Technology

Why the AI boom is driving up the price of your next car: Inside RAMageddon

How-To Geek - Wed, 03/25/2026 - 18:00

The automotive industry is staring down a structural threat that mirrors the 2021 semiconductor crisis, but this time the root cause may be more permanent. While the previous shortage was a byproduct of pandemic-era logistics and supply chain hiccups, the "RAMageddon" phenomenon is a result of strategic capacity reallocation.

Categories: IT General, Technology

5 new Makita products coming soon that aren't power tools

How-To Geek - Wed, 03/25/2026 - 17:45

If you're a fan of Makita's expansive power tool ecosystem or deploy it daily on a jobsite, you likely have a huge collection of tools and battery packs. For those who have all the tools they'll ever need, Makita is set to release several capable new accessories in 2026 that are worth waiting for.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Streaming deals anyone? The best Big Spring Sale deals on Paramount+, Spotify, Starz, and more.

Mashable - Wed, 03/25/2026 - 17:43
The best Big Spring Sale streaming deals at a glance: Best streaming deal Paramount+ Premium $2.99/month for 2 months (save $22) Get Deal Best music streaming deal Spotify Premium free for 3 months (save $38.97) Get Deal Best streaming device deal Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Select $17.99 (save $22) Get Deal Best deal for readers Kindle Unlimited $0.99 for three months (save $34.98) Get Deal

With the now regularly recurring price hikes across the board, we could all benefit from some discounts on streaming services. While the best time of year to score a great streaming deal is hands down Black Friday season, any major sale or shopping holiday tends to offer at least a few discounts. And Amazon's Big Spring Sale (officially running March 25-31 in 2026) is holding true to that notion. While the overall number of streaming deals is no match for Black Friday, we'll certainly take any discounts we can get.

I'll be keeping an eye out throughout the Big Spring Sale for any new deals that pop up and will update this story with the latest. For now, here are the best streaming deals live during the sale. I've also included deals on streaming devices like Fire TV Sticks, as well as some evergreen streaming deals I think are worth grabbing.

Best streaming deal overall Opens in a new window Credit: Paramount+ Paramount+ Premium $2.99/month for 2 months (save $22) Get Deal Why we like it

On the surface, this is the same offer as the streamer's Black Friday deal. However, because Paramount Plus hiked its prices in January, this Big Spring Sale discount actually saves you more money. It now costs $13.99 per month for the ad-free Premium plan and $8.99 per month for the ad-supported Essential plan. Through March 31, you can lock in two months of either plan for only $2.99 per month. That saves you $22 if you choose the Premium plan (why wouldn't you?). Both new and ex-subscribers are eligible for this deal and its valid on Paramount+ as a standalone service or on the Prime Video add-on.

Psst. It's also worth mentioning that an extra discount code is floating around that could potentially knock the price down to just 99 cents per month for two months. However, it appears to work for some folks and not others. Try adding the additional promo code BG2L7M at checkout to see if you're one of the lucky ones.

Best music streaming deal Opens in a new window Credit: Spotify Spotify Premium free for 3 months (save $38.97) Get Deal Why we like it

If you've never tried Spotify Premium before, you can snag three free months of the music streaming service through March 31. Typically, it costs $12.99 per month, so you'll keep nearly $40 in your pocket with this deal. A Premium account unlocks ad-free listening, the ability to download music for offline listening and collaborate with friends in real time, 15 hours of audiobook time, and lossless audio. Plus, you'll get weekly listening stats and, should you choose to keep your subscription, access to the famous Wrapped stats.

Already tried Spotify Premium? Amazon Music Unlimited is also offering three free months of its streaming service through March 31. It regularly goes for $11.99/month for Prime members and $12.99/month for non-Prime members, so you can save up to $38.97 with this deal. Besides unlimited music streaming, you'll also get access to one audiobook per month.

Best streaming device deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Select $17.99 at Amazon
$39.99 Save $22.00   Get Deal Why we like it

The newest Fire TV Stick, the 4K Select, is the first streaming device in Amazon's lineup to shake things up in awhile. While it still offers the same plug-and-play design you know and love, it features a brand-new operating system called Vega. Given how laggy the previous operating system could be on Fire TV Sticks, we're pretty excited about this change. It also offers support for Alexa+, Amazon Kids+, Amazon Luna, Xbox Game Pass, and NordVPN, and delivers 4K quality with HDR10+ support. During the Big Spring Sale, it's already down to just $17.99 instead of $39.99. It's worth noting that we saw this streaming stick drop to a surprisingly low $9.99 in the past.

More Amazon Big Spring Sale streaming dealsMore Amazon Big Spring Sale streaming device dealsEvergreen streaming deals worth grabbing
Categories: IT General, Technology

5 things your Android phone's buttons can secretly control (besides volume and power)

How-To Geek - Wed, 03/25/2026 - 17:30

Most of us use our Android phone’s side buttons only to adjust the volume or lock the screen—but that barely scratches the surface of what they can do. With the right setup, those side buttons can launch your digital assistant, activate Emergency SOS, and perform other useful tasks.

