IT General

Starting fresh with zero apps forced me to face how much I actually need my phone

How-To Geek - Sat, 05/23/2026 - 17:32

Everyone can agree that setting up a new phone is a pain. The backup and restore process has considerably improved the experience over the years, but you’re still stuck with signing into a dozen or more apps. Recently, I switched phones and purposely made this process even worse. I’m glad I did.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Amazon has the Hisense CanvasTV on sale for the lowest price ever — save up to $900

Mashable - Sat, 05/23/2026 - 17:21

SAVE $900: The 65-inch Hisense S7 4K CanvasTV is on sale at Amazon for $1,099.99, down from the list price of $1,999.99. That's a 45% discount and the best price we've ever spotted at Amazon. The 55-inch model is also on sale, selling for $849.99 instead of the list price of $1,499.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Hisense 65-inch Hisense S7 4K CanvasTV $1,099.99 at Amazon
$1,999.99 Save $900   Get Deal

If you're hanging out at home this Memorial Day weekend, you might be noticing some home upgrades that are calling for attention this summer. If one of those happens to be getting a new TV, you're in luck. Amazon understands that some of us prefer to spend long weekends and sweaty summer months at home binging TV in the comfort of air conditioning. With that in mind, the retailer has great TV discounts this weekend. Check out this notable offer.

As of May 23, the 65-inch Hisense S7 4K CanvasTV is on sale at Amazon for $1,099.99, marked down from the list price of $1,999.99. That's a 45% discount that shaves a massive $900 off the price. It's also the best price we've ever spotted at Amazon. If you prefer a smaller model, the 55-inch Hisense S7 4K CanvasTV also got a discount to $849.99, down from the list price of $1,499.99.

Samsung was the first to the market with an art TV when the brand introduced us to The Frame. It launched with some eye-watering prices, but like almost all tech, we now have competitor options that are much more affordable. Hisense revamped the CanvasTV in 2026 with a Hi-QLED display with an AI RGB ambient light sensor. These upgrades are designed to get deeper color accuracy and even adjust based on the room's ambient light.

SEE ALSO: Amazon's Memorial Day sale is live — score the best deals on TVs, Bose earbuds, Jackery power stations, and more

Of course, the star feature on the CanvasTV is the ability to tap into the Hisense library of artwork to display while you're not streaming summer shows. You can also display your own photos or rotate your favorites. The Hisense even comes with an ultra-slim wall mount, which makes the TV look like a framed piece of art rather than a TV.

Since several sizes of the Hisense S7 4K CanvasTV are on sale for record-low prices at Amazon during Memorial Day weekend, it's an ideal time to make the upgrade. Order soon and Amazon might even be able to deliver before the long weekend is over.

Categories: IT General, Technology

5 exciting new Milwaukee tools I’m still looking forward to in 2026

How-To Geek - Sat, 05/23/2026 - 17:15

Who wants a few more capable and versatile power tools? Milwaukee is a fan favorite for its solid collection of tools for homeowners and professionals, not to mention its constantly expanding lineup. And while several new tools have arrived this year, more are on the way that are actually worth waiting for.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Your Excel workbook is slower than it should be—these two hidden settings are usually why

How-To Geek - Sat, 05/23/2026 - 16:45

Many Excel tutorials give the same advice for speeding up spreadsheets: avoid volatile functions. While that can help, software settings often have a bigger impact on performance. If your spreadsheets lag—even on a high-end PC—you may need to change how Excel handles calculations. These two buried settings can make large workbooks feel dramatically faster.

Categories: IT General, Technology

6 brutal cliffhangers of the 21st century we still need answers to

How-To Geek - Sat, 05/23/2026 - 16:30

The Rolling Stones’ Mick Jagger famously sang, “You can’t always get what you want,” and when applied to television shows, his statement couldn’t be truer. Many end with epic cliffhangers due to unforeseen circumstances, like cast issues, network notes, early cancellations, and more, which is risky because it often promises a continuation that the show may never deliver.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Amazons Memorial Day sale is live — score the best deals on TVs, Bose earbuds, Jackery power stations, and more

Mashable - Sat, 05/23/2026 - 16:18
The best Memorial Day deals to shop at Amazon: Best TV deal Hisense 75-inch U6 Pro Mini-LED ULED 4K TV $849.99 (save $550) Get Deal Best portable power station deal Anker Solix C1000 $449.99 (save $50) Get Deal Best earbuds deal Bose QuietComfort Earbuds $149 (save $30) Get Deal Best kitchen deal Ninja Slushi (88 ounce) $259 (save $90.99) Get Deal Best early robot vacuum deal Eufy C28 Robot Vacuum and Mop Combo $499.98 (save $300.01) Get Deal

The long Memorial Day weekend is here. And like every other major calendar event, Amazon has jumped on the celebrations with a sale. And — as is often the case with Amazon sales events — the savings are steep and wide-ranging.

To keep the deals seasonal, Amazon's Memorial Day sale has seen prices drop on summer-themed items, including portable power stations, TVs worthy of every MLB and World Cup game, and stacks of camping gear. There are also excellent deals for home upgrades, from the kitchen to the backyard — everything you need to get the summer party going.

As we enjoy the holiday weekend, here are the best Amazon Memorial Day deals to shop across all categories. Grab them now and leave the summer open for relaxation and fun.

