Technology

TL;DR: Keep spaces clean without lifting a finger thanks to the ECOVACS Deebot NEO+ Robot Vacuum and Mop with Auto-Empty Station, now on sale for just $229.99 (reg. $499.99).

Opens in a new window Credit: ECOVACS ECOVACS Deebot NEO+ Robot Vacuum & Mop with Auto-Empty Station $229.99
$499.99 Save $270 Get Deal

Want to keep things tidy without breaking a sweat? It’s time to call in robot reinforcements. The ECOVACS Deebot NEO+ Robot Vacuum and Mop offers hands-free cleaning that you can schedule, and right now you can get one for 54% off the usual price at just $229.99 (reg. $499.99).

Say goodbye to two annoying chores with help from this 2-in-1 robot vacuum

The ECOVACS Deebot NEO+ Robot Vacuum and Mop is a 2-in-1 cleaning solution, letting you check off two chores at once. It can vacuum up pet hair, dirt, and dust with a 4,000Pa suction, offering twice the power of many competing robot vacuums, while also handling your daily mopping needs.

The ECOVACS Deebot has laser-enabled TrueMapping that maps out your home and utilizes smart sensors, making sure the mop raises when it reaches rugs or carpet and that suction kicks in. It’s also smart enough to avoid furniture or running into things, and was made in a compact, under-furniture-ready design that cleans hard to reach spots. An OZMO Mopping System also makes sure the ECOVACS Deebot isn’t over-soaking your hard floors.

The Auto-Empty Station can hold up to 2.5L in a hypoallergenic bag, which holds about 30 to 60 days’ worth of debris. That means you can go for weeks without even touching the vacuum, letting it clean up while you tackle more important things. The 5,200 mAh battery also offers 170 minutes of continuous cleaning on a full charge.

Let the ECOVACS Deebot NEO+ Robot Vacuum and Mop with Auto-Empty Station conveniently keep your space clean, now for just $229.99 (reg. $499.99).

StackSocial prices subject to change.

TL;DR: Learn piano from the comfort of home with this lifetime subscription to Skoove Premium Piano Lessons for only $109.97 (reg. $299.99)

Opens in a new window Credit: Skoove Skoove Premium Piano Lessons: Lifetime Subscription $109.97
$299.99 Save $190.02 Get Deal

Looking for a fun summer hobby? You could be playing full songs by Labor Day with a little help from Skoove Premium Piano Lessons. This AI-powered app makes it easy to learn at your own pace — all you need is a keyboard and your phone, tablet, or laptop.

Right now, you can secure a lifetime subscription to Skoove for just $109.97 (reg. $299.99).

Want to learn piano at home? There’s now an app for that

Become a pianist this summer thanks to Skoove Premium Piano Lessons. This app lets you learn at your own pace, from the comfort of your own home. Just grab a keyboard and your smartphone, tablet, or laptop and get started.

Whether you’re totally new to the piano or have years of lessons under your belt, Skoove makes it easy to pick up where you are and grow from there. With over 400 interactive lessons and thousands of instructional videos, the app adapts to your skill level.

Unlike the dull piano lessons you took as a kid, Skoove lets you learn using music you actually like. Pick a pop song by Adele or a classical tune by Beethoven. The monthly updates make sure you never run out of options.

Skoove’s AI features allow the app to listen to your playing and recognize your notes, providing real-time feedback to help improve your skills. If you run into any issues, Skoove also has music instructors available to help.

Master the keys with some help from Skoove Premium Piano Lessons, now just $109.97 for a lifetime subscription.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Looking for something great to watch at home? Streaming subscribers are spoiled for choice between Hulu, Netflix, HBO Max, Disney+, Apple TV+, Prime Video, Shudder, Paramount+, Peacock, and more. And that's before you even look at the vast libraries of movies and television programs within each streamer!

SEE ALSO: The 10 best TV shows of 2025 (so far), and where to stream them

Don't be overwhelmed or waste an hour scrolling through your services to determine what to watch. We've got your back, whatever your mood. Mashable offers watch guides for all of the above, broken down by genre: comedy, thriller, horror, documentary, and animation, among others. But if you're seeking something brand-new (or just new to streaming), we've got you covered there, too.

Mashable's entertainment team has scoured the streaming services to highlight the most buzzed-about releases of this week and ranked them from worst to best — or least worth your time to most watchable. Whether you're in the mood for twisted true crime, hilarious cartoons, bold tales of grief, historical epics, or absolute horror stories, we've got something just for you.

12. Conversations with a Killer: The Son of Sam Tapes

Conversations with a Killer is a recurring docuseries that Netflix produces with writer/director Joe Berlinger, who has spent his career digging into the most notorious America serial killers, from John Wayne Gacy to Ted Bundy, and now David Berkowitz, aka the Son of Sam or the .44 Caliber Killer.

