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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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The pricey Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds got one hell of a sale

Tue, 07/08/2025 - 21:11

If you’ve been eyeing a pair of high-end noise-canceling earbuds, Prime Day has delivered a standout deal. The Sony WF-1000XM5 wireless earbuds are on sale for $198, down from their usual price of $299.99 — a hefty $100 savings and one of the lowest prices we’ve seen for these flagship earbuds.

Opens in a new window Credit: Sony Sony WF-1000XM5 $198 at Amazon
$299.99 Save $101.99 Get Deal

The WF-1000XM5 are Sony’s top-tier earbuds. Could they be named better? Sure, but even still, they're praised for their excellent noise cancellation, rich sound quality, and comfortable, lightweight design. They’re smaller and sleeker than previous models but still pack in features like adaptive sound control, high-resolution audio support (with compatible devices), and multi-device pairing. Battery life is also solid, with up to eight hours on a single charge and an additional 16 hours from the case.

SEE ALSO: Prime Day is bringing headphones and earbuds down to their best prices ever by far

If you're after a premium pair of earbuds that handle everything from podcasts to playlists with ease, this deal is worth jumping on. This Prime Day discount won’t stick around long, so if you’ve been waiting to upgrade, now’s the time.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Microsoft, OpenAI, Anthropic announce free AI academy with national teachers union

Tue, 07/08/2025 - 21:10

The nation's largest teachers' union — representing millions of staff within America's education system — has joined forces with some of the world's top players in AI to ready another generation of tech-savvy educators.

Announced Tuesday, July 8, by the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) and New York City-based affiliate United Federation of Teachers, along with tech giants Microsoft, OpenAI, and Anthropic, the new National Academy for AI Instruction will funnel $23 million toward free AI training and curriculum for all 1.8 million union members.

SEE ALSO: OpenAI tests ChatGPT ‘study together’ feature

The goal of the program and its brick-and-mortar Manhattan facility — the brainchild of venture capitalist Roy Bahat and modeled after other high-tech training centers — is to create a "national model for AI-integrated curriculum," according to the coalition, focused on skills-based workshops, online courses, and hands-on training. Microsoft will invest $12.5 million into the training program, with an additional $8 million in funding from OpenAI and $500,000 from Anthropic, the New York Times reports. OpenAI will also provide $2 million in technical resources.

To best serve students, we must ensure teachers have a strong voice in the development and use of AI. This partnership will not only help teachers learn how to better use AI, it will give them the opportunity to tell tech companies how we can create AI that better serves kids," said Brad Smith, vice chair and president of Microsoft.

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Led by the AFT, the academy will begin with a New York-based trainee cohort in the fall, with plans to scale nationwide at a later date. Tech and labor partners say they expect to train 400,000 educators over the next five years.

Microsoft, the academy's lead partner, partnered with the American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO) in 2023, intended to start a dialogue on AI's anticipated disruption of global workforces following several successful organizing efforts among Microsoft workers. The company also agreed to neutrality frameworks with both the Communication Workers of America and the AFL-CIO, ensuring collective bargaining opportunities for workers seeking AI protections.

"The direct connection between a teacher and their kids can never be replaced by new technologies, but if we learn how to harness it, set commonsense guardrails and put teachers in the driver’s seat, teaching and learning can be enhanced," wrote AFT President Randi Weingarten. "The academy is a place where educators and school staff will learn about AI — not just how it works, but how to use it wisely, safely, and ethically."

At large, corporations and AI developers have placed huge bets on the education field, including investing millions into initiatives designed to get free, premium AI tools, chatbots, and coding curriculum into K-12 and higher education classrooms. Microsoft, for example, launched new AI tools designed specifically for teachers on Microsoft 365, as well as a standalone AI app, Microsoft Learning Zone, geared toward classroom lesson plans and activities. Google, which leads the industry in classroom tech, has gone live with a plethora of AI features for Google Classroom, Workspace for Education, and Chromebook users, including an education-specific Gemini integration, as well as its own education LLM.

In April, OpenAI announced it would offer two months of ChatGPT Plus for free to enrolled college students, following the launch of a free curriculum for K-12 teachers on integrating AI into their courses. OpenAI's vice president of education Leah Belsky is on record saying the company hopes to make AI the "core infrastructure of higher education" and increase chatbot use among student populations, despite concerns about the tech's affect on educators and potential longterm side effects for student users.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Superman review: Can James Gunns reboot get DC back on track?

Tue, 07/08/2025 - 21:00

There's a lot riding on James Gunn's Superman, both as a reboot of DC's movie universe and as the world's reintroduction to the Man of Steel. It's fitting, then, that its closest analog is Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Disney's ambitious 2015 relaunch of a galaxy far, far away. Like The Force Awakens, Superman similarly leaves plot threads dangling in mid-air, but papers over its flaws by moving at a million miles an hour and centering a charismatic cast. 

On one hand, Superman is big summer fun, with just enough laughs and action to get by. However, it also makes several lofty promises, by way of narrative and theme, that it doesn't always keep. It's a grand old time (until it isn't). But its off-kilter visual approach is surprisingly effective, shaping the contours of a detailed, politically charged comic book universe that, for better or worse, never slows down.  

More than anything, it's a promise of something greater on the horizon. This is at once fitting for the tone of this new Superman — a folksy, optimistic Boy Scout, who is embodied by actor David Corenswet with aplomb — and a tremendous bummer for anyone hoping for this to be the next big landmark blockbuster à la The Avengers. For most viewers, it'll likely be hard not to walk away with mixed emotions.

What is Superman about? David Corenswet is Superman in "Superman." Credit: Warner Bros.

Few superhero films have so effectively captured the feeling of picking up a random issue of a long-running comic series and being dropped into the action in media res. It's a novel, energetic approach to establishing a shared universe, and it begins with Superman crash-landing in the snow — battered and bloody — before being assisted, at his icy fortress, by polite droids he refers to as his "Superman robots." With his chaotic superdog Krypto by his side, his animatronic helpers nurse this vulnerable version of the famous hero back to health and help him back in the saddle, as he resumes his battle against the Hammer of Boravia, an armored villain floating above Metropolis.

It's quickly revealed that the Hammer is actually an entirely different villain in disguise — one secret identity hilariously concealing another — who answers to the genius business magnate Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult), amidst his scheme to destroy the Man of Steel. With these parameters swiftly established, Superman takes a beat to introduce us to its characters and world in a delightful fashion; this is one of the only times the movie takes a breather, allowing the music and production design to do the talking, as the world is slowly but surely fleshed out from the ground up. The score is electric at times — pun intended — though it's most memorable when composers John Murphy and David Fleming aren't charged with recreating John Williams' motifs from 1978's Superman: The Movie.

