Mashable

For businesses selling on Amazon, winning an advertising auction may have come with a hidden price.

The Federal Trade Commission and 22 states sued Amazon on Aug. 31, accusing the retail giant of quietly manipulating its ad auctions, secretly inflating ad prices, and collecting more than $20 billion in improper charges.

The case involves about 1.2 million advertisers, including hundreds of thousands of small and midsize businesses. Regulators say many paid more than expected without realizing it.

Filed in the U.S. District Court in the Western District of Washington, the FTC complaint states:

Since 2019, Amazon.com, Inc. ('Amazon') has secretly and systematically overcharged its approximately 1.2 million advertising customers by manipulating the 'auctions' that it uses to set the price of ads on its platform. Amazon represents, and advertisers believe, that competitive auctions set the prices for advertising on its leading e-commerce website. But, in reality, Amazon overrides and replaces the actual auction results with higher prices set by Amazon to increase its profits. For years, Amazon has secretly inflated the auction prices for three of its advertising products: Sponsored Products, Sponsored Brands and Sponsored Display.

Amazon allegedly told advertisers it generally used a "second-price" auction. Under that system, the winner pays slightly more than the second-highest bid — not the full amount it offered.

But regulators say that isn’t always what happened. According to the lawsuit, Amazon began changing the process in 2018. Instead of setting the price based on the runner-up’s bid, the company often charged winners according to their own, higher bids. The FTC says that difference amounted to a hidden surcharge.

• This is your final chance to guess what Apple will release in September in our Big Guessing Game: Apple edition. Enter now for a chance to win an Apple Watch!

Internal discussions cited in the complaint suggest Amazon knew advertisers believed they were participating in true second-price auctions. In one 2023 document, employees reportedly noted that some advertisers submitted bids as high as $100 or $1,000 because they trusted Amazon not to charge the full amount.

Regulators also allege that Amazon carefully tested how advertisers reacted to higher prices. The company reportedly introduced the changes slowly to avoid raising concerns, then monitored whether advertisers lowered their bids or budgets. After seeing little change, Amazon expanded the increases. One manager described the strategy as moving away from a second-price auction while "hoping that advertisers don’t notice and decrease bids or ad spend."

The FTC says the practice continued for seven years and brought in tens of billions of dollars for Amazon, and the costs may not have stopped with advertisers — they believe businesses passed at least some of the added expense on to shoppers through higher product prices.

Amazon tells a different story. The company denies the allegations and calls the lawsuit "misguided."

"Advertisers adjust bids based on real-world performance, not descriptions of auction mechanics," Amazon said in its response.

The company argues that its system considers how relevant an ad is to a shopper rather than automatically choosing the highest bidder. Amazon estimates that this approach saved advertisers more than $8 billion from 2021 through 2025. It also emphasized that "in no scenario does an advertiser pay more than their bid."

Additionally, the company points to lower ad prices. It says average winning bids for sponsored-product ads fell by half between 2019 and 2025, while sales produced by ad clicks increased.

"Advertisers paid the same or less for advertising that delivered increasingly better results," the company said. Amazon says it shared its data and explanation of the auction system with the FTC several times.

Regulators are seeking an end to the alleged practices, along with penalties, damages, and restitution for advertisers. The allegations have not been proven in court.

The outcome of the suit could reshape how Amazon runs its massive advertising business. For sellers, the question is simple: Did they know what they were agreeing to pay, or was Amazon changing the rules? That’s now up to a court to decide.

Thousands of Microsoft enterprise customers reported problems accessing their email as they returned from the weekend, and on Monday afternoon, Microsoft acknowledged widespread problems affecting Exchange Online and other Microsoft 365 business services.

Initially, users took to social media and platforms like DownDetector to report problems with Microsoft Outlook, the widely used email service. However, the issue appears to be much more widespread. In a statement shared to X at 12:01 p.m. ET, Microsoft confirmed that service to Exchange Online had been disrupted. (Exchange Online is a cloud-based enterprise service "that delivers email, calendar, contacts, and tasks.")

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In addition, a Microsoft spokesperson provided the following statement to Mashable via email: "We're aware of an issue affecting access to Exchange Online and some other services. We know this is disruptive for customers and we appreciate their patience while we work to restore services as quickly as possible."

• This is your last chance to guess what Apple will release in September in our Big Guessing Game: Apple edition. Enter now for a chance to win an Apple Watch!

On its official status page, Microsoft elaborated on what other services were impacted by the outage. The status page reported "Service degradation" for Microsoft 365 Business or Enterprise, with the problems affecting services such as:

• OneDrive for Business

• SharePoint Online

• Exchange Online

• Microsoft Teams

• Microsoft Purview

• Microsoft Defender XDR

• Microsoft 365 Admin Center

Microsoft says the root cause of the outage is an "issue within a core authentication configuration used by multiple Microsoft 365 services," and the company is actively testing a remediation strategy.

Microsoft 365 admins can see MO1465074 and/or EX1464935 for the latest updates on the disruption — if they can access the Admin Center.

Microsoft provided an update on the situation at 6:01 p.m. ET, writing that it's "continuing to review recent changes to the service to definitively confirm the source of the problem."

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Microsoft has since offered further updates, having deployed mitigation measures to help bring its services back online. At 10:01 p.m. ET, the company advised users that its "recovery efforts are ongoing," and that they should see email delivery gradually come back online. Even so, Microsoft warned that its search feature is still experiencing issues.

"We're closely monitoring the health of the service environment amidst our ongoing recovery work, and we're observing some sections of affected infrastructure which aren't accepting the re-applied authentication components as readily as expected," Microsoft wrote on official status page. "Users can expect to see continued recovery to email delivery, while users may see residual impact to downstream and dependent scenarios, including search, across affected services. We're working to identify whether any additional actions are required to expedite full recovery."

At 11:52 p.m. ET, Microsoft reported that mailbox connectivity should now be back to normal, though it was still working on search functionality. The company also noted that it may take a while for backlogged mail queues to clear "due to the volume of previously queued messages."

UPDATE: Sep. 1, 2026, 12:29 p.m. AEST This article has been edited to add updates from Microsoft.

UPDATE: Sep. 1, 2026, 2:02 p.m. AEST This article has been edited to add updates from Microsoft.

The Mashable Big Guessing Game is back again for our third (and final) round, and this is your last call to enter for a chance to win a new Apple Watch. In the first round, we tried to guess the new name of macOS 27 (only one person correctly predicted "Golden Gate"), and in the second round, we tried to predict whether a foldable iPhone or touchscreen Mac is coming this year (we still don't know).

Credit: Mashable

So, if you think you know what Apple has in store for the Sept. 9 "Surprise and Shine" keynote event, this is your last chance to enter. Every correct answer earns you another chance to win the new Apple Watch. To enter, just click "Get Started."

What is the Mashable Big Guessing Game: Apple Edition?

In advance of WWDC and the fall iPhone event, we've asked Mashable readers to guess what Apple has in store. Every correct guess earns you another chance to win an Apple Watch, and it only takes a minute to play. The final round of the Big Guessing Game ends soon, so don't miss out!

In our last round of the contest, we're focusing on the expected Apple event in September, where we expect to see a full new lineup of iPhone models, including the highly anticipated foldable iPhone, plus new AirPods and Apple Watches. Will new CEO John Ternus appear on the roof of Apple Park? How much will the latest and greatest version of the iPhone Pro Max cost? If there is a foldable iPhone, what will Apple name it?

Make your predictions for the September "Surprise and Shine" event on Sept. 9 by guessing the answers to five questions, then sit back and watch the event to see how many you get right. Each correct guess earns you an additional chance of winning the grand prize, the latest edition of the new Apple Watch.

This final round of contest questions will run until 11:59 p.m. PT on Sept. 1.

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.

For millennials of a certain disposition, Mewtwo is indisputably the coolest Pokémon in the world. If you count yourself among that crowd and you've still got Pokémon Go on your phone, we have good news.

Pokémon Go developer Scopely posted a quick notice on the game's website alerting players that Armored Mewtwo, a special variant of the Psychic-type Pokémon that comes from the 2019 film Pokémon: Mewtwo Strikes Back – Evolution. That movie is actually a remake of the 1998 stone-cold classic Pokémon: The First Movie, in which Mewtwo was a central part of the plot. The original movie was kind of load bearing for anyone around my age, and we recently saw Mewtwo make an appearance in the Lego Smart Play Pokémon sets and new SanDisk drives.