Categories: IT General, Technology

I highly recommend grabbing Kindle Unlimited for 99 cents during the Big Spring Sale

Mashable - Wed, 03/25/2026 - 17:27

SAVE $34.98: As of March 25, the first day of the Amazon Big Spring Sale, new and returning subscribers can get three months of Kindle Unlimited for only 99 cents. It usually costs $11.99 per month, so you'll save nearly $35 across three months.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Kindle Unlimited $0.99 for 3 months (save $11.99/month) Get Deal

I'm doing some digital spring cleaning this season, and several streaming services and digital subscriptions have been cut from my lineup after astronomical price hikes (looking at you, Peacock). One that remains unscathed? Kindle Unlimited. I cannot recommend it enough if you're looking to get back into reading or just read more in 2026. And signing up during the Big Spring Sale is a smart move, as it'll only cost you 99 cents.

One of our favorite deals from Cyber Week is back for Amazon's third-annual Big Spring Sale. As of March 25, new and eligible returning subscribers can get three months of Kindle Unlimited for only 99 cents. That's the next-best thing to free. Usually it's $11.99 per month ($35.97 total for three months), so you'll save about $34.98.

Kindle Unlimited basically gives you unlimited access to as many books as you want. Technically, you can only borrow up to 20 books at once. But at any time, you can return those and borrow more. Plus, there's no wait times or due dates like Libby (the beloved free library app).

The Kindle Unlimited library is brimming with excellent reads, from new releases to bestsellers to classics. Currently, you can find popular titles like Dear Debbie by Freida McFadden, Dungeon Crawler Carl by Matt Dinniman, and The Wedding People by Alison Espach, as well as recent book-to-screen adaptations Reminders of Him by Colleen Hoover and His & Hers by Alice Feeney.

The best part? You don't even need a Kindle to take advantage of Kindle Unlimited (although several Kindle devices are discounted during the Big Spring Sale). You can download the app onto any device and read from wherever.

Of course, after your three-month promotional period ends, you'll automatically be charged the full $11.99 per month until you cancel. Though, you might find that Kindle Unlimited is one of the rare subscriptions that's worth its entry fee.

Categories: IT General, Technology

iOS 26.4 available now: All updates, security improvements to know

Mashable - Wed, 03/25/2026 - 17:26

Apple released iOS 26.4 on Tuesday, bringing a wide range of new features, quality-of-life improvements, and numerous security patches.

The release touches nearly every corner of the operating system — from the Music and Podcasts apps to the kernel — and includes changes that will be noticeable to casual users and security-conscious ones alike. The update is available for iPhone 11 and later and iPad models going back to the iPad Air 3rd generation, iPad Pro 11-inch 1st generation, iPad 8th generation, and iPad mini 5th generation.

Here's what to know.

Apple Music gets smarter

Music lovers have a few reasons to update. A new Playlist Playground feature lets Apple Music generate a 25-song playlist from a text prompt, with the option to refine the results with follow-up prompts. The feature is currently available only in the US.

Apple Music has also added a "Concerts Near You" section, powered by a Ticketmaster partnership, that surfaces local show info directly in the app. And song recognition — think Shazam-style identification — now works offline, queuing up results to deliver once you're back on a network.

Additionally, the Podcasts app now supports video podcasts, bringing it in line with platforms like YouTube and Spotify that have offered the format for some time.

Security and privacy improvements

One of the more meaningful changes in iOS 26.4 is that Stolen Device Protection is now enabled by default, rather than requiring users to opt in. The feature, which adds biometric requirements for sensitive actions when your iPhone is away from familiar locations, is now on by default for everyone.

On the security patch front, Apple addressed dozens of vulnerabilities across the OS. Notable fixes include a Siri flaw that could have allowed someone with physical access to a locked device to view sensitive information, a Keychain vulnerability that could have given a local attacker access to stored credentials, and several WebKit issues that could have enabled cross-site scripting attacks, sandbox bypasses, or Content Security Policy circumvention when visiting malicious websites.

Multiple kernel-level vulnerabilities were also patched, including issues that could have allowed apps to corrupt kernel memory or leak sensitive kernel state.

New features across the system

iOS 26.4 brings a handful of additions scattered across the operating system. The Messages app has new animations, and a new ambient music widget has been added for the home and lock screens. Freeform now includes a Creator Studio for subscribers, offering access to high-quality graphics, photos, and illustrations not available to free users.

The Reminders app now includes an Urgent section for high-priority tasks. In the Health app, a new average bedtime metric helps users better understand how their sleep schedule affects overall sleep quality, and the Vitals section now shows blood oxygen levels on its line graph overview.

For accessibility, a new "Reduce Bright Effects" option minimizes bright flashes from interface elements, and the existing Reduce Motion setting now more reliably damps down liquid glass animations.

Camera, CarPlay, and more

The Camera app gains Audio Zoom, which focuses recorded audio on the subject when you zoom in — the feature can be turned off in settings. In CarPlay, AI assistants, including Claude, Gemini, and ChatGPT, are now accessible for hands-free questions, though none require a wake word to activate.

Rounding out the update: a new Set Charge Limit action has been added to Shortcuts, and Apple says it has addressed a longstanding keyboard bug that caused characters to be dropped during fast typing.

To update, go to Settings > General > Software Update.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The best unlocked phone deals during the Amazon Spring Sale — iPhones starting at $287

Mashable - Wed, 03/25/2026 - 17:23

From March 25 to 31, Amazon will be discounting a wide range of products as part of its annual Big Spring Sale. That includes some offers on unlocked smartphones. However, as professional deal hunters, we have to tell you that you'll find the absolute best offers on phones right now are at carriers like T-Mobile, which is offering a free iPhone 17 or iPhone Air for new customers.

