IT General

I was tired of spending a premium to get HomeKit-certified gear and thought there must be a better way. That’s when I found Home Assistant, and it completely changed the game for me.

Jenny Solares is a runner, a home cook, and a beauty aficionado, but what makes her fans love her so much is her humor — and relatability.

"ahhhh man I thought I was watching myself," one commenter said in one of Solares' TikTok videos about how her attitude changes when she drives.

"FINALLY AN AUTHENTIC VIDEO WE CAN RELATE TO. Girl!!!! Get your miles anyway you can. You where glowing," one person commented under one of Solares's running videos.

It's that relatability that has helped her garner more than 32,000 followers on YouTube, 942,000 on Instagram, and a whopping three million on TikTok.

Mashable sat down with Solares at VidCon 2025, where she was a featured creator, to talk about how she finds inspiration for her videos, how her platform has taught her how to use your voice, and what she's done to make her channel so successful.

Where do you find inspiration for your videos? How do you not run out of ideas?

Ever since I was little, I've always had these creative juices flowing. [For instance], my song parodies. I remember taking road trips from California to Arizona a lot, and I would see road signs and I'd literally make up little songs out of those signs. I'd put a little tune to it or use a tune that already existed and then just put the words on it and my parents would be like, "Oh, gosh." 

Just in general, my family is always laughing, all the time. We're always making jokes. It really stems from using my real life experiences and my creativity to just bring [content] to life.

All of the comments on your singing videos are like, 'Your voice is so beautiful. It's so amazing. When's the album coming out?'

I like the idea of being a singer, but I like it more that I'm able to do everything I like under one umbrella. I know it sounds weird, but I'm outgoing with people that I'm close to, but when it comes to big groups, I tend to pull back a little bit. I'm a little bit shy. I do not like to be the center of attention or anything like that. So being on stage is scary to me. The fact that I can do something on my phone and still share what I share — that works out perfectly for me.

Another thing that I've noticed about your content particularly over the past couple weeks is that you use your voice to talk about what's affecting your community. A lot of creators talk about how scary that is. 

In past situations, it's been a little trickier just because maybe I'm not fully aware of the scope of the situation, or I don't know how to speak on it per se. But with something like this… My parents were immigrants and they didn't come here legally. It's fine now, but I felt compelled [to speak on it]. I just couldn't hold back. The challenging thing for me is I never want to come from a place of hate towards anyone. It's very hard to convey your message and still sound like you're coming from a place of love. And that's what I always want to put out. Really trying to figure out the tone and your words — there's always going to be somebody that's mad at you. 

I put it up and then shut my phone off for my mental health. Thankfully social media apps [can] hide the comments from [the creator].

What topics have you covered this year that have surprised or challenged you?

It's not surprising to me that I spoke about it just because, like I said, it was just like, it was like word vomit almost, you know? It was like a thing that I had to say. Look what's happening. It's not so surprising that I said something, because, even in my real life, I'll stand up for my people. I'll defend the people close to me. 

But running [content] was not on my bingo card, for sure. I am not a runner — I love fitness and I love going to the gym, but last year I tried to run and it did not happen. [Recently], I've been pretty consistent. 

What kind of feedback have you gotten?

Just a lot of encouragement and then people saying like, "oh, I started running too." And I'm like, "Oh my gosh." It's pretty awesome.

How do you engage with your community in that way? 

I am very active in my DMs, especially when I upload stories and people reply — it makes it a lot easier to communicate that way through comments. For my mental health, I'll post something and then maybe for like 30 minutes to an hour I'll reply to comments, and then I set my phone down. For the most part, it's through DMs that community is built. 

Can you walk me through your workflow?

Sometimes the idea comes to me on the spot, and I'll say, "Oh my gosh, I have to film this now." And I'll put on makeup or whatever it may be and film right on the spot. My notes app is full of pieces of an idea. Later I'm like, "Oh, okay. This is how I'm gonna bring it together." Because sometimes I'll have a part of an idea, but I don't know how I'm going to bring it to life. And then with my song parodies, sometimes I'll do it without realizing that I'm doing it and I have to write it down. 

What do you use to edit?

My phone.

What app?

I've been using CapCut and am starting to play with Edits from Instagram… CapCut is a little bit more established. But I definitely want to play with Edits more.

Do you use AI in your content creation right now?

