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Mashable is a leading source for news, information & resources for the Connected Generation. Mashable reports on the importance of digital innovation and how it empowers and inspires people around the world. Mashable's 25 million monthly unique visitors and 10 million social media followers have become one of the most engaged online news communities. Founded in 2005, Mashable is headquartered in New York City with an office in San Francisco.
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Updated: 1 hour 15 min ago

Elon Musk hints that X throttles posts with links

Mon, 11/25/2024 - 19:30

If you feel like you're not seeing many news stories while scrolling X, there might be a simple explanation: The site actively keeps them off your feed.

Elon Musk seemingly suggested that on Nov. 24, when he replied to another user on his social platform X — the website formerly known as Twitter — who claimed the site throttled the performance of posts with links. This would mean you'd likely see fewer articles from actual news sites.

Paul Graham, a popular poster with some 2 million followers, posted that "deprioritization of tweets with links in them is Twitter's biggest flaw" because "what draws me to Twitter is to find out what's going on, and you can't do that without links."

Musk responded, seemingly confirming Graham's point that posts with links get deprioritized.

Wrote Musk in response: "Just write a description in the main post and put the link in the reply. This just stops lazy linking."

Tweet may have been deleted

The suggestion from Musk seems like quite the strange way to share info. If you're sharing news, it would make sense — in a vacuum — to provide the link that gives more context. But such a link, of course, takes people off Musk's platform. Basically, he wants you to summarize the news — or anything else that requires a link — while hiding the full context in the replies.

Musk also retweeted a post that suggested posting everything directly to X because sharing links will affect your post's reach. That's another seeming admission that X is throttling posts with links.

Tweet may have been deleted

Musk's X deprioritizing links wouldn't be all that surprising. The Washington Post reported last year, for instance, that X slowed links to competitors Musk disliked, such as the New York Times and Facebook.

X, meanwhile, might have a real competitor in Bluesky, which has seen its users skyrocket in the wake of the election and Musk's diehard support for President-elect Donald Trump. Users have reported seeing increased, and better, engagement on Bluesky — and throttling links seemingly wouldn't help X's case.

Categories: IT General, Technology

‘Sonic x Shadow Generations’ review: New content makes this remaster worth revisiting

Mon, 11/25/2024 - 18:47

Sonic x Shadow Generations is a remaster of the original 2011 game, Sonic Generations, and includes new content focusing on Shadow the Hedgehog. The Shadow tie-in contains roughly the same amount of content as the base game, which makes Sonic x Shadow Generations a compelling package.

The remaster also fixes the performance issues of the original Sonic Generations.

'Sonic x Shadow Generations' plot

On the Sonic Generations side, Sonic’s birthday celebration is interrupted by the Time Eater — and he has to team up with his younger self (Sonic Classic) to rescue his friends in White Space.

Credit: Sonic Team / Sega

Shadow Generations takes place concurrently with the events of Sonic Generations and follows Shadow as he is trapped in White Space. While Shadow explores the area, he unlocks new powers and Black Doom threatens to take over the world — and Shadow has to stop him.

Let’s be honest, most of us don’t play Sonic games for the story, but both stories here are serviceable enough to set up what matters the most: gameplay.

'Sonic x Shadow Generations' characters

The interactions between classic Sonic and modern Sonic are amusing, as classic Sonic simply smiles and nods while the rest of the cast discusses the unfolding events, staying completely silent.

Credit: Sonic Team / Sega

The lighthearted cast of Sonic Generations contrasts with the brooding atmosphere of Shadow Generations where Shadow’s edgy personality oozes charm. Again, the story and characters aren’t really the focus of these games, but there’s enough intrigue to keep going.

'Sonic x Shadow Generations' mechanics

While playing as classic Sonic, levels are strictly a 2D affair, similar to the retro Sonic games — and playing the same level as modern Sonic turns them into a mix of both 2D and 3D gameplay.

Credit: Sonic Team / Sega

They remain virtually unchanged from the original 2011 release, and 3D Sonic mechanics didn’t necessarily age well. Modern Sonic can boost his speed, but then that puts Sonic at risk of completely falling off the stage, ruining the fast-paced momentum. It’s hard to gauge in 3D space how far platforms are, so you just have to pray and hope that you end up landing on your feet.

Shadow’s levels still have the 2D and 3D mix of modern Sonic, but are much better designed. The spacing between railings and platforms is tighter, making the levels a blast to speed through. Additionally, the levels are much more cinematic, with reality warping around Shadow like a Doctor Strange movie. Shadow also has an ability to slow down time, which comes in handy to make some tricky platforming jumps.

Shadow’s White Space is also much more fleshed out than Sonic’s. While Sonic’s White Space hub merely divides the levels, Shadow’s hub offers a range of activities, including mini coin-collecting challenges and opportunities to discover collectibles celebrating the franchise’s milestones.

'Sonic x Shadow Generations' graphics

Sonic x Shadow Generations looks great, especially Shadow’s portion.

Credit: Sonic Team / Sega

The blue-and-white color scheme of Sonic is directly contrasted with Shadow’s black and red. The user interface has inklings of Persona 5’s impeccable style, which adds a lot of charm to the game.

'Sonic x Shadow Generations' soundtrack

Shadow’s levels have electrifying tracks, with blaring guitars that keep you excited to play more. The tracks really complements Shadow’s style — and the music selection is on par with Sonic Frontiers as one of the best in the series.

'Sonic x Shadow Generations' difficulty

Playing as classic Sonic is easier due to not having to deal with the iffy 2D and 3D gameplay mix that modern Sonic has, but you’ll need to clear stages with both characters in order to progress through the story.

Credit: Sonic Team / Sega

Thankfully, however, you also don’t need to score high ranks on every single level to see how the story plays out. But for completionists, there’s still plenty of replayability if you want to go for S ranks on all ranks or find all collectibles.

'Sonic x Shadow Generations' performance

The performance in Sonic x Shadow Generations, played on an Xbox Series X, is perfect, which is a big difference compared to the original 2011 version. Load times are reasonable and there weren’t any framerate hiccups.

Is 'Sonic x Shadow Generations' worth getting?

Sonic x Shadow Generations is only $50 and the inclusion of the new Shadow content alone makes this remaster worth it. If you’re a Sonic fan, you’ll definitely find a lot of fun revisiting the Sonic Generations game, even if the modern Sonic controls and levels aren’t the best designed. However, the Shadow levels are a big step in the right direction for future games in the series, as they keep up the speedy momentum that you’d expect from a Sonic game.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Shop Targets early Black Friday sale and get a jump on gift season

Mon, 11/25/2024 - 18:43

UPDATE: Nov. 25, 2024, 10:47 a.m. EST Target's holiday deals are officially live. We're tracking the sale as products come in and out of stock. These are the latest deals.

Best Target early Black Friday deals Best Tablet Deal Apple iPad, 9th generation (A13, 64GB, WiFi) $199.99 (Save $130) Get Deal Best headphone and speaker deal Sony WH-1000XM4 Headphones $199.99 (Save $150) Get Deal Best speaker deal JBL Flip 6 Speaker $79.99 (Save $50) Get Deal Best TV and Soundbar deal TCL 55-inch 4K UHD Google TV $239.99 (Save $110) Get Deal Best smartwatch deal Apple Watch Series 10 (46mm, Sport Band, GPS + cellular) $679.99 (Save $70) Get Deal Best Kitchen and Home deal KitchenAid 5.5-Quart Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer $279.99 (Save $170) Get Deal Best Toy Deal Lego Harry Potter Diagon Alley: Weasleys' Wizard Wheezes $62.99 (Save $27) Get Deal

This year, if you want to get your holiday shopping done by Thanksgiving, it's certainly possible. With Black Friday falling at the very end of this month, it's no surprise that retailers started their sales way earlier. Now that Black Friday week is officially here, the deals are in full force. If you've run through Amazon and Best Buy's sales, turn your attention to Target.

