Mashable

More than 1,000 Meta employees — the ones who brought you the metaverse — are now looking for work.

The company behind Facebook and Instagram laid off more than 1,000 employees from its Virtual Reality (VR)-focused division, Reality Labs. As first reported by Bloomberg, this means the closure of VR game development studios like Sanzaru, Twisted Pixel, and Armature.

The news was delivered via an internal memo from Andrew Bosworth, Meta's CEO. Bosworth said Meta will refocus its metaverse efforts on other products in the future, such as wearables. That means you can expect more products like the Ray-Ban Display smart glasses, with AI and Augmented Reality (AR) — and fewer like the VR Meta Quest 3.

SEE ALSO: Meta delays Ray-Ban smart glasses international rollout, citing high demand

Meta founder Mark Zuckerberg unveiled the metaverse way back in the pandemic year of 2021. His big bet was that we would all use VR headsets to hang out and do work meetings remotely in virtual spaces. The perceived need for this was so strong, Zuckerberg made the company itself change its name from Facebook to Meta.

Since then, Meta's Quest headsets have found some success as recreational devices. But the metaverse itself, as an all-encompassing everyday destination, never really materialized. Reality Labs lost more than $70 billion since 2021, according to Engadget.

The end result is that more than 1,000 people have to figure out what's next, while the executives who made the decision to chase the metaverse in the first place will remain at their posts.

Is Reddit down?

The website is operating normally as of this writing, but thousands of Reddit users were asking this question on Tuesday, Jan. 13, when the popular online discussion platform appeared to suffer a brief outage. According to Downdetector, the problems started around 11:33 a.m. ET, with tens of thousands of Downdetector users reporting problems accessing the Reddit website and app. (Disclosure: Mashable and Downdetector are both owned by Ziff Davis.)

Reddit's status had returned to normal at Downdetector by 12:18 p.m. ET. Credit: Downdetector This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed.

At the peak of the outage, Downdetector received 89,943 user error reports.

"Reddit is currently experiencing a significant internal outage causing widespread service disruptions," reads a Downdetector summary (emphasis in original). "The impact is categorized as Very High, primarily affecting mobile app access (55%) and website connectivity (39%)."

Again, as of this writing, Reddit's website and app appear to be fully operational.

Mashable reached out to Reddit for more information, and we'll update this story if we receive a response.

This is a developing story...

TL;DR: Live stream Newcastle United vs. Manchester City in the EFL Cup for free on ITVX. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

There are a lot of trophies up for grabs in the domestic football season. The EFL Cup doesn't have the same history or prestige as the FA Cup or Premier League, but at this late stage, you can expect all the remaining teams to give everything to win it. Newcastle United take on Manchester City in the first semi final matchup. You can watch the first leg of this contest without spending anything.

If you want to watch Newcastle United vs. Manchester City in the EFL Cup from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Newcastle United vs. Manchester City?

Newcastle United vs. Manchester City in the EFL Cup kicks off at 8 p.m. GMT on Jan. 13. This fixture takes place at St. James' Park.

How to watch Newcastle United vs. Manchester City for free

Newcastle United vs. Manchester City in the EFL Cup is available to live stream for free on ITVX.

ITVX is geo-restricted to the UK, but anyone can access this free streaming platform with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the UK, meaning you can unblock ITVX to stream the Champions League for free from anywhere in the world.

Live stream Newcastle United vs. Manchester City in the EFL Cup for free by following these simple steps:

1. Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

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

4. Visit ITVX

5. Watch Newcastle United vs. Manchester City for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but most do offer free-trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can access free live streams of the EFL Cup without actually spending anything. This obviously isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to stream Newcastle United vs. Manchester City in the EFL Cup before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for ITVX?

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

• Servers in 105 countries including the UK

• Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

• Fast connection speeds free from throttling

• Up to 10 simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.95 (with money-back guarantee).

Live stream Newcastle United vs. Manchester City in the EFL Cup for free with ExpressVPN.

Apple announced a new bundle of tools it's dubbed the Creator Studio, with the aim of allowing creators to purchase all their needs for a single $13-per-month subscription.

The bundle does include access to a number of useful apps, most notably Final Cut Pro, which is Apple's popular video-editing software. The Creator Studio package also includes Logic Pro, Pixelmator Pro, Motion, Compressor, MainStage, and the Freeform app. Users could also opt to buy a year's subscription for $129 ($27 in savings), while students and educators can get a discounted subscription for $3 per month or $30 per year.

