Technology

OnePlus has always been at the forefront of zippy Android flagship phones—and the OnePlus 15 is no different. It's one of the first Android smartphones on the market with the powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 SoC, which will likely appear in many other Android flagships, including Samsung devices, starting in 2026. If you want to get a head start on this powerful new chip, the OnePlus 15 is your phone.

We're close to the New Moon, which means it's almost the beginning of a new lunar cycle. The lunar cycle is the roughly 29.5-day period during which the Moon orbits Earth and appears to change shape as different portions of its sunlit surface become visible from our perspective.

What is today’s moon phase?

As of Thursday, Dec. 17, the moon phase is Waning Crescent. This means only 2% of the moon is lit up tonight, according to NASA's Daily Moon Observation.

With such a small sliver of moon on display, it's unlikely you'll be able to see anything on it's surface tonight.

When is the next full moon?

The next full moon will be on Jan. 3. The last full moon was on Dec. 4.

What are moon phases?

According to NASA, the Moon takes around 29.5 days to complete one full cycle. During this time, it passes through a series of phases as it orbits Earth. Although the same side of the Moon always faces us, the amount of sunlight reflecting off its surface changes, which is why it can appear fully illuminated, partly lit, or completely invisible at different points in the cycle. This process is divided into eight main lunar phases:

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

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

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

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

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

Waning Gibbous - The moon starts losing light on the right side. (Northern Hemisphere)

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

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

If you like playing daily word games like Wordle, then Hurdle is a great game to add to your routine.

There are five rounds to the game. The first round sees you trying to guess the word, with correct, misplaced, and incorrect letters shown in each guess. If you guess the correct answer, it'll take you to the next hurdle, providing the answer to the last hurdle as your first guess. This can give you several clues or none, depending on the words. For the final hurdle, every correct answer from previous hurdles is shown, with correct and misplaced letters clearly shown.

An important note is that the number of times a letter is highlighted from previous guesses does necessarily indicate the number of times that letter appears in the final hurdle.

If you find yourself stuck at any step of today's Hurdle, don't worry! We have you covered.

SEE ALSO: Hurdle: Everything you need to know to find the answers Hurdle Word 1 hint

Heaven-sent.

SEE ALSO: Apple’s new M3 MacBook Air is $300 off at Amazon. And yes, I’m tempted. Hurdle Word 1 answer

ANGEL

Hurdle Word 2 hint

A bad spell.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for December 18, 2025 Hurdle Word 2 Answer

CURSE

Hurdle Word 3 hint

A binge.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for December 18 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for December 18, 2025 Hurdle Word 3 answer

SPREE

Hurdle Word 4 hint

To contemplate.

SEE ALSO: NYT Strands hints, answers for December 18 Hurdle Word 4 answer

WEIGH

Final Hurdle hint

To scrape.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Games available on Mashable Hurdle Word 5 answer

SCUFF

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Tesla has filed a very interesting patent in the U.S. and Europe for a new type of car roof.

On Dec. 4, Tesla filed U.S. patent application 2025/0368267, which describes a novel "Vehicle Roof Assembly with Integrated RF Transparency for Electronic Module Consolidation." As first spotted by X user Chansoo Byeon, the patent has fueled speculation that Tesla could be planning to integrate Starlink satellites into its electric vehicles.

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

An online copy of the patent filed with the European Patent Office includes several drawings of the proposed roof assembly along with a detailed description and list of potential parts. (While the U.S. version of the patent is indexed by Google, it's not viewable via a web browser at the time of writing.) The patent description states:

An example vehicle roof assembly is disclosed, featuring an outer roof panel made from radio frequency (RF) transparent polymer materials, such as Polycarbonate (PC), Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), or Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate (ASA). In some examples, this assembly enables the integration of overhead electrical modules and components, including antennae, directly into the roof structure, facilitating clear communication with external devices and satellites. The design incorporates a membrane effect for enhanced occupant protection during impacts, and the use of integrated foams between the exterior roof and interior headliner improves thermal and acoustic insulation.

(Emphasis added.)

A partial cross-section view of the proposed vehicle roof assembly on a vehicle. Credit: European Patent Office / Tesla The patent application describes this as a "perspective view of an example antenna module and mounting." Credit: European Patent Office / Tesla

Why is this noteworthy?

Tesla vehicles already connect to cellular networks, but by integrating Starlink antennas directly into its vehicles, Tesla could offer its drivers internet connectivity virtually anywhere. Electrek reports that the metal and glass roofs used in modern vehicles can block satellite radio signals. Not only does the new roof assembly allow for RF signals to pass through the roof membrane, but the proposed roof could also integrate a satellite antenna.

Electrek reports that some Tesla owners already retrofit their cars to include Starlink Mini dishes, and there could be a market for satellite-connected electric vehicles. And with both 5G cellular and satellite internet, Tesla vehicles would have far greater connectivity than other vehicles on the road.

Of course, the patent application doesn't specifically mention Starlink, nor has Tesla described any plans to integrate its EVs with Starlink. And companies file patents all the time for products or innovations that never make it to the factory floor.

But it's an interesting look into the potential future of connected cars.

Tesla has filed a very interesting patent in the U.S. and Europe for a new type of car roof.

On Dec. 4, Tesla filed U.S. patent application 2025/0368267, which describes a novel "Vehicle Roof Assembly with Integrated RF Transparency for Electronic Module Consolidation." As first spotted by X user Chansoo Byeon, the patent has fueled speculation that Tesla could be planning to integrate Starlink satellites into its electric vehicles.

