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There are many types of errors in Python. No matter where you are in your Python journey, you've most likely faced one or more of these errors. For some, it might be easy to know what's wrong in your code. For others? Not so much. That's why I'm explaining what they mean.

With inflation and tariffs, the cost of living has only gone up — and not just for groceries and tech products. Daters have also felt the squeeze, so much so that some men are saying they'd "date" AI in order to save money.

Just under one in three men (28 percent) said they'd date an AI over being single if they had to cut costs, according to a survey from AI companion company Joi AI.

Joi surveyed 1,000 men aged 18-44 in June, and 36 percent also said dating an AI could save them hundreds each month.

SEE ALSO: OpenAI announces new parental controls for teen ChatGPT users

More than half of the millennial and Gen Z men surveyed believe AI relationships are more "financially practical" than human ones, while nearly half believe that AI dates could fulfill emotional needs — at least to some extent.

Meanwhile, 17 percent of those surveyed have flirted with an AI, and 12 percent said they weren't sure or maybe did so "jokingly."

Even though most of the men surveyed would rather stay single than date an AI to save money, the financial anxiety is real: 28 percent — the same amount who'd date an AI — said they feel anxious about how much a date might cost. Nearly half (49 percent) said they sometimes feel that way. Over half, 64 percent, said they'd lower their standards if income didn't matter to their partner.

While Joi AI is obviously invested in people having relationships with bots, it's true that people are turning to LLMs for companionship.

A recent survey from Common Sense Media found that some teens regularly chat with AI companions. When speaking about a previous survey from Joi AI, an expert told Mashable that it didn't surprise her that young adults would want to "marry" a chatbot at a time when they're frequently anxious and chatbots are providing nonjudgmental replies.

Back in June, CBS interviewed a couple of people — with human partners — who also fell in love with AI. One of them cited "being able to be received with acceptance and validation and nonjudgment" as one reason.

And now we have yet another reason: money. Then again, these men would have to budget for the costs of AI subscriptions.

TL;DR: This refurbished MacBook Air is $199.97 with free shipping. It’s the ultimate second laptop for work, travel, or streaming — without the huge price tag.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple MacBook Air 13.3-Inch 2017 (Refurbished) $199.97
$999 Save $799.03 Get Deal

Sometimes you don’t need a brand-new, top-of-the-line computer — you just need a reliable, portable device that can keep up with your day-to-day needs. That’s exactly what this refurbished Apple MacBook Air 13.3-inch offers, and right now you can grab one for only $199.97 (reg. $999) with free shipping.

If you’re already in the Apple ecosystem, this deal makes even more sense. Maybe you want a backup computer for home, a travel companion for flights, or a dedicated laptop for streaming and browsing that you don’t have to worry about. For less than the cost of an iPhone repair, this MacBook Air checks all the boxes.

SEE ALSO: The Swift 16 Air is Acer's new MacBook challenger

Despite being a refurbished model, this machine doesn’t skimp on performance. Powered by a 1.8GHz Intel Core i5 processor, it handles everyday tasks like email, web browsing, word processing, and light streaming with ease. The 128GB SSD gives you plenty of room for documents and media, while the 12-hour battery life means you can unplug and stay productive all day.

The 13.3-inch widescreen display with a 1440×900 resolution makes working on the go comfortable, and with WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity, staying connected is effortless. Whether you’re transferring files, hopping on a Zoom call, or streaming a movie, this MacBook Air delivers without fuss.

And yes, as with most refurbished products, you may notice some light wear — small scuffs or scratches on the case — but that’s part of the trade-off for not having to shell out the full $999. What you get is a Grade A/B refurbished laptop that works like it should, for a fraction of the cost of buying new.

If you’ve been meaning to add a second device to your tech lineup, this is the most affordable way to do it — while staying in the Apple family.

Get this refurbished Apple MacBook Air $199.97 (reg. $999) with free shipping for a limited time.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

When the Sony WF-1000XM5 debuted in summer 2023, they took the industry by storm, setting standards for active noise cancellation and sound in the true wireless space. Two years later, and very little has changed.

These next-gen buds were given the full brand treatment, which consists of class-leading sound technologies, extended playtimes, and stunning craftsmanship. The results still speak loudly because no new release or rerelease (we’re looking at you, AirPods Pro 2 with USB-C) has dethroned them from the top spot.

