Blogroll

3 reasons to enable ADB on Android

How-To Geek - Fri, 03/27/2026 - 17:10

So, you've heard people talking about ADB and that you should enable it on your Android phone. Why though? Here are three reasons to enable ADB on your smartphone right now.

Categories: IT General, Technology

3 Netflix documentaries worth watching this weekend (March 27 - 29)

How-To Geek - Fri, 03/27/2026 - 17:00

Documentaries, to me, stand out so much as a genre because, yeah, they're wildly informative and entertaining, but more importantly they zero in on real pockets of humanity that are stranger and more compelling than any fiction.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Charmast's 10,000mAh portable charger has built-in cables (no extra wires needed)

How-To Geek - Fri, 03/27/2026 - 17:00

Most portable chargers solve one problem—battery life—but create another: cable clutter. If you’ve ever packed multiple charging cables just to keep your devices alive, you’re not alone.

Categories: IT General, Technology

I found all the wireless earbuds worth buying during Amazons Big Spring Sale. Save $50 on AirPods

Mashable - Fri, 03/27/2026 - 16:51
Best Big Spring Sale earbuds deals Best overall Sony WF-1000XM6 $298 (save $31.99) Get Deal Best budget pick Soundcore by Anker P20i True Wireless Earbuds $19.98 (save $20.01) Get Deal Best Apple deal Apple AirPods Pro 3 $199.99 (save $49.01) Get Deal Best open earbuds deal Sony LinkBuds Clip $198 (save $31.99) Get Deal Best Under $100 Nothing Ear (a) $58.99 (save $50.01) Get Deal

If you were hoping Amazon's Big Spring Sale would bring some solid earbud deals, you're in luck. The event runs through March 31, and there are plenty of great tech discounts. These aren't the best wireless earbud deals we've ever seen, but if you need a new pair of buds, you can catch Apple AirPods, the new Sony LinkBuds Clip, and the trendy Nothing Ear (a) noise-cancellers on sale.

SEE ALSO: Amazon Big Spring Sale 2026: Live updates on the top deals

So, while Amazon is busy pushing camping gear and cleaning supplies on its homepage, there are some genuinely great markdowns on premium audio gear hiding in the mix.

Here are the best wireless earbud deals to grab before the sale ends.

Best deal overall Sony WF-1000XM6 $298 at Amazon
$329.99 Save $31.99   Get Deal at Amazon Why we like it

If you have the budget for a premium audio upgrade, the Sony WF-1000XM6 earbuds are my favorite overall pick right now. They just launched last month with a pretty hefty $329.99 price tag, so seeing them drop to $298 this early is a surprisingly fast discount.

When I tested these for my official review, I was legitimately distracted by how good the music sounded right out of the box. They're easily the most well-rounded and effective noise-cancelling earbuds released in the past year, effortlessly handling everything from shrieking guitar riffs to heavy bass without getting crunchy. Even my editor, Timothy Beck Werth, agreed the audio is "really darn good."

I do have to mention a minor hang-up, though: the touch controls aren't quite as seamless as you'd expect for the price. However, if you're looking for a comfortable fit for all-day wear and top-tier noise cancellation, these might just be the best earbuds of the year.

Check out our full review of the Sony WF-1000XM6 earbuds.

Best AirPods deal Apple AirPods Pro 3 $199 at Amazon
$249 Save $50   See It at Amazon See It at Walmart Why we like it

The AirPods Pro 3 are still quite new, having only hit the market this past fall. The earbuds are undeniably the best Apple has released yet, featuring two times the noise cancellation power of the second-gen Pros, a well-rounded sound profile, eight hours of battery life per charge, a built-in heart rate monitor, and live translation features. In his review of the buds, Mashable contributor Adam Doud wrote, "Overall, the AirPods Pro 3 are a remarkable upgrade, even over the AirPods Pro 2, which were already very good."

Check out our full review of the Apple AirPods Pro 3.

More AirPods dealsBest budget pick Anker Soundcore P20i $19.98 at Amazon
$39.99 Save $20.01   Get Deal at Amazon Why we like it

If you just need a reliable pair of everyday earbuds and refuse to drop a ton of cash, the Anker Soundcore P20i are my favorite budget pick. They're usually priced around $39.99, which is already a steal, but dropping to $19.98 for the Big Spring Sale makes them an immediate add-to-cart.

Even at this rock-bottom price, you still get 10mm drivers that deliver surprisingly punchy bass, plus 10 hours of battery life on a single charge (and 30 hours total with the case). They also hook up to the Soundcore app so you can mess around with 22 different EQ presets and use the "Find My Earbuds" feature if you lose one in the couch cushions.

Just keep in mind that for 20 bucks, you aren't getting active noise cancellation or multipoint pairing — but for commutes, podcasts, or just keeping a backup pair in your gym bag, they easily punch above their weight class.

Even more Amazon Big Spring Sale earbuds dealsBest open earbuds deal Sony LinkBuds Clip $198 at Amazon
$229.99 Save $31.99   Get Deal at Amazon Why we like it

When it comes to open earbuds, it seems more and more options are coming out by the day. While the Bose Ultra Open earbuds are one of the most popular options, Sony's latest release, the Sony LinkBuds Clip, is worth a closer look. Like the Bose buds, they have a clip design built for maximizing comfort. Also like the Bose buds, they have excellent sound quality.

Mashable contributor Simon Cohen wrote in his review of the buds, "With the possible exception of Bose’s Ultra Open Earbuds ($299), the LinkBuds Clip are the best [open earbuds] I’ve heard." On sale, they're also over $100 cheaper than the Bose buds, so second-best in sound quality hardly feels like settling here.

Check out Mashable's full review of the Sony LinkBuds Clip.

