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Smurfs trailer: Rihanna enters her blue era as Smurfette

Mashable - Thu, 02/06/2025 - 16:50

Global superstar Rihanna enters "her blue era" in the trailer for the upcoming Smurfs, which sees her playing Smurfette. She's the latest in a string of pop stars to take on the role, with Katy Perry voicing her in 2011's The Smurfs and 2013's The Smurfs 2, and Demi Lovato taking on the role in 2017's Smurfs: The Lost Village.

SEE ALSO: 2025 movie preview: All the films you'll want to know about

Inspired by the comics of Belgian artist Peyo, 2025's Smurfs once again sees the titular blue creatures leaving their idyllic village for our real world. This time, they're on the hunt for Papa Smurf (voiced by John Goodman, The Righteous Gemstones), who's been kidnapped by the evil wizards Gargamel and Razamel. They find themselves in Paris, where they ally themselves with Papa Smurf's brother (Parks and Recreation's Nick Offerman).

Watch the trailer above to meet Rihanna's Smurfette, a bizarre influencer Smurf, and more. Bonus points if you can count how many times they say "smurf." (Warning: It's a lot.)

Smurfs hits theaters July 18.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Apple Cider Vinegar review: Netflixs Belle Gibson series is compulsively watchable, but at what cost?

Mashable - Thu, 02/06/2025 - 16:28

At the top of each Apple Cider Vinegar episode, characters break the fourth wall and tell us, "This is a true story based on a lie."

SEE ALSO: 2025 TV preview: All the TV shows you need to know, and where to stream them

The true story in question? The rise and fall of Australian influencer Belle Gibson (Booksmart's Kaitlyn Dever), who used her brain cancer diagnosis to build a wellness empire. The lie? That she ever had cancer in the first place.

Netflix's Apple Cider Vinegar examines how Belle's lie came to be, placing it in the context of the rise of Instagram and influencer stardom. The limited series also dramatizes the lives of key people in her orbit, from a rival wellness influencer to a cancer patient who hangs onto Belle's every word. These story threads should help flesh out the full impact of Belle's actions, but in reality, they turn Apple Cider Vinegar into a strange paradox. The show is a flashy examination of so-called wellness influencers, but it's also a very upsetting cancer story — and neither side gets quite the depth it deserves.

Apple Cider Vinegar brings scammer Belle Gibson's story to life. Kaitlyn Dever in "Apple Cider Vinegar." Credit: Courtesy of Netflix

Apple Cider Vinegar takes a nonlinear approach to Belle's story, beginning with her 2015 meeting with a crisis management PR firm following the exposure of her lies. Then, the show jumps back in time to show us how she first lied about having brain cancer, how she claimed she had mitigated the cancer through healthy eating and a natural lifestyle, and how these fabrications spiraled into the popular app The Whole Pantry. The show's jumbled chronology has little impact though, seeming more like a tool to give Apple Cider Vinegar the guise of prestige TV sheen than an actual meaningful narrative device.

Belle's isn't the only story at the heart of Apple Cider Vinegar. The show also introduces us to Milla Blake (Alycia Debnam-Carey, It's What's Inside), a fictionalized version of "wellness warrior" Jessica Ainscough. Unlike Belle, though, Milla actually has cancer. At age 22, she was diagnosed with undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma in her arm. But instead of amputating her arm, as recommended by her team of doctors, she chose to pursue a "natural" treatment path involving juicing and coffee enemas. Her blog on the subject earns her quite the following, including an obsessive Belle, who sees Milla as the blueprint for who she wants to be.

SEE ALSO: 'Mo' Season 2 review: Here's why it's still one of TV's most important shows

Rounding out the main cast of Apple Cider Vinegar are breast cancer patient Lucy (Tilda Cobham-Hervey), who hopes to follow in Belle's footsteps and stop medical treatment, and Milla's close friend Chanelle (Aisha Dee), who becomes entangled in Belle's business. Each represents a different kind of victim. Lucy's belief in Belle's lies results in great physical harm. Chanelle, on the other, realizes she's been caught up in a predatory financial scam.

Based on the scam-heavy nature of Apple Cider Vinegar, it's hard not to draw comparisons to another Netflix true crime show: Inventing Anna. Like Anna Delvey, Belle has her fair share of horrendous girlboss moments that boggle the mind and will keep viewers pressing play on further episodes. But her scam also involves cancer, a deeply painful subject matter that is at odds to Apple Cider Vinegar's frothy approach to elements of Belle's story.

Apple Cider Vinegar's flashy Instagram aesthetics are at war with its cancer-centric story. Kaitlyn Dever in "Apple Cider Vinegar." Credit: Courtesy of Netflix

Apple Cider Vinegar is bursting with stylized sequences. In a jam-packed opening, Britney Spears's "Toxic" blares while Dever, Debnam-Carey, Cobham-Hervey, and Dee perform a choreographed dance in gold sparkly dresses. Throughout the show, during scenes involving social media, comments and posts pop up on screen, while glowing thumbs up and heart emojis swirl around Belle as she gets the attention she so craves. With all these elements, as well as a nonstop parade of big-name needle drops and gorgeous stars, Apple Cider Vinegar co-opts the aesthetics of aspirational social media posts in order to highlight just how big a role these platforms played in Belle's rise. But in making use of this visual language, is it really commenting on how shallow and artificial influencers' posts can be? Or is it falling prey to that very same artificiality?

Both things can be true. Apple Cider Vinegar's flashiness is undoubtedly an effort to critique Milla and Belle's approach to social media. Several scenes show them painstakingly drafting their posts in the hopes of walking that perfect line between relatable and unattainable. After all, it takes a lot of effort to appear effortless.

SEE ALSO: Sleepmaxxing is TikTok's latest wellness trend, but does it really work?

Yet Apple Cider Vinegar barely dives into how social media can actually perpetuate harmful messaging around health. We don't understand what led Milla or Belle to be so "naturally" focused in the first place beyond some nods to vague "research," so their strict adherence to their lifestyles feels hollow and somewhat unmotivated. Meanwhile, Lucy's character becomes the stand-in for Apple Cider Vinegar to explain how what Belle and Milla are doing is harmful, but she's so often sidelined that that messaging just falls away.

