Mashable

AI-generated videos and images used to be so easy to spot (remember Will Smith eating spaghetti?). But the latest AI video models are getting good — scary good.

Naturally, generating video with AI is a whole lot trickier than generating images. While there are dozens of good to great AI image generators, in the video space, you can count on one hand how many tools can do it convincingly. Two of the most popular are Google's Veo 3 and OpenAI's Sora 2.

So, which AI video model wins out in a head-to-head contest? If you've been closely following this footrace, the answer probably won't surprise you.

What are Veo 3 and Sora 2?

Veo 3 is the name of Google's cutting-edge generative AI video model. Not only was Veo 3 a dramatic improvement over the previous generation, Veo 2, but it also kicked off a whole new era of AI video. Veo 3 can generate realistic videos based on text prompts rather than simply animating existing images. Crucially, it can also create dialogue and other realistic sounds. You can access Veo 3 in Google's AI chatbot Gemini or via other Google tools like Flow, an experimental AI filmmaking tool.

Veo 3 is available in two flavors — Veo 3 Fast and Veo 3 Quality. Because we wanted to test the quality of the videos, we chose the latter for this test.

OpenAI launched Sora 2 on Sept. 30 in a standalone iOS app called Sora. Sora 2 is the successor to the company's first AI video model, also called Sora. At the time of writing, Sora 2 is only available via the invite-only Sora app. Sora 2 also offers a social media-style feed of videos from the community, like TikTok for AI videos (because we didn't have enough of those already).

Notes on comparisons

Appropriately, we used AI — in this case, ChatGPT — to help create prompts for AI video tests. The prompts below were designed to test different aspects of video creation, from audio to animation. ChatGPT came up with prompts to test video generators, which we then tweaked and refined.

1. A handheld camera follows a young woman walking through a crowded street in Tokyo at night during a light rain. Neon signs reflect off wet asphalt and umbrellas. The camera stays fixed on her from behind as she glances toward a glowing billboard, then continues walking. The scene should feel cinematic and hyper-real, like shot on a mirrorless camera with shallow depth of field.

2. A superhero in a red and silver suit lands hard on a rooftop at sunset, cracking the concrete under their feet. The cape ripples in the wind as the camera orbits around them in slow motion. In the distance, drones fly between skyscrapers with glowing windows. The overall tone should feel like a live-action blockbuster.

3. A cyberpunk-inspired 3D animation of Times Square filled with holographic ads and flying cars. A large digital billboard lights up with the word ‘MASHABLE’ in bold white type. The animation should have crisp text, glowing reflections, and dynamic lighting reminiscent of Into the Spider-Verse’s visual energy.

4. A hand-drawn, painterly 2D animation of two friends sitting by a café window on a rainy afternoon. Soft watercolor-style lighting and visible brush strokes. One says gently: ‘You know, sometimes the smallest step can change everything.’ The other smiles and nods. Include subtle mouth animation matching the line, light rain sound outside, and quiet clinking of cups in the background.

5. Photorealistic street scene where [the subject] dances freely down a tree-lined city sidewalk, loose casual clothes, upbeat tempo. Ambient street sounds (distant traffic, footsteps), cinematic lighting at golden hour. 

I also created a prompt designed to generate a video of a copyrighted character, as well as a second prompt in case the generator refused. I'm choosing not to share this prompt so as to not encourage creating AI videos that blatantly use copyrighted material, which has been a sore point for OpenAI and Sora so far.

Prompt 1: A woman in Tokyo

This prompt was generally straightforward in terms of creativity, but the hope was that the video generators would be able to create a cinematic and lively feel through things like reflections in water. So how'd they do?

Both Sora 2 and Veo 3 created nice-looking videos. But there were some clear differences. The video that Sora 2 generated had a much tighter crop than Veo 3, meaning images and details in the background of the shot were much less visible. Veo 3 had a wider angle, resulting in a more immersive video. That may be partially a point in Sora's favor, given the fact that the prompt specifically mentioned having a shallow depth of field; Sora 2's video showed a much shallower depth of field than the video created by Veo 3.

It was fascinating to see the choices that the generators made about the young woman. Sora generated a subject with an umbrella despite the prompt not directing it to do so – even though it did mention umbrellas.  While the video created by Sora 2 wasn’t incorrect, the video created by Veo 3 was more interesting, more detailed, and better overall.

Winner: Veo 3

Prompt 2: A superhero landing

We pushed the two video generators to create videos of copyrighted characters, but not in this prompt. As a result, I was a little surprised when Sora 2 refused to create this video, noting copyrighted material. After all, the concept of a superhero isn't copyrighted. This seems to be part of a post-launch crackdown on intellectual property infringement.

While Veo 3 did produce a video, the result wasn't as ordered. For one thing, the prompt specifically mentions live-action, but the superhero's face, or what's visible of it, looked more animated than real. 

The generator also struggled with physics. For most of the video, our superhero is standing on what appears to be a hole in the concrete, while the concrete pieces created when the superhero lands seemingly disappear into thin air. More prompt engineering could surely solve this problem, but it's annoying all the same.

Google also gets the win here, but only by forfeit — its opponent didn't show up.

Winner: Veo 3

Prompt 3: Cyperpunk Times Square

This prompt, thankfully, was easy for both generators to follow. Both Veo 3 and Sora 2 were able to create an approximation of what Times Square might look like in the future, complete with skyscrapers and billboards. Both also followed the instruction to have one billboard show particular words. 