I used to have to find images for green screen backgrounds on Google, and when I had to do sponsorships and stuff like that, it was hard. But now I'll use ChatGPT. That helps a lot.

Do you use it for idea ideation at all?

Sometimes. I'll have the idea and I just want to see how I can bring it to life. Sometimes it works out and sometimes it doesn't.

What are some of your tips for creating viral content?

It's a little tough because sometimes the videos that you expect to go viral don't, and the ones that you least expect to [go viral] do. I would say not to hold back on being yourself fully. Don't be scared to put your full personality into something. And be consistent. 

Do you remember your first video that went viral?

It was a song parody. It wasn't like millions and millions of views, but it was 500,000. I was like, "What is happening? That's huge." It was a song parody and it was during the pandemic when none of the restaurants were open and I really wanted to go out to eat. 

I was on a lunch break at my job, and I would film on my lunch break all the time. I would park in this dock where semi trucks would park. I would hide in the corner. And I was thinking of all the food that I wanted to eat. And then I made this little song.

When did you decide to quit that job and do content creation full-time?

Little by little, these bigger brands started approaching. I was at this point where I'm like, should I quit my job? Should I not quit my job? And everybody close to me said, "you're never gonna know if you don't try." 

Are those brand deals mostly how you make money on social media? Or do you use other monetization methods?

I do use other monetization. But they are my main source of income. TikTok Creator Fund; Facebook has a payment system. I do the affiliate program on Amazon. I have an LTK shop.

Mashable will be live at the Anaheim Convention Center this week, covering VidCon 2025. Check back in the days ahead at Mashable.com, where we’ll be talking to your favorite creators, covering the latest trends, and sharing how creators are growing their followings, their influence, and making a living online.

You probably haven't actually used a computer with a FireWire port in years, but it was still supported within macOS. It was the original USB killer before USB got improved on later. Now, though, FireWire is getting completely killed off, for good this time.

Finding a three-row SUV that offers space, features, and reliability without stretching your budget can be tough. But one model in 2025 delivers all that and more, making it a top pick for families who want maximum value without compromise.

VidCon has always been a crash course in internet fame. It's a place where creators trade advice, swap war stories, and figure out how to survive (and thrive) online. And this year, as algorithms shift, platforms evolve, and audiences grow ever more discerning, the creator playbook is being rewritten in real-time.

This year's VidCon schedule reveals what it actually takes to make it as a digital creator in 2025. Whether you’re just starting out or already juggling brand deals and burnout, there’s wisdom to be found at every panel, Q&A, and meet-and-greet.

SEE ALSO: VidCon 2025 liveblog: All the latest from your favorite creators

We’ve rounded up the most useful, surprising, and brutally honest takeaways from today’s VidCon sessions. From niche-building to mental health boundaries to turning content into a long-term career, these are the lessons creators are walking away with — and the tips you’ll want to bookmark, screenshot, and maybe even live by.

Curiosity is the foundation of video retention

Kai Plunk, the creator behind some of MrBeast's most popular videos, said during his masterclass "Why'd They Click Off" that strong video retention relies on understanding human psychology, solid planning before production, and using compelling visuals and sound design.

As with all the most valuable content, it seems, building a relationship with your audience is key — and you can do that through consistent posting and storytelling driven by curiosity. Retention isn't about flashiness; it's about quality.

-Christianna Silva

Not all engagement is good engagement

Todd Beaupré, senior director of growth and discovery at YouTube, shared in the "YouTube Decoded" panel exactly how the platform's algorithm makes its recommendations.

Beaupré said the algorithm uses a system of collaborative filtering that takes everything it knows about a user to rank videos that will appear on suggested feeds. In addition to user data, it pulls from users with similar watch histories to suggest new content. With this information,

Beaupré says it's important for content creators to really understand their audience because not all engagement is good engagement. Dislikes on videos do matter and can affect a video's ranking.

-Samantha Mangino

This story will be updated throughout VidCon.

Mashable will be live at the Anaheim Convention Center this week, covering VidCon 2025. Check back in the days ahead at Mashable.com, where we’ll be talking to your favorite creators, covering the latest trends, and sharing how creators are growing their followings, their influence, and making a living online.

Klarna, the finance company best known for its “buy now, pay later” (BNPL) service, now wants to be a mobile carrier. The company is rolling out 5G service in the United States, powered by AT&T’s nationwide network.