So, if you need a new smartphone, check out the best offers available at Amazon and beyond.

Unlocked phone deals: Best Google deal Google Pixel 9a $399 (save $100) Get Deal Best Samsung deal Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7 FE $623.24 (save $336.75) Get Deal Best Apple Deal iPhone 14 (Renewed Premium) $287.76 (save $51.85) Get Deal Best Carrier Deal Get a free iPhone 17 at T-Mobile Normally $799 (Free with Experience Beyond or Better Value plan) Get Deal Editor's Pick Motorola Razr Ultra $799.99 (save $500) Get Deal

Robot vacuums, drones, TVs, and a whole lot more will be discounted, so it's a great excuse to upgrade your tech for less. The same goes for mobile phones. If you've been hoping to get a great price on a phone you can buy outright, Amazon already has some great deals live on unlocked phones. From Samsung, Google, and Apple, here are some of the best early deals we've spotted.

Best Apple unlocked phone deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple iPhone 14 (Renewed Premium) $287.76 at Amazon
$339.61 Save $51.85   Get Deal Why we like it

Have you been dying to switch to iPhone but don't have an extra $1,000 to spare on a new iPhone 17? There's a better way. You can buy an unlocked, Premium Renewed iPhone 14 direct from Amazon for under $300. While you'll miss out on the newest Apple Intelligence features and cameras, you'll still get that sweet blue chat bubble your friends have been so annoying about.

Best Google unlocked phone deal Opens in a new window Credit: Google Google Pixel 9a $399 at Amazon
$499 Save $100 Almost sold out! Get Deal Why we like it

When we reviewed this smartphone last year, we called it the budget smartphone to beat in 2025, and it's still a great option in 2026. (The Pixel 10a was very underwhelming.) This phone was on sale ahead of the Spring Sale, but the price just dropped even lower, which is probably why it's almost sold out. This budget Pixel has premium features like a 48MP wide camera and the Google Tensor G3 processor.

Best Samsung unlocked phone deal Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7 FE Cell Phone $666.89 at Amazon
$959.99 Save $293.10   Get Deal Why we like it

The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7 FE brings back the era of flip phones in the best way. It's a compact, foldable phone with a 50MP camera and FlexMode functions that let you shoot hands-free without needing a tripod. And despite its size, it’s incredibly powerful, thanks to its strong processor and long-lasting battery.

Best Motorola phone deal Opens in a new window Credit: Motorola Motorola Razr Ultra $799.99 at Amazon
$1,299.99 Save $500 Editor favorite Get Deal Why we like it

Mashable's tech editor Timothy Werth says the Motorola Razr Ultra was the most underrated smartphone of 2025, and not just in the foldable category. During our testing, we found that this flagship foldable phone had an unbeatable battery that lasts over 24 hours, plus a surprisingly good camera array, a speedy Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, and a full suite of AI features. During the Spring Sale, you can pick up this trendy flip phone for a lot less than other premium foldables.

Best locked phone deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Switch to T-Mobile and get a free iPhone 17 or Air $0 at T-Mobile
$799 Save $799 Free with Experience Beyond or Better Value plan Learn More Why we like it

Okay, so this isn't exactly an unlocked phone deal, but it is one of the best offers you'll find on a new iPhone. New customers who switch to T-Mobile can get a new iPhone 17 or iPhone Air for free with a qualifying Experience Beyond or Better Value plan. Plus, there's no trade-in required and you can keep your phone number. You'll want to read the fine print, but if you're open to switching carriers, don't miss this iPhone deal, available now through the end of the Amazon Spring Sale at T-Mobile.

More unlocked phone deals
Categories: IT General, Technology

The best laptop deals live during Amazons Big Spring Sale: Its a MacBook show so far

Mashable - Wed, 03/25/2026 - 17:16
A quick look at Amazon's best Big Spring Sale laptop deals: Best MacBook deal Apple MacBook Air, 13-inch (M4, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) $949 (save $250) Get Deal Best Windows laptop deal Samsung Galaxy Book5 Pro 360 (Intel Core Ultra 7 256V, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD) $1,199.99 (save $500) Get Deal Best gaming laptop deal Asus ROG Flow Z13 (AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD) $2,069.99 at Amazon (save $330 + free code for "Crimson Desert") Get Deal

Amazon's third annual Big Spring Sale is now live through March 31. The event is themed around seasonal goodies like spring cleaning supplies, outdoor gear, and warm-weather apparel. But it's also sparking some great deals on tech — including laptops.

So far, the bulk of Amazon's best laptop deals involve MacBooks, MacBooks, and more MacBooks. Almost every configuration from the past two years is on sale, if it's still in stock, with the biggest price cuts going to 2025's M4 MacBook Airs. They're all $200 to $300 off, making them significantly cheaper than their iterative M5 replacements, which Apple announced earlier this month. (Those are also on sale already, but only for about $50 off.)

Things are less exciting on the Windows side, but I managed to find a Samsung Galaxy laptop and an Asus gaming convertible on sale for record-low prices. Feel free to add those to your cart now. Several Microsoft Surface Laptop 7s are up to 26% off, but since all of them have been much cheaper before, I'd wait to see if their prices drop further later this week.

