Mashable

With National Orgasm Day just around the corner (it’s July 31, btw), sex toy brands have been hinting at new products to look forward to this summer. The latest launch to catch my eye comes from the luxe sex toy brand LELO.

On July 23, LELO released its first-ever dual-ended wand vibrator, the Lelo Switch.

No, you can't play Mario Kart on this Switch. Credit: LELO SEE ALSO: The Ava Vivv wand is the best vibrator under $30

The main draw of this vibrator is that it can be used by two vulva owners at the same time. LELO is calling the new vibe a “true celebration of vulva-centered sex and mutual connection” that’s “uniquely suited for simultaneous, co-creative play.”

"LELO Switch flips the script on dominant narratives around sex — especially those that center male pleasure or position the penis as the main event,” LELO sexpert and certified sex therapist Casey Tanner said in the release. “It also challenges the idea that pleasure between two women is always one-sided or sequential. Instead, Switch is about mutual arousal, creative positioning, and shared sensation.”

In practice, simultaneous use might be a little tricky. The positioning could get awkward, and some positions, like straddling your partner, might be tough on the leg muscles. A spooning position would likely be more comfortable.

The coolest feature I saw is its integration with the LELO app. You can set up a private chat room with your partner (using the “Love Bridge” feature) and switch (see what they did there?) control over each other’s LELO app-connected devices, no matter how far apart you are. This makes it a great tool for long-distance couples or any partners looking to explore their eroticism from a distance.

Its dual-ended design gives you two totally different experiences in one beautiful toy. Credit: LELO SEE ALSO: Where to buy sex toys online (including Target and Sephora)

Other features I noticed were the "Finish Me Off" mode, which slowly builds you to orgasm, and the "Out of Control" mode, which promises a “tailor-made” experience for an “unpredictable” orgasm. The toy also has 16 vibration intensities and 10 pleasure settings: five on the clitoral end, five on the penetrative end, and two extra modes when connected to the app. It's currently $199, which is a competitive price for a smart vibrator with this range of features.

As for the design, it looks super chic without overdoing it. It comes in three colors (Lilac, Soft Pink, and Aqua) and has little ridges on both the wand and penetrative end should feel ahhmazing on your labia and clit (once you add a generous amount of lube, of course). Though if you decide you want penetrative or clitoral stimulation while you’re enjoying the other, it may get a little messy, and you might want to have a second toy nearby for dual stimulation.

Opens in a new window Credit: LELO LELO Switch $199 at LELO
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Overall, I can’t wait to try this toy. As a huge fan of the iconic LELO Smart Wand 2, I'm especially curious to see how the Switch's wand end compares. I haven’t had the best luck with app-connected toys in the past, as they can be complicated to set up when you're already in the mood. Fumbling with settings can kill the vibe, whether I’m alone or with a partner. Even so, I’m excited to test the LELO Switch and see if it lives up to the hype.

Internet Archive — the no-cost, nonprofit digital library that has become embroiled in the nationwide battle over copyrights and free speech — is now an official source for government documents.

According to a new designation announced by California Senator Alex Padilla, the website will join a network of more than 1,000 libraries around the country tasked with archiving government documents for public view. Unlike other designated federal depository libraries, as they are known, the Archive is entirely online. The news was first reported by San Francisco's KQED, who spoke to both Padilla and Archive founder Brewster Kahle about supporting the mission of "universalizing" all knowledge through digitization — this includes, says Kahle, "helping integrate these materials into things like Wikipedia, so that the whole internet ecosystem gets stronger as digital learners get closer access into the government materials.”

SEE ALSO: What is woke AI? Decoding the White House's new target.

The status is particularly notable as the Trump administration has systemically removed information from federal websites under new, "anti-woke" executive orders. Archive visitors will now have access to primary, government sources, in addition to materials uploaded by users or saved through accessible websites. The Internet Archive also operates the Wayback Machine, an online source that stores web history going back more than 28 years, and partners with libraries to pinpoint important online archival material through its Archive-It initiative.

"As a federal depository library, the Internet Archive will help remove barriers so that communities from across the nation and around the world can access federal government publications online," Padilla wrote in an official letter to Scott Matheson, superintendent of documents for the Government Publishing Office. "The Archive will help the Government Publishing Office advance its mission to digitize and make federal government publications accessible." Members of Congress are allowed, by law, to nominate up to two qualified libraries for depository status. Some institutions have given up their status as they have struggled with storing mass amounts of physical material, KQED reports, which has pushed the office to invest increasingly in mass digitization efforts.

The Internet Archive has weathered several copyright cases that allege the site is an "unlicensed digital copyrighting and distribution business" providing the general public with "derivative works" that require express permission to share. The Archive and its fervent supporters have argued that the website is a specialized library, with the right to preserve works (including books, music, and other materials) in its online database. Government documents are copyright-free.

Last year, the website faced multiple cyberattacks that led to a weeks-long outage and the shuttering of both the Archive and its Wayback Machine. Hackers claimed to have access to millions of user profiles and support tickets, with the aim of exposing key security flaws in the website's back-end.

"The Internet Archive has broken down countless barriers to accessing information," said Padilla. In October, the website hit 1 trillion archived pages.

SAVE $100: As of July 25, buy a Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic and get a $100 Amazon gift card as part of a bundle for $499.99, down from its usual price of $599.99. That's a discount of 17%.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic + $100 Amazon gift card $499.99 at Amazon
$599.99 Save $100 Get Deal

If you're an Android fan, and you want a new smartwatch, you've got plenty to choose from, but Samsung's lineup always has a set of good, reliable picks. Should you happen to be in the market for some new tech to spruce up your wrist, you might want to head to Amazon, where you can get the newly-released Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic with a gift card to sweeten the deal.