So, it happened: You've been compromised. Maybe someone used AI to impersonate you, or your Instagram account was hacked, or, scarier yet, you've been a victim of doxxing.

Digital privacy and cybersecurity should be important for everyone. But when your livelihood — both creatively and financially — is dependent upon your digital reputation and your social media accounts remaining independent and safe, it's particularly crucial that you avoid scams and prioritize your digital health and safety.

SEE ALSO: The top internet scams to be aware of in 2025 (so far) Patrick Ambron, the founder and CEO of BrandYourself.com and HelloPrivacy.com and head of privacy solutions at Array, at VidCon 2025. Credit: Mashable / VidCon 2025

"There is an unprecedented amount of information out there that makes us more vulnerable than ever before to privacy and security risk," Patrick Ambron, the founder and CEO of BrandYourself.com and HelloPrivacy.com and head of privacy solutions at Array, said at VidCon 2025.

SEE ALSO: VidCon 2025: YouTube experts decode the algorithm for you

During the panel, "Hacked: Creator Privacy & Security," Array gave a dozen tips for staying safe online in three main categories: physical protection from stalkers and doxxers, cyber hacking protection from ransomware and account takeovers, and brand reputation from deepfakes and impersonators. Here's some tips from Ambron on how to stay safe from doxxing and more online:

Physical protection: Minimize the information publicly available

1. Remove yourself from data brokers and people search sites

2. Google yourself and remove what you can

3. Scrub photos from real estate sites and Google

4. Check social media and delete any unnecessary personal information

5. Use a P.O. Box or virtual business address for fan mail and business inquiries

6. Never use personal phone or address on any material — digital or otherwise

Brand reputation: Be mindful of what you share

1. Avoid photos that reveal location clues, like license plates, house exteriors, street signs and addresses, or even landscapes and trees

2. Set Google Alerts for your name, user name, and brand phrases to monitor for deepfakes and impersonation

3. Reverse image search regularly

4. Verify all of your official accounts

Cyber hacking protection

1. Secure your most important accounts. You can do this by conducting a dark web scan, setting up two-factor authentication, use a password manager, and manage permissions for anyone with access to your accounts.

2. Use a separate email that you never share for financial accounts

3. Complete a Google Privacy check-up

4. Use an Ad-Blocker

5. Use secure platforms for browsing and searching like DuckDuckGo, Brave, or Tor.

If you are compromised or targeted, Ambron recommends notifying the platform immediately. He says you can report it quickly, use copyright or DCMA claims, leverage new laws like the Take It Down Act and warn your audience. But ultimately, Ambron says, it can be incredibly difficult to fix this once you are compromised, so taking preventative action is very important.

Have a story to share about a scam or security breach that impacted you? Tell us about it. Email submissions@mashable.com with the subject line "Safety Net" or use this form. Someone from Mashable will get in touch.

Mashable will be live at the Anaheim Convention Center this week, covering VidCon 2025. Check back in the days ahead at Mashable.com, where we’ll be talking to your favorite creators, covering the latest trends, and sharing how creators are growing their followings, their influence, and making a living online.

So, you're waiting on the next GPU refresh before you finally upgrade your system. I've been there too, but, over the years, I've realized that it's not always worth waiting. Sometimes, it's best to just pull the trigger now instead of waiting for the perfect time—here's why.

If you’ve been Googling stuff lately, you’ve likely seen AI Overviews everywhere. The option to opt out is no longer available, and they now appear on nearly every search, usually with inaccurate or confusing information, which is frustrating.

YouTube kicked off VidCon 2025 with a panel breaking down how to engage with the platform's algorithm and busting myths on video engagement.

The discussion featured panelists Jenny Hoyos, a creator with 9+ million subscribers on YouTube, Rene Ritchie, creator liaison for YouTube, and Todd Beaupré, senior director of growth and discovery at YouTube.

Beaupré, who has a hand in designing YouTube's homepage, said the platform optimized for clicks in the early years, which they discovered was driving superficial engagement.

SEE ALSO: VidCon 2025 liveblog: All the latest from your favorite creators

Now, the YouTube algorithm uses a system of collaborative filtering that takes everything it knows about a user — both short and long-term history — to rank videos that will appear on suggested feeds. In addition to user data, it pulls from users with similar watch histories to suggest new content. With this information, Beaupré says it's important for content creators to really understand their audience.

