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SAVE $85: As of August 20, get the Amazon Echo Buds with wireless charging case for just $54.99 at Amazon. That's a discount of 61% and the lowest price we've seen.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Echo Buds $54.99 at Amazon
$139.99 Save $85.00 Get Deal

Noise-cancelling earbuds can block the world out when you need a distraction. We've tested plenty, and while some of the best come from brands like Bose, there's a lot to be said about those you can pick up at an affordable price. And if you've had your eye on models like the Amazon Echo Buds, which are on sale right now, you're in luck. You can get them for an absolutely fantastic price – in fact, their best ever – if you head to Amazon right now.

As of August 20, get the Amazon Echo Buds for just $54.99. That's $85 off their normal price of $139.99 and a discount of 61%. It's the lowest price we've tracked for the buds, especially as this is the version that comes with a wireless charging case as opposed to a wired one.

These are some of the most affordable ANC buds you'll find right now, as you don't often get quality like this in the lower price range. Block out the world with customizable Audio Personalization options that can help you hear what's important and connect to two devices at the same time with automatic switching.

They're compact, light, and IPX4 sweat-resistant so that makes them great for both the gym and chilling at home enjoying your favorite music, media, and more. They connect via the Alexa app to help you control the content you're enjoying and can be used for voice calls and hands-free assistant use as well. And when you need to charge them back up, you can spend just 15 minutes to get them back up to a 5-hour listening session in a pinch.

Be sure and grab a pair while you can at this price before they sell out – you'll be saving some serious cash and getting some fantastic earbuds, too.

The best Ninja kitchen deals this week save you up to 35%. Check out our top choices:

Our top picks: Best Ninja air fryer deal Ninja Max XL Air Fryer (AF161) $109.99 at Amazon (save $60) Get Deal Best Ninja coffee maker deal Ninja Hot & Iced XL Coffee Maker (12 cup) $118.99 at Amazon (save $31) Get Deal Best Ninja blender deal Ninja Blast Two-Pack Portable Blender (BC155PS) $79.99 at Amazon (save $33) Get Deal

Gone are the days when the coolest kitchen appliance was a blender with two speeds. These days, we have plentiful options when it comes to kitchen gadgets and small appliances, from air fryers to incredibly fancy coffee makers. But if your kitchen is calling for some upgrades from a reliable and budget-friendly brand, we're seeing some excellent deals this week on Ninja kitchen appliances.

Here are some of our top picks for the week of August 20:

Best Ninja air fryer deal Opens in a new window Credit: Ninja Our pick: Ninja Max XL Air Fryer (AF161) $109.99 at Amazon
$169.99 Save $60.00 Get Deal Why we like it

If you've been slogging through summer heat while still using your oven for dinner, you might want to consider switching to an air fryer if you don't like significantly upping the temp in your house. Thanks to today's sale price on the Ninja Max XL Air Fryer (AF161), you can grab this 5.5-quart model for just $109.99 at Amazon, down from the normal price of $169.99. This means you'll be getting a 35% discount and saving $60.

It doesn't get much more functional than the Ninja Max XL Air Fryer, with one-touch functions that include air fry, air roast, air broil, bake, reheat, and dehydrate. Ninja mentions the 5.5-quart size can air fry up to three pounds of fries, which makes it ideal for families. With temps that can reach up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit, you'll be enjoying perfectly fried foods in minutes, without turning on your oven.

Best Ninja coffee maker deal Opens in a new window Credit: Ninja Our pick: Ninja Hot & Iced XL Coffee Maker $118.99 at Amazon
$149.99 Save $31.00 Get Deal Why we like it

If you're a coffee drinker and have intentions of cutting back on ordering $7 lattes each morning, you're in luck. The Ninja Hot & Iced XL Coffee Maker is on sale for just $118.99 at Amazon, down from the list price of $149.99, which means you'll be getting a 21% discount. In terms of comparing this sale price to $7 lattes, you'd only need to grab 17 cups on the go to pay for the Ninja coffee maker.

This machine is a work-horse when it comes to brewing up your favorite coffee. Versatility reigns supreme, giving you the option between eight brewing sizes and four brewing strengths. On Monday, you might opt to brew a full carafe of classic coffee, while Tuesday might call for a travel-size mug of rich coffee. You can also make cold brew with the Ninja in just 10 minutes, which means this machine can not only save you money in the long run, it'll also save time.

Best Ninja blender deal Opens in a new window Credit: Ninja Our pick: Ninja Blast Two-Pack Portable Blender (BC155PS) $79.99 at Amazon
$112.99 Save $33.00 Get Deal Why we like it

If you're a smoothie fanatic or refuel with protein shakes, the Ninja Blast Portable Blender might be your new favorite kitchen gadget. This portable blender can go anywhere thanks to the leak-proof lid and convenient carrying handle. The rechargeable battery means you can pack along smoothie ingredients when you're off to the gym, add in some ice from the machine when you're done working out, and blend away. The 18-ounce container means you'll have plenty of enjoyable smoothie.

Today's deal at Amazon brings the price of a two-pack of Ninja Blast Portable Blenders down to just $79.99. The normal price of a two-pack is $112.99 which means you'll be scoring a 29% discount when buying two.

More Ninja deals this week

• Ninja Pods & Grounds Specialty Single-Serve Coffee Maker — $79.99 $99.99 (save $20)

• Ninja Precision Temperature Electric Kettle (KT200BL) — $79.99 $99.99 (save $20)

• Ninja Professional Blender 2.0 (BR201AMZ) — $89.99 $99.99 (save $10)

• Ninja Air Fryer Pro 4-in-1 (AF141) — $89.99 $119.99 (save $30)

• Ninja Nutri Personal & Countertop Blender (BL642) — $149.99 $179 (save $29.01)

• Ninja Professional XL Food Processor (NF705BRN) — $149.99 $189.99 (save $40)

• Ninja Woodfire Pro XL Outdoor Grill & Smoker (OG850) — $349.99 $399.99 (save $50)

Best Roomba deals the week of August 20 Best budget deal Roomba Combo j5 $299 at Amazon (save $300.99) Get Deal Best self-emptying deal iRobot Roomba j7+ $429 at Amazon (save $370) Get Deal

August falls right in the limbo period between Prime Days — the one that always happens in July and, unless Amazon goes rogue this year, the one that has become an October tradition in recent years. But Roomba deals are randomly alive and well at Amazon.

SEE ALSO: Shark vs. Roomba: Comparing top-rated robot vacuum lineups

Yes, everyone's favorite robot vacuums to eye on Prime Day are on sale at Amazon at the end of August (many models, at least), some even matching or beating their record-low pricing from July. We've pulled the noteworthy ones below.