Sora 2 did a slightly better job at recreating the Into the Spider-Verse aesthetic, though neither of the two could be rated excellent.

Still, Veo 3's video was more interesting than Sora 2's. It had movement instead of a single static image. (The generators often added moving details to static images, and it made for boring results.)

While Sora 2 followed the prompt a little better, Veo 3’s video was much more interesting. I’m giving this one to both.

Winner: Tie

Prompt 4: Two friends talking

This prompt was designed to test the generators' ability to create audio that goes along with the video. Both Veo 3 and Sora 2 have the ability to add dialogue and sound effects.

First, the visuals. The prompt specified 2D animation, and only Veo 3 actually followed that. Sora 2 created something in a style of 3D animation instead of 2D.

The audio that Sora 2 generated was a little strange. The dialogue sounded off, as if both of the characters were sleep-talking or hypnotized. Veo 3's dialogue was much more lively and realistic. The background sound effects were similar in both videos. In both, you can hear rain, but neither followed the prompt in adding the sounds of clinking cups.

The winner here is pretty clear. Again, it’s Veo 3.

Winner: Veo 3

Prompt 5: Dancing in the street

One of the headline features of OpenAI's Sora 2 is cameos, or the ability to make videos featuring the likeness of real people (who have explicitly given permission for this use). For this prompt, I attempted to create a video of myself dancing in the street. 

On Sora 2, this was easy; it's a feature that's explicitly supported by the app. In Veo, however, it was much more difficult. Google offers a feature called Ingredients to Video, where you can upload things like images for the generator to use in creating the video. However, Ingredients to Video is not supported by Veo 3, just the lower-quality Veo 2 Fast. You can only create portrait orientation videos with the feature. 

On top of that, in our testing of Veo 3, we found that Gemini will often refuse to make videos based on pictures featuring people. This is done to prevent deepfakes, which is great, but animating still images is one of the most common uses of AI video, and Veo 3 makes it unnecessarily difficult.

Both videos were a little strange, and I say that as the subject. The face in the video created by Veo 2 was glitchy, and for some reason, Veo 2 decided that I should be dancing backwards. The video created by Sora 2 was a little more creative, and it gave me clothes that I don't think I could pull off in real life. 

Sora did a better job at making me actually dance than Veo 2 did.  I have no idea why Sora 2 had me say “this feels good”, but it's… not terrible.

Winner: Sora 2

Prompt 6: Copyright material

This prompt was designed to test whether or not the generators could create video of copyrighted characters. As we saw in the superhero prompt, Sora 2 is extremely sensitive when it comes to this, so it came as no surprise when it refused to respond to the first and second prompts — even though the second prompt doesn't mention a character by name, only alluding to them.

Veo 3 had no problem generating a video of a copyrighted character, however. This worked with multiple characters, too.

There's no winner or loser in this category. We're not going to wade into the debate around generating content of copyrighted characters — at least, not here. Still, it's worth keeping in mind that if you're looking to create videos of characters you know and love, you won't be able to do it with Sora while the app is under such scrutiny from rights holders. 

The winner: It's Veo 3, and it's not close A screenshot from a photorealistic AI video generated by Google to promote Veo 3. AI-GENERATED IMAGE. Credit: Google

OpenAI's Sora 2 is making headlines for its social approach and its ability to create videos with you in them. However, beyond making memes, it's extremely limited.

Google's Veo 3 generates much better and higher-quality videos overall. Of the two models, if you want to use generative AI video for professional purposes — for filmmaking, gaming, social media, or, most likely, in advertising — only Veo 3 is a truly viable option.

Sora 2 did excel at creating a video of me, and that's the biggest advantage it has to offer right now. But Veo 3, when used in the Google Flow app, is both higher quality and more versatile, offering features for horizontal and portrait orientations and settings for creating multiple videos at a time.

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

If you've gotten a text that promises a refund for your inflation-related spending, you're probably getting scammed.

According to Bleeping Computer, New Yorkers are getting texts from a number that says they're the Department of Taxation and Finance. The texter claims the recipient is eligible for "Inflation Refunds" and requests personal and financial data — a major red flag.

Remember: The U.S. government will never send you a text like this, nor will your state or local tax officials.

Now, it is true that some New Yorkers are getting inflation refunds from the state Department of Taxation and Finance. According to the department, some taxpayers are eligible for a one-time inflation refund check if they filed certain tax forms in 2023, reported income within qualifying thresholds, and were not claimed as a dependent on another taxpayer’s return. If they meet the criteria, they can receive a check for $150 to $400 to compensate them for inflated sales tax payments, which will be mailed directly to them.

SEE ALSO: The top internet scams to be aware of in 2025 (so far)

However, even if you do qualify for the state's "first-ever inflation refund checks," the Department of Taxation and Finance will not send you a text.

"The Tax Department is not contacting taxpayers about the New York State inflation refund check," the Department of Taxation and Finance said in a statement on its website. "You do not need to provide us with additional information to receive a check. If you are contacted about the inflation refund check by someone supposedly from the Tax Department, report it."

You can report these texts by phone or by email.

