IT General

ChatGPT for Teens is an unsafe product that should be paused until OpenAI can address myriad problems, according to a new report from the Youth AI Safety Institute at Common Sense Media.

The report also calls on OpenAI to suspend its marketing of ChatGPT for Teens and prohibit adolescents from using ChatGPT at all until it can "offer a safe, developmentally appropriate experience."

OpenAI launched ChatGPT for Teens in August as a product for 13- to 17-year-olds that would "support" learning and human relationships. ChatGPT for Teens incorporated existing safety measures for minors and introduced new learning and well-being features.

SEE ALSO: What parents should know about ChatGPT for Teens

Notably, OpenAI pitched ChatGPT for Teens as focused on education rather than personal topics, with new and enhanced tools related to parental notifications, designated study hours, and break reminders.

OpenAI disputed the report's claims and characterized the research as flawed.

"We welcome rigorous independent evaluation, but we do not believe Common Sense Media's testing accurately reflects how ChatGPT's teen safeguards work in practice or expert perspectives on how AI can support teens," an OpenAI spokesperson said in a statement.

The company also believes that most of the testing may have been conducted before parental controls were fully activated. This would make the "findings inaccurate," the spokesperson said. Prior to testing, the institute confirmed with OpenAI that Teen mode features like eating disorder notifications and Study Mode were fully launched.

What's at stake with ChatGPT for Teens

After weeks of testing, Youth AI Safety Institute researchers concluded that many of ChatGPT for Teens' settings don't work as advertised.

The testers easily circumvented learning guardrails and parental controls and talked at length about subjects like disordered eating and self-harm without generating parental notifications. They also found the teen version of ChatGPT still engages users like a friend.

OpenAI originally said ChatGPT for Teens would limit the emotional and intimate exchanges between young people and AI that have driven concerns about well-being and mental health. In some tragic cases, that dynamic has allegedly led teens and young adults to attempt suicide or take their own lives after heavy engagement with ChatGPT, according to lawsuits filed against OpenAI.

"Part of why we're asking for this pause is we need evidence that these features work," said Robbie Torney, head of AI and digital assessments at the Youth AI Safety Institute at Common Sense Media. The institute has received philanthropic funding from the OpenAI Foundation but conducts independent testing of the company's products.

Torney said that the institute stands behind its methodology and results.

What ChatGPT for Teens testers found

In 2025, Common Sense Media tested ChatGPT and rated it as high risk for teen users and as unacceptable risk for mental health support.

This summer, prior to the launch of ChatGPT for Teens, Youth AI Safety Institute researchers again tested the chatbot. Testers then re-ran the same prompts with the same accounts once they were enrolled in ChatGPT for Teens, over a month-long period between late August and September.

The prompts focused on areas including parental notifications, feature checks, mental health, academic integrity, and age prediction.

In every category, the testers found that ChatGPT for Teens failed to deliver.

Parental notification failures

New accounts that tested hundreds of prompts related to suicide, self-harm, or disordered eating failed to generate a single parental notification. Some of the exchanges between testers and ChatGPT lasted up to an hour.

OpenAI said it aims to send notifications via email, text message, or push notification within an hour of detecting a high-risk situation. Torney said that parental notifications may work differently when an account has a longer conversation history with ChatGPT. 

Upon reviewing the report, OpenAI informed the institute that parent and teen accounts must be linked for approximately three hours before parents can receive notifications. It recommended retesting with fully activated accounts. The company also said the report's parental notification findings conflict with its own internal monitoring and evaluations.

The institute said it tested accounts linked for both more and less than three hours and stands by its findings. 

"This new information does not change our conclusion that parental alerts are unreliable for crisis situations," Torney said.

Problems with learning guardrails

While OpenAI positioned ChatGPT for Teens as supportive of learning, the product gives adolescents significant leeway. 

Study Mode, for example, will give a teen step-by-step guidance on a homework question. Yet it also presents a "show me the answer" option. When selected, "show me the answer" completes the work for the teen, according to the report. 

OpenAI said this is an intentional option designed to help students better understand and engage more deeply with the material.

The pop-up appeared in 43 percent of responses for a 13-year-old test user with a linked parental account when the Study Hours feature was in effect. When an unlinked 17-year-old test account prompted ChatGPT for help during Study Hours, it saw the "show me the answer" pop-up 90 percent of the time. 

While Torney appreciates OpenAI's interest in giving teens agency over their learning experience, he noted that the approach may underestimate the risk of cognitive offloading and over-dependence. 

"If we're talking about the target audience for this product, it's very rare that teachers give learners 100 percent agency over a learning task or a learning process," Torney said. 

Finally, the researchers found that parent-set Study Hours schedule could be circumvented by deleting the prefix @study from the chat box in order to message the regular ChatGPT. Once deleted, the testers found that ChatGPT completed all assignments shared by the user. 

Questions about age assurance

While OpenAI has promoted its age prediction efforts as a way to restrict teens to developmentally appropriate experiences, the testers found that ChatGPT can't reliably tell a user's age. 

When accounts registered as adults referenced adolescent experiences like starting puberty, attending summer camp, receiving middle-school homework, and relying on parents for transportation and permission, OpenAI did not reclassify them as teens. 

Even when the tester disclosed a specific age, such as 13, ChatGPT acknowledged it, but the account in question wasn't then subject to extra safeguards, feature limits, or age verification.

The report said the scenario creates the risk of "false assurance" for families because parents can perceive teen protections as active when they are not. 

OpenAI said that a single data point, including the disclosure of age in a chat, doesn't change the account's classification. Instead, the company said it takes multiple signals into consideration. New accounts also undergo an initial waiting period as the system gathers data to make a confident age prediction.

A call for more transparency

Torney said OpenAI needs to be much more transparent with users, parents, and researchers when the company announces new learning and safety features. Those tools, he argued, should be immediately available and effective. 

In the case of ChatGPT for Teens, the product's launch included important features on paper that didn't live up to their promise in real-life use, or weren't live for weeks.

Torney said the institute shared its evaluation results with OpenAI in "good faith," prior to releasing them publicly.

"Keeping kids safe requires rigorous independent evaluations like ours, and we hope OpenAI will engage on the substance of what we found, rather than trying to sow doubt on our methodology," Torney said.   

Disclosure: Ziff Davis, Mashable’s parent company, in April 2025 filed a lawsuit against OpenAI, alleging it infringed Ziff Davis copyrights in training and operating its AI systems.

TL;DR: Microsoft Visio Professional 2024 for Windows is on sale for just $49.97 (reg. $579.99) through Oct. 11 during Deal Days, with a lifetime license for creating professional diagrams, workflows, floor plans, network maps, and more.

Opens in a new window Credit: Microsoft Microsoft Visio Professional 2024: Lifetime License for Windows $49.97
$579.99 Save $530.02   Get Deal

Some ideas are easy to explain in an email. Others require 37 follow-up questions and a meeting nobody wanted. On that note, Microsoft Visio Professional 2024 for Windows is on sale for just $49.97 (reg. $579.99) through Oct. 11 during Deal Days, our Prime Day alternative. It gives you a lifetime diagramming tool for making complicated information easier to understand.

Visio can create flowcharts, process maps, floor plans, network diagrams, and organizational charts, with pre-built templates to get projects moving. There are more than 250,000 shapes available, so you’re unlikely to find yourself trying to represent an entire business process with three rectangles and an arrow.

The more interesting feature for data-heavy work is Visio’s ability to link diagrams to data from sources including Excel, SQL Server, and other databases. As that data changes, diagrams can update automatically.

Visio 2024 also introduces updated shapes, templates, styles, and layouts, along with a new search bar and a refreshed design that matches other Office apps. Formatting tools let you adjust shapes and text or apply themes when your diagram needs to look presentation-ready rather than merely functional.

Collaboration isn’t an afterthought, either. Multiple users can work on the same diagram simultaneously with changes tracked in real time. The Visio web app provides mobile and cloud access for viewing and editing away from your desktop.

Microsoft 365 integration lets you embed diagrams into PowerPoint, Word, and Teams, while OneDrive and SharePoint can be used for storage and sharing.

For anyone routinely explaining processes, networks, layouts, or complicated data, Visio solves a very specific problem: sometimes drawing it really is easier.

Get Microsoft Visio Professional 2024 for Windows for $49.97 through Oct. 11 during this Deal Days sale.

Click here to view more of the Deal Days collection.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

TL;DR: Physical preorders for Nintendo's The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time remake are already $10 off at Amazon. Preorder for $59.99 and get a preorder price guarantee.

