Blogroll

These Signs Show It’s Time to Upgrade Your TV

How-To Geek - Sat, 09/27/2025 - 19:30

A new television isn't a frequent purchase for most people. Unless you're an AV fanatic (and there's nothing wrong with that!), you're probably not upgrading your TV as often as your smartphone, or your laptop.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Save $700 on this Jackery Explorer 2000 v2 Portable Power Station

Mashable - Sat, 09/27/2025 - 19:19

Save $700: As of Sept. 27, this Jackery Explorer 2000 v2 Portable Power Station is almost 50% off, coming in at $799, down from $1499 on Amazon.

Opens in a new window Credit: Jackery Jackery Explorer 2000 v2 Portable Power Station $1,499 at Amazon
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Fall is an ideal time to invest in the Jackery Explorer 2000 v2 Portable Power Station. Jackery portable power stations are excellent for building out your camping gear repository, leveling up your small business, getting creative with how you power your home, or preparing for storm season’s inevitable power outages. 

This Jackery Explorer 2000 v2 Portable Power Station is a powerful and reliable portable power option for so many different scenarios. The station weighs 39.5lbs and reaches 80 percent charge in 66 minutes. Alternatively, it can be fully charged via a solar panel in 6 hours. The generator has three three-prong outlets, a USB-C port, a fast-charging USB-C port, and a USB port. The easy-to-read LED screen keeps you updated on the power station’s battery life.

Jackery boasts that its LiFePo4 battery lasts for up to 10 years and that its compact, dependable design releases no fumes, providing a safe and eco-friendly option compared to gas generators. At full charge, Jackery details that the Jackery Explorer 2000 v2 Portable Power Station can fully charge a mobile phone up to 80 times, keep your lights on for 64 hours, power a coffee maker for 3 hours, or keep a refrigerator going for 26 hours. A fold-out handle makes the lightest, smallest LFP easy to carry.

Categories: IT General, Technology

How to Use pandas DataFrames in Python to Analyze and Manipulate Data

How-To Geek - Sat, 09/27/2025 - 19:00

If you want to analyze data in Python, you'll want to become familiar with pandas, as it makes data analysis so much easier. The DataFrame is the primary data format you'll interact with. Here's how to make use of it.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Genndy Tartakovsky releases Black Knight test footage to rally fan support

Mashable - Sat, 09/27/2025 - 18:50

On Friday, animation legend Genndy Tartakovsky (Dexter's Laboratory, Primal) posted stunning test footage for his current film project, Black Knight, on Instagram. There's just one problem: The film may never even get released.

As Tartakovsky explained in his caption, Black Knight has been in development for six years. However, the studio, Sony Animation, is unsure that there's a theatrical audience for the adult fantasy epic.

SEE ALSO: Genndy Tartakovsky breaks down the animation of "Fixed" while drawing his iconic characters

"We made a down and dirty test, and still no go," Tartakovsky wrote of his attempts to sway Sony. "So to try something different I thought I would share the test to see if it can get a ground swell of excitement that would change the studio’s mind."

The minute-long test footage is chock-full of atmospheric action. It introduces the titular Black Knight, a 20-foot-tall suit of armor that Tartakovsky says is controlled by ropes, pulleys, and levers by a knight within. Given that the film is set around the 14th century, that makes the Black Knight the medieval equivalent of a mech suit.

In the footage, the Black Knight crosses paths with an agile, masked young woman armed with chains. The ensuing battle is brief but engaging, with the masked woman's agility countering the Black Knight's massive sword swings.

Black Knight isn't the first of Tartakovsky's projects to experience difficulties in development or release. In the early 2010s, Tartakovsky was working on a Popeye film for Sony. He exited in 2015, and Sony later scrapped the project. His latest film, Sony's Fixed, was originally meant to be distributed theatrically by Warner Bros. Pictures. The studio dropped it in 2024, but Netflix acquired its distribution rights and released it in 2025.

With Black Knight, it appears that Tartakovsky is settling in for what's now a familiar fight, albeit with different tactics. As he wrote in his caption for the test footage, "Well, this might get me in trouble….But gotta try a new strategy."

