IT General

SAVE $30: As of Feb. 18, the Apple Pencil Pro is on sale for $99 at Amazon. That's a saving of 23% on list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple Pencil Pro $99.00 at Amazon
$129.00 Save $30.00 Get Deal

The Apple Pencil Pro is the latest in Apple's lineup of stylus pens. Released in 2024, the new and improved pencil features a whole host of impressive upgrades and new features to shout about. And as of Feb. 18, you can get it for $30 cheaper at Amazon, now just $99.

But why upgrade to this new model? Well, this model has much more advanced control than previous Apple Pencils. By just rotating the pencil you can change the brush or pen tool settings mid-drawing. The squeeze interaction is also new and allows users to change modes or activate tools simply by squeezing the pencil.

SEE ALSO: Save $50 on Beats Studio Buds at Amazon

The Pencil Pro also includes haptic feedback. This clever feature essentially mimics the feeling of writing or drawing on real paper, delivering subtle vibrations to match the activity being performed on the iPad.

Similar to the Apple Pencil 2, the Pro can be charged wirelessly by magnetically attaching to the side of compatible iPads. According to Apple, the Apple Pencil Pro is compatible with the iPad Pro 13-inch (M4), iPad Pro 11-inch (M4), iPad Air 13-inch (M2), and iPad Air 11-inch (M2).

Head to Amazon to snag this great deal.

SAVE $50: As of Feb. 18, the Beats Studio Buds are reduced to $99.95 at Amazon. That's a saving of 33% on list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Beats Beats Studio Buds $99.95 at Amazon
$149.95 Save $50.00 Get Deal

Beats are some of the best headphones and earbuds you can get. Famed for their punchy bass and quality sound, there really are few names as reliable. And as of Feb. 18, you can get a pair of the Beats Studio Buds for less, currently reduced to $99.95 at Amazon.

These earbuds have two listening modes: Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) and Transparency mode. Transparency mode allows you to listen to your music or podcasts while still being able to hear noise around you such as cars, bikes, and other loud noises. This is also ideal for runners who want to remain safe and aware of their surroundings while listening to music.

SEE ALSO: TikTok is back in Apple and Google's U.S. app stores

Like most Beats earbuds, these are designed with comfort in mind. They come with three soft ear tip sizes for a secure and comfortable fit. They also boast an eight-hour battery life, with an additional 16 hours provided by the charging case. And if you take your earbuds on the go, these are IPX4-rated sweat- and water-resistant earbuds, so there's more protection for strenuous use or any accidental mishaps.

Head to Amazon now to grab this limited-time deal.

For many, range anxiety is still a stumbling block to EV adoption, even though tech has come on leaps and bounds in recent years. Generally speaking, EVs have performance on tap, but its their range that lets them down—that was until one particular luxury EV sedan came along.

As I write this, I am on my third MacBook since leaving Windows behind, and every time I've said "no thanks" to the larger internal storage options. While some people might have a good reason to pay for a bigger internal drive, I've always found external SSDs to be the better solution.

Save scumming is a subset of the "cheesing" tradition in video games, and I've always used this particular trick with glee. That is, until modern RPGs taught me how much better they can be without this cheeky workaround.

South Korea is the latest governing body to restrict the Chinese company DeepSeek based on the company's data policies.

South Korean officials on Saturday announced a temporary suspension of downloading the DeepSeek app until it complies with local data protection laws under the country's Personal Information Protection Act.

SEE ALSO: Could Trump ban DeepSeek? What the TikTok ban saga tells us.

After analyzing the app's policies, the Personal Information Protection Commission (PIPC) "identified some shortcomings in communication functions and personal information processing policies with third-party service providers," according to a press release translated from Korean to English. The PIPC said it will unblock downloads on local app stores once DeepSeek "meets the requirements of domestic protection laws."

DeepSeeks burst onto the AI scene in January with an advanced reasoning chatbot that was free, open-source, and made for a fraction of the cost of popular models like OpenAI's o1. But its privacy policy was just as newsworthy since the company collects extensive user data and stores it on servers in China, making it accessible to the Chinese government in accordance with local laws.

