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The best last-chance October Prime Day laptop deals: Save up to $750 on MacBooks, Surface Laptops

Wed, 10/07/2026 - 20:47
The best October Prime Day laptop deals you can still shop: Best MacBook Air deal Apple MacBook Air, 13-inch (M5, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) $1,099 at Amazon (save $200) Get Deal Best MacBook Pro deal Apple MacBook Pro, 14-inch (M5 Pro with 18-core CPU/20-core GPU, 24GB RAM, 2TB SSD) $2,699 at Amazon (save $500) Get Deal Best budget laptop deal (under $1,000) Dell XPS 13 (Intel Core 5 320, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD) $599.99 at Best Buy (save $200) Get Deal Best Microsoft Surface Laptop deal Microsoft Surface Laptop 7, 13.8-inch (Snapdragon X Elite, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD) $1,349 at Amazon (save $750.99) Get Deal Another great Windows laptop deal HP OmniBook Ultra 14 (Intel Core Ultra 7 356H, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD) $1,399.99 at Best Buy (save $600) Get Deal Best gaming laptop deal Acer Nitro V 16S AI (AMD Ryzen AI 7 350, Nvidia GeForce RTX 5070, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD) $1,401.99 at Amazon (save $248) Get Deal

I've had a weird year as Mashable's resident laptop reporter. In recent months, many of the models I've covered and tested have gotten anywhere from $100 to $950 more expensive due to the ongoing memory crisis, making it harder to pinpoint truly great values on the market. That's why I was particularly antsy for Prime Big Deal Days, Amazon's 48-hour "October Prime Day" sale: It's getting the ball rolling on holiday tech deals that negate a lot of those price hikes.

On the second day of the sale, Amazon is still offering some particularly sweet deals on MacBooks and Microsoft Surface Laptops. The M5 MacBook Air got a long-awaited $200 discount that brings it back down to $1,099 for the first time since June. Meanwhile, a variant of the 2024 Surface Laptop 7th Edition is a whopping 36% off. (Both are Mashable Choice Award winners — we've tested them and love 'em.)

SEE ALSO: The 37 best Prime Day tech deals: We found deals under $25, but also $1,200 savings on OLED TVs

Be sure to shop around a bit before adding anything to your cart. There are also great laptop deals to be had at Best Buy and Walmart, which are both running their own sitewide sales this week. For its part, Best Buy has some of my favorite MacBook Neo and Air alternatives on sale for up to 30% off.

Read on for my definitive guide to the best October Prime Day laptop deals available right now. Keep in mind that Prime Big Deal Days ends at midnight PT tonight (Oct. 7), so any Amazon-exclusive offers will likely be gone by tomorrow.

Best budget laptop deal (under $1,000) Opens in a new window Credit: Dell Dell XPS 13 (Intel Core 5 320, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD) $599.99 at Best Buy
$799.99 Save $200   Get Deal Opens in a new window Credit: Dell Dell XPS 13 (Intel Core 5 320, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) $799.99 at Best Buy
$999.99 Save $200   Get Deal

Dell's new XPS 13 is a premium-built budget laptop that one-ups Apple's MacBook Neo with a much lighter design, a sharper, smoother touchscreen display, and a backlit keyboard. It also has a much better battery life than the Neo, lasting roughly 19 hours in our video rundown test. The Neo died just before the 15-hour mark.

Best Buy has two 512GB configurations of the XPS 13 on sale for $200 off during its Techtober savings event (starting from just $599.99), a discount that more than erases their price increases from last month. For comparison's sake, a comparable MacBook Neo with 8GB of RAM and 512GB of storage is stuck at its regular sale price of $789.99 on Amazon — a meager $9 off.

More budget laptop Prime Day deals (under $1,000)Best MacBook deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple MacBook Air, 13-inch (M5, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) $1,099 at Amazon
$1,299 Save $200   Get Deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple MacBook Air, 15-inch (M5, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) $1,299 at Amazon
$1,499 Save $200   Get Deal

No guide to the best Prime Day laptop deals would be complete without the latest MacBook discounts. The M5 MacBook Air is a fabulous all-rounder with incredibly fast performance, a premium haptic touchpad, and a vibrant display. We like the 15-inch model best for most macOS users because it has nicer speakers, a better GPU, and a roomier display, but the 13-inch size is better if you prioritize portability. I recommend it for college students in particular.

The M5 MacBook Air is $200 off at Amazon and Best Buy right now, a discount that brings it back to its pre-price hike rates. (Apple's entire MacBook lineup got price increases in June due to increased component costs.) Choose from either size and any color or configuration starting from just $1,099.

Read Mashable's full review of the Apple MacBook Air (M5).

More MacBook Air Prime Day dealsMacBook Pro Prime Day dealsBest Microsoft Surface Laptop deal Opens in a new window Credit: Microsoft Microsoft Surface Laptop 7, 13.8-inch (Snapdragon X Elite, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD) $1,349 at Amazon
$2,099.99 Save $750.99   Get Deal

Surface Laptops have also been afflicted with price hikes this year, but Amazon is trying its hardest to mitigate them. The best Microsoft Surface Laptop Prime Day deal I've spotted features a 2024 model with a 13.8-inch display and a Snapdragon X Elite chip, which is now a whopping 36% off — its lowest price since May. This one has a 23-hour battery life, a 120Hz touchscreen, a haptic touchpad, and a sleek, minimalist look. Our former tech editor said it "oozes sophistication and polished refinement." By the way: If you want a newer Surface Laptop 8th Edition with the same amount of RAM and storage, you'll pay $250 more.

Read Mashable's full review of the Microsoft Surface Laptop 7th Edition.

More Surface Laptop Prime Day dealsAnother great Windows laptop deal Opens in a new window Credit: HP HP OmniBook Ultra 14 (Intel Core Ultra 7 356H, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD) $1,399.99 at Best Buy
$1,999.99 Save $600   Get Deal Opens in a new window Credit: HP HP OmniBook Ultra 14 (Snapdragon X2 Elite, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD) $1,799.99 at Best Buy
$2,249.99 Save $450.00   Get Deal

The redesigned OmniBook Ultra 14 is one of the best and prettiest Windows laptops I've tried this year. (It's another great MacBook alternative, I might add.) It has a glorious 2.8K 120Hz OLED display, a haptic touchpad, a very quiet keyboard, and a thin, elegant design featuring an anti-smudge finish and metallic accents around the edges of its chassis. Best Buy has several configurations of on sale for the lowest prices I've seen all year, with savings of up to 30%.

More Windows laptop Prime Day dealsBest gaming laptop deal Opens in a new window Credit: Acer Acer Nitro V 16S AI (AMD Ryzen AI 7 350, Nvidia GeForce RTX 5070, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD) $1,401.99 at Amazon
$1,649.99 Save $248   Get Deal

Now cheaper than ever, this 16-inch Acer gaming laptop nets you mid-tier RTX 5070 graphics at an RTX 5060 price point. (Note that it's sold out on Acer's website.) It has a good amount of storage, a four-zone RGB keyboard, and a crisp 2.5K display with a premium 180Hz refresh rate that'll make fast-paced shooters look buttery smooth. I found a slightly less expensive RTX 5070 MSI gaming laptop on sale at Walmart, but it has a 144Hz display with a much lousier 1080p resolution.

More gaming laptop Prime Day dealsHow I picked the best October Prime Day laptop deals

The Mashable team and I have tested dozens of laptops this year, and my job involves constantly monitoring their prices for any notable changes.

My top October Prime Day deals on laptops include Amazon's lowest prices on select models in at least three months, according to historical data on the price-tracking site camelcamelcamel. The deals I've highlighted elsewhere feature models that are sitting at their lowest prices of the year so far, to the best of my knowledge.

I've cross-checked all of my picks across various retailers to make sure they're the best deals anywhere. In one case, this alerted me to a deal that's even better than advertised. Walmart says its $1,100 Alienware Aurora 16 with an Intel Core Ultra 7 240H processor, RTX 5050 graphics, 16GB RAM, and 512GB storage is $150 off, but it's really $801 off: Dell usually sells the same configuration for $1,900.

I've also come across one instance where Amazon managed to beat Best Buy's price on a 13.8-inch Microsoft Surface Laptop by a cool $120.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Yeti deals are rare, but we found a bunch for October Prime day: Up to 40% off drinkware, coolers, and more

Wed, 10/07/2026 - 20:30
The best October Prime Day Yeti deals, at a glance: Best drinkware deal Yeti Rambler Straw Mug (42-ounce) $27 (save $18) Get Deal best cooler deal Yeti Tundra 45 Hard Cooler $243.75 (save $81.25) Get Deal Best camping deal Yeti Lowlands Blanket $152 (save $48) Get Deal

One of my biggest flexes is that I own several Yeti products: a Roadie cooler, and a Rambler bottle, can cooler, and mugs. While most of these were gifts, I rave about them any chance I get. But convincing people to actually splurge on Yeti products is tough. While the quality and IT factor are undeniable, the prices are just a bit too steep for most folks. That's where major shopping events like Prime Day come in.

One of the only times we see Yeti coolers, drinkware, and other products go on sale is during Amazon Prime Day events and lucky for you, we're still smack dab in the middle of one. Prime Big Deal Days, aka October Prime Day is still live through the end of the day on Oct. 7, giving you plenty of time to nab the Yeti products you want for less.

Below, we've gathered all the best Yeti deals we could find for October Prime Day.

Best cooler deal Opens in a new window Credit: Yeti Yeti Tundra 45 Hard Cooler $243.75 at Amazon
$325 Save $81.25   Get Deal Why we like it

The Tundra hard cooler is Yeti's OG baby. It's legendary for its toughness and ice retention and comes in various sizes. One of the best deals we've seen for October Prime Day is the Tundra 45 for 25% off. It can fit 54 cans or 37 pounds of ice, or about 26 cans with a 2:1 ice-to-contents ratio, and keep everything cold for days. It's pretty heavy, even when it's empty, but its heftiness is what makes it virtually indestructible. Plus, it comes in a gorgeous ultramarine violet shade.