Best TV deal Opens in a new window Credit: Hisense Hisense 75-inch U6 Pro Mini-LED ULED 4K TV $849.99 at Amazon
$1,399.99 Save $550   Get Deal Why we like it

Upgraded TV models for 2026 have officially hit shelves this spring and you can already score a sweet deal on one of Hisense's new mid-range options: the U6 Pro.

It packs Mini-LED backlighting, quantum-dot color, a peak brightness of 1,200 nits, 2.1-channel Dolby Atmos audio, and a 144Hz refresh rate, all for a budget-friendly price. It's the perfect mashup of performance and value — particularly now that Amazon has slashed the cost of the 75-inch model by $550 during its Memorial Day sale. At $849.99, its second price drop since its launch earlier this month, it's a total steal.

More TV dealsBest portable power station deal Opens in a new window Credit: Anker Solix Anker Solix C1000 $449.99 at Amazon
$499.99 Save $50   Get Deal Why we like it

Read Mashable's full review of the Anker Solix C1000 portable power station here.

I've tested dozens of portable power stations, and the Anker Solix C1000 remains one of the best models for taking along to the campground. Sure, Anker has already launched the Solix C1000 Gen 2 but the original C1000 comes with some features that are excellent for camping. For one, the built-in LED lightbar is fantastic for using around the campsite, which is missing from the new Gen 2.

The Solix C1000 has six AC ports, an impressive amount for a power station with 1,056Wh capacity. There's also the dual USB-A and USB-C ports for plenty of options while camping.

More portable power station dealsBest earbuds deal Opens in a new window Credit: Bose Bose QuietComfort Earbuds $149 at Amazon
$179 Save $30   Get Deal Why we like it

Read our full review of the Bose QuietComfort earbuds here.

Summer calls for endless playlists and great earbuds. The playlists are up to you, but we recommend the budget-friendly Bose QuietComfort Earbuds for jamming out. When it comes to the entire lineup of Bose headphones and earbuds, Mashable feels the QuietComfort earbuds have amazing sound quality, especially given their lower price point compared to other Bose earbuds. The noise cancellation is solid and the fit is both secure and comfortable.

Ahead of Memorial Day, Amazon has all colorway options on sale for $149, down from the list price of $179. Since this is the lowest price we've seen at Amazon all year, now's a great time to make the upgrade.

More earbuds dealsBest kitchen deal Opens in a new window Credit: Ninja Ninja Slushi (88 ounce) $259 at Amazon
$349.99 Save $90.99   Get Deal Why we like it

Read Mashable's full review of the Ninja Slushi here.

If you're ready to make this the summer, a slushy machine is bound to make that happen. While there haven't been too many machines that replicate that perfect summer treat we run to the corner store for, the Ninja Slushi is here to save us. Amazon must also recognize how perfect this is for summer because the pre-Memorial Day sale price of $259 matches the rarely-seen record low price at Amazon.

More kitchen dealsBest robot vacuum deal Opens in a new window Credit: Eufy Eufy C28 Robot Vacuum and Mop Combo $499.98 at Amazon
$799.99 Save $300.01   Get Deal Why we like it

Read Mashable's full review of the Eufy C28 here.

Unless you especially love vacuuming or mopping, there's not a whole lot of reason to do it manually anymore. We have great robot vacuums that can also take care of mopping and the budget-friendly Eufy C28 combo is already on sale ahead of Memorial Day. Mashable's robot vacuum expert Leah Stodart tested the new Eufy C28 and said, "When it comes to big spills and dried stains, the Eufy C28 is easily the most efficient robot mop in the $600 to $800 price range I've ever tested." Its compact size could also be a benefit for smaller homes or apartments.

More robot vacuum deals
Categories: IT General, Technology

Android Auto breaks Google Maps on your smartwatch, and Google has known for years

How-To Geek - Sat, 05/23/2026 - 14:00

Google Maps on Wear OS can automatically launch and give helpful nudges when you start navigating from your phone. This is particularly useful when walking or biking, but it could be just as valuable while driving. Unfortunately, it gets all messed up when Android Auto is involved, and Google has known about it for years

Categories: IT General, Technology

Plex's app redesign finally pushed me to use Kodi

How-To Geek - Sat, 05/23/2026 - 14:00

For a long time, Plex served as a reliable media center that respected the boundaries of your personal library. The application focused entirely on your local files instead of pushing external content that you had zero interest in seeing. The days of putting up with poor streaming are over, because I can't stand what Plex is doing now. I decided I was done and moved on to Kodi, and you should too if you're tired of UIs being forced on you for reasons against your best interest.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Every Excel user should change these 5 default settings immediately

How-To Geek - Sat, 05/23/2026 - 13:31

Excel is the ultimate productivity tool, but it has some incredibly frustrating default habits. It treats your data like it knows better than you do, leading to endless manual corrections. Before you start working on your next spreadsheet, adjust a few hidden options so Excel finally starts working on your terms.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Starting a smart home? Please don’t use Matter (yet)

How-To Geek - Sat, 05/23/2026 - 13:00

Matter is a cross-platform protocol that promises a fuss-free future full of devices that work with major proprietary and open-source smart home systems. So far, the vision has yet to be realized.

Categories: IT General, Technology

I stopped avoiding PowerShell after these 3 Windows tweaks

How-To Geek - Sat, 05/23/2026 - 12:30

As a long-time Windows user who also uses Linux, something that crosses my mind a lot. Why do I not use PowerShell as much as I use the Linux Terminal? It's not like PowerShell is scary or anything. After doing some analysis, I came to understand that it's more because of how I treat Windows and how PowerShell fits into it.