Target's deals are just about as good as it gets. We're seeing discounts across categories including headphones, TVs, robot vacuums. Ahead of Black Friday, start shopping these deals on Apple, Bose, Ninja, and more.

When does Target's Black Friday sale start?

While Black Friday falls on Friday, Nov. 29. Target started the month with an early Black Friday, a 48-hour mad dash of deals to kickstart your holiday shopping. However, the deals have swung back around. Target's Black Friday sale is live now and runs until Saturday, Nov. 30.

Plus, the retailer is offering a holiday season price match. If you purchase an item at Target and it goes on sale leading up to Dec. 24, the brand will refund you the difference. It's also price-matching competitors' pricing within 14 days of your purchase.

What are Target's Black Friday hours?

Unlike Amazon, which operates entirely online, you can shop Target deals online and in-stores. If you're looking forward to shopping in-person this season, Target is a great place to do just that.

Target stores will be opening at 6 a.m. local time on Nov. 29, for those looking forward to joining the crowds.

Best tablet deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPad, 9th generation (A13, 64GB, WiFi) $199.99 at Target
$329.99 Save $130.00 Get Deal Why we like it

If you're looking to update your tech or treat a loved one to the ease and convenience of a tablet, Apple's 9th generation iPad is under $200. While you could go for the brand's newest models, the 9th generation iPad is your best bet on a budget. For just $199.99, you'll get a speedy table that's compatible with the Apple Pencil so you can stream, work, or read. This early Black Friday deal saves you $130, knocking 39% off the price.

More tablet dealsBest headphones deal Opens in a new window Credit: Sony Sony WH-1000XM4 Headphones $199.99 at Target
$349.99 Save $150.00 Get Deal Why we like it

While our very favorite Sony headphones are the Sony WH-1000XM5s, their predecessor, the Sony WH-1000XM4s are also fantastic. Plus, they're $100 cheaper.

They're phenomenal headphones with active noise cancellation that truly tune out the world. If you like to crank up the volume, these are headphones for you because the audio quality is just so good. Plus, unlike the XM5s, the XM4s fold up for easy storage and toting around.

Right now, the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones are down to $199.99, saving $150 for 43% off during Target's unofficial early Black Friday deals.

More headphone dealsBest speaker deal Opens in a new window Credit: JBL JBL Flip 6 Speaker $79.99 at Target
$129.99 Save $50.00 Get Deal Why we like it

JBL makes our go-to Bluetooth speakers. They're waterproof and portable with battery life to last for days. So we always have our eyes peeled for deals on JBL speakers during shopping events. At Target, you can find the JBL Flip 6 Speaker for well under $100.

It lasts up to 12 hours on a single charge and is both dustproof and waterproof. It's equipped with dual pumping bass radiators to deliver JBL's Pure Bass Sound to really get things bumping.

During Target's Black Friday sale, it's down to $79.99, saving you $50 on this top-notch speaker. That knocks 38% off the price.

Speaker dealsBest TV deal Opens in a new window Credit: TCL TCL 55-inch 4K UHD Google TV $249.99 at Target
$349.99 Save $100.00 Get Deal Why we like it

Black Friday conjures images of doorbusting deals, with shoppers racing to the TVs to fight over the inventory. Luckily, you don't have to be in the stampede for TV deals with Target's early Black Friday sale.

This TCL 55-inch 4K UHD Google TV is just $249.99, knocking $100 off the price for 29% savings. It provides 4K picture and a built-in Google interface, so you don't need an extraneous streaming device.

More TV dealsSoundbar dealsBest smartwatch deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple Watch Series 10 (42mm, Sport Band, GPS + cellular) $749.99 at Target
Get Deal Why we like it

The latest Apple Watch is getting a holiday discount. During Target's holiday sale, find the Apple Watch Series 10 for $70 off, marking it down to $679.99.

The Series comes packed with all the essentials for fitness tracking, playing music, and even taking calls. This model comes equipped with cellular, so you can send texts or take calls without being near your iPhone. It's waterproof too, meaning it can come along as you swim laps.

This limited time deal is available for 9% off ahead of Black Friday.

More smartwatch dealsBest kitchen deal Opens in a new window Credit: Kitchenaid KitchenAid 5.5-Quart Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer $279.99 at Target
$449.99 Save $170.00 Get Deal Why we like it

If you're getting ready to whip up dozens of Christmas cookies, don't even think about doing it all by hand. Sure, it will be a great arm workout, but at what cost? Upgrade your kitchen tools ahead of the holiday season with the KitchenAid 5.5-Quart Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer. It has twice the power of KitchenAid's standard tilt head mixer and can mix batches of 11 dozen cookies at a time. This mixer is no joke.

You can beat the savings ahead of Black Friday as it's marked down to $279.99, saving you $170 for 38% off.

More kitchen dealsBest toy deal Opens in a new window Credit: Lego Lego Harry Potter Diagon Alley: Weasleys' Wizard Wheezes $62.99 at Target
$89.99 Save $27.00 Get Deal Why we like it

Whether you're buying for your child or inner child, Target is offering up to 30% off select Lego sets. A real show stopper of the season is this 834-piece set Lego set depicting the Weasley's Wizard Wheezes shop and even includes 7 mini-figures.

Ahead of Black Friday, get this set for 30% off, bringing it down to $62.99. That saves you a generous $27.

Other toy deals
Categories: IT General, Technology

Apple Watch Series 9 vs. SE 2: I tested both for 13 days

Mon, 11/25/2024 - 18:42

I tested the Apple Watch Series 9 vs. Apple Watch SE 2 for nearly two weeks. This comparative analysis will answer all the questions you have about Apple's two popular smartwatches.

I've always been a smartwatch skeptic. Whether it's the Google Pixel Watch, the Samsung Galaxy Watch, or the Apple Watch, they all seemed redundant for anyone who has a phone. When people tried to persuade me to join the smartwatch squad, they always brought up fitness as a use case, which has never been a priority for me — until now.

After my doctor told me that my blood pressure is too high, I decided to take exercise more seriously. What really drew me to consider an Apple Watch, however, is that I want to make sure I'm hitting — and maintaining — a target heart rate while running on the treadmill, ensuring effective calorie burning.

One of the best ways to track heart rate is to use an Apple Watch. But I've been faced with a dilemma. Should I get the SE (second generation) or splurge a little more for the Watch Series 9? I decided to purchase both to determine their differences — and return the one that doesn't work for me later.

Join me along for this versus journey; perhaps it will help you decide which is best for you, too.

SEE ALSO: Get moving with the best Prime Day fitness tracker deals Apple Watch Series 9 vs. SE 2: Price and specs

You can purchase the Apple Watch Series SE 2 via T-Mobile, which costs $299.

Apple Watch SE Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

The model I have comes with the following specs:

  • 40mm case size

  • Silver finish

  • Aluminum chassis

  • GPS (no cellular)

  • Ocean Blue solo loop

Some features require you to shell out a little more. For example, a stainless-steel chassis is an extra $50. A larger case size (i.e., 44mm) is an extra $30. If you want GPS and cellular support, that will set you back $50.

