IT General

SAVE $250: As of Nov. 25, you can get the Hisense 85-inch Class R6 Series 4K UHD Roku Smart TV for $548 at Walmart.

Opens in a new window Credit: Hisense Hisense 85-inch Class R6 Series 4K UHD Roku Smart TV (85R6030N, 2024 Model) $548.00 at Walmart
$798.00 Save $250.00 Get Deal

We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again: Walmart’s early Black Friday deals are insanely good. We’ve seen huge price cuts on everything from headphones to speakers to smart TVs.

Speaking of, as of Nov. 25, you can snag a Hisense 85-inch Class R6 Series 4K UHD Roku Smart TV (85R6030N, 2024 Model) for just $548 — $250 off the list price.

SEE ALSO: Walmart Black Friday ad: The best deals you can buy online

This massive 85-inch smart TV features 4K UltraHD resolution, four times the resolution of standard 1080p HD, and HDR (high dynamic range) technology for improved color, contrast, and brightness. With Roku TV OS, you can stream your favorite shows and movies across a variety of apps or score free channels with Roku's extensive lineup of free content.

Game Mode Plus with VRP and three high-speed HDMI inputs make this TV great for gaming and connecting devices like streaming boxes, cable boxes, consoles, and more.

Walmart is the place to shop for early Black Friday deals, and this Hisense 4K TV is among the best we've seen.

GET $39.99 OFF: As of Nov. 25, you can get Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom for just $30.00. That's 57% off the original price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Nintendo Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom $30.00 at Walmart
$69.99 Save $39.99 Get Deal

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom has been out for about a year and a half, and it’s currently on sale for its best price yet by far ahead of Black Friday. The Great Sky Island is yours. 

The successor to the console-defining Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Tears of the Kingdom sends you into the sky. With crafting dynamics, cooking, and a vast and vertical open world, you’ll want to explore every inch of this vast game world. 

SEE ALSO: Save $75 on the Nintendo Switch OLED 'Mario Kart 8 Deluxe' bundle for Black Friday

Play as Link as he searches for Princess Zelda, battling through a Nintendo Switch world chock full of monsters to stop Ganondorf and save Hyrule. 

As of Nov. 25, Tears of the Kingdom is on sale for $39.99 off. Walmart+ members get access at 12pm EST, while everyone else can grab the sale at 5pm.

Tears of the Kingdom sold 10 million copies in its first three days and has sold more than that again since. Get it now for its best deal yet and glide through the kingdom of Hyrule.

I've been using PlayStation consoles for almost 30 years. So in this PS5 vs. PS5 Slim face off, I'll be helping you decide which console is best for you.

With the recent launch of the upgraded PS5 Pro console, now might be the perfect opportunity to snag a slightly older — yet still incredibly powerful — PS5.

With potential sweet deals, or even permanent price drops on the horizon, it’s essential to know exactly what you’re getting (and not getting) with the PS5 and PS5 Slim.

SEE ALSO: The price of Sony's PS5 Pro is 'brutal' and the internet hates it PS5 vs. PS5 Slim: price

For context, the original, non-slim PS5 has two versions: a digital one (without a disc drive) and one with a disc drive. The same can be said for the PS5 Slim; it's got a digital version and a disc one.

For whatever reason, Sony decided to not drop the prices of the new PS5 Slim models. The PS5 Slim with a disc drive is still $499, while the PS5 Slim without a disc drive is $449 — or a $50 increase over the original PS5 digital-only console.

• PS5 Slim (no disc drive) - $449

• PS5 Slim (with disc drive) - $499

• Original PS5 (no disc drive) - $399

• Original PS5 (disc drive) - $499

PS5 Slim (no disc drive) $374.00 at Amazon
$449.99 Save $75.99 Shop Now Sony PlayStation 5 $699.97 at Amazon
Get Deal

With that in mind, yes, the digital-only PS5 Slim is a money-saver in comparison to the one with a disc drive, but not in comparison to the digital-only model that launched in 2020.

The new price also means that buying a digital model before purchasing the additional disc drive would cost more than just snagging the version with a built-in drive. I don't really have a good explanation for that.

My only advice is this: If you want a PS5 that only costs $399, you better get one now. This is an important note: Once the existing stock of both original models sells out, the new slim models will replace them on store shelves.

PS5 vs. PS5 Slim: size

Obviously, size is what many gamers are most concerned about here, so let's get right to it. Looking at Sony's stated dimensions, you can see that the new PS5 is indeed smaller than the original:

• Original PS5 (disc version): 104mm (height) x 390mm (width) x 260mm (depth)

• PS5 Slim (disc version): 96mm (height) x 358mm (width) x 216mm (depth)

• Original PS5 (digital version): 92mm x 390mm x 260mm

• PS5 Slim (digital version): 80mm x 358mm x 216mm

Credit: Sony

In other words, per Sony's announcement blog post, that's about a 30 percent reduction in total volume. That's definitely an improvement, but there's some important context missing in just those raw numbers. The Verge ran a digital size comparison and discovered that both new models are still substantially larger than the Xbox Series X.

In other words, this "slim" console is still pretty dang big.

For a visual comparison, check out this awesome PS5 Slim vs. Regular Reddit post.

