Technology

Some people possess an innate talent for finding gifts on a budget. No matter the occasion (Christmas, anniversary, Valentine's Day, Mother's Day) or recipient (wife, husband, boyfriend, teens, in-laws), they somehow nail it every time — winning the unofficial "best gift-giver" award among those who are lucky to know them. If you're not the most intuitive gift-giver, fear not. We've put together a list of the best gift ideas for under $50, from expected-but-useful stocking stuffers to cool items they definitely don't have yet. These unique budget-friendly gift ideas span such a variety of categories that you're bound to find something up their alley. You might even catch a few on sale.

ChatGPT Images doesn’t roll off the tongue like Nano Banana, but OpenAI finally has an answer for Google's uber-popular AI image editor. The company's "new flagship image generation model" is available now in ChatGPT Images and in the API under the model name GPT Image 1.5.

OpenAI has been on a tear recently, in fact. The company, which was rumored to be in a “code red” state following the launch of Google Gemini 3, launched GPT-5.2 last week. Today, OpenAI continues its counterattack against Google’s newfound momentum in the AI space with a rather large update to ChatGPT Images, promising to generate better images, edit images more effectively, and do so more quickly. 

“Whether you’re creating something from scratch or editing a photo, you’ll get the output you’re picturing,” OpenAI says in its announcement post. “It makes precise edits while keeping details intact, and generates images up to 4x faster.”

In addition to the update, which does not appear to have a catchy name like Google’s Nano Banana, OpenAI also launched a new Images tab within the ChatGPT app and browser. In addition to being a dedicated space to create images, the new ChatGPT Images also acts as a sort of discovery and brainstorming feed to give you ideas of what to create. OpenAI says that the new feature is “designed to make image generation delightful — to spark inspiration and make creative exploration effortless.”

SEE ALSO: These 6 Nano Banana Pro prompts are wild with the Gemini 3 upgrade

For general performance, the latest update seems like a refinement rather than something totally new. OpenAI says the new ChatGPT Image model will be more reliable, adhere better to user intent, and keep details more consistent across multiple outputs. That last bit has been a bit of a meme in the AI user community, and many have tried the 100x ChatGPT image trend to see what they come up with. 

OpenAI’s announcement post includes the full list of updates with GPT Image 1.5, plus some impressive examples of the new image model at work.

ChatGPT Images vs. Nano Banana

Nano Banana is the nickname for Gemini 2.5 Flash Image, Google's AI image generator. The tool has proven remarkably capable as a fast and easy-to-use AI image editor, and as its popularity has grown, Google has integrated it into Gemini, Google Photos, Search, and Messages. So, how does the new ChatGPT Images compare?

It took all of about 10 minutes, but GPT-Image-1.5 immediately took first place on LMArena’s Text-to-Image leaderboard, bumping Nano Banana Pro to second place. However, real-world examples so far have been a little mixed. 

I asked both Nano Banana and the new ChatGPT Images to edit the same photo, and received very similar results.

Using the same prompt and image, I asked both models to edit a photo of my car from nighttime to daytime.

The original image Credit: Joe Hindy

While both models earn a passing grade, Google's version looks better to my eye.

Left: The result from Nano Banana. Credit: Joe Hindy / Google Gemini Right: The result from ChatGPT Images. Credit: Joe Hindy / OpenAI How to try the new ChatGPT Images

Per OpenAI, the update is rolling out as we speak to all users, so it should be available to try immediately. In short, all you need to do is head to ChatGPT and look for the new Images tab. You can find the tool at chatgpt.com/images. As per usual, free users will have very limited access.

The new image model is also available in the OpenAI API, and you can check the pricing on the OpenAI website. So, developers and people with their own AI tools can start using it right away.

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

The successful Fallout TV series, based on the game of the same name, is back for season two as of December 16, 2025. Amazon did well to stick the landing last time around, so we’re looking forward to sinking our teeth into the next batch of episodes.

The artificial intelligence boom has become truly unavoidable, even for those who don't use AI in their daily lives at all.

Case in point: The world of personal computers, especially laptops and smartphones.

We're in the midst of a worldwide memory shortage, due in large part to the sudden explosion of AI data centers around the world and their enormous demand for these computer components. That's sparked an ongoing shortage of crucial hardware such as dynamic random access memory (DRAM), Samsung DDR5 RAM, and SSDs. As a result, smartphone prices could rise 6.9 percent in 2026, according to a CNBC report on the memory shortage.

Now, Samsung has reportedly doubled the contract price of DDR5 memory drives. At the same time, Framework, makers of easily repairable, enthusiast-centric machines, just doubled prices on those exact components. And as suppliers hike prices on memory hardware, device manufacturers will most likely pass that cost onto consumers, experts say.