SEE ALSO: Amazon's Big Spring Sale is back: The best deals already live on Apple, robot vacuums, headphones, and more

As a reminder, I don't endorse buying laptops from any third-party sellers on Amazon. (The bulk of its laptop listings comes from them.) They can have different customer service policies than Amazon itself, and they might be advertising misleading specs. This isn't to say they're all scammers doing something illegal, and Amazon has a guarantee that covers delivery or item condition issues. Still, I wouldn't take a chance on a big purchase like a new laptop. The Shipper/Seller should be "Amazon.com" (below the orange "Buy Now" button).

I would also recommend shopping around a bit at other retailers, especially Best Buy. It has a much better selection of Windows laptops than Amazon, and its pricing is competitive where their inventories overlap.

Note: Deals marked with a 🔥 have dropped to a record-low price.

Best MacBook deals Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple MacBook Air, 13-inch (M4, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) 🔥 $949 at Amazon
$1,199 Save $250   Get Deal Why we like it

The 2025 MacBook Air is basically identical to its successor, save for its wireless chip and processor. (You're not missing out on much there: In our performance tests, the M4 version was only about six percent slower than the M5 model in both single- and multi-core workloads.) It features a vibrant Liquid Retina display, a backlit keyboard, two Thunderbolt 4 ports, and a 12MP webcam with Center Stage support. At $949, this 13-inch configuration has never been cheaper.

Read Mashable's full review of the 15-inch Apple MacBook Air (M4).

More MacBook Air dealsMacBook Pro dealsBest Windows laptop deal Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung Galaxy Book5 Pro 360 (Intel Core Ultra 7 256V, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD) $1,199.99 at Amazon
$1,699.99 Save $500   Get Deal Why we like it

This premium hybrid laptop features a crisp 16-inch AMOLED touchscreen with a slick 120Hz refresh rate. (At 3.73 pounds, it's pretty light for a device of its size.) Samsung has rated it for up to 25 hours of battery life per charge and throws in a free S Pen stylus for note-taking. Amazon is offering a Big Spring Sale discount of $500, which brings it down to a record-low price of $1,199.99. It's still full price at Best Buy and on Samsung's website, so don't bother buying it anywhere else.

More Windows laptop dealsBest gaming laptop deal Opens in a new window Credit: Asus Asus ROG Flow Z13 (AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD) 🔥 $2,069.99 at Amazon
$2,399.99 Save $330 Includes free code for "Crimson Desert" Get Deal Why we like it

The Asus ROG Flow Z13 is a zippy gaming convertible with a detachable keyboard and a buttery 180Hz display — GTA V's Ned Luke is a fan. This configuration is powered by a high-end AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 chip with integrated graphics that performed on par with an RTX 4060 GPU when we tested it in another Asus laptop. Amazon has it marked down to $2,069.99, which is 14% off its MSRP and its best deal to date. (Ignore Amazon's deflated list price; it actually retails for $2,399.99, according to Asus' website.) It also comes with a free PC download code for Crimson Desert, Pearl Abyss' huge new fantasy-action adventure game.

This ROG Flow Z13 deal is price-matched at Best Buy, but it doesn't include the Crimson Desert code there.

Gaming laptop deals
Categories: IT General, Technology

Stop buying family SUVs: 4 reasons this sedan makes more sense

How-To Geek - Wed, 03/25/2026 - 17:15

Family SUVs have become the default choice for modern households, offering space, versatility, and a commanding driving position. But as prices continue to climb and fuel costs remain a concern, they’re not always the most practical or cost-effective option. In many cases, a well-designed sedan can deliver everything a family needs, while costing less to buy and own.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The best Lego deals to shop in Amazons Big Spring Sale — save on Star Wars and Super Mario

Mashable - Wed, 03/25/2026 - 17:04
The best early Amazon Big Spring Sale Lego deals Best Lego Botanicals Deal Lego Botanicals Japanese Red Maple Bonsai Tree (#10348) $47.99 (save $12) Get Deal Best Lego Nintendo Deal Lego Super Mario Piranha Plant (#71426) $41.99 (save $18) Get Deal Best Lego Star Wars Deal Lego Star Wars Millennium Falcon A New Hope 25th Anniversary Collectable Model (#75375) $67.99 (save $17) Get Deal

Amazon's celebrating the arrival of springtime weather with the return of its Big Spring Sale. If you love finding discounted Lego sets during these kinds of sale events, we have good news: there's already some exciting deals to jump on now that the Big Spring Sale has officially kicked off.

Whether you're searching for a new Star Wars set to build or a delightful botanical display to put up for spring, we've gathered up a variety of options to look through below.

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Note: You don't need to be a Prime member to shop the sale, but Prime members will receive exclusive deals on a variety of items.

Best Lego Botanicals Deal Opens in a new window Credit: Lego Lego Botanicals Japanese Red Maple Bonsai Tree (#10348) $47.99 at Amazon
$59.99 Save $12   Get Deal Why we like it

Lego's Botanicals sets are always a delight to have up on display, and this Japanese Red Maple Bonsai Tree is sure to add a lovely pop of red, orange, and green into your home. At the moment, it's on sale at Amazon for $47.99, which is just pennies away from its lowest-ever price point of $47.95, according to price tracker camelcamelcamel. What better time to scoop up this 474-piece set if its caught your eye?