"Apple Creator Studio is a great value that enables creators of all types to pursue their craft and grow their skills by providing easy access to the most powerful and intuitive tools for video editing, music making, creative imaging, and visual productivity — all leveled up with advanced intelligent tools to augment and accelerate workflows," Eddy Cue, Apple’s senior vice president of internet software and services, said in a statement.

Apple's Creator Studio will launch on Wednesday, Jan. 28. All users will be eligible for a one-month free trial.

SAVE UP TO $120: Le Creuset's Winter Savings Event features discounts up to 45% on their famous enameled cast iron dishes, including the Signature Oval Casserole and Traditional Heart Cocette. Through Feb. 12, you'll get a free set of four heart-shaped mini bowls with purchases of $250.

Opens in a new window Credit: Le Creuset Le Creuset Winter Savings Event Save up to 45%, plus get a free gift on $250 purchases with code LOVEALWAYS Shop Now

Maybe one of your 2026 resolutions was to cook more. Maybe you're cooking more because it's too cold to go out to eat. Either way, it's hard to not be itching to try new recipes when you have a Le Creuset dish waiting for you. Conveniently, a ton of best sellers are on super sale at Le Creuset's winter sale.

Before you scramble in the search bar, yes, the Traditional Heart Cocette is on sale, along with other Valentine's Day-ish kitchenwear. Speaking of which, adding code LOVEALWAYS will get you a free set of four heart-shaped mini bowls when you spend $250. That's not a hard number to scratch at Le Creuset, even if you are saving up to 45% on a premium baking dish.

Get four cute red bowls for free. Credit: Le Creuset You scroll past it every year. It's time to get your own. Credit: Le Creuset

The famous Dutch Oven isn't on sale, but other staple members of the enameled cast iron family are. Some dishes have more color options in stock than others. Our favorite deal has to be the Signature Oval Casserole for $219.99 — not only is its $120.01 discount the most savings dollar-wise, but it has the widest color palette by far. Shop classics like cerise (red) or azure (royal blue) or rarer shades like shallot (very pastel pinkish purple) or sea salt (a grayish turquoise). Here are some of the best Le Creuset deals at a glance:

• Heart Mini Cocette — $19.50 $26 (save $6.50)

• Heart Acacia Wood Serving Board — $33.75 $45 (save $11.25)

• Signature Round Braiser with glass lid — $164.99 $280 (save $115.01 in four colors)

• Traditional Heart Cocette — $172.50 $230 (save $57.50)

• 8-piece Baking Dish Set — $184.80 $308 (save $123.20 in two colors)

• Traditional Shallow Round Oven — $211.40 $302 (save $90.60 in 10 colors)

SHOP NOW: The first of JBL's open earbuds from CES 2026, the JBL Endurance Zone open earbuds, just hit shelves as of Jan. 13. Buy the Endurance Zone buds at JBL.com, Amazon, Best Buy, and Sweetwater.

Where to buy the JBL Endurance Zone open earbuds: JBL JBL Endurance Zone $179.95 Shop Now Amazon JBL Endurance Zone $179.95 Shop Now Best Buy JBL Endurance Zone $179.99 Shop Now Sweetwater JBL Endurance Zone $179.95 Shop Now

Last week, JBL announced five new pairs of open earbuds in every shape, size, and fit at CES 2026. And they aren't the only brand expanding their open earbuds line; Soundcore and Shokz also dropped new editions during CES last week. In other words, open earbuds — earbuds that do not sit in your ear canal — are really having a moment.

While most of the JBL CES earbuds and headphones lineup won't be available until March, the first of their open earbuds just hit shelves. As of Jan. 13, you can officially purchase the JBL Endurance Zone open earbuds.

The Endurance Zone earbuds utilize JBL's OpenSound technology, sensitive 18x11mm dynamic drivers, and an adaptive bass boost algorithm to deliver powerful sound while still keeping you in touch with your surroundings. They feature a secure ear hook design (similar to the brand's popular Peak earbuds) with adaptable memory wire for a secure, flexible fit that hovers your ear canal rather than sits inside of it. Like the rest of the Endurance family, the Endurance Zones are built to power through any weather or workout, with IP68 certification, a rugged design, and 32 hours of battery life.