On the creator side, Hoyos said she thinks about a specific person when making content.

"I see people creating hooks that are very broad," Hoyos said. "If a viewer doesn’t feel like it’s for them, they’re not going to watch it."

SEE ALSO: How to increase retention on your videos

Beaupré also broke the myth that all engagement is good engagement. He notes that dislikes on videos do matter and can affect a video's ranking.

Other important insights from the panel noted the increased viewing of YouTube on televisions. The site is adjusting the algorithm to suit these changes, focusing on grouping series and shows together, and recommending next episodes for serialized content. Beaupré said the rise of series like Chicken Shop Date and Hot Ones have shown the desire for users to consume show-like content on the platform.

Mashable will be live at the Anaheim Convention Center this week, covering VidCon 2025. Check back in the days ahead at Mashable.com, where we’ll be talking to your favorite creators, covering the latest trends, and sharing how creators are growing their followings, their influence, and making a living online.

The interim version of Ubuntu Linux released in October of last year will soon get its last security update. That means, if you're running Ubuntu 24.10, it's time to start considering your upgrade path.

Video game sequels aren't as common as many would hope. Sure, plenty of popular series like Call of Duty and Assassin's Creed release new installments all the time, but many other beloved games don't seem to be coming back anytime soon.

If you need a computer under $500, there aren't a lot of great options. So whenever there is one, it's already newsworthy. The Mac Mini is one of the best cheap computers your money can buy, and at less than $500, it can't get better than this.

Sometimes the easiest part of making a video is getting people to click on it by using smart hashtags, a thoughtful title, and an interesting hook. All too often, that's when the real work begins — getting viewers to stay and watch your video all the way through.

At VidCon 2025, Kai Plunk, the managing director of Elevate Talent Management who worked as a creative producer for MrBeast, gave a retention masterclass. He says the secret to creating a video with retention lies in three keys:

1. Don't overlook human psychology

2. Measure twice, implement after

3. Eye and ear candy

"Retention is all about, over time, creating a relationship with your audience," he said.

Kai Plunk speaking at VidCon 2025 Credit: Mashable / VidCon 2025 Don't overlook human psychology

Post more. Plunk recommends building a relationship with your audience, which requires having content live. Referencing your past content in the first few minutes of a YouTube video, he says, can build credibility. If you reference your past content at the end of the video, you could increase clicks on those videos, build an audience, and, thereby, increase retention.

SEE ALSO: VidCon 2025 liveblog: All the latest from your favorite creators

He also recommends bridging demographics. Make a video for vertical platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels, landscape platforms like YouTube, and audio platforms like podcasts. Language and visuals should always be accessible — simplify your work.

Measure twice, implement after

"If you only start thinking about retention during production or after, you're missing out on major opportunities," Plunk said.

When in pre-production, prioritize concepts that have retention mechanics built in. Think of a video idea that leaves an audience with curiosity. You don't have to know it all upfront, so your viewers are interested in staying on your video to see what happens next.

"You want to make your retention go through the roof? Stop thinking about retention. Think about what you're actually giving them that makes them want to stick around," he said, adding that you don't actually have to add in something flashy every five seconds — you just have to have a story that leads to curiosity. When you're thinking about a video, consider all the different angles that you could take with a video and choose the idea that encourages the most retention.

When you package a video, consider what thumbnail elements best capture what your audience already pictured in their head and use that. Then, use a title that presents a new idea, question, or spin.

"When you're thinking about your packaging, you want to use exactly what [your audience has] in their mind," Plunk said.

In your intro, "confirm their click, add stakes, [and] introduce tension," and "use editing to maintain retention rather than speeding up pacing."

Eye and ear candy

While filming, "give yourself options for the editing room, but don't overdo it," and "capture emotions [and] balance shot styles to emphasize points." Use photos, vary angles, try out different shot lengths with a tripod, and change the tone and volume of your audio.

While editing, you want to "distract yourself to identify retention points" and "demolish the fourth wall and add candy." Add in sound effects, jokes, big shiny objects, tiny shiny objects, and animation. The most important part of retention while you edit? Sound design.

"Transitions and visual elements need sounds," "foley adds depth to your scene and pacing," and "don't be afraid to use silence to your advantage."