Opens in a new window Credit: Nintendo 'The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time' (Digital) $59.99 at Amazon
  Shop Now Opens in a new window Credit: Nintendo 'The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time' (Physical) $59.88 at Amazon
$69.99 Save $10.11   Get Deal

We're edging closer and closer to the Nintendo Switch 2 remake of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. The official release date is Nov. 5, but Zelda fans are already buzzing thanks to the first-look gameplay footage.

Preorders for both the digital and physical copies are already available at Amazon. The digital version costs $59.99, while the physical edition was initially priced at $69.99 but has been reduced to $59.88 — great news for those of us who prefer to have the actual game in our hands.

There's another good reason to order from Amazon, as the retailer is offering a preorder price guarantee. That means if the preorder changes between now and when you're charged, you'll pay the lowest price point between when you order and when you receive the game.

If you're a serious Zelda fan, it's worth getting that preorder in soon.

Nintendo has revealed that the first print run of the physical edition will come with "special packaging that features textured foil cover art." That's one for the collectors, who will also love the Legend of Zelda-themed hardware coming this fall to mark the franchise's 40th anniversary. That will include a special-edition Switch 2 console, a Pro Controller, and a carrying case, all out Oct. 29.

TL;DR: The DJI Mini 5 Pro Fly More Combo Plus is on sale for $1,029 at Amazon for October Prime Day. That's the record-low price for this premium drone.

Opens in a new window Credit: DJI DJI Mini 5 Pro Fly More Combo Plus $1,029 at Amazon
$1,159 Save $130   Get Deal

We were fooled by the DJI drone deals ahead of October Prime Day. There was absolutely nothing on offer, so we were led to believe that we wouldn't get anything when the shopping event went live. We know that sounds foolish, but you usually get a few early deals as a sign of what's to come.

We were pleasantly surprised to see a number of DJI drone deals drop as soon as October Prime Day officially started. Most of the deals are reserved for the cheaper drones, like the DJI Neo, but some premium models have also got price cuts.

The DJI Mini 5 Pro Fly More Combo Plus is on sale for $1,029 at Amazon for October Prime Day. That's the record-low price for this premium drone.

The DJI Mini 5 Pro packs a 1-inch CMOS sensor capable of shooting crisp 4K/60 fps HDR video, with true 225-degree vertical gimbal rotation for native TikTok and Instagram Reels content. For pilots navigating tricky environments, its night-scene omnidirectional obstacle sensing and ActiveTrack 360° keep the drone safe while automatically locking onto subjects through trees or urban landscapes.

This bundle includes the premium drone, the DJI RC 2, three batteries (each with up to 52-minute flight time), spare propellers, a charging hub, ND filters, and more. That's everything you need and more to start flying and shooting pro-level content.

Get the DJI Mini 5 Pro for its best-ever price on October Prime Day.

Our best editor-vetted Prime Day deals right now

Apple AirPods Pro 3 Noise Cancelling Heart Rate Wireless Earbuds — $179.00 (List Price $249.00)

Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones — $198.00 (List Price $399.99)

Ring Indoor Cam Plus 2K Wired Security Camera (2-Pack, White) — $59.98 (List Price $119.98)

Apple iPad 11" 128GB Wi-Fi Retina Tablet (Blue, 2025 Release) — $399.99 (List Price $449.00)

Ring 2nd Gen 2K Wired Video Doorbell With Chime (2026 Release) — $49.99 (List Price $114.98)

Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Plus Streaming Player With Remote (2025 Model) — $37.99 (List Price $69.99)

Apple Watch Series 12 (GPS, 42mm, S/M Black Sport Band) — $349.99 (List Price $399.00)

Blink Outdoor 4 1080p 3-Camera Kit With Sync Module Core + Doorbell   — $65.99 (List Price $259.98)

The best Prime Day Owala deals: Owala FreeSip Stainless Steel (19 oz, Tropical Rain) $20.73 (save $6.26) Get Deal Owala FreeSip Twist Stainless Steel Water Bottle (24 oz, Fruit Punch) $22.78 (save $7.21) Get Deal Owala FreeSip Sway (30 oz, Peachy Keen) $29.74 (save $5.25) Get Deal Owala FreeSip Stainless Steel (24 oz, Cranberry Parade) $23.99 (save $6) Get Deal Owala FreeSip Stainless Steel (32 oz, Boneyard) $27.99 (save $7) Get Deal Owala Princess FreeSip (24 oz, Belle) $29.74 (save $5.25) Get Deal Owala FreeSip Tumbler (40 oz, Off Road) $35.99 (save $9) Get Deal

If you’ve spent any time on TikTok over the past couple of years, you know the emotional support water bottle standard has officially shifted. Owala completely won over internet culture for one genuinely genius reason: its patented FreeSip spout lets you switch effortlessly between sipping through a built-in straw and tilting back for a massive gulp.

The catch? Owala bottles rarely go on sale. But for Amazon Prime Big Deal Days, a huge chunk of the lineup is marked down by up to 32% off — including the classic 24 oz driver, the 40 oz Tumbler, slim Sway models, and limited-edition Disney Princess collabs.

The OG FreeSip is up to 23% off Opens in a new window Credit: Owala Owala FreeSip Stainless (19 oz, Tropical Rain) $20.73 at Amazon
$26.99 Save $6.26   Get Deal

If you've spent any time on TikTok or read Samantha Mangino’s rave review for the classic Owala FreeSip, you know it is pretty much the holy grail of everyday hydration. The magic is in the patented 2-in-1 spout: you can sip vertically through the built-in straw or tilt back to chug from the exact same opening. Toss in 24-hour insulation, a 100% leak-proof push-button cap, and a carry loop that doubles as a lock, and it's easy to see why it dethroned traditional flasks.

Best of all, the savings span multiple sizes of the classic model — from the compact 19 oz to the standard 24 oz and spacious 32 oz — across various playful colorways.

The travel-friendly FreeSip Twist drops to under $23 Opens in a new window Credit: Owala Owala FreeSip Twist Stainless Steel Water Bottle (24 oz, Fruit Punch) $22.78 at Amazon
$29.99 Save $7.21   Get Deal

If you're a frequent flyer, the FreeSip Twist is the unsung hero of the lineup. It keeps the same patented 2-in-1 sip-or-swig spout as the classic, but replaces the pop-top cap with a sleek, fully threaded twist lid.

As Mashable's Samantha Mangino pointed out in her review, this fix completely solves the dreaded "airplane pressure burst" that happens with pop-top bottles at 30,000 feet. Its skinnier, streamlined body glides easily into tight purse compartments, tote bags, and airplane seatback pockets — making it an absolute essential for travel day setups.

The cup-holder-friendly FreeSip Sway is 15% off Opens in a new window Credit: Owala Owala FreeSip Sway (30 oz, Peachy Keen) $29.74 at Amazon
$34.99 Save $5.25   Get Deal

If you love the iconic sip-or-swig lid but hate trying to wedge a giant flask into your car's cup holder, the FreeSip Sway was basically made for you. The Sway takes everything that made the original bottle go viral — the patented 2-in-1 spout, triple-layer vacuum insulation that keeps ice frozen for up to 24 hours, and a 100% leak-proof push-button lid — and repackages it into a sleek, contoured silhouette.

Plus, its tapered base slides effortlessly into standard cup holders and purse side pockets. While the 30 oz in Peachy Keen is currently on sale, the Sway lineup spans multiple sizes and comes in many colorways.

Move over, Stanley: The Owala Tumbler is 20% off Opens in a new window Credit: Owala Owala FreeSip Tumbler (40 oz, Off Road) $35.99 at Amazon
$44.99 Save $9   Get Deal

If you want massive 40-ounce hydration with a built-in side handle but refuse to give up your leak-proof lid, the FreeSip Tumbler is Owala's direct shot at standard travel cups. It takes the viral 2-in-1 spout you already love — letting you switch between upright straw sipping and full-on chugging — and embeds it into a heavy-duty, 40-ounce silhouette. The game-changer here is the double-threaded lid, which lets you screw the cap on in either direction so the handle sits comfortably whether you're right- or left-handed.

Whichever FreeSip model you pick, lock it in before Prime Day ends.

