Mashable
Avatar Aang: The Last Airbender trailer: The Gaang is all grown up, and theres a new airbender in the mix
Avatar: The Last Airbender fans, get ready for a news double whammy. Paramount+ has dropped the first trailer for the highly anticipated Avatar Aang: The Last Airbender, and it has also moved up the film's release date by several months, from October to July 25.
SEE ALSO: Netflix's 'Avatar: The Last Airbender' Season 2: Your ultimate guide to every episode mash-upThe sequel film to Nickelodeon's beloved Avatar: The Last Airbender series, Avatar Aang has been plagued by a series of unfortunate setbacks. It was initially slated for a theatrical release before Paramount switched it to a streaming-only launch. Then, in April, the film leaked in its entirety.
These external factors are a shame, because based on the trailer, Avatar Aang promises to be an exciting return to the world of Avatar, one that deserves to be experienced on the big screen without having any of its surprises ruined by leaks.
The film takes place in the future, with Aang (voiced by Eric Nam), Katara (Jessica Matten), Sokka (Román Zaragoza), Toph (Dionne Quan), and Zuko (Steven Yeun) all grown up. Thanks to their work in the original series, the world's three remaining nations live together in harmony. However, everything could change when Aang learns of an ancient power that could save the Air Nomads from extinction.
The trailer introduces a new airbender named Tagah (Dave Bautista). Like Aang, he appears to have been frozen in an iceberg for generations, only to wake up in an entirely new world. Could he and Aang rebuild the Air Nomads together? (Given that airbenders do make a full return in The Legend of Korra Season 3, we're guessing there are some twists to Aang and Tagah's collaboration.)
Check out the full trailer above to meet Tagah, experience the Gaang as adults, and witness some truly spectacular bending.
Avatar Aang: The Last Airbender premieres July 25 on Paramount+.
Best price ever: The 65-inch Hisense U7 Mini LED TV is even cheaper than Prime Day
SAVE $652: As of July 7, the Hisense 65-inch U7 Mini-LED ULED 4K TV is on sale at Amazon for only $847.99. That's a savings of 43% and its best price ever.
Opens in a new window Credit: Hisense Hisense 65-inch U7 Mini-LED ULED 4K TV $847.99 at Amazon$1,499.99 Save $652 Get Deal
If the World Cup has really highlighted how badly you need a new TV, now's a great time to upgrade. While Prime Day brought down prices of 2026 significantly, one model got even cheaper two weeks after the sale.
As of July 7, the Hisense 65-inch U7 Mini-LED ULED 4K TV is on sale at Amazon for only $847.99. That's 43% off its list price of $1,499.99 and $2 cheaper than it was on Prime Day.
Just released in March 2026, the U7 series delivers a Mini LED performance you'd typically find on higher priced models. The backlighting features full-array local dimming, which means clusters of tiny LED bulbs can precisely control brightness levels within specific sections of your screen. It can reach a peak brightness of 3,000 nits, features an improved anti-glare coating to keep your picture looking crisp and clear despite overhead lights or the afternoon sun, and has an enhanced AI processor that can make scene adjustments in real time. It still packs the same 165Hz refresh rate, 2.1.2-channel Dolby Atmos sound, and Google TV with Gemini interface as the previous generation, but we're certainly not mad at that.
One of our favorite budget TV brands, Hisense is known for its wallet-friendly prices that don't skimp on quality. Even at full price, the U7 is a great bargain. At its best price ever of $847.99, the 65-inch Mini LED TV is a total steal.
Let a machine cut your grass with $400 off the Segway Navimow X430 robot lawn mower
SAVE $400: As of July 7, get the Segway Navimow X430 robot lawn mower for $2,099 at Amazon, down from its usual price of $2,499. That's a discount of 16%.
Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Segway Navimow X430 robot lawn mower $2,099 at Amazon$2,499 Save $400 Get Deal
If you have an overgrown lawn and don't want to cut it, you can just have a robot do it for you. It's 2026, and you don't need to go out in the heat and be miserable thanks to robot lawn mowers. If you've been thinking about grabbing one for the outdoors, now's the time to go ahead and pick one up thanks to this Amazon sale. It's one splurge you won't feel bad about the next time it's almost 90 degrees outside and you have to mow.
As of July 7, get the Segway Navimow X430 robot lawn mower for $2,099 at Amazon, down from its usual price of $2,499. That's $400 off and a discount of 16%.
SEE ALSO: The iRobot Roomba 105X robot vacuum and mop is over half off at Amazon — save $250This heavy-duty robot lawn mower uses all-wheel drive and a dual suspension system to help carry it across even the most difficult terrain. It can climb slopes of up to 84%, cross obstacles up to 2.8 inches, and excels even with more difficult lawns. So no matter what your situation is, it can tackle difficult areas. It's powered by dual 180W motors with dual cutting discs as well as 12 blades, a 17-inch cutting width, and adaptive blade control to get through even the tallest grass.
You can set the mower up without worrying about any wires or complicated initial instructions. When it's up and running, you can use its one-tap mapping method to enable quick setup without a boundary wire or antenna. From there, you can edit maps with GeoSketch, track its movements by way of GPS, and set up and receive GeoFence alerts. No matter where it goes while handling the mowing, you can see what it's doing via the accompanying app.
How to watch Auger-Aliassime vs. Djokovic online for free
TL;DR: Live stream Auger-Aliassime vs. Djokovic in Wimbledon 2026 for free on BBC iPlayer. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.
The Wimbledon quarter-final stage is showcasing some pretty epic matchups, including Auger-Aliassime vs. Djokovic.
Without Alcaraz, this could be a real opportunity for Djokovic to roll back the clock and win another Grand Slam. It's going to be tough for the Serbian legend, because Auger-Aliassime has been in great form in this famous tournament.
If you want to watch Auger-Aliassime vs. Djokovic in Wimbledon 2026 for free from anywhere in the world, we've got all the information you need.