Categories: IT General, Technology

Long-term review: Sonys WH-CH520 are the best headphones under $50 — period

Mashable - Sat, 09/27/2025 - 18:49

It's been two years since the Sony WH-CH520 debuted, and they remain one of the best bang-for-your-buck audio deals available in 2025. The amount of functionality stuffed into these cans is astounding. You’re getting signature Sony sound, as well as other brand hallmarks, for a fraction of the cost.

I’ve been re-testing these Sony headphones on and off for the past several weeks. My critiques have not changed one bit. They are arguably the best headphones under $100, easily the best headphones under $50, and a must-own for budget-conscious shoppers who want affordable Sony cans at a ridiculously low price ($38.95 at the time of writing).

Before you jump on Amazon to purchase a pair, check out my in-depth Sony WH-CH520 headphones review.

Sony WH-CH520 headphones specs and setup Unboxing the Sony WH-CH520 on-ear headphones. Credit: Alex Bracetti Setting up the WH-CH520 headphones is a breeze. Credit: Alex Bracetti / Mashable

The Sony WH-CH520 pack a solid spec sheet for the price. Take a look.

  • Speaker Driver Unit: 30mm

  • Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20,000 Hz

  • Battery: Up to 50 hours of additional playtime with wireless charging case

  • Quick charge: 3 minutes gives you 1.5 hours of listening time

  • Colors: Black, blue, cappuccino, pink, white, yellow

  • Sony’s proprietary technologies (e.g., 360 Reality Audio, DSEE)

  • App supported: Compatible with Sony Sound Connect app (Android/iOS)

  • Google Fast Pair and Find My Device support 

All Sony headphones and earbuds pair easily with Android and iOS/macOS devices, including the WH-CH520. Android users receive exclusive perks like one-tap Google Fast Pair and Find My Device. Downloading the Sony Sound Connect app provides access to a variety of features that extend functionality. Physical buttons and voice commands make up the WH-CH520’s control scheme. The protruding buttons on the right earcup are responsive to input and accurately execute intended functions. Sony’s microphones demonstrate great speech recognition when dishing out Google Assistant and Siri commands. 

Wireless range extends up to 45 feet before stuttering occurs. These on-ear headphones also come with multipoint technology to pair to two Bluetooth audio sources simultaneously.

Everything the Sony WH-CH520 headphones get right Credit: Alex Bracetti / Mashable

Despite having smaller drivers and no hi-res audio codecs, the WH-CH520 hold their own on the sonic front. Their sound profile is nicely balanced. Deep lows blend well with transparent mids and crisp highs. Contemporary tracks sound energetic, while live performances have a dynamic presence, thanks to airy vocal reproduction. Fidelity is taken up a notch when enabling my favorite feature for enhancing sound on Sony headphones: DSEE. This technology upscales the clarity and depth on all tracks — no matter the format — achieving near-hi-res quality when playing stored files or streaming music online. Sony’s spatial audio technology, 360 Reality Audio, is also onboard and does a decent job of creating 3D sound for music and movies.

Credit: Alex Bracetti / Mashable

A full charge generates up to 50 hours of playtime, depending on how the headphones are used. Special features (e.g., 360 Reality Audio, multipoint) can decrease this by 5 to 8 hours, which is still sufficient. You can get a full week of moderate use (5 hours daily) before recharging. Quick charging is just as noteworthy: a 3-minute charge equals 1.5 hours of playtime. Not even pricier selections like the AirPods Max and Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones match this.

The WH-CH520 make for an adequate calling headset. Are they on the same level as the new WH-1000xM6? No. The best flagship headphones are always going to outperform budget cans like this. But they come in handy when you need to make a call in a pinch. The mics effectively capture vocals and emphasize them over most ambient noise. Just make sure you’re not making calls in extremely loud environments. 