Belle's manipulation is what most viewers will be familiar with, and what spawns the most cringeworthy sequences of the show, all at her expense. But it's Milla's storyline that is the hardest to watch. Her refusal to treat her cancer — along with forcing her family members to partake in her "all-natural" lifestyle — is some of the most upsetting TV I have seen in a while. It borders on body horror, not in the sense that Apple Cider Vinegar is showing us gore, but in the sense that Milla is violating her own body in order to try to uphold an impossible standard of health. To watch anyone buy into it in the show is nothing short of nauseating.

Yet how much of this reaction comes from what Apple Cider Vinegar is actually showing us, versus audience members bringing their own emotional experiences with cancer to the show? Despite strong performance by Dever and Debnam-Carey, I know that my main reaction to Apple Cider Vinegar was less tied to Belle and Milla as characters, and more due to projecting my own family members and friends onto the cancer patients in the series.

Apple Cider Vinegar tries to tackle true crime, with mixed results. Alycia Debnam-Carey and Aisha Dee in "Apple Cider Vinegar." Credit: Courtesy of Netflix

On top of juggling complex topics about the beginnings of social media, wellness grifters, and the emotional weight of cancer, Apple Cider Vinegar also gets meta about its own status as a true crime show.

Not only does each episode begin with the aforementioned warning, they often come with another reminder, either spoken or written, that Belle Gibson was not paid for the recreation of her story.

These moments showcase Apple Cider Vinegar's efforts to distance itself from claims that it's glorifying its true crime story, claims which have impacted other Netflix series like Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story. But in drawing attention to Apple Cider Vinegar's roots in reality, the series feeds the fire of awed disbelief that makes people want to keep watching true crime in the first place.

SEE ALSO: Untangling true crime: Inside the ethics of Hollywood's greatest guilty pleasure

Apple Cider Vinegar chides the audience for that instinct too, at one point asking whether we even care about whether some names and characters were fictionalized. (At another point, we're told we can just Google what happened next, as if the series won't be held responsible for our continued interest in the subject it informed us on.) That scolding attitude is a double-edged sword. Yes, your audience may want to keep watching, but who made the series in the first place? Who brought more notoriety to Belle Gibson and glammed up her story with Instagram filters?

Apple Cider Vinegar's reflection on the true crime genre is still somewhat fascinating, but in the end, like so much of the show, it just lacks the depth or focus to get at the root of the issue.

Apple Cider Vinegar is now streaming on Netflix.

UPDATE: Feb. 6, 2025, 7:41 a.m. EST This article has been updated to reflect current streaming options.

Categories: IT General, Technology

6 Super Bowl halftime shows that were better than the big game

Mashable - Thu, 02/06/2025 - 16:17

There are two kinds of Super Bowl watchers: the ones that watch for the game and the ones that watch for the halftime show.

But, every now and then, a halftime show comes along that is so electrifying, it definitively overshadows the actual sporting event. A good halftime show has the power to transcend barriers, unite viewers all over the world, and make, break, or revitalize a career. These shows also light up the internet with memes and takes (see: left shark).

SEE ALSO: The 8 songs Rihanna should perform at the Super Bowl halftime show

This is by no means a comprehensive list. But below, in no particular order, are some of the most memorable performances to grace the football field. Actual football performances not included.

Rihanna and her baby bump (2023)

This writer found Rihanna's halftime show to be underwhelming and lacking energy. But since I am in the very small minority here, I will begrudgingly add RiRi's name to the list, since it was the most watched halftime show of all time with 121 million views and her relaxed delivery and lack of special guests was praised for letting Rihanna's iconic zero-fucks attitude and banger hits shine.

Rihanna hasn't released an album since 2016, so expectations about her setlist and who her "surprise guest" would be were all over the place. It turns out the surprise guest was her second child in utero, which she casually revealed by not directly calling attention to her pregnancy, but strutting on a suspended platform in an unzipped red jumpsuit. The anti-reveal reveal was so quintessentially Rihanna that the internet promptly lost its mind.

Effectively, Rihanna reminded everyone what we were missing and left us wanting more, which is just about as successful an outcome as any halftime performer could ask for. Here's hoping for new Rihanna music in 2025.

Prince (2007)

For Super Bowl XLI, the Indianapolis Colts and the Chicago Bears braved the pouring rain and driving winds (Colts won 29-17). But Prince fought those same elements while playing a live electric guitar, a pretty metal move considering water and electricity are a dangerous combination. 

SEE ALSO: How to stream Super Bowl LVII for free, without cable

Unfazed, Prince set a high bar for halftime shows. He started with Queen's "We Will Rock You," and transitioned into his own "Let's Go Crazy," eventually bringing the stadium down with "Purple Rain." Watching him shred on his signature Prince symbol guitar in the pouring rain instantly became an iconic sight and solidified Prince's status as one of the best performers of all time. 

Coldplay, Bruno Mars, and Beyoncé but really just Beyoncé (2016)

Wait, the 2016 halftime show was headlined by Coldplay? We forgot because Beyoncé's special guest appearance completely stole the show. First Bruno Mars crashed the stage with "Uptown Funk," to which Beyoncé responded by storming the field with her perfectly synchronized backup dancers, performing "Formation." 

Wearing a military-style getup, a nod to Michael Jackson's halftime show outfit, Bey strutted to the stage and slayed (sorry) in a dance-off with Bruno Mars. By the time Coldplay's Chris Martin came back to the front, even he seemed to realize this was Beyoncé's moment.

Katy Perry (2015)

(Stefon voice) This show had everything: a giant lion puppet, a historic viral moment, inspired guest appearances, ample costume changes, and a shooting star. The 2015 halftime show may be best remembered for the left shark, but Katy Perry also put on a hell of a show. Perry came riding in the lion, then passed it off to Lenny Kravitz singing "I Kissed a Girl."

Then the left shark captivated the internet with its blasé dance moves. Through it all, Perry brought strong energy and impressively sang live. By the time Perry brought on Missy Elliot who performed "Work It" and "Lose Control," we knew this halftime show was one for the record books. Perry capped it all off by singing "Firework" as she was lifted up onto a shooting star. Bravo.

Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Mary J. Blige, Kendrick Lamar and 50 Cent (2022)

In the comments of the official recording, one YouTuber said, "This is not just a concert, this is also a history class," which sums it up pretty well. Rapper and producer Dr. Dre's influence on hip hop can't be overstated. He's credited with launching the careers of Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Mary J. Blige, 50 Cent, Anderson .Paak, Kendrick Lamar, and many others. And during the 2022 halftime show he brought his famous friends to the stage for a legendary performance. 

The "history lesson" started with Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg performing "The Next Episode" and "California Love." The show played off the West Coast vs. East Coast rivalry with New York native 50 Cent rapping "In Da Club," while hanging upside down. Then Mary J. Blige belted out "Family Affair" and "No More Pain," followed by Kendrick Lamar delivering powerful renditions of "m.A.A.d City" and "Alright," and Eminem giving everyone goosebumps with "Lose Yourself." Dre even fit in a tribute to 2Pac. The show closed out with everyone on stage performing "Still D.R.E." A perfect close to a celebration of Dre and historic hip hop moments.

Diana Ross (1996) 

Pyrotechnics, mass-coordinated dance routines, and costume changes are de rigeur for halftime shows these days. But not only was Diana Ross the first to do it, her performance still holds up today. Ross performed a medley of some of her biggest hits including "Baby Love" and "Stop in the Name of Love" with her signature smile. Then, in the middle of singing "Ain't No Mountain High Enough," her gold cape spread across the entire stage as she rose on a scarily high platform. Then, the platform descended and she covered a banger version of Gloria Gaynor's "I Will Survive." 

Up until this point, Ross's performance was solid, but what happened next proves she is the ultimate diva queen. Ross casually said "Oh, here comes my ride," as a helicopter literally came to pick up. She sat on the edge of the chopper and waved to the crowd as it ferried her away, legs still dangling from the open helicopter door. That's how you make an exit.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Save $80 on the 2nd Gen Apple Watch SE at Best Buy

Mashable - Thu, 02/06/2025 - 14:31

SAVE $80: As of Feb. 6, the Apple Watch SE 2nd Gen (GPS, 40mm) is on sale for $169 at Best Buy. This is $80 off its list price of $249.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple Watch SE 2nd Gen (GPS) $169.00 at Best Buy
$249.00 Save $80.00 Get Deal

Whether you frequently workout or just want something that can keep up with your day-to-day activities, a smartwatch can be a helpful investment. The Apple Watch, in particular, fits perfectly into an Apple ecosystem. While models like the Apple Watch Ultra have hefty price tags, if you're just looking for the basics, the Apple Watch SE is a great budget pick and currently enjoying a very nice discount at Best Buy.

The Apple Watch SE 2nd Gen (GPS, 40mm) is on sale for $169 at Best Buy. This is $80 off its list price of $249. Your purchase even comes with a couple of bonuses to get you started: four months free of Apple Fitness+ and up to three months for free of Apple Music.

SEE ALSO: The best smartwatch for every wrist

This smartwatch boasts a variety of features to keep you motivated in your workouts or updated on your health, including a heart rate monitor, sleep tracker, advanced metrics for workouts, and safety features like Fall Detection, Crash Detection, and Emergency SOS. In our comparison of Apple Watch Series 9 vs. SE 2, Mashable's Kimberly Gedeon also notes that, "If you're more fitness-focused, and you don't mind the thicker bezels and lack of always-on display, the Watch SE is a solid choice."

Don't miss out on this excellent deal on the Apple Watch SE 2nd Gen (GPS, 40mm) at Best Buy.

If you're on the hunt for even more Apple deals, there are quite a few worth checking out right now. Alongside this Apple Watch deal, you can also save on the 10th Gen iPad right now at Best Buy. The AirPods 4, both with active noise cancelation and without, are also discounted at the moment at Amazon.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Amazon has slashed over $50 off Sonys WF-1000XM5 earbuds

Mashable - Thu, 02/06/2025 - 14:28

SAVE OVER $50: As of Feb. 6, Sony's WF-1000XM5 earbuds are on sale for $248 at Amazon. That's 17% off their list price of $299.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Sony Sony WF-1000XM5 Earbuds $248.00 at Amazon
$299.99 Save $51.99 Get Deal

Sony has some truly excellent headphones and earbuds, but that kind of quality often comes with a pretty steep price tag. That's why it's always nice when their tech pops up in a sale, so you can save some cash while investing in high-quality headphones that'll stand the test of time. That's currently the case for one of our top picks for the best earbuds to buy in 2025, the Sony WF-1000XM5s, which are discounted at Amazon.

These earbuds are currently marked down to $248, a 17% discount from their list price of $299.99. This allows you to pocket $51.99. This deal applies to every color available as well, so you can have your pick from black, silver, or smoky pink.

SEE ALSO: For gym rats and picky audiophiles alike, these are the 7 best headphones of 2025

We consider these earbuds to be the best picks for sound in our breakdown of the best earbuds to buy in 2025, noting "People who enjoy great active noise cancellation and even better sound quality will appreciate the Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds — the full package." Not only that, but they also hold a spot in our list of the best noise-cancelling headphones, with Mashable's Bethany Allard saying, "These earbuds deliver a rich, well-balanced sound profile, without the weight of over-ear headphones."

Boasting excellent sound quality and noise-cancelation, this deal is well worth jumping on if you've been looking to scoop up some new earbuds. Don't miss out on this discount on the Sony WF-1000XM5s.

If you're looking for even more headphone and earbud deals, you can also save on Apple's AirPods 4 earbuds (both with active noise cancelation and without) and the Beats Studio Buds+ earbuds are also discounted right now.

Categories: IT General, Technology

How to turn off Gemini in Gmail

Mashable - Thu, 02/06/2025 - 13:58

If you're a Gmail user, you might have noticed the arrival of Google's AI Gemini in your inbox.

Maybe it's a welcome addition. Or maybe you're ready to throw your laptop into a sea so deep only mystery molluscs and psychedelic marine worms will hear it scream.

If you don't want "help" to write emails, you can switch it off. Credit: Mashable screenshot / Gmail

If you're of the latter state, but aren't ready to feed underwater alien ecosystems with fresh tech, there's a way to disable Gemini in your Gmail, as well as your other Google platforms like Drive, Calendar, Meet, Maps, and more.

Out of pure, bubbling frustration, here's a guide to switching the damn thing off.

How to turn off Gemini in Gmail Total Time
  • 5 min
What You Need
  • Laptop
  • desktop or smartphone
  • Gmail

Step 1: Open Gmail.

