Technology

Whatever the occasion that has you looking for dad gifts (Father's Day, Christmas, Hanukkah), stay far away from clichés like whiskey stones and pocket knives. Unless your dad is an avid tie collector and seriously *lives* for ties, then avoid this played-out gift too. Instead, get him something that says, “I see your hobbies and I respect them."

When YouTube introduced its Premium Lite tier in March, the goal was to give people a way to see fewer ads on YouTube. It took only three months, but YouTube is already increasing the number of ads that Premium Lite subscribers will see, according to Dextero.

News of the ad hike spread to subscribers through email, as spotted on the TWiT Community forums and reported by German news site Deskmodder.

“We are writing to let you know that beginning 30 June 2025, ads may appear on Shorts, in addition to music content and when you search or browse,” the email reads. “Most videos will continue to remain ad-free.”

The good news is that if you don’t engage with music videos or YouTube Shorts, then you likely won’t see much of a difference when using the app, aside from a few ads while browsing. Those who do use YouTube for music and Shorts will be the most affected. Even though YouTube Music subscription numbers aren’t the best, YouTube itself continues to be one of the Internet’s most popular music streaming services, so the change will likely affect quite a few people. 

When it was introduced, Premium Lite was billed as a way to remove the ads from “most videos” for $7.99 per month, which is just over half the price of the full $13.99 YouTube Premium subscription. 

YouTube and its users have had a complicated relationship when it comes to ads. The streaming giant went to war on ad blockers in 2024, making ads as difficult as possible to block. In addition, ads have slowly gotten longer and more plentiful on the free version of the service, which has resulted in a lot of negative feedback from viewers. 

And for free users, certain ads are slated to get even more intrusive. In May, YouTube announced that it was using AI to pinpoint the peak moments in any given video and choose that moment to do an ad break. These Peak Points are a move long-used in television, where viewers have to wait for the ad break to view the conclusion to dramatic cliffhangers or otherwise emotional moments. 

The Nintendo Switch 2 is here. That means Mario Kart World is also here, and there are some new tricks up Mario's sleeves (and everyone else's sleeves too, even the characters who don't have arms) to learn if you want to stay in the competition.

Aside from the fact that Mario Kart World introduces a big ol' open-world to the series for the first time, it also introduces some key new mechanics. There's legitimate technique to some of this stuff, so you'd better practice in free roam mode first. Let's get into it.

SEE ALSO: The best Nintendo Switch 2 accessories include an irresistible Piranha Plant webcam Mario Kart World: 3 important new tricks to try

It all starts with one new move in particular.

The charge jump

Before you start doing anything else, you need to understand that Mario Kart World has a brand new charge jump move that is key to doing the other things I'll tell you about next.

It's very simple: Hold the drift button (that's ZR by default) without moving the analog stick in either direction. After a couple of seconds, you'll see sparks underneath your kart, meaning that you'll do a little vertical hop when you release the button. This is useful for clearing small gaps or maybe, if your timing is good, avoiding certain obstacles or harmful items. However, that's not all it's useful for.

Grinding Out here grinding. Credit: Nintendo

You may have noticed a lot of rails or rail-like objects littered around every track in Mario Kart World. It turns out you can grind on those like it was Tony Hawk's Pro Skater or something. It's cool!

Some rails start out flush with the ground, so you can just ride onto those and start grinding. But for the most part, a lot of them are just high enough off of the ground that you need to do the charge jump to get up there. This is where proper technique starts to come into play, as you can't just instantly charge jump at your leisure. It takes a couple of seconds, so you need to learn your routes and plan ahead.

Grinding builds up charge sparks while you're on the rail, which you can cash in by pressing the drift button to jump off the rail back onto the road. You can also jump from one rail to another this way in certain circumstances, which is useful for completing certain P-switch challenges in free roam mode.

Wall riding I don't think cars can do that. Credit: Nintendo

The second big new mechanic that's attached to the charge jump is the ability to ride on vertical walls. It's as simple as charging up a jump and then, well, jumping into a wall.

I've admittedly not gotten very good at this yet. It's probably the most technical aspect of Mario Kart World's gameplay, and is clearly meant for high-level shortcuts and certain more challenging P-switch challenges. But like grinding, you build up boost while you're wall riding, which means you'll go faster if you properly time your jump back onto the track.

Now go and use this knowledge to dominate Knockout Tour online. Or, at least, dominate your friends while playing with GameChat.

