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I've tested the Dyson Airwrap, and this Prime Day Airwrap deal is worth getting

Mashable - Wed, 10/09/2024 - 17:30
Dyson Airwrap deals for October Prime Day 2024 Best for buying new Dyson Airwrap Complete Long for straight and wavy hair $499.99 at Amazon (Save $100) Get Deal Best for the cheapest Airwrap Refurbished Dyson Airwrap Complete Long for straight and wavy hair $399.99 at Best Buy (Save $200) Get Deal Best for curly hair Shark FlexStyle for all hair types $239.99 at Amazon (Save $80) Get Deal

As Mashable's shopping reporter on the beauty tech beat, I've made it no secret that I think the Dyson Airwrap — versatile multi-styler though it may be — is overpriced. While nine times out of ten I recommend opting for an Airwrap alternative, a good Airwrap deal does change things, and for Prime Day, Amazon has delivered exactly that.

SEE ALSO: Get $100 off the Dyson Airwrap, plus other top October Prime Day Dyson deals

During October Prime Day, the Dyson Airwrap Complete Long has fallen to a $499.99 price tag, which is $100 less, or a 17% savings on its list price of $599.99. This deal is only available on the version for straight and wavy hair (so no diffuser or wide tooth comb), and at the time of writing, is the only deal available from any retailer on a new Airwrap. It's also the second lowest price we've ever seen on this tool, only beat by the record-low price of $479.99.

SEE ALSO: Get the Dyson Supersonic Origin hair dryer for $100 off

Included with the Complete Long is a round brush, a Coanda smoothing dryer, a firm smoothing brush, a soft smoothing brush, and 1.2-inch and 1.6-inch curling barrels. The last two attachments are what made the Airwrap go viral, and admittedly, they are the most fun to use. Unlike every Airwrap dupe out there, these barrels can change curl direction with the rotating cool tip that sits at the top of them. While I had trouble getting the curls to last, this Airwrap does excel at producing shiny, voluminous waves.

Dyson Airwrap Complete Long for straight and wavy hair $499.99 at Amazon
$599.99 Save $100.00 Get Deal

If you're looking to get the Airwrap at the lowest possible price point, this Amazon deal isn't actually your only option. The exact same Airwrap is available, but refurbished, at Best Buy for $399.99, knocking $200 off the full price of a new Airwrap.

Opens in a new window Credit: Dyson Dyson Airwrap Complete Long (refurbished) $399.99 at Amazon
$599.99 Save $200.00 Get Deal

Finally, if you like styling your curly hair natural, and are less into the idea of buying the diffuser attachment separately for $39.99, the Shark FlexStyle system for all hair types, including two curling barrels, a diffuser, a styling concentrator, and two round brushes is on sale for $239.99, down from $319.99. Though you will have to switch curling barrels to switch your curl direction, I really enjoyed the Shark diffuser for my waves, and found that the twisting mechanism on the base allowed for precise styling with that attachment.

Opens in a new window Credit: Shark Shark FlexStyle for all hair types $239.99 at Amazon
$319.99 Save $80.00 Get Deal

At 20% off, the Ninja Creami is worth starting an ice cream shop for

Mashable - Wed, 10/09/2024 - 16:29

SAVE $40: The viral Ninja Creami ice cream maker is down to $159.99 during Amazon's fall Prime Day sale. That's a 20% drop from its $199.99 price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon / Ninja Ninja Creami $159.99 at Amazon
$199.99 Save $40.00 Get Deal

The Ninja Creami is currently on sale for 20% off during Amazon Prime Day, dropping its price from $199 to $159. If you've been waiting to try your hand at homemade ice cream, now’s your chance to snag this popular kitchen gadget at a discount.

SEE ALSO: 35+ kitchen deals to shop this October Prime Day: Ninja Foodi, Instant Pot, Vitamix, and more

Described by Mashable Shopping Reporter Samantha Mangino as "fun to use" and perfect for anyone who loves planning their weekly pints, the Ninja Creami brings the adventure of ice cream-making right into your kitchen. With it, you can experiment with different flavors, catering to dietary preferences or restrictions.

However, if you're expecting the rich, creamy texture of premium store-bought ice cream, the Creami may not quite hit the mark. While it’s a delightful experience for ice cream enthusiasts, it doesn't deliver the same velvety results or complex mix-ins you’d find in a pint of Ben & Jerry’s.

At its original price, it’s equivalent to "about 29 pints of Ben & Jerry's ice cream," so it’ll take a while to recoup the cost. But for those who make several pints a week and love customizing their treats, it could be worth the investment. At $159, it's an appealing deal for anyone ready to turn their kitchen into a mini ice cream shop this Prime Day.

I’m a home baker and these are the deals worth buying for your kitchen this Prime Day

Mashable - Wed, 10/09/2024 - 16:17

Like many people, I picked up a new hobby in 2020. I bought a pie-making kit from a local pie shop, and since then, my fridge has been full of butter sticks. I make my own birthday cake every year and a cake for all my friends’ important life events. I pray for bananas to turn brown so I can mush them up into some chocolate chip banana bread. And I can’t let a summer go by without whipping up a strawberry-blueberry pie.

A little sweet treat for your eyes. Credit: Miller Kern / Mashable SEE ALSO: Last chance to shop more than 300 Amazon Prime Day deals selected by our experts

When I first started out, it was me and my Hamilton Beach hand mixer against the world. Since baking has become a more regular pastime for me, I’ve invested in more tools to help me make the best goodies possible. And let me tell you, my bank account has taken a hit.

LIVE BLOG: The latest news on October Prime Day 2024

If you’re an amateur baker just getting started or you have plenty of experience but just need some upgrades to your kitchen tools, Amazon’s Prime Day is a great time to stock up on baking needs. Below are some of the best deals on products I’d actually recommend adding to your kitchen.