More Yeti cooler dealsBest Yeti drinkware deal Opens in a new window Credit: Yeti Yeti Rambler Straw Mug (42-ounce) $27 at Amazon
$45 Save $18   Get Deal Why we like it

Yeti drinkware deals are popping off for October Prime Day, but this 42-ounce Rambler Straw Mug is the best of the bunch at 40% off. Only select colors are on sale, including this vibrant firefly yellow. Like every Yeti cup, it's double-wall vacuum insulated to keep your drinks hot or cold. It's made with kitchen-grade stainless steel, so it's extremely durable and can go safely in the dishwasher. Plus, it fits in a car cupholder.

More Yeti cup and mug dealsOther Yeti deals

Time is running out for Prime members to shop Amazon’s Prime Big Deal Days sale. Sign up for a Prime 30-day free trial if you want to save some cash, and follow Mashable’s guide to the best October Prime Day deals and live blog for the latest updates.

Categories: IT General, Technology

OpenAI shakes up mathematics again, debuting dozens of new math solutions

Wed, 10/07/2026 - 20:25

OpenAI won't let mathematicians rest.

On Oct. 6, the company released a slew of new mathematical results in the form of a massive GitHub repository — an info dump that will take hundreds of human hours to sift through. The company's internal frontier model provided solutions to more than 300 problems, but the company also implied they expect experts to take issue with them, debuting new processes for paper revisions and citations.

"For future releases, we are committed to further improving the quality of the papers via the citations, mathematical exposition, and presentation of the results for better understanding," wrote OpenAI.

SEE ALSO: Report: OpenAI should pause ChatGPT for Teens over safety

Last month, the developer made an industry-rattling declaration that 10,000 AI agents had worked together to solve the Navier–Stokes existence and smoothness problem, a narrower portion of the unsolved Navier-Stokes equation that's part of the Millennium Prize Problems set. The robot mathematicians' "breakthrough" could have nabbed OpenAI a $1 million prize, but the company declined.

And possibly for good reason, academics later called out the company for solving a subset of the problem, not the whole thing, using a mathematical loophole — an approach that some labeled "unnatural."

OpenAI's pursuit of mathematical greatness isn't so easily deterred.

Following OpenAI's announcement, the Advisory Group on Mathematics and Artificial Intelligence at the Institute for Advanced Study⁠ said it did not endorse AI developers using proprietary models to test solutions without the scientific community's involvement. The developer announced a new advisory group to provide recommendations on future releases. But it appears OpenAI used the same unreleased model to solve the latest trove of equations.

Unlike its previous theoretical entries, however, OpenAI alleges the latest problems were solved with just a single prompt fed to a single AI agent, the developer told Scientific American. The claim is already being questioned by experts, who are still awaiting access to the reportedly mathematically advanced model.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The best live Prime Day outdoor deals: Anker power stations, Yeti coolers, and LifeStraws are among our top picks

Wed, 10/07/2026 - 20:04
Best October Prime Day outdoor deals, at a glance: Best portable power station deal Anker Solix C1000 $469.99 (save $130) Get Deal Best cooler deal Yeti Tundra 45 hard cooler $243.75 (save $81.25) Get Deal Best outdoor speaker deal Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 4 $54.14 (save $45.85) Get Deal Best camping deal Coleman 4-Person Instant Cabin $149.99 (save $68.50) Get Deal Best personal water filter LifeStraw Personal Water Filter $12.98 (save $4.97) Get Deal Best outdoor projector deal Anker Nebula Capsule 3 Laser Projector $559.99 (save $190) Get Deal

If you're like me and prefer to go camping in cooler fall temps instead of the sweltering heat of summer, you're probably in need of fresh outdoor gear. Now's the time to stock up, thanks to October Prime Day, which kicked off Oct. 6 and continues until the end of Oct. 7.

Since camping is generally a summer activity, you'll find even better out-of-season price drops. And we've already rummaged through the sale to dig out the very best camping deals, whether you're searching for upgrades or replacements to your current gear.

These deals will get you outside to enjoy fall colors and cooler temps. Be sure to keep an eye on all of Mashable's October Prime Day coverage as the sale comes to an end.

Best portable power station deal Anker Solix C1000 $469.99 at Amazon
$599.99 Save $130   Get Deal at Amazon Why we like it

I've tested dozens of portable power stations while camping over the last few years, and the original Anker Solix C1000 remains a top-tier choice. Now that it's on sale for under $450, it's a great time to make the move to camping with power. Keep phones charged, pack the air fryer, or take your laptop workstation into the great outdoors.

The Anker Solix C1000 packs in 1,056Wh of battery capacity and a peak output of 2,400W. Anker included a massive six AC ports, dual USB-A ports, and dual USB-C ports. I also love the onboard lightbar, and it recharges back to 100 percent in under an hour.

More portable power station dealsBest cooler deal Opens in a new window Credit: Yeti Yeti Tundra 45 Hard Cooler $243.75 at Amazon
$325 Save $81.25   Get Deal Why we like it

Finding a Yeti cooler on sale is a rarity, so we had to shout out this 25% off deal for Prime members. The eye-catching ultramarine violet Tundra 45 hard cooler is a beast that can keep ice for days, fit 26 cans with a 2:1 ice-to-contents ratio, and last a lifetime. It's virtually indestructible, thanks to its rotomolded construction, NeverFail hinge system, and FatWall design. It's definitely not light; it weighs 23 pounds when it's empty. But that heftiness is what makes it so sturdy.

More cooler dealsBest outdoor speaker deal Opens in a new window Credit: Ultimate Ears Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 4 $54.14
$99.99 Save $45.85   Get Deal Why we like it

On Mashable's ranking of the best waterproof Bluetooth speakers, the Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 4 earns the top spot as the model that's ready for both outdoor adventures and the shower. Contributor Alex Bracetti's review says, "The rugged mesh exterior prevents moisture and other hazards from damaging both the inside and outside of the speaker. A 14-hour charge is enough for a month of daily shower use."

More outdoor speaker dealsBest outdoor projector deal Nebula Capsule 3 $559.99 at Amazon
$749.99 Save $190   Get Deal at Amazon Why we like it

Read our full review of the Anker Nebula Capsule 3.

I pack light — as in, my one carry-on backpack comes in at under 20 pounds. Committing to an extra two pounds of tech was actually a big deal for me, but bringing the Anker Nebula Capsule 3 Laser projector to Japan earned it a permanent place in my travel bag. It projects a 120-inch 1080p display, automatically calibrates its own perfect focus (seriously, it's undeniably gratifying to watch), and doubles as a Bluetooth speaker with "damn fine" sound quality.

Best camping deal Coleman 4-Person Instant Cabin $149.99 at Amazon
$218.49 Save $68.50   Get Deal at Amazon Why we like it

Every great camping trip comes with a home base. The Coleman Instant Cabin is a one-minute setup tent that's also easy to store. For October Prime Day, the four-person tent is on sale for $149.99. To make things even easier at the campsite, the Coleman tent has pre-attached poles that only need to be extended. Plus, the included rainfly is integrated into the design, making assembly simple.

More camping deals

Prime members only have 48 hours to shop Amazon’s Prime Big Deal Days sale. Sign up for a Prime 30-day free trial if you want to save some cash, and follow Mashable’s guide to the best October Prime Day deals and live blog for the latest updates.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The 10+ best espresso machine deals on October Prime Day: Save on Ninja, Breville, and DeLonghi

Wed, 10/07/2026 - 20:00
The best coffee machines deals on October Prime Day: Best Ninja deal Ninja Luxe Café Premier Series $499.99 (save $100) Get Deal Best Breville deal Breville Barista Express $499.95 (save $190.04) Get Deal Best De'Longhi deal De'Longhi Magnifica Duo $799.95 (save $200) Get Deal

Coffee machines and October Prime Day. They go together like, well, coffee and cream. Because we all love a good machine, but we can't all afford 'em. Not at full price, anyway.

The barista-like beauties are a great investment. They'll save you plenty of money on Starbucks stop-offs in the long run because they simply make great coffee. But the upfront cost of a machine can be seriously steep. That's why coffee machines are up there with TVs and Apple devices as the most-wanted items when sale events such as Amazon's Prime Day roll around.

Well, October Prime Day is now live and into its final 24 hours of discounts. The sale officially shuts up shop at the close of business Oct. 7, so there's still a chance to grab a discount if you've been holding on for the right machine at the right price.

We've found some of the best deals on coffee machines — specifically espresso machines — from top kitchen brands.

Best Ninja coffee machine deal Opens in a new window Credit: Ninja Ninja Luxe Café Premier Series $499.99 at Amazon
$599.99 Save $100   Get Deal Why we like it

Ninja is the on-trend brand in kitchen appliances and the go-to name for air fryers. Well, it turns out their espresso machines are just as fancy and feature-packed, and the Ninja Luxe Café Premier Series is a top pick for this October Prime Day. It's actually a 3-in-1 machine that makes espresso, drip coffee, and cold brew. It has a built-in conical grinder (with 25 grind settings) plus a dual froth system to turn milk into perfectly smooth microfoam.

This is particularly good for first-time coffee machine owners, thanks to smart Barista Assist Technology that guides you through the process. But best of all? The Ninja Luxe Café Premier Series has dropped back down to its lowest ever price of $499.99.

Best Breville coffee machine deal Opens in a new window Credit: Breville Breville Barista Express $499.95
$689.99 Save $190.04   Get Deal Why we like it

The Breville Barista Express is arguably a step up in terms of espresso expertise, but it's still designed to make barista-quality coffee (hey, the clue's in the name) with relative ease at home. It makes espresso, cappuccino, and latte, and comes equipped with a grinder and milk frothing wand for handcrafting your foam. It also allows you to closely control the water pressure, temperature, and grind size, maximizing the flavor of every single cup. Currently priced at $499.95 for Prime Day, the Barista Express will save you just over $190.

Best De'Longhi coffee machine deal Opens in a new window Credit: De'Longhi De'Longhi Magnifica Duo $799.95
$999.95 Save $200   Get Deal Why we like it

The De'Longhi Magnifica Duo is an automatic that offers you a selection of 20 different drinks, including espresso, drip coffee, iced lattes, and cold brew. It takes all the effort out of coffee-making — you get great tasting coffee at the push of a button. Just drop your beans into the built-in grinder and select your drink. It has an integrated milk frother, which makes it super easy to whip creamy and textured foam. The real bonus is that it's now at a new record-low price for October Prime Day, with savings of $200. Grab it for $799.95.