Choose from black with gray or white with orange details. Credit: JBL The charging case holds an extra 24 hours of battery life. Credit: JBL

Here's a full list of specs:

• Ear hook design

• Dual beamforming mics on each bud for four total mics

• Bluetooth 5.3

• IP68 Certified

• Multipoint Connection + Fast Pair enabled by Google

• Battery life up to 32 hours of playtime (eight hours in the earbuds and another 24 hours in the case)

• Speed charge provides three hours in 10 minutes

• Google Finder and Google Audio Switch

• Lanyard hole on the case for convenient carry

• Personalization via the JBL Headphones app

The Endurance Zone open earbuds retail for $179.95 and you can officially purchase them at JBL's own website, Amazon, Best Buy, or Sweetwater. Next up, we'll be keeping an eye out for the release of the Endurance Pace open earbuds — the most affordable earbuds in the latest lineup.

Opens in a new window Credit: JBL JBL Endurance Zone open earbuds $179.95 at Amazon
  Shop Now

SAVE $37: As of Jan. 13, get the Renpho Smart Scale for $132.99, down from its usual price of $169.99. That's a discount of 22% and the lowest price we've seen.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Renpho Smart Scale $132.99 at Amazon
$169.99 Save $37   Shop Now

If you're still working on keeping your 2026 resolutions, staying on track with your fitness journey is important. A smart scale is a super simple way to keep an eye on all your metrics, too. Now's the time to snag one, especially with this excellent model that's heavily discounted now.

As of Jan. 13, get the Renpho Smart Scale for $132.99, down from its usual price of $169.99. That's $37 off and a discount of 22%. It's also the lowest price we've seen.

SEE ALSO: This $20 smart scale is the easiest way to track your 2026 health wins

This full-featured smart scale has just about everything you need to keep track of your body measurements and much more. It has an eight-electrode dual-frequency technology as well as segmental BIA upgrades to give you the most accurate body composition work possible. That includes info about your BMI, body fat percentage, skeletal muscle percentage, visceral fat index, and a seven-day weight trend.

Multiple user profiles can be set up to work with the smart scale, and it syncs with your favorite health app. It can quickly generate a report for you to have all of your health data handy and in one place to keep track of everything. If you're ready to take charge and learn more about your body, this scale is an excellent (and now even more affordable) place to get started.

SAVE $40: The JBL Endurance 2 earbuds are on sale at Amazon for $49.95, down from the list price of $89.95. That's a 44% discount and a record-low price at Amazon.

Opens in a new window Credit: JBL JBL Endurance 2 earbuds $49.94 at Amazon
$89.95 Save $40.01   Get Deal

So your New Year resolution was to get more active, but so far, it's not going to plan. There's still plenty of time to make those resolutions come to life. We still have about 50 weeks left in 2026, after all. If you think some great workout tunes would help your motivation, there's a slick deal available at Amazon today on some workout-worthy earbuds.

As of Jan. 13, the JBL Endurance 2 earbuds are on sale at Amazon for $49.95, down from the list price of $89.95. That's a 44% discount and a record-low price at Amazon.

Workout earbuds need to meet several requirements. While we're usually focused on sound-first with headphones and earbuds, those we're wearing to workout need to be extra comfortable and even more secure. No one should be dealing with an earbud that pops out during a track workout. The JBL Endurance 2 earbuds are all about staying in place with movement. Plus, they come with extra benefits.

Of course, the JBL Endurance 2 earbuds are waterproof. They'll be able to survive a winter run in the rain or a sweaty summer workout. And since they're safe to get wet, you'll be able to rinse the sweat off once you get home.

SEE ALSO: CES 2026: JBL's new open earbuds lineup gives listeners 5 unique options

But the JBL Endurance 2 earbuds also shine in other aspects, like battery life. Expect to get about 48 hours of playtime with the include charging case. Just 10 minutes of charging will earn you another four hours playtime with ANC off.

I've been wearing these earbuds for my daily Hydrow workouts since the beginning of this year, and I managed to row a marathon distance in six workouts. I give major credit to the JBL earbuds for helping me achieve that goal. They're so comfortable that I often reached for them during non-workout listening sessions.

While they're sitting at a record-low price, gift yourself the JBL Endurance 2 earbuds, and you'll be set for workout playlists this year. Plus, Amazon is throwing in 90 days of free access to Amazon music with purchase.