From 1975 to 1977, when he was arrested, Berkowitz stalked New York City, shooting strangers with a .44 caliber gun, sometimes fatally. The randomness of these acts of violence instilled fear in the city, which Berlinger aims to recaptures by interviewing the cops, residents, and journalists who lived through it. But — as the title suggests — the main draw for Conversations with a Killer are the audio-taped interviews the still-living Berkowitz gave to a journalist shortly after his arrest.

Dragged out over three hour-long episodes, Conversations with a Killer: The Son of Sam Tapes is overlong. As he has with other killers, Berlinger's fascination with their inner workings means compelling talking head interviews about the case and its effects on society are overshadowed by the way the series treats Berkowitz's brain like a sacred text, worthy of decoding. To put it mildly, Berlinger's brand of true crime is one that turns victims into two-dimensional props, while the notorious murderer gets the spotlight. Depending on what you crave from true crime, your mileage may vary. As for me? I tapped out partway through episode two. — Kristy Puchko, Entertainment Editor

How to watch: Conversations with a Killer: The Son of Sam Tapes is now streaming on Netflix.

11. Memoir of a Snail

A bleak, brilliant, and at times hilarious portrait of grief and loss, Memoir of a Snail is unlike the narratives you might have seen on these universal experiences. Mary and Max director, writer, and production designer Adam Elliot pulls you into a detailed stop-motion animation story, following Grace Pudel (voiced by Sarah Snook) and her twin brother Gilbert (Kodi Smit-McPhee), who endure a staggering amount of misfortune. Wrenched apart and plunked onto either sides of the globe, the two live strangely different lives without ever forgetting each other. As I wrote in my review, "Despite appearances, this is not is a kids' movie. A funny, strangely sweet, and macabre tale, Memoir of a Snail embraces the surrealism of life's darker side in a bleak but fascinating world." — Shannon Connellan, UK Editor

Starring: Sarah Snook, Kodi Smit-McPhee, Eric Bana, Magda Szubanski, Dominique Pinon, Tony Armstrong, Paul Capsis, Bernie Clifford, Davey Thompson, Charlotte Belsey, Mason Litsos, Nick Cave, and Jacki Weaver

How to watch: Memoir of a Snail begins streaming on Hulu on Aug. 1.

10. The Friend

Trigger warning: The following film (and the blurb discussing it) involves mentions of suicide.

Last year, The Friend was a dramedy that earned solid film festival buzz, thanks in no small part to the charismatic performances from stars Naomi Watts, Bill Murray, and Bing, a beautiful Great Dane who is the film's adorable scene-stealer. During the enchanting press tour, you might have caught that Watts plays Iris a woman who's grieving the death of a friend (Murray) while caring for the problematically large pet he left behind. You might have missed, however, that Murray's character dies by suicide.

SEE ALSO: Bill Murray and Naomi Watts chose the one film for which they want to be remembered, and it's surprising

I mention this not to shock you, but so you might brace yourself (or just duck this one) as needed. Written and directed by Scott McGehee and David Siegel, The Friend treats the topic of grieving a person who has died by suicide with great care. One aspect of grief and its different stages can be a sense of guilt, which is a significant factor in Iris' dilemma over whether or not to keep the dog. It's a bittersweet film, rightly deserving of the praise it's received. But as someone who went in not knowing what to expect, I'd recommend proceeding with caution if the topic of grieving a friend lost to suicide hits too close to home. — K.P.

Starring: Naomi Watts, Bill Murray, Sarah Pidgeon, Carla Gugino, Constance Wu, and Ann Dowd

How to watch: The Friend begins streaming on HBO Max on Aug. 1.

9. The Wonderfully Weird World of Gumball

From 2011 to 2019, across 240 episodes, creator Ben Bocquelet gave kids and grown-ups alike a bevy of colorful characters, gleefully colliding art styles, and stories hilarious and often heart-warming with The Amazing World of Gumball. And now, the titular 12-year-old cat and his bestie/brother Darwin are back with new adventures in the sequel series The Wonderfully Weird World of Gumball.

What has the Watterson family been up to since they've been gone? Collecting dust per their "leaked" teaser from Cartoon Network! Which means that Gumball and company shouldn't miss a beat when it comes to fresh mayhem and mind-bending pop culture references. Will they be able to top the Golden Girls parody ep? Look, that's a very, very high bar to clear. But we're happy to see them try! — K.P.

Starring: Alkaio Thiele, Hero Hunter, Kinza Syed Khan, Teresa Gallagher, and Dan Russell

How to watch: The Wonderfully Weird World of Gumball is now streaming on Hulu.