More coffee machine deals
Categories: IT General, Technology

Microsoft Surface Laptops are massively discounted for October Prime Day: Where to save up to $750

Wed, 10/07/2026 - 19:58
The best October Prime Day deals on Microsoft Surface Laptops at a glance: Best deal overall Microsoft Surface Laptop 7, 13.8-inch (Snapdragon X Elite, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD) $1,349 at Amazon (save $750.99) Get Deal Best deal on the new 13.8-inch model Microsoft Surface Laptop 8, 13.8-inch (Snapdragon X2 Plus, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) $1,099.99 at Best Buy (save $500) Get Deal Best deal on the new 15-inch model Microsoft Surface Laptop 8, 15-inch (Snapdragon X2 Elite, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD) $1,749.99 at Amazon (save $450) Get Deal

Shopping for a new Windows laptop? Microsoft Surface Laptop Prime Day deals are quite excellent today.

Thank goodness for that. Most PC brands have jacked up their prices this year amid the ongoing memory crisis, and Microsoft is no exception. This spring, it raised the prices of last year's flagship Surface Laptop 7th Edition by up to $500, and the new Surface Laptop 8th Edition it announced in June retained those markups (give or take $50 to $100, depending on the model).

SEE ALSO: October Prime Day is live, but not for long: See the 101 best deals, with 53% discounts on TVs, headphones, and more

During Prime Big Deal Days, the "October Prime Day" sale that Amazon is running through midnight PT tonight, select Surface Laptops are on sale for as much as $750 off — not just on Amazon, but at competing retailers, too. Shoppers can save up to 36% on over a dozen configurations of the super-sleek Windows PC right now, with prices starting as low as $1,100. I should also mention that the Prime Day MacBook deals we're seeing pale in comparison; Apple's laptops are only up to 15% off today.

I've rounded up the top Microsoft Surface Laptop Prime Day deals below. Note: There are no live deals on the new compact Surface Laptop 13-inch (2nd Edition) that Microsoft launched in September, but I'll update this story if that changes.

The very best Microsoft Surface Laptop Prime Day deal Opens in a new window Credit: Microsoft Microsoft Surface Laptop 7, 13.8-inch (Snapdragon X Elite, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD) $1,349 at Amazon
$2,099.99 Save $750.99   Get Deal

For the most savings on a Microsoft PC, opt for this black 16GB/1TB variant of 2024's 13.8-inch Surface Laptop 7th Edition. Former Mashable tech editor Kimberly Gedeon gave it a near-perfect 4.8/5 rating for its premium all-aluminum design, 23-hour battery life, and peppy performance. (Like this on-sale model, her review unit ran on the last-gen Snapdragon X Elite chip.) It "oozes sophistication and polished refinement," she wrote in her review, calling out its "mint" build quality. It has a haptic touchpad like the MacBook Air, but a smoother display with added touch functionality.

According to the Amazon price-tracking site camelcamelcamel, $1,349 is its lowest price since mid-May. It originally cost $1,599.99 prior to its spring price hike, which is what you'll currently pay for a 2026 Surface Laptop 8th Edition with the same specs.

Deals on the newest Microsoft Surface Laptop

The 2026 Microsoft Surface Laptop 8th Edition has a sharper display and runs on faster Snapdragon X2 chips. The 13.8-inch size comes in platinum, black, dune, and a new "jade" green color, while the 15-inch version is just available in platinum and black. They offer up to 20 hours of battery life.

The 13.8-inch Microsoft Surface Laptop 8th Edition stuns in jade. Credit: Microsoft 13.8-inch model15-inch model
Categories: IT General, Technology

Take 42% off DeWalt tools before October Prime Day is over: Shop cordless drills, drivers, and toolkits

Wed, 10/07/2026 - 19:56
Best DeWalt deals for Prime Big Deals Days: Best under $20 tool deal DeWalt 40-Piece FlexTorq Screwdriver Bit Set $18 (save $3.57) Get Deal Best DIY car maintenance deal DeWalt 108-Piece Mechanics Tools and Socket Set $65.99 (save $13.98) Get Deal Best power tool deal DeWalt 20V MAX Cordless Drill and Impact Driver Combo $138.99 (save $100.01) Get Deal

Amazon's Prime Big Deal Days is officially live, kicking off 48 hours of sitewide price cuts. While the October event usually gets hyped for smart speakers and TV discounts, some of the best stealth savings are landing squarely in the tool aisle.

If your current home tool setup consists of a bent butter knife and a mystery hammer you inherited three apartments ago, now is the time to fix that — especially because Oct. 7 is the last day of Amazon's sale. Solid power tools aren't just for full-time pros — they're what turns correcting a wobbly cabinet into a quick 10-minute fix.

SEE ALSO: October Prime Day 2026 live updates: Amazon is still dropping 50% discounts

We waded through Amazon's massive wall of discounts to pull out standout DeWalt deals that give you maximum reliability, battery cross-compatibility, and real value without buying filler tools you'll never touch.

Best under $20 DeWalt tool deal Opens in a new window Credit: DeWalt DeWalt 40-Piece FlexTorq Screwdriver Bit Set $18 at Amazon
$21.57 Save $3.57   Get Deal Why we like it

Stripped screw heads and snapped tips turn simple fixes into disasters. This 40-piece DeWalt set solves that. The precision-machined tips grip fasteners tightly to prevent slippage, while the impact-rated core flexes under heavy loads so bits don't shatter at high torque.

You get an essential lineup of Phillips, square, Torx, and flathead drivers, plus nutsetters and a magnetic lock sleeve that holds long screws in place for easy one-handed driving. It all packs into a clear-lid hard case with quick-release bit bars, so you can grab the exact bit you need without wrestling with tight plastic slots.

Best DIY car maintenance deal Opens in a new window Credit: DeWalt DeWalt 108-Piece Mechanics Tools & Socket Set $65.99 at Amazon
$79.97 Save $13.98   Get Deal Why we like it

This 108-piece DeWalt set is tailored for DIY vehicle work. It comes loaded with both SAE and Metric 6-point sockets — giving you exact-fit coverage for foreign and domestic cars, lawnmowers, and trailers — plus deep sockets specifically built for reaching recessed bolts and exposed wheel studs.

The sockets feature off-corner loading tech that grips the flat sides of a bolt rather than the corners, delivering max turning power without stripping rusted or stubborn hardware. Both the 1/4-inch and 3/8-inch drive ratchets feature 72-tooth gears and low-profile heads, giving you a tight 5-degree arc swing to turn bolts in cramped engine bays where you barely have room to move your wrist.

SEE ALSO: 25+ home improvement deals to shop on October Prime Day: I'm tracking deals on power tools, yard care, and more Best DeWalt power tool deal Opens in a new window Credit: DeWalt DeWalt Impact Driver and Hammer Drill PowerPack Combo Kit $138.99 at Amazon
$239 Save $100.01   Get Deal Why we like it

A basic drill handles lightweight tasks, but driving long lag bolts or driving fasteners into dense lumber requires the raw power of an impact driver. The DeWalt 20V MAX Cordless Drill & Impact Driver Combo gives you both without the extra bulk. Both tools are short and lightweight, making it easy to reach into tight cabinet corners, floor joist spaces, or overhead frames without exhausting your wrists.

The drill’s half-inch ratcheting chuck locks bits down tight so they don't slip, while the impact driver lets you swap driver bits one-handed. Integrated LED work lights keep dark workspaces lit, and two 20V MAX battery packs let you keep one on the charger while powering through your project.

More DeWalt tool deals
Categories: IT General, Technology

Dressmaker players are designing gowns fit for fantasy balls

Wed, 10/07/2026 - 19:54

Dressmaker players are posting their gorgeous dress designs on social media, with the viral sewing game inspiring thousands to create and share stunning gowns.

Developed by Cozy Lives, Dressmaker is an indie game that has players design and sew custom gowns for a variety of different clients with varying needs. Players must listen to customers' requests, then take their measurements, sketch a design, select materials, cut the cloth, and sew it all together on a mannequin.

Players already seem to find fulfilling these customer orders engaging. However, Dressmaker also allows you to sew dresses to be sold off the rack. It's primarily here that players have taken the opportunity to get creative, designing dazzling fantasy gowns, experimenting with materials, and even recreating famous pieces such as Lirika Matoshi's Strawberry Midi Dress that went viral in 2020.

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Dressmaker began as a personal project by South African developer Jonathan Hau-Yoon and his partner Sabrina Becker, a real-life dressmaker and artist. Becker had been forced to shelve aspirations of working in costume design after she was diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, a connective tissue disorder that impacts her ability to sew. Instead, she applied her years of fashion expertise to the development of Dressmaker.

Hau-Yoon made an early Dressmaker prototype and posted clips to social media in 2025, gaining over 300,000 views on his first TikTok video alone. He then took the project to his employer, indie game studio Free Lives, and spent three weeks building upon it with fellow developers Ruan Rothman and Sara Laubscher. This more refined Dressmaker prototype was launched on indie game distribution platform itch.io, where it gained enough interest for Free Lives to greenlight a full game from the team now dubbed Cozy Lives. 

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Launched on Sept. 21, Dressmaker has already accumulated over 7,600 player reviews on Steam, with the consensus being Overwhelmingly Positive — an incredible outcome for an indie game. Even people who don't typically see themselves playing games in Dressmaker's genre have found themselves enchanted by it, spending hours applying lace and buttons to their creations.

"I'm a middle-aged straight guy with a blue-collar job. This isn't my kind of thing. I wear t-shirts and khakis. I'm not interested in fashion," wrote Steam user dreamshade, noting that he typically prefers roguelike or exploration games. "I did not expect that I would play for three hours and suddenly worry about how much sleep I'm going to lose to this game."

"Yes, I bought this for my gf. Yes, I did test it out for her. Yes, that test did go on for four hours. Please make a DLC for suits," said Steam user GeminiGrayWolf32.

"I am a straight white man and this [is] my game of the year so far," TheMrJellybean wrote in his Steam review. "Absolutely incredible."