Best Lego Nintendo Deal Opens in a new window Credit: Lego Lego Super Mario Piranha Plant (#71426) $41.99 at Amazon
$59.99 Save $18   Get Deal Why we like it

MAR10 Day may be behind us, but The Super Mario Galaxy Movie is on the horizon, so it's a great time in general to be a Mario fan. If you're looking for a fun new set to build ahead of the upcoming film, this 540-piece Super Mario Piranha Plant set is a very fun option to have up on display. It's currently down to $41.99 at Amazon, so you can save $18 ahead of the Big Spring Sale.

Best Lego Star Wars Deal Opens in a new window Credit: Lego Lego Star Wars Millennium Falcon A New Hope 25th Anniversary Collectable Model (#75375) $67.99 at Amazon
$84.99 Save $17   Get Deal Why we like it

There are plenty of exciting Lego Star Wars sets to piece together, but this Millennium Falcon build is a must for your collection if you're a fan. This 921-piece set sees you recreating the Millennium Falcon, as seen in A New Hope, and it's currently on sale for $67.99 at Amazon. Similar to the Lego Japanese Red Maple Bonsai Tree, this set is also just pennies away from its lowest-ever price of $67.95, so this is an excellent time to pick it up and save.

More Amazon Big Spring Sale Lego deals
Categories: IT General, Technology

Your DIY homelab server is secretly costing you more than a dedicated NAS

How-To Geek - Wed, 03/25/2026 - 17:01

I am currently building a PC to use, at least in part, as a server—but there are downsides to my chosen path compared to a dedicated NAS. If you find yourself debating which route to go, here are the reasons to buy a NAS instead.

Categories: IT General, Technology

These are the 13 best Amazon Big Spring Sale deals

How-To Geek - Wed, 03/25/2026 - 17:00

It's that time of the year again—not Prime Day, but for the Amazon Big Spring Sale. This seasonal event is much like Prime Day, but you don't need to wait until July to enjoy it. With thousands of items on sale, it can be overwhelming to find what are the best discounts. Don't worry, we have you covered.

Categories: IT General, Technology

35+ Amazon device deals in the Big Spring Sale: Echo, Fire TV, Kindle, Blink

Mashable - Wed, 03/25/2026 - 16:54
The best Big Spring Sale Amazon device deals at a glance: Best subscription deal Kindle Unlimited $0.99 for 3 months (save $34.98) Get Deal Best Echo device deal Amazon Echo Studio $189.99 (save $30) Get Deal Best Fire TV deal Amazon 55-inch 4-Series 4K Fire TV $279.99 (save $180) Get Deal Best Fire TV Stick deal Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Select $17.99 (save $22) Get Deal Best Kindle deal Amazon Kindle Colorsoft $169.99 (save $80) Get Deal Best Kids device deal Amazon Kindle Colorsoft Kids $189.99 (save $80) Get Deal

Amazon's Big Spring Sale has arrived and with it, a boat load of discounts on Amazon's own devices. It officially runs from March 25 through March 31 this year and new deals will be dropping daily.

It only makes sense that Amazon would offer the biggest markdowns on its own devices, given that it's an Amazon sale, after all. So far, you can find Black Friday-level record-lows on several Echo speakers and smart displays, as well as Fire TVs. Blink cameras and some Kindles also got the deal treatment this time around. Price drops on Amazon's Fire tablets, on the other hand, are pretty scarce. We'll keep an eye out for any new Fire tablet discounts that may drop during the sale, but don't hold your breath. Also MIA from the sale (and the Amazon site in general) are the popular Echo Buds — usually a staple in major Amazon shopping events.

We're tracking all of the best Amazon device deals throughout the Big Spring Sale 2026 below. For deals beyond Amazon devices, be sure to follow along with all of Mashable's coverage in our Big Spring Sale hub.

Best Big Spring Sale Amazon subscription deal Opens in a new window Credit: Kindle Unlimited Kindle Unlimited $0.99 for 3 months (save $11.99/month) Get Deal Why we like it

Amazon's major sales are always an excuse for the retailer to offer extended free trials or discounted prices for its membership subscriptions. My personal favorite is this three-month Kindle Unlimited membership for just 99 cents. Usually $11.99 per month (an outstanding value, IMHO), that saves you about $35 in total. Kindle Unlimited unlocks instant unfettered access to a massive library of popular series, best sellers, classics, and more. And unlike the beloved Libby app, there's no wait times. You can borrow up to 20 books at once and you can read on any device (though we definitely recommend grabbing a Kindle while they're on sale).

More Amazon subscription dealsBest Amazon Big Spring Sale Echo deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Echo Studio $189.99 at Amazon
$219.99 Save $30   Get Deal Why we like it

Amazon dropped four new Echo devices last fall specifically built for Alexa+, including the new super-powered Echo Studio smart speaker. This is technically the Studio's first update in six years, though it's a much different design than its predecessor. According to Amazon, you "can't find any smart speaker that sounds this amazing at this size." It packs Dolby Atmos and spatial audio into a Death Star-like orb that fits in the palm of your hand. It's even powerful enough to give your TV a boost. The speaker saw its first-ever discount during Black Friday, and that same discount is back for the Big Spring Sale.