Embark Studios is finally cracking down on cheaters in its hit multiplayer game Arc Raiders. The enforcement effort kicked off Monday, with suspected cheaters receiving an in-game pop-up informing them they’ve been hit with a 30-day ban.

SEE ALSO: 'Animal Crossing: New Horizons' could be killer app for Switch 2 mouse

The move follows weeks of heated discussion across online forums, where players have been vocal about a growing cheating problem. Last week, Embark announced that it would take action against offenders using game-breaking tools, including wallhacks, invisibility exploits, and aimbots. Some players, however, argue that lumping in lesser exploits like abusing map telemetry glitches to access locked areas risks overreach, especially if those infractions lead to permanent bans.

For now, a one-month suspension appears to be the baseline punishment, with the expectation that repeat offenders will face permanent bans. Still, not everyone is satisfied. On Reddit, some players argue the initial penalty doesn’t go far enough.

“1 month only?” one user wrote. “I hope there is longer suspension for various severity of cheating.”

“Suspension? Sure, that’ll teach ’em,” another replied.

Others took a more creative approach. Suggestions in the thread ranged from making cheaters clip endlessly through the floor, to encumbering them with a permanent 10 percent movement-speed debuff. More extreme proposals included covering the map with infinitely respawning enemies or forcing cheaters into a single server that's entirely cut off from the rest of the player base.

Whether Embark tightens the punishment or sticks with progressive bans remains to be seen, but for now, Arc Raiders cheaters are officially on notice.

SAVE $51.70: As of Jan. 13, get the Magic: The Gathering Avatar: The Last Airbender Play Booster Box for $158 at Amazon, down from its usual price of $209.70 at Amazon. That's 25% off and close to its market value.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Magic: The Gathering Avatar: The Last Airbender Play Booster Box $158 at Amazon
$209.70 Save $51.70   Get Deal

There have been a ton of new Magic: The Gathering releases over the past year, and very recently, the card game made a stop over in the world of Avatar: The Last Airbender. If you missed the expansion when if debuted, now's the time to add some of the set to your collection, thanks to this deal.

As of Jan. 13, get the Magic: The Gathering Avatar: The Last Airbender Play Booster Box for $158 at Amazon, down from its usual price of $209.70 at Amazon. That's $25% off and close to its market value.

SEE ALSO: Grow your card cache with 13% off the Pokémon TCG Mega Venusaur ex Premium Collection Box

This set of Play Boosters comes with 30 packs of cards to dive into and rip open. Each booster contains 6-7 Common cards, 3 Uncommons, 1 Wildcard of any rarity, 1 Rare or Mythic Rare, 1 traditional foil card of any rarity, 1 Land, and 1 non-foil double-faced helper or token card.

These boosters contain a wide variety of different cards of varying rarities and are perfect for building a new deck or just trying to fill the gaps in your collection. Since you're paying close to market value for the set, it's an economical way to see what the expansion has to offer, bolster your cards for new decks, and have fun tearing into packs.

Grab your booster box while it's on sale and see what all you get to add to your stash.

SAVE $3: Through Feb. 17, new and returning subscribers can get their first month of the Disney+ and Hulu streaming bundle for just $9.99. That's $3 cheaper than the usual $12.99 per month list price and cheaper than buying one month of either individual service.

Opens in a new window Credit: Hulu / Disney+ Disney+ and Hulu bundle (with ads) $9.99 for your first month (save $3) Get Deal

Streaming deals are few and far between now that the special holiday discounts have all dried up. But I did manage to find one worth your time and money (you're welcome!).

Through Feb. 17, new and eligible returning subscribers can sign up for Disney+ and Hulu (with ads) for just $9.99 for the first month. It typically costs $12.99 per month for the bundle, so you'll save $3 on a month of streaming. Sure, it's not a groundbreaking discount, but a streaming deal is a streaming deal.

At full price, the Disney+ and Hulu streaming bundle is one of the best streaming deals around. By bundling the two services, each $11.99 per month individually, you already save about 46%. With the extra $3 savings on your first month, you end up saving about 58%.

There are a few things to note: This offer is only valid for new and eligible returning Hulu and Disney+ subscribers, which basically means anyone who hasn't been a Hulu or Disney+ subscriber in the past month or so. And, of course, after your first month, the price will automatically jump back to $12.99 per month unless you cancel before then.