Step 2: Go to Settings.

It's the icon that resembles a cog.

Step 3: Click "See all settings."

Step 4: In the "General" section, scroll to "Google Workspace smart features."

Step 5: Click "Manage Workspace smart feature settings."

Credit: Mashable screenshot / Google

Step 6: Toggle smart features on or off.

If you're looking to turn off Gemini in Gmail, toggle off "Smart features in Google Workspace." This will also turn off the AI for Drive, Calendar, Docs, Sheets, Slides, and Meet. The second toggle for "other Google products" will switch Gemini off for Maps, Wallet, Google Assistant, and the Gemini app itself.

Credit: Mashable screenshot / Google

Step 7: Click "Save" at the bottom right of the pop-up.

If you want to turn Gemini on again in Gmail, follow the same steps. It's your life.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Amazons Fire TV Stick 4K is on sale for under $30 for a limited time

Mashable - Thu, 02/06/2025 - 13:32

SAVE $20: As of Feb. 6, Amazon's Fire TV Stick 4K is on sale for $29.99. That's 40% off its list price of $49.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K $29.99 at Amazon
$49.99 Save $20.00 Get Deal

When it comes to streaming your favorite shows and films, being able to enjoy them in 4K quality is a game-changer. Thankfully, accomplishing this doesn't have to break the bank. The Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K can bring you high-quality streaming at a price that won't make a massive dent in your wallet. What's even better is it's currently on sale right now, so you can save more while setting yourself up with a sleek new streaming device.

The Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K is discounted to $29.99 right now. This is 40% off its list price of $49.99, allowing you to pocket $20. Amazon has this listed as a limited-time deal, so if you've had your eye on this streaming device you'll want to act fast to secure it at this price before it disappears.

SEE ALSO: Best streaming services: We compare Netflix, Hulu, Max, Disney+, and more

The Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K boasts smooth streaming quality with 4K Ultra HD resolution for a crisp, vibrant picture. It also supports Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and Dolby Atmos audio to create an all-around immersive viewing experience. And if you have an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription, you can even access the Game Pass library via cloud gaming, which is a great way to play something new and exciting without a console.

This limited-time deal won't last long, so grab the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K for $29.99 while the deal is still live.

If you're looking to pick up a new 4K TV to go with this 4K streaming stick, there are plenty on sale right now that are worth checking out. Over at Best Buy, you can save on models like the 65-inch LG C4 OLED and the massive 98-inch TCL Q6 4K QLED Smart TV, if you really want to go big with a new TV.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Invites is a new free app by Apple. Heres how to use it.

Mashable - Thu, 02/06/2025 - 13:30

Apple's got a new app. Launched seemingly out of nowhere earlier this week, Apple Invites is a free app, available on the App Store, that lets you create colorful invites to events that you can share with friends and family.

The app is very simple to use. Choose a background, set a title and location for your event, and you can start sending it to potential guests.

You can use your own photos, or choose from Apple's predefined backgrounds. Credit: Stan Schroeder / Mashable

While the app is free to use and anyone can freely receive invites, one caveat is that you can only send invites if you have a paid iCloud+ account. This is a bummer, but it makes some sense as storing the invites in the cloud does consume storage space. Apple iCloud+ accounts start at $0.99 per month, and Apple now lists Invites as one of the benefits of subscribing to iCloud+ (others include Hide My Email, HomeKit Secure Video, and iCloud Private Relay, as well as more storage for your data).

Apple Invites: How it works

To create a new invite, hit the "+" button in the upper right corner of the Apple Invites app. Start with adding a background; Apple lets you choose from pre-defined options which include emoji-themed, photographic, and colorful backgrounds, but you can also use a photo from your iPhone's library or take a photo with your camera, using the buttons in the top left of the "Add Background" menu.

Next, set a title for your event, choose date and time, and pick a location, which you can do by searching real world locations — and you can add an optional name for your location, which is useful if it's your house.

You can also add an event description with a 1,000 character limit, and the host's name. Finally, you can create a photo album, as well as an Apple Music playlist, and share it with participants.

It's not a real event. Please do not show up. Credit: Stan Schroeder / Mashable

Once you're done, you can invite guests by creating a shareable link. And if you need to send an update related to the event to your guests — such as detailed entry instructions or the fact that all the shrimp cocktails are sadly, already gone — you can do that via the "Send a Note" button.

Apple Invites: Tips and tricks

All of the above is pretty straightforward, and I'm sure you won't have any issues creating and sharing your event. But the app does have a couple of additional features that are easy to miss.

For example, tap on an existing event in the app, and then tap on the three dots menu in the upper right corner. From there, you can duplicate the event, which is handy when you're hosting repeating events, for example a Pokémon-themed pub quiz in your basement every Wednesday.

Some advanced options are hidden in Event Settings. Credit: Stan Schroeder / Mashable

For more options, hit Event Settings from the same menu. There, you can choose whether guests need your approval before they can join the event. You can also choose to only show the background image to guests after they've opened the invitation with a verified email address (maybe you don't just want anyone to see how great your basement is). For people who use a screen reader, you can provide a description of your invitation's background.

Finally, you can also cancel and delete the event, as well as pause replies (for the last time, there won't be free beer, folks, and I will not entertain any further inquiries).

There are a few other, somewhat hidden privacy options in the app, too. For example, once there's a group of guests coming, you can grant some of them the ability to invite their own guests to the event. Handy.

Sorry folks, this event is not for everyone. Credit: Stan Schroeder / Mashable

Also, when you invite guests, you can create a public link that allows anyone to join the event, but you can also just invite individual people with one-off links.

Apple Invites: Customizing your notifications

When you're hosting events — especially if they're big, and if you're hosting more than one — things can get messy fast. Apple Invites allows you to get push notifications about events, but fortunately, it also lets you be quite granular when it comes to choosing which types of notifications you want to see.

You might want to fine tune these. Credit: Stan Schroeder / Mashable

Tap on your profile image in the Invites app, and hit Push Notifications. From here, you can choose whether you only want to see notifications for events you're hosting, or events you're invited to.

You can also choose whether you want to see Apple's updates with recommendations, new features and tips, and offers related to the app.