Best stand mixer deal Opens in a new window Credit: KitchenAid KitchenAid Artisan series 5-quart tilt head stand mixer $349.95 at Amazon
$449.99 Save $100.04 Get Deal

I was strictly using a hand mixer up until last month when I acquired my grandma's old KitchenAid stand mixer. So far, I've only made a batch of pumpkin bread in it, but I can already tell you I'm not going back to manual mixing. You could cheap out and opt for a more budget-friendly brand, but I've tried non-KitchenAid stand mixers and this is one area I'll tell you is worth the splurge. The Artisan series 5-quart tilt-head mixer is down to $349.95 during Prime Big Deal Days, which is a $100 price cut. The smaller 3.5-quart Artisan Mini is on sale for $249.99.

There are tons of fun colors to choose from, and I've got my eye on the lavender cream one if I ever need to upgrade.

Best hand mixer deal Opens in a new window Credit: Hamilton Beach Hamilton Beach Professional five-speed hand mixer $28.49 at Amazon
$37.99 Save $9.50 Get Deal

I personally use the Hamilton Beach mixer with the easy-clean beaters, but if you want a professional-grade hand mixer, this Prime Day deal is a good one to snag. I know I just said I'm not going back to manual mixing, but a hand mixer really is an invaluable tool to have in your kitchen. It's much cheaper than a KitchenAid stand mixer and is super versatile to aid in making cookie dough, cake batter, whipped cream, mashed potatoes, or even shredding chicken.

Best bakeware deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Basics Amazon Basics six-piece carbon steel bakeware $13.89 at Amazon
$27.99 Save $14.10 Get Deal

A pan or sheet is arguably the most important baking tool you need — I mean, without it you just have a bowl of batter or dough. This six-piece set of Amazon Basics bakeware is super cheap for what you get. But hurry, because this lightning deal might sell out. The set includes a 9 x 5-inch loaf pan, two round 9-inch cake pans, a 12-cup muffin pan, a 13 x 9-inch roast pan, and a 13 x 9-inch baking sheet. This is truly everything you need to get started in the kitchen.

Best food scale deal Opens in a new window Credit: Etekcity Etekcity food kitchen scale $9.99 at Amazon
$13.90 Save $3.91 Get Deal

I'm definitely guilty of just trusting my measuring cups, but hardcore bakers will tell you a food scale is absolutely necessary to get the best bakes. I bought a dinky little pink food scale from a random brand on Amazon and the battery life was abysmal. Don't be like me. Instead, go with the trusted brand Etekcity and score the stainless steel scale for 29% off.

Dyson's hair dryer is $100 off for Amazon Prime Day

Mashable - Wed, 10/09/2024 - 16:08

SAVE $100: As of Oct. 9, the Dyson Supersonic hair dryer is on sale for $329.99 on Amazon. That's a savings of $100 from its normal list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Dyson/Amazon Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer $329.99
$429.99 Save $100.00 Get Deal

If you've been in need of a swanky new hair dryer, Amazon's October Prime Day is a great opportunity to fix that.

SEE ALSO: More than 300 Amazon Prime Day deals: Shop Roomba, Apple, Dyson, and other top brands before the sale ends tonight

Amidst all of the great early deals is a nice bit of savings on Dyson's Supersonic hair dryer. A staple of beauty YouTubers and TikTokers, this hair dryer comes with several magnetic attachments for different methods of hair styling. Whether you're going straight and simple or you have curls, this hair dryer should serve your needs.

Mashable reviewer Bethany Allard noted in her review that the Supersonic is quieter than the competition, fast-working, and light. Swapping magnetic attachments is a breeze and, most importantly, it doesn't damage your hair. Her main criticism was the high default asking price, but with this Prime Day deal, that isn't a problem.

More Dyson deals

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The Dyson hair dryer is $100 off for Amazon Prime Day

Mashable - Wed, 10/09/2024 - 16:05

SAVE $100: As of Oct. 9, the Dyson Supersonic hair dryer is on sale for $329.99 on Amazon. That's a savings of $100 from its normal list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Dyson/Amazon Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer $329.99
$429.99 Save $100.00 Get Deal

If you've been in need of a swanky new hair dryer, Amazon's October Prime Day is a great opportunity to fix that.

SEE ALSO: More than 300 Amazon Prime Day deals: Shop Roomba, Apple, Dyson, and other top brands before the sale ends tonight

Amidst all of the great early deals is a nice bit of savings on Dyson's Supersonic hair dryer. A staple of beauty YouTubers and TikTokers, this hair dryer comes with several magnetic attachments for different methods of hair styling. Whether you're going straight and simple or you have curls, this hair dryer should serve your needs.

Mashable reviewer Bethany Allard noted in her review that the Supersonic is quieter than the competition, fast-working, and light. Swapping magnetic attachments is a breeze and, most importantly, it doesn't damage your hair. Her main criticism was the high default asking price, but with this Prime Day deal, that isn't a problem.

More Dyson deals

Haircare

Vacuums

Air purifiers

The recyclable electric toothbrush I love is under $100 for Prime Day

Mashable - Wed, 10/09/2024 - 15:44

SAVE $24.80: As of Oct. 9, the second day of Prime Big Deal Days, the Suri sustainable electric toothbrush is 20% off at Amazon, bringing the price down to $91.20.

Opens in a new window Credit: Suri Suri sustainable electric toothbrush $91.20 at Amazon
$116.00 Save $24.80 Get Deal

I had been wanting to switch to an electric toothbrush forever because hygiene TikTok told me I was gross if I didn't, but my fixation on living more sustainably — particularly being a freak about recycling and using less plastic — had me hanging onto my manual cornstarch toothbrushes for dear life.