If you are one of the more than 100 million people who use AT&T, you might want to take stock of your data.

Hackers said they accessed and leaked millions of AT&T customers' private information after the ShinyHunters group allegedly stole the data in April 2024, according to a new report from Hack Read. The report claimed some 86 million AT&T customer records have been leaked, including full names, dates of birth, phone numbers, email addresses, physical addresses, and social security numbers. In total, Hack Read reported that 44 million social security numbers were included in the leaked data.

The social security numbers and birth dates were encrypted in the original hack by the ShinyHunters group, a leak that was made possible by security flaws in the Snowflake cloud data platform, as Mashable previously reported. Now, Hack Read has reported that this sensitive data is now decrypted.

We asked AT&T about the reported leak of their customer data. An AT&T spokesperson told Mashable in a statement that "it is not uncommon for cybercriminals to re-package previously disclosed data for financial gain."

"We are aware of claims that AT&T data is being made available for sale on dark web forums, and we are conducting a full investigation," the spokesperson added.

So, if you're an AT&T customer, this means your valuable private data could be part of this new leak. However, if your data was exposed in this leak, it was likely — although not certainly — already exposed in the August 2024 National Public Data breach. Mashable previously reported on this breach, which exposed "three decades’ worth of Social Security numbers on the online black market."

You can find out if your data was exposed in that breach by using a tool from Pentester, a cybersecurity firm, to check. Visit npd.pentester.com, enter your information, and see your list of breached accounts.

If you want to fill out your Switch game library without spending a dime, there are some brilliant free demos to download from the eStore. None of them offer a complete gaming experience, but you can still bag dozens of hours of excellent gameplay for free.

SAVE $90: Through July 2, Audible Premium Plus annual plans are just $89 instead of $149.50. That's like paying just $7.42 per month. When compared to the $14.95 monthly plan, you'll save $90 per year.

Opens in a new window Credit: Audible Audible Premium Plus annual plan $89 at Audible
$149.50 Save $60.50 Get Deal

Add at least a dozen books to your TBR instantly for less than $90 when you sign up for Audible annual plan.

Through July 2, Audible's Premium Plus annual memberships are just $89 for the first year. That's 40% off the usual cost of $149.50 and half the price of paying for a monthly membership for 12 months. After the first year, your Audible membership will renew automatically at full price. If you don't wish to continue your membership, be sure to cancel before the year is up.

SEE ALSO: The Kindle Paperwhite Kids is back down to its best-ever price in time for summer reading

Besides being a whole lot cheaper, the benefit of getting an annual membership over a monthly one is that you'll get 12 credits up front. No waiting around for your credit to appear in your account each month. Read what you want, when you want. Credits can be used to purchase titles in the premium collection, regardless of price. Sometimes you can even score two titles with a single credit during BOGO sales. So, your 12 credits might turn into two dozen audiobooks if you plan accordingly.

Premium Plus memberships also unlock access to hundreds of Audible Original audiobooks for free, as well as exclusive access to members-only sales.

The Premium Plus catalog will keep you endlessly entertained, with bestsellers and new releases like Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid and What Kind of Paradise by Janelle Brown, as well as BookTok favorites like Funny Story by Emily Henry and Creation Lake by Rachel Kushner. If you're craving some screen-free entertainment, I highly recommend signing up for Audible while it's so cheap. As a subscriber myself, I can confirm it's a worthy subscription.

The best tech deals to shop this week

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

• Roku Ultra 4K Ultimate Streaming Player (2024 Release) — $79.99 (List Price $99.99)

• Beats Pill Bluetooth Speaker — $99.95 (List Price $149.95)

• Roborock Qrevo Master Robot Vacuum and Mop — $799.97 (List Price $1599.99)

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

SAVE $7.99: As of June 6, get three months of Peacock Premium for free. This offer is only available to new subscribers.

Opens in a new window Credit: Peacock Three months of Peacock Premium $0 at Peacock
$7.99 Save $7.99 Get Deal

Looking to cut the cord, but don't want to end up paying as much for streaming services as you would for cable? Perfectly understandable. By the time you end up collecting a few, you're paying half the cost you would for a bundle of channels. So when deals like these pop up, it's a good idea to take them. Right now, Peacock is giving you a chance to try out the service without having to pony up any cash.