How to watch Auger-Aliassime vs. Djokovic for freeAuger-Aliassime vs. Djokovic in Wimbledon 2026 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 the UK, meaning you can unblock free live streams on sites like BBC iPlayer from anywhere in the world.
Live stream Wimbledon 2026 for free by following these simple steps:
Sign up for a streaming-friendly VPN (we recommend ExpressVPN)
Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)
Open up the app and connect to a server in the UK
Visit BBC iPlayer
Live stream Wimbledon 2026 for free from anywhere in the world
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 live stream Wimbledon 2026 before recovering your investment. It's a sneaky trick, but it works.
ExpressVPN's regular 30-day money back guarantee is not available for any subscriptions purchased during the FIFA World Cup between June 10 and July 11. ExpressVPN remains our top pick for Wimbledon, but you will need to pay the monthly rate. Alternatively, Proton VPN still offers that all-important money-back guarantee.
What is the best VPN for Wimbledon?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
A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $68.40 and includes an extra four months for free — 81% off for a limited time. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.99. That covers you for the duration of Wimbledon.
Enter the Mashable Big Guessing Game to win a new Apple Watch
Before Apple WWDC 2026, we asked you to predict some of the biggest moments in Mashable’s Big Guessing Game: Apple Edition. (Big shoutout to the one reader who successfully guessed the name of macOS 26, Golden Gate!) As we prepare for the biggest hardware launches of the year, we’re back with a second chance to participate.
Remember: Every correct guess gives you another entry in a drawing to win the new Apple Watch announced in September. So, if you’ve been following our coverage of the latest iPhone rumors and MacBook news, don’t miss your chance to win. Round 2 ends on Tuesday, July 21 at 11:59 p.m. ET.
Mashable Big Guessing Game — Apple Edition: How it worksJust like in Round 1, Mashable readers can submit guesses to five questions about upcoming Apple products. The third and final round will take place in late August ahead of the annual Apple fall event. In each round, every correct guess gives you one additional chance to win. So, you only need to enter once to get a chance to win, but answering more questions correctly will improve your odds.
NO PURCHASE NECESSARY to enter or win the "CNET Group Big Guessing Game" Giveaway. Open to legal U.S. residents in the 50 U.S. & D.C., 18+ yrs of age. Other restrictions apply. Begins May 19, 2026 at 12:01 pm ET and ends Sept. 1, 2026 at 11:59 pm ET. Void where prohibited. Subject to Official Rules: https://www.mashable.com/article/mashable-big-guessing-game-apple-edition-official-contest-rules/. Sponsor: Ziff Davis, LLC.
Apple is not a sponsor of, affiliated with, or endorser of this sweepstakes. Apple Watch is a trademark of Apple Inc.
Anthropic is bringing Claude Cowork to mobile and web
Anthropic announced Tuesday that Claude Cowork, its agentic tool for delegating multistep work tasks, is expanding beyond desktop to mobile and web platforms, according to the company's blog post. Beta access is rolling out first to Max plan subscribers over the coming days, with availability expanding to additional plans in the following weeks.
SEE ALSO: Anthropic finally, officially launches Claude Sonnet 5Cowork allows users to hand Claude a task spanning files, calendar, email, messaging apps, and other connected tools until the job is complete. Per Anthropic, more than 90 percent of Cowork usage has come from everyday knowledge work rather than software development, with business operations and content creation representing roughly half of all activity — tasks like reconciling quarterly spending, converting contracts into renewal trackers, or building presentations from call transcripts.
The company said the expansion allows sessions to span devices, so users can start a task on a desktop and check progress or retrieve finished work on a phone. Tasks can also continue running in the background without a device connected; scheduled jobs, for instance, can run overnight and be ready for review by morning. Anthropic emphasized that Claude will still pause and ask for input when a decision requires human judgment, and that no output is finalized without user review.
On web and desktop, chat and Cowork will now share a single unified interface, with projects and artifacts accessible across both experiences from launch. The desktop app remains the most complete version of Cowork, retaining access to local files and browser integration, while the mobile and web versions extend access to users who previously could not install the desktop application.
To coincide with the launch, Anthropic said it is doubling Cowork usage limits through Aug. 5.
Australias kid social media ban is ineffective, study suggests
A study by a team of advisers to the Australian government has suggested that the country's social media ban for children under 16 is ineffective, Reuters reported.
Australia enacted the ban in Dec. 2025, requiring social media platforms like YouTube and TikTok to take "reasonable steps" to prevent those under 16 from creating accounts. The fine for noncompliance was originally up to $AU49.5 million ($US33 million), but in June Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced that the maximum fine would be doubled to $AUD99 million ($US68.2 million).
SEE ALSO: Meta is pushing for social media exclusions in new child safety regulation"It is clear that social media platforms are adopting tricks straight out of the big tech playbook and doing the bare minimum to get by," Minister for Communications Anika Wells said in an official statement at the time.
Now, news comes that the bans are failing in test environments. A team of software testers found that platforms didn't ask for proof of age for any of the 50 accounts it opened after the law went into effect. The dummy accounts claimed to be 16, and apparently, the initial vetting process (which estimates age based on online activity) doesn't flag young users for further checks.
Director at testing firm KJR, Andrew Hammond, told Reuters, "You should be asked to demonstrate how old you are, and not once have we been asked to verify our age or use age-assurance measures."
Researchers tested these accounts on platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, YouTube, and TikTok. One account that signed up for X and claimed to be 16 was shown pornographic content, according to Reuters, and X didn't respond to Reuters' request for comment.
Google, which owns YouTube, also didn't respond to Reuters' request for comment. Snap and TikTok declined to comment.
A Meta spokesperson told Reuters that the test seemed inconsistent with Australia's guidance of escalating "to formal age verification when behavioral indicators suggest they may be underage, or when an account is reported." The spokesperson also said it was unclear if the dummy accounts "posted content or engaged in a way a true under-16-year-old user would."