Best Roomba deal Opens in a new window Credit: iRobot iRobot Roomba Combo j5 $299.00 at Amazon
$599.99 Save $300.99 Get Deal Why we like it

iRobot's j5 series robot vacs are the cheapest Roombas that can steer clear of phone chargers and pet waste, now even more affordable with a straight up 50% discount on this Combo j5 model. I first experienced iRobot's small obstacle avoidance when testing the Combo j7+, and after testing several other Roombas (including this j5) and competitors, I can confidently call iRobot's obstacle avoidance tech the best in the game. If your previous hesitation with robot vacuums stemmed from the need to clean up before they could clean, this is your answer.

As a Combo model, the Combo j5 does mop. Rather than having the water tank onboard 24/7 like the Combo j7+ or j9+, you will have to physically click the water tank on and off to enter mopping mode. Compared to the j7 series, the j5's cameras also aren't quite as precise, and still may require you to pick up things like socks.

More Roombas on sale

• iRobot Roomba j7+ with self-empty station (renewed premium) — $299.99 $499.99 (save $200)

• iRobot Roomba j7+ with self-empty station — $429.99 $799.99 (save $370)

• iRobot Roomba j9+ with self-empty station — $599 $899 (save $300)

Vacuum and mop combo

• iRobot Roomba Combo i5 — $229 $349.99 (save $120.99)

• iRobot Roomba Combo i5+ with self-empty station — $349 $549.99 (save $200.99)

• iRobot Roomba j5+ with self-empty station — $449 $799.99 (save $350.99)

• iRobot Roomba Combo j7+ with self-empty station — $699.99 $1,099.99 (save $400)

For seven glorious weeks in June and July, I was excited about Star Wars again, and it was all thanks to The Acolyte.

Created by Leslye Headland, the latest Star Wars series was a breath of fresh air for a franchise whose biggest live-action TV offerings had mostly devolved into stale Easter egg hunts. (Looking at you, The Mandalorian and Ahsoka.) While The Acolyte certainly wasn't without its own Easter eggs, it was also primarily original material.

SEE ALSO: 'The Acolyte' review: Just what Star Wars needs

We got our first taste of the High Republic Era in live-action Star Wars, as well as new heroes in twins Mae and Osha (both played by Amandla Stenberg), and a new Sith Lord in the Stranger (Manny Jacinto). A cast of mostly original characters and a lack of gratuitous Skywalker cameos kept The Acolyte feeling fresh from week to week, as did its no-holds-barred action sequences, hints of enemies-to-lovers romance, and interrogation of the Jedi Order. By the time the finale rolled around, teasing exciting new possibilities for the show's future, I was locked in and burning for more.

But on Tuesday, Deadline reported that Lucasfilm would not be renewing The Acolyte for a second season. According to the publisher, citing "sources", the reasoning was ratings-based, with the season finale drawing what is believed to be the lowest minutes viewed for a Star Wars finale.

Manny Jacinto and Amandla Stenberg in "The Acolyte." Credit: Lucasfilm Ltd.

The cancellation might make sense from a numbers standpoint, as The Acolyte's budget was reportedly $180 million for eight episodes. (Never mind that a Star Wars show with fewer connections to existing IP was always going to be a riskier bet.) But from a storytelling standpoint, the decision does a major disservice to Star Wars going forward. It sends the unfortunate message that any attempts at original storytelling will be sidelined in favor of more self-referential slogs. Nothing new is allowed, nor is any show given the chance to grow past its first season unless it's an instant smash hit. So why even bother getting invested in a new Star Wars series in the first place? (Notably, Andor, the best Star Wars series, was guaranteed a Season 2 from the jump. Could you imagine if its low viewership resulted in an Acolyte-style cancellation?)

'The Acolyte' gave me hope for the future of Star Wars. Now, I'm not so sure.

The loss of The Acolyte is also a blow to its audience, many of whom, like me, saw the series as a way to reconnect with a franchise that had otherwise lost their trust and interest. Whether people were seeing themselves in The Acolyte's diverse cast or rejoicing in Star Wars actually embracing an enemies-to-lovers romance, it was a joy to watch viewers geek out every week over the show's every twist and turn.

Of course, there is a nasty flip side to that fandom. Bigoted, so-called Star Wars "fans" took every opportunity to attack the series with racist, sexist, and homophobic rhetoric, all because The Acolyte dared center women and people of color. Stenberg has been a target for this vitriol since her role in the show was announced, the same kind of racist attacks Star Wars actors like John Boyega, Kelly Marie Tran, and Moses Ingram faced before her. Following the cancellation announcement, comments on Stenberg's social media have been a parade of hateful gloating. (Thankfully, there is still quite a bit of support.) Clearly, this subset of the Star Wars audience views The Acolyte's cancellation as a moral victory and as proof that Star Wars remains "theirs."

That Lucasfilm and Disney did little to speak out against this hate during The Acolyte's run speaks volumes. That they continue to push aside audience members eager for something new speaks volumes too. As one of those audience members, The Acolyte gave me hope for the future of Star Wars. Now, I'm not so sure.

The Acolyte Season 1 is now streaming on Disney+.

Our top picks: Best Bose Deal Bose QuietComfort Ultra $349 at Amazon (Save $80) Get Deal Best Bose Earbuds Deal Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II $249 at Amazon (Save $50) Get Deal Best Budget Bose Deal Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II $199.50 at Amazon (Save $50) Get Deal

If you're in the market for some new headphones, you've got plenty of options. But if you want premium quality that both sounds good and looks good, Bose is always a go-to that you can rely on, whether you want over-ear headphones or earbuds. You can rest assured you'll get quality noise-cancelling as well as excellent audio, and all at a great price – especially right now.

As of August 20, you can save big on some of Bose's best and brightest headphones that have been heavily discounted. From some of the brand's best and brightest options like the excellent over-ear Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones to smaller and perfectly portable QuietComfort Earbuds II, you can score significant savings on great audio right now, as long as you're quick. It's unclear how long these deals will last, so if you're into them, you'll want to lock them in quick.

Check out our picks for the best Bose deals of the week below.

Best Bose deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Bose QuietComfort Ultra $349.00 at Amazon
$429.00 Save $80.00 Get Deal Why we like it

It doesn't get much better than the Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones when it comes to noise cancelling and long wear time. They're ridiculously comfortable as their name would imply, and boast a 24-hour battery life in addition to absolutely fantastic noise cancellation. They also happen to offer rich, full audio with crisp treble and deep, satisfying bass. Plus, they come with three listening modes to make sure you're feeling the music even while you need to block out the rest of the world. You can also customize your listening experience based on what fits your musical profile best. They're Bose's best over-ear options by far, and well worth picking up on sale.

Best Bose earbuds deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Bose QuietComfort Ultra Wireless Earbuds $349.00 at Amazon
$429.00 Save $80.00 Get Deal Why we like it

You don't always want to cart around a huge pair of over-ear headphones. For those situations, earbuds often make a great alternative, and the Bose QuietComfort Ultra earbuds are the best you can get from the brand. They offer excellent straight audio if you're just planning on enjoying your favorite tunes, but they also flourish when it comes to active noise cancellation and spatial audio. They're like a smaller version of their larger over-ear cousin, but don't offer any less than excellence in the noise cancelling department. Their portable package make them useful in a variety of situations where over-ear headphones don't make sense as well, especially if you need to make sure you're paying attention to your surroundings.