Go a step back, and you'll be able to set whether you want to receive email updates about events you're hosting, or are invited to. This is unrelated to push notifications, and you can have both on or off at the same time.

Apple Invites: How to get it

This one is simple. Apple Invites is a free download at Apple's App Store. It requires iOS 18 or later, and you do need an iCloud+ account in order to send invites.

Categories: IT General, Technology

NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for February 6, 2025

Mashable - Thu, 02/06/2025 - 13:20

Connections is the one of the most popular New York Times word games that's captured the public's attention. The game is all about finding the "common threads between words." And just like Wordle, Connections resets after midnight and each new set of words gets trickier and trickier—so we've served up some hints and tips to get you over the hurdle.

If you just want to be told today's puzzle, you can jump to the end of this article for today's Connections solution. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable What is Connections?

The NYT's latest daily word game has become a social media hit. The Times credits associate puzzle editor Wyna Liu with helping to create the new word game and bringing it to the publications' Games section. Connections can be played on both web browsers and mobile devices and require players to group four words that share something in common.

Tweet may have been deleted

Each puzzle features 16 words and each grouping of words is split into four categories. These sets could comprise of anything from book titles, software, country names, etc. Even though multiple words will seem like they fit together, there's only one correct answer.

If a player gets all four words in a set correct, those words are removed from the board. Guess wrong and it counts as a mistake—players get up to four mistakes until the game ends.

Tweet may have been deleted

Players can also rearrange and shuffle the board to make spotting connections easier. Additionally, each group is color-coded with yellow being the easiest, followed by green, blue, and purple. Like Wordle, you can share the results with your friends on social media.

SEE ALSO: NYT's The Mini crossword answers for February 6 Here's a hint for today's Connections categories

Want a hint about the categories without being told the categories? Then give these a try:

  • Yellow: Gentle or barely noticeable

  • Green: Showing generosity

  • Blue: Parts that extend upwards

  • Purple: Iconic musicians' monikers

Featured Video For You Connections: How to play and how to win Here are today's Connections categories

Need a little extra help? Today's connections fall into the following categories:

  • Yellow: Delicate

  • Green: Magnanimous

  • Blue: Things with Necks

  • Purple: First Names in Jazz

Looking for Wordle today? Here's the answer to today's Wordle.

Ready for the answers? This is your last chance to turn back and solve today's puzzle before we reveal the solutions.

Drumroll, please!

The solution to today's Connections #606 is...

What is the answer to Connections today
  • Delicate: FAINT, LIGHT, MILD, SOFT

  • Magnanimous: GRAND, GREAT, LOFTY, NOBLE

  • Things with Necks: BOTTLE, GIRAFFE, GUITAR, LAMP

  • First Names in Jazz: CAB, COUNT, DIZZY, DUKE

Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be new Connections for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for February 6

Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to today's Connections.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Wordle today: Answer, hints for February 6, 2025

Mashable - Thu, 02/06/2025 - 13:18

Oh hey there! If you're here, it must be time for Wordle. As always, we're serving up our daily hints and tips to help you figure out today's answer.

If you just want to be told today's word, you can jump to the bottom of this article for today's Wordle solution revealed. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable SEE ALSO: NYT Connections today: Hints and answers for February 6 Where did Wordle come from?

Originally created by engineer Josh Wardle as a gift for his partner, Wordle rapidly spread to become an international phenomenon, with thousands of people around the globe playing every day. Alternate Wordle versions created by fans also sprang up, including battle royale Squabble, music identification game Heardle, and variations like Dordle and Quordle that make you guess multiple words at once

Wordle eventually became so popular that it was purchased by the New York Times, and TikTok creators even livestream themselves playing.

What's the best Wordle starting word?

The best Wordle starting word is the one that speaks to you. But if you prefer to be strategic in your approach, we have a few ideas to help you pick a word that might help you find the solution faster. One tip is to select a word that includes at least two different vowels, plus some common consonants like S, T, R, or N.

What happened to the Wordle archive?

The entire archive of past Wordle puzzles was originally available for anyone to enjoy whenever they felt like it, but it was later taken down, with the website's creator stating it was done at the request of the New York Times. However, the New York Times then rolled out its own Wordle Archive, available only to NYT Games subscribers.

Is Wordle getting harder?

It might feel like Wordle is getting harder, but it actually isn't any more difficult than when it first began. You can turn on Wordle's Hard Mode if you're after more of a challenge, though.

SEE ALSO: NYT's The Mini crossword answers for February 6, 2025 Here's a subtle hint for today's Wordle answer:

One's protégé.

Does today's Wordle answer have a double letter?

The letter P appears twice.

Today's Wordle is a 5-letter word that starts with...

Today's Wordle starts with the letter P.

SEE ALSO: Wordle-obsessed? These are the best word games to play IRL. The Wordle answer today is...

Get your last guesses in now, because it's your final chance to solve today's Wordle before we reveal the solution.

Drumroll please!

The solution to today's Wordle is...

PUPIL.

Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be a new Wordle for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.

Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for February 6

Reporting by Chance Townsend, Caitlin Welsh, Sam Haysom, Amanda Yeo, Shannon Connellan, Cecily Mauran, Mike Pearl, and Adam Rosenberg contributed to this article.

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to today's Wordle.

Categories: IT General, Technology

NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for February 6

Mashable - Thu, 02/06/2025 - 13:17

Connections: Sports Edition is a new version of the popular New York Times word game that seeks to test the knowledge of sports fans.

Like the original Connections, the game is all about finding the "common threads between words." And just like Wordle, Connections resets after midnight and each new set of words gets trickier and trickier—so we've served up some hints and tips to get you over the hurdle.

If you just want to be told today's puzzle, you can jump to the end of this article for the latest Connections solution. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable What is Connections Sports Edition?

The NYT's latest daily word game has launched in association with The Athletic, the New York Times property that provides the publication's sports coverage. Connections can be played on both web browsers and mobile devices and require players to group four words that share something in common.

Tweet may have been deleted

Each puzzle features 16 words and each grouping of words is split into four categories. These sets could comprise of anything from book titles, software, country names, etc. Even though multiple words will seem like they fit together, there's only one correct answer.

If a player gets all four words in a set correct, those words are removed from the board. Guess wrong and it counts as a mistake—players get up to four mistakes until the game ends.