As Corenswet's adorably awkward Clark Kent tries to figure out Luthor's plan, his cautious interactions with strong-headed Daily Planet journalist Lois Lane (Rachel Brosnahan), and his playfulness with meek co-worker/best friend Jimmy Olsen (Skyler Gisondo) drop us right in the middle of pre-existing relationships, which go hand in hand with rapid-fire exposition. The fictitious, militarized nation of Boravia (a DC mainstay since 1939) has, with U.S. backing, been planning to invade the poor and ill-equipped country of Jarhanpur (a more recent comic addition). And Luthor appears to be somehow involved. Intentional or otherwise, this premise has unavoidable parallels to the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict, as Superman's role in the brouhaha — directly threatening the U.S.-allied Boravian president (Zlatko Burić) until he stands down — draws political and journalistic ire.

Superman is a politically charged summer blockbuster. Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor in "Superman." Credit: Warner Bros.

Lois, who acts standoffish with Clark at work but dates him in private (and knows his secret identity), challenges the Man of Steel on his tactics. This establishes a Superman who is, on one hand, politically ignorant, but on the other, so willing to do the right thing that geopolitical nuances are of no consequence to him — as long as it stops innocent people from getting hurt. However, Luthor's plot is a lot more complicated (and more charged, from a real-world standpoint) than a single ground invasion. With permission from the U.S. government, the seething billionaire scientist has created an entire pocket dimension, in which he seeks to imprison political opponents — including Superman — on the grounds that the alien hero doesn't deserve due process.

In an era where cruel holding facilities like Alligator Alcatraz have been dominating headlines, a story of dehumanizing and delegitimizing immigrants so they can be dropped into legal limbo with government backing is nothing if not politically urgent. It's also the one idea on which Superman entirely follows up on, with the aforementioned pocket universe becoming the venue for an emotional wallop of a scene, as well as a delightfully strange action set-piece with its own unique physics, the likes of which no superhero movie has seen.

However, the more that Superman and his allies uncover Luthor's plot — involving everything from giant kaiju to child endangerment and political false flags — the less his villainous plans seem to matter thematically. This serves largely as a conduit for mile-a-minute action with some (admittedly raucous) comedy beats. The film ends up overstuffed with super-powered supporting characters, to the point that Superman's own ethical quandaries feel too easily resolved. In a subplot that sees the Man of Steel villainized in the public eye after being so beloved — thanks to a smart and surprising spin on his Kryptonian father Jor-El's usual mission to have him lead us mere mortals — Superman is set up to reckon with the two halves of his identity: the human and the alien. But this conflict ends up nominal at best, with a conclusion (or lack thereof) that gives its aliens-as-immigrants metaphor some unsavory optics.

At the movie's core lies a tale of internal dilemma over American identity in 2025, and the cruelty of nativism as enacted and permitted by government forces. However, actually accessing this story — rather than simply gesturing towards it — often proves too difficult for Gunn's haphazard approach. Superman moves faster than a speeding bullet, hopping between plot points practically at light speed. Its disparate parts are just about held together by accomplished, thoughtful approaches to character and action, which keep the movie speeding along.

Superman looks and feels like a superhero movie should. Nathan Fillion as Guy Gardner/Green Lantern, Isabela Merced as Kendra Saunders/Hawkgirl, and Edi Gathegi as Michael Holt/Mister Terrific in "Superman." Credit: Warner Bros. Ent.

The film's trailers have given several viewers pause, in particular, because of its wide-angle lenses that exaggerate movement, whipping through contorted space in disorienting ways. However, in context, this approach from Gunn and cinematographer Henry Braham ends up enormously impactful and assists in the movie's frenetic feel. Unfortunately, there are a handful of shots with wonky CGI, but they're kept to a minimum and are easy enough to ignore when things zip past the screen at lightspeed.

The action feels larger than life, and dazzlingly superhuman, especially when Superman's rival vigilante team, the Justice Gang, gets involved: winged warrior Hawkgirl (Isabela Merced), cocky intergalactic protector the Green Lantern/Guy Gardner (Nathan Fillion), and cool-as-ice tech wiz Mister Terrific (Edi Gathegi), who's likely to be your kid's new favorite hero. While Hawkgirl, unfortunately, gets the short end of the stick, her compatriots arrive as fully formed pieces of a larger superhero puzzle whose surface we've only just begun to explore.

The human supporting characters are all functional too. Hoult ensures that deep-seated jealousy radiates off every order Luthor barks at his henchmen. Some of these even take the form of alphanumeric attack combinations yelled at his super-powered cronies, who he commands like some kind of evil chess mastermind trying to check-mate the Man of Steel. Brosnahan's Lois, though she ends up with more of a plot purpose than an emotional one, has a real presence and gusto about her. And although Gisondo's Olsen is saddled with hints of unfortunately unpleasant misogyny — it wouldn't be a James Gunn comedy without some — he has an infectious enthusiasm.

David Corenswet soars as Superman.  Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, David Corenswet as Clark Kent, and Skyler Gisondo as Jimmy Olsen in "Superman." Credit: Warner Bros.

At the center of it all is Corenswet, who veers between an "aw, shucks" folksiness and stern authority. You can trace his transformations between mild-mannered reporter and Man of Steel through his tone of voice alone, and while there's much more Superman to be found — the film doesn't spend nearly enough time on the Clark half of his life — it leaves you wanting more of him. That's both a strength and a major flaw: The characters are well-rounded, but the movie eventually loses all sense of emotional arc in its final act. Even Superman's established ethos, of befriending everyday people (including immigrants) and of searching for the kindest, most humane ways to deal with major threats, ends up tossed out the window in favor of verbose speeches and third-act theatrics with world-ending stakes.

In Superman, Gunn has created what may be the single most Silver Age comic book saga ever put to screen. It’s a goofy live-action cartoon in which the effects of Kryptonite are akin to a shellfish allergy, and in which bad guys get punched so hard their teeth bounce off the camera. Yet its story retains a deeply human core, framing Superman as not just a dog lover, but a man with the earnestness of a golden retriever. 

However, the movie’s breakneck pace renders those human elements secondary once it's all said and done. It has vital, meaningful themes surrounding what Superman's allegiance to truth, justice, and "the American way" truly means in 2025, with a brash penchant for the political in a manner that most Hollywood blockbusters tend not to touch. But in the end, it rushes past these tenets of its story, in service of big-idea fireworks that make its creative ambitions feel a little too small.