What the Sony WH-CH520 headphones get wrong Credit: Alex Bracetti / Mashable

Let’s state the obvious – these are not attractive headphones. The numerous colorways provide some flash, but that’s only if you’re purchasing one of the brighter shades. Besides that, the build quality is mediocre (mostly composed of plastic), and there’s very little detailing to differentiate these cans from any third-party pair sold on Amazon.

Not every major Sony feature is available. You miss out on smart controls like Quick Attention and Speak-to-Chat to automatically lower volume and auto-pause music whenever you speak, respectively. There is no active noise cancellation, which would have been useful since the on-ear design lets in a lot of ambient noise. Lastly, the WH-CH520 are missing a 3.5mm jack for wired listening. There is a USB-C port, but the headphones do not support USB-C listening. 

Credit: Alex Bracetti / Mashable Are the Sony WH-CH520 headphones worth it?

It’s almost criminal for Sony to sell headphones with its proprietary sound technologies at such a low price. 

The WH-CH520 sound terrific, and the inclusion of high-end features like 360 Reality Audio and DSEE make select content immersive and more comprehensive. Battery life is rated higher than most of the best noise-canceling headphones. Powerful mics and versatile wireless features add to their unbeatable value.

Credit: Alex Bracetti / Mashable

Yes, the design is chintzy and flawed (ambient sound passthrough affects sound quality), but all other areas are on-point.

The Sony WH-CH520 can be purchased directly on Sony’s website or at online retailers like Amazon and Best Buy

Opens in a new window Credit: Sony Sony WH-CH520 on-ear headphones $38.95 at Amazon
$69.99 Save $31.04 Get Deal
Categories: IT General, Technology

This Sky Blue 13-inch M4 MacBook Air is 20% off right now, and it’s super efficient

Mashable - Sat, 09/27/2025 - 18:44

Save $200: As of Sept. 27, this Sky Blue 13-inch M4 MacBook is 20% off on Amazon, coming in at $799, down from the $999 list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Sky Blue 13-inch M4 MacBook $799 at Amazon
$999 Save $200 Get Deal

This weekend, this Sky Blue 13-inch MacBook Air with an M4 chip is on sale, and it’s a powerhouse. The laptop features a 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display, 16GB Unified Memory, 256GB SSD storage, 12MP Center Stage camera, and Touch ID. The M4 chip offers up to 1.5 times faster CPU performance than the previous M2 chip from Apple. This particular model is well-suited for utilizing Apple Intelligence, Apple’s specially designed AI that helps you work and express yourself faster and more effectively. Apple Intelligence also offers industry-leading privacy protections, providing you with peace of mind that your data is secure.

This Sky Blue 13-inch MacBook Air offers up to 18 hours of battery life and a luxe webcam so you can look and sound your best. A webcam that offers a polished look and high-quality sound is perfect for someone who has frequent remote work meetings or appointments or a penchant for photo booth selfies. This MacBook Air features two Thunderbolt 4 ports, a MagSafe charging port, a headphone jack, WiFi 6E, and Bluetooth connectivity, supporting up to two external displays.

The MacBook Air seamlessly integrates with your Apple ecosystem, enhancing the usefulness of your other Apple products. You can seamlessly mirror your iPhone on your MacBook Air screen as you work, play games, write your novel, or watch your favorite show.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Taking a Disney+ Break? Get Your Fix With These Alternatives

How-To Geek - Sat, 09/27/2025 - 18:30

Whether you've had your fill of Disney+ movies and shows, recently got fed up with rising prices, the politics, or simply want to explore other streaming services, we've got you covered with these alternative platforms that offer similar content that might just satiate you.

Categories: IT General, Technology

How to Add a Website to the Home Screen on iPhone and Android

How-To Geek - Sat, 09/27/2025 - 18:15

Your Android phone, iPhone, or iPad home screen isn't just for apps. Whatever device you're using, you can add a website shortcut to the home screen for easy access. In some cases, you can even make the website work like an app.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Can’t Keep Up With Open-Source Software Updates? Here’s How I Do It

How-To Geek - Sat, 09/27/2025 - 18:00

There are many excellent free and open-source software projects, but keeping up with all of them can be difficult, especially when they don’t have blogs or other traditional communication channels. Thankfully, you can still keep track of most software projects in one simple feed, thanks to some hidden features and the magic of RSS.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Here's Why MicroSD Cards Disappeared From High-End Phones

How-To Geek - Sat, 09/27/2025 - 18:00

MicroSD card slots were once ubiquitous on Android phones. Now they’ve all but disappeared—at least from the more premium models. Why are the best phones seemingly making us do with less?

