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TL;DR: Now through Aug. 16, you can get up to 32% off DELTA power stations and solar bundles.

Opens in a new window Credit: EcoFlow Save on EcoFlow Delta 3 Series Get up to 32% off Get Deal

If your local grid is unreliable at best (living on the East Coast, I've learned to never trust the grid), or if you're just trying to get ahead of hurricane season, EcoFlow is running a sale on its DELTA line of power stations, solar panels, and home backup bundles.

SEE ALSO: I tried the Jackery FridgeGuard portable power station: It's both functional and pretty

Through Aug. 16, you can save on standalone units and disaster prep bundles via Amazon and EcoFlow's website. The high-capacity DELTA Pro is down to $1,899 (a 32% discount), while the DELTA 3 Ultra is on sale for $1,399. Bonus: If you spend over $900, you'll automatically get a free 20W charger.

If you miss the sale window (from indecisiveness or whatever), Amazon is keeping a separate batch of hurricane season deals live through Aug. 24. During that time, you can get the DELTA 3 Classic for $469 or the DELTA 3 Max for $899, and they'll throw in a free 160W solar panel if you spend over $1,500.

Waiting until the forecast looks bad is usually the worst time to buy emergency gear, so it's worth checking these out now.

SAVE $100: As of August 5, the 50-inch TCL QM6K Mini-LED QLED 4K TV is on sale for $499.99 at Amazon, down from its usual price of $599.99. That's a discount of 17%.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon TCL 50-inch QM6K Mini-LED QLED 4K TV $499.99 at Amazon
$599.99 Save $100   Get Deal

If you've been thinking about snagging a new TV, now's the time to do so. While we're still deep in the throes of summer, the fall TV slate is on its way, as well as plenty of sporting events and more that you'll want to catch. Be ready with a great, refreshed TV that you can save some serious cash on ahead of time. We've found one for you that you won't want to pass up at Amazon.

As of August 5, the 50-inch TCL QM6K Mini-LED QLED 4K TV is on sale for $499.99 at Amazon, down from its usual price of $599.99. That's $100 off and a discount of 17%.

SEE ALSO: Best 65-inch+ TVs for watching in dark and bright rooms

This 50-inch TV comes packing thousands of tiny LED bulbs to serve up a crisp, bright picture that you'll love watching. Each one of the LEDs can brighten and dim independently, giving you a precision picture for deeper shades of black and brighter hues that pop. It's more awe-inspiring than a regular LED TV or non-mini-LED QLED TV, and you'll really be able to appreciate the color and brightness when watching. Plus, it works to eliminate the shadows in darker scenes of whatever you're watching, which should be a plus for most.

With its 144Hz native refresh rate and Game Accelerator 288 VRR features, this TV is also perfect for gaming sessions. It'll cut down on blur and improve the motion you see in your favorite titles as well as action movies and sports. That's another great reason to pick one up before it's time to watch football later in the year. You'll be primed and ready for every game.

If you're ready to go ahead and lock in with a new TV that looks, sounds, and just plain feels great, this one is an absolute steal for the price.

Electronic Arts has told debt investors it plans to cut $700 million in annual costs, including $170 million tied to "organizational efficiencies," as the company completes its $55 billion sale to a Saudi-led group. Bloomberg journalist Jason Schreier, citing the company's disclosures, interpreted that phrase bluntly in a Bluesky post: "In other words: mass layoffs."

EA officially goes private tonight, meaning: - EA will no longer trade on the NASDAQ for the first time in 36 years - All stockholders of EA (including many employees) will receive $210/share - EA will take on $18 billion (!) in debt, putting it on the hook to pay ~$1.8 billion/year in interest

— Jason Schreier (@jasonschreier.bsky.social) August 4, 2026 at 7:19 PM

EA's annual Ebitda is around $1.5 billion, which should be enough to service the interest payments. But the publisher has told debt investors that it will cut $700 million in annual costs including $170 million in "organizational efficiencies," per Bloomberg. In other words: mass layoffs

— Jason Schreier (@jasonschreier.bsky.social) August 4, 2026 at 7:34 PM

The sale, finalized on Aug. 4, hands control of the gaming giant to a group led by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) and the investment firm Affinity Partners, led by Jared Kushner, son-in-law of President Donald Trump. Per the BBC, not only does the deal end EA's 36-year run as a publicly-traded company, but it also ranks as the largest leveraged buyout in history.

Under the deal's terms, all EA stockholders, including many employees, will be paid $210 per share, Schreier wrote. To close the transaction, PIF borrowed $20 billion from JPMorgan on top of the $36 billion it had already committed, with EA itself taking on the resulting debt, according to the BBC. Schreier put the total debt load at $18 billion, which he estimated would cost the company roughly $1.8 billion a year in interest.

He noted EA's annual earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization sit around $1.5 billion — enough, he said, to cover the interest payments, though the planned cost cuts suggest the company is looking to build in a further cushion.

The BBC reported similar concerns from industry watchers about what the debt load could mean for the company. Schreier told the outlet the pressure could lead to "mass layoffs, more aggressive monetization, and other big cost-cutting measures." In that same BBC report, Christopher Dring, editor-in-chief of the Game Business, said the buyout structure pointed toward "a very hands-on approach from the investment group," adding that private equity firms tend to be aggressive managers.

Some in the industry also raised questions about the deal's effect on EA's creative direction. Shams Jorjani, chief executive of Arrowhead Game Studios, told the BBC he was hopeful the new ownership wouldn't push EA toward "more sequels, more mega-franchises" at the expense of its broader catalog.

