Technology

How K-pop Demon Hunters became a love letter to K-pop and its fandom

Mashable - Wed, 07/09/2025 - 11:00

In the age of multiverses and music biopics, K-pop Demon Hunters dares to do something different: it builds a brand-new universe from scratch. The animated action-comedy follows a K-pop girl group that sells out stadiums, dominates the charts, and secretly slays demons. And somehow, it all works.

Co-directed by Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans, the film is also a visual treat. The animation is expressive and kinetic, channeling everything from chibi exaggeration to concert-film realism. There are nods to multiple generations of K-pop — from Seo Taiji to TWICE — and the soundtrack blends original songs by THEBLACKLABEL producers with iconic needle drops from EXO, beloved K-dramas, and more.

SEE ALSO: Netflix's 'K-pop Demon Hunters' review: Balancing demon-slaying with idol realness

In this interview, Kang and Appelhans talk about the film’s mythology, their favorite K-pop groups, and how the Saja Boys' hollow bangers and Felix Lee-coded Baby Saja became the internet’s new obsessions.

Directors Chris Appelhans (L) and Maggie Kang (R). Credit: Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images

Mashable: Starting off with what I hope is a simple question, who is your HUNTR/X bias?

Maggie Kang: Mine is Mira. I think she's who I want to be because she's just so cool. And that's the kind of woman that I'm like — this woman's kind of a wreck on the inside, but doesn't really seem like it. I love that kind of vibe.

Chris Appelhans: Yeah. Same.

Kang: I didn't know that.

Appelhans: It's so funny because we're creating these fictional characters, and a big part of what makes K-pop stars so good is they're these kind of incredibly glamorous people, and they truly can sing, and they're so good at dancing, and then they're also, as you get to know them, off camera, they have some identity and funny personality. And as we were doing the animation and figuring out how each of them dances, how they perform, there would be shots of Mira dancing, and I'm like, "Oh, yep, that's my bias." Like, you don't know until it happens. You're like, oh, there it is, yep, OK.

That's exactly how it happens in real life, too. I talked to the cast, and watching them all interact and talk, and especially with May [Hong], I was like, "Oh, you guys are exactly like your characters."

Kang: Isn't it insane? The moment we heard May's voice, we were like, "Oh." Because it was actually really challenging to find that kind of tone of voice in a Korean actress, and when we first heard it, we Googled her and found her Instagram, and we were like, "Oh my gosh, she is way cooler than we thought." And then when we met her in person, it was like, Can we be friends?

Mira, Rumi, and Zoey are the fiercest girl group in the game, on stage and on the demon battlefield Credit: Netflix

I know this movie was seven years in the making for you, Maggie. Where did the idea come from?

Kang: [Points to the skateboard deck on the wall behind her] This is the first painting that was ever done of Rumi. And there were other drawings that had been done as well, but she was actually created for a project that my partner was working on. He has this skate group that he created, and wanted to create a new character. And so he and I sat down, and we're like, let's make her Korean. And the design of Rumi was born then, and I liked the character so much I plucked her out for this [project].

It came from really wanting to see Korean culture represented in feature animation. And demonology was something I just really leaned into, and that naturally led to demon hunters. And Rumi was a badass girl, and I needed two other girls just as badass with her. And so it was like more of a Buffy, the Vampire Slayer-type of demon slayer group, and the K-pop of it came last. It was another Korean thing that I could add in and have it be their public-facing persona. And that made it a great pitching point and gave it that spectacle and brought scale, and obviously made it a musical.

With K-pop, concepts and lore are very much part of a group's identity, so it actually fits super well. HUNTR/X feels like a fully formed girl group. So, how did you kind of go about building the aesthetic of the group?

Appelhans: We really let the story drive everything. Early on, we were inspired by traditional Korean mudang dancers — women who performed these beautiful, protective rituals — and thought, "Isn’t that kind of like the first concert?" That idea clicked: music as a way to connect people and push away darkness. From there, everything opened up. It gave us a foundation for the girls' identities, their costumes, the mythology, even the stage visuals. And with the Saja Boys, we had fun playing with the idea of a dark, seductive boy band, literally demons in disguise. Our whole team loves fashion, music videos, dramatic lighting, and bold makeup, so once we had the concept, our crew was like, "Please, unleash us."

Kang: We're begging our producers, like, "Can we have one more look, please?"

I want to talk about the Saja Boys. I think you captured something really sharp about the music industry as a whole — both the beautiful, connective power of it, like we see with the golden Honmoon, and also the darker, more soul-sucking aspects of it, especially through the Saja Boys as literal demon idols. There are a lot of fun nods to the music industry and K-pop tropes throughout the film, but there's also real respect for the craft and culture. So I’m curious: how did you approach that balance between satire and sincerity?

Kang: Early on, one of our Korean writers was a little confused that we weren’t focusing more on the darker side of the music industry. But for me, especially since this is my first movie set in Korean culture, I didn’t want to lead with negativity. That said, the demon-hunting aspect naturally became a metaphor for the messier parts of the industry — the pressure to be perfect, to hide your flaws, to perform a polished version of yourself, not just for the public, but even within your own group. That dynamic is already baked into the story.

And of course, the Saja Boys being literal demons is part of that. I’ve seen people online joking, "Of course the boy band is evil," which makes me laugh. But hey, we’ll take it.

Appelhans: That also shaped how we approached the music. We wanted the Saja Boys' songs to be super catchy, but slightly hollow, like there’s no real soul underneath. In contrast, the HUNTR/X songs are emotionally vulnerable and honest. The idea was that the surface-level part of your heart might be obsessed with the boys, but the deeper part is moved by the girls. It’s that feeling when an artist shares something raw, like "drivers license" or Lemonade, and you’re stunned they went there, but you feel it so deeply. That’s the space we wanted HUNTR/X to live in.

Kang: Exactly. The boys' lyrics are all "give me, give me," and the girls’ final song is about giving themselves to the audience.

That idea of giving and receiving is something I’ve talked about with a lot of artists — the emotional exchange between performer and audience. And "Your Idol," the song by the Saja Boys, really floored me. It says the quiet part out loud in such a bold, explicit way. I remember thinking, Wow, they really went there. It’s a really smart piece of songwriting.

Kang: I’m still surprised we got away with that scene! We’re really proud of it because it goes so dark and so hard, and we just kept pushing it. Every time we thought we’d hit the line, we were like, "Nope, let’s go even harder."

Appelhans: That track is incredible. THEBLACKLABEL did such a great job with it. It was so rich that we could literally take it apart and use different pieces throughout the film. In the finale, for example, we pulled elements from the full track and blended them into the score. There are moments where the song breaks down into just instrumental, and you barely notice — the music carries the emotion seamlessly, like you’re watching a full concert experience. It was really exciting to build that kind of layered sound.

Don't be fooled by their good looks. Credit: Netflix The Saja Boys are demons in disguise. Credit: Netflix

There’s been a lot of fan speculation about idol inspirations behind the character designs. Were there any real-life idols or groups that inspired either HUNTR/X or the Saja Boys?

Kang: With HUNTR/X, we were working closely with THEBLACKLABEL, so naturally, YG groups were an early reference — 2NE1 and BLACKPINK, of course. But Teddy [Park] and the team really wanted to create something new, with its own sound and identity. I knew I wanted the girls to be tough. They’re not just idols, they’re warriors. That alone gives them a different energy.

