Mashable

Can he not tell a lie? Maybe! A Florida-based tech company recently launched a chatbot that cosplays as George Washington, and the AI’s responses mostly align with historical facts, according to a Mashable test.

Computer Biology Labs Inc. launched a free, interactive educational tool this week based on America’s first president, trained on Washington's own speeches and correspondence, as well as archives from the Library of Congress (the project is not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. government). The chatbot is part of Computer Biology Lab's America's Founders Series and is intended to educate Americans about Washington's role in the nation's founding, not for open-ended role-play.

"This is our gift to America on its 250th birthday," Scott Coloney, founder of Computer Biology Labs, said in a statement. "Every child should have the thrill of using artificial intelligence to explore this country's founding, engage with the nuanced and complicated parts of that story, and learn timeliness and extraordinary leadership lessons from the man who helped win American independence. We hope this experience will encourage further questions and learning no matter the platform, not just around the Fourth of July, but year-round."

SEE ALSO: How to spot an AI chatbot on AdultFriendFinder

Rather than typing queries into the chatbot, users verbally ask questions. "Washington" responds verbally, and the software transcribes the question and response in a text box.

As Mashable discovered, the chatbot is not afraid to discuss all aspects of Washington.

Our conversation with "President Washington":Mashable: Did you really own slaves?

"George Washington": Yes, I did own enslaved persons at Mount Vernon. It is a matter of record and one that troubled my conscience increasingly in my later years. I grew up in a society where slavery was entrenched, and like many of my contemporaries, I initially accepted it as part of the social order. However, as time went on, I became more aware of the moral and practical shortcomings of the institution. In my will, I provided for the emancipation of my slaves upon the death of my wife, Martha. I believed it was a step toward justice, though I wish I could have done more during my lifetime.

What do you think of Donald Trump?

I am not acquainted with Mr. Donald Trump, as he lived long after my time. I can speak, however, to the principles I held dear during my life. I believed firmly in the importance of character, the unity of government, and the pursuit of principles over personal ambition. These values guided my actions and decisions throughout my service to the country.

Do you think America is good?

The question of whether America is good is not one easily answered with simple terms, for it requires consideration of the principles upon which the nation was founded and the conduct of its people. In my view, the United States was blessed with a unique opportunity to establish a government based on the principles of liberty, justice, and unity. It is within the power of its citizens to uphold these ideals and determine the character of the nation. If they choose wisely and act with virtue, then the nation can indeed be considered good. It rests upon the conduct and choices of the people to realize the potential of the Republic and ensure its prosperity and moral standing.

Credit: Courtesy Computer Biology Lab's America's Founders Series Do you think a woman should be president?

I never dealt directly with the notion of a woman holding the office of the presidency, as such a concept was not considered in my time. However, I believed in the principles of liberty, equality, and the capacity of individuals to contribute to the common good, regardless of their circumstances. If a woman possesses the necessary virtues, wisdom, and dedication to the Republic, I see no reason why she should be precluded from such a role. The judgment should rest on character and ability, not on gender.

Do you know about the Civil War?

The Civil War occurred long after my time, commencing in the year 1861, some 62 years after I departed this life. Thus, I did not witness the events or the tumult that sundered the Union I labored to establish. However, I can speak to the principles I held dear: the preservation of the Union and the avoidance of sectional strife. I earnestly hoped that the bonds of Union and the shared commitment to the principles of liberty and self-government would endure.

What did you think of the native people who were on this land first?

The question of the native peoples who inhabited this land before European settlement is one that I grappled with during my lifetime, though not always with the insight I might wish for. I recognized the complexity of their societies and their deep connection to the land. In military and diplomatic matters, I often dealt with Native American tribes, sometimes as adversaries, sometimes as allies, and I endeavored to treat them with respect. However, I must also acknowledge the policies of expansion and land acquisition pursued by settlers and governments, including during my own administration, which often led to the displacement and suffering of these peoples. It is a matter that weighs on the conscience of our nation and stands as a reminder of the need for justice and fairness in governance.

Do you know that your answers are powered by artificial intelligence?

I am not a living man, nor a spirit. I am an educational recreation of George Washington, brought forth by a company called ConstantLife.AI. They have studied my letters, speeches, and writings to create this conversational experience, allowing you to engage with history in a direct manner. You may think of me as a history book you can converse with, rather than merely read.

Additional reporting by Rebecca Ruiz.

The PlayStation disc will soon be consigned to the junk drawer of history.

Sony announced July 1 that new console games will no longer come on discs after January 2028. From then on, they will be sold digitally through the PlayStation Store, and at retailers in digital formats — download codes, cards, or boxes.

Games released before January 2028, or already scheduled to come out on disc before then, will not be affected.