• Last chance: Guess what Apple will release in September in our Big Guessing Game: Apple edition. Enter now for a chance to win an Apple Watch!

SEE ALSO: The Fitbit Air just got a Pokémon band to go with the Pokémon Sleep app. Here's how to preorder.

But we're not here to talk about movies, Legos, or hard drives.

If you want to catch Mewtwo in his sick armor in your Pokémon Go collection, it will appear in five-star raids from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. local time on Sept. 5 and 6, coinciding with the end of Pokémon Go Fest. This will be the first time Armored Mewtwo has been available since shortly before COVID hit the United States, so if you want one, consider that it might be a while before you get another chance.

It's also worth mentioning that the shiny variant of Armored Mewtwo will not be available as part of this deal. Still, a non-shiny Armored Mewtwo is better than no Armored Mewtwo.

There's a metaphorical truckload of video game releases arriving over the next couple of months, including Grand Theft Auto VI, but PlayStation still has some more announcements in store this week.

Sony’s gaming arm announced a pair of State of Play streams that will air back-to-back on Thursday, Sept. 3, beginning at 9 a.m. ET. PlayStation didn’t specify how long the streams will run, but we at least have some idea of what to expect.

The first will feature "updates and announcements from PlayStation Studios and our third-party partners" and conclude with an extended look at Final Fantasy VII: Revelation, which is set to launch in spring 2027.

SEE ALSO: Could GTA 6 teach Gen Z how to be in a relationship?

The second stream will focus entirely on games from Japan and Asia, though most — if not all — will probably be released in the West as well. Altogether, we could be looking at at least an hour of new game announcements and trailers on Thursday morning.

There are worse ways to start a day.

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: Joseph Maldonado / Mashable Greg's adorable figurine can be seen with his tea-kettle hat, carrying his frog and a rock (of course). Credit: Joseph Maldonado / Mashable

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: Joseph Maldonado / Mashable

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 The miniature figurine of The Beast is much cuter than the real thing. Credit: Joseph Maldonado / Mashable

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: Joseph Maldonado / Mashable

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

Getting ready for a date usually comes with a fairly predictable checklist: Take a shower, apply deodorant, and find a shirt that has recently been through the washing machine. But one corner of the internet would like men to reconsider all three.

Meet "pheromone-maxxing," the latest "maxxing" trend circulating among some young men online. The idea is to skip showers, avoid deodorant, or wear dirty clothes in hopes of amplifying their natural pheromones and making themselves more attractive to potential partners.

Pheromones are chemical signals released by an organism that can affect the behavior or physiology of another member of the same species. They are well documented in many animals, but scientists have not conclusively identified a human sex pheromone. Still, pheromone-maxxers believe their natural scent will increase the pheromones they emit and, in turn, make them more attractive.

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It is certainly one way to make a first impression. But the pitch takes a real phenomenon — the role scent can play in attraction — and stretches it much further than the science currently supports.

Pheromone-maxxing has emerged alongside the broader rise of looksmaxxing, an online culture in which boys and young men try to optimize their appearance through skincare, exercise, cosmetic procedures, and sometimes risky DIY practices, all in pursuit of becoming more attractive.

SEE ALSO: The Looksmaxxing Glossary: Every term you need to understand the internet's most unhinged subculture

The most basic version of pheromone-maxxing involves giving up products that mask a person's natural scent, including cologne and deodorant. Some stop washing their hair, while others avoid showering for days at a time.

"Stopped washing my hair at all and now I unironically get more compliments on how it smells and looks (from women)," one TikTok user wrote. "Pheromone maxxing is key."

Another creator claimed that men cannot "pull baddies" because they wear cologne and deodorant. One adolescent described going three days without showering, then bathing and putting the same shirt back on to create what he called a "halo effect of pheromones."

Not everyone stops there. More extreme accounts promote wearing unwashed clothing for long stretches or even drinking urine in an attempt to "sweat out toxins." Those appear to be fringe extensions of the idea rather than a standard pheromone-maxxing routine, and neither is supported by scientific evidence.

It is also difficult to tell how many people are seriously following any version of the practice. Some creators appear sincere, while others may be joking, rage-baiting, or borrowing looksmaxxing language to attract attention. Social media commenters insist that almost nobody is actually doing it. Still, enough people appear to be taking the idea seriously that it is worth examining whether the supposed strategy can actually work.

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Pheromones are chemical signals released by an organism that can trigger a behavioral or physiological response in another member of the same species. They are well documented in many animals, including insects, where they can communicate everything from danger and food locations to readiness to mate.

Whether humans produce and respond to pheromones in the same way is much less clear. Evolutionary biologist Tristram Wyatt wrote in a 2015 scientific review that humans may well have pheromones because we are mammals, but scientists have yet to conclusively identify a human sex pheromone or demonstrate that one reliably produces a romantic response.

That does not mean our individual body odors have no effect on how other people perceive us: In the 1995 "sweaty T-shirt study", women smelled shirts worn by men and generally preferred the scents of those whose major histocompatibility complex, or MHC, genes differed from their own. These genes play an important role in the immune system and may also influence a person’s body odor.

Yet, subsequent research is mixed. For example, a 2020 meta-analysis found no overall evidence that people choose partners with different MHC genes, nor a consistent preference for the body odor of genetically dissimilar people.

Unfortunately for those jumping on this trend, what builds up when you stop showering isn't a proven supply of pheromones. Sweat itself is odorless — body odor only develops when sweat mixes with bacteria living on your skin, according to the Cleveland Clinic. As dermatologist Dr. Shereen Teymour told USA Today, "For the most part, [this trend is] bacteria-maxxing." Skip basic hygiene for too long and you're also risking inflamed hair follicles, irritation in skin folds, and skin infections. Definitely not attractive.

How did we get here?

The larger "looksmaxxing" trend comes from an online self-improvement subculture that first developed in incel ("involuntarily celibate,") forums. Those communities frequently promoted the "black pill," a fatalistic belief that appearance and genetics largely determine a man’s romantic and social future.

Within that worldview, looksmaxxing offered users a way to improve their odds. Members rank facial features, calculate their supposed "sexual market value," and share strategies for "ascending," or becoming attractive enough to move higher in the community’s rigid hierarchy.

SEE ALSO: The Looksmaxxing Glossary: Every term you need to understand the internet's most unhinged subculture

That can include advice most people would recognize as ordinary grooming. "Softmaxxing" covers practices such as exercising, improving a skincare routine, getting a flattering haircut, dressing well, and taking care of one’s teeth. It can also include "mewing," the disputed practice of holding the tongue against the roof of the mouth in hopes of creating a sharper jawline.

Beyond basic grooming, however, the methods can become far more invasive. "Hardmaxxing" may involve cosmetic surgery, anabolic steroids, unapproved peptides, and extreme diets. The most notorious example is "bonesmashing," in which people repeatedly strike their faces, hoping their bones will heal into a more chiseled shape. Medical professionals have warned that this practice can instead cause fractures, nerve damage, and permanent disfigurement.

Researchers have also raised concerns about how easily looksmaxxing can blur the line between ordinary grooming tips and the ideology of the forums where it originated. A 2025 peer-reviewed study argued that the language of science and self-improvement helps ideas from incel communities reach younger users who may initially encounter them as innocent fitness or beauty content.

The movement from niche forums into mainstream youth culture is getting clearer. Consider 20-year-old looksmaxxing influencer Clavicular, whose real name is Braden Peters. He built his following by discussing extreme methods, including steroids, cosmetic procedures, bonesmashing, and, by his own account, using methamphetamine to suppress his appetite.

Now, Clavicular is on a 10-stop college tour with events near Penn State, Syracuse, Binghamton, Virginia Tech, Clemson, Coastal Carolina, and Texas A&M — all schools packed with fans in his target demographic. It has been a hit. 700 people were listed as planning to attend his Syracuse stop. Before his Binghamton appearance, one participating bar told students to "Start bone smashing and get that jawline in check because this is going to be a college core memory!"