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

An online copy of the patent filed with the European Patent Office includes several drawings of the proposed roof assembly along with a detailed description and list of potential parts. (While the U.S. version of the patent is indexed by Google, it's not viewable via a web browser at the time of writing.) The patent description states:

An example vehicle roof assembly is disclosed, featuring an outer roof panel made from radio frequency (RF) transparent polymer materials, such as Polycarbonate (PC), Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), or Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate (ASA). In some examples, this assembly enables the integration of overhead electrical modules and components, including antennae, directly into the roof structure, facilitating clear communication with external devices and satellites. The design incorporates a membrane effect for enhanced occupant protection during impacts, and the use of integrated foams between the exterior roof and interior headliner improves thermal and acoustic insulation.

(Emphasis added.)

A partial cross-section view of the proposed vehicle roof assembly on a vehicle. Credit: European Patent Office / Tesla The patent application describes this as a "perspective view of an example antenna module and mounting." Credit: European Patent Office / Tesla

Why is this noteworthy?

Tesla vehicles already connect to cellular networks, but by integrating Starlink antennas directly into its vehicles, Tesla could offer its drivers internet connectivity virtually anywhere. Electrek reports that the metal and glass roofs used in modern vehicles can block satellite radio signals. Not only does the new roof assembly allow for RF signals to pass through the roof membrane, but the proposed roof could also integrate a satellite antenna.

Electrek reports that some Tesla owners already retrofit their cars to include Starlink Mini dishes, and there could be a market for satellite-connected electric vehicles. And with both 5G cellular and satellite internet, Tesla vehicles would have far greater connectivity than other vehicles on the road.

Of course, the patent application doesn't specifically mention Starlink, nor has Tesla described any plans to integrate its EVs with Starlink. And companies file patents all the time for products or innovations that never make it to the factory floor.

But it's an interesting look into the potential future of connected cars.

Somehow, we're less than 10 days away from Christmas. Whether you're doing last-minute gift shopping or just starting to decorate, if you've been waiting to buy any holiday Lego sets, it's time to pick them up.

Since we are talking about Lego, it is worth going into your shopping experience with a healthy set of expectations. Lego had new (and old) holiday sets for sale back in October, many of which have either sold out or are on backorder for the next 60 days, like the Up-Scaled Santa Minifig, Family Christmas Tree, and the majority of the Winter Village collection.

Unless you want to prepare way ahead of next year, your holiday-themed set pool is a little more limited, but we still managed to find everything from ornaments to center pieces. Below, find the seven best holiday Lego sets still available (and shippable by Christmas).

Lego Snowman Ornaments

These two snowmen come adorned with all the perfect holiday accessories: a top hat and scarf, a candy cane, and a loop for hanging them on your Christmas tree. At just $12.99, they're the most affordable holiday set still available.

Opens in a new window Credit: Lego Lego Snowman Ornaments $12.99 at Lego
  Shop Now Lego Santa's Delivery Truck

Lego Santa's delivery truck is sold out on Lego's website, but you can still grab it in stock at Target. In addition to being a cute piece for a mantle, the truck itself also opens to reveal more accessories, including a sticker sheet and Santa's toy sack. Depending on your Target location, you may be able to grab a set for same-day pickup or delivery.

Opens in a new window Credit: Lego Lego Santa’s Delivery Truck $15.99 at Target
$19.99 Save $4.00   Get Deal Lego Christmas Table Decoration

This 433-piece set strikes the balance between being decorative and too involved for more casual (or younger) builders. The red candle surrounded by foliage, berries, and stars makes for a festive centerpiece minus the fire risk.

Opens in a new window Credit: Lego Lego Christmas Table Decoration $19.99 at Amazon
$39.99 Save $20.00   Get Deal Lego Christmas Tree

The $329.99 Family Christmas Tree may be temporarily out of stock, but you can still pick up a much more affordable model (at the time of writing, it's on sale at Target for just $35.99). Builders will have an option between building one larger tree or two smaller trees, both of which can be adorned with ornaments, candles, and a star topper.

Opens in a new window Credit: Lego Lego Christmas Tree $35.99 at Target
$44.99 Save $9   Get Deal Lego Icons Poinsettia

You've heard of fake trees, but what about the holiday's most iconic plant? Whether you want a pet-safe poinsettia or one that you can use year after year without any worry of upkeep, the Lego Icons set is a great alternative. At the time of writing, its sale price of $34.99 also makes it an especially enticing option.

Opens in a new window Credit: Lego Lego Icons Poinsettia $34.99 at Amazon
$49.99 Save $15   Get Deal Lego Botanicals Wreath

There's something extra special about Lego sets you can actually hang on your walls, and this wreath is no exception. The orange, berry, pine cone, and cinnamon adornments ensure that it functions well from fall into winter, and the leaves provide a nice enough texture that's recognizably Lego, but doesn't look like you're hanging a child's toy on your wall. This nearly 2,000-piece set is one of the higher-rated holiday options on Lego's site.

Opens in a new window Credit: Lego Lego Botanicals Wreath $99.99 at Lego
  Shop Now Lego Icons Holiday Express Train

The Holiday Express Train is one of the last available Winter Village sets. This 956-piece set comes with a circular track, four minifigures, and a four-car train set. You can also elect to buy a Lego Powered Up kit to motorize the set (though that particular upgrade will likely have to wait until next year — the train motor kit is currently sold out).