Here’s my updated take on the Sony WF-1000XM5 and why they remain some of the best earbuds overall.

Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds specs and setup

The Sony WF-1000XM5 launched with a robust spec sheet that holds up strong against modern competitors. 

The Sony WF-1000XM5s have remained some of our favorite earbuds since they were released. Credit: Alex Bracetti / Mashable

See for yourself.

• Speaker Driver Unit: 8.4 mm

• Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20,000 Hz

• Adaptive active noise cancellation

• Powered by Sony’s Integrated Processor V2

• Multiple proprietary technologies (e.g., 360 Reality Audio, DSEE, LDAC)

• IPX4 sweat and water resistance

• 8 hours of battery with ANC on / 12 hours with ANC off

• Up to 36 hours of additional playtime with wireless charging case

• 3-minute quick charging equals 1 hour of listening time

• Earpiece sizes: XS, S, M, L

• Colors: Black, smoky pink, white

Sony headphones and earbuds easily pair to Android and iOS/macOS devices; the former provides convenient wireless features such as Google’s one-tap Fast Pair and Find My Device. Downloading the Sony Sound Connect app grants access to a variety of features that extend functionality across the board (more on that later). 

The WF-1000XM5s are programmed with multiple smart controls. These include Mark Series headphones staples like Quick Attention and Speak-to-Chat, which lower the volume to 10 percent when performing the long-hold gesture and pause playback upon detecting your voice, respectively. Touch controls and wear detection are on point, seamlessly operating all major functions: call management, digital assistance, listening modes, playback, shortcut actions (e.g., Spotify Tap), and volume. Alexa and Google Assistant voice activation are available for hands-free voice commands. The buds are also compatible with Siri on iOS/macOS. Everything works well.

Other notables worth mentioning are wireless charging and multipoint technology to pair to two Bluetooth audio sources simultaneously.

It's hard to beat Sony's audio quality. Credit: Alex Bracetti / Mashable Everything the Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds do right

These buds are magnificent on so many levels, starting with sound quality. Sony’s soundstage is clear, spacious, and well-balanced. Expect a fine mix of bumping lows, crisp mids, and striking highs that blend beautifully on contemporary tracks. Bass is tamer than on the WF-1000xM4, but still impactful and resonant.

Toying with Sony’s sound features will heighten the listening experience. The customizable EQ can be used to manually adjust frequencies, plus there are numerous presets that produce quality audio for their respective categories. Find My EQ takes all the legwork out of creating a sound profile by automatically tweaking the soundstage to your hearing preferences. LDAC codec support streams music at a high bitrate to hear more detail and nuance on recordings. 360 Reality Audio accurately positions audio based on head movement and makes content more immersive. Then comes the crème de la crème of Sony features, DSEE, a technology that boosts fidelity on low-quality audio files. It’s a game-changer that everyone should be using to enhance sound on their Sony headphones.

The author wearing the Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds. Credit: Alex Bracetti / Mashable

Many experts view the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds as the best noise-cancelling earbuds, but the WF-1000XM5s aren’t far behind. They eliminate close to 90 percent of unwanted noises. Common distractions like chatty pedestrians, household appliances, and the humming sounds from a washing machine go unnoticed. While some high-frequency sounds are audible (e.g., crying babies, sirens), none will break your concentration. Sony’s 20-level transparency mode is a category best that demonstrates remarkable ambient noise and vocal capture for peak awareness. I’m always eavesdropping on loud conversations and keeping an ear out for emergency vehicles in my vicinity. 

Battery life is high. A full charge generates up to 12 hours of playtime, depending on how you use the buds, and a three-minute charge nets you one hour of listening time. The charging case holds an additional 36 hours and supports reverse charging. Speaking of which, the case is lighter, slimmer, and smaller than its predecessor. The buds’ updated design is also magnetizing. Details like the angled nozzles, full matte finish, and small wind-resistant mesh grilles give them a lavish appearance. IPX4 protection keeps the buds safe from sweat and water splashing.

Rounding out the positives are great call quality and versatile connectivity across all Bluetooth-compatible devices.

What the Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds do wrong

Despite their pleasant comfort, the WF-1000XM5 often fall out due to the slippery plastic frame. The setup process for 360 Reality Audio is equally annoying, and struggles to scan selfies of your ears and head. Even worse is the head-tracking test that requires several attempts to properly register head movements.