Both Hulu and Disney+ have pretty expansive catalogs filled with award-winning original series and a boatload of movies fresh out of the theater. That includes several of Mashable's favorites from the past year, including Dying for Sex, The Life of Chuck, Andor, The Lowdown, and The Ugly Stepsister. Getting unlimited access to both of these libraries for under $10 is definitely a steal, even if you have to watch a few ads along the way.

SAVE $37.39: The Lego Spring Festival Good Fortune set is on sale at Amazon for $52.60, down from the list price of $89.99. That's a 42% discount.

Opens in a new window Credit: Lego Lego Spring Festival Good Fortune set (80117) $52.60 at Amazon
$89.99 Save $37.39   Get Deal

Spring Festival is quickly approaching and if you're looking for a fun way to celebrate, consider a Lego build. Not only are Legos an interactive activity that can be fun for all ages, the finished build makes for a great display as we welcome in a fresh beginning. If this sounds ideal, check out today's Amazon deal.

As of Jan. 13, the Lego Spring Festival Good Fortune set is on sale at Amazon for $52.60, down from the list price of $89.99. That's a 42% discount.

This 1,021-piece Lego build is designed to both celebrate the Spring Festival while also being educational. The objects in the set are symbolic of love, good health, joy, and prosperity, which can help kids learn the traditions of Lunar New Year.

The fan element of the build has a customizable element that lets builders decide from two design options. The calligraphy pen and scroll depict the Chinese text that means "spring," and the three golden ingots are a symbol of abundance.

SEE ALSO: The first-ever Lego Pokémon sets have arrived — where to pre-order Pikachu, Eevee, and more

It's an exciting time for Lego fans since the Danish brand just announced the new Smart Play bricks at CES. These new bricks bring on an interactive aspect to a build by introducing sounds, lights, and behaviors. The first three Lego Smart Play sets are Star Wars themed and already available for preorder.

But before those new sets drop, celebrate the Spring Festival with this Lego Good Fortune build. It's on sale for 42% off at Amazon and it'll make for a bright display that'll be lovely to look at as we enter a new season.

OpenAI is planning to run a Super Bowl ad again this year — reportedly shelling out millions of dollars in an effort to win the budding AI wars.

The Wall Street Journal reported, citing "people familiar with the matter," that the company was set to purchase a 60-second ad during the big game in February. That is surely an expensive decision from OpenAI.

Variety reported that Super Bowl 2026 commercials had sold out before the NFL season even started, with NBCUniversal — this year's broadcaster — seeking $7 million per 30-second ad. Peter Lazarus, executive vice president at NBC Sports & Olympics, said at the time that "Super Bowl LX has generated extraordinary interest from brands and allowed us to sell out of our ad inventory earlier than ever."

So, clearly, OpenAI would have paid a pretty penny to advertise during the big game. This follows the company running an ad in last year's Super Bowl. That ad featured an amorphous blob that eventually formed into people asking ChatGPT questions, while explicitly comparing the advent of AI to the discovery of fire and flying to the moon.

We don't yet know what OpenAI's ad for the 2026 Super Bowl will look like, but we don't have long to wait. The big game will take place on Sunday, Feb. 8.

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.

SAVE UP TO $1,500: As of Jan. 13, multiple sizes of the 2025 Samsung S90F OLED 4K TV are at record-low Black Friday pricing at Amazon. Get the 48-inch for $997.99, the 55-inch for the $1,197.99, or the 77-inch for $1,997.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung 77-inch S90F OLED 4K TV $1,997.99 at Amazon
$2,497.99 Save $500.00   Get Deal

Now that all of the CES TV announcements are said and done, it seems that the beloved Samsung S90F OLED series isn't getting a direct successor in 2026. And that's a sign to scoop it up while it's quietly still at Black Friday pricing at Amazon.

The most convincing intel here is that these S90F TVs are actually more on sale than Amazon is even letting on. For instance, Amazon says the 77-inch S90F was originally $2,497.99 — that TV originally debuted at $3,499.99 when it first hit shelves after CES last year. (Samsung's website still has $3,499.99 as the MSRP, too.) So technically, you're saving $1,500 (not far off from 50%) on the 77-inch S90F.

