Technology
Heathers: The Musical review: Back off-Broadway and big fun
Heathers: The Musical isn't just a clever interpretation of the 1989 black comedy Heathers. This stage show is a rock show, thanks to a gutsy revival production and an audience bursting to experience it.
Admittedly, this came as a surprise to me. I'd missed the stage musical when it first came to New York City in 2014, and only knew the snippets of songs that had made their way into TikTok trends, like the slur-laden chorus of "Beautiful" and the urgent pleas to open the door in "Meant to Be Yours." I was much more familiar with the iconic movie on which the musical was based, in which Winona Ryder and Christian Slater played misfit teens so influenced by hormones and isolation that they go on a killing spree that they frame as a spade of teen suicides.
Walking into the New World Stages theater, I was skeptical of how such a dark comedy could fit into a bouncy musical, which, from what I could tell, had very young fans. From my seat, I spotted a handful of adolescent girls cosplaying as Ryder's heroine, Veronica Sawyer, mimicking her plaid skirt, blue blazer, and matching blue scrunchie. During intermission, I spotted more cosplayers, some casual, focusing on the red scrunchie of Heather Chandler, with others making it a group affair, like a quartet of twenty-somethings who modeled their look after the central toxic friend group, right down to the bright yellow, red, green, and blue blazers. Conversely, fans of the original movie were present, making themselves known with indicators like a vintage tee that reads "Free Winona." IYKYK.
My skepticism was unfair, especially considering the setting. Months before at New World Stages, I'd seen Teeth: The Musical, which turned the 2007 horror comedy about a teen girl learning her vagina has teeth, into a gory and goofy extravaganza — complete with dismembered penises falling from the ceiling in the climax. So surely New World Stages could handle Heathers: The Musical? They did, debuting a show that is rollicking fun and deeply fucked up.
Heathers: The Musical has a familiar plot with some smart changes.With book and music by Kevin Murphy and Laurence O'Keefe, Heathers borrows most of the plot from the Daniel Waters-written film. Veronica Sawyer (Lorna Courtney) is a rich and wickedly smart senior at Westerberg High School in Sherwood, Ohio. But she's fallen in with a bad crowd, the Heathers. Heather Chandler (McKenzie Kurtz), Heather Duke (Olivia Hardy), and Heather McNamara (Elizabeth Teeter) are preppy, popular, and cruel. It's not enough to rule the school through flawless skin, fierce fashion, and an intimidating glare. They go out of their way to bully unpopular kids, like the chipper and fat Martha Dunnstock, cruelly nicknamed Martha Dumptruck (Erin Morton).
Like in the movie, an early scene of such bullying reveals Veronica's discomfort with such behavior, but also how she's too willing to play along. To embarrass Martha, Heather Chandler — the ruthless queen bee in red — demands Veronica forge the handwriting of dunderheaded jock Ram Sweeney (Xavier McKinnon) to lure Martha to a big party, where she can be a punchline. This is a minor change from the original, but it leads to a flashier scene of embarrassment, while combining two small characters from the movie (Martha and Veronica's childhood friend Betty Finn) to make a more fully formed figure for the Heathers' abuse. (It also leads to a solo that offers a glimpse of Martha's inner world, which is far gentler than the "fuck me with a chainsaw" vision of the Heathers' worldview.)
Despite her reluctance to embarrass Martha, Veronica quickly caves to Heather. However, her growing crush on a snarling new kid in a duster could change everything. J.D. (Casey Likes) shares Veronica's hatred for the cruelty of the Heathers and the hurtful high school games they've mastered. Their attraction is instant and hot, resulting in an onstage love scene duet ("Dead Girl Walking") that had the audience — young and old — hooting with delight. But soon after this hot night, the cold reality that J.D.'s plan for vengeance isn't petty but homicidal hits like a girl crashing through a glass coffee table.
Before the intermission, Heather Chandler is dead, made to look like she died by suicide. But also, she's resurrected. Drawing inspiration from the trippy dream sequence in the movie, Heather's ghost — or at least Veronica's imagined version of Heather's ghost — follows her back to school, still taunting her from beyond the grave. As more popular kids are killed by J.D., the hotties haunting Veronica multiply, leading to twisted humor that plays perfectly on the stage.
Heathers: The Musical has big theater kid energy.This version of Veronica is less vicious and more innocent than Ryder's version. Lorna Courtney (& Juliet) brings a broad comedy tone to the role, bolstering the idealism that was an undercurrent of the movie's character. Despite all her rage and snark-filled diary entries, there was a part of Veronica that wishes things in high school could just be simpler and kinder. Courtney follows that wish, spinning in some scenes from a mean girl to a dream girl. She's radiant as she sings her wish song, "Beautiful," pining for "a better way."
However, the rest of the song (as teased above) is filled with hateful insults hurled by her classmates at each other. This sets up the brutal atmosphere of Westerberg High. So when the Heathers enter and strike a pose, the audience roars with excitement. Custom-color spotlights paint each of the trio in their signature color (green, red, or yellow) as they sing "Candy Store," a biting threat in a catchy tune.
The death scenes have a similar verve, reflecting the grim humor of the movie. However, the funerals are a showstopper of their own. Murphy and O'Keefe have shrewdly taken classic lines from Heathers not only to spice up their scenes ("Lick it up!" or "What's your damage, Heather?") but also to make a wildly irreverent gospel number, inspired by the deeply campy line, "I love my dead gay son!" Cheers to Ben Davis and Cameron Loyal, who make the most out of every moment of this outrageous number.
Admittedly, this high-energy approach falters as the story gets more serious. The fight scenes and final confrontation between Veronica and J.D. come off clumsy compared to the director Andy Fickman's ferocious first act. But the final number manages to resurrect that energy for "Seventeen (Reprise)," which led slickly into a curtain call with all the energy of a pep rally, or frankly, a pop diva concert. The moment the first castmates returned to the stage for their bows, the audience was on their feet, clapping, screaming, and cheering with gusto.
McKenzie Kurtz is to die for in Heathers: The Musical.Make no mistake, Courtney is terrific as Veronica, balancing the character's chaotic mix of hope, hatred, and lust. Likes, as her paramour and antagonist J.D., is sublime, capturing that alluring mischief of '80s Christian Slater, while bringing a feral intensity that's all his own. Hardy and Teeter, playing the other Heathers, deliver by displaying viciousness and vulnerability, respectively. McKinnon and Cade Ostermeyer, who plays Ram's football bro Kurt Kelly, offer a winkingly homoerotic double act that had the audience (and this critic) in fits of laughter. But Kurtz is a stunner.