As of July 25, buy a Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic and get a $100 Amazon gift card as part of a bundle for $499.99, which saves you $100 on what you would usually pay for both items. Basically, you're buying the watch at its regular price, but getting a free $100 gift card.

SEE ALSO: All the best smartwatches for every wrist and interest

This classy watch features a rotating bezel, a cushion design to stay comfortable on your wrist, and a host of features to make it an integral part of your day and your life. Samsung boasts that this is the thinnest and most comfortable watch in its lineup, and it's also extremely bright, with up to 3,000 nits to sear into your eyeballs (in a good way).

Powered by the Exynos W1000 chip, the watch can measure your stress levels, antioxidant index, sleep quality, heart rate, and even your circadian rhythm. Of course, it can also be used to make and take calls, text, utilize other comms apps, make payments, and much more.

This brand-new smartwatch can already net you some additional money off when you shop at Amazon, so if you've had your eye on this model, now's a good time to invest.

The unthinkable has happened. Peacock (my favorite streaming service) has increased its prices — and it's the biggest price hike to date.

It feels like déjà vu, doesn't it? In July 2024, Peacock's second ever price hike took effect ahead of the summer Olympics, much to the dismay of subscribers. Just a little over a year later, here we are again. This time around, Peacock Premium (the ad-supported tier) has made the jump from $7.99 to $10.99 per month, while the Premium Plus (ad-free) tier went from $13.99 to $16.99 per month. Annual subscription prices also made a massive leap from $79.99 per year to $109.99 per year with ads and from $139.99 to $169.99 per year without.

The newest pricing officially makes Peacock's ad-supported and ad-free tiers more expensive than Netflix, Disney+, HBO Max, and Paramount+. Yikes.

Credit: Peacock When do the new prices go into effect?

Peacock's new pricing officially took effect on Wednesday, July 23 for new subscribers. If you're an existing subscriber, however, you won't be charged the new prices until after Aug. 22, depending on your bill date. If you signed up for a promotional offer before July 23, that pricing will be valid through the end of the promo period. You'll be charged the new prices once the promo period ends. If you wish to cancel, just click on your profile icon, then account, and under "plans & payment" you'll see options to change or cancel your plan.

A new and cheaper "Select" tier is being tested

Peacock is launching a new cheaper option dubbed the "Select" tier. It will cost $7.99 per month or $79.99 annually, which is the same as its ad-supported plan was priced before the recent price hike. The streamer is just beginning to test the Select plan, but if it proves to be popular, it will be the cheapest way to subscribe to Peacock.

Existing subscribers can switch to the Select tier by visiting the "plans & payment" tab in your account and selecting the "change plan" option. The Select tier will not include access to movies, Peacock Originals, sports and live events, or your local NBC channel.

The following content will be available on the Select Tier:

• NBC Current Season and Library (e.g. the Law & Order series, the Chicago series, The Office, etc.)  

• Bravo Current Season and Library (e.g. The Real Housewives series, Below Deck, etc.)  

• Other TV Library (e.g. Days of Our Lives, Yellowstone, El Señor de los Cielos, etc.)  

• Select Channels (e.g. The Office Channel, NBC News Now Channel, etc.) 

How to save on a Peacock subscription

As prices continue rising, we're all seeking ways to save on streaming services. Fortunately, Peacock is one of the only streamers that offers regular discounts throughout the year. Plus, there are several ways to score a subscription on any given day for a discounted rate: student discounts, military discounts, first responders discounts, third-party discounts, and more.

The best Peacock deals at a glance: Best for students Peacock Premium for Students $2.99 per month for 12 months (save $96) Get Deal Best for military personnel Peacock Premium for Military $3.99 per month (save $7 per month) Get Deal Best for first responders and medical staff Peacock Premium for Medical Professionals and First Responders $3.99 per month (save $7 per month) Get Deal Best for teachers Peacock Premium for Teachers $3.99 per month for 12 months (save $84) Get Deal Best way to watch for free Peacock Premium annual subscription Free for Instacart+ subscribers (save $109.99 per year) Get Deal Best for JetBlue customers Peacock Premium Free for one year for JetBlue TrueBlue Mosaic status members (save $109.99 per year) Get Deal Best bundle deal Xfinity StreamSaver (Apple TV+, Peacock, and Netflix) $15 per month with Xfinity Internet or TV Get Deal Best for Mastercard users Peacock Premium or Premium Plus Get $3 or $5 cashback per month with World or World Elite Mastercard Get Deal

As an elder millennial, I remember Clippy well. I don't remember Microsoft Office's animated paperclip fondly, but I'll never forget him. The rarely helpful assistant would pop up to make suggestions as you worked in Microsoft Word, often slowing down the experience significantly. (At least, that's how I remember Clippy.)

Now, Microsoft is testing another virtual assistant. While it's not quite Clippy 2.0, the new Copilot Appearance experiment from Copilot Labs is definitely giving major Clippy vibes.

Per Microsoft, "Copilot Appearance is an experiment that gives you a new, visual way to chat with Copilot, powered by real-time expressions, voice, and conversational memory."

Copilot, Microsoft's ChatGPT-powered AI assistant, is available with many Windows laptops and products. Now, Appearance lets you give Copilot a face — a marshmallow, emoji-like face.

Credit: Microsoft

Copilot users who participate in the test can talk to the rainbow-hued face and watch it respond in real-time. While AI chatbots have become hugely popular since the explosive debut of ChatGPT, the chatbot experience is largely text and voice-based. You can find AI avatars, such as xAI's new anime avatars, that react to your prompts, this technology has so far lagged behind traditional chatbots.