Australian streaming platform Kick, meanwhile, refused to let them make accounts without proof of age. A spokesperson for Kick said it's not possible to rely on age inference (guessing age depending on behavior) because the platform is new and doesn't have enough data to do so.
Social media bans like Australia's are criticized due to how difficult they are to enforce, and because of potential violations to free speech and expression. Yet, more countries plan to enact such bans, such as Canada, Indonesia, and the UK.
Nothing Ear (3a) earbuds have dropped to under $100 — what’s new and how to buy
Nothing is back with a new pair of affordable earbuds, and the Nothing Ear (3a) are designed to stand out in a sea of lookalike wireless earbuds.
The latest entry in Nothing’s (a) series keeps the company’s transparent design language while adding new features focused on better sound, smarter recording tools, and everyday convenience.
Opens in a new window Credit: Nothing Nothing Ear (3a) $99 at NothingShop Now Nothing Ear (3a): What’s new?
Nothing’s latest earbuds build on the company’s popular (a) series with a handful of upgrades focused on smarter everyday use, better sound, and a more comfortable fit.
The biggest addition is Audio Snapshot, a new feature that lets you capture short audio moments directly from the earbuds. With a simple pinch gesture, Ear (3a) can save what you’re listening to, whether that’s part of a lecture, a useful conversation, or something you want to revisit later.
The earbuds also introduce call recording, allowing users to record calls and meetings directly from the earbuds without reaching for their phone. Recordings sync automatically to the Nothing X app, where they can be replayed, edited, and transcribed.
Beyond the new software tricks, Nothing has also refreshed the design with a new pink color option, a redesigned charging case, and an added XS ear tip size for a more comfortable fit.
Nothing Ear (3a) features and specsBigger drivers and Hi-Res audio supportThe Ear (3a) comes with a new 12mm dynamic driver designed to deliver stronger bass and clearer detail. The earbuds also support Hi-Res Audio Wireless and LDAC, allowing compatible devices to stream higher-quality audio.
For listeners who like to fine-tune their sound, the Nothing X app includes an 8-band equalizer with customizable profiles.
Credit: Nothing Upgraded noise cancellationNothing says the Ear (3a) offers up to 45dB of Wideband Active Noise Cancellation, helping block out more everyday distractions like background conversations and city noise.
When you need to stay aware of your surroundings, Transparency Mode lets outside sounds come through. The earbuds also use three microphones on each side with AI-powered noise reduction to improve call clarity.
Credit: Nothing Battery life that lasts all dayThe Ear (3a) delivers up to 10 hours of playback on the earbuds alone with ANC turned off, and up to 42 hours total with the charging case. With ANC enabled, battery life drops to up to six hours on the earbuds and 25 hours with the case. A quick five-minute charge gives around one hour of playback, which is handy when you’re running low.
Transparent design with a more comfortable fitNothing kept its recognizable transparent look but refined the design with a rounder charging case and improved ergonomics. The earbuds now come with an XS ear tip option, making them a better fit for more users. The updated LED indicator also makes it easier to check charging status, battery levels, and pairing progress.
Nothing X app and Nothing phone integrationThe Nothing X app gives users access to EQ controls, firmware updates, Find My Earbuds, and other customization options. If paired with a Nothing smartphone, Ear (3a) also supports features like quick ChatGPT access and Essential News for hands-free updates.
Credit: Nothing Price and availabilityThe Nothing Ear (3a) are available from Nothing’s official website and select partners. They’re priced at $99 in the US, £99 in the UK, and €99 in Europe.
Credit: NothingStreaming deal: This code unlocks ad-free Paramount+ for less than a dollar
SAVE $13 PER MONTH: As of July 7, new and former Paramount+ subscribers can score two months of ad-free Premium for just 99 cents per month instead of the usual $13.99 per month with the code SAVE992MPREM.
Opens in a new window Credit: Paramount+ Paramount+ Premium (ad-free) $0.99/month for 2 months with code SAVE992MPREM Get DealIf you spaced on Prime Day and didn't secure a streaming deal, you have another opportunity, thanks to Paramount+. For an unspecified, but likely limited time, you can score two months of the ad-free Premium plan for just 99 cents once again. Here's the scoop.
As of July 7, new and former Paramount+ subscribers can get two months of the ad-free Premium plan for just 99 cents per month with the code SAVE992MPREM. That's $13 per month in savings. Select the monthly Premium plan, then enter the code under "Have a promo code?" on the checkout page to unlock the discount.
Paramount+ has a surprisingly robust library and Premium subscribers get access to everything it has to offer. That includes the upcoming UFC 329 event with Conor McGregor vs. Max Holloway, as well as the new season of Big Brother as it unfolds live, Paramount+ Originals like Landman and Among Us, Showtime series like Dexter Resurrection and Yellowjackets, nostalgic shows from Nickelodeon, MTV, and Comedy Central, and thousands of movies (including Paramount Pictures films straight from the theater). That's a whole lot of content for under $2 — just what you need to pass the time this summer out of the heat.
A Premium subscription also unlocks ad-free streaming, the ability to stream your local CBS network live, and the ability to download shows and movies for offline viewing.
Just remember to set a calendar alert reminding you to cancel before your first two months are up if you want to avoid paying the full cost of $13.99 per month.
EA College Football 27: Road to Glory review
Sports games are so iterative that at times it's hard to see the forest for the trees. In this instance, we're three years into the return of college football to video games, with EA College Football 27 set for a July 9 release, and its two major game modes have received major changes. Well, one mode got a major change, and the other is somehow even more annoying to play than last year's version.
Dynasty continues to build on the momentum of the last two years, layering in enough new wrinkles to feel like a genuine step forward. Road to Glory, meanwhile, feels like EA looked at last year's foundation, shrugged, and decided "good enough." The result is a mode that's simultaneously more bloated with ideas and somehow more tedious to actually play.