Opens in a new window Credit: Lego Lego Icons Holiday Express Train $129.99 at Lego
  Shop Now

Still looking for more Lego gift inspo? Shop the favorite Lego sets of actual Lego fans.

Somehow, we're less than 10 days away from Christmas. Whether you're doing last-minute gift shopping or just starting to decorate, if you've been waiting to buy any holiday Lego sets, it's time to pick them up.

Since we are talking about Lego, it is worth going into your shopping experience with a healthy set of expectations. Lego had new (and old) holiday sets for sale back in October, many of which have either sold out or are on backorder for the next 60 days, like the Up-Scaled Santa Minifig, Family Christmas Tree, and the majority of the Winter Village collection.

Unless you want to prepare way ahead of next year, your holiday-themed set pool is a little more limited, but we still managed to find everything from ornaments to center pieces. Below, find the seven best holiday Lego sets still available (and shippable by Christmas).

Lego Snowman Ornaments

These two snowmen come adorned with all the perfect holiday accessories: a top hat and scarf, a candy cane, and a loop for hanging them on your Christmas tree. At just $12.99, they're the most affordable holiday set still available.

Opens in a new window Credit: Lego Lego Snowman Ornaments $12.99 at Lego
  Shop Now Lego Santa's Delivery Truck

Lego Santa's delivery truck is sold out on Lego's website, but you can still grab it in stock at Target. In addition to being a cute piece for a mantle, the truck itself also opens to reveal more accessories, including a sticker sheet and Santa's toy sack. Depending on your Target location, you may be able to grab a set for same-day pickup or delivery.

Opens in a new window Credit: Lego Lego Santa’s Delivery Truck $15.99 at Target
$19.99 Save $4.00   Get Deal Lego Christmas Table Decoration

This 433-piece set strikes the balance between being decorative and too involved for more casual (or younger) builders. The red candle surrounded by foliage, berries, and stars makes for a festive centerpiece minus the fire risk.

Opens in a new window Credit: Lego Lego Christmas Table Decoration $19.99 at Amazon
$39.99 Save $20.00   Get Deal Lego Christmas Tree

The $329.99 Family Christmas Tree may be temporarily out of stock, but you can still pick up a much more affordable model (at the time of writing, it's on sale at Target for just $35.99). Builders will have an option between building one larger tree or two smaller trees, both of which can be adorned with ornaments, candles, and a star topper.

Opens in a new window Credit: Lego Lego Christmas Tree $35.99 at Target
$44.99 Save $9   Get Deal Lego Icons Poinsettia

You've heard of fake trees, but what about the holiday's most iconic plant? Whether you want a pet-safe poinsettia or one that you can use year after year without any worry of upkeep, the Lego Icons set is a great alternative. At the time of writing, its sale price of $34.99 also makes it an especially enticing option.

Opens in a new window Credit: Lego Lego Icons Poinsettia $34.99 at Amazon
$49.99 Save $15   Get Deal Lego Botanicals Wreath

There's something extra special about Lego sets you can actually hang on your walls, and this wreath is no exception. The orange, berry, pine cone, and cinnamon adornments ensure that it functions well from fall into winter, and the leaves provide a nice enough texture that's recognizably Lego, but doesn't look like you're hanging a child's toy on your wall. This nearly 2,000-piece set is one of the higher-rated holiday options on Lego's site.

Opens in a new window Credit: Lego Lego Botanicals Wreath $99.99 at Lego
  Shop Now Lego Icons Holiday Express Train

The Holiday Express Train is one of the last available Winter Village sets. This 956-piece set comes with a circular track, four minifigures, and a four-car train set. You can also elect to buy a Lego Powered Up kit to motorize the set (though that particular upgrade will likely have to wait until next year — the train motor kit is currently sold out).

Opens in a new window Credit: Lego Lego Icons Holiday Express Train $129.99 at Lego
  Shop Now

Still looking for more Lego gift inspo? Shop the favorite Lego sets of actual Lego fans.

SAVE $500: The Ecovacs Deebot T80 robot vacuum is on sale at Amazon for $499.99, down from the list price of $999.99. That's a 50% discount.

Opens in a new window Credit: Ecovacs Ecovacs Deebot T80 robot vacuum $499.99 at Amazon
$999.99 Save $500   Get Deal

The clock says there are 24 hours in each day but December days hit different. Maybe it's the lack of daylight but days in December have maybe two hours of free time outside of work hours. That means there's simply no time for vacuuming. Instead of dealing with crumbs all over the place, send a robot vacuum off on a cleaning journey. If your current model is no longer doing a great job, there's a nice upgrade on sale at Amazon.

As of Dec. 17, the Ecovacs Deebot T80 robot vacuum is on sale for $499.99 at Amazon, marked down from the usual price of $999.99. That's a 50% discount that matches the lowest we've ever seen at Amazon. In total, you'll be saving $500.

Taking off with 18,000Pa of suction power, the Ecovacs Deebot T80 will be able to clean up holiday cookie crumbs this month and mop up beverage spills from the family gathering. The Ecovacs model comes packed with features you want like a minimalist design, the ability to recharge at off-peak times, and hot air drying at 113 degrees.

SEE ALSO: Keep a cleaner house for less work with $100 off the Shark Robot Vacuum and Mop Combo

Ecovacs says this model is equipped with the brand's Ozmo roller which has scrubbing power of 220 rpm. Plus, the TruEdge technology cleans with a streak-free shine, even in corners. When it comes to vacuuming, Ecovacs mentions this model is great for pet hair, dust, and crumbs.