Best budget Bose earbuds deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II $199.50 at Amazon
$279.00 Save $79.50 Get Deal Why we like it

The more affordable Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II are made even cheaper now that they're on sale for a discount. They're made to fit in your ear while offering a more personalized noise cancellation experience, and they fit in the ear nicely, especially when compared to other similar brands on the market. They come with three pairs of ear tips and stability bands to ensure you get the fit you need as well. Plus, their touch interface make controlling your audio as simple as it can be, since simple taps and swipes can pause and play your content without you having to touch your phone or computer.

Sexual wellness brand Bellesa makes adult products a bit more accessible. The company isn't just a sex toy shop, but also has a feminist porn site (link is very NSFW) — one of Mashable's top 10 places to click when you want to get off — that offers free videos.

Now, Bellesa has launched BB Outlet, an online platform that provides inexpensive sex toys. According to the press release, BB Outlet offers more than 300 products with prices starting at $5.99. Bellesa made these toys specifically for BB Outlet, such as the clit sucker BB Air for $8.99. In contrast, the Bellesa AirVibe Pro — also a clit sucker — retails for $149. Another example: The BB Classic Rabbit is $21.99, while the Bellesa bestselling rabbit Diosa Soft-Touch is $129.

SEE ALSO: What to look for when buying a sex toy

On the BB Outlet homepage, you can select toys in the $4-10, $11-20, $21-30, and $31+ range. These offerings are branded "BB Outlet" as opposed to Bellesa, with the words printed on some of the toys. From what Mashable has viewed, they're are made of body-safe silicone.

In addition to vibrators (wands, suckers, rabbits, and more), dildos, wearables, and anal toys, BB Outlet also sells bondage gear like handcuffs and gags, and lube and cleansers.

"With BB Outlet, the price of pleasure is now within reach for all," said Bellesa CEO Michelle Shnaidman in the press release. "Whether it's someone's first time exploring, trying something new, gifting a close friend or simply expanding their collection, we're proud to make it possible for everyone to experience pleasure and embrace their sexuality without compromise."

While Mashable has yet to try out BB Outlet toys, the prospect of finding a new favorite toy without breaking the bank is enticing.

Check out the best Amazon deals of the day as of August 20:

Amazon deals of the day at a glance: OUR TOP PICK Sonos Ace headphones $399 at Amazon (save $50) Get Deal BEST SMART HOME DEAL Amazon Echo Spot + Sengled smart light bulb $54.99 at Amazon (save $44.99) Get Deal BEST KIDS DEAL Kindle Paperwhite Kids $134.99 at Amazon (save $35) Get Deal BEST TV DEAL Amazon 55-inch 4-Series Fire TV $309.99 at Amazon (save $210 with Prime-exclusive code PRIME55) Get Deal

This week is starting off on a strong note when it comes to deals and discounts at Amazon. We're seeing plenty of price drops on the mega retailer's own devices for the first time since Prime Day. Plus, there's a first-time discount on a brand-new pair of headphones we're loving.

Here are our top picks for the best Amazon deals of the day on Aug. 20. If none of these catch your eye, be sure to take a peek at our picks from yesterday, Aug. 19. Many of those are still live — including a record-low ninth generation iPad.

Our top pick Opens in a new window Credit: Sonos Sonos Ace headphones $399.00 at Amazon
$449.00 Save $50.00 Get Deal

Three years in the making, Sonos finally released its first pair of headphones earlier this summer. Now, just a few months after their debut, they have received their first discount. Usually $449, you can slash $50 off and grab them for $399 at Amazon as of Aug. 20. Considering our biggest complaint about the headphones upon testing was their price, this is a welcome drop. The design, sound quality, battery life, and spatial audio are definitely stand out features, but we do wish the ear cup seal was tighter to block out more outside sound. Overall, though, Mashable's Deputy Reviews Editor Miller Kern says she would recommend them to "true audiophiles who value incredible sound quality above all else."

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon / Sengled Amazon Echo Spot + Sengled smart light bulb $54.99 at Amazon
$99.98 Save $44.99 Get Deal

Just released last month, the Echo Spot is essentially a fancy alarm clock that can help you start and end your day with smart features. It doesn't have an integrated camera (because that would be creepy), but it does allow you to see time, weather, song titles, and more at a glance and control your smart devices with our voice. It comes in three sleek colors and currently is down to just $54.99 — that's a savings of 31%. Better yet, you can score a free Sengled smart light bulb with your purchase.

Opens in a new window Credit: Kindle Kindle Paperwhite Kids $134.99 at Amazon
$169.99 Save $35.00 Get Deal

While this isn't the best deal we've ever seen on the Kindle Paperwhite Kids, it's the biggest price drop we've seen in several months. A step up from the basic Kindle Kids, the Paperwhite Kids adds some boosted features like a larger display, longer battery life, double the storage, an adjustable warm light to cut down on blue light, and IPX8 waterproofing. With Amazon Kids+, it also comes preloaded with a full library of age-appropriate books. As our reviewer noted, "It’s a piece of kids’ tech that even the most anti-screen relatives at your next family get-together won’t be able to grumble about." Snag it on sale for just $134.99 as of Aug. 20 — that's a savings of 21%.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon 55-inch 4-Series Fire TV $309.99 at Amazon
$519.99 Save $210.00 with Prime-exclusive code PRIME55 Get Deal

Need a new TV? If you're a Prime member, you can snag a 55-inch 4-Series Fire TV for only $309.99. That's over 40% in savings if you use the code PRIME55 at checkout. The 4-Series is equipped with 4K Ultra HD entertainment with HDR 10, on-board Alexa, and four HDMI inputs for connectivity. It's not the fanciest TV in the Fire lineup, but it'll still get the job done. And if you're already using a Fire TV Stick, it'll already have your custom-arranged apps waiting for you when you log into your Amazon account. If you're not a Prime member, you'll have to pay $349.99, which is honestly still a pretty good discount at 33%.

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

A Massachusetts professor has filed a lawsuit against Meta using a novel interpretation of Section 230, a law known primarily for shielding social media companies from liability.

Best Dyson deals the week of August 20 Best cordless Dyson vacuum deal Dyson V12 Detect Slim $449.99 at Dyson (save $200) Get Deal Best Dyson fan deal Dyson Hot+Cool Autoreact HP7A $399.99 at Best Buy (save $200) Get Deal Best Dyson hair care deal Dyson Supersonic (latest gen, refurbished) $209.99 at Walmart (save $290) Get Deal

Late August is prime time to buy a Dyson, and not just because there are several Dyson deals live right now — though that does help.