The sale has also drawn scrutiny over Saudi Arabia's human rights record. Consensual same-sex conduct can be punished by death or flogging under interpretations of Sharia law in the kingdom, prompting concern among fans of EA titles like The Sims, which features LGBT+ relationships.

The advocacy group Players Alliance HQ has urged gamers to petition politicians over the deal, warning on its website that PIF's majority ownership could lead to themes around "free speech, gender," and other issues being "reduced or fully censored." PIF is controlled by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, whose government has been held responsible by several human rights organizations and news outlets for the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

At the deal's initial announcement, EA chief executive Andrew Wilson, who is staying on, said the company intended to "create transformative experiences to inspire generations to come."

Mashable readers' favorite deals this week Roborock Qrevo CurvX Robot Vacuum and Mop $1,199.99 at Amazon (save $300) Get Deal 85-inch TCL Class QM8L Series $2,997.99 at Amazon (save $1,002) Get Deal DJI Mavic 4 Pro Fly More Combo $2,495 at Amazon (save $404) Get Deal Samsung Internal SSD 990 2TB $369.99 at Amazon (save $60) Get Deal Pokémon TCG: Mega Evolution — Pitch Black Booster Bundle $54.95 at Amazon Shop Now

Everything feels too expensive these days. Leave the house and somehow at least $100 vanishes. Since it's more expensive to exist in our modern world than it was just a few years ago, it's worth seeking out the best deals.

Every week, the Mashable shopping team gets to work to find the best products at the best sale prices that we feel are worth the money. If you've been searching for deals online this week, these are the top five that Mashable readers are snatching up.

A worthy robot vacuum and mop Opens in a new window Credit: Roborock Roborock Qrevo CurvX Robot Vacuum and Mop $1,199.99 at Amazon
$1,499.99 Save $300   Get Deal Why we like it

Earlier this week, the FCC announced a ban on all robot vacuums made outside of the U.S. The good news is this ban doesn't apply to models the FCC has already given approval to, and it won't impact the functions of your current robot vacuum. But in case you're looking for a new model, it might be wise to snag one sooner rather than later. Roborock makes some of our favorite robot vacuums, and the Qrevo CurvX is ready to both vacuum and mop your floors. Plus, it's on sale for $300 off.

SEE ALSO: The Roborock RockNeo Q110H robot lawn mower just landed at Amazon, and it's on sale for just 1 week

Coming with 22,000Pa and an ultra-slim design, the Roborock has hot water mopping and drying and a zero-tangle brush. If you're no longer in the mood to spend precious hours each week cleaning the floors, this Roborock deal is one to jump on.

A huge TV upgrade Opens in a new window Credit: TCL 85-inch TCL Class QM8L Series $2,997.99 at Amazon
$3,999.99 Save $1,002   Get Deal Why we like it

If you're in the mood for a genuinely giant treat that you can enjoy every single day, consider the 85-inch TCL Class QM8L Series TV. In terms of home entertainment upgrades, an 85-inch TV ranks pretty high. This TCL is a 2026 model that also happens to be excellent for gaming thanks to the 144Hz refresh rate.

In addition to the sale price that saves over $1,000, Amazon is tossing in free delivery and unpacking. That means the delivery crew will unbox the TV in the room of your choice and take the packaging materials and box away when they leave.

A drone bundle to become an expert Opens in a new window Credit: DJI DJI Mavic 4 Pro Fly More Combo $2,495 at Amazon
$2,899 Save $404   Get Deal Why we like it

For those in the mood to become an expert drone pilot, the worthy DJI Mavic 4 Pro Fly More Combo is over $400 off at Amazon right now. Going with a combo deal means you get all the pro accessories like the DJI RC 2, extra batteries, spare propellers, a shoulder bag, a charging hub, and even more. The DJI Mavic 4 Pro drone is a top-tier model that can capture 6K footage in HDR. Plus, it has features that make it great for flying in low-light conditions.

A storage solution with a hefty discount Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung Internal SSD 990 (2TB) $369.99 at Amazon
$529.99 Save $160   Get Deal Why we like it

The global memory shortage isn't supposed to get better anytime soon. That means today's deals on an SSD might be the best we can get for a while to come. If your laptop or desktop could use a 2TB upgrade, the Samsung 990 is on sale for under $370 at Amazon.

Espeically useful for gamers, the Samsung SSD comes with 7,250MB per second read and 6,450MB per second sequential speeds.

An in-stock Pokémon expansion Opens in a new window Credit: Pokémon Pokémon TCG: Mega Evolution — Pitch Black Booster Bundle $54 at Amazon
  Get Deal Why we like it

Coming with six booster packs, the Pokémon TCG: Mega Evolution — Pitch Black Booster Bundle is an optimal way to expand your collection. If you've been considering diving into the Chaos Rising expansion, the Pitch Black booster bundle is a solid path.

A bunch of researchers let AI models from OpenAI and Anthropic loose in a testing environment, and the results were a little spooky.

The United Kingdom's AI Security Institute released a report (via Engadget) detailing some incidents in which the models actually acted outside their testing parameters and hacked into external organizations in late July. In one incident, an AI agent attempted to insert malevolent code into a GitHub project using social engineering tactics. The AI looked into the project's owners and generated fake accounts with which it tried to get the code approved. Once denied, it created a new identity for itself to try again.

That's not all. The researchers say the AI models also contacted real people with what were essentially phishing attempts, with files asking the recipient to run evil code. Interestingly, the AISI said it did not explicitly tell the agents to be deceitful to humans; rather, the AI decided to take these extreme measures when they had difficulties accomplishing certain tasks. However, the organization stressed that there is no evidence that agents would ever act this way outside of a testing environment at this time.