More open earbuds deals
Categories: IT General, Technology

High-res phone screens are a mistake—why 1080p is the standard that should stick around

How-To Geek - Fri, 03/27/2026 - 16:45

Smartphone displays have hovered around the 1080p (Full HD) mark for years. There was a stretch in the mid-2010s (when the Samsung Galaxy S6 came out) when 1440p (QHD) became commonplace. Many brands have quietly shifted back to 1080p, reserving 1440p for Ultra and Pro models to make them feel more premium. While that might trigger a bit of FOMO, it isn’t nearly as big a feature as brands want you to think.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Book deals are live in Amazons Big Spring Sale — save on best-sellers, including Project Hail Mary

Mashable - Fri, 03/27/2026 - 16:44
The best Amazon Big Spring Sale book deals at a glance: Best overall book deal Theo of Golden $14.98 (save $5.02) Get Deal Best non-fiction book deal Everyday Genius: Hacks to Boost Your Memory, Focus, Problem-Solving, and Much More $26 (save $2.99) Get Deal Best fiction book deal Reminders of Him $8.49 (save $8.50) Get Deal

Amazon sales are a great excuse to upgrade your tech. From Prime Day to Black Friday, these discount days see everything from robot vacuums to TVs slashed in price. But it's not just big ticket items that see major savings — for bookworms, it's a wonderful opportunity to add some inspiration to your home library. And with Amazon’s Big Spring Sale running through March 31, now is a good time to score physical and digital book deals.

Whether you're looking for something completely fresh or there's a new bestseller you've had your eye on, these are some of the best book deals we've spotted on Amazon.

SEE ALSO: The best Kindle deals in the Amazon Big Spring Sale — Kindle Colorsoft, Paperwhite, and Scribe Best overall book deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Theo of Golden $14.98 at Amazon
$20 Save $5.02   Get Deal Why we like it

Released in October 2025, Theo of Golden by Allen Levi is a New York Times bestseller. The novel follows Theo as he purchases pencil portraits from a local coffeehouse and returns them to their rightful owners.

Best non-fiction book deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Everyday Genius: Hacks to Boost Your Memory, Focus, Problem-Solving, and Much More $26 at Amazon
$28.99 Save $2.99   Get Deal Why we like it

Despite only being released this month, this book by Nelson Dellis is already discounted at Amazon. The book helps you build practical cognitive skills, from memorising names and improving focus to faster learning and creative problem-solving. Drawing on his experience as a six-time USA Memory Champion, Dellis breaks down techniques that make sharper thinking accessible, offering methods to strengthen memory, boost concentration, and develop more effective ways of processing and using information.

More non-fiction book dealsBest fiction book deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Reminders of Him $8.49 at Amazon
$16.99 Save $8.50   Get Deal Why we like it

This is a great opportunity to grab this book at a lower price now that the movie has hit theaters. Reminders of Him follows Kenna Rowan, a young mother returning home after five years in prison, desperate to reconnect with her four-year-old daughter.

More fiction book dealsKindle book deals
Categories: IT General, Technology

Stick vacuums deals in Amazons Spring Sale: Shark is dunking on Dyson so far

Mashable - Fri, 03/27/2026 - 16:32
A quick look at the best cordless vacuum deals ahead of Amazon's spring sale Best vacuum deal for homes with pets Shark PowerDetect Pet Plus Clean & Empty $399.99 at Amazon (save $200) Get Deal Best budget stick vacuum deal Shark Pet IX141 $149.00 at Amazon (save $150.99) Get Deal Best wet dry cordless vacuum deal Roborock F25 Ace Combo $459.99 at Amazon (save $290) Get Deal

Take it from someone who tests multiple robot vacuums each month: Not even the best robot vacuum AI features are immune to screwing up. If you're inclined to just do the job yourself — or if the concept of a robot vacuum with a camera sketches you out — at least make the chore enjoyable with a good stick vacuum. You have serious options to choose from at Amazon's Big Spring Sale.

SEE ALSO: Robot vacuums vs. stick vacuums: Shopping advice from someone who has both

Our favorite cordless vacuum deals so far are all vacuums that someone at Mashable has tested at home and loved. I'll admit that any list of top stick vacuums feels weird without multiple Dyson mentions — Amazon typically isn't a reliable spot to find good deals on Dyson vacuums (even though Amazon's deals on other Dyson products can be quite good.) Most worthwhile Dyson deals simply tend to pop up Dyson.com or Walmart, like the Dyson V12 Detect Slim on sale for $479.99. Maybe it's delusional, but I'm still optimistic about the possibility of Dyson dropping a discount on the new Dyson PencilVac Fluffycones.

Below, I'm tracking the best cordless stick vacuum deals at Amazon's spring sale, including deals on cordless wet and dry vacuums. If you're interested, Mashable's live tracking all of the best Amazon spring deals across all categories through the end of the sale on March 31.

Best Amazon cordless stick vacuum deal Shark PowerDetect Pet Plus Clean & Empty IP3253 $399.99 at Amazon
$599.99 Save $200   See It at Amazon Why we like it

There are actually two great Shark stick vacuum deals live at Amazon: The $249 Shark Clean & Empty model is probably the most affordable self-emptying stick vacuum you'll find this season. The other, which I'm highlighting here, is probably the most powerful self-emptying stick vacuum you'll find. $399.99 for that title is more than reasonable.

Though I'm constantly recommending the lightweight Dyson V12 Detect Slim for dust and pet hair on hard floors, the Shark PowerDetect is easily the beastliest vacuum I've tested on carpet — you can literally feel the vigorous double brushroll system digging into the floor. The Clean & Empty Sharks automatically empty the dustbin every time they're hung on the dock to charge, so you won't have to deal with emptying the larger dock dustbin for at least 45 days (it's much longer in my experience). Past the mega convenience, an always-empty dustbin provides visible proof of just how much gunk the PowerDetect has sucked up in the area you're currently sweeping.