Categories: IT General, Technology

I tested every Kindle model, and you cant go wrong with any of Amazons e-readers (but I have a favorite)

Mashable - Sat, 05/23/2026 - 11:05

Not quite a tablet and much more compact than a book, e-readers are basically a compact, digital library. And having tested a lot of e-readers and tablets for Mashable, I can tell you the Amazon Kindle lineup comes closest to perfecting the devices.

All over the internet, you'll find TikTok users enthusiastically singing the praises of the Kindle and how to make the most of it. For parents, Kindles are a screen you don't have to feel guilty about. For avid readers, Stuff Your Kindle Day and Libby let you cross every last item off your annual reading list. You can even buy Kindle accessories like remote page-turners and gooseneck stands so you don't have to hold your Kindle while reading.

Ready to buy? Here's our guide to the best Kindles.

2026 Kindle updates

As of May 20, 2026, Amazon will no longer lend software updates or provide web services to devices released in 2012 or earlier, essentially bricking them. Users will still be able to read currently downloaded books on the device, but to add new books, they will need to connect the device to a computer. This is a huge hit, especially to Libby users who need web service access to read borrowed books.

The affected Kindles include:

  • Kindle (1st generation)

  • Kindle (2nd generation)

  • Kindle DX

  • Kindle DX Graphite

  • Kindle Keyboard

  • Kindle 4

  • Kindle Touch

  • Kindle 5

  • Kindle Paperwhite (1st generation)

Owners of these Kindle models are obviously upset, as it means they'll need to purchase a new device to maintain access to all features. While some are considering switching to a different e-reader, like a Kobo, Amazon still makes great e-readers, and it's a testament to the brand that devices that are at least 14 years old are still going strong.

Which Kindle is right for you?

If you're concerned about buying the newest tech, that's not an issue. There are six updated Kindle models for sale, as well as older editions still in stock.

Before you choose a Kindle, you need to ask one question first: Do you want it to be waterproof? If you prefer reading near a body of water — whether in the bath, by the pool, or at the beach — that immediately narrows down your options. Since the Kindle Oasis is no longer available, your waterproof options are the Kindle Paperwhite, Paperwhite Signature Edition, Colorsoft Signature Edition, and Paperwhite Kids.

The Kindle Paperwhite Signature edition settings screen. Credit: Stan Schroeder/Mashable

Beyond water resistance, here are a few other features to consider:

  • Display size: The basic Kindle has a 6-inch display, while the largest has a 10.2-inch display.

  • Storage capacity: Kindles range from 16GB to 32GB of storage capacity.

  • Battery life: The new Kindles generally have outstanding batteries. On the low end, they last up to six weeks per charge, while others last up to 12 weeks.

  • Writing capability: The Kindle Scribe is the only model that allows you to write with the included stylus. 

The latest Kindles all boast a maximum brightness of 94 nits and a 300 ppi, high-resolution display with zero glare, so you can enjoy sharp text and images at any viewing angle. Kindles are also equipped with WiFi connectivity, allowing you to download all the reading material you could ever want. Plus, you can listen to audiobooks on Audible via the built-in Bluetooth connection.

Not to mention, out of all the e-readers I've tested, Kindles have the best compatibility with Libby. I love the digital platform because I can read for free and support my local library. Some other e-readers require you to download your library e-book to a computer and then upload it to an e-reader, but with Kindles, your e-books are sent straight to your device with a click.

And if you were a die-hard Kindle Oasis fan and are attached to page-turning buttons, you may need to stray from the Kindle line-up. Now, your best bet will be the Kobo Libra Colour.

SEE ALSO: I read over 50 books a year. Here are my favorite e-readers. How to get free e-books on Kindle With just a click, transfer your Libby e-book to your Kindle device. Credit: Samantha Mangino / Mashable Your Libby ebook will automatically populate in your Kindle library. Credit: Samantha Mangino / Mashable

The best way to read free e-books on a Kindle is with Libby. Libby allows you to borrow e-books through libraries, and all you need is a library card. Through the Libby app, borrow books and then select the "read with Kindle" option, which allows you to send these e-books to your Kindle library.

Another option for finding free e-books is through Stuff Your Kindle events. These are author-driven events that offer limited-time deals on e-books, often making them heavily discounted or totally free.

How to make the most of your Kindle

Through our testing and daily use, we've spent a lot of time with Kindles, learning how to make the most of them. We've written extensively on all the ways to maximize your Kindle, so be sure to browse through our guides and explainers:

Categories: IT General, Technology

Casetify is releasing an actual Tamagotchi device next week, and it is peak millennial nostalgia

Mashable - Sat, 05/23/2026 - 11:00

TL;DR: The official Casetify x Tamagotchi collection launches on May 29. The collection features phone cases, plush earbud pouches, phone straps, and customizable carry-on luggage, with prices starting at $36.

If you grew up in the '90s, it felt like every single person had a Tamagotchi clipped to their backpack. They were basically Sims, but cuter and pixelated; you had to feed them, clean up after them, and keep them happy 24/7, or they'd die. Everyone who was anyone had one, except me.

I was never allowed to have one. (The childhood trauma is real.) If your parents also denied you a virtual pet, it's time to pull out your wallet because we finally have adult money now.

SEE ALSO: The best '90s movies on Prime Video for when you want to get nostalgic

Casetify just announced a collaboration with Bandai Namco for an actual Tamagotchi collection, and it drops on May 29. And it's not just phone cases — they're releasing an actual, functional Tamagotchi device with a custom Casetify shell.