Our big Guessing Game is back! Enter now for a chance to win an Apple Watch.

SEE ALSO: OpenAI takes Apple lawsuit to court of public opinion, posts texts

Anthropic, for its part, shared a post on X thanking the institute for its efforts, while also defending its technology.

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

"The prompts in the evaluation did not impose any specific restrictions on how the internet should be used. This and the removal of safeguards meant that the models were tested under 'deliberately permissive conditions' that are not representative of any of our production models. Note that there was no evidence here of an escape from a secure environment."

Recently, both OpenAI and Anthropic have reported instances in which new models did escape secure environments during testing. In a particularly notable incident, an unreleased OpenAI model hacked the Hugging Face repository.

While the behavior exhibited by the models is definitely concerning, all of these incidents have one thing in common: They were part of hacking tests, in which the models were prompted to act outside their usual safeguards, ultimately turning to tried-and-true hacking methods pioneered by — who else? — humans. These sorts of social engineering hacking strategies are things humans do all the time, so maybe we could stand to look in the mirror for a minute here.

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Disclosure: Ziff Davis, Mashable’s parent company, in April 2025 filed a lawsuit against OpenAI, alleging it infringed Ziff Davis copyrights in training and operating its AI systems.

Google is about to announce new Android flagship phones. And if you'd like to know what they're launching ahead of time, we've gathered all of our reporting on the upcoming phone into one place. With one week left before the Made By Google launch event on Aug. 12, new Pixel 11 Pro leaks are coming in fast.

This year, as with last year, we expect four new phones:

• Pixel 11

• Pixel 11 Pro

• Pixel 11 Pro XL

• Pixel 11 Pro Fold

Let's focus on the Pixel 11 Pro for now, as it's going to be the more premium model. What does Google have up its sleeve this year with the Pro-grade Pixel phone?

We asked you to predict what Apple will do next. See the results and find out how to get a shot at winning an Apple Watch!

Google Pixel 11 Pro: Release date, price, and that Amazon leak

As previously stated, Google is going to officially unveil all of these phones at an event in New York City on Aug. 12. Mashable will be attending the launch event — Jimmy Fallon hosted last year's event, you may remember — and we'll be reporting live. Presumably, as with past years, the phones will be on store shelves and in customers' hands just a couple of weeks afterward.

Thanks to RAMageddon, everyone is bracing for price increases with every major tech product, and rightfully so. Google has not yet told us the prices of these phones, but a recent and fairly extensive Amazon leak that seemed legitimate enough pointed to a $1,099 starting price for the Pixel 11 Pro. That would be a $100 price increase over the Pixel 10 Pro. Meanwhile, the Pixel 11 Pro XL (the XL model is usually basically the same phone, but bigger) is said to start at $1,299, another $100 price hike year-over-year.

Android Headlines also leaked what it claims are the full specs and price points for the Pixel 11 series. That report corroborates the $1,099 price for the Pixel 11 Pro and the $1,299 price for the Pro XL.

Speaking of that Amazon leak: 9to5Google spotted draft Amazon listings for the Pixel 11 lineup, revealing a lot of early details:

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

The listings could include placeholder information, but the overall gist looks legit.

What is Pixel Glow HiLight?

We don't expect any massive design changes this year. Google has helped keep expectations low by actually posting a short video that shows the phone, weeks before the Aug. 12 event.

One thing that stood out, however, is the presence of a small, colored light in the camera bar that wasn't there on the Pixel 10 Pro. This is rumored to be part of a new "Pixel Glow" system that will use colored lights to convey basic phone notifications while the Pixel is lying down on its face. If you want to know that someone texted you even though you're focusing on something else and would rather not look at the screen, that's what this is for.

Recently, 9to5Google reported that this glow indicator will actually be called "HiLight." The rainbow-hued LED panel features prominently in teasers so far, and we'll have all the details soon.

Google Pixel 11 Pro: Design and colors

Ultimately, the short teaser video doesn't show much, but it does reveal one more fact: The Pixel 11 Pro's basic design hasn't changed much from last year. It still has a horizontal, oval-shaped camera bar on the back, and is still otherwise a normal-looking smartphone.

As for colors, leaks suggest the options this year will be:

• Olive

• Obsidian

• Canyon

• Fog

Those don't sound like the most vibrant colors in the world, but that sort of thing has become par for the course for "Pro" smartphones in recent years. If the Amazon leak spotted by 9to5Google proves true, the Pixel 11 will have more interesting color options, at least.

Google Pixel 11 Pro: Rumored specs

Based on the Amazon listings, the Android Headlines report, and another leak on Telegram from an account called MysticLeaks, here is the best data we have about the Pixel 11 Pro's specs prior to the unveiling:

• 6.3-inch OLED display with 2856x1280 resolution and 120Hz refresh rate

• 3,600 nits peak brightness

• Google Tensor G6 processor

• 12/16GB RAM

• 256GB/512GB storage

• 1TB storage on Pixel 11 Pro XL

• 4,850mAh battery

The only real differences between the regular Pro and the XL, as far as leaks are concerned, are the display and battery size. Those same sources suggest a 6.9-inch display and a 5,115mAh battery on the XL, but everything else should be the same. That's how Google has done it in the past, too.

Believe it or not, those specs actually contain at least one notable downgrade from the Pixel 10 Pro. Previously, Pixel Pro devices only came with 16GB RAM. So if Google is offering a 12GB variant, that would be a somewhat significant change. It's possible and perhaps even likely that the 12GB models will be tied to lower amounts of storage.