PS5 vs. PS5 Slim: performance and storage

Another important aspect of the new PS5 models to get out of the way is that they have the exact same internal capabilities as the originals. This isn't a PS4 vs. PS4 Pro situation. Games will run exactly the same across the spectrum of PS5 consoles.

Credit: Sony

One little internal bonus that owners of the new PS5s get, however, comes in the form of expanded storage. For some reason, the original PS5 only had 825GB of onboard storage, with the option to expand via external SSDs. The new ones have a full 1TB of built-in space, so you can install a few extra games depending on how big they are.

PS5 vs. PS5 Slim: disc drive

Just like at the PS5's launch in late 2020, there are two PS5 Slim models. One of them has a built-in disc drive and the other one is digital-only.

Credit: Sony

Well, sort of, anyway. There's an optional detachable disc drive you can buy for $79.99. It's a little goofy looking, but it should do exactly what you think it does. For physical media collectors, the disc drive is a must-buy.

It's worth noting, however, that the PS5 Slim, unlike the OG PS5, does not come with a vertical stand in the box. However, seasoned gamers will tell you that you should keep your PS5 to be stationed horizontally anyway.

Best Dyson Supersonic dupe deals ahead of Black Friday Best overall deal Laifen Swift $97.99 (Save $42 at Laifen) Get Deal Best under $70 Dreame Gleam hair dryer $69.99 (Save $30 at Amazon) Get Deal Best for minimizing heat damage Zuvi Halo $209 (Save $140 at Zuvi) Get Deal Best for smoothing and attachments Shark SpeedStyle Pro Flex $179 (Save $50.99 at Amazon) Get Deal Best if you also want an Airwrap Dreame Pocket hair dryer $99.99 (Save $60 at Amazon) Get Deal

Black Friday may be a great time of year to pick up the $429 Dyson Supersonic on sale (it is currently down to $329), but as someone who's tested Dyson's beauty tech lineup and the many dupes it's inspired, I wouldn't necessarily recommend going straight for the Supersonic just because it's $100 cheaper.

For starters, the Supersonic does drop down $100 in price over the course of the year, not just Black Friday — if you're willing to wait a few weeks from when you think to buy it, you'll almost certainly be able to score a deal. But maybe more importantly, you can actually save a lot more money if you opt for a dupe — and just a few days out from Black Friday on Nov. 29, each of the top picks I've personally tested for the best Dyson Supersonic dupes are on sale.

SEE ALSO: All the best early Black Friday deals at Amazon, Target, Best Buy, and Walmart

As it stands, Mashable recommends five different hair dryers to serve as worthy Dyson dupes, with each being suited to different needs, whether you want the cheapest dupe on the market (less than $100) or the dupe that'll minimize damage to your hair (infrared light does some heavy lifting here). Below, you'll find more info on each of the five picks on sale.

Best Supersonic dupe deal overall Opens in a new window Credit: Bethany Allard / Mashable Our pick: Laifen Swift $97.99 at Laifen
$139.99 Save $42.00 Get Deal Why we like it

The Laifen Swift is compact, lightweight, dries hair quickly, and looks and sounds like the a Dyson Supersonic. While you won't get the five attachment versatility that you do with the Supersonic, you might find that you prefer the simplicity of the Swift (or that this is a sacrifice you can make for a hair dryer that clocks in under $100 on sale). Attachment-wise, it's maybe a better one-to-one dupe of the Supersonic Origin, but at a much more reasonable price point.

With cheaper dupes, I like to test out their longevity as much as I can — I've used the Swift regularly for just under two years, and haven't seen it show its age at all. Yes, the hottest setting is a little too hot for me and the attachment options are limited, but in my experience, those have been the biggest cons. If you are looking for a diffuser, Laifen also offers a model that includes one for just a few dollars more.

Best Supersonic dupe deal for spending less than $70 Opens in a new window Credit: Bethany Allard / Mashable Our pick: Dreame Gleam hair dryer $69.99 at Amazon
$99.99 Save $30.00 Get Deal Why we like it

Usually, the Dreame Gleam hair dryer is our best Supersonic dupe under $100, but Black Friday upped the ante. If you have a Prime membership, you can grab this hair dryer on sale for just $69.99 at Amazon. If you don't have Prime, you can also pick this dryer up directly from Dreame's website. So what's the $28 difference between the Dreame and the Laifen dryers? To be honest, not a whole ton, but I can't personally attest to how the Dreame holds up over time (I tested it for the first time in Oct. 2024). What I will say is the Gleam doesn't have a diffuser attachment you can bundle, it doesn't sound like a Supersonic, and it is the slightest bit bulkier than the Laifen Swift.

Best Supersonic dupe deal for minimizing hair damage Opens in a new window Credit: Bethany Allard / Mashable Our pick: Zuvi Halo $209.00 at Zuvi
$349.00 Save $140.00 Get Deal Why we like it

The Zuvi Halo certainly isn't the cheapest dupe we recommend, but it's maybe the most unique. Unlike other options, this dryer doesn't try to outright copy Dyson's idea for a heat-minimizing dryer so much as offer an alternative that's just as innovative, thanks to the ring of infrared lights it uses in tandem with its airflow. While I was initially skeptical of how much these lights would actually do anything, I found that the Halo often left my hair feeling soft and shiny, and used noticeably cooler air than either of the above two dupes.