Categories: IT General, Technology

Judge rules that DJI will stay on Pentagon list of Chinese military-linked firms ahead of potential ban

Mashable - Sat, 09/27/2025 - 17:58

DJI, the Chinese tech company and drone maker, has lost a lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) and will remain on the Pentagon’s list of firms with ties to the Chinese military.

The ruling, handed down Friday, found that the DoD had "substantial evidence" to suggest DJI, one of the world’s largest consumer drone manufacturers, contributes to the "Chinese defense industrial base." However, the court rejected the DoD’s claim that DJI is "indirectly owned by the Chinese Communist Party."

In response to questions from Mashable, a DJI spokesperson emphasized that the company is not owned or controlled by the Chinese military, and noted that the DoD itself acknowledges the company produces consumer and commercial drones, not military hardware.

SEE ALSO: DJI has a new mini drone coming soon — and you can't have it

While no new smoking gun evidence was identified in the ruling, the federal judge wrote that the DoD (recently rebranded by the Trump administration as the "Department of War") is "owed heightened deference…in matters of national security."

Remaining on the list prevents the company from bidding on U.S. contracts, grants, and other programs, according to Reuters. It could also make American businesses wary of working with DJI, since partnering with a firm flagged by the Pentagon for ties to the Chinese military invites heightened scrutiny.

The ruling likely won't help DJI's efforts to stave off a potential ban of its popular drones later this year. As previously reported by Mashable, all drones manufactured in China must undergo a national security risk assessment by December 23, 2025, and the U.S. has yet to assess DJI. The company previously claimed that Customs and Border Protection has been blocking its drones from entering the country, and many DJI products are increasingly difficult to purchase in the United States.

In a statement to Mashable, DJI stressed that the lawsuit against the DoD is unrelated to the risk assessment audit.

"While DJI is pleased that the Court agreed with DJI and rejected most of DoD's purported justifications for listing DJI, we are disappointed that the Court nonetheless upheld the listing," a DJI spokesperson told Mashable in an email statement. "This decision was based on a single rationale that applies to many companies that have never been listed. DJI is currently evaluating its legal options in light of this decision."

Despite the ruling — and the looming potential ban of DJI drones — the spokesperson said that DJI "[remains] committed to serving our U.S. customers and partners, and we call for fair competition in the United States."

Categories: IT General, Technology

Let’s Remember Some Weird Phones: The Nextbit Robin

How-To Geek - Sat, 09/27/2025 - 17:30

Smartphones today are, frankly, pretty boring—but it wasn’t always this way! Back in 2016, a company called Nextbit had the crazy idea to launch an Android phone that relied almost entirely on cloud storage. It was weird.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Matthew McConaughey Takes the Wheel of Apple TV+’s October Lineup

How-To Geek - Sat, 09/27/2025 - 17:30

Apple TV+ adds eight new titles to its queue in October, and all of them are full of plots and dramas you’ll want to see. From a new season of Maya Rudolph's Loot and the premiere of a Jason Clarke-led thriller series to must-see films and documentaries, there’s more than enough to keep you entertained. There's even Matthew McConaughey.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Long-term review: I used Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 earbuds for 6 months

Mashable - Sat, 09/27/2025 - 17:24

The Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 first hit store shelves six months ago. As expected, the wireless earbuds became a top seller that garnered high praise for their sporty performance across numerous verticals (e.g., durability, fit, sound). The buds were also criticized for a few glaring flaws. 

I shared many of the same positives and negatives as my industry peers upon the Powerbeats Pro 2’s debut. Half a year later and I’m still testing them to determine any significant changes, good or bad.

