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Own a Galaxy phone? Samsung says turn on these anti-theft features now.

Mashable - Mon, 06/30/2025 - 17:00

Samsung recently warned consumers who own Galaxy phones that they should activate the company's latest anti-theft features.

Samsung noted in a press release its latest security features were rolling out to more smartphones throughout the year and that reflected the company's "commitment to delivering smarter, stronger protection – helping users safeguard their data and stay in control, even in high-risk situations."

The security updates are a part of its latest software, One UI 7. Perhaps the key feature is what Samsung calls Theft Protection, which includes:

  • a motion-detection tool that locks a phone upon it being snatched

  • an auto-locking tool if a phone goes offline for an extended period of time

  • the ability to remote lock a phone if it's stolen

New robbery features also include biometric authentication for security setting changes and a delay tool that prevents someone from immediately resetting biometric information on a phone.

SEE ALSO: Samsung Galaxy deals are heating up as Prime Day nears

Samsung noted these features were now rolling out to older flagship devices, including the Galaxy S24 series, Z Fold6, Z Flip6, Z Fold5, Z Flip 5, and S23 and S22 series.

The safety announcement from Samsung comes on the heels of a similar announcement for U.K. users earlier this month.

"These features have now also been rolled out into a range of models across our devices and further updates will follow," Annika Bizon, mobile experience VP of product and marketing at Samsung, said at that time. "We must do everything we can to ensure the safety and security of our customers when they are using their mobile devices and we will continue to work hard to ensure our customers are aware of the wide range of security features available to them."

Categories: IT General, Technology

Roborocks Q7 M5+ robot vacuum and mop hits a record-low before Prime Day

Mashable - Mon, 06/30/2025 - 16:39

SAVE 35%: As of June 30, you can get the Roborock Q7 M5+ robot vacuum and mop for $279.99, down from $429.99, at Amazon. That's a 35% discount and a $150 savings. This is the lowest price we've tracked for this model all year.

roborock Q7 M5+ Robot Vacuum and Mop, Upgraded from Q5 Max+, 7 Weeks Self-Emptying, 10000Pa Suction, Dual Anti-Tangle System, for Pet Hair & Carpet, PreciSense LiDAR Navigation, App Control, Black $279.99 at Amazon
$429.99 Save $150 Get Deal

Prime Day is without a doubt one of the best times to score a deal on a robot vacuum, but you don’t have to wait until then to save on one.

As of June 30, you can get the Roborock Q7 M5+ robot vacuum and mop for $279.99, down from $429.99, at Amazon. That's a 35% discount and a $150 savings. It's also the lowest price we've tracked for this model all year.

SEE ALSO: Ahead of Prime Day, Amazon already has a ton of good robot vacuum deals

The Roborock Q7 M5+ is a robot vacuum and mop combo that’s built to clean every inch of your floors, from the hard-to-reach spaces beneath furniture to area rugs. It features a 10,000 Pa HyperForce suction power, a dual anti-tangle design (making it an ideal option for pet owners), and a self-empty base that can hold up to seven weeks of dust.

Its LiDAR navigation system maps your home to avoid bumping into furniture or falling down the stairs. Plus, you can use the app to set cleaning schedules, no-go zones, and spot clean when needed.

The best early Prime Day deals to shop this week
Categories: IT General, Technology

Before Prime Day, get the powerful EcoFlow Delta Pro portable power station for a record-low price at Amazon

Mashable - Mon, 06/30/2025 - 16:34

SAVE $1,915: The EcoFlow Delta Pro portable power station is on sale at Amazon as a Prime Deal for $1,784, down from the usual price of $3,699. That's a 52% discount and a record-low price.

Opens in a new window Credit: EcoFlow EcoFlow Delta Pro $1,784 at Amazon
$3,699 Save $1,915 Get Deal

Next week we launch into the official Amazon Prime Day sales event, but that doesn't mean you need to hold off until then to shop. Like always, Amazon has packed the site with early Prime Day Deals that include Apple devices, headphones, TVs, and plenty more. If you're not one to procrastinate and you're interested in a portable power station that's strong enough to be a whole-home backup, check out this early Prime Day deal at Amazon.

As of June 30, the EcoFlow Delta Pro portable power station is on sale at Amazon as an early Prime Deal for $1,784, marked down from the usual price of $3,699 listed at EcoFlow. That's a 52% discount that takes a major $1,915 off the usual price. It's also a record-low price.