As of June 6, get three months of Peacock Premium for free. That's a discount of $7.99, and this offer is only available to new subscribers. When the three months are up, you'll automatically be charged for a regular monthly membership. If you decide not to continue with the subscription, be sure to cancel it before your months are up. You'll be able to access your account until your membership's end date.

Peacock is home to a wide variety of different shows and movies, and it's constantly being updated with more. You can catch up on reality TV like Love Island, solve mysteries with Poker Face, and even watch the SNL episodes you missed because you fell asleep too early to see them live. From sci-fi to fantasy to oldies and goodies like Heroes and The King of Queens, there's tons of content to sift through.

Some streaming platforms don't even offer trials, so being able to get in for free is a great deal. Grab your subscription while it's still available.

SAVE $100: As of June 6, the iPad mini (128GB, WiFi, A17 Pro) is on sale for $399 at Amazon. That's down from its list price of $499, saving you 20%.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPad mini (A17 Pro) $399 at Amazon
$499 Save $100 Get Deal

If you've been looking for the right moment to invest in an iPad, this could be your chance to walk away with a great deal. The Apple iPad mini with the A17 Pro chip has dipped below $400 at Amazon.

As of June 6, the iPad mini (128GB, WiFi, A17 Pro) is on sale for $399.99 at Amazon. This is 20% off its list price of $499 and the lowest-ever price according to camelcamelcamel.

SEE ALSO: The new Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 are over $50 off at Amazon

This iPad mini packs plenty of power into a small build thanks to the A17 Pro chip. It's a perfect portable pick, and sports an 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display with 128GB of storage so you can stock it up with plenty of apps to keep you busy. We even consider it the best iPad for reading.

Don't miss out on $100 off the iPad mini (128GB, WiFi, A17 Pro) at Amazon.

The best deals this week, hand-picked by Mashable's team of experts

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

• Roku Ultra 4K Ultimate Streaming Player (2024 Release) — $79.99 (List Price $99.99)

• Beats Pill Bluetooth Speaker — $99.95 (List Price $149.95)

• Roborock Qrevo Master Robot Vacuum and Mop — $799.97 (List Price $1599.99)

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

SAVE UP TO 80%: We rounded up June's hottest sex toy deals from top brands including Le Wand, Lovers, and others. Shop vibrators, dildos, and more.

The best sexy toy deals in June 2025: Best deal overall The Rose Suction Vibrator $23.99 (save $65) Get Deal Best runner-up deal Lovers Loyal 5.5-Inch Dildo $38.40 (save $9.60) Get Deal Best budget deal ava VIVV massage wand $19.97 (save $5) Get Deal

Masturbation May is behind us, but I’m still seeing tons of sex toy deals across multiple retailers, big and small. Actually, some of these deals are even better than what I saw last month — from Pride sales to summer clearances, there are savings aplenty to be had in June. For example, I’ve seen $100+ vibes (like the Le Wand Grand Bullet, which I have in Rose Gold, and the Le Wand Deux) go for under $40, which is crazy.

Whether you’re looking for a new clit sucker, a couples vibrator, or some BDSM gear, there are tons of ways to save right now. Here are the best sex toy sales I could find this month.

Best deal overall Opens in a new window Credit: Le Wand Rose Suction Vibrator (Pink) $23.99 at Le Wand
$99.99 Save $76 Get Deal Why we like it

OK, so I’m talking a lot about Le Wand, but honestly, these are the best deals I’ve ever seen the retailer run. If you don’t know much about Le Wand, they’re known for making luxe sex toys without the pretentious vibe (like LELO, but actually fun). Many of the massagers and vibrators are on the higher end, so I’m always stoked when I see them on sale. I even gifted my sister the Le Wand Little Pleasures Set for her wedding, and she loved it.

And, despite the name, they don’t just sell wand vibrators. For example, I’m choosing the Rose Suction Vibrator as my overall fave because it’s a hot-selling toy that’s now under $30. (The price changes with color option — the mint was $14.99, but it’s sold out now.) This little toy is a clitoral sucker that uses gentle pressure and vibration to give you toe-curling orgasms. At under $30, I’d say to jump on this deal, like, yesterday.

Other must-mention items in Le Wand’s sale include the 9-inch Purple Rose Nubby Dildo (a glass dildo for less than $20, uhm, yes please) and the Le Wand Baton.