Instead of heat and air settings, the Halo has "care" modes you choose from, which automatically set the heat and intensity of the air you're getting. That might be a bit annoying for someone who craves more customizability, but for set-and-forget types, this feature might just be a godsend. At this sale price of $209, the Halo is still less than half the price of the Supersonic at full price, and $120 cheaper than the Supersonic on sale.

Best Supersonic dupe deal for the smoothest hair possible Opens in a new window Credit: Bethany Allard / Mashable Our pick: Shark SpeedStyle Pro Flex $179.00 at Amazon
$229.99 Save $50.99 Shop Now Why we like it

Shark is known for making some of the best Dyson dupes on the market, and though the SpeedStyle Pro Flex doesn't look anything like a Supersonic, if your goal is smooth hair and a good selection of attachments, this is the hair dryer to get. In addition to a standard drying nozzle, the Pro Flex comes with a QuickSmooth brush, a diffuser, and a FrizzFighter finishing tool. Each of these attachments automatically adjust the heat and speed setting for what Shark would consider the most optimal for each, but unlike the Zuvi, you can easily manually adjust each, too.

As for storage, this configuration of the ProFlex doesn't come with a storage case, but the folding neck does make the hair dryer a slightly less awkward shape to store. At $179, you'll save $50.99 on this hair dryer, grabbing it at the lowest price we've ever seen.

Best Supersonic dupe deal if you also want an Airwrap Opens in a new window Credit: Bethany Allard / Mashable Our pick: Dreame Pocket hair dryer $99.99 at Amazon
$159.99 Save $60.00 Get Deal Why we like it

If you've been eyeing the Dyson Supersonic, there's also a good chance you've checked out the Dyson Airwrap. If the $600 price tag scared you away, fair (though it is now $100 off for Black Friday). Sale price or not, that multistyler is expensive, and for many, the most interesting attachment can be the Coanda-air powered curling wands. With so many dupes on the market these days, this is no longer a Dyson exclusive option, even if you're looking at a more traditional hair dryer.

The Dreame Pocket hair dryer is super compact, with a neck that folds down and up, meaning you can use it as you would any hair dryer, fold it down for storing, or fold it up to use the curling nozzle (it also comes with a smoothing nozzle). While it does only go in one direction, it still gives a pretty, bouncy blowout — it didn't really curl my hair, but neither does the Airwrap curling wands, as both are more targeted at providing wavy blowout than true curls. The pocket also comes with a convenient storage bag that fits everything into a surprisingly compact package. I recommend it at full price, which makes it even easier to say its worth giving a go at $99.99.

SAVE $50: As of Nov. 25, you can score a pair of JLab JBuds Lux ANC headphones for just $29 at Walmart. That's a savings of $50 and a crazy good deal.

Opens in a new window Credit: JLab JLab JBuds Lux ANC headphones $29.00 at Walmart
$79.99 Save $50.99 Get Deal

Looking to score a wicked deal on noise-cancelling headphones? Walmart’s early Black Friday sale has tons of deals on headphones, including the JLab JBuds Lux ANC headphones.

As of Nov. 25, you can snag these babies for just $29 — that’s an insanely good deal for a pair of headphones that typically retail for around $79.99. The lowest price we’ve ever seen on these is $46.99 (Amazon’s current price), so this $29 sale price is an absolute steal. Note: This deal is only available online.

SEE ALSO: Walmart Black Friday ad: The best deals you can buy online

The JLab JBuds Lux ANC headphones feature 40mm drivers and active noise cancellation technology to help block out background noise, whether you're on a noisy flight, in the office, or just trying to focus at home. With the ANC on, you can get 40 hours of playtime. With ANC off, that jumps up to 70 hours.

There’s also a “Be Aware” mode that lets you hear your surroundings while listening to music or podcasts, so you can stay safe when walking or biking. You can adjust this setting, get software updates, and more with the JLab App.

With Bluetooth connectivity and a built-in mic, you can take hands-free calls and control your music playback from the headphones. Plus, the Cloud Foam ear cushions are super soft and comfortable. We’d definitely recommend hopping on this deal before it’s gone.

SAVE $45.95: As of Nov. 25, you can snag an OtterBox Defender Series Pro case for your iPhone 16 Pro for just $19 at Walmart. That's a savings of $45.95.

Opens in a new window Credit: OtterBox OtterBox Defender Series Pro iPhone 16 Pro case $19.00 at Walmart
$54.00 Save $35.00 Get Deal

We’re just a few days from Black Friday, but Walmart’s website is overflowing with deals you can take advantage of right now. From headphones to mobile accessories, Walmart’s impressing us with its pre-Black Friday sales.

As of Nov. 25, you can grab an OtterBox Defender Series Pro phone case for the iPhone 16 Pro for just $19 at Walmart. That’s $45.95 off the list price and a really good deal for a tough-as-nails phone case.

SEE ALSO: All the best early Black Friday deals at Amazon, Target, Best Buy, and Walmart

Remember, this deal is available to Walmart+ members at noon ET and non-members at 5 p.m. ET. If you want to hop on it early, you’ll need to sign up for a Walmart Plus membership right now, which is half-off for new members through Dec. 2.

The OtterBox Defender Series Pro Case for MagSafe iPhone 16 Pro is a multi-layered case that provides heavy-duty protection. It features DROP+ technology, which safeguards your phone from five times more drops than the military standard, and raised edges to protect your camera, screen, and port openings from dust and dirt.