Are the Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds worth it?

Every. Single. Penny.

Very few models match the WF-1000XM5s' sonic prowess, and those that do lack Sony’s multifaceted sound suite. ANC is stellar at minimizing background noise. High playtimes keep you entertained for lengthy periods. The redesign is gorgeous. Lastly, the Sound Connect app gives you a multitude of ways to personalize the buds.

Whatever weaknesses the WF-1000XM5s have are insignificant when compared to their strengths. 

The Sony WF-1000XM5s have been marked up to $329 (originally $299), thanks to the current tariff fiasco. However, you can often find the buds on sale for less than $250.

Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds $213 at Amazon
$329.99 Save $116.99 Shop Now

We've only just begun to dig into the post-apocalyptic nightmare that is 28 Years Later, with the second part of director Danny Boyle and screenwriter Alex Garland's 28 Days Later reunion set to hit cinemas.

Directed by Candyman's Nia DaCosta, 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple picks up where the third film in the franchise left off. Having left the safety of his home on Holy Island, Spike (Alfie Williams) has found himself caught up with the problematically inspired Jimmy Crystal (Jack O'Connell) and his blonde-wigged gang.

Meanwhile, the iodine-washed Dr. Kelson (Ralph Fiennes) has a terrifying path ahead of him, as we get a glimpse into his past through family photographs. But the trailer shows Jimmy's crew walking through Kelson's bone-built memento mori structure, and Kelson looking rather...angry about it, so anything could happen.

Overlaid in the trailer is science fiction author Arthur C. Clarke speaking in a 1964 BBC show called Horizon: The Knowledge Explosion, saying that "trying to predict the future is a discouraging, hazardous occupation." It fits.

28 Years Later: The Bone Temple hits cinemas Jan. 16.

The Plugable USB-C 9-in-1 Hub is an excellent addition to the company’s existing lineup of hubs and docking stations, and requires little in the way of setup. Just plug it into your laptop, plug in all your other stuff, and you’ll be off and running.

Jimmy Kimmel has been on vacation for two months, and a lot has happened since he last delivered a monologue.

The thing that people have been asking him about most over the summer, though? Stephen Colbert's Late Show cancelation, and the gloating remarks from Donald Trump about how he might be next.

"He posted, 'The word is, and it's a strong word at that, Jimmy Kimmel is NEXT to go in the untalented Late Night Sweepstakes,' which is alarming, because — I don't know if you know this — Jimmy Kimmel is me," says the host in the clip above, before addressing the president directly. "You want us to be canceled because we make jokes about you? I thought you were against cancel culture? I thought that was like their whole thing? When did you become so woke?"

Apple's lineup of products is going to get a lot more interesting over the next couple of years.

On Tuesday, Apple analyst Ming Chi-Kuo shared his predictions on Apple's upcoming devices in 2026 and beyond. According to the report, Apple is planning to launch a foldable iPhone in 2026, followed by a foldable iPad in 2028.

SEE ALSO: 3 features we hope Apple brings to the iPhone 17

Kuo claims that both devices will use ultra-thin cover glass, manufactured jointly by Gorilla Glass maker Corning and Chinese company GIS. This type of glass is pricier than regular glass, especially on the iPad (due to the larger surface area), which is why Kuo expects the iPad to have a "considerably higher" price than the foldable iPhone. Kuo previously predicted that the first foldable iPhone could cost above $2,000, while analyst Jimmy Yoon said the price could be around $1,800 to $2,000.

Kuo also predicted that Apple will launch a cheaper and lighter version of its Vision Pro headset, called the Vision Air, in 2027.

"The new device is estimated to be over 40 percent lighter and more than 50 percent cheaper," said Kuo. Given that the Vision Pro retails for $3,499 and weighs 600 to 650 grams (depending on specs), the Vision Air should weigh about 400 grams and cost $1,750.

This should make the Vision Air more popular than its powerful, but pricey predecessor. According to Kuo, Apple could ship 1 million Vision Air units in 2027, compared to Vision Pro whose shipments are currently below 400,000 units.