Copilot Appearance could be a big step toward bringing this technology to the masses. However, as anyone who has seen the movie Her knows all too well, anthropomorphizing AI chatbots comes with some risks. But by making its Copilot Appearance avatar undeniably adorable, Microsoft may help mainstream the anthropomorphization trend, for better or worse.

Crucially, the Copilot's experimental new face doesn't have a name, though that might not stop people from settling on a nickname. Clippy's official name was actually Clippit, but no one remembers Clippit.

How to activate Copilot Appearance

For now, Copilot Appearance is only available to certain users in the United States, the UK, and Canada. It's part of the Copilot Labs program.

According to Microsoft, it's easy to access Copilot Appearance:

1. Enter Voice mode

2. Go to the "Voice settings" menu

3. Toggle on Copilot Appearance.

If you don't find a toggle for Copilot Appearance, then you don't have access to this new feature.

Around the same time as a big Starlink satellite internet outage this week, it looks like Amazon's competitor network is almost ready to get rolling.

In a company blog post, Amazon detailed its latest developments related to Project Kuiper, a new satellite internet network the company is preparing for launch — literally. The big news here is that Amazon opened a new $140 million facility at the Kennedy Space Center that can handle payload processing for all of its satellite launches. Handling processing internally, rather than farming it out to third-party entities, would theoretically streamline the process of getting these satellites into low Earth orbit, at least according to Amazon.

SEE ALSO: Elon Musk's DOGE installed Starlink at the White House against wishes of security officials

Amazon sent its first 27 satellites into space back in April, and the company says it has more than 80 additional launches planned for the initial network rollout. The company will be contracting with aerospace companies such as Arianespace, Blue Origin, United Launch Alliance (ULA), and SpaceX, which owns Starlink.

Amazon says that most of these launches will take place in Cape Canaveral, Florida, not far from its Kennedy Space Center facility. Before they're sent to the Kennedy Space Center for processing, the satellites are built and tested in a separate facility in Washington state.

The stated goal of Project Kuiper is to deliver affordable satellite internet to people who might need it, which can include those in rural or otherwise isolated communities. According to a company FAQ, service will start rolling out in "late 2025." The FAQ claims that, depending on their service tier, customers can expect anywhere from 100Mbps download speeds all the way up to 1Gbps.

Of course, while Amazon may have dominated the e-commerce world terrestrially, its satellite internet offering has a long way to go to catch up to Starlink, which operates a network of more than 6,700 satellites, the largest satellite constellation in the world.

SAVE $130: As of July 25, Bose's popular QuietComfort headphones are on sale at Amazon and Best Buy (for today only) for $130 off the original price of $349. That's 34% off.

Opens in a new window Credit: Bose Bose QuietComfort headphones $229 at Amazon
$349 Save $120 Get Deal Opens in a new window Credit: Bose Bose QuietComfort headphones $229 at Best Buy
$349 Save $120 Get Deal

Bose makes some of the best headphones and earbuds on the market. Trust us, we are experts on Bose and its lineup of audio products at this point. That's why when one of their flagship devices gets a hefty discount, we say it's a no-brainer to snag one while you can.

Now is one of those times, because the brand's popular QuietComfort headphones (not to be confused with the more premium QuietComfort Ultra headphones) are on sale at multiple retailers for just $229. That's $130 off the original price of $349, and a 34% discount. Both Amazon and Best Buy are offering this deal, so take your pick — just do it fast, because this deal is only going to be available until the end of the day, at least at Best Buy.

SEE ALSO: The Bose QuietComfort earbuds are a decent budget option from the premium brand

The Bose QuietComfort headphones are all about high-quality noise-cancellation (in fact, we named them our pick for best noise-cancelling headphones) and all-day wearability thanks to their plush earcup cushions. In those regards, these headphones are a standard-bearer.

There are more highlights, though, including swappable listening modes ("quiet" and "aware"), adjustable EQ, a 24-hour battery life, and a wired option for when you unexpectedly run out of juice. They also have a quick charging option — 15 minutes on the charger can get you around 2.5 hours of playtime — and multipoint support, which means you can stay connected to multiple Bluetooth-enabled devices at once.

If you're looking for a quality pair of noise-cancelling headphones at a discounted price, you're not going to find a better deal today.

SAVE $50: As of July 25, get the 11-inch iPad for $299, down from its usual price of $349. That's a discount of 14%.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon 11-inch Apple iPad (A16, WiFi, 128GB) $349 at Amazon
Get Deal

If you didn't score an iPad back during Prime Day, worry not. There are still plenty of chances to get one of your own right now for a discount. If you're ready to plunk down some cash on a tablet, now's the time to get a discounted iPad that's more than affordable.

SEE ALSO: The best tablets in 2025

As of July 25, get the 11-inch iPad for $299, down from its usual price of $349. That's $50 off and a discount of 14%. This discount currently applies to the yellow, blue, and pink colorways.

This model earned itself a top spot on Mashable's list of the best iPads, so you know you're getting a quality tablet. It's perfect for just about anyone, no matter if you use it for work or play, especially thanks to its A16 chip that powers it and makes it something of a force of nature.

Its crisp 11-inch display also gives you much more real estate than your phone, as does its Apple Pencil compatibility, which lets you turn it into a makeshift notebook, or a MacBook-like device when you add a wireless Magic Keyboard.

There's a lot to love about this model, so if you've been pining for an iPad or just need something reliable to get you through the workday, be sure to grab yours while it's still dipped down to this price.

Updated on July 26 at 11:30 a.m. ET — If the coupon code featured in this story is no longer working, we've added some additional power station deals on DJI and Jackery products to consider. You can read our original story below.