It's still summer-y enough for playing outside dirt, mowing the lawn grass, and leftover beach sand to make its way onto your floors. However, crunchy leaf season is right around the corner, and having a cordless vacuum at the ready will be a game-changer. Or perhaps you're more so fearing the kickoff to fall allergy season. If you haven't upgraded to an air purifier or a vacuum with a HEPA filter yet, the Dyson models on sale this week are your sign to set yourself up for success already.

SEE ALSO: Shark vs. Dyson: Which cordless vacuum should you get?

I don't have a seasonal spiel about Dyson's hair tools — having your hair on point is kind of a year round thing, so whenever the urge to upgrade to a Dyson Supersonic, Airwrap, or Corrale strikes, you should just go for it. Luckily, refurbished versions of all three are even more affordable than usual this week.

Our top pick Opens in a new window Credit: Dyson Our pick: Dyson V12 Detect Slim $449.99
$649.99 Save $200.00 Get Deal Why we like it

This $449.99 sale price is just $50 away from the cheapest we've ever seen on the Mashable Choice-winning V12 Detect Slim — and that record-low has only really made an appearance during Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

In my opinion, the V12 Detect Slim is the best Dyson for most people because it packs the most crucial Dyson features into an affordable package that barely weighs more than five pounds — the ideal weight for one hand usage, especially in handheld mode. Easily the best part about the V12 Detect Slim is its inclusion of Dyson's green laser, which highlights microscopic dust on a hard floor that you may have assumed was clean. My other favorite Dyson tool, the mini motorized cleaning tool for tackling pet hair on furniture, is also included.

More deals on cordless Dyson vacuums

• Dyson V7 Advanced — $279.99 $399.99 (save $120)

• Dyson Outsize— $519.99 $599.99 (save $80)

• Dyson Gen5detect — $749.99 $949.99 (save $200)

Upright Dyson deals

• Dyson Ball Animal 3 Complete — $399.99 $549.99 (save $150)

Dyson fan deals

• Dyson Purifier Cool Gen1 — $299.99 $429.99 (save $130)

• Dyson Hot+Cool Autoreact HP7A — $399.99 $649.99 (save $250)

• Dyson Pure Hot+Cool Gen1 HP10 — $429.99 $529.99 (save $100)

• Dyson Purifier Humidify+Cool PH03 — $749.99 $899.99 (save $150)

Dyson hair care deals

• Dyson Corrale (latest gen, refurbished) — $179.99 $399.99 (save $220)

• Dyson Supersonic Origin (latest gen, refurbished) — $199.99 $319.99 (save $120)

• Dyson Supersonic (latest gen, refurbished) — $209.99 $499.99 (save $290)

• Dyson Airwrap Origin Long (latest gen, refurbished) — $279.99 $349.99 (save $160)

• Dyson Airwrap Complete Long (refurbished) — $339.99 $499.99 (save $160)

As a kid, there was nothing I loved more than seeing a handwritten letter arrive on my doormat from one of my pen pals. I treasured every letter and postcard, storing them in a shoe box covered with a collage of my own fabulous design (I still have them to this day).

In my (deeply wholesome) childhood obsession with pen pals, never in a million years would I imagine that my future self would attach a negative meaning to the idea of a pen pal. But here I am: a single woman in her thirties who's found herself in several pen pal situationships on dating apps. And it has brought me nothing but frustration and upset.

SEE ALSO: I got stood up. I refuse to let dating app culture break my spirit.

The most recent experience brought with it several valuable — albeit painful — lessons. I'd matched with a man on Bumble and immediately we got chatting and there was a palpable connection.

We moved the chat over to WhatsApp and spent hours texting about all manner of things. When I went back to look at his profile (OK, to check him out again! He was super handsome!) I noticed he was quite far away and using "Travel Mode" — a Bumble Premium feature that allows you to change your location from your current one. This didn't set off alarm bells — when I'm on holiday or travelling for work, my Bumble profile will appear the same way to anyone swiping in London.

But this connection wasn't travelling, he was working and living in another part of England, hoping to move closer to London at some point. After a week or so of messaging in October, he addressed the elephant in the room: he couldn't come to London until the new year and didn't want to stand in the way of me meeting someone else before then. But he so enjoyed talking to me, he said. I thought about my own situation — I had three months to finish a non-fiction book I was working on (ironically, the book is all about why dating is so hard right now!). My entire life was pretty much consumed by it. I wasn't in a position to go on dates and certainly wouldn't be able to make someone feel like they were my priority (which might not feel great in the early stages of seeing each other).

Asking for clarity in the talking stage

We agreed to keep chatting until we were both in a position to meet up in the new year. For weeks, we texted on a daily basis, we sent voice notes, memes, we sexted, we talked about what we'd do to each other once we finally met up. But that day never came. When December arrived, I mentioned we should start thinking about when we wanted to meet up, but his response was very non-committal. I brought it up again a week later and, again, very little reaction. At this point, I knew it was high time for clarity. I composed a paragraph in my Notes app and plucked up the courage to ask where he was at emotionally. I laid my cards on the table: "I would like to explore this connection in person. But I want to check we're on the same page — if not, I'd rather know." I added: "I'd rather we didn't waste our time / get stuck in a nebulous pen pal thing."

He took 24 excruciating hours to give me a response to that question. In that time, I came to terms with the fact that the answer I'd eventually get would not be the one I wanted. I cried quite a few tears — which surprised me, given that we'd never met. But, that sadness came from feeling stupid for giving so much time to a situation that proved fruitless. For believing in a fantasy and ignoring the reality that had been staring me in the face. For feeling strung along and not seeing it sooner. Eventually, he told me he didn't envisage himself hopping on trains back and forth to London and wanted to spent the next six months focusing on his friendships. He told me he understood if I didn't want to keep chatting, but expressed that he did not like the sound of a "nebulous pen pal".

Featured Video For You How Tinder and other dating apps use algorithms to find your match — Horny on Main

As tears streamed from my eyes, I replied saying I was looking for a relationship and deserved to be with someone who knew what they wanted with me. I wished him well and we parted company. I unfollowed him on social media and archived our chat. Eventually he unfollowed me back on Instagram. But every few weeks, I'd notice him viewing my Instagram Story. Even now, eight months since we last spoke, he still peeks at my Story, despite the fact we no longer follow each other.

Why do people look for pen pals on dating apps?

It's very confusing to spend such a prolonged period of time talking to someone, forming an attachment, only to learn that they likely had no intention of ever meeting up in person. I've learned valuable lessons from my experience with this man. When swiping on apps, I make sure the person lives in the same city as me (important!). I now make sure when I'm talking to someone, we move our connection to real life in the first week or so of texting. I ask for clarity at the first sign of inconsistency. I end things if they admit they're not in the right space for dating.

In the aftermath of that prolonged talking stage, I wondered if the man had only ever intended to be pen pals. Had he, from the very outset, had no intention of ever meeting up with me? I couldn't stop thinking about the "why?" of it all. What was the motivation behind solely messaging and never taking the connection to real life?