Portable power stations are the new way to stay charged up, no matter where you are. Some are designed to excel in portability and are perfect for a weekend of camping but others are durable, hefty stations that can handle keeping your home powered during an outage. The EcoFlow Delta Pro is the power-house version, great for if your area is prone to storms that knock out power.

With a massive 3600W AC output, you can charge up devices and appliances via the EcoFlow's USB-A, USB-C, AC, and Anderson ports. When it comes time to recharge the power station, you can do so from standard AC, solar, or a car charging input.

SEE ALSO: Early Prime Day outdoor deals are already pretty impressive

In real-life scenarios, the capacity of the EcoFlow Delta Pro can keep your refrigerator on for 24 to 48 hours, a microwave for 2.5 hours, and a light for 108. If you pack the Delta Pro along for an RV trip, you'll be looking at recharging your phone over 300 times and keeping the car refrigerator on for over 55 hours. Since this is a powerful model, it can also work well for the worksite or while powering up a food truck.

Since the EcoFlow Delta Pro weighs almost 100 pounds, EcoFlow added a sturdy carrying handle and stable wheels to help with transporting the portable power station.

For longer camping trips, RV adventures, or a home power backup system, the EcoFlow Delta Pro is your ticket to staying powered up. While it's on sale for the lowest price ever of $1,784, snag this model before the chaos of next week's Prime Day sale event takes hold.

The best early Prime Day deals to shop this week
Categories: IT General, Technology

I hit urban trails wearing the Hypershell X — is this the future of hiking?

Mashable - Mon, 06/30/2025 - 16:24

For anyone who’s spent the week crammed into subway cars or hustling up stairs to catch a train, the idea of a weekend hike can feel...aspirational. I grew up in cities like Seattle and Minneapolis, so swapping views of the city for mountains isn’t foreign to me. 

But living in New York City now, just getting through the subway stations on the way to work feels like microdosing a sprint on the stair master. By the weekend, my joints are pleading for mercy despite craving trees, dirt, trail markers — anything that doesn’t smell like construction dust or hot trash. 

That’s why when I first saw a clip of the Hypershell X at CES, I was intrigued. It looked like something out of a sci-fi — sleek, robotic, and futuristic AF. A wearable exoskeleton designed to reduce effort and boost power while hiking, walking, or climbing? Cool, but it definitely sounded more like a shiny tech demo than real trail gear to me at first. 

Credit: Image: Josh Steinbauer; Getty Images / Connect Images

I enjoy hiking for my well-being when I can get around to it, but I’m not always up for the soreness or recovery debt that comes with a solid trek out of the city. Not when Monday morning means diving back into the grind of living in a walkable city. 

Still, I couldn’t stop wondering if the Hypershell X could actually make those weekend treks through the wild trails of upstate New York feel more like glam-hiking. So I spent a few days testing the human exoskeleton to see if it could help me hike longer distances and reduce my post-hike fatigue. 

First impressions and setup

Out of the box, the setup was intuitive and took about five minutes to complete, using the Hypershell+ app and following the provided setup instructions. The entire gadget weighs just under 4 pounds (1.8 kg), but because of its distribution and strap design, it doesn’t weigh down on you like a backpack does. It sorta blends into your body; noticeable at first, but forgettable after just a few minutes.

I occasionally struggle with maintaining my balance when something unfamiliar is added, but the Hypershell X didn’t restrict my range of motion while it was off. I could jump-squat and lunge smoothly from right to left. If anything, I felt more stable and significantly more aware of how my quads, glutes, and lower back all work in sync to keep me moving.

Credit: Image: Josh Steinbauer

Designed to be used while trekking solo, I didn’t need a second person to gear me up and strap me in, which was a conveniently efficient process. Once powered on, the app guided me through the different modes. I started in Eco mode and took my first steps.

A.I. Assist that adapts to you

When the Hypershell X arrived, I knew I wasn’t going to break it in on the rocky ridges of Cold Springs or Bear Mountain right away. 

I strapped it on for a loop around Prospect Park to get a feel before heading out to anything more rugged. Having spent considerable time in the park's wilder areas during the COVID-19 shutdown, I was familiar with its relatively flat yet varied landscape, which made it perfect for testing the suit.