JUST $178: As of Nov. 25, Walmart shoppers can get a 55-inch Hisense 4K TV for just $178 ahead of Black Friday. Note that this deal goes live at 12PM ET on Nov. 25 for Walmart+ members exclusively, and then will be open to everyone starting at 5PM ET.

Opens in a new window Credit: Hisense Hisense 55-inch Class R6 Series 4K UHD Roku Smart TV $178.00 at Walmart
Get Deal

Black Friday is hands-down one of the best times to get a new TV — tons of can't-miss deals tend to go live before the main event officially starts, and 2024 is looking like it's going to follow suit.

If you're looking for a new 4K TV but don't have a huge budget this holiday shopping season, this deal from Walmart should absolutely be on your radar: The retailer is offering a 55-inch Hisense 4K TV for just $178. It's one of the cheapest 55-inch 4K TVs we've seen leading up to Black Friday and is bound to sell out quickly, so make sure you don't miss out.

SEE ALSO: Early Black Friday TV deals at Best Buy and Walmart absolutely school Amazon's

There is one catch, though. This deal will only be available to Walmart+ members for a short period of time before being released to the general public. So if you're not a member, you'll want to act fast when the deal goes live for you, because you'll be shopping the leftover stock. The deal will become redeemable for Walmart+ members starting at 12PM ET on Nov. 25, and then will be available to all other shoppers starting at 5PM ET on the same day.

GET $20 OFF: As of Nov. 25, you can get a set of Nintendo Joy-Cons (L/R) - Left Neon Red/ Right Neon Blue Controllers for just $59.00. That's 25% off the original price or $20 off.

Opens in a new window Credit: Nintendo Nintendo Switch Joy-Con (L/R) - Left Neon Red/ Right Neon Blue Controllers $59.00 at Walmart
$79.00 Save $20.00 Get Deal

It’s the time of year for huge discounts, but even so, our eyebrows shot up when we saw that Nintendo Joy-Cons are on sale today for $20 off. The Switch system remains immensely popular — consequently Joy-Cons rarely ever get significant discounts.

Whether you’re a cozy gamer doing dealings with Animal Crossing’s Tom Nook, or you’re battling your friends in Super Smash Bros, Joy-Cons are your point of entry to the action. The Nintendo Switch’s signature is its ability to transition from handheld system to TV and Joy-Cons make this happen.

SEE ALSO: Save $75 on the Nintendo Switch OLED 'Mario Kart 8 Deluxe' bundle for Black Friday

Attached to a Switch, they control the action on the Switch’s main screen. Unattached to the screen, they connect with a Joy-Con Grip to make one large controller or function as two individual controllers. As individual controllers, each contains a separate accelerometer and gyro-sensor.

As of Nov. 25 you can get a set of Nintendo Joy-Cons (L/R) - Left Neon Red/ Right Neon Blue Controllers for $59.00 and save 25%.

As a gift, Joy-Cons open up multiplayer gaming for a Switch owner. The clear choice as a part gaming system Nintendo Switch is a great choice for multiplayer gaming, and a gift of Joy-Cons brings even more friends into the action.

GET $50 OFF: As of Nov. 25 at 12PM EST, Lego Ideas The Office US TV Show Series Dunder Mifflin Scranton Model Building Set is on sale for $70, save $50 at Walmart.

Opens in a new window Credit: Lego Lego Ideas The Office US TV Show Series Dunder Mifflin Scranton Model Building Set, 21336 $70.00 at Walmart
$120.00 Save $50.00 Get Deal

Resurrected from the Schrute Farms compost bin, The Office Dunder Mifflin Scranton Model Building Set brings the classic Scranton comedy to life. The set was recently retired by Lego; if you were eyeing the set and missed out, this is your notice that it's back now. Get it on sale for Black Friday week at Walmart.

SEE ALSO: 15+ of the best Lego Black Friday deals you can shop early

With 15 mini-figures that you’ll recognize from Dunder Mifflin HQ, you’ll be able to call a meeting in the boardroom, banish Michael Scott to sulk in his office, or give Pam an engagement ring. The set even comes with Dwight’s secret stash of weapons and Michael’s "World's Best Boss" mug.

As of Nov. 25 at noon EST, The Office Lego Building Set is on sale for $70 for a total savings of $50.

Made for adult fans of The Office, this collector’s set comes with an illustrated book about The Office and the set’s creators.

If you’ve been following this Lego Ideas set you might have thought it was gone for good. Don’t wait, because it might not come out of retirement again. As Michael says, “Fool me once, strike one. But fool me twice... strike three.”

SAVE $150: As of Nov. 25, you can snag the JBL Partybox 110 at Walmart for $199. That's a 43% discount or $150.95 off the list price. Note: The Walmart MSRP price is slightly inflated, so we're basing this off the actual MSRP.

Opens in a new window Credit: JBL JBL Partybox 110 $199.00 at Walmart
$399.95 Save $200.95 Get Deal

If you’ve been looking for a speaker that doubles as a karaoke machine, we’ve found just the product — and it’s on sale.