They're also offering "Chase Cards" with seven different rarity tiers from "Common" up to "Supreme Ultra Rare." Oh, and you can get a 21-inch carry-on suitcase in pink or blue that you can personalize with your initials in the actual Tamagotchi font.

The customizable 21-inch Casetify Travel Tamagotchi carry-on suitcases are available in Cobalt Blue and Primrose Pink. Credit: Casetify | Bandai Namco

If you feel a little silly about buying toys as a fully grown adult, don't. The "kidult" economy is huge right now. According to a market research report from Circana, global toy sales rose 7 percent last year, and collectibles spiked by 32 percent.

The collection officially goes live on May 29 at casetify.com/colab.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The DJI Mini 5 Pro drone is close to its best-ever price at Amazon — save $500 this weekend

Mashable - Sat, 05/23/2026 - 11:00

SAVE $500: The DJI Mini 5 Pro Fly More Combo is on sale for $1,099 in Amazon's Memorial Day sale. That's $500 off the list price of $1,599.

Opens in a new window Credit: DJI DJI Mini 5 Pro Fly More Combo $1,099 at Amazon
$1,599 Save $500   Get Deal

We're busy tracking all the best Memorial Day deals going live over the weekend. Picking our favorite deals isn't easy, but you know what is? Recommending the latest deal on the DJI Mini 5 Pro.

Capturing cinematic 4K landscape footage used to require an expensive commercial flight license and heavy equipment. DJI completely rewrote that rulebook with its ultra-lightweight premium series, and their flagship model is hard to ignore at a heavily discounted price.

Despite all the ongoing conversations surrounding DJI imports in the U.S., current retail stocks are completely clear for consumer purchase — and retailers are clearing shelves with massive incentives ahead of the summer travel rush. For a limited time, the DJI Mini 5 Pro is on sale for $1,099 in Amazon's Memorial Day sale. That's $500 off and really close to the lowest-ever price for this model.

This popular drone tips the scales at exactly 249 grams. Because it sits comfortably under the FAA's strict 250-gram regulatory threshold, you can take it from the box straight into the sky for recreational flights without registering with the government or sitting through a baseline safety course.

Save $500 on the DJI Mini 5 Pro this weekend at Amazon.

Categories: IT General, Technology

T-Mobile is giving away the Apple iPhone 17 for free — how to claim this offer

Mashable - Sat, 05/23/2026 - 11:00

TL;DR: T-Mobile has dropped new deals on the iPhone 17e, iPhone 17, and iPhone 17 Pro. Score the latest iPhone lineup for free at T-Mobile.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPhone 17 Free when you switch and trade in an eligible phone on an Experience More or Experience Beyond plan. Shop Now Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPhone 17 Pro Free when you trade in an eligible phone in any condition on an Experience Beyond plan. Shop Now

Mashable's shopping team is firmly focused on Memorial Day right now. We've lined up the best deals on TVs, power stations, mattresses, and so much more over the Memorial Day weekend.

Did we roundup the best deals on smartphones? No we did not, because T-Mobile is really hard to beat right now.

Whether you're looking to switch networks or simply upgrade a device you’ve been holding onto for years, T-Mobile has dropped a fresh batch of deals to help you take home a premium phone without a monthly charge:

  • Apple iPhone 17e — free when you port your number over from a competitor and activate a new line on almost any T-Mobile postpaid service plan (no trade-in required).

  • Apple iPhone 17 — free when you switch and trade in an eligible smartphone on an Experience More or Experience Beyond plan.

  • Apple iPhone 17 Pro — free when you hand over an eligible smartphone in any condition on an Experience Beyond plan.

Before you rush to claim your new iPhone, it's important to note how T-Mobile structures these offers. T-Mobile won’t just hand you the goods and wish you well. Instead, the total retail cost of your chosen iPhone is offset by 24 consecutive monthly bill credits. Your monthly statement will show a charge for the financing of the phone, immediately followed by an equal credit balancing that charge to $0. That means you are entering a 24-month commitment with the network.

If you decide to cancel your service or jump to a different provider before those two years are up, the remaining unpaid cash balance on the phone will become due immediately.

You will need to pay taxes and a $35 activation charge at checkout to get the new line provisioned on the network, but that's a small price to pay for a new iPhone that offers a "great camera, beautiful display, 256GB of storage, fast performance, and long battery life."

Make the most of this opportunity to score the latest iPhone 17 lineup for free with T-Mobile.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Don’t limit yourself to one AI model with help from this $60 platform

Mashable - Sat, 05/23/2026 - 11:00

TL;DR: Make your AI workflow less chaotic with this lifetime subscription to the ChatPlayground AI Unlimited Plan, on sale now for $59.97 (reg. $619) through May 31.

Opens in a new window Credit: ChatPlayground AI ChatPlayground AI: Lifetime Subscription (Unlimited Plan) $59.97
$619 Save $559.03   Get Deal

AI is supposed to make life easier, but before you know it, your desktop is overrun with all the different models, and you’re more overwhelmed than you were in the first place. ChatPlayground AI aims to change that, offering a centralized hub for your AI needs.

Right now, you can score a lifetime subscription to the Unlimited Plan for only $59.97 until May 31.