Starting our Road to Glory Loving the new menu screen. Credit: EALet's start with the good news — the gameplay is still great. College Football has always felt smoother and looser than Madden, which, by comparison, feels stiff, over-polished, and weirdly lifeless. The core experience of just playing a down hasn't lost a step.
That said, in terms of iterative development, Road to Glory drew the short straw against Dynasty this year.
College Football 26's big pitch for Road to Glory was high school football. Build your reputation, get recruiters interested, boost your star rating before you even set foot on campus. Good idea, especially since skipping high school entirely in College Football 25 was one of the most common complaints.
The execution was bad. Instead of playing six to 12 real high school games and earning your reputation the way the old NCAA Football series let you, you get four games built around random, preset "moments," short bursts of gameplay where you're told to do something specific, like "audible a hot route and gain 15-plus yards." How well you pull these off determines how much colleges want you. God forbid a coach wants you to scramble for 50+ yards, but you accidentally throw a first-play touchdown pass. You'll get the points for the TD, but you'll fail the moment.
It was the worst part of College Football 26, second only to Ultimate Team. At least you could turn it off and go back to picking a school the old-fashioned way.
I still don't get why EA thought this was good, especially since nothing about it has changed in CFB 27. "But Chance, it's called College Football, not High School Football." Sure, sorry for wanting an immersive career mode to actually be immersive.
The real changes this year are one extra game and a basic NIL system tied to scholarship offers. Instead of just grinding to get offered QB2 over QB3 on the depth chart, schools now sweeten offers with perks like better academics or more brand exposure. North Texas might offer you the starting job, but their exposure package (10,000 followers) doesn't compare to Florida's, which doubles that and includes better facilities and conditioning.
You can see the scholarshop bonus from schools that offer you. Credit: EAOne thing I do like is that schools you're interested in will actually contact you and tell you where you stand. I made Texas my top choice, and Steve Sarkisian flat-out told me they didn't need a quarterback and I'd struggle to even make the roster as a backup given my lowly three-star rating. But when I switched to Edge Rusher, one of three new positions along with Tight End and Free Safety, Sarkisian couldn't stop talking about landing a four-star pass rusher because the roster desperately needed one. It's a small touch, but it makes recruiting feel real instead of just filling up a meter.
Thanks coach. Credit: EASo all in all, the High School Experience still kind of sucks. Just let me play some high school games and keep the new recruiting process, and I'll be a happy camper. NCAA 14 did it 13 years ago, I don't understand why EA won't do it now. You'll have'll a better time turning off High School Experience and starting in college based on star rating alone.
RTG's Gameplay ProblemsThe actual RTG experience once you've picked a school is death by a thousand cuts. You need the patience of a Tibetan monk not to throw a controller at your TV.
The UI is a pleasure to look at compared to last year, especially with the action shots next to the headlines, but the in-game experience is hell on Earth. I don't even play on Heisman difficulty — All-American alone is a gauntlet. I can only imagine the horrors waiting on Heisman.
Credit: EAThe same RTG complaints I've had since CFB 25 still exist. Horrific pass blocking, brain-dead running back AI, wide receivers who drop the ball at the slightest whiff of contact, and total dependence on the AI's playcalling mercy.
I know some Reddit warriors will tell me to use my pass-blocking adjustments. That shit doesn't matter. The AI linemen just don't block — they get stuck in an animation and slide around the field, a friendly reminder that your All-American left tackle is just polygons and code. I've ended games with 7-plus sacks and 40 pressures purely because the AI whiffed every assignment.
For another taste of the AI's mediocrity, running backs still can't find the open hole. They seek out contact or bolt for the sideline instead of hitting the lane when they're not busy colliding with their own teammates — a persistent AI plague. Running an HB screen is nearly impossible since the back hop-skips just far enough to still be standing directly behind an edge rusher, so the second you throw it, he's tackled instantly. Crossing routes and posts get murdered the same way, receivers tangling with defenders or linemen, leaving you as bait for the edge rushers to commit literal homicide.
Left: Look at where the RB starts compared to where he ends up. Credit: EA Sports Right: Rage-inducing behavior. Credit: EA SportsNone of this would matter as much if the AI didn't sit in zone defense the entire game. Beating zone means stacking underneath routes to move the linebackers, or punishing them when they play too deep. Meanwhile, your receivers play like they're scared of contact — and unlike the Derek Carrs of the world, I'm not trying to get mine decapitated. But speed and separation are everything in the passing game this year, which means your guys rarely separate, which means every throw turns into a jump-ball animation.
The problem with jump balls is that receivers drop them on contact regardless. Two hands on the ball doesn't matter — clip the smallest part of their body midair, and it's on the ground. Hell, even wide open, they'll drop anything that isn't a 100% accurate throw, which is a tall order when you're getting pressured on every snap because the O-line CANNOT BLOCK ANYTHING.
Then there's the small stuff still broken. The infinite injury-timeout bug turns clock management into a nightmare. The wear-and-tear system keeps triggering injuries all game, so if you've got the ball with two minutes left and want to run the clock, good luck. Go three-and-out, and maybe 15 real seconds pass because the AI keeps getting phantom stoppages it doesn't even have timeouts for. Pray you're not in a close game. And even up 50 points, you can't kneel it out if the opponent still has timeouts — normally, under 1:30, you can kneel and let the clock expire, but not here. Been broken since CFB 25. Still broken now.
Immersion, InterruptedI mentioned earlier that immersion is huge for me in this game. It's part of why I get addicted to Football Manager and why I hated how FM26 stripped out so many little details that fed that immersion. Here, EA has at least tried to make RTG feel like being an actual college student.
Credit: EAMost of the non-gameplay RTG experience is functionally unchanged. You've got a weekly agenda where you spend 6 or 8 energy points (6 in-season, 8 on bye weeks) across Academics, Leadership, Health, and Brand Exposure. The new addition is Fitness, replacing Training. Instead of boosting XP, Fitness gives passive stat buffs or nerfs based on how much energy you sink into it. Stay conditioned, and you get better composure, XP boosts, coach happiness, and less wear and tear. Slip into Sluggish or Out of Shape, and it's the opposite, plus it costs more energy to dig out. Small win: the old Academics penalty for investing in Brand is gone.