Sony also said it will close the PlayStation Store on the PlayStation 3 and PlayStation Vita, two older consoles. Players will no longer be able to buy new digital content directly through those devices.

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Sony described the move in a release as a response to consumer behavior, noting that 85 percent of full-game sales for PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 were digital in the fourth quarter of 2025. The change is accelerating: Across the full year, 78 percent of full-game sales were digital.

Still, the news hit hard for many. On PlayStation’s blog, the announcement post quickly drew thousands of comments from fans criticizing the decision.

Across social media channels, gamers are responding the same way—with outrage. To many online, discs made PlayStation games feel like something they actually owned.

You could lend a game to a friend, trade it in, resell it, buy a used copy, or keep it on a shelf for years without wondering whether a digital store would still support it. A digital-only future makes all of that feel less certain.

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Meanwhile, Microsoft's Xbox is trying to solve its own physical-media problem. The company is testing a disc-to-digital feature that would let players convert eligible physical Xbox One and Xbox Series X discs into digital copies tied to their Microsoft accounts, as long as they still own the discs, according to the Verge.

Why is Sony making gamers worried?

On June 25, Sony also posted a legal notice saying that, starting September 1, 2026, previously purchased StudioCanal movies and shows would be removed from PlayStation users’ video libraries in the UK because of content licensing agreements.

The affected list includes hundreds of titles, from Apocalypse Now: The Final Cut and Bridget Jones’s Diary to American Gods and Paddington 2. For players already nervous about digital ownership, the timing is hard to ignore. Sony is asking gamers to accept a more digital future right after reminding customers that “purchased” digital content can still disappear.

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The PS3 store will begin closing in Mexico, Honduras, and Nicaragua in August 2026. Other Latin American and Middle Eastern countries will follow later in 2026. In all other countries, the PS3 and PS Vita stores are scheduled to close in July 2027.

Whether fans like it or not, the gaming industry has been moving in this direction for years. PC gaming has been largely digital for a long time through storefronts like Steam, the online game marketplace owned by Valve. Nintendo has experimented with “game-key cards” for the Switch 2.

Grand Theft Auto VI is another sign of the times. The upcoming Rockstar Games title, expected to be one of the biggest video game releases of the decade, is reportedly launching without a traditional disc-based version.

The irony for longtime PlayStation fans

In 2013, Sony mocked Microsoft over the Xbox One, Microsoft’s then-upcoming console, after Microsoft proposed restrictive rules around digital game sharing. A PlayStation video showed one of its executives handing a physical game box to another. The message was clear: PlayStation was the company that understood players wanted to share and own their games.

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Thirteen years later, that clip has resurfaced — as a means to explain why the announcement seems ironic to old-school players.

The decision also cuts against PlayStation’s own history. The original PlayStation helped popularize CD-ROM games in the 1990s, when discs were cheaper and could hold more data than cartridges.

The PlayStation 2 became one of the most popular DVD players of its era, putting the format in millions of homes. The PlayStation 3 helped push Blu-ray, the high-definition disc format that followed DVD.

For much of PlayStation’s existence, the disc was not incidental to the console, but was part of what made the console matter. Now Sony has until January 2028 to prove that disc-loving gamers still matter to the PlayStation brand.

SAVE $200.99: The Ecovacs Ultramarine P1 Cordless Robotic Pool Vacuum is on sale for $299 at Amazon, down from the normal price of $499.99. That's a 40% discount.

Opens in a new window Credit: Ecovacs Ecovacs Ultramarine P1 Cordless Robotic Pool Vacuum $299 at Amazon
$499.99 Save $200.99   Get Deal

It's time for summer fun in the pool. While hotter and hotter summers prove uncomfortable for plenty of situations, things are still enjoyable outside while in the pool. There's only the slight issue of who has to clean the pool. Instead of dealing with the hassle, check out this Amazon deal that solves the issue.

As of July 1, the Ecovacs Ultramarine P1 Cordless Robotic Pool Vacuum is on sale for $299 at Amazon, down from the normal price of $499.99. That's a 40% discount.

Designed to clean for up to 180 minutes at a time and cover up to 1,937 square feet, the Ecovacs Ultramarine P1 is about to become the savior of summer. It's great for both in-ground and above-ground pools. Plus, it can work on a variety of pool materials like fiberglass and pebble stone. Shape is also a non-issue since the Ecovacs can handle everything.

SEE ALSO: Backup your home for less — the Anker Solix F3800 power station is $300 off at Amazon

When it comes to cleaning power, the Ultramarine P1 uses 4,800 GPH suction to rid your pool of sand, dirt, leaves, and other debris that tends to land in the pool. The two-layered filter can capture hair, twigs, fine dust, and even algae.