SEE ALSO: The Mill food recycling bin keeps your kitchen scraps from going to a landfill by feeding them to chickens instead

Using an electric toothbrush meant I'd have to throw out the old cleaning head however often you're supposed to do that, contributing to the nauseating statistics about how much plastic we send to rot in landfills or in the ocean each year. Right? Sustainable brand Suri says otherwise. When I heard that an electric toothbrush with swappable, recyclable cleaning heads existed, I was so down. Now, it's on sale for less than $100 this October Prime Day, and I had to take this opportunity to recommend that everyone else consider it, too.

Like many other electric toothbrushes, the Suri uses a rotating head of bristles and sonic vibrations to scrub your teeth (on the surface and in between them) more meticulously than what you can do with a traditional toothbrush in your hand. Suri's website claims that it removes three times more plaque than a manual toothbrush in just one use. All I can confirm is that my teeth definitely feel squeaky clean, and I particularly like that I don't feel the need to scrub painfully hard just to get a good clean.

Suri recently released a pink version of the toothbrush, now totaling five color options. Credit: Suri

I really dig all of the accessories that come with Suri, too. When I'm at home, the Suri lives on my mirror on the included mirror mount, and when I travel, my Suri travels with me in the included carrying case that keeps it bacteria free with a UV light inside. Even after using it twice a day, I don't have to charge my Suri more than once a week.

But your main question is probably about the recycling situation. No, you don't have to figure out whether or not your local recycling center accepts this plastic-feeling plant-based material, because Suri deals with it for you. All you have to do is toss the head you're replacing in a prepaid mailer, drop it off at the post office, and pop a replacement head back on. It's a slightly more involved and expensive process than some other electric toothbrushes on the market, but I think it's worth it to feel a little less bad about my contribution to our plastic problem. Living sustainably isn't always the cheapest or easiest option, and if you sit here and argue with me that you need both of those adjectives to apply to do something nice for the planet, I'm going to scream.

Don't sleep on the best Sony Prime Day deals this week

Mashable - Wed, 10/09/2024 - 15:38
Best Prime Day Sony Deals Best Sony Deal Sony Bravia 8 4K OLED TV $1,398 at Amazon (Save $401.99) Get Deal Best Sony Headphones Deal Sony Ult Wear Over-Ear Headphones $148 at Amazon (Save $51.99) Get Deal Best Sony Speaker Deal Sony SRS-XG300 X-Series Wireless Bluetooth Speaker $148 (Save $201.99) Get Deal

This Prime Day has been absolutely stuffed with deals, from savings on camping gear to gaming laptops and everything in between. There are still plenty of savings to be had, however, especially in the tech realm. Specifically, on Sony products, many of which are on sale right now.

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

You can save big on a few select Sony gadgets, including TVs, headphones, speakers and much more. If you've been looking for a good reason to splurge on a new display for the living room or maybe a great pair of cans to enjoy your favorite songs, now's a good time to invest since you can get significant discounts on all of it.

Below, find our favorite picks for the best Sony deals you can shop to finish out Prime Day.

Best Sony deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Sony Bravia 8 4K OLED TV $1,398.00 at Amazon
$1,799.99 Save $401.99 Get Deal Why we like it

Bring home this 55-inch Sony OLED 4K Bravia model and get a great-looking display for all your viewing needs. Whether you're planning on checking out the fall's biggest TV shows and movies or jumping into newly released video games, you can't go wrong with this Sony pick. It's crisp and colorful, with added interactivity thanks to its Google TV integration. It allows for voice controls and is enhanced specifically for gaming, but if you're only interested in watching movies and TV, it's got you covered with bright OLED lighting, crisp contrast, and vibrancy that's well worth the price.

Best Sony headphones deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Sony Ult Wear Over-Ear Headphones $148.00 at Amazon
$199.99 Save $51.99 Get Deal Why we like it

You can't beat a good pair of noise-cancelling headphones, and that's exactly what you'll get with these over-the-ear cans. The Sony Ult Wear Over-Ear Headphones offer superior noise cancellation as well as built-in Alexa on board to handle your voice-based tasks. With crisp audio, delicate treble and boosted bass, you can enjoy all your favorite tunes with these cushy cans in peace when you want and superior comfort for longer wear. Need some extra bass? Press the Ult button for a bit more oomph. Plus, they fold up and come in a carrying case so you don't have to just toss them in a bag and hope for the best.

Best Sony speaker deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Sony SRS-XG300 X-Series Wireless Bluetooth Speaker $148.00 at Amazon
$349.99 Save $201.99 Get Deal Why we like it

If you're planning to take the party with you wherever you go, a great Bluetooth speaker is a must. This one is lightweight and perfect for toting around, especially with its handle. It's rated IP67 so it won't be utterly destroyed by water, and it boasts a 25-hour battery life on a single charge and supports quick charging for 10 minutes to deliver 70 minutes of additional listening time. Best of all, it delivers in the sound department, with excellent sound and bass you'll feel no matter what.

More Sony deals at Amazon

Google Researchers Win Nobel Prize Amid Company’s Antitrust Battle

NYT Technology - Wed, 10/09/2024 - 15:35
Two of the company’s A.I. researchers shared the Nobel Prize in Chemistry, just hours after the Justice Department started spelling out plans that could lead to its break up.

I'm a fitness enthusiast, and these are the best Amazon Prime Day deals

Mashable - Wed, 10/09/2024 - 15:25
Best fitness deals from Prime Big Deal Days Best water bottle deal Hydro Flask 64oz Growler $48.71 at Amazon (save $16.24) Get Deal Best yoga mat deal Gaiam Dry-Grip Yoga Mat $46.99 at Amazon (save $22.99) Get Deal Best fitness tracker deal Amazfit Band 7 Fitness Tracker $39.99 at Amazon (save $10) Get Deal Best massage gun deal Theragun Pro $279 at Amazon (save $20) Get Deal Best adjustable dumbbell deal PowerBlock Sport Adjustable Dumbbells $159.90 at Amazon (save $79.10) Get Deal

Exercising is one of my very favorite hobbies. I practice Muay Thai regularly, and have been involved in testing fitness products for Mashable for years. Let me tell you, investing in your fitness can run up quite the bill. From gym memberships to apparel to home gym equipment, you're going to end up spending a lot of money if you want to become more passionate about your physical fitness. That is, unless you take advantage of Prime Big Deal Days, which features a lot of fantastic discounts on fitness-related products.