More Echo dealsBest Amazon Big Spring Sale Fire TV deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon 55-inch 4-Series 4K Fire TV $279.97 at Amazon
$459.99 Save $180.02   Get Deal Why we like it

Amazon's 4-Series Fire TVs aren't the most advanced in the brand's lineup, but they are the most popular. These TVs are for those who don't require a ton of bells and whistles. If you just want a decent looking TV that's great for streaming, the 55-inch 4-Series 4K Fire TV is an excellent value — especially now that it's back down to its best price ever. It was redesigned in 2025 to sport an ultra-slim bezel, a new quad-core processor for speedy navigation, and Alexa+. It also packs 4K UHD picture quality with support for HDR10, HLG, and Dolby Digital Sound, and Omnisense technology that wakes up the TV when you enter the room to show you artwork or your favorite comfort show.

Best Amazon Big Spring Sale Fire TV Stick deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Select $17.99 at Amazon
$39.99 Save $22.00   Get Deal Why we like it

Amazon practically gave away the Fire TV Stick 4K Select during Black Friday season, so we're hoping to see a return of the $9.99 discount price during the Big Spring Sale. Even if we don't, its current discount price of $17.99 is still pretty dang great. It's the newest Fire TV Stick in Amazon's lineup and delivers 4K quality with HDR10+ support, the plug-and-play design you know and love, and a new operating system called Vega. It also offers support for Alexa+, Amazon Kids+, Amazon Luna, Xbox Game Pass, and NordVPN.

More Fire TV dealsBest Amazon Big Spring Sale Kindle deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Kindle Colorsoft $169.99 at Amazon
$249.99 Save $80   Get Deal Why we like it

We don't usually recommend the Kindle Colorsoft because the price tag is simply too steep. But now that it's $80 off its $249.99 list price, it's the best value e-reader you can get. It's practically the same device as the Kindle Paperwhite, but adds a full spectrum of color, with a resolution of 150 ppi and a black and white resolution of 300 ppi. Otherwise, it's a speedy, waterproof, seven-inch e-reader with no ads and a battery life that won't quit (up to eight weeks!). Plus, it allows you to actually highlight in color.

More Kindle deals

For more discounts on Kindle devices, check out our full list of Big Spring Sale Kindle deals.

Kids device dealsBlink camera dealsEero deals
Categories: IT General, Technology

The best Pokémon deals in Amazons Big Spring Sale: Trading cards at record-low prices

Mashable - Wed, 03/25/2026 - 16:37
Amazon Spring Sale Pokémon deals at a glance: Best Collection deal Pokemon TCG: Mega Evolution Ascended Heroes $133.94 (save $26.05) Shop Now Best Collector Chest Deal Pokémon TCG Collector Chest Fall 2025 $44 (save $13.99) Shop Now Best Pre-Order Deal Pokémon TCG: Mega Evolution Perfect Order Booster Display Box $245.99 (save $34) Shop Now Best Elite Trainer Box Deal Pokémon TCG: Mega Evolution Perfect Order Elite Trainer Box $102.95 Shop Now Best tin deal Pokémon TCG: Mega Charizard X Tin $35.34 (save $2.59) Shop Now Best Toy Deal MEGA Pokémon Building Toys Set Every Eevee Evolution $55.01 (save $20.58) Get Deal

Amazon’s Big Spring Sale has officially begun, and there's plenty are plenty of deals for Pokémon shoppers to hunt down.

Amazon has discounts and preorder price cuts across a wide range of categories — gaming deals, TV deals, Lego deals, and much more — making this a good time to shop if your wishlist includes sealed TCG products, collector boxes, or a couple of first-party Pokémon titles.

That's what we love about these sale events. No matter what you're into, Amazon has you covered. And if Pokémon is your thing, look no further. Wannabe trainers can pick up some great bargains.

Best Pokémon Elite Trainer Box deal Opens in a new window Credit: The Pokémon Company Pokémon TCG: Mega Evolution Perfect Order Elite Trainer Box $102.95 at Amazon
  Pre-order Here

With Pokémon TCG's Perfect Order expansion finally out this week on March 27, we're at the turning point where pre-launch ETBs will start going well above $100 upon release — making this the best time to grab the Perfect Order Elite Trainer Box for under $100.

Soon after, we predict the Perfect Order ETB will follow the market's usual trend (like other Pokémon ETBs on Amazon), going well above the $110 mark as availability starts to drop. Now is the best time to jump in before that happens.

The Perfect Order Elite Trainer Box includes nine Perfect Order booster packs, a full-art foil Tyrunt promo card, 65 sleeves, 40 Energy cards, a player’s guide, dice, a coin, a collector’s box, six dividers, and a code card for Pokémon TCG Live.

Best Pokémon collection deal Opens in a new window Credit: The Pokemon Company Pokemon TCG: Mega Evolution Ascended Heroes $133.94 at Amazon
$159.99 Save $26.05   Get Deal

With Pokémon deals going fast, the Pokémon TCG: Mega Evolution Ascended Heroes is one of the best deals in the current Big Spring Sale — down to $133.94 from $159.99, saving you $26.05 on a premium poster box with a nice selection of booster packs. It's now only $14.44 above TCGplayer's market price value of $119.50.

This set includes 10 booster packs, a foil promo card of Mega Lucario ex, and a double-sided poster.