Appelhans: For the Saja Boys, our art team, which included some serious K-pop fans, leaned into boy group archetypes. We didn’t base any of them on one specific idol, but you can definitely find parallels across different groups. It was more of a love letter to boy band personas.

Kang: We had a massive reference board. Everyone, including Chris and me, had their own biases on there, and we didn’t always agree! When we opened it up to the crew, it got wild. The board became insane — literally, everybody was on there. Ultimately, a couple of artists designed the boys, and they absolutely infused their own bias into it. It was kind of a hodgepodge of different influences. But we did talk a lot about the archetypes that we wanted to represent.

I have to say, the baby-faced deep-voiced rapper? As a Stray Kids fan, I felt very seen.

Maggie Kang: Yes! Baby Saja is voiced by Danny Chung from THEBLACKLABEL. He’s one of the lyricists who worked on the film’s music, and we thought, "Why not cast him too?" It was his first time voice acting, and he crushed it.

And the Saja Boys’ intro set to EXO's "Love Me Right" was just perfect. Why was that the song?

Kang: That’s been in the cut since the very first version of that scene. It just worked. We talked about creating an original track, but ultimately, nothing fit quite like that EXO song. It had that sexy, polished energy we needed. And the next cue — "Love, Maybe" from [the Korean drama] Business Proposal — was also in the film from the beginning, long before we even cast Ahn Hyo-seop to play Jinu. When he heard the cut, he was like, "Oh my gosh, this is my song!"

Appelhans: In animation, we spend years working with temp tracks during the animatic phase. These two songs stuck. They felt like tributes and carried the tone perfectly, so we fought to license them.

Mira and Zoey literally have heart-eyes for the Saja Boys. Credit: Netflix

The animation is so bold and colorful, and so expressive. I loved the popcorn eyes, the chibi moments, and Zoey shoving snacks in her face. It felt very anime, very K-drama, in the best way. What influenced that visual style?

Kang: We didn’t set out with one fixed style. Everything was driven by what the moment needed. If something needed to be more dramatic, more funny, more heightened, we just went for it. Animation lets you push emotion to the limit. A lot of those expressive moments, like the girls going chibi or overreacting, came from our animators just having fun. Anytime someone in a review said, "This is so stupid," we took it as the highest compliment.

Appelhans: Even from the first time Maggie told me the movie she wanted to make, there were already all of these ingredients kind of cooked into the idea. You needed amazing choreography, which is hard to animate, and you needed badass women, which is really fun to do, and she was like, "I want them to also make a bunch of stupid faces and act really stupid and be funny and regular." So the movie and the tone of it just demanded this range out of the animators. That range required us to unlock each visual beat one by one. We actually referenced a lot of K-dramas, especially Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok-joo. We have so many clips of her on our animation board. The way she could go from over-the-top silly to heartbreaking sincerity in seconds? That was our tonal blueprint.

That actually reminds me of something Max Martin once said — the key to writing the perfect pop song is being unafraid to be silly, stupid, or even a little annoying.

Appelhans: We're soul mates.

Last question, just for fun. Who are your favorite K-pop groups? Who were you listening to while making the film?

Kang: Currently, I’ve been listening to a lot of BABYMONSTER — my kid loves them, and they’re amazing vocalists. I also love Stray Kids, BTS, ATEEZ… and MONSTA X, which Chris got me into.

Appelhans: I love MONSTA X.

I really love Stray Kids, too.

Kang: They're amazing on stage. They're really fun.

Appelhans: Is it Felix? Is that the one [you were referencing before]?

Yes! When I saw Baby Saja, he immediately reminded me of Felix.

Appelhans: Also, IVE. Their production is so rich and interesting. It actually helped inspire some of the music we created for the film, just hearing how elevated pop production has become across the board.

K-pop Demon Hunters is now streaming on Netflix.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The stars of K-pop Demon Hunters (and their parents) are watching your fan edits

Mashable - Wed, 07/09/2025 - 11:00

Since its release on Netflix this past June, K-pop Demon Hunters has found a passionate audience and a thriving online fandom. The animated action-comedy about a demon-slaying K-pop girl group has inspired fan-made merch, fan art, and group chat-level obsession. While the film leans into the spectacle with stadium-sized bangers and a rival boy group made up of literal soul-sucking demons, it also hits on something real: the deep bond between women, the pressure of being perceived, and the joy of being part of something bigger than yourself. (Not to mention the collective heartbreak over Rumi and Jinu’s tragic, almost-love story.)

SEE ALSO: Netflix's 'K-pop Demon Hunters' review: Balancing demon-slaying with idol realness

It's a vibe the film's stars — Arden Cho (Rumi), May Hong (Mira), and Ji-young Yoo (Zoey) — fully understand. During our interview before the film's release, the three shared their favorite scenes, their girl group dream playlists, and how HUNTR/X mirrors their own friendship dynamic. They talk about their favorite idols (Yoo is a Jihyo girl, of course), how chaotic their group chat is, and the very relatable way their parents stalk their social media.

May Hong, Arden Cho, and Ji-young Yoo scream it out in the booth. Credit: Netflix

Just like HUNTR/X, they’re perfectly balanced: the steady center, the stylish enigma, and the lovable maknae. And yes, they’ve seen the edits. (And so have their parents.)

Below, the cast of K-pop Demon Hunters talks about K-pop bias picks, surviving social media, and the power of girl groups on screen and off.

Mashable: Before you signed on to the film, were you already fans of K-pop, or was this kind of like your crash course?

Arden Cho: I've always loved K-pop. I'm totally gonna age myself, but all the way from [first generation groups] Fin.K.L, S.E.S., H.O.T., Sechs Kies... Like, oh my gosh.

May Hong: It was more that time for me too.

Cho: Right? This was, like, the beginning, but it was not that cool to like it back then. I was a little bit shy about it. You know, my very first concert ever in life was H.O.T.

That's amazing.

Ji-young Yoo: That's iconic, actually. Did you see them in LA or in Korea?

Cho: No, in Korea.

Yoo: That's so cool.

Cho: I was so excited. But then, back in America, I went to see NSYNC and was like, "Oh yeah, NSYNC is the only boy band I like." Because it wasn't cool to like K-pop back then. And I felt insecure about it. But now I'm like, "Oh my gosh, it's so exciting. K-pop is the best." Obviously, now, the list [of groups I like] is so long and extensive.

Yoo: I'm a big ARMY. I've been an ARMY since 2015, and from following BTS, I began to listen to a lot of other K-pop groups, like past and current groups. So I really enjoy K-pop. It's a really impressive performance, and everything about it takes so much effort from an artistic perspective, and I really respect that so much. So I'm kind of, like, living out my dreams right now.

Ji-young, you are sitting in front of a purple background, so it's perfect.

Yoo: A lot of things are working for me here. There's a lot of purple for this movie, and it's making me very happy.

Similar to you, Arden, I fell in love with first-gen K-pop. I was downloading BoA's entire discography in, like, 2006.

Cho: That's the thing, too. I was covering K-pop songs since the early 2000s. I remember I covered BTS before BTS became BTS. And then I was like, "I told you they were good!" And then, you know, they got huge.

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How do you think the film might resonate with K-pop fans? Because I've already been seeing all the fan art on social media.

Hong: I saw a lot of talk on Reddit. There are Spotify playlists already dedicated to K-pop Demon Hunters, where people are just gathering their inspiration songs for what they think the energy is like. It seems like a lot of K-pop fans are excited about this.