This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed. SEE ALSO: Forget the em dash — Redditors share 6 giveaways that something was written by AI

Samsung is hardly the only brand affected by the memory shortage. HP has warned that it will have to raise prices on its PCs starting next year because there just isn't enough memory to go around, per our colleagues at PCMag. The same goes for Lenovo and Dell, according to PC Gamer. In fact, RAM is in such short supply that some analysts are predicting laptop makers will push more low-performance 8GB RAM laptops on consumers in 2026 out of necessity. Either way, customers lose.

Additionally, it doesn't seem like there's an end date on any of this. Despite recent fears over an AI bubble, the AI industry is hardly slowing down. The need for more data centers could be indefinite, as far as anyone can tell.

All of this is to say that if you want a new laptop or PC, or even just parts for a PC, you better get to shopping now. That DDR5 RAM you need might cost a whole lot more in just a few months.

Steam Replay 2025 has released, giving players a detailed look back at their massive gaming hours from the past year. This annual wrap-up, which Valve first introduced in late 2022, has become a key moment for gamers. It's a good way to see where your free time went, at least.

From radroaches to deathclaws, there are a lot of things in Fallout that I'm happy don't exist in real life. But there are several elements of its sci-fi technology that I wouldn't mind having around for day-to-day use. Who wouldn't want a handy-dandy Pip-Boy on their wrist?

However, the cast and showrunner of Fallout have their own ideas about what technology they'd steal from the series.

SEE ALSO: 'Fallout' Season 2 review: Our introduction to New Vegas is a blast, and more relevant than ever

In an interview with Mashable, Fallout co-creator and showrunner Geneva Robertson-Dworet revealed she would steal cold fusion, the revolutionary, limitless power source introduced at the end of Season 1. That technology continues to play a big role in Season 2, as the forces of the wasteland jockey to control it — and the fate of the world.

Meanwhile, Aaron Moten, who plays Brotherhood of Steel Knight Maximus, would choose an item that's very on-brand for his character: the T-60 power armor suit.

"Just for getting groceries, or walking the dog," Moten joked. "Just the simple things in life, where you want to be impervious."

Walton Goggins, who plays the Ghoul/Cooper Howard, opted for a different route entirely.

"I don't like technology, you know? A phone depresses me. I'm going to be the only person to just say nothing," Goggins said. "You can have it, you can keep it! I don't want to live in that world!"

The response sounds like it came straight from Cooper Howard's mouth. "He avoids technology for sure," Goggins said. "He's an analog guy, which I think makes him so appealing, at least to me, anyway."

To learn more about the Fallout cast's technology of choice, and their favorite Fallout creatures, check out the full video above.

Fallout Season 2 premieres Dec. 16 at 9 p.m. ET on Prime Video, with a new episode every week.

AMD has just launched FSR Redstone, a collection of features made of machine-learning-based upscaling and frame generation, along with two other components—Ray Regeneration and Radiance Caching—that aim to improve ray tracing quality and performance. FSR Redstone looks promising, but not all's rosy.

Whether you’re heading home for the holidays or heading overseas for an epic ski vacation, when getting prepped for travel, you’re usually more concerned with having enough underwear and socks than with what’s on your phone if there’s a delay or cancellation at the airport.

Be honest now: how many random thumb drives do you have lying around the house? What about external SSDs?

Arguably, the biggest hurdle to switching from iPhone to Android is transferring all your stuff. It’s painless moving from iPhone to iPhone, but changing platforms is a different story. Oddly enough, Apple is taking steps to make it easier. You read that correctly.

Google just rolled out CC, a new experimental AI productivity agent powered by Gemini, designed to help you organize your daily life right from your inbox. This new tool comes straight out of Google Labs and should handle tasks and appointments.

Heading into 2026, new-car prices are high enough to make many buyers think twice. While used cars may seem like the safer bet, there are still some surprisingly affordable new options out there.

This season, you can jam to your favorite music with Spotify's holiday offerings, from playlists and festive mixes to features built to help you throw a perfect party. Whether you're collaborating with friends or crafting a curated playlist, Spotify has you covered.

SAVE $100: As of Dec. 16, the De'Longhi 15-bar manual espresso machine is on sale for only $99.95 at Amazon. That's a 50% price drop and its lowest cost to date.

Opens in a new window Credit: De'Longhi De'Longhi 15-Bar Manual Espresso Machine $99.95 at Amazon
$199.95 Save $100.00   Get Deal

Most espresso machines come with major sticker shock, so finding one for under $100 is a huge deal. Whether you're looking for a last-minute gift for less than $100 or you want to treat yourself, this De'Longhi espresso maker is on sale at Amazon for its best price ever.