The Apple Watch Series 9 costs $399 via Amazon, but it's regularly discounted.

Apple Watch Series 9 Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

Here's my configuration:

  • 41mm case size

  • (Product) Red finish

  • Aluminum chassis

  • GPS (no cellular)

  • Product (Red) sport band

As with the Watch Series 9, you can spend an extra $50 to get a stainless-steel chassis. If you want cellular support, that will set you back another $100.

With the Watch SE being the cheaper of the two, it's the obvious winner in this round.

Winner: Apple Watch SE

Apple Watch Series 9 vs. SE: Display

The first thing I noticed about the Watch SE is that it has thicker bezels, which reduces its screen real estate — and the display is minimal to begin with.

Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch SE side-by-side. Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

The Watch Series 9's bezels are a lot less obstructive, but either way, I still found display navigation to be fine on both screens. Thicker bezels, in my opinion, aren't a big deal.

It's also worth noting that the resolution is different for the watches:

Watch Series 9 (41mm) - 430 x 352 pixels

Watch SE (40mm) - 394 x 324 pixels

Looking at them side by side, the Watch Series 9 definitely delivers sharper, clearer visuals. But if I were looking at the Watch SE independently, I would think that the display quality is sufficient enough.

Now, let's talk brightness:

Watch Series 9 (41mm) - up to 2,000 nits

Watch SE (40mm) - up to 1,000 nits

The Watch Series 9 is supposedly brighter than Series 9, delivering a max of 2,000 nits over the SE's 1,000-nit screen. However, while comparing both watches in the sun, I could see both of them just fine, even with the rays shining bright on them like a spotlight.

Apple Watch SE (left) and Apple Watch Series 9 (right) Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

You can tell the Watch SE is slightly dimmer, but the difference is negligible to the naked eye.

The main difference between the two screens, however, is the always-on display. I thought I wouldn't care about the Watch SE not having an always-on display (AOD). (For the uninitiated, AOD means that the screen is always feeding you visual information.)

However, I found myself getting frustrated that I had to keep tapping the Watch SE's screen or flick my wrist toward myself to check the time. Meanwhile, the Watch Series 9, well, stays on. As you can see in the photo below, the Watch SE's screen is completely dark, but the Series 9's display is still "active" (though it is dimmed).

Apple Watch SE (left) and Apple Watch Series 9 (right) Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

Also, from a fashion standpoint, an always-on display looks more attractive.

Winner: Apple Watch Series 9

Apple Watch Series 9 vs. SE: Design

I decided to go with two color choices to determine whether I'd prefer the more sophisticated, subtle design of the Watch SE — or the conspicuous, striking presence of the Watch Series 9.

Apple Watch SE displaying sleep data Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

To my surprise, I prefer the Watch Series 9's gorgeous (Product)RED look. I feared that it would be too red. However, the Product (RED) has the perfect balance of vividness and elegance. It's such an eye-catching ruby red.

Apple Watch Series 9 displaying Indoor Run app Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

I went with the Silver finish for the Watch SE along with the Ocean Blue solo loop — and I regret it. Oddly, the solo loop collects dirt easily. And unlike the sports band that's featured on the Watch Series 9, the solo loop requires custom sizing. Mine is a size 3, which fits OK, but it could stand to be a smidge tighter.

Apple Watch SE with solo loop Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

The sports band has an adjustable strap, allowing me to make it as tight or loose as I need it to be. The solo loop, on the other hand, is just a stretchy bracelet band. I also don't expect it to have good durability. As you take it off and on over time, I foresee it getting too stretched out.

Apple Watch Series 9 sports band Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

Other than that, the Watch Series 9 and SE have the same squircle design, with a digital crown and side button on the right.

Simply because of its larger watch face, Series 9 is the winner here.

Winner: Apple Watch Series 9

Apple Watch Series 9 vs. SE: Texting and calling

I tested texting and calling with both the Apple Watch Series 9 and the Watch SE.

Texting with the Apple Series 9 Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

When it comes to texting, the Apple Watch Series 9 features a QWERTY keyboard. I thought it'd be an awkward mess trying to text on the Apple Watch Series 9 with one finger, but it wasn't half bad if you have a little bit of patience in you.

The Watch SE has something different. You can still text, but there is no keyboard available. Instead, you'll get a field that lets you scribble the letter or word you want to write — and it will transform it into digital text.

Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

To be fair, neither the Watch Series 9 nor the Watch SE are ideal for texting, but the most useful feature for messaging — a perk that both devices have — is Dictation. I found that Dictation, a utility that transforms your speech into text, is the best for texting on the Series 9 and SE.

There are prepared replies readily available, too, like "Thanks" and "OK."

After calling a friend with the Watch Series 9 and Watch SE, I blind-tested him and asked him to pick which smartwatch sounded better. Surprisingly, he said I sounded better on the Watch SE. I couldn't tell a marked difference between the two in terms of sound quality.

Due to its superior texting features, the Watch Series 9 wins this round.

Winner: Apple Watch Series 9

Apple Watch Series 9 vs. SE 2: Double Tap

Don't buy the Apple Watch Series 9 because of its Double Tap feature. The Watch SE supports the Double Tap, too.

Double Tap with the Apple Watch Series 9 Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

With the Apple Watch Series 9, you simply need to make sure it's turned on in Settings — and you can use Double Tap to accept and end calls, turn off alarms, play and pause songs, and more. However, with the Watch SE, you can only use Double Tap when prompted. For example, a blue-outlined prompt that says "End call" will appear on the Watch SE, allowing you to hang up.

It's worth noting, though, that the Watch Series 9's Double Tap feature lets you do more with it. For example, you can use Double Tap to trigger the shutter button on the Camera app or scroll through your Widget stacks (things you can't do with the Watch SE's Double Tap).

Winner: Apple Watch Series 9

Apple Watch Series 9 vs. SE: Siri

Apple boasted that the Watch Series 9 lets you tap into Siri for your health data. One time, I asked, "Siri, how many hours did I sleep last night?" In response, it said, "5 hours and 51 minutes."

Siri on the Apple Watch SE Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

In response to "How many calories did I burn today?", it said, "You burned 285 calories today."

If I were to ask Siri the same questions on the Watch SE, Siri wouldn't respond with a direct answer. It would, instead, show me the app that would provide me the right answer.

Apple claims that the Watch Series 9's S9 chip yields a faster on-device Siri, allowing you to have zippier access to your health data.

The only disappointment I'd add for both devices is that Siri directed me to the Health app when I asked for ovulation estimates.

Winner: Apple Watch Series 9

Apple Watch Series 9 vs. SE: Health tracking

If you want a watch with the best health-tracking features, get the Watch Series 9. Here are the sensors and trackers you'll get with it:

  • Temperature sensing (not on Watch SE)

  • Cycle tracking (available on Watch SE, but doesn't provide ovulation estimates)

  • Irregular rhythm notifications (available on Watch SE)

  • High or low heart rate notifications (available on Watch SE)

  • ECG testing (not on Watch SE)

On the Watch SE, you will not find the ECG app, a tracker that analyzes your heart's electrical pulses. However, you will find it on the Apple Watch Series 9. It prompts you to hold your finger on the digital crown for 30 seconds. You'll then get a reading that tells you your beats per minute (bpm) — and whether your heartbeat is "sinus," "AFib," "low heart rate," "high heart rate," or "inconclusive."