The real problem is there's not enough energy to go around, especially since you're constantly bombarded with scenarios, and NIL offers drain it before you can breathe. NIL offers you can decline. The scenarios, though, are always some version of "spend 3 energy to study," or "cheat off old test answers, or spend 1 energy studying yourself." Either way, it's spend energy or eat a GPA hit — four of these a week. So there are stretches where I'm out of energy, my Fitness craters to Sluggish, and it costs 3 energy just to nudge the meter — except all 3 of my remaining energy already went to an NIL deal promising 100 skill points in eight weeks. By this point, I'm not immersed. I'm just annoyed.
Speaking of skill points, CFB 27 ditched its old upgrade system for an NBA 2K-style progression model — including skill caps on ratings. Skill caps. On a single-player career mode. That barely makes sense for 2K, where MyCareer is woven into online multiplayer and caps exist for balance. I'm just playing the AI. Why do I need a cap at all? Now, starting RTG means allocating player potential like it's 2K. Which is a whole new can of worms, due to the potential of microtransaction creep.
Credit: EAPreviously, skill points were bought into six main rating categories, so one point in Accuracy would bump every related attribute at once. Now SP functions like tokens, upgrading attributes one at a time. Cap breakers and overall boosts come from your Legacy Score, driven by milestones like rivalry wins, bowl wins, and awards. Transferring schools docks your legacy — inconsistently. Going from North Texas to Florida dropped my score; Florida to Texas somehow raised it.
The simulation is still broken, same as always. Case in point: undefeated 10-0 Memphis ranked No. 3 nationally despite playing in the non-Power 4 American Conference — one spot above 10-2 Texas, and three ahead of 11-1 Tennessee. The Volunteers share a conference with Texas and already beat them this season, yet sit at No. 5 behind a Memphis team whose best win was unranked South Florida. I don't even mind an underdog story, but it's immersion-shattering, because the real-life CFP committee would never rank a non-Power 4 team this high. Ever.
These rankings don't make any sense. Credit: EAFor comparison, Army went 9-0 in the same conference as Memphis in 2024 and finished Week 12 ranked No. 24. In my RTG universe, Memphis kept its playoff spot after losing the conference title game 42-7 to a 10-2 North Texas squad. BYU, in real life, lost its playoff spot after a conference championship loss — and they're in the Big 12.
I'm still upset to this day about the unjust outrage towards James Madison and Tulane for winning their conferences and making the CFP last year. Imagine the reactions if North Texas and Memphis made the CFP from the same conference. It's immersion-breaking to the point of hilarity.
Closing Thoughts (For Now)So, where does that leave Road to Glory in College Football 27? Pretty much exactly where it left off last year, just with a shinier coat of paint and a few new toys duct-taped on top of the same broken frame.
The gameplay foundation is still genuinely good — I want to be clear about that, because it's easy to lose sight of it after 2,000 words of me screaming about o-linemen who forgot how football works. When the game lets you actually play football, it's still smoother and more satisfying than anything Madden's put out in years. That's not nothing.
But RTG keeps finding new ways to get in its own way. The high school experience is still a glorified skill-check simulator wearing a letterman jacket, the NIL implementation is a half-measure dressed up as a full one, and the actual on-field AI — pass blocking, route running, zone coverage, the whole nine — feels like it hasn't been touched since 25, bugs and all. I shouldn't still be losing games because my left tackle decided to interpretive-dance his way out of a block, and I definitely shouldn't have to still deal with the wear-and-tear system manufacturing injury timeouts out of thin air.
It's a mode built on good ideas surrounded by bad execution, propped up by a gameplay engine that deserves better than what's being asked of it. EA clearly knows what players want — real high school games, honest recruiting, an AI that doesn't actively sabotage you — and just as clearly keeps choosing not to deliver it.
Next time, we'll dig into Dynasty.
Amazon is packed with outdoor deals for summer from Coleman
It's full-on summer fun these days. Heck, we're even watching World Cup matches in the backyard on the portable projector. However, we have limited weekends remaining in the summer 2026 season, so it's time to take full advantage of long days spent at the campground, campfires with friends, and floating the river.
By now, you've probably realized what elements of your outdoor gear are getting close to needing a replacement. Nothing lasts forever, and we tend to be especially tough on outdoor gear. We saw tons of great outdoor deals during Prime Day, but Amazon seems to understand we're still spending time outside, and the outdoor deals are still rolling in. I've scrolled the live deals and compiled my favorite Coleman outdoor sales that are worth shopping at Amazon.
Best grill deal Opens in a new window Credit: Coleman Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Stand-Up Propane Grill $249.99 at Amazon$424.99 Save $175 Get Deal Why we like it
With wheels and collapsible legs, the Coleman RoadTrip Portable Stand-Up Propane Grill is a great model for weekends at the campground or using in the backyard. It has three adjustable burners, instant ignition, and 20,000 BTUs of power for cooking up the best outdoor meal. In total, you'll have 285 square inches of grilling space. The grill usually sells for $424.99, but Amazon has it discounted to $249.99, which is the lowest price we've seen within the past year.
More Coleman grill dealsColeman Triton 2-Burner Propane Stove — $83.99 $129.99 (save $46)
Coleman Fold ‘N Go 6,000 BTU Portable Propane Grill — $127.59 $141.99 (save $14.40)
Coleman Classic 3-Burner Propane Camping Stove — $156.18 $220.99 (save $64.81)
$219.99 Save $66 Get Deal Why we like it
Coleman's latest summer essential is the Snap N Go Collapsible Hard Cooler. Fill it with up to 76 cans or 200 pounds of chilled goodness to take on a camping trip. Once the contents dwindle, fold it up and easily pack it away for the trip home. The Coleman cooler folds down into just one-third of its expanded size for great portability. Coleman mentions the 45-quart size can keep items cooled for up to 55 hours.