Best Pokémon preorder deal Opens in a new window Credit: The Pokémon Company Pokémon TCG Mega Evolution Perfect Order Booster Display Box $247.99 at Amazon
$279.99 Save $32   Pre-order Here

With a new price cut of over $30, pre-ordering the Pokémon TCG Mega Evolution Perfect Order Booster Display Box (36 booster packs) for $247.99 means you're only paying roughly $6.88 per booster pack; that's almost $5 off compared to buying Perfect Order boosters individually.

So unlike an Elite Trainer Box, you are not getting sleeves, dice, or storage extras. This is more of a straight pack-heavy buy for collectors who want to open a full box at once or chase cards from the new Perfect Order expansion without paying for the added accessories.

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Categories: IT General, Technology

You don’t need Microsoft Word anymore, these 4 free apps prove it

How-To Geek - Wed, 03/25/2026 - 16:30

I’m always looking for writing tools that match how I work, not ones that try to dictate a workflow. Microsoft Word still gets the job done, but it tries to be everything at once, and that often makes it feel heavier than it needs to be for everyday writing. And if I can avoid another monthly subscription in the process, that's even better.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The best headphones deals in Amazons Big Spring Sale — Sony leads the pack but theres an excellent JLab deal too

Mashable - Wed, 03/25/2026 - 16:29
Best early Big Spring Sale headphones and earbuds deals Best headphones deal Sony WH-1000XM6 $398 (save $61.99) Get Deal Best earbuds deal Sony WF-C710N $88 (save $41.99) Get Deal Best budget headphones deal JLab JBuds Lux ANC 41.99 (Save $38) Get Deal Best open earbuds deal Sony LinkBuds Clip $198 (save $31.99) Get Deal

If you're in need of an audio upgrade, Amazon's Big Spring Sale has come at the right time. Alongside discounts on products like TVs and Apple products, this mammoth sales event will see a wide range of discounts on both headphones and earbuds.

This will be the third year Amazon hosts the sale, and while the mega-retailer puts emphasis on spring-appropriate deals (think outdoor gear, cleaning supplies, and robot vacuums), the prior two years of the sale show that some tech deals get thrown in the mix.

SEE ALSO: When is Amazon's Spring Sale in 2026? Amazon just announced official dates.

The weeklong sale officially kicked off on March 25, and I've done my combing as one of Mashable's headphones experts to find over 20 deals that offer Spring Sale-worthy savings.

So far, the best savings are coming from Sony headphones, but you'll also find deals from brands including Sennheiser, Nothing, Samsung, Google, Marshall, and JBL. We'll be updating this post throughout the sale, and any deals no longer available with be marked with a strikeout.

Best headphones deal Sony WH-1000XM6 $398 at Amazon
$459.99 Save $61.99   Get Deal at Amazon Why we like it

Sony's flagship headphones, the Sony WH-1000XM6, are still relatively new all things considered, meaning that catching them on sale isn't always a given. Granted, even though their sale price of $398 does net you a nice $61.99 price cut, they're still expensive headphones. (If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, we recommend the Sony WH-CH720N). That said, if you're looking for the best of the best, we think they offer some of the best sound, noise cancellation, and all-day wear available. Plus, unlike their predecessor, their ear cups actually fold. Grab them on sale in any of the available four colorways.

If the WH-1000XM6 are out of your price range, go for a more budget-friendly option. The JLab Lux are surprisingly great for a pair of headphones under $100, and right now you can get them for just $41.99.

Check out our full review of the Sony WH-1000XM6.

More early headphones dealsBest earbuds deal Sony WF-C710N $88 at Amazon
$129.99 Save $41.99   Get Deal at Amazon Why we like it

As much as I love a good pair of premium earbuds, I'm less in love with the idea of paying over $200 for quality ANC and sound when you can get that for much, much cheaper. For day-to-day use, I often find myself reaching for the Sony WF-C710N earbuds. They have great battery life, a compact case for easy portability, really solid ANC, and a rounded sound profile worthy of the Sony name. Bracetti called them the best Sony earbuds you can get for under $100 (when they're on sale), and I'm comfortable saying they're some of the best earbuds under $100, period.

Check out our full review of the Sony WF-C710N.

More early earbuds deals Best open earbuds deal Sony LinkBuds Clip $198 at Amazon
$229.99 Save $31.99   Get Deal at Amazon Why we like it

People love the Bose Ultra Open earbuds, but the Sony LinkBuds Clip are just as comfortable, sound at least as good, and at their full price, cost about $70 cheaper than the Bose buds. On sale, they're over $100 cheaper than the Bose Ultra earbuds. Mashable contributor Simon Cohen deemed these earbuds a Mashable Selects winner, which means they're one of our favorite products we've tried. This sale price of $198 marks their biggest discount ever, and the first time they've ever gone below $200. For earbuds that just launched in January, that's not too shabby.

Check out our full review of the Sony LinkBuds Clip.

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Categories: IT General, Technology

The Heated Rivalry soundtrack is coming to vinyl and CD: Where to buy every variant

Mashable - Wed, 03/25/2026 - 16:21

The viral bops from Heated Rivalry are finally getting a physical release. Billboard reports that the soundtrack album to Crave's hit gay hockey show will drop this summer on CD and vinyl (in two different variants, no less).

Preorders open this Thursday, March 26 through Milan Records, a Los Angeles-based record label. Fans can sign up for availablity updates on its website. Pricing hasn't been announced yet.