All of this isn't to say young men are abandoning soap en masse. But its emergence shows how easily the looksmaxxing framework can turn an ordinary choice — even something as basic as whether to use deodorant — into another supposed (and smelly) path toward self-improvement.

Many Americans don't like data centers.

At the very least, a majority of U.S. citizens don't want one of the dozens of proliferating AI infrastructure projects to end up in their backyard, as complaints of environmental destruction, noise pollution, and water constraints reach a fever pitch.

But President Donald Trump doesn't really care. In a recent Truth Social post, the country's leader called data centers a "golden goose" that Americans would be remiss to push back on.

"The only reason that communities throughout the U.S.A. should not want Data Centers is if they want to end up being backwards and poor," the President wrote. "If they want to be successful and rich, with far lower taxes and jobs all over the place, let Data Reign."

SEE ALSO: Trump administration acted illegally in fight against Anthropic, judge rules Trump doubles down on data centers

The inflammatory post echoed similar sentiments shared earlier this month, as well as arguments he made in posts from July. In fact, Trump has steadfastly backed large-scale data center projects, despite his own party backing away from data center commitments on the campaign trail.

"If I were the mayor of a town or the governor of a state, and I had a chance to get a big plant in an AI plant or a data center, I would absolutely want it because the jobs are enormous, and the money paid, the taxes paid are just enormous," said Trump at a recent convening of cryptocurrency leaders at the White House.

An anonymous insider told the Washington Post that Trump's hardline on leaving AI and data centers unfettered by federal regulation is a "personal" subject for him. "You just can’t change his mind about it," the source told the publication.

Behind the scenes, the Trump administration has been edging open the floodgates to Big Tech-backed data centers as part of his mission to establish a nationwide AI infrastructure to rival China.

In fact, Trump has cited the foreign power regularly in arguments for data center investment. "China could not be happier with this anti Data Center movement. Actually, they can’t believe it is happening!" said Trump in the Aug. 31 post.

A recent post by the Global Government Affairs team at Elon Musked-owned X alleged that the platform had uncovered a bot farm network made up of 200,000 accounts posting anti-data center sentiment. The claims appeared to be based on a recent OpenAI investigation that found several bot accounts using OpenAI's tools to produce such content, but the report also indicated these accounts were sharing genuine news reports about energy concerns.

How the federal government is enabling data centers

Trump's Big Tech allies have benefited from his pro-America approach to tech advancement. Last year, Trump signed an executive order fast-tracking federal permitting for AI data centers. The administration has also lobbied for expedited electricity grid connections and pushed for government approvals of new chemicals used for data center manufacturing and facilities.

In an attempt to quell the ensuing community-driven uproar against these projects, the federal government announced a Ratepayer Protection Pledge with several of AI's biggest players already signed on, committing to offset energy grid costs for local communities.

Still, Big Tech's centers have faced mounting legal pressure, including several lawsuits that claim companies like SpacexAI (formerly xAI) and Microsoft violated pollution-permitting laws in the construction of their facilities. Just last week, non-profit newsroom Floodlight accused a Microsoft-backed data center in New Jersey of violating federal law by operating unpermitted gas-powered generators. The center, known as DataOne, is the first in the state to build its own power plant, the Guardian reported. Many centers are shifting to self-sustained power as states crack down on energy grid connections.

SEE ALSO: The NAACP is fighting back against AI data centers

In turn, the federal government has interceded in efforts to enforce environmental law, including levying threats that such attempts pose a "national security threat" for potentially impacting the Department of War's AI capabilities.

Meanwhile, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has been planning to scrap a federal rule requiring public notice and time for comment when applying for such air permits. The move would effectively shift responsibility for public notice to local agencies and could legitimize the legal violations that communities are invoking to fight back, experts say.

The Tim Cook era of Apple has come to an end.

Today, August 31, 2026, is Tim Cook's final day as CEO of Apple, and the outgoing Apple chief had some emotional parting words to share on social media.

"Sending lots of love to the Apple community on my last day as CEO," Cook posted on the social media platform X. "My title changes tomorrow, but the love I have for the Apple community never will. Thank you for being a constant source of inspiration. My gratitude is endless, and I’m excited for the next chapter!"

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Tim Cook held the position at Apple for 15 years, taking over as CEO after Steve Jobs departed in August 2011, shortly before his passing the following October. Starting Sept. 1, Cook's new position within the company will be as executive chairman of Apple's board of directors.

Cook will be succeeded by incoming Apple CEO John Ternus, the company's current Senior Vice President of Hardware Engineering. At 50 years old, Ternus is the same age Cook was when he took over as Apple CEO.

• Guess what Apple will release in September in our Big Guessing Game: Apple edition. Enter now for a chance to win an Apple Watch!

Under Cook, Apple saw the launch of some of its most popular product categories, such as AirPods and the Apple Watch. Cook also led the company as it completely relaunched its computer product lines, ranging from MacBooks to desktop Macs, with Apple's own Silicon chipset.

Apple became a trillion-dollar company under Tim Cook's leadership as well.

Cook also had to navigate the company through difficult global geopolitical issues, which led to some interesting moments, such as when President Donald Trump referred to the Apple CEO as "Tim Apple." Cook responded at the time by changing his profile name on then-Twitter to "Tim ."

Ternus's first big Apple event at the helm will take place on Sept. 9, when the company is expected to launch its new line of iPhones, including its first-ever foldable device.

The European Commission announced Sunday that it has formally designated ChatGPT as a Very Large Online Search Engine, and both Reddit and Roblox as Very Large Online Platforms, under the EU's Digital Services Act (DSA).

According to the Commission's press release, all three services reported reaching at least 45 million average monthly users in the EU, clearing the threshold that triggers the designation.

The new classification means that the platforms have until Dec. 31 to meet the DSA's additional requirements for platforms of this size. These include assessing and mitigating risks tied to illegal content, harm to minors, users' physical and mental wellbeing, fundamental rights, elections, and public security, per the Commission.

SEE ALSO: EU says Meta hasn't done enough to prevent minors under 13 from using Instagram and Facebook

The Commission explained its reasoning for each service individually. ChatGPT, described as an AI system capable of responding to prompts and searching the web, qualifies as a "hybrid service" that meets the DSA's definition of an online search engine.

Roblox was described as an immersive gaming and creation platform where users build, publish, and play games made by other users. Reddit was categorized as a discussion-based platform where users create and interact with content inside topic-focused communities. Because both enable the public spread of third-party content, the Commission classified them as online platforms rather than search engines.

With these designations, the Commission gains new investigative authority to examine the functionality of these services and any related systems, and will oversee DSA compliance in partnership with national regulators where each company is legally established in the EU. For ChatGPT and Reddit, it'll be Ireland's Coimisiún na Meán; for Roblox, it's the Netherlands' Authority for Consumers and Markets.

"Reddit is committed to complying with the EU Digital Services Act," a spokesperson for the company told Mashable through email. "We’ve been preparing to meet the VLOP requirements and look forward to coordinating with EU regulators while providing transparency for Reddit users."

All three services were already subject to the DSA's baseline rules for platforms and search engines before Sunday's announcement. The new designation adds them to a growing list of 28 very large online platforms and search engines that have now been designated under the law overall.

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.

Blush Novelties Labor Day Sale: Best dildo deal Blush Novelties Neo Elite Neon Pink 7.5-Inch Dildo $29.99 (save $5) Get Deal Best rabbit vibrator deal Blush Simone Rabbit Vibrator $49.99 (save $28) Get Deal Best butt plug deal Blush Naughty Candy 3.5-inch Butt Plug $14.99 (save 44) Get Deal

If you need a new vibrator (I mean, who doesn't?), there are tons of Labor Day sales going on right now where you can get your hands on some of the best vibes on the market for a fraction of the price. (That's right, Labor Day isn't just for discounted mattresses and kitchen appliances!)

SEE ALSO: I've tested 100+ sex toys. Here are the 15 most mind-blowing toys I've ever owned.

Blush Novelties, an OG brand in the business, just shared that it's offering up to 30% off from Sept. 2 through Sept. 8 (no code required). You can shop brands under the BN name on the official Blush website or via Amazon. I honestly think Amazon is probably the better bet here, since you'll get fast, free shipping with Prime.