Take a look at my favorite fitness deals from the October Prime Day event below. I think it's a pretty well-rounded collection of products that'll suit beginners and experienced gymgoers alike.

SEE ALSO: More than 300 Amazon Prime Day deals: Shop Roomba, Apple, Dyson, and other top brands Best water bottle deal

Before you partake in any sort of exercise, you should always make sure you're hydrated first. Drink one or two of these Hydro Flask growlers per day, and you should be golden. This 64oz bottle is $16.24 off during the Prime Day sale and should keep your water nice and cool all day.

Opens in a new window Credit: Hydro Flask Hydro Flask 64oz Growler $48.71 at Amazon
$64.95 Save $16.24 Get Deal Best yoga mat deal

I think that yoga is an excellent introduction to fitness for just about anyone. You don't need much equipment, and the benefits you can take from the activity like improved balance, core strength, and help with muscle pain, are worth the effort. All you really need is a mat, and this one from Gaiam is on sale during Prime Big Deal Days for just $46.99 ($22.99 off).

Opens in a new window Credit: Gaiam Gaiam Dry-Grip Yoga Mat $46.99 at Amazon
$69.98 Save $22.99 Get Deal Best fitness tracker deal

I don't normally wear fitness trackers, but I understand their value. I think if they help you stay accountable to your fitness goals, then it's worth having one. This budget model from Amazfit is basic, but will help you track of health analytics, sleep stats, and more. It's only $39.99 for October Prime Day, saving you $10.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazfit Amazfit Band 7 Fitness Tracker $39.99 at Amazon
$49.99 Save $10.00 Get Deal Best massage gun deal

My Theragun Pro is my pride and joy. I use it just about every day, and it has definitely paid for itself by now. I think that recovery is one of the most important aspects to invest in for fitness enthusiasts, and my favorite way to do that is self-massage. While pricey, the Theragun Pro is one of the highest-quality massage guns you're going to find on the market. Thankfully, it's on sale for $20 off during Amazon's sale, bringing the price down to $279.

Opens in a new window Credit: Therabody TheraGun Pro $279.00 at Amazon
$299.00 Save $20.00 Get Deal Best adjustable dumbbell deal

If you don't have space for a home gym but enjoy lifting, having a pair of adjustable dumbbells is a must. It's like having an entire rack of weights in your home, but in one compact piece of equipment. I use the Bowflex SelectTech 552 dumbbells, but I also really liked this set from Powerblock when I tried them. They're way more affordable, too — just $159.90 during Prime Big Deal Days, $79.10 off.

Opens in a new window Credit: PowerBlock PowerBlock Sport Adjustable Dumbbells $159.90 at Amazon
$239.00 Save $79.10 Get Deal

Lots of Bose headphones and speakers are at record-low prices for Amazon Prime Day

Mashable - Wed, 10/09/2024 - 15:03
The best October Prime Day Bose deals at a glance: BEST HEADPHONES DEAL Bose QuietComfort Ultra $329 at Amazon (save $100) Get Deal BEST EARBUDS DEAL Bose Ultra Open earbuds $249 at Amazon (save $50) Get Deal BEST SPEAKER DEAL Bose SoundLink Max Bluetooth speaker $299 at Amazon (save $100) Get Deal

When it comes to headphones and speakers, it's hard to beat Bose. We're huge fans of the brand's QuietComfort and SoundLink lines, but we're not exactly thrilled with the steep costs that accompany most of those products. Quality tends to come at a price, y'all.

Fortunately, Amazon has dropped the prices of many of our favorite Bose headphones and speakers for its October Prime Day event. It's not every day you can snag the most comfortable headphones around for an all-time low price, so we definitely recommend adding your wishlist products to your cart before they disappear.

We've rounded up the best Bose deals to shop during Prime Big Deal Days below. If you want to broaden your horizons, be sure to check out our running tab of all the best Prime Day headphones and speakers deals.

Note: Deals marked with a 🔥 have dropped to an all-time low price.

Best Prime Day Bose deal Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones 🔥 $329.00 at Amazon
$429.00 Save $100.00 Get Deal Why we like it

Read our full review of the Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones.

We've tested all sorts of headphones at Mashable and found the Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones to be the most comfortable. And if you've ever worn a pair of headphones that made your ears and headache, then you know what a big deal that is. Beyond comfort, though, the QuietComfort Ultras also deliver excellent battery life, detailed and rich sound, and what our reviewer Samantha Mangino referred to as "perfectly good ANC." While the price is normally quite steep at $429, this sweet $100 Prime Day discount is music to our ears. Not only does that beat the price from July's Prime Day by $20, but it drops it to a new all-time low.

More Prime Day Bose deals

I’m a tech reporter who’s been reviewing electronics for 5 years and these are the best Amazon Prime Day deals

Mashable - Wed, 10/09/2024 - 14:58

I'm a tech reporter who's been reviewing electronics for more than five years, from laptops and tablets to phones and gaming consoles. With that being the case, I've got a pretty good idea of two things: which electronics are actually good and which Prime Day deals are, by extension, worth getting.

There are way too many Prime Day deals to count, so here are just three in the tech side of things that could be game changers for people on a budget.

SEE ALSO: More than 300 Amazon Prime Day deals: Shop Roomba, Apple, Dyson, and other top brands Best Prime Day deals, according to a tech reporter

October Prime Day is an especially good time to grab a laptop or a pair of headphones. Here are three of the best deals on products we can personally vouch for at Mashable.