ECG on Apple Watch Series 9. Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

Its worth noting that its AFib detection is the first digital-health tech to qualify for the FDA's MDDT program. In other words, an official authority in the medical device space has green-lighted the Apple Watch for testing atrial fibrillation. Sweet!

As for ovulation tracking, again, you'd be better off with the Watch Series 9. Ovulation tracking relies on taking temperature readings while you sleep every five seconds overnight. And, well, the Watch SE doesn't have a temperature sensor.

However, whether I was on the SE or Series 9, I could still log my menstrual cycle, allowing me to check when my next estimated cycle would arrive.

Apple Watch Series 9 Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

Speaking of the temperature sensor, on the Watch Series 9, you can get temperature readings of your skin by going to Settings > Health > Health Data > Body Measurements > Wrist Temperature. Not sure why I need to know that my right wrist is 96 degrees Fahrenheit, but er, it's there in case anyone asks, I guess.

Interestingly, I also noticed that both watches test for environmental noise using the mics. Before turning off a whistling teapot, I got an alert from the Apple Watch Series 9 that the decibels in my surroundings were too high.

Apple Watch Series 9's loud environment alert Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

Oddly, I didn't get that alert on my Watch SE, though it has a noise detector feature, too.

Note: The Apple Watch Series 9 no longer supports the blood-oxygen monitor for U.S. consumers.

Winner: Apple Watch Series 9

Apple Watch Series 9 vs. SE: Fitness tracking

I haven't spotted much of a difference between the Watch Series 9 and SE when it comes to fitness tracking.

Apple Watch Series 9 Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

If you want something that tracks your steps and lets you close your rings at the end of the day, the Watch SE will do just fine.

While wearing the watches to run on the treadmill every day, I set both devices to tell me when I've hit my target beats per minute (i.e., 146 to 156 bpm) while running. (I did this by fiddling with the "Indoor Run" preferences under the "Workout" app.) My experience with both has been seamless.

If you're a swimmer or a diver, however, you may want to consider the Apple Watch Ultra 2 instead; it supports high-speed water sports and recreational diving. The Apple Watch Series 10 is another viable option because it now includes a depth gauge for deep-sea divers.

Winner: Draw

Apple Watch Series 9 vs. SE: Battery life

I thought that the Apple Watch Series 9's battery life would be significantly better than the Watch SE, but the differences in their power efficiency are minimal.

Apple Watch Series 9 text conversation Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

To test both devices' battery life, I charged the Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch SE to 100 percent at 4:30 p.m. The Apple Watch SE tapped out the next day at 8:10 p.m. while the Watch Series 9 lasted a little longer by an hour and some change.

Apple Watch SE - 1 day and 3 hours and 30 minutes

Apple Watch Series 9 - 1 day and 4 hours and 36 minutes

The usage profile included using Siri to ask questions throughout the day (e.g., weather, math calculations, asking for health data), setting timers for workouts, tracking my heart rate during jogs, sleep monitoring, texting friends, controlling Apple Music, glancing at emails, and more.

Photos app on the Apple Watch SE Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

It's worth noting, though, that Apple Watch Series 9 supports fast charging; the Apple Watch SE does not. This means that, on the Watch Series 9, the battery can go from 0 percent to 80 percent in 45 minutes, according to Apple.

You can use a USB-C Apple charging brick like this one from Amazon to get the fast charging job done.

Winner: Apple Watch Series 9

Apple Watch Series 9 vs. SE: Which one should you buy?

Apple Watch Series 9 is better at tracking your health. If you're seeking a device that can give you ovulation estimates, deliver ECG readings, keep tabs on your skin temperature (if you care about that sort of thing), and let you access most of that data via Siri, get the Series 9.

Apple Watch Series 9 with Snoopy watchface Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

If you're more fitness-focused, and you don't mind the thicker bezels and lack of always-on display, the Watch SE is a solid choice.

You, like me, may assume that the Watch Series 9 has better battery life because it's pricier, but in my experience, both held up pretty well in terms of power efficiency (though the Series 9 edged out the Watch SE by an hour or so).

The only thing I'd warn against is getting the solo loop band for your Apple Watch. It seems to get loose after some time — and it's not very durable. Instead, get the sports band, allowing you to adjust the Apple Watch to your wrist as you like it.

Opens in a new window Credit: T-Mobile Apple Watch Series SE (second-generation) $299.99 at T-Mobile
Shop Now Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Apple Watch Series 9 $299.99 at Amazon
$399.99 Save $100.00 Get Deal
Categories: IT General, Technology

Get your hands on the Hisense 85-inch Class R6 Series 4K UHD Roku Smart TV for $548 ahead of Black Friday

Mon, 11/25/2024 - 18:36

SAVE $250: As of Nov. 25, you can get the Hisense 85-inch Class R6 Series 4K UHD Roku Smart TV for $548 at Walmart.

Opens in a new window Credit: Hisense Hisense 85-inch Class R6 Series 4K UHD Roku Smart TV (85R6030N, 2024 Model) $548.00 at Walmart
$798.00 Save $250.00 Get Deal

We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again: Walmart’s early Black Friday deals are insanely good. We’ve seen huge price cuts on everything from headphones to speakers to smart TVs.

Speaking of, as of Nov. 25, you can snag a Hisense 85-inch Class R6 Series 4K UHD Roku Smart TV (85R6030N, 2024 Model) for just $548 — $250 off the list price.

SEE ALSO: Walmart Black Friday ad: The best deals you can buy online

This massive 85-inch smart TV features 4K UltraHD resolution, four times the resolution of standard 1080p HD, and HDR (high dynamic range) technology for improved color, contrast, and brightness. With Roku TV OS, you can stream your favorite shows and movies across a variety of apps or score free channels with Roku's extensive lineup of free content.

Game Mode Plus with VRP and three high-speed HDMI inputs make this TV great for gaming and connecting devices like streaming boxes, cable boxes, consoles, and more.

Walmart is the place to shop for early Black Friday deals, and this Hisense 4K TV is among the best we've seen.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Grab your glider, Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom is on sale for $30 at Walmart

Mon, 11/25/2024 - 18:19

GET $39.99 OFF: As of Nov. 25, you can get Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom for just $30.00. That's 57% off the original price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Nintendo Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom $30.00 at Walmart
$69.99 Save $39.99 Get Deal

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom has been out for about a year and a half, and it’s currently on sale for its best price yet by far ahead of Black Friday. The Great Sky Island is yours. 

The successor to the console-defining Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Tears of the Kingdom sends you into the sky. With crafting dynamics, cooking, and a vast and vertical open world, you’ll want to explore every inch of this vast game world. 

SEE ALSO: Save $75 on the Nintendo Switch OLED 'Mario Kart 8 Deluxe' bundle for Black Friday

Play as Link as he searches for Princess Zelda, battling through a Nintendo Switch world chock full of monsters to stop Ganondorf and save Hyrule. 

As of Nov. 25, Tears of the Kingdom is on sale for $39.99 off. Walmart+ members get access at 12pm EST, while everyone else can grab the sale at 5pm.

Tears of the Kingdom sold 10 million copies in its first three days and has sold more than that again since. Get it now for its best deal yet and glide through the kingdom of Hyrule.

Categories: IT General, Technology

PS5 vs. PS5 Slim: What are the differences?

Mon, 11/25/2024 - 18:19

I've been using PlayStation consoles for almost 30 years. So in this PS5 vs. PS5 Slim face off, I'll be helping you decide which console is best for you.