Typically $199.95, which is already a pretty solid price for a countertop espresso maker, the De'Longhi ECP3630 manual espresso machine is on sale for only $99.95 at Amazon as of Dec. 16. That's 50% off and the lowest price we've ever seen on this model, beating its Black Friday price by a long shot.

While it's not loaded with extra bells and whistles, this sleek and compact espresso machine will definitely get the job done. And by job, I mean pumping out piping hot quality cups of caffeine on your countertop. It's equipped with an Italian 15-bar pump, a premium adjustable frother, and adjustable controls to modify to your taste preferences. There's no major learning curve like bigger, fancier machines. Choose from single or double espresso and select your milk setting, then create your own authentic coffeehouse favorite at home.

Everyone knows a coffee addict. This could be the perfect gift for that person in your life and it won't set you back hundreds if not thousands of dollars like some espresso makers would. Less than $100 for at-home daily espresso? That's just 33 double shots of espresso at Starbucks, to put it in perspective.

SAVE $90: On Dec. 16 only, the 15-inch touchscreen Skylight Calendar is on sale for $229.99 as the Best Buy drop of the day. That beats its $249.99 Black Friday price by $20 — get the rare deal in the Best Buy app.

Opens in a new window Credit: Skylight Skylight Calendar 15-inch smart touchscreen calendar and chore chart $229.99
$319.99 Save $90 Find savings in the Best Buy app Get Deal

The best gift for a parent is ultimately the gift of less chaos. You could buy them AirTags, offer to watch their kids, or send them on a vacation. The ultra-helpful digital Skylight Calendar is one of Mashable's top gift ideas for moms and dads, and it's $90 off at Best Buy as the Dec. 16 drop of the day.

At $229.99 on Dec. 16 only, Best Buy's price beats the record-low $249.99 price tag we saw at Amazon during Black Friday. The 15-inch Skylight Calendar is currently full price ($319.99) at Amazon, so this near-$100 savings is rare.

You'll only see the sale price on the Best Buy mobile app (Best Buy drops don't show up in a web browser.) From there, you can add it to your cart and check out like usual. The catch is that all Best Buy drops have a limited inventory, with a live status bar keeping track of the percentage left. As of 12:15 p.m. ET, 75% inventory was left for the Skylight Calendar.

SEE ALSO: Last minute gift ideas: Save 15% on 15+ e-gift cards from Uber, Crumbl, Hulu, a ton more

Skylight can sync with Google, iCloud, Outlook, Yahoo, and Cozi calendars to streamline schedules of multiple people to one communal device. Appointments, meetings, events, weekly chores, and even grocery lists can also be added right from the Skylight app, even if something pops up while you're not home. Everything can be labeled and color-coded for each member of the household.

But busy parents aren't the sole target audience for the Skylight Calendar — it's a life hack for literally anyone with a lot going on. Mashable contributor Jae Thomas, who is a journalist and editor, a dog trainer, and who works at a kennel one day per week, instantly felt more organized after bringing a Skylight Calendar into the weekly mix.

Thomas can confirm that yes, having a central hub like the Skylight is a worthwhile upgrade over merely sharing a Google Calendar with someone. "I find myself getting little hits of dopamine when I check things off my to-do lists, and it's easier for me and my partner to stay in sync on where we'll both be during the week. I truly wish I had this when we were sharing a car — it would have saved us many arguments and miscommunications about scheduling."

As 2025 comes to a close, there are certain iPhone accessories that I’ve used far more than others. While not all of these came out in 2025, these are my four favorite iPhone accessories.

SAVE $100.01: As of Dec. 16, get the Shark Robot Vacuum and Mop Combo for $599.98, down from its usual price of $699.99 at Amazon. That's a discount of 14%.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Shark Robot Vacuum and Mop Combo $599.98 at Amazon
$699.99 Save $100.01   Get Deal

Here's one indelible truth: No one enjoys spending all their time cleaning their floors. It's a thankless task, and it's one that always needs to be done if you want to keep a tidy house. Thankfully these days we have robot vacuums that can handle it all for you. If you're ready to offload all your cleaning tasks, you'll want to recruit these gadgets to do so.

As of Dec. 16, get the Shark Robot Vacuum and Mop Combo for $599.98, down from its usual price of $699.99 at Amazon. That's $100.01 off and a discount of 14%.