Superman premieres in theaters July 11.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Apple Pencil USB-C is back to its lowest price ever at Walmart

Tue, 07/08/2025 - 20:40

SAVE $20: The Apple Pencil (USB-C) is back down to its lowest price ever of $59 at Walmart.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple Pencil (USB-C) $59
$79 Save $20 Get Deal

If you've been waiting to snag an Apple Pencil for your iPad, this is one of the best deals we’ve seen lately. Walmart is currently offering the Apple Pencil (USB-C) for $59 — that’s $20 off its usual $79 price tag. This matches the all-time low we saw at Amazon in late June; however, considering it's Prime Day, it's now sold out there at the time of this writing.

SEE ALSO: Every single iPad is on sale for Prime Day: Save up to $125 on Apple tablets

It’s also $10 cheaper than Best Buy, where it’s still listed at $69.

This is Apple’s latest, most affordable stylus, designed to work with a range of iPads equipped with USB-C ports. It offers many of the same features we appreciate in pricier models, like low-latency performance, tilt sensitivity, and magnetic attachment for storage. However, it doesn’t support pressure sensitivity, so it’s best for note-taking, navigation, and casual sketching rather than advanced digital art.

If you’ve been considering picking up a stylus for your iPad, this deal is a solid opportunity. We don’t see prices dip lower than this often, and with Amazon already sold out, Walmart’s stock won’t likely last long either.

Shop the best editor-vetted Prime Day deals
Categories: IT General, Technology

65+ Amazon device deals were excited about on Prime Day

Tue, 07/08/2025 - 20:29
The best Prime Day Amazon device deals at a glance: BEST FIRE TABLET DEAL Amazon Fire HD 10 (64GB) $79.99 (save $100) Get Deal BEST FIRE TV DEAL Amazon 75-inch Omni Series 4K QLED Fire TV $569.99 (save $530) Get Deal BEST ECHO DEAL Echo Hub $119.99 (save $60) Get Deal BEST KINDLE DEAL Kindle Colorsoft (32GB) $179.99 (save $100) Get Deal BEST BLINK DEAL Blink Video Doorbell $29.99 (save $40) Get Deal

The longest Prime Day ever is officially underway (through July 11) and as per usual, Amazon has discounted its own devices to some extreme lows. While we haven't been super impressed by the Echo deals, things like Kindles, Fire tablets, and Fire TVs are seeing their best prices ever by a long shot.

We're keeping track of all of the best Amazon device deals below and will continue to monitor anything new that may pop up over the next few days. For deals beyond Amazon devices, be sure to follow along with all of Mashable's coverage in our Prime Day hub.

Note: Deals with a 🔥 next to them have dropped to new record-low prices.

Best Amazon device deal overall Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Kindle Colorsoft (32GB) 🔥 $179.99 at Amazon
$279.99 Save $100 Get Deal Why we like it

The first Kindle of its kind after nearly two decades, the Colorsoft features a 7-inch, glare-free display that supports a full spectrum of color. If a black and white display is a deal-breaker for you, the Colorsoft is your best (and only) bet. It also includes auto-adjusting light, 32GB of storage, a waterproof build, wireless charging, eight weeks of battery life, and no lockscreen ads.

We've previously seen the Colorsoft fall to $224.99, but this is the first time it's ever dropped below $200, let alone all the way down to $179.99. You can even get it bundled with a charging dock and a case for only $211.97. Not only is this one of the best deals I've seen on an Amazon device, but probably one of the best deals I've seen overall on Prime Day.

More of the best Amazon device dealsFire tablet dealsFire TV dealsEcho dealsKindle dealsBlink home security dealsOther Amazon device deals
Categories: IT General, Technology

The best Prime Day Pokémon deals to shop now

Tue, 07/08/2025 - 20:11
The best Prime Day Pokémon deals Best Pokémon Deal Pokemon TCG: Scarlet & Violet—Prismatic Evolutions Super-Premium Collection $198.83 (Save $59.54) Get Deal Best Pokémon Game Deal 'Pokémon Shining Pearl' $48.90 (Save $11.09) Get Deal Best Pokémon Plush Deal Pokémon 12-inch Venusaur Plush $19.79 (Save $5.20) Get Deal

Prime Day is officially here, and it's the best time of year to indulge in deals on some of your favorite items, like Pokémon games, cards, plushies, and more. If you're looking for the best Prime Day Pokémon deals on all of the above, we've gathered them below on one handy list.

Because many of us are Pokémaniacs just like you (several members of the Mashable shopping team are still playing Pokémon GO in the year 2025), we've taken the time to vet each of the deals and make sure they're actually a decent discount.

SEE ALSO: 100+ Prime Day deals — get record-low prices on Apple, Ninja, and Samsung

Below, find some of our favorite deals on Pokémon cards, games, and more that you can snag before the Prime Day rush sets in. You'll be catching 'em all before the shopping event even gets here.

Best Pokémon deal Opens in a new window Credit: Pokémon Pokémon TCG: Scarlet & Violet — Prismatic Evolutions Super-Premium Collection $198.83 at Amazon
$258.37 Save $59.54 Get Deal Why we like it

If you're a big Eevee fan, or even if you just love shiny things, this TCG box set will be right up your alley. It comes with a full-art promo card featuring Eevee ex, a playmat with Eevee and its multiple evolutions, a fuzzy Eevee deck box, 15 booster packs, and 65 card sleeves. It also comes with a code card for Pokémon TCG Live that you can use to unlock digital cards. Really, the gorgeous box is another reason to grab this beautiful collection while it's on sale, too. Just look at those colors.

Best Pokémon game deal Opens in a new window Credit: Nintendo / The Pokémon Company 'Pokémon Shining Pearl' $48.90 at Amazon
$59.99 Save $11.09 Get Deal Why we like it

Return to the Sinnoh region in this Switch remake of the classic Game Boy Color game Pokémon Pearl. It's been completely remade from the ground up with new sprites, 3D graphics, and additional content for a reimagined version of the game that followed the original Pokémon Red and Blue on the Game Boy. There's additional content like Secret Base building, Pokémon fossils, and more. Whether you missed the originals or want a chance to return to the classic world, this discount lets you do so while saving some cash.

Best Pokémon plush deal Opens in a new window Credit: Squishmallow Squishmallows 14-inch Chansey Plush $19.79 at Amazon
$24.99 Save $5.20 Get Deal Why we like it

Do we really need to explain why we like Chansey in Squishmallow form? Chansey may be a normal-type Pokémon, but in the form of this plush, it's abnormally adorable. Plus, there's maybe no better Pokémon suited to the Squishmallow treatment, which is why we're happy to see our round friend in this extremely huggable form and on sale for under $20.