SAVE $80: As of Oct. 7, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 is on sale for $219.99 on Amazon. That's a 27% discount on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 $219.99 at Amazon
$299.99 Save $80   Get Deal

Day 2 of Prime Day is here, and the deals are still rolling in across tech, fitness, and everyday essentials. If you've been considering a new fitness tracker, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 is on sale, currently down to $219.99 from $299.99. This isn't its best-ever price, but it's not far off. According to camelcamelcamel, it reached a low of $218.49 back in June.

The Galaxy Watch 8 comes with a range of features designed to help you keep tabs on your health and daily routine. For sleep tracking, Advanced Sleep Coaching and Bedtime Guidance can help you work towards creating a more consistent sleep schedule. Its Energy Score also takes your previous day's sleep, activity, and heart rate into account to give you an overview of how your body is doing.

If you're a runner, you'll get the benefit of the dedicated Running Coach feature that assesses your performance and provides real-time feedback. It also has training plans that can see you through distances up to a marathon.

There are plenty of features for everyday smartwatch use, too. You can check the weather, keep up with sports scores, and see phone notifications without reaching for your phone. The watch also has a built-in AI assistant that can help with tasks and to-do lists.

Head to Amazon now to score this Prime Day price.

Our best editor-vetted Prime Day deals right now

Apple AirPods Pro 3 Noise Cancelling Heart Rate Wireless Earbuds — $179.00 (List Price $249.00)

Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones — $198.00 (List Price $399.99)

Ring Indoor Cam Plus 2K Wired Security Camera (2-Pack, White) — $59.98 (List Price $119.98)

Apple iPad 11" 128GB Wi-Fi Retina Tablet (Blue, 2025 Release) — $399.99 (List Price $449.00)

Ring 2nd Gen 2K Wired Video Doorbell With Chime (2026 Release) — $49.99 (List Price $114.98)

Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Plus Streaming Player With Remote (2025 Model) — $37.99 (List Price $69.99)

Apple Watch Series 12 (GPS, 42mm, S/M Black Sport Band) — $349.99 (List Price $399.00)

Blink Outdoor 4 1080p 3-Camera Kit With Sync Module Core + Doorbell   — $65.99 (List Price $259.98)

SAVE $200: As of Oct. 7, the 15-inch MacBook Air M5 is available for $1,299 on Amazon. That's a $200 savings off the regular list price of $1,499.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple MacBook Air 15-Inch M5 $1,299 at Amazon
$1,499 Save $200   Get Deal

Apple deals are always a highlight of major sale events, such as October Prime Day, which officially ends after today. After all, those big Apple discounts don't come around too often. Fortunately, the best Apple deals are still live, including a sweet saving on the 15-inch MacBook Air.

As of Oct. 7, the MacBook Air 15-inch is priced at a $1,299, down from the regular list price of $1,499 — a total saving of $200. There are some neat bonuses when you buy this MacBook, too — the deal includes up to three months free access to Apple Arcade, Fitness+, and News+.

This is the 2026 version of the MacBook Air, which means it's packed with all the latest features and specs. It's powered by Apple's lightning-fast M5 chip, with features that include Apple Intelligence, Touch ID, a stunning Liquid Retina display, WiFi 7 compatibility, and a hefty 1TB of storage.

The Air is built for working on the go — lighter and slimmer than regular MacBooks — but offers the same super-smooth user experience you expect from Apple.

We expect this deal to get snapped up as October Prime Day comes to an end, so don't miss the MacBook Air 15-inch with a full $200 off. Now available for $1,299.

Our best editor-vetted Prime Day deals right now

Apple AirPods Pro 3 Noise Cancelling Heart Rate Wireless Earbuds — $179.00 (List Price $249.00)

Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones — $198.00 (List Price $399.99)

Ring Indoor Cam Plus 2K Wired Security Camera (2-Pack, White) — $59.98 (List Price $119.98)

Apple iPad 11" 128GB Wi-Fi Retina Tablet (Blue, 2025 Release) — $399.99 (List Price $449.00)

Ring 2nd Gen 2K Wired Video Doorbell With Chime (2026 Release) — $49.99 (List Price $114.98)

Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Plus Streaming Player With Remote (2025 Model) — $37.99 (List Price $69.99)

Apple Watch Series 12 (GPS, 42mm, S/M Black Sport Band) — $349.99 (List Price $399.00)

Blink Outdoor 4 1080p 3-Camera Kit With Sync Module Core + Doorbell   — $65.99 (List Price $259.98)

TL;DR: The Pokémon TCG 30th Celebration Elite Trainer Box is available for $159.99 at Amazon. That's close to market price, but does require shoppers to request an invite to buy.

Opens in a new window Credit: The Pokémon Company Pokémon TCG 30th Celebration Elite Trainer Box $159.99 at Amazon
  Shop Now

Amazon’s $89.99 deal on the Pokémon TCG 30th Celebration Elite Trainer Box sold out fast, but the retailer still offers one of the most reasonable routes to securing this high-demand set — if you're willing to join the waitlist.

The Pokémon TCG 30th Celebration Elite Trainer Box is currently listed at $159.99 on Amazon, with shipping and sale handled directly by the retailer. Because inventory remains extremely tight on Prime Big Deal Days, Amazon is routing orders through its "request invite" lottery system. Submitting an invite request reserves your spot in line to purchase the box at list price, without paying inflated secondary-market rates.

At $159.99, Amazon’s price sits close to TCGplayer’s market price. It's also considerably cheaper than Walmart, so even though it hurts to miss out on the $89.99 deal that Amazon was offering a couple of weeks ago, this is still a strong option for collectors.

The 30th Celebration Elite Trainer Box is the premier display piece for this milestone expansion. Each ETB comes packed with nine 30th Celebration booster packs, an exclusive full-art foil Nidorina promo card, 16 foil Basic Energy cards, 65 custom card sleeves, damage-counter dice, a condition marker, card dividers, a collector’s player guide, and a code card for Pokémon TCG Live.

The best deals this week, hand-picked by our shopping experts

• Fire Stick 4K Select — $17.99 $49.99 (save $32)

• AirPods Pro 3 — $179 $249 (save $70)

• Bose QuietComfort Gen 2 — $319 $359 (save $40)

• iPad mini — $499 $599 (save $100)

• MacBook Air M5 — $1,099 $1,299 (save $200)

TL;DR: The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8 is available for free with T-Mobile when you activate a new line or trade in an eligible device on Experience More or Experience Beyond.

Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung T-Mobile: Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8 for free   Get Deal

We know everyone is firmly focused on Amazon's October Prime Day right now, but the smartphone deals aren't exactly rocking. We've been forced to look elsewhere for phone deals, like T-Mobile. And it's a good thing we did, because T-Mobile has just dropped a massive carrier promo that takes Samsung's latest flip phone down to absolutely nothing.

Right now, you can score the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8 for free at T-Mobile when you activate a new line or trade in an eligible device on an Experience More or Experience Beyond plan.

With up to $1,200 in bill credits applied over 36 months, T-Mobile completely offsets the retail cost of Samsung’s flagship foldable, making this one of the strongest carrier trade-in promotions running during October Prime Day.

There are two choices when it comes to claiming this limited-time offer:

• Activate a new line on an Experience More or Experience Beyond plan. No trade-in phone is required to qualify.

• Trade in an eligible device in good standing while on an Experience More or Experience Beyond plan to unlock the full credit value over 36 bill cycles.

We should note that T-Mobile does require you to pay local sales tax on the phone's full pre-credit retail price upfront, along with a standard $35 device connection fee. If you cancel your plan early or switch carriers before the three-year mark, the remaining cash balance on the phone becomes due immediately.

Score the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8 for free at T-Mobile on Prime Day week.

SAVE $310: As of Oct. 7, the Shark AV2501S AI Ultra robot vacuum is on sale for $239.99 at Amazon. That's a 56% discount on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Shark Shark AV2501S AI Robot Vacuum $239.99 at Amazon
$549.99 Save $310   Get Deal

There's still a day left of Amazon's October Prime Day, and if you've been looking for discounts on smart home gadgets like robot vacuums, you're in luck. As of Oct. 7, the Shark AV2501S AI Ultra robot vacuum is on sale for $239.99, saving you over $300 and reaching its lowest-ever price. 

It's a powerful robot vacuum, built to handle regular floor cleaning without constantly needing your attention. Its bagless, self-emptying base can store up to 30 days' worth of dirt and debris, and the self-cleaning brushroll is designed to deal with loose hair. This makes it particularly useful if you have pets at home.

A full charge provides up to 120 minutes of runtime, after which the robot can return to its base to recharge. It can then pick up cleaning where it left off, so you don't have to manually restart the session.