SEE ALSO: 7 gadgets to help keep your home clean, from robot vacuums to electric scrubbers

This Shark combination robot vacuum and mop can handle just about anything you ask of it. It has powerful suction for vacuuming through dirt, debris, and hair, and it can also mop up tough stains. It uses NeverStuck technology to help lift it over obstacles and across thresholds, and keeps the mopping pad held above carpets to avoid issues with getting water everywhere, too.

When your robot's reservoir is full, it can handle itself there, too, emptying its debris into a 60-day capacity bin and refilling its own water tank for up o 30 days. It also washes and dries its mopping pad afer every time it runs. That means minimal interactions with you so all you have to do is set a schedule and let it go.

With LiDAR mapping, a 3D sensor, schedule-making, and targeted cleaning options, you don't even have to figure out how best for your vacuum and mop combo to tackle messes. Just sit back, relax, and watch it go. And be glad this is no longer something you have to worry about actually doing.

SAVE $1,150: The Anker Solix F2000 portable power station is on sale at Amazon for $849, down from the list price of $1,999. That's a 58% discount.

Opens in a new window Credit: Anker Solix Anker Solix F2000 portable power station $849 at Amazon
$1,999 Save $1,150   Get Deal

Winter officially arrives in just a few days. But you've probably already been feeling cool temps and dealing with seasonal storms. If high winds, torrential rains, or ice storms threaten a power outage, there's a better way curtail the inconvenience — a portable power station. Amazon has a great model on sale today to put you in better shape during the next outage.

As of Dec. 16, the Anker Solix F2000 portable power station is on sale for $849 at Amazon, marked down from the standard price of $1,999. That works out a massive savings of $1,150 from a 58% discount.

Anker consistently knocks it out of the park with designing portable power stations. In testing, the Anker Solix C1000 Gen 2 is my all-time favorite model for moderate power needs. But if you want more power to deal with a power outage, the Solix F2000 is a great option. It packs in 2,048 Wh of power while being able to power almost all of your home's appliances. Use it to keep the refrigerator cooling, the WiFi router online, and keep small devices charged.

SEE ALSO: Take a full $1,000 off this Bluetti portable power station and two solar panels

Anker says the Solix F2000 can keep a refrigerator cooling for 10 hours, a CPAP machine on for over 32 hours or a washing machine for 1.5 hours. Plus, you can keep some lights on at home so you won't have to fumble around in the dark.

Come camping season, you can take it along to power up an air fryer, mini fridge, portable freezer, and a projector. Its telescoping handle makes it easy to bring along to the campsite. It's also an excellent addition to the worksite, powering tools like a chainsaw, drill, or yard work tools.

While it's on sale for a shocking 58% off, equip your home and camping adventures with the Anker Solix F2000. Everyone in your party will thank you for the extra power.

SAVE $400: As of Dec. 16, the TCL 85-inch T7 QLED 4K TV is on sale for only $999.97 at Amazon. That's nearly 30% off its list price of $1,399.99 and matches its Black Friday cost.

Opens in a new window Credit: TCL TCL 85-inch T7 QLED 4K TV $999.97 at Amazon
$1,399.99 Save $400.02   Get Deal

From holiday movies to the Olympics to the NFL playoffs, there's plenty of excuses to snag a new TV this season. Not to mention, it's one of the best times to score a big screen for a big discount.

As of Dec. 16, you can get the TCL 85-inch T7 QLED 4K TV on sale for only $999.97. That's nearly 30% off its list price of $1,399.99 and matches its Black Friday cost, which also happens to be its lowest price on record.

TCL just launched this monstrous screen last month as part of its new T7 Series — a lineup of budget-friendly QLED TVs packed with bells and whistles. So, just know that you're getting a brand-new 2025 model that's relatively future-proof. Despite its affordable price tag, it still features quantum dot technology, a native refresh rate of 144Hz, an AI processor that automatically optimizes color, contrast and clarity, Dolby Atmos audio, and Dolby Vision and HDR10+ support. It's powered by Google TV, so you can open apps, change the channel, or launch a movie right where you left off via hands-free voice control.

The TCL T7 is also a solid pick for gamers on a budget. Besides the 144Hz refresh rate, it also features Game Accelerator 288, an Auto Game Mode that automatically enables the lowest input lag and latency, and Motion Rate 480 with MEMC Frame Insertion for the ultimate clarity.

Don't endure any more dark and blurry viewing sessions. Upgrade your TV to the 85-inch TCL T7 while it's under $1,000. If that's too much TV for you, the smaller models (55, 65, and 75 inches) are also on sale for up to 33% off.

Once you’ve set up a Home Assistant server, there aren’t a lot of preferences to fiddle with, and you’ll mostly spend your time adding devices and building automations.