While we're all dealing with a packed holiday schedule, gift yourself or a loved one the Ecovacs Deebot T80 robot vacuum while it's on sale for $499.99 at Amazon. Depending on your location, it's likely to arrive before Christmas.

SAVE $500: The Ecovacs Deebot T80 robot vacuum is on sale at Amazon for $499.99, down from the list price of $999.99. That's a 50% discount.

Opens in a new window Credit: Ecovacs Ecovacs Deebot T80 robot vacuum $499.99 at Amazon
$999.99 Save $500   Get Deal

The clock says there are 24 hours in each day but December days hit different. Maybe it's the lack of daylight but days in December have maybe two hours of free time outside of work hours. That means there's simply no time for vacuuming. Instead of dealing with crumbs all over the place, send a robot vacuum off on a cleaning journey. If your current model is no longer doing a great job, there's a nice upgrade on sale at Amazon.

As of Dec. 17, the Ecovacs Deebot T80 robot vacuum is on sale for $499.99 at Amazon, marked down from the usual price of $999.99. That's a 50% discount that matches the lowest we've ever seen at Amazon. In total, you'll be saving $500.

Taking off with 18,000Pa of suction power, the Ecovacs Deebot T80 will be able to clean up holiday cookie crumbs this month and mop up beverage spills from the family gathering. The Ecovacs model comes packed with features you want like a minimalist design, the ability to recharge at off-peak times, and hot air drying at 113 degrees.

SEE ALSO: Keep a cleaner house for less work with $100 off the Shark Robot Vacuum and Mop Combo

Ecovacs says this model is equipped with the brand's Ozmo roller which has scrubbing power of 220 rpm. Plus, the TruEdge technology cleans with a streak-free shine, even in corners. When it comes to vacuuming, Ecovacs mentions this model is great for pet hair, dust, and crumbs.

While we're all dealing with a packed holiday schedule, gift yourself or a loved one the Ecovacs Deebot T80 robot vacuum while it's on sale for $499.99 at Amazon. Depending on your location, it's likely to arrive before Christmas.

TL;DR: FileJump’s lifetime 2TB cloud storage plan is $79.97 (reg. $467) through Dec. 21 at 11:59 p.m. PT.

Opens in a new window Credit: FileJump FileJump 2TB Cloud Storage: Lifetime Subscription $79.97
$467 Save $387.03   Get Deal

If you’ve hit the ceiling on free storage or find yourself managing a maze of cloud logins, FileJump’s lifetime subscription offers a straightforward solution. With 2TB of storage, built-in file previews, and zero ongoing fees, it’s designed to provide lasting flexibility without the burden of monthly charges.

FileJump emphasizes practical features over unnecessary extras. Its intentionally streamlined interface allows users to drag and drop files from the desktop directly into a Chrome or Firefox browser for immediate upload. The platform supports previews for images, videos, and Excel files, so you can review content without downloading, saving time and reducing workflow interruptions. For those who regularly manage large volumes of media or documents, these conveniences can make daily tasks more efficient.

Mashable Deals Be the first to know! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Loading... Sign Me Up By signing up, you agree to receive recurring automated SMS marketing messages from Mashable Deals at the number provided. Msg and data rates may apply. Up to 2 messages/day. Reply STOP to opt out, HELP for help. Consent is not a condition of purchase. See our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. Thanks for signing up!

Security remains central to FileJump’s value proposition. The service employs 256-bit AES end-to-end encryption — the same standard trusted by banks and governments — to protect files in transit and at rest. This level of encryption scrambles your data so thoroughly that even if intercepted, it would be unreadable without your unique key. FileJump also places no limits on download counts and doesn’t throttle transfer speeds. Users can upload files up to 15 GB each, and sharing is simple. Send a direct link or set up free accounts for clients and collaborators who require access.

The lifetime plan is currently $79.97 (reg. $467), which is a significant drop for 2TB of permanent storage. Compared to recurring monthly fees on major platforms, the one-time payment is the standout here. You pay once, and that space is yours for good.

This approach fits freelancers archiving projects, households safeguarding photos and videos, and small teams needing straightforward shared folders. It also appeals to anyone who has outgrown multiple free cloud services and prefers to avoid additional monthly charges. For those looking to consolidate scattered files, FileJump offers a practical solution.

You can streamline your storage, keep your files accessible anywhere, and skip the ongoing bills. FileJump’s 2TB lifetime cloud plan is $79.97 until Dec. 21 at 11:59 p.m. PT, a practical deal if you want long-term space without the subscription cycle.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

TL;DR: FileJump’s lifetime 2TB cloud storage plan is $79.97 (reg. $467) through Dec. 21 at 11:59 p.m. PT.

Opens in a new window Credit: FileJump FileJump 2TB Cloud Storage: Lifetime Subscription $79.97
$467 Save $387.03   Get Deal

If you’ve hit the ceiling on free storage or find yourself managing a maze of cloud logins, FileJump’s lifetime subscription offers a straightforward solution. With 2TB of storage, built-in file previews, and zero ongoing fees, it’s designed to provide lasting flexibility without the burden of monthly charges.

FileJump emphasizes practical features over unnecessary extras. Its intentionally streamlined interface allows users to drag and drop files from the desktop directly into a Chrome or Firefox browser for immediate upload. The platform supports previews for images, videos, and Excel files, so you can review content without downloading, saving time and reducing workflow interruptions. For those who regularly manage large volumes of media or documents, these conveniences can make daily tasks more efficient.