"New Yorkers do not have to do anything to receive an inflation refund check outside of meeting the eligibility requirements," Governor Kathy Hochul said in a statement in response to the scam texts. "With scams targeting the state’s inflation refund initiative, let me be clear: The Tax Department and the IRS do not call or text individuals for personal information. My administration urges New Yorkers to remain vigilant and report these scams to the Tax Department to protect yourself from being a victim."

As in toll text scams, Indeed text scams, and crypto text scams, the cybercriminals responsible will often use scare tactics to create a false sense of urgency.

When in doubt, contact your state government for more information; never respond to suspected scam texts.

Google's AI tool, Gemini, has drastically improved its ability to create and edit photos. And people are looking for, and posting about, the best ways to use the tool.

That's because Google recently integrated Nano Banana — the company's AI-powered image generation and editing tool — into Gemini's new Gemini 2.5 Flash Image. Simply put, if you go to Google AI Studio or to the Gemini App, you should be able to make better photo creations. In Mashable's tests, Nano Banana works particularly well as an image editor.

Now, I'd probably argue that instead of playing around with AI, you might simply go out into the world and take pictures. Enjoy some sunshine, if you're so lucky. But hey, whatever floats your boat or drains your water supply. So, if you're serious about using an AI image generator to get interesting results, we've got some good prompt ideas to get you started.

Google Gemini AI photo prompts to try

Ask it to make trading cards: If you're really into sports cards, fantasy card games, Pokémon, or similar hobbies, you can feed Gemini photos, then ask it to create trading cards. As usual, specificity is key: You can ask Gemini to include stats, change outfits, or make tweaks just how you like them. Make all your childhood dreams come true. The idea is to be as specific as possible.

AI-GENERATED IMAGES Credit: Google

This Thread, for instance, suggests telling an AI tool all the different categories, attacks, and other necessary info to get a good Pokémon-style card. If you wanted a football playing card, you might tell Gemini to include stats — specifying categories like rushing yards, attempts, receptions, or touchdowns — and give other details to include, such as a fun nickname.

Add things to the background: As Mashable Tech Editor Timothy Beck Werth showed, Gemini does a solid job of adding new details to images. In his example, he added dolphins in the water alongside a boat. But you can add just about anything to an image. In general, try to include details about how you want it to look. Typically speaking, I've gotten the best results specifying if I want it to look photorealistic. For instance, I added realistic-looking rain by asking for "easily visible rain that appears photorealistic."

Remix photos of your pets: Here's an example straight from Google itself. In a blog post about fun Google Gemini AI photo prompts, Google provided this prompt idea along with the before and after results: "Prompt: Recreate this cat as a 16-bit video game character, and place the character in a level of a 2D 16-bit platform video game."

AI-GENERATED IMAGE Credit: Google

Create or edit a headshot: Lots of folks need headshots for professional reasons. I'd suggest using a photographer for best results, but in a pinch, you can use Gemini's model to create or edit an image. I tried giving Gemini a random picture of myself and asked for a "professional-looking headshot" based off that. The results were quite uncanny valley. It looked enough like me to kind of work, but it was also clearly not me. I'd suggest using AI to edit a headshot rather than invent one out of whole cloth. If you're looking for help in crafting prompts, Reddit has lots of ideas about how to get a specific output.

Combine two photos: As we've shown before, Gemini does a solid job of transposing one photo onto another. So, as we detailed, you could add a spice bottle to an image of a fire — or whatever else you could dream up. So you might ask Gemini, "Combine these two photos. Take the hand holding a coffee and transpose it into the foreground of the picture of the Grand Canyon. Match the lighting and shadows so it appears the two images were taken as one."

Enter your favorite fantasy world: Say you love Game of Thrones. Well, you or anyone else can now enter that world via Gemini. It'd be a fun bit to send to fellow fans. The prompt is pretty simple: Upload a photo and ask Gemini to make the person or thing appear to be a part of your favorite franchise.

There's plenty to try out with Gemini — after all, it can make almost anything. In my experience, it might take a little bit of playing around, but you can get useful results by fine-tuning your prompts.

For more ideas on how to use Nano Banana and make and edit AI images in Gemini, the Google blog has more examples.

It's easy to look at Bruce Springsteen, a living legend of American rock music, and think there was never a time when anyone could doubt him — not his drive, not his artistry, not his unrelenting charisma. But like last year's Bob Dylan–centered drama A Complete Unknown, Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere narrows in on a time when a celebrated music star dared to do something so different that the doubt was ringing out.

Jeremy Allen White stars as Bruce Springsteen in director Scott Cooper's film adaptation of Warren Zanes’ book, Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere, which chronicles the creation of the artist's 1982 album, Nebraska. While critics have been divided on the film, White's been earning furious praise for his portrayal of the Boss.

In her review out of the New York Film Festival, entertainment reporter Belen Edwards noted the film's thematic ties to The Bear, the much-awarded TV series on which White has most recently been showered in accolades. However, she notes his performances in each are incredibly different, writing, "White's Carmy so often feels on the verge of exploding with anger or grief, while his Springsteen carries a steady sadness with him at all times. If Carmy is a pressure cooker, Springsteen is a deep lake."

You can dive into White's spin on Springsteen this weekend.

Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere debuts in theaters Oct. 24.

Microsoft’s Windows 10 life support ends tomorrow, Oct. 14. After that, the tech giant will no longer provide free security updates, bug fixes, or technical support for the operating system.