When I swipe on dating apps, I often see 'no pen pals' in people's bios — so mine is not a unique experience.

When I swipe on dating apps, I often see "no pen pals" in people's bios — so mine is not a unique experience. What is the reason behind this behaviour? Why do some people seek out — consciously or unconsciously — pen pals on dating apps? Annabelle Knight, sex and relationship expert at Lovehoney, says there's a few reasons for 'pen pal' behaviour on dating apps. "The first is that they simply aren’t ready to date — and they might not even know this themselves; they like the 'idea' of dating, but don’t like the reality of it," says Knight. "The second is that they are struggling with their own issues — like anxiety or poor self-esteem — which would prevent them from wanting to take the next step of meeting up."

The third reason could be that the person is already in a relationship and they are using dating apps as a means of escapism, says Knight. A possible fourth reason could be that the person is trying to meet friends using dating apps.

SEE ALSO: What do we owe our online dating matches?

Anna Hint, dating expert at dating app Pure, also suggested a few explanations for this behaviour. "Some of the few reasons might be boredom, 'testing the waters' before meeting up in real life, seeking validation, or just feeling lonely but not looking to develop the connection further than online chats," says Hint. "Other times someone might be in a committed monogamous relationship and not looking to meet anyone in person but open to connecting virtually — this might or might not be consensual in a couple's relationship dynamics but also a quite common scenario."

There's also the matter of dating apps creating the illusion of seemingly boundless choices. "So why settle for someone at all?" adds Hint. "Situationships, delusionships, and imaginationships are all part of our dating scenarios today. It seems like a real struggle to make up your mind about whom you should meet IRL, maybe for many people it's comfortable enough just to exchange a few texts here and there to feel 'seen' but not take it further."

All these reasons don't make this behaviour OK, but in seeking to understand the motivation behind the pen pal trap, we can take it less personally. And, we can get better at spotting it and nipping it in the bud before we spend time on someone who has no intention of meeting up.

Recognise the signs of breadcrumbing

You might be familiar with the dating term "breadcrumbing" — when a person sends endless flirty messages (akin to dropping a trail of breadcrumbs), except the trail leads to nothing. No date, no in-person meet-up, just a never-ending stream of texts.

Knight recommends learning the signs of breadcrumbing so you're equipped to recognise when it's happening and can put a stop to it if you feel you're being led on.

"Breadcrumbing, whether intentional or not, is a manipulative tactic in a relationship where someone drops vague, intermittent (or only when prompted) and flirtatious messages — quite literally digital crumbs of affection — to keep someone interested without ever intending to commit to a relationship," says Knight. "Typically if someone is vague, doesn’t follow through with their plans, and becomes more interested when you try to withdraw, they may be dropping breadcrumbs."

What to do if you're worried about falling into the pen pal trap

Boundaries are key in these situations. Knight recommends minimising app-based chatting to no more than a few days as "this will allow you to determine a minimum threshold of connection."

To move to a physical, in-person meeting, Knight advises suggesting a specific activity — going to a life drawing class together, trying a new restaurant, going bowling or mini-golfing — as a date, rather than just a generic "want to grab drinks?" "Pretty quickly this will give you an idea about their future intentions to meet up, and you can decide whether or not to proceed with the conversation or cut off contact," says Knight.

Communicating what you're looking for from the get-go is a great way to define your boundaries and to find out what the other person's expectations are too. "If it seems like you are not on the same page in terms of your wants and needs, it's better to cut it off," says Hint.

What if you're only looking for a pen pal on dating apps?

If you're not ready to date in person, or perhaps you want to explore intimacy purely over texting for the time being, honesty is the best policy. Make your intentions clear from the very outset and give the person the choice of whether this arrangement works for them too. "If you really are looking for a pen pal, then you need to signpost this in your bio, and make your feelings clear upfront, so that the other person knows ahead of time what they're signing up for," Knight says.

"You don't want to give any room or time for misunderstanding; even if you have good intentions, if you start talking to someone and let them know you're only looking for a pen pal weeks into a conversation, they could end up developing feelings and getting hurt," she adds.

Knight suggests using apps or websites which are solely for this purpose — InterPals, Global Penfriends, and Slowly, to name a few. On Pure you can list "virtual" as your ideal dating scenario. Similarly, on Feeld, you can add "texting" as a kink.

Hint adds that "if you want to act respectfully and ethically towards your match or chat partner: it's crucial to mention where you are standing from the start when connecting with someone online."

Dating app culture might feel really murky and dispiriting at the moment, but if we treat each other with respect and communicate clearly and honestly, we can avoid leading people on.

The best Shark deals this week save you up to $100 on home cleaning tech. Check out our top picks:

Our top picks: Best Shark air purifier deal Shark Clean Sense Air Purifier Max $179.99 at Amazon (save $100) Get Deal Best Shark vacuum deal Shark NV352 Navigator Lift Away Upright Vacuum $150 at Amazon (save $49.99) Get Deal Best Shark robot vacuum deal Shark UR2500SR AI Ultra Robot Vacuum $299.99 at Amazon (save $100) Get Deal

It's not common to come across someone who finds household chores to be the highlight of the week. Between work, family, relationships, sleep, and trying to stay active, household chores can get put on the back burner and then become an overall drag to take care of over the weekend. Thankfully, we've been introduced to some reliable brands that make chores much less time-consuming.

Shark has become one of the most well-known home appliance brands, typically offering great features at budget-friendly prices. During the week of August 20, we're seeing some great discounted prices on Shark home appliances like robot vacuums and air purifiers.

Here are some of our top picks:

Best Shark air purifier deal Opens in a new window Credit: Shark Our pick: Shark Clean Sense Air Purifier Max $179.99 at Amazon
$279.99 Save $100.00 Get Deal Why we like it

An air purifier can be one of the best investments for your health, providing clean air to you, your family, and pets while inside. The Shark Clean Sense Air Purifier Max is designed to filter air in spaces as large as 1,200 square feet with HEPA filtration, capturing 99.97% of particles like pollen, pet dander, and dust. If you deal with allergies or asthma, an air purifier is a must-have. Thanks to today's sale price, you can get the Shark Clean Sense for just $179.99, marked down from the usual price of $279.99. That's a 36% discount or a savings of $100.

Shark mentions this larger filtration size can be perfect for living rooms, dining rooms, or basements. One of the most useful features of the Shark Clean Sense Air Purifier Max is the Clean Sense IQ reading displayed on the front of the purifier, which gives you a percentage readout of real-time air quality. A blue ring with a 100% score indicates air quality is good, which changes to an orange ring if the air quality dips below 70%.

If you live in an area that's prone to late summer smoke, today's sale is a great time to snag this air purifier and breathe easier knowing you're better protected.