Best runner-up deal Opens in a new window Credit: Lovers Lovers Loyal 5.5-Inch Dildo $38.40 at Lovers
$48 Save $9.60 20% off with code GLOWUP Get Deal Why we like it

Speaking of dildos, one of my all-time faves is on sale at Lovers right now. The Lovers Loyal 5.5-Inch Dildo (exclusively sold at Lovers) is 20% off with the code GLOWUP. That brings the total to $38.40 (saving you $9.60), which is still a great deal for, in my opinion, the softest, most realistic-feeling dildo I’ve ever owned.

I don’t love the look of realistic dildos, and if I had a choice, I probably wouldn’t buy a skin-toned dildo. BUT, I do own and use the Lovers Loyal Dildo because it’s just that good. It has a suction cup base so you can stick it to just about anything, and it’s compatible with most harnesses.

More sex toy deals you should definitely know about

• Amazon: Save 22% on Amazon's #1 best-selling bullet vibrator and pay just $12.44

• Adam & Eve: Get up to 50% off select sex toys

• Babeland: Get up to 70% off clearance items

• Bellesa: Get up to 50% off sitewide with code 50JUNE

• b-Vibe: Get up to 30% off select anal toys

• The Cowgirl: Save $500 + get a FREE bundle with The Cowgirl Sex Machine

• FemmeFunn: Save on select sex toy bundles

• Good Vibes: Get up to 70% off select sex toys

• Je Joue: Get up to 50% off select sex toys

• Kiiroo: Get up to 70% off select male sex toys

• LELO: Get up to 50% off select sex toys, plus a FREE gift

• Lovers: Get 20% off dildos and harnesses with code GLOWUP

• Lovehoney: Get up to 70% off select toys and lingerie

• Unbound: Get up to 69% off select sex toys at Unbound

UPDATE: Jun. 6, 2025, 12:05 p.m. EDT This story has been updated with comments from Proton VPN.

A popular VPN service reported a 1,000 percent increase in registrations just 30 minutes after Pornhub blocked access in France this week. The adult site reportedly exited its second-biggest market because of a new French age-verification law that has a June 7 compliance deadline, per Mashable's Anna Iovine.

"5PM - PornHub blocks France from accessing its website," Proton VPN tweeted Wednesday. "5.30PM - @ProtonVPN registrations increase by 1,000%[.] For context, this is more than when TikTok blocked Americans."

This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed.

Proton VPN previously documented a 490 percent increase in daily signups in mid-January when TikTok briefly went offline ahead of a possible ban in the U.S.

A Proton spokesperson tells Mashable that when it built its VPN "to help people in authoritarian countries with online censorship, an access gateway for porn was obviously not what we had in mind." Still, they add, "VPN can be used in this way and signups from France have temporarily increased by a factor of 10."

A VPN, or virtual private network, is a service that routes your internet traffic through an encrypted tunnel to a remote server before sending it out onto the web. The main purpose of a VPN is to reclaim some online privacy from your ISP and other prying eyes. But they're also commonly used to spoof one's location: A VPN can make it appear as though its user is visiting websites from a country they're not physically in.

SEE ALSO: Why age-verification bills for porn sites won't work

Age-verification laws for adult content have been enacted abroad and in nearly 20 U.S. states. They typically require sites to verify their users' ages via facial recognition or government ID. Such laws are intended to restrict children's access to adult content (and in some cases social media), but experts have flagged free speech and privacy concerns. What's more, technology like VPNs makes enforcement difficult.

For its part, Proton shares these concerns. "There's no such thing as age verification for children only, it's age verification for everyone, and having offshore porn sites or any other third parties collect IDs from adults and becoming a repository of potential blackmail material comes with its own risks," said the company's spokesperson. "A more technically sound approach would be content controls directly implemented on the devices parents chose to give their children."

Founded in 2014, the Swiss-based Proton offers a suite of privacy-centric web services, including email and cloud storage. Its VPN service was launched in 2017 and currently maintains a massive network of more than 13,000 servers in 117 countries worldwide. To date, it's the only VPN we've tested that's won a Mashable Choice Award. Read our full Proton VPN review for more information.

Your AirPods will reportedly get some major upgrades as Apple debuts iOS 26 next week at Apple's World Wide Developers Conference (WWDC).

While the event is rumored to feature fewer AI advances than expected, WWDC typically brings some big news. Perhaps chief among the expected news is Apple's latest iOS, which will reportedly be called iOS 26, to match the upcoming year, instead of the previously expected iOS 19.