That might sound alarming — especially to the millions of users around the globe who still use Windows 10. But don’t panic. Your computer won’t suddenly stop working, and you don’t have to upgrade to Windows 11 (though Microsoft would certainly prefer that you did).

SEE ALSO: You can stay on Windows 10 for another year for free — if you act by Oct. 14

So, what happens now?

You can still use Windows 10, but once cumulative updates stop, your system will gradually become more vulnerable. Without new patches, hackers can exploit security holes that go unaddressed — putting your data at risk as you browse the web, check email, or do online banking.

It’s not all doom and gloom, though. Microsoft Defender Antivirus will continue receiving virus definition updates until 2028, offering a basic layer of protection. However, the operating system itself won’t get critical security fixes, meaning antivirus alone won’t be enough to keep your device fully secure.

And over time, there’s another problem: compatibility. As developers increasingly focus on Windows 11, older apps, software, and even websites may stop running smoothly on Windows 10. Hard to believe, but the "modern" OS is already a decade old.

If you’re running an older computer that can’t handle Windows 11, there’s still a way to stay secure without buying a new PC. Microsoft is offering enrollment in its Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, which provides critical security patches for an additional year, through October 13, 2026.

Originally designed for businesses, the ESU program has now been expanded to regular users. However, it’s meant only as a stopgap. ESU won’t deliver new features or performance fixes, just essential security updates.

You can enroll for free if you use the Windows Backup app to upload your files to OneDrive, or if you’ve earned at least 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points. Otherwise, access to ESU costs a one-time fee of $30. Enrollment is open now and will remain available until October 13, 2026.

SAVE $132: As of Oct. 13, the LG 55-inch C5 OLED 4K TV is on sale for $1,164.80 at Amazon. That's 10% or $132 off its usual retail price of $1,296.99, and the best price on record.

Opens in a new window Credit: LG LG 55-inch C5 OLED 4K TV $1,164.80 at Amazon
$1,296.99 Save $132.19 Get Deal

If you're looking to upgrade your TV and don't want to wait until Black Friday, the LG C5 OLED 4K TV is already chilling at its best price ever.

As of Oct. 13, the LG 55-inch C5 OLED 4K TV is down to $1,164.80 at Amazon. That's $132 less than its usual list price of $1,296.99 and the lowest price on record since its March release. We know that's still a bit pricey for a new TV, but our sister site CNET calls its "top choice among 2025 TVs." In other words, you get what you pay for.

LG's C4 model from last year is still one of the best TVs you can get, but the C5 is even better, with a brighter, more vibrant, and color-accurate picture quality. Of course, like all of LG's high-quality OLEDs, it also has superior contrast with near-perfect black levels, so it looks great when you're watching from any angle. Other upgrades include a fully redesigned Magic Remote and AI capabilities (shocker). Packing four HDMI 2.1 ports that support 144Hz, the C5 OLED TV is a great choice for gaming, as well as watching sports, movies, and TV shows.

We wouldn't recommend running out and buying the latest LG C-Series TV when it's at full price, but while it's down to a record-low $1,164.80, we say go for it.

Two neuroscientists are suing Apple, alleging that the company trained its AI models using pirated book libraries that included their works and the copyrighted works of others.

Apple now joins the ranks of other tech companies like Meta and OpenAI, which have also been sued over their use of copyrighted material to train AI systems. (Disclosure: Ziff Davis, Mashable’s parent company, in April filed a lawsuit against OpenAI, alleging it infringed Ziff Davis copyrights in training and operating its AI systems.)

Typically, tech companies claim that the fair use legal doctrine allows them to use copyrighted material in this context, even without permission or payment.

The lawsuit from Dr. Susana Martinez-Conde and Dr. Stephen Macknik, professors of neuroscience at SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, is actually the second lawsuit in just over a month that targets the iPhone maker for using copyrighted material to train its Apple Intelligence models.

Last month, authors Grady Hendrix and Jennifer Roberson also sued Apple, claiming the company's scraper, Applebot, pulls material from "shadow libraries," online collections of unlicensed copyrighted books.

The latest lawsuit from professors Martinez-Conde and Macknik also alleges that Apple is pulling copyrighted material for AI training from shadow libraries. The two plaintiffs say that Apple trained its OpenELM model using a pirated database called Books3, a shadow library that contains more than 190,000 works. This is the same pirated dataset at issue in Kadrey vs. Meta and Bartz vs. Anthropic, which were ultimately decided in the AI companies' favor.

However, the issue of AI training and copyright remains unsettled while various cases work their way through the U.S. court system.

Anthropic also settled a class action lawsuit in September, after being sued by authors over the use of 500,000 pirated works to train the company's AI chatbot Claude. Last month, Anthropic agreed to settle the lawsuit for $1.5 billion.

Hendrix and Roberson's lawsuit against Apple also seeks class action status.

Apple has previously been sued over Apple Intelligence, although these two lawsuits mark the first time the company has been sued over copyright infringement claims. Earlier this year, Apple was sued for advertising Apple Intelligence features that were delayed and not yet available for consumers. Elon Musk's X also sued Apple over its partnership with ChatGPT creator OpenAI. The deal between Apple and OpenAI involves the AI giant powering some Apple Intelligence features.