More Pokémon deals More early Prime Day deals
Categories: IT General, Technology

The number of good robot vacuums deals this Prime Day is actually overwhelming

Tue, 07/08/2025 - 20:06

Prime Day is nearly as good of a time to buy a robot vacuum on sale as Black Friday. It's the first big sale event of the year for many 2025 robot vacuums that just came out in the spring after being announced at CES — most of them were far too fresh to go on sale for Amazon's Big Spring Sale in March.

Case in point: All three of Roborock's flagship Saros robot vacuums got their first-ever discount for Prime Day, and almost all of the new Roombas that just came out a few months ago have been on sale for a week. I guess Amazon and iRobot are still on good terms despite their acquisition falling through.

A quick look at the best robot vacuum deals at Amazon Budget pick Roborock Q7 M5+ robot vacuum and mop $279.99 (save $150) Get Deal Best mop washing station deal Roborock Saros 10R $1,279.99 (save $320) Get Deal SEE ALSO: Roborock Saros Z70 review: If you think you need the robot vacuum with an arm, no you don't

These deals aren't guaranteed to last through the end of Prime Day on July 11, however, and it's pretty unlikely that discounts on these major models will drop further into the sale. The wisest move would be to compare your top robot vacuum options quickly and make a move before the sale price disappears.

Regardless of your budget, there's definitely a robot vacuum on sale during Prime Day 2025. I'm tracking all of the best robot vacuum deals at Amazon below, noting when they self-empty, mop, or wash and dry their own mopping pads. All robot vacuums in the list have smart mapping. Note: Deals with a 🔥 next to them have dropped to record-low prices.

Best robot vacuums deals ahead of Prime Day Opens in a new window Credit: Roborock Budget pick: Roborock Q7 M5+ robot vacuum and mop $279.99 at Amazon
$429.99 Save $150 Get Deal Why we like it

This budget Roborock model was also just released this year, but it's been living in the shadow of the big bad Saros trio. Nevertheless, it deserves a spotlight for the value that it packs, especially now that it's under $300 ahead of Prime Day. The most impressive feat of the Roborock Q7 M5+ is its 10,000 Pa of suction power — that's far stronger than the norm for cheap robot vacuums. That matches the power of my favorite robot vacuum from 2024, the Roborock Qrevo Master, and is the baseline number I'd recommend for keeping up with substantial pet hair.

Note that the Q7 M5+ does mop and does self-empty, but doesn't wash and dry its own mopping pad like the more premium Roborocks.

Opens in a new window Credit: Roborock Roborock Saros 10R $1,279.99 at Amazon
$1,599.99 Save $320 Get Deal Why we like it

It happened. My favorite robot vacuum of 2025 so far went on sale for the first time, and it's not some measly discount, either. Now less than $1,300, the Roborock Saros 10R is technically cheaper than the similar Saros 10 — though I still chose the 10R over 10 in my comparison because the 10R is a beast at corner mopping. With suction power reaching 20,000 Pa, the Saros 10R is also one of the most powerful robot vacuums on the market.

When a cleaning session is finished, the Saros 10R empties its own dust bin and washes its own mopping pads while charging on the dock. It's well-rounded self-sufficiency that allows for true hands-off cleaning whenever a mess pops up. Pet parents will also appreciate the addition of the livestream pet camera, which gives a live view of whatever the vacuum sees as it cleans. The vacuum can even specifically search for the pet, giving you a heads-up about its current hangout spot in the app.

More robot vacuums on sale at AmazonRobot vacuums that mopRobot vacuums that don't mop
Categories: IT General, Technology

How to watch Fluminense vs. Chelsea online for free

Tue, 07/08/2025 - 20:00

TL;DR: Live stream Fluminense vs. Chelsea in the 2025 Club World Cup for free on DAZN. Access this free live stream from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The 2025 Club World Cup is nearing its dramatic conclusion, with Fluminense taking on Chelsea in the first semi final. Fluminense have been really impressive through this tournament, remaining unbeaten in the group stage and then knocking out Inter Milan and Al Hilal in the knockout rounds. Chelsea will be a tough test, but Fluminense will firmly believe that they can go all the way.

If you want to watch Fluminense vs. Chelsea in the 2025 Club World Cup for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Fluminense vs. Chelsea?

Fluminense vs. Chelsea in the 2025 Club World Cup kicks off at 4 p.m. ET on July 8. This fixture takes place at the MetLife Stadium.

How to watch Fluminense vs. Chelsea for free

Fluminense vs. Chelsea in the 2025 Club World Cup is available to live stream for free on DAZN.

The Club World Cup is free to stream all around the world, but if you're having problems accessing this streaming platform on your network, you can consider using a VPN. These tools can hide your digital location and connect you to a secure server in another location. This simple process bypasses geo-restrictions so that you can secure access to free live streams from anywhere in the world.

Unblock free live streams of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup by following these simple steps:

  1. Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

  2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

  3. Open up the app and connect to a server in a location with access to DAZN

  4. Visit DAZN

  5. Stream the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but most do offer free-trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can watch Fluminense vs. Chelsea in the 2025 Club World Cup without actually spending anything. This clearly isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to stream the Club World Cup before recovering your investment.

If you want to retain permanent access to free streaming sites from around the world, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for streaming live sport is on sale for a limited time.

What is the best VPN for DAZN?

ExpressVPN is the best choice for streaming live sport on DAZN, for a number of reasons:

  • Servers in 105 countries

  • Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more

  • Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

  • Fast connection speeds free from throttling

  • Up to eight simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.95 (including money-back guarantee).

Live stream Fluminense vs. Chelsea in the 2025 Club World Cup for free with ExpressVPN.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Nintendo Switch 2 Mario Kart World Bundle is finally in stock at Amazon — with a slight catch

Tue, 07/08/2025 - 19:48

The wildly popular Nintendo Switch 2 bundle — yes, the one that includes the excellent Mario Kart World — is finally in stock at Amazon just in time for Prime Day. If you've been waiting to score this fan-favorite pairing, now’s your chance.

SEE ALSO: Prime Day 2025: Live updates on the top deals

The Nintendo Switch 2 has been flying off shelves — no shock there. Amazon is offering this coveted bundle as an invite-only deal. So, you'll have to request an invitation to purchase. If you're chosen, you'll receive an email when the Switch 2 is available.

Opens in a new window Credit: Nintendo Nintendo Switch 2 + Mario Kart World Bundle $499.99 at Amazon
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It makes sense: the Switch 2 moved a staggering 3.5 million units in its first four days, while Mario Kart World racked up 1.1 million copies, making both some of the fastest-selling Nintendo releases in the last decade.