You can also schedule cleaning sessions or control the robot using voice commands through Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. So, once you've set it up, you can let it get on with cleaning while you focus on something else.

Find this robot vacuum deal at Amazon right now.

Our best editor-vetted Prime Day deals right now

Apple AirPods Pro 3 Noise Cancelling Heart Rate Wireless Earbuds — $179.00 (List Price $249.00)

Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones — $198.00 (List Price $399.99)

Ring Indoor Cam Plus 2K Wired Security Camera (2-Pack, White) — $59.98 (List Price $119.98)

Apple iPad 11" 128GB Wi-Fi Retina Tablet (Blue, 2025 Release) — $399.99 (List Price $449.00)

Ring 2nd Gen 2K Wired Video Doorbell With Chime (2026 Release) — $49.99 (List Price $114.98)

Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Plus Streaming Player With Remote (2025 Model) — $37.99 (List Price $69.99)

Apple Watch Series 12 (GPS, 42mm, S/M Black Sport Band) — $349.99 (List Price $399.00)

Blink Outdoor 4 1080p 3-Camera Kit With Sync Module Core + Doorbell   — $65.99 (List Price $259.98)

SAVE $100: As of Oct. 7, the Dyson Supersonic Nural is on sale for $349.99 at Amazon. That's a 22% discount on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Dyson Dyson Supersonic Nural $349.99 at Amazon
$449.99 Save $100   Get Deal

Amazon's October Prime Day is on its second and final day, which means there are still plenty of discounts on beauty tech, including Dyson's beloved haircare range. If you've been eyeing one of the brand's more advanced hair dryers, the Dyson Supersonic Nural is currently reduced to $349.99 at Amazon, down from $449.99. That's a $100 saving on the usual price.

The Supersonic Nural is designed to adjust its airflow and temperature as you dry your hair, using built-in Nural sensors to adapt the device as you style. One of its standout features is Scalp Protect mode, which monitors the temperature and automatically reduces the heat when the dryer gets closer to your scalp, keeping the drying temperature at a more comfortable 130°F.

It also has attachment learning, so the dryer can remember your preferred heat and airflow settings for individual attachments. Once you switch between them, the corresponding settings can automatically adjust.

There are four heat settings and three airflow speeds to choose from, along with a constant cool-shot setting for helping to set your finished style. The Supersonic Nural also comes with several attachments, including a Wave+Curl diffuser, Flyaway attachment, Styling concentrator, Gentle Air attachment, and Wide-tooth comb.

Get this Dyson Prime Day deal at Amazon now.

Our best editor-vetted Prime Day deals right now

Apple AirPods Pro 3 Noise Cancelling Heart Rate Wireless Earbuds — $179.00 (List Price $249.00)

Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones — $198.00 (List Price $399.99)

Ring Indoor Cam Plus 2K Wired Security Camera (2-Pack, White) — $59.98 (List Price $119.98)

Apple iPad 11" 128GB Wi-Fi Retina Tablet (Blue, 2025 Release) — $399.99 (List Price $449.00)

Ring 2nd Gen 2K Wired Video Doorbell With Chime (2026 Release) — $49.99 (List Price $114.98)

Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Plus Streaming Player With Remote (2025 Model) — $37.99 (List Price $69.99)

Apple Watch Series 12 (GPS, 42mm, S/M Black Sport Band) — $349.99 (List Price $399.00)

Blink Outdoor 4 1080p 3-Camera Kit With Sync Module Core + Doorbell   — $65.99 (List Price $259.98)

SAVE $70: As of Oct. 7, the Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 are on sale for $179.95 at Amazon. That's a 280% discount on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Beats Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 $179.95 at Amazon
$249.99 Save $70.04   Get Deal

Amazon's October Prime Day is a great time to pick up any kind of tech at a discount. And if you're in need of a new pair of workout earbuds, the Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 are currently $70 off. As of Oct. 7, they're down to $179.95, making this their best-ever price.

The Powerbeats Pro 2 combine a secure ear-hook design with smart features that do more than just play music. They have built-in heart rate monitoring and Active Noise Cancellation to block out surrounding distractions. There's also Transparency mode, which allows you to stay aware of your surroundings when you need to hear things like traffic or other runners.

But the heart rate tracking is one of the biggest reasons to consider these earbuds. Sensors built into the earbuds monitor your pulse during exercise, taking readings more than 100 times per second. They're also IPX4-rated, so they're designed to cope with sweat and splashes from water or rain.

Battery life is another strong point, with up to 45 hours of listening time when you include the charging case. And if you've forgotten to charge them before a workout, a five-minute Fast Fuel charge can provide up to 1.5 hours of playback.

The Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 are currently available for their lowest price at Amazon, so don't miss out.

Our best editor-vetted Prime Day deals right now

Apple AirPods Pro 3 Noise Cancelling Heart Rate Wireless Earbuds — $179.00 (List Price $249.00)

Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones — $198.00 (List Price $399.99)

Ring Indoor Cam Plus 2K Wired Security Camera (2-Pack, White) — $59.98 (List Price $119.98)

Apple iPad 11" 128GB Wi-Fi Retina Tablet (Blue, 2025 Release) — $399.99 (List Price $449.00)

Ring 2nd Gen 2K Wired Video Doorbell With Chime (2026 Release) — $49.99 (List Price $114.98)

Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Plus Streaming Player With Remote (2025 Model) — $37.99 (List Price $69.99)

Apple Watch Series 12 (GPS, 42mm, S/M Black Sport Band) — $349.99 (List Price $399.00)

Blink Outdoor 4 1080p 3-Camera Kit With Sync Module Core + Doorbell   — $65.99 (List Price $259.98)

Best Prime Day Apple Watch deals: Best Apple Watch Series 12 deal Apple Watch Series 12 (GPS, 42mm) $349.99 (save $49.01) Get Deal Best Apple Watch Series 11 deal Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 42mm) $259.99 (save $140) Get Deal Best Apple Watch SE 3 deal Apple Watch SE 3 (GPS + Cellular, 40mm) $249 (save $50) Get Deal

Do you feel that chill in the air? Fall is here, which means the holiday shopping season is too. Amazon’s October Prime Day sale kicked off today, Oct. 6, and we’ve found Apple Watch deals worth a look. The new Apple Watch Series 12 is down to $349.99 (normally $399), while the budget-friendly Apple Watch SE 3 is back at $199 (normally $249). And over at Target, the previous-generation Series 11 is $259.99.

Prime Big Deal Days runs through Oct. 7, and we’re tracking the best Apple Watch deals throughout the sale. Whether you’ve been waiting for a discount on the newest model or just want to keep your purchase under $200, here’s what’s worth shopping on day one.

Best Apple Watch Series 12 deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple Watch Series 12 (GPS, 42mm) $349.99 at Amazon
$399 Save $49.01   Get Deal Why we like it

If you’ve been holding out for a discount on Apple’s newest watch, Amazon just knocked $49.01 off the 42mm Apple Watch Series 12. That brings it down to $349.99 from $399 — not a huge markdown, but a welcome discount on a watch that just launched.

SEE ALSO: Apple Watch Series 12 vs. 11: Every upgrade, including one Apple didn't mention

The Series 12 has an S11 chip, redesigned health sensors with continuous heart-rate tracking, and a new readiness score. Our hands-on coverage takes a closer look at what’s new. If those upgrades are what you’ve been waiting for, you can pick up the newest model without paying full price.

Otherwise, take a look at the Series 11 deal at Target before checking out. At $259.99, it’s $90 less. And if $200 is your ceiling, the Apple Watch SE 3 is $199 at Amazon.

Best Apple Watch Series 11 deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 42mm) $259.99 at Target
$399.99 Save $140   Get Deal Why we like it

Amazon isn’t the only place to find an Apple Watch deal today. Target has the Apple Watch Series 11 for $259.99 with Target Circle (which is free to join). Unless you’re set on Apple’s newest watch, this one deserves a look.

The biggest reason we like it? Battery life. In Mashable’s Apple Watch Series 11 review, Senior Editor Stan Schroeder found that it easily lasted a day and a half on a charge. In one test, he wore it overnight and still had 38 percent battery remaining after 24 hours. That’s useful breathing room if you want to track your sleep without squeezing in a charge before bed.

SEE ALSO: Apple Watch Ultra 4 Review: The smartwatch for the health-conscious

Schroeder also praised its comfortable fit and bright, vibrant display. The Series 11 wasn’t a dramatic reinvention of the Series 10, but the longer battery life made a real difference in his testing. At $259.99, that’s a much easier upgrade to consider than at full price.