Best Shark vacuum deal Opens in a new window Credit: Shark Our pick: Shark NV352 Navigator Lift Away Upright Vacuum $150.00 at Amazon
$199.99 Save $49.99 Get Deal Why we like it

Stick vacuums aren't for everyone and if you prefer an upright model, the Shark NV352 Navigator Lift Away Vacuum could be perfect. As of Aug. 20, the Shark Navigator Lift Away is on sale for $150 at Amazon, down from the list price of $199.99, which means you're getting a 25% discount.

With swivel steering, the Shark vacuum is ideal for cleaning around furniture and hard-to-reach spots. The brush roll automatically detects the floor below and switches from gently cleaning hardwood floors to deep cleaning carpets.

If your cleaning nemesis is vacuuming the stairs, the Shark Navigator Lift Away is here to make the task much easier. The vacuum's detachable pod makes for a lightweight cleaning experience when vacuuming the stairs, blinds, or getting into the nooks of furniture.

Best Shark robot vacuum deal Opens in a new window Credit: Shark Our pick: Shark UR2500SR AI Ultra Robot Vacuum $299.99 at Amazon
$399.99 Save $100.00 Get Deal Why we like it

If you'd rather never physically push a vacuum again, the Shark AI Ultra Robot Vacuum is ready to take over. Thanks to the included charging base which also serves as a self-emptying station, you'll only need to take a few minutes each month to deal with floor maintenance. The bagless base can store up to 30 days worth of debris, which means you'll only need to empty the base once per month. Beyond that, the robot vacuum will use its mapping brains to clean your floors on whatever schedule you desire. The Shark AI Ultra Robot Vacuum can get up to 120 minutes of runtime before it needs to recharge, so it's capable of cleaning the whole house.

As of Aug. 20, the Shark AI Ultra Robot Vacuum is on sale for just $299.99 at Amazon, down from the usual price of $399.99 which means you'll be getting a 25% discount.

More Shark deals to shop this week

• Shark Wandvac Cordless Hand Vacuum — $99.99 $129.99 (save $30)

• Shark Clean Sense IQ Air Purifier (500 square feet) — $149.99 $239.99 (save $90)

• Shark NeverChange Air Purifier Max — $249.99 $299.99 (save $50)

• Shark FlexStyle Air Drying & Styling System — $279.99 $319.99 (save $40)

• Shark Air Purifier 3-in-1 with True HEPA — $279.99 $399.99 (save $120)

• Shark IZ631H Cordless Pro Vacuum — $299.99 $349.99 (save $50)

SAVE 46%: This week, shop major savings on Amazon devices including Echos, Fire TVs, and tablets. Find the Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus tablet for just $64.99, saving you 46% for $55 off.

Best Amazon device deals Best Amazon Echo deal Amazon Echo Spot $54.99 at Amazon (Save $25) Get Deal Best Amazon Fire TV deal Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K $29.99 at Amazon (Save $20) Get Deal Best Amazon Fire tablet deal Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus tablet $64.99 at Amazon (Save $55) Get Deal

Last month, we were all Prime Day, all the time. The biggest sale event of the summer is long gone and in its wake it has left... more deals? Historically, Prime Day brings the lowest prices, especially on Amazon devices. Unfortunately, this year was a little lackluster. Now we're in the thick of August, heading back to school, and Amazon is bringing some extra savings as we wrap up summer.

This week, Amazon has dropped deals across a wide array of its devices. You can find up to 46% off Amazon Echo smart speakers, Fire TVs, and tablets. Unfortunately, you won't find any Kindle deals, not surprising considering the deals during Prime Day weren't anything to write home about.

Here are the best deals to shop on on Amazon devices the week of August 20.

Best Amazon Echo deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Echo Spot $54.99 at Amazon
$79.99 Save $25.00 Get Deal Why we like it

The latest entry into the Echo line-up is the Spot. Having tested this device upon its release last month, I'm a big fan. It has a sleek display that brightly shows the time, weather, and whatever you're listening to. Plus, it has a compact design, perfect for nightstands.

Since it is a recent release, we're stoked whenever it dips in price. At $54.99, it's the lowest price we've seen it since Prime Day. Right now you can score it for 31% off for $25 in savings.

More Echo device deals

• Amazon Echo Pop — $22.99 $39.99 (save $17)

• Amazon Echo Dot — $29.99 $49.99 (save $20)

• Amazon Echo Auto — $34.99 $54.99 (save $20)

• Amazon Echo Show 5 — $59.99 $89.99 (save $30)

Best Amazon Fire TV deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K $29.99 at Amazon
$49.99 Save $20.00 Get Deal Why we like it

In terms of streaming devices, Amazon Fire TV Sticks are some of the more affordable on the market. While its listed price is $49.99, typically we see these devices drop to around $30. Now is no different as the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K is down to $29.99, saving you $20 for 40% off.

Is the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K the best streaming device we've tested? Certainly not. In a head to head test with the Roku Streaming Stick, it didn't stand up to its competition. However, the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K still gets the job done. It may run a little slower than other devices, however, if your main streaming service is Prime Video, the Fire TV Stick is great as it makes it easy to continue watching your favorite shows.

More Amazon Fire TV deals

• Amazon Fire TV Stick Lite — $19.99 $29.99 (save $10)

• Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max — $39.99 $59.99 (save $20)

• Amazon Fire TV Cube — $109.99 $139.99 (save $30)

• Amazon Fire 55-inch Omni QLED TV — $429.99 $599.99 (save $170)

Best Amazon Fire tablet deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus tablet $64.99 at Amazon
$119.99 Save $55.00 Get Deal Why we like it

Listen, we love iPads too, but the world of tablets is much bigger than Apple's corner. Amazon Fire tablets are worthy competitors, especially because they come at unbeatable prices. The Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus tablet is similar in size to the iPad Mini, however, it's just a fraction of the price.

Having tested the Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus tablet here at Mashable, it certainly isn't as zippy as an iPad. It comes loaded with a lot of Amazon ads. However, it makes it makes for a great e-reader and is currently cheaper than any Amazon Kindle.

Find the Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus tablet for $64.99, saving you 46% for $55 off.

More Amazon Fire Tablet deals

• Amazon Fire HD 10 tablet — $99.99 $179.99 (save $80)

• Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids tablet — $159.99 $199.99 (save $40)

The G1 will now feature stronger performance, with capabilities such as jumping, walking at over 4.4 mph, and climbing debris-covered stairs.

A24 has released the trailer for nostalgic teen disaster comedy 'Y2K,' featuring Jaeden Martell, Rachel Zegler, and Julian Dennison.

"Daily Show" host Michael Kosta has given a preview of the Democratic National Committee.

The first iPhone Pro models to be made in India could be coming as soon as September or October this year.

According to Bloomberg, Apple plans to start manufacturing iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max models in India "as close to the global debut as possible." This could mean a few weeks after launch, which is expected in early September.

SEE ALSO: New iPhone 16 Pro color will reportedly be Desert Titanium

This probably won't mean much for the consumers. The new iPhones will be assembled by Foxconn, the same company that's been Apple's key manufacturing partner for the iPhone for more than a decade. Foxconn, which operates primarily in China, will build the new iPhone Pro models in its factory in India's southernmost state, Tamil Nadu.