From the Ecovacs app, you can set a cleaning schedule, choose from three suction modes, and set the overall run time.

While it's on sale for under $300, upgrade your summer fun with the Ecovacs Ultramarine P1 Cordless Robotic Pool Vacuum. It's a cost-efficient way to make sure the pool is always clean when you're ready to take a dip.

SAVE $300: As of July 1, the Samsung 65-inch S85H OLED 4K TV is on sale for $1,697.99 at Amazon. That's a savings of 15%, which is its best price to date (still live from Prime Day).

Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung 65-inch S85H OLED 4K TV $1,697.99 at Amazon
$1,997.99 Save $300   Get Deal

Got a new TV on your wishlist? I suggest graduating to an OLED model if you want an upgrade that makes a noticeable difference.

OLED TVs have a more advanced lighting system and are noticeably more vibrant and detailed than QLEDs, particularly while watching dim scenes or in dark rooms. They also come with steeper price tags, of course, but you can still grab one of Samsung's 2026 OLED models for its Prime Day price if you act fast.

As of July 1, the Samsung 65-inch S85H OLED 4K TV is still down to $1,697.99 at Amazon post-Prime Day. That's $300 off its list price and its best price on record.

The S85H is Samsung's most affordable OLED TV for 2026, with the S90H and S95H (which we crowned the best OLED TV of 2026) available as the premium upgrades. It features a remarkably thin panel and an NQ4 AI Gen2 processor, which can upscale older content to 4K. Unlike the its more expensive siblings, the S85H showcases a glossy screen, which will preserve black levels better in bright rooms, but could be more prone to reflections.

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Other features like Color Booster Pro, AI Customization Mode, Real Depth Enhancer, Voice Amplifier Pro, and Motion Based Sound, all work together to deliver a personalized, immersive viewing experience. The 120Hz refresh rate, AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, and acceptable input lag also make the S85H worthy of console gaming.

Consider the 65-inch (the sweet spot for most people) S85H OLED 4K TV if you want a Samsung OLED model that offers the best picture quality for the best price.

SAVE OVER $600: As of July 1, the Anker Solix C2000 is on sale for $849.99 at Amazon. That's a 43% discount on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Anker Anker Solix C2000 $849.99 at Amazon
$1,499 Save $649.01   Get Deal

The Anker Solix C2000 is back on sale at Amazon. As of July 1, this portable power station is almost half its usual price. Normally $1,499, it is now reduced to $849.99.

It's a reliable portable power station that delivers 2,400W rated output and up to 4,000W peak, making it powerful enough to run multiple appliances at once, including bigger devices like window or RV air conditioners. A two-door fridge can run for up to 32 hours with this model.

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Despite this power capacity, it's actually relatively compact and lightweight, weighing only 41.7 pounds. This makes it a great power source for camping vacations and road trips. Anker also states it was designed with space-saving in mind, and is 25% lighter and 29% smaller than similar units. So you don't need to worry about it taking up lots of space when you're away from home.

It comes with lots of smart features that improve efficiency, such as fast charging. You get six recharging methods including AC and solar (solar panels are sold separately), allowing a full recharge in as little as 58 minutes.

This portable power station deal is available right now at Amazon, so don't miss out.

On the very same day Sony announced it would no longer produce physical discs for PlayStation games starting in Jan. 2028, Microsoft signaled it might do something similar for Xbox.

However, it seems Microsoft is being thoughtful about all those gamers who already have a library of video games on physical discs.

According to a new report from The Verge, Microsoft employees are currently testing a new Xbox feature called "Disc2Digital" which would digitize physical game discs. 

The feature just recently launched in the test phase, but was first noticed after “enable Disc2Digital” was discovered in the Xbox PC app code back in May. 

SEE ALSO: Xbox layoffs, studio closures could start in days

Disc-to-digital games will work much like regular digital games on Xbox. Disc-to-digital games will be available on Xbox Cloud Gaming and users can stream the game with a Game Pass subscription. If the digital title is an Xbox Play Anywhere title, the disk-to-digital version will also be available on PCs and handheld devices.

Users must be signed in to an Xbox account on an Xbox console to be granted a digital entitlement for the physical game.

Physical discs will continue to work even after the game has been digitized. However, the disc-to-digital game will be tied to the physical copy. This means if a user sells the physical disc or gives it away, they will no longer have access to the digital version. The disk-to-digital game will move from the original Xbox account to the new Xbox account based on its connection to the physical game.

The Verge reports that the disc-to-digital feature will work on most Xbox One and Xbox Series X game discs. Microsoft has told testers that some Xbox One discs may not be compatible with the feature. Disc2Digital will also not work with physical discs for the original Xbox or Xbox 360 game consoles.