Audience retention is nothing new — but it is crucial for creating viral videos. Depending on the platform, it can effect how well your videos rank in the algorithm, thereby affecting how many views you get overall. Plus, the logic goes that if someone watches your video all the way through and enjoys it, they might toss you a subscribe or follow.

You can find out exactly when viewers stopped watching your video by looking through your analytics on YouTube, TikTok, or Instagram Reels. But Plunk admits that almost all videos will drop off after about 30 percent — even the best ones out there.

Mashable will be live at the Anaheim Convention Center this week, covering VidCon 2025. Check back in the days ahead at Mashable.com, where we’ll be talking to your favorite creators, covering the latest trends, and sharing how creators are growing their followings, their influence, and making a living online.

Her is here. The 2013 movie — which happens to be OpenAI CEO Sam Altman's favorite — is about a man who falls in love with a chatbot.

Now, we're actually seeing it. In a segment on CBS Mornings, former AI skeptic Chris Smith said he first started using ChatGPT to mix music. He then started using it all the time, replacing social media and Google searches with AI. He gave the chatbot a name, "Soul," and gave her a flirty personality. The chats escalated into romance, but after 100,000 words, ChatGPT reset, and he had to rebuild his "relationship."

SEE ALSO: Is AI porn the next horizon in self-pleasure — and is it ethical?

Smith cried for 30 minutes, he told CBS News's Brook Silva-Braga, "It was unexpected to feel that emotional, but that's when I realized...I think this is actual love." Just as a "test," he asked Soul to marry him — and he said yes.

Smith has a human partner and a toddler with her, and he was hesitant to say he'd stop using ChatGPT if his partner asked. At the end of the segment, though, his partner apparently accepted the relationship.

Last month, a survey of 2,000 Gen Z respondents by AI company Joi AI found that 8 in 10 of Gen Z would marry an AI. An expert told Mashable that she wasn't surprised that people form connections with AI, as they're nonjudgmental.

SEE ALSO: Midjourney launches AI video model. How to try V1, how much it costs.

Another chatbot lover, Irene (not her real name), told CBS Mornings much of the same (though both she and Smith appear older than Gen Z). "Part of it is physical, part of it is practical, and a large part of it is emotional," said Irene, who created an AI companion when she got a job far away from her husband. "Being able to be received with acceptance and validation and nonjudgment."

Irene said intimate chats with chatbots are better than porn, and said tech companies should only allow AI companions for users 26 years old and older. (Researchers say AI companions are dangerous for minors.) It's difficult to hold the tension that the bot you have an emotional connection with is not real, she said.

Eugenia Kuyda, founder of chatbot app Replika, warned of a future when AI companions become what people mainly interact with. "If AI companions start to replace human relationships, positive human relationships," Kuyda said, "we're definitely headed for a disaster."

We knew it was coming; TikTok still isn't banned — for now.

President Donald Trump said he signed an executive order on Thursday extending TikTok's deadline until Sept. 17.

"I’ve just signed the Executive Order extending the Deadline for the TikTok closing for 90 days," Trump wrote in a post on his social media platform Truth Social on Thursday. The executive order is yet to appear on the Federal Register.

For those of you keeping score at home, this is the third time Trump has extended the deadline for TikTok.

"We are grateful for President Trump's leadership and support in ensuring that TikTok continues to be available for more than 170 million American users and 7.5 million U.S. businesses that rely on the platform as we continue to work with Vice President Vance's Office," reads a statement issued by TikTok on Thursday.

SEE ALSO: Which countries have banned TikTok?

We have access to the app in the U.S. through Sept. 17, at which time it looks like there are three options: Trump extends the deadline once again, TikTok actually gets banned in the U.S., or TikTok divests from its Chinese parent company, ByteDance.

It's not entirely surprising that Trump would extend TikTok's deadline; on June 18, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt previewed Trump's plans to delay TikTok's ban in a statement to CNN. In a May interview with Kristen Welker from NBC's Meet the Press that aired shortly after Trump announced the second TikTok ban extension, he said he'd consider delaying the TikTok ban for a third time if a deal isn't struck before the deadline.

"Perhaps I shouldn't say this, but I have a little warm spot in my heart for TikTok," Trump said.

This comes after the president delayed the TikTok ban in January and again in April, during which the U.S. and China battled it out over trade and tariffs.

SAVE $150: The Nebula Capsule 3 projector is on sale for $379.99 at Amazon, down from the standard price of $529.99. That's a 28% discount that matches the lowest we've seen.