Tweet may have been deleted

Players can also rearrange and shuffle the board to make spotting connections easier. Additionally, each group is color-coded with yellow being the easiest, followed by green, blue, and purple. Like Wordle, you can share the results with your friends on social media.

Here's a hint for today's Connections Sports Edition categories

Want a hint about the categories without being told the categories? Then give these a try:

  • Yellow: Sports moves, typically by an organization or GM

  • Green: Where you play on the pitch

  • Blue: Defensive moves in football

  • Purple: Of the foul kind.

Featured Video For You Connections: How to play and how to win Here are today's Connections Sports Edition categories

Need a little extra help? Today's connections fall into the following categories:

  • Yellow: Transaction

  • Green: Soccer positions

  • Blue: Types of blitzes

  • Purple: Foul __________

Looking for Wordle today? Here's the answer to today's Wordle.

Ready for the answers? This is your last chance to turn back and solve today's puzzle before we reveal the solutions.

Drumroll, please!

The solution to today's Connections Sports Edition #136 is...

What is the answer to Connections Sports Edition today
  • Transaction - DEAL, EXCHANGE, TRADE, TRANSFER

  • Soccer positions - FULLBACK, GOALKEEPER, MIDFIELDER, STRIKER

  • Types of blitzes - SAFETY, SIMULATED, ZERO, ZONE

  • Foul _________ - BALL, OUT, POLE, TERRITORY

Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be new Connections for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.

Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to today's Connections.

Categories: IT General, Technology

NYT Strands hints, answers for February 6

Mashable - Thu, 02/06/2025 - 13:17

If you're reading this, you're looking for a little help playing Strands, the New York Times' elevated word-search game.

Strands requires the player to perform a twist on the classic word search. Words can be made from linked letters — up, down, left, right, or diagonal, but words can also change direction, resulting in quirky shapes and patterns. Every single letter in the grid will be part of an answer. There's always a theme linking every solution, along with the "spangram," a special, word or phrase that sums up that day's theme, and spans the entire grid horizontally or vertically.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable

By providing an opaque hint and not providing the word list, Strands creates a brain-teasing game that takes a little longer to play than its other games, like Wordle and Connections.

If you're feeling stuck or just don't have 10 or more minutes to figure out today's puzzle, we've got all the NYT Strands hints for today's puzzle you need to progress at your preferred pace.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for February 6 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for February 6 NYT Strands hint for today’s theme: I'm a person of my word

These words are common names.

Today’s NYT Strands theme plainly explained

Words are names that double as words.

NYT Strands spangram hint: Is it vertical or horizontal?

Today's NYT Strands spangram is vertical.

NYT Strands spangram answer today

Today's spangram is FirstNames.

Featured Video For You Strands 101: How to win NYT’s latest word game NYT Strands word list for February 6
  • Drew

  • Will

  • Chuck

  • Jimmy

  • Robin

  • Chase

  • Miles

  • FirstNames

Looking for other daily online games? Mashable's Games page has more hints, and if you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now!

Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to today's Strands.

Categories: IT General, Technology

How to unblock XVideos for free

Mashable - Thu, 02/06/2025 - 13:04

TL;DR: Unblock XVideos from anywhere in the world with a VPN. The best VPN for unblocking porn sites is ExpressVPN.

Access to your favorite porn sites is not guaranteed. There are many locations around the world where your access to sites like XVideos will be restricted. There are good reasons for this, but there is also something to be said for the right to online freedom.

In an effort to preserve your online freedom, we're giving you the information you need to bypass online restrictions and access sites like XVideos from anywhere in the world. And fortunately, the process is straightforward.

Want to unblock porn sites like XVideos for free from anywhere in the world? We have the information you need.

How to unblock XVideos for free

VPNs can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect to a secure server in another location. This straightforward process bypasses content restrictions so you can access porn sites like XVideos from anywhere in the world.

Unblock XVideos by following these simple steps:

  1. Sign up for a 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 a location that supports access to XVideos

  4. Unblock XVideos

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-year subscription + 3 months free) $99.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for unblocking porn sites are not free, but most do offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can unblock porn sites and then recover your investment at a later date. This obviously isn't a long-term solution, but it works well if you're temporarily away from home on an unsecured network.

What is the best VPN for porn?

ExpressVPN is the top choice when it comes to unblocking porn sites like XVideos, for a number of reasons:

  • Servers in 105 countries

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

  • Strict no-logging policy

  • Fast streaming speeds free from throttling

  • Up to eight simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

Unblock XVideos for free with ExpressVPN.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Watch Sophie Thatcher and Jack Quaid react to the totally meta Goo Goo Dolls easter egg in Companion

Mashable - Thu, 02/06/2025 - 13:00

Companion filmmaker Drew Hancock hid a special easter egg for Jack Quaid that goes all the way back to 'City of Angels' in 1998.

Companion is now in theaters.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Save over $50 on this smart electric scooter at Amazon

Mashable - Thu, 02/06/2025 - 12:43

SAVE $52.50: As of Feb. 6, the MAXSHOT electric scooter is on sale for $196.50 at Amazon. This deal saves you 21% on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: MAXSHOT MAXSHOT Electric Scooter $196.50 at Amazon
$249.00 Save $52.50 Get Deal

If you've been looking for an affordable electric scooter to get you from point A to B, look no further than this latest deal. As of Feb. 6, you can find the MAXSHOT electric scooter on sale for $196.50 at Amazon, saving you 21% on list price.

The scooter boasts a 350W motor, giving you speeds of up to 19mph. And the battery life can take you up to 21 miles. Although MAXSHOT adds that this range is only under "specific conditions."

SEE ALSO: The Anker SOLIX C200 power bank is on sale for under $100 — a must-have for camping and emergencies

The scooter can be locked and managed from an accompanying app. Just connect the scooter to see the customized speed and cruise control options. You can also see current speed and cruise control options from the LED screen on the scooter. Nice and easy.

It also boasts a dual braking system, featuring drum braking and EABS anti-lock braking. It even has a bright headlight, so you'll have good visibility at night. And if you hate clutter in your house, the e-scooter won't take up unnecessary space. It folds for easy storage in car trunks, closets, and other compact spaces.