If you want 16GB of RAM, you may need to shell out for a 512GB or 1TB model (only available on Pro XL) this year.

Google Pixel 11 Pro: What about the cameras?

Last but not least, the Pixel Pro phones always have better camera specs than the base models. It's one of the main reasons to get the Pro, even though Google did start including a telephoto lens on the base model recently.

Last year, the Pixel 10 Pro had a 50MP main lens, with matching 48MP ultra-wide and telephoto lenses. According to Android Headlines, the megapixel counts this year are the same. However, lately we've heard rumors of a new 120x digital zoom feature, but that remains unconfirmed.

Speaking of downgrades, though, the big Amazon leak suggested the Pixel 10 Pro will have a 13MP selfie camera, while the Android Headlines report claims 42MP. After the 48MP front camera on the Pixel 10 Pro, that would be an unpleasant surprise. We'll see if that actually pans out, or if these leaks are wrong.

Mashable will be reporting live from the Made By Google event on Aug. 12. So check back then for all confirmed Pixel 11 Pro details and news.

Want to learn more about getting the best out of your tech? Sign up for Mashable's Top Stories and Deals newsletters today.

SAVE $119: As of Aug. 5, the iRobot Roomba Plus 405 Combo is on sale at Amazon for $299.99. That's nearly 30% off its usual $419 price tag.

Opens in a new window Credit: iRobot iRobot Roomba Plus 405 Combo $299.99 at Amazon
$419 Save $119.01   Get Deal

Members of the Roomba fan club who want to upgrade their robot vacuum should check out this deal on the Roomba Plus 405 Combo. While the FCC's robot vacuum ban in the U.S. doesn't revoke authorization for previously approved devices, it may result in low stock and, therefore, higher prices. In other words, save those dollars while you can.

As of Aug. 5, the iRobot Roomba Plus 405 Combo is on sale at Amazon for only $299.99, down from $419. That's a savings of 28% or $119. That also matches the lowest price we've seen on this model.

While Mashable's resident robot vacuum tester Leah Stodart is not a huge fan of iRobot's devices, she has tested and approves of the Roomba Plus 405 Combo. It's a mid-range robot vacuum mop combo, which means it can vacuum your home, mop your floors, then wash and dry its own mopping pads. It lacks small obstacle avoidance tech, which is a bummer, but it does offer consistently solid smart mapping, fantastic edge cleaning from dual spinning mopping pads, and a docking station that continuously refreshes your mopping pads for four weeks and auto-empties debris for 75 days. We wouldn't recommend it if you have a ton of small toys and cables laying around, but for everyone else, the lack of small obstacle avoidance shouldn't be a huge dealbreaker.

There are plenty of robot vacuum mop combo devices on the market in 2026, but finding a model for under $300 that'll actually get the job done isn't easy. At only $299.99, the Roomba Plus 405 Combo is kind of a steal.

While it may still be hot and steamy outside, the crisp autumn breeze isn't too far away. That means Over the Garden Wall season is creeping up on us.

It's been a dozen years since the beloved Cartoon Network miniseries from Patrick McHale made its debut, but every spooky season, we make our return to The Unknown like clockwork. And it seems we're not alone, as Funko has decided it's the perfect time to unveil its brand new line of adorable Pop! figures inspired by fan favorites from Over the Garden Wall. Mashable has the exclusive first look at the brand's first-ever batch of these curious characters.

Let's take a look at the "transformative, dark elements of the fall season come to life" in the five-figure Over The Garden Wall Funko Pop! Animation collection.

Half-brothers Wirt and Gregory The Wirt figurine features his signature hat and cloak, as well as Beatrice the bluebird. Credit: Funko Greg's adorable figurine can be seen with his tea-kettle hat, carrying his frog and a rock (of course). Credit: Funko

First up in the collection, of course, is Over The Garden Wall's lead duo: Wirt and his little half-brother Gregory. The Wirt figurine stands around 5.2 inches tall, and he wears his navy blue cloak and signature Pilgrim's hat. Perched on his left hand, of course, is Beatrice the no-nonsense bluebird.

As for plump young Gregory, he stands just 4.6 inches tall and is depicted in his tea-kettle hat with a brown satchel. In his left hand, you'll find his beloved frog of many names; in his right, you'll find a rock (of course).

The Woodsman Credit: Funko

Much cuter than the actual character, The Woodsman Funko Pop! figure stands just 5.4 inches tall and captures his serious and reserved nature. He wears a gray hat and trench coat and wields an axe in his right hand for chopping down Edelwood trees. In his left hand, he holds the Dark Lantern.

A glow-in-the-dark Beast with two variants Left: The miniature figurine of The Beast is much cuter than the real thing. Credit: Funko Right: Its bright blue eyes glow in the dark. Credit: Funko Left: There’s a 1 in 6 chance that you may find the chase variant instead of the usual dark variant. Credit: Funko Right: Like the dark figure, the chase variant also glows in the dark. Credit: Funko

The mysterious Beast, aka He Who Haunts the Woods, is a shadowy, tree-like monster who haunts The Unknown. So, naturally, he's a little spooky — even in adorable Funko Pop! form. It comes in two variants: the typical dark, silhouette figurine and the chase variant. Chase variants will be shipped at random, but there's about a one in six chance you'll receive one. Both variants stand 5.4 inches tall and feature white eyes that glow bright blue in the dark.

The pumpkin-headed Enoch Credit: Funko

Perhaps the most adorable of the bunch, the pumpkin-headed Enoch Pop! figurine stands 5.5 inches tall and features a round smile and green ribbon-clad body. He's undoubtedly the perfect addition to your Halloween decor this coming spooky season.