As of Nov. 25, you can get the JBL Partybox 110 for just $199 at Walmart. (Walmart+ shoppers can snag it at this price at noon; non-members will have to wait until 5 p.m. ET.) That’s a $150.95 discount and a record-low price for this speaker. It looks like Amazon, Best Buy, and the JBL website are selling it for a mere 95 to 99 cents more, so if Walmart sells out, you can still grab it elsewhere for a great price.

SEE ALSO: Black Friday store hours: What time do Walmart, Best Buy, Target and more open their doors?

The JBL Partybox 110 is a fun, portable party speaker that can fill a room with that signature JBL Original Pro Sound. It’s IPX4 splashproof (take it to the pool or the beach) and has a mic and guitar input, so you can use it as an amp or host karaoke nights.

With the PartyBox App, you can control your music, update settings, and customize the colors and patterns of the lights — perfect for setting the mood at any event. You'll get up to 12 hours of battery life on a single charge.

Dictionary.com's word of the year is demure, a nod to the "very mindful, very demure" social media trend started by TikTokker Jools Lebron.

Demure beat out brainrot, brat (inspired by the Charli XCX album of the same name), extreme weather, midwest nice, and weird. Dictionary.com defines demure as "characterized by shyness or modesty; reserved," but its announcement acknowledged that the use popularized by Jools changes the word's meaning.

SEE ALSO: 'Pookie' is more than a pet name. TikTok's new favorite word is rooted in a rich cultural history.

Online, it's come to mean anything from self-aware, sophisticated, and restrained to good and praiseworthy. But as is the case with any viral word, it's also come to mean nothing.

Jools first posted how to be mindful and demure in early August. "You see how I do my makeup for work? Very demure. Very mindful," she said in the now-viral video. "I don't come to work with a green-cut crease. I don't look like a clown when I go to work. I don't do too much. I'm very mindful while I'm at work."

SEE ALSO: 'Very demure' demonstrates TikTok's ability to shape modern language

The word quickly caught on and was inescapable online. Dictionary.com saw 200 times more searches for the word than it did on dates preceding August.

UPDATE: Nov. 25, 2024, 10:15 a.m. EST This post has been updated with the latest pricing on all available AirPods models ahead of Black Friday.

Best early Black Friday AirPods deals Best AirPods Pro deal Apple AirPods Pro 2 $169.99 (save $79.01) Get Deal Best AirPods Max deal Apple AirPods Max $399.99 (save $149.01) Get Deal

Black Friday isn't here just yet, but it kind of already is, if that makes sense. You know the drill: Before most big shopping events nowadays, we usually see a bunch of early deals start to slowly crop up, ones that are definitely worth paying attention to. Especially if you're looking for tech products — Black Friday and pre-Black-Friday are always exciting times for those who are looking to catch up on the latest and greatest that the industry has to offer.

Headphones definitely fall into that category, specifically Apple's line of popular audio tech: AirPods. A few different AirPods models are on sale in the weeks preceding Black Friday, including the lastest release, the AirPods 4.

SEE ALSO: The 8 best noise-cancelling headphones of 2024

Check out all the best early Black Friday AirPods deals we could find below, and be sure to keep checking back, because we'll be updating this page as more offers go live.

Best AirPods Pro deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple AirPods Pro 2 $169.99 at Amazon
$249.00 Save $79.01 Get Deal Why we like it

Check out our full review of the Apple AirPods Pro 2.

The Apple AirPods Pro 2, which come packed with great features like ANC, hearing protection options, personalized spatial audio, and more, are currently $60 off at Amazon ahead of Black Friday. Considering the record low price on these earbuds is $168.99, we're definitely expecting to see a better price drop during Black Friday. Though that $168 price point may be rare, we frequently see these earbuds go on sale for $199 throughout the year, so much so that we don't really consider that a good deal anymore.

Best AirPods Max deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple AirPods Max (Lightning) $399.99 at Amazon
$549.00 Save $149.01 Get Deal Why we like it

Check out our full review of the Apple AirPods Max.

If you're not really into earbuds, the AirPods Max are a good pair of over-ear headphones that'll allow you to stay within the Apple ecosystem (we get it, we like our tech to have synergy, too). While we like them for Apple users, we do have some qualms with their shorter battery life, weird carrying case, and lack of a power button, especially at their price point. That said, it's easier to look past those flaws with a good discount, which you'll find on the Lightning pairs instead of the newer USB-C model (which is the only upgrade, other than different colorways, on the newer version of these headphones).

More early Black Friday AirPods deals

• Apple AirPods (2nd Generation) — $89 $129 (save $40)

• Apple AirPods 4 (without ANC) — $119 $129 (save $10)

• Apple AirPods 4 (with ANC) — $168.99 $179 (save $10.01)

SAVE 75%: Through Dec. 2, new and returning Peacock subscribers can score a year of ad-supported Peacock Premium for either $1.99/month for six months (reg. $7.99/month) or $19.99 an entire year (reg. $79.99/year) using the codes REALDEALMONTHLY or REALDEAL, respectively.

Opens in a new window Credit: Peacock Peacock Premium $1.99/month for six months or $19.99/year (save 75%) Get Deal

Peacock has consistently dropped one of the most impressive Black Friday deals for multiple years in a row. Thankfully, this year is no different.