Cho: I think it helps that the music is incredible. Like, all the songs are hits, they're bops, they're so good. And I feel like all the artists and producers who worked on this film with us just crushed it.

Yoo: They're all such, like, bona fide K-pop producers.

Cho: THEBLACKLABEL really brought it. Some of the songs, I'm like, "Ooh, I can feel a little bit of BLACKPINK."

Yoo: You can feel a Teddy [Park] touch, definitely.

Cho: It's so special.

Yoo: I think the fan response is hopefully a sign that we did it right and that we got it right.

Hong: Also, Audrey Nuna [who provides Mira's singing voice] is so cool. I'm so beyond flattered that that's Mira.

Cho: There are so many cool people who have helped us also look cool.

Yoo: They make us look so much cooler. It's really awesome.

Cho: We really can't take credit for any of that, but, you know, I'm just so honored, and I really hope the K-pop fans see that everybody who worked on this was so respectful, not only to K-pop but also the Korean culture and just everything that comes with it. They've captured it in such a magical way.

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There are so many nuances that only K-pop fans will understand, like the lightsticks and the variety show scene. I was totally sold when I found out that the villains were a boy band stealing the souls of fans.

Cho: How dare they be so handsome and so evil.

Yoo: A lot of people are posting photos of their favorite idols next to the characters to try and see where we drew inspiration from. I couldn't answer any of those questions for anybody, but it's really fun to see, like, similar hairstyles on similar idols, and it's really cool to watch fans try to figure it out.

Ji-young, I saw you actually living out your K-pop dreams. You did a dance challenge to "Takedown." That's true K-pop idol stuff.

Yoo: I did, yeah, it was really fun! I feel so honored to even be halfway in the same conversation as TWICE. That's just really cool. I think Jihyo is one of the coolest performers ever. All of TWICE is amazing, but I love watching Jihyo. I'm just here for a good time.

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Culturally, we're in the middle of a girl group renaissance, and HUNTR/X is definitely part of that. What is it about the dynamic of a girl group, real or functional, that makes it so compelling for people?

Cho: I just love that they're all so different, you know? I feel like they have very strong personalities and very distinct styles, whether it be fashion or vibe, and even their artistic style, right? And I love that it's a mix, and they're so different, but together, they make this amazing girl group like HUNTR/X.

Hong: There's nothing more powerful than sisterhood.

Yoo: [Laughs.] No, really.

Hong: Go us.

Yoo: It's something even cooler than the sum of their parts, which I think is always really moving. And I think K-pop is all about community, and girl groups and boy bands give a sense of belonging, both within the group and to the fans that are following them. I think we are getting a lot further away from each other, in some ways, because of the internet, and hopefully, art and other things like it can bring people back together.

If you were to build the ultimate girl group playlist, what songs would you put on it?

Yoo: Outside of K-pop, there has to be Destiny's Child. There has to be Spice Girls. And I would also want some Little Mix on there.

Hong: I obviously want NewJeans there.

Cho: And then I obviously want BLACKPINK. And aespa, too.

Yoo: And then definitely the HUNTR/X songs. And TWICE.

Cho: And LE SSERAFIM. We should throw song GG, some Girls Generation on there.

Yoo: We have to. And Fin.K.L., we need an OG on there.

Cho: There have been so many generations. Oh my goodness.

Yoo: And 2NE1 has to go on there. How long do you want this answer to be? Because we can continue.

Just three besties fighting evil and eating ramen. Credit: Netflix

You three seem to have a very good dynamic, kind of like your characters. How did you build that chemistry? Was it instant? Do you have an active group chat?

Cho: We made a group chat because we're all in different places. May's in New York. Ji-young is in LA, but you were traveling a bit. I was traveling. And so I think the group chat helped.

Yoo: Yeah, the group chat helped, for sure. I knew both of you before we started this project. There's a little, like, Asian American girls' brunch that happens in LA every now and then that we met through.

Cho: Some of us older Asian actresses and our cute young maknaes [youngest member of a group].

Yoo: As soon as I heard who the cast was, I knew the vibe was gonna work. And it did. It really didn't take a lot of effort.

You seem like your characters, too, just from what I'm observing.

Cho: I think you're right. Casting crushed it. Yeah, yay, Michelle.

I want to hear a little bit more about the group chat.

Yoo: It's called HUNTR/X.

Cho: May put our cover photo as the animation. It's so cute.

Yoo: We are the Demon Hunters.

Cho: We are. We're HUNTR/X. Hello, book us!

Who is the most active? And who's supplying the memes?

Yoo: I feel like you [points to May] have some really funny photos that you'll send.

Cho: There are things we can't really share, but there are some funny texts.

Hong: I think it's equal, though. We're all talking. We all really respond.

Cho: It's fun because it's all silly things or girl things, like, "Wait, what are you gonna wear? Or what color? What color should we wear?"

Hong: I don't really do that with people, but because we have to prepare for all this, we've just been sending 'fit pics back and forth.

Cho: We're also going to see magic tomorrow. We have a girls' day planned. We're gonna go see a magician at the Magic Castle [in LA].

Hong: I'm so excited. I'm not going to be like Mira there at all. I'm just so excited to be mesmerized. And I'm not going to be like, oh, do better. I'm just going to be exploding with joy.

Cho: We bond over that because I love magic, and May is always super cool, but once magic came in the picture...

Hong: Not in front of magic, not in the presence of magic.

Serious voice acting? Yes. But also: lots of selfies between takes. Credit: Netflix

Were there any lines or scenes that were especially fun or challenging to record?

Yoo: Zoey's just a fun character in general. Like, every recording session was really funny. They let me ad-lib a lot. So some of that was really fun, and I think a couple of those ended up in the movie. There's a scene where I'm, like, trying to be cool, but I'm also kind of flirting, and it's just cute and funny, and I really like doing that. For me, I know it's a win if I can hear laughter in the booth. There was plenty of that in this movie, because this movie is so funny.

Cho: I think some of my favorite scenes are just when the girls are being goofy and when they're collecting the pouches, and they're like, "Oh, they're not even cute." Like, that's literally one of my favorite scenes. On stage, they're so cool and epic and untouchable. But I feel like when you see the girl under the K-pop idol, it's so fun. With Rumi, the deeper stuff was pretty challenging. But it was also so fun. All the screaming — so much screaming, cathartic screaming.

Hong: I loved the screaming. I sound like I've been screaming into the void. In the studio, it's cool because there's no sound bouncing back, so you can really be as loud as you want and release everything.

The film shows how quickly the social media spotlight can shift — HUNTR/X dominates the conversation until the Saja Boys show up. How do you personally navigate your own relationship with social media, especially when it comes to attention or online perception?

Yoo: It's very different for me because I'm an actor. If social media weren't, on some level, part of my job, I think it would be a very different kind of interaction. I don't think about it too much, to be honest, which I'm pretty grateful for. I just go on to, like, do the posts that I must post for work, I check up on my friends, see what they're up to, and then I go about the rest of my day, and I hope it stays like that. I don't love being on the phone all the time.