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One player who has gained significant attention for her viral Dressmaker designs is X user @vampikoi, who has created stunning, intricately beaded gowns right out of a fantasy princess' most fanciful daydream. Aside from the significant time investment, the materials for such dresses cost a pretty in-game penny, so @vampikoi uses a mod that gives her infinite funds for her projects. (Dressmaker already has over 240 mods on Nexus Mods, with @vampikoi herself also creating a Halloween-themed mod planned for release this weekend.)

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Other creators such as @Eviarnilla have been inspired by classical art, recreating works such as Vincent van Gogh's "Starry Night" and Katsushika Hokusai's "The Great Wave off Kanagawa" on their dresses. Meanwhile, @CrowsNestHead has gotten incredibly creative with Dressmaker's materials, using them to design viral sculptural dresses that emulate the look of fur and armour.

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Unfortunately, it isn't possible to accurately recreate all players' creations in real life. As Dressmaker is designed for creativity and fun rather than perfect accuracy, fabrics in the game don't behave how they would in real life. Even so, this indie game is no doubt already inspiring future dressmakers and fashion industry workers across the globe.

"I had always just thought of clothes as fabric to be bought in a store and that didn't fit quite right," Hau-Yoon wrote the day after launching Dressmaker. "Sabrina taught me that clothes are so much more than that: that clothes tell us about economic activity, technology, culture, social status, politics, stories. That they are incredible feats of engineering and construction, full of creativity, when you get into the craft."

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Dressmaker is available now on PC.

Categories: IT General, Technology

30+ of the best Anker deals still live on October Prime Day: Save on power banks, speakers, earbuds, and more

Wed, 10/07/2026 - 19:46
The best early Prime Day deals on Anker: Best earbuds deal Soundcore P40i by Anker $135.99 (save $34) Get Deal Best Smart Home Deal Anker Eufy S220 $139.99 (save $60) Get Deal Best Power Station Deal Anker Solix C1000 Gen 2 $699.99 (save $230) Get Deal Best Power Bank Deal Anker Prime Power Bank (26,250 mAh) $169.99 (save $60) Get Deal Best Home Entertainment Deal Anker Nebula Capsule 3 Laser $599.99 (save $150) Get Deal Best speaker deal Anker Soundcore Select 4 Go 19.99 (save $15) Get Deal Best Robot Vacuum Deal Anker Eufy Omni C20 $319.989 (save $230) Get Deal

Keeping a dozen screens and gadgets charged every day is exhausting, and nobody has time for it. Luckily, Anker makes some of the best gear to keep your tech powered, organized, and running smoothly.

While most people know Anker as the go-to brand for phone chargers and power banks, they actually make gear for almost every part of your home. Their lineup includes Soundcore for headphones and speakers, Eufy for smart security cams and robot vacuums, and Nebula for portable projectors.

Amazon’s Prime Big Deal Days is officially in its last day, and Anker is dropping some of the best sitewide savings we’ve seen all year. From ultra-fast portable power banks to noise-canceling earbuds, prices across its entire family of brands have taken a massive hit.

We combed through the chaos to curate the best live Anker deals worth pulling the trigger on before stock runs out.

Best speaker deal Opens in a new window Credit: Anker Anker Soundcore Select 4 Go Bluetooth speaker $19.99 at Amazon
$34.99 Save $15.00   Get Deal Why we like it

Finding a truly rugged outdoor speaker for under $20 is tough, but the Anker Soundcore Select 4 Go checks almost every box. Despite its compact palm-sized frame, it packs punchy sound and an impressive 20-hour battery life that easily outlasts a full weekend trip. Thanks to its IP67 rating, it’s completely waterproof, dustproof, and even floats — so dropping it in the pool or shower won't stop the music. You can also link two of them together for wireless stereo sound.

More Soundcore speaker dealsBest earbuds deal Opens in a new window Credit: Soundcore by Anker Soundcore by Anker Liberty 5 Pro $135.99 at Amazon
$169.99 Save $34   Get Deal Why we like it

For all of my life, I've lugged around bulky over-the-ear headphones when I travel. I'm the type of person who likes to tune out on long flights and headphones were the only way to make this possible - until I tried to the Anker Soundcore Liberty 5 Pro. Now, I can't hear anyone or anything, and it's bliss when flying. Amazon's sale price of $135.99 on these miracle earbuds is the lowest we've ever seen, so hop on this deal soon if you're also looking for excellent noise cancellation in earbuds.

Anker used the brand's Thus AI audio chip in the Liberty 5 Pro which has set a Guinness World Record for call quality in noisy environments. That's a great feature if you use your earbuds to take work calls or tune into lectures.

More Soundcore earbuds and headphones dealsBest smart home deal Opens in a new window Credit: Anker Anker Eufy S220 2-Cam Pack $139.99 at Amazon
$199.99 Save $60   Get Deal Why we like it

The Eufy SoloCam S220 fixes the worst part of home security: charging dead batteries. Its built-in solar panel needs just 3 hours of daily sunlight for continuous power, while 2K resolution keeps night footage crisp. Smart AI filtering ignores blowing leaves, so you only get alerts for people, pets, or cars — and local storage means zero monthly fees.

More smart home dealsBest power bank deal Opens in a new window Credit: Anker Anker Prime Power Bank (26,250 mAh) $169.99 at Amazon
$229.99 Save $60   Get Deal Why we like it

If you need to work away from an outlet, the Anker Prime Power Bank keeps your setup running without missing a beat. Its massive 26,250mAh capacity holds enough juice to charge a laptop fully alongside your phone, while a huge 300W total output powers demanding notebooks at full speed. Smart digital displays show your exact remaining battery and real-time charging wattage, making it a must-have for travel, remote work, or long flights.

More power bank dealsBest robot vacuum deal Opens in a new window Credit: Anker Anker eufy Omni C20 Robot Vacuum and Mop $319.99 at Amazon
$549.99 Save $230   Get Deal Why we like it

The Eufy Omni C20 takes the hassle out of floor care by handling both vacuuming and scrubbing without needing constant supervision. It's an all-in-one station that automatically empties dust into a bag that lasts up to 60 days, while washing and air-drying its own mop pads. Pushing 7,000 Pa of suction alongside a pro-detangle comb to keep long hair off the roller brush, it easily lifts embedded dirt from rugs and hard floors.

More robot vacuum dealsBest home entertainment deal Opens in a new window Credit: Anker Anker Nebula Capsule 3 Laser $599.99 at Amazon
$749.99 Save $150   Get Deal Why we like it

Roughly the size of a 16-ounce soda can, the Anker Nebula Capsule 3 Laser packs 1080p resolution and vibrant laser lighting into a frame that easily slips into a backpack. You can throw up to a 120-inch screen onto any wall or bedsheet, while auto-focus and auto-keystone correction handle image setup in seconds. With Google TV built in and a battery that lasts up to 2.5 hours on a single charge, it's an instant movie night setup for backyard hangouts or camping trips.

More home entertainment dealsBest power station deal Opens in a new window Credit: Anker Anker Solix C1000 Gen 2 + 200W Solar Panel $699.99 at Amazon
$929.99 Save $230   Get Deal Why we like it

The Anker Solix C1000 Gen 2 is one of my favorite portable power stations. Whether you're prepping for emergency outages or heading off-grid, the Anker Solix C1000 Gen 2 delivers reliable home-grade power in a portable frame. Its 2,000W output handles high-draw appliances across 10 outlets, while the included 200W foldable solar panel keeps you charged using free sunlight. Plus, it recharges from zero to 80% in under an hour from a wall outlet, so you're never left hanging when bad weather hits.

If you'd rather use standard wall power to recharge the portable power station and don't need the solar panel, the Solix C1000 Gen 2 is on sale for $469.99.

More power station deals

Time is running out for Prime members to shop Amazon’s Prime Big Deal Days sale. Sign up for a Prime 30-day free trial if you want to save some cash, and follow Mashable’s guide to the best October Prime Day deals and live blog for the latest updates.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The best headphones and earbuds deals on October Prime Day, including my favorite Bose headphones

Wed, 10/07/2026 - 19:46
The best October Prime Day headphones and earbuds deals: Best headphones deal Bose QuietComfort headphones (1st Gen) ✅ $169 (save $190) Get Deal Best Apple deal Apple AirPods Pro 3 $179 (save $70) Get Deal Best earbuds deal Panasonic Technics EAH-AZ100 wireless earbuds $234.99 (save $65) Get Deal Best budget headphones deal JLab JBuds Lux headphones $41.99 (save $58) Get Deal

Just like that, fall is here and so is the holiday shopping season.

We're kicking things off with Amazon's Prime Big Deal Days, otherwise known as October Prime Day. The sitewide sale runs from Oct. 6 to 7, and deals on headphones are popping off.

SEE ALSO: The 125+ best October Prime Day deals: We found record prices on Apple, Bose, Lego, and Sony favorites

Standouts include the first-ever price cut on the new Bose QuietComfort headphones (some of the best I've tested this year) and a $65 price cut on the Technics EAH-AZ100, our favorite premium earbuds for sound quality. Other deals have had some fluctuation in the lead-up — the AirPods Pro dropped to $199 only to go up to $234, and now they're down to $179 — but we'll be keeping this list updated.

Below, check out the best headphones and earbuds deals live on October Prime Day, according to someone who tests them.

Deals marked with a ✅ are Mashable editor favorites and award winners. Deals marked with a strikethrough are no longer available.

Best headphone deal Opens in a new window Credit: Bose Bose QuietComfort (1st Gen) ✅ $169 at Amazon
$359 Save $190   Get Deal Why we like it

This year, Bose released the second rendition of QuietComfort headphones. While they're a standout — and also on sale — the first generation of QC headphones are down to their lowest price ever.

Now $169, you can save $190 on the Bose QuietComfort headphones during Prime Big Deal Days. That saves you 53% on the stellar headphones that deliver all-day comfort and excellent noise cancellation. If you don't want to miss out on spatial audio and can stretch your budget, the second-generation Bose QuietComfort headphones are a standout release of 2026.

Read Mashable's review of the Bose QuietComfort headphones (1st Gen).