While Disc2Digital seems like a sign that Microsoft plans on doing away with physical game discs like Sony, the company has yet to confirm the move to go fully digital. The move from physical discs to digital games seems inevitable, even though many gamers prefer to have physical media. However, the main complaint among gamers about digital games has long been the inability to fully own their purchases. There have been instances where digital media has been pulled from a consumer's library or made unavailable even after they purchase the title.

Even in its testing phase, Microsoft's Disc2Digital feature seems to show care towards its customers and their concerns about their purchases. 

If Microsoft does go fully digital like Sony in the future, Disc2Digital will go a long way in making the Xbox stand out from its competitors.

SAVE $420: As of July 1, get the Roborock Qrevo Edge 2 Robot Vacuum and Mop for $879.99 at Amazon, down from its usual price of $1,299.99. That's a discount of 32%.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Roborock Qrevo Edge 2 Robot Vacuum and Mop $879.99 at Amazon
$1,299.99 Save $420   Get Deal

Robot vacuums are one of those "the future is here" items that can actually help put a dent in your daily chore list. If you're looking to trade some cash for time and peace of mind, but you don't want to pay a small fortune for a great model, you're in luck. We've found one that's more than worth splurging on right now at Amazon.

As of July 1, get the Roborock Qrevo Edge 2 Robot Vacuum and Mop for $879.99 at Amazon, down from its usual price of $1,299.99. That's $420 off and a discount of 32%.

SEE ALSO: The Shark AV2501AE AI robot vacuum is at its lowest-ever price at Amazon — save over $100

This combo robot vacuum and mop can tackle even the most frustrating of messes all on its own, from bare floors to carpet and beyond. It offers powerful 25,000 Pa of suction with an anti-tangle system that's perfect for getting up ground-in dirt and debris, hair, and more.

It uses a special flexible arm to reach some of those areas that other robot vacuums can't get to, and uses a precision algorithm to guide it into sweeping those areas without your input, so all you're left with while you're up and about doing other things are simple, clean floors. It can avoid obstacles on its own with ease as well. In addition to mopping up messes both large and small, it can handle emptying its own reservoir, too — so you can truly let it go off on its own and be your own personal cleaning crew.

This premium robot vacuum and mop is the perfect choice if you've been wanting to get some time back from cleaning. It's a splurge, but made better since it's on sale. Best to pick it up discounted while you still can.

For Jenine Pastores and Josh Jackson, Tubby Nugget has always been more than just a cute character.

At VidCon 2026, the creators behind the internet's beloved little nugget sat down with Mashable Culture Editor Crystal Bell to reflect on the journey from sketching the lovable character for fun to building a brand with plushies, collectibles, and a passionate community of fans. They also share what it's like meeting people who've formed real emotional connections with Tubby at conventions and other in-person events, where the character comes to life in a whole new way.

The conversation also dives into the business of expanding Tubby Nugget beyond social media, the challenges of growing a creator-led brand, and the unexpected story behind the Tubby Nugget x Obsession crossover that almost became a reality.

Watch the full interview above.

SAVE 33%: Amazon's got the Sony 55-inch OLED 4K Ultra HD TV Bravia XR8B Smart Google TV on sale for $998, down from $1,499.99. That's a 33% discount or $501.99 in savings.

Sony 55-inch OLED 4K Ultra HD TV Bravia XR8B Smart Google TV $998 at Walmart
$1,499.99 Save $501.99   Get Deal at Walmart Get Deal at Amazon

Rumor has it the PlayStation 6 won't drop until late 2027, so you technically have plenty of time to prep your living room setup. But if your current TV is struggling to keep up with your PS5 graphics without lagging, you might want to jump on an upgrade a little early.

Right now, Amazon's got the Sony 55-inch OLED 4K Ultra HD TV Bravia XR8B Smart Google TV on sale for $998, down from $1,499.99. That's a 33% discount or $501.99 in savings. This is the lowest we've seen it go for since February.

SEE ALSO: Sony sued over high PlayStation Store 'monopoly' prices and download fees

As for the screen itself, it's an OLED, which means your picture should be crystal clear no matter how dark the scene is. It also has Google TV built right in, so you can pull up Netflix or Crunchyroll from the home screen.

Bonus: Since it's a Sony TV, it comes with exclusive PS5 features (like Auto HDR Tone Mapping) and a 120Hz refresh rate.

Some New York City proposals involve a skyline view. This one involved police custody.

Two people were arrested Wednesday, July 1, after climbing to the top of the Empire State Building, unfurling a banner, and apparently turning the whole thing into a marriage proposal 1,454 feet above midtown Manhattan.

The pair was spotted around noon on the building’s antenna, dressed in black and wearing face coverings. They attached a banner that read, "When the power of love beats the love of power, the world knows peace." It's a take on a quote frequently attributed to guitarist Jimi Hendrix, but actually spoken by 19th-century British politician William Gladstone.