Cho: I think I’m similar. If I wasn’t in this industry, I’m not even sure I’d have social media. But these days, I feel like I have a much healthier relationship with it. I’m not on as much as I used to be, and when I do post, I like sharing things that feel special. I always tell my fans that Instagram is kind of like a highlight reel — cool moments, fun looks, stuff that feels a little elevated. TikTok is where I’m more relaxed and goofy. It feels like there’s less pressure to be perfect there, and you can just do whatever. But I won’t lie — sometimes I still feel the pressure to look a certain way or keep up with trends. I’m always a little late on everything. Like, I just got into Labubu, and apparently that was a whole thing like a year and a half ago! So I’m definitely not always caught up, but maybe that’s part of the fun. All that's coming up on my feed are Labubus. I only have two, but I want more.

Yoo: I find Labubus scary.

Cho: They're so cute.

Yoo: No, I find them scary.

Cho: But they're cute. I have Sesame Bean and Lychee Berry.

Most days, I want to throw my phone into the ocean - May Hong, the voice of Mira

Hong: Most days, I want to throw my phone into the ocean. But then I’ll have a silly, goofy mood where I’m actually happy to be online, posting something dumb, keeping up with friends, scrolling through memes. Lately, I’ve been trying to set better boundaries. I started charging my phone outside of my bedroom and got an actual alarm clock, so I’m not immediately doomscrolling first thing in the morning.

Cho: That's actually super healthy. It's so good to disconnect. I do that every once in a while. I'll literally have no phone for a few days.

Yoo: That sounds fun.

Cho: It is super fun, but it's also a little scary the first couple of times. You have to let a couple of loved ones know so they don't think something horrible happened. I remember my mom would be like, "You didn't post anything for a week. Are you OK?"

Hong: Oh my God, my dad has sent that too. And I'm like, I don't even post like that.

Cho: I'm like, "Oh no, I turned my phone off. I'm sorry."

Yoo: Are your parents on Instagram?

Cho: My mom is so cute. She checks everything and she likes everything, and she'll comment, like, "Good job!"

Yoo: Yeah, that's my dad, too.

Cho: Or she'll DM me, like, "This is so cute. I'm excited."

Yoo: My dad has full-on Google search notifications for me.

Hong: Oh my God.

Yoo: I get all my information about myself from him. My dad has been sending fancams of K-pop Demon Hunters.

Cho: Her dad has found some awesome things to send us. He found a rap about us. Her dad is really plugged in, so he's pretty much our social media link.

K-pop Demon Hunters is now streaming on Netflix.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The Rubik’s Cube goes smart with Bluetooth and a companion app

Mashable - Wed, 07/09/2025 - 11:00

TL;DR: Level up your puzzle game with a 2-pack of Rubik’s Connected Pro Smart Cubes for just $79.99 (reg. $159.90) — a Bluetooth-enabled, app-connected twist on the classic cube.

You know the Rubik’s Cube — the one that’s been tormenting coffee tables and classrooms since the ’80s. But this isn’t that cube. This is the Rubik’s Connected Pro, and it’s what happens when a nostalgic brain teaser gets a serious tech upgrade.

Whether you’ve always wanted to learn how to solve the cube or you’re already a bit of a speedcuber looking to shave seconds off your time, the Rubik’s Connected is designed to help you learn, improve, and compete — all from your smartphone or tablet. And right now, you can get two smart cubes for just $79.99, so you’ll always have one to battle your sibling, roommate, or that one coworker who insists they’re “just naturally good at puzzles.”

Let’s start with the basics. The cube connects via Bluetooth to the Rubik’s Connected app, which walks you through the solving process step-by-step with interactive tutorials. It tracks your cube’s position in real-time, gives instant feedback on your moves, and even records stats like solve time, move efficiency, and progress over time.

Once you’ve got the hang of it? Compete in app-based challenges or go head-to-head with other users around the world. Want to spice up your family game night or office breakroom battle? Just pair both cubes and get solving.

Beyond the fun, it’s also a sneaky way to boost spatial reasoning, memory, logic, and fine motor skills, making it a surprisingly effective tool for STEM learning and brain training. And it’s great for all ages, from curious kids to competitive adults.

Get a 2-pack of Rubik’s Connected Pro Smart Cubes for just $79.99 (reg. $159.90).

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Particula Rubik's Connected Pro Smart Cube 2-Pack $79.99
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Categories: IT General, Technology

Just $70 gets you 1TB of high-speed flash storage that plugs into almost anything

Mashable - Wed, 07/09/2025 - 11:00

TL;DR: Massive storage, blazing speed, and USB-C + USB-A versatility — this $69.97 1TB flash drive makes transferring files between your devices seamless.

If you’re constantly swapping files between your phone, laptop, desktop, or even your smart TV, it’s time to simplify. This Dual USB-C + USB-A Flash Drive with 1TB of storage is a sleek, portable solution that makes moving data between devices effortless — and actually kind of satisfying.

With both USB-C and USB-A connectors built into a single drive, there’s no need for dongles, adapters, or that one cable you always forget to pack. Whether you’re a Mac user, a PC die-hard, or someone who just wants to offload 4K videos from their phone without plugging into a wall, this flash drive works with it all. It’s compatible with Android phones, iPhones, MacBooks (2015+), iMacs (2021+), and basically anything with a USB port.

And it’s not just versatile — it’s fast, with USB 3.2 Gen 2 speeds that offer smooth read/write performance in the 20–30MB/s range. Whether you’re transferring large presentations, editing directly from the drive, or backing up precious photos, you won’t be left waiting.

Durability is baked in, too. A solid aluminum body makes it both stylish and shock-resistant, while IPX6 waterproofing and dust-proof protection mean it’s built for real-life use — whether that’s a commute, campus backpack, or carry-on luggage.

No software. No setup. No subscriptions. Just 1TB of reliable storage you can access instantly, wherever and whenever you need it.

Think of it as peace of mind in your pocket — or a backup plan you’ll actually remember to bring.

Get the Dual USB-C + USB-A Flash Drive with 1TB of storage for just $69.97 (reg. $109.99) with free shipping through July 20.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: High-speed flash drive Dual USB-C + USB-A 3.2 High Speed Flash Drive (1TB) $69.97
$109.99 Save $40.02 Get Deal
Categories: IT General, Technology

This 10TB lifetime subscription may be the last cloud storage you ever need

Mashable - Wed, 07/09/2025 - 11:00

TL;DR: Get a 10TB Internxt Cloud Storage Lifetime Subscription for only $274.97 (reg. $2,900) on sale now.

Cloud storage fills up fast, especially when you’re dealing with high-res photos, large video files, or years of work documents. If you’re looking for a more permanent solution that won’t lock you into a subscription, Internxt offers a 10TB lifetime plan that gives you space and control. Normally $2,900, this 10TB lifetime subscription is now available for the lowest price ever, just $274.97.

10TB of cloud storage you only pay for once

Internxt is open-source, end-to-end encrypted, and designed so that only you can access your files. Even Internxt can’t see what you upload. It breaks each file into smaller pieces, encrypts them, and stores them securely. Plus, it’s equipped with post-quantum encryption to stay secure as technology evolves, but you can still share files easily.

You can use Internxt on just about any device. It works with Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and web browsers. That makes it easy to upload, access, and sync files whether you’re on your laptop, phone, or tablet. It also supports automatic syncing, file versioning, and quick sharing, so you can keep things organized without extra effort.

The interface is clean and simple, so you won’t have to dig through menus to find what you need. And because it’s GDPR compliant and independently audited by Securitum, it’s a trustworthy option for anyone who’s serious about data privacy.

If you want a one-and-done solution to file storage, here it is.