Best earbuds deal Opens in a new window Credit: Panasonic Panasonic Technics EAH-AZ100 wireless earbuds $234.99 at Amazon
$299.99 Save $65   Get Deal Why we like it

Want excellent sound in a compact package? The Panasonic Technics EAH-AZ100 wireless earbuds produce clear, dynamic sound with stellar noise cancellation. And even better, they're on sale for $234.99 during Prime Big Deal Days. That saves you $65 on the earbuds that come in a charging case that delivers 28 hours of playback.

Read Mashable's review of the Panasonic Technics EAH-AZ100 wireless earbuds.

Best AirPods deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple AirPods Pro 3 $179 at Amazon
$249 Save $70   Get Deal Why we like it

The basic AirPods just got an upgrade with the new AirPods 5, and last year's Apple AirPods Pro 3 are back on sale. They were $234 in the lead-up to October Prime Day, but have since dropped to $179 — $70 off their $249 list price. The earbuds have ANC, a more comfortable, redesigned fit, and support for live translation with a compatible iPhone. They're a good pick for commuters and even measure your heart rate during workouts, which is great for athletes who love a good workout playlist.

More headphones and earbuds dealsHeadphonesEarbudsOpen earbudsSleep earbuds
Categories: IT General, Technology

The best power tool deals for October Prime Day: Get money off DeWalt batteries, Craftsman toolkits, and more

Wed, 10/07/2026 - 19:18
The best October Prime Day deals on power tools: Best DeWalt deal DeWalt 20V MAX Cordless Drill and Impact Driver, Power Tool Combo Kit $138.99 (save $100.01) Get Deal Best DeWalt battery deal DeWalt 20V Max Premium Lithium-Ion 6.0Ah Battery Pack $179 (save $100) Get Deal Best Craftsman deal Craftsman V20 Max Cordless Drill Driver and Impact Driver Set $99 (save $70) Get Deal Best Greenworks deal Greenworks 24V 4-Tool Power Tool Combo Kit $219.99 (save $20) Get Deal Best Bosch deal Bosch 12V Max Drill/Driver 5-In-1 Flexiclick System $164.99 (save $110.01) Get Deal Best Electric Screwdriver Deal Hoto 12-in-1 Electric Screwdriver Set $37.99 (save $12) Get Deal

If you're tackling a DIY job at home or finally getting around to that project you've been putting off for months, a decent power tool can make things a lot easier. And if you're going to need one anyway, you might as well see if you can get it for less during Prime Big Deal Days, Amazon's "October Prime Day" sale. The event is live now through midnight PT on Oct. 7, so it's time to get serious about shopping.

So far, some of the best October Prime Day deals we've spotted involve steep discounts on power tools from popular brands like Bosch, Craftsman, DeWalt, and GreenWorks. (Don't miss Amazon's deal on a DeWalt cordless drill set, which is now a whopping $100 off.) Now's the time to shop if you're ready to round out your home DIY toolkit.

Best DeWalt deal Opens in a new window Credit: DeWalt DeWalt 20V Max Cordless Drill and Impact Driver Combo Kit $138.99 at Amazon
$239 Save $100.01   Get Deal Why we like it

This DeWalt set includes a compact impact driver and drill/driver, both designed for working in tighter spaces. The tools have built-in LED lights for better visibility. The impact driver has a one-handed hex chuck, and the drill features a 1/2-inch ratcheting chuck for quick bit changes.

Best DeWalt battery deal Opens in a new window Credit: DeWalt DeWalt 20V Max Premium Lithium-Ion 6.0Ah Battery Pack $179 at Amazon
$279 Save $100   Get Deal Why we like it

Need more juice for your DeWalt cordless tool collection? Instead of waiting for batteries to recharge, grab a few extras thanks to this deal on a two-pack. Each of these extra batteries takes about an hour to recharge and comes with a three-year warranty.

Best Craftsman deal Opens in a new window Credit: Craftsman Craftsman V20 Max Cordless Drill Driver and Impact Driver Set $99 at Amazon
$169 Save $70   Get Deal Why we like it

This Craftsman set includes a drill/driver and impact driver, with two V20 batteries, a charger, and a storage bag. Both tools have LED lights and compact, contoured handles for working in tighter spaces. The drill has two speed settings, and the impact driver can give up to 1,460 inch-pounds of torque.

Best Greenworks deal Opens in a new window Credit: Greenworks Greenworks 24V 4-Tool Power Tool Combo Kit $219.99 at Amazon
$239.99 Save $20   Get Deal Why we like it

Now on sale for a new record-low price, this kit includes a drill, impact driver, reciprocating saw, and flashlight, along with two 2Ah batteries and a 30W charger. The brushless tools have variable-speed controls, and the reciprocating saw has a tool-free blade change and pivoting shoe. The batteries can also charge devices via USB-C.

Even more power tool deals

Time is running out for Prime members to shop Amazon’s Prime Big Deal Days sale. Sign up for a Prime 30-day free trial if you want to save some cash, and follow Mashable’s guide to the best October Prime Day deals and live blog for the latest updates.

Categories: IT General, Technology

How can Ted Lasso fix itself?

Wed, 10/07/2026 - 18:25

When it came to Ted Lasso's fourth season, I wanted nothing more than to take a page out of Ted's (Jason Sudeikis) book and "believe."

I wanted to believe that after three years off the air, Ted Lasso had taken an opportunity to reset itself. I wanted to believe that it would fix the issues that plagued its frustrating third season, like bloated episodes and the unfortunate habit of pushing key scenes off camera. Most of all, I wanted to believe that the season's concentration on women's sports would give it a renewed sense of purpose.

SEE ALSO: 'Ted Lasso' Season 4 review: Women's soccer is just what this show needs

In the end, Season 4 rewarded my belief — and the belief of all other Ted Lasso fans — with a mixed bag. The episodes are still too long, and several story choices are downright bizarre, but at least the Lady Greyhounds and assistant manager Alice (Tanya Reynolds) jolted some new life into the season. If only the show had spent as much time on them as they did on dragging out Roy (Brett Goldstein) and Keeley's (Juno Temple) inevitable romance.

That brings us to Season 4's sweet finale, "Being Alive," which is a massive step up from last week's season-low, "Mae Rides The Bus." In many ways, "Being Alive" is a showcase of Season 4's wasted potential. Several Lady Greyhounds get moments that flesh them out further. Siobhan (Rex Hayes) and Niamh's (Aisling Sharkey) rendition of "The Parting Glass" is a touching tribute to Mae (Annette Badland), while Lizzie's (Faye Marsay) continued struggles with finding childcare emphasize the unfair expectations placed on her as a working mother.

Elsewhere, "Being Alive" remembers that Rebecca (Hannah Waddingham) is a boss, actually, and lets her be as confident and cool as she's ever been. (While still giving her the opportunity to crash out in hilarious fashion at Roy's news that he's heading to Chelsea.) The episode also sees Ted give his son, Henry (Grant Feely), a key heart-to-heart about grief and his own father's death by suicide. It's the kind of of open, reassuring chat that's mostly been missing this season, topped only by Alice and Ted's silent crying session in episode 8.

The finale is not without its low points — Zelda (Tracey Ullman), we'll get to you in a moment! — but overall, it does conjure up some hope at Ted Lasso's future. However, as Ted Lasso fans know all too well, it's the hope that kills you. So, what lessons can Ted Lasso learn from Season 4 to stop killing us and get back to being its best self?

Show, don't tell. Tracey Ullman in "Ted Lasso." Credit: Apple TV

"Show, don't tell" is perhaps the most cited piece of storytelling advice, but it's one Ted Lasso seems to have forgotten about along the way. One of the most egregious examples came in Season 3, which had been building up to Nate's (Nick Mohammed) breaking free of Rupert (Anthony Head) and West Ham. When his big exit finally came, Ted Lasso didn't show an ounce of it. Instead, in one of the show's most baffling moves, we learned about Nate's departure from a news report.

Ted Lasso keeps up that worrying trend of failing to dramatize key moments in Season 4, especially when it comes to Zelda's (Tracey Ullman) nefarious plan to gain a controlling stake in Richmond. In the finale, she appears to do just that, and she gloats about it to Rebecca and Higgins' (Jeremy Swift) faces. After several minutes of over-the-top villainy, Rebecca and Higgins pull a reverse Uno: Zelda thought the Milk sisters had sold her shares to them, but in reality, they'd sold them back to Rebecca. Zelda's friend Hugo (Alex Blake) had informed Higgins and Rebecca of Zelda's dastardly plan.

SEE ALSO: 'Ted Lasso' just sank to a new low

While Ted Lasso does show Higgins taking a call from Hugo, it otherwise does nothing else to hint at Rebecca's growing suspicions or changed opinion of Zelda. When the big reveal finally comes, it lands with a resigned thud. Making matters worse? The fact that Rebecca forgives Zelda. Yes, it's the kind, Ted Lasso thing to do, but it also craters the stakes going into next season. Now, Zelda isn't a big mastermind villain. She's just a too-broad wild card who we know will try to undermine the club for her own gain. There will be no surprises, and apparently, no growth.

Side note: Mae's will plays a big part in the Zelda showdown, as she returns her 2 percent stake in Richmond to Rebecca, therefore giving her full control. But Mae would not have sold in the first place! She did not need to die for Zelda to be thwarted! The disrespect to Mae doesn't end there. She bequeaths the Crown & Anchor pub to fans Baz (Adam Colborne), Jeremy (Bronson Webb), and Paul (Kevin Garry). Sure, in the women's sports-focused season, let's kill off a woman and give her job to three men! What could go wrong?

Make us care about every relationship. Hannah Waddingham in "Ted Lasso." Credit: Apple TV

In its first few seasons, Ted Lasso built several enduring, beautiful friendships, many of which seemed to vanish this season. Ted and Rebecca are the cornerstone friendship of the show, yet aside from the premiere and the finale, they rarely shared a thoughtful conversation. Watching the two finally get a moment to themselves in the finale felt like seeing an old friend after years apart. Where had they been the whole time?

Several other relationships suffered this season. As soon as Roy and Keeley got back together, the show rushed them straight into pregnancy, without letting viewers settle into their first few weeks back together as a couple. Ted's connection with Henry also faded to the background this season, only to come roaring back — and wonderfully so! — in the finale.