Opens in a new window Credit: DJI DJI Power 2000 $999 at Amazon
$1,299 Save $300 use code POWER2000 Get Deal

If you’ve been looking for an alternative power source for your off-grid adventures or as a backup in case of a power outage, a portable power station could be a good option. And right now, Mashable readers can get a special discount on a seriously powerful model from DJI. (Yes, the drone company.)

As of July 25, you can get the DJI Power 2000 portable power station for just $999 at Amazon when you use the code POWER2000. That's a 23% discount, saving you a solid $300 off the regular $1,299 price.

Note: This code is only valid until July 31, so don't wait too long to make a final decision. If the promo code isn't working, DJI may have sold out its stock of on-sale power stations.

SEE ALSO: These popular DJI drones are finally in stock at Amazon — grab them while you can

The DJI Power 2000 is built around a beefy 2048Wh capacity battery, which is powerful enough to run most common appliances (kettles, projectors, or even an electric saw). One of its standout features is the incredibly fast recharge time — it can go from zero to 80 percent in just 55 minutes. DJI also made it durable with a tough LFP battery, protective coatings, and a flame-retardant housing to keep it safe in wet or rugged outdoor conditions.

If you need even more juice for an extended blackout, the system is expandable. You can connect additional batteries (which are sold separately) to get up to 22.5kWh of power. You can also keep an eye on everything with the DJI app, which lets you check the status or customize settings remotely, so you can keep track of the power station when it's not within reach. 

More power station deals Also on sale DJI Power 1000 Portable Power Station $699 (save $300 at Amazon) Get Deal Bundle and save Jackery Solar Generator 1000 v2 with 100W Solar Panel $759 (save $300 at Amazon) Get Deal Best Jackery deal Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 Portable Power Station $499 (save $300 at Amazon) Get Deal

UPDATE: Jul. 26, 2025, 11:30 a.m. EDT We've updated this story with additional power station deals.

SAVE $79.01: As of July 25, get the Anker Solix C300 portable power station for $219.99, down from its usual price of $299, at Amazon. That's a discount of 26%.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Anker Solix C300 portable power station $219.99 at Amazon
$299 Save $79.01 Get Deal

Planning to spend some time in the great outdoors this summer? Or maybe you just want to be prepared for when the next destructive storm hits your area. No matter what the situation, a portable power station can be a great thing to have around. Whether you need it to charge up your phone when you're going off-grid or to keep appliances running in an emergency, they're always useful to have. And right now you can get a great one on sale thanks to Amazon.

As of July 25, get the Anker Solix C300 portable power station for $219.99, down from its usual price of $299, at Amazon. That's $79.01 off and a discount of 26%.

SEE ALSO: Forget dead batteries — these Bluetti power stations are game-changers for the outdoors and power outages

The Anker Solix C300 portable power station gets you 288Wh of power, which is more than enough juice to charge your phone, tablet, laptop, or even portable speaker several times over. It's not just for personal tech, though, as it can power just about anything you need it to for a short time thanks to its massive capacity.

It only takes an hour to charge back up if you're using a wall outlet as well, so you can rest assured that even when it's depleted, you can get it back up to speed to use again in no time.

You never know when you might need some backup electricity, and this is a fair price to get this portable power station for, so get it while you can.

Best tech deals

• Apple AirTag (4-Pack) — $79.98 (List Price $99.00)

• Apple 2025 MacBook Air 13-inch Laptop — $849.00 (List Price $999.00)

• Apple AirPods Pro 2 ANC Earbuds With USB-C Charging Case — $169.00 (List Price $249.00)

Update: Since publishing, SteelSeries have implemented and notified us of a new firmware update on SteelSeries GG for compatibility with the Nova 3, Nova 5, and Nova 7 headsets. We've installed this additional update and can confirm the 2.4GHz USB-C dongle with the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7X now works with the Nintendo Switch 2 — both docked and in handheld mode.

New PC graphics cards and CPUs are coming out all the time, constantly changing the gaming landscape. Gaming peripherals are different. Good products can remain relevant in the space years after launch.

Released in 2022, the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7X Wireless is a prime example of that. I bought the Xbox edition back in November 2023, and it’s still my favourite multi-platform gaming headset almost two years on. 

Arctis Nova 7 vs. 7X

Shopping for a headset can get incredibly confusing if you’re looking to use it across multiple platforms like the PS5, PS4, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, PC, Xbox, and on mobile. Some headsets simply aren't capable of doing that, so where do you start?

The Arctis Nova 7X plays great with the Xbox. Credit: Mashable/SteelSeries

SteelSeries, that's where.

When it comes to SteelSeries, there are two models to keep in mind. The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7 — visually identifiable by its pure black headband strap — only works with PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, PC, mobile, and tablet. The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7X, however — sporting its easily noticeable green strap — works with all of the above and the Xbox (Xbox One, Series X, and Series S). 

Due to differences in their wireless protocol technology under the hood, Xbox consoles cannot work with the same type of headset channels as models designed for other consoles. Unlike Switch and PC platforms, Xbox consoles also don't support Bluetooth, so they are left out of the conversation when it comes to many high-end gaming headsets.

Thankfully, the switchable multi-platform wireless dongle changes all that. 

The USB-C dongle in Xbox mode. Credit: Mashable/SteelSeries

The wireless and T-shaped USB-C 2.4GHz dongle for the Arctis Nova 7X has a switch for two modes: flicking it to the right for a standard USB connection for PS5, Switch, PC, and mobile, and the left for the Xbox (signalled by the green colour both on the switch and light on the back). 

Exquisite versatility

For any gamer who likes to jump between every platform, you can simply take the dongle out of whatever machine you’re using and switch to audio from the next e.g. watching a Netflix movie on an Xbox (it’s the only platform with decent media remotes) and playing more of The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered on PS5. 