8. The Yogurt Shop Murders

In 1991, a yogurt shop in Austin, Texas, was the scene of a nightmarish quadruple homicide that took the lives of four teenagers. Documentarian Margaret Brown (Descendant) looks back on the cold case in this four-part docuseries with sensitivity and care. Beyond searching for clues or fresh leads, The Yogurt Shop Murders explores the lives of those who were lost, and how their families were impacted — and how they continue to endure the lingering mystery around what happened that night.

I watched the first episode of this docuseries ahead of its debut at SXSW 2025, which was hosted in Austin. Even just from this introduction to the series, Brown's empathy for the families and her desire to uncover the truth and achieve justice is clear. Be warned: This murder mystery may hook you, and haunt you. — K.P.

How to watch: The first episode of The Yogurt Shop Murders debuts on HBO Max on Aug. 3.

7. Eyes of Wakanda

The four-episode animated miniseries Eyes of Wakanda takes us back into the history of Wakanda and the MCU. Directed by Todd Harris and executive produced by Black Panther director Ryan Coogler, the series follows the Wakandan warriors known as the Hatut Zeraze as they retrieve dangerous vibranium artifacts from across the globe. Maybe we'll even see the Black Panthers who preceded Chadwick Boseman's T'Challa, or older iterations of the Dora Milaje warriors.* — Belen Edwards, Entertainment Reporter

Starring: Winnie Harlow, Cress Williams, Patricia Belcher, Larry Herron, Adam Gold, Lynn Whitfield, Jacques Colimon, Jona Xiao, Isaac Robinson-Smith, Gary Anthony Williams, Zeke Alton, Steve Toussaint, and Anika Noni Rose

How to watch: Eyes of Wakanda premieres Aug. 1 on Disney+.

6. Marc Maron: Panicked

American's most stressed out stand-up is back with a new special. Marc Maron, who's been a comedy icon for decades and a top-notch podcaster with WTF with Marc Maron, dives right into MAGA America by kicking off Panicked with how "great" things are going.

Maron doesn't hold back, making punchlines of President Trump, Robert F. Kennedy, and Elon Musk before going in on comedy podcasters, who denounce "wokeness" and crave free speech. To drive his points home, he embraces language that makes some uncomfortable — but knowingly so. The result is a special that is electric, like George Carlin at his best. So, if you're feeling panicked, Maron may not be the cure. But he sure as hell knows what ails ya. — K.P.

Starring: Marc Maron

How to watch: Marc Maron: Panicked debuts on HBO Max on Aug. 1.

5. Final Destinations Bloodlines

Summertime means family fun, blended drinks, and DEATH AROUND EVERY TURN! As teased in the enticing trailer for the latest Final Destination entry, no place — no matter how convivial — is out of the reach of death. Directing duo Zach Lipovsky and Adam Stein (who made the underrated 2018 gem Freaks) bring comical carnage and eye-popping practical effects to Final Destination Bloodlines, a reboot/sequel that brings fresh horror to the franchise through a family twist.

Long before Devon Sawa deboarded that plane, a swinging '60s massacre was prevented by the premonition of a young pregnant woman. Decades later, her family thinks she's nuts for believing death is after her and her kin. But once she dies, her granddaughter Stefani Reyes (Kaitlyn Santa Juana) faces the bloody truth, one horrific freak "accident" at a time!

Twisted fun that'll have you side-eying everyday objects, Final Destinations Bloodlines is a splashy sequel not to be skipped! — K.P.

Starring: Kaitlyn Santa Juana, Teo Briones, Richard Harmon, Owen Patrick Joyner, Anna Lore, Brec Bassinger, and Tony Todd

How to watch: Final Destinations Bloodlines debuts on HBO Max on Aug. 1.

4. Chief of War

Looking for a historical epic that will knock your socks off? Then check out Apple TV+'s Chief of War, based on the true story of the unification of the Hawaiian Islands.

Co-created by Jason Momoa and Thomas Pa'a Sibbett, Chief of War transports viewers to the end of the 18th century, when the kingdoms of O'ahu, Maui, Kaua'i, and Hawai'i are at war. At the center of it all is warrior Ka'iana (Momoa), who must navigate shifting sides, villainous kings, and the outside threat of colonization. The result is a bloody, exquisitely crafted look at the corrupting power of prophecy, and the compromises people make to ensure their survival. (It also boasts some jaw-dropping battle sequences that you won't want to miss.) — B.E.

Starring: Jason Momoa, Temuera Morrison, Luciane Buchanan, Te Ao o Hinepehinga, Kaina Makua, Moses Goods, Siua Ikale'o, Brandon Finn, James Udom, Mainei Kinimaka, and Te Kohe Tuhaka

How to watch: Chief of War debuts on Apple TV+ on Aug. 1.

3. King of the Hill

Hank Hill and company returns! Fifteen years after the Season 13 finale, creator Mike Judge has gotten most of the original gang back together for new misadventures in Arlen, Texas.