Mashable Deals Be the first to know! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Loading... Sign Me Up By signing up, you agree to receive recurring automated SMS marketing messages from Mashable Deals at the number provided. Msg and data rates may apply. Up to 2 messages/day. Reply STOP to opt out, HELP for help. Consent is not a condition of purchase. See our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. Thanks for signing up!

Security remains central to FileJump’s value proposition. The service employs 256-bit AES end-to-end encryption — the same standard trusted by banks and governments — to protect files in transit and at rest. This level of encryption scrambles your data so thoroughly that even if intercepted, it would be unreadable without your unique key. FileJump also places no limits on download counts and doesn’t throttle transfer speeds. Users can upload files up to 15 GB each, and sharing is simple. Send a direct link or set up free accounts for clients and collaborators who require access.

The lifetime plan is currently $79.97 (reg. $467), which is a significant drop for 2TB of permanent storage. Compared to recurring monthly fees on major platforms, the one-time payment is the standout here. You pay once, and that space is yours for good.

This approach fits freelancers archiving projects, households safeguarding photos and videos, and small teams needing straightforward shared folders. It also appeals to anyone who has outgrown multiple free cloud services and prefers to avoid additional monthly charges. For those looking to consolidate scattered files, FileJump offers a practical solution.

You can streamline your storage, keep your files accessible anywhere, and skip the ongoing bills. FileJump’s 2TB lifetime cloud plan is $79.97 until Dec. 21 at 11:59 p.m. PT, a practical deal if you want long-term space without the subscription cycle.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

SAVE $20: The Kobo Clara Colour is on sale for $139.99 at Amazon, down from the usual price of $159.99. That's a 13% discount and a new record low at Amazon.

Opens in a new window Credit: Rakuten Kobo Kobo Clara Colour $139.99 at Amazon
$159.99 Save $20   Get Deal

While the holidays tend to be a chaotic time for many of us, the time off from work and school is a nice opportunity to slow down and take some quiet time for ourselves. Since streaming services have done never-ending price hikes this year, diving into books feels like one of the smartest entertainment options. If you're in the market for an e-reader, there's a nice deal in store today.

As of Dec. 17, the Kobo Clara Colour is on sale at Amazon for $139.99, marked down from the usual price of $159.99. In total, you'll be saving $20 from the 13% discount. While that might not seem like a major discount, Kobo e-readers rarely go on sale and this current deal marks an all-time low price at Amazon.

Mashable Deals Be the first to know! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Loading... Sign Me Up By signing up, you agree to receive recurring automated SMS marketing messages from Mashable Deals at the number provided. Msg and data rates may apply. Up to 2 messages/day. Reply STOP to opt out, HELP for help. Consent is not a condition of purchase. See our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. Thanks for signing up!

You've heard of the Kindle family of e-readers but there's a competitor that's well worth your attention. The Rakuten Kobo lineup has a handful of excellent models if you'd prefer to not own a Kindle. On Mashable's review of the best e-readers, the Kobo Clara Colour earns the top spot as the best Kobo. And the white model, which is on sale today, only launched in September of this year.

SEE ALSO: Kindle Paperwhite vs. Kobo Clara Colour: Which e-reader is better?

The Kobo Clara Colour uses a lovely matte display that's glare-free and unlike many Kindles, there are no ads on the Kobo. Plus, the color display is wonderful for reading manga or checking out illustrations in books. In Mashable's testing, Shopping Reporter Samantha Mangino noted the six-inch size is perfect. "With a 6-inch screen, it's slightly smaller than the Kindle Paperwhite, but it allows you to hold it comfortably for multiple hours at a time without any wrist or arm fatigue," Mangino wrote.

Its waterproof design means it's worthy of packing along on the tropical vacation your have planned for mid-winter and Kobo Rakuten just released a new Kobo remote earlier this month. With 16GB of storage, you'll be able to download hundreds of e-books and if you use the Libby app (highly recommend) you can get millions of titles of free.

If you've been thinking about a new e-reader, today's sale price on the Kobo Clara Colour is a great opportunity to snag one of Mashable's favorite models while it's on a rare discount. Order soon and it's likely to arrive before Christmas.

SAVE $20: The Kobo Clara Colour is on sale for $139.99 at Amazon, down from the usual price of $159.99. That's a 13% discount and a new record low at Amazon.

Opens in a new window Credit: Rakuten Kobo Kobo Clara Colour $139.99 at Amazon
$159.99 Save $20   Get Deal

While the holidays tend to be a chaotic time for many of us, the time off from work and school is a nice opportunity to slow down and take some quiet time for ourselves. Since streaming services have done never-ending price hikes this year, diving into books feels like one of the smartest entertainment options. If you're in the market for an e-reader, there's a nice deal in store today.

As of Dec. 17, the Kobo Clara Colour is on sale at Amazon for $139.99, marked down from the usual price of $159.99. In total, you'll be saving $20 from the 13% discount. While that might not seem like a major discount, Kobo e-readers rarely go on sale and this current deal marks an all-time low price at Amazon.

Mashable Deals Be the first to know! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Loading... Sign Me Up By signing up, you agree to receive recurring automated SMS marketing messages from Mashable Deals at the number provided. Msg and data rates may apply. Up to 2 messages/day. Reply STOP to opt out, HELP for help. Consent is not a condition of purchase. See our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. Thanks for signing up!