Heather Chandler is the iconic mean girl, so much so that her malicious lines still ring across pop culture 36 years after she first spit them. Kurtz manages not to be thrown by this role, but to sink her teeth in so hard the stage practically bleeds. She struts and insults without mercy, brandishing bewitching brutality with the enviable swagger of onscreen divas like Bette Davis and Joan Crawford. It's delicious to watch a bitch be this bad. And it's refreshing to see a musical be this ballsy (again?).
Simply put, Heathers: The Musical is a must-see. Not only is the show a jolting and deranged joy, but it also gives the experience of going to a great concert. The stage production is thoughtful and amusing. The singing is sensational, the musical numbers exciting, and the crowd exhilarating. The enthusiasm for this show brings with it what you hope for in live theater, a communal experience that brings us together despite our differences.
In that way, the experience of watching Heathers: The Musical becomes Veronica's wished fulfilled. Here we are, all freaks, sluts, losers, but not alone, because we're all here together relating to a story of finding yourself in the darkest of places.
Heathers: The Musical is now playing off-Broadway through Jan. 25, 2026 at New World Stages.
You can still get a Samsung The Frame art TV for under $800 during the final hours of Prime Day
SAVE 47%: During Prime Day, the Samsung 55-inch The Frame QLED 4K TV (2024 model) is on sale for $797.99, down from the standard price of $1,497.99. That's a savings of $700 and the lowest price we've ever seen at Amazon.
Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung 55-inch The Frame QLED 4K TV (2024 model) $797.99 at Amazon$1,497.99 Save $700 Get Deal
In past years, Prime Day hasn't been the best time to buy a new TV but this year has proven to be an entirely different beast — in a good way. Not only did Amazon double the length of time to shop during Prime Day 2025, the retailer has been dropping hot TV deals. If you've been eyeing the Samsung TV that doubles as framed art work, check out this epic deal.
As of July 11, the Samsung 55-inch The Frame QLED 4K TV (2024 model) is on sale for just $797.99 during the final hours of Prime Day, marked down from the standard price of $1,497.99. That's a massive savings of $700 from a 47% discount and the lowest price we've ever seen at Amazon. The Prime Day sale price also beats Best Buy's sale price of $799.99.
SEE ALSO: Prime Day TV deals are the best I've seen in yearsMashable's Tech Editor Timothy Beck Werth says, "This has been my favorite TV every since I attended the 2024 launch event, and not just because Molly Shannon was there. Last year's model has all the essential features you need (the matte display, a new AI processor, expanded art selection), and at a much better price than the 2025 model. Seriously, whenever friends or family ask for TV recommendations, this is my answer."
The Frame offers a great option to use your TV as a digital art piece when you're not streaming your favorite summer shows. When mounted to your wall, The Frame's slim fit appears like a a piece of art rather than a TV, giving your room a whole different vibe. Plus, the glare-free display adds to the museum-like quality of The Frame.
While it's down a record-low price during Prime Day, snag the 55-inch version of The Frame and upgrade your home's entertainment with both a TV and a digital picture frame.
The best Prime Day deals to shop on day 4-
Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ 64GB Wi-Fi 11" Tablet — $132.99 (List Price $219.99)
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Meta Quest 3S 128GB VR Headset With Gorilla Tag Cardboard Hero Bundle — $249.99 (List Price $299.99)
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Fire TV Stick 4K Streaming Device With Remote (2023 Model) — $24.99 (List Price $49.99)
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Shark AV2511AE AI Robot Vacuum With XL Self-Empty Base — $297.99 (List Price $599.00)
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Amazon Fire HD 10 32GB Tablet (2023 Release, Black) — $69.99 (List Price $139.99)
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55" Amazon Fire TV Omni Mini-LED Series 4K QLED Smart TV (2024 Model) — $699.99 (List Price $819.99)
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Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones — $193.00 (List Price $348.00)
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Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 Wireless ANC Earbuds (Jet Black) — $179.95 (List Price $249.99)
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DJI Air 3 Drone With DJI RC-N2 Remote Controller — $934.00 (List Price $1099.00)
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Apple AirPods Pro 2 ANC Earbuds With USB-C Charging Case — $149.00 (List Price $249.00)
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Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 1070Wh Portable Power Station — $799.00
My favorite gaming laptop deals from Prime Day 2025: Shop Asus, MSI, Alienware, and more
UPDATE: Jul. 11, 2025, 8:15 a.m. EDT We've updated this story to reflect the latest pricing and availability.
The best Prime Day gaming laptop deals at a glance: Our top pick overall Asus ROG Strix G16 (Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX, Nvidia GeForce RTX 5080, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD) $2,399.99 (save $500) Get Deal Best deal under $700 Acer Nitro V (Intel Core i5-13420H, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD) $649.99 (save $200) Get Deal Best deal under $1,000 Asus TUF Gaming A14 (AMD Ryzen AI 7 8845HS, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) $899.99 (save $300) Get Deal Most affordable RTX 50 series deal Asus ROG Strix G16 (Intel Core i7-14650HX, Nvidia GeForce RTX 5060, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD) $1,274.99 (save $225) Get Deal Best splurge Alienware 18 Area-51 (Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX, Nvidia GeForce RTX 5080, 32GB RAM, 2TB SSD) $2,969.99 (save $530) Get DealGetting into PC gaming can be an expensive hobby. You have to buy a bunch of components, accessories, and more to even get to a beginner level, which can be super inaccessible to a large swath of people.
But one way you can lighten the load is to just start with a gaming laptop, which packs in everything you need to get started in PC gaming without all the extra pieces. Of course, gaming laptops can be expensive, too, but plenty of budget options also exist.
SEE ALSO: Prime Day 2025: Live updates on the top dealsThankfully, Amazon's Prime Day sale has triggered plenty of gaming laptop deals across the price spectrum this week. That even includes a handful of models with new Nvidia GeForce RTX 50 series graphic cards starting at $1,275. Read on to see our favorite deals from the sale, but know that they probably won't be live for much longer: Prime Day 2025 ends at midnight tonight, Friday, July 11. Note: Deals marked with a 🔥 have dropped to an all-time low price, while struck-through deals were sold out or expired at the time of writing.