Countries quickly took note and raised the alarm about data protection and national security risks, given China's status as a foreign adversary. Ireland and Italy have both sent inquiries requesting more information about DeepSeek's policies, and Italy has subsequently blocked downloads. Australia also recently banned the use of DeepSeek on government devices. Since DeepSeek's emergence, U.S. federal legislation has been introduced to ban DeepSeek on government devices and New York and Texas have already moved to do the same in their respective state legislation.

Back in South Korea, the announcement said users who have already downloaded DeepSeek will still have access, but told users to "use the app with caution" and not enter personal information.

Single-board computers (SBCs) present a great way for tinkerers and hobbyists to make their projects a reality without spending a lot of cash or dealing with multiple computing components. They offer everything you might need on one tiny board.

There's no doubt that the "pay-to-win" model used in modern games pretty much sucks from top to bottom, but gaming started out in arcades where, if you put in enough tokens, it was possible to reach the end of most games, though perhaps not get the high score.

Good posture is important, but it's tricky to maintain. That's why I was surprised to find that my Samsung Galaxy Buds can lend a helping hand in preventing neck ache.

Paywalled subreddits are coming this year, confirmed by Reddit CEO Steve Huffman.

In a prerecorded video AMA (Ask Me Anything) on Friday answering redditors' questions about the company's Q4 2024 earnings, Reddit executives shared some more information about its plans to monetize the social media forum.

Reddit

Back in August 2024, Huffman hinted that paywalled subreddits were on the way, saying, "we will unlock the door for new use cases, new types of subreddits that can be built that may have exclusive content or private areas, things of that nature."

When asked about the progress of monetizing subreddits during Friday's video, Huffman said, "it's a work in progress right now so that one's coming. We're working on it as we speak." In a separate question about key features for 2025, Huffman confirmed that users can expect to see the introduction of paid subreddits this this year.

Reddit had remained a pretty consistent platform since its inception in 2005. But its IPO last year triggered some significant changes in an effort to increase shareholder value. The most notorious one was hiking up its API fees, effectively shutting popular third party apps like Apollo. Reddit also made licensing deals with Google and OpenAI in exchange for letting their web crawlers access the site.

There weren't many details about what a paid subreddit model might look like, but as mentioned in the AMA, the platform is actively looking for other ways to bring in revenue. Huffman also mentioned the introduction of a marketplace for buying products through the platform, though he described it as more of a longterm plan.

COO Jen Wong also chimed in about the importance of licensing deals for AI chatbots like Google Gemini and ChatGPT, in addition to "marketing intelligence and social listening" customers. Reddit also has its own AI chatbot called Reddit Answers which sources information from the Reddit community.

All that's to say, expect more changes to come from Reddit, and expect them to come with a cost.

SAVE $100: The GoPro Hero13 Black Creator Edition action camera bundle is on sale at Best Buy for $499.99, down from the standard price of $599.99. That's a 17% discount.

Opens in a new window Credit: GoPro GoPro Hero13 Black Creator Edition $499.00 at Best Buy
$599.00 Save $100.00 Get Deal

Creating content is no longer just for the pros. These days, anyone can document epic adventures, incredible destinations, or a trip to the grocery store. Regardless of the content, creative minds are coming up with creative ways to showcase their lives and you could do the same thanks to this Presidents' Day sale offer at Best Buy.

Until 11:59 p.m. CT on Feb. 17, the GoPro Hero13 Black Creator Edition action camera is on sale at Best Buy for $499, marked down from the usual price of $599. That means you'll save $100 with the 17% discount. This deal also comes with a free 8x8 photo book from Shutterfly or $25 to spend at Shutterfly.

With the GoPro Hero13 Black Creator Edition, you'll be vlogging, live-streaming, or capturing your best content with ease. GoPro uses its HyperSmooth 6.0 video stabilization with this model which is fantastic regardless of whether you're filming downhill mountain biking footage or a baking tutorial in your kitchen.