1. Microsoft Surface Laptop 7 There's plenty below the surface. Credit: Joe Maldonado/Mashable

Here's the most important thing to know about the Microsoft Surface Laptop 7: It's the longest-lasting laptop we've tested, with a battery runtime of 22 hours and 50 minutes. Nearly 24 hours of battery life on a full charge is absurd, so if you need something that will last a long time between trips to a power outlet, you might be sold already.

Amazon has the device on sale for $1,699, which is a $300 discount from MSRP. With amazing battery life and performance that beats some of the latest MacBooks, this is one of the best laptops of 2024. If you're a macOS devotee, feel free to skip this deal. But Windows lovers in need of a powerful new laptop will find this Prime Day steal to be enticing.

Opens in a new window Credit: Joe Maldonado/Mashable Microsoft Surface Laptop 7 $1,699.99 at Amazon
$1,999.99 Save $300.00 Get Deal 2. MacBook Air with M2 chip It's a great laptop. Credit: Molly Flores/Mashable

It may not be the latest and most powerful MacBook Air, but 2022's M2 model is so good that, with a proper Prime Day discount, it might not matter.

Amazon has it for $750, a discount of $250. This is the laptop I use every day in my personal life. It has long battery life, speedy performance thanks to Apple's in-house silicon, a sharp display, and one of the better MacBook keyboards out there. Just making the function keys full-sized (they were smaller on previous models) is life-changing.

Oh, and it'll eventually support Apple Intelligence, whenever that comes out.

Opens in a new window Credit: Molly Flores/Mashable M2 MacBook Air $749.99 at Amazon
$999.99 Save $250.00 Get Deal 3. AirPods Pro 2 This is the Lightning port version, but they look the same otherwise. Credit: Stan Schroeder/Mashable

Lastly, iPhone owners who need a pair of earbuds that will work seamlessly with their phones may have hit the jackpot.

Amazon has the AirPods Pro 2, which were recently updated with USB-C charging and hearing health features, for $168.99. For reference, the list price is $249.99, so this is a huge discount for a recently released product. They pack Apple's vaunted great audio quality in with active noise cancelation and a long battery life. People hype up AirPods for a reason.

Opens in a new window Credit: Stan Schroeder/Mashable AirPods Pro 2 $168.99 at Amazon
$249.99 Save $81.00 Get Deal

The 3 best October Prime Day robot vacuum deals, according to a professional reviewer

Mashable - Wed, 10/09/2024 - 14:37

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

If you think deciding which robot vacuum to buy is hard to buy at any random point in the year, the decision fatigue ramps up significantly during a big sale event like Prime Day. Think about it: All the robovacs you've been considering are now cheaper and less daunting of an investment, and a few other models that may have been too expensive before are suddenly in your price range.

SEE ALSO: As a Dyson stan, I wouldn't tell anyone to buy the Dyson 360 Vis Nav robot vacuum

But considering my actual (and very normal) adult job is to test robot vacuums in my own home and then narrow those options down into recommendations for people, my mind subconsciously begins to pull out the two or three best of the best robot vacuum deals during Prime Day to have a concise list at the ready for when a friend or family member inevitably asks me which robot vacuum they should buy.

And as Mashable's resident robot vacuum expert, I'll drop those Prime Big Deal Days suggestions for you here, too. I know everyone is shopping based on different cleaning needs and priorities, so I'll give you three options that vary based on price and things they can do — and yes, I've tested all three in my own apartment.

Best October Prime Day premium robot vacuum deal Opens in a new window Credit: Roborock Roborock Qrevo Master $949.99 at Amazon
$1,599.99 Save $650.00 Get Deal Why I like it

This one's my pick for anyone who prioritizes the most meticulous, hands-off cleaning possible and is willing to pay the big bucks for it.

Of the handful of robot vacuums that retail for well over $1,000, most are on sale this Prime Big Deal Days — but the Roborock Qrevo Master stands out to me as the best bang for your buck. Compared to the $1,799.99 Roborock S8 MaxV Ultra that I've also tested (which isn't on sale for Prime Day), the Qrevo Master dishes out the same 10,000 Pa suction power (both of which were as thorough as you could ask from a robot vacuum on my cat hair-covered rugs), washes and dries its own mopping pads, and even has the same pet camera that can livestream whatever the robot vacuum sees as it's cleaning (and even go searching for your pet).

But the main thing that set these two models apart for me was the mopping pad mechanism on each. The Qrevo Master scrubs with two pressurized, spinning mopping pads rather than the large, flat mopping pad of the S8 MaxV Ultra. More importantly, one of those spinning pads can extend out from under the vacuum and reach into corners, reaching several inches further into right angles and detailing walls better than most other hybrid models. (The Qrevo Master also does this with dry vacuuming.) Watching this unfold in the tricky overhang of my kitchen cabinets immediately sold me.

Best October Prime Day self-washing and drying deal (on a budget) Opens in a new window Credit: Eufy Eufy X10 Pro Omni $549.99 at Amazon
$799.99 Save $250.00 Get Deal Why I like it

My number one robot vacuum deal pick from Prime Day in July is back, just with an even better discount this time (by $50). I dubbed the Eufy X10 Pro Omni as the most surprising robot vacuum I've tested all year because it offers the most premium feature in the 2-in-1 robot vacuum market right now — self-washing and drying mopping pads — for hundreds and hundreds of dollars less than many flagship models from other brands. To me, not having to manually attach, detach, and wash the mopping pads every time the vacuum mops is the line between a hybrid robot vac being worth it or not — because I definitely won't use the mopping feature as often as I want to if it makes extra work for me, too.

For more details on its cleaning capabilities, read my full review of the Eufy X10 Pro Omni.

Best October Prime Day Roomba deal Opens in a new window Credit: iRobot iRobot Roomba j7+ $399.99 at Amazon
$799.99 Save $400.00 Get Deal Why I like it

I couldn't not make a Roomba recommendation — I know some of you want that Roomba street cred.