SEE ALSO: Everything we know about iOS 26 ahead of Apple WWDC 2025

With that new software could come some big changes for your AirPods. Apple-focused site 9to5Mac exclusively reported this week that some of the AirPods upgrades are expected to come with iOS 26.

Here are three exciting new AirPod features to expect, according to 9to5Mac:

1. A new head gesture that will end a Conversation Awareness volume adjustment, which, as of now, requires you to press and hold the AirPod stem.

2. A new camera control feature, where tapping an AirPod stem will take a picture. This might be way easier than using the iPhone's timer feature.

3. A sleep detection system that'll auto-pause when someone falls asleep while using their AirPods.

Now, keep in mind that the report from 9to5Mac relies on unnamed sources within Apple, so it is not guaranteed that we will get all these features at WWDC. That's not to say the report isn't true; just that Apple can always change course.

We'll just have to wait until Monday's WWDC to see what, exactly, happens for AirPods.

Few things are more frustrating than a vague error message, especially if it prevents you from running a game or an app you’ve just installed. macOS likes to throw these errors at you from time to time, in the name of system security. So what can you do about it?

For many, replayability is often a defining factor of a great game. However, sometimes the most memorable games are the ones that leave you speechless on your first playthrough, whether it's accomplished through gameplay, the narrative, or both.

Walmart's futuristic plans to deliver your orders via flying robots are closer to becoming reality, as the mega-retailer expands its drone delivery program to five major cities and more than 100 store locations.

Shoppers in Atlanta, Charlotte, Houston, Orlando, and Tampa will be promised deliveries by air in 30 minutes or less, operated by drone provider Wing. That levels up the program to five states (Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, and Texas), including existing operations across Texas in partnership with drone company Zipline. According to Walmart, drones have made more than 150,000 deliveries since the program's 2021 launch.

SEE ALSO: New version of Gemini beats other AIs at math, science, and reasoning

Drones can deliver to homes up to six miles from a participating store, and orders must be between 2.4 pounds to 10 pounds, depending on the location's fleet. Customers are notified when their drones are on the way, and packages are slowly lowered to the ground via cable upon arrival.

"As the first retailer to scale drone delivery, Walmart is once again demonstrating its commitment to leveraging technology to enhance our delivery offerings with a focus on speed," wrote Greg Cathey, senior vice president of Walmart U.S. Transformation and Innovation. "As we look ahead, drone delivery will remain a key part of our commitment to redefining retail."

How to order drone delivery

Drone delivery options should automatically appear for Walmart shoppers in eligible areas once available — users should see a link to the drone landing page at the top of the Walmart homepage after logging in, or can sign up to be notified when the program reaches them.

To get your order from a flying drone:

1. Log into your Walmart.com account.

2. Shop as you usually would, then select check out.

3. Under the order's delivery options, choose Delivery from Store.

4. Select Drone Delivery from the store options.

5. Select a day and time, and if you want your delivery dropped off in your front yard, backyard, or driveway.

6. Proceed with the purchase.

Shoppers are automatically alerted if their order reaches the drone's max weight and carrying capacity.

Manual transmissions are quickly becoming a rarity in today’s auto market, with most manufacturers phasing them out in favor of automatics and electric drivetrains. But for driving purists, there’s still hope as several new cars in 2025 proudly keep the stick shift alive.

UPDATE: Jun. 6, 2025, 9:56 a.m. EDT Updated with additional accessories, including a Joy-Con 2 charging grip, charger, and more.

Sure, you're excited to finally hold your new Switch 2 in your hands, but why stop there? The best Switch 2 accessories will make sure you squeeze every last drop of fun out of the new Nintendo console — if you can get one in the first place.

The buzz around the Nintendo Switch 2 has been exciting, heartbreaking, and chaotic all at the same time. First, we had an announcement, then a tariff delay, and then pandemonium during pre-orders. We also cried about the price ($80 for Mario Kart World?), but got over it once we compared it to our inflated grocery bills. After all, this is our happiness we're talking about, and don't we deserve something nice in 2025?

We commend your valiant efforts if you've been able to secure a Switch 2 pre-order that hasn't been cancelled. If you were less successful with a pre-order, there's always waiting in line at a brick-and-mortar location on launch day. You can also check our guide on where to buy the Switch 2 online now that it's officially out in the wild.