SEE ALSO: At CES 2026, Samsung’s AI Living vision leaves no device un-AI’d

If $3,499.99 for a 77-inch TV, $1,800 for a 55-inch TV, or $1,500 for a 48-inch TV all sound way too steep for you, there's no reason to wait for the new Samsung OLEDs to come out in the spring. Those numbers, the original prices for the mid-range S90F from last year, are Samsung's idea of "mid-range," so we expect the new S90H mid range OLED to cost a similar amount. And look at it this way: You're getting the massive 77-inch version of one of the internet's favorite OLED TVs for nearly the same price that people paid for the 55-inch version last year.

Even with new OLED models coming out, the Samsung S90F will still be one of the best OLED TVs you can buy on a budget. Most professional reviewers who have tested both agree that the S90F actually gets brighter than the LG C5. Its 144 Hz refresh rate on all four HDMI ports offers pretty phenomenal gaming performance, and its dark scene and shadow handling isn't too far off from its pricier sibling, the S95F.

SAVE $9.44: As of Jan. 13, get the Pokémon TCG Mega Venusaur ex Premium Collection Box for $64.94, down from its usual price of $74.49 at Amazon. That's a discount of 13%.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Pokémon TCG Mega Venusaur ex Premium Collection Box $64.94 at Amazon
$74.49 Save $9.55   Get Deal

Whether you're an avid collector or a newbie to the Pokémon TCG, a great deal on cards is really something to see. If you've been looking for an affordable way to treat yourself to some new additions to your growing cache of cards, we've got a fun deal at Amazon you won't want to miss.

As of Jan. 13, get the Pokémon TCG Mega Venusaur ex Premium Collection Box for $64.94, down from its usual price of $74.49 at Amazon. That's $9.44 off and a discount of 13%.

SEE ALSO: The Pokémon TCG: Collector Chest is finally around market price on Amazon

This collection comes with one special foil promo card, an oversize lenticular promo card, and a tech sticker, all featuring Mega Venusaur. It also comes with 8 regular Pokémon TCG booster packs, which give you some additional cards that don't necessarily revolve around the Bulbasaur evolution.

Each regular booster pack comes with 10 game cads, including 4 commons, 3 uncommons, and 3 foils, with at least one of rare or higher rarity. You also get 1 Energy card and 1 code card to use in Pokémon TCG Live. So this set nets you some fun additions to your stash even if you aren't looking for Mega Venusaur goodies.

This is a great deal and an affordable way to make new decks or just collect more cards. Be sure to grab it while it's still on sale, as Pokémon cards that are discounted always go fast these days.

At CES 2026, I finally got to go hands-on with the Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold. I've been covering the phone for months, and so far it's only received a limited release in Korea, but mobile watchers are hoping it will make its U.S. debut in the coming months. Fingers crossed.

Of course, seeing something on YouTube or reading a specs sheet isn't the same as actually holding the device in your hands.

Or, in my case, almost dropping it (as you can see about 25 seconds into this TikTok video).

One of our go-to Android reporters has already gone in-depth on the phone, and it's definitely got some quirks. However, as Mashable's tech editor, I have to tell you that I can't stop thinking about this phone.

Up close, the TriFold is absolutely gorgeous. It's the closest we've ever gotten to those Westworld-style foldable tablets, and it really does feel like it was plucked right from the screen of a sci-fi drama on Apple TV.

Credit: Timothy Werth / Mashable Credit: Timothy Werth / Mashable

Most of the problems we found are software and UI quirks that could easily be addressed in an over-the-air update. And you can do things on its tablet-sized display that you just can't do on a typical foldable phone. For complex tasks like photo editing, gaming, or word processing, you'll suddenly have a lot more screen real estate.

During a demo, a colleague and I conducted a mini stress test, opening as many apps on the TriFold as possible, and it didn't break a sweat. The phone uses Samsung DeX, which brings a desktop-style display to your Galaxy tablet or smartphone. You can have four separate DeX going at once, and multitasking will definitely be a focus of the UI.

Credit: Timothy Werth / Mashable SEE ALSO: Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold hands-on: I'm excited, but it's got quirks

If you're watching a YouTube video on the 10-inch AMOLED inner display and click on the comments, they open in a side panel on the right-third of the page, which is a neat little trick.

Even simple things like searching for files or using the touchscreen keyboard are easier on the 10-inch display.