You've heard of the Kindle family of e-readers but there's a competitor that's well worth your attention. The Rakuten Kobo lineup has a handful of excellent models if you'd prefer to not own a Kindle. On Mashable's review of the best e-readers, the Kobo Clara Colour earns the top spot as the best Kobo. And the white model, which is on sale today, only launched in September of this year.

SEE ALSO: Kindle Paperwhite vs. Kobo Clara Colour: Which e-reader is better?

The Kobo Clara Colour uses a lovely matte display that's glare-free and unlike many Kindles, there are no ads on the Kobo. Plus, the color display is wonderful for reading manga or checking out illustrations in books. In Mashable's testing, Shopping Reporter Samantha Mangino noted the six-inch size is perfect. "With a 6-inch screen, it's slightly smaller than the Kindle Paperwhite, but it allows you to hold it comfortably for multiple hours at a time without any wrist or arm fatigue," Mangino wrote.

Its waterproof design means it's worthy of packing along on the tropical vacation your have planned for mid-winter and Kobo Rakuten just released a new Kobo remote earlier this month. With 16GB of storage, you'll be able to download hundreds of e-books and if you use the Libby app (highly recommend) you can get millions of titles of free.

If you've been thinking about a new e-reader, today's sale price on the Kobo Clara Colour is a great opportunity to snag one of Mashable's favorite models while it's on a rare discount. Order soon and it's likely to arrive before Christmas.

Music Assistant’s just dropped its biggest update yet. It comes with a visual overhaul, a host of new features, and the introduction of a custom multimedia streaming protocol. If you use Home Assistant and rely on this awesome audio manager, you'll love version 2.7.

Meta previously announced plans to develop VR and XR headsets with ASUS and Lenovo, using the same software as Meta's own Quest headsets. Those plans are now cancelled, but the headsets could be reworked as Android XR hardware.

Apple’s last release of the iMac Pro was all the way back in 2017, a full three years before Apple started using its own silicon in its computers.

The Intel Xeon-powered iMac was discontinued in 2021, and fans of the form factor have wondered if Apple would ever release another. Now, according to the rumor mill, that’s precisely what Apple is doing. 

As first noted by MacRumors, the rumor stems from kernel debug kit files often used by Apple engineers. The files, which have been circulating on Chinese websites like Weibo and BiliBili, sometimes reference unreleased Apple products.

And the list on these particular debug files list suggest a new iMac Pro is in the works — one with an M5 Max chip.

The software references an iMac with the “J833c” identifier running on the “H17C” platform. The H17C is associated with the “Sotra C” codename, which is related to the Apple M5 Max chip.

Of course, there are caveats. Internal testing files does not guarantee a public release. Apple often tests various configurations that do not make it to market. But this one seems more solid than most. Longtime Apple watchers including Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman and analyst Ming-Chi Kuo believe Apple has been working on a new iMac for quite some time — and that it would use Apple's own silicon. 

The debug files also show MacBook Pros coming with M6 Pro and M6 Max chips, MacBook Airs with the M5 chip, Mac Mini models with the M5 and M5 Pro chip, and a new Mac Studio with the M5 Max and M5 Ultra chips.

There was also mention of a low-cost MacBook powered by an iPhone chip. Rumors of that particular budget machine already circulated over the summer. 

Should the M5 iMac Pro be announced, it would be placed above the existing M4 iMac in the Apple product hierarchy. The M4 is quite good, but lacks pro-level configurations.

An iMac Pro with the M5 Max would shore up that pro level desktop experience that Apple currently lacks, and fans of the form factor would certainly enjoy having a refreshed model after all these years. 

Apple’s last release of the iMac Pro was all the way back in 2017, a full three years before Apple started using its own silicon in its computers.

The Intel Xeon-powered iMac was discontinued in 2021, and fans of the form factor have wondered if Apple would ever release another. Now, according to the rumor mill, that’s precisely what Apple is doing. 

As first noted by MacRumors, the rumor stems from kernel debug kit files often used by Apple engineers. The files, which have been circulating on Chinese websites like Weibo and BiliBili, sometimes reference unreleased Apple products.

And the list on these particular debug files list suggest a new iMac Pro is in the works — one with an M5 Max chip.

The software references an iMac with the “J833c” identifier running on the “H17C” platform. The H17C is associated with the “Sotra C” codename, which is related to the Apple M5 Max chip.

Of course, there are caveats. Internal testing files does not guarantee a public release. Apple often tests various configurations that do not make it to market. But this one seems more solid than most. Longtime Apple watchers including Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman and analyst Ming-Chi Kuo believe Apple has been working on a new iMac for quite some time — and that it would use Apple's own silicon. 

The debug files also show MacBook Pros coming with M6 Pro and M6 Max chips, MacBook Airs with the M5 chip, Mac Mini models with the M5 and M5 Pro chip, and a new Mac Studio with the M5 Max and M5 Ultra chips.

There was also mention of a low-cost MacBook powered by an iPhone chip. Rumors of that particular budget machine already circulated over the summer. 

Should the M5 iMac Pro be announced, it would be placed above the existing M4 iMac in the Apple product hierarchy. The M4 is quite good, but lacks pro-level configurations.

An iMac Pro with the M5 Max would shore up that pro level desktop experience that Apple currently lacks, and fans of the form factor would certainly enjoy having a refreshed model after all these years. 