SEE ALSO: 10 Nintendo Switch 2 launch titles I can't wait to play (besides 'Mario Kart World')

Come what may, we'll all eventually get our anxious hands on a new Nintendo Switch 2. And when that day comes, we need accessories. This precious beast isn't getting tossed into any old tote bag unprotected. We also need upgraded storage space and a comfortable way to hold the console, too. Plus, with the new social GameChat features, you'll need a proper webcam to fully enjoy the newest Switch 2 features.

So, here are the best accessories to buy for the Switch 2 that you can buy right now.

Best Switch 2 controller Opens in a new window Credit: Nintendo Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller $84.99 at Target
Shop Now Why we like it

For all-day (or night) gaming sessions, you'll want something with a more ergonomic design than the included Joy-Cons. Upgrading to the Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller gives you a more classic gaming feel but with some extras that are new to the Switch 2 model. For starters, there's the "C" button located between the D pad and the right thumbstick. This takes you to the awesome GameChat features that are new with the Switch 2. There's also an audio jack on the Switch 2 Pro Controller, which wasn't found on the original Pro Controller. If you plan on long gaming sessions, an upgrade to the Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller will be well worth the price.

Best storage upgrade Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung microSD Express Card for Nintendo Switch 2 (256GB) $59.99 at Target
Get Deal Why we like it

Haven't you heard: Your old MicroSD cards won't work with the Switch 2. Yes, Nintendo gave us all a gift of storage with the Switch 2 which has 256GB of internal storage. That's a massive eight times as much compared to the original Nintendo Switch. But is it enough? It might not be if you plan to download all the best games plus bring your old collection too. Upgrading to the officially sanctioned Samsung microSD Express Card for Nintendo Switch 2 will offer you an additional 256GB of storage space. That means you'll be in much better shape for keeping your gaming library full of titles with room for updates.

Best Switch 2 camera Opens in a new window Credit: Hori Hori Piranha Plant Camera $59 at Walmart
Get Deal Why we like it

Of all the Switch 2 accessories you can buy at launch, this is by far our favorite one. It's adorable, functional, and it celebrates one of the classic characters we all love from Nintendo. The Hori Piranha Plant Camera for Nintendo Switch 2 is a must-have accessory. With it, you can live video chat or capture unforgettable gaming moments with friends. The adjustable clip that sits on the bottom allows you to mount the camera to your TV or the console itself. The USB camera has a flexible neck and mouth, so you can angle it to your choosing and it comes with a USB-C cable and stereo adapter. It's larger than the standard $54.99 camera offered by Nintendo, but this is a Piranha Plant Camera, so we're willing to accommodate the slightly larger size.

Best Switch 2 protective case Opens in a new window Credit: Nintendo Nintendo Switch 2 Carrying Case with Screen Protector $39.99 at Target
Shop Now Why we like it

You went to great lengths to score a new Nintendo Switch 2, and now it's time to treat it like the royalty it is. Instead of tossing it in a bag, keep is safe and secure with the Nintendo Switch 2 Carrying Case, and as a bonus, it comes with a screen protector. The case is durable and sturdy, offering a nice resting place for your Switch 2 while it's not in use or when traveling to a friend's house. Since this is a Nintendo-branded case, it's designed to perfectly fit the Switch 2 dimensions without adding bulk.

Best Switch 2 screen protector Opens in a new window Credit: Spigen Spigen Tempered Glass Screen Protector (2 pack) $24.99 at Amazon
Shop Now Why we like it

Keep the Switch 2's screen protected from scratches and free of fingerprints with a Spigen Tempered Glass Screen Protector. We all know how useful a screen protector can be, but it's always a stressful event to get the thing on correctly with no bubbles. Spigen addressed our anxiety and designed an auto-alignment installation kit with this two-pack, so you can unclench your jaw while sticking it on the Switch 2. The two-pack is specifically designed to fit the Nintendo Switch 2's dimensions, and its oleophobic coating means you won't ever have to deal with oil or fingerprint marks.

Remember: Do not remove the screen protector that comes pre-installed on the Switch 2.

Best Switch 2 safety accessory Opens in a new window Credit: Nintendo Nintendo Switch 2 Joy-Con 2 Straps $13.99 at Target
Get Deal Why we like it

If you'll be using the Joy-Cons for any kind of competitive gaming, you'll need a strap. You never know when a game of Mario Kart World will turn intense, and making sure that Joy-Con isn't gonna go flying at the TV is pretty important. So, snag the set of official Nintendo Switch 2 Joy-Con 2 Straps. They're an inexpensive way of getting some extra reassurance that the TV, room's decor, and your fellow players won't get hit with a flying Joy-Con. Take it from the ceiling of my college rental house, a flying Joy-Con can leave a dent.