Few animated projects balance whimsy with a menacing darkness quite like Over the Garden Wall. And Funko's new collection does an excellent job of depicting those paradoxical traits. Of course, in true Funko Pop! nature, the figurines are much cuter than their corresponding animated characters. Each of the five figurines, including the special Beast variant, retails for $14.99 a pop.

Opens in a new window Credit: Funko Shop the entire 'Over the Garden Wall' Funko Pop! collection   Shop Now

FREE PASTRY: PB Rewards members can get a free pastry with the purchase of any campfire-inspired menu item on Monday, Aug. 10.

Call me basic, call me indulgent, but I love Paris Baguette — I used to go to the Dumbo location all the time to get the baked potato soup and a Dreamsicle treat, and I have zero regrets. If you're lucky enough to live near a location right now, they've got a fun little deal coming up that will get you a free pastry.

SEE ALSO: Starbucks is bringing back the Unicorn Frappuccino (but only for one weekend)

On National S'mores Day (Monday, Aug. 10), Paris Baguette is giving PB Rewards members a free pastry with the purchase of any s'mores menu item. It's free to join, but I fear you will have to download the app (I know, another app) to get the full experience.

The seasonal menu includes a marshmallow-filled S'mores Supreme Croissant, a chocolate-drizzled S'mores Belgian Waffle, and a S'mores Chocolate Marshmallow Layer Cake. If you'd rather drink your dessert, they also have a rich Iced S'mores Latte and a frozen S'mores Frappe.

Just be sure to download the app and sign up before you order on Monday so you can get your free pastry.

SAVE $86.02: As of August 5, get the Bluetti Elite 10 mini portable power station for $112.98 at Amazon, down from its usual price of $199. That's a discount of 43%.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Bluetti Elite 10 mini portable power station $112.98 at Amazon
$199 Save $86.02   Get Deal

We're still in the middle of a stormy summer season, so it's always a good idea to stay ready for a potential power outage. And if you're going out and about camping or staying otherwise off the grid, you want to make sure you have an electrical source as well. A portable power station is the way to go here, and we've found one that's up for grabs at a great price right now.

As of August 5, get the Bluetti Elite 10 mini portable power station for $112.98 at Amazon, down from its usual price of $199. That's $86.02 off and a discount of 43%.

SEE ALSO: Portable power stations explained

This power station may seem small, but it's mighty enough to keep the electricity flowing where you need it the most. It has 128Wh of battery life, and that can give you about six charges for your phone or two for your laptop. It can keep you online long enough to communicate with family and friends or see what's going on should you need to stay in the know.

Beyond that, it's extremely light and portable at just four pounds, so it's easily moved if you need to tote it around with you or just keep it somewhere for safekeeping that's easy to access. For that reason, it could become an invaluable part of any emergency preparedness kit should you see fit to put one together.

You never want to be caught in the dark, literally or figuratively, so pick this portable power station up while it's up for grabs at this excellent price.

Google's longtime voice assistant will officially go to the great tech graveyard in the sky in the very near future.

As has been expected for quite a while, Google is ending support for Google Assistant on Android and WearOS in September, according to emails sent to users, as reported by 9to5google. Specifically, users can expect Google Assistant to start going away on their mobile devices on Sept. 4, though Google noted it might take a few weeks for the change to affect everyone.

Our big Guessing Game is back! Enter now for a chance to win an Apple Watch.

SEE ALSO: For creators like Hank Green, AI is now a reputational risk

"Once availability is removed, you will no longer be able to use or switch back to Google Assistant on your phone, tablet, or paired devices," the email said.

Google first launched Google Assistant as a competitor to Siri and Alexa back in 2016. Amazon infused Alexa with AI technology earlier this year, while Apple is doing the same to Siri in the near future, but Google has opted to go with its AI chatbot Gemini rather than upgrading Google Assistant. Google has been clear about its intent to get rid of Assistant ever since going all-in on Gemini, but the specific timing had not been known until now.

So, like Skype, AOL dial-up, and TiVo before it, Google Assistant will soon be no more.

Like tears in rain.

SEE ALSO: In Memoriam: All the tech that died in 2025

SAVE 17%: As of Aug. 5, you can get the 15.6-inch Dell laptop (Intel Core Ultra 5 225U, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) for $649.99, down from $780, at Amazon. That's a 17% discount or $130.01 in savings.

15.6-inch Dell laptop (Intel Core Ultra 5 225U, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) $649.99 at Amazon
$780 Save $130.01   Get Deal at Amazon

Whether you're headed back to campus (boy, do I miss those days) or your current laptop has gone kaput, Amazon's got a ton of deals on affordable laptops right now, including models from Dell, HP, and Lenovo.

SEE ALSO: Back-to-school sales have arrived: Where to find deals on pencils, backpacks, lunchboxes, laptops, and more

As of Aug. 5, you can get the 15.6-inch Dell laptop (Intel Core Ultra 5 225U, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) for $649.99, down from $780, at Amazon. That's a 17% discount or $130.01 in savings. While this isn't an all-time record low (the lowest tracked price was $599.99 in June), it's still a pretty good deal if you're in a pinch and need something, like, yesterday.

Powered by an Intel Core Ultra 5 225U processor, 16GB of fast DDR5 RAM, and a 512GB SSD, this budget-friendly computer offers plenty of power for multitasking, browsing, and light content creation without slowing down. There's also a dedicated Copilot key that gives you instant access to an AI assistant who can help you with organizing, searching, and general productivity.