Best gaming laptop deal Opens in a new window Credit: Asus Asus ROG Strix G16 (Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX, Nvidia GeForce RTX 5080, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD) 🔥 $2,399.99 at Amazon$2,899.99 Save $500 Get Deal Why we like it
If you're dead-set on getting one of the newer RTX 50 series laptops, this 16-inch Asus ROG Strix G16 is going to be one of the best discounts you find during Amazon Prime Day 2025. It features a high-end Intel Arrow Lake processor, RTX 5080 graphics, 32GB of RAM, a full terabyte of storage, and a 240Hz display. It sits at the cutting edge of gaming laptop performance, packing in features like intelligent cooling, full-surround RGB, and three free months of PC gaming, among others. Pick one up at its record-low Prime Day price and save $500.
More gaming laptop dealsAsus TUF Gaming A15 (AMD Ryzen 5 7535HS, Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD) — $629.99 $849.99 (save $220 with Prime) 🔥
Acer Nitro V (Intel Core i5-13420H, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD) — $649.99 $849.99 (save $200 with Prime)
MSI Thin 15 (Intel Core i7-13620H, Nvidia Geforce RTX 4050, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) — $839.99 $899.99 (save $60 with Prime)
Asus TUF Gaming F16 (Intel Core 5 210H, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) — $849.99 $1,099.99 (save $250 with Prime)
Asus TUF Gaming A14 (AMD Ryzen AI 7 8845HS, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) — $899.99 $1,199.99 (save $300 with Prime) 🔥
Asus ROG Strix G16 (Intel Core i7-14650HX, Nvidia GeForce RTX 5060, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD) — $1,274.99 $1,499.99 (save $225 with Prime) 🔥
MSI Katana A15 AI (AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS, Nvidia Geforce RTX 4070, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD) — $1,349.99 $1,699.99 (save $350 with Prime)
Asus ROG Strix G16 (Intel Core i9-14900HX, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD) — $1,359.99 $1,699.99 (save $340 with Prime) 🔥
MSI Katana 15 HX (Intel Core i9-14900HX, Nvidia Geforce RTX 5070, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD) — $1,417.99 $1,679.99 (save $262 with Prime) 🔥
Alienware x16 R2 (Intel Core Ultra 7 155H, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD) — $1,597.99 $2,399.99 (save $802 with Prime)
Asus ROG Strix G16 (Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX, Nvidia GeForce RTX 5070 Ti, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD) — $1,999.99 $2,399.99 (save $400 with Prime) 🔥
Alienware 18 Area-51 (Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX, Nvidia GeForce RTX 5080, 32GB RAM, 2TB SSD) — $2,969.99 $3,499.99 (save $530 with Prime) 🔥
3 Hulu Series You Can Binge in a Single Weekend (July 11 - 13)
I don't know about you, but I like to mix my hot summer weekends with equal parts cold drinks on a patio and evenings settled inside with the A/C cranked and a show I can binge. If that sounds like you too, then I've got three great suggestions.
Best Value Mid-Size Luxury SUV With Cutting-Edge Features
Luxury SUVs often come with steep price tags, but one mid-size standout proves you don’t have to overspend to enjoy cutting-edge features and premium comfort. In 2025, this innovative SUV delivers true luxury while undercutting many of its high-end rivals when it comes to cost.
Im loyal to Garmin, but the record-low Prime Day price on the Apple Watch 10 could make me switch
SAVE $120: As of July 10, the Apple Watch 10 is on sale for $279 at Amazon. That's a savings of 30% on the list price, and the lowest-ever price.
Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple Watch Series 10 $279 at Amazon$399 Save $120 Get Deal
Prime Day is a four-day event this year, which means shoppers have had the opportunity to remain more patient and wait for better deals to drop. The bad news is that the Apple Watch Series 10 deal has not improved as we approach the end of Prime Day. The good news is that it's still a record-low price.
I've always been loyal to Garmin. I absolutely love my Forerunner 55, but I've remained curious about the health tracking features offered by rival smartwatches. This lowest-ever price on the Apple Watch Series 10 is tempting me to cross the divide.
As of July 11, the Apple Watch Series 10 is down to only $279 — its lowest-ever price according to price tracker camelcamelcamel. This deal applies to all colorways with stock still available. We don't think this deal will stick around post Prime Day, so if you're considering upgrading, this is your moment.
SEE ALSO: The best Prime Day 2025 deals on fitness trackers — shop Apple, Fitbit, Garmin, and more on day 4The Apple Watch Series 10 is the thinnest of the range so far, but also has the biggest and most readable display. It also introduces Apple's first-ever wide-angle OLED display, meaning the watch remains clear and sharp at all times. Advanced health tracking includes ECG readings, heart rate notifications, and ovulation estimates.
Users also get Fall Detection, Crash Detection, Emergency SOS, and a Check-In feature that automatically updates loved ones when you reach your destination. This smartwatch does a lot.
Get the best-ever price on the Apple Watch Series 10 before the end of Prime Day.
The best Prime Day deals, hand-picked by Mashable's team of experts-
Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ 64GB Wi-Fi 11" Tablet — $132.99 (List Price $219.99)
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Meta Quest 3S 128GB VR Headset With Gorilla Tag Cardboard Hero Bundle — $249.99 (List Price $299.99)
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Fire TV Stick 4K Streaming Device With Remote (2023 Model) — $24.99 (List Price $49.99)
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Shark AV2511AE AI Robot Vacuum With XL Self-Empty Base — $297.99 (List Price $599.00)
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Amazon Fire HD 10 32GB Tablet (2023 Release, Black) — $69.99 (List Price $139.99)
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55" Amazon Fire TV Omni Mini-LED Series 4K QLED Smart TV (2024 Model) — $699.99 (List Price $819.99)
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Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones — $193.00 (List Price $348.00)
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Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 Wireless ANC Earbuds (Jet Black) — $179.95 (List Price $249.99)
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DJI Air 3 Drone With DJI RC-N2 Remote Controller — $934.00 (List Price $1099.00)
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Apple AirPods Pro 2 ANC Earbuds With USB-C Charging Case — $149.00 (List Price $249.00)
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Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 1070Wh Portable Power Station — $799.00
LifeStraws are the quintessential Prime Day deal. Grab them for $10 each.