Read my updated take on the Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 to see why they’re still on balance the best earbuds for working out in 2025.

Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 wireless earbuds specs and setup Credit: Alex Bracetti / Mashable

The Powerbeats Pro 2 come with a robust spec sheet. 

One of their biggest selling points is compatibility. The H2 processor makes pairing instantaneous with all Apple devices: iPhone, iPad, Macs/MacBook, and Apple TV. It also grants access to iOS perks like automatic switching, audio sharing, announced messages with Siri, Ear Tip Fit Test, “Hey Siri” voice activation, and much more. This time around, Beats added Android optimization for seamless connectivity with Google-operated devices. Android users have platform-restricted features (e.g., Fast Pair and Find My Device) at their disposal. Another addition is multipoint technology to pair the buds with two devices simultaneously. 

Credit: Alex Bracetti / Mashable

Like the AirPods Pro 2, the Powerbeats Pro 2 have a dedicated section in the iOS Settings menu to enable features, while Android users can download the Beats app to personalize the buds. (And like the new AirPods Pro 3, the Powerbeats offer heart-rate monitoring and fitness-forward features.)

Beats retained its physical control scheme. Each bud has a multifunctional button and volume rockers. All buttons produce solid tactility that ensures users their intended commands will be met. “Hey Siri” lets you fire up voice commands without manually enabling the feature on Apple devices. The buds also support Google Assistant. So, whether you're on team iOS or Android, voice assistance works flawlessly. 

What the Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 earbuds do right Credit: Alex Bracetti / Mashable

The Powerbeats Pro 2 perfect wireless audio athleticism. It starts with the signature ear hooks. These are ideal for all workouts, especially running. I always use them when jogging fast-paced on the streets and treadmill. They wrap gently around the ear and lock on for a secure and stable fit that never slips out. The variety of ear tips accommodates listeners of all ear sizes. IPX4 certification protects the buds from excessive sweat and water splashing, and the plastic frame is built to survive hard falls on the concrete. 

Credit: Alex Bracetti / Mashable

New health features increase the Powerbeats Pro 2’s value. There is built-in heart rate monitoring (HRM) that records heart rate data and shares it across different fitness programs (e.g., Apple Health, Nike Run Club, Peloton). Are the results as accurate as the Apple Watch? No. Is the feature a viable way to gauge fitness goals when your smartwatch isn’t available? Yes. 

Credit: Alex Bracetti / Mashable

Sound is the driving force behind every pair of workout earbuds, and the Powerbeats Pro 2 nails it. Beats tweaked its soundstage to deliver a more well-rounded listening experience. Bass remains at the sonic forefront. It is impactful and vibrant with minimal distortion at high volume. Despite the midrange being overemphasized, it is clear enough to enjoy vocals. Highs are crisp and detailed as well. Most workout tracks produce energetic mixes that can fuel any marathon run. Personalized Spatial Audio increases the acoustics and clarity on Dolby Atmos content. Precise headtracking makes Apple Music songs convincingly immersive. 

Credit: Alex Bracetti / Mashable

Battery life has been increased by an hour, now totaling 10 hours per charge. ANC use brings it down to 8 hours. That’s more playtime than any true wireless AirPods model. The same goes for other luxury alternatives. Beats’ charging case now supports Qi-enabled wireless charging and holds up to 45 hours. Fast-Fuel charging is also stronger: a 5-minute charge equals 1.5 hours of listening time.

What the Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 earbuds do wrong Left: The original Beats Powerbeats Pro sports earbuds. Credit: Zlata Ivleva / Mashable Right: The new Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 sports earbuds. Credit: Alex Bracetti / Mashable

Let’s discuss the redesign. It is more ergonomic and gentler on the ear (the previous model was a painful wear after several hours). However, the Powerbeats Pro 2 look less appealing than the OG, which had a sporty and sophisticated appearance. The charging case shrunk by about 33 percent, but it is still larger than most charging cases.