SEE ALSO: Amazon's Presidents' Day sale is live now — find all the best deals here

The included battery grip can last for over five hours of recording in 4K. However, the camera can film in 5.3K video which gives crisp detail in every shot. Plus, the built-in buttons give your ultimate control. There's also a wireless mic, an LED light, and a magnetic latch mount. The front and rear LCD screens also help make filming a breeze.

Mashable contributor Timothy Beck Werth tested out the GoPro Hero13 Black and awarded it a 4.7/5 score which earned it a Mashable Choice award.

If you're ready for an upgrade to creating video content, the GoPro Hero13 Black Creator Edition is a perfect all-in-one package. You'll be getting a top-of-the-line GoPro camera with all the accessories to make your recording task much easier. Plus you can save $100 on the bundle until the end of today when you shop at Best Buy.

NVIDIA claims that the RTX 5070 can match the RTX 4090 in terms of performance once frame generation is enabled. However, the reality is that not much has changed. If you want top-tier performance, you'll still need to pay top-dollar.

From star-studded cameos to resurrected sketches, alien abduction stories to a full-circle Domingo moment, SNL's 50th anniversary special was one for the fans.

Aired on NBC on Sunday night after Friday's anniversary concert (and available to stream on Peacock), the three-hour episode featured a colossal amount of former and current cast members and hosts. Sure, Amy Poehler and Tina Fey's audience Q&A took an awkward Ryan Reynolds turn, but the sketches were nostalgic, celebrity-filled, and chaotic.

SEE ALSO: 'SNL's 'Weekend Update' is full of special guests, but missing a major star

In no particular order, here are the sketches from SNL50 you should watch, from a "Bronx Beat/Coffee Talk" mashup to the revival of "Black Jeopardy."

1. An Oscar-worthy "Close Encounter"

SNL brought back its "Close Encounter" sketch series, with alien abductee Colleen Rafferty (Kate McKinnon) introducing her mother, played by Meryl Streep. Pedro Pascal and Woody Harrelson joined in as fellow alien encounterers, trying to convince the Pentagon officials (Aidy Bryant and Jon Hamm).

2. The "Domingo" skit came full circle

SNL's viral Domingo sketch came full circle with one hell of a cast, including Short n' Sweet singer Sabrina Carpenter.

3. "Black Jeopardy" returns with Eddie Murphy and Tracy Morgan

SNL brought back its Black Jeopardy sketch with a star-studded throwback featuring Eddie Murphy, Tracy Morgan, Leslie Jones, Kenan Thompson, Chris Rock, and Tom Hanks.

4. Kristen Wiig brings back Dooneese

Kristen Wiig's canine-toothed character Dooneese rode again alongside Will Ferrell, Scarlett Johansson, Kim Kardashian, and Ana Gasteyer. There was a Kardashian percussion moment.

5. Sally O'Malley returns, kicks, and stretches

Molly Shannon's iconic '90s/'00s SNL character Sally O’Malley returned to the stage, joining Emma Stone to present a history of SNL's physical comedy — but first they needed to "KICK, STRETCH, and KICK!"

6. Andy Samberg and Bowen Yang's absolute banger of an 'SNL' song

Anxiety? A banger? Only Andy Samberg and Bowen Yang could make it happen.

7. Laraine Newman walks through Studio 8H with Chad

SNL legend Laraine Newman took a stroll through Studio 8H with Pete Davidson's recurring idiot character Chad. There was nudity.

8. "Weekend Update" told us about no new clubs

"Weekend Update" hosts Colin Jost and Michael Che ran through the segment's history with special guest appearances including Seth Meyers, Bill Murray, Cecily Strong, Bobby Moynihan, and more. But one notable favourite was missing.

9. "Bronx Beat" met "Coffee Talk"

In a mashup purely for SNL fans, "Bronx Beat" met "Coffee Talk" as Amy Poehler, Maya Rudolph, and Mike Myers declared it "sweater weather."

10. A truly chaotic New York Broadway musical number

If you love Broadway but prefer it intact, avoid this chaotic musical segment. Everyone else, come with us, Pete Davidson, David Spade, and John Mulaney through a star-studded tale of New York City.