Mashable Deals Be the first to know! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Loading... Sign Me Up By signing up, you agree to receive recurring automated SMS marketing messages from Mashable Deals at the number provided. Msg and data rates may apply. Up to 2 messages/day. Reply STOP to opt out, HELP for help. Consent is not a condition of purchase. See our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. Thanks for signing up!

Stop trying to keep up with all the strengths and weaknesses of your go-to AI choices. ChatPlayground AI lets you see responses from over 20 models, all side by side in one spot.

Enter your prompt and compare answers from ChatGPT, DeepSeek, Gemini, Llama, Perplexity, and more with ChatPlayground AI. You can pick the best response for your needs, all without having to pay all the individual subscription fees.

From generating code and images to asking simple questions or coding, ChatPlayground AI can handle nearly everything. And if you don’t get the responses you’re looking for, it can even help you build better prompts with prompt engineering tools. Image and PDF chat features are also available to get speedier answers.

If you’re working on an ongoing project or just find yourself wanting to reference past conversations, ChatPlayground AI saves them all for your convenience. Your Unlimited Plan also provides unlimited monthly messages, priority customer service, and priority access to any new features and future models.

Secure your own lifetime subscription to the ChatPlayground AI Unlimited Plan for only $59.97 now through May 31.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Windows 11 Pro brings new life to older PCs for just $10

Mashable - Sat, 05/23/2026 - 11:00

TL;DR: A new operating system modernizes your PC, and right now, Microsoft Windows 11 Pro can be yours for just $9.97 (reg. $199) through May 31.

Opens in a new window Credit: Microsoft Microsoft Windows 11 Pro $9.97
$199 Save $189.03   Get Deal

Is your dusty old PC feeling pretty stale? Upgrading your operating system breathes new life into your device, and Windows 11 Pro was built specifically for today’s workflow.

Right now, you can upgrade your current PC for just $9.97 with this license — on sale through May 31.

Mashable Deals Be the first to know! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Loading... Sign Me Up By signing up, you agree to receive recurring automated SMS marketing messages from Mashable Deals at the number provided. Msg and data rates may apply. Up to 2 messages/day. Reply STOP to opt out, HELP for help. Consent is not a condition of purchase. See our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. Thanks for signing up!

If you primarily use your PC for work, it’s time to make the switch to Windows 11 Pro. This OS was designed for today’s professionals, with a user-friendly interface, improved multitasking capabilities, and advanced security to keep your content secure.

If your PC cannot upgrade through Windows Update, you can use this license. The fresh, user-friendly interface is easy to use, while features like a more powerful search experience, easy redocking, snap layouts, and virtual desktops speed up your workflow.

This Windows 11 Pro license includes Microsoft Teams, which helps you stay connected to family, friends, and coworkers. It also gives you access to Copilot, Microsoft’s AI-powered assistant that can help you complete tasks, change settings, summarize web pages, and open apps.

Enjoy improved cybersecurity with biometric logins, encrypted authentication, and enhanced antivirus protection that all help keep your data safe.

If you’re a gamer, you’ll love DirectX 12 Ultimate‘s impressive graphics, and professionals will appreciate access to Azure AD, Hyper-V, Windows Sandbox, and BitLocker.

Get a Microsoft Windows 11 Pro license for less than the cost of lunch — only $9.97 now through May 31.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Categories: IT General, Technology

I tried to buy my son some Pokémon cards at retail price. It was almost impossible.

Mashable - Sat, 05/23/2026 - 11:00

I had a Pokémon card addiction back in 1999.

I used to get £10 a month pocket money from my grandmother and, more often than not, that crisp note would be immediately exchanged for four crinkly blue and silver booster packs that I'd rip straight open. I paid £10 once for a shiny Charizard card to complete the Base set. It's still sat in the binder I placed it in a quarter of a century ago.

Pokémon has been in and out of my life ever since. It made a major comeback in 2016 when Pokémon Go launched, and then again more recently when my young son discovered the TV show. I often watch it with him. I don't recognise all the Pokémon, but I'm pleased to see Ash hasn't aged a day.

Then, a few weeks back, my son came home with some Pokémon cards. They were in a small pack that came free with a magazine. I recognised a couple of the newer ones, Rowlet and Dedenne, along with a Seel I remembered from back in the day. The nostalgia hit me hard, so I decided to buy some boosters that we could open together.

SEE ALSO: 'Pokémon Pokopia' is the cozy escape the internet needed

I fired up Amazon, thinking that would be the quickest way to find some — only to be slightly confused when I saw the site's yellow "Buy" button had been replaced with a button reading "Request an Invite". I clicked it, dug into exactly what it meant, and soon discovered Pokémon card collecting in 2026 is a very, very different hobby to what it was in the late nineties.

Amazon's "Request an Invite" option shows up instead of the "Buy" button for Pokémon cards. Credit: Amazon

The short version? It's currently extremely hard to buy Pokémon card packs for retail price. This probably won't come as a surprise to present-day collectors, but for someone who hasn't bought any since my teenage years, it was unexpected. I managed it in the end, but it took me two weeks, multiple supermarket visits, online lotteries, and a final stroke of luck.

The frustrating quest to find Pokémon cards in stores

Amazon's "Request an Invite" system essentially enters you into a lottery. A couple of times a week invites are sent out, enabling some lucky customers to buy the cards they requested (in two weeks I received no invites). Once I realised the process might be a slow one, I turned my attention to other IRL retailers. Pokemon Trading Card Game has an official site listing stores, and I learned through Reddit's r/PokemonDealsUK sub (I live in the UK) that other people were having some success in supermarkets like Sainsbury's, Tesco, Morrisons and ASDA.