Several years have passed since we last saw the Hills. Hank and Peggy were living it up in Saudi Arabia, where Hank's expertise in propane (and propane accessories) allowed them to live the sweet life, while Peggy put her language skills to learning Arabic. But now they're back home, eager to reconnect with friends like Bill, Dale, and Boomhauer. And of course, they're happy to reunite with their son Bobby Hill. Now 21, Bobby has rebuffed college to start his own fusion restaurant. And while each episode of Season 14 has its moments, the one centering on Bobby's drive and dreams for his Japanese/German barbecue joint was the one that had me laughing, gasping, and tearing up.

Simply put, we're so back. — K.P.

Starring: Mike Judge, Kathy Najimy, Pamela Adlon, and Stephen Root

How to watch: King of the Hill returns to Hulu with Season 14 on Aug. 4.

2. 28 Years Later

Director Danny Boyle and screenwriter Alex Garland reunite for a killer sequel to 2002's 28 Days Later, delivering yet another zombie film for the ages. In 28 Years Later, the Rage Virus continues to run rampant in the quarantined UK, but survivors in an island community have found ways to thrive in the apocalypse. The film kicks off with 12-year-old islander Spike (Alfie Williams) and his father (Aaron Taylor-Johnson) heading to the mainland as a rite of passage, which quickly spirals into an unrelenting stress ride.

Bursting with gore, deep emotion, and innovative filming techniques, 28 Years Later proves just as harrowing and fresh as Boyle and Garland's first foray into zombie filmmaking. As Mashable UK Editor Shannon Connellan wrote in her review, "In a landscape heaving with zombie apocalypse media from The Walking Dead to The Last of Us, 28 Years Later manages to declare its footing as an original monster. Magnificently shot, ruthlessly edited, and outrageously scored, it's a rambunctious, grisly, human tale of survival." — B.E.

Starring: Alfie Williams, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Jodie Comer, Ralph Fiennes, and Jack O’Connell

How to watch: 28 Years Later is now available to rent or buy on Prime Video.

1. The Life of Chuck

Writer/director Mike Flanagan and Stephen King are a match made in heaven. Look no further than Flanagan's adaptations of Gerald's Game and Doctor Sleep. However, with The Life of Chuck, Flanagan outdoes himself, tackling a twisty King novella and creating a gorgeous film that honestly works way better if you go in knowing nothing about it.

What I will say is this: As the title suggests, The Life of Chuck chronicles the life of 39-year-old accountant Chuck Krantz (Tom Hiddleston). But that's all you get! For more reasons to watch Flanagan's "career-best" work, look no further than its critical acclaim. In her review, Mashable's Kristy Puchko wrote, "The Life of Chuck is masterfully told. Like King's most moving adaptations, it doesn't play by standard rules of structure or audience expectations. It demands we follow the winding road through playful dialogue, painful lows, and rollicking highs, to an unknown beyond." You heard her, get to watching! — B.E.

Starring: Chiwetel Ejiofor, Tom Hiddleston, Annalise Basso, Benjamin Pajak, Karen Gillan, Mia Sara, Matthew Lillard, Carl Lumbly, Samantha Sloyan, Harvey Guillén, Jacob Tremblay, Kate Siegel, and Mark Hamill

How to watch: The Life of Chuck is now available to rent or buy on Prime Video.

(*) denotes a blurb comes from a previous list.

If you're feeling suicidal or experiencing a mental health crisis, please talk to somebody. You can call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org. You can reach the Trans Lifeline by calling 877-565-8860 or the Trevor Project at 866-488-7386. Text "START" to Crisis Text Line at 741-741. Contact the NAMI HelpLine at 1-800-950-NAMI, Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. ET, or email info@nami.org. If you don't like the phone, consider using the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline Chat at crisischat.org. Here is a list of international resources.

TL;DR: The DJI Mini 4K drone is on sale for $249 at Amazon (Prime member discount). That's $50 off the list price for a limited time.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon DJI Mini 4K $249 at Amazon
$299 Save $50 Get Deal

DJI is one of the biggest names in drones, with a strong reputation for creating incredible aerial shots. For this reason, their product range is often the top choice of TikTokers, YouTubers, and filmmakers. That being said, we were surprised to see the DJI Mini 4K drone so near the top of the charts of best-sellers over Prime Day. We knew these drones were popular, but surely not AirPods popular?

Then the real reason hit us like an out-of-control drone.

President Donald Trump has signed two executive orders aimed at helping the U.S. drone industry and shoring up protections against malicious drone activity. The measures don't actually order a full ban on Chinese-made drones (yet), but talk of a ban on DJI drones has been doing the rounds for a while now. That uncertainty must be boosting sales.