July 15 at 11:59 p.m. PT is the deadline to get a 10TB Internxt Cloud Storage Lifetime Subscription on sale for $274.97.

No coupon needed.

StackSocial prices subject to change

Opens in a new window Credit: Internxt Internxt Cloud Storage Lifetime Subscription: 10TB Plan $274.97
$2,900 Save $2,625.03 Get Deal
Categories: IT General, Technology

TikTok-ready binoculars are now a real thing

Mashable - Wed, 07/09/2025 - 11:00

TL;DR: Save 43% on these digital binoculars that can take pictures, record videos, and let you see in the dark.

If your phone taps out after dusk and zooms like it’s 2011, it’s time to level up. These night-vision binoculars are built for content creators who go places their phones can’t. Think: HD footage, long-range zoom, infrared clarity, and enough wow factor to actually stop the scroll. Grab yourself a pair for just $89.99.

With a range of up to 1,000 feet in total darkness and 850nm infrared illumination, you’ll get a clear view no matter the light conditions. Plus, the 10x optical magnification and 4x digital zoom help ensure you won’t miss any details. The 2.4-inch HD display lets you view in real time, while 1080p HD recording means you can capture photos and videos to relive the adventure later or share them online.

No need to worry about bulky equipment or extra batteries. These binoculars are pocket-sized and rechargeable, with a built-in 2260mAh lithium battery that provides hours of exploration. Seven adjustable brightness levels and four color modes (including infrared) let you customize your viewing experience based on your surroundings.

Ideal for a wide range of activities — from social media to hiking and cave exploring — these binoculars are designed to go wherever your adventures take you. If you’re ready to explore the dark like never before, grab these modern binoculars and see just what you’ve been missing (literally).

The Mini Digital Night Vision Binoculars are just $89.99 (reg. $159.99) for a limited time. No coupon is needed to get this price.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Mesay Mini Digital Night Vision Binoculars with 1080p HD Recording $89.99
$159.99 Save $70.00 Get Deal
Categories: IT General, Technology

How to watch PSG vs. Real Madrid online for free

Mashable - Wed, 07/09/2025 - 11:00

TL;DR: Live stream PSG vs. Real Madrid in the 2025 Club World Cup for free on DAZN. Access this free live stream from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The 2025 Club World Cup final is fast approaching, with PSG taking on Real Madrid in the second semi final. This blockbuster fixture is loaded with top players, including Mbappé, Bellingham, Dembélé, and Kvaratskhelia. Fans will be eager to see these stars battle it out for a place in this weekend's final.

If you want to watch PSG vs. Real Madrid in the 2025 Club World Cup for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is PSG vs. Real Madrid?

PSG vs. Real Madrid in the 2025 Club World Cup kicks off at 3 p.m. ET on July 9. This fixture takes place at the MetLife Stadium.

How to watch PSG vs. Real Madrid for free

PSG vs. Real Madrid in the 2025 Club World Cup is available to live stream for free on DAZN.

The Club World Cup is free to stream all around the world, but if you're having problems accessing this streaming platform on your network, you can consider using a VPN. These tools can hide your digital location and connect you to a secure server in another location. This simple process bypasses geo-restrictions so that you can secure access to free live streams from anywhere in the world.

Unblock free live streams of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup by following these simple steps:

  1. Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

  2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

  3. Open up the app and connect to a server in a location with access to DAZN

  4. Visit DAZN

  5. Stream the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but most do offer free-trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can watch PSG vs. Real Madrid in the 2025 Club World Cup without actually spending anything. This clearly isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to stream the Club World Cup before recovering your investment.

If you want to retain permanent access to free streaming sites 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 DAZN?

ExpressVPN is the best choice for streaming live sport on DAZN, for a number of reasons:

  • Servers in 105 countries

  • Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more

  • Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

  • Fast connection speeds free from throttling

  • Up to eight simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.95 (including money-back guarantee).

Live stream PSG vs. Real Madrid in the 2025 Club World Cup for free with ExpressVPN.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The Hisense 40-inch Class A4 FHD TV is more $75 for Prime Day

Mashable - Wed, 07/09/2025 - 10:54

SAVE OVER $70: As of July 9, you can get the Hisense 40-inch Class A4 Series FHD TV for $132.99, down from $209.99. That's a 37% discount and a saving of $77 on list price.

Hisense 40-Inch Class A4 Series FHD 1080p Smart Fire TV (40A4NF, 2025 Model) - DTS Virtual: X, Slim Bezel Design, Alexa Built in $132.99 at Amazon
$209.99 Save $77 Get Deal

As always with major sale events such as Prime Day, which is going from strength to strength on Amazon right now, smart TVs are one of the most sought after items. And this year's Prime Day TV deals are the best we've seen in a long time. While many shoppers are looking for the biggest, most advanced TVs money can buy, here's a low-key TV deal that's caught our eye: the Hisense 40-inch Class A4 Series FHD TV for under $150.

As of July 9, the Hisense 40-inch Class A4 Series FHD TV has dropped to £132.99, which is an impressive discount of 37% off the list price of $209.99 — an overall saving of $77.

SEE ALSO: What to look for when buying a TV, as told through this easy TV specs guide

While this TV isn't the highest spec model you'll find within its range, it's very competitive and up-to-date. It's a 2025 Full HD model and powered by the Fire TV operating system, giving you access to all the top streaming apps and add-ons.

The picture and sound are boosted by Natural Color Enhancer and DTS VIRTUAL:X technology. It also boasts a Game Mode that automatically reduces lag and an AI sports mode that optimises the picture and audio whenever you tune into sports. That means super smooth action and an atmosphere like you're right there in the stadium.

At 40 inches, this TV is perfect for smaller living spaces such as an apartment or even your bedroom.

Keep up to date with Prime Day with our live blog and don't miss your chance to snag the Hisense 40-inch Class A4 Series FHD TV at 37% off — now just $132.99.

The best Prime Day deals, hand-picked by Mashable's team of experts
Categories: IT General, Technology

How to watch Cobolli vs. Djokovic online for free

Mashable - Wed, 07/09/2025 - 10:51

TL;DR: Live stream Cobolli vs. Djokovic in Wimbledon 2025 for free on BBC iPlayer. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The last quarter final of this year's Wimbledon is Cobolli vs. Djokovic. All eyes will be on Djokovic as he looks to secure his spot in another Wimbledon semi final.

If you're interested in watching Cobolli vs. Djokovic at Wimbledon 2025 for free from anywhere in the world, we've got all the information you need.

How to watch Cobolli vs. Djokovic for free

Cobolli vs. Djokovic 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:

  1. Sign up for a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

  2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

  3. Open up the app and connect to a server in the UK

  4. Visit BBC iPlayer

  5. Live stream Cobolli vs. Djokovic for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

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 Cobolli vs. Djokovic (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 Cobolli vs. Djokovic in Wimbledon 2025 for free with ExpressVPN.

Categories: IT General, Technology

How to watch Shelton vs. Sinner online for free

Mashable - Wed, 07/09/2025 - 10:44

TL;DR: Live stream Sinner vs. Shelton in Wimbledon 2025 for free on BBC iPlayer. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The quarter finals of Wimbledon continue with Sinner vs. Shelton. The top seed struggled in the early stages of his Last 16 matchup with Dimitrov, but injury secured his safe passage through to this round. Can he get past the exciting Shelton and book a possible meeting with Djokovic in the semi finals?

If you're interested in watching Sinner vs. Shelton at Wimbledon 2025 for free from anywhere in the world, we've got all the information you need.