More cordless stick vacuum deals at AmazonCordless wet dry vacuum deals at Amazon
Categories: IT General, Technology

Amazon is clearing out last-gen tech in the Big Spring Sale: Apples M4 MacBook Air hits best-ever price

Mashable - Fri, 03/27/2026 - 16:07
Last-chance deals on last-gen tech: Apple AirTag (4-Pack) $59.99 (save $39.01) Get Deal Best Amazon Device Deal Amazon Echo Dot $39.99 (save $10) Get Deal Best audio deal Sony WF-1000XM5 Earbuds $248 (save $81.99) Get Deal Best smartwatch deal Apple Watch Ultra 2 (GPS + Cellular, 49mm) $499 (save $300) Get Deal Best tablet deal Apple iPad Air, 11-inch (M3, WiFi + Cellular, 256GB) $649.99 (save $199.01) Get Deal Best e-reader deal Amazon Kindle Scribe (16GB) $249.99 (save $150) Get Deal Best Apple deal Apple MacBook Air, 13-inch (M4, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD) $899 (save $100) Get Deal Best robot vacuum deal Eufy X10 Pro Omni $429.99 (save $270) Get Deal Best TV deal Amazon 50-inch Fire TV Omni QLED Series 4K TV $379.99 (save $90) Get Deal

Got spring cleaning on your mind? So does Amazon: The retail giant is putting last-gen tech on sale at deep discounts during the Big Spring Sale (March 25 to 31), its main seasonal savings event, to clear out its remaining inventory.

Older versions of some of our favorite gadgets are currently on sale there for record-low prices (or close to them). The zippy M4 MacBook Air? Up to $150 cheaper than the iterative M5 version Apple announced this month. The superb Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds? Only $248. Previous-generation Echo devices? Grab the 2022 Echo Dot smart speaker for 20% off. Finally, the first-gen AirTags have literally never been cheaper, and this could be your last chance to grab them now that the AirTag 2 has been released.

SEE ALSO: Amazon Big Spring Sale 2026: Live updates on Apple, Samsung, DJI, Kindle deals

We'll be updating this list of past-gen tech deals with more offers as Amazon's Big Spring Sale continues, so check back soon. In the meantime, this is your opportunity to clean up with last-chance deals on last-gen gadgets.

Amazon Echo dealsSmartwatch and fitness tracker dealsHeadphone and earbud dealsTablet and e-reader dealsLaptop dealsMiscellaneous tech deals

Keep checking back for more Amazon Spring Sale deals on past-gen products. We're still holding out hope that the Sony XM5 headphones will get a more notable price drop. The Mashable shopping team is working overtime to cover this shopping event, so don't miss out!

Want to learn more about getting the best out of your tech? Sign up for Mashable's Top Stories and Deals newsletters today.

Categories: IT General, Technology

20+ fitness tracker deals to shop in the Amazon Big Spring Sale — Garmin, Apple, and Google on sale

Mashable - Fri, 03/27/2026 - 16:01
The best Amazon Big Spring Sale fitness tracker deals at a glance: Best Apple deal Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 42mm) $299 (save $100) Get Deal Best Garmin deal Garmin vívoactive 5 $174.28 (save $125.71) Get Deal Best Garmin alternative Suunto Run Sports Watch $179 (save $20) Get Deal Best Google deal Google Pixel Watch 4 (WiFi, 41mm) $289.99 (save $60) Get Deal Best Nothing deal Nothing CMF Watch 3 Pro $69 (save $30) Get Deal Best Samsung deal Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic (Bluetooth, 46mm) $369.99 (save $130) Get Deal Best budget fitness tracker Fitbit Inspire 3 $69.95 (save $30) Get Deal

We're officially halfway through Amazon's Big Spring Sale (which wraps up on March 31), and the discounts are holding strong. We've seen tons of deals on Apple products, robot vacuums, and speakers, but high-end fitness trackers are quietly getting some of the best price drops of the entire event.

SEE ALSO: Amazon Big Spring Sale 2026: Live updates on the top deals

Because we test wearables year-round, we know a good deal when we see one. Right now, the Google Pixel Watch 4 (it's also a Mashable Selects winner), is down to $289.99 (14% off). If you're an iPhone user, the Apple Watch Series 11 is sitting at $299 (25% off) — which is totally worth jumping on just for the battery life upgrade alone. And if you just want a budget-friendly, no-frills tracker, the Fitbit Inspire 3 is even more affordable right now at $69.95 (30% off)

Whether you prefer Garmin, Google, or an Apple Watch, now's the time to get one because we probably won't see discounts like this again until Prime Day.

Here are all the best fitness tracker deals you can shop at Amazon throughout the Big Spring Sale 2026.

Best budget pick Fitbit Inspire 3 $69.95 at Amazon
$99.95 Save $30   Get Deal at Amazon Get Deal at Walmart Get Deal at Best Buy Why we like it

Read Mashable's full review of the Fitbit Inspire 3.

If you just want a reliable, no-frills tracker that won't cost more than your gym membership, the Fitbit Inspire 3 is our favorite budget pick. It's normally priced right around $100, but for the Big Spring Sale, it's down to a very affordable $69.95.

In our review, Mashable's Sam Stone calls it the "budget-friendly fitness tracker of our dreams." It sits easily on the wrist and automatically categorizes your activities (so it knows if you're out for a bike ride or a run) without you having to manually mess with the settings.

Because we actually test these things, we do have to mention a couple of minor quirks. Stone says that the heart rate monitor can occasionally get a little inaccurate if your wrist gets super sweaty during an intense workout. Also, the battery life is closer to six or seven days rather than the advertised 10. But considering it fully charges in under two hours, that's barely an inconvenience — and as Stone points out, it "sure beats the Apple Watch's battery life."