Shop the best Prime Day deals selected by our deals experts Products available for purchase through affiliate links. If you buy something through links on our site, Mashable may earn an affiliate commission.
Categories: IT General, Technology

The Ryobi vacuum I use every day is just $169 — but the deal ends tomorrow

Tue, 07/08/2025 - 19:30

TL;DR: As of July 8, get the RYOBI 18V ONE+ Cordless Stick Vacuum Kit for $169, down from $199, at Home Depot ($30 off), beating Amazon's current $189 price. Act fast — the sale ends tomorrow, July 9.

Opens in a new window Credit: Ryobi RYOBI 18V ONE+ Cordless Stick Vacuum Kit $169 at Home Depot
$199 Save $30 Get Deal

Prime Day is officially in full swing, and with it comes a tidal wave of competing sales from other major retailers. Events like Target Circle Week and Walmart Deals are running right now, offering their own tempting discounts to shoppers. But one of the strongest competitors is Home Depot, which is in the final hours of its Fourth of July Savings event.

While its sale has been running for a bit, it's set to end tomorrow, July 9, making today the last chance to grab some of the best deals. Among the sales on patio furniture, tools, and appliances, one deal stands out to me personally because it’s on a product I genuinely use every single day.

The RYOBI 18V ONE+ Cordless Stick Vacuum Kit is currently on sale for $169. That’s a $30 discount, and a better deal than you'll find on Amazon, where the same vacuum is currently listed for $189.

Why it's my go-to The LED headlight (left) is great for spotting hidden pet hair, while the handheld configuration (right) is perfect for cleaning couches and baseboards. Credit: Tabitha Britt

With two beagles in my apartment, keeping up with pet hair is a constant battle. This Ryobi stick vacuum has been a total upgrade from the bulky (corded) upright I used to have. I use it every day for the floors, and its attachments are perfect for getting dog hair off the couch and cleaning baseboards. Best of all, it's so lightweight that it never feels like a chore. (To be clear, this isn't a pet vacuum and it doesn't have a fancy smell filter, but it does the trick. If you have huskies or larger, furrier dogs, I'd recommend getting a pet-specific vacuum.)

SEE ALSO: The best robot vacuum mop combos of 2025 so far, tested on my own tile and hardwood

My absolute favorite feature, however, is the LED light on the roller bar. It illuminates all the dust and pet hair on the floor that I would have otherwise missed, ensuring I actually get everything. When I’m done, it stands on its own, and I just hang it in my closet (with the included wall mount) for easy storage. It's the definition of cordless convenience.

If you’ve been looking for a reliable, versatile, and easy-to-store cordless vacuum, I can't recommend this one enough. But if you want to snag it for $169, you'll have to act fast — the sale ends tomorrow.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The best Oura Ring deal isnt on Amazon — heres how to save $50 or more

Tue, 07/08/2025 - 19:27

SAVE UP TO 33%: This Prime Day, save up to $100 on the Oura Ring by shopping the flash sale at the Oura Ring online store. You can also find select sizes on sale at Amazon.

Opens in a new window Credit: Oura Oura Ring 4 $296.65 at Oura
$349 Save $52.35 Get Deal Opens in a new window Credit: Oura Oura Ring Gen 3 $199 at Oura
$299 Save $100 Get Deal

Prime Day is finally here, and we’ve been seeing tons of deals on headphones, TVs, laptops, and more. One of the best wellness deals so far is on the Oura Ring, but the best place to get it isn't Amazon, and there are a few small-print details you’ll need to know before you pick one up for yourself.

The big news is a flash sale happening on Oura's own website from now through July 11. This is where you'll find the best prices on our favorite fitness tracker. The sale gives you two great options: You can get 15% off the Oura Ring 4. (This is your best bet if you want all the latest features, and it comes with free 2-day shipping.) Or, if you want the absolute best price, there's special new pricing on the Oura Ring Gen3. The Heritage style now starts at just $199, a full $100 off its original price while the Horizon style starts at $249, which is a $50 savings.

Of course, if you do want to shop at Amazon to take advantage of free shipping and returns, you can take advantage of some Prime Day fitness tracker deals on the Oura Ring, which we've collected below.

SEE ALSO: Yes, the Oura Ring is the best smart ring, but it's not your only option

In order to find out your Oura Ring size, you’ll need to order a free sizing kit from the company’s website (they're $10 at Amazon). It's a good idea to use the official kit to get your fit just right, especially since the various styles can feel a bit different on your finger.

The Oura Ring is one of our favorite fitness trackers. Albeit the Oura Ring 4 impressed us way more than the Gen3 and received a Mashable Choice Award, the Oura Ring Gen3 is still a solid option if you're looking to save money.

This smart ring tracks your sleep, activity, stress levels, and more (you’ll need an Oura membership to get the full Oura Ring experience — your first month is free, and then it’s $5.99 per month). You can also sync the ring to work with other compatible iOS and Android apps, including Apple Health, Google Health Connect, Flo, and Natural Cycles.

Oura Ring Prime Day offers Our Ring Gen 4 $296.65 at Oura (save $52.35) Get Deal Best Amazon deal Oura Ring Gen 4 $339.15 (save $59.85 at Amazon) Get Deal Biggest savings Oura Ring Gen 3 Heritage $199 (save $100 at Amazon) Get Deal Oura Ring Gen3 Heritage $218.05 (save $30.95 at Amazon) Get Deal Oura Ring Sizing Kit $10 at Amazon Get Deal
Categories: IT General, Technology

Im a tech editor, and Id get these doorbuster TV deals before theyre gone

Tue, 07/08/2025 - 19:20

We've already broken down the best Prime Day TV deals of 2025, and there are dozens of sets to consider. But if you're looking to save with doorbuster TV deals, you're already running out of time.

As a tech editor, I'd class doorbuster TV deals into two categories: budget sets and flagship sets.

In the former category, you can find 65-inch TVs on sale at Walmart and Amazon for as low as $298, a price that's hard to comprehend in the tariff-shopping era.

In the latter, you have the frontrunner for the best TV of 2025, the flagship LG C5 OLED TV, marked down to $1,796.99. However, as of this writing, Amazon lists this item as low in stock ("Only 1 left in stock"), and we're seeing other sought-after sets with low-stock warning signs. So, if you want to get the best TV deals, don't wait too long to hit that "Add to cart" button.

Below, I've rounded up the top doorbuster-style TV deals to shop during Prime Day. We're also providing live updates on the latest Prime Day deals.