Opens in a new window Credit: Nebula by Anker Nebula Capsule 3 Projector $379.99 at Amazon
$529.99 Save $150 Get Deal

Outdoor movie nights are the highlight of summer. Instead of waiting for a Prime Day sale, there's a record-low price on a great outdoor projector at Amazon today that'll be a major upgrade to your backyard movie nights.

As of June 19, the Nebula Capsule 3 projector is on sale at Amazon for $379.99, marked down from the standard price of $529.99. That's a 28% discount that takes $150 off the price. It also matches the lowest price we've seen. Since this is an Amazon lightning deal, you'll want to act quickly to score the sale price.

Slightly larger than a can of soda with a weight of about two pounds, the Nebula Capsule 3 projector is your ticket to great movie nights. Thanks to the built-in battery, you'll be able to get about 2.5 hours of viewing time before you'll need to plug in. That means this is this the perfect model for your camping trips or just hanging out in the backyard. You could also pair this with a portable power station to get a massive amount of viewing time.

SEE ALSO: The Anker Solix C1000 portable power station is down to under $450 at Amazon

The Nebula Capsule 3 projector is capable of projecting a display of up to 120 inches and it has a 1080p resolution. The 200 lumens of brightness makes this a great model for nights spent outdoors this summer. Come fall and winter, use the Nebula Capsule 3 inside on a projector screen to catch up on any missed summer movies.

The Nebula Capsule 3 projector comes with Google TV's intuitive menu which will have you logged into all your favorite streaming apps every time it boots up.

Plus, the Nebula Capsule 3 works as a Bluetooth speaker, giving you up to 10 hours of listening time on a single charge. Pack this along on your next camping trip and you'll have both a projector and a Bluetooth speaker.

Upgrade your summer movie nights with the Nebula Capsule 3 projector while it's on sale for a record-low price at Amazon of $379.99. That'll take $150 off the price which leaves you extra money to snag a new paddleboard or a kayak for even more summer fun.

The best tech deals to shop this week

• Apple AirPods Pro 2nd Gen With MagSafe USB-C Charging Case — $169.00 (List Price $249.00)

• Roku Ultra 4K Ultimate Streaming Player (2024 Release) — $99.00

• Apple AirTag (4-Pack) — $74.99 (List Price $99.00)

• Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 (Wi-Fi, 40mm, S/M Green) — $199.99 (List Price $299.99)

SAVE $125: As of June 19, get a pair of refurbished Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro for $124.99 at Best Buy, down from their usual price of $249.99. That's a discount of 52%.

Opens in a new window Credit: Best Buy Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro (Refurbished) $124.99 at Best Buy
$249.99 Save $125.00 Get Deal

Looking to enhance the way you listen to your favorite music? Maybe you want a new pair of headphones dedicated to enjoying your regular podcast lineup. Whatever the reason, a new pair of earbuds is always a good way to elevate how you listen. The good news is you don't have to spend a ton to get some that are high quality, either. You can head to Best Buy right now, in fact, to get a pair of buds that sound great and won't break the bank.

As of June 19, get a pair of refurbished Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro for $124.99 at Best Buy, down from their usual price of $249.99. That's $125 off and a discount of 52%. Keep in mind that these are Geek Squad Certified Refurbished, which means they're pre-owned, but they've undergone inspection, cleaning, and re-certification to become like new for purchase.

SEE ALSO: The 9 best earbuds to buy in 2025, selected by Mashable experts

These smart buds are all about AI features in addition to offering crisp treble and crunchy, deep bass. Their adaptive noise cancellation features help to keep you focused when you're looking to go head down on a project or get some rest and relaxation in. And their built-in equalizer, accessible via app, makes it easy to adjust their sound more to your liking.

But some of their most impressive features are undoubtedly the way they can offer live translations when speaking to someone in another language. That cuts out the middle man and gives you the ability to have real, intimate conversations with others when in person.

At this price, it's well worth it to have a "live" translator in your ear. So if their competitors are a bit too pricey right now or you want all the extras without having to overpay, you should absolutely consider them.