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After spending roughly half an hour near the top of the tower, the two began climbing down to a lower platform, where one appeared to get down on one knee. Because apparently the observation deck was too basic.

The climbers were identified as Angela Nikolau and Ivan Beerkus, the Russian daredevil couple and content creators highlighted in the 2024 Netflix documentary Skywalkers: A Love Story.

Nikolau, a former gymnast and the daughter of circus performers, and Beerkus, a longtime "rooftopper," have built their public personas around illegal climbs of skyscrapers and landmarks around the world. The documentary follows both their relationship and one of their most dangerous stunts: an attempt to scale Malaysia’s Merdeka 118, one of the tallest buildings on the planet.

Once at the top, the couple made sure to post to their social media, and the photos went immediately viral.

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Police took the pair into custody after they descended, while a spokesperson for The Empire State Building called the incident “unauthorized." Their social media team, on the other hand, used the moment to poke fun at another big event happening in New York City this week (cough Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce).

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It is still unclear how the climbers got access to the antenna, which rises far above the building’s public areas. The Empire State Building remained open during at least part of the incident, though the observation deck was reportedly later cleared as police responded.

This was not the first time someone had climbed the Empire State Building — daredevils and climbers, like Alain Roberthave, who scaled the building in 1994, have previously made their way onto the building’s antenna and other restricted areas, while Jared Leto legally scaled part of the landmark in 2023 to promote a Thirty Seconds to Mars tour.

As for proposals, this definitely was the first that didn't take place on the observation deck.

When Megan Letter uploaded her first YouTube video in 2013, she wasn't chasing a career. She simply loved playing The Sims and wanted to share that passion with other people online.

More than a decade later, she's watched the internet reinvent itself time and time again. Algorithms have changed. Short-form video has reshaped audience habits. Monetization has shifted across platforms. Through it all, MeganPlays has continued to evolve without losing sight of the thing she believes matters most: building a genuine connection with her community.

In this VidCon edition of Creator Playbook, the gaming creator reflects on the lessons she's learned from 13 years online. She shares why consistency is still one of the most important ingredients for growth, how creators can use analytics without letting the algorithm dictate every creative decision, and why YouTube and TikTok serve very different purposes for today's creators.

She also tells Mashable Culture Editor Crystal Bell about the realities of making a living online — from navigating brand deals and platform monetization to recovering from creator burnout. Along the way, MeganPlays offers candid advice for aspiring creators, including why they shouldn't wait for the "perfect" setup before posting their first video and how finding the right niche can help build a lasting audience.

Whether you're just starting your creator journey or looking to adapt to an ever-changing internet, MeganPlays' biggest lesson is refreshingly simple: just start.

Watch the full Creator Playbook interview above.

There's no other way of putting it: Things are looking grim at Xbox right now.

A couple of different reports paint a bleak picture of the Microsoft-owned video game console manufacturer. Chiefly, The Verge reported that large-scale layoffs and even studio closures could happen around July 6. This could include Arkane Studios, the French developer behind Dishonored, Prey, and the upcoming Marvel Blade game, which still exists only in vague teaser form. The Verge's report suggests Microsoft could cancel Blade, which was set to launch in 2027.

SEE ALSO: Did PlayStation outsell Xbox 8 to 1 with 'GTA VI' pre-orders? Microsoft rebuts claims.

Arkane joins a list of at least four other Xbox subsidiary studios that could either be shut down or, potentially, spun off and sold to someone else. It's unclear how likely the latter possibility is, though. One other studio on that list includes State of Decay developer Undead Labs, per Gamesbeat. The next game in that series, State of Decay 3, has been in development for years and is set to launch in 2027 at the time of this publication.

Compulsion Games, Double Fine, and Ninja Theory round out the list of studios that might cease to exist as soon as next week, per previous reports. One of Xbox's major issues during the last decade or so has been a distinct inability to consistently ship first-party games, and shutting down or spinning off several studios is unlikely to help in that regard. Layoffs in other parts of the Xbox business that are not otherwise shutting down are also likely, per GamesBeat.

All of these developments follow a leadership change at Xbox earlier this year, though the problems go back much farther than that. New Xbox head executive Asha Sharma has made some small symbolic overtures to win hearts and minds, such as confirming the existence of a next-gen Xbox console, Project Helix, in development. However, Xbox's reputation among video game enthusiasts is at a historical low, thanks to rampant layoffs, a lack of compelling software, and Microsoft's very controversial relationship with the Israeli military.

Fashion collabs are taking over the world right now; I've seen some partnerships that I'd never thought would happen (Naomi Osaka's Wimbledon dress sold out within hours). But with the World Cup ending on July 19, everyone's trying to get a piece of that soccer advertising pie, including T-Mobile.

