum was, 'that’s weird,' which is exactly what the Webb telescope was designed to reveal," said lead author Alex Cameron of Oxford in a statement. It’s discovering "totally new phenomena in the early universe that will help us understand how the cosmic story began."

If you like playing daily word games like Wordle, then Hurdle is a great game to add to your routine.

There are five rounds to the game. The first round sees you trying to guess the word, with correct, misplaced, and incorrect letters shown in each guess. If you guess the correct answer, it'll take you to the next hurdle, providing the answer to the last hurdle as your first guess. This can give you several clues or none, depending on the words. For the final hurdle, every correct answer from previous hurdles is shown, with correct and misplaced letters clearly shown.

An important note is that the number of times a letter is highlighted from previous guesses does necessarily indicate the number of times that letter appears in the final hurdle.

If you find yourself stuck at any step of today's Hurdle, don't worry! We have you covered.

SEE ALSO: Hurdle: Everything you need to know to find the answers Hurdle Word 1 hint

Moving low across the ground.

SEE ALSO: NYT's The Mini crossword answers for September 25 Hurdle Word 1 answer

CRAWL

Hurdle Word 2 hint

It can be hard to develop a sense of this.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Here's the answer hints for September 25 Hurdle Word 2 Answer

STYLE

Hurdle Word 3 hint

A drug from the poppy plant.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections today: See hints and answers for September 25 Hurdle Word 3 answer

OPIUM

Hurdle Word 4 hint

Something you can both feel and physically be.

SEE ALSO: NYT Strands hints, answers for September 25 Hurdle Word 4 answer

STUCK

Final Hurdle hint

Quite thick. Also, not a way you'd want a cake to be described.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Games available on Mashable Hurdle Word 5 answer

DENSE

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

America is at a crossroads and that means you are, too.

Come Nov. 5, the nation will cast ballots for an election that presidential candidates Kamala Harris and Donald Trump are billing as one of the most consequential of your lifetime.

Between now and then, every time you go online, you stand a decent chance of encountering a political ad, new polling data, clapbacks and takedowns, viral misinformation, and the digital equivalent of strangers screaming at each other in public.

You may be just as tempted to doomscroll your way through the politics as you are to sign off completely until Nov. 6. Realistically, you'll probably do a little of both.

Either way, managing election-related stress well requires a little advanced planning, says Dr. Laura Vogel, director of mental health services at the Momentous Institute, a non-profit organization focused on the mental health of children, families, and communities.

SEE ALSO: Could an AI chatbot talk you out of believing a conspiracy theory?

"It's that intentional mindset prior to engaging that can really make a big difference," Vogel says.

The Momentous Institute has published a comprehensive guide to dealing with election stress, but here are Vogel's top intention-setting tips for using the internet and digital technology thoughtfully.

1. Beware of election content that makes you feel fearful

Vogel says that a lot of online political content, like ads and sensationalized posts, is designed to make people feel scared about the future. Candidate ads, for example, are now on X, since the social media platform decided to start running such content after years of banning it because of concerns about disinformation and election tampering.

Opinion coverage, whether it's coming from your favorite podcaster or the New York Times, may also trigger more fearful feelings than traditional news reporting, Vogel says.

Regardless of the platform, Vogel says to be particularly mindful of content that makes you feel afraid. While the topic might be legitimately disturbing, Vogel says that the human brain is already primed to pay greater attention to content we find threatening as a survival mechanism.

Unfortunately, the brain doesn't understand that your fear response isn't because you just spotted a deadly snake in the brush, but rather because you just watched an ad that threatened your values.

So before you even start scrolling, Vogel recommends reminding yourself to stay alert for increased negative feelings and heightened fear. Before you experience those things, make a plan for what you'll do if that happens.

Vogel says it can be as simple as putting your phone down and choosing to do something different.

2. Set your boundaries

Similarly, boundary setting couldn't be more important during election season. If that family member who you've disagreed with over politics keeps texting you about the election, Vogel says to respectfully let them know you don't want to receive those messages anymore. Of course, if someone asks the same of you, respect their wishes.

You can also cut out news sources, influencers, and online personalities whose content stresses you out more often than not. Don't be afraid to snooze, mute, or unfollow accounts, and to skip the constant poll-checking.

Vogel says that being selective about what you consume doesn't mean becoming uninformed. Instead, the point of setting boundaries is to ensure you're getting information in a way that feels productive and empowering, instead of drowning in a firehose of digital content.

3. Know your sources

Even if you've carefully curated your social media and news feed, misinformation can still find its way into your digital ecosystem. Look no further than Janet Jackson, who recently repeated the disinformation that Harris is not Black, and you'll see that public figures who have access to the truth can still be duped by lies.

Vogel says that misinformation itself can be stressful because it often plays on people's fears while also calling into question what's true.

To combat this dynamic, she recommends vetting your information sources, including those you might reflexively trust. Vogel suggests putting greater stock in sources that fact-check their content.

Also, she says to expect to see misinformation repeatedly online as people share and respond to it. In those instances, don't be surprised if the speed at which it travels makes you feel uneasy.