More Fitbit deals

Best Google deal Google Pixel Watch 4 (41mm, Wi-Fi, Matte Black) $289.99 at Amazon
$349.99 Save $60   Get Deal at Amazon Get Deal at Walmart Why we like it

Read Mashable's full review of the Google Pixel Watch 4.

If you aren't already rocking last year's model, the Google Pixel Watch 4 is an easy recommendation — especially while it's $60 off for the Big Spring Sale.

Mashable’s Senior Culture Reporter, Christianna Silva, says that while it looks similar to the previous version from afar, the new domed design "gives the smartwatch more depth and makes it feel more spacious and modern." One of the coolest upgrades is the new serviceable design. If you're handy with a tiny screwdriver, you can "open up the watch, and fix what you need to fix — including replacing the display and battery — all without breaking your warranty." It also features a custom haptics engine that’s 15 percent stronger and a much crisper speaker for when you're chatting with Gemini.

More Google deals Best Apple deal Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 42mm) $299 at Amazon
$399 Save $100   Get Deal at Amazon Why we like it

Read Mashable's full review of the Apple Watch Series 11.

If you're looking for a solid Apple Watch deal, this $100 price drop on the Series 11 makes it a pretty stellar value. It's been chilling at this price for a while now, and while the Big Spring Sale hasn't dropped it any lower, $299 for the newest Apple Watch ain't bad. In our review, Mashable's Senior Editor, Stan Schroeder, says the Series 11 has a significantly longer battery life compared to its predecessor. "When I got my unit, I charged it to 100 percent and started wearing it at about 4 p.m. I wore it during the night (my sleep score was 81, which sounds a lot better than it felt), and the next day at 4 p.m. it was still at 38 percent," he writes. "That day, I charged it to full power late in the evening, and I only had to charge it again two days later."

It also has a tougher design with Ion-X glass that's twice as resistant to scratches, and a Sleep Score and hypertension notifications for flagging high blood pressure.

More Apple Watch deals Best Garmin deal Garmin vívoactive 5 $174.28 at Amazon
$195.97 Save $21.69   Get Deal at Amazon Get Deal at Walmart Get Deal at Best Buy Why we like it

Read Mashable's full review of the Garmin vívoactive 5.

While it's since been replaced with the newer vívoactive 6 (which is not on sale right now), the Garmin vívoactive 5 is still a really solid pick. It's a perfect all-rounder for someone who wants a fitness tracker with plenty of smartwatch features.

In our review, Mashable's Lois Mackenzie says it "feels like it closes the gap between fitness tracker and stylish smartwatch much better than the 4," adding that it reminded her of the Venu 3. It can track everything from long runs and rides to stress, sleep, and body battery, and adds high-end recovery metrics like Training Readiness — though Mackenzie did point out it lacks an altimeter for tracking elevation on trail runs. It has a bright and responsive AMOLED display, and gets up to 11 days of battery power (Apple could literally never).

I personally gifted this watch to my boyfriend (he loves it) after snagging an epic Black Friday discount, but it's now even cheaper. At $174.28, it's over 40% off and is down to the lowest price we've ever seen.

More Garmin fitness tracker dealsEven more Amazon Big Spring Sale fitness tracker deals
Categories: IT General, Technology

How to watch Austria vs. Ghana online for free

Mashable - Fri, 03/27/2026 - 16:00

TL;DR: Live stream Austria vs. Ghana in a 2026 International Friendly for free on ORF. Access this free streaming site from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

There are an incredible number of top International Friendlies taking place this week. We're being spoilt with Brazil vs. France, Colombia vs. Croatia, and a string of other high-profile contests. Austria vs. Ghana is not the biggest game on the schedule, but we're still making time to watch this interesting matchup.

Ghana will be looking to the likes of Thomas Partey, Jordan Ayew, and Antoine Semenyo to deliver big performances in this contest. Austria will rely on experienced heads like David Alaba and Marko Arnautovic.

If you want to watch Austria vs. Ghana in a 2026 International Friendly for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Austria vs. Ghana?

Austria vs. Ghana kicks off at 1 p.m. ET on March 27. This fixture takes place at the Ernst-Happel-Stadion.

How to watch Austria vs. Ghana for free

Austria vs. Ghana is available to live stream for free on ORF.

ORF is geo-restricted to Austria, 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 Austria, meaning you can access free live streams on ORF from anywhere in the world.

Lve stream Austria vs. Ghana 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 Austria

  4. Visit ORF

  5. Stream Austria vs. Ghana for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.99 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 Austria vs. Ghana without actually spending anything. This clearly isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to stream select games 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 ORF?

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

  • Servers in 105 countries including Austria

  • 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 two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $68.40 and includes an extra four months for free — 81% off for a limited time. This plan includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.99 (with money-back guarantee).

Live stream Austria vs. Ghana for free with ExpressVPN.

Categories: IT General, Technology

PS5, PS5 Pro price hikes announced as Sony blames economic pressures

Mashable - Fri, 03/27/2026 - 15:39

If you spent $500 on a PlayStation 5 at launch in 2020, you can take some solace in knowing that's the cheapest one of those things will ever get.

Sony announced on the PlayStation Blog that PS5 consoles are getting price increases in basically every major global market, including the U.S., effective April 2. In the blog post, Sony vaguely blamed current economic conditions for the price hikes, which any eagle-eyed reader will recognize as Sony most likely pointing the finger at both Donald Trump's tariff policies and the global AI arms race that's driving up prices for all electronics.

SEE ALSO: The Nintendo Switch 2 upgrade for 'Super Mario Bros. Wonder' has a little bit for everyone

The new prices in USD are as follows:

  • Base PS5: $649.99

  • PS5 Digital Edition: $599.99

  • PS5 Pro: $899.99

This price hike, combined with another PlayStation price hike that took place last August, means these devices all cost anywhere from $150 to $200 more than they did at launch. The PlayStation Portal device also got a price jump to $249.99 as part of this announcement. Separately, Xbox consoles also increased in price last year. So far, the Nintendo Switch 2 has been unaffected by this, but that console has only been on the market for a little less than a year. It would not be a shock to see Nintendo join in on this trend at some point.