With the recent launch of the upgraded PS5 Pro console, now might be the perfect opportunity to snag a slightly older — yet still incredibly powerful — PS5.

With potential sweet deals, or even permanent price drops on the horizon, it’s essential to know exactly what you’re getting (and not getting) with the PS5 and PS5 Slim.

SEE ALSO: The price of Sony's PS5 Pro is 'brutal' and the internet hates it PS5 vs. PS5 Slim: price

For context, the original, non-slim PS5 has two versions: a digital one (without a disc drive) and one with a disc drive. The same can be said for the PS5 Slim; it's got a digital version and a disc one.

For whatever reason, Sony decided to not drop the prices of the new PS5 Slim models. The PS5 Slim with a disc drive is still $499, while the PS5 Slim without a disc drive is $449 — or a $50 increase over the original PS5 digital-only console.

  • PS5 Slim (no disc drive) - $449

  • PS5 Slim (with disc drive) - $499

  • Original PS5 (no disc drive) - $399

  • Original PS5 (disc drive) - $499

PS5 Slim (no disc drive) $374.00 at Amazon
$449.99 Save $75.99 Shop Now Sony PlayStation 5 $699.97 at Amazon
Get Deal

With that in mind, yes, the digital-only PS5 Slim is a money-saver in comparison to the one with a disc drive, but not in comparison to the digital-only model that launched in 2020.

The new price also means that buying a digital model before purchasing the additional disc drive would cost more than just snagging the version with a built-in drive. I don't really have a good explanation for that.

My only advice is this: If you want a PS5 that only costs $399, you better get one now. This is an important note: Once the existing stock of both original models sells out, the new slim models will replace them on store shelves.

PS5 vs. PS5 Slim: size

Obviously, size is what many gamers are most concerned about here, so let's get right to it. Looking at Sony's stated dimensions, you can see that the new PS5 is indeed smaller than the original:

  • Original PS5 (disc version): 104mm (height) x 390mm (width) x 260mm (depth)

  • PS5 Slim (disc version): 96mm (height) x 358mm (width) x 216mm (depth)

  • Original PS5 (digital version): 92mm x 390mm x 260mm

  • PS5 Slim (digital version): 80mm x 358mm x 216mm

Credit: Sony

In other words, per Sony's announcement blog post, that's about a 30 percent reduction in total volume. That's definitely an improvement, but there's some important context missing in just those raw numbers. The Verge ran a digital size comparison and discovered that both new models are still substantially larger than the Xbox Series X.

In other words, this "slim" console is still pretty dang big.

For a visual comparison, check out this awesome PS5 Slim vs. Regular Reddit post.

PS5 vs. PS5 Slim: performance and storage

Another important aspect of the new PS5 models to get out of the way is that they have the exact same internal capabilities as the originals. This isn't a PS4 vs. PS4 Pro situation. Games will run exactly the same across the spectrum of PS5 consoles.

Credit: Sony

One little internal bonus that owners of the new PS5s get, however, comes in the form of expanded storage. For some reason, the original PS5 only had 825GB of onboard storage, with the option to expand via external SSDs. The new ones have a full 1TB of built-in space, so you can install a few extra games depending on how big they are.

PS5 vs. PS5 Slim: disc drive

Just like at the PS5's launch in late 2020, there are two PS5 Slim models. One of them has a built-in disc drive and the other one is digital-only.

Credit: Sony

Well, sort of, anyway. There's an optional detachable disc drive you can buy for $79.99. It's a little goofy looking, but it should do exactly what you think it does. For physical media collectors, the disc drive is a must-buy.

It's worth noting, however, that the PS5 Slim, unlike the OG PS5, does not come with a vertical stand in the box. However, seasoned gamers will tell you that you should keep your PS5 to be stationed horizontally anyway.

Categories: IT General, Technology

All of our favorite Dyson Supersonic dupes are on sale for Black Friday

Mon, 11/25/2024 - 18:09
Best Dyson Supersonic dupe deals ahead of Black Friday Best overall deal Laifen Swift $97.99 (Save $42 at Laifen) Get Deal Best under $70 Dreame Gleam hair dryer $69.99 (Save $30 at Amazon) Get Deal Best for minimizing heat damage Zuvi Halo $209 (Save $140 at Zuvi) Get Deal Best for smoothing and attachments Shark SpeedStyle Pro Flex $179 (Save $50.99 at Amazon) Get Deal Best if you also want an Airwrap Dreame Pocket hair dryer $99.99 (Save $60 at Amazon) Get Deal

Black Friday may be a great time of year to pick up the $429 Dyson Supersonic on sale (it is currently down to $329), but as someone who's tested Dyson's beauty tech lineup and the many dupes it's inspired, I wouldn't necessarily recommend going straight for the Supersonic just because it's $100 cheaper.

For starters, the Supersonic does drop down $100 in price over the course of the year, not just Black Friday — if you're willing to wait a few weeks from when you think to buy it, you'll almost certainly be able to score a deal. But maybe more importantly, you can actually save a lot more money if you opt for a dupe — and just a few days out from Black Friday on Nov. 29, each of the top picks I've personally tested for the best Dyson Supersonic dupes are on sale.

SEE ALSO: All the best early Black Friday deals at Amazon, Target, Best Buy, and Walmart

As it stands, Mashable recommends five different hair dryers to serve as worthy Dyson dupes, with each being suited to different needs, whether you want the cheapest dupe on the market (less than $100) or the dupe that'll minimize damage to your hair (infrared light does some heavy lifting here). Below, you'll find more info on each of the five picks on sale.

Best Supersonic dupe deal overall Opens in a new window Credit: Bethany Allard / Mashable Our pick: Laifen Swift $97.99 at Laifen
$139.99 Save $42.00 Get Deal Why we like it

The Laifen Swift is compact, lightweight, dries hair quickly, and looks and sounds like the a Dyson Supersonic. While you won't get the five attachment versatility that you do with the Supersonic, you might find that you prefer the simplicity of the Swift (or that this is a sacrifice you can make for a hair dryer that clocks in under $100 on sale). Attachment-wise, it's maybe a better one-to-one dupe of the Supersonic Origin, but at a much more reasonable price point.

With cheaper dupes, I like to test out their longevity as much as I can — I've used the Swift regularly for just under two years, and haven't seen it show its age at all. Yes, the hottest setting is a little too hot for me and the attachment options are limited, but in my experience, those have been the biggest cons. If you are looking for a diffuser, Laifen also offers a model that includes one for just a few dollars more.

Best Supersonic dupe deal for spending less than $70 Opens in a new window Credit: Bethany Allard / Mashable Our pick: Dreame Gleam hair dryer $69.99 at Amazon
$99.99 Save $30.00 Get Deal Why we like it

Usually, the Dreame Gleam hair dryer is our best Supersonic dupe under $100, but Black Friday upped the ante. If you have a Prime membership, you can grab this hair dryer on sale for just $69.99 at Amazon. If you don't have Prime, you can also pick this dryer up directly from Dreame's website. So what's the $28 difference between the Dreame and the Laifen dryers? To be honest, not a whole ton, but I can't personally attest to how the Dreame holds up over time (I tested it for the first time in Oct. 2024). What I will say is the Gleam doesn't have a diffuser attachment you can bundle, it doesn't sound like a Supersonic, and it is the slightest bit bulkier than the Laifen Swift.