Best Switch 2 charging grip Opens in a new window Credit: Nintendo Joy-Con™ 2 Charging Grip $39.99 at Nintendo
Get Deal Why we like it

The beauty of the Switch 2 is that you can play it on the go while docked. If you decide you want to get your Mario Kart on with friends, you can either play it docked on your TV or by using the kickstand to set up a makeshift gaming station. The Joy-Con 2 Charging Grip is perfect for either situation, as it lets you slide both Joy-Con 2 controllers into the grip and charge them while playing. It's a highly necessary accessory if you use your controllers a lot, especially since you can use the controllers while they juice back up.

Bonus pick: Hori Puff Pouch for Switch 2 Opens in a new window Credit: Hori Hori Puff Pouch for Nintendo Switch 2 $29.99 at Best Buy
Release date set for June 17 Learn More Why we like it

For a stylish accessory, the Hori Puff Pouch for Nintendo Switch 2 is an all-around winner. It's compact enough to pack along in a tote bag while serving as protection and organization for the Switch 2 and accessories. The Puff Pouch's compartments have dedicated areas for the console itself, Joy-Cons, and six game cartridges. Plus, a handle on the top and the side of the pouch gives you flexibility in terms of the most convenient carrying method. Plus, the modern design is a major highlight.

Bonus pick: Nintendo GameCube Controller Opens in a new window Credit: Nintendo Nintendo GameCube Controller $64.99 at Nintendo
Get Deal Why we like it

The original GameCube controller is beloved among Nintendo fans for its form factor and versatility, not to mention the fact that it accompanied so many of Nintendo's best titles of the era, like Animal Crossing, Resident Evil 4, and more. With a new set of GameCube titles available on Nintendo Switch Online, it makes sense to snag this retro-flavored controller, which is only available via the Nintendo storefront to those with Nintendo Switch Online memberships. If you're going to play the classics, might as well do so with the original controller.

Bonus pick: Audeze Maxwell Wireless Gaming Headset Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Audeze Maxwell Wireless Gaming Headset $299 at Amazon
Get Deal Why we like it

Planning on chatting with friends while gaming on your Switch 2? Consider adding a headset to the mix so you can hear everyone as well as everything going on in your game instead of struggling with a regular open speaker. This headset is premium in all the best ways, and it's compatible with both the Switch and Switch 2. It has 90mm magnetic drivers for ultra crispy audio and deep bass, plush earcups, and a great mic so you can rest assured everyone knows what you're saying when you're in the middle of a heated game of Mario Kart World. Plus, you can use it with the rest of your consoles and PC, too.

If you've been using the internet for a while, it should be common knowledge that when a product is free, you are the product. But what happens when you're actually paying for it? Google seems to be testing the limits of what paying customers will accept with a recent change to YouTube Premium Lite.

SAVE UP TO $48: As of June 6, new and returning subscribers can get Starz for just $3 per month when they prepay for six months or $3.99 per month for three months. Typically $10.99 per month, that saves you up to $47.95.

Opens in a new window Credit: Starz Starz Semi-Annual Plan $3 per month when you prepay for 6 months Get Deal

Want to diversify your streaming lineup? Unlock tons of new shows and movies by signing up for Starz while it's only $3 per month.

As of June 6, new and returning subscribers can sign up for a Starz semi-annual plan for only $17.99, which breaks down to just $3 per month for six months. Usually $10.99 per month, that's about $47.95 in savings. Don't want to commit to six months at a time? You can also get a monthly subscription for only $3.99 per month for three months. Once three months comes and goes, it'll revert back to full price unless you cancel. The deal is only around for an unspecified limited time, so you may want to jump on it sooner rather than later to secure the savings.

SEE ALSO: Save $500 on a Hisense 75-inch U8 4K TV and get a free $200 Amazon credit

Starz is home to plenty of original content worth watching, like the historical drama Outlander, the TV adaptation of Lisa Taddeo's book Three Women, and the female serial killer tale Sweetpea. The library is also brimming with theatrical hits like Hunger Games: Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes, The Strangers: Chapter 1, The Exorcist: Believer, and M3GAN. There's enough to keep you entertained all summer long.