It's definitely worth noting that this is far from normal in the world of video game hardware. For my entire life, the price of consoles has gone down over time, not up. Companies usually release cheaper hardware revisions as a console's lifespan goes on, so more and more people can get in on the fun. Thanks to tariffs and AI, however, that seems to no longer be the case.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The best Kindle deals in the Amazon Big Spring Sale — Kindle Colorsoft, Paperwhite, and Scribe

Mashable - Fri, 03/27/2026 - 15:21
The best Kindle deals from the Amazon Spring Sale: Best Kindle deal Amazon Kindle Colorsoft $169.99 (save $80) Get Deal Best Kids Kindle Deal Amazon Kindle Colorsoft Kids $189.99 (save $80) Get Deal Kindle Paperwhite Deal Amazon Kindle Paperwhite $134.99 (save $25) Get Deal Kindle Scribe Deal Amazon Kindle Scribe $249.99 (save $150) Get Deal

I read a lot and it's not just because I love it — which I obviously do — but it's also my job. I feel like the luckiest girl in the world that every day, I get to research and test e-readers. After years of testing, I'll confidently tell you that Amazon's Kindles are the best e-readers. My beloved Paperwhite is a true companion. It comes with me to the gym so I can read on the ellipitical. It's always in my beach bag in the summer. And you know I'm already loading up my Paperwhite's library for my upcoming trip to Greece.

If I've convinced you to jump on the Kindle train, that's perfect timing, as Amazon's Big Spring Sale is underway. Running March 25 through 31, the retailer dropped prices on its e-readers. The deals are a bit of a mixed bag. Some devices, like the Kindle Colorsoft and the Kindle Colorsoft Kids, are marked down to their lowest prices ever. Meanwhile, the rest of the line-up is on sale, but I've seen better deals.

That being said, if you want a Kindle for all your warm weather reading adventures, now is the time to buy. I've rounded up and explained the best Kindle deals of the moment so you can make an informed purchase.

Best Kindle Deals Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Kindle Colorsoft $169.99 at Amazon
$249.99 Save $80   Get Deal

Usually, the Kindle Colorsoft is way too expensive for my liking, but once it goes on sale, all is forgiven. During Amazon's Big Spring Sale, the Kindle Colorsoft is marked down in a big way. Right now, grab the Kindle Colorsoft for just $169.99. That saves you $80 off its $249.99 list price.

The big draw of the Kindle Colorsoft is its color displays. The e-reader has a color resolution of 150 ppi and a black and white resolution of 300 ppi. Even with the addition of color to the Kindle Colorsoft, it remains a speedy device. Plus, it comes with no ads. Temper your expectations around color with the Colorsoft: the hues tend to be more muted than what you get on a TV or tablet. The Kindle Colorsoft is waterproof, so you can take it to the pool or beach. If you're looking for a color e-reader, this is a deal to shop during Amazon's Big Spring Sale.

More Kindle deals

Kindle devices

Kids Kindles

Kindle Bundles

Categories: IT General, Technology

Castfishing is the latest scam, and its scarily like sextortion

Mashable - Fri, 03/27/2026 - 15:18

When my partner, actor and writer Tom Ward-Thomas, applied for the Amazon series The Power, he was asked to send in an audition tape, commonly referred to as a "self-tape." The role called for a character to strip and perform a humiliating dance. The nudity was implied, not shown — yet the "production" wanted him to strip down for the audition.

"I did the tape, head and shoulders only, and removed my top. They loved the tape but now wanted a full-body shot and told me, 'Feel free to go all the way.' I said I was happy to go down to underwear, not naked," Ward-Thomas recalls. "I never heard from them again."

SEE ALSO: How to avoid getting scammed online in 2026

More recently, in Dec. 2025, Ward-Thomas was contacted directly, not via his agent, with another opportunity, in exchange for an "audition" requiring a 30-second clip involving full frontal nudity, which he spotted as a scam.

"I wasn't sure from the beginning whether it was above water, but when he was insisting on a naked self-tape, I realised it was not above board."

The rise of this practice, which we're coining "castfishing," has become a plague on the industry. Mashable spoke to actors and other experts about these scammers and who they're exploiting.

What is the 'castfishing' scam?

Castfishing is the offer of a big break in exchange for a nude video.

An anonymous former actor who left the industry told Mashable they've experienced more than one scam casting call with characters in sexual situations. In one experience they described, the character had a bloodthirsty and insatiable lust and spent most of the film luring others into having sex.  

"The 'self-tape' was expecting my own interpretation…and was without lines. Nudity was fine to be included! The production notes at the bottom of the treatment said 'no acting experience necessary,'" they say.  

While catfishing — pretending to be someone else online — isn't new, what's different here is the entry point, says Anna Rowe, founder of romance fraud education site Catch the Catfish and fraud centre and think tank LoveSaid. 

"Instead of romance or flirtation, offenders are exploiting ambition, authority, and the power imbalance in the creative industries. They're grooming victims under the guise of professionalism, using industry language, fake opportunities and implied expectations to normalise increasingly inappropriate requests," says Rowe.

By the time nudity is introduced, Rowe went on, the victim doesn't feel like they're being exploited, but evaluated.

"That's what makes this so dangerous," she says. "It removes the internal alarm system people usually have with sextortion, because it doesn't feel like a sexual interaction. It feels like a career opportunity, which can be rare."

Exploitative practices encouraging nudity predate the rise of the self-tape, with one Redditor sharing their own experience of a sham in-person audition requiring full nudity on tape. 