Samsung The Frame (2024 model) Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung 55-inch The Frame QLED Art TV (2024 model) $799.99 at Best Buy
$1,499.99 Save $700 Get Deal

Best Buy and Walmart are offering seriously good prices on the 2024 version of Samsung's The Frame art TV, and I don't know how long that can last. At Walmart, you can grab the 50-inch version for $797.99. And at Best Buy, you can get the 55-inch version for just a few dollars more — $799.99.

I actually recommend buying The Frame in either the 50-inch or 55-inch version. If you want a big honking TV (and I don't blame you), then opt for one of the other TVs in this guide. But if you're looking for a tasteful art TV that enhances your home decor, a mid-size model makes more sense to me.

LG 65-inch C5 OLED TV Opens in a new window Credit: LG LG 65-inch C5 OLED TV $1,796.99 at Walmart
$2,696.99 Save $900.00 Get Deal

The latest version of the C-series from LG always racks up "best TV of the year" awards. It's simply a stunner of a TV with gorgeous, crisp visuals and incredible color clarity. LG's flagship TV also offers AI upscaling, 120Hz refresh rate, and all the smart features you'd expect in a modern TV. OLED TVs like this look great even in bright conditions, and this is once again one of the most sought-after TVs of the year.

As I said earlier, this TV is seriously low in stock at Amazon. However, you can find it in stock at Walmart as well, at the same discounted price.

Hisense 65-inch Class A7 Series Dolby Vision HDR 4K UHD Google Smart TV Opens in a new window Credit: Hisense Hisense 65-inch Class A7 Series Dolby Vision HDR 4K UHD Google Smart TV $298 at Walmart
$448 Save $150 Get Deal

Looking for the lowest price on a 65-inch TV during Prime Day 2025? So far, you can't beat this doorbuster TV deal from Walmart, which is famous for selling budget sets during big sales like this. For the very unimaginatively named Walmart Deals event, shoppers can pick up this Hisense 4K smart TV for under $300. Again, in the tariff era, it's hard to wrap my head around prices like that. A few years ago, tech writers like myself were impressed when 65-inch TVs cost under $500.

TCL 85-inch QM6K Series QD-Mini LED QLED 4K UHD Smart TV Opens in a new window Credit: TCL TCL 85-inch QM6K Series QD-Mini LED QLED 4K UHD Smart TV $998
$1,499.99 Save $501.99 Get Deal

When it comes to TVs, size actually matters quite a bit. And if you want a big-ass TV that will elevate your living room to true home theater status and make all of your friends jealous, this massive 85-incher will do nicely.

TCL's QLED TV has smooth motion that's ideal for sports lovers and cinephiles. And if you have soundbars and gaming consoles to connect, it offers four HDMI ports (including an eARC input). With bright colors and deep blacks, this QLED set is optimized for picture quality. This TCL set uses the Google smart TV OS, and we don't often see 33% price drops on 2025 model TVs like this.

You can pick it up at Amazon and Walmart for under $1,000 while it's in stock during Prime Day 2025.

Samsung The Frame (2025 model) Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung 55-inch The Frame QLED Art TV $1,097.99 at Amazon
$1,297.99 Save $200 Get Deal

This is my personal pick for the best TV of the year, and it's the one I'd buy if I was in the market for a new TV. For 2025, the newest version of Samsung's famous art TV gets an expanded art gallery as well as Samsung's new NQ4 AI Gen2 Processor. That will result in the smoothest action and best picture quality.

The often-imitated art TV is truly something special. It has a magical anti-glare matte display that's so good you'll wonder why Samsung doesn't add it to all its premium TV models. The Frame also has a handsome (and customizable) bezel and an ultra-thin display. The 55-inch version I recommend is still in stock at Amazon for the reduced price of $1,097.99, though now only from third-party resellers. You can also go direct to Samsung, where it's priced at $1,099.

One day only: Sony 65-inch 4K Ultra HD TV A95K Series OLED TV Opens in a new window Credit: Sony Sony 65-inch 4K Ultra HD TV A95K Series OLED TV $1,498 at Amazon
$3,499.99 Save $2,001.99 Get Deal

I'm going to level with you: It doesn't matter if you buy Samsung, Sony, or LG's flagship OLED TV: You're going to get a fantastic-looking TV. The difference in picture quality will be negligible unless you have a finely trained eye. Really, the main difference is which product ecosystem you prefer. Personally, I like Samsung's TVs, but if you prefer the Sony family (or if you have a PS5), then the Sony Bravia OLED family might be a better fit. If that's the case, the company's flagship OLED TV is on sale at Amazon in a one-day-only sale.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Crack the TikTok algorithm with Creator Search Insights

Tue, 07/08/2025 - 19:14

Creators on TikTok are constantly dolling out the same three pieces of advice: be authentic, find the creativity gap, and post every single day. Being authentic is not something that can be taught, but finding the creativity gap — and coming up with content to post regularly — is.

TikTok launched Creator Search Insights in March 2024 as a tool for creators to see what topics users — and their potential following — are searching for on TikTok.

"With these insights, creators can source inspiration for their content, tailor their creative strategies to meet audience interests, and create content that people want to see more of. Our hope is that Creator Search Insights empowers creators to make content that's relevant to searchers and positioned to perform well on TikTok," TikTok wrote in its blog post announcing the launch of the tool.

To find Creator Search Insights, simply search those words in the TikTok search bar and click "view" at the top of the search results. Once you're on the page, there are plenty of ways creators can use this tool to their advantage. For instance, you can just scroll through the Creator Search Insights home page, click on something that has a significant amount of views, like, say, "long distance runner," and find search popularity, related topics, and video ideas. If you're just getting started, here are the three most useful ways to use Creator Search Insights to come up with video ideas that your followers are already searching for on TikTok.

Creator Search Insights for "long distance runner" Credit: Screenshot/ TikTok Search

Search allows creators to find trending videos in your niche and serves them video ideas, hook ideas, hashtags, and scripts.

Once you're in Creator Search Insights, use the search bar to snoop around the niche's that interest you. For instance, if you make videos about your life on a farm, you can search "farm" or specific farm animals like "horses" and "cows" to explore suggested and trending content. If you search "horses," you'll see that the third trend is "horse eyes" and the sixth trend, which has a red number indicating its increasing in growth, is "horse rider outfits." Click into each of these searches and you'll discover "creator tips" including "ideas from top posts," "suggested title and hashtags," and even "suggested script" that includes ideas for hooks, scenes, and visuals to help creators increase retention in their videos.

Content gap

A content gap is when a lot of people are searching for something, but not many people have posted videos answering the search. This implies high demand for content but not a lot of competition for views. To find the content gap, head to the main Creator Search Insights page. Under the "suggested" tab, click "content gap."