How to watch Sinner vs. Shelton for free

Sinner vs. Shelton 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:

  1. Sign up for a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

  2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

  3. Open up the app and connect to a server in the UK

  4. Visit BBC iPlayer

  5. Live stream Sinner vs. Shelton for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

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 Sinner vs. Shelton (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 Sinner vs. Shelton in Wimbledon 2025 for free with ExpressVPN.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The Bose Soundlink Flex is under $100 this Prime Day, and Im seriously impressed

Mashable - Wed, 07/09/2025 - 10:35

SAVE $50: As of July 9, the Bose Soundlink Flex is on sale for $99 at Amazon. That's a 34% saving on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Bose Bose Soundlink Flex $99 at Amazon
$149 Save $50 Get Deal

Looking for a new speaker? Look no further, because we've found an impressive Prime Day deal for under $100. As of July 9, the Bose Soundlink Flex is on sale for its lowest-ever price, $99. This is a stellar speaker with incredible sound quality. It's small enough to take with you on the go, and robust enough to survive accidents from water, dust, and droplets.

It has advanced Bluetooth 5.3 and multipoint pairing, so you can connect from up to 30 feet away and switch between different devices nice and easily. Plus, its PositionIQ technology gives you the best sound possible, no matter how you place it.

SEE ALSO: Meta Quest 3S bundle with Gorilla Tag swings in at $249 on Prime Day

And for an even bigger sound, pair it with another compatible Bose speaker in Stereo or Party Mode. It even has up to 12 hours of battery life, so the listening can just keep on going.

Grab this great Prime Day deal from Amazon before it runs out.

The best Prime Day deals, hand-picked by Mashable's team of experts
Categories: IT General, Technology

Meta Quest 3S bundle with Gorilla Tag swings in at $249 on Prime Day

Mashable - Wed, 07/09/2025 - 10:29

SAVE OVER $50: As of July 9, the Meta Quest 3S (128GB) is just $249 on Amazon, its lowest ever price, combined with Gorilla Tag and a 3-month Meta Horizon+ trial.

Opens in a new window Credit: Meta Quest Meta Quest 3S 128GB — Gorilla Tag $299.99 at Amazon
Get Deal

Here's a Prime Day deal that will send VR fans bananas: A king kong-sized discount on the 128GB Meta Quest 3S, which comes with Gorilla Tag plus a 3-month trial of Meta Horizon+. It's a whole lotta fun at the lowest-ever price for this particular bundle.

The 128GB Meta Quest 3S + Gorilla Tag combo is now just $249 — a 17% discount on the usual list price of $299.99. That's an overall saving of $50.

SEE ALSO: 100+ deals are live on Prime Day — get record-low prices on Apple, Ninja, and Samsung

It's impressive value for this VR set. The Meta Quest 3S has 2x the graphical power of the Quest 2, and it has the power to plunge you into ultra-immersive worlds — whether you're blending virtual objects into your living room or going full deep-dive in VR mode. It offers true mixed reality gaming: incredible visuals plus multitasking on floating screens, while you stay in tune with your real-world surroundings.

The 128GB model isn't the biggest capacity version but it's certainly equipped for plenty of games, apps, and media. And the Gorilla Tag game is popular for good reason. You play as a legless gorilla, interacting online with other gorillas in a casual scenario or by playing tag-like games. The bundle also includes a free 3-month trial of Meta Horizon+, Meta’s VR game subscription service, with access to an impressive catalogue of 30+ games for you to swing right into.

If you want more storage, try the 256GB Meta Quest 3S, which is is also on sale for just $329 (down from $399.99) as part of a bundle with Batman: Arkham Shadow.

We have to point out that our review of the Meta Quest 3S found a few issues, but it's a perfect VR headset for first timers who want to see what the platform can do.

To find out more about the best tech and gadgets on sale this Prime Day, take a look at our top 11 Prime Day tech deals you should grab as the sale event rolls on. You can also stay on top of Prime Day with our live blog.

The best Prime Day deals, hand-picked by Mashable's team of experts
Categories: IT General, Technology

Moon phase today: What the moon will look like on July 9, 2025

Mashable - Wed, 07/09/2025 - 10:12

The full moon is just a day out, so what does that mean for tonight's moon? Keep reading to find out.

Today is the 14th day of the lunar cycle, a recurring series of eight unique phases of the moon's visibility. The whole cycle takes about 29.5 days (according to NASA), and these different phases happen as the Sun lights up different parts of the moon whilst it orbits Earth. The moon is always there, but what we see on Earth changes depending on how much it is lit up.

See what's happening with the moon tonight, July 9.

What is today’s moon phase?

As of Tuesday, July 9, the moon phase is still Waxing Gibbous. From Earth, 98% of the moon will appear visible NASA's Daily Moon Observation tells us.

Most of the moon's surface is lit up for us tonight, so there's plenty to see. If you're in the Northern Hemisphere, look to the center of the moon for the Copernicus Crater, and the top right for the Mare Serenitatis, and the Mare Tranquillitatis. If you're in the Southern Hemisphere, these will be located on the bottom left.

With binoculars, you'll also be able to catch a glimpse of the Alps Mountains, Grimaldi Basin, and the Mare Humorum. Add a telescope and you'll see Apollo 14, Linne Crater, and the Caucasus Mountains, a range around 323 miles long, NASA tells us.

When is the next full moon?

This month's full moon will take place tomorrow, July 10.

What are moon phases?

Moon phases are caused by the 29.5-day cycle of the moon’s orbit, which changes the angles between the Sun, Moon, and Earth. Moon phases are how the moon looks from Earth as it goes around us. We always see the same side of the moon, but how much of it is lit up by the Sun changes depending on where it is in its orbit. This is how we get full moons, half moons, and moons that appear completely invisible. There are eight main moon phases, and they follow a repeating cycle:

New Moon - The moon is between Earth and the sun, so the side we see is dark (in other words, it's invisible to the eye).

Waxing Crescent - A small sliver of light appears on the right side (Northern Hemisphere).

First Quarter - Half of the moon is lit on the right side. It looks like a half-moon.

Waxing Gibbous - More than half is lit up, but it’s not quite full yet.

Full Moon - The whole face of the moon is illuminated and fully visible.

Waning Gibbous - The moon starts losing light on the right side.

Last Quarter (or Third Quarter) - Another half-moon, but now the left side is lit.

Waning Crescent - A thin sliver of light remains on the left side before going dark again.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Hisense’s 55-inch CanvasTV is $311 off for Prime Day. We love how it blends art and entertainment.

Mashable - Wed, 07/09/2025 - 10:04

SAVE $311: As of July 9, Prime members can score the 55-inch Hisense QLED CanvasTV (55S7N) for just $688.99 — a 31% discount from its $999.99 list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Hisense Hisense 55-Inch Class QLED 4K S7N CanvasTV Series Smart TV $688.99 at Amazon
$999.99 Save $311 Get Deal

Not every TV needs to look like, well, a TV. Hisense’s 55-inch Class QLED 4K CanvasTV seems to have figured out how to be the centre of your living room with more than just a blank screen staring back when watching movies and shows. And right now, it’s marked down to its lowest price ever for Prime Day.