The Hypershell X’s AI MotionEngine began learning my stride almost immediately, adjusting subtly and syncing with my movement. I felt a light push under my thighs when going uphill or up some steps. It wasn’t dramatic — more like a tailwind than a shove — but it made a difference. 

Ten steps felt like five, and jogging for over five minutes didn’t come with the usual impact from exertion. I toggled through the 10 adaptive copilot states, watching the system adjust seamlessly between inclines and flat ground. 

I’d switch to Transparent mode occasionally, just to compare with and without the assist. When it was off, it felt like I’d lost momentum to keep going as I became more aware of the weight of my limbs again (like getting out of a pool, but not so heavy). Transitioning into Hyper mode was quick, and the boost from it made the entire loop around the park feel more effortless the longer I wore the Hypershell X. 

I also didn’t feel like I stood out too much among NYC parkgoers, who’d likely seen enough eccentric interactions at the park to be shocked. But I did catch some interested glances.

Credit: Image: Josh Steinbauer; Getty Images/Sam Diephuis Hiking Inwood Hill Park

Of course, the real test came on the trail. I headed to Inwood Hill Park and took on a 2-mile loop with some modest elevation and rocky terrain. That’s where the Hypershell’s 800W peak output really showed up. My pack contained a big liter of water, camera gear, and all my other essentials, weighing about 10 pounds in total. 

On the steeper stretches, the support was obvious. Not only did it simplify the hike, but it also improved my balance, making my steps significantly steadier and more stable. Hypershell claims up to 40 percent more leg strength and 30 percent less effort, and I believe it. I felt less tired, less sore, and way more willing to keep going.

The IP54 rating meant I didn’t worry if the trail got a little dusty or damp. I didn’t have to baby the gadget, and that’s a must for something that claims to be adventure-ready. I even jogged for a very short section of the incline just to get the motor going and it kept up instantly. The assist was smooth, not clunky or delayed, which matters when you’re trying not to faceplant into a pile of damp leaves.

And then, of course, in the spirit of testing, I turned the Hypershell X off mid-uphill hike. That gentle assist I’d gotten used to disappeared, and the hill I was climbing suddenly felt longer, heavier, and my legs noticed the extra load immediately.

Battery life and range

Battery life is always a big question with gear like this. Hypershell says you get a little over 10 miles per charge, and that matched my experience. After an hour of use, the battery had diminished by just a quarter. I packed the spare battery, but didn’t need it. Still, it’s worth always carrying if you’re out for a full day or expect to be at a higher elevation. 

Credit: Image: Josh Steinbauer; Getty Images / Robert Lowdon, Mint Images

Charging the Hypershell X was also straightforward: USB-C directly plugs into the pack, so no battery removal is needed. A 35-minute top-up gets you to about 50 percent, and it operates in temperatures ranging from -4°F to 140°F, so it’s ready for almost anything.

This isn’t just for elite mountaineers

If you’re someone who enjoys movement — hiking, running, biking — but sometimes feel limited by how far our bodies can go (or want to go), the Hypershell X is that girl. I can easily see this being helpful for city dwellers who walk a lot or anyone who regularly carries gear over long distances.

It’s not performance-replacing; it’s performance-extending, which is a big deal when you’re someone who likes walking trails but doesn’t always have the bandwidth to take on the big outdoors just to enjoy nature.

The Hypershell X really isn’t a far-off future concept

The Hypershell X is a real tool that makes movement feel more accessible, and perhaps more importantly, it redefines who gets to use this kind of technology. It’s not just human augmentation enthusiasts or endurance athletes looking for groundbreaking heights, but everyday people who want to go the distance and feel good while doing it.

I started skeptical, and ended up really impressed. The Hypershell X won’t come on every outing, but when I want to go further without burning out, it’s absolutely worth strapping on.

Hypershell’s summer sale is on through July 7 so snag the Go X for $999 with a free Intelligent Battery, the Pro X for $1,199 with a free Anti-Cold Battery Pro, or the Carbon X for $1,799 with a free Anti-Cold Battery Pro and Charging Hub, available at hypershell.tech/pages/summer-sale-2025And if you're an Amazon shopper, mark your calendar: from July 8 to 11, Hypershell is offering 10% off the Go X, Pro X, and Carbon X for Prime Day.