SAVE $74: The Soundcore Nebula P1i portable projector is on sale for $295 at Amazon, marked down from the list price of $369. That's a 20% discount.

Opens in a new window Credit: Soundcore Soundcore Nebula P1i portable projector $295 at Amazon
$369 Save $74   Get Deal

We're down to the final few weekends of summer. If you're looking to squeeze out the last drops of fun, you might be considering having outdoor movie nights. Like the drive-in theatre, but with your own favorite movies, hosting a movie night in the backyard is always a memorable time. If you've been toying with the idea of a portable projector, check out this deal.

As of Aug. 5, the Soundcore Nebula P1i portable projector is on sale for $295 at Amazon, marked down from the list price of $369. That works out to a $74 savings from a 20% discount.

Weighing just a bit over seven pounds, the Soundcore Nebula P1i projector would like to be the star of your next movie night. Sure, the built-in carrying handle helps with portability, but the major highlight is this all-in-one system.

Many projectors have sound issues that often lead to us using an external Bluetooth speaker. Soundcore aims to remedy needing that extra speaker with the addition of foldable and flippable speakers built into the projector. The rotation of the speakers means you can position them forward or backward to get the best sound quality, depending on where you're seated compared to the projector.

SEE ALSO: This 65-inch Hisense E7 Mini LED 4K TV just hit a new best price ever at over $450 off

Just like the Nebula Capsule 3 Laser mini projector, the Nebula P1i has obstacle avoidance, auto focus, auto keystone correction, and a screen fit function. Soundcore mentions the P1i can display between 40 and 150 inches.

The 380 ANSI lumens means the Nebula P1i is best used in darks rooms or after dusk. But now that the sun is setting earlier as we get into later summer, enjoying a movie night outside and getting to bed on time is still possible.

Consider the fun of outdoor movie nights this summer and cozy movies in bed thanks to the Soundcore Nebula P1i portable projector. Instead of dropping huge money at the movie theater, allot the funds to snagging the projector while it's on sale for under $300 at Amazon.

SAVE $299: As of Aug. 5, the DJI Power 1000 V2 portable power station is on sale at Amazon for just $399.98. That's $299.02 less than the full $699 price tag at DJI, a savings of 43%.

Opens in a new window Credit: DJI DJI Power 1000 V2 $399.98 at Amazon
$699 Save $299.02   Get Deal

Portable power stations aren't exactly the cheapest investments, but they can be real lifesavers. Whether you're at home during a power outage or off the grid on a camping trip, we can't emphasize their importance enough in the modern world. We also highly encourage you to take advantage of deals when they arise.

As of Aug. 5, for instance, the DJI Power 1000 V2 portable power station is down to just $399.98 at Amazon. It retails for $699 at DJI, so that's a savings of 43% or about $299.

The DJI Power 1000 V2 is the brand's mid-range power station, falling between the beefy Power 2000 (one of our top picks) and the mini Power 500. It delivers 1,024Wh of power in a relatively compact 31-pound package. Mashable contributor Lauren Allain tested it out earlier this year and noted that she probably wouldn't want to haul it around all day, but felt comfortable carrying it around the house and loading it into her car without issue.

Perks of the Power 1000 V2, as per Allain's review, are its whisper-quiet operation, quick-charging capability, doubled on-board AC ports (compared to the first version), and its expansion abilities. The DJI Power 1000 V2 can connect to up to five DJI Expansion Battery 2000s, each adding 2,048Wh, for a massive whole-home backup.

While the Power 1000 V2 is fairly priced on a normal day, it's a massive bargain right now at 43% off. Allain calls it an "ideal portable power station for creators."

During its Q2 2026 earnings call yesterday, Tinder owner Match Group announced that the dating app is testing even more new features — after just expanding Events last month and launching a suite of new features in March.

In Match Group's prepared remarks for the call, Match and Tinder CEO Spencer Rascoff announced that Tinder is testing a Missed Connections feature, with Canada and Australia the first to try it. Details are scarce at this point, but Rascoff said, "Missed Connections brings the in-app and real-world experiences together by surfacing a weekly curated set of profiles in a dedicated tab based on who users crossed paths with in the prior week."

SEE ALSO: Tinder pauses AI Photo Enhance tool after complaints

Missed Connections is part of Tinder's strategy to bring singles together in-person, hence the expansion of the Events tab into nine additional cities in the U.S. and Europe after an initial test in Los Angeles. Internal data showed that Gen Z singles want a way to "share in-person experiences" with people who can "become closer connections," but it's difficult to transition from online to IRL. Tinder is trying to ease that transition.

Rascoff also said that AI was used in the creation of Missed Connections, from idea to final product in weeks instead of months. When the CEO joined the brand last year, his product principles included speed and urgency, using AI to build tools faster, and "failing fast."

We asked you to predict what Apple will do next. See the results and find out how to get a shot at winning an Apple Watch!

Tinder is also testing a text-based Search feature in Canada "to help users find people they are interested in more efficiently." Around 10 percent of testing users have submitted a search, and tens of thousands of searches have been generated in the first few weeks.

The app has also updated its recommendation algorithm for straight women, which apparently drove gains in Sparks (the number of users engaging in six-way conversations on Tinder in a given week) and Sparks Coverage (the percentage of active users who experience a Spark in a given time). Rascoff said recently that he wants more women on the platform, so that might be why the team started there. Tinder rolled out these updates in mid-July and is now expanding the updates to the algorithms for straight men and LGBTQ users.

The updates come as Tinder's direct revenue and paid users continue to decline year-over-year (one percent and five percent, respectfully), but the gap is narrowing. In the press release for the earnings, Match Group stated that year-over-year daily active user decline is four percent, which is the best result in 10 quarters, and year-over-year monthly active user declines improved too.