The album includes 11 songs that were featured in the first season of Heated Rivalry, including Wet Leg’s "mangetout," t.A.T.u's "All the Things She Said," and Harrison's clubby cover of the latter. It also comes with a previously unreleased bonus track called "One Soul (Cottage Mix)," written by Peter Peter, the Canadian composer behind the show's original score.

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That full 34-track score will be available on the CD, while the vinyl version has a selection of 18 tracks from it. Both formats will ship with a double-sided poster and liner notes by Heated Rivalry showrunner Jacob Tierney. The vinyl includes two extra trading cards and double-sided disc sleeves printed with imagery from the show, making it a true collector's item.

SEE ALSO: 'Heated Rivalry' fans, we've got your next must-see MLM romance

Based on author Rachel Reid’s bestselling Game Changers book series, Heated Rivalry follows a secret romance between Shane Hollander (Hudson Williams) and Ilya Rozanov (Connor Storrie), two fictional rival hockey players. The show debuted on HBO Max and the Canadian streaming service Crave last November to surprise success, spawning a passionate fandom and turning its leading men into superstars overnight.

Season two of Heated Rivalry will begin production this August, a month before Reid releases her seventh Game Changers installment, Unrivaled. It's now available for preorder.

Heated Rivalry soundtrack variants The "Icy Inferno" variant will be sold exclusively through Milan Records and Sony Music Canada. Credit: Milan Records

The Heated Rivalry soundtrack CD features two discs printed with shirtless photos of Rozanov and Hollander. The vinyl comes in two variants that are identical save for their pressing colors:

  • The "Montreal vs. Boston Edition" includes two-toned LPs pressed in red/blue and black/yellow, representing the show's two main hockey teams.

  • The "Icy Inferno" variant has two clear LPs.

The CD and the Montreal vs. Boston Edition vinyl will both be widely available at major retailers and indie record stores. The Icy Inferno vinyl variant will only be sold through Milan Records and Sony Music Canada.

Summer playlist secured. Credit: Milan Records

Listings will start to go live at 12:01 a.m. ET on Thursday, but don't bother setting your alarm. "Stock is not limited for the pre-order, so no need to wake up early or worry about missing it!" Milan Records states on an FAQ page. "There will be plenty of options for purchase during the initial pre-order launch."

The CD and both vinyl variants are slated to start shipping on July 10, the same day the album arrives on digital, per Billboard. Visit Milan Records' website to check out the complete tracklist.

Categories: IT General, Technology

These 5 Harbor Freight power tools prove you don't need to spend big on Milwaukee or Makita

How-To Geek - Wed, 03/25/2026 - 16:15

While premium brands like Milwaukee or Makita are great for daily professional use, budget-conscious homeowners don't need to spend a fortune to get the job done right. Harbor Freight has evolved over the years and is quickly becoming a go-to destination for DIYers looking for quality gear without breaking the bank.

Categories: IT General, Technology

OpenAI’s Sora shutting down: When it happens, 2 AI video alternatives

Mashable - Wed, 03/25/2026 - 16:10

You may have heard that OpenAI is killing its Sora AI video generation tool. However, that doesn't mean it's the end of the line for AI video generation in general.

Sam Altman's company announced the surprising move on Tuesday afternoon, in conjunction with Disney axing its big-money partnership with OpenAI at the same time.

The nature of the announcement made it seem, at least from the outside looking in, that things are moving quickly inside OpenAI right now. In other words, when Sora will fully shut down and what that means for your creations hasn't been revealed. In an X post announcing the decision, the Sora account merely said "We’ll share more soon, including timelines for the app and API and details on preserving your work."

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

Well, OK then! While OpenAI works all of the specifics out, it's time for anyone who really liked using Sora to investigate other alternatives for AI video generation. Here are some easy options.

Google Veo 3

The most mainstream option is going to be Google's Veo 3 model, which Mashable called "shockingly realistic" when it launched last year. You can make videos that look better than most other models, but obviously, nothing is free. You'll need one of Google's paid AI plans, which also come with enhanced Gemini features and access to Nano Banana, among other things. These start at $7.99 per month, so they aren't the most expensive thing in the world, but you'll need to ask yourself if you want to pay monthly for the ability to generate videos. That question will come up again as you look for alternatives to Sora.

Luma Ray3

Speaking of money, Luma's Ray3 model is also known for producing realistic, high-quality videos, but at a cost. And it's a steep one compared to Veo 3. The cheapest plan is $30 monthly, so by comparison, Veo 3 is a steal. That said, Ray3 has a deep bench of editing tools, native 1080p video generation, and some other bells and whistles that might make it worth the price, depending on what you plan on doing with it.

Categories: IT General, Technology

A new 7-episode Merlin and King Arthur series is available to stream, but there’s a catch

How-To Geek - Wed, 03/25/2026 - 16:00

There’s an epic new Merlin/King Arthur series available in the streaming world, and, if I do say so myself, it’s pretty awesome. Contrary to what you might think, we’re not zeroing in on the Arthur-Guinevere love story. Instead, we’re tracing an origin story, and it’s a must-see for fans of historical fiction and fantasy. The Pendragon Cycle: Rise of the Merlin is a 7-episode historical fiction series based on Stephen R. Lawhead’s line of popular Pendragon Cycle novels.

Categories: IT General, Technology
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