Searches by followers

This tool is only available if you have over 1,000 followers, but it will show you exactly what your followers are looking for — so you can be the first to answer their calls. On the main Creator Search Insights page, you'll see a "suggested" tab. Under that tab, there is "all," "content gap," and "searches by followers." To see for yourself, click "searches by followers."

Categories: IT General, Technology

Deals on Ninja appliances are plentiful on Prime Day 2025

Tue, 07/08/2025 - 19:09
Best Prime Day Ninja deals Best Ninja deal Ninja Prestige Smart XL Air Fryer & Toaster Oven $199.99 (Save $150) Get Deal Best blender deal Ninja Professional Compact Smoothie & Food Processing Blender $89.99 (Save $30) Get Deal Best outdoor cooking deal Ninja Artisan Outdoor Pizza Oven $199.95 (Save $100.04) Get Deal Best coffee maker deal Ninja Luxe Café Premier 3-in-1 Espresso and Coffee Maker 509.99 (Save $90 + get a free $50 Amazon credit) Get Deal

Prime Day is finally here, and the kitchen-related deals are aplenty. Having tested our way through Ninja's most popular kitchen appliances, we're certified experts of the brand. Ninja's appliances are for kitchen pros and novices alike, offering excellent performance along with ease of use. Add in a nice discount, and you've got an amazing bang for your buck.

Right now, Ninja is offering some of the best deals on Prime Day. Read on to find our favorite deals below, and stay tuned, because we expect to see even more in the coming days.

SEE ALSO: Best Prime Day air fryer deals: Instant Pot and Ninja both have one standout option Best Ninja deal Opens in a new window Credit: Ninja Ninja Prestige Smart XL Air Fryer and Toaster Oven $199.99 at Amazon
$349.99 Save $150 Get Deal Why we like it

Air fryers are great any time of year, but they're especially key during the summer months when you don't want to turn on the oven, but still want perfectly crisp food. Ninja makes some great air fryers and while the Ninja Crispi Portable Air Fryer is our favorite, the Ninja Prestige Smart XL Air Fryer & Toaster Oven is currently $150 off.

This supersized air fryer and oven can fit a 12-pound turkey or up to 20 cookies at a time. Plus, it can fit two trays at once, so you can cook dinner for the whole family. Right now, grab the Ninja Prestige Smart XL Air Fryer for $199.99, saving you $150 off its normal $349.99 for 43% in savings during Prime Day.

More Prime Day Ninja deals
Categories: IT General, Technology

Prime Day Echo deals could be better, but we still found some standouts

Tue, 07/08/2025 - 18:25
Best Echo device deals from Prime Day 2025: BEST ECHO DISPLAY DEAL Amazon Echo Hub $119.99 (Save $60) Get Deal BEST ECHO SPEAKER DEAL Echo Spot $44.99 (save $35) Get Deal BEST ECHO DEAL FOR KIDS Echo Pop Kids $21.99 (Save $28) Get Deal HONORABLE MENTION Echo Frames (Sunglasses) $129.99 (save $200) Get Deal

Amazon Prime Day 2025 is officially here and everything is getting the deal treatment, from TVs to headphones. Amazon's own devices typically see some of the biggest discounts during the summer shopping event, but, if we're being honest, we're slightly disappointed in the Echo deals this go around.

While some Amazon Echo devices are at their lowest prices on record (like the Echo Frames and Echo Hub), others aren't seeing that big of price drops — like the Echo Pop, for example. It's currently sitting at $21.99 on Prime Day, but we've seen it drop to $17.99 on random days throughout the year. Given that Prime Day is now four days long, there is a chance these prices could drop further. We'll definitely be crossing our fingers and keeping an eye on things throughout the week.

SEE ALSO: I'm a tech editor, and these are the 12 Prime Day tech deals I'm eyeing today

Below, we've rounded up the best Amazon Echo device deals of Prime Day 2025. We'll be updating this page throughout the event, so check back to see if any new deals or further discounts go live.

Note: Deals with a 🔥 next to them have dropped to record-low prices.

Best Prime Day Echo deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Echo Hub 🔥 $119.99 at Amazon
$179.99 Save $60.00 Get Deal Why we like it

If you have several smart home devices, the Amazon Echo Hub gives you a way to control them all from one central spot. Serving as your smart home's brain, it offers a full-featured control panel with instant access to all of your gadgets — lights, cameras, switches, doorbells, thermostat, etc. Anyone in your home can play music, stream videos, ask Alexa questions, dim the lights, adjust the temperature, and more from a singular spot. We've seen the Echo Hub drop as low as $124.99 before, but this is the first time it's ever reached sub-$120.

More Echo device deals
Categories: IT General, Technology

How to watch Norrie vs. Alcaraz online for free

Tue, 07/08/2025 - 18:01

TL;DR: Live stream Norrie vs. Alcaraz in Wimbledon 2025 for free on BBC iPlayer. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The quarter finals of Wimbledon showcases some really interesting matchups, but Norrie vs. Alcaraz might be the best of the bunch. It's the home favorite against the seemingly unstoppable young star from Spain. It's going to be electric.

If you're interested in watching Norrie vs. Alcaraz at Wimbledon 2025 for free from anywhere in the world, we've got all the information you need.

How to watch Norrie vs. Alcaraz for free

Norrie vs. Alcaraz in Wimbledon 2025 is available to live stream for free on BBC iPlayer.

BBC iPlayer is geo-restricted to the UK, but anyone can access this free streaming platform with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in another country, meaning you can unblock free live streams on sites like BBC iPlayer from anywhere in the world.

Live stream Wimbledon 2025 for free by following these simple steps:

  1. Sign up for a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

  2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

  3. Open up the app and connect to a server in the UK

  4. Visit BBC iPlayer

  5. Live stream Norrie vs. Alcaraz for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but they do tend to offer money-back guarantees and free trials. By leveraging these offers, you can unblock BBC iPlayer without committing with your cash. This obviously isn't a long-term solution, but it gives you plenty of time to stream Norrie vs. Alcaraz (plus the rest of Wimbledon 2025) before recovering your investment.

If you want to retain permanent access to free streaming platforms from around the world, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for streaming live sport is on sale for a limited time.

What is the best VPN for BBC iPlayer?

ExpressVPN is the best choice for streaming live sport on free platforms like BBC iPlayer, for a number of reasons:

  • Servers in 105 countries including the UK

  • Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more

  • Strict no-logging policy so your data is always secure

  • Fast streaming speeds free from throttling

  • Up to eight simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $139 and includes an extra four months for free — 61% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month subscription for just $12.95 (including money-back guarantee).