While I am pleasantly surprised that the Roomba Combo 10 Max is on sale for Prime Day despite not even being out for six months, I still can't say that it's the best Roomba deal overall. The Eufy model I've recommended above (among several other options) simply does all of that self-washing and drying for much cheaper.

What's far more impressive is the 50% discount on the tried and true Roomba j7+. If your home doesn't have enough hard floors to make mopping a crucial feature, this is absolutely your best bet. It still empties itself, so you won't have to deal with the dust bin for weeks at a time. But its real standout feature compared to any other self-emptiers in the $400 price range is its small obstacle avoidance technology. This is what allows a robot vacuum to scope out obstacles less than three inches tall that would usually cause a problem if they were to be sucked up, like phone chargers, pet waste, or pieces of laundry. It's a rare feature to see in this price range at all, and iRobot's is the most accurate version of it that I've ever experienced.

For more details on its cleaning capabilities, read my full review of the Roomba Combo j7+ (and ignore the parts about mopping, because the j7+ on sale here is just the non-mopping version).

The Bose SoundLink Max speaker can survive a dunk in the pool: Save $100 on it this Prime Day

Mashable - Wed, 10/09/2024 - 14:35

SAVE $100: If you've been eyeing the latest Bose SoundLink Max, now’s the time to strike. This highly-rated portable speaker is 25% off for Prime Day, bringing the price down by $100 — from $399 to $299. Considering its premium performance, this deal is hard to beat.

Opens in a new window Credit: Bose / Amazon Bose SoundLink Max $299.00 at Amazon
$399.00 Save $100.00 Get Deal

Despite its compact size, the SoundLink Max delivers sound that feels far larger than it looks. Since its release this spring, it’s received glowing praise for its expansive soundstage, impressive stereo separation, and clear, crisp audio. And while its bass is noticeably strong, it doesn’t overpower the mids and highs, making it an excellent all-around performer.

The only downside? Bose is sticking to a limited color palette — black and blue dusk are your only options right now. And for a speaker at this price point, it’s surprising that it doesn’t include smart assistant functionality.

That said, the SoundLink Max makes up for it with a solid 20 hours of battery life and legitimate waterproofing. And we mean legit. This isn't just marketing fluff — Bose has tossed the SoundLink Max into pools to prove it can handle full submersion without skipping a beat.

If you’re in the market for a portable speaker that balances sound quality and durability, this is a Prime Day steal you don’t want to miss.

How to check or reload your Amazon gift card balance

Mashable - Wed, 10/09/2024 - 14:10

Amazon gift cards usually come with the starting balance printed on the physical card or mentioned in the email if you receive an eGift card. But what if you need to check the balance on a gift card that you've already redeemed? Or reload a gift card you've used up?

Follow these steps to check the gift card balance on your desktop.

Step 1: Open the Amazon website.

Step 2: Click on Accounts & Lists on the top right corner of the screen.

Credit: Screenshot: Amazon website

Step 3: A new menu page will open on the website. Select Gift cards.

Credit: Screenshot: Amazon website

Step 4: Once you click, you'll be able to see the existing balance on your gift card. If you are checking the balance on an unredeemed gift card and wish to redeem it, you can click on Redeem a Gift card. You can also opt to Reload your card in this menu or check your transaction history which is listed below the gift card balance.

Credit: Screenshot: Amazon website

If you're using the Amazon app, you can follow these steps.

Step 1: Click on the account icon at the bottom of the landing page and then head to Your Account.

Credit: Screenshot: Amazon

Step 2: Scroll down until you see the Payments section.

Step 3: In the Payments section, click on Manage gift card balance.

Credit: Screenshot: Amazon

Step 4: Use the new menu that opens to check your gift card balance, reload your gift card, or check past activity.

Credit: Screenshot: Amazon Best Amazon Prime Day deals to shop

Google could face Chrome and Android split as DOJ seeks breakup

Mashable - Wed, 10/09/2024 - 14:09

Will Google be forced to break up? The search giant may have to if the U.S. Department of Justice has its way.

Over the summer, Google lost a big antitrust lawsuit from the U.S. Department of Justice that saw the judge overseeing the case, U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta, deem the search giant a "monopolist."

At the time, the judge did not rule on what would happen to Google as a result of the lawsuit. Google and the DOJ were asked to come up with solutions to remedy the company's antitrust issues.

This week, the DOJ submitted its proposals, with a key one calling for the separation of Google Chrome and Android.

DOJ wants to break up Google

"Plaintiffs are considering behavioral and structural remedies that would prevent Google from using products such as Chrome, Play, and Android to advantage Google search and Google search-related products and features—including emerging search access points and features, such as artificial intelligence—over rivals or new entrants," the DOJ wrote.

The DOJ filing then quotes the court's findings that Google's control of the Chrome browser with Google Search set as the default on Android devices “significantly narrows the available channels of distribution and thus disincentivizes the emergence of new competition.”

As can be seen from the filing, while the DOJ suggests splitting Chrome and Android, it also proposes other additional measures as well.

Potentially, the action with the most meaningful impact to Google would be the DOJ's suggestion limiting Google's agreements with third-parties regarding the search giant's default dominance. Apple, for example, has an agreement with Google to make Google Search the default search engine on iPhone's Safari web browser. In exchange, Google pays Apple a whopping $20 billion per year.

The DOJ says that Google should also provide its search engine "indexes, data, feeds, and models" to competitors through an API in order to ensure fair competition. 

Additionally, the DOJ seeks to impose restrictions on how Google crawls third-party websites and uses their data for AI training and displaying third-party content in search results. Websites should be able to opt-out of this, the filing says.

The DOJ also takes on Google's advertising business and recommends that the company share more data with advertisers that offer them more control over where their ads appear. The DOJ also suggests that Google provides options to have ads run independent from its search engine product as well.

Google responds

Google has already hit back at the DOJ's proposals, with the company's Vice President of Regulatory Affairs Lee-Anne Mulholland penning a public response.