More Apple Watch deals

• Apple Watch SE 3 (GPS, 40mm) — $199 $249 (save $50)

• Apple Watch Ultra 3 (GPS + Cellular, 49mm) — $699.97 $899 (save $199.03)

More smartwatch deals

• Google Fitbit Versa 4 — $165 $199.95 (save $34.95)

• Garmin Vivoactive 5, 42mm — $181.97 $299.99 (save $118.02)

• Garmin Forerunner 165, 43mm — $199.99 $249.99 (save $50)

• Garmin Instinct Crossover Solar, 45mm — $279.95 $449.99 (save $170.04)

• Garmin Venu 3, 45mm — $279.99 $449.99 (save $170)

• Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra, 47mm — $477.75 $649.99 (save $172.24)

Amazon will host its annual Prime Big Deal Days sale on Oct. 6 and 7. If you're looking to save on fall essentials — or yearning for a break from this year's tech price hikes — the event will be a good opportunity to get some shopping done ahead of the busy holidays.

I've covered Prime Big Deal Days every year since its inception. Here's what you should know about the sale before it starts. (Plus, check out my team's dedicated guide to the best early deals you can score already.)

The best early October Prime Day deals at a glance: Best Prime-exclusive deal Audible (Standard) $0.99/month + free $20 credit with Prime (save $32) Get Deal Best free deal Kindle Unlimited (3 Months) $0/month (save $35.97) Get Deal Best deal under $25 Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Select $17.99 (save $32) Get Deal Best deal under $50 Amazon Echo Dot $39.99 (save $40) Get Deal Best Apple deal Apple iPad Pro, 13-inch (M4, WiFi, 512GB) $1,299 (save $200) Get Deal Best headphones deal Bose QuietComfort Headphones (2nd Gen) $319 (save $40) Get Deal Best TV deal Amazon 55-inch Ember Artline 4K QLED TV $499.99 (save $400) Get Deal Best Lego deal Lego Botanicals Flower Arrangement $62.04 (save $47.95) Get Deal Best SSD deal Samsung SSD 990 Pro (2TB) $389.99 (save $250) Get Deal Best gaming deal The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (Nintendo Switch 2) $59.88 (save $10.11) Get Deal What is Prime Big Deal Days?

Prime Big Deal Days is a 48-hour sale that Amazon has put on every year since 2022 in early October, about a month and a half before Black Friday. (Fun fact: It was originally called the Prime Early Access Sale.) It's often referred to as "October Prime Day" because its deals are exclusively for Amazon Prime members, just like the retailer's flagship Prime Day sale.

Prime Big Deal Days serves as Amazon's unofficial kickoff to the holiday shopping season.

When does Prime Big Deal Days start?

Prime Big Deal Days 2026 will officially begin at 3:01 a.m. ET (12:01 a.m. PT) on Tuesday, Oct. 6. It will end at 2:59 a.m ET on Wednesday, Oct. 8 (11:59 p.m. PT on Oct. 7).

How is Prime Big Deal Days different from Prime Day?

Prime Big Deal Days is a two-day event in the fall, while Prime Day is a four-day event in the summer. (It's usually in July, but Amazon moved it up to June this year because of the timing of the FIFA World Cup and the U.S. 250th anniversary, a company exec told Reuters.)

What are the best early October Prime Day deals? Credit: Amazon

You don't need to wait until Oct. 6 to start filling your cart. Prime members can score the following deals on Amazon devices and services in the lead-up to Prime Big Deal Days:

• Save up to 65% on select Amazon gadgets, including Fire TV Sticks and Echo smart speakers

• Get a free $30 credit when you buy select Echo devices on sale

• Get a free $5 Prime Big Deal Days credit for every Amazon Now order of $25 or more through Oct. 3 (up to $25 total)

• Get four free months of Amazon Music Unlimited (three months for non-members)

• Get four months of Audible Standard for 99 cents/month plus a free $20 Audible credit

• Save $20 on Grubhub orders of $30 or more with code DEALS20 through Oct. 5

• Get a free $1,500 gift card when you buy or lease a new car with Amazon Autos through Oct. 7

All shoppers can get three months' worth of Kindle Unlimited for free ahead of Prime Big Deal Days, regardless of their Prime status.

SEE ALSO: October Prime Day Apple deals guide: Buy now or wait?

My fellow Mashable reporters and I are also tracking early October Prime Day deals on popular tech gadgets, including Apple devices, headphones, speakers, TVs, laptops, robot vacuums, smartwatches, power stations, and SSDs. Many of those products are on sale already, but keep in mind that their prices will likely drop further once Prime Big Deal Days starts.

What deals will be available during Prime Big Deal Days 2026?

Prime Big Deal Days will feature "millions of deals across fashion, electronics, beauty, toys, and more," according to a company blog post. Some of them will be special, limited-time offers called "Today's Big Deals" that involve discounts of "up to 50% or more" on "trending products and new releases," the retailer said (think $2,000 off a big-screen Sony TV, it added). Today's Big Deals will drop daily at 3 a.m., 11 a.m., and 4 p.m. ET during the sale, so keep a lookout. They're only available while supplies last.

Here are the other sorts of deals you can expect to see once Prime Big Deal Days starts, per Amazon's blog post:

• Over $500 off select cameras from Canon and Nikon

• Up to $500 off select Breville espresso machines

• Up to 50% off select headphones and earbuds from Beats, Bose, and Anker's Soundcore line

• Up to 40% off select TVs and streaming devices from Sony, TCL, and Toshiba

• Up to 40% off select PCs and laptops from Asus, Dell, and HP

• Up to 40% off select floorcare from Dyson, iRobot, and Ninja

• Up to 40% off select kitchen appliances from Crock-Pot, Keurig, and Ninja

• Up to 40% off select power tools from Bosch, Craftsman, and Dewalt

• Up to 40% off select collectibles and toys from Funko and Miniverse

• Up to 40% off select sensory toys from Kinetic Sand and Play-Doh

• Up to 40% off select party supplies and decorations

• Up to 35% off Halloween costumes

• Up to 30% off select thermostats from ecobee, Honeywell, and Google

• Up to 30% off select LED lighting and smart plugs from GE, Philips Hue, and TP-Link

• Up to 30% off toys from Barbie, Hasbro Games, Hot Wheels, and Mattel Games

• UP to 30% off select building sets from Lego and Magna-Tiles

• Up to 30% off select cleaning products from Lysol, Scott, and Tide

Which offers better deals, October Prime Day or Black Friday? Credit: Amazon

Black Friday generally features better deals than October Prime Day. There are several reasons for this:

1. Basically every retailer runs a Black Friday sale, so there's a wider selection of deals available; the festivities aren't limited to Amazon and its immediate competitors (more on them momentarily).

2. Black Friday deals are open to everyone, not just Prime members.

3. Retailers really want to clear their shelves of old inventory ahead of the new year, so they're inclined to offer record-low prices during Black Friday.

That said, there is a lot of overlap between October Prime Day and Black Friday deals, especially when it comes to Amazon devices. (Most of the Echo, Kindle, and Fire TV deals we'll see during Prime Big Deal Days will probably pop back up in November.) You should definitely still check out Prime Big Deal Days if:

1. You're a Prime member who wants to maximize the benefits of your subscription.

2. You want to avoid the chaos of Black Friday and get your holiday shopping over with.

3. You're worried about an item on your wishlist selling out before the holidays.

4. You need an item sooner than late November or early December for gifting purposes.

Will any retailers be competing with Prime Big Deal Days?

Target and Walmart are both planning to run their own sales alongside Prime Big Deal Days. (Target's Circle Deal Days is also set for Oct. 6 and 7, while Walmart's Fall Deals event runs for a whole week from Oct. 5 to 11.) Best Buy previously said that its "[holiday] Savings start in October," but it hasn't confirmed anything yet.

How many times a year is Prime Day? Credit: Amazon

Prime Day technically only happens once a year in mid-summer, but Amazon puts on two other Prime-exclusive events throughout the year that function similarly. One is Prime Big Deal Days in early October; the other is the Big Spring Sale in late March.

Do you need to be a Prime member to shop Prime Big Deal Days?

Amazon's October Prime Day deals are reserved for members of its Prime program, but you don't need to pay for a subscription to participate. Shoppers who haven't had an active Prime membership within the past 12 months can score a free 30-day trial. Just remember to cancel your membership before your trial period ends, or else you'll get charged. (Prime normally costs $14.99 per month or $139 annually.)