This is a limited-time deal, so head to Amazon and save.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Save $150 on the impressive Amazon eero Pro 6E WiFi setup

Mashable - Thu, 02/06/2025 - 12:29

SAVE $150: As of Feb. 6, the Amazon eero Pro 6E is on sale for $399.99 at Amazon. That's a 27% saving on list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon eero Pro 6E $399.99 at Amazon
$549.99 Save $150.00 Get Deal

If your patchy, unreliable WiFi makes you want to throw your router out of the window, let's talk about an upgrade. You shouldn't have to suffer with laggy video calls, buffering shows, or devices that just won't connect. And you don't need to spend a fortune to get away from this either.

As of Feb. 6, you can find incredible deals on mesh router systems at Amazon. This includes a great deal on the Amazon eero Pro 6E router system. Currently, this product is reduced to $399.99, saving you 27% on list price. This discount is specific to the three-pack option, but you can find deals across all bundles.

SEE ALSO: Boost your home WiFi setup with this heavily discounted eero Max 7 mesh WiFi system

A mesh WiFi system includes a main router and two nodes (satellites) placed around your home. They work together to eliminate dead zones, providing reliable WiFi coverage all over your home.

The eero Pro 6E is a great option for a mesh router system that offers gigabit wifi speeds at an affordable price. It is backward-compatible with older eero devices, making it flexible for all home setups. The TrueMesh technology reduces dead spots and dropped signals, keeping your smart home running smoothly even when you’re away.

Not to mention, you can enjoy strong coverage of up to 6,000 sq. ft and the ability to connect over 100 devices. The setup doesn't require any overly complicated instructions either. It can be done in minutes by using the eero app.

Move fast, as this is a limited-time deal at Amazon.

Categories: IT General, Technology

4 luxurious Valentines Day gifts to spoil your significant other

Mashable - Thu, 02/06/2025 - 12:27

While you should let your lover know you care every single day, Valentine's Day is a chance to go above and beyond to make that special someone feel extra special.

Flowers and chocolate will always have their place as Valentine's Day gifts, and are certainly nothing to sneeze at. However, if you're looking for a gift to properly spoil your significant other, give them something to brag about. Is your partner addicted to their Apple Watch? Could they use an elegant option to carry around their Kindle, wallet, and keys? Do they deserve an optimised, luxurious night's sleep?

SEE ALSO: Sexy Valentine's Day gifts guaranteed to spice things up

If you want to ensure that they remember this Valentine's Day for years to come, you may want to think a bit bigger. Here are four luxurious yet affordable Valentine's Day gifts to help show your partner that they're priceless.

Bellroy Classic Watch Strap Credit: Bellroy

A watch is a classic gift, however practicality has prompted many to turn away from traditional timepieces in favour of multifunctional smartwatches. This doesn't mean these devices can't still look and feel luxurious, though. If your partner is addicted to their Apple Watch, consider gifting them a well-made leather strap to elevate their look. 

Bellroy's Classic Watch Strap is made from smooth, water-resistant leather, and distinguishes itself with its tuck-away strap. The end slides through the stainless steel buckle to comfortably hide between the wearer's wrist and strap, keeping it neatly in place. This means there isn't any fiddling around with band keepers which inevitably slide off, leaving the end of the strap sticking out in an unsightly manner. The leather is also unobtrusively embossed with Bellroy's attractive owl logo right by the buckle, which is a lovely little detail. 

The Classic Watch Strap is available in four different colours and two different sizes, so be sure to double check which option will fit your loved one's Apple Watch model. If you're unsure, try sneaking a peek at the back of the device when they take it off to charge.

Opens in a new window Credit: Bellroy Bellroy Classic Watch Strap  Shop Now MAISON de SABRÉ Medium Flap Bag Credit: MAISON de SABRÉ

Boasting a structured, boxy shape, MAISON de SABRÉ Medium Flap Bag will compliment practically any outfit, offering enough room for daily essentials like e-readers, smartphones, and earbuds while still remaining compact and stylish. This beautifully constructed yet practical handbag comes with two interchangeable straps, allowing your loved one to carry it on their shoulder or across their body according to their own preference, and has a magnetic enclosure for convenience. There's even a handy external slip pocket, which is useful for when your partner wants quick and easy access to their phone.

The Medium Flap Bag is also made of deliciously supple European leather which feels so satisfying to touch that it may entice your loved one to just keep stroking it like a cat.

If you want to give your gift an extra personal touch, you can have the Medium Flap Bag monogrammed. MAISON de SABRÉ will emboss up to two English letters or numbers on the detachable key bell free of charge, including the symbols "." "&" and "♡". You could fill the bag with your lover's favourite chocolates as well for an even more extravagant surprise — just make sure they're properly wrapped so they don't stain the blue twill interior.

Opens in a new window Credit: MAISON de SABRÉ MAISON de SABRÉ Medium Flap Bag Shop Now Musubi Kiln Isshin Brown and Red Tokoname Japanese Teapot Credit: Musubi Kiln

If your loved one loves tea, an elegant yet practical teapot is unlikely to go wrong. A well-made teapot can distinctly elevate the daily ritual of drinking tea, helping to ensure it's a meditative moment of calm away from their screens.

The Isshin Teapot is a quality piece of teaware that pays beautiful attention to detail. Created in Tokoname, one of Japan's six most distinguished sites of ceramic production, the Isshin Teapot's well-fitted lid helps it to retain heat for much longer than you'd expect. Its carefully placed spout is resistant to overflowing, while the inbuilt ceramic strainer eliminates the danger of rust, deftly keeping tea leaves out of your cup without blocking your pour.

You can also pair the Isshin Teapot with a couple of teacups, its relatively neutral red and brown colour matching well with any you might choose. The gorgeous blue Moist Chrysanthemum Shape Yunomi Japanese Teacup has an inviting matte finish complimenting its smooth ridges, while the hand painted Tosen Kiln Sakura Kiyomizu Ware Japanese Tea Cup's white base allows the colour of the tea to shine through, encouraging drinkers to slow down and enjoy each sip.

This gift can also act as the promise of quality time together, where you and your loved one can sit and enjoy each other's company while enjoying a soothing cup of sencha.

Opens in a new window Credit: Musubi Kiln Musubi Kiln Isshin Brown and Red Tokoname Japanese Teapot Shop Now Sheet Society Eve Linen Sheets Credit: Sheet Society

Silk sheets certainly sound sumptuous for an elevated night's sleep. Unfortunately, their luxury is often offset by their lack of practicality, as they can stain easily and require delicate care. As such, gifting someone silk sheets is a bit like giving them a puppy: lovely in theory, but you may just be burdening the recipient with a lot more work. 