SAVE $220: As of Sept. 3, the Roborock Q8 Max robot vacuum is on sale for $179.99 at Amazon. That's a 55% saving on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: roborock Roborock Q8 Max $179.99 at Amazon
$399.99 Save $220 Get Deal

A robot vacuum is a real game-changer. What started years ago as something to pick up small amounts of dirt around the house has now evolved into a much more advanced system that has become an essential for modern living. And the Roborock Q8 Max is a standout option for most homes, and it's now on sale at Amazon.

As of Sept. 3, this impressive robot vacuum is more than half off, now priced at $179.99. According to camelcamelcamel, it's also at its lowest-ever price at Amazon.

SEE ALSO: How to choose a robot vacuum in 2025: Don't buy one before considering these features

This is a strong choice for staying on top of your cleaning routine, with minimal effort. It has dual rubber brushes that pick up tough dirt and hairs, all while avoiding annoying brush tangles. So if you have a carpeted home or pets, this could be the model for you.

It doesn’t just vacuum, either. It mops with adjustable water flow settings to suit anything from delicate floors to stubborn grime. And with a strong 5,500 Pa suction power, it handles everyday dirt with ease.

For navigation around your home, the Q8 Max is equipped with obstacle detection, meaning you don’t need to clear the room before setting it off. The smart navigation maps your home quickly and accurately, and even creates a 3D view you can customise for furniture and floor types. It also recognises different levels in your house automatically, so you can move it between floors without extra docks.

And to make things even easier, everything is controlled from the app. Here you can set schedules, tweak settings, or pick a faster route if you want a quicker clean.

Get this robot vacuum deal from Amazon right now.

TL;DR: Live stream Sinner vs. Musetti in the 2025 US Open for free on 9Now. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

There are a number of huge matchups in the latter stages of the 2025 US Open, including Sinner vs. Musetti. This all-Italian contest is difficult to predict. We get that it's difficult to look past the top seed, but Lorenzo Musetti has looked really impressive in the final Grand Slam of the season.

If you want to watch Sinner vs. Musetti in the 2025 US Open for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

How to watch Sinner vs. Musetti for free

Sinner vs. Musetti in the 2025 US Open is available to live stream for free on 9Now.

9Now is geo-restricted to Australia, but anyone from around the world can access this site with a VPN. These handy tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to secure servers in Australia, meaning you can unblock 9Now from anywhere in the world.

Access free live streams of the 2025 US Open 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 Australia

4. Visit 9Now

5. Watch the 2025 US Open 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 leading VPNs do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can gain access to free live streams without committing with your cash. This is obviously not a long-term solution, but it does give you time to watch the 2025 US Open before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for 9Now?

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

• Servers in 105 countries including Australia

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

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is always secure

• Fast connection speeds

• 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 $12.95 (with money-back guarantee).

Live stream Sinner vs. Musetti for free from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

TL;DR: Live stream Osaka vs. Muchova in the 2025 US Open for free on 9Now. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

Naomi Osaka has a special relationship with the US Open. The two-time champion has been rolling back the clock in this year's competition, progressing to a stage she hasn't reached in a Grand Slam since 2021. She has produced some stunning performances on her to way to a quarter-final matchup with Muchova, including an impressive victory over Coco Gauff.

If you want to watch Osaka vs. Muchova in the 2025 US Open for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

How to watch Osaka vs. Muchova for free

Osaka vs. Muchova in the 2025 US Open is available to live stream for free on 9Now.

9Now is geo-restricted to Australia, but anyone from around the world can access this site with a VPN. These handy tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to secure servers in Australia, meaning you can unblock 9Now from anywhere in the world.

Access free live streams of the 2025 US Open 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 Australia

4. Visit 9Now

5. Watch the 2025 US Open 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 leading VPNs do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can gain access to free live streams without committing with your cash. This is obviously not a long-term solution, but it does give you time to watch the 2025 US Open before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for 9Now?

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

• Servers in 105 countries including Australia

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

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is always secure

• Fast connection speeds

• 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 $12.95 (with money-back guarantee).

Live stream Osaka vs. Muchova for free from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

TL;DR: Live stream Swiatek vs. Anisimova in the 2025 US Open for free on 9Now. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

Are we heading towards another showdown between Swiatek and Sabalenka? It's probably the 2025 US Open final that most fans would like to see, but try telling that to Amanda Anisimova. The American eighth seed didn't win a single game in her Wimbledon final defeat to Swiatek, but she'll be looking to forget all about that with a big performance at the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center.