SEE ALSO: The best gaming headset for every platform

The Arctis Nova 7X’s Bluetooth mode is icing on the cake for dual audio. In my case, I can listen to whatever game I play via the dongle, whilst connecting the 7X to my phone via Bluetooth to listen to whatever Instagram reels my friends randomly send me or video gameplay guides on YouTube — all without having to take the headset off. 

Whichever way you connect, the Arctis Nova 7X utilises SteelSeries’ 40mm neodymium magnetic drivers that drop high-quality sound for games, TV, and movies — and even 3D Tempest audio for compatible games like Returnal, Horizon Forbidden West, and Spider-Man: Miles Morales.

The USB-A to USB-C makes connecting to Xbox and PC a breeze. Credit: Mashable/SteelSeries

The USB-C dongle may not mean wireless compatibility for everyone if they don’t have a PC for a USB-port, but the Arctis Nova 7X’s included 1.5m USB-C to USB-A adapter means you can connect to any rig or console without any issue. However, I did separately buy a dedicated wireless adapter so I could cleanly plug the dongle into the back of my Xbox Series X without that cluttered look. 

The Nova 7X's dongle also works with other adapters. Credit: Mashable/SteelSeries

As for PS5 owners, your console has a USB-C port right in the front, so your dongle can go straight in. You can use any adapter on the standard USB-A ports as well if you wish.

Nintendo Switch 2 issues

While the Arctis Nova 7X can connect to the original Nintendo Switch via the headset’s dongle with no issue — both plugged directly into the handheld’s USB-C port and docked via USB-A — there have been ongoing compatibility issues with the Nintendo Switch 2. 

While still connectable with the Switch 2 in Bluetooth mode, Nintendo’s new handheld/home console hybrid’s audio still isn’t working with the Arctis Nova 7X’s dongle outside of recognising it as a microphone — even after I installed the latest SteelSeries firmware update specifying system compatibility with this model, and then a factory reset before trying again. 

The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7X headset's dongle plugged into a Nintendo Switch 2. Credit: Mashable/SteelSeries

Granted, this issue doesn’t seem to be impacting every Nova 7/7X owner — some saying their Switch 2s are now working with the dongle just fine, while just as many state the same problem as mine — looking like a hit and miss depending on the exact unit. 

There will hopefully be more of a widespread fix in future updates, but I’d only recommend the Arctis Nova 7X to Switch 2 owners if they don’t mind playing only via Bluetooth and wired 3.5mm connection in the meantime — just in case the current firmware update doesn’t take hold as well. 

SEE ALSO: Razer BlackShark V2 Pro review: The best gaming headset I've ever used

That said, the Nova 7X’s USB-C dongle does fit nicely into most Android and newer iPhones without issue, so you can use that as your workaround if you want to still be plugged into other media whilst playing Donkey Kong Bananza on your Nintendo Switch 2 over Bluetooth.

Comfort and battery life

Whichever system you play on and whichever connection mode you’re using, the Arctis Nova 7X’s combination of plush airweave cushion and lightweight steel headband does make for a comfortable viewing and gaming experience. The retractable mic also makes for a sleek but optional avenue for group chats, without getting in the way or looking clunky. 

One thing to keep in mind, though — whilst comfy to wear and flexible for larger heads like mine — a noticeable pressure on the sides of your head can be felt after wearing the Arctis Nova 7X for around 4-5 hours (I usually need a quick break to let my head recover). Be sure to take a breather if you’re having any full-day gaming or streaming marathons over the weekend. 

When you do jump back in, the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7X’s stated 38-hour battery does hold true in my almost-two years’ worth of time with it — usually only needing to charge it once a fortnight if using it for a few hours daily. 

Where to buy the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7X 

While this isn’t a perfect gaming headset due to some of its limitations, the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7X is still an awesome multi-platform headset if you want to play on Xbox, PlayStation, PC, Nintendo Switch, mobile, or tablet on a budget. It's available to buy right now at Amazon, and it’s even 30% off at the time of writing — a great price for an all-around gaming headset that can double as wireless headphones for travel.

Opens in a new window Credit: SteelSeries SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7X $139.95 at Amazon
$199.99 Save $60.04 Shop Now

Apple's Liquid Glass design is, by far, the most polarizing feature in iOS 26.

By making elements on the iPhone's display semi-transparent, the operating system's new feature creates a cool, frosty look that really hits different from what we've had so far. But transparency (even partial) can be detrimental to visibility, and the Liquid Glass look can often be a bit much, especially if everything is cranked to the max.

In iOS 26, Apple offers several ways to tone down the look. We've got instructions on how to turn Liquid Glass on for maximum effect, so you can do the opposite if you want to get rid of some of it.

SEE ALSO: The 7 iOS 26 features only available for newer iPhones

Some of the Liquid Glass design isn't as easy to turn off, though. Fortunately, in the new iOS 26 developer beta 2, Apple has made several changes that reduce the transparency effect more than it was possible in the previous beta. The company also toned down the effect in beta 3, only to revert some of those changes back in the final, public beta which came out on July 24.

First, the Control Center now blurs the background a lot more than before, making it easier to make out the icons in the foreground. I love the Liquid Glass look, but this was a good decision from Apple, as the idea behind the Control Center is to quickly present some of your iPhone's key settings — and those need to be as visible as possible. The transparency effect isn't completely gone, mind you, it's just a lot more subdued than before.

It looks great, but it can be a bit much. Credit: Apple

Apple also offers an option to reduce transparency across the entire user interface, under Accessibility - Display & Text Size - Reduce Transparency. That option was there in iOS 26 beta 1, too, but now it makes everything even less transparent than before.