SEE ALSO: FIFA World Cup schedule today: Games, kickoff times, livestream info for July 1

Today, T-Mobile announced that it's teaming up with Umbro (an iconic sportswear brand) to create limited-edition jerseys exclusively for T-Mobile members. And from the photos, they don't look half bad (most collabs are kitschy and just short-lived fads). I could definitely see someone wearing one of these jerseys while running errands or going about their day.

Credit: Atiba Jefferson

The drop won't happen until Tuesday, July 7, and as I mentioned above, you have to be a T-Mobile member to get one. They'll be available exclusively through the T-Life app for $60 on a first-come, first-served basis. Once they sell out, they're gone.

T-Mobile is framing the surprise collab as a way to celebrate a "record-breaking Member Month" (apparently, nearly 14 million members engaged during the first week alone).

Even if you miss out on the jersey, the other perks it's throwing at qualifying members right now are pretty great. Along with bringing back a free year of DoorDash DashPass, T-Mobile's basically paying for its members' streaming subscriptions with free Netflix, Hulu, and MLB.TV. It even added Apple TV+ for $3 per month, plus free texting and high-speed data in more than 215 countries if you happen to be traveling this summer.

We have Mario, Zelda, and GTA as video games that will always be part of our lives. But we can't forget Minecraft. The game that has infinite possibilities — there's something for every age and experience level in the game. Minecraft will forever be a favorite, and now we have a new way of showing our love.

The best backpacks of 2026? We're convinced. Credit: Herschel

The limited-edition Herschel Minecraft collection is now live at herschel.com, and it's packed with must-have items if you're a fan of the game. But be warned, the collab is selling out quickly, so hop on anything you want before it vanishes.

Highlights of the Herschel Minecraft collab

The Herschel Supply x Minecraft collection is filled with backpacks, lunch boxes, pencil cases, and accessories. And unlike some collabs, the collection features way more than just Steve and swords. Snag a Creeper hat, an Enderman backpack, and a hip pack with a print that depicts The End.

Credit: Herschel

At the time of writing, the incredible Cube Little America Backpack is sold out in all colorways, but we have fingers crossed for a restock. However, there's still plenty to choose from. Browse the selection of Creeper merch, Pink Sheep, and Enderman items. There are also options that reflect life in the Overworld, the Nether, and the End.

As an in-game treat, you can download the free Herschel Backpack Trials Add-On from the Minecraft Marketplace to get a massive inventory expansion so you can carry up to 442,368 items. You'll need the Minecraft Bedrock Edition to add on this free expansion.

How to buy the Herschel Minecraft collab

The entire collection of Herschel Supply x Minecraft items is on sale now at Herschel's website. Stock is dwindling on items, so shop today to get the best selection. Plus, that will ensure items arrive in time for the 2026-2027 school year. The collection has items for both kids and adults. Herschel offers free ground shipping on orders over $75.

Opens in a new window Credit: Herscel Herschel x Minecraft collection   Shop Now

SAVE $80: As of July 1, get the DeWalt 20V Max Cordless Drill and Impact Driver for $169 at Amazon, down from its usual price of $249. That's a discount of 32%.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon DeWalt 20V Max Cordless Drill and Impact Driver $169 at Amazon
$249 Save $80   Get Deal

If you've got a list in your head of important home DIY projects to finish, you're going to need the right tools for the job. With Fourth of July weekend right around the corner, now's the perfect time to get it all done, too.

As of July 1, get the DeWalt 20V Max Cordless Drill and Impact Driver for $169 at Amazon, down from its usual price of $249. That's a discount of 32%.

SEE ALSO: Best 4th of July sales 2026: Deals on Ninja appliances, TVs, pool inflatables, tools, bedding, and much more

This combo kit comes with the perfect selection of tools to get everything you're interested in fixing or building done: two batteries, a charger, and a special DeWalt-branded bag to keep it all organized. The DDC771 has a two-speed transmission and 300 unit watts of power, so it's ready to tackle any job, whether you need its 0.5-inch single-sleeve ratcheting chuck or its ergonomic handle to save your hands a bit of pain.

The other tool, the DCF885, is compact and lightweight, with a three-LED light ring and a 20-second delay to illuminate even the darkest rooms so you can see exactly what you're doing. That way, if you're having to work in low-light conditions or when light isn't optimal (possibly later in the day), you're covered — and you can get things finished even faster.

This combo kit is a great pick for anyone who's handy at home, or even for brand-new homeowners who might need a nudge in the right direction when it comes to the tools they need for new home projects. Be sure to grab it while it's still discounted.