This year, Amazon is treating us to the longest Prime Day ever. Rather than the standard 48 hour event, Amazon extended the sale to four days. Sadly, we're in the final day of the sale, but there are still tons of deals worth shopping. A standout highlight of Prime Day 2025 is LifeStraw, and during the last day of the sale, you can save up to 46% on water filtration.
The brand really does not want us drinking dirty water. They've made this possible by offering tons of methods to consume clean water — ranging from single straws to fridge-worthy water pitchers. A LifeStraw is one of those classic deals we always look for during major Amazon sales. Not only is it smart to have one around the house in case Mother Nature has some terrible ideas that limit our access to clean tap water: you'll want one in your hiking and camping kit, too. Time is ticking to score these Prime Day sale prices, however, so hop to it.
Best LifeStraw deal Opens in a new window Credit: LifeStraw LifeStraw Peak Series Personal Water Filter $18.71 at Amazon$24.95 Save $6.24 Get Deal Why we like it
The LifeStraw Peak Series Personal Water Filter is the upgraded version of the brand's original offering, the LifeStraw Personal Water Filter. While you can't go wrong with either, the LifeStraw Peak Series has some noteworthy upgrades we think are well worth the price.
For one, there's a greater flow rate which means you're getting hydrated in less time. It's also made with a more rugged and durable design which is perfect if you'll be tossing this into your hiking or camping backpack. There's also the versatility to attach the filter to most water bottles, so you can squeeze yourself a cup of clean water instead of drinking from the straw itself.
The LifeStraw Peak Series Personal Water Filter ensures the water you grabbed from the tap or that questionable lake is free of 99.999% of bacteria, parasites, and microplastics. It also rids your water of dirt, sand, and silt larger than 0.2 microns.
Since drinking clean water is a primary staple of remaining alive, you'll want to stick with a well-known and trusted brand, and it doesn't get much better than LifeStraw.
More water filtration dealsCulligan ZeroWater Technology Water Filter Pitcher (12 cup) — $27.74 $36.99 (save $9.25)
Epic Water Filters Nalgene OG Water Bottle with Filter — $42 $60 (save $18)
GRAYL UltraPress Titanium Water Purifier & Filter Bottle — $134.96 $179.95 (save $44.99)
Im stocking up on Apple AirTags before the end of Prime Day — get a 4-pack for under $65
SAVE OVER $30: As of July 11, you can get a four-pack of Apple AirTags for $64.99 over Prime Day. That's a 34% discount on list price.
Opens in a new window Credit: Appl Apple AirTag (4-Pack) $64.99 at Amazon$99 Save $34.01 Get Deal
Prime Day is approaching its final hours, and that means the best deals will vanish before our eyes. There's no need to panic, because we still have plenty of time to stock up on the essentials. And by essentials, I'm talking about Apple AirTags.
The latest deal on a four-pack of Apple AirTags is not a record-low price, but it's close to that level and the best price we've seen in months. As of July 11, you can score a four-pack of Apple AirTags for $64.99. That's a 34% discount and close to the lowest-ever price of $64.49. So unless you're willing to wait until Black Friday, we recommend stocking up at this low price. It works out at less than $17 per AirTag.
SEE ALSO: The best Apple deals live ahead of Prime Day: Apple Watches, MacBooks, and iPads at record-low pricesAirTags can be attached to keys, wallets, backpacks, luggage, and even a pet’s collar. And if you do lose the item you’ve tagged, simply use Apple’s Find My app to see its location on a map. It can even play a sound so you can hear it if it's nearby. These little devices are vital for anyone who regularly loses track of their stuff. That's why I'm stocking up!
Save over $30 on Apple AirTags this Prime Day.
The best Prime Day deals, hand-picked by Mashable's team of experts-
Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ 64GB Wi-Fi 11" Tablet — $132.99 (List Price $219.99)
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Meta Quest 3S 128GB VR Headset With Gorilla Tag Cardboard Hero Bundle — $249.99 (List Price $299.99)
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Fire TV Stick 4K Streaming Device With Remote (2023 Model) — $24.99 (List Price $49.99)
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Shark AV2511AE AI Robot Vacuum With XL Self-Empty Base — $297.99 (List Price $599.00)
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Amazon Fire HD 10 32GB Tablet (2023 Release, Black) — $69.99 (List Price $139.99)
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55" Amazon Fire TV Omni Mini-LED Series 4K QLED Smart TV (2024 Model) — $699.99 (List Price $819.99)
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Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones — $193.00 (List Price $348.00)
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Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 Wireless ANC Earbuds (Jet Black) — $179.95 (List Price $249.99)
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DJI Air 3 Drone With DJI RC-N2 Remote Controller — $934.00 (List Price $1099.00)
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Apple AirPods Pro 2 ANC Earbuds With USB-C Charging Case — $149.00 (List Price $249.00)
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Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 1070Wh Portable Power Station — $799.00
Our experts favorite robot vacuum of 2025 is still at its lowest-ever price on Prime Day
RECORD-LOW PRICE: As of July 9, the Roborock Saros 10R is on sale for $1,279.99 on Prime Day. That's the lowest-ever price.
Opens in a new window Credit: Roborock Roborock Saros 10R $1,279.99 at Amazon$1,599.99 Save $320 Get Deal
Prime Day is coming through with some amazing deals this year, including record-low prices on things like AirPods, MacBooks, and yes, robot vacuums.
We've gone through absolutely everything on sale and hand-picked the very best robot vacuum deals on offer, so you can save some time and head directly to where the real value is. Alternatively, you could save even more time by simply shopping for our expert's favorite robot vacuum of 2025. It is down to its record-low price, after all.
As of July 9, the Roborock Saros 10R is on sale for $1,279.99 on Prime Day. That's the lowest-ever price according to camelcamelcamel.
SEE ALSO: Prime Day 2025: Live updates on the top dealsBut don't take my word for it. Mashable's robot vacuum expert recommends this deal: "My favorite robot vacuum of 2025 so far went on sale for the first time, and it's not some measly discount, either. Now less than $1,300, the Roborock Saros 10R is technically cheaper than the similar Saros 10 — though I still chose the 10R over 10 in my comparison because the 10R is a beast at corner mopping. With suction power reaching 20,000 Pa, the Saros 10R is also one of the most powerful robot vacuums on the market." That's enough for us.
Get the best-ever price on the Roborock Saros 10R this Prime Day.