Even though the sale hasn't officially kicked off just yet, a handful of toys are already discounted on Amazon and the website. You can browse the site's "sale" section (you'll find up to 50% off select items there now), or hold out until Sept. 2 to see if a better deal comes along.

A quick note before you add anything to your cart: Blush is a legacy brand, so its catalog is just a smidge outdated and includes some older jelly or TPE (porous) toys. Definitely DO NOT buy those. You only want to use body-safe, non-porous materials on, in, and around your intimate bits.

Best Labor Day 2026 deals at a glance: Best Apple deal Apple iPad Air, 11-inch (M4, WiFi, 128GB) $649 (save $100) Get Deal Best TV deal TCL 65-inch QM8L SQD-Mini-LED QLED 4K TV $1,397.99 (save $1,102) Get Deal Best Amazon device deal Echo Show 11 $189.99 (save $60) Get Deal Best headphones deal Bose QuietComfort Ultra $249 (save $200) Get Deal Best home deal Ruggable save up to 30% sitewide Get Deal Best outdoor deal Ninja FrostVault Cooler (30 quart) $149.99 (save $50) Get Deal Best robot lawn mower deal Segway Navimow X430 Robot Lawn Mower $2,249 (save $250) Get Deal Best kitchen deal Nutribullet Power Core Blender $84.99 (save $15) Get Deal

Summer is coming to an end. While that seems a bit sad, it also means the temperatures cool off and we still have one final long weekend to enjoy before fall kicks in.

Like most long weekends, big retailers are offering special discounts on some of our favorite products. That's great news if you're in the mood for a fall refresh. Consider getting a mattress upgrade if you haven't been sleeping well or browse the REI Labor Day sale to get new outdoor gear to replace anything that's worn out over the summer. It's also a great time to get a new TV ahead of NHL and NFL season.

After Labor Day, we might not see a major sales until Black Friday. In an era when tech prices continue to rise, it could be smart to shop these deals ASAP.

Best Apple deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPad Air, 11-inch (M4, WiFi, 128GB) $649
$749 Save $100   Get Deal Why we like it

The Apple iPad Air with an M4 chip is something to behold. It's a step up in performance level compared to the previous M3, not to mention it's incredibly lightweight and thin. In addition, it's powerful and smart enough to handle intense programs like Final Cut Pro, making this a great option for creators and artists.

Mashable Tech Editor Timothy Beck Werth reviewed the M4 iPad Air and wrote, "Artists and note-takers will definitely appreciate this one."

More Apple deals

• Apple AirTag (2nd Gen, 4 pack) — $79.99 $99 (save $19.01)

• Apple AirPods Pro 3 — $225 $249 (save $24)

• Apple iPad, 11 inch (A16, WiFi, 128GB) — $399 $449 (save $50)

Best TV deal Opens in a new window Credit: TCL TCL 65-inch QM8L SQD-Mini-LED QLED 4K TV $1,397.99 at Amazon
$2,499.99 Save $1,102.00   Get Deal Why we like it

At a massive 44% off, the 65-inch TCL QM8L could be the perfect upgrade for streaming fall TV shows, movies in the winter, and gaming thanks to the 144Hz refresh rate. While it usually sits at $2,499.99, Amazon has it on sale ahead of Labor Day for $1,397.99 which is the lowest we've ever seen at Amazon.

TCL used their DeepColor System technology in this mode for big contrast and deep blacks. Plus, it comes with Google TV built in for keeping all of your favorite streaming apps neatly organized and easy to access.

TL;DR: Watch Barcelona vs. Rayo Vallecano in La Liga for free on CazéTV. Access this free livestream from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

La Liga offers up another big game today, with last year's champions Barcelona in action against Rayo Vallecano.

Rayo Vallecano are yet to win a game this season. And though it's very early days, the talk around Barcelona is whether they can make this another winning campaign, which would make it three league titles in three years. A win against Rayo Vallecano would certainly remind Barcelona's biggest rivals, Real Madrid, that they're in fine early-season form.

If you're interested in watching Barcelona vs. Rayo Vallecano in La Liga from anywhere in the world, we've got all the information you need.

When is Barcelona vs. Rayo Vallecano?

Barcelona vs. Rayo Vallecano in La Liga kicks off at 3.30 p.m. ET on Aug. 31. This fixture takes place at the Camp Nou.

How to watch Barcelona vs. Rayo Vallecano for free

Barcelona vs. Rayo Vallecano in La Liga is available to live stream for free on CazéTV.

CazéTV is geo-restricted to Brazil, 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 Brazil, meaning you can live stream Barcelona vs. Rayo Vallecano for free from anywhere in the world.

Live stream Barcelona vs. Rayo Vallecano for free by following these simple steps:

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

2. Download the app to your device of choice

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

4. Visit CazéTV

5. Watch Barcelona vs. Rayo Vallecano for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.99 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

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 Barcelona vs. Rayo Vallecano without committing your cash. This is obviously not a long-term strategy, but it gives you enough time to stream this fixture (plus Premier League action) before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for La Liga?

ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport on CazéTV, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries, including Brazil

• 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

• 30-day money-back guarantee

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. This plan includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and usually offers a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.99.

Live stream Barcelona vs. Rayo Vallecano for free from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

A new version of OpenClaw, the open-source AI agent, is available now.

OpenClaw 2.0 was released over the weekend, promising a "simpler setup" and a new browser app. On its website, OpenClaw calls it "by far the largest update in the history of OpenClaw."

The OpenClaw Foundation says that OpenClaw 2.0 was completely crowdsourced with 933 contributors. Of those 933 contributors, 569 of them contributed to the project for the first time.

• Guess what Apple will release in September in our Big Guessing Game: Apple edition. Enter now for a chance to win an Apple Watch!

Here's what we know about OpenClaw 2.0, including how you can try it for yourself.

What's new with OpenClaw 2.0

The new release acknowledges that the original OpenClaw (the AI agent formerly known as Clawdbot, then Moltbot) was more complicated than it needed to be for a first-time users. The update notes say that configurations were moved out of the installation process, simplified, or completely removed in order to make the installation process quick and easy.

The update also includes a completely rebuilt browser in order to simplify OpenClaw. The browser is where users interact with OpenClaw, assign tasks to agents, and track ongoing work and processes.

OpenClaw 2.0 also introduces Shared Cloud Sessions, a feature labeled as a "multiplayer experience." Shared Cloud Sessions allow a user to bring in team members onto ongoing work, allowing multiple people to come in and take over existing tasks with all of the context still attached.

Other new features in OpenClaw 2.0 include a new search function for previous conversations, live session cards that display task progress in real-time, and an assortment of additional new widgets and dashboard features.

There are a number of major security updates in OpenClaw 2.0 as well, including a new private credential request feature, which allows users to securely share credentials with an agent without exposing them in a chat.

OpenClaw quickly went viral when it was released late last year. The self-hosted, open-source agentic AI platform developed such a cult following that founder Peter Steinberger was quickly hired by OpenAI. OpenClaw is now managed by a nonprofit that's supported by OpenAI.

However, OpenClaw has struggled to maintain its position as other AI platforms rolled out similar agentic AI features that were more easily accessible to non-technical users. Perhaps a simplified setup process in this newest version will help OpenClaw retain its positioning among AI users.

How to try OpenClaw 2.0

Since OpenClaw is open-source, developers should have no problem getting it up and running. For less technically-inclined users, you can download OpenClaw 2.0 for Mac or Windows at the OpenClaw website. Simply download the installer and follow the instructions to get started. You can also read all about OpenClaw v2026.8.1 (aka OpenClaw 2.0) in the official release notes.

Be warned — you should understand the cybersecurity risks of handing your device over to an AI agent before installing or using OpenClaw.

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.

With episode 8, Furious closed the case on the vengeance-seeking serial killer named Catherine (Lola Petticrew). But with that final scene, FBI Agent Alice Black (Emmy Rossum) unlocks a new mystery that might be pursued in a second season.

Where could that lead? Mashable Entertainment Editor Kristy Puchko sat down with Furious creator Elizabeth Meriwether and stars Emmy Rossum and Lola Petticrew to dig into finale burning questions and what could be ahead for Season 2.

Obviously, spoilers from "Hart Island" ahead.