"DOJ’s radical and sweeping proposals risk hurting consumers, businesses, and developers," reads the title of Mulholland's post on Google's official blog.

Mulholland highlights the DOJ suggestion that would appear to have the most ramifications for users than Google the company itself.

"Forcing Google to share your search queries, clicks, and results with competitors risks your privacy and security," she writes, addressing the DOJ suggestion that Google share it's search data with competitors in order to level the playing field. "The search queries you share with Google are often sensitive and personal and are protected by Google's strict security standards; in the hands of a different company without strong security practices, bad actors could access them to identify you and your search history."

However, it should be noted that the DOJ addressed this concern in its filing. The DOJ said it's "mindful" of user privacy concerns and that those should be taken into account, but that private user data should be distinguished from data that just ensures Google maintains its market dominance.

Mulholland also addressed the main DOJ suggestion that Chrome and Android be split up, saying this would cause confusion and making things more difficult for users and third-party developers alike.

"Breaking them off would change their business models, raise the cost of devices, and undermine Android and Google Play in their robust competition with Apple’s iPhone and App Store," Mulholland writes. "In addition: Because Android and Chrome are used by so many developers and device makers across different industries — from cars to fitness devices to TVs to laptops to apps and more — changes could impact many businesses and the people who use their services."

As for the DOJ suggestions to put some limits on Google's use of AI, Mulholland echoed a familiar Silicon Valley stance when AI regulation is mentioned – that such rules would "hamper" innovation.

So, what should users expect? Nothing, for now. Google plans to take its arguments to court, and as with any legal battle, it should take a while before any concrete measures are made.

Keep a fully-stocked house with the best household essential deals this Amazon Prime Day

Mashable - Wed, 10/09/2024 - 13:51

Prime Day is here (again), and if you've already shopped the big-ticket items you were hoping to snag this time around, it might be time to stock up on the things you actually need now. For instance, you might be running low on trash bags. Or maybe you need some laundry detergent. Prime Day is a great time for grabbing those items, too. In fact, there are tons of deals to be had on these very things. (Head to our live blog to read all the latest live coverage of the event.)

You can find some big price cuts on everything from dishwasher tablets to Clorox wipes and more right now, with additional deals popping up here and there as Prime Day wears on. Sure, they may not be the most glamorous or exciting things to save money on (you'd probably be more hype about bringing home a new gaming laptop) but they're still things you probably need.

Below, find some of our picks for the best deals on home essentials below.

Best home essentials deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Basics 2-Ply Paper Towels $18.45 at Amazon
$22.86 Save $4.41 Get Deal Why we like it

What can we say? These are Amazon-branded paper towels. They're 2-ply and you get 12 of them, with 150 sheets per roll, which makes them comparable to 32 regular rolls. You can get them for less than $20 right now, which already means they're probably cheaper than your local supermarket budget brands. Amazon-branded items are usually comparable to the leading option, and if you need some paper towels to clean up messes large and small, this is a safe bit to stock up on.

More home essential deals at Amazon

Can you connect AirPods to PS5?

Mashable - Wed, 10/09/2024 - 13:42

If you're itching to connect your Apple AirPods to your PlayStation 5 and fully immerse yourself in that 3D spatial audio experience, you're in luck. While the PS5 doesn't natively support Bluetooth headphones, we’ve found a simple workaround to bridge that gap.

SEE ALSO: How to factory reset a PS4

Here’s everything you need to know to get your AirPods synced up and gaming-ready in just a few quick steps.

How to connect AirPods to PlayStation 5

The first thing you'll need to do to connect AirPods to a PS5 is get a Bluetooth adapter. While picking up a Bluetooth adapter might seem straightforward, it's important to note that not all of them are compatible with the PlayStation 5. You’ll need one with Bluetooth 5.0 or higher for smooth connectivity. Once you've got the right adapter, setting it up is a breeze:

  1. Plug the adapter into your PS5's USB-C port.

  2. Pop open your AirPods case and press the button on the back to put them into pairing mode.

  3. Hit the pairing button on your Bluetooth adapter and wait for the LED lights to flash.

  4. Once the lights turn solid, you're good to go—your AirPods are now successfully paired with your PS5.

Connect AirPods w/ SmartTV

If you'd rather skip the Bluetooth adapter gamble, another easy workaround is connecting your AirPods through a Smart TV—an option most people can take advantage of since these TVs are nearly everywhere. And if you're on the hunt for one, we’ve got you covered with a massive list of Prime Day deals for Smart TVs.

Here’s how to set it up (may be different depending on TV manufacturer):

  1. Turn on your Smart TV and head to the settings menu. Look for the Bluetooth settings.

  2. Put your AirPods in pairing mode by pressing the button on the back of the case.

  3. Pair your AirPods with the TV through the Bluetooth menu.

  4. Once connected, just make sure your TV's audio output is set to your AirPods, and you're all set to enjoy PlayStation audio wirelessly.

Get a 1TB portable hard drive and 1TB cloud storage for under $100

Mashable - Wed, 10/09/2024 - 13:39

TL;DR: Until October 27 at 11:59 p.m. PT, you can get a 1TB portable hard drive and 1TB lifetime cloud storage for $89.97.

Opens in a new window Credit: Supermusic The Complete 1TB (x2) Cloud & Hard Drive Storage Lifetime Bundle $89.97 at Mashable Shop
$341.63 Save $251.66 Get Deal

Files really do build up over time, and some of them are hard to delete. It's impractical to keep ten years' worth of dog pictures on your phone, but it's also not something you may want to delete. That's why it's worth it to invest in long-term storage, whether it's physical or cloud-based. Those files have to go somewhere. 

The Complete 1TB Cloud and Hard Drive Storage Bundle comes with two storage options: You get a 1TB physical hard drive and a 1TB cloud storage with a lifetime subscription. This whole bundle is on sale for just $89.97 (reg. $341.63), but that won't last much longer. 