Credit: Timothy Werth / Mashable Credit: Timothy Werth / Mashable

I've seen commentators complain about how thick the phone is, and yes, it's on the thick side when it's all folded up. However, when unfolded, it's remarkably thin. We raved about the thinness of the 4.2mm Galaxy Z Fold 7, but Samsung says the TriFold measures just 3.9mm at its thinnest point.

Left: Credit: Timothy Werth / Mashable Right: Credit: Timothy Werth / Mashable This phone is going to be the ultimate flex in 2026

In my experience, foldable phones are still a big conversation starter. Whenever I break out my Motorola Razr Ultra, I get comments and questions. Personally, I strongly prefer these smaller flip-style foldables, but the TriFold could convert me.

For early adopters and mobile nerds, this first-of-its-kind phone will be a major flex — if you can get your hands on it.

Korean publication The Bell recently reported that Samsung is selling the TriFold at a loss, making it more of a proof of concept than a mass-market smartphone. That could explain why it's getting such a limited release, and probably means it will be hard to find, even when it's officially available here in the States.

In addition to being a flex, it's also quite the dunk on Apple.

While the world awaits Apple's first foldable, likely coming in the fall of 2026, Samsung is already showing off a tri-folding phone. And if the leaked renders of the iPhone Fold prove to be accurate, the design of the iPhone Fold is closer to the clunky Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold than the Z Fold 7, widely regarded as the superior handset, both in terms of design and performance.

The bottom line is this: After dancing with robots and trying on over a dozen pairs of smart glasses, the Galaxy Z TriFold is the CES product I'm still thinking about the week after. And this phone wasn't even a CES debut — it's been around.

If you're an early adopter with about $2,500 to spare, I would strongly consider hopping aboard the hype train for this tri-folding phone, despite its quirks. Just try not to drop it.

The AI arms race is driving up component costs for tech devices, and one major memory manufacturer believes it won't end this year.

That manufacturer would be Micron, a major player in the semiconductor space and the only American-based producer of computer memory components. In an interview with Wccftech, a Micron VP of marketing named Christopher Moore delved into the ongoing RAM shortage that has caused companies like Framework to increase device prices and PlayStation to potentially push its next gaming console into the a delayed launch.

SEE ALSO: Memory shortages could push PS6 release beyond 2027

You can read the full interview for all the nitty-gritty technical and business details behind Micron's process if you'd like, but the main thing to know is that existing production lines are all being used for AI data center components because that's where the money is, and it will take at least a year or two for new facilities Micron is building to reach full output. Hopefully, from there, the memory shortage can end and regular customers can start getting components at somewhat reasonable prices again.

"In order to dramatically increase the number of bits we need more clean room space. And that takes a lot of time. So we broke ground in Idaho in our ID1 facility three years ago. And that's gonna come online in mid-2027," Moore said. "But you're not really gonna see real output, meaningful output by the time we get all the qualification done and customers are accepting it and you get the tools, everything up and running until 2028."

So, in other words, this shortage could last in 2028 as far as Micron is concerned. Moore also left open the possibility that the AI demand could fade at some point, but if it doesn't, you might want to wait until a couple of years from now to build that beastly gaming PC you've been yearning for.

SAVE $200: As of Jan. 13, the 15-inch Apple M4 MacBook Air base model (with 16GB RAM and 256GB SSD) is back down to just $999 at Amazon and Best Buy. That's 17% off its list price and just $50 away from its best price ever.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple MacBook Air, 15-inch (M4, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD) $999 at Amazon
$1,199 Save $200   Get Deal

If you're looking to upgrade your laptop without breaking the bank, the M4 MacBook Air is an incredible value at full price. When it debuted in early 2025, we were delighted by its price tag. While everything has been getting more expensive, the base model M4 Air is shockingly $100 cheaper than its predecessor. And as of Jan. 13, you can get it for even cheaper.

The 15-inch Apple MacBook Air with the M4 chip, 16GB RAM and 256GBG of storage usually goes for $1,199, but right now it's back down to just $999 at both Amazon and Best Buy in every color. That's $200 or 17% off its list price of $1,199 and just $50 shy of its lowest price on record.

While we love the 13-inch M4 MacBook Air for students and bargain shoppers, we think the 15-inch model is really Apple's sweet spot for most people. Not only is it our favorite MacBook in the lineup, but it's also one of our favorite laptops from 2025, period. "It's beautiful, long-lasting, unexpectedly peppy, and priced very fairly, making it super easy to recommend for basically anyone wanting a near-perfect ultraportable," Mashable Senior Shopping Reporter Haley Henschel writes.