SEE ALSO: The DJI Power 2000 portable power station means business, and it’s great for DJI drone owners

The good news for anyone scrambling to buy before a potential ban is that you can still find the DJI Mini 4K drone on Amazon. In fact, it's on sale for $249 at Amazon for Prime members. It's being sold and shipped by AeroTech Hubs. We don't generally recommend third-party sellers, but AeroTech Hubs has an excellent track record and times are tough right now. With stock running low, we'll take what we can get.

The DJI Mini 4K is full of helpful features for beginners and advanced users. It has one-tap takeoff options and a return to home function. But perhaps most importantly for content creators is the three-axis gimbal and 4K quality, as well as advanced wind resistance and extended battery life. It's a step up from the DJI Neo Mini 4K that we think creators will appreciate.

Prime members can get the DJI Mini 4K drone for under $250 at Amazon. Not a member? You can still score this drone for under $300.

SAVE $200: The Apple MacBook Air, 13-inch (M4, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) is on sale at Amazon for $999, down from the list price of $1,199. That's a 17% discount and the lowest price ever at Amazon.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple MacBook Air, 13-inch (M4, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) $999 at Amazon
$1,199 Save $200 Get Deal

One of the best times to buy a new MacBook is during the Amazon Prime Day event in July. Another awesome time is right about now, during back-to-school season. And like clockwork, we're seeing great discounts on MacBooks and other Apple devices as we head into August. If you're eyeing a new MacBook, check out today's sale at Amazon.

As of July 29, the Apple MacBook Air, 13-inch (M4, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) is $999 at Amazon, marked down from the normal price of $1,199. That takes $200 off the price from a 17% discount. It's also the best price we've spotted at Amazon.

If you know you want a MacBook and you prioritize portability, the 13-inch MacBook Air is likely your best bet. In Mashable's comparison of the best MacBook, the Air gets the nod of the best overall, and it also happens to be the most affordable option. Today's sale price gives you a machine with the new, zippy M4 chip and it comes with 512GB of storage.

SEE ALSO: Need to stock up on Apple AirTags? Get a 4-pack for under $80.

The 13-inch MacBook Air with 256GB of storage is also on sale at Amazon for a price of $799 which means you'll get double the storage with the 512GB version for $200 more. In addition, the $999 sale price applies to all colorways of the MacBook Air, which is nice to see. It's pretty common with Apple sales to only see a few colorways included in a sale.

Mashable Senior Editor Stan Schroeder reviewed the M4 MacBook Air and wrote, "The new MacBook Air is great. It's powerful, silent, and comes with a couple of much-needed upgrades. It's also cheaper than before, making it the best-buy Apple laptop, period."

Before the rush of back to school takes hold, order the MacBook Air from Amazon for $999. It comes with the reassurance that you're getting the most affordable Apple laptop with more storage than the baseline model.

SAVE 14%: As of July 31, you can get the DJI Mini 3 drone for $359 at Amazon. That's a 14% discount and $60 off.

DJI Mini 3 $359 at Amazon
$419 Save $60 Get Deal

Whether you're a hobbyist, influencer, real estate agent, or professional photographer, a drone is one of the easiest ways to capture stunning aerial views and footage with relative ease. The only issue is that drones can be a pretty hefty investment. If you want a good one, you're easily looking at spending at least $500. But if you know where to look, you can often find a good deal. And while we usually don't recommend Amazon for drones, we actually found a legit DJI Mini 3 deal live right now.

As of July 31, you can snag the DJI Mini 3 drone for $359, or $60 off its regular price of $419. That's a 14% discount. This isn't the lowest price we've seen for this model, but it's pretty close. It was around $329 last June, but since it's still summer and there are plenty of opportunities to capture some amazing aerial views, $359 isn't a bad price at all.

SEE ALSO: Insta360's new drone brand Antigravity teases world first 360-degree camera drone

The DJI Mini 3 has a 38-minute flight time (and you can extend that up to 51 minutes with the Intelligent Flight Battery Plus) and can soar up to 32,800 feet. There’s no registration needed for recreational flying, since it’s under 249 grams. (Just keep in mind that if you buy the Intelligent Flight Battery Plus, it will weigh more.) It also shoots in 4K HDR video, and its true vertical shooting makes it super easy to take photos for social media.

This drone is also Level 5 wind-resistant, so it can stay steady even in windy conditions. And you can easily pair it with your phone for QuickTransfer at up to 25 Mb/s. This means you can use your phone as a remote and preview your shot from up to 10 km away.

Tesla has stopped taking orders for its Model S and Model X luxury electric vehicles in Europe.

The change was silently introduced across the continent; we've checked out several of Tesla's European websites, including those for Italy, Germany, France, Spain, and Croatia, and they're all only offering inventory Model X and Model S vehicles. In contrast, Tesla's Model 3 and Model Y cars can still be configured and ordered in these markets.