4. Don't get into fruitless arguments

Election season can lead to intense arguments online or via text and direct message, both with complete strangers and people you know.

Vogel advises people to steer clear of exchanges that seem bound to end in conflict. If you feel that you can productively discuss a certain candidate or issue with a loved one or stranger, then proceed with the conversation.

But if you've had similar discussions before and they ended terribly, spare yourself the grief and skip engaging further. Vogel says you can gauge this partly by asking yourself if you're genuinely interested in the other person's perspective, and if you think it's possible to achieve a certain goal, like changing their mind.

If neither feels possible to you, do something else with your time that's more rewarding.

Also, beware of becoming a cheering bystander in the public shaming or calling out of someone whose views you don't share. While it may feel gratifying, Vogel says the dynamic can turn toxic if you spend too much time or energy on the incident. What seems amusing in the moment can actually generate feelings of frustration and anger, Vogel adds.

5. Take breaks

Taking breaks seems obvious until you realize you've been scrolling for an hour—and now you're feeling intense anxiety about how the election will go. That's why Vogel recommends remembering to take time-outs from election content.

This might look like turning off notifications for news alerts, or only checking for political news at specific times of the day and avoiding doing so while at work or with your family. Vogel says that mindlessly picking up a phone is when many people get into trouble, because they unexpectedly encounter something stressful.

She also emphasizes the importance of breaks for people who feel anxious about the election because of how it will affect them personally. They might be worried about policies that a certain candidate has championed or referendums on the ballot in their state or city.

Regardless of why you feel taxed, Vogel urges people to step away from their screens and do something that feels rewarding.

If your response to election stress becomes overwhelming or affects your ability to function, you might consider contacting the Crisis Text Line. The nonprofit launched a dedicated keyword for this election. People who text "ELECTION” or “ELECCIONES” to 741741 can be connected to a live volunteer who can offer them mental health support.

TL;DR: Get the 2024 Ultimate Microsoft Excel Training Bundle on sale for $29.97 (reg. $399) through September 29.

Opens in a new window Credit: Shutterstock The 2024 Ultimate Microsoft Excel Training Bundle $29.97
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Whether you're new to Excel or just want to sharpen your skills, the 2024 Ultimate Microsoft Excel Training Bundle is a terrific way to take your expertise to the next level. And you get to go it all from the comfort of home and on your own timeline.

This comprehensive bundle includes 16 courses with over 98 hours of content, covering everything from the basics to advanced techniques — and it's on sale for just $29.97 (reg. $399) through September 29.

For beginners, courses like Microsoft Excel 2021/365 will get you up to speed with over 11 hours of lessons that walk you through the essentials. It includes 100 video lessons and exercises, along with downloadable files to practice what you've learned. This course, along with Excel 2019 for Beginners, is the first stop a beginner should make. 

In the advanced courses, you’ll dive into financial forecasting, advanced formulas, and even automation with Excel’s Macros and VBA capabilities. It’s all about becoming more efficient, more organized, and more skilled with Excel, whether you're managing personal projects or tackling complex business tasks.

At this deeply discounted price, this bundle offers incredible value for anyone looking to upgrade their Excel abilities. Whether for work, school, or personal development, Excel proficiency is an essential skill that can enhance your productivity and career prospects. And with this deal, you can access all 16 courses at a fraction of the cost — without ever leaving your home.

Don't miss the 2024 Ultimate Microsoft Excel Training Bundle while it's on sale for $29.97 (reg. $399) through September 29 at 11:59 p.m. PT.

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TL;DR: A lifetime subscription to the Beelinguapp Language Learning App is just $34.99 (reg. $100) when you use code TAKE5 through September 29.

Opens in a new window Credit: Beelinguapp Beelinguapp Language Learning App: Lifetime Subscription $34.99
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Most language-learning apps stick to traditional methods like flashcards, grammar drills, and isolated exercises. Beelinguapp takes a different approach, combining reading and listening to immerse you in a new language from day one.

Through September 29, you can get a lifetime subscription to this innovative app for just $34.99 with code TAKE5. Listen to stories and make language learning a more engaging and natural experience.

What makes Beelinguapp unique is its side-by-side text display: you see the same text in two languages, with the ability to follow along with a native speaker narrating the content. This method teaches you the vocabulary and structure of a new language and improves your listening skills — an essential part of communication that many other apps overlook.

Instead of limiting you to repetitive lessons, Beelinguapp offers a wide variety of content, from fairy tales to news articles, science papers, and even novels, in 14 different languages like Spanish, German, Korean, and more. New texts are added every week, so you’ll never run out of interesting things to read and listen to.

The app’s karaoke-style reading feature, where the words are highlighted as the audio plays, makes it easier than ever to follow along, helping you learn pronunciation and reading comprehension at the same time. It’s a fresh and fun way to absorb a new language, unlike other apps that rely heavily on static text and repetitive exercises.

If you’re tired of the same old language-learning tools and want an approach that feels more natural and engaging, this might be the app for you.

Grab this lifetime subscription to the Beelinguapp Language Learning App while it's just $34.99 (reg. $100) when you use code TAKE5 through September 29.

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