The best Prime Day deals, hand-picked by Mashable's team of experts-
Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ 64GB Wi-Fi 11" Tablet — $132.99 (List Price $219.99)
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Meta Quest 3S 128GB VR Headset With Gorilla Tag Cardboard Hero Bundle — $249.99 (List Price $299.99)
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Fire TV Stick 4K Streaming Device With Remote (2023 Model) — $24.99 (List Price $49.99)
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Shark AV2511AE AI Robot Vacuum With XL Self-Empty Base — $297.99 (List Price $599.00)
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Amazon Fire HD 10 32GB Tablet (2023 Release, Black) — $69.99 (List Price $139.99)
-
55" Amazon Fire TV Omni Mini-LED Series 4K QLED Smart TV (2024 Model) — $699.99 (List Price $819.99)
-
Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones — $193.00 (List Price $348.00)
-
Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 Wireless ANC Earbuds (Jet Black) — $179.95 (List Price $249.99)
-
DJI Air 3 Drone With DJI RC-N2 Remote Controller — $934.00 (List Price $1099.00)
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Apple AirPods Pro 2 ANC Earbuds With USB-C Charging Case — $149.00 (List Price $249.00)
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Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 1070Wh Portable Power Station — $799.00
Prime Day is ending soon, but the record-low price on the iPad Mini is still live
SAVE $120: The iPad Mini is on sale for $379 on Prime Day 2025. That's the lowest-ever price on Amazon.
Opens in a new window Credit: Apple iPad Mini $379 at Amazon$499 Save $120 Get Deal
Whatever you do, do not panic. There's no need to freak out, but Prime Day is coming to an end, and that means all the record-low prices on Apple will ceast to exist. We know that's bad news, but you still have time to save. You still have time to properly peruse your options and find the deal that works best for you.
Apple products are the star of the show in this edition of Prime Day, and the latest deal on the iPad Mini is one of the best from a very impressive bunch: As of July 11, you can get the iPad Mini for just $379 on Prime Day. That's a $120 discount, and the lowest-ever price on Amazon.
This deal is for the 128GB, WiFi-only option, but is applicable to all colors. Choose from space gray, starlight, purple, and blue, all at this new low price.
SEE ALSO: 150+ Prime Day deals — record-low prices on Apple, Ninja, and SamsungThe iPad Mini is a fantastic choice if you're looking for something that can offer strong performance in a compact build. It packs the full iPad experience into a smaller, travel-friendly design, with a sharp 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display and the A17 Pro chip. It's also built to handle Apple Intelligence, an AI tool that helps you manage tasks while keeping your data private.
Get the best-ever price on the iPad mini this Prime Day. Don't miss out on the last chance to save.
The best Prime Day deals, hand-picked by Mashable's team of experts-
Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ 64GB Wi-Fi 11" Tablet — $132.99 (List Price $219.99)
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Meta Quest 3S 128GB VR Headset With Gorilla Tag Cardboard Hero Bundle — $249.99 (List Price $299.99)
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Fire TV Stick 4K Streaming Device With Remote (2023 Model) — $24.99 (List Price $49.99)
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Shark AV2511AE AI Robot Vacuum With XL Self-Empty Base — $297.99 (List Price $599.00)
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Amazon Fire HD 10 32GB Tablet (2023 Release, Black) — $69.99 (List Price $139.99)
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55" Amazon Fire TV Omni Mini-LED Series 4K QLED Smart TV (2024 Model) — $699.99 (List Price $819.99)
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Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones — $193.00 (List Price $348.00)
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Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 Wireless ANC Earbuds (Jet Black) — $179.95 (List Price $249.99)
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DJI Air 3 Drone With DJI RC-N2 Remote Controller — $934.00 (List Price $1099.00)
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Apple AirPods Pro 2 ANC Earbuds With USB-C Charging Case — $149.00 (List Price $249.00)
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Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 1070Wh Portable Power Station — $799.00
3 Netflix Shows You Need to Binge This Weekend (July 11 - 13)
I've watched a lot on Netflix and have sat through my fair share of duds, so I feel well qualified to give you some quality TV show recommendations that will keep you entertained this weekend.
Amazon Kindle Colorsoft Review: The Nicest Kindle For Reading and Browsing
Despite Amazon pioneering eReaders, the company’s Kindle Colorsoft was noticeably late to the color e-paper party. Then, when it did arrive, it had a host of issues. Thankfully, now in 2025, it’s in a better place, even if it’s not a must-buy.
My favorite Prime Day Apple deal is still live — get the lowest-ever price on the iPad Air
SAVE $120: As of July 10, the 11-inch iPad Air (M3) is on sale for $479 in Prime Day 2025. That's the lowest-ever price on Amazon.
Opens in a new window Credit: Apple 11-inch iPad Air (M3) $479 at Amazon$599 Save $120 Get Deal
Apple deals are out of control this Prime Day. We've found record-low prices on AirPods, MacBooks, and Apple Watches, but the iPad deals shining brightest.
As of July 10, the 11-inch iPad Air (M3) is on sale for $479 in Prime Day 2025. That's the lowest-ever price according to price tracker camelcamelcamel. In our review of the iPad Air, we said it's the "best buy" for most Apple shoppers. The "best buy" at a record-low price? What are you waiting for?
SEE ALSO: My favorite robot vacuums are on sale for Prime Day: Save on Roomba, Shark, and RoborockAccording to Mashable's Stan Schroeder, "By far the biggest improvement is the new Apple M3 chip, which has an 8-core CPU, a 9-core GPU, and a 16-core Neural Engine. The new chip unlocks Apple Intelligence features, which won't work on some older models but are supported on the 2024 iPad Air."
Prime Day can get crazy, but if you're looking to upgrade your Apple tech, the 11-inch iPad Air (M3) makes a lot of sense.