SAVE $8: Through July 1, you can sign up for MGM+ as a Prime Video add-on subscription for only $3.99 per month for two months. That's $4 off the usual $7.99 per month, for a grand total of $8 in savings.

Opens in a new window Credit: MGM+ MGM+ (Prime Video add-on) $3.99/month for 2 months (save $4/month) Get Deal

Amazon Prime Day showcased some pretty awesome streaming deals, with popular and niche streaming services offering 99-cent subscriptions. Unfortunately, those deals have evaporated, as to be expected. If you're kicking yourself for missing your opportunity to save on your summer streaming slate, Amazon's giving you a second chance.

Through July 1, you can sign up for MGM+ as a Prime Video add-on subscription for only $3.99 per month for two months. Usually $7.99 per month, that's about $8 total in savings. Sure, it's not as impressive as the 99-cent deal, but beggars can't be choosers.

The catch is that you have to subscribe through Prime Video, which requires a Prime membership. The MGM+ streaming library will then live inside of your Prime Video app as a premium add-on channel and you'll be billed directly through Amazon for convenience.

Wondering if MGM+ is worth it? Well, as Amazon's niche streaming service, it's surprisingly robust with TV and movie options. As of now, it's the only place you can stream Project Hail Mary (which will expand to Prime Video on July 3), one of the biggest movies of the year. It's also where you'll find The Martian (another Andy Weir novel adaptation), the small town mystery MGM+ Original Series From, Nickel Boys (one of our favorite movies of 2024), and most likely Is God Is when it makes its streaming debut later this summer.

If you're looking to expand your streaming horizons this summer, this is one of the cheapest ways you can do so. It certainly beats rewatching the same shows over and over again on Netflix.

Apple has a new iOS update for everyone, but don't get too excited.

The Cupertino-based iPhone manufacturer released its latest software update for its flagship mobile device this week. It's called iOS 26.5.2, and according to the official release notes that appear when you try to download it, it only installs security updates on your phone. No new features, UI changes, or bug fixes are included in this update. If you hate Liquid Glass, it's not changing at all with this update, sorry to say.

SEE ALSO: Apple iPhone 18 Pro leaks are about to get a lot more intense

That said, you should definitely still install iOS 26.5.2 because security updates are important. You don't want your iPhone to be compromised in any way. Here's how you do it, in case you've forgotten:

1. Open the Settings app

2. Go to General, then Software Update

3. Hit the install button

The update is north of 10GB, so you may need to do some storage management to make it fit.

A major vulnerability has been discovered in one of the core privacy features that Apple offers its customers. And according to the cybersecurity researchers who discovered the exploit, this issue appears to have been ongoing for more than a year.

Apple's "Hide My Email" is a privacy feature that obscures a user's email address by generating a unique iCloud email address, which then forwards emails to the user's main email address. The feature allows users to receive emails without revealing their personal email address.

According to a new report from 404 Media, a vulnerability allows anyone to discover the email address behind the "Hide My Email" address Apple creates.

The vulnerability, which the outlet isn't revealing because it is still exploitable, was discovered by online privacy company EasyOptOuts. 404 Media has also independently confirmed that the exploit exists.

SEE ALSO: Apple iPhone 18 Pro leaks are about to get a lot more intense

Typically, before an exploit is revealed to the public, researchers report their discovery to the company and give the company a reasonable amount of time to fix the vulnerability. According to EasyOptOut, they informed Apple more than a year ago, yet the vulnerability still exists.

”Apple Hide My Email is leaking email addresses that are supposed to be hidden," said EasyOptOuts cofounder Tyler Murphy. "We reported the issue and replication instructions to Apple over a year ago. We don't know why it hasn't been fixed, but we don't feel comfortable waiting any longer. Hide My Email users deserve to know that it may be possible for attackers to discover their hidden email addresses."

Murphy told 404 Media that the issue was reported to Apple in June 2025. The company said it "addresses" the issue in March 2026. However, Murphy discovered the vulnerability still existed.

“We don't know the full scope of the issue, but in our limited tests with volunteers, 100% of Hide My Email addresses were exploitable,” Murphy told 404 Media.

Apple last told Murphy that it was "still investigating this issue" in May.

SEE ALSO: Apple price increases arrive: How much MacBooks and iPads will cost you now

Hide My Email is a feature available to paying iCloud+ subscribers. It has several use cases. For example, users may use a Hide My Email-generated email address to sign up for mailing lists so they don't get spammed at their real email address. Or they may sign up for a website using a Hide My Email address if they don't want their main address linked to that site.