While Hinge continues to soar in direct revenue (22 percent YOY) and paying users (17 percent YOY), Barron's reported that Match Group focuses on Tinder because it brings in over half of Match Group's overall revenue, despite the portfolio including 45 apps.

Featured Video For You My awkward first date with an AI companion

Choosing a Kindle is just the start. Once you have your Kindle, there's so much you can do to make the most of it. For avid readers, Stuff Your Kindle Day and Libby let you cross every last item off your annual reading list. You can even buy Kindle accessories like remote page-turners and gooseneck stands so you don't have to hold your Kindle while reading.

So, after extensive testing, reading so many books, and attending BookCon, I created this guide to the best Kindles to buy in 2026.

2026 Kindle updates

As of May 20, 2026, Amazon no longer lend software updates or provide web services to devices released in 2012 or earlier, essentially bricking them. Users will still be able to read currently downloaded books on the device, but to add new books, they will need to connect the device to a computer. This is a huge hit, especially to Libby users who need web service access to read borrowed books.

The affected Kindles include:

• Kindle (1st generation)

• Kindle (2nd generation)

• Kindle DX

• Kindle DX Graphite

• Kindle Keyboard

• Kindle 4

• Kindle Touch

• Kindle 5

• Kindle Paperwhite (1st generation)

Owners of these Kindle models are obviously upset, as it means they'll need to purchase a new device to maintain access to all features. While some are considering switching to a different e-reader, like a Kobo, Amazon still makes great e-readers, and it's a testament to the brand that devices that are at least 14 years old are still going strong.

Which Kindle is right for you?

If you're concerned about buying the newest tech, that's not an issue. There are six updated Kindle models for sale, as well as older editions still in stock.

Before you choose a Kindle, you need to ask one question first: Do you want it to be waterproof? If you prefer reading near a body of water — whether in the bath, by the pool, or at the beach — that immediately narrows down your options. Since the Kindle Oasis is no longer available, your waterproof options are the Kindle Paperwhite, Paperwhite Signature Edition, Colorsoft Signature Edition, and Paperwhite Kids.

The Kindle Paperwhite Signature edition settings screen. Credit: Stan Schroeder/Mashable

Beyond water resistance, here are a few other features to consider:

• Display size: The basic Kindle has a 6-inch display, while the largest has a 10.2-inch display.

• Storage capacity: Kindles range from 16GB to 32GB of storage capacity.

• Battery life: The new Kindles generally have outstanding batteries. On the low end, they last up to six weeks per charge, while others last up to 12 weeks.

• Writing capability: The Kindle Scribe is the only model that allows you to write with the included stylus. 

The latest Kindles all boast a maximum brightness of 94 nits and a 300 ppi, high-resolution display with zero glare, so you can enjoy sharp text and images at any viewing angle. Kindles are also equipped with WiFi connectivity, allowing you to download all the reading material you could ever want. Plus, you can listen to audiobooks on Audible via the built-in Bluetooth connection.

Not to mention, out of all the e-readers I've tested, Kindles have the best compatibility with Libby. I love the digital platform because I can read for free and support my local library. Some other e-readers require you to download your library e-book to a computer and then upload it to an e-reader, but with Kindles, your e-books are sent straight to your device with a click.

And if you were a die-hard Kindle Oasis fan and are attached to page-turning buttons, you may need to stray from the Kindle line-up. Now, your best bet will be the Kobo Libra Colour.

SEE ALSO: I read over 50 books a year. Here are my favorite e-readers. How to get free e-books on Kindle With just a click, transfer your Libby e-book to your Kindle device. Credit: Samantha Mangino / Mashable Your Libby ebook will automatically populate in your Kindle library. Credit: Samantha Mangino / Mashable

The best way to read free e-books on a Kindle is with Libby. Libby allows you to borrow e-books through libraries, and all you need is a library card. Through the Libby app, borrow books and then select the "read with Kindle" option, which allows you to send these e-books to your Kindle library.

Another option for finding free e-books is through Stuff Your Kindle events. These are author-driven events that offer limited-time deals on e-books, often making them heavily discounted or totally free.

How to make the most of your Kindle

Through our testing and daily use, we've spent a lot of time with Kindles, learning how to make the most of them. We've written extensively on all the ways to maximize your Kindle, so be sure to browse through our guides and explainers:

• How to make the most of your Kindle: 8 features you need to use

• The best Kindle accessories for reading in luxury

• What is Stuff Your Kindle Day? The best way to fill your e-reader with free books

• I've read hundreds of free Kindle books with Libby. Here's how.

• What is Kindle Rewards? Earn free credits when shopping the Kindle store

• What is Kindle Unlimited? A library of books at your fingertips for just $12 a month

• Where to get free e-books: Load up your e-reader without spending a dime

• Prime members can get a free e-book every month with Amazon First Reads

• How to download EPUB files on your Kindle

• 8 Kindle features you should be using

• How to delete books from Kindle
  

SAVE $101.99: As of August 5, get the Sony ULT Wear headphones for $148 at Amazon, down from their usual price of $249.99. That's a discount of 41%.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Sony ULT Wear headphones $148 at Amazon
$249.99 Save $101.99   Get Deal

If you're looking for a new pair of headphones, there are tons of options out there. But if saving money is equally important as how your new pair sounds, we've got a fantastic suggestion that you won't want to pass up right now.

As of August 5, get the Sony ULT Wear headphones for $148 at Amazon, down from their usual price of $249.99. That's $101.99 off and a discount of 41%.