The arts have long been plagued by abuses of power, with scandals continuing to make headlines. The multiple allegations of abuse from Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein, which catapulted the #MeToo movement in 2017, are just a handful of examples.

But now that self-tapes are more common, so is castfishing.

Self-tapes are the new norm in Hollywood

There was a shift towards self-tapes that happened just before COVID, and it became a massive trend afterwards, actor and agent Lydia Piechowiak told Mashable.

"Technology has expanded opportunity, but it's also expanded opportunity for bad actors," says actor Jona Xiao, who at 12 years old first experienced a scam audition, looking for monetary gain.

The rise of self-taping democratized access, she says. Actors don't have to live in LA or New York to audition anymore, and that's powerful. But, "it's also created new vulnerabilities. It's easier than ever for someone to create a fake breakdown [summary of the project and roles], request tapes, or present themselves as legitimate without in-person accountability."

Equity, the leading British performing arts trade union, recognised a spike in complaints when surveying about self-tapes in 2020. Actors found their time exploited, auditioning and never knowing if it was watched, needing to develop their own filming skills, and often needing a scene partner. Despite this, the self-tape boom has continued, both for good and bad.

An industry standard to prevent the exploitation of actors' time and otherwise has been established, thanks to multiple organisations representing or working with actors, but the standard must be upheld. 

In 2023, a group of UK actors came together to publish their own self-tape best-practice document, hoping to regulate a practice they called "the main route to work." Speaking to Variety, the group stated, "If we're going to have self-tapes, they need to be done in a way that's transparent, regulated and fair."

It's easier than ever for someone to create a fake breakdown, request tapes, or present themselves as legitimate without in-person accountability. - Actor Jona Xiao

"Often they'll [casting directors] say, if it's a scene requiring you to be topless, 'please don't film this topless' or will say, 'please don't submit actors [who] are not comfortable with this,'" says Piechowiak from her experience as an agent. 

However, unrepresented actors may not have this level of protection, or actors may be contacted directly. 

Real-life audition scandals

Joey Gugliemelli, better known as Sherry Pie, a would-be contestant on the twelfth season of RuPaul's Drag Race, made headlines in 2020 after five young actors came forward with accusations that Gugliemelli had exploited them while posing as a casting director via e-mail.

Gugliemelli reportedly encouraged actors to remove clothing on camera, even going as far as to encourage one man to masturbate on camera, according to BuzzFeed News. The scheme was apparently in-depth and pitted actors against each other, encouraging them to strip while insinuating that other auditioners were doing the same thing. 

VH1 swiftly disqualified Sherry Pie from Drag Race after the accusations came to light, and she was mostly edited out of the season. Despite admitting to inappropriate behavior, she's still performing drag as of this year.

Another public example of castfishing is former Doctor Who actor Noel Clarke, who was accused of recording nude auditions and showing them to others in 2021, as reported by The Guardian. Clarke later lost a libel case against The Guardian, with the Court finding allegations of sexual misconduct "substantially true."

"We have, anecdotally, received several of these types of cases over the last few years," says a representative for the Revenge Porn Helpline, which supports UK adults who have been affected by intimate image abuse.

The representative told Mashable these have mainly been fake modeling opportunities, which entailed contacting women and asking for fully-clothed and nude images to "create a portfolio." Once the extorters receive this content, they blackmail the women to not share it or request more intimate content. In some circumstances, the representative says, the extorter will block the woman, leaving her concerned about what might happen. "The purpose of this is unknown," the representative says. 

"Abusers are excellent at manipulating not just their victims, but also people and institutions that should be enforcing the safety rules. Once a predator finds an environment where he or she can get away with minor infractions, the misconduct usually escalates," says Mick Grewal, a lawyer with expertise in cases of sexual abuse. He represented over 100 survivors of Larry Nassar in a $500 million settlement case against Michigan State University.

How to spot castfishing or other scams

"Your instincts are usually right. Trust yourself," recommends Grewal.

"If you believe a crime has been committed, you can contact law enforcement. A lawyer can help you navigate the justice system and discuss civil remedies like restraining orders and injunctions, invasion of privacy claims, and seeking accountability through compensation for economic and non-economic damages," Grewal continues.

Equity's self-tape guidelines (and SAG-AFTRA's in the U.S.) prohibit nudity in self-tapes, Equity's TV official Natalie Barker told Mashable. But legitimate casting processes may continue to ask for nudity. In 2022, intimacy director and actor Katrina Stelk wrote that the guidelines are a good step, but that casting directors may not be aware of them.

Multiple UK-based sources Mashable spoke to confirmed that another Equity guideline, a three-day window for self-tape return, is often not followed, even via an agent. This again represents an abuse of power by influential decision makers in the industry.

Outside of this, it can be down to the directors to ensure actors are protected.  

"Because the context is so different in a self-tape, you have to provide constructive guidance to facilitate an actor [to do] the work," says Ellie Heydon, actor and director of BBC's Outrageous.

"If we're sending off a scene, even with a kiss in, I'll usually write an accompanying note that says don't worry about the physical intimacy, or rub that bit out, and then you're not leaving it up to the actor to then interpret it," Heydon says.

Without enforcement and proper regulation, there is still a long way to go. "The industry hasn't eliminated exploitation. It's just evolved," says Xiao on bad actors focusing on self-tape auditions. 

"We would always advise members to consult our casting vetting guidelines and do due diligence — make sure it's a reputable production company/casting director; ensure nudity is required for the role; that if they do decide to send a video or images containing nudity, they do so via a secure data transfer service and that there is an explicit safeguarding policy around how the data will be kept confidential and deleted,"  says Barker.