I don’t know what happened with the noise cancellation on these buds. The advertisements make it seem as if the technology is twice as powerful as before. It isn’t. Models like the AirPods Pro 2 and the sibling Fit Pro have superior ANC that neutralizes loud conversations and mid-frequencies at a high level. The absence of Apple’s newest listening modes – Adaptive Audio, Conversation Awareness, and Hearing Health – doesn’t help either.

Are the Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 earbuds worth it? Credit: Alex Bracetti / Mashable

Yes, with some of the usual caveats. 

They are an improvement over their predecessor, and Mashable named them the best earbuds for working out for their secure fit, easy connectivity, and fitness-forward features. Audio quality, connectivity, and special features all receive necessary boosts. The uptick in battery life is appreciated. Nifty extras like HRM also demonstrate Beats’ commitment to making the Powerbeats Pro 2 a premium release that avid exercisers will appreciate.

At the same time, they lack the AirPods Pro 2’s prime listening modes and resilient ANC, and if you already have a pair of Beats sports earbuds, I don't know if they justify an instant upgrade. The updated design doesn’t look as good as the original Powerbeats Pro. Then there’s the MSRP ($249), which is the same as the first-gen model and is still pretty steep for today’s consumer market — a market that has plenty of cheap wireless earbuds

The decision comes down to affordability. If splurging isn’t an issue, then the Powerbeats Pro 2 are 100 percent worth the investment. Otherwise, you can spend nearly $100 less on the equally great Fit Pro and enjoy many of the same perks.

The Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 can be purchased for $249.99 directly from the Apple website, as well as popular online retailers like Amazon and Best Buy.

Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 sports earbuds $199.95 at Amazon
$249.95 Save $50 Shop Now Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 earbuds review: By the numbers

Finally, let's break down the specs:

  • Type: Hook-style sports earbuds

  • Processor: Apple H2 chip

  • Battery life: 10 hours (45 hours with case)

  • Fast charging: 5 minutes provides 1.5 hours

  • Ear-tip sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL

  • Colors: Jet Black, Quicksand, Electric Orange, Hyper Purple

  • Noise cancellation: ANC

  • Spatial Audio: Yes

  • Water resistance: IPX4-rated

  • Weight: 8.7 grams (earbuds), 77.7 grams (earbuds + case)

Categories: IT General, Technology

This 65” QLED 4K Hisense Smart TV checks every box, and it’s on sale right now

Mashable - Sat, 09/27/2025 - 17:02

SAVE $140: As of Sept. 27, the 65” Hisense 4K Smart TV is 25% off, coming in at $409.99 down from its list price of $549.99 on Amazon. 

Opens in a new window Credit: Hisense 65” 4K QLED Hisense Smart TV $409.99 at Amazon
$549.99 Save $140 Get Deal

This 65” Hisense Smart TV comes with so many features. Starting from the top, it has QLED color, which consists of quantum dots that display over a billion shades of color each. This technology renders your favorite shows and games in a vivid, crisp picture. The size of the screen is also perfect for turning your living room into a home theatre of your very own.

Additionally, the Hisense Smart TV also includes Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos Sound, Fire TV, and a voice-controlled remote via Alexa. You can also shift into filmmaker mode and watch shows and movies in the exact dimensions and resolution that the filmmaker intended.

With an AI Light Sensor, your 65” Hisense Smart TV will detect the brightness of your room and adjust the picture accordingly to ensure the best picture possible and save on electricity use. The TV comes with a stand, remote, and setup guide, and it features Bluetooth, HDMI, USB, and Wi-Fi connectivity. The TV also has AI 4K upscaler technology to enhance any streamed content to near 4K image quality.

Amazon reviewers are pleased with the picture quality right out of the box, and many remark on its incredibly simple setup.

Categories: IT General, Technology

K-Pop Fans, Don’t Miss These 10 Movies and Shows!

How-To Geek - Sat, 09/27/2025 - 17:00

Beyond the glitz and glam of the K-pop scene, there's a lot to be explored: the underrated B-side tracks, behind-the-scenes production, and, of course, the pop culture inspired by the global fame of K-pop, as evidenced by the global success of Netflix's KPop Demon Hunters.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Electronic Arts nears $50 billion buyout by Saudi Arabia and Jared Kushners firm

Mashable - Sat, 09/27/2025 - 16:57

Electronic Arts (EA), the video game giant behind franchises like Madden and FIFA, is approaching a deal to go private, The Wall Street Journal reported Friday.