Categories: IT General, Technology

This 40-inch Hisense is only $119.99 right now, its best price yet, ahead of Prime Day

Mashable - Mon, 06/30/2025 - 16:22

GET $90 OFF: As of June 30th, the Hisense 40-inch A4 Series HD TV is on sale for $119.99, down from $209.99, for a savings of $90, or 43% off.

Opens in a new window Credit: Hisense Hisense 40-inch A4 Series HD TV $119.99 at Amazon
$209.99 Save $90.00 Get Deal

When the July heat index hits sweltering, sometimes the best thing to do is stay indoors, stretch out with the AC on, and watch a TV show. If you're in need of a new screen, it's your golden opportunity, with this value priced Hisense down to a remarkably low price ahead of Prime Day.

Right now, the Hisense 40-inch A4 Series HD TV is on sale for it's best price yet, $119.99, saving you $90, or 43% off.

SEE ALSO: Amazon is dropping way better early Prime Day TV deals than years prior The best TV deals we're watching right now Products available for purchase through affiliate links. If you buy something through links on our site, Mashable may earn an affiliate commission.

This TV is certainly targeted at value oriented buyers. It might only have an HD resolution, but it offers pretty remarkable value, with a 40-inch, full array, backlit LED screen. It provides 60Hz screen refresh times, with 16Ms response times — respectable enough specs for those who want to game on it to buy without reservations.

A smart Fire TV, it fluidly interacts with various streaming services and responds to voice commands via Alexa. Beyond apps, connect to it via Bluetooth or AirPlay to stream from another device.

Take advantage of this pre-Prime Day deal to get the Hisense 40-inch A4 Series HD TV is on sale for $119.99 and save 43%, or $90 off — the TV's lowest price yet.

With slim bezels, this TV's design belies its budget price. It's an attractive centerpiece for a living room.

Categories: IT General, Technology

This Mint deal might cost less than your phone plan and includes a new phone

Mashable - Mon, 06/30/2025 - 16:16

GET $440 OFF AND 12 MONTHS FREE: As of June 23rd, Mint Mobile is offering a deal for new users to join Mint and get a new phone plus two years of the Mint Unlimited Plan for $30 per month, saving $440 on the price of the new phone and 12 months of Unlimited for free.

Opens in a new window Credit: Mint Mobile Mint Mobile Phone Deal Get 2 years of Unlimited and a new phone from $30 per month Get Deal

There's a point when you get fed up with astronomical phone bill fees ... at least I did. When I switched to Mint I wasn't sure what to expect, but wow has it been worth it! There might have been a slight drop in quality in some places, but the savings have made up for it tenfold. If you're exasperated by your phone bill, right now is an excellent time to switch to Mint.

Right now, new users can bring their number to Mint Mobile and receive a new phone plus 24 months of Mint's Unlimited plan for $30 per month. Take advantage of the plan and save $440 on a phone plus get one year of service for free. You'll be able to pick between a few phones including the Samsung Galaxy S25.

SEE ALSO: Leaked Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7, Galaxy Z Flip 7 renders show surprising design change

You don't have to stick to the Samsung Galaxy S25 to get this deal. Higher-end phones are also eligible. Choose a Galaxy S25+ and pay $39 per month (also saving $440). Additionally, you can skip the phone savings and get a phone like an iPhone 16e for $40 per month. If you do, you won't save on the phone, but you'll still get 2 years of Unlimited.

Let's break down the savings: Mint's Unlimited Plan is usually available at a staggered rate. Unlike traditional American phone providers, they charge in advance for specific amounts of time. If you renew once a year, you get a better long term rate than you will if you renew every three months. An Unlimited Plan costs $40/mo, $35/mo, or $30/mo depending on whether you choose to renew every 3 months, 6 months, or 12 months. Smaller data packages cost less at Mint. If you only need 5GB of data, you can pay as little as $15 per month.

With this deal, the price of a new phone drops to $360, and the price of the Unlimited data package drops to $15/mo. That means you'll be paying $15 per month for the phone and $15 per month for the Unlimited plan. OR you can think about it as one year of paying off the phone at $30 per month (with free data) and the other year paying $30 for the plan.

Get two years of Mint Unlimited and a new phone from $30 per month.