At first glance, this might pass for a gallery-worthy art display, and that’s the point. The CanvasTV’s Art Mode turns your screen into a curated digital canvas, letting you display a single painting or run a full-blown slideshow of your favourite pieces. Thanks to the Hi-Matte display with anti-glare coating, those artworks don’t just pop — they feel real, with texture and depth that’s easy on the eyes even in sunlight.

SEE ALSO: 100+ deals are live on Prime Day — get record-low prices on Apple, Ninja, and Samsung

But make no mistake, this isn’t just a pretty frame. Under the hood, you’ve got 4K QLED resolution with Quantum Dot tech, delivering over a billion shades of colour. Add in Dolby Vision HDR and multi-channel 2.0.2 surround sound, and movie nights watching action movies on Prime Video suddenly feel like a trip to the theatre — minus the sticky floors.

Gamers aren’t left out either. With a 144Hz refresh rate, VRR, and Game Mode PRO, this TV brings the kind of smooth, tear-free performance that can actually give you the upper hand when playing Fortnite or single-player adventures like Death Stranding 2: On the Beach.

Design-wise, the ultraslim wall mount lets the TV sit flush like an actual painting, and the interchangeable magnetic frames mean you can swap aesthetics as easily as you change playlists.

If you’ve been waiting for a screen that looks as good as the specs say it will perform, this Prime Day deal might just be your masterpiece.

For more on the latest and greatest gadgets to kit out your house, check out the 12 best tech deals on Prime Day that our tech editor picked out themselves.

The best Prime Day deals, hand-picked by Mashable's team of experts
Categories: IT General, Technology

My favorite Prime Day printer and scanner deals you can shop right now

Mashable - Wed, 07/09/2025 - 09:57
Best Prime Day printer and scanner deals: Best deal overall Epson EcoTank ET-2800 $209.99 (save $70) Get Deal Best runner-up deal HP Smart Tank 5103 $199.99 (save $70) Get Deal Best budget pick Canon TS202 $43.99 (save $10) Get Deal

We’re officially in Prime Day mode — the big (now four-day) event is set to kick off July 8 but, as is typical, the sales are already rolling in. And if you're on the hunt for a new printer or scanner (most printers also function as scanners), you're in luck.

SEE ALSO: How to recycle Amazon packaging from your Prime Day purchases (yes, all of it)

We’re seeing early Prime Day deals on printers and scanners from all the top brands, including HP, Epson, Canon, and Brother. Whether you need a basic inkjet printer for occasional use, a high-performance laser printer for your home office, or an all-in-one scanner for digitizing documents, there are plenty of options to choose from.

And don't miss all the best early Prime Day deals that are already live.

Best printer deal overall Epson EcoTank ET-2800 Wireless Color Printer $189.99 at Amazon
$279.99 Save $90 Get Deal Why we like it

The Epson EcoTank ET-2800 is a great all-in-one that can print, copy, and scan. Its biggest feature is that it uses high-capacity ink bottles instead of cartridges, which are less wasteful and easier to use. According to Epson, this can save you up to 90 percent on ink costs in the long run, and it even comes with up to two years of ink right in the box. It's perfect for printing everything from homework to photos, and the high-res flatbed scanner makes copying and digitizing documents simple.

You can get the Epson EcoTank ET-2800 right now for $209.99, down from $279.99. That’s a 25% discount and a $70 price cut. While this isn’t the lowest price we’ve seen it at (it was around $179 in November 2024), it’s still a great deal.

More printer and scanner deals The best early Prime Day deals to shop this week
Categories: IT General, Technology

Prime Day isnt over yet: The Kindle Colorsoft is at its lowest-ever price.

Mashable - Wed, 07/09/2025 - 09:57

SAVE $100: As of July 9, the Kindle Colorsoft is on sale for $179.99 at Amazon. That's a savings of 36% on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Kindle Colorsoft $179.99 at Amazon
$279.99 Save $100 Get Deal

Book lovers, Prime Day is serving up all kinds of incredible Kindle deals, but if you've been lusting over the new Colorsoft, you're in luck.

As of July 9, this device is priced at $179.99, a savings of $100. This deal is on the 32GB model, and is available in metallic black.

If you're a fan of the original Kindle but want to add a splash of color, you'll love this model. It’s designed to feel paper-like but shows book covers and illustrations in soft, clear color without straining your eyes. You can even highlight your favorite quotes in different shades of yellow, orange, blue, or pink.

It's soft on your eyes like the OG Kindle, and the screen adjusts to the light around you, so it works whether you're out in the sun or reading in bed.

The battery life is great too, giving you up to 8 weeks on a single charge, and you can top it up with USB-C or a wireless charging dock if you have one. It's also waterproof, so reading in the bath or by the pool on holiday isn't a worry, it's self care.

Head to Amazon to treat yourself to this great Prime Day discount.

The best Prime Day deals, hand-picked by Mashable's team of experts
Categories: IT General, Technology

Shopping for robot vacuums this Prime Day? A ton of self-emptying models are on sale.

Mashable - Wed, 07/09/2025 - 09:56
The best self-emptying robot vacuum deals on Prime Day Budget pick Eufy C10 $249.99 (save $230 with Prime) Get Deal Best self-emptying mopping deal Roborock Qrevo S $459.99 (save $340 with Prime) Get Deal

There are very few circumstances in which a person shopping for a robot vacuum shouldn't opt for a self-emptying robot vacuum. You're already shopping for a robot vacuum because you like the idea of automated cleaning, so it only makes sense to automate the maintenance as well.

Nowadays, auto-empty robot vacuums aren't necessarily the expensive hunks of plastic that take up a ton of floor space that they were in 2020. Many auto-empty docks are easily compact enough for a small space or apartment, and many don't cost more than $500 even at full price. So, you can imagine how big your list of affordable options gets during a sale season like Prime Day.

SEE ALSO: The most underrated robot vacuum of 2025 is also a stick vacuum

Though Prime Day 2025 doesn't officially start until July 8, Amazon has already dropped the prices on a ton of self-emptying robot vacuums. Whether you're not trying to spend more than $200 or $300 or you're eyeing an auto-empty dock that also washes and dries a mopping robot vacuum's mopping pads, there's a deal for you in this list.

I'm tracking the best deals on self-emptying robot vacuum deals ahead of Prime Day 2025 below. If a self-empty dock is also a mop washing station for a robot vacuum that mops, that'll also be pointed out. Note: Deals with a 🔥 next to them have dropped to record-low prices.

Best self-emptying robot vacuum deal ahead of Amazon's Big Spring Sale Opens in a new window Credit: Roborock Roborock Qrevo S with mop washing station $459.99 at Amazon
$799.99 Save $340 save $340 with Prime Get Deal Why we like it

The massive $340 discount on this Roborock robot vacuum is the biggest discount in this whole list. So, if you're a Prime member, you don't even have to spend $500 to get the full hands-off robot vacuum experience including self-washing mopping pads.

The Qrevo S is kind of like the diet version of the Roborock Qrevo Master, my favorite robot vacuum from 2024 — the best part is easily the dual spinning mopping pads that wash and dry themselves after each run. After testing nearly 30 robot vacuums on my own hardwood and tile floors at home, I am fully convinced that the spinning action offers more precise scrubbing than a singular flat pad. The Qrevo S also has smart room mapping and small obstacle avoidance technology.