Live stream Norrie vs. Alcaraz in Wimbledon 2025 for free with ExpressVPN.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The best Prime Day 2025 fitness tracker deals — shop Apple, Garmin, Fitbit, and more

Tue, 07/08/2025 - 17:59
The best Prime Day fitness tracker deals Best Apple Deal Apple Watch Series 10 $279 (Save $120) Get Deal Best Garmin Deal Garmin vívoactive 5 $190 (Save $109.99) Get Deal Best Samsung Deal Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra $479 (Save $170.99) Get Deal

The summer is a fantastic time to get outside and be active, and if you're planning on getting serious about fitness this season, you might want to add a good fitness tracker to your repertoire to keep yourself in sync with your goals.

Thankfully, Amazon Prime Day is here (running from July 8-11), which means plenty of fitness tracker deals are also here. In fact, we've rounded up the best ones in case you didn't want to do it yourself.

SEE ALSO: Oura Ring 4 review: It's got this edge over Apple Watch and Samsung Galaxy Ring

Find our top picks below, and be sure to stay tuned to this page, as we'll be updating it as more discounts roll in.

Best Prime Day fitness tracker deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple Watch Series 10 $279 at Amazon
$399 Save $120 Get Deal Why we like it

Check out our full review of the Apple Watch Series 10.

Ready to take the plunge and get a new Apple Watch? This is your best bet during Prime Day. The Apple Watch Series 10 is well worth investing in, especially at a 30% discount. At $120 off, this is a better deal than average, especially considering it's Mashable's top pick for a smartwatch fitness tracker.

We like the Series 10 thanks to its suite of health tracking capabilities, including a heart rate monitor, sleep tracker, menstrual cycle tracker, and pedometer (the blood oxygen sensor is the main feature that's missing). It also has an ultra bright and lightweight display.

More Prime Day fitness tracker deals
Categories: IT General, Technology

Threads nears X in daily users, new data reveals

Tue, 07/08/2025 - 17:45

Threads, It looks like Instagram's Twitter alternative, is catching up to X in daily users, a new report reveals.

There were 115.1 million daily active users on the platforms' iOS and Android apps in June 2025, according to data from market intelligence provider Similarweb reported by TechCrunch. In comparison, X reached 132 million daily active users during the same time period, the data showed, and Bluesky reached 4.1 million daily active users.

It's important to note that this data is exclusively for mobile users, and X likely has an edge with regards to desktop users. Similarweb reports X had 145.8 million average daily web visits worldwide in June while Threads and Bluesky had 6.9 million and 5.3 million, respectively.

This didn't come out of nowhere. People began looking for Twitter alternatives when when Elon Musk bought the platform in 2023, renamed it X, revamped its verification protocol, got rid of Circles, and integrated xAI's Grok chatbot, among other questionable decisions. Users fled to Mastodon, Bluesky, and, of course, Threads.

But unlike other alternatives, Threads had a bit of a leg up when it came to attracting users from the start — the app's ecosystem was created with the help of Instagram, so users had a built-in community, and creating an account was simple.

Plus, it was released around the time a whole host of Twitter clones were popping up in response to Elon Musk buying the platform and turning it into X. So when Threads said they had 90 million signups in the first four days it existed, it wasn't terribly difficult to understand why. But that 90 million didn't touch the hundreds of millions of accounts on X at the time.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Trump tariffs will impact Macs, Apple Watch in just weeks

Tue, 07/08/2025 - 17:44

Starting August 1, President Donald Trump's tariffs will apply to Apple products made in Thailand, including the Mac and Apple Watch.

Thailand is one of at least 14 countries now facing steep tariff rates of up to 40 percent, according to CNBC. On Truth Social, Trump posted screenshots of letters he sent to several nations, including Bangladesh, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Cambodia, Indonesia, Japan, Kazakhstan, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Serbia, South Africa, South Korea, and Tunisia.

SEE ALSO: Is the Home Depot's viral 12-foot skeleton a victim of President Trump's tariffs?

This development could pose a challenge for Apple. Both the Mac and Apple Watch are manufactured in Thailand, with the Apple Watch becoming the first Apple product produced there in 2022. The Mac Pro line followed in 2023. So far, Apple has avoided raising prices for U.S. consumers, even as the Trump administration repeatedly wavers between pausing and reviving its broad trade war.

Trump initially imposed a 36 percent tariff on Thai imports back in April, only to "pause" it shortly after, citing market instability. However, his latest post on Truth Social, shared Monday, July 7, suggests he plans to move forward with the tariffs this time.

In response to months of shifting trade policies, Apple has pledged to expand its US manufacturing infrastructure while also exploring alternative production hubs in countries like India and Vietnam. For context, Chinese imports continue to face the harshest tariffs, reaching as high as 145 percent at one point.

Still, new reports suggest the Trump administration may be open to negotiating lower tariff rates with China over rare earth minerals, though nothing appears certain yet.

Categories: IT General, Technology

OpenAI tests ChatGPT ‘study together’ feature

Tue, 07/08/2025 - 17:37

OpenAI might be launching a studying tool for ChatGPT, according to eagle-eyed users.

As reported by TechCrunch, ChatGPT users have noticed a new option in the tools dropdown menu called "Study together." Users who seemed to have access to the tool showed screenshots of a conversation that guides the user through a prompt like a mathematical equation or learning a new concept.

SEE ALSO: Using ChatGPT to write? MIT study says there's a cognitive cost. This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed.

The tool appears to use the Socratic method, where a teacher essentially helps a student learn by asking them questions about the problem and steering them towards the correct answer. If this tool gets a widespread release, it could become a popular study buddy for users that already rely on ChatGPT for many tasks. OpenAI did not respond to Mashable's request for comment.

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

Students using ChatGPT and other genAI chatbots for schoolwork, either to cheat on assignments or as a sanctioned tool, has become ubiquitous. Several recent high profile stories have illustrated the widespread use in schools, painting a picture of an education system in crisis as it tries to foster learning while embracing a revolutionary technology.

SEE ALSO: College professors don't know how to catch students cheating with AI

President Donald Trump's executive order mandating the training and adoption of AI tools in K-12 schools seeks to prepare students for an AI-centric future. But there's also the issue of students cheating themselves out of an education by having ChatGPT do their homework. Many teachers have responded by AI-proofing their assignments, including messages in white font to catch students that copy and paste into ChatGPT, or assigning in-class essays where they don't have access to chatbots. But it's a constant battle.

The launch of a tool that helps users find the correct answer on their own, instead of just asking ChatGPT, might be OpenAI's way of encouraging positive uses.

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

Categories: IT General, Technology

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