Amazon has the new cooler on sale for $153.99, marked down from the list price of $219.99, which works out to a 30% discount.
More cooler dealsColeman 316 Series Wheeled Ice Chest (62 quart) — $59.99 $74.99 (save $15)
Coleman Vintage Steel Belted Cooler (54 quart) — $149.99 $199.99 (save $50)
Coleman Pro Wheeled Premium Hard Cooler (55 quart) — $209.99 $299.99 (save $90)
$139.99 Save $43.97 Get Deal Why we like it
Camping can often feel like an expensive activity, but shop today's outdoor deals at Amazon and you can snag the four-person Coleman Skydome Tent for only $96.02. The waterproof tent comes with its own rainfly and carrying bag. Coleman mentions this tent is designed to go up in just five minutes with the pre-attached poles. Plus, it can withstand winds of up 35 miles per hour.
More Coleman outdoor dealsColeman Rugged XL 700 Lumens Lantern — $42.50 $64.49 (save $21.99)
Coleman Pro Rocker Chair — $62.99 $89.99 (save $27)
Coleman Skyshade Screened Shelter — $97.99 $129.99 (save $32)
Coleman Oasis Instant Pop-Up Canopy Tent — $188.99 $279.99 (save $91)
Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2: Whats actually new (and whats not)
Leaked images of the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 are everywhere, and while the design looks nearly identical to the original, there's a lot happening under the hood. We're talking a potential jump to 5,000 nits of brightness, a bigger battery, a new Qualcomm Snapdragon Wear Elite chip with 5G RedCap, and a tighter Samsung Health integration. Iyaz breaks down everything leaked so far.
Whip up frozen sweet treats with $70 off the Black+Decker Ice Cream Maker
SAVE $70: As of July 7, get the Black+Decker Ice Cream Maker for $149.99 at Amazon, down from its usual price of $219.99. That's a discount of 32%.
Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Black+Decker Ice Cream Maker $149.99 at Amazon$219.99 Save $70 Get Deal
If you find yourself wanting to snack on ice cream but don't want to leave the house for it, there are options. You could pick up a pint from the supermarket, or you could make your own frozen desserts at home, courtesy of a machine like the Black+Decker Ice Cream Maker. With it, you can make your own flavors and treats all from the comfort of your own kitchen.
As of July 7, get the Black+Decker Ice Cream Maker for $149.99 at Amazon, down from its usual price of $219.99. That's $70 off and a discount of 32%.
SEE ALSO: Our favorite kitchen gadgets are on sale for Prime Day: Shop Ninja Slushi, Breville espresso machines, and moreThis easy-to-use ice cream maker can help you put together a variety of frozen treats, with the end result being thick ice cream you can scoop like the handmade flavors at your favorite restaurant. Add your own mix-ins to each pint, with the ability to build your perfect treats with Oreo or fruit and everything in between.
If you're health-conscious and watching the amount of sugar or calories you're taking in, you can also use the machine to whip up high protein, keto, low sugar, or dairy-free desserts as well. With the three-step process, it's all about making your frozen desserts quickly and efficiently, so you have more time to enjoy them.
Tired of store-bought ice cream or just want to make your own treats? Grab this ice cream maker and start creating while it's on sale. You'll be glad you took the plunge, as homemade ice cream is often the best you'll taste.
The Roborock Q7 M5 is back at its record-low price — buy it for under $150
SAVE $80: As of July 7, the Roborock Q7 M5 robot vacuum and mop combo is on sale at Amazon for $149.98, down from $229.99. That's a 35% discount and one of the best prices we've seen on this LiDAR-equipped robot vacuum.
Opens in a new window Credit: roborock roborock Q7 M5 Robot Vacuum and Mop Combo $149.98 at Amazon$229.99 Save $80.01 Get Deal
Robot vacuums don't have to cost a fortune. Right now, the Roborock Q7 M5 Robot Vacuum and Mop Combo is on sale for $149.98 at Amazon, down from $229.99. That's 35% off or $80 in savings, matching its record-low price and sitting just $7.50 above its Prime Day all-time low.
The Roborock Q7 M5 handles both vacuuming and mopping, so it can pick up dust, crumbs, and pet hair before wiping away the finer dirt left behind. Its strong suction is designed to pull debris from carpets and hard floors, while an anti-tangle brush system helps prevent long hair and pet fur from constantly wrapping around the rollers.
SEE ALSO: I found the best robot vacuums for every floor, budget, and level of lazinessNavigation is another highlight. Instead of wandering around, the Q7 M5 uses LiDAR mapping to quickly learn your home's layout and clean in a more efficient pattern. Through the Roborock app, you can schedule cleanings, adjust suction and water levels, create no-go zones, and tell the robot which rooms to prioritize.
The built-in water tank lets you choose between three mopping levels depending on your flooring, and the battery can run up to 150 minutes on a single charge — enough to cover larger homes before needing to recharge. It also runs fairly quietly, making it a good option if you work from home or have pets that spook easily.
If you're ready to spend less time vacuuming, grab the Roborock Q7 M5 Robot Vacuum and Mop Combo at Amazon today.
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SCOTUS allows Texas age-verification law for app stores (for now)
On Monday, the Supreme Court allowed Texas to enforce a state law requiring app stores to verify users' ages and obtain parental consent for minors who want to download apps or make purchases on their phones, the Associated Press and others reported.
The law is called the Texas App Store Accountability Act, or SB 2420, according to SCOTUSblog. SB 2420 requires app stores, primarily Apple's and Google's, to use a "commercially reasonable method" to verify the age of account users, though the law doesn't specify what those methods could be. If the account belongs to someone under 18, it must be linked to a parent or guardian's account to obtain permission to make downloads or purchases.