The best Prime Day deals, hand-picked by Mashable's team of experts-
Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ 64GB Wi-Fi 11" Tablet — $132.99 (List Price $219.99)
-
Meta Quest 3S 128GB VR Headset With Gorilla Tag Cardboard Hero Bundle — $249.99 (List Price $299.99)
-
Fire TV Stick 4K Streaming Device With Remote (2023 Model) — $24.99 (List Price $49.99)
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Shark AV2511AE AI Robot Vacuum With XL Self-Empty Base — $297.99 (List Price $599.00)
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Amazon Fire HD 10 32GB Tablet (2023 Release, Black) — $69.99 (List Price $139.99)
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55" Amazon Fire TV Omni Mini-LED Series 4K QLED Smart TV (2024 Model) — $699.99 (List Price $819.99)
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Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones — $193.00 (List Price $348.00)
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Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 Wireless ANC Earbuds (Jet Black) — $179.95 (List Price $249.99)
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DJI Air 3 Drone With DJI RC-N2 Remote Controller — $934.00 (List Price $1099.00)
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Apple AirPods Pro 2 ANC Earbuds With USB-C Charging Case — $149.00 (List Price $249.00)
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Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 1070Wh Portable Power Station — $799.00
How to watch Fritz vs. Alcaraz online for free
TL;DR: Live stream Fritz vs. Alcaraz in Wimbledon 2025 for free on BBC iPlayer. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.
The Wimbledon semi finals showcase some fascinating matchups, but Fritz vs. Alcaraz might be the best of the bunch. Sure, the defending champion is probably the favorite to advance to the final. But Fritz has been looking very focused this year. Anything could happen.
If you're interested in watching Fritz vs. Alcaraz at Wimbledon 2025 for free from anywhere in the world, we've got all the information you need.
How to watch Fritz vs. Alcaraz for freeFritz vs. Alcaraz in Wimbledon 2025 is available to live stream for free on BBC iPlayer.
BBC iPlayer is geo-restricted to the UK, but anyone can access this free streaming platform with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in another country, meaning you can unblock free live streams on sites like BBC iPlayer from anywhere in the world.
Live stream Wimbledon 2025 for free by following these simple steps:
Sign up for a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)
Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)
Open up the app and connect to a server in the UK
Visit BBC iPlayer
Live stream Fritz vs. Alcaraz for free from anywhere in the world
The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but they do tend to offer money-back guarantees and free trials. By leveraging these offers, you can unblock BBC iPlayer without committing with your cash. This obviously isn't a long-term solution, but it gives you plenty of time to stream Fritz vs. Alcaraz (plus the rest of Wimbledon 2025) before recovering your investment.
If you want to retain permanent access to free streaming platforms from around the world, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for streaming live sport is on sale for a limited time.
What is the best VPN for BBC iPlayer?ExpressVPN is the best choice for streaming live sport on free platforms like BBC iPlayer, for a number of reasons:
Servers in 105 countries including the UK
Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more
Strict no-logging policy so your data is always secure
Fast streaming speeds free from throttling
Up to eight simultaneous connections
30-day money-back guarantee
A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $139 and includes an extra four months for free — 61% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month subscription for just $12.95 (including money-back guarantee).
Live stream Fritz vs. Alcaraz in Wimbledon 2025 for free with ExpressVPN.
EcoFlow’s Delta 2 power station is under $450 on Prime Day — last chance to save
SAVE $250: As of July 11, Amazon Prime members can score the EcoFlow Delta 2 portable power atation for just $449, marked down from $699.
Opens in a new window Credit: EcoFlow EcoFlow Portable Power Station Delta 2 $449 at Amazon$699 Save $250 Get Deal
For adventurers waiting for the right reason to upgrade their portable power station, the EcoFlow Delta 2 is the model for you — down to just $449 in the final hours of the Prime Day sale — that’s 36% off its usual $699 price tag and the lowest price it has been in months.
This compact powerhouse is built for weekend campers, van-lifers, off-gridders, or anyone prepping for power outages in mind.
With a 1024Wh LiFePO4 battery at its core, the Delta 2 delivers up to 1800W of output. That's enough to run major appliances like blenders, microwaves, TVs, or space heaters without breaking a sweat. It sports a total of 15 ports, including AC, USB-C (100W), and DC, so everything from your laptop to your mini-fridge can stay charged.
SEE ALSO: 100+ deals are live on Prime Day — get record-low prices on Apple, Ninja, and SamsungOne of the Delta 2’s standout features is its blazing-fast recharge time: go from 0 to 80% in just 50 minutes using a standard wall outlet, or fully charge in 80 minutes. In case you're the type who prefers green energy, it supports up to 500W of solar input, making it a solid solar generator. Keep in mind that solar panels are sold separately — also on sale at $240 off. You can also buy on-sale bundles, including the EcoFlow Delta 2 Portable Power Station and solar panels, from just $659.
EcoFlow also made this power station expandable. You can scale up from 1kWh to 3kWh by adding extra batteries — perfect for longer trips or more demanding home backup scenarios. And thanks to LiFePO4 battery chemistry, the Delta 2 boasts a 3,000+ cycle lifespan, easily outlasting many other units in its class.
Prime Day deals don’t stick around, and this one’s for Amazon Prime members only. So if you're after clean, quiet, portable energy at a record-low price, the Delta 2 looks like a smart grab. If you're willing to spend a bit more, the Jackery Explorer 2000 v2 portable power station is now on sale for under $850.
The best Prime Day deals, hand-picked by Mashable's team of experts-
Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ 64GB Wi-Fi 11" Tablet — $132.99 (List Price $219.99)
-
Meta Quest 3S 128GB VR Headset With Gorilla Tag Cardboard Hero Bundle — $249.99 (List Price $299.99)
-
Fire TV Stick 4K Streaming Device With Remote (2023 Model) — $24.99 (List Price $49.99)
-
Shark AV2511AE AI Robot Vacuum With XL Self-Empty Base — $297.99 (List Price $599.00)
-
Amazon Fire HD 10 32GB Tablet (2023 Release, Black) — $69.99 (List Price $139.99)
-
55" Amazon Fire TV Omni Mini-LED Series 4K QLED Smart TV (2024 Model) — $699.99 (List Price $819.99)
-
Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones — $193.00 (List Price $348.00)
-
Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 Wireless ANC Earbuds (Jet Black) — $179.95 (List Price $249.99)
-
DJI Air 3 Drone With DJI RC-N2 Remote Controller — $934.00 (List Price $1099.00)
-
Apple AirPods Pro 2 ANC Earbuds With USB-C Charging Case — $149.00 (List Price $249.00)
-
Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 1070Wh Portable Power Station — $799.00
I love this Prime Day iPad deal — last chance to score a record-low price on the 11-inch Apple iPad
RECORD-LOW PRICE: As of July 11, the 11-inch Apple iPad is on sale for $279.99 in Prime Day 2025. That's the lowest-ever price on Amazon.
Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPad (11-inch) $279.99 at Amazon$349 Save $69.01 Get Deal
Apple deals have been so strong in this edition of Prime Day, but I've still got my favorites.
The 11-inch Apple iPad is on sale for $279.99 this Prime Day. Will this record-low price stick around after Prime Day? We would be surprised. You don't see lowest-ever prices on Apple products too often, so if you're thinking about an upgrade, this is your moment to shine.
SEE ALSO: Apple Watch Series 10 just hit a record-low price for Prime Day — get it for $119 offThe new Apple iPad offers a nice performance boost thanks to the A16 chip. And support for WiFi 6 keeps your connection smooth and speedy. This model also comes with 128GB of storage so you can load up on all the apps, photos, and videos you desire without a stress in the world. Mashable's Samantha Mangino knows a thing or two about iPads, and she argues that it's "a great entry-level tablet" for anyone working on a budget. That's enough for me!
Get the new 11-inch Apple iPad for its best-ever price this Prime Day.
The best Prime Day deals, hand-picked by Mashable's team of experts-
Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ 64GB Wi-Fi 11" Tablet — $132.99 (List Price $219.99)
-
Meta Quest 3S 128GB VR Headset With Gorilla Tag Cardboard Hero Bundle — $249.99 (List Price $299.99)
-
Fire TV Stick 4K Streaming Device With Remote (2023 Model) — $24.99 (List Price $49.99)
-
Shark AV2511AE AI Robot Vacuum With XL Self-Empty Base — $297.99 (List Price $599.00)
-
Amazon Fire HD 10 32GB Tablet (2023 Release, Black) — $69.99 (List Price $139.99)
-
55" Amazon Fire TV Omni Mini-LED Series 4K QLED Smart TV (2024 Model) — $699.99 (List Price $819.99)
-
Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones — $193.00 (List Price $348.00)
-
Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 Wireless ANC Earbuds (Jet Black) — $179.95 (List Price $249.99)
-
DJI Air 3 Drone With DJI RC-N2 Remote Controller — $934.00 (List Price $1099.00)
-
Apple AirPods Pro 2 ANC Earbuds With USB-C Charging Case — $149.00 (List Price $249.00)
-
Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 1070Wh Portable Power Station — $799.00
Tesla plans to expand Robotaxi service soon
Tesla is looking to expand its Robotaxi service, and we're not just talking in Texas.
On Thursday, CEO Elon Musk said on X that the company plans to expand to "a larger service area in Austin this weekend."
Tesla's Robotaxi service launched last month in a geofenced area in South Austin, with a reported 10-20 Model Y cars, and it was only open to a small number of people. Musk didn't say whether the expansion also means introducing more cars to the mix.
This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed.However, the company seems eager to expand the service to other areas, too. Replying to a comment on X, Musk said that Robotaxi is coming to the Bay Area "probably in a month or two," following regulatory approvals.
The approvals shouldn't be too big of an issue given that Alphabet's Waymo (and, formerly, GM's Cruise) has been operating a self-driving taxi service for years in San Francisco and some of the nearby cities in the Bay Area.
SEE ALSO: Smooth, silent, strange: What it's really like to hail a robotaxiTesla's Robotaxi launch kicked off in June with multiple users praising how smooth the rides are, especially given that Tesla uses its regular Model Y cars for the service, as opposed to heavily modified cars used by Waymo and other self-driving taxi companies.
There were, however, many recorded instances of Tesla's robotaxis making odd errors, sudden stops, and apparent traffic violations.
The news comes shortly after Musk confirmed that his controversial Grok AI is coming to Tesla vehicles. The company also just announced its annual shareholders meeting will be held in November, a lot later than usual.
Kai Cenats Hot Ones reaction to Da Bomb is instantly iconic
Kai Cenat may have demolished boss after boss in Elden Ring, but Hot Ones is a different beast.
One of the world's top Twitch streamers, Cenat sat down with host Sean Evans to unpack his lengthy streaming sessions, the lofty dream of co-streaming NBA games, Streamer University, internet slang, and the impact of playing songs on his streams.
Cenat keeps it together until about halfway through, when the heat rises fast. By the time Cenat and Evans hit Da Bomb, they just start screaming at each other as Cenat chugs milk, water, ice cream, whatever's on hand and cold.
It's an all-time reaction.
Stock up on the boring stuff this Prime Day: Toilet paper, cleaning products, you know
If you're not currently in the market for a big tech purchase, the traditional Prime Day hype around items like TVs or every Amazon device under the sun probably doesn't do much for you. Still, the mindset that you don't need to buy anything on Prime Day is less accurate than you think — a ton of boring-but-essential items that you'd buy eventually anyway are also on sale for Prime Day. Why not stock up when they're cheaper and save yourself a Target run down the road? This is a great time to consider what you'll need for upcoming summer vacation or even (gasp) back-to-school season.
SEE ALSO: Target is hosting a Circle Week sale during Prime Day againBelow, we're tracking the best Prime Day deals on essentials like everyday tech, cleaning supplies, toilet paper, cat litter, baby care items, and more through the end of Prime Day on July 11. Many are eligible for Amazon's Prime Day household essentials promo: Get a $15 Amazon credit when you spend $50. Remember the Prime Day event officially ends tonight, so shop these deals soon to make sure you score the Prime Day price.