Linen is a far more durable option, yet still equally as luxurious as silk. Breathable and hypoallergenic, linen sheets are also suitable for people with sensitive skin, and regulate temperature so they can be used all year round. You never have to worry about ironing them either, as the natural, crumpled look simply adds to their charm.

Sheet Society's Eve Linen collection is made from 100 percent linen, and while it will only get softer with wear, it's already comfortable straight out of the box. The sheets are pre washed so you can start using them straight away, with quilt covers, fitted sheets, flat sheets, pillowcases, and European pillowcases all available separately so you can mix and match colours to style the perfect bed. The website even has a bed builder tool that you'll probably spend way too long playing with. 

Sewn with durable yet lightweight linen, Sheet Society's pillowcases have a deep lip that is around twice as wide as standard, preventing your pillow from sliding out while you sleep. The thick elastic and deep sides on the fitted sheets keep the fabric firmly in place, while the quilt covers' invisible zip ensures there's no unsightly gaping.

Opens in a new window Credit: Sheet Society Sheet Society Eve Linen Sheets Shop Now

In need of a more specific gift? You're in luck. We have the Valentine's Day gift guide for you.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The iRobot Roomba Q0120 is at its lowest-ever price at Amazon

Mashable - Thu, 02/06/2025 - 12:21

SAVE $120: As of Feb. 6, the iRobot Roomba Q0120 is on sale for $129.99 at Amazon. This is a 48% saving on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: iRobot iRobot Roomba Q0120 $129.99 at Amazon
$249.99 Save $120.00 Get Deal

We'll always be shouting about robot vacuums here at Mashable. These helpful devices have become all the rage, and it's no secret why.

If you've been shopping around for something for a while, the name Roomba won't be new to you. And as of Feb. 6, we've found you an incredible deal at Amazon on the iRobot Roomba Q0120, now down to just $129.99 (the lowest it has ever been).

SEE ALSO: Looking for an affordable robot vacuum? Get the Lefant M210 for its lowest price ever at Amazon.

But don't worry, even with such a low price, you're still getting a top-of-the-range vacuuming experience. This model has a three-stage cleaning system that delivers customizable suction for carpets and hard floors. It comes with smart navigation that cleans in neat rows, dodges furniture, and steers clear of stairs or any other obstacles in your house. And for those hard-to-reach corners and edges, the Edge-Sweeping Brush won't miss any dust build-up.

Controlled from the iRobot Home App, you can do things like schedule cleans while you're away from home, check to see where it has cleaned, and more. And with up to 120 minutes of cleaning on one charge, if it doesn't manage your whole house, it'll return itself to the charging station to reboot.

This is a limited-time deal at Amazon, so if you don't want to miss out, move fast.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The Samsung Galaxy S24 FE has dropped to under $500 — save $150 on this AI-powered flagship

Mashable - Thu, 02/06/2025 - 12:09

SAVE $150: As of Feb. 6, the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE (128GB, unlocked) is available at Amazon for $499.99 (regularly $649.99).

Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung Galaxy S24 FE $499.99 at Amazon
$649.99 Save $150.00 Shop Now

In the market for a flagship-worthy smartphone without spending flagship-level cash? The Samsung Galaxy S24 FE just got a $150 price cut at Amazon — bringing it down to $499.99. For a phone that packs a 50MP camera, AI-enhanced performance, and a stunning 6.7-inch 120Hz AMOLED display, this is easily one of the best Android phone deals of the year.

Let's talk camera power. The 50MP main shooter delivers razor-sharp photos and crisp 8K videos, while Night Portrait mode makes low-light shots look effortlessly professional. This phone punches way above its weight when capturing concerts, cityscapes, or a great selfie.

SEE ALSO: Beats Studio Buds+ are $50 off at Amazon — upgrade your earbuds for less

The screen is solid, too. At 6.7 inches, this Full HD+ AMOLED panel runs at a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, making scrolling, gaming, and video playback buttery smooth. And with a peak brightness of 1,900 nits, you won't squint at your phone on sunny days.

Under the hood, the Galaxy Swon't is powered by Samsung's AI-driven One UI 6.1 on Android 14, optimizing battery life and performance, as well as Samsung's photo editing. Speaking of battery life, the 4,700mAh battery easily lasts all day and supports fast charging, so you're never tethered to a wall for long.

This unlocked version works on all carriers, making it a perfect upgrade if you're on Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, or an MVNO like Mint Mobile.

Near high-end features for $499.99? You'll be hard-pressed to find a better deal. But at this price, it won't be in stock at Amazon for long — so if you've been waiting to upgrade, now's the time to pull the trigger.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The M1 MacBook Air is fast, fanless, and built for all-day work — now 65% off

Mashable - Thu, 02/06/2025 - 12:09

TL;DR: Grab a refurbished M1 MacBook Air with 8GB RAM and 128GB SSD for $514.99 — powerful, lightweight, and ultra-efficient.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Refurbished 13.3-inch 2020 Apple MacBook Air (M1, 8GB RAM, 128GB SSD) $514.99
$1,499.00 Save $984.01 Get Deal

Grab a refurbished M1 MacBook Air with 8GB RAM and 128GB SSD for just $514.99 — powerful, lightweight, and ultra-efficient.

What to expect from your refurbished M1 MacBook Air:
  • M1 chip with an 8-core CPU, designed to make multitasking smooth and faster than previous models

  • 8-core GPU handles graphics-heavy tasks with top-notch performance for creative work and entertainment

  • 13.3-inch Retina display with 2560 x 1600 resolution offers stunning color accuracy and crisp details

  • Fanless design means silent operation while running efficiently under heavy workloads

  • Up to 18 hours of battery life keeps you going without constantly searching for an outlet

  • WiFi 6 and Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports offer fast connectivity for accessories and external displays

  • Refurbished in grade-A condition with minimal to no signs of use, plus a 30-day parts and labor warranty

A portable powerhouse at a fraction of the cost, this refurbished 2020 13.3-inch Apple MacBook Air is available now for $514.99 (reg. $1,499).

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Categories: IT General, Technology
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