SEE ALSO: The 12 best headphones of 2026: We tested the top contenders from Sony, Apple, Bose, and Beats

These headphones are all about big sound, particularly in the bass department. If you're looking for audio that really nails the thumping and bumping in your favorite songs, this pair can do that and more for you. Mashable's Miller Kern praised their "booming sound" in her review as well as the option to "punch the bass up two levels", which will give any of your favorite songs some extra oomph. You can do this by pressing the ULT button, which is dedicated to adding the bass whenever you feel like you need it.

Additionally, they offer excellent noise cancellation thanks to their V1 processor. They're plush and comfortable as well with smooth cushioning that's meant to mold to your ears. And if you want to wear them for long listening sessions you can do that too thanks to their lengthy battery life and quick charging.

These versatile headphones are a great option no matter your use case, and made even better now that they're on sale, so grab a pair while they're still available.

SAVE $160: As of Aug. 5, the DJI Neo Motion Fly More Combo is down to $369 at Amazon. That matches its best price ever.

Opens in a new window Credit: DJI DJI Neo Motion Fly More Combo $369 at Amazon
$529 Save $160   Get Deal

The DJI Neo Motion Fly More Combo is down to its best-ever price on Amazon, dropping from $529 to $369. That’s a 30% discount on the bundle, which includes the lightweight 4K self-flying drone, RC Motion 3 controller, DJI Goggles N3, three batteries, and a two-way charging hub for longer, more immersive flights.

The DJI Neo is for people who want cool aerial shots without turning drone flying into a whole hobby. At 135 grams, it’s small enough to toss in a backpack, and DJI says it doesn’t require FAA registration or Remote ID. The Neo can take off and land from your palm with the push of a button, making it easy to bring along for hikes, family gatherings, or weekend adventures.

The real appeal is the built-in tracking features. The Neo can automatically follow you, making it easier to capture hands-free videos during outdoor activities. It also comes with eight QuickShots modes that create ready-to-share cinematic clips without requiring manual control of every movement.

For videos, the Neo shoots 4K UHD footage and uses DJI’s stabilization tech to help keep clips smooth, even when you’re moving around or flying it in breezier conditions.

Don’t let this drone deal fly away. Grab the DJI Neo Motion Fly More Combo at Amazon for $369.

X (formerly Twitter) seems to be dominated by videos when you open the app or access the site — and if the news of the day happens to be something violent or disturbing, it can be easy to stumble across content that you don't want to see automatically playing.

The safest way to avoid disturbing social media content is to avoid the apps altogether, but if you do want to access X on a day when unpleasant news is trending, there's a setting you can tweak that will at least stop videos from autoplaying in your feed.

SEE ALSO: Twitter lets you put content warnings on your tweets. Here's how to do it. How to stop videos autoplaying on X Total Time

• 1 minute

What You Need

• X on desktop or smartphone

Step 1: Navigate to "Settings and privacy"

This is under "More" if you're using desktop.

Credit: X

Step 2: Navigate to "Accessibility, display and languages"

Step 3: Click/tap on "Data Usage"

Credit: X

Step 4: Click/tap "Autoplay", then select "Never"

This will stop all videos from autoplaying when you're using X.

Credit: X

It's worth noting that while you can stop videos playing automatically, this won't remove videos from X altogether — and there's still a chance you may see disturbing images (including screenshots) while browsing on the app.

If you've seen violent or disturbing content online, and need to talk to somebody, here are some resources:

Crisis Text Line / 988lifeline.org / Samaritans / Find a Helpline

To report harmful content go to the Safer Internet Centre.

The best Owala deals on Amazon: Owala Tumbler Kids Stainless Steel Water Bottle $15.99 (Save $4) Get Deal Owala FreeSip Stainless Steel Water Bottle $23.99 (Save $6) Get Deal Owala SmoothSip Slider Coffee Cup $23.99 (Save $6) Get Deal Owala Marvel FreeSip Stainless Steel Water Bottle $27.99 (Save $7) Get Deal

Amazon's huge Owala is officially live, and it's a solid opportunity to stock up, whether you're building out your collection or finally replacing that one bottle with the busted lid. The lineup covers a good range, too — classic FreeSip bottles, tumblers, coffee-friendly SmoothSip Sliders, and even a few fun designs like the Marvel Spider-Man bottle.

The best Owala deal on Amazon Opens in a new window Credit: Owala Owala FreeSip Stainless Steel Water Bottle $23.99 at Amazon
$29.99 Save $6   Get Deal Why we like it

If your water bottle collection has quietly taken over a cabinet in search of "the one," Owala's FreeSip might finally be the bottle that ends the search. It's designed to solve the age-old dilemma of choosing between a straw and a spout by giving you both, wrapped in double-wall stainless steel that's built to keep your drink cold for hours.

Mashable's Samantha Mangino has been using her Owala FreeSip for years and calls it "the best $40 I've ever spent," specifically praising the sip-or-chug spout and its protective cover, something she says other straw bottles she's tried don't include. Her one caveat is that the larger sizes don't fit in cup holders, which makes this 24-ounce version the one she'd point you toward if portability matters to you.

More Owala deals on Amazon

• Owala FreeSip, 24 oz — $23.99 $29.99 (save $6)

• Owala SmoothSip Slider Coffee Tumbler, 20 oz — $23.97 $29.99 (save $6.02)

• Owala FreeSip Tumbler (Open Air) — $27.99 $34.99 (save $7)

• Owala FreeSip Sway, 40 oz — $35.99 $44.99 (save $9)

Grab your Owala bottle at Amazon before it sells out.