If you need a new phone and want to save, this deal is a great option. Mint Mobile runs on the T-Mobile network.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Project Hail Mary trailer: Ryan Gosling is humanitys last hope in this sci-fi adventure

Mashable - Mon, 06/30/2025 - 15:53

Ryan Gosling takes to the stars in the first trailer for Project Hail Mary.

Directed by Phil Lord and Christopher Miller (Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse), the upcoming sci-fi film is based on the Hugo-nominated novel of the same name by The Martian author Andy Weir. Ridley Scott's film adaptation of The Martian earned seven Academy Award nominations, including one for screenwriter Drew Goddard, who also penned the script for Project Hail Mary. Could this Weir adaptation soar to similar heights?

SEE ALSO: The 10 best movies of 2025 (so far), and where to watch them

Like The Martian, Project Hail Mary centers on a man lost in space. But unlike The Martian's botanist Mark Watney (Matt Damon), Project Hail Mary's Ryland Grace (Gosling) did not sign up for his jaunt into space. As he puts it in the film's first trailer, "I put the not in astronaut."

So how did Grace, a dorky middle school science teacher, end up in the deepest reaches of the universe?

It all starts with the threat of apocalypse. Our sun is dying, along along with many other stars across the galaxy — except one. Understanding why that one star is immune to whatever is infecting the other stars could be key to Earth's survival. Enter European Space Agency administrator Eva Stratt (Anatomy of a Fall's Sandra Hüller), who's in charge of "Project Hail Mary," humanity's long-shot attempt at survival. She's assembling a team to travel 11.9 light years to the star, and she's recruited Grace based on his prior experience as a molecular biologist. According to her, he's the only person in the world who might know what is happening to our sun. No pressure!

Project Hail Mary's first trailer teases what to expect from Grace's space journey, from his panic upon waking from his coma to his first spacewalk. As if that weren't enough, he even encounters an alien! To witness Gosling's first contact and more, watch the full trailer above.

Project Hail Mary also stars Lionel Boyce, Ken Leung, and Milana Vayntrub.

Project Hail Mary hits theaters March 20.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Why TikTok is obsessed with saying bacon avocado

Mashable - Mon, 06/30/2025 - 15:49

Internet culture is rarely straightforward. Trends that sweep through TikTok FYPs aren't always clear, and sometimes, why they've gone viral is even less clear. The latest in this line? Saying "bacon avocado" as fast as possible.

TikTokkers are saying the phrase "bacon avocado" at rapid speed, but following these words comes a hidden message said in slow motion. These words are usually some sort of meme, opinion, or insight. So "bacon avocado" is a cover-up for whatever follows.

SEE ALSO: A little girl's original tune has gone viral on TikTok. Some are calling it the Song of Summer.

Take, for example, creator @maradriellaa, who used the trend to voice her take on Netflix's Squid Game. Or creators who have something to say to (presumably) an ex. Others say viral lines from movies and TV shows.

It's definitely one of those trends which is for the Extremely Online. Not everyone is taken by the latest TikTok obsession.

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This may end up being another short-lived TikTok trend of the summer. But in the meantime, there's more entertaining content for some of us to enjoy.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale trailer spells D-I-V-O-R-C-E

Mashable - Mon, 06/30/2025 - 15:38

Downton Abbey is almost over forever, but there's one last film to see Julian Fellowes' beloved characters off in style.

Following a tear-jerking teaser in early June, a new trailer for Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale follows A New Era, and focuses on the titular estate being passed from Robert Crawley, 7th Earl of Grantham (Hugh Bonneville) to his daughter Lady Mary (Michelle Dockery). But EGADS! The word "divorce" splashes around this trailer, promising to thwart her inheritance and social standing altogether. The 1930s sure were a Time for women.

You'll see all your favourite characters return, importantly remembering those who've left us. It's going to be emotional — it always has been at Downton.

Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale is in cinemas Sept. 12.

Categories: IT General, Technology

How Galaxy AI is changing smartphone photography

Mashable - Mon, 06/30/2025 - 15:38

Since generative AI first rolled out to the masses, pro photographers and casual shutterbugs alike have speculated about its impact on image-making. Will AI finally make it so that we can all take post-worthy sunset photos on our smartphones? How about fixing those blurry shots of your dog mid-zoomies, or salvaging that once-in-a-lifetime group shot where half your friends blinked at the exact wrong moment?