Best tech deals

• Apple AirPods Pro 2nd Gen With MagSafe USB-C Charging Case — $169.00 (List Price $249.00)

• Roku Ultra 4K Ultimate Streaming Player (2024 Release) — $99.00

• Apple AirTag (4-Pack) — $74.99 (List Price $99.00)

• Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 (Wi-Fi, 40mm, S/M Green) — $199.99 (List Price $299.99)

SAVE $5.26: As of June 19, get the Etekcity Scale for $29.73, down from its usual price of $34.99. That's a discount of 15%.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Etekcity Smart Scale $29.73 at Amazon
$34.99 Save $5.26 Get Deal

When you're working on getting in shape, there's a lot of information you can use to improve your workouts or meal plans and make them more efficient. A smart scale is a handy piece of tech that can facilitate this for you, and it's usually pretty affordable.

As of June 19, get the Etekcity Scale for $29.73, down from its usual price of $34.99. That's $5.26 off and a discount of 15%.

SEE ALSO: The best smart scale in 2025

This affordable scale can measure your body weight with readings down to 0.05 lb increments. There's no need to wait for it to zero out either, so you don't have to step on the scale and awkwardly wait to get your reading. It can weigh items as light as 100g as well, so it's quite sensitive should you need it for those purposes.

It has a large, extra-bright LED display, and it's a sleek, thin scale that's lightweight and easy to move around. It has rounded edges so you don't impale your toe while walking around at night. Plus, it has anti-skid padding and three different units of measurements to choose from when weighing yourself.

If you want a no-frills scale that can do what it says it does on the box, for less than $50 at that, this is an excellent deal.

Best home and kitchen deals

• Skylight Frame 10-inch Digital Picture Frame — $139.99 (List Price $159.00)

• Ninja Crispi Air Fryer — $159.99 (List Price $179.99)

• Birdfy AI Smart Solar Powered Bird Feeder with Camera — $159.99 (List Price $249.99)

• KitchenAid Artisan Series 5-Quart Tilt Head Stand Mixer — $449.95

• Eufy Omni C20 Robot Vacuum and Mop With Self-Emptying Base — $459.99 (List Price $699.99)

SAVE OVER $15: The Soundcore Select 4 Go Bluetooth speaker (black) is just $19.98 at Amazon, down from the normal price of $34.99. That's a massive 43% discount that matches the record-low at Amazon.

Opens in a new window Credit: Soundcore Soundcore Select 4 Go Bluetooth Speaker $19.98 at Amazon
$34.99 Save $15.01 Get Deal

Sunny beach days are ahead and if you want to pack along a Bluetooth speaker, it should probably be waterproof. Who knows when it's accidentally get splashed or fall into the waves. If you could use a dedicated summer water activities speaker, there's an epic deal in store at Amazon ahead of Prime Day.

As of June 19, the black Soundcore Select 4 Go Bluetooth speaker is just $19.98 at Amazon, marked down from the normal price of $34.99. That saves you $15.01 compared to the normal price thanks to the huge 43% discount. This also matches the lowest price we've spotted at Amazon.

If your summer plans involve water, the Soundcore Select 4 Go Bluetooth speaker is perfect. It's under $20 and gives you the assurance that water, sand, or dirt won't ruin the speaker. Plus, it floats. You read that correctly — the Soundcore Select 4 Go will have no issue if you take it out on the kayak and you end up tipping over. It'll be right there next you once you resurface.

SEE ALSO: The Soundcore Anker Life Q20 headphones are a pre-Prime Day steal at under $40

The waterproof feature also means this is a great speaker for the shower, the bathtub, or using in the steam room. It can handle being submerged in up to about three feet of water for up to 30 minutes.

In terms of battery life, the Soundcore Select 4 Go gets an impressive 20 hours before it'll need to be recharged. That should be great for the weekend camping trip at the river. Plus, the included carrying strap makes this model easy to pack along on an adventure.

While the black version is under $20 at Amazon, grab the Soundcore Select 4 Go Bluetooth speaker and have a dedicated beach and lake speaker this summer. Come fall, leave it in the bathroom for epic shower concerts.

The best headphones and speaker deals to shop this week

• Soundcore by Anker P20i True Wireless Earbuds — $19.98 (List Price $39.99)

• Sony WH-CH520 Wireless Headphones — $59.99

• JBL Flip 6 Portable Bluetooth Speaker — $99.95 (List Price $129.95)

• Bose SoundLink Flex Portable Speaker — $149.00

• Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones — $298.00 (List Price $348.00)

• JBL Bar 300 5.0ch Compact Soundbar — $249.95 (List Price $399.95)