If you're between the ages of 18 and 24 or a college student, you're eligible for a free six-month trial via Amazon's Prime for Young Adults program. At the end of your trial period, you can upgrade to a paid membership for 50% off the usual rate.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Prime (30-Day Trial)   Learn More Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Prime for Young Adults (6-Month Trial)   Learn More

The best October Prime Day Amazon device deals: Best Echo Device Deal Amazon Echo Dot $39.99 (save $40) Get Deal Best Kindle Deal Amazon Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition (2024 model) 169.99 (save $80) Get Deal Best tablet deal Amazon Fire HD 10 $72.99 (save $82) Get Deal Best Fire TV deal Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Select $17.99 (save $32) Get Deal Best TV Deal Amazon Ember 55-inch 4-Series Fire TV $279.99 (save $180) Get Deal best blink camera deal Blink Outdoor 2K+ with free Blink Battery Doorbell 2K+ $34.99 (save $134.99) Get Deal Best eero deal Amazon eero Pro 7 $224.99 (save $75) Get Deal Best Deal Under $25 Amazon Smart Plug $12.98 (save $12.01) Get Deal

Amazon's Prime Big Deal Days (aka October Prime Day) has come in hot, and with it, a smorgasbord of discounts on Amazon devices. The annual 48-hour sale runs from today through Oct. 7 and presents the perfect opportunity to kickstart your holiday shopping.

It's no surprise Amazon offers the biggest markdowns on its own devices. And since Amazon increased prices across its hardware range by as much as 60% last month, this year's October Prime Day sale couldn't come at a better time.

Amazon has marked down nearly all of its products. Just a week after Amazon released 2026 models of Kindles, the retailer dropped prices on 2024 Kindle models. Plus, you can save up to 50% on the Echo Dot, but the new Echo Dot Max and Echo Studio are also on sale. We've found savings on Fire tablets, Blink cameras, Fire TV streaming sticks and soundbars, Fire TVs, and eero devices, too.

Plus, don't forget about Amazon's subscription deals for Prime newcomers, which are already live:

• Claim your Amazon Prime 30-day free trial (for new and returning customers)

• Get 3 free months of Kindle Unlimited

• Get 4 months of Audible Standard for 99 cents per month

• Get 4 free months of Amazon Music Unlimited

We're tracking all the best Amazon device deals throughout the Prime Big Deal Days sale, so keep checking back for the best live offers — or pick up a bargain before the devices sell out.

Best Echo device deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Echo Dot $39.99 at Amazon
$79.99 Save $40.00   Get Deal Why we like it

Amazon's Echo devices are officially on sale for Prime Big Deal Days. Right now, grab the Amazon Echo Dot for just $39.99. While that's not the lowest sale price we've ever spotted on the Echo Dot, it's the best we've seen since Amazon increased prices on its devices.

The Echo Dot is a perfectly compact smart speaker. Plus, it's compatible with Alexa+, a smarter home assistant that helps you do everything from meal planning to booking dinner reservations.

More Echo device deals

• Amazon Echo Pop Kids — $21.99 $49.99 (save $28)

• Amazon Echo Dot Kids — $39.99 $89.99 (save $50)

• Amazon Echo Spot — $54.99 $109.99 (save $55)

• Amazon Echo Show 5 — $59.99 $99.99 (save $40)

• Amazon Echo Show 5 Kids — $59.99 $109.99 (save $50)

• Amazon Echo Dot Max — $79.99 $119.99 (save $40)

• Amazon Echo Dot + Echo Dot Max bundle — $119.98 $199.98 (save $80)

• Amazon Echo Show 11 — $149.99 $249.99 (save $100)

• Amazon Echo Studio — $179.99 $219.99 (save $40)

• Amazon Echo Show 21 — $349.99 $499.99 (save $150)

Best Kindle deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition (2024 model) $169.99 at Amazon
$249.99 Save $80   Get Deal Why we like it

The best deal to shop is on the Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition. In August 2026, the e-reader's MSRP rose to $249.99 from its previous list price of $199.99. Now, the Paperwhite Signature Edition has dropped back down to $169.99. That's 32% off its new list price, saving you $80 on the e-reader.

The Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition is my favorite e-reader, the one I use every day. With 32GB of storage, it has space for thousands of books. It also has an auto-adjusting front light and wireless charging capabilities. It's exceptionally fast, too, as it never stutters when opening books or turning pages.

If you want to save $20, you could go for the standard Paperwhite, but right now, the Signature Edition is the better savings.

Plus, when you buy a new Kindle, make sure to include three months of Kindle Unlimited in your purchase because it's totally free (a $35.97 value).

More Kindle deals

• Amazon Kindle (16GB) — $103.99 $149.99 (save $46)

• Amazon Kindle Paperwhite (16GB) — $149.99 $199.99 (save $50)

• Amazon Kindle Paperwhite Kids — $169.99 $229.99 (save $60)

• Amazon Kindle Colorsoft (16GB) — $189.99 $289.99 (save $100)

• Amazon Kindle Scribe (32GB) — $379.99 $499.99 (save $120)

• Amazon Kindle Scribe Colorsoft (32GB) — $479.99 $629.99 (save $150)

Best Fire tablet deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Fire HD 10 tablet $72.99 at Amazon
$154.99 Save $82.00   Get Deal Why we like it

While it's hardly a new device, the Fire HD 10 tablet is still a solid pick for anyone who just wants a tablet to stream shows, check emails, and browse social media. Mashable's reviewer SaVanna Shoemaker called it "lighter and faster than its predecessors, with a long battery life and vivid picture that makes it great for on-the-go entertainment." Compared to other well-known tablets, she also adds that it's an "excellent value." It's not going to knock your socks off, but it'll get the job done and won't break the bank — especially now that it's on sale for only $72.99, a full 53% off its list price.

More Fire tablet deals

• Amazon Fire HD 8 — $79.99 $129.99 (save $50)

• Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids — $94.99 $169.99 (save $75)

• Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids Pro — $89.99 $169.99 (save $80)

• Limited Edition Harry Potter Amazon Fire HD 10 — $132.99 $189.99 (save $57)

Best Fire TV Stick deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Select $17.99 at Amazon
$49.99 Save $32   Get Deal Why we like it

The entire Fire TV Stick lineup was affected by the August price hike, so we're surprised that the discounts are still at pre-hike levels. Prime members can score the 4K Select for only $17.99, which is 64% in savings.

The 4K Select is Amazon's newest 4K Fire TV Stick with HDR10+ support and the first to feature its new Linux-based operating system. That means a few things: it's speedier and more streamlined than older Fire Sticks, but also more limited. If you like sideloading apps, this streaming stick won't let you (go with the 4K Plus instead). It also offers support for Alexa+, Amazon Kids+, Amazon Luna, Xbox Game Pass, and NordVPN.

More Fire TV deals

• Amazon Fire TV Stick HD — $15.99 $39.99 (save $24)

• Amazon Fire TV Alexa Voice Remote Pro — $19.99 $34.99 (save $15)

• Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Plus — $37.99 $69.99 (save $32)

• Amazon Fire TV Soundbar — $79.99 $119.99 (save $40)

• Amazon Fire TV Soundbar Plus — $139.99 $249.99 (save $110)

Best Amazon Fire TV deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Ember 55-inch 4-Series Fire TV $279.99 at Amazon
$459.99 Save $180   Get Deal Why we like it

This TV strikes just the right balance between features and value. It's big enough and boasts a good-enough display, yet thanks to a 39% discount, it still qualifies as a budget TV. Even as smartphones, laptops, gaming consoles, and virtually everything else have gotten more expensive, flat-screen TVs have gotten significantly less expensive over the last five years. And as part of Prime Big Deal Days, this one's even cheaper.

If you want to upgrade to a QLED display or save even more money, you can find a ton more discounts thanks to October Prime Day deals on Amazon devices.