If you want to watch Swiatek vs. Anisimova in the 2025 US Open for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

How to watch Swiatek vs. Anisimova for free

Swiatek vs. Anisimova in the 2025 US Open is available to live stream for free on 9Now.

9Now is geo-restricted to Australia, but anyone from around the world can access this site with a VPN. These handy tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to secure servers in Australia, meaning you can unblock 9Now from anywhere in the world.

Access free live streams of the 2025 US Open 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 Australia

4. Visit 9Now

5. Watch the 2025 US Open 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 leading VPNs do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can gain access to free live streams without committing with your cash. This is obviously not a long-term solution, but it does give you time to watch the 2025 US Open before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for 9Now?

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

• Servers in 105 countries including Australia

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

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is always secure

• Fast connection speeds

• 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 $12.95 (with money-back guarantee).

Live stream Swiatek vs. Anisimova for free from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

TL;DR: Live stream De Minaur vs. Auger-Aliassime in the 2025 US Open for free on 9Now. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

There are still a few spots left to secure in the 2025 US Open semi finals, and De Minaur is set to battle it out with Auger-Aliassime for a place in the final four of the men's draw. Neither player has ever made a Grand Slam final, and only Auger-Aliassime has ever played in a Grand Slam semi final. Could this be the year of the underdog?

If you want to watch De Minaur vs. Auger-Aliassime in the 2025 US Open for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

How to watch De Minaur vs. Auger-Aliassime for free

De Minaur vs. Auger-Aliassime in the 2025 US Open is available to live stream for free on 9Now.

9Now is geo-restricted to Australia, but anyone from around the world can access this site with a VPN. These handy tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to secure servers in Australia, meaning you can unblock 9Now from anywhere in the world.

Access free live streams of the 2025 US Open 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 Australia

4. Visit 9Now

5. Watch the 2025 US Open 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 leading VPNs do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can gain access to free live streams without committing with your cash. This is obviously not a long-term solution, but it does give you time to watch the 2025 US Open before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for 9Now?

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

• Servers in 105 countries including Australia

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

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is always secure

• Fast connection speeds

• 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 $12.95 (with money-back guarantee).

Live stream De Minaur vs. Auger-Aliassime for free from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

JBL has officially revealed the new PartyBox 720, its latest and loudest battery-powered party speaker. This new speaker packs a serious punch with 800 watts of JBL Pro Sound, a lightshow, and the ability to roll around with ease.

JBL has just revealed the new Boombox 4, the newest version of its portable waterproof speaker. It supports multi-speaker connections with Auracast, two different Bass Boost settings, and an impressive battery life, all while being a lot lighter than its predecessor.

TL;DR: This Ultimate Microsoft Office Professional 2021 for Windows and Windows 11 Pro Bundle gives your PC a major upgrade, and right now it’s only $44.97 (reg. $418.99) through Sept. 14.

Opens in a new window Credit: Microsoft Ultimate Microsoft Office Professional 2021 for Windows: Lifetime License + Windows 11 Pro Bundle $44.97
$418.99 Save $374.02 Get Deal

Got an old PC lying around? Don’t waste hundreds of dollars on a new laptop — for under $50, you can make a dusty computer feel as good as new with an updated operating system and suite of Microsoft Office apps, thanks to this bundle.

Right now, the Ultimate Microsoft Office Professional 2021 for Windows lifetime license and Windows 11 Pro bundle can be yours for just $44.97 (reg. $418.99) through Sept. 14.

Breathe new life into your old PC for under $50

From apps to a new operating system, you can give your PC a permanent upgrade with this helpful bundle from Microsoft. It kicks off with a Microsoft Office Professional 2021 license packed with eight powerful apps designed for both personal and professional use — Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote, Teams, Publisher, and Access.

This Microsoft Office edition may have an older year attached, but don’t worry. It features more apps than the 2024 version and includes a ribbon-based user interface that provides quick access to all its available features, tools, and customizations.

In addition to Microsoft Office, this bundle also includes a Windows 11 Pro license. This operating system was made with the modern professional in mind, with a seamless interface and improved online security, including helpful features like enhanced antivirus protection.

Give your productivity a boost with this Ultimate Microsoft Office Professional 2021 for Windows and Windows 11 Pro Bundle on sale now for just $44.97 (reg. $418.99) until Sept. 14.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

TL;DR: Accessorize with your favorite color with this Adorable Keychain Collectible Figure, now $19.99 (reg. $24.99) while supplies last.