SEE ALSO: All the states Pornhub is blocked in nowTwo groups have sued to block the law: the Computer and Communications Industry Association and Students Engaged in Advancing Texas. Both have claimed that the law violates the First Amendment right to free speech.
In Dec. 2025, U.S. District Judge Robert Pitman temporarily blocked enforcement of the law, but last month, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit put those orders on hold, SCOTUSblog reported. This prompted the groups to file a petition with the Supreme Court.
On July 6, Justice Samuel Alito denied both petitions, allowing the law to stand for now.
"Every day the law is enforced, Applicants are denied their basic rights to organize, advocate, express ideas, and discover new perspectives through the most important medium for human communication," attorneys for Students Engaged in Advancing Texas wrote in their filing.
In their own filing, attorneys for the Computer and Communications Industry Association stated, "No State has ever required its citizens to prove their age before reading a newspaper, entering a bookstore, or even accessing the internet. Texas Senate Bill 2420...does exactly that — for every mobile app on every mobile phone."
On June 1, when the Court of Appeals issued its decision, Attorney General Ken Paxton, the defendant in both cases, stated, "Parents deserve to know what their children are downloading and to have the ability to stop them from accessing harmful or inappropriate content."
Last year, SCOTUS upheld Texas's age-verification law, requiring similar age checks to view explicit content.
Combat power outages this summer with $200 off the Bluetti Apex 300 portable power station
SAVE $200: As of July 7, the Bluetti Apex 300 portable power station is on sale for just $1,498.99 at Amazon, a discount of $200 or 12% from its list price.
Opens in a new window Credit: Bluetti Bluetti Apex 300 portable power station $1,498.99 at Amazon$1,699 Save $200.01 Get Deal
My 4th of July festivities were disrupted when a microburst moved through my area during a thunderstorm, knocking out the electricity for about eight hours. Do you know what I wish we had on hand? A portable power station. In a time when extreme weather is becoming more prevalent and our need for power sources is becoming more complex, portable power stations can be real life savers. And as of July 7, one of our favorites — the Bluetti Apex 300 — is on sale for $200 off.
Originally $2,399 and recently down to $1,699, the Bluetti Apex 300 is on sale at Amazon for just $1,498.99 today. That's another 12% or $200 price drop.
Named one of Time Magazine's best inventions of 2025, the Apex 300 offers 2,764.8Wh of power capacity with 3,840W total output, which is enough to power full-size refrigerators, AC units, and entire RVs. It has four regular AC outlets on board and two more robust outlets (NEMA TT-30R and NEMA 14-50R output ports), as well as a toggle to switch the voltage between 120V and 240V. It's supremely expandable, so you can add to it and build a system to run your entire household.
The Apex 300 weighs in at around 84 pounds, so as Mashable's reviewer writes, "It’s certainly not something you want to move around often, honing in that the Apex 300 is ideal for RV trips, van life, off-grid homes, or for whole-home backup."
In other words, it's probably overkill for quick camping trips. If you're in the market for a power station that can do a whole lot more than just charge your devices, however, the Apex 300 will certainly have you covered. And it's currently 200 bucks cheaper than usual.
Haaland fever is real: Where to find official merch before Norways next World Cup game
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is approaching the quarter-final stage, and ahead of Norway vs. England, fans are scrambling to grab an Erling Haaland jersey. But finding an official Norway jersey is proving almost as difficult as stopping the Manchester City striker himself.
Haaland’s popularity has exploded both on and off the pitch, and his national team jersey has sold out across many major retailers. While plenty of knockoffs have filled the internet, there are still a few ways to get your hands on official Haaland gear.
Manchester City jerseys Opens in a new window Credit: Puma Manchester City Home Men's Soccer Jersey $100 at PumaGet Deal Why we like it
If you specifically want the jersey experience, the Manchester City route is probably your best bet. While Haaland’s Norway jersey is tough to track down, his Manchester City shirt is still much easier to find, with Puma carrying the club’s official 25/26 home jersey.
The Manchester City home jersey features Puma’s dryCELL fabric, which helps pull moisture away from your skin to keep you feeling comfortable. It’s also made with at least 50% recycled materials, so it brings the club look with a slightly more sustainable design.
More Manchester City Home jerseysGet Deal Why we like it
These are Haaland’s signature boots, built around the way he plays: quick decisions, powerful finishing, and creating space in the box. Nike’s Phantom 6 Low Elite Erling Haaland Soccer Cleats feature Gripknit technology to help improve touch and control when striking the ball, while the Cyclone 360 traction plate is designed to help with quick cuts and bursts past defenders.
More Phantom 6 Erling Haaland Soccer CleatsNike Phantom 6 Low Academy Erling Haaland Multi-Ground Soccer Cleats — $100
Nike Jr. Phantom 6 Low Pro Erling Haaland — $105.97 $150 (save $44.03)
Nike Phantom 6 Low Pro Erling Haaland Firm-Ground Soccer Cleats — $136.97 $170 (save $33.03)
Nike Phantom 6 Low Elite Erling Haaland Artificial-Grass Soccer Cleats — $270
Get Deal Why we like it
The Erling Haaland Academy Big Kids' Soccer Top is a fun way for younger fans to rep the striker without needing a full jersey. It features a Haaland-inspired graphic, while Nike’s sweat-wicking technology and mesh panels help keep kids cool and comfortable during play. The top is also made from recycled polyester, repurposing plastic bottles into new materials and helping reduce waste compared to traditional polyester.
More Erling Haaland merchHow to watch Argentina vs. Egypt online for free
TL;DR: Live stream Argentina vs. Egypt in the 2026 FIFA World Cup for free on ITVX. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN, an Official Supporter of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup continues to deliver electric matchups from the knockout rounds. England vs. Mexico has probably been the best game of the round, but we're hoping for something even more special from Argentina vs. Egypt.
The defending champions sneaked past Cape Verde in the last round, and they'll be banking on another captain's performance from Lionel Messi when they face Egypt. The Pharaohs haven't hit top form just yet, and needed penalties to beat Australia in the last round. They'll need to do something special to advance to the semi finals.