If you’ve ever squinted at your screen wondering why the amazing moment you felt doesn’t match the one you captured, the Samsung Galaxy S25 and S25 Ultra may just be the upgrade you didn’t know you needed. The device offers a few hardware upgrades from its predecessor, as well as notable software additions — and the Galaxy AI features in particular are significant improvements. And when it comes to AI-enhanced photography, it’s one of the first smartphones where AI features feel fully baked in.

Here's a quick look at how Galaxy AI(1) is reshaping the way people take and manage photos on their phones.

A camera that meets the moment

On top of the Galaxy S25’s versatile, triple-lens rear camera system — which includes a 50MP main wide camera, a 12MP ultra-wide lens, and a 10MP 3x telephoto lens — this latest device layers on AI features like improved scene recognition and dynamic exposure adjustments. Whether you’re photographing your kid’s school play from the tenth row or trying to capture the perfect shot of your latte before it gets cold, the S25’s smart camera knows how to show up.

Thanks to AI, the camera now automatically adapts across various lighting environments. In dim settings like candle-lit rooms or sunset, the S25 uses its Nightography(2) algorithms to reduce noise and boost clarity. The feature delivers crisp, vivid results without the graininess or washed-out look typically associated with smartphone snapshots. The result is the difference between a moody, golden-hued memory and a hazy shot that leaves you saying, “You had to be there.”

In bright conditions, the S25 also intelligently compensates to avoid overexposure. For instance, in naturally backlit spaces, it maintains sharp detail in both highlights and shadows. Even when shooting against reflective surfaces, the AI-driven adjustments retain impressive balance and realism — think less “washed out mirror selfie,” more “studio-lit glow up.”

Galaxy AI in action: Most helpful features

There’s AI functionality embedded throughout the S25 user experience, but the camera tools are where these enhancements shine the brightest.

Here are a few features that stand out:

1. Object Eraser and Generative Edit

Generative Edit(3) enables users to manipulate objects directly in photos with just a few taps. Simply open a photo and hit the “Generative Edit” icon in the center of the toolbar to begin experimenting. You can circle an object to select it, and then choose whether to reposition, resize, or remove it entirely.

With the help of Samsung’s ProVisual Engine, AI can remove an object and fill in the background automatically to match and reconstruct the rest of the image — in just a few seconds. This feature is particularly useful for those unintentional photobomb moments (like the guy in the neon vest who wandered into your otherwise-impeccable Eiffel Tower pic). It’s also great for removing distracting objects that interfere with your photo’s composition, like powerlines slicing through your idyllic landscape shot.

Want to see your best friend as a comic-book hero? Or turn your toddler into a space explorer for their birthday party invite?  Beyond cleanup, users can use Galaxy AI features like Portrait Studio to integrate filters that reimagine selfies or portraits in stylised forms. Think of this like a memoji for the 2025 AI era — turn yourself or your loved ones into any number of whimsical avatars to share in the group chat or more publicly on social media. 

2. Sketch to image

Sketch to Image(4) allows users to sketch on a photo — tracing outlines, shapes, or doodles — and then refines those drawings to blend seamlessly into the image. The effect feels natural, like part of the original photo rather than a digital overlay. It’s perfect for adding a dash of personality, whether you’re sending a doodled thank-you, or just jazzing up your group chat memes.

This is a useful feature for anyone who wants to inject creativity into everyday shots. You can draw a heart around your dog, for instance, or turn the sun in the background of your shot into a cartoon that looks super realistic. The feature is easy to use, fast at cranking out design iterations, and fun to experiment with.

3. AI in the Gallery app

We’ve all been there — sitting at dinner with a friend, searching for that one photo of your cat in a Halloween costume from three years ago. It’s an awkward scroll through hundreds of thumbnails while your pasta gets cold.

This is the precise everyday friction that makes multimodal AI in the Galaxy S25’s Gallery app(5) one of the more quietly powerful upgrades. By combining visual understanding with natural language processing, the phone can now help users find and interact with photos faster and more intuitively.

For instance, you can search for “cats in superhero Halloween costumes” and Galaxy AI will parse both image content and contextual metadata to surface the right photo. No more guessing which month you went to Joshua Tree or endlessly scrolling through 170 nearly identical photos of brunch. Your fries stay hot — and so does the conversation.