More self-emptying robot vacuums on saleRobot vacuums that mopRobot vacuums that don't mop
Categories: IT General, Technology

Almost every new Roomba is on sale on Prime Day — save up to $800

Mashable - Wed, 07/09/2025 - 09:55
Best Prime Day deals on Roombas Best cheap Roomba deal iRobot Roomba 104 Combo with AutoEmpty dock $249.99 (save $200) Get Deal Best mopping Roomba deal iRobot Roomba Plus 405 Combo with self-empty station and AutoWash dock $399.99 (save $400) Get Deal

The list of Roombas on sale at Amazon ahead of Prime Day 2025 looks much different than the list of Roombas on sale during Amazon's Big Spring Sale in March. And that's a very, very good thing.

This is because Amazon Prime Day 2025 is the first big sale event for most of the new Roombas that debuted in March (they were far too new to get any real discounts during Amazon's spring sale). And these 2025 Roombas are unlike any Roombas we've seen before.

SEE ALSO: The most underrated robot vacuum of 2025 is also a stick vacuum

iRobot finally read the room and saw that other top robot vacuums from the likes of Shark and Roborock had better features for less money. The newest Roomba vacuums are the company's most practically priced and feature packed in years. The most affordable base-tier model can finally clean specific rooms on command instead of just bump around. Multiple new premium Roombas switched to spinning mopping pads that wash and dry themselves — without costing $1,000.

The newfound cost efficiency renders old iRobot models like the Roomba i3 or Roomba Essential Y0140 worthless. Amazon is essentially ignoring their existence in the weeks preceding Prime Day, instead shaving between 30% and 54% off the new Roombas for the first time. I'm already tracking all of the worthwhile early Prime Day Roomba deals below, as well as tracking all of Amazon's other early Prime Day robot vacuum deals.

Note: Any deal marked with a 🔥 has dropped to a record-low price at Amazon.

Best Roomba deal on Prime Day Opens in a new window Credit: iRobot iRobot Roomba 104 Combo with AutoEmpty dock $249.99 at Amazon
$449.99 Save $200 Get Deal Why we like it

Up until the latest round of Roombas that hit the scene in spring 2025, I'd often actively advise against getting a Roomba as your budget-friendly robot vacuum. The older, entry-level Roombas, like the Roomba 694 and Essential series, didn't even have smart mapping, whereas the entry-level Shark robot vacuums did — often at a lower price point than the cheap Roombas. But after testing the new base-tier Roomba 105, I can finally give iRobot credit for actually putting effort into a cheap Roomba. The Roomba 104 Combo featured here is nearly identical to the 105, but also mops.

The Roomba 105 cleaning my bedroom floor. Credit: Leah Stodart / Mashable

The Roomba 104's 7,000 Pa of suction power not only destroys the mediocre suction power of past cheap Roomba vacuums like the Roomba i5, but is actually quite a high number for the price range at all. During testing in my apartment, the 105 barely missed any kitty litter, random crumbs, or surface-level pieces of hair or fur balls. It swept along edges and corners much closer than the other basic Roombas. With this improved cleaning combined with a self-empty dock, this is the most well-rounded Roomba that has ever dropped below $250.

More Roomba deals at Amazon The best early Prime Day deals to shop this week
Categories: IT General, Technology

The best Prime Day Bluetooth speaker deals you can shop right now

Mashable - Wed, 07/09/2025 - 09:55
The best Prime Day Bluetooth speaker deals at a glance: BEST OVERALL Sony ULT Field 3 $144.95 (save $55.04) Get Deal BEST BUDGET DEAL Anker Soundcore Select 4 Go $21.99 (save $13) Get Deal BEST SPLURGE Sony ULT Field 5 $198 (save $131.99) Get Deal

Having a quality speaker to crank the songs of the summer is never a bad idea, especially if you plan on hosting parties, hitting the beach, or heading out on a camping trip. Fortunately, if you're lacking in the Bluetooth speaker department, now is a great time to score one for a sweet deal — because it's Prime Day, baby.

Prime Day formally falls on July 8 through 11 this year, but Amazon started dropping prices on top audio brands like Sony, JBL, and Anker Soundcore hella early. We expect the list to grow exponentially once the event officialy kicks off, but if you want to shop a bit early, have at it. Some Bluetooth speakers are already down to record lows.

We'll be tracking the best Bluetooth speaker deals throughout Prime Day and updating this page with the latest and greatest prices. If you don't see anything that catches your eye just yet, be sure to check back as the official sale kicks off.

Note: Deals with a 🔥 next to them have dropped to record-low prices.

Best Prime Day Bluetooth speaker deal Opens in a new window Credit: Sony Sony ULT Field 3 🔥 $144.95 at Amazon
$199.99 Save $55.04 Get Deal Why we like it

The Sony ULT Field 3 has only been out for a few months, but it's already earned the title of our favorite speaker for bass lovers. And ahead of Prime Day, it's down to just $144.95 — that's its best price ever. The ULT Field 3 checks all the right boxes for a Bluetooth speaker — it's waterproof, dustproof, shockproof, and rustproof, and has great audio quality, solid battery life, and hefty bass you'll feel in your chest. Mashable Deputy Shopping and Reviews Editor Miller Kern writes, "The speaker is great for punching up your music and bringing out little details you might miss on another speaker."

Check out our full review of the Sony ULT Field 3 speaker.

More early Prime Day Bluetooth speaker deals
Categories: IT General, Technology

We love the Prime Day deals on Kindles — save on the Kindle Colorsoft and Kindle Paperwhite

Mashable - Wed, 07/09/2025 - 09:49
Best Prime Day Kindle deals Best standalone Kindle deal Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition (32GB) $149.99 (Save $50) Get Deal Best Kindle deal Amazon Kindle Scribe Essentials Bundle (64GB) $352.97 (Save $217) Get Deal Best color e-reader deal Amazon Kindle Colorsoft Essentials Bundle (32GB) $211.97 (Save $151) Get Deal Best Paperwhite deal Amazon Kindle Paperwhite Essentials Bundle (16GB) $154.97 (Save $62) Get Deal Best Paperwhite Signature Edition deal Amazon Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition Essentials Bundle (32GB) $188.97 (Save $88) Get Deal Best basic Kindle deal Amazon Kindle Essentials Bundle (16GB) $121.97 (Save $40) Get Deal

Having covered Amazon Prime Day for as long as we have, we know what to expect. One thing that's almost always certain — Amazon is going to drop prices on their Kindle e-readers. The longest Prime Day ever is now underway (through July 11), and we're seeing lots of discounts roll in on the popular reading devices, especially when it comes to bundles.

SEE ALSO: Best Prime Day book deals: Save up to 80% on hardcovers, paperbacks, and Kindle editions

Check out our favorite Kindle deals from the Prime Day 2025 sale below, and keep checking back, because more offers are sure to pop up over the next few days.

Best Kindle Deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Kindle Scribe Essentials Bundle $352.97 at Amazon
$569.97 Save $217 Get Deal Why we like it

The Amazon Kindle Scribe is the brand's only e-reader that offers note-taking abilities. So if you're an annotator, this is certainly the right e-reader. With a 10.2-inch screen, it has plenty of space for taking notes in the margins in both PDFs and e-books. Plus, the notebook feature allows you to write out pages and pages of writing that convert from handwritten notes to text. However, keep in mind that among the Kindles we've tested, this is Amazon's slowest-performing device. The Amazon Kindle Scribe is also the most expensive Kindle in Amazon's line-up, but during Prime Day, you can snag the Essentials Bundle for just $352.97, which is $217 off the original price.

More Kindle deals
Categories: IT General, Technology
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