If you want to watch Argentina vs. Egypt in the 2026 FIFA World Cup from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.
When is Argentina vs. Egypt?Argentina vs. Egypt in the 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off at 12 p.m. ET on July 7. This fixture takes place at the Atlanta Stadium.
How to watch Argentina vs. Egypt for freeArgentina vs. Egypt in the 2026 FIFA World Cup is available to live stream for free on ITVX.
ITVX 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 the UK, meaning you can unblock ITVX to live stream the 2026 World Cup for free from anywhere in the world.
Live stream Argentina vs. Egypt for free by following these simple steps:
Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (we recommend ExpressVPN)
Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)
Open up the app and connect to a server in the UK
Visit ITVX
Watch Argentina vs. Egypt for free from anywhere in the world
The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but most do offer free-trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can access free live streams of the 2026 World Cup without actually spending anything. This obviously isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to stream Argentina vs. Egypt (plus more World Cup fixtures) before recovering your investment.
ExpressVPN's regular 30-day money-back guarantee is not available for any subscriptions purchased during the FIFA World Cup between June 10 and July 11. ExpressVPN remains our top pick for sport, but you will need to pay the monthly rate. Alternatively, Proton VPN still offers that all-important money-back guarantee.
What is the best VPN for ITVX?ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport on ITVX, 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 secure
Fast connection speeds free from throttling
Up to 10 simultaneous connections
A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $68.40 and includes an extra four months for free — 81% off for a limited time. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.99. That covers you for the duration of the World Cup.
Live stream Argentina vs. Egypt in the 2026 FIFA World Cup for free.
How to watch the 2026 FIFA World Cup online for free
TL;DR: All 104 matches of the 2026 World Cup are available to watch for free on BBC iPlayer/ITVX. Access these free live streams from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN, an Official Supporter of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
The world is watching the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The best international sides from around the world are competing for arguably the biggest prize in sport. The knockout rounds are really heating up. We've already seen powerhouses like Germany and Brazil get dumped out of the competition, and it feels like there's so much more still to come from huge names like Kylian Mbappé, Erling Haaland, Harry Kane, and Lionel Messi.
If you're interested in watching the 2026 FIFA World Cup from anywhere in the world, we've got all the information you need.
What is the FIFA World Cup?The World Cup is an international football competition between senior men's national teams. The 2026 World Cup has been expanded to 48 teams, split into 12 groups of four teams. The top two teams in each group and the eight best third-placed teams will progress to the knockout rounds.
The defending champions are Argentina. They won their third title at the 2022 World Cup after defeating France in an epic final.
When is the 2026 FIFA World Cup?The 2026 World Cup is the 23rd edition of this famous competition. This year's tournament takes place from June 11 to July 19.
How to watch the 2026 FIFA World Cup for freeA number of streaming platforms are offering free coverage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup:
Australia — SBS
France — M6
Ireland — RTÉ
Italy — RAI
Norway — NRK
Netherlands — NOS
Spain — RTVE
UK — BBC iPlayer and ITVX (recommended)
These streaming services are geo-restricted, but anyone can secure access with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in another location, meaning you can livestream the 2026 FIFA World Cup for free from anywhere in the world.
Livestream the 2026 FIFA World Cup for free by following these simple steps:
Sign up for a streaming-friendly VPN (we recommend ExpressVPN)
Download the app to your device of choice
Open up the app and connect to a server in the UK
Visit BBC iPlayer or ITVX (recommended)
Watch the 2026 FIFA World Cup for free from anywhere in the world
The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but they do tend to offer generous money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can watch the 2026 FIFA World Cup without committing your cash. This is obviously not a long-term strategy, but it gives you enough time to stream this tournament before recovering your investment.
ExpressVPN's regular 30-day money back guarantee is not available for any subscriptions purchased during the FIFA World Cup between June 10 and July 11. ExpressVPN remains our top pick for sport, but you will need to pay the monthly rate. Alternatively, Proton VPN still offers that all-important money-back guarantee.
What is the best VPN for the FIFA World Cup?ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport, 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 10 simultaneous connections
A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $68.40 and includes an extra four months for free — 81% off for a limited time. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.99. That covers you for the duration of the World Cup.
Apples iPhone 18 Pro Max might come with a massive battery
Apple's upcoming iPhone 18 Pro Max will have a significantly larger battery than its predecessor.
We know this because a leaker called Digital Chat Station noticed the regulatory filings for the upcoming iPhones in China (via MacRumors).
Starting with the iPhone 18 Pro, it's apparently going to have a 4,056mAh battery in China and a 4,288mAh in the U.S. (the difference is there due to the SIM tray, which the iPhones still have in China; the SIM tray takes up some space that would otherwise be allocated to the battery). That's an increase compared to the iPhone 17 Pro which has a 3,988mAh and 4,252mAh battery, respectively, but it's hardly sensational.
SEE ALSO: Apple iPhone 18 Pro leaks are about to get a lot more intenseThe iPhone 18 Pro Max is a different story. The Chinese database filings reveal that it's going to have a 5,391mAh battery in China, and a 5,567mAh battery in the U.S., a decent leap from the 4,823/5,088mAh battery on the iPhone 17 Pro Max.
There's one caveat to this: The leaker says that the battery capacities for the iPhone 18 Pro Max is "questionable and needs further verification."
If the report is accurate, iPhone 18 Pro Max buyers can expect a decent increase in battery life. The battery capacity is roughly 10 percent larger compared to last year's model, though that doesn't directly translate into battery life as it also depends on the chips powering the device, the display, and various optimizations to conserve battery life. The good news is that Apple is very good at these optimizations, so we wouldn't be surprised to see an even bigger leap in nominal battery life on the iPhone 18 Pro Max.
The iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max will likely be unveiled in early September, alongside Apple's first foldable phone, which will probably be named the iPhone Ultra.
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