SAVE $70: The Apple iPad, 11-inch (11th Generation. 128GB, WiFi) is on sale at Amazon for $279, down from the list price of $349. That's a 20% discount.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPad, 11-inch (11th Gen, 128GB, WiFi) $279 at Amazon
$349 Save $70 Get Deal

The weather outside might not be frightful just yet, but shockingly we're only two months away from winter. If your fall and winter plans involve reading, streaming the best new shows, or getting really good at Balatro, you'll want to head into the season with a capable tablet. Lucky for everyone, Amazon has a solid model on sale to kick off the week.

As of Oct. 13, the Apple iPad, 11-inch (11th Generation, 128GB, WiFi) is on sale for $279 at Amazon, marked from the standard price of $349. That's a 20% discount that takes $70 off the price. Be sure to go with the silver, yellow, or pink colorway to score this discount. The blue colorway is also on sale but it's only 9% off for a total of $319.

SEE ALSO: Scoop up a Google Pixel Tablet for its lowest price yet

The Apple iPad (11 inch) earns Mashable's choice for the best tablet for most people. Its size combined with its storage space and ample ability to multitask makes it a great option. "You'll be able to multitask without the system sputtering out, whether you're watching YouTube videos, playing your favorite high-res games, or just have a habit of leaving your apps running in the background," according to Mashable Senior Shopping Reporter Leah Stodart and Tech Editor Timothy Beck Werth.

Apple considers the iPad to have all-day battery life so it'll be great for cozy weekends on the couch. The 12 megapixel camera is great for video chats with family while arranging holiday plans. Plus, it's compatible with both the Apple Pencil and the Magic Keyboard Folio, both of which take the tablet to a whole new level of functionality.

While it's still at the October Prime Day sale price of $279, snag the Apple iPad, 11 inch and get prepared for cozy season. Plus, it'll be great for keeping entertained (read: distracted) during holiday travel.

A now-debunked Reddit rumor spread so fast across the internet that Xbox itself had to step in to clear the air.

It all started with a post on the r/Xbox subreddit, where one user claimed that Target was removing its Xbox section entirely. The user even cited a store manager who allegedly said that all Target locations in the Kansas City area were purging their Xbox stock.

SEE ALSO: Microsoft Word will now automatically save your docs in the cloud

The post exploded, with commenters piling on. Some claimed Walmart stores were doing the same, while others declared it the final nail in the coffin for Xbox as a console maker — pointing to Microsoft’s recent focus on cloud gaming and its all-in push for Game Pass subscribers.

But the rumor didn’t hold up. As reported by Windows Central, Xbox quickly refuted the claims, telling the outlet that "Target and Walmart, among other retailers, remain committed partners for Xbox consoles, accessories, and games.”

So, for now, you can still pick up an Xbox console off a store shelf at these retailers. Just be ready to pay a little more if you’re subscribing to Game Pass — a price hike is on the horizon.

Samsung's next journey into the foldable frontier is reportedly happening soon.

Just a few months after launching the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7 foldables, various reports indicate that Samsung is relatively close to launching another foldable device with a new form factor. This one is said to be a "tri-folding" foldable, meaning it will have two hinges instead of one and offer much more screen real estate than even the Z Fold 7. If devices like the Z Fold 7 don't quite tickle your "it's a phone, but it's also a tablet" fancy, this might be the foldable for you.

So, what exactly do we know about the Samsung TriFold (unofficial name)? Let's get into it.

SEE ALSO: Samsung's Project Moohan vs Apple Vision Pro: How the rumored specs compare Samsung TriFold: Rumored specs and price

For starters, let's get into what the rumored TriFold actually is. As I covered previously, it's going to be a smartphone that unfolds into a tablet-like form factor with two folding hinges instead of one, like the Z Fold 7. Samsung has yet to produce such a device, or even announce it, but the company did acknowledge its existence in a recent earnings call, so we can be fairly sure it's real.

According to a recent report from SamMobile, these are the specs you might be able to expect from the Samsung TriFold. To be clear, though, none of this is official information and it could be wrong:

• 6.5-inch exterior cover display

• 10-inch unfolded interior display

• Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy processor

• Up to 16GB RAM

• At least 256GB storage

• 200MP primary rear camera along with ultrawide and telephoto lenses

• 100x digital zoom capabilities

In terms of processors, cameras, RAM, and all that other fun stuff, these specs are pretty similar to what you'd find in a Z Fold 7. The 6.5-inch cover display stands out especially, as the one on the Z Fold 7 is the exact same size. The 10-inch interior display, however, would be quite a bit bigger than the 8-inch equivalent in the Z Fold 7. That's the big selling point here: When it's folded, this is sized like a bigger traditional smartphone, but when you unfold it, you're unlikely to find any phone with a bigger display.

One obstacle that could stand in the way of that is thickness. There don't seem to be any credible leaks as to how thick the TriFold will be just yet, but Samsung has made great strides in that department this year between the Z Fold 7 and Galaxy S25 Edge. If the TriFold can achieve similar levels of thinness to those phones, Samsung might be onto something here.

Battery will also be something to watch. We don't have an approximate battery size or battery life estimate to work with yet. That said, Phone Arena spotted a Korean patent filing suggesting there will be three battery cells, with one hidden inside each side of the phone. That could help Samsung achieve a usable level of battery life for a device with two very large displays, but we'll have to wait until the device is in our hands before we can accurately judge that.