Opens in a new window Credit: StackSocial Keychain Collectible Figure $19.99
$24.99 Save $5 Get Deal

Feeling some FOMO over the cute stuffed animal craze sweeping the planet? While some of these little fluffy creatures are selling for hundreds of dollars, you can get your hands on this Adorable Keychain Collectible Figure in the exact color of your choice — no blind box surprises — for 20% off at just $19.99 (reg. $24.99).

Bring a touch of whimsy to your nightstand, your shelf, your tote bag, your car, or wherever you’d like to bring in some joy with this Adorable Keychain Collectible Figure. You’ve probably seen these tiny creatures taking over the world, and if you’d like to get in on the fun, you can for only $20.

SEE ALSO: Steak 'n Shake is giving away free Labubu toys — here's how to get yours

Most of these collectibles come in mystery boxes, but this Adorable Collectible Character Figure comes in your guaranteed exact design of choice — with 13 colors to pick from. That means you won’t waste money on a color you don’t want, or on one that’s a duplicate.

You’ll fall in love with this little figure’s expressive details and playful style. It measures in at just 7.1 inches tall and 1.6 inches wide, and it’s fun for both kids and adults. Its durable vinyl construction means it will last a long time.

Whether you want to infuse some character into your space or you’re looking for the perfect gift, snag an Adorable Keychain Collectible Figure for just $19.99 (reg. $24.99) today.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Acer isn't being subtle about the fact that its latest ultraportable Swift laptop is a MacBook Air competitor.

The Taiwanese tech company unveiled the Swift Air 16 at IFA 2025 in Berlin on Wednesday, billing it as an "ultralight Copilot+ PC for modern mobile professionals." (Yep, they put the A-word right in its name.) The 16-inch Windows laptop features AMD Ryzen AI 300 Series processors, an optional AMOLED 120Hz display, and an impressively feathery form factor for a laptop of its size.

U.S. shoppers won't be able to get their hands on the Swift Air 16 right away. Acer is launching it in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa this November, starting at €999 (or about $1,165), but hasn't confirmed its North American pricing or availability just yet.

The lighter configuration of the Acer Swift Air 16 is over half a pound lighter than the 13-inch M4 Apple MacBook Air. Credit: Acer

Weighing as little as 2.18 pounds (depending on the configuration), the Swift Air 16 is as light as the Snapdragon X-powered Asus Zenbook A14, which has a smaller 14-inch display. The Zenbook A14 has been the lightest Copilot+ PC on the market since it debuted at CES 2025 in January. (The 12-inch Microsoft Surface Pro 11 released in May is even lighter at 1.5 pounds, but only on a technicality: It doesn't come with a built-in keyboard.)

For comparison's sake, the 13-inch M4 Apple MacBook Air weighs 2.7 pounds, while the 15-inch model weighs 3.3 pounds.

The Acer Swift 16 AI may be much lighter than Apple's MacBook Air, but it's not quite as thin. Credit: Acer

Asus flirted with the MacBook Air comparisons by choosing the "A14" moniker, which sort of looks like the word "AIR," but Acer is going full send with the Swift Air 16.

That said, Apple probably isn't sweating too hard. While the Zenbook A14 was able to match MacBooks' all-day stamina, lasting nearly 22 hours in our battery life benchmark, the Swift Air 16 is only rated for up to 13 hours of video playback per charge.

The Acer Swift Air 16 comes in four finishes (left to right): Steel gray, fresh blue, light silver, and white. Credit: Acer

Here's what the rest of its spec sheet looks like:

• AMD Ryzen AI 5 330 to 7 350 processor

• Integrated AMD Radeon 820M to 860M graphics

• 60Hz IPS or 120Hz AMOLED display options

• Up to 32GB of RAM

• Up to 1TB of SSD storage

• 2MP webcam with privacy shutter

• Two USB-C ports, one USB-A port, an HDMI port, and a headphone jack

• WiFi 6E

• A magnesium-aluminum alloy chassis in four color options (light silver, fresh blue, steel gray, and white)

The Swift Air 16 weighs 2.18 pounds and measures 0.63 inches thin with its IPS display. Bumping that up to AMOLED makes it a quarter of a pound heavier and two-tenths of an inch thicker.