A big chunk of iPhone production already resides in India — in April, Bloomberg claimed that one in seven iPhones are built there — mostly by China's Foxconn and Taiwan's Pegatron corporations. But the company reportedly only had its "regular" iPhone models assembled in India; if this new report is accurate, it would be the first time the iPhone Pro models have been made in the country.

The move is an important one for Apple, though. The company plans to build all of the iPhones it sells in India locally to avoid import duties. This should be achieved by the end of 2024, Bloomberg claims.

A six-part Apple TV+ docuseries, "K-Pop Idols" follows rapper/singer Jessi, boy group CRAVITY, and girl group BLACKSWAN.

The trailer for "Azrael", E.L. Katz' post-apocalyptic survival thriller about a religious cult trying to fend off eerie creatures, has dropped.

Watch 'Inside Out 2' at home with these quick links: WATCH AT A LATER DATE Disney+ Basic monthly subscription $7.99 per month Get Deal BEST BUNDLE DEAL Disney Duo Basic Bundle: Disney+ and Hulu (with ads) $9.99 per month (save 37%) Get Deal BEST FOR VERIZON FIOS CUSTOMERS Disney+ Premium (no ads) Free for 6 or 12 months with eligible Fios internet accounts (save up to $109.99) Get Deal BEST FOR TOTAL BY VERIZON CUSTOMERS Disney+ Premium (no ads) Free with the Total by Verizon $60 plan (save $13.99 per month) Get Deal BEST FOR VERIZON WIRELESS CUSTOMERS Disney Bundle: Disney+ Premium (no ads), Hulu, and ESPN (with ads) $10 per month for Verizon customers with myPlan (save $8.99 per month) Get Deal WATCH ASAP Purchase 'Inside Out 2' on Prime Video $29.99 Get Deal

In 2015, Inside Out explored the emotions inside the head of a young girl named Riley (voiced by Kensington Tallman) as she was trying to cope with moving across the country. Nearly a decade later, Joy, Sadness, and the rest of the crew are back — along with some new emotions — to help Riley deal with puberty in Inside Out 2.

The Pixar blockbuster took the box office by storm this summer and now, as of Aug. 20, you can watch the family friendly film from the comfort of your couch. Just make sure you have a box of tissues handy. Here's everything you need to know about how to watch Inside Out 2 at home.

What is Inside Out 2 about?

Pixar digs into the human emotion hellscape that is puberty in Inside Out 2, introducing a whole new slate of emotions to Riley's mind. Alongside Joy (voiced by Amy Poehler), Sadness (voiced by Phyllis Smith), Anger (voiced by Lewis Black), Fear (voiced by Tony Hale), and Disgust (voiced by Liza Lapira), new emotions have emerged to help Riley navigate this difficult time — Anxiety (voiced by Maya Hawke), Envy (voiced by Ayo Edebiri), Ennui (voiced by Adèle Exarchopoulos), and Embarrassment (voiced by Paul Walter Hauser). As Riley attends a hockey camp and is forced to confront some tough decisions about friends, the old emotions and new get into a power struggle, which leads to some emotional turmoil for Riley.

Get a sneak peek at the story in the trailer below.

Is Inside Out 2 worth watching?

Mashable's Belen Edwards described the film as "the rare Pixar sequel that truly earns its existence and deepens the message of its first film. And even though it may make you deeply, deeply, deeply anxious, it's also, quite simply, a joy to watch."

Other critics largely agree, with the film earning a 91 percent critic rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Audiences love it, too; not only did the film bring in a whopping $1.5 billion at the box office, but it also managed to maintain a 95 percent audience rating. Oh, and no biggie, but it also became the highest grossing animated film of all time.

Read our full review of Inside Out 2.

How to watch Inside Out 2 at home

Just two months after Inside Out 2's explosive opening weekend at the theaters, it's available to watch at home via video-on-demand sites like Prime Video, Apple TV, and Fandango at Home (Vudu). You can purchase the film for your digital library for $29.99. It'll also be available to rent at a later date.

The benefit of purchasing the film, besides being able to watch it at your leisure, is the slew of bonus content you'll have access to. The digital version of the film includes an alternate opening, deleted scenes, behind the scenes of creating the new emotions, and more. However, if you'd rather stream Inside Out 2, keep scrolling to learn more.

As of Aug. 20, you can purchase the film at the following retailers:

• Prime Video — buy for $29.99

• Apple TV — buy for $29.99

• Fandango at Home (Vudu) — buy for $29.99

• YouTube — buy for $29.99

When is Inside Out 2 streaming?

While there's no official streaming date yet, we do know that — like every other Pixar release — Inside Out 2 will be headed to Disney+ eventually. Given its massive success in theaters, there's a good chance Disney will push its streaming debut to late fall 2024. Stay tuned, as we'll update this article when the official date is announced.

If you're not yet a Disney+ subscriber, you can prepare to watch Inside Out 2 or revisit the original film by subscribing ahead of time. Subscriptions start at $7.99 and we've rounded up the best ways you can sign up and save some money below.

The best Disney+ streaming dealsBest Disney+ deal for most people Opens in a new window Credit: Disney+ Disney+ monthly subscription $7.99 per month (with ads) or $13.99 per month (ad-free) Watch Now

If you're only interested in watching Inside Out 2 and not sticking around, signing up for a single month of Disney+ is probably your best option. You won't technically save any money, but you also won't continuously waste money either — so long as you remember to cancel your subscription after watching. Disney+ with ads will only cost you $7.99 for a single month. If you want to cut out the ads, it'll cost you $13.99 for the month.

Best Disney+ bundle deal Opens in a new window Credit: Hulu / Disney+ Disney Bundle Duo Basic (Hulu + Disney+) $9.99 per month (with ads) Watch Now

If you're already a Hulu subscriber, you can bundle it with Disney+ (with ads) for only $9.99 per month. That's basically like getting Disney+ for only $2 per month, saving you 37% compared to paying for each separately. You can take things a step further and add Max into the mix for a grand total of $16.99 per month. Or, if you're more into sports, sub Max for ESPN+ for just $14.99 per month for all three. You'll have to deal with ads, but for the price, it's hard to beat. To watch without ads, you'll have to pay an extra $10 a month for the Disney+ and Hulu bundle and an extra $13 per month for the trio bundle with Max.

Best Disney+ trial Opens in a new window Credit: Verizon Disney+ Premium (no ads) Free for 6 or 12 months with eligible Fios internet accounts (save up to $109.99) Watch Now

Verizon Fios home internet users on the 2 Gig Streaming or 2 Gig Complete package can score a free year of Disney+ Premium (no ads), while those on the 1 Gig Streaming or 1 Gig Complete package can sign up for six free months. Check your plan and read about eligibility terms over on the Verizon website to activate the offer.