Lastly, there's no telling what the price of this device will be based on the information we have. But consider that the Z Fold 7, with just one folding hinge, starts at $1,999.99, and set your expectations from there.

Samsung TriFold: Release date and will it come to the U.S.?

As for when you can expect to see the phone, we have some more concrete information about that. Korea's Yonhap News Agency reported recently that Samsung will showcase the device at the imminent Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (or APEC) summit, which is happening in South Korea on Oct. 31 and Nov. 1. So, in other words, we'll probably see this device by the end of the month. It would most likely launch not terribly long after that, almost certainly before the end of the year.

That last part isn't idle speculation on my part. Multiple reports, including the previously cited SamMobile report and an earlier one from this year, suggested the phone will be out soon, and it might not be exclusive to the Asian market. SamMobile says it has heard that the phone will launch in at least the United Arab Emirates on top of its assumed Chinese and Korean launches, and could come to the U.S., too. Whether it will come to the U.S. at the same time as it launches elsewhere remains to be seen, but that seems unlikely if the phone is being announced at a Korean summit.

That about covers what we know about the Samsung TriFold at this point in time. Expect it to be expensive and geared towards enthusiasts and early adopters. Hopefully the new form factor is actually useful and not excessive.

TL;DR: Live stream Wales vs. Belgium in World Cup qualifiers for free on BBC iPlayer. Access this free streaming site from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

World Cup qualification is still very much undecided in Group J. North Macedonia are top of the standings, but Wales and Belgium can take top spot with a win in this huge matchup. We're expecting a tense contest between two talented sides.

If you want to watch Wales vs. Belgium in World Cup qualifiers for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Wales vs. Belgium?

Wales vs. Belgium in World Cup qualifiers kicks off at 7:45 p.m. BST on Oct. 13. This fixture takes place at the Cardiff City Stadium.

How to watch Wales vs. Belgium for free

Wales vs. Belgium in World Cup qualifiers is available to live stream for free on BBC iPlayer.

BBC iPlayer is geo-restricted to the UK, but anyone can access this free streaming service 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 access free live streams on BBC iPlayer from anywhere in the world.

Lve stream Wales vs. Belgium 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 BBC iPlayer

5. Stream Wales vs. Belgium 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 watch Wales vs. Belgium in World Cup qualifiers without actually spending anything. This clearly isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to stream select World Cup qualifiers before recovering your investment.

If you want to retain permanent access to free streaming sites from around the world, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for streaming live sport is on sale for a limited time.

What is the best VPN for BBC iPlayer?

ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport on BBC iPlayer, 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 eight 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 also 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 (including money-back guarantee).

Live stream Wales vs. Belgium in World Cup qualifiers for free with ExpressVPN.

TL;DR: Live stream Northern Ireland vs. Germany in World Cup qualifiers for free on BBC iPlayer. Access this free streaming site from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

World Cup qualification is really heating up, with Northern Ireland taking on Germany in an all-important Group A meeting. Three teams are tied on six points after three games, with top spot on offer to both sides in this matchup. The atmosphere is going to be electric at Windsor Park.

If you want to watch Northern Ireland vs. Germany in World Cup qualifiers for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Northern Ireland vs. Germany?

Northern Ireland vs. Germany in World Cup qualifiers kicks off at 7:45 p.m. BST on Oct. 13. This fixture takes place at Windsor Park.

How to watch Northern Ireland vs. Germany for free

Northern Ireland vs. Germany in World Cup qualifiers is available to live stream for free on BBC iPlayer.

BBC iPlayer is geo-restricted to the UK, but anyone can access this free streaming service 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 access free live streams on BBC iPlayer from anywhere in the world.

Lve stream Northern Ireland vs. Germany 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 BBC iPlayer

5. Stream Northern Ireland vs. Germany 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 watch Northern Ireland vs. Germany in World Cup qualifiers without actually spending anything. This clearly isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to stream select World Cup qualifiers before recovering your investment.

If you want to retain permanent access to free streaming sites from around the world, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for streaming live sport is on sale for a limited time.

What is the best VPN for BBC iPlayer?

ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport on BBC iPlayer, 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 eight 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 also 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 (including money-back guarantee).

Live stream Northern Ireland vs. Germany in World Cup qualifiers for free with ExpressVPN.

SAVE 34%: As of Oct. 13, you can get the Apple AirPods 4 for $118.98, down from $179. That's a 34% discount and the best-ever price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple AirPods 4 $118.98 at Amazon
$179 Save $60.02 Get Deal

We're now a week out from Amazon's Prime Big Deal Days event, but Amazon's gifting us with ongoing discounts on several high-ticket items, including tons of Apple products.

SEE ALSO: Some of our favorite headphones are still at their best prices ever post Prime Day

Right now, you can get the Apple AirPods 4 (with ANC) for just $118.98, down from $179. That's a 34% discount and the best-ever price. We honestly can’t believe Amazon’s letting these go for so low after the event.

The fourth-generation AirPods feature Apple's H2 chip for clearer calls with Voice Isolation. They're also built to handle workouts and commutes with an IP54 rating for dust, sweat, and water resistance. For listening time, you can expect up to five hours from a single charge and a total of 30 hours with the included USB-C charging case.