Best Supersonic dupe deal for minimizing hair damage Opens in a new window Credit: Bethany Allard / Mashable Our pick: Zuvi Halo $209.00 at Zuvi
$349.00 Save $140.00 Get Deal Why we like it

The Zuvi Halo certainly isn't the cheapest dupe we recommend, but it's maybe the most unique. Unlike other options, this dryer doesn't try to outright copy Dyson's idea for a heat-minimizing dryer so much as offer an alternative that's just as innovative, thanks to the ring of infrared lights it uses in tandem with its airflow. While I was initially skeptical of how much these lights would actually do anything, I found that the Halo often left my hair feeling soft and shiny, and used noticeably cooler air than either of the above two dupes.

Instead of heat and air settings, the Halo has "care" modes you choose from, which automatically set the heat and intensity of the air you're getting. That might be a bit annoying for someone who craves more customizability, but for set-and-forget types, this feature might just be a godsend. At this sale price of $209, the Halo is still less than half the price of the Supersonic at full price, and $120 cheaper than the Supersonic on sale.

Best Supersonic dupe deal for the smoothest hair possible Opens in a new window Credit: Bethany Allard / Mashable Our pick: Shark SpeedStyle Pro Flex $179.00 at Amazon
$229.99 Save $50.99 Shop Now Why we like it

Shark is known for making some of the best Dyson dupes on the market, and though the SpeedStyle Pro Flex doesn't look anything like a Supersonic, if your goal is smooth hair and a good selection of attachments, this is the hair dryer to get. In addition to a standard drying nozzle, the Pro Flex comes with a QuickSmooth brush, a diffuser, and a FrizzFighter finishing tool. Each of these attachments automatically adjust the heat and speed setting for what Shark would consider the most optimal for each, but unlike the Zuvi, you can easily manually adjust each, too.

As for storage, this configuration of the ProFlex doesn't come with a storage case, but the folding neck does make the hair dryer a slightly less awkward shape to store. At $179, you'll save $50.99 on this hair dryer, grabbing it at the lowest price we've ever seen.

Best Supersonic dupe deal if you also want an Airwrap Opens in a new window Credit: Bethany Allard / Mashable Our pick: Dreame Pocket hair dryer $99.99 at Amazon
$159.99 Save $60.00 Get Deal Why we like it

If you've been eyeing the Dyson Supersonic, there's also a good chance you've checked out the Dyson Airwrap. If the $600 price tag scared you away, fair (though it is now $100 off for Black Friday). Sale price or not, that multistyler is expensive, and for many, the most interesting attachment can be the Coanda-air powered curling wands. With so many dupes on the market these days, this is no longer a Dyson exclusive option, even if you're looking at a more traditional hair dryer.

The Dreame Pocket hair dryer is super compact, with a neck that folds down and up, meaning you can use it as you would any hair dryer, fold it down for storing, or fold it up to use the curling nozzle (it also comes with a smoothing nozzle). While it does only go in one direction, it still gives a pretty, bouncy blowout — it didn't really curl my hair, but neither does the Airwrap curling wands, as both are more targeted at providing wavy blowout than true curls. The pocket also comes with a convenient storage bag that fits everything into a surprisingly compact package. I recommend it at full price, which makes it even easier to say its worth giving a go at $99.99.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Get a pair of JLab JBuds Lux ANC headphones for the insanely low price of $29 at Walmart

Mon, 11/25/2024 - 18:06

SAVE $50: As of Nov. 25, you can score a pair of JLab JBuds Lux ANC headphones for just $29 at Walmart. That's a savings of $50 and a crazy good deal.

Opens in a new window Credit: JLab JLab JBuds Lux ANC headphones $29.00 at Walmart
$79.99 Save $50.99 Get Deal

Looking to score a wicked deal on noise-cancelling headphones? Walmart’s early Black Friday sale has tons of deals on headphones, including the JLab JBuds Lux ANC headphones.

As of Nov. 25, you can snag these babies for just $29 — that’s an insanely good deal for a pair of headphones that typically retail for around $79.99. The lowest price we’ve ever seen on these is $46.99 (Amazon’s current price), so this $29 sale price is an absolute steal. Note: This deal is only available online.

SEE ALSO: Walmart Black Friday ad: The best deals you can buy online

The JLab JBuds Lux ANC headphones feature 40mm drivers and active noise cancellation technology to help block out background noise, whether you're on a noisy flight, in the office, or just trying to focus at home. With the ANC on, you can get 40 hours of playtime. With ANC off, that jumps up to 70 hours.

There’s also a “Be Aware” mode that lets you hear your surroundings while listening to music or podcasts, so you can stay safe when walking or biking. You can adjust this setting, get software updates, and more with the JLab App.

With Bluetooth connectivity and a built-in mic, you can take hands-free calls and control your music playback from the headphones. Plus, the Cloud Foam ear cushions are super soft and comfortable. We’d definitely recommend hopping on this deal before it’s gone.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Snag an OtterBox Defender Series Pro phone case for $19 at Walmart

Mon, 11/25/2024 - 18:00

SAVE $45.95: As of Nov. 25, you can snag an OtterBox Defender Series Pro case for your iPhone 16 Pro for just $19 at Walmart. That's a savings of $45.95.

Opens in a new window Credit: OtterBox OtterBox Defender Series Pro iPhone 16 Pro case $19.00 at Walmart
$54.00 Save $35.00 Get Deal

We’re just a few days from Black Friday, but Walmart’s website is overflowing with deals you can take advantage of right now. From headphones to mobile accessories, Walmart’s impressing us with its pre-Black Friday sales.

As of Nov. 25, you can grab an OtterBox Defender Series Pro phone case for the iPhone 16 Pro for just $19 at Walmart. That’s $45.95 off the list price and a really good deal for a tough-as-nails phone case.

SEE ALSO: All the best early Black Friday deals at Amazon, Target, Best Buy, and Walmart

Remember, this deal is available to Walmart+ members at noon ET and non-members at 5 p.m. ET. If you want to hop on it early, you’ll need to sign up for a Walmart Plus membership right now, which is half-off for new members through Dec. 2.

The OtterBox Defender Series Pro Case for MagSafe iPhone 16 Pro is a multi-layered case that provides heavy-duty protection. It features DROP+ technology, which safeguards your phone from five times more drops than the military standard, and raised edges to protect your camera, screen, and port openings from dust and dirt.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Dont miss out on one of the best budget 4K TV deals weve found ahead of Black Friday

Mon, 11/25/2024 - 18:00

JUST $178: As of Nov. 25, Walmart shoppers can get a 55-inch Hisense 4K TV for just $178 ahead of Black Friday. Note that this deal goes live at 12PM ET on Nov. 25 for Walmart+ members exclusively, and then will be open to everyone starting at 5PM ET.

Opens in a new window Credit: Hisense Hisense 55-inch Class R6 Series 4K UHD Roku Smart TV $178.00 at Walmart
Get Deal

Black Friday is hands-down one of the best times to get a new TV — tons of can't-miss deals tend to go live before the main event officially starts, and 2024 is looking like it's going to follow suit.

If you're looking for a new 4K TV but don't have a huge budget this holiday shopping season, this deal from Walmart should absolutely be on your radar: The retailer is offering a 55-inch Hisense 4K TV for just $178. It's one of the cheapest 55-inch 4K TVs we've seen leading up to Black Friday and is bound to sell out quickly, so make sure you don't miss out.