SEE ALSO: 'Ted Lasso' finally starts to do right by the Lady Greyhounds

But the worst offender here is the romance between Rebecca and Dutch pilot Matthijs (Matteo van der Grijn). In its first episodes, Season 4 offered the pair nothing but conflict. Between their differing schedules and a fight about Matthijs possibly moving to London, the pair did not seem destined to be together much longer. Yet Ted Lasso hand-waved their New Year's reconciliation and seemingly forgot about them until the finale, when Rebecca proposes marriage, and Matthijs agrees. First off, Rebecca's sudden desire for marriage jumps out of nowhere, like a flying soccer ball to the face. Second off, Ted Lasso has simply not put in the work to make us care about this engagement. I have nothing against Matthijs: I like his bluntness and his willingness to call out Coach Beard's (Brendan Hunt) strange midlife crisis in the finale. But I don't know if I like him and Rebecca together, because Ted Lasso doesn't showcase them enough. All the best wishes to the engaged couple. I just wish I knew them better.

The lack of care put into these relationships is a symptom of Season 4's biggest problem, which is the show spreading itself too thin. In combining much of its original cast with a full new team, Ted Lasso created a massive web of connections that it simply couldn't sustain. (Not without feature-length episodes, and let's not give them any ideas there.)

Keep the focus on the Lady Greyhounds. Abbie Hern, Brendan Hunt, Jason Sudeikis, Tanya Reynolds, and Jude Mack in "Ted Lasso." Credit: Apple TV

This is a lesson that Ted Lasso has steadily been learning towards the end of the season, but as the show heads into a potential Season 5, it bears repeating — especially since the Season 4 finale features cameos from the men's team, as well as former Richmond team members like Sam (Toheeb Jimoh), Dani (Cristo Fernández), and Coach Nate.

Like Jamie Tartt's (Phil Dunster) cameo earlier in the season, the return of these characters feels like the warmest of bear hugs. It's a joy to watch Isaac (Kola Bokinni) gear up to give Beard one of his patented haircuts, just as it's a joy to watch the Diamond Dogs mount back up — now with Alice joining as "the Cat People."

But these cameos stirred up two main concerns. One, that this was Ted Lasso's way of bringing the men's team back into the fold. If the show was overcrowded before, meshing the teams would be downright catastrophic. Plus, it would undermine the focus on the women's team, which has been starving for more screen time as is.

More pressingly, though, I realized that the Lady Greyhounds have no traditions or culture that match what Ted Lasso built for the Greyhounds in its early episodes. Alice's addition to the Diamond Dogs is delightful, but it's also an amendment to a pre-established dynamic. The same goes for the encouraging Post-it notes appended to the "Believe" sign. They're lovely, but they're just adding to a staple of the men's team. It's going to take more than that to create a distinct team culture.

Thankfully, Ted Lasso's Season 4 finale ends with a clear focus on the women's team heading into the future. Alice takes the reins as manager, and of course, she's got a massive binder full of plans to help the team dominate. Meanwhile, Ted becomes assistant manager — a mirror to his job at the grocery store at the very start of the season — and appears excited to let Alice take things from there. With Alice at the head, the future looks bright for the Lady Greyhounds. The same goes for Ted Lasso, as long as it can learn from its mistakes.

Ted Lasso Season 4 is now streaming on Apple TV. The season finale airs Oct. 7.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Shark vacuum October Prime Day sale: Save $350 on our favorite stick and robot vacuums

Wed, 10/07/2026 - 18:24
Highlights from the Shark vacuum Prime Day sale: best budget pick Shark Pet Cordless Stick Vacuum $149.99 (save $150) Get Deal Best stick vacuum deal Shark PowerDetect Pet Plus $379.99 (save $220) Get Deal Best robot vacuum deal Shark AI Ultra $249.99 (save $349.01) Get Deal Also consider Shark Pet Cordless Stick Vacuum (2026 model) $179.99 (save $120) Get Deal

If a new vacuum is on your shopping list, we've spotted several standout Shark vacuums in the October Prime Day sale. Officially called Prime Big Deal Days, the 48-hour Amazon sale is now in its second and final day. That means you only have until the end of the day to score a sweet discount.

We've covered a lot of deals so far, but the Shark vacuum deals are particularly good. Some of them are also selling out, as the popular Shark Pet stick vac is currently sold out at Amazon (don't worry, we found it in stock somewhere else).

Known for its performance and value, Shark offers high-end features similar to Dyson at a much more affordable price point. And during major shopping events like Amazon's October Prime Day sale, you can often find Shark vacuums at incredible deals. We hand-picked a few we think are worth shouting about this time around, including the best-selling Shark Pet stick vacuum and the popular AI Ultra robot vacuum.

Best Shark vacuum October Prime Day deal Opens in a new window Credit: Shark Shark Pet Cordless Stick Vacuum $149.99 at Shark Ninja
$299.99 Save $150   Get Deal Why we like it

The Shark Pet is a steady Prime Day standout year after year, and October Prime Day 2026 is no different. One of Mashable's former reporters said this stick vacuum is the best he's ever owned, labeling it "life-changing." It's designed to swallow up pet hair, as the name suggests, and it succeeds at its job. It's also lightweight, converts to a hand vacuum when necessary, and is half off. That's a hard deal to beat, so it's no surprise it's already sold out at Amazon. Fortunately, you can still scoop the deal up at the Shark Ninja website.

And if you don't want to stray from Amazon, you can still grab the 2026 Shark Pet vacuum on sale at Amazon for $179.99, which isn't bad either.

Best Shark stick vacuum deal Opens in a new window Credit: Shark Shark PowerDetect Pet Plus $379.99 at Amazon
$599.99 Save $220   Get Deal

The Shark PowerDetect Pet Plus is another option with the Mashable stamp of approval. Shopping reporter Lauren Allain says she owns the older model of this stick vacuum and adores it. Her only complaint is that it might be too powerful. As the name suggests, it automatically boosts power when dirt and debris are detected. So if major suction power is what you're after, look no further. The PowerDetect Pet Plus will cost you a bit more than the basic Shark Pet, but it's still a helluva deal at $379.99 (its lowest price on record).

Best Shark robot vacuum deal Opens in a new window Credit: Shark Shark AI Ultra robot vacuum $249.99
$599 Save $349.01   Get Deal Why we like it

According to Amazon price-tracker CamelCamelCamel, the Shark AI Ultra robot vacuum has only dropped to $249.99 once before. So this 58% discount is pretty dang good. If you'd rather your vacuuming be hands-off, the AI Ultra offers powerful suction and Matrix Clean Navigation to get the job done. The bagless base can hold up to 60 days of dirt and debris, so you'll only have to do the dirty work every couple of months. This vacuum comes personally recommended by one of our contributors, and it has Shark's excellent Matrix spot cleaning feature.

More Shark vacuum October Prime Day deals worth checking out

Time is running out for Prime members to shop Amazon’s Prime Big Deal Days sale. Sign up for a Prime 30-day free trial if you want to save some cash, and follow Mashable’s guide to the best October Prime Day deals and live blog for the latest updates.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Apple reportedly teaming with LG for smart home devices, including a doorbell

Wed, 10/07/2026 - 18:19

It appears Apple is looking to make a push to be on your front door.

The tech giant is reportedly working with LG on a lineup of smart home devices, including a smart lock, a thermostat, and a video doorbell, according to Bloomberg. The companies are also reportedly developing security cameras and a floodlight. Both companies are reportedly developing the devices, but they will carry LG's name rather than Apple's.

Bloomberg reports that they're designed to work with Apple's upcoming smart home hub and could be announced next week, though they may not go on sale right away.

SEE ALSO: I tried the best smart rings of 2026 — the Oura Ring 5 is the best you can buy

If the report holds up, the lineup would put Apple and LG in direct competition with Amazon, whose smart home business includes Ring doorbells and security cameras.

The LG devices would connect to a smart display Apple is expected to unveil on Oct. 13. As Mashable previously reported, Bloomberg's Mark Gurman says the display will act as a smart home hub and showcase Apple's new AI-powered Siri. Gurman reported that it will be able to recognize individual household members and tailor answers to each person. According to TechCrunch, the hub is expected to have a 6-inch square screen that can sit on a counter or be mounted on a wall.

Apple hasn't announced an official name. The Apple Post has called the device the "HomePad," while Gurman has used Apple's internal code name, J490.

The display is expected to be one of several products in what could be Apple's first big launch since John Ternus became CEO. Gurman reported that Apple is also preparing a new HomePod Mini and a new Apple TV streaming device.

Apple hasn't updated the HomePod line since the second-generation HomePod in January 2023, and the last Apple TV hardware came out in 2022.

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

Categories: IT General, Technology

Amazon has dropped mega deals on robot lawn mowers for Prime Day: Shop Dreame, Mammotion, and more

Wed, 10/07/2026 - 18:15
The best October Prime Day deals on robot lawn mowers: Best Roborock Deal Roborock RockNeo Q110H Robot Lawn Mower $679.99 (Save $120) Get Deal Best Mammotion Deal Mammotion LUBA 3 AWD 3000 $2,109.00 (save $690) Get Deal Best Segway Deal Segway Navimow i206 AWD $849.00 (save $150) Get Deal Best Dreame Deal Dreame LiDAR A3 AWD Pro $1,709.99 ($990) Get Deal Best Ecovacs deal Ecovacs Goat O1000 RTK $630.80 (save $369.19) Get Deal

Amazon's next Prime Day event, Prime Big Deal Days, is in its final day. As expected, Amazon is stacked with deals, but we're running out of time to shop. If you're in the mood for a major home improvement upgrade, you might want to check out the deals on robot lawn mowers.

Robot lawn mower deals are some of the standout savings right now, which is very helpful if you're looking for a little extra assistance around the yard before chilly winter weather arrives.

Top manufacturer brands Roborock and Mammotion are both included, with a few popular models getting huge discounts. Check out some of our favorite October Prime Day robot lawn mower deals below. Even if you don't need it for the rest of autumn, this is a great opportunity to get ahead of the game on next year's yard work.

Best Dreame deal Opens in a new window Credit: Dreame DREAME LiDAR A3 AWD Pro $1,709.99 at Amazon
$2,699.99 Save $990.00 get a free Dreame LiDAR Robot Lawn Mower 4-Piece Ultimate Care Kit Get Deal Why we like it

This Dreame robot lawn mower has received a decent discount for October Prime Day, though you'll need to clip a coupon to snag it. Once you do that, its price drops from $2,699.99 to $1,709.99. That's $9900 in savings.