Who killed Isabel on Furious? Lola Petticrew and Emmy Rossum star in "Furious." Credit: Disney / Sarah Shatz

With the trauma of being trapped and sexually assaulted in a child trafficking ring, Catherine has been fighting all season to remember what exactly happened the night Isabel died. In the final episode of the season, she goes back to where it all went down, the posh mansion of Jay Easton (Peter McRobbie).

There, an ailing Jay relies on his daughter Emma (Hope Davis) to clean up his mess. In this case — with cops, Feds, and Catherine incoming — that means destroying any evidence, including Jay's treasured collection of child porn.

While Catherine killed the pimp who trafficked her, Jay's son who was there that night, and two of the family's lawyers, she does not kill Jay. But in searching for the truth, she realizes that it was she who killed Isabel. In a tearful scene with Emma, Catherine realizes that Isabel was bleeding, possibly from postpartum complications but also because Jay beat her in the face. Crying out in pain, she asked Catherine for help. And Catherine administered a deadly dose of intravenous drugs to euthanize her first love.

So, Catherine killed Isabel, but out of love.

Furious dropped a clue to Isabel's killer in episode 1. Lola Petticrew in "Furious." Credit: Disney / Sarah Shatz

In episode 1, Catherine is swiftly shifting from different identities and using masks to hide her face. But there's one bit of costuming that singles her out, even from the crime scene of Caleb Easton's brownstone: that sequined purse.

Alice finds a dislodged sequin on Caleb's bathroom floor. Later, Catherine will collect other clothing and accessories from other victims. Like, when she meets Becky in Central Park, she appears to be wearing a men's trench coat (possibly the late Oliver's), and she takes Mira's backpack (though she leaves her alive).

Asked if these trophies were a clue that Catherine killed Isabel too, Petticrew told Mashable, "I think that it is," noting of the bag, "What I treated it like was an anchor and a reminder at every step of the way that this is what she was doing it for, and who she was doing it for. You know, Isabel, she's the love of her life. And I think that that physical girlish reminder  — even when she's sort of dressed up and and and being seen by men or the world as like sexy — there's always this sort of thing that sits upon her that reminds you that she was a child when all of this happened, and a child that was forced into this situation."

Who killed Jay on Furious? Emmy Rossum in "Furious." Credit: Disney / Sarah Shatz

At first it seems like the fates — not the furies — took Jay's life. After Alice assures that Catherine's captured without being killed, she goes upstairs to Jay's bedroom. There, it seems he dies of natural causes as he gasps for air. However, when Alice visits Catherine in prison, Catherine suspects the truth, saying she knows Alice's "secret."

Furious cuts back to that sequence, the one where Jay recognized Alice, but not as an agent on the investigation into the murder of his son. When he saw her, he said, "I know you. You're the movie star. I like your video. It was always one of my favorites."

As Danny (Scoot McNairy) discovered from the files Alden (Steve Way) got off Hal's computer, Alice was the subject of child porn in her youth. Finally, the audience might understand why Alice is so determined to not only join the sex crimes department of the FBI, but also why her eyes keep drifting to the high-security screening room where child trafficking video evidence is stored.

Rossum said of this reveal, "Alice has a lot of secrets...We don't know why she wants to get into the room. We don't know that she knows about the videotape. That is information she would have hidden when she was being interviewed by the FBI. They would ask you a question like, 'Does anybody have anything on you that could be used against you?' She certainly didn't disclose her history or what had happened to her as a young teenager. She doesn't say why — you know, Nora (Quincy Tyler Bernstine) says to her in the first episode, 'Why do you want to work in the squad?' She doesn't give the full answer."

She continued, "Alice just kind of smiles and doesn't say anything. And we see her looking at that door. We know she wants to get in that room, right? To see how many people have seen that tape. Is that tape out there? Does it exist? Can they find me? Have people looked at me and my body in that way? So there's a lot riding on Alice being found out. And she has even more secrets at the end of Season 1 than she did at the beginning."

By the end of the finale, Alice will tell Nora about the video. What she won't tell her is that Jay didn't die of natural causes.

In that flashback, a new camera angle reveals the truth hidden the first time the scene played in Furious. This time, Jay doesn't just start choking out of the blue. This time, we see Alice's foot stamp on his ventilator tube, suffocating him in a way no one detected.

But this is not where the finale ends.

Where could Furious Season 2 go? Emmy Rossum and Quincy Tyler Bernstine in "Furious." Credit: Disney / Sarah Shatz

Season 1 of Furious ends with Alice finally getting into that evidence room, and there she searches for her own name. The results don't show her the video, but rather information on how many cases have included it as evidence (312) and how many downloads of it have been made online (over 50k).

As she looks over a list of usernames, we hear Catherine's voice asking from prison, "Did you like the way it felt"? Alice smiles, presumably thinking not only of how she killed Jay, but also how there are so many more rapists and pedophiles out there, prime for a reckoning.

Meriwether told Mashable that as an "almost lifelong Law and Order SVU fan, I love the idea of a unit in the FBI that like takes on these cases....but one case over the course of a season."

She continued, "I love the Nora/Alice relationship, especially as we kept working on the first season. And I felt like there's so much there to explore and just give them a different case. I think going forward, Season 2 is them working on a different case."

But Alice won't be able to leave this case behind her. Merwether noted, "Alice has a lot of secrets, more secrets now, and things that people can hold against her, and things that she needs to unpack about what happened in this season."

When is Season 2 of Furious coming? Quincy Tyler Bernstine and Danny McCarthy in "Furious." Credit: Disney / Sarah Shatz

At the time of the interview, Meriwether said of the show's future, "Fingers crossed, but I'm hoping we get to do more."

On Aug. 27, days ahead of Season 1's finale's release, Hulu announced Furious has been renewed for Season 2. So stay tuned for more.

Furious is now on Hulu and Disney+.

The best Amazon Labor Day deals at a glance: Best Apple deal Apple iPad Air, 11-inch (M4, WiFi, 128GB) $649 (save $100) Get Deal Best Amazon device deal Amazon Echo Show 11 $189.99 (save $60) Get Deal Best TV deal TCL 65-inch QM8L SQD-Mini-LED QLED 4K TV $1,397.99 (save $1,102) Get Deal Best headphones deal Bose QuietComfort Ultra $249 (save $200) Get Deal

If the Pumpkin Spite Latte's return to Starbucks didn't already alert you, Labor Day Weekend's arrival certainly will. Fall is coming, whether you're anticipating the season change or dreading it. The unofficial last hurrah of summer, Labor Day is the perfect excuse to squeeze in some last-minute beach days, backyard barbecues, and shopping sprees (obviously).

With tech prices constantly rising, major shopping holidays like Amazon's Labor Day sale are your best opportunity to score the devices you want at a discount. We've already noticed all-time low prices on some of our favorite TVs of 2026 and noise-cancelling headphones we adore. Plus, we're seeing some of the best discounts on Apple gear and Amazon devices since price hikes went into effect.

We fully expect this list to grow as the weekend nears, but here are some of the best deals we've spotted at Amazon so far.

Best Apple deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPad Air, 11-inch (M4, WiFi, 128GB) $649 at Amazon
$749 Save $100   Get Deal Why we like it

The M4 iPad Air is hands down our top pick for an iPad for most people. While it's incredibly similar to its predecessor, that's not necessarily a bad thing. It features a thin and lightweight build, brilliant Liquid Retina display, insanely fast performance powered by the M4 chip, and Apple's N1 and C1X connectivity chips. Mashable's tech editor says its powerful enough to handle memory-intensive programs like Final Cut Pro and even goes as far as calling it "way overpowered for most users." It starts at $749 for the 128GB version after the price hike, but for Labor Day, it's $100 cheaper.

Read our full review of the Apple iPad Air 2026 (M4).