This doesn't mean the cars are completely unavailable in Europe; buyers can still choose from a number of preconfigured Model S and Model X vehicles (we've found several available models in every market we've checked).

The change comes after a quarter in which Tesla delivered just 10,394 of its "other" models, a category which encompasses the Model S, Model X, and Cybertruck — nearly a 50 percent drop compared to the same quarter last year.

The Model S and X were recently revamped in a modest way, with starting prices going up $5,000 for each model.

SEE ALSO: Waymo responds to Tesla's Robotaxi penis geofence with a size increase of its own

It could be just a temporary measure, though. As Electrek pointed out, this is not the first time it's happened; for example, Tesla wasn't taking orders for Model S and X throughout the first seven months of 2022, following a refresh of the two models the previous year.

The change could be due to supply issues, as the wait time for the Model S is two months even in California, where the car is produced. But it could also be a signal that the end of the line for Tesla's luxury EVs is near — at least in some markets.

TL;DR: Gift your kids an educational, low-stimulation app with the Montessori-inspired Pok Pok, now £45.13.

Opens in a new window Credit: Pok Pok Pok Pok: Lifetime Subscription £45.13
£188.06 Save £142.93 Get Deal

If you’re a parent of little ones, you’ve heard a lot of pros and cons for screen time. For those looking for a calm way to introduce toddlers to the concept, Pok Pok can help. This gentle, Montessori-inspired app is geared towards kids 2-8, and right now, a lifetime subscription can be yours for just £45.13.

Let your kids enjoy award-winning educational games, guilt-free

While most apps for kids are brightly colored and super stimulating, Pok Pok aims to be the opposite. Their app is filled with award-winning educational games that give your kids a foundation in STEM, numbers, cause and effect, problem-solving, and language. And you can rest easy with no guilt, knowing they’re enjoying an ad-free, low-stimulation educational experience.

This app is Montessori-inspired, which means it takes cues from Montessori’s child-centered educational approach, which focuses on hands-on learning, independence, and children’s natural development. That allows Pok Pok to provide a calming app experience that can grow with your child through open-ended play. All animations are hand-drawn, and sound effects and music are created in-house to ensure they’re calm, gentle, and not overly stimulating.

Pok Pok is COPPA-certified, which means you won’t see any advertisements to trick kids into buying things. There’s also an option for offline play when you’re traveling, or if you prefer, your child isn’t connected to the internet.

This lifetime subscription provides unlimited learning games and regular updates with new seasonal and cultural updates, so the app stays fresh and exciting. You’ll also receive a surprise gift mailed to you with your purchase.

Introduce little ones to screen time with the gentle, low-stimulation app, Pok Pok, now £45.13.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

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

A saying.

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

MAXIM

Hurdle Word 2 hint

A tropical fruit.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for July 31, 2025 Hurdle Word 2 Answer

GUAVA

Hurdle Word 3 hint

Done to guitar strings.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for July 31 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for July 31, 2025 Hurdle Word 3 answer

STRUM

Hurdle Word 4 hint

The largest body of water.

SEE ALSO: NYT Strands hints, answers for July 31 Hurdle Word 4 answer

OCEAN

Final Hurdle hint

To fold.

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

CRIMP

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

The moon is inching closer to being half lit, which means we're getting closer to a new moon phase.

The lunar cycle is a series of eight unique phases of the moon's visibility. The whole cycle takes about 29.5 days, according to NASA, and these different phases happen as the Sun lights up different parts of the moon whilst it orbits Earth. 

So, what's happening tonight, July 31?

What is today’s moon phase?

As of Thursday, July 31, the moon phase is Waxing Crescent. There's 41% of the moon's surface visible to us on Earth (according to NASA's Daily Moon Observation).

It's day seven of the lunar cycle, and the last moon in July. As we say goodbye to another month, let's see what will be visible to us on the moon tonight.

With the unaided eye, enjoy a glimpse of the Mare Serenitatis, the Tranquillitatis, and the Mare Fecunditatis, an impact basin also known as the "Sea of Fertility."

With binoculars, you'll also get a glimpse of the Endymion Crater, the Mare Nectaris, and the Posidonius Crater, a lava-filled impact crater that's visible from the fifth to the 19th day of the lunar cycle.

If you have a telescope, position it in the middle right, descending (middle left, ascending if in the Southern Hemisphere) to see the Rima Arladaeus, the Apollo 16, and the Rupes Altai, a circular cliff around 298 miles long.

When is the next full moon?

The next full moon will be on August 9. The last full moon was on July 10.

What are moon phases?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This content originally appeared on Mashable for a US audience and has been adapted for the UK audience.