Over the course of about a week I visited 10 of these stores, varying from small Tesco Express shops to Sainbury's superstores. On some days I visited stores that people on Reddit were specifically flagging as having received fresh stock. The shelves were always empty. Every single time, without fail, the Pokémon card section in the toy aisle would look sad and abandoned.

A few times I asked staff about stock, and the answer always came back as some variation of the following: "We don't get them in very often. And when we do, one person normally just buys the whole box."

Featured Video For You Josh Johnson’s formula for the perfect comedy special Why are Pokémon cards so hard to buy at retail prices?

The answer, as I learned, is pretty simple: Demand currently outstrips supply. The price people are willing to pay for Pokémon cards is higher than retail price.

I found this out by looking on second hand markets like eBay and Vinted, where packs and boxes of Pokémon cards are frequently sold for far more than the £4-£5 per 10-card booster pack you can buy in the shops. Some sets, like January's very popular Ascended Heroes, are actually selling for around double the retail price. The rarest cards in that set, like the Mega Gengar Ex Special Illustration Rare, go for over £1,000.

"We're seeing the people that would buy trainers and stuff, to flip for profit, now coming over to Pokémon to do the same thing."

Suddenly, the reason why one person might be going into a store and buying up the entire stock started to make more sense: They're immediately in profit. Pokémon cards now, perhaps more than ever, have become a business.

As part of my research, I reached out to Asmodee and Smiths News, two of the UK's main Pokémon card distributors, as well as three major supermarket chains. Tesco had no on-the-record comment, but acknowledged the high demand while advising that its Express stores will be stocking the new Chaos Rising set and are expecting regular deliveries. Asmodee had no comment. At the time of writing, none of the others have responded (Mashable will update this article if we do hear back).

So how do you actually get Pokémon cards?

As I eventually found out, it is possible to buy Pokémon cards at retail price. It just takes a bit of time and luck. My search quickly took me from Reddit to the OakLabs Poké Alerts Discord server, which a moderator of r/PokemonDealsUK has set up to try and help buyers find stock. So far it's been the most useful resource out there. There are stock alert pings, people sharing successful finds in the wild, and links to lotteries (like the Amazon one) run by other independent shops. Although stock still sells quickly, the Discord is full of people who've managed to beat the odds and buy the packs they want.

My first bit of luck, however, came from somewhere a bit more traditional: a local card shop in South West England. Bath TCG came up when I searched for places to buy cards near me, and I gave them a call without really expecting much. I was pleasantly surprised. They told me that they'd have stock of the new set, Chaos Rising, in for release day, and because they limit pack purchases to two per customer, they were expecting to have enough for everyone.

I headed down for the launch and found that the system worked. As promised, rather than an empty shelf, the card packs were ready and waiting. I was finally able to pick some up.

Success at last! Credit: Sam Haysom

Before I left, I caught up with 35-year-old store owner, Ben Thyer, who described the current boom as a "perfect storm" created by a rise in Pokémon card streamers, flashy celebrity headlines like Logan Paul's $16 million Pikachu Illustrator record auction, and the fact that 2026 is the 30th anniversary of the card game.

"We're seeing the people that would buy trainers and stuff, to flip for profit, now coming over to Pokémon to do the same thing," Thyer told me. "It used to be you could buy Pokémon, everyone would buy it to open and enjoy, some people would keep it sealed but the return would be in four, five, six years. Currently, because of how the market is and how sparse it is, the return is instant."

Unlike many retailers, Bath TCG counters this with a tiered system. Players of the game are in Tier 1, loyal customers — who've already made several purchases — are in Tier 2, and everyone else is in Tier 3. All booster packs are limited to a certain number per customer, depending on the tier they fall into. Seals on booster boxes are broken to discourage resellers. All of this means that the stock doesn't immediately vanish when the doors open, and there are enough packs for everyone.

Seals are broken by staff to put off resellers. Credit: Sam Haysom

When I asked Thyer why distributors aren't simply supplying more cards to meet demand, he said that they are. But demand also means more retailers are ordering from distributors, including stores like Hobbycraft and The Entertainer that didn't used to sell Pokémon cards. This means the likes of Bath TCG aren't able to get any additional stock, despite stock levels in the UK being higher overall.

And as for whether or not this stock scarcity situation will change anytime soon? Thyer wasn't too hopeful.

"This is like a cyclical thing that we see sort of every three to four years, but it normally lasts six to nine months and it's not that intense," he said. "It's not really showing any signs of slowing down at the moment."

Categories: IT General, Technology

How to use AdultFriendFinder’s Sex Stories feature — vet your next sexting partner

Mashable - Sat, 05/23/2026 - 11:00

Too many AdultFriendFinder users restrict themselves to the more conventional aspects of this otherwise unconventional dating site. They create a profile, search through singles, and maybe browse a webcam or two. But the real meat of the site isn't actually in the one-on-one interactions; it's in the larger community, which exists in the forums, monthly contests, blogs and, perhaps most importantly, the Sex Stories section.

While you can obviously just browse these stories casually, the on-site culture actually encourages greater interaction than that, and many an AFF connection has been made by two adults bonding over their shared love of erotic fiction. 

Here's how you can use their literotica section to not only vet your next sexting partner but actually initiate the conversation. Full disclaimer: while you can absolutely enjoy aspects of the Sex Stories section without a paid membership, getting the most out of it and actually converting your literary admiration into a one-on-one chat will require a site subscription.