From Nov. 25 through Dec. 2, new and returning subscribers can sign up for Peacock Premium (the ad-supported tier) for either $1.99/month for six months with the code REALDEALMONTHLY or $19.99/year with the code REALDEAL. That's 75% off the usual streaming cost either way you slice it. At a glance, this basically mirrors Peacock's Black Friday deal from last year, but since the streamer raised its prices back in July — now $7.99/month or $79.99/year (up from $5.99/month or $59.99/year) — it's actually a much bigger discount.

If you've never checked out Peacock, Mashable's film editor found that it's a subscription worth your while — even at full price. At $19.99 for an entire year, it's a complete no-brainer. Peacock is home to popular shows like The Office, New Girl, Law & Order: SVU, and Yellowstone, as well as new theatrical releases like Twisters, The Fall Guy, and Abigail. For reality TV junkies, it's also the home of all of your favorites from Bravo. Don't sleep on Peacock Originals like Poker Face and Mrs. Davis either. Check out our watch guides for the best shows on Peacock, the most binge-worthy shows on Peacock, the best horror movies on Peacock, and more if you need more convincing.

With a Premium subscription, you'll have to sit through some ads, but with this Black Friday deal, it's kind of hard to complain. Just think of those ads as built-in snack and bathroom breaks. If you want to avoid paying full price, be sure to cancel your subscription before the promotional period is up.

SAVE $100: The Lomi 2 food recycler, normally $599, is available for only $499 as part of the brand's Black Friday sale. For even more savings, Pela (Lomi's parent company) is offering two package deals that include the Lomi, along with extras, like regular shipments of odor-eliminating charcoal filters.

Opens in a new window Credit: Courtesy Lomi Lomi 2 food recycler $499.00 at Pela
$599.00 Save $100.00 Get Deal

The idea of composting may conjure images of stinky barrels overflowing with bugs. Pela's Lomi 2 food recycler is a much more accessible way of cutting down waste (along with reducing garbage bags and trips to the bins). About the size of a slow cooker, Lomi makes composting food scraps and paper waste possible on your countertop, so you can do your part for the environment without having to leave your home or apartment (read Mashable's very thorough review of Lomi here). The machine is also relatively quiet and one composting cycle uses less than 1kWh of electricity, less energy than a dishwasher load.

As mentioned, Pela's Black Friday deals feature more than the $499 Lomi 2 special. Because the composter requires recurring materials — namely, charcoal filters that eliminate bad smells — the other deals combine the Lomi with a "membership." One option for $359 and $10 per month includes the Lomi 2, along with a starter pack of the charcoal filters and a one-year supply of filter refills (4 packs); the $10 charge is billed annually.

Another special holiday option is available for $399 and $10 per month — it includes the Lomi 2, a starter pack of charcoal filters, the one-year supply of filter refills, a Lomi Cap (a place to store scraps while the Lomi is busy composting older detritus), and a three-pack of wax wraps (an eco-friendly replacement for plastic wrap).

All three specials are available for a limited time.

For the first time since 2012, Sony is developing a legitimate handheld device for playing PlayStation games, Bloomberg reports.

There isn't much else to say about the device right now, as Bloomberg noted that it's most likely years away from launch — if Sony decides to follow through with launching it at all. Sometimes, products like this go through some portion of development only to get scrapped before seeing the light of day.

SEE ALSO: PlayStation Portal just got a big update

Bloomberg's reporting indicated the machine would be able to natively play PS5 games on the go, which means it would have to be more powerful than the current crop of premium handhelds like the Steam Deck. That would also distinguish it from the recently released PlayStation Portal, which does allow you to stream PS5 games on the go, but only as long as you have a constant Wi-Fi connection.

Sony's sudden interest in returning to the handheld market is interesting because it didn't go well last time. The PSP made some waves in the mid-2000s, but the PlayStation Vita (launched in 2012) failed to generate any traction whatsoever, with Sony neglecting to release many big first-party games for it over its lifespan. However, since then, the Nintendo Switch has taken over the world, and Xbox is even reportedly working on a handheld.

What's old is new again, apparently.

It's all about Keanu Reeves and the end of the world as we know it in the latest trailer for Sonic the Hedgehog 3.

Reeves made a cheeky cameo as Shadow the Hedgehog in Sonic 2, but will be up front in this one as the key villain. He's up against an unlikely team: Ben Schwartz returning as Sonic, Colleen O'Shaughnessey back voicing Tails, and Idris Elba crushing it as Knuckles.

But as you'll see from the trailer, perpetual Sonic series highlight Jim Carrey is also back, this time playing both Dr. Ivo "Eggman" Robotnik and his grandfather Gerald, Shadow's creator. That's a lot of villain firepower.

Sonic the Hedgehog 3 hits cinemas Dec. 21.

For the members of Le Sserafim, few things are as essential as a pair of headphones. Whether they’re laying down tracks in the studio, tuning out the chaos of a bustling airport, or curating the ultimate playlist for a late-night dance session, the right pair of headphones is more than a functional tool — it's an accessory, a statement, and a key to their world as international superstars who spend a lot of time in transit. 

The K-pop group’s latest collaboration with Sony Audio brings this idea to life with the release of a new Smoky Pink colorway for the brand’s acclaimed 1000X noise-canceling headphones. By fusing cutting-edge technology with the group’s chic, trendsetting style, the partnership redefines the relationship between music, fashion, and self-expression, something Huh Yunjin highlights as integral to their bold, confident image. 