As for what this mower can accomplish, it can handle yards up to 0.87 acres, slopes up to 38.7 degrees, and features dual cutting discs for trimming down your yard. It also comes with EdgeMaster 2.0 technology that can reach the borders of your yard and even map them. Thanks to 360-degree 3D LiDAR and AI binocular vision, this robot mower can navigate around obstacles in its path to ensure the entire lawn gets a full trim.

Plus, Dreame is offering a free accessories bundle with purchase. Add the Dreame LiDAR Robot Lawn Mower 4-Piece Ultimate Care Kit to your order and you'll get a free garage, replacement blade kit, cleaning set, and decal sticker. The bundle usually sells for about $275.

More Dreame dealsBest Roborock deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Roborock RockNeo Q110H Robot Lawn Mower $679.99 at Amazon
$799.99 Save $120   Get Deal Why we like it

The RockNeo Q110H can mow up to a quarter acre a day, and you don't have to bury a boundary wire for it. You can set its cutting height anywhere from 1.6 to 3.1 inches. Plus, it has a floating deck that follows the dips and bumps in the ground so the cut level stays even. Its dual cameras spot patio furniture and toys so it can steer around them, and it turns away from people and pets while rolling right over low objects it can safely cross without disturbing people or items.

More Roborock dealsBest Mammotion deal Opens in a new window Credit: Mammotion Mammotion LUBA 3 AWD 3000 $2,109 at Amazon
$2,799 Save $690   Get Deal Why we like it

The Mammotion LUBA 3 AWD 3000 is normally listed for $2,799, but shoppers can scoop it up for $2,109 right now on Amazon, saving you a whopping $690.

This model comes with two 165W motors and six-blade discs to power through your lawn. Paired with AI vision, it can automatically adjust speed and power based on grass density, ensuring an even trim all around your yard. Plus, it can handle slopes up to 38.6 degrees. Like the mowers above, it can also map your yard using a combination of 360° LiDAR for navigation, NetRTK for corrections, and Dual-Camera AI Vision to help it avoid objects in its path.

More Mammotion dealsBest Segway deal Opens in a new window Credit: Segway Segway Navimow i206 AWD $849 at Amazon
$999 Save $150   Get Deal Why we like it

Able to handle up to 0.15 acres and slopes up to 45 degrees, the Segway Navimow i206 features a cutting width of 7.1 inches and a cutting height between 2 and 3.6 inches. It also comes with mapping technology and VisionFence, which help it avoid objects left in the yard while it's cutting. It takes about an hour to recharge and can run for about an hour. Once fully charged, it can cover about 1,350 square feet of lawn.

Best Ecovacs deal Opens in a new window Credit: Ecovacs Ecovacs Goat O1000 LiDAR Pro Robot Lawn Mower $949.05 at Amazon
$1,499.99 Save $550.94   Get Deal Why we like it

A robot lawn mower is excellent for taking a chore off your to-do list, but some models come with a slight issue: they don't do a terrific job at getting the edges perfect. The Ecovacs Goat 01000 Pro takes on this challenge by incorporating smart edge mowing. The built-in edge trimmer is capable of true edge-to-edge trimming, like you'd get with your normal push mower.

More Ecovacs dealsMore robot lawn mower deals
Categories: IT General, Technology

Dont miss these Prime Day fitness tracker deals: Save up to $170 on Fitbit, Garmin, Apple, and more

Wed, 10/07/2026 - 17:18
The best Prime Day deals on fitness trackers: Best Android smartwatch deal Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 (40mm) $219.99 (Save $80) Get Deal Best Apple Watch deal Apple Watch Series 12 (GPS, 42mm) $349.99 (save $50) Get Deal Best budget Fitbit deal Fitbit Inspire 3 $69.95 (save $30) Get Deal Best mid-range fitness tracker deal Fitbit Charge 6 $89.95 (save $70) Get Deal Best budget fitness tracker deal CMF Nothing Watch 3 Pro $59 (save $20) Get Deal best Garmin deal Garmin Venu 3 $279.99 (save $170) Get Deal

If a new fitness tracker or smartwatch is on your wishlist, October Prime Day is a good time to shop. Amazon has discounted popular models from Fitbit, Garmin, Apple, and other big-name brands for its 48-hour event running Oct. 6 and 7. We're well into Day 2 of the official Prime Big Deal Days sale, so if you see a deal you like, be sure to grab it before time runs out.

SEE ALSO: Sony headphones are hitting record lows on October Prime Day: Shop XM6, XM5, and budget headphones

We've cross-referenced Amazon's live deals with Mashable's official guide to the best fitness trackers. Below, you'll find the best Prime Day deals on the wearables our team has personally tested and reviewed, plus a few other notable price drops worth your attention.

Best Fitbit deal Opens in a new window Credit: Fitbit Fitbit Charge 6 $89.95 at Amazon
$159.95 Save $70.00   Get Deal Why we like it

The Fitbit Charge 6 is Mashable's favorite mid-range fitness tracker. It hits the sweet spot for budget buyers who don't want to sacrifice essential features. You get a built-in GPS that frees you from your smartphone, an intuitive AMOLED display, and 40 different exercise modes. If you're an intermediate user looking for a reliable wearable that covers all your bases at a great price, this is your answer.

Best budget Fitbit deal Opens in a new window Credit: Fitbit Fitbit Inspire 3 $69.95 at Amazon
$99.95 Save $30   Get Deal Why we like it

Read our full review of the Fitbit Inspire 3.

If you don't want a small smartphone strapped to your wrist at all times, the Fitbit Inspire 3 is Mashable's top budget pick. It's a simple, low-profile tracker that offers comprehensive health and fitness metrics (including sleep data) without the bulky interface. At well under $100, it provides everything you need and nothing you don't.

Best Android smartwatch deal Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 (40mm) $208.99 at Amazon
$299.99 Save $91   Get Deal at Amazon Why we like it

Read our full review of the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8.

For Android users, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 is down to $219.99 (originally $299.99), coming within $1.50 of its all-time record low of $218.49. Earning a 4.6-star rating and a Mashable Choice Award, it features a thinner "squircle" design that lies flatter on the wrist, tight Google Gemini AI integration, and deep biometrics through Samsung Health (including personalized sleep coaching and daily Energy Scores).

Best Apple Watch deal Apple Watch Series 12 (GPS, 42mm) $349.99 at Amazon
$399 Save $49.01   See It at Amazon See It at Best Buy See It at Walmart Why we like it

Read our full review of the Apple Watch Series 11.

While the last-gen Series 11 isn't seeing discounts on Amazon right now, Apple's flagship Apple Watch Series 12 (GPS, 42mm) is down to $349.99 from $399.00. That $49.01 markdown brings Apple's latest hardware down to a more accessible price point for Prime Big Deal Days. It delivers even faster processing, a display that's twice as scratch-resistant, deeper Apple Intelligence integration via Workout Buddy, and advanced health monitoring like Daily Readiness scores and more frequent heart rate variability (HRV) readings.

Best Garmin deal Opens in a new window Credit: Garmin Garmin Venu 3 $279.99 at Amazon
$449.99 Save $170   Get Deal Why we like it

Garmin watches are some of the best in the biz, but they rarely see steep discounts. So I was surprised to see the Venu 3 and 3S (the smaller option) down to a new record-low of $279.99 for October Prime Day. Garmin's Venu smartwatch is a great all-rounder, with health metrics and fitness tools (over 30 preloaded sports apps) out the wazoo. It gives you in-depth recovery advice for training, detailed sleep data, a built-in speaker and microphone for hands-free calls and virtual assistant access, and battery life that puts most watches to shame (up to two weeks in smartwatch mode). It's also incredibly sleek and comes in a couple colorways, each of which are on sale.

Best budget fitness tracker deal Opens in a new window Credit: Nothing CMF Nothing Watch 3 Pro $59
$79 Save $20   Get Deal Why we like it

Read our full review of the CMF Watch 3 Pro.

If you'd like a capable fitness tracker, but you're not in the mood to spend much, I have good news: October Prime Day has the CMF Nothing Watch 3 Pro on sale for only $59. In testing this model last year, it quickly became one of my favorites, and left me shocked at how CMF priced this so low, given its features. It does have a larger face that measures about 1.5 inches, so keep that in mind if you prefer a more petite fitness tracker.

More smartwatch deals


Time is running out for Prime members to shop Amazon’s Prime Big Deal Days sale. Sign up for a Prime 30-day free trial if you want to save some cash, and follow Mashable’s guide to the best October Prime Day deals and live blog for the latest updates.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The best October Prime Day deals on iPads, according to Mashables team of tech experts

Wed, 10/07/2026 - 17:05
The best October Prime Day iPad deals at a glance: Best budget iPad deal Apple iPad (A16, WiFi, 128GB) $399 (save $50) Get Deal Best iPad mini deal Apple iPad mini (A17 Pro, WiFi, 128GB) $499 (save $100) Get Deal Best iPad Air deal Apple iPad Air, 11-inch (M4, WiFi, 128GB) $649 (save $100) Get Deal Best iPad Pro deal Apple iPad Pro, 13-inch (M4, WiFi, 512GB) $1,299 (save $200) Get Deal

Fall has just begun, but the holiday shopping season is already heating up. No longer do things kick off on Black Friday: Amazon's annual Prime Big Deal Days sale is the start of year-end deals.

This "October Prime Day" event is live through midnight PT tonight, and we're tracking all the best iPad deals right here. Apple's tablets were hit by price hikes this summer amid the ongoing memory crisis, so Amazon's discounts on them are a welcome sight — even if they're not some of the biggest we've ever seen.

Save $50 on the regular iPad

The standard iPad with the A16 chip is our favorite Apple tablet for budget shoppers. "Even though its tech is basic compared to the advanced iPad Air and Pro," writes Mashable's Samantha Mangino, "it's great for someone who wants a portable screen for streaming, playing games, and reading." It's rated for up to six hours of battery life.