The verdict: A seamless snap-and-share experience with just the right amount of smarts

The intelligence layer Samsung has added on top of its already impressive hardware feels like the missing link between creative intent and seamless execution. For photographers — whether spontaneous snappers or intentional shooters—the S25 offers tools that feel accessible yet remarkably capable. Another welcome touch: These AI features aren’t buried in obscure menus. Samsung’s updated UI makes them easy to discover and experiment with, even for non-techy users. You don’t have to be a professional — or even particularly patient — to get share-worthy shots.

Looking ahead, features like Generative Edit and Sketch to Image represent a shift in how users interact with their devices and create content. These tools stand to enable a more fluid, customisable approach to mobile photography; and in a world dominated by spec comparisons, it’s refreshing to see a phone that focuses on experience. 

Big screen. Small form. Huge upgrade. The new Galaxy Foldable is coming.

(1) Samsung account login is required for certain AI features.

(2) Results may vary depending on light condition, subject and/or shooting conditions.

(3) Samsung account login is required. Requires network connection.

(4) Requires a network connection and Samsung account login. Visible watermark is overlaid on the image to indicate that the image output is generated by AI. Accuracy of output not guaranteed.

(5) Samsung account login and network connection required.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The next affordable MacBook might be powered by an iPhone chip

Mashable - Mon, 06/30/2025 - 15:18

A more affordable Apple MacBook may be coming, with a somewhat surprising chip choice.

According to Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple is working on a new type of MacBook, which could have a 13-inch display and an Apple A18 Pro chip inside. That chip does not officially exist yet, but it's expected to power the next generation of iPhone Pro models.

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This doesn't have to mean this MacBook would be underpowered. Apple's A series of phone chips are incredibly powerful for their size, and extremely energy efficient, which could make this new MacBook a battery life king.

As a reference, the Apple A17 Pro chip, which powers the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max phones, is a six-core CPU, with two performance cores and four energy-efficient cores, and it comes with 8GB of RAM. It also integrates a six-core GPU and a 16-core Neural Engine.

Apple's A-series and M-series chips share a similar architecture, though the M-Series chips typically have more cores running at higher clock speeds, as well as larger cache sizes and support for some Mac-specific features.

SEE ALSO: Apple has an incredibly ambitious roadmap for smart glasses and headsets, report claims

Kuo didn't share any other specifics about this MacBook or the chip powering it, besides saying it'll be "more affordable." He did say the new MacBook will potentially come with the following color options: silver, blue, pink, and yellow.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Googles Lewis Capaldi search Easter egg is very sweet

Mashable - Mon, 06/30/2025 - 13:23

Lewis Capaldi's triumphant return to the stage over the weekend was celebrated both at Glastonbury Festival and on Google Search.

The Grammy-nominated Scottish singer made a surprise appearance on the hallowed Pyramid Stage on Friday. It's the first time Capaldi has performed at the festival since experiencing tics onstage related to his Tourette’s syndrome in 2023, and his first live performance since taking a two-year hiatus from shows altogether. The secret set drew thousands of fans who joined the singer in unison for his hit ballad "Someone You Loved," in an undeniably moving moment.

SEE ALSO: How to watch The 1975 at Glastonbury 2025 online for free

"Glastonbury, it's so good to be back," Calpaldi said onstage, per the BBC. "I'm not going to say much up here today because if I did, I might start crying."

"My name is Lewis Capaldi and I'm f***ing back, baby," he later declared.

To mark Capaldi's return to the stage on Friday, Google added a very sweet Easter egg to Search. When you type in "Lewis Capaldi" into the search bar, a small message appears at the top of results reading, "❤️ Welcome back Lewis - Someone we love ❤️"

Aww. Credit: Mashable screenshot / Google / Shannon Connellan

Capaldi told fans of his diagnosis of Tourette’s syndrome in 2022, an experience detailed in Joe Pearlman's 2023 documentary on the artist How I'm Feeling Now. When Capaldi cancelled his tour in 2023, the artist released a statement informing fans he would be "taking a break from touring for the foreseeable future."

"I used to be able to enjoy every second of shows like this and I’d hoped three weeks away would sort me out. But the truth is I’m still learning to adjust to the impact of my Tourette's," he wrote on Instagram after his 2023 Glastonbury performance, during which Capaldi's fans helped him sing sections he was unable to. "On Saturday, it became obvious that I need to spend much more time getting my mental and physical health in order so I can keep doing everything I love for a long time to come," he added.