However, until we see more regulation, especially in the age of AI, it'll take time to ensure protection against fake casting calls — and maybe even longer before it's enforced.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Amazon Big Spring Sale 2026: Live updates on the top deals

Mashable - Fri, 03/27/2026 - 14:58

Amazon is running a huge sale from March 25 to 31. No, we're not talking about another Prime Day. We're talking about the Amazon Big Spring Sale 2026.

This event might not carry quite the same weight as Prime Day or Black Friday, but it's still one of the biggest sales events on the shopping calendar, and this year's deals are surprisingly good. This spring-themed event will go hard on outdoor equipment like drones and power stations, spring cleaning essentials like robot vacuums, and everything else shoppers are looking to buy after a long, cold winter. Our professional deal hunters have spotted record-low prices on Apple, Fire TVs, Kindles, and Sony headphones.

We've lined up all the best deals from the Amazon Big Spring Sale. Keep scrolling for the full schedule of events and the latest live updates, price drops, and news from the Mashable shopping team.

Categories: IT General, Technology

iPads are selling out fast in Amazons Spring Sale: Grab iPads starting at $299

Mashable - Fri, 03/27/2026 - 14:33
Best Amazon Big Spring Sale Apple iPad deals: Best iPad Air deal Apple iPad Air, 11-inch (M3, WiFi + Cellular, 128GB) $709 (save $50) Get Deal Best iPad Pro deal Apple iPad Pro, 13-Inch (M4, WiFi, 256GB) $1,099.99 (save $199.01) Get Deal Best budget pick Apple iPad, 11-inch (A16, WiFi, 128GB) $299 (save $50) Get Deal

Amazon's Big Spring Sale, which runs through March 31, is going from strength to strength. But only while stocks last. We've been keeping tabs on all the top items — including all the best Apple products — and the iPads are selling out fast, with the last-gen version of the iPad Air 11-inch (with M3 chip) already gone.

But if you have been eyeing a new iPad, there are still discounts to be found elsewhere in Apple's tablet lineup — even the M4 iPad Air, the souped-up successor to the above model. We’ve pulled together the best live deals to make things easier. Note: Offers marked with a 🔥 have dropped to an all-time low.

Best iPad deal overall Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPad Air, 11-inch (M4, WiFi + Cellular, 128GB) 🔥 $709 at Amazon
$749 Save $40   Get Deal Why we like it

We consider the iPad Air to be the best Apple tablet for most people: It's great for everyday activities like streaming and reading, but it's also powerful enough to use like a laptop. This latest 8th-gen version is powered by Apple's M4 chip, compared to the (now sold out) M3 previous version. You can get $50 off the Apple iPad Air 11-inch with M4 and Cellular as part of the Big Spring Sale. Or you can get the non-cellular iteration for $559, marked down from the list price of $599.

Read Mashable's full review of the Apple iPad Air (M4).

iPad dealsiPad Air dealsiPad Pro dealsiPad mini deals
Categories: IT General, Technology

3 warning signs your old SSD is about to fail (and how to save your data)

How-To Geek - Fri, 03/27/2026 - 14:00

SSD failures are not all that common, but when they do happen, it can be catastrophic for your data and your PC. So, you definitely want to know the warning signs so you can stay ahead of it. Here's how to know when a drive is going bad, and what you can do to save your data while you're at it.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The Mashable-approved Shark Pet cordless vacuum is half off in Amazons Big Spring Sale — save over $150

Mashable - Fri, 03/27/2026 - 14:00

SAVE $150.99: The Shark Pet Cordless Vacuum is on sale at Amazon for $149, down from the list price of $299.99. That's a 50% discount and just $1 more than the lowest we've ever seen at Amazon.

Opens in a new window Credit: Shark Shark Pet Cordless Vacuum $149 at Amazon
$299.99 Save $150.99   Get Deal

You never know when your life will change forever. For Mashable Associate Editor Tim Marcin, a seemingly normal unboxing of a vacuum cleaner led to a major change. If you, too, have a pet that sheds and have been searching for a cleaning solution, listen in.

As of March 27, the Shark Pet Cordless Vacuum is on sale at Amazon for $149, down from the list price of $299.99. That's a 50% discount and just $1 more than the lowest we've ever seen at Amazon.

A dog is arguably the most important character in a household. They make important decisions like what's for dinner, who's allowed which spot on the couch, and what time everyone should be going to bed. Unfortunately, they're not good at housekeeping. Paired with the shedding issue, us humans have to take over.

Thankfully, Editor Tim Marcin has found a solution for us all in the Shark Pet Cordless Vacuum. He explained in his review, "This vacuum has proven to be a game-changer for my household. It'll run for 40 minutes on a charge, has tremendous suction, and attachments for hard-to-reach spots It can also detach completely to turn into a handheld vacuum. The vacuum is light and features a sleek build that's easy to store."

SEE ALSO: Stick vacuums on sale in Amazon's Spring Sale: Shark is dunking on Dyson so far

This suction power Marcin refers to is the Shark Hypervelocity suction which is designed to tackle pet hair or messes with ease. Plus, its low-profile makes this model great for getting under furniture or under the bed.

As an added bonus on today's 50% off discount, Amazon is tossing in a free credit worth $6.51 that you'll be able to spend on a future purchase.

If you have pets at home and have been looking for an affordable stick vacuum, the Amazon Big Spring Sale's price on the Shark Pet offers a great value.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Apple AirTags have never been cheaper — $15 per tracker in Amazons Spring Sale

Mashable - Fri, 03/27/2026 - 13:50
The best Apple AirTag deals from Amazon's Big Spring Sale: Best AirTag Bundle deal Apple AirTag (1st Gen) 4-Pack $59.99 (save $39.01) Get Deal

Amazon’s Big Spring Sale is officially underway, and we’re already seeing some pretty promising price drops across multiple categories, including $300 price cuts on MacBooks and $400 off Apple Watches. C'mon, what's not to like?