A decade ago, staying safe online felt pretty straightforward. You slapped on some antivirus, tried not to click anything promising free smartphones, and hoped your inbox did not explode with weird gift card links. Now the internet feels like the wild west, only with fewer cowboy hats and more AI-generated nonsense. Voice clones, pixel perfect fake stores, scam SMS storms, spoofed calls, and deepfake everything. Antivirus is still important, sure, but it helps protect only part of the field.

That shift is why anti-scam tools have quietly become the gear every Aussie household needs. Maybe you are the family IT help desk. Maybe you are a parent who would really prefer their kid not hand over the family bank details for free ImaginaryGameBux. Or maybe you are just over the constant digital shenanigans. Either way, scams have become the thing most likely to smack you right in the daily life. And unlike malware, scams do not attack your device. They go straight for your judgement.

The rise of scams that look scarily legit

The ACCC keeps pointing out how many billions Aussies lose to scams each year (spoiler: 2.7B in 2023) and the crooks are getting way too good at it. Forget the bad spelling and dodgy logos of the past. Modern scams look sharp and move fast. Some look cleaner than the sites they are copying. Relying on pure gut instinct now feels like trying to fight a bushfire with a water pistol.

This is where real-time scam detection steps up. Instead of waiting for you to click something silly, the smart tools help jump in the moment a dodgy call, message, or website wanders into your general vicinity.

Meet the new guard: Real-time scam defence

Scam Protection Pro inside Norton 360 Advanced is a good example of how the game has changed. It keeps an eye on your calls, texts, emails, and browsing sessions, scanning for the sneaky tells that give modern scams away. And because scam attempts now appear in every corner of your digital life, having something that never clocks off makes more sense than trusting yourself to spot a fake toll payment SMS at 6am before your coffee even hits.

Text message scams are the worst. Safe SMS uses AI to help pick the dodgy ones. Those fake parcel notices are too sharp these days and honestly, a filter is more reliable than your half-awake brain.

Fake websites are another sneaky hazard. Scam sites can pop up and disappear before lunch. Safe Web helps check sites before you hit them and throws a warning if a site is suspicious.

Even phone calls have gone weird. AI-generated voices and spoofed numbers can mimic banks, retailers, or even your mates. Safe Call helps spot the red flags before picking up, using its AI to block scam calls and label incoming ones as scam, spam or a verified business.

Stopping scams is only half the job

A scam is rarely a one hit annoyance. A single convincing phishing page can turn into identity theft, a financial mess, or ongoing headaches that last long after that risky click.

That is why extra layers matter. Dark Web Monitoring helps let you know if your personal information shows up on the dark web. Financial Monitoring can help spot dodgy transactions before they go too far. And if identity theft does happen, having identity restoration specialists on hand to guide you is a lot better than trying to figure out the whole thing solo at the kitchen table with a cold cuppa and a decimated stress ball.

Even normal life chaos can cause problems. Losing your wallet is not just annoying. It can very quickly become an identity theft free for all. Stolen Wallet Assist helps guide you on how to cancel and replace your cards.

Kids and the rest of modern life

Families get a bit of help too with Parental Control features. Being able to set limits, block sketchy content, and see what they are watching gives you a bit of peace without hovering like a drone.

Of course, the basics still come with Norton 360 Advanced. Antivirus, malware protection, Windows PC Cloud Backup, and a VPN for more private browsing on public Wi Fi. And five devices per plan is solid for most Aussie households.

Why antivirus alone is not enough anymore

In 2025, threats do not always smash through the front door. Sometimes they sneak in through your voicemail or a text message that looks perfectly normal until it is not. Antivirus helps protect your system. Anti scam tools help protect you.

And with scammers using AI to copy voices, whip up convincing emails, and throw together fake storefronts in minutes, that extra layer is not a luxury anymore. It is basic survival gear.

Circling back 360 to the point

Antivirus helps keep your devices safe. Anti scam tech helps keep your decisions safe. Both matter in a digital world where trickery is quick, clever, and absolutely everywhere.

Real-time malware protection, identity-theft protection, financial alerts, data backups, and parental controls all sit under the Norton 360 Advanced roof. It helps give Aussie households a proper safety net without turning your online life into homework.

More on Norton 360 Advanced here.

A decade ago, staying safe online felt pretty straightforward. You slapped on some antivirus, tried not to click anything promising free smartphones, and hoped your inbox did not explode with weird gift card links. Now the internet feels like the wild west, only with fewer cowboy hats and more AI-generated nonsense. Voice clones, pixel perfect fake stores, scam SMS storms, spoofed calls, and deepfake everything. Antivirus is still important, sure, but it helps protect only part of the field.

That shift is why anti-scam tools have quietly become the gear every Aussie household needs. Maybe you are the family IT help desk. Maybe you are a parent who would really prefer their kid not hand over the family bank details for free ImaginaryGameBux. Or maybe you are just over the constant digital shenanigans. Either way, scams have become the thing most likely to smack you right in the daily life. And unlike malware, scams do not attack your device. They go straight for your judgement.

The rise of scams that look scarily legit

The ACCC keeps pointing out how many billions Aussies lose to scams each year (spoiler: 2.7B in 2023) and the crooks are getting way too good at it. Forget the bad spelling and dodgy logos of the past. Modern scams look sharp and move fast. Some look cleaner than the sites they are copying. Relying on pure gut instinct now feels like trying to fight a bushfire with a water pistol.

This is where real-time scam detection steps up. Instead of waiting for you to click something silly, the smart tools help jump in the moment a dodgy call, message, or website wanders into your general vicinity.