11. Debbie Downer returns, faces off with Robert De Niro

Ayo Edebiri, Drew Barrymore, Robert De Niro, and Jimmy Fallon's plans to celebrate SNL50 were foiled by Rachel Dratch's iconic character Debbie Downer. But you know who hates home truths? De Niro.

12. Adam Sandler's heartfelt 'SNL' tribute song

A piece of shit car, this is not. Adam Sandler's SNL 50th anniversary song was a moving moment dedicated to its cast.

The age of smartphones has also allowed us to digitalize a lot of stuff we used to carry in our pockets. The biggest example that comes to mind is payment cards, but some car makers also allow owners to have digital car keys. Now, Samsung Wallet is getting an important expansion, with two new car brands.

PRESIDENTS' DAY DEAL: The TCL 75-inch A300W Nxtframe OLED TV is on sale for $1,499.99 for a savings of $1000 at Best Buy.

Opens in a new window Credit: TCL TCL 75-inch A300W Nxtframe OLED TV $1,499.99 at Best Buy
$2,499.99 Save $1,000.00 Get Deal

Frame TVs are sweeping living rooms across America and there are few better times to buy than Presidents' Day. Currently, the Best Buy Presidents' Day sale is offering the TCL's frame TV for $1000 off.

This OLED TV is designed to sit on the wall like a picture frame and look just as good displaying still art as it does playing films from Criterion or zipping down the racetrack in your favorite racing game. Get the TCL 75-inch A300W Nxtframe OLED Frame TV for $1,499.99 and save 40%.

SEE ALSO: Amazon's Presidents' Day sale is live now — find all the best deals here

With a light wood frame around its edges, the Nxtframe's matte screen contributes to a lifelike effect. The screen provides 4K images with a quick 120Hz refresh rate that will keep up with the action in competitive gameplay. It uses edge-lit pixel technology.

As we expect from cutting-edge TVs, the Nxtframe is smart-enabled and will link with Alexa or Google Assistant.

Link this TV to your favorite photo archive and display rich museum classics or personal photography. Whatever your taste, this screen is ready, live with a cycling carousel of artwork.

Right now the TCL 75-inch A300W Nxtframe OLED TV is $1,499.99 for Presidents' Day, saving you $1000.

Whether you're preparing to dive into the new season of The White Lotus, you're after a gorgeous gaming station, or you're buying for its gorgeous still image display, this screen is a good pick, especially at this special Presidents' Day price.

Avowed, Obsidian Entertainment's latest RPG and a Microsoft Studios title, is using Xbox cloud saves outside Microsoft's stores. This means players can use it on the Steam platform.

SAVE $40: As of Feb. 17, you can get the Amazon Kindle Paperwhite Kids for $139.99 during Amazon's Presidents' Day sale. That's a $40 discount and the lowest price we've seen on this model.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Kindle Amazon Kindle Paperwhite Kids (16 GB) $139.99 at Amazon
$179.99 Save $40.00 Get Deal

Looking for a way to get your kids reading more? The Kindle Paperwhite Kids is a great option. It's designed specifically for ebooks and has features that make it perfect for young readers. Plus, it's at an all-time low for Presidents' Day, so now’s the time to scoop one up.

As of Feb. 17, you can get the Amazon Kindle Paperwhite Kids for $139.99 at Amazon, down from $179.99. That’s a $40 discount and the best price we've seen on this model.

SEE ALSO: Kindle Paperwhite vs. Signature Edition: Which is the best Amazon e-reader?

The Kindle Paperwhite Kids is essentially the same as the regular Kindle Paperwhite but with some kid-friendly extras. For example, it includes six months of Amazon Kids+ (once the six months are up, it’ll cost you $5.99 per month), a durable kid-friendly cover, and a two-year worry-free warranty.

The Kindle Paperwhite Kids has a 7-inch glare-free display that makes reading comfortable indoors or outdoors. It’s also waterproof, so you don't have to worry about it getting damaged if it gets splashed.

Another great feature is the built-in parental controls. You can set a device bedtime, view your child’s reading progress, and more.