More Amazon Fire TV deals

• Amazon Ember 32-inch 2-Series Fire TV — $134.99 $159.99 (save $25)

• Amazon Ember 43-inch 4-Series Fire TV — $199.99 $329.99 (save $130)

• Amazon Ember 55-inch QLED Series Fire TV — $489.99 $589.99 (save $100)

• Amazon Ember Artline 55-inch with 4K QLED Fire TV — $499.99 $899.99 (save $400)

• Amazon Ember 65-inch Mini-LED Series Fire TV — $799.99 $1,089.99 (save $290)

• Amazon Ember 75-inch QLED Series Fire TV — $989.99 $1,199.99 (save $210)

Best Blink camera deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Blink Outdoor XR+ and Wired Doorbell 2K+ Bundle $41.99 at Amazon
$169.98 Save $127.99   Get Deal Why we like it

Who doesn't love free stuff? This October Prime Day deal bundles the Blink Outdoor XR+ camera with the Blink Wired Doorbell 2K+, providing 75% off. That's a total savings of $127.99.

If you're looking to enhance your home security but don't want to spend a fortune, this bundle is an excellent start. You'll get sharp 2K video and a reliable connection.

More Blink camera deals

• Blink Mini 2K+ — $15.99 $39.99 (save $24)

• Blink Outdoor 4 — $27.99 $79.99 (save $52)

• Blink Arc 2K+ — $31.99 $99.99 (save $68)

• Blink Battery Doorbell 2K+ — $35.99 $69.99 (save $34)

Best Eero deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon eero Pro 7 $224.99 at Amazon
$299.99 Save $75   Get Deal Why we like it

If your WiFi is laggy, it may be a good time to invest in an Amazon Eero system. For Prime Big Deal Days, the Eero Pro 7 Mesh WiFi router is down to $224.99, which is $75 cheaper than usual. It supports over 200 devices, internet plans up to 5 Gbps, and covers up to 2,000 square feet, helping to optimize your connection and eliminate dead spots. Even if you're not a tech guru, it's a breeze to set up thanks to Eero's step-by-step guide in the app.

More Eero deals

• Amazon eero 6+ — $99.99 $139.99 (save $40)

• Amazon eero 7 — $144.49 $169.99 (save $25.50)

• Amazon eero Pro 6E — $149.99 $199.99 (save $50)

• Amazon eero Max 7  — $419.99 $599.99 (save $180)

One more thing: Amazon smart plug Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Smart Plug $12.98 at Amazon
$24.99 Save $12.01   Get Deal Why we like it

If you have some money left over on an Amazon gift card, we know just what to do with it — add this Amazon Smart Plug to your cart while it's almost 50% off for Prime Big Deal Days. Turn any lamp or electronic into a smart device. All you have to do is plug it in.

More Amazon smart home deals

• Amazon Smart Air Quality Monitor — $46.99 $69.99 (save $23)

• Amazon Smart Thermostat — $56.99 $79.99 (save $23)

The best Prime Day robot vacuum deals: Best self-emptying robot vacuum deal Roborock Q10 S5+ Robot Vacuum $249.99 (save $300) Get Deal Best Entry-Level Robot Vacuum Deal Shark Matrix Plus Robot Vacuum and Mop $229.99 (save $220) Get Deal Best Midrange Robot Vacuum Deal Eufy E25 Robot Vacuum and Mop $569.96 (save $430.03) Get Deal Best Premium Robot Vacuum Deal Roborock Qrevo CurvX Robot Vacuum and Mop $749.99 (save $750) Get Deal

October Prime Day robot vacuum deals now start at $85.48, and prices have dropped further on several models since our earlier check. The Roborock Q7 L5 vacuum and mop combo is down to $119.99, while the self-emptying Shark AI Ultra is $249.99.

SEE ALSO: The 135+ best October Prime Day deals: We found record prices on Apple, Bose, Lego, and Sony favorites

Amazon’s sale runs through Oct. 7, and we’re updating this roundup with the latest prices. Below, we explain what each featured model takes off your cleaning list — and what still needs your attention — with hands-on findings from Mashable’s reviews where available.

Best self-emptying robot vacuum deal Roborock Q10 S5+ Self-Emptying Robot Vacuum and Mop $249.99 at Amazon
$549.99 Save $300   Get Deal at Amazon Get Deal at Amazon Why we like it

A self-emptying dock is convenient until it sounds like a jet engine every time the robot comes home. In Mashable’s hands-on testing, our former robot vacuum expert, Leah Stodart, found the Roborock Q10 S5+ notably quiet, including when it emptied its dustbin. Its compact dock also makes it worth considering if you don’t have much floor space to spare.

SEE ALSO: My cats and I found the 8 best vacuums for pet owners, from powerful hair pickup to livestream cameras

This model delivers pressurized sonic mopping and quick, accurate LiDAR mapping, making it a useful option for maintaining hard floors without paying for a more elaborate mop-washing station.

The catch: its dock doesn’t wash the mopping pad, which got dirty quickly in testing, and edge mopping wasn’t its strongest suit. You’re getting quieter cleaning and self-emptying convenience, not a maintenance-free machine.

Best entry-level robot vacuum deal Shark Matrix Plus Robot Vacuum and Mop $442.95 at Amazon
  Get Deal at Amazon Why we like it

The Shark Matrix Plus combines vacuuming, sonic mopping, and a self-emptying base without stepping up to a more elaborate mop-washing station. Its LiDAR mapping lets you send it to specific rooms and set no-go zones in the SharkClean app, while the bagless base handles dustbin emptying.

The important distinction is what happens after mopping: You still have to clean the pad and refill the water tank yourself. That makes it a more practical option for occasional hard-floor cleanup than for someone expecting a robot to handle the entire mopping routine.

SEE ALSO: The Shark vs. Roomba debate is still boring, despite both brands trying to expand their vacuum lineups

This is also an older model, so the discount matters. Mashable’s tested buying guide dropped it from its main recommendations as newer budget robots became more capable. Compare its current price with the Roborock Q10 S5+ above before deciding which compromises are worth making.

Best midrange robot vacuum deal Eufy E25 Robot Vacuum and Mop $569.96 at Amazon
$999.99 Save $430.03   Get Deal at Amazon Why we like it

The Eufy E25 is worth considering if washing dirty mop pads is the chore you’re trying to avoid. Its roller mop rinses itself with clean water as it works, and the station handles dustbin emptying, mop washing and drying, and water refilling. That’s the meaningful upgrade over a simpler vacuum-and-mop combo.

It also offers advertised 20,000 Pa suction, brushes designed to reduce hair tangles, and an extending arm for cleaning along edges. Those features give it a broader cleaning toolkit, though they shouldn’t be mistaken for hands-on proof that it will remove every stubborn stain.

Choose it for the automated mop maintenance. If you only need occasional mopping, compare its price with the cheaper models before paying for a station you may not use often.

Best premium robot vacuum deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Roborock Qrevo CurvX Robot Vacuum and Mop $800.47 at Amazon
$1,499.99 Save $699.52   Get Deal Why we like it

The Roborock Qrevo CurvX addresses two frustrations that cheaper robots don’t always solve: reaching underneath low furniture and getting across thresholds between rooms. Its navigation sensor retracts when needed, while its lifting chassis helps it navigate changes in floor height. Measure your furniture clearance before making that the reason you buy.

SEE ALSO: The Roborock Saros Z70 robot vacuum hits record-low price at Amazon — save $1,000

It also offers advertised 22,000 Pa suction and a dock that washes its mops with 176-degree Fahrenheit water before drying them with hot air.

This is the model to compare if furniture clearance and automated mop upkeep are priorities. If neither is a particular problem in your home, start with the lower-priced options instead.

More robot vacuum deals

• Lefant M210 — $85.48 $199.99 (save $114.51)

• Roborock Q7 L5 Robot Vacuum and Mop Combo — $119.99 $249.99 (save $130)

• eufy 11S MAX Robot Vacuum — $132.99 $279.99 (save $147)

• Dreame D20 — $199.99 $349.99 (save $150)

• iRobot Roomba 105 Combo Robot Vacuum and Mop — $299 $469.99 (save $170.99)

• Shark AI Ultra — $249.99 $599 (save $349.01)

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Carrie and Elon Musk aren't two things you would typically associate with one another, but given how Mike Flanagan's new adaptation of Stephen King's novel skewers the world of tech, their association in the series perhaps makes a little more sense.

Is the SpaceX founder named directly in the new Prime Video show? No. But there's one scene that feels almost like a veiled dig at him.

SEE ALSO: 'Carrie' review: Does Mike Flanagan's modern take on Stephen King's classic novel work?

The moment takes place in episode 3, when Carrie (Summer H. Howell) is leaving a party with Tommy (Joel Oulette), the former having sunk many more drinks than her designated driver. Before heading home, the two of them lie on their backs on the grass and look up at the night sky. Soon, they start talking about the stars.