Meet the new guard: Real-time scam defence

Scam Protection Pro inside Norton 360 Advanced is a good example of how the game has changed. It keeps an eye on your calls, texts, emails, and browsing sessions, scanning for the sneaky tells that give modern scams away. And because scam attempts now appear in every corner of your digital life, having something that never clocks off makes more sense than trusting yourself to spot a fake toll payment SMS at 6am before your coffee even hits.

Text message scams are the worst. Safe SMS uses AI to help pick the dodgy ones. Those fake parcel notices are too sharp these days and honestly, a filter is more reliable than your half-awake brain.

Fake websites are another sneaky hazard. Scam sites can pop up and disappear before lunch. Safe Web helps check sites before you hit them and throws a warning if a site is suspicious.

Even phone calls have gone weird. AI-generated voices and spoofed numbers can mimic banks, retailers, or even your mates. Safe Call helps spot the red flags before picking up, using its AI to block scam calls and label incoming ones as scam, spam or a verified business.

Stopping scams is only half the job

A scam is rarely a one hit annoyance. A single convincing phishing page can turn into identity theft, a financial mess, or ongoing headaches that last long after that risky click.

That is why extra layers matter. Dark Web Monitoring helps let you know if your personal information shows up on the dark web. Financial Monitoring can help spot dodgy transactions before they go too far. And if identity theft does happen, having identity restoration specialists on hand to guide you is a lot better than trying to figure out the whole thing solo at the kitchen table with a cold cuppa and a decimated stress ball.

Even normal life chaos can cause problems. Losing your wallet is not just annoying. It can very quickly become an identity theft free for all. Stolen Wallet Assist helps guide you on how to cancel and replace your cards.

Kids and the rest of modern life

Families get a bit of help too with Parental Control features. Being able to set limits, block sketchy content, and see what they are watching gives you a bit of peace without hovering like a drone.

Of course, the basics still come with Norton 360 Advanced. Antivirus, malware protection, Windows PC Cloud Backup, and a VPN for more private browsing on public Wi Fi. And five devices per plan is solid for most Aussie households.

Why antivirus alone is not enough anymore

In 2025, threats do not always smash through the front door. Sometimes they sneak in through your voicemail or a text message that looks perfectly normal until it is not. Antivirus helps protect your system. Anti scam tools help protect you.

And with scammers using AI to copy voices, whip up convincing emails, and throw together fake storefronts in minutes, that extra layer is not a luxury anymore. It is basic survival gear.

Circling back 360 to the point

Antivirus helps keep your devices safe. Anti scam tech helps keep your decisions safe. Both matter in a digital world where trickery is quick, clever, and absolutely everywhere.

Real-time malware protection, identity-theft protection, financial alerts, data backups, and parental controls all sit under the Norton 360 Advanced roof. It helps give Aussie households a proper safety net without turning your online life into homework.

More on Norton 360 Advanced here.

Tesla has found itself in hot water, and it isn’t due to a recall or cratering sales numbers for a change. On Tuesday, a judge in California issued a ruling that slaps Tesla with a 30-day suspension from doing business in the state over Tesla's use of the term "Autopilot" to market its driver assistance systems. The ruling goes into effect on Jan. 15; however, Tesla will have 60 days to either stop using the term Autopilot or make certain changes to the system.

Tesla, for its part, says sales will continue uninterrupted. Earlier this week, the company also reposted a video on X showing a Tesla robotaxi driving in Austin, Texas with no drivers or passengers present in the vehicle at all, along with the tongue-in-cheek comment, "Just saying."

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According to court documents, the California DMV believes that the name “Autopilot” and Tesla’s “Full Self-Driving Capability” (FSD) do not accurately describe the level of autonomy with which the car can drive itself. The DMV filed a complaint, which demanded that Tesla change the names of its advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) in order to more accurately describe their capabilities. 

This assertion is based on the NHTSA’s Levels of Automation system, where Level 0 vehicles have no autonomy and Level 5 vehicles are fully autonomous. Autopilot and the Full Self-Driving Capability are both rated at a Level 2, and the court says that they should’ve been at Level 3 or higher to have earned their names, so to speak. The ruling now requires Tesla to either implement changes to bring its driver assistance systems up to Level 3 or stop using the term Autopilot.

Judge Juliet E. Cox, who presided over the complaint, agreed with the DMV, issuing a 30-day stay of business for Tesla. Perhaps unsurprisingly, Tesla responded by openly stating that it intends to ignore the court order.

“This was a ‘consumer protection’ order about the use of the term ‘Autopilot’ in a case where not one single customer came forward to say there’s a problem,” Tesla posted on X.

Per TechCrunch, the judge foresaw this potential pushback and stated that the “DMV’s authority to regulate vehicle advertising does not depend on evidence that any particular advertising has deceived or harmed any person.”

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If Tesla doesn't take mitigating action within 60 days of the order going into effect, the ban will hold, and Tesla will face additional penalties for continuing to sell cars in the state.

Tesla’s loss in court is the latest in several cases in 2025 that involve crashes or deaths from the use of Autopilot. In July, the family of Naibel Benavides filed suit in Miami, Florida, after the driver died while driving an Autopilot-equipped Tesla. The jury in that suit rather quickly found Tesla to be liable and ordered Tesla to pay over $240 million in damages. This was the first such court case where Tesla was found at least partially liable for an automobile accident involving Autopilot. 

However, emerging evidence suggests that driver-assisted and autonomous vehicles may be safer overall than traditional vehicles.