Opens in a new window Credit: AdultFriendFinder AdultFriendFinder   Learn More Read the stories and find what resonates with you

AFF's Sex Stories section boasts more than a dozen distinct categories or genres, ranging from "first time" experiences to group sex scenes, fetish exploration and even stories with fantasy or sci-fi elements. The more creative writers even try their hand at erotic novels and poetry, and since a lot of effort has been put into these creations, the least you can do is read the stories in full and save those you like.

SEE ALSO: 3 common hookup app profile mistakes: Keep this off your AdultFriendFinder profile

While even free users can save individual stories, only paid members can follow story writers, but if you discover that one particular author keeps catching your interest, following their work is a good way to indicate your interest. 

Leave a comment

What author doesn't appreciate positive feedback? If a story resonates with you, you can interact with it in one of two ways: by leaving a comment or by using the like button to indicate your approval. Because of the site's laidback culture, it's completely common for authors to respond to comments, so put some thought into what you say, shouting out specific aspects of the story or how it was written. Many a private sexting conversation began in the public comment section of an AFF story.

While free AFF users are able to both comment and like stories, paid members unlock even greater emoji reactions, including more salacious and flirty reactions, which helps you take your flirting game up a notch. 

Consider writing your own story

If you're having trouble getting storywriters to respond to you or if you just can't find a piece that really resonates with your needs, it might be time to take up the (digital) pen yourself. If you have a way with words, you can accrue a large following on the site, and even earn badges for your heightened on-site participation.

SEE ALSO: 3 AdultFriendFinder red flags — how to avoid scams on AFF

Best of all, by becoming the writer rather than the reader, you'll put yourself in the position of being able to select which comments (and therefore which commentators) catch your attention. 

Use the #tags feature

While every story written has to be placed into a specific category, each story can also contain multiple tags, and these are a lot more varied and a lot more specific than the story categories. Current "top tags" include #feet, #sub, #teasing and #watching, for example.

If you're looking for a particular type of sexting conversation, or if you have very specific turn-ons, the tag feature is the fastest way to find a like-minded person to explore with in a private conversation. 

Categories: IT General, Technology

Dropout curious? Heres where you should start watching.

Mashable - Sat, 05/23/2026 - 11:00

By our estimation, Dropout is the best destination online for groundbreaking comedy. But if you're new to Dropout, it might be dizzying to decide where to dive in.

This subscription streaming platform is best-known for its hilarious game shows like Make Some Noise and Game Changer, as well as the tabletop role-playing game series Dimension 20, the kooky talk show parody Very Important People, and the daffy cooking competition series Gastronauts. But with so many seasons, guests, and shows, where to begin? 

Mashable's here to help. Around here, we're big fans of Dropout, but we're also aware that just leaping into these shows with the latest eps could be confusing with no context. So, we asked our own Dropout subscribers where they'd recommend you start watching — not just which shows, but which episodes. 

Here's a rundown on all you need to know to get into Dropout. 

Dimension 20

What's the show's deal?: Launched in 2018, this was one of Dropout's first series. Created by Brennan Lee Mulligan, it began with "Fantasy High," a campaign in which a band of comedians gathered around a table, playing a home-brewed version of Dungeons & Dragons set in a suburban high school straight out of a John Hughes movie. 

This series works kind of like an anthology, with successive seasons featuring new characters in settings like Game of Thrones meets Candyland, a magical New York City, or a high-flying steampunk adventure. Episodes of Dimension 20 regularly run over two hours long, with seasons ranging from four to 20 episodes. So, jumping in at the latest episode would be all kinds of bewildering, especially as some campaigns stretch across non-consecutive seasons. 

Suggested starting point: Dungeons & Drag Queens, Season 1, Episode 1, "Queens on a Quest"

Why you should watch: Technically, this is the 18th season of Dimension 20. But trust us, it's the easiest entry point — in part because it's full of first-time players who all happen to be hilarious drag queens. 

With Mulligan's guidance as Game Master, RuPaul's Drag Race stars Monét X Change, Alaska Thunderfuck, Bob the Drag Queen, and Jujubee created fierce fantasy heroines joining forces in the magical realm of Kelvorda. Together, this quartet sets forth on a quest of spells, battles, and family secrets. Ever adaptable to his players and their wild imaginations, Mulligan helps these questing queens build an adventure that's studded with bonkers pop culture references, outrageous turns, and side-splitting humor.

Plus, at just four episodes, Dungeons & Drag Queens is an easy commitment. 

What to watch next: If you love this season, you can dive into Dungeons & Drag Queens Season 2 for more. However, once you've learned how Dimension 20 rolls, you can scroll through Dropout to find which adventure — or cast of comedians — you'd like to see play next. Or if you're more inclined to board games, check out Parlor Room, hosted by Becca Scott. 

Game Changer 

What's the show's deal?: Dimension 20 and Game Changer are Dropout's most popular shows. And where the former is all about collaborative play, the latter is a competitive game show, where the game itself changes each week. 

Hosted by Dropout CEO Sam Reich, Game Changer sometimes does a unique parody of known shows like Shark Tank, The Bachelor, Survivor, or Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? Other times, the game revolves around a strange prop, like a giant foam mouth or a roulette wheel full of improvisational prompts. As Reich explains at the start of each episode, "The only way to learn is by playing. The only way to win is by learning." 