SEE ALSO: Early Black Friday TV deals at Best Buy and Walmart absolutely school Amazon's

There is one catch, though. This deal will only be available to Walmart+ members for a short period of time before being released to the general public. So if you're not a member, you'll want to act fast when the deal goes live for you, because you'll be shopping the leftover stock. The deal will become redeemable for Walmart+ members starting at 12PM ET on Nov. 25, and then will be available to all other shoppers starting at 5PM ET on the same day.

Categories: IT General, Technology

So rare! Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons are $20 off on Nov. 25 for Black Friday week

Mon, 11/25/2024 - 18:00

GET $20 OFF: As of Nov. 25, you can get a set of Nintendo Joy-Cons (L/R) - Left Neon Red/ Right Neon Blue Controllers for just $59.00. That's 25% off the original price or $20 off.

Opens in a new window Credit: Nintendo Nintendo Switch Joy-Con (L/R) - Left Neon Red/ Right Neon Blue Controllers $59.00 at Walmart
$79.00 Save $20.00 Get Deal

It’s the time of year for huge discounts, but even so, our eyebrows shot up when we saw that Nintendo Joy-Cons are on sale today for $20 off. The Switch system remains immensely popular — consequently Joy-Cons rarely ever get significant discounts.

Whether you’re a cozy gamer doing dealings with Animal Crossing’s Tom Nook, or you’re battling your friends in Super Smash Bros, Joy-Cons are your point of entry to the action. The Nintendo Switch’s signature is its ability to transition from handheld system to TV and Joy-Cons make this happen.

SEE ALSO: Save $75 on the Nintendo Switch OLED 'Mario Kart 8 Deluxe' bundle for Black Friday

Attached to a Switch, they control the action on the Switch’s main screen. Unattached to the screen, they connect with a Joy-Con Grip to make one large controller or function as two individual controllers. As individual controllers, each contains a separate accelerometer and gyro-sensor.

As of Nov. 25 you can get a set of Nintendo Joy-Cons (L/R) - Left Neon Red/ Right Neon Blue Controllers for $59.00 and save 25%.

As a gift, Joy-Cons open up multiplayer gaming for a Switch owner. The clear choice as a part gaming system Nintendo Switch is a great choice for multiplayer gaming, and a gift of Joy-Cons brings even more friends into the action.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The Office Lego Set is back and $50 off for Black Friday week — order "ASAP as possible"

Mon, 11/25/2024 - 18:00

GET $50 OFF: As of Nov. 25 at 12PM EST, Lego Ideas The Office US TV Show Series Dunder Mifflin Scranton Model Building Set is on sale for $70, save $50 at Walmart.

Opens in a new window Credit: Lego Lego Ideas The Office US TV Show Series Dunder Mifflin Scranton Model Building Set, 21336 $70.00 at Walmart
$120.00 Save $50.00 Get Deal

Resurrected from the Schrute Farms compost bin, The Office Dunder Mifflin Scranton Model Building Set brings the classic Scranton comedy to life. The set was recently retired by Lego; if you were eyeing the set and missed out, this is your notice that it's back now. Get it on sale for Black Friday week at Walmart.

SEE ALSO: 15+ of the best Lego Black Friday deals you can shop early

With 15 mini-figures that you’ll recognize from Dunder Mifflin HQ, you’ll be able to call a meeting in the boardroom, banish Michael Scott to sulk in his office, or give Pam an engagement ring. The set even comes with Dwight’s secret stash of weapons and Michael’s "World's Best Boss" mug.

As of Nov. 25 at noon EST, The Office Lego Building Set is on sale for $70 for a total savings of $50.

Made for adult fans of The Office, this collector’s set comes with an illustrated book about The Office and the set’s creators.

If you’ve been following this Lego Ideas set you might have thought it was gone for good. Don’t wait, because it might not come out of retirement again. As Michael says, “Fool me once, strike one. But fool me twice... strike three.”

Categories: IT General, Technology

Score $150 off the JBL Partybox 110 at Walmart

Mon, 11/25/2024 - 18:00

SAVE $150: As of Nov. 25, you can snag the JBL Partybox 110 at Walmart for $199. That's a 43% discount or $150.95 off the list price. Note: The Walmart MSRP price is slightly inflated, so we're basing this off the actual MSRP.

Opens in a new window Credit: JBL JBL Partybox 110 $199.00 at Walmart
$399.95 Save $200.95 Get Deal

If you’ve been looking for a speaker that doubles as a karaoke machine, we’ve found just the product — and it’s on sale.

As of Nov. 25, you can get the JBL Partybox 110 for just $199 at Walmart. (Walmart+ shoppers can snag it at this price at noon; non-members will have to wait until 5 p.m. ET.) That’s a $150.95 discount and a record-low price for this speaker. It looks like Amazon, Best Buy, and the JBL website are selling it for a mere 95 to 99 cents more, so if Walmart sells out, you can still grab it elsewhere for a great price.

SEE ALSO: Black Friday store hours: What time do Walmart, Best Buy, Target and more open their doors?

The JBL Partybox 110 is a fun, portable party speaker that can fill a room with that signature JBL Original Pro Sound. It’s IPX4 splashproof (take it to the pool or the beach) and has a mic and guitar input, so you can use it as an amp or host karaoke nights.

With the PartyBox App, you can control your music, update settings, and customize the colors and patterns of the lights — perfect for setting the mood at any event. You'll get up to 12 hours of battery life on a single charge.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Dictionary.coms Word of the Year is very mindful, very cutesy

Mon, 11/25/2024 - 17:30

Dictionary.com's word of the year is demure, a nod to the "very mindful, very demure" social media trend started by TikTokker Jools Lebron.

Demure beat out brainrot, brat (inspired by the Charli XCX album of the same name), extreme weather, midwest nice, and weird. Dictionary.com defines demure as "characterized by shyness or modesty; reserved," but its announcement acknowledged that the use popularized by Jools changes the word's meaning.

SEE ALSO: 'Pookie' is more than a pet name. TikTok's new favorite word is rooted in a rich cultural history.

Online, it's come to mean anything from self-aware, sophisticated, and restrained to good and praiseworthy. But as is the case with any viral word, it's also come to mean nothing.

Jools first posted how to be mindful and demure in early August. "You see how I do my makeup for work? Very demure. Very mindful," she said in the now-viral video. "I don't come to work with a green-cut crease. I don't look like a clown when I go to work. I don't do too much. I'm very mindful while I'm at work."

SEE ALSO: 'Very demure' demonstrates TikTok's ability to shape modern language

The word quickly caught on and was inescapable online. Dictionary.com saw 200 times more searches for the word than it did on dates preceding August.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Early Black Friday AirPods deals are rolling in — here are the best ones so far

Mon, 11/25/2024 - 16:49

UPDATE: Nov. 25, 2024, 10:15 a.m. EST This post has been updated with the latest pricing on all available AirPods models ahead of Black Friday.

Best early Black Friday AirPods deals Best AirPods Pro deal Apple AirPods Pro 2 $169.99 (save $79.01) Get Deal Best AirPods Max deal Apple AirPods Max $399.99 (save $149.01) Get Deal

Black Friday isn't here just yet, but it kind of already is, if that makes sense. You know the drill: Before most big shopping events nowadays, we usually see a bunch of early deals start to slowly crop up, ones that are definitely worth paying attention to. Especially if you're looking for tech products — Black Friday and pre-Black-Friday are always exciting times for those who are looking to catch up on the latest and greatest that the industry has to offer.