"When we first saw the actual headphones on the set of our commercial, it had a dreamy and transient kind of feel, which went well with the concept of 'Crazy,'" she shares with Mashable over a Zoom call. "Whenever we're on the go, we like to have our headphones with us. We like listening to music, but we also like the look of it. It's aesthetic." Yunjin laughs, then adds, "And it makes you look busy!"

Le Sserafim’s Sony collaboration captures the essence of their lifestyle: balancing creative work with moments of unplugged downtime. Credit: Courtesy of Sony Audio

It’s not like Kim Chaewon, Sakura, Huh Yunjin, Kazuha, and Hong Eunchae need any help looking busy. As one of the industry’s most in-demand girl groups, the girls have spent more time accruing airline miles and being shuttled from one schedule to another than at home. Following the release of their single "Crazy" in August, Le Sserafim attended their very first MTV Video Music Awards in New York City, where they performed the club song during the VMAs pre-show and took home their first Moon Person. Then, earlier this month, they performed on the main stage at the 2024 MTV Europe Music Awards in Manchester, UK. 

When Mashable catches up with the group in late October, they’re in the middle of preparations for their next album and the upcoming slate of end-of-year music performances. “We’re grinding,” Yunjin says. So, their tech becomes an outlet for creativity and relaxation amid their demanding schedules. For Sakura, the group’s resident gamer, her headphones are as essential for winding down as they are for work. Last year, she even crocheted ribbons and tied them in bows on her headset. 

SEE ALSO: The 15 best K-pop songs of 2024 (so far)

Accessorizing their tech like this reflects their unique personalities, adding a more personal touch to their busy lives. Chaewon’s phone background is her dog, Shiro. For Yunjin’s birthday in early October, the members gifted her with custom stickers of herself. Sakura proudly displays one on her floral phone case. "I put some on mine as well," Yunjin says, holding her phone to the camera. Her phone is a colorful mix of charms and characters that mirror her outgoing personality. She recently added a small dog charm to her device. "I used to have a lotus flower and a jellyfish charm," she adds. "I literally changed it two minutes before this meeting."

In contrast to Yunjin’s eclectic, colorful style, Kazuha takes a more minimalistic approach to her tech as she shows off her sleek and sophisticated black phone case. "I like things that are very simple and clear-cut," the lithe dancer says. "Not only for my phone, but I think the Sony headsets are beautiful, just in and of themselves. So, I use them as they are because they look cool and chic."

The distinction between their accessories speaks to the group’s versatility, blending individuality with collective unity. From Eunchae's fun, bold approach to accessorizing her cherry phone case to Kazuha's minimalist sophistication, each member brings something unique, reflecting their broader approach to fashion — always evolving and always on-trend.

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"If you feel like something is missing, adding a pair of headphones perfects the whole look," Eunchae explains. For example, the youngest member likes wearing her headphones around her neck. "It makes you look really relaxed and chill," she says. "Sometimes, I also put my headphones around my bag, so they dangle on it." Whether it’s sleek wireless headphones or a chic pair of wired ones, the group sees tech as a way to elevate their aesthetic.

"Our style is diverse," Yunjin says, "so having long-lasting accessories that can suit every look is important because our hair colors change all the time."

But their relationship with tech doesn’t stop at how they style it. As idols, they’re constantly connected to their devices. Their phones are tools for staying connected with their fans and indulging in their hobbies. Between rehearsals and performances, Yunjin scrolls through social media, interacts with their fan community, and, like many in the group, keeps her creative flow going by curating playlists for different moods. "I use my phone mostly to listen to music," Chaewon adds. Meanwhile, you can find Sakura watching her favorite dramas on her phone. "I spend a lot of time watching films and shows on streaming apps." Currently, Sakura and her bandmates are obsessed with the cooking competition series Culinary Class Wars on Netflix. "Eunchae is the only one who hasn't watched it yet, but she feels like it's too late to hop on the bandwagon, so we’re waiting for Season 2," Yunjin laughs. 

The members are also obsessed with their digital cameras, which they’ve personalized with stickers. "I know there was a boom for digital cameras before I was born," Eunchae says. "But I think people are enjoying that retro vibe and feel that those little cameras give."

But as much as tech plays a vital role in their lives, the members of Le Sserafim also recognize the need to step away from their devices every once in a while. Despite their constant connection to the digital world, they find ways to unplug and recharge in moments of downtime, disconnecting from the buzz of notifications and the pressures of social media.

Eunchae shares a fun ritual the group has adopted: "When we eat together, we'll say, 'OK, let’s put our phones face down and just talk.' If someone’s caught looking at their phone, they get playfully scolded by the others." It’s a small but meaningful way they create space for real connection amidst their tech-heavy lives.

Smoky Pink matches the dreamy vibe of Le Sserafim's latest EP, 'Crazy.' Credit: Courtesy of Sony Audio

Yunjin echoes this sentiment, explaining that while it’s difficult to escape technology, she tries to use it more intentionally. "I try to interact with technology as a creator instead of just a consumer," she says. "We film TikToks between schedules or get together for creative projects. Yesterday, we filmed like 10 TikToks. It’s a way for us to stay productive and have fun with tech." But even she knows when to completely log off. "Sometimes I’ll just read or write, away from the screen, to reset."