Finally, if you turn on high contrast mode (go to Settings - Accessibility - Display & Text Size - Increase Contrast), some of the floating elements of the user interface (such as the Search field in the Settings) now have a border.

The changes are subtle, but when you add them up, they do make everything more legible while still keeping a hint of that frosty Liquid Glass look.

The first public beta launched on July 24, meaning it's available to a much larger number of people. It's still a beta release, though, so expect some bugs until the iOS 26 goes final in September.

UPDATE: Jul. 25, 2025, 3:25 p.m. The text was updated after the iOS 26 public beta was released in July.

The clock for TikTok is ticking, and it seems the time is almost up.

Speaking to CNBC on Thursday, U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick commented on the TikTok deal with China which seems to be stuck on Chinese approval.

"China can keep a little piece [...] but basically, Americans will have control, Americans will own the technology, and Americans will control the algorithm," he said. "If that deal gets approved by the Chinese, then that deal will happen, if the don't approve it, then TikTok is gonna go dark."

Lutnick is referring to the potential deal to sell the majority of TikTok to U.S. investors, which President Trump recently said was all but done, with the buyer being "secured" on the U.S. side.

Trump did say at the time that China has to approve such a deal, and now it seems his administration is running out of patience.

"Those decisions are coming very soon, so let's see what the Chinese do," said Lutnick.

SEE ALSO: The Nicki Minaj challenge explained: Why everyone on TikTok is posing

TikTok has been in limbo for years, with Donald Tump proposing a ban on the app back in 2020, during his first term. The app was ultimately banned under the Biden-signed PAFACA (Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications) act in 2024, though the ban's enforcement kept being delayed, first by Biden, and then later by Trump, who said he would not ban the app and promised to make a deal under which the U.S. would own at least half of TikTok.

As Yellowjackets' resident cinephile Van Palmer, Liv Hewson has been a must-watch actor for Mashable's entertainment team, who are all devoted to the cannibal drama's hive. So, when they came by our studio for a Say More interview, Entertainment Editor Kristy Puchko asked about what their must-see movies and TV are.

Hewson, who grew up in Australia, shared their appreciation for an array of American television, ranging from iconic comedy series The Simpsons to heralded drama series The Americans, to the unstoppable force that is The Real Housewives. They even tested out a playful Housewives catchphrase that would be all their own.

Talking movies, Hewson revealed their appreciation of the Muppets and the bonkers Best Picture winner Everything Everywhere All At Once. Through these influences, the non-binary actor, who recently accepted the Rising Star Award from the Critics' Choice Association's Celebration of LGBTQ Cinema and Television, mused on how these productions inspire them and reflect the kind of movies and shows they aim to be a part of.

SEE ALSO: How 'Everything Everywhere All at Once' is a love letter to moms...and the internet

Speaking of Everything Everywhere All At Once, Hewson reflected, "I would give anything to be a part of something like this. It's always projects where I can tell that everyone involved has everything they need to make it, cares about making it, and is thrilled to be working on it."

They continued, "That's the energy I really try to bring to stuff I'm a part of. It's just the environment I'm desperate to create, participate in. And I'm a sucker for practical effects."

For more from Liv Hewson and Say More's full interview with the Yellowjackets star, including information on their creative involvement with the Lesbian Bar Project fundraiser, check out the full episode on Youtube.

Stephen Colbert and The Daily Show have been talking about the growing Donald Trump/Jeffrey Epstein scandal all week — but if you need a recap on the many developments, Seth Meyers has you covered.

In the Late Night clip above the host goes through the big news of the week, from the Wall Street Journal reporting that Attorney General Pam Bondi informed Trump he was in the so-called "Epstein files" back in May, to the Trump administration's failed attempts to divert attention to other stories.

"Whatever's in those 'Epstein files' must be really ***ing bad," says Meyers. "They must be finding so many mentions of Trump they're gonna have to change the name to 'The Trump Files Featuring Jeffrey Epstein.'"

The host goes on to play a clip of CNN anchors discussing the breaking WSJ story and how the context of Trump's name reportedly being in the files is important.

"Yes, the context matters!" says Meyers. "For example, maybe Jeffrey Epstein kept a list of innocent people who did nothing wrong. Epstein had a little black book full of names labeled, 'People Who Refused to Participate in Sex Trafficking But Still Want to Come to My Island for Snorkeling.'"

SAVE $16: As of July 25, the Lego Ideas The Insect Collection set is on sale for $63.99 at Amazon. That's 20% off its list price of $79.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Lego Lego Ideas The Insect Collection $63.99 at Amazon
$79.99 Save $16.00 Get Deal

I'm a very big fan of Lego, and even more so when I can find a good set on sale. If you've been looking to pick up something new to build, the good news is there are quite a few sets that are discounted at the moment. One of our favorite sets, the Lego Ideas The Insect Collection, has even received a price drop at Amazon.

The Lego Ideas The Insect Collection set usually retails for $79.99, but it's currently marked down by 20% to $63.99. This allows you to save $16, which is a very nice discount to take advantage of while it's still live.

SEE ALSO: The new Lego Game Boy is peak nostalgia for '90s kids

As mentioned before, this set is included among our list of favorite Lego sets. It comes with 1,111 pieces that come together to create three models: a blue morpho butterfly, a Hercules beetle, and a Chinese mantis. Each model boasts a variety of lovely colors, which is sure to make it an eye-catching display piece to have around your home.

Don't miss out on 20% off the Lego Ideas The Insect Collection set right now at Amazon.