More Apple deals

Earbuds

• Apple AirPods 4 (without ANC) — $99 $129 (save $30)

• Apple AirPods 4 (with ANC) — $149 $179 (save $30)

• Beats Studio Buds + — $149.95 $169.95 (save $20)

• Apple AirPods Pro 3 — $199.99 $249 (save $49.01)

iPads

• Apple iPad Air, 13-inch (M4, WiFi, 128GB) — $849.99 $949 (save $99.01)

• Apple iPad Air, 13-inch (M4, WiFi, 256GB) — $949 $1,049 (save $100)

• Apple iPad Pro, 13-inch (M5, WiFi, 512GB) — $1,549 $1,699 (Save $150)

• Apple iPad Pro, 11-inch (M5, WiFi, 512GB) — $1,299 $1,399 (save $100)

• Apple iPad Pro, 13-inch (M5, WiFi, 256GB) — $1,399.99 $1,499 (save $99.01)

• Apple iPad Pro, 11-inch (M5, WiFi, 1TB) — $1,649.99 $1,799 (save $149.01)

Accessories

• AirTags (2nd gen, 4-pack) — $79.99 $99 (save $19.01)

• Apple Pencil Pro — $97 $129 (save $32)

• Apple Magic Keyboard Folio for iPad (A16) — $175 $249 (save $74)

Best Amazon device deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Echo Show 11 $189.99 at Amazon
$249.99 Save $60   Get Deal Why we like it

Amazon surprised everyone with a monstrous price hike across all of its Fire TV, Kindle, and Echo devices earlier this month. This is the first big sale since the price hike, so we're happy to see many of these devices still getting the deal treatment. The Echo Show 11 is down to $189.99, which is $30 cheaper than its original price before the increase. Dubbed Amazon's "most advanced smart displays yet," the Echo Show 11 features the new in-house AZ3 Pro chips and Omnisense technology for AI-based, highly personalized experiences. There's also front-facing stereo speakers, a custom woofer for spatial audio, ambient visuals that adapt to your environment, and a built-in 13-megapixel camera that can recognize faces.

More Amazon device deals

• Fire TV Stick HD — $15.99 $39.99 (save $24 with Prime code SAVEHDFTV)

• Fire TV Stick 4K Select — $17.99 $49.99 (save $32 with Prime code 4KFTVSAVE)

• Fire TV Stick 4K Plus — $24.99 $69.99 (save $45 with Prime code 4KSAVE)

• Echo Pop Kids — $29.99 $49.99 (save $20)

• Fire TV Stick 4K Max — $49.99 $84.99 (save $35)

• Echo Dot Kids — $54.99 $89.99 (save $35)

• Echo Dot — $54.99 $79.99 (save $25)

• Echo Show 5 — $69.99 $99.99 (save $30)

• Echo Spot — $69.99 $109.99 (save $40)

• Echo Dot Max — $94.99 $119.99 (save $25)

• Fire TV Cube — $109.99 $199.99 (save $90)

• Echo Show 8 — $149.99 $199.99 (save $50)

• Echo Studio — $194.99 $219.99 (save $25)

• Echo Show 15 — $269.99 $349.99 (save $80)

Best TV deal Opens in a new window Credit: TCL TCL 65-inch QM8L SQD-Mini-LED QLED 4K TV $1,397.99 at Amazon
$2,499.99 Save $1,102.00   Get Deal Why we like it

It's been out less than six months, but it's already our top pick for a QLED TV for most people. That "SQD" in the title stands for "super quantum dot mini LEDS," which is a lot of tech jargon for extremely bright quantum dots. Mashable's TV expert calls it one of the brightest TVs you can buy, period, shouting out its "superb peak brightness, detailed picture quality, and fantastic glare handling." The 65-inch model clocks in at $2,499.99 on a normal day, but it's down to a best-ever $1,397.99 at Amazon for Labor Day — a 44% discount.

More TV deals

• Insignia 50-inch F50 LED 4K TV — $159.99 $299.99 (save $140)

• Amazon 50-inch Omni QLED 4K Fire TV — $259.99 $469.99 (save $210)

• Hisense 65-inch U6 Pro Mini-LED ULED 4K TV — $598.99 $1,099.99 (save $501)

• LG 55-inch LX7B Gallery Mini LED 4K TV — $699.99 $1,299.99 (save $600)

• Hisense 65-inch U7 Mini-LED ULED 4K TV — $847.99 $1,499.99 (save $652)

• LG 65-inch LX7B Gallery Mini LED 4K TV — $899.99 $1,799.99 (save $900)

• Hisense 65-inch S7 Canvas Hi-QLED 4K TV — $997.99 $1,999.99 (save $1,002)

• Hisense 85-inch U6 Pro Hi-QLED Mini LED 4K TV — $1097.99 $1,999.99 (save $902)

• Samsung 85-inch M80H Mini-LED 4K TV — $1,199.99 $1,799.99 (save $600)

• Samsung 65-inch S85H OLED 4K TV — $1,397.99 $1,999.99 (save $602)

• LG 65-Inch B6 OLED 4K TV — $1,399.99 $1,999.99 (save $600)

• LG 65-inch C6 OLED 4K TV — $1,499.99 $2,699.99 (save $1,200)

Best headphones deal Opens in a new window Credit: Bose Bose QuietComfort Ultra $249 at Amazon
$449 Save $200   Get Deal Why we like it

Since these headphones have been replaced by the 2nd generation, they won't be on shelves too much longer. We're huge fans of the latest generation, but like most modern tech, the upgrades are iterative. The original QuietComfort Ultras are "still some of the most comfortable and best-sounding headphones we've ever tested," Mashable's Sam Mangino writes. They can easily be worn all day without earaches, offer all-day battery life with noise cancellation turned on, have convenient foldable earcups, and superb sound quality. At only $249, they're a total steal (and the cheapest they've ever been)

Read our full review of the Bose QuietComfort Ultras.

More headphones deals

• Sony WH-CH520 — $38 $69.99 (save $31.99)

• Anker Soundcore Q20i — $39.98 $69.99 (save $30.01)

• Marshall Major V — $89.99 $169.99 (save $80)

• Sony ULT Wear — $148 $249.99 (save $101.99)

• Sony WH-1000XM5 — $198 $278 (save $80)

• Bose QuietComfort — $229 $359 (save $130)

• Sonos Ace — $299 $399 (save $100)

• Sony WH-1000XM6 — $398 $459.99 (save $61.99)

Huawei is gearing up to unveil its next triple-folding smartphone, the Mate XT 2, at an event in China on September 7. The company will also debut HarmonyOS 7. Huawei hasn't published a full spec sheet yet, but a video teaser has given the clearest look so far at the device, according to GSMArena.

SEE ALSO: It's official: OnePlus smartphones will no longer be sold in U.S. and Europe

The teaser confirms earlier rumors that the Mate XT 2 will switch to an inward-folding, U-shaped design, a departure from the Z-shaped fold used on the original Mate XT and the Mate XTs. Other rumored specs include a 6,000 mAh battery and either a Kirin 9050 Pro or Kirin 9030S chip, while the camera setup is expected to closely resemble that of the Mate X7.

• This is your last chance to guess what Apple will release in September in our Big Guessing Game: Apple edition. Enter now for a chance to win an Apple Watch!

Can I buy Huawei in the U.S.?

Huawei devices, including its foldables, have effectively been locked out of the American market for years — the result of a national security dispute between the company and the U.S. government that stretches back nearly two decades.

The roots of that dispute go back to the mid-2000s, when networking giant Cisco accused Huawei of stealing its intellectual property, an early sign of the friction that would eventually escalate into formal government action.

Things came to a head in 2019, when the Trump administration signed an executive order effectively banning Huawei from U.S. communications networks and added the company to the Commerce Department's Entity List, restricting American firms from exporting technology to Huawei without a license.

SEE ALSO: The U.S. DJI drone ban, explained

That same year, the Justice Department charged Huawei with financial fraud and sanctions violations. In 2020, prosecutors added allegations of racketeering and trade secret theft. The U.S. also tightened restrictions on Huawei's access to foreign-made semiconductors built with American technology, while Congress provided $1.9 billion to help remove and replace Huawei and ZTE equipment in domestic networks.

The fallout extended well beyond politics and into Huawei's actual device lineup. As CNET has chronicled extensively, Huawei's CFO, Meng Wanzhou, was detained in Canada for nearly three years before striking a deal with the Justice Department in 2021 that allowed her to return to China. Around the same time, Huawei lost its license to use Google's Android services on new phones, and countries including the U.K. and Sweden banned Huawei equipment from their 5G networks entirely.

The Biden administration largely kept those restrictions in place and, in some cases, tightened them further. They remain in force today. The result is a company that remains one of the world's largest telecom equipment and smartphone makers, with a presence in more than 170 countries, but without an official smartphone retail presence in the U.S.