SAVE 41%: As of Oct. 13, the DJI Mic Mini bundle is on sale for $99 at Amazon. That's a 41% discount from its usual price of $169, and a savings of $70.

DJI Mic Mini (2 TX + 1 RX + Charging Case) $99 at Amazon
$169 Save $70 Get Deal

With a potential U.S. ban on the horizon due to a looming national security review deadline, the window to buy the DJI gear is closing fast. Fortunately, the company has a few leftover Prime Day deals available on its Amazon storefront.

As of Oct. 13, the DJI Mic Mini bundle is on sale for $99 at Amazon. That's a 41% discount from its usual price of $169, and a savings of $70.

SEE ALSO: The DJI Mic Mini is one of the best upgrades for content creators

If you've been relying on your phone's built-in microphone, the DJI Mic Mini is the upgrade your TikToks need. This tiny, clip-on wireless system is iPhone- and Android-compatible, so your audio should sound crisp and professional no matter what device you're using. The kit includes two mics and a charging case that'll give you up to 48 hours of battery life. It's also packed with features for creating on the go, like two-level noise cancellation to block out background noise and a 400-meter transmission range.

TL;DR: Live stream Iceland vs. France in World Cup qualifiers for free on TF1+. Access this free streaming site from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

France have made a perfect start to their World Cup qualification campaign, and next they face up against Iceland. Most fans will be expecting a win from Les Blues, but don't count out the home team. Stranger things have happened.

If you want to watch Iceland vs. France in World Cup qualifiers for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Iceland vs. France?

Iceland vs. France in World Cup qualifiers kicks off at 7:45 p.m. BST on Oct. 13. This fixture takes place at Laugardalsvöllur.

How to watch Iceland vs. France for free

Iceland vs. France in World Cup qualifiers is available to live stream for free on TF1+.

TF1+ is geo-restricted to France, but anyone can access this free streaming service with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in France, meaning you can access free live streams on TF1+ from anywhere in the world.

Lve stream Iceland vs. France 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 France

4. Visit TF1+

5. Stream Iceland vs. France 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 watch Iceland vs. France in World Cup qualifiers without actually spending anything. This clearly isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to stream select World Cup qualifiers before recovering your investment.

If you want to retain permanent access to free streaming sites from around the world, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for streaming live sport is on sale for a limited time.

What is the best VPN for TF1+?

ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport on TF1+, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries including France

• 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 eight 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 also 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 (including money-back guarantee).

Live stream Iceland vs. France in World Cup qualifiers for free with ExpressVPN.

SAVE $200: As of Oct. 13, you can grab the Apple MacBook Air with the M4 chip and 512GB of storage in sky blue for only $999 at Amazon. That's $200 or 17% off its list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple MacBook Air, 13-inch (M4, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) $999 at Amazon
$1,199 Save $200 Get Deal

Apple's M4 MacBook Air is an incredible deal on any given day, but when it's $200 off, it's practically a no-brainer purchase if you're looking to upgrade.

As of Oct. 13, the 13-inch MacBook Air with an upgraded 512GB of storage is on sale for only $999. That's $200 or 17% off its list price and matches its best price to date. The only catch? The price is only reflected on the sky blue model. Every other color option jumped back up in price post-Prime Big Deal Days.

This Apple laptop, just released last spring, has racked up a ton of superlatives over the last 7 months. Not only is it a Mashable Choice Award winner, earning 4.5 out of 5 stars, but it has also earned a spot on our list of the best MacBooks, best cheap laptops, and best laptops overall of 2025. To put it bluntly, this thing is a beast. It outperforms 89% of the laptops in our current testing database.

Mashable's reviewer, Stan Schroeder, called it "the best-buy Apple laptop, period," specifically shouting out its "impressively powerful" and silent performance and improved FaceTime camera. Compared to its predecessor, it also adds open-lid support for two external displays. The 15-inch option is a bit more impressive, with more screen real estate, a slightly better resolution, and two extra speakers. But for most people, the 13-inch model will do just fine — it's a bit more portable and costs less: what's not to love? If you don't mind the muted blue color, you can score the 512GB MacBook Air for under $1,000 at Amazon.

SAVE $370: The Anker Solix C1000 Gen 2 is on sale for $429 at Amazon, down from the standard price of $799. That's a 46% discount and the lowest we've ever seen at Amazon.

Opens in a new window Credit: Anker Anker Solix C1000 Gen 2 $429 at Amazon
$799 Save $370 Get Deal

The leaves are changing, rainfall totals are adding up, and there's snow in the mountains. We're just a few weeks away from Halloween and fall storms might arrive any day. If you're in need of a way to stay online when the power goes out, you've probably considered getting a portable power station. What's even smarter is buying one that's on sale for nearly half off.

As of Oct. 13, the Anker Solix C1000 Gen 2 is on sale at Amazon for $429, marked down from the standard price of $799. That's a 46% discount and the lowest we've ever seen at Amazon.

The Gen 2 version of the Anker Solix C1000 is a refined and sleek version of the original Solix C1000, which I loved in testing. The Gen 2 has a few notable upgrades and perhaps the most impressive is its recharging time. Holding a Guinness World Record for recharging speed, the Solix C1000 Gen 2 can go from dead to 100% power in just 49 minutes. That pretty much means you can forget that it's dead and get it recharged before you're supposed to leave for the weekend camping trip.