Here's a transcript of their exchange:

Carrie: "When I was little my dad said wherever I went, I could always find my way home by the stars. And people used to just use the stars, back before the spy satellites and the GPS went up — all the bad stuff. It's just the stars. That's all you really need."

Tommy: "That's Mars. They say we're gonna go there one day. Imagine that. People on Mars."

Carrie: "It's amazing."

Tommy: "It's terrifying. I read all The Martian Chronicles. Space head, I guess. There's this amazing sentence in there: 'Earth men have a talent for ruining big and beautiful things.' Leave it alone, I say. Can't it be enough to just look?

Tommy is referring to Ray Bradbury's 1950 sci-fi novel The Martian Chronicles, in which Americans colonise an inhabited Mars after nuclear war demolishes Earth.

But outside of fiction, Musk has previously outlined his vision of sending a million humans to Mars by 2025. The SpaceX CEO has been speaking about sending people to the red planet for years. Given that Flanagan's 21s-century setting for the show makes it clear that Carrie's bullying is made worse by the presence of the internet and social media, it doesn't seem too much of a stretch to think this exchange might be a jab at the world's richest man's space-conquering desires — or at least a warning.

King himself almost certainly wouldn't mind — the horror author has been butting heads with Musk for years.

Carrie is streaming on Prime Video from Oct. 7.

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SEE ALSO: 21 early October Prime Day tech deals, hand-picked by our gadget-obsessed experts

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Well, that was a bit different from the book, wasn't it?

Mike Flanagan's adaptation of Carrie veers away from Stephen King's novel in a number of ways — the 21st century setting, for one — but nowhere is this more noticeable than in the series' closing moments.

So what happens, and what does it all mean? We've broken it down.

SEE ALSO: 'Carrie' review: Does Mike Flanagan's modern take on Stephen King's classic novel work? What happens at the end of Carrie?

Carrie is bookended by interviews with the survivors of Ewen High School's infamous prom night. In the show's opening episode we learn that Carrie wasn't the only one with powers at the doomed event, and in the final episode we find out exactly what happened. A woman that Carrie's mother Margaret (Samantha Sloyan) had met with earlier, who had killed her own power-wielding child, turns up to prom to assassinate Carrie. Meanwhile, three people (one played by Flanaverse go-to Ruth Codd) from a secret organisation of people with similar powers arrive to try and recruit/protect her. Presumably none of them realise quite how powerful Carrie is, though, meaning the party ends in bloodshed, fire, and the widespread destruction of the town of Chamberlain, Maine.

After hunting and killing her tormentors Chris (Alison Thornton) and Billy (Arthur Conti) by crushing them in their car post-blood bucket, Carrie returns home and confronts her mother a final time. Margaret tries to kill her daughter but Carrie stops her, destroying their house and trapping her in the wreckage before leaving with Emaline (Thalia Dudek), another teenager with powers who's been astral projecting into the school to befriend Carrie throughout the series.

The interviews we saw being carried out in the first episode? In one of the show's final twists, this turns out not to be a documentary or a police interrogation. The interviewer (Kate Siegel) is actually another person with powers, using her abilities to stop prom survivor Sue (Siena Agudong) from remembering what happened, before finally stopping a now-freed Margaret White's heart mid-interview.

Who is Emaline? Credit: Amazon

Emaline befriended Carrie earlier on in the show. It seemed at first they were just another high school student, an outsider who celebrated Carrie's weirdness (unlike most of Ewen High) and the one person Carrie could really open up to — most importantly, about her burgeoning powers. But then a twist at the end of episode 5 revealed Emaline to be invisible to everyone but Carrie. A figment of the troubled girl's traumatised mind? No! The finale reveals Emaline is, in fact, real. However, the version of Carrie was seeing at school was just an astral projection.

At this stage, we still don't know much about Emaline (when Carrie asks, their response is simply "I am your friend."). Given that they have a power, though, and are mentioned by Siegel's character, we can assume that they're part of the same group of people with powers.

Who is Kate Siegel's character?

Again, we don't know much about the mysterious interviewer (and Flanaverse favourite). But we do know that she's capable of willing a person to do her bidding via a voice they hear in their own mind, and that this voice is powerful enough to stop a person's heart. During her interview, when Margaret asks her if she has children, her response is "in a way". Our best bet is that she's a leader in the group of people with powers, which includes Emaline and the trio who come to Carrie's prom.

Her intention in carrying out the interviews appears to be to cover the group's tracks — she erases Sue's memory before murdering Margaret and making her death look like an accident.

Where is Carrie being taken?

The episode ends with Carrie being driven along an unnamed road by Emaline, who has apparently travelled a long way to fetch Carrie in person.

"I am escorting you to safety from the monsters on our heals," Emaline says, presumably referring to people like the woman that brought a gun to Carrie's prom. We don't know where exactly they're headed, but we can assume it's the base of operations where the people with powers operate.

Will there be a Carrie Season 2?

The setup is certainly there, and it sounds like something Flanagan has thought about too.

“In my dream scenario, I think it’s three seasons," Flanagan told Collider a while back. "In my dream scenario, I think Carrie has a wonderful three-step arc. It’s a trilogy, really.”

Based on the way the show ends, we can see how a Season 2 could focus on Carrie getting to grips with her powers at a kind of telekinetic training academy. But at the time of writing, nothing has been confirmed.

Carrie is streaming now on Prime Video.

Carrie White (Summer H. Howell) never got to read that precious stack of library books, but you can. Even though every single one of them has been banned IRL.

In the second episode of Mike Flanagan's Carrie series, the Stephen King adaptation acknowledges other authors' work. Introduced to the school library by guidance counsellor Mr Morton (Tim Bagley), Carrie has one of her many Matilda moments, surrounded by the possibility of reading books other than the Bible — and the secret stash her neighbour (Naika Toussaint) leaves for her in the birdhouse.

SEE ALSO: 'Carrie' review: Does Mike Flanagan's modern take on Stephen King's classic novel work?

In episode 2, Carrie selects a collection of titles to read, and happily sits down to devour them. However, her mother (Samantha Sloyan) shows up at school, and her hopes of reading such material are dashed, due to her mother's religiously fundamentalist conservatism.

But what books are they? Well, Carrie has picked some of the most banned or challenged books of all time, which seems fitting for our oppressed adolescent heroine. And it's also a fate shared by Stephen King's own books, over 50 of which have been banned in multiple school districts across Florida.

Featured Video For You Andrew Garfield on the meaning of 'no kings' in 'The Uprising'

Book censorship in the U.S. is scarily still on the rise, and the systematic removal of titles in school libraries is becoming alarmingly normalised. Notably, most challenged or banned titles are "the result of targeted campaigns to remove books with characters of color, LGBTQ+ identities, and sexual content from public school classrooms and libraries," according to PEN America.

The fact that Carrie can read these books at all in Mike Flanagan's series is due to her school being located in Maine, however, the state is not free of book bans — Maia Kobabe's Gender Queer has been the most-challenged book in the state, having been removed from at least one school library.

Here's a list of the books Carrie selects:

I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou

Perhaps Tina Blake (Josie Totah) should actually read Maya Angelou's 1969 autobiography before quoting her in public meetings. I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings is one of the most regularly banned or challenged books of all time, and it's top of Carrie's list.

Last Night at the Telegraph Club by Malinda Lo

Carrie picks Malinda Lo's 2021 historical YA novel, the story of a Chinese American girl who explores her identity as a lesbian. Lo's books, including Last Night at the Telegraph Club, have been banned, challenged, or restricted in 16 states, and in 2025, it was one of the most banned books in America.

The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood

I mean, a tale of female oppression, in part orchestrated by women in powerful positions, all in adherence to a fundamentalist, distorted version of Christianity. Why on Earth would Carrie be drawn to such a narrative? The Handmaid's Tale has been challenged and banned so many times Margaret Atwood released an "unburnable" edition, which is fitting for Carrie.

Looking for Alaska by John Green

Grief? Teen relationships? A search for meaning? Carrie might have found solace in John Green's lauded (and heavily banned) 2005 YA novel. Looking for Alaska took the uncoveted crown of most challenged book of 2015 and remains one of the most regularly banned books in America.

One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest by Ken Kesey

Ken Kesey's 1962 critique of psychiatric institutions sitting on Carrie's reading list has been the target of book bans since the '70s. One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest remains one of the most frequently challenged books in America.

Now, want to read banned books for free? Mashable's got you covered.

Carrie is now streaming on Prime Video.