Sakura, on the other hand, finds solace in more tactile activities. "I like to knit," she says. "It helps me relax and disconnect from social media. It’s a peaceful hobby that gives me a moment of quiet focus." For Sakura, knitting is more than just a pastime — it’s a mindful way to be present, away from the digital world constantly demanding attention. She’s also excited to read the paperback book her mom sent her from Japan. 

For all the time they spend online, whether for work or leisure, these moments of unplugging remind the members of the importance of balance — using technology to enhance their lives while also taking time to nurture their creativity, friendships, and well-being in a more analog way. 

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Whether you were defying gravity or battling Colosseum sharks this weekend, chances are you were watching either Wicked or Gladiator II — the so-called "Glicked" pair smashed the box office in their opening weekend.

Jon M. Chu's adaptation of the musical starring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande debuted in the U.S. this weekend, making $114 million at the domestic box office and $164 million globally, according to Box Office Mojo.

SEE ALSO: Everything you need to know about those showstopping 'Wicked' cameos

And yes, it's a record opening weekend for a Broadway musical adaptation, beating Into the Woods' top domestic opening from a decade ago ($31 million).

That's also a fair U.S. lead over blockbuster pal Gladiator II; Ridley Scott's epic sequel drew in $55.5 million domestic, although the total international takings for the film ($221 million) are currently above those of Wicked. Granted, Gladiator II has had more time at the international box office, premiering in Australia on Oct. 30 and releasing in the UK on Nov. 15.

Featured Video For You How director Jon M. Chu made 'Wicked'

There's no delusions of grandeur here; together, the combined "Glicked" pair raked in $170 million over the weekend in the U.S.

The biggest U.S. opening weekend of the year is still Deadpool & Wolverine, which opened to $211 million at the domestic box office, followed by Inside Out 2 with $155 million, but Wicked managed to scoot past Beetlejuice Beetlejuice at $111 million.

The total takings will be an interesting ride for Wicked and Gladiator II, and I'll be personally watching how many fans return for multiple viewings — in Wicked's case, maybe you couldn't actually hear the film over audience participation...

Apple is not working on a new version of AirPods Max. Sorry.

This is according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, who mentioned it in his latest "Power On" newsletter.

In September 2024, the company technically launched a new version of AirPods Max, but they're essentially the same as the previous model, with the only notable change being the switch from Lightning port to USB-C.

If that got you expecting something more in the future, we've got bad news: Gurman claims that Apple has no immediate plans to upgrade the AirPods Max "in a meaningful way."

SEE ALSO: From 'That's So True' to 'Apple,' here are TikTok's most viral songs of 2024

On one hand, it may be proof that the current version is simply selling well enough, giving the company no immediate reason to upgrade. Or perhaps, as Gurman believes, the sales are too low, giving Apple little reason to bother with an upgrade.

It's a pity, given that the AirPods Max don't support some of Apple's own Apple Music features, including Adaptive Audio or Lossless audio quality.

The lack of Lossless support is particularly odd for Apple's top headphones. Apple Music started offering lossless-quality audio back in 2021 (for a primer of what this means, go here), about a year after it launched the AirPods Max. Four years later, the $549 AirPods Max still have the same H1 chip inside (the company launched a new, H2 chip in the meantime, and it currently powers the AirPods Pro and the 4th generation AirPods).

Another tidbit from Gurman's latest newsletter has to do with Apple's Siri, which is apparently getting a new overhaul soon. Gurman wrote about it in the recent report, saying that the company is testing a "more conversational" Siri, but that it is unlikely to launch before 2026.

SAVE OVER $80: As of Nov. 25, the RayNeo Air 2s AR/XR Glasses are available for $319 at Amazon. That’s a 20% discount off their $399.99 list price.

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Been dreaming of stepping into a sci-fi future? In that case, the RayNeo Air 2s AR glasses might be your ticket — and with this Black Friday deal, the price is a little less otherworldly. Currently, Amazon has these high-tech specs for $319, which is $80 off their usual $399.99 price tag.

The RayNeo Air 2s delivers a cinema-worthy experience with its 201-inch Sony micro OLED display, designed for gamers, movie buffs, and tech enthusiasts alike. Yes, that's "201 inches" in your line of vision. With a refresh rate of 120Hz and brightness that clocks in at an eye-popping 5,000 nits, these glasses provide vivid, seamless visuals whether you're binge-watching, gaming, or casually flexing on your friends.

SEE ALSO: Best PS5 Black Friday deals: Compare Best Buy, Amazon, Target, and more

Sound is equally impressive, thanks to the glasses' quad-speaker setup, which promises immersive, dynamic stereo quality. It's like having a mini sound studio perched on your face. And speaking of comfort, the lightweight design (only 78 grams) and adjustable fit mean you can wear them for hours without feeling like you're in a cyberpunk neck workout.

Compatibility? These glasses play nice with almost everything: iPhones, Androids, Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, PS5, and Macs. However, depending on your device, you may need an adapter for full functionality (sad trombone for older iPhones with Lightning ports).

Amazon is sweetening the deal with extra bundle savings, including options that add portable adapters or gaming accessories. You'll also get a coupon for a free portable adapter with a 4,500mAh battery, perfect for long flights or epic gaming sessions.

This futuristic gadget is a tech lover's dream gift. Ready to make it yours? Head to Amazon before this Black Friday deal disappears faster than the final boss in a glitchy speedrun.