The deal, valued at around $50 billion, would be the largest leveraged buyout in history.

SEE ALSO: Review: 'Ghost of Yotei' proves that the PS5 is still a winner

According to the Wall Street Journal, the investors involved in the buyout include the private equity firm Silver Lake, Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF), and Affinity Partners, an investment firm formed by President Trump's son-in-law, Jared Kushner. Saudi Arabia's PIF currently provides Affinity Partners with most of its funds. As of 2023, Saudi Arabia's PIF also owns nearly 10 percent of EA.

The EA buyout would be the latest in a series of gaming investments by Saudi Arabia, part of the country's tactics to lessen economic dependence on oil. In 2021, the PIF launched Savvy Games Group, dedicated to investing in video games and esports. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman serves as Savvy Games Group's chairman.

In addition to EA, the PIF currently holds stakes in Activision Blizzard, the company behind Call of Duty and World of Warcraft, and Take-Two Interactive, the company behind Borderlands and Grand Theft Auto. The PIF also has a stake in Nintendo, although in 2024, it cut down on its shares.

Following the Wall Street Journal's report, shares of EA closed up 15 percent on Friday. EA has been publicly traded since 1990. EA could announce the buyout as soon as next week.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The Affordable American PHEV SUV That Puts Range Anxiety to Rest

How-To Geek - Sat, 09/27/2025 - 16:30

Plug-in hybrid SUVs and crossovers are way more useful than most people give them credit for. While EVs are the flashy new thing, PHEVs fix range anxiety without making you go fully electric.

Categories: IT General, Technology

How to download your favorite TikTok videos in case they disappear

Mashable - Sat, 09/27/2025 - 16:17

Love a TikTok so much that you want to keep it on your phone and treasure it forever? You can do that with the save video function built right into the app.

"Save video" allows you to save your favorite TikToks to your phone's photo library. Downloading TikTok videos allows you to have access to a TikTok even if the user deletes it, or if TikTok takes it down or removes the sound. Though this seems less likely now with an inked deal, it also preserves your favorite TikTok videos in case the platform is ever banned, which has been a real possibility for years. Downloading a TikTok video can also streamline sharing it with your more offline friends who may not have The Clock App.

SEE ALSO: TikTok will finally let you reset your For You page

Unfortunately, you can't save all TikToks — the user who posts a TikTok has to allow downloads for their video. If the "Save video" option doesn't come up, that means the TikTok user doesn't have downloads turned on for their account.

In that case, you could always screen record the TikTok instead. (We've got you covered on how to do that, too.)

To save a TikTok, follow the steps below.

How to download a TikTok video Total Time
  • 2 min
What You Need
  • Smartphone
  • TikTok app

Step 1: Open the TikTok app

Go to the app and open it as usual.

Step 2: Navigate to the video you want to save.

Hopefully you have it saved.

Step 3: Tap the white "Share" arrow on the right side of the screen.

It will bring up a number of options.

Tap the arrow to view sharing options for the TikTok. Credit: screenshot: TikTok

Step 4: Tap the arrow button above "Save Video" or "Download"

"Save Video" uses an easily recognizable download symbol. The option may also be listed as "Download," making your job even easier.

Downloads are on, so you can save the video by tapping "Save video." Credit: screenshot: TikTok

This article was originally published in 2021 and was most recently updated in September 2025.

Categories: IT General, Technology

5 Ways to Download Files via the Linux Terminal (That Aren't curl or wget)

How-To Geek - Sat, 09/27/2025 - 16:15

Have you ever been stuck in a system with no way to send a simple HTTP request? Perhaps you were trying to rescue a system or build a Docker image. Sometimes you need to use the tools at your disposal; other times it's just curiosity. I have five ways to connect and download files via HTTP.

Categories: IT General, Technology
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