All Android smartphones come bundled with earphones for you to listen to your favourite music or podcasts immediately, but they're rarely impressive. It's a fact of life. The smart thing to do is purchase a separate pair of headphones or earphones that suit your needs, as long as you know the kind of headphones or earbuds you need.

It's important to think about when you're going to be using your headphones. For starters, do you want to block out background noise while you're on your daily commute? Do you want a pair that are great while you're running or working out at the gym? Or do you just want to relax at home, listening to music through your headphones, perhaps even while you sleep? 

These sort of questions will help you find the best wireless headphones for your Android device. To make it even easier, we've put together a quick guide and rounded up some of the best headphones and earbuds for Android devices.

What is Android?

Perhaps best known as the alternative operating system to Apple’s iOS, the Google-owned Android is an open source platform — that means (unlike Apple) any developers and tech companies can use and build on it. It’s used on many non-Apple phones and tablets, including devices made by Samsung and Google itself. Over 3 billion people actively use Android devices.

What makes a pair of headphones good for Android users?

It stands to reason that headphones made by the likes of Google and Samsung will make headphones that brilliantly sync with Android devices. Generally, look for headphones that have compatibility with Android-specific features, such as Google Fast Pair and Google Assistant. Most decent Bluetooth headphones have access to a voice assistant, such as Alexa, Google Assistant, or Samsung’s Bixby. You just need to set the headphones to your preferred version — in this case, Google Assistant. Be wary of headphones that only support one voice assistant (some have Alexa built-in). 

What can Google Assistant do?

Once you have Google Assistant set up on your headphones and Android device, it’s seriously helpful. You can ask it to play specific songs — not to mention control all playback features — as well as make calls and send messages, set schedules and alarms, do general searches, and check the news or weather. Some Android devices also support Google's Gemini Live AI chatbot — a step up from Google Assistant. Gemini Live is capable of holding actual, real-time conversations.

What is Google Fast Pair?

This Google-specific feature eliminates the faff of fiddling around with menus to connect Bluetooth devices. Your Android device will use Bluetooth Low Energy and location tech to immediately detect any Bluetooth devices nearby. A window will automatically pop up on your device and ask if you want to connect. Fast Pair devices can also sync with your Google account and offer personalised features.

Are cheap headphones worth the money?

The simple answer is, not usually. If you’re looking to go easy on your wallet, you could just stick with the pair that come with your Android smartphone. This is only really a worthwhile plan if you're prone to losing headphones, because — ultimately — the standard-issue headphones are never that good. If you regularly enjoy music or podcasts, it's definitely worth investing in a more expensive pair that offer more useful features like active noise cancellation or companion apps.

What are the best headphones for Android?

To help you find something that will work for you and your Android device, we have tracked down a selection of your best options. We've done the research, read the online reviews, and have come up with a list of the best headphones for Android users.

These are the best headphones for Android devices in 2025.

Buying headphones for your kids sounds like a good idea. For starters, you won't have to listen to their terrible YouTube videos for the millionth time. Or their music. Or any other kids' entertainment that's given you an horrendous ear worm lately.

But there's a more important reason to buy your kids some headphones. Your child's ears are super sensitive while they're still developing and it's possible to damage them with sounds of over 85 decibels. Using adult headphones isn't the best idea. Not unless you can convince them to lower the volume, which is harder than it should be. Chances are the little tykes will crank the volume back up when you leave the room.

Instead, you're better off purchasing a pair of headphones designed specifically for children. Kids' headphones will fit better on little heads and usually have a volume limiter to keep the decibels down. But how do you sort one set of kids' headphones from another? We've done some research and put together some helpful info.

Do kids need wired or wireless headphones?

It depends on how much you want to spend, and whether you can recharge headphones on a regular basis. Many of the wireless headphones listed in this roundup have decent battery life, but they are typically more expensive than wired versions. However, if your child is particularly young, wired headphones can be a risk, so always supervise them while they're using their headphones.

What's the maximum noise level for children?

Generally, many auditory health organisations recommend that the ideal noise level for a child is about 70db, and that volumes should never exceed 85db. Most adult headphones peak at about 115db, which is why it's important to use dedicated headphones for your child rather than just giving them yours. And remember that the limit is a limit, not a guide, so they should aim to play music a little quieter.

Can a child use earbuds?

In-ear buds are great for adults, but they're not recommended for children. Developing ears are more sensitive to noise damage because their nerve fibres are still growing. Also, due to having smaller external auditory canals, the eardrum is always closer to the sound source. Their little ears are just too delicate to put at risk.

Is there a limit of headphone use for kids?

Similar to limiting screen time, it's sensible to restrict your child's use of headphones to a maximum of two hours a day. It's all about moderation. Any longer than that can cause damage to your child's ears, even if they are using a volume limiter.

What are the best headphones for kids?