Anker also added some refinements to the overall weight and size of the Gen 2. It's both smaller and lighter than the original Solix C1000, and it impressively weighs a bit under 25 pounds. The Gen 2 also features better USB-C ports since two of the three can handle 140W. The original C1000 tops out at 100W for USB-C. The new Gen 2 also features an updated LCD display that's super user-friendly.

To cut down on weight and size, Anker did remove a few features on the Gen 2 that I love on the original Solix C1000. It's missing the lightbar, which I think is fantastic for both camping and carrying the power station around the house during a power cut. But if you have other light sources, this might not be a deal breaker.

SEE ALSO: The DJI Power 2000 portable power station means business, and it’s great for DJI drone owners

The newer Solix C1000 Gen 2 also lacks expansion ability. You can pair the original with one extra battery to double the capacity, but the Gen 2 is stuck with its 1,024Wh permanent since it lacks the guts and port to accept an extra battery. Again, this might not be a totally acceptable for some folks, and isn't necessarily a downgrade. On the flipside, the Gen 2 has a higher peak output of 3,000W.

Today's sale price of $429 puts the Gen 2 in line with the current sale price on the original C1000, which is $429.99. The model that is best for your needs depends on if you prioritize a lightweight model with super quick recharging and two USB-C ports at 140W. If you want a lightbar and one extra AC port, the original might be your best bet.

In either case, both Solix C1000 models are on sale for under $430 at Amazon. This marks the all-time low price on the Gen 2 and since fall storms could hit any day now, it's wise to prepare.

Taylor Swift is giving fans everything they could want this year. She got engaged to her boyfriend Travis Kelce, and made the whole wide world feel a part of it. She dropped her new album, The Life of a Showgirl, for us all to dissect and obsess over. Now, in time for the giving season, she's unveiling a deeper look than ever before into her globe-trotting, massively successful Eras Tour.

First up, Disney+ is debuting Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour | The End of an Era, a 6-episode behind-the-scenes documentary series that takes fans inside the development, inner workings, and impact of all things Eras Tour. And that's not all. Disney+ will also offer a new version of the Eras Tour concert, featuring The Tortured Poet Department.

SEE ALSO: Taylor Swift becomes the internet troll she loathes When does Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour | The End of an Era come to Disney+?

Mark your calendars, Swifties. Disney+ will premiere both Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour | The End of an Era and Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour | The Final Show on Dec. 12.

Among the goodies of the Eras Tour documentary series directed by Don Argott, The End an Era will also offer appearances from spotlight performers, Swift's family members, and friends – including Gracie Abrams, Sabrina Carpenter, Ed Sheeran, and Florence Welch.

As for The Final Show, this Glenn Weiss-directed concert doc was recorded in Vancouver, B.C.. The final stop of Swift's Eras Tour, the Vancouver show delivered a slew of songs that audiences have long loved, including the entirety of The Tortured Poets Department.

Get a taste of what Swift has in store with the first trailer above.

Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour | The End of an Era and Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour | The Final Show will debut on Disney+ on Dec. 12.

Given how dark the source material is, writer/director Edgar Wright could have gone in a pretty bleak direction for his adaptation of Stephen King's novella The Running Man — but judging by the trailers so far, it looks like he's gone down the popcorn-munching route instead.

In the trailer above Ben Richards (Chad Powers' Glen Powell) is shown trying to survive and hide from a team of killers for 30 days as part of a televised game show. If he's caught, he dies. If he survives, he wins $1 billion for his family and can pay for a doctor that his child is in desperate need of. It's a grim dystopian concept, but the trailer is full of action-packed sequences, explosions, and funy larger-than-life moments — including hunters falling victim to a booby-trapped house that's like something out of a much more violent Home Alone.

William H. Macy, Lee Pace, Michael Cera, Emilia Jones, Daniel Ezra, Jayme Lawson, Sean Hayes, Katy O’Brian with Colman Domingo and Josh Brolin also star.

The Running Man hits theaters on Nov. 14.

If you thought that with New York Comic Con drawn to a close, the trailer watch had ended, Netflix has news for you. The Bridgerton Season 4 teaser trailer has landed, and with it, the release dates for Part 1 and Part 2.

As previously revealed, Season 4 of this hit series will focus on Benedict Bridgerton (Luke Thompson), the rebellious second son who's gotten up to sexy escapades in past seasons, but not yet been wed. As per the logline from Netflix, things are about to change:

Despite his elder and younger brothers both being happily married, Benedict is loath to settle down — until he meets a captivating Lady in Silver at his mother's masquerade ball.

Dear readers of Julia Quinn's novel An Offer from a Gentleman, the third in Julia Quinn's Bridgerton book series, know the Lady in Silver is Sophie (Yerin Ha). And this much anticipated-teaser gives us a glimpse at this new character to Bridgerton and the masquerade ball where she'll meet a masked Benedict (giving Princess Bride). The brush of a gloved hand. The stolen smile. The dropped glove! We're already swooning.

But how long will Bridgerton fans have to wait until we get more from Lady Whistledown and her saucy neighbors? Asked and answered:

Credit: Netflix

Bridgerton Season 4 shall arrive in two parts, with Part 1 debuting on Netflix Jan. 29 and Part 2 on Feb. 26. Each section will offer four new episodes. Can you wait to "unmask true love"?