Headphones definitely fall into that category, specifically Apple's line of popular audio tech: AirPods. A few different AirPods models are on sale in the weeks preceding Black Friday, including the lastest release, the AirPods 4.

SEE ALSO: The 8 best noise-cancelling headphones of 2024

Check out all the best early Black Friday AirPods deals we could find below, and be sure to keep checking back, because we'll be updating this page as more offers go live.

Best AirPods Pro deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple AirPods Pro 2 $169.99 at Amazon
$249.00 Save $79.01 Get Deal Why we like it

Check out our full review of the Apple AirPods Pro 2.

The Apple AirPods Pro 2, which come packed with great features like ANC, hearing protection options, personalized spatial audio, and more, are currently $60 off at Amazon ahead of Black Friday. Considering the record low price on these earbuds is $168.99, we're definitely expecting to see a better price drop during Black Friday. Though that $168 price point may be rare, we frequently see these earbuds go on sale for $199 throughout the year, so much so that we don't really consider that a good deal anymore.

Best AirPods Max deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple AirPods Max (Lightning) $399.99 at Amazon
$549.00 Save $149.01 Get Deal Why we like it

Check out our full review of the Apple AirPods Max.

If you're not really into earbuds, the AirPods Max are a good pair of over-ear headphones that'll allow you to stay within the Apple ecosystem (we get it, we like our tech to have synergy, too). While we like them for Apple users, we do have some qualms with their shorter battery life, weird carrying case, and lack of a power button, especially at their price point. That said, it's easier to look past those flaws with a good discount, which you'll find on the Lightning pairs instead of the newer USB-C model (which is the only upgrade, other than different colorways, on the newer version of these headphones).

More early Black Friday AirPods deals
Categories: IT General, Technology

Peacocks Black Friday deal is live: Get a year of streaming for $19.99

Mon, 11/25/2024 - 16:43

SAVE 75%: Through Dec. 2, new and returning Peacock subscribers can score a year of ad-supported Peacock Premium for either $1.99/month for six months (reg. $7.99/month) or $19.99 an entire year (reg. $79.99/year) using the codes REALDEALMONTHLY or REALDEAL, respectively.

Opens in a new window Credit: Peacock Peacock Premium $1.99/month for six months or $19.99/year (save 75%) Get Deal

Peacock has consistently dropped one of the most impressive Black Friday deals for multiple years in a row. Thankfully, this year is no different.

From Nov. 25 through Dec. 2, new and returning subscribers can sign up for Peacock Premium (the ad-supported tier) for either $1.99/month for six months with the code REALDEALMONTHLY or $19.99/year with the code REALDEAL. That's 75% off the usual streaming cost either way you slice it. At a glance, this basically mirrors Peacock's Black Friday deal from last year, but since the streamer raised its prices back in July — now $7.99/month or $79.99/year (up from $5.99/month or $59.99/year) — it's actually a much bigger discount.

If you've never checked out Peacock, Mashable's film editor found that it's a subscription worth your while — even at full price. At $19.99 for an entire year, it's a complete no-brainer. Peacock is home to popular shows like The Office, New Girl, Law & Order: SVU, and Yellowstone, as well as new theatrical releases like Twisters, The Fall Guy, and Abigail. For reality TV junkies, it's also the home of all of your favorites from Bravo. Don't sleep on Peacock Originals like Poker Face and Mrs. Davis either. Check out our watch guides for the best shows on Peacock, the most binge-worthy shows on Peacock, the best horror movies on Peacock, and more if you need more convincing.

With a Premium subscription, you'll have to sit through some ads, but with this Black Friday deal, it's kind of hard to complain. Just think of those ads as built-in snack and bathroom breaks. If you want to avoid paying full price, be sure to cancel your subscription before the promotional period is up.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Decompose for less: Lomi home composters up to 40% off for Black Friday

Mon, 11/25/2024 - 16:39

SAVE $100: The Lomi 2 food recycler, normally $599, is available for only $499 as part of the brand's Black Friday sale. For even more savings, Pela (Lomi's parent company) is offering two package deals that include the Lomi, along with extras, like regular shipments of odor-eliminating charcoal filters.

Opens in a new window Credit: Courtesy Lomi Lomi 2 food recycler $499.00 at Pela
$599.00 Save $100.00 Get Deal

The idea of composting may conjure images of stinky barrels overflowing with bugs. Pela's Lomi 2 food recycler is a much more accessible way of cutting down waste (along with reducing garbage bags and trips to the bins). About the size of a slow cooker, Lomi makes composting food scraps and paper waste possible on your countertop, so you can do your part for the environment without having to leave your home or apartment (read Mashable's very thorough review of Lomi here). The machine is also relatively quiet and one composting cycle uses less than 1kWh of electricity, less energy than a dishwasher load.

As mentioned, Pela's Black Friday deals feature more than the $499 Lomi 2 special. Because the composter requires recurring materials — namely, charcoal filters that eliminate bad smells — the other deals combine the Lomi with a "membership." One option for $359 and $10 per month includes the Lomi 2, along with a starter pack of the charcoal filters and a one-year supply of filter refills (4 packs); the $10 charge is billed annually.

Another special holiday option is available for $399 and $10 per month — it includes the Lomi 2, a starter pack of charcoal filters, the one-year supply of filter refills, a Lomi Cap (a place to store scraps while the Lomi is busy composting older detritus), and a three-pack of wax wraps (an eco-friendly replacement for plastic wrap).

All three specials are available for a limited time.

Categories: IT General, Technology

New Sony handheld console reportedly planned: Everything we know

Mon, 11/25/2024 - 16:28

For the first time since 2012, Sony is developing a legitimate handheld device for playing PlayStation games, Bloomberg reports.

There isn't much else to say about the device right now, as Bloomberg noted that it's most likely years away from launch — if Sony decides to follow through with launching it at all. Sometimes, products like this go through some portion of development only to get scrapped before seeing the light of day.

SEE ALSO: PlayStation Portal just got a big update

Bloomberg's reporting indicated the machine would be able to natively play PS5 games on the go, which means it would have to be more powerful than the current crop of premium handhelds like the Steam Deck. That would also distinguish it from the recently released PlayStation Portal, which does allow you to stream PS5 games on the go, but only as long as you have a constant Wi-Fi connection.

Sony's sudden interest in returning to the handheld market is interesting because it didn't go well last time. The PSP made some waves in the mid-2000s, but the PlayStation Vita (launched in 2012) failed to generate any traction whatsoever, with Sony neglecting to release many big first-party games for it over its lifespan. However, since then, the Nintendo Switch has taken over the world, and Xbox is even reportedly working on a handheld.

What's old is new again, apparently.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Sonic the Hedgehog 3 trailer is all about Keanu Reeves as Shadow

Mon, 11/25/2024 - 16:18

It's all about Keanu Reeves and the end of the world as we know it in the latest trailer for Sonic the Hedgehog 3.

Reeves made a cheeky cameo as Shadow the Hedgehog in Sonic 2, but will be up front in this one as the key villain. He's up against an unlikely team: Ben Schwartz returning as Sonic, Colleen O'Shaughnessey back voicing Tails, and Idris Elba crushing it as Knuckles.

But as you'll see from the trailer, perpetual Sonic series highlight Jim Carrey is also back, this time playing both Dr. Ivo "Eggman" Robotnik and his grandfather Gerald, Shadow's creator. That's a lot of villain firepower.

Sonic the Hedgehog 3 hits cinemas Dec. 21.

Categories: IT General, Technology

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