What's included?

This bundle is a combination of FolderFort, a reliable cloud storage service, and a 1TB portable hard drive, so you can store your data in two places: online and locally.

With FolderFort, you get lifetime access to 1TB of cloud storage, which means you can upload and access your files from anywhere—whether you're at home, at work, or on vacation. The cloud solution is ideal for backing up photos, work projects, or even sharing files with friends or coworkers. It’s protected with encryption, so you don’t have to worry about security breaches, and it works across multiple devices, from phones to tablets to computers.

But relying solely on the cloud can have its limitations, especially if you’re dealing with large files like high-resolution videos or entire photo libraries. That’s where the 1TB portable hard drive comes in handy. You can easily back up your data onto this slim, lightweight external drive and carry it with you anywhere. It’s perfect for times when you need quick, offline access to your files, especially if you’re dealing with slower internet connections or large files that would take too long to upload to the cloud.

Storage you can count on for every situation

Whether you're looking for security or convenience, this file storage double deal has the answer. Get a 1TB lifetime cloud storage plus a 1TB hard drive on sale for $89.97 until October 27 at 11:59 p.m. PT. 

StackSocial prices subject to change. 

Alleged M4 MacBook Pro spotted for sale on Russia’s version of Craigslist

Mashable - Wed, 10/09/2024 - 13:37

In what may be the biggest leak in Apple's history since the iPhone 4, the yet-to-be-revealed M4 Macbook Pro was recently spotted for sale on a Russian classified ads website.

SEE ALSO: Apple's new M4 Macs are probably coming in November

To recap, within a week, the M4 Macbook Pro was revealed by two Russian Youtubers who mysteriously got their hands on the laptop. The device, which Apple had apparently planned to reveal later this month, has appeared on Avito, Russia’s equivalent of Craigslist, with an asking price of 720,000 rubles, or roughly $7,000 USD. However, at this time, those posts have been taken down for violating the website's policy on selling "nonexistent products."

The existence of an M4-powered MacBook Pro isn't exactly a shocker. Industry insiders, such as Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, have long speculated about an upcoming version of Apple’s flagship laptop featuring the M4 chip. According to the unboxing video shared by the YouTubers, the laptop boasts three Thunderbolt 4 ports — an upgrade from the usual two — and comes with a baseline configuration of 16GB of RAM.

What’s truly unexpected, and raises more questions than it answers, is how these devices found their way into Russia. Given that the U.S. has imposed strict sanctions on the country, prohibiting companies like Apple from conducting business there, the presence of multiple M4 MacBooks listed for sale on Avito suggests something far more unusual. As MacRumors notes, it's possible a batch of these laptops, manufactured in China, was intercepted and smuggled into Russia.

Whatever the case may be, the leaked M4 Macbook Pro models still haven't been authenticated as real and Apple hasn't made any statements regarding the laptops.

Build up your digital film collection with the best Amazon Prime Day movie deals

Mashable - Wed, 10/09/2024 - 13:24
The best Prime Day movie deals at a glance: BEST OVERALL 'Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga' $8.99 at Prime Video (save $11) Get Deal BEST KIDS MOVIE DEAL 'Despicable Me 4' $14.99 at Prime Video (save $15) Get Deal BEST HORROR MOVIE DEAL Halloween Trilogy (2022) $14.99 at Prime Video (save $5) Get Deal BEST RENTAL DEAL 'The Fall Guy' $2.98 at Prime Video (save $3.01) Get Deal

Prime Day is no longer just a sale on physical goods like headphones and tablets. In 2024, Amazon has expanded its deals to include digital films as well. If you can't fathom signing up for yet another streaming service, but want to catch up on some of the latest and greatest films to grace the silver screen (or maybe relive some older ones), there's plenty of Prime Video deals on Prime Big Deal Days to satisfy your craving.

These film deals are specifically reserved for Prime members and include both digital rentals and purchases (not physical DVDs or BluRays). With rentals, you'll only get 30 days to start watching and just 48 hours to finish once you begin. That's why the prices are much cheaper than buying the film. However, purchasing digital films allows you to watch at your leisure and often gives you access to extras like behind-the-scenes footage and deleted scenes.

We're keeping a running tab on the best Prime Day movie deals below. Time to queue up your next cinematic experience at home.

Best movie deal at Prime Video Opens in a new window Credit: Warner Bros. Pictures 'Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga' $8.99 at Prime Video
$19.99 Save $11.00 buy in UHD Get Deal Why we like it

One of Mashable's top five films of 2024 (so far), Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga is one of those rare prequels that gets it right. George Miller's return to the Mad Max wasteland centers around Imperator Furiosa (played first by Charlize Theron, now by Anya Taylor-Joy) after she's kidnapped from the Green Place, the idyllic refuge where she grew up, and taken into the horde of the warlord Dementus (Chris Hemsworth). As Mashable's reviewer put it, "Furiosa is a magnificent, pulse-pounding achievement unlike anything you'll see this year."

Prime members can purchase the film for their digital collection for only $8.99 during Prime Big Deal Days. That's 55% in savings compared to its cost at other VOD retailers and only $3 more than its current rental price.

Best movie deal for kids Opens in a new window Credit: Illumination 'Despicable Me 4' $14.99 at Prime Video
$29.99 Save $15.00 Buy in UHD Get Deal Why we like it

The latest installment in the Despicable Me franchise isn't set to make its streaming debut until Oct. 31. If you and your kiddos can't wait that long, you can add the film to your digital collection for just $14.99 on Prime Day. That's 50% off its retail price and at least $5 cheaper than you'll find it at any other VOD retailer. Despicable Me 4 follows Gru, Lucy, their three girls, the Minions, and new baby Gru Jr. as they adopt new secret identities on the run. We haven't had a chance to review it ourselves, but it currently has an 88% audience score at Rotten Tomatoes, so it seems fans are pleased with the newest sequel.

More Prime Video movie deals

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