If you're sick of Netflix and Hulu, adding more to your entertainment collection doesn't need to cost a fortune. With the latest Starz streaming deal, you can finally diversify your streaming lineup for cheap.

The best TV deals to shop this week

• Roku Ultra 4K Ultimate Streaming Player (2024 Release) — $79.99 (List Price $99.99)

• Amazon Fire TV 4-Series (43 inches, 2024) — $329.99

• 55-inch Sony Bravia 3 4K LED Smart Google TV (2024 Model) — $648.00 (List Price $699.99)

• Hisense 85-Inch Class U8 Series Mini-LED ULED 4K UHD Google Smart TV — $1,699.99

• LG 65-inch Class UR9000 Series 4K Smart TV   — $496.99 (List Price $629.99)

SAVE $589.99: Now through June 8, Sony is offering a BOGO deal on select TVs. If you buy a 65-inch Bravia 8 II QD-OLED 4K, you'll get a free 55-inch X77L 4K Google TV.

Opens in a new window Credit: Sony 65-inch Bravia 8 II QD-OLED 4K $3,999.99 at Sony
BOGO deal: Buy a 65-inch Bravia 8 II QD-OLED 4K, get a 55-inch X77L 4K Google TV Get Deal

Right now, Sony is practically giving away free TVs, so if you've been looking for an upgrade, now's the time to do it.

Here are the details: If you buy one of Sony's 65-inch Bravia 8 II QD-OLED 4K displays, they'll toss in a free 55-inch X77L 4K Google TV. That's a nearly $600 TV, just for saying "yes" to an even better one. Not big enough? If you opt for the 55-inch Bravia 8 II, you'll still get a free 50-inch Sony X77L, which usually costs around $530.

There are no hidden fees, no weird hoops to jump through. Just add the eligible Bravia to your cart, and voilà, the free TV appears. It's almost too easy.

SEE ALSO: What's the best time of year to buy a TV? Yes, there's an answer.

Sure, the Bravia 8 II QD-OLED 4K TV is almost $4K, but it’s one of Sony’s best TVs. It supports Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos, and IMAX Enhanced visuals and Acoustic Surface Audio Plus for sound that comes directly from the screen. With Voice Zoom 3, you’ll be able to hear dialogue clearly without an added soundbar or woofer.

Of course, the free X77L isn't quite as fancy, but it's still a solid 4K TV with Google TV smarts, HDR, and the X1 processor for upscaling.

The best TV deals to shop this week

• Roku Ultra 4K Ultimate Streaming Player (2024 Release) — $79.99 (List Price $99.99)

• Amazon Fire TV 4-Series (43 inches, 2024) — $329.99

• 55-inch Sony Bravia 3 4K LED Smart Google TV (2024 Model) — $648.00 (List Price $699.99)

• Hisense 85-Inch Class U8 Series Mini-LED ULED 4K UHD Google Smart TV — $1,699.99

• LG 65-inch Class UR9000 Series 4K Smart TV   — $496.99 (List Price $629.99)

TL;DR: Live stream Sinner vs. Djokovic in the 2025 French Open for free on 9Now, France TV, or Servus TV. Access these free streaming platforms from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The prospect of Sinner vs. Djokovic in the 2025 French Open semi final is enough to make tennis fans all over the world stop what they're doing and tune in. Can Djokovic turn back the clock and secure a spot in the final? Or will the top seed demonstrate why he's the man to beat?

You can follow all the action from Roland-Garros without spending anything. If you want to watch Sinner vs. Djokovic in the 2025 French Open for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

How to watch Sinner vs. Djokovic for free

Sinner vs. Djokovic in the 2025 French Open is available to live stream for free on a number of platforms:

• Australia — 9now

• Austria — ServusTV

• France — France TV

These services are geo-restricted, but anyone can access these free streaming platforms 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 stream the 2025 French Open for free from anywhere in the world.

Live stream the 2025 French Open 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 Australia, Austria, or France

4. Connect to 9Now, Servus TV, France TV

5. Watch the 2025 French Open 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 pretty generous money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can watch Roland-Garros without committing with your cash. This is obviously not a long-term strategy, but it gives you enough time to live stream Sinner vs. Djokovic (plus the rest of the 2025 French Open) before recovering your investment.

If you want to retain permanent access to free streaming services 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 sport?

ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport, 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

• 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. Djokovic in the 2025 French Open for free with ExpressVPN.