Now, this might sound like you can jump in anywhere for a good time. Actually, we'd advise against that, because while Season 7 of Game Changer offers some of the platform's most hilarious and heart-warming moments, they won't make sense without some context. 

Suggested starting point: Season 1, episode 2, "Make Some Noise"

Why you should watch: Sometimes a Game Changer concept becomes so popular that it gets a spin-off series, like Dirty Laundry and Crowd Control. This episode, which features Josh Ruben, Zac Oyama. and Brennan Lee Mulligan — three comedians with a deep arsenal of silly sounds and voices — not only inspired improvisational game show Make Some Noise, but also cemented their reputation as the "Noise Boys." 

This episode is a great intro to Game Changer, as well as to Make Some Noise. You don't need to know a single thing going in to enjoy the jokes. (And you can totally jump into any Make Some Noise ep from here.) 

What to watch next: To get a sense of the mischievousness of Reich in his role as Game Changer host, we'd recommend the "Sam Says" episodes (Season 4, episode 1; Season 5, episode 1; and Season 6, episode 3). It's like Simons Says, but diabolical. And after these, you can properly appreciate Season 7, episode 1, "One Year," featuring Sam Says 3's trio of contestants, Vic Michaelis, Jacob Wysocki, and Lou Wilson, reunited for a series of wild missions. Be warned: This episode will have you scream laughing. Alert your neighbors accordingly. 

Once you've gotten familiar with Game Changer, it's easy to slide into its spin-offs, or other game shows, like the playfully pedantic Um, Actually... and the daffy cooking competition Gastronauts.

Very Important People

What's the show's deal?: Vic Michaelis plays a comical version of themselves in this interview show, which offers a unique opportunity to improv comedians. As Michaelis explains at the top of each episode, a guest blindly submits themselves to a team of professional makeup artists and costumers, who will give them a radical makeover with no clues what it will be. Once they're fully done up, they get to look into a mirror, at which point they must craft a character who will be Vic's guest on their talk show. 

Zombies, aliens, living dolls, witches, worms, wrestlers, and demons have all sat down for an interview. But where should you start? 

Suggested starting point: Season 1, Episode 1, "Princess Emily"

Why you should watch: The debut episode of Very Important People is genuinely a superb place to start. Actress Anna Garcia is transformed into a demanding pop princess from "right in the smack of the dab" of Europe. Her all-over accent and Eurotrash attitude is at once outrageous and weirdly believable. Like, one might think she's not a comedy character but an actual Eurovision contender. (Okay. Me. I thought that based on a promo clip on TikTok.) 

What to watch next: You can certainly leap around to the characters or comedians who most entice you. But our picks for must-see VIP include mental health advocate Tommy Shriggly (Season 1, episode 6), doomsday prepper Pig #2 (Season 1, Episode 10), boy made of rocks Zeke Aaron McKinley (Season 2, episode 1), and randy ambassador Boris Tarshkokan (Season 3, episode 2). 

Now a warning: You will start quoting weird snippets of these interviews, like "my mom hates me because I'm rocks" and "we sucked each other down and talked about our parents." It's just what happens. 

Dimension 20: On a Bus

What's the show's deal?: This one is a deeper cut. But if watching hours of table top role playing seems too much for you, you can still enjoy this two-part parody of all things Dimension 20. 

Created by comedian Katie Marovitch, Dimension 20: On a Bus began as a short spoof of the popular franchise, in which she would purposely annoy Mulligan and his professional colleagues in Game Mastery, Aabria Iyengar, Jasmine Bhullar, and Matthew Mercer. 

Suggested starting point: Season 1 is a five-minute video. So you can marathon Season 1 and Season 2 in about an hour. 

Why you should watch: This began as a bit on the Game Changer episode "Fool's Gold." But the resulting video became such a hit on social media that for April Fool's Day 2026, Dropout released a "Season 2" — which is a full 55-minute-long episode of Marovitch playing the fool to perfection as Mulligan and the others battle to make any sense of her mayhem. It's wildly funny, whether or not you know what a "crit" or "home-brew hack" is. 

What to watch next: For fuller context, you can also check out the Game Changer ep or our interview with Marovitch. 

Demi Adejuyigbe: Is Going to Do One (1) Backflip

What's the show's deal?: Dropout also offers stand-up comedy specials, and this is my personal favorite. Demi Adejuyigbe's humor is a mix of cerebral and silly, but with a thread of vulnerability that transforms this special from straightforward stand-up to something stranger and more rewarding. And yes, that involves his promise to do a backflip. 

Why you should watch: Through a masterfully calibrated show, Adejuyigbe plays with audience expectation for punchlines and even his big promised climax. You'll laugh plenty at his audacious observations and clever turns. But by the end, this comedy special is about a performer revealing his failings and fears. Beyond being profound, Demi Adejuyigbe: Is Going to Do One (1) Backflip becomes a solid example of what makes Dropout special. The sensibility of this subscription service combines subversive comedy and goofy gags with a deeply embedded humanity. So, it's not just cheap laughs but rich wonder that's hitting here. 

What to watch next: Smarty Pants, Season 1, Episode 1

Hosted by Rekha Shankar, this Dropout show seems born from the trend of PowerPoint nights, where folks create slide shows about a personal passion to amuse or annoy their friends. A gaggle of comedians come together to hear out deeply silly speeches about rollercoasters, theater kids, and cryptids. But if you like Adejuyigbe's special, you must see his presentation, "Which Cartoon Characters Are Invited to the Cookout?"

Categories: IT General, Technology
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