Just a day after JBL announced its new ultra-portable speaker, the JBL Grip, come another two new speakers from the brand. The audio maker just launched the Boombox 4 and the PartyBox 720 — the latter the largest speaker yet from JBL.

JBL Boombox 4 The previous generation — the JBL Boombox 3 Credit: JBL The 2025 model — the JBL Boombox 4 Credit: JBL

The JBL Boombox 4 is an update to its predecessor, the Boombox 3. It's designed to be portable with the top handle, but it's a hefty speaker. The new model comes in at 13 pounds, two pounds lighter than the Boombox 3. It's a master of bass with two different Boost Bass settings: Deep Bass adds a rich bass performance while Punchy Bass is for lively, upbeat tunes.

In the redesign of its Boombox, JBL added two new woofers to the speaker. It offers 28 hours of playback and an IPX68 waterproof rating. The Boombox 4 also comes with AI Sound Boost to deliver a louder sound with less distortion. JBL's Auracast also allows you to sync the Boombox with another speaker, like the new PartyBox 720. Preorders for the Boombox 4 start now and will be available on Sept. 28.

JBL PartyBox 720 The PartyBox 720 has an IPX4 rating so an overzealous cannon ball won't bring down the mood. Credit: JBL

JBL's PartyBox 720 is the largest battery-powered speaker from the brand, making it a step up from the JBL PartyBox 520. It stands 37 inches tall and weighs a whopping 68 pounds, so while it is portable thanks to its handle and wheels, it's going to be a heavy lift.

It's a party speaker fit for true entertainers looking to blast music for a crowd. It has the convenience of being wireless, able to play wherever you need, without being tied down by the need for an outlet. With 15 hours of playback, it can keep the party going from dusk to dawn. Two nine-inch woofers deliver powerful sound and bass. Like the Boombox 4, it also uses AI Sound Boost and Auracast.

It features two XLR ports for a microphone, guitar, or even DJ equipment. As evidenced by our experience with the PartyBox 520, we think JBL's speakers make for great karaoke machines when paired with a mic. The JBL PartyBox 720 is available for preorder now and will be on shelves Sept. 21.

While tech brands like SteelSeries already offer a wide range of gaming headphones that feel premium, you could make the argument that the Arctis Nova Pro Wireless is the first instance of a truly high-end, luxury gaming headset. 

The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless is designed to serve as a do-it-all solution for console, PC, and everyday listening — offering a combination of high-fidelity audio, flexible connectivity, and thoughtful convenience. Its price is still rather high, even when discounted. That said, the experience is well and truly worth the cost — especially if you want the absolute best level of gaming audio you can get on any platform at home and beyond.

High-end design and comfort

The Nova Pro Wireless is the type of model that doesn’t scream “gaming headset” at first glance. If anything, its sleek profile, retractable microphone, and matte finish makes it feel more like a premium pair of travel headphones compared to models from other brands that focus on flashy RGB. 

Credit: Mashable/SteelSeries

As someone who normally opts for black, the white model wowed me with a clean, understated elegance that would suit working remotely in a coffee shop just as well as connecting to a PS5 at home. And if you like customisation, the Nova Pro Wireless is designed to swap its headband and twin speaker plates with those of alternative colours from Nova Booster packs. The standard silver and white looks classy, but the mint colour is my new favourite — refreshing the white headset with an extra hint of personality yet still bringing a compatible, elegant aesthetic to my setup.

As for comfort, the way that the flexible steel headband evenly distributes weight offsets some of the small inconvenience I’ve had with slightly cheaper, yet still great, headsets. When wearing the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7X, for example, I’d need to quickly remove it for some small relief after about four hours. 

Credit: Mashable/SteelSeries

With the Nova Pro Wireless, I felt none of this fatigue whatsoever. So I could keep playing Gears of War Reloaded for as long as I wanted without any additional stress.

Brilliant audio performance and connectivity

The Nova Pro Wireless wouldn’t be a luxury gaming headset without being able to generate first-rate audio for gaming and other media, and it thankfully does that in spades. Like with the aforementioned Arctis Nova 7X and other models in the SteelSeries arsenal — such as the Arctis GameBuds — the Nova Pro Wireless comes in two models that either work with everything but Xbox (PS5, Nintendo Switch 2, PS4, PC, etc), and everything including Xbox. 