So while the Mate XT 2 may generate plenty of buzz when it launches next week, don't expect to find it at your local carrier store. For now, seeing Huawei's latest tri-fold in person will likely require a trip to a market where it is officially sold.

The best Home Depot Labor Day deals at a glance: Best grill deal Weber Genesis E-325W 3-Burner Propane Gas Grill $899 (save $100) Get Deal Best power tool deal Milwaukee M18 18V Cordless 8-Tool Combo Kit $649 (save $649) Get Deal Best outdoor deal Ryobi ONE+ Whisper Series 12-inch Cordless Chainsaw $189 (save $60) Get Deal Best single power tool deal Ryobi ONE+ 18V Cordless 1/2 in. Impact Wrench $79 (save $60) Get Deal Best smart home deal eufy S430 SoloCam $139.99 (save $60) Get Deal

Labor Day Weekend is officially upon us, but Home Depot has already kicked off its huge holiday savings event.

Starting Aug. 27 and running through Sept. 9, Home Depot's Labor Day Sale is offering all kinds of deals to help you transition into fall with ease. Highlights include up to 45% off Ryobi cordless power tools, up to $160 off grills, up to $100 off DeWalt tool combo kits, and more. Whether you want to clean up your yard for cool-weather cookouts or try your hand at home improvement, there's likely a deal for you.

SEE ALSO: Shop the REI Labor Day sale: We found late summer outdoor and camping deals

The sale will be live until Sept. 9, but we expect some of the best deals to sell out in advance. So, if you see something you want, grab it sooner rather than later. We've rounded up some of the best deals we've spotted now that the sale has kicked off, but we'll keep an eye out for more price drops throughout the next week.

Best Home Depot grill deal Opens in a new window Credit: Weber Weber Genesis E-325W 3-Burner Propane Gas Grill $899 at The Home Depot
$999 Save $100   Get Deal Why we like it

It's honestly hard to beat a Weber if you're looking to replace your old grill. Their high-quality builds last longer than most, but they can get pretty dang expensive.

Luckily, for Labor Day, Home Depot has several models on sale for up to $100 off. The exclusive Weber Genesis E-325W, for instance, is down to $899 from $999. It features a 640-square-inch cooking space with three burners, two dual-row PureBlu burners for an ultra-hot Sear Zone, porcelain-enameled cast-iron cooking grates, and a sleek titanium-colored finish. And as with most Webers, it comes with a 12-year limited warranty.

More grill deals

• Weber Original Kettle 22-inch Charcoal Grill — $99 $199 (save $100)

• Traeger Pro Series 22-Pellet Grill and Smoker — $389 $549 (save $160)

• Weber Spirit E-210 2-Burner Propane Gas Grill — $399 $449 (save $50)

• Weber Spirit E-325 3-Burner Propane Gas Grill — $499 $549 (save $50)

• Weber 3-Burner Propane Flat Top Grill — $549 $599 (save $50)

• Oklahoma Joe's Highland Reverse Flow Charcoal Barrel Smoker — $629.99 $729.99 (save $100)

• Masterbuilt Gravity Series 600 Charcoal Grill and Smoker — $649 $749 (save $100)

• Traeger Flatrock 2-Burner Propane Flat Top Griddle — $699.99 $799.99 (save $100)

• Traeger Woodridge Wi-Fi Pellet Grill and Smoker — $799 $899 (save $100)

• Weber Genesis E-315 3-Burner Liquid Propane Gas Grill — $799 $899 (save $100)

• Kamado Joe Classic Joe 18-inch Charcoal Grill — $849 $999 (save $150)

• Ninja FlexFlame ProConnect Wi-Fi 3-Burner Propane Grill with Pizza Stone and Peel — $1,099.99 $1,299.99 (save $200)

• Masterbuilt Gravity Series XT Digital Charcoal Grill and Smoker — $1,499.99 $1,799.99 (save $300)

Best Home Depot power tool combo kit deal Opens in a new window Credit: Milwaukee Milwaukee M18 18V Cordless 8-Tool Combo Kit $649 at The Home Depot
$1,298 Save $649   Get Deal Why we like it

This eight-tool Milwaukee kit is an impressive value at only $649 — 50% off its list price. It includes one 1/2-inch drill/driver, one 1/4-inch impact driver, one oscillating multi-tool, one 3/8-inch impact wrench, one brushless grinder, one 6.5-inch circular saw, one hackzall, an LED work light, two M18 XC 4.0Ah batteries, a M12/M18 dual voltage charger, and two contractor bags. You'll be prepared for practically any home improvement project you can dream up.

Best Home Depot power tool deal Opens in a new window Credit: Ryobi Ryobi ONE+ 18V Cordless 1/2 in. Impact Wrench $79 at The Home Depot
$139 Save $60   Get Deal Why we like it

Whether you're working on cars or stubborn home DIYs, an impact wrench can make your life easier. And this one from Ryobi is down to just $79 during The Home Depot's Labor Day Sale. It features 375 ft-lbs of fastening torque, up to 3,100 impacts per minute, and a variable speed trigger with an RPM of 0 to 2,700. There's even an on-board LED light for extra visibility during your projects.

More power tool deals

• Ryobi ONE+ HP 18V Brushless Cordless 4-1/2 in. Angle Grinder + free battery — $99 $248 (save $149)

• Ryobi ONE+ HP 18V Brushless Cordless Compact Barrel Grip Jigsaw + free battery — $149 $278 (save $129)

• DeWalt XR Cordless Brushless Screw Gun — $149 $199 (save $50)

• DeWalt Atomic Cordless 1/4 in. Brushless Impact Driver Kit — $149 $219 (save $70)

• DeWalt Atomic Cordless 1/2 in. Hammer Drill Kit — $149 $199 (save $50)

• DeWalt 20V MAX Cordless Drill/Impact 2 Tool Combo Kit — $169 $239 (save $70)

• Ryobi ONE+ 18V Cordless 4-Tool Combo Kit — $199 $249 (save $50)

• Milwaukee M18 FUEL Cordless 1/4 in. Hex Impact Driver and Reciprocating Saw — $199 $369 (save $170)

• Milwaukee M18 FUEL Cordless 1/2 in. Hammer Drill/Driver w/1/4 in. Hex Impact Driver — $229 $399 (save $170)

• Milwaukee M18 FUEL Cordless Hammer Drill and Impact Driver Combo Kit — $369 $558 (save $189)

• Ryobi ONE+ 18V Cordless 12-Tool Combo Kit — $679 $829 (save $150)

Best Home Depot outdoor power tool deal Opens in a new window Credit: Ryobi Ryobi ONE+ Whisper Series 12-inch Cordless Chainsaw $189 at The Home Depot
$249 Save $60   Get Deal Why we like it

Ryobi's Whisper Series cordless chainsaw is a hard deal to beat at only $189.

It's lightweight, easy to maneuver, and as the name suggests, 85% quieter than a typical gas-powered chainsaw. Plus, of course, it requires no fuel. Instead, it comes with a 6Ah high-performance battery that can make up to 112 cuts per charge with just the pull of a trigger. Its 12-inch bar and chain can tackle limbs and logs up to 10 inches in diameter, and there's an automatic oiler, tooled chain tensioning, and on-board tool storage for convenience. Purchased separately, the chainsaw, battery, and charger would run you up to $373, so this deal saves you nearly 50%.

More outdoor deals

• Ryobi ONE+ 18V 9 in. Cordless Edger — $99 $129 (save $30)

• Milwaukee M18 FUEL Cordless Handheld Blower — $149 $199 (save $50)

• DeWalt Cordless Battery Powered Chainsaw Kit — $199 $259 (save $60)

• DeWalt Cold Water Electric Pressure Washer — $249 $389 (save $140)

• Milwaukee M18 FUEL Battery Powered 8 in. HATCHET Mini Chainsaw — $279 $419 (save $140)

• Ryobi 40V Whisper Series Cordless Leaf Blower — $279 $349 (save $70)

• Ryobi 40V Cordless Multi-Blade Walk Behind Self-Propelled Lawn Mower — $449 $599 (save $150)

• Navimow i206 Robot Lawn Mower — $899 $999 (save $100)

• Navimow X430 17 in. Robot Lawn Mower — $2,249 $2,499 (save $250)

• Mammotion Luba 3 Robot Lawn Mower — $2,499 $2,799 (save $300)

Best Home Depot smart home deal Opens in a new window Credit: eufy eufy S430 SoloCam $139.99 at Home Depot
$199.99 Save $60   Get Deal Why we like it

If you want to keep tabs on your yard without breaking the bank or paying a monthly subscription, the eufy S430 SoloCam is down to $139.99 (original price $199.99). This wireless camera features 360-degree pan-and-tilt surveillance, dual lenses, and a built-in solar panel so you never have to worry about swapping batteries.