Kitchen essentials and cleaning suppliesScotch-Brite Zero Scratch Scrub Sponge (6 count) — $5.79 $9.65 (save $3.86)
Cascade Platinum Dishwasher Pods (71 count) — $16.09 $22.99 (save $6.90)
Clorox Free & Clear Compostable Cleaning Wipes (75 count) — $15.33 $20.97 (save $5.64)
Glad Tall Kitchen Drawstring Trash Bags (110 count) — $17.99 $23.49 (save $5.50)
Reel Premium Recycled Paper Towels (12 rolls) — $40.27 $52.99 (save $12.72)
Arm & Hammer Power Sheets (50 count) — $9.99 $14.99 (save $5)
Blueland Plastic-Free Laundry Tablets (36 count) — $11.19 $15.99 (save $4.8)
Tide Pods (76 count) — $15.19 $19.99 (save $4.80)
Energizer AA Alkaline Batteries (32 count) — $13.29 $19.98 (save $6.69)
Energizer AAA Alkaline Power Batteries (32 count) — $14.39 $17.99 (save $3.60)
Energizer 9 Volt Alkaline Batteries (8 count) — $18.99 $26.98 (save $7.99)
Duracell Coppertop AA + AAA Alkaline (28 count each) — $32.99 $50.99 (save $18)
The Honest Company Clean Conscious Overnight Diapers (48 count) — $22.79 $29.99 (save $7.29)
Huggies Skin Essentials Baby Wipes (840 count) — $33.59 $41.99 (save $8.40)
The Honest Company Clean Conscious Multi-Use Wipes (720 count) — $32.05 $44.99 (save $12.94)
Pampers Swaddlers (1,008 count) — $116.69 $145.87 (save $29.18)
Purina Tidy Cats LightWeight Free Unscented Cat Litter (17 pounds) — $20.38 $25.99 (save $6.63)
Fresh Step Crystals (8 pounds, 2 count) — $32.63 $42.98 (save $10.63)
Petkit Clump+ Tofu Flushable Cat Litter (5.2 pounds, 6 count) — $56.99 $79.99 (save $23)
Cottonelle Ultra Clean Toilet Paper (32 mega rolls) — $26.61 $34.79 (save $8.18)
Seventh Generation Recycled Toilet Paper (12 rolls) — $28.70 $43.16 (save $14.46)
Caboo Tree Free Bamboo Toilet Paper (24 double rolls) — $30.39 $39.99 (save $9.60)
Anker USB C to USB C Cable (6 foot, 2 pack) — $8.99 $15.99 (save $7)
Anker USB-C Cable and Block (2 pack) — $11.39 $18.99 (save $7.60)
Anker USB C Cable 100W Type C Flow Cord — $12.34 $16.99 (save $4.65)
Apple USB-C Woven Charge Cable (1 m) — $14.99 $19 (save $4.01)
Apple MagSafe Wireless Charger (2 m) — $39.99 $49 (save $9.01)
Belkin 23W Portable Power Bank — $40.36 $49.99 (save $9.63)
Anker Nano 45W Type C Charger — $19.99 $34.99 (save $10.60)
Anker Prime 100W USB C GaN Charger — $59.99 $86.99 (save $27)
UGREEN Power Bank (25,000mAh, 145W) — $65.99 $99.99 (save $34)
Blink Mini security camera — $14.99 $29.99 (save $15)
Kasa Smart Plug (4 pack) — $19.99 $29.99 (save $10)
Govee Smart Light Bulbs (4 pack) — $23.99 $39.99 (save $16)
SanDisk 512GB Extreme microSDXC memory card — $35.69 $42.64 (save $6.95)
Apple AirTag (4 pack) — $64.99 $99 (save $34.01)
Philips Hue Smart Light Starter Kit — $89.99 $129.99 (save $40)
Anker Laptop Power Bank — $94.49 $134.99 (save $40.50)
SanDisk 4TB Extreme PRO Portable SSD — $269.99 $394.99 (save $125)
Herbs Healthy Healing Acne Healing Patches (144 patches) — $3.37 $9.99 (save $6.62)
Loop Quiet 2 Ear Plugs — $16.95 $20.95 (save $4)
Crest 3D Whitestrips Professional Effects Plus (48 strips) — $27.99 $49.99(save $22)
Crest 3D Whitestrips Professional Effects (44 strips) — $29.99 $45.99(save $16)
OK Gos Damian Kulash and Tim Nordwind reflect on how a viral music video changed their band forever.
It's been nearly 19 years to the day that OK Go released their eye-popping music video for "Here It Goes Again" on YouTube. The American rock band didn't use flashy special effects, couture fashion, or celebrity cameos to make their mark — they used a long-take dance number on treadmills and became a sensation.
What would follow would be even more complex choreography in ambitious one-take videos like "I Won't Let You Down," "Upside Down & Inside Out," and the Universal Robots collaboration seen in their latest video for "Love," off their new album, And the Adjacent Possible.
In Mashable's Say More interview series, Entertainment Editor Kristy Puchko sat down with two of the band's founding members, Damian Kulash and Tim Nordwind, to discuss the band's unique vision, which extends from its music to its videos. Kulash, who fronts the band and plays guitar, detailed how their videos not only gave them an exciting opportunity to express themselves, but also led to an unexpected way to connect with new fans.
"Our videos have wound up being basically a way to get people in the room," Kulash said.
"We get a ton of science teachers, math teachers, and art teachers showing our videos in class because it makes you want to learn about physics," Kulash explained. "That does this thing to us, where it's like, we never intended our songs to be better citizens than we are. We make these art projects because they're so fun and because we get to. You know? And it feels like a gift that we get to do it in the first place."
The pair also reflected on what happened to them once the "Here It Goes Again" video became such a smash hit online that it landed them on the stage of the MTV Video Music Awards, recreating it live. (Plus, Kulash reveals how silverware flung by his sister came into play in prepping!)
Beyond that, he talked about how OK Go figured out what would come next after they went viral.
"All the major labels were running in fear. The machinery was going, like, 'How did four dudes with zero budget just outdo all the machinery that we've built? And how do we quickly game and own that new world?' And it was like in that one moment, it felt like we could pitch any idea and people would probably want to do it," Kulash recalled. "On the other hand, this moment will pass, and this rock band we'd spent almost a decade building — we were now the treadmill guys. And it was sort of like, you could either try to outcool that...or lean into it and be like, what was really great about this?"
They decided the success was based on something about their approach. "It's the tip of an iceberg of a sense of humor and a sense of stuff-making that we really love," he continued. "Like taking something really seriously and really trying to do your very best at it — like dancing — and just swinging for the fences, anyways? There's a specific taste and texture of joy to that that some people just get and want to do. And some people just don't, right?
"And that was our thing," Kulash said. "And, like, how are we going to lean into that? We've opened up this weird trap door in our career and in the music industry, and nobody knows where it's going to lead. But as long as we force our creativity through it...we're going to make weird effing art projects as opposed to being like, we're going to do more crazy dances. We kind of knew the videos were going to be the medium for that. I don't think if we had an experimental noise rock record next all of a sudden that would have had the same effect. But it did encourage us to be like, 'This is only going to work if you keep on pushing your weirdest ideas to their limits.'"
For more from OK Go, check out the full Say More interview on YouTube, where Kulash and Nordwind talk about how they met, the importance of mix tapes, and what it was like having the Muppets over for band rehearsal.