This is a difficult question to answer because there are so many options out there, but we've tried to give you a clear picture of the best headphones for your kids. We recommend checking out everything on this list, because there really is something for everyone and every budget right here. You know your kids best, so it's really up to you.

These are the best headphones for kids in 2025.

SAVE $50: As of July 30, the 11th-generation Apple iPad (128GB, WiFi) is back under $300. Scoop it up at Amazon for $299 and save 14% or $50.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple 11th-generation Apple iPad (128GB, WiFi) $299 at Amazon
$349 Save $50 Get Deal

It may not be as impressive as the Pro or Air, but the basic iPad is proof that Apple can create solid entry-level tech. Even after its 2025 glow up, it's still the most affordable tablet in Apple's lineup — even defeating the mini.

As of July 30, the already budget-friendly iPad (11th generation) is back down to just $299 at Amazon. That's $50 or 14% in savings from its usual list price of $349. While that's not its lowest price to date, it's still a stellar price point for what you're getting.

The 11th-generation iPad brought us some much-appreciated upgrades, including a processor boost to Apple's A16 chip, the same one found in the latest iPhones. That means switching between apps is smoother, performance is snappier, and load times are more instant. The base model also comes with 128GB of storage, which is effectively double what previous iPad base models packed under the hood.

While it probably won't wow you like the iPad Pro, the basic iPad (11th generation) still does a great job for someone who wants a portable screen for streaming, playing games, reading, or even doubling as a budget laptop. And at $299, it's the cheapest new iPad you'll find.

Headphone jacks were removed from most smartphones and they're disappearing from other devices fast. However, that doesn't mean you have to stop using your wired headphones, especially if you invested in good ones.

I'm about two years into my switch from Android to iPhone—and I'm not having a good time. While I love my Mac, my iPad, and all my other Apple stuff, I just can't get comfortable with Apple's best-selling product.

Many of your apps have features you're not even aware of. Dropbox, for one, had a neat password manager. We say had, though, because it's now getting killed off.

Nearly every Microsoft Excel workbook I own—especially those I share with others—contains a hidden backend worksheet. It's essentially the engine room of my workbook and helps me keep my spreadsheets organized and functional. Here's why you should have one too.

DJI has been on a roll lately.

The popular consumer drone brand has expanded in recent years to feature more types of products, from gimbal cameras to wireless microphones. Despite the looming threat of a ban on DJI drones in the United States, the company has also been aggressively expanding its footprint this summer. Recently, we've seen the launch of a new power station, a rumored robot vacuum launch, and now the introduction of its Amflow e-bikes to the U.S. market.

Amflow is a DJI subsidiary that makes electronic mountain bikes. They've been available in European markets since 2024, but they've officially launched in the United States. However, they come with a vertigo-inducing price tag. The Amflow PL Carbon is priced at $7,499, and the Amflow PL Carbon Pro is priced at $10,199. You could buy a used car for the same amount.

So, what makes these e-bikes so expensive?

The bikes feature a walk assist mode to prevent rollback going uphill. Credit: DJI Top deals from DJI DJI Mini 4K Drone $249 (save $50 at Amazon) Get Deal DJI Mini 3 (DJI RC) camera drone $479 (save $70 at Amazon) Get Deal DJI Power 1000 Portable Power Station $549 (save $450 at Amazon) Get Deal More about DJI's Amflow mountain bikes

The Amflow mountain bikes both have an 800Wh battery with a range of 157 km. They also feature a touchscreen OLED display to provide real-time data about speed, charge, range, and other information. Users can also access an app to get summaries of their activity and other insights.

The PL Carbon mountain bikes feature a carbon fiber frame for a lightweight construction. They have five assist modes and plenty of torque for tackling steep hills and rough terrain, as well as a walk assist mode for lugging the bikes up trails.

To a non-mountain biker like myself, the specs seem strangely similar. The electric motor and charging system are identical on each bike. The biggest differences are in the rear shocks, rear derailleur, handlebars, and saddle. While the base version uses more alloys, the Pro version features more carbon fiber.

Record your rides with the companion app. Credit: DJI The two-inch OLED touchscreen provides real-time ride data. Credit: DJI SEE ALSO: The DJI Mini 4K drone is selling fast — here’s where to buy yours

While they have a high price tag, the bikes do come with a “30-day unconditional return.”

For more information on the new DJI e-bikes, head to the Amflow website.

If your back hurts in the morning, then you probably remember how you knew a call or text message was coming thanks to a distinctive morse-code-like interference on whatever speakers were nearby. Usually your desktop PC speakers.

If you looked at the Chrome inspection tool without any knowledge of how it works, all you'd see is a bunch of confusing code and panels. You'd probably think it makes more sense to a programmer, and you're right to a degree. But I'm here to tell you how this tool can benefit you, even if you've never written a line of code in your life.