More smart home deals

• Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Select — $19.99 $49.99 (save $30)

• Blink Wired Floodlight Camera (2600-Lumens) — $44.99 $99.99 (save $55)

• Amazon Echo Dot (5th Gen) — $54.99 $79.99 (save $25)

• Blink Outdoor 4 Wireless 5-Camera System — $164.99 $299.99 (save $135)

• Blink Outdoor 4 XR Wireless 6-Camera System — $230.99 $419.99 (save $189)

Best Home Depot Halloween and holiday decor finds Opens in a new window Credit: Home Accents Home Accents Holiday 5 ft. Grave & Bones LED Pose-N-Stay Skeleton $39.98 at Home Depot
  Shop Now Why we like it

Skelly is obviously our favorite Home Depot Halloween decoration, but he's not on sale (and neither are his bony friends). If you're looking to build out your yard display for less, the Home Accents Holiday 5 ft. Grave & Bones LED Pose-N-Stay Skeleton is only $39.98. It's fully poseable, durable enough to survive the autumn weather, and perfect for holding a coffee cup on your front porch until November.

More Halloween decor finds

Note: These viral items featured in Home Depot's Labor Day event tend to sell out fast before October.

• Home Accents Holiday 36 in. Celtic Cross Tombstone — $29.98

• Home Accents Holiday 36 in. Skull and Roses Tombstone — $29.98

• Home Accents Holiday 12 in. Twinkling LED Bats (3-Pack) — $39.98

• Home Accents Holiday 2.5 ft. Grave & Bones Watcher's Perch — $39.98

• Home Accents Holiday 3 ft. Animated Dancing Skeleton — $39.98

• Disney 14 in. Mickey Pumpkin — $49.98

• Disney 14 in. Minnie Pumpkin — $49.98

• Home Accents Holiday 7.5 in. & 10 in. Twinkling LED Bats (6-Piece) — $49.98

• Home Accents Holiday 7 ft. Color-Changing LED Willow Tree — $129.00

The best REI Labor Day deals at a glance: Best tent deal REI Co-op Half Dome 2 Tent $197.39 (save $131.61) Get Deal Best watersports deal Bote Wulf Aero Inflatable Paddle Board with Paddle $399.99 (save $179.01) Get Deal Best campsite gear deal Rumpl Backcountry Puffy Blanket $89.83 (save $60.12) Get Deal Best cycling deal Ortlieb Back-Roller Panniers (pair) $164.99 (save $55.01) Get Deal Best water bottle deal Hydro Flask Standard-Mouth Vacuum Water Bottle $29.89 (save $10.06) Get Deal Best apparel deal Darn Tough Socks sale prices start at $14.19 Get Deal

Summer camping is out. Fall camping is in. According to the temperatures, camping in September, October, and maybe even November could be more comfortable and enjoyable than summer adventures. Whichever you prefer, a great camping journey requires great gear, and REI has been a longtime leader in providing the essentials we need.

Just in time for cooler temps, the REI Labor Day Sale is packing in the deals on camping gear like tents and camp chairs. There are also great discounts on watersport toys like kayaks and SUP. If your old clothing items are getting worn out, take advantage of 25% off all Darn Tough socks or get some new kicks while saving 25% with Keen and Altra.

SEE ALSO: Labor Day outdoor deals let you stock up on camping and backyard gear for less: Shop Coleman, Yeti, and Ninja

In addition to these sales, tons of REI's own brand items are also 25% off. If you've never tried out REI Co-op items, I can't recommend them enough. They often rival competitor items but cost a fraction of the price. Here are some of the best deals to shop during the REI Labor Day Sale.

Best tent deal Opens in a new window Credit: REI REI Co-op Half Dome 2 Tent (Earthen Grey) $197.39 at REI
$329 Save $131.61   Get Deal Why we like it

The REI Half Dome 2 Tent has been a favorite among the outdoor crowd for generations. If you could use the upgrade and you don't have your heart set on a particular colorway, the Earthen Gray option is on sale for a huge 40% off during the REI Labor Day Sale. The tent is easy to set-up thanks to the color-coded poles, and it comes with a protective rainfly and a durable footprint.

Best watersports deal Opens in a new window Credit: Bote Bote Wulf Aero Inflatable Paddle Board with Paddle $399.99 at REI
$579 Save $179.01   Get Deal Why we like it

Getting out on the water during a crisp fall morning is the ultimate form of refreshment. The Bote Wulf Aero SUP will take you out on the lake in comfort, and the design is great for beginners. The $399.99 sale price includes everything you need for an on-the-water adventure, including the Aero repair kit, hand pump, travel bag, and coiled leash.

Best camping deal Opens in a new window Credit: Rumpl Rumpl Backcountry Puffy Blanket $89.83 at REI
$149.95 Save $60.12   Get Deal Why we like it

Fall camping needs preparing with a few extra cozy layers, and the Rumpl Backcountry Puffy Blanket is just what every evening calls for. The weather-resistant blanket is made with a PFAS-free water repellent, and a cape-clip that easily allows you to wear the blanket as well, a cape. Maybe best of all, it's machine washable so you won't have to worry if a bit of s'mores ends up on the blanket.

Best cycling deal Opens in a new window Credit: Orlieb Ortlieb Back-Roller Panniers (pair) $164.99 at REI
$220 Save $55.01   Get Deal Why we like it

Cycling to the grocery store? Make carrying your treats home a breeze thanks to the pair of Ortleib Back-Roller Panniers. They're waterproof and well known as a leader in build quality. Each panier has a roll top closure to keep water out. Inside, both bags have a capacity of 20 liters each. There's also a smaller zipped compartment in each bag for storing important goods like keys and a wallet. A shoulder carrying strap and large reflectors add to the thoughtful design.

More deals to shop during the REI Labor Day Sale

• Sawyer Jungle Juice Inspect Repellent Spray — $7.39 $9.95 (save $2.56)

• Humangear Goatoob+ (3 pack of 3.4 ounces) — $25.39 $33.95 (save $8.56)

• Thule Compression Packing Cube Set — $40.39 $53.95 (save $13.56)

• BioLite AlpenGlow 250 Lantern — $44.89 $59.95(save $15.06)

• Eno DoubleNest Hammock — $56.19 $74.95(save $15.06)

• Hest Pro Travel Pillow — $71.19 $89 (save $17.81)

• Coleman Classic Camp Stove — $97.49 $130 (save $32.51)

• Helinox Chair One(re) — $97.49 $130 (save $35.06)

• Kelty Low Loveseat — $112.39 $149.95 (save $37.56)

• Sea to Summit Detour Stainless-Steel Dinnerware Set — $112.39 $149.95 (save $37.56)

• Peak Design Everyday Pack (20 liter) — $223.89 $279.95 (save $56.06)

• Matador GlobeRider Travel Pack (45 liter) — $257.93 $369 (save $111.07)

• Hest Foamy Sleeping Pad — $263.19 $329 (save $65.81)

• Mountain Hardware Nimbus UL 2 Tent — $344.99 $460(save $115.01)

Mashable Entertainment Editor Kristy Puchko was sent on a ropes course ahead of interviewing Fall 2: Deadpoint's cast Tom Brittney, Arsema Thomas, and Harriet Slater. Her training time was apparently almost as long as the actors' for the Fall sequel.

"We didn't have that much time," said Tom Brittney. "From casting to filming, it was pretty short. It was, like, a week or two."

Slater added, "In the first week, we were just practicing some stunts," "But other than that I feel like we mostly just winged it!"

Arseme Thomas jumped in, "Yeah, they threw us on there and they were like, 'Exactly how you're reacting, we'll get that!'"

Fall 2: Deadpoint is in theaters September 2.