Best Disney+ deal for Verizon Wireless customers Opens in a new window Credit: Verizon / Disney+ Disney Bundle: Disney+ Premium (no ads), Hulu, and ESPN (with ads) $10 per month for Verizon customers with myPlan (save $8.99 per month) Watch Now

Verizon Wireless customers can get a stellar deal on Disney+ through Verizon myPlan. Just add a Disney Bundle to your account through myPlan, which includes Disney+ Premium (no ads), Hulu (with ads), and ESPN (with ads). All three would usually cost you $18.99 per month, but by signing up through this myPlan deal, you'll only pay $10 per month.

Best way to get Disney+ for free Opens in a new window Credit: Total by Verizon Disney+ Premium (no ads) Free with the Total by Verizon $60 plan (save $13.99 per month) Watch Now

If you're a Total by Verizon customer on the $60/month prepaid unlimited plan, you get Disney+ Premium (no ads) for free. No terms or trial periods. Just keep your account in good standing and you get Disney+ included with your account. If you cancel or switch your plan, your subscription will end as well. If you're on the $50/month prepaid unlimited plan, you can also score six free months of Disney+, which is plenty of time to watch Inside Out 2. Want to extend your trial? Just upgrade to the $60/month plan.

Let's talk about Alien resurrection. No, not the fourth film in the Alien series, but rather the ghoulish real-life resurrection at the heart of Alien: Romulus.

The film, directed by Fede Álvarez, brings a familiar face back to the Alien franchise: that of the late Sir Ian Holm. Holm played the Nostromo's synthetic science officer Ash in 1979's Alien. In Alien: Romulus, he "appears" as Rook, a Weyland-Yutani synthetic who is the same model as Ash, and who serves as the science officer for the Renaissance space station.

SEE ALSO: 'Alien: Romulus' review: Fan Service Summer continues

I say "appears" because Holm, who passed away in June 2020, is unable to perform in Alien: Romulus. Instead, the film uses an animatronic body and CGI to create a simulacrum of Holm. Actor Daniel Betts also provided facial and vocal performances, which were then altered by generative AI and computer modeling to get closer to Holm's. The result lives in the depths of the uncanny valley, alongside Rogue One's revival of Peter Cushing's Grand Moff Tarkin and The Flash's cameo from Christopher Reeve's Superman.

However, Alien: Romulus's Rook has far more screen time than these prior examples, playing first an expository role, then an antagonistic one for the film's young heroes. Each extended appearance is more unsettling than the last, to the point that I dreaded seeing Rook far more than I dreaded any Xenomorph. Not because Rook is a frightening character, but because his presence here snaps you out of an otherwise very fun movie, pointing instead to a disturbing filmmaking practice that mines cheap nostalgia from a late actor's work — and that could have been entirely avoided in the first place.

Why is Ian Holm's Alien: Romulus resurrection so troubling?

Let's start out with the obvious: No matter what permissions an estate may grant, a late actor cannot consent to having their likeness used in a movie. Doing so is an immediate violation of their personhood. In reviving them for the screen, you're creating a performance in a film they might never have agreed to do, with acting choices they might never have made.

SEE ALSO: 'Alien: Romulus' has a great Easter egg right at the start

That's because the version of Holm we see in Alien: Romulus isn't really Holm. It's a puppet of a character he once played, being pulled out of the Alien toy box in order to score nostalgia points in a movie that's already too full of callbacks. Like Reeve and Cushing, Holm becomes an avatar for misguided fan service, instead of remaining an actor with agency. No wonder concerns about digital replicas of actors and their use after death became a key part of SAG-AFTRA's 2023 contract.

The presence of Holm's likeness in Alien: Romulus is also a smack in the face to the film's own themes. Here is a movie that criticizes how corporations work employees to death, with one of its first scenes establishing that Weyland-Yutani keeps moving the goalposts of Rain Carradine's (Cailee Spaeny, Civil War, Priscilla) contract until it's effectively a death sentence. Yet Alien: Romulus is awfully comfortable working the image of an actor's body beyond death. Elsewhere, the great horror of the facehuggers and Xenomorphs remains the hijacking of our own bodies for alien needs. Does Alien: Romulus not see how its use of Holm's likeness is a similar kind of hijacking?

Alien: Romulus didn't need Rook in the first place. David Jonsson in "Alien: Romulus." Credit: 20th Century Studios

An extra frustrating element of this situation is the fact that Alien: Romulus didn't even need Rook to be effective. Rain and her companions have no idea about the events of Alien on the Nostromo, or who Ash is, so seeing Rook means nothing to them in-world. His presence here is pure fan service, with no actual depth behind it. Sure, the sentiment would have been the same had Álvarez brought back Bishop (Lance Henriksen) from Aliens and Alien 3 or David (Michael Fassbender) from Prometheus and Alien: Covenant, but at least then the director wouldn't have been manufacturing a performance from a deceased Holm.

Just bring in another version of Andy.

In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, Álvarez pointed to a "limited amount of synthetics" as being the reason why he and producer Ridley Scott decided to bring Rook back. Yet even if that limit prevented the creation of another original synthetic beyond Andy (David Jonsson, Industry, Rye Lane), there is still a solution for who could fulfill Rook's role onboard the Renaissance without stooping to fan service. Just bring in another version of Andy. After all, the movie is named Romulus, after famed Roman twins Remus and Romulus — twin shenanigans would only make sense here!

Yes, the Alien franchise has pulled the synthetic twins trick before, with Walter and David in Alien: Covenant. But out of all the callbacks Alien: Romulus has to other Alien films, I think double Andy has the potential to be the most rewarding.

For starters, another synthetic who looks like Andy would actually mean something to Rain and her companions. They'd have more of a reason to trust him upon first meeting him, just by virtue of his resemblance to Rain's brother alone. That's already a step above fan service.

Then, there's Andy's reaction to his own doppelgänger to consider. Aside from Rain, Andy is fairly isolated from the rest of the anti-synthetic crew, and from the rest of the Jackson's Star Colony. What happens if he sees someone who is exactly like him? Does he form some kind of synthetic kinship with his double, especially after learning that Rain plans to decommission him when she makes it to Yvaga?

If there is any trust there, that adds an extra layer of heartbreak to the moment when Andy switches over to being just another vessel for doing Weyland-Yutani's bidding, powered by Rook's chip. Think of Andy's turn there like a reverse Walter and David situation. While David tried to turn Walter against his crew in order to free him from a life of service, Andy's turned against his crew in order to serve Weyland-Yutani. When it's his lookalike facilitating that turn, it becomes more of a betrayal of self, instead of a possible self-liberation.

Twice the Andy is just one solution to the question of, "which synthetic should be onboard the Renaissance?" (A solution that would give Jonsson even more room to flex his impressive range.) There are countless others, including just making Rook an original synthetic and casting any other actor in the part. But there's only one truly incorrect answer, and that's the route Alien: Romulus takes.

Alien: Romulus is now in theaters.