The M4 Air's power is wildly impressive; it notched a multi-core score of 14,992 in Geekbench 6's CPU test, our primary speed benchmark. That's less than two percent slower than the M4 Pro. Mashable's reviewer called it "almost overkill." The 2025 laptop also includes an upgraded 12MP FaceTime camera and open-lid support for two external displays, so you can still use its own screen when it's hooked up to monitors.

It's hardly the first time the M4 MacBook Air has dropped below $1,000, but we still consider it one of the best deals you can get on an Apple laptop.

SAVE $318.03: The 65-inch Hisense Class U6 Series Mini-LED 4K TV is on sale at Amazon for $529.96, down from the list price of $847.99, That's a 38% discount that comes within $2 of the lowest price we've ever seen at Amazon.

Opens in a new window Credit: Hisense 65-inch Hisense Class U6 Series Mini-LED 4K TV $529.96 at Amazon
$847.99 Save $318.03   Get Deal

Welcome to one of the best times of the year to buy a new TV. Yes, football playoff season directly coincides with great discounts on TVs. And that makes sense because if your favorite team(s) are in the playoffs, you'll want to make sure you have a great viewing experience. If you're looking for a 65-inch TV, there's a great deal in store today.

As of Jan. 13, the 65-inch Hisense Class U6 Series Mini-LED 4K TV is on sale for $529.96 at Amazon, marked down from the standard price of $847.99, That means you're getting a 38% discount and saving $318.03. Today's sale price comes within $2 of the lowest price we've ever seen at Amazon.

Hisense consistently makes some of the best budget TVs that don't skimp out on display quality. The Hisense Class U6 Series QLED 4K TV has vivid colors, contrast, and clarity. You're in line for up to 1,000 nits of peak brightness and up to 600 local dimming zones.

SEE ALSO: The Sony QD-OLED 77-inch Bravia XR A95L TV is down to its best-ever price at Amazon — save over $1,500

Thanks to the 144Hz native refresh rate, this can also be your winter gaming TV. Hisense even equipped this model with Game Mode Pro which offers a smooth and lag-free experience.

Plus, this is a Hisense Fire TV which means it has Alexa built in. You'll be able to use Alexa to set personal profiles, watch live TV, and take advantage of the picture-in-picture with other Alexa-enabled devices. Keep an eye on the nursery camera or check on who just rung the video doorbell thanks to the built-in Fire features on this Hisense.

If you're looking to upgrade to a new 65-inch TV, today's deal on the Hisense Class U6 Series Mini-LED 4K TV is a great option. It's on sale for under $530 and with any luck, it'll arrive before this weekend's football playoff games.

If you haven't already been charmed by Heated Rivalry's Connor Storrie, chances are you're living under a rock.

SEE ALSO: A new 'Heated Rivalry' book is on the way — preorder 'Unrivaled' by Rachel Reid now

Storrie and his co-star Hudson Williams have been on a massive press run following the show's runaway success, doing everything from presenting at the Golden Globes to making their respective debuts on late night TV. Williams stopped by The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon on Jan. 7, and on Jan. 13, Storrie appeared on Late Night With Seth Meyers.

During the interview, Storrie and Meyers chat about his overnight stardom and the skills he learned for the show. As Russian hockey star Ilya Rozanov, Storrie had to learn several scenes in Russian, as well as perfect a Russian accent, a process that involved taking four hour-long lessons every day for a month and a half.

"I fully just assumed they had found a Russian-speaking actor for this part," Meyers told Storrie.

Apparently, so did some of Heated Rivalry's Russian actors. Storrie recalled shooting a scene with several Russian background actors, one of whom approached him as he reset for a take and began to talk to him in Russian.

"She thought my parents were Russian, and I speak Russian at home with a pseudo-American accent," he said.

Now, Storrie has a prepared response for people who believe he's actually fluent in Russian: "My go-to, I always say in Russian, 'I speak Russian really poorly.'"

However, according to Storrie, learning Russian was nowhere near as tricky as learning how to skate. To hear more about his skating experiences and his breakout fame post-Heated Rivalry, check out the full interview above.

Heated Rivalry is now streaming on HBO Max.