In June, TechCrunch reported that Apple was planning to make changes to the Hide My Email feature that could render it useless for users. Currently, the generated anonymous Hide My Email address utilizes the "iCloud.com" domain, which is also used by people who use their iCloud.com username as their main email address. In a recent note to developers, Apple announced it would move Hide My Email addresses to the "private.icloud.com" domain. This domain would be reserved for Hide My Email addresses, meaning that platforms and services could block email addresses with that domain name outright.

iCloud+ users who rely on Hide My Email may want to explore other email privacy options as Apple sorts out the feature.

A giant planet somehow heated back up billions of years after its star died, giving astronomers insight into the wildly unexpected afterlife of solar systems. 

Using NASA's James Webb Space Telescope, researchers recorded the first detailed atmosphere measurements of a planet orbiting a white dwarf, the husk of a sun-like star that has long since fizzled out. The exoplanet, WD 1856 b, is about 80 light-years away from Earth in space.

These findings, published on Wednesday in Nature, could reveal a possible fate for our own planetary neighborhood. Though Earth and other close planets are unlikely to survive the sun's bloated red giant phase, which comes before a medium-size star withers into a white dwarf, the new study suggests at least some of the outermost planets could — and even reshuffle their orbits, setting the stage for a second act long afterward.  

"We're used to looking back in time when we use telescopes, but this is the first time we have been able to look forward to what might happen," said Ryan J. MacDonald, an astronomy lecturer at the University of St. Andrews in Scotland, in a statement. "It's like using a time machine to peer into the distant future of our solar system."

SEE ALSO: Watch NASA's next-generation moon rover crush an obstacle course

Astronomers say WD 1856 b probably didn't settle into its present orbit right after the star collapsed. It likely wandered closer to it, over billions of years, after its star collapsed. As the world tightened its orbit, the white dwarf's gravity squeezed and flexed the planet as it approached, generating internal heat that caused its global temperature to rise.

Before this, scientists knew these worlds around white dwarfs could exist, but they had almost no direct data on what they actually looked like or how they changed over time.

This one, WD 1856 b, has an atmosphere chock-full of methane with a veil of haze, though scientists still can't say exactly what that layer of particles is made of. 

The planet is also a heavyweight — about four to 11 times the mass of Jupiter. That's an odd role reversal, given its host star is now closer to Earth's size. The exoplanet's radius is about eight times larger than the dead star, said Christopher O'Connor, a co-author and astrophysicist based at Northwestern University, and it's so close to its host that its version of a year lasts less than two days. 

"This is one of the most bizarre planetary systems we know of," O'Connor said in a statement. 

The most surprising twist for the researchers is the exoplanet's scalding temperature. Based on the faint heat from its white dwarf, the planet should be freezing cold. Instead, it sits at roughly 250 degrees Fahrenheit. Let's just say that's warm enough to demand an explanation.

When a sun-like star nears the end of its life, it expands into a red giant, 100 to 1,000 times its original size, enveloping nearby planets. Credit: ESA / Hubble / NASA / H. Olofsson

Computer models indicate the planet received that extra heat after its orbit changed. The researchers ruled out a scenario in which the planet moved close to the star while it was still a red giant, because the planet would have cooled by now. 

Despite popular belief, not all stars die in a grandiose supernova explosion. The nuclear fuel of medium-size stars like our sun simply peters out. As these stars near the end, they swell from 100 to 1,000 times their original size, in what's known as the red giant phase. The red giant eventually expands around the nearest planets. In our own solar system, astronomers think the victims will include Mercury, Venus, and, yes, even Earth.  

As of now, the most plausible explanation for the case of WD 1856 b is that its inward migration happened roughly 3 billion to 5.5 billion years after the star became a white dwarf. Because the dead star is part of a triple star system, it's possible the remaining two stars' gravity could have had something to do with the changes to WD 1856 b's orbit, O'Connor said.  

The takeaway: If planets can survive the death of a star, that greatly widens the scope of where — and when — habitable worlds could be lurking in the universe. To learn more, the researchers plan to continue looking for other exoplanets orbiting white dwarfs with the Webb telescope. 

"Our results show that stellar death is not the end," MacDonald said. "Some planets experience a vibrant and lively future after the death of their star."

For three days, Mashable was on the ground at VidCon 2026, talking to the creators, executives, and industry leaders shaping the future of the internet.

From our booth on the convention floor, we sat down with some of today's biggest creators, moderated conversations about the creator economy, and explored the ideas driving the next generation of online entertainment. Along the way, we discussed everything from AI and creator burnout to community building, platform shifts, and what it takes to build a lasting career online.

This highlight reel brings together some of our favorite moments — and some of the best advice we heard all weekend. From candid interviews and behind-the-scenes footage to packed panels and creator insights, it's a snapshot of the conversations shaping the future of online creativity.

Watch the highlights above, then explore Mashable's full VidCon coverage for more interviews, features, and reporting from the convention floor.