The base iPad with 128GB of storage is now $50 off with or without cellular connectivity. That brings it down to $399, its lowest price since Amazon bumped its MSRP to $449 earlier in June. Its lowest price ever was about $271, according to data on the Amazon price-tracking site camelcamelcamel.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPad (A16, WiFi, 128GB) $399 at Amazon
$449 Save $50   Get Deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPad (A16, WiFi + cellular, 128GB) $549 at Amazon
$599 Save $50   Get Deal Take $100 off the mega-portable iPad mini

If you wish e-readers were more powerful, more versatile, and equipped with way more storage, get Apple's smallest iPad instead. The iPad mini's compact size and anti-reflective display make it our favorite tablet for reading. Right now, you can grab it for $100 off (starting at just $499). Just know that we saw it hit $349 last Black Friday.

Read Mashable's full review of the Apple iPad mini.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPad Mini (A17 Pro, WiFi, 128GB) $499 at Amazon
$599 Save $100   Get Deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPad mini (A17 Pro, WiFi + cellular, 128GB) $649 at Amazon
$749 Save $100   Get Deal Apple's latest M4 iPad Air is now $100 off

Mashable’s Timothy Beck Werth called the M4 iPad Air "a tablet that thinks it's an AI laptop" — it's a great pick for students, artists, and creators. It has the same super-light aluminum body and bright Liquid Retina screen as last year's model, but it's much faster. That M4 chip makes AI tools like fast voice-note transcription and photo editing happen almost instantly. It's our favorite iPad for most people.

Both sizes of the M4 iPad Air are now $100 off, with the smaller 11-inch model starting at $649. (For comparison's sake, its all-time low price is about $519.) You'll pay an extra $150 for cellular connectivity.

Read Mashable's full review of the Apple iPad Air (M4).

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPad Air, 11-inch (M4, WiFi, 128GB) $649 at Amazon
$749 Save $100   Get Deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPad Air, 13-inch (M4, WiFi, 128GB) $849 at Amazon
$949 Save $100   Get Deal Save up to $200 on the powerful iPad Pro

Select configurations of the latest M5 iPad Pro are up to $150 off during Prime Big Deal Days, but you can save even more on two configurations of last year's M4 model. (One has Apple's premium nano-texture display finish.) It has the exact same design, cameras, and smooth, bright OLED touchscreen as its M5 successor. It's not quite as powerful, but it's still one of the fastest tablets you can buy. It actually outperforms a lot of laptops on the market. Our former tech editor recommended it for any professional artist who "needs a sleek, on-the-go device that can handle taxing workloads ... while they're traveling from A to B."

These M4 iPad Pros have both been up to $100 cheaper before, but we think they'll sell out before Amazon gives them any further price cuts. They're up to $376 less expensive than their M5 counterparts.

Read Mashable's full review of the Apple iPad Pro (M4).

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPad Pro, 13-inch (M4, WiFi, 512GB) $1,299 at Amazon
$1,499 Save $200   Get Deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPad Pro, 11-inch (M4, WiFi, 2TB, nano-texture glass) $1,899 at Amazon
$2,099 Save $200   Get Deal More iPad Pro deals

Time is running out for Prime members to shop Amazon’s Prime Big Deal Days sale. Sign up for a Prime 30-day free trial if you want to save some cash, and follow Mashable’s guide to the best October Prime Day deals and live blog for the latest updates.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Nvidia RTX Spark laptop prices seemingly revealed by HP leak

Wed, 10/07/2026 - 17:00

Microsoft is all set to announce a Surface laptop powered by the powerful new Nvidia RTX Spark chip on Wednesday afternoon, but HP may have jumped the gun by revealing the price of its own RTX Spark laptops ahead of time.

According to NotebookCheck, HP posted product listings on its online storefront ahead of the Microsoft event, which is set to start at 1 p.m. ET. These laptops use the RTX Spark chip, making them extra beefy for power users. Per HP's store listings (which have since been removed), the OmniBook X 14 starts at $2,999, and the Omnibook Ultra 16 starts at $3,199.

SEE ALSO: Microsoft is ending support for Internet Explorer mode in Edge

Those are obviously huge price tags, but they make a tiny bit more sense when you see that the machines include the RTX Spark chip, 32GB of RAM, and 1TB of SSD storage.

Still, NotebookCheck noted that the Ultra 16 can go as high as $4,999 with the most powerful variant. That's an astronomical price for a laptop, no matter how powerful it is. We'll see if the Microsoft Surface laptop with the RTX Spark chip, likely to be announced on Wednesday afternoon, is even close to these in price.

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

Categories: IT General, Technology

Keep the fridge running and your devices powered with $649 off Ankers Solix C2000 this October Prime Day

Wed, 10/07/2026 - 17:00

SAVE $649: As of Oct. 7, the Anker Solix C2000 Gen 2 Portable Power Station (2,048Wh) is down to $849.99 at Amazon for Prime Big Deal Days — a 43% discount off its normal $1,499 list price.

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

Prime Big Deal Days wraps up at midnight tonight, making this your final window to grab Anker's heavy-duty backup battery before prices jump back up. Dropping $649 off its usual $1,499 price tag down to $849.99, the Anker Solix C2000 Gen 2 gives you solid energy security for home blackouts, tailgating, or camping trips.

The main draw here is the sheer amount of juice it holds: a 2,048Wh capacity paired with 2,400W of continuous power output (and a huge 4,000W peak surge). That means it can power heavy-duty appliances like a full-sized dual-door fridge, a microwave, or a window A/C unit without tripping. It’s so efficient that it can keep a full-sized fridge cold for up to 32 straight hours on a single charge.

SEE ALSO: The best live Prime Day outdoor deals: Anker power stations, Yeti coolers, and LifeStraws are among our top picks

Recharging is stupidly fast, too. Wall-charging gets it from empty to 100% in just 58 minutes. If you're on the road, you can use an 800W car alternator charger to top it off in 3 hours — eight times faster than a standard cigarette lighter socket — or hook it up to solar panels when you're off the grid.

Even with all that muscle, Anker managed to keep this setup surprisingly compact. At 41.7 pounds, it's about 25% lighter and 29% smaller than most other power stations with this much juice, making it easy enough to throw in the trunk. Plus, the internal LiFePO4 battery cells are rated for over 3,000 charge cycles, so you'll easily get 10 years of use out of it before the battery health even starts to drop.

Grab the Anker Solix C2000 Gen 2 Portable Power Station at Amazon for $849.99 before Prime Big Deal Days ends at midnight tonight.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Mars weird 1,100-mile cloud runs on physics no one has ever seen before

Wed, 10/07/2026 - 17:00

Astronomers may have uncovered a wild reason for how one Martian cloud grows hundreds of miles longer than California, possibly making it the largest of its kind in the solar system. 

Astrophysicist Jorge Hernández Bernal first spotted the cloud in an otherwise clear sky in 2018. Images by the European Space Agency's Mars Express Visual Monitoring Camera, aka the Mars webcam, captured the strange phenomenon as the Red Planet's southern hemisphere experienced spring. 

When he looked through archival Mars images, he found the cloud as far back as NASA's Viking 2 mission in the 1970s. But it largely escaped notice because of its ephemeral nature: It forms daily at sunrise around the summit of Arsia Mons, a mountain that soars 11 miles high, and vanishes within three hours. Many space cameras snapping photos of that region can't take pictures until the afternoon, due to orbits timed to the sun. 

For years, Bernal and colleagues have continued investigating what makes this extraterrestrial wonder — and, no, it's not steam spewing from the volcano. Arsia Mons has not been active for ages. Instead, the answer may be physics that was only theoretical until now. Scientists have never seen this happen in any planet's atmosphere before.

The team's shocking findings, published in Nature Geoscience, are a reminder to scientists that they should never rule out obscure or unfamiliar processes when studying other worlds. 

SEE ALSO: A dying star may have birthed a planet right before it croaked

The key to the cloud could be something called "homogeneous nucleation," according to the new paper, a process wherein water vapor seems to freeze straight into ice particles in the air. 

On Earth, clouds tend to form when water vapor cools and clings to airborne particles, like salt, pollen, or dust. Originally, researchers believed Mars' copious dust was the catalyst. But when they used computer models to try to simulate the cloud, dubbed the Arsia Mons Elongated Cloud, or AMEC, they could never reproduce its long tail. 

Something was missing from their cloud recipe, which urged Bernal, now at Sorbonne Université in Paris, to continue looking for missing steps or ingredients. 

"The actual answer seems obvious now, but at first we were quite skeptical of ourselves," Bernal told Mashable. "The point is that homogeneous nucleation is another pathway to form cloud particles without requiring dust, and that happens precisely when humidity is very high."

Researchers liken this unusual phenomenon to droplets of condensation appearing in the middle of a room, rather than on a window. For this cloud process to work, the air has to be extremely moist — over 100,000 times more humid than anything we experience on Earth.

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The 1,100-mile cloud appears at sunrise daily in the spring and summer for the southern Mars hemisphere. Credit: ESA

So how does a dry, dusty planet get that soggy? Blame the volcano. As wind rushes past Arsia Mons, the mountainside kicks up a powerful gravity wave in the atmosphere. That wave shoves moist air several miles higher in just a few minutes. Up there, the air chills fast, dropping about 54 degrees Fahrenheit in only 10 minutes. Cold air can't hold much water vapor, so the humidity shoots up until the vapor freezes on the spot.

Mars may be famous for its dust, but the researchers found that altitude makes all the difference. The cloud forms about 28 miles above the ground, where far less dust floats around.

With homogeneous nucleation added to the cloud recipe, the team's computer model finally produced the long tail. 

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"It feels good to find a long-sought explanation like this, especially when the explanation turns out to be something really special that has not been observed in nature before," Bernal said.

Confirming the result will require new observations that won't be easy to get. But the researchers hope the paper will spark broader scientific interest in dust-free cloud formation, not just in the upper atmosphere of Mars, but Venus and even Earth. 

Bernal, who has devoted his whole career to studying this exotic cloud, worries that humans could one day destroy it, as they have other wondrous features on our home planet. He's an advocate for studying space and other worlds from afar.

"It is an eye-catching, aesthetically sublime cloud," he said. "If anyone tried to terraform Mars, any change in its current climate could easily make the AMEC disappear." 

Categories: IT General, Technology

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