If you're on the hunt for even more Lego sets, another great discounted pick that caught our eye recently was this Wednesday Addams Lego set. If you're a fan of Netflix's Wednesday and can't wait for season 2, it's worth a look.

SAVE $50: As of July 25, Beats Solo 4 headphones are on sale for $149.95 at Amazon. That's a saving of 25% on list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Beats Beats Solo 4 $149.95 at Amazon
$199.95 Save $50 Get Deal

Looking for some new headphones? Well, right now you can get the Beats Solo 4 for less at Amazon. As of July 25, choose from black/gold, cloud pink, matte black, and slate blue at the new price of $149.95, a saving of $50 on list price.

As with all Beats products, the Solo 4 are an incredible option for sound. Top features include a battery life of up to 50 hours and a super-quick 10-minute charge time. They also have a new, personalized Spatial Audio with head tracking. This is a really great feature that creates a 3D surround sound and a more immersive listening experience by adjusting the sound based on your head movements. So music, movies, and calls feel more lifelike and high quality, just what you'd expect from Beats.

SEE ALSO: Anker’s Space Q45 noise-cancelling headphones are down to their lowest-ever price

And while we're talking sound quality, enjoy a punchy bass and balanced sound, whether you’re listening to music, podcasts, or watching TikToks. They also benefit from dual compatibility, including one-touch pairing for both iOS and Android devices.

Comfort-wise, they're designed with UltraPlush cushioning, so you can get the most of your 50 hours of listening without any discomfort.

Get this Beats deal from Amazon.

We currently sit in that glorious period between Apple’s WWDC and the tech giant’s autumn iPhone release, which means there’s a lull in the action. Where’s there’s a lull, there is speculation, and while we’re pretty certain the iPhone 17 is coming — along with everything announced at WWDC 2025 — there may still be some things in the pipeline for Apple.

The below products are mostly rumors until Apple actually announces them. After all, delays happen and that’s certainly been true of Apple products the last few years. The Vision Pro, for instance, was delayed multiple times before its eventual release in 2024. 

In any case, if you’re fiending for some Apple tech, late 2025 may be the time for you as there are plenty of products that may come out by then. 

Apple Watch Series 11, Ultra 3, and new SE

When Apple released the Apple Watch 10, it was a mild disappointment for many, since it was essentially the same design as earlier versions but with upgraded internals. This was despite rumors that some redesigns were coming. Additionally, the Apple Watch 10 launched alone, with the SE and Apple Watch Ultra not receiving upgrades. 

According to rumors, that may change this year. For starters, the Apple Watch Ultra 3 may be the first watch in the series to feature Apple Intelligence. In addition, it’s rumored that the Apple Watch 11 and a new Apple Watch SE are in the works. For the new SE model, Apple has reportedly run into production issues so it may be delayed another year. However, until September’s alleged release date, we won’t know for sure. 

AirPods Pro 3

Apple launched the AirPods 4 in late 2024 with some neat new features like a built-in hearing test along with hearing aid features. In 2025, it seems like the AirPods Pro is getting its turn in the spotlight with the rumored debut of the AirPods Pro 3. The series hasn’t been updated since the AirPods Pro 2 released in 2022, so it’s definitely due for an upgrade. 

For the AirPods Pro 3, the rumored upgrades are about what you’d expect. Apple is reportedly improving audio quality and active noise cancelling, while also inheriting the hearing aid features from the AirPods 4. It’s likely getting a new chip to improve performance across the board and may borrow some design elements from the AirPods 4, such as the capacitive touch pairing button. 

SEE ALSO: Which AirPods are best for travel? I compare the noise-canceling features. Apple TV 4K

The Apple TV 4K will be the first Apple TV device released since the prior generation dropped in 2022. The current model is powered by an A15 bionic chip, the same one that’s found in the iPhone 14, so it’s probably due for an upgrade. Per rumors, the upgraded model will likely sport an A17 Pro, A18, or A19 chip, which should boost performance quite a bit. 

The rumors also say that the device will support Apple Intelligence, and since that requires 8GB of memory, that means the amount of memory will double from the current model's 4GB. Additional Apple supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo reports that Apple may be working on Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 7 versions of its wireless chips. If that upgrade makes its way into the Apple TV 4K it should help keep the product relevant if the next generation takes three more years to drop. 

HomePod mini 2

Much like the Apple TV 4K and AirPods Pro 2, Apple hasn’t launched a new HomePod mini in a long time. Unlike those other two, it’s been an even longer five years since its last release. That could change in 2025 with the rumored release of the HomePod mini 2. Rumors of this started with Mark Gurman’s Power On newsletter, where he said that the new device should be coming by the end of the year. 

Not too much is known about the mini 2. Allegedly, it’s coming with an Apple-designed Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chip, which will support Wi-Fi 6E. Nothing else has been confirmed, but, after five years, it feels safe to assume that Apple will pop-in a different processor and do something to improve sound quality. New colors aren’t outside the realm of possibility either. 

Apple’s smart speaker with a display

Speaking of HomePods, Cupertino has allegedly been working on a smart display similar to the Google Nest Hub that is basically a speaker with a screen. This new device would blend the HomePod, iPad, and Apple TV tech together and push Apple more into the smart home space alongside Amazon and Google. It’s codenamed the J490, at least according to rumors. 

Of all the products on this list, the smart display is the least likely to come out in 2025. It was originally supposed to be introduced in March 2025, per Mark Gurman, but software issues delayed the product. A late 2025 release date is expected but rumors suggest the company could also wait until 2026.

AirTag 2

The original AirTag was a piece of tech that helped launch a whole industry of trackers. AirTags launched in 2021, and despite being a little boring, they were found to be supremely useful for finding lost items. The upgraded AirTag 2 is expected to launch alongside the iPhone 17 later this year. For the record, we don’t know how Apple will name the AirTag 2 and we’re just calling it that for simplicity's sake. 