There have been some reports saying that Windows 11 will stop supporting Intel processors from the 10th generation and earlier. However, these claims are overexaggerated.

SAVE $90: The Shark FlexStyle air styling and drying system is on sale at Amazon for $209.99, down from the normal price of $299.99. That's a 30% discount thanks to the on-page coupon.

Opens in a new window Credit: Shark Shark FlexStyle air styling and drying system $209.99 at Amazon
$299.99 Save $90.00 Get Deal

Winter can be a rough time for keeping hair healthy. Dry, cold air outside paired with dry, hot air inside when trying to get warm isn't the best combination for our scalp or locks. If your hair is calling out for help while counting down the day until warmth and moisture return, check out this Presidents' Day sale deal at Amazon.

As of Feb. 17, the Shark FlexStyle air styling and drying system is on sale at Amazon for $209.99 with the on-page coupon, discounted from the normal price of $299.99. That's a savings of $90 from a 30% discount. Currently, a refurbished model at Amazon is selling for $223.56 which means this deal for a brand new Shark FlexStyle is better than buying a used model.

We've come a long way in terms of hair dryers in the last decade. While we used to struggle with heat damage and hair getting sucked into the back of the dryer, modern hair dryers offer so much more.

SEE ALSO: The best Presidents' Day deals from Best Buy that are live now

The frontrunner was the Dyson Airwrap but since it typically costs about $600, not everyone was sold. Thankfully we have some great Dyson Airwrap dupes on the market these days and the Shark FlexStyle is the Mashable favorite.

Mashable Shopping Reporter Bethany Allard reviewed the Shark FlexStyle, noting it's a nearly identical experience to the Dyson Airwrap but with a much friendlier price tag. One of the only things Allard prefers with the Dyson is its included case. But when we compare prices, the Shark clearly wins.

This Amazon bundle includes the hair dryer brush, multi-styler with auto-wrap curlers, paddle brush, oval brush, and concentrator attachment.

Be sure to clip the on-page coupon to bring the Shark FlexStyle down to just $209.99 during Amazon's Presidents' Day sale.

PRESIDENTS' DAY DEAL: The Asus Vivobook Pro 15 Intel Core Ultra 9 24GB RAM 2TB SSD RTX 3050 is currently on sale at Best Buy for $899.99, saving $600, or 40% off.

Opens in a new window Credit: Asus Asus Vivobook Pro 15 Intel Core Ultra 9 24GB RAM 2TB SSD RTX 3050 $899.99 at Best Buy
$1,499.99 Save $600.00 Get Deal

Sure, we knew President's Day was a good time to pick up a new laptop, but this one surprised us. Best Buy's sale is currently offering the Asus Vivobook Pro 15 Intel Core Ultra 9 24GB RAM 2TB SSD RTX 3050 for $899.99, saving you $600 on the laptop that usually lists for $1.5 big ones.

Full disclosure, I like Vivobooks. I'm currently typing this article on a 2020 model that's still running buttery smooth. What I love about my Vivobook is how well it handles different types of tasks from accurately representing colors, to gaming, to music production.

SEE ALSO: Amazon's Presidents' Day sale is live now — find all the best deals here

The current Pro 15 has some solid capabilities, including a huge 2TB SSD and 24GB of RAM built in. It also comes with a GeForce RTX 3050, which should skate through most modern games (not at the highest settings, but at decent settings).

It has a beautiful 1920 x 1080 OLED screen with a 60Hz refresh rate and a respectable 400 nits of brightness. Expect intricate dynamics, good brightness, and smooth screen refreshes while gaming.

The 24GB RAM will ace most daily tasks: open 100 tabs at a time, work on 18-inch 600dpi pixel art, or edit a video feature about your cousin's business. This computer will handle most of anything you throw at it.

For President's Day the Asus Vivobook Pro 15 Intel Core Ultra 9 24GB RAM 2TB SSD RTX 3050 is currently $899.99, or 40% off, saving you $600.

If you're looking for a daily workhorse laptop that can carry its own weight through the workday then breeze through creative tasks and fun by night, this Asus is a wonderful buy.