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This is due to the alternative wireless protocols under the technological hood that require a dedicated connection method to connect to Xbox consoles like the Series X and S. Where this differs in the Nova Pro Wireless’ case is the included OLED Base Station, working as a USB-connected 2.4GHz control hub for the headset — letting you switch between the dedicated Xbox USB-C connection and the other USB for devices like the PS5 and Switch 2.

With the Nova Pro Wireless, SteelSeries bundles in two USB-C cables so you can plug in both to jump from one to the other on the fly.

Credit: Mashable/SteelSeries

As for how the sound performs, the Hi-Res drivers not only provide a fuller, richer, and more detailed sound compared to most gaming headsets, but can be tweaked to your liking as well. The Base Station already comes with a range of dedicated EQ presets, including a bass boost and the ability to hear footsteps in an FPS like Fortnite, but you can also create custom presets on Sonar within the SteelSeries GG app. 

Although it feels like an inconvenience that you can’t create custom presets within the Base Station, with SteelSeries’ Arctis mobile app, it’s still incredibly handy for PC or console gamers who don’t mind a bit of back and forth. 

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Console players have specific audio support of their own as the Arctis Nova Pro Wireless is compatible with both Microsoft Spatial Sound for Xbox or Tempest 3D Audio for PS5. No matter which system you’re playing on, the spatial imaging feels mighty enough to accurately pinpoint foes in Call of Duty, take in the beautiful soundscapes of The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered, enjoy the thrill of engine revs in Forza Motorsport 5, or simply revel in the wacky music of Mario Kart World when connected to the USB port on your docked Nintendo Switch 2. 

The only caveat with a feature like the Base Station is that the Arctis Nova Pro Wireless, at its best, isn’t really a portable headset to take on the go if you constantly want to use the 2.4GHz connection. On the other hand, the Bluetooth compatibility works great with handheld devices like the Switch 2 and smartphones.

The 2.4GHz connection and Bluetooth work simultaneously. So you can listen to ACDC on Spotify through your phone whilst playing Battlefield 6 on PS5, if you like.

Solid noise control, fit for everyday use 

That same premium audio from the Arctis Nova Pro Wireless is made even better with Active Noise Cancellation enabled. Using a hybrid microphone array, the headset reduces background distractions like keyboard clatter or household chatter. 

I found that the noise-cancelling doesn’t shut out as much outside noise compared to my favourite Sony XM4s, at least when I’m out and about, but it’s good enough to create a more immersive bubble when gaming or binging series like Wednesday at home. 

Credit: Mashable/SteelSeries

I found the Transparency Mode is equally useful, letting you hear your surroundings without removing the headset — making it ideal for when I was watching Demon Slayer when cooking.

Clean microphone performance

As a gamer who doesn’t go multiplayer too often, SteelSeries’ extractable ClearCast Gen 2 microphone ended up being another major bonus thanks to its AI-powered noise reduction. When getting into a group chat with my friends during a Star Wars Battlefront 2 marathon, they not only said that my voice quality sounded way crisper than when I’ve used the microphone on my Razor Kiyo streaming webcam, but they couldn’t hear the background noise of the extractor fan either. 

Credit: Mashable/SteelSeries

The Arctis Nova Pro’s ability to adjust the volumes between the chat and games we were playing came in clutch as well. With some minor tweaking required, the handiness of the base station and high-quality audio of the mic mean that only a bit of trial and error is needed to get the balance right compared to other headsets.

Swapple battery system — the star of the show

The crown jewel of the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless headset is its hot-swappable battery system. 

Included with the headset are two batteries: one to keep inside the headset itself, and one you can actually charge within the base station. You can keep playing on one battery — lasting around 20 hours each — and then exchanging with the base station without needing to turn the headset off. 

Credit: Mashable/SteelSeries

While there have been a plethora of wireless gaming headsets from various brands that boast practically indefinite battery lives, the Arctis Nova Pro Wireless remains the first where you could technically keep playing forever — whilst sounding fantastic with versatile connectivity and comfort.

Where to buy the Nova Pro Wireless?

The Arctis Nova Pro Wireless gaming headset is available to buy at popular retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart.

Opens in a new window Credit: SteelSerie SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless $309.99 at Amazon
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