The rumors came from 9to5mac and just like the HomePod mini 2, we still don’t know a ton of the details. The new tag will apparently be compatible with iOS 18.6, so it’ll work with older iPhones. It’s also expected to have better connectivity, longer range, better security, and improved battery life. It’ll allegedly come in an “anti-tamper” form factor, which means it might have a rechargeable battery, but that hasn’t been confirmed. We’ll know more in September if the rumors are true. 

SEE ALSO: Apple's AirTag 2 to probably launch alongside iPhone 17, report says M4 Mac Pro

With the launch of the new Mac Studio, that leaves the Mac Pro as the only device left in Apple’s Mac product lineup without the company’s M4 chip. That is likely to change this year. Per Mark Gurman, both the Mac Studio and Mac Pro were on pace for a 2025 release. Since the Mac Studio did, in fact, release in 2025, it stands to reason that the Mac Pro is also coming. 

Gurman says that it should arrive in the “second half” of 2025, so anytime between now and the end of the year. With this upgrade, it’ll be the first time that Apple has ever brought its latest chip to the entire family of Mac products. That’s about the long and short of the rumors about the Mac Pro. We haven’t seen much in terms of expected prices or specs, but we imagine that the specs will be good and the price will be expensive. 

Devices with the M5 chip

Per MacRumors, several devices are slated to launch in 2025 with the upcoming M5 chip. These devices include a new iPad Pro, an upgraded version of the Vision Pro, a new MacBook Pro, a new Mac mini, and a new iMac. 

These rumors stem from a few assumptions. For instance, Apple released the new MacBook Pro, iMac, and Mac mini simultaneously, so it’s likely that the company will do so again. The Vision Pro is expected to get the new chip but remain otherwise identical, so it’s more of a refresh than a new product. Finally, the iPad Pro was redesigned just last year with an OLED display and a thinner design, so it’s likely this year’s release will mostly focus on the M5 chip. 

More from Apple

While the list above is everything we could find, it is by no means exhaustive. We focused mostly on rumored devices that are not the iPhone 17, since everyone fully expects it to be released. In any case, nearly all of these releases are allegedly slated for late 2025, so if they’re going to make it to market, there’s a high chance we’ll learn more about them around the same time the iPhone 17 launches. 

SAVE $30: Snag Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 for just $39.99 on PS5 or Xbox Series X — 43% off and its lowest price ever.

Opens in a new window Credit: Deep Silver Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 $39.99 at Amazon
$69.99 Save $30.00 Get Deal

If you’re the type of player who likes to wait for a massive discount before buying a new game, Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 is finally ready for purchase. As of July 25, physical copies of Space Marine 2 on Amazon have been knocked down in price to $39.99 on both PS5 and Xbox Series X — a whole $30 off compared to when it launched in September last year.

According to price tracker camelcamelcamel, this is the lowest price since launch.

A long-awaited sequel to 2011’s Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine, Space Marine 2 is a third-person action shooter that has you again play as Ultramarine lieutenant Titus — him and his comrades taking on the monstrous Tyranid swarms both in single-player and co-op modes. It’s within the same gameplay realm as the Gears of War franchise, but with an added focus on hack-and-slash combat.

SEE ALSO: The best video games of 2024

Although indeed a sequel, the general consensus among the fanbase is that playing the 14-year-old original game isn’t required — since Saber made an effort to make it understandable enough for newcomers. 

While our Assistant Editor Chance Townsend has pointed out some issues with the game in our Space Marine 2 review — including issues with the campaign and the PvP multiplayer — its visuals, PvE co-op, and faithfulness to Warhammer 40,000 lore are top tier, along with gameplay combat as a whole making for a rip-roaring good time. It was enough to even be declared as one of our best games in 2024.

$39.99 is the perfect price for a game like this. We don’t know how long this sale price will last on Amazon, so pull the trigger now if this has been in your ‘need to buy’ backlog for some time.

If you’re looking to upgrade your gaming headset, find out why the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7X is perfect for playing on all platforms.

SAVE OVER $90: As of July 25, the AirPods Max (USB-C) headphones are on sale for $449.99 at Amazon. That's $99.01 off their list price of $549.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple AirPods Max $449.99 at Amazon
$549 Save $99.01 Get Deal

Sale events aren't the only time when exciting deals pop up. Even after the big summer sale events, we're still finding some deals worth checking out. For Apple users, the AirPods Max (USB-C) have received a great price drop at Amazon.

AirPods Max are 18% off right now at Amazon, down to $449.99 for a limited time. This allows you to save $99.01, which is a discount worth taking advantage of if Apple's over-ear headphones have been on your radar. A few different colors are on sale at this price as well: midnight, blue, orange, and starlight.

SEE ALSO: We put the top 10 headphones of 2025 to the test

For Apple users who have been looking for a solid pair of noise-canceling headphones to fit within their ecosystem, the AirPods Max are a worthy purchase. Boasting excellent sound quality and noise-canceling features, these headphones will keep you immersed in what you love to listen to. Our review from writer Brenda Stolyar praised their sound and easy-to-use controls, but did find that "their size isn't a good fit for everyone."

Despite this, she concluded that, "When it comes down to it, the AirPods Max check off almost all the boxes for what makes an excellent pair of headphones: great sound quality, ideal battery life, easy controls, and a stylish design."

If the AirPods Max have been on your shopping list, now is your chance to pick them up for almost $100 off.

These aren't the only discounted headphones worth checking out right now. The Mashable-approved JLab JBuds Lux ANC headphones are also on sale right now as a more budget-friendly pick.