Of course, we’re holding out to see if Amazon’s going to gift us with additional Apple deals (we're looking at you, MacBook Neo, currently marked down by just $9.01), but there’s one in particular that requires fast action: Apple AirTag 4-packs are now down to their lowest ever price of $59.99, and they're selling fast. We're seeing this deal go in and out of stock as the Big Spring Sale continues, so please grab them now while they're available!

Don't forget: Apple recently released a new generation of Apple AirTags, so we don't know how much longer these trackers will be available, especially at this record-low price. We've already seen M4 MacBook Airs, iPad Airs, and AirPods Max headphones go out of stock, and AirTags could be next.

Best deal overall Apple AirTag Tracker (4-Pack) $59.99 at Walmart
$99 Save $39.01   Get Deal at Walmart Get Deal at Amazon Get Deal at Best Buy Why we like it

The updated Apple AirTag 2 is still at full price, but you can get a four-pack of first-gen AirTags for just $59.99 right now, or $15 per tracker.

These little trackers are total lifesavers for anyone who's always misplacing their keys or wants some peace of mind by stashing one in their checked luggage. (I use them to keep tabs on my dogs when I'm visiting my parents.) You can track your stuff directly in the Find My app, and if you’re nearby, your iPhone can lead you straight to the exact cushion your wallet is hiding under.

Note: If these trackers go out of stock at Amazon, you can also find them at this price at Best Buy and Walmart.

The best AirTag dealsThe best Apple AirTag accessory dealsThe best Apple AirTag alternative deals
Categories: IT General, Technology

My foldable phone's screen protector started peeling: Here's how hard it was to replace

How-To Geek - Fri, 03/27/2026 - 13:45

I have loved my book-style foldable phone from the moment I got it, and despite initial anxieties, it has proven to be a rugged and durable device. Then one of my fears came true: the inner screen protector that Samsung advised me not to replace started to come off. First, it bubbled up a little—then, by a lot.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Weve found the best AirPods deals to shop in Amazons Big Spring Sale — $99 AirPods are live

Mashable - Fri, 03/27/2026 - 13:34
A quick look at the best Amazon Spring Sale AirPods deals: Best AirPods 4 Deal Apple AirPods 4 $99.99 (save $29.01) Get Deal Best AirPods Pro Deal Apple AirPods Pro 3 $199 (save $50) Get Deal Best AirPods Max deal AirPods Max (1st Gen, USB-C) $449.99 (save $99.01) Get Deal

It's official: Amazon's Big Spring Sale is back in a bit way and will run until March 31. As always with these major sale events, we've been on the case since day one, helping you find the very best deals across all kinds of products. And we've spotted some awesome deals on Apple AirPods — deals that sound as good as Apple audio tech.

The AirPods Pro 3, AirPods 4 (both with and without ANC), and first-gen AirPods Max are on sale at Amazon. They're going fast though: AirPods Max 2 have already sold out with a slim discount.

SEE ALSO: The best Apple deals to shop ahead of the Amazon Big Spring Sale — save on AirPods, iPads, and MacBooks

If you've been looking to score new earbuds or headphones to pair with your Apple tech this year, we've gathered up our favorite early AirPods deals for you into one place.

Note that no AirPods (except the just-released AirPods Max 2) have hit their lowest prices on record yet, so there's always a chance they could get cheaper. We'll be sure to update this page if new deals go live throughout the week.

Mashable Deals Be the first to know! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Loading... Sign Me Up By signing up, you agree to receive recurring automated SMS marketing messages from Mashable Deals at the number provided. Msg and data rates may apply. Up to 2 messages/day. Reply STOP to opt out, HELP for help. Consent is not a condition of purchase. See our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. Thanks for signing up!

FYI: You don't need to be an Amazon Prime member to shop the sale, but members will receive exclusive deals on a variety of items.

Best AirPods deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple AirPods 4 $99.99 at Amazon
$129 Save $29.01   Get Deal Why we like it

If you're not looking to drop a ton of cash on new earbuds, one of our favorite deals is on the AirPods 4 without Active Noise Cancellation. These AirPods have dropped to just $99 at Amazon, saving you $30 on list price. We think these are the best budget earbuds for Apple users.

If you had your eye on the AirPods 4 with ANC, the good news is those are also on sale right now. They are currently marked down to just $149.99 at Amazon, or roughly $30 off their original list price of $179. So no matter which option you choose, you can save some cash right now.

Best AirPods Pro deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple AirPods Pro 3 $199.99 at Amazon
$249 Save $49.01   Get Deal Why we like it

The AirPods Pro 3 are some of our favorite earbuds for Apple users, earning spots on both our lists of the best headphones and best earbuds. Our review had high praise for them, with writer Adam Doud calling them, "a remarkable upgrade in functionality over their predecessors, with better battery life and ANC, as well as a new heart rate sensor."

Boasting great sound quality and noise-cancelling features, alongside a hefty battery life that can last up to eight hours (with ANC) on a single charge, these AirPods are a nice upgrade indeed. Ahead of Amazon's Big Spring Sale, they're marked down to $199.

Read Mashable's full review of the Apple AirPods Pro 3.

Best AirPods Max deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple AirPods Max (1st Gen, USB-C) $449.99 at Amazon
$549 Save $99.01   Get Deal Why we like it

Premium noise-canceling headphones from brands like Sony and Bose are much better value, but AirPods Max are a popular pick nonetheless. (If nothing else, they're super stylish.) Apple announced the AirPods Max 2 with better ANC and smart features earlier this month, and now the first-gen models with USB-C charging are on sale on Amazon for $449.99. That's about $100 off their regular retail price of $549. But it's just the purple colorway available at this price for now — the other variants have been snapped up already.

Read Mashable's full review of the first-generation Apple AirPods Max.

More AirPods deals
Categories: IT General, Technology
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