After returning to the Glastonbury stage on the weekend, on Monday, Capaldi announced a UK and Ireland arena tour for September 2025.

If you're in the UK, you can watch Capaldi's full Glastonbury 2025 set on BBC iPlayer. If you're outside the UK, read Mashable's guide on how to watch the replays.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Our Apple expert picked this as one of the hottest Prime Day deals already live — save $80 on the Apple Watch SE

Mashable - Mon, 06/30/2025 - 13:20

SAVE $80: As of June 30, the Apple Watch SE is on sale for $169 at Amazon. This is 32% off its list price of $249.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) $169 at Amazon
$249 Save $80 Get Deal

Sale events like Amazon Prime Day, which is coming up very soon on July 8, are a great opportunity to pick up some high-end tech at a discount. If you've been hoping to buy Apple products during the sale, there are already some great discounts available at Amazon. Our Apple expert has picked out this deal on the Apple Watch SE as one of the many early Apple deals that are worth a look before the sale event officially kicks off.

The Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen, GPS, 40mm) is listed for $249, but you can score it at a 32% discount right now.

SEE ALSO: How to sign up for Amazon Prime ahead of Prime Day

If you're not looking for all of the bells and whistles that come with the higher end smartwatches, the Apple Watch SE is a great investment. It covers the basics with its health and fitness features, including heart rate tracking, sleep tracking, an activity tracker, and safety features like Fall Detection, Crash Detection, and Emergency SOS. It also perfectly fits into an Apple ecosystem, so you can send texts and take calls from the smartwatch as well.

If it has been on your shopping list, there's no better time than now to pick up the Apple Watch SE on sale for $169 at Amazon.

To learn more about what to expect from Amazon Prime Day this year, what time it all kicks off, and more of our favorite early deals, have a look at our breakdown of everything you need to know about Amazon Prime Day 2025.

The best early Prime Day deals, hand-picked by Mashable's team of experts
Categories: IT General, Technology

John Oliver has some very blunt words for Trumps big beautiful bill

Mashable - Mon, 06/30/2025 - 13:17

Donald Trump's so-called "big beautiful bill" is getting closer and closer to becoming reality, despite controversy over tax cuts for high earners, risks to food assistance and health coverage, an addition of trillions to the country's debt, and a clause that would ban states from regulating AI.

In the Last Week Tonight video above, John Oliver goes through all these things and more before giving the following, damning summary.

"Right now Republicans are trying to rush this bill through, because they know how toxic it is," he says. "It may have even passed the Senate by the time you're watching this. And while I know there is a lot going on right now it is worth paying attention to this bill, because if it becomes law we're going to be looking back on it decades from now the same way we look back on all the destructive shit Reagan did. And when that happens, Republicans cannot say they didn't know what was in it, or what it would do. Everyone who votes for this should be held accountable."

Categories: IT General, Technology

Wordle today: Answer, hints for June 30, 2025

Mashable - Mon, 06/30/2025 - 13:14

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 June 30 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 June 30, 2025 Here's a subtle hint for today's Wordle answer:

To flash.

Does today's Wordle answer have a double letter?

There are no recurring letters.

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

Today's Wordle starts with the letter B.

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...

BLINK.

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 June 30

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 Strands hints, answers for June 30

Mashable - Mon, 06/30/2025 - 13:14

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 preferrined pace.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for June 30 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for June 30 NYT Strands hint for today’s theme: Trellis beauties

The words are plant-related.

Today’s NYT Strands theme plainly explained

These words are types of florals.

NYT Strands spangram hint: Is it vertical or horizontal?

Today's NYT Strands spangram is horizontal.

NYT Strands spangram answer today

Today's spangram is Climber

Featured Video For You Strands 101: How to win NYT’s latest word game NYT Strands word list for June 30
  • Wisteria

  • Clematis

  • Jasmine

  • Climber

  • Moonflower

  • Sweetpea

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

NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for June 30, 2025

Mashable - Mon, 06/30/2025 - 13:14

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.

This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed.

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.

This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed.

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 June 30 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: Tooth insertions

  • Green: A tumultuous occurrence

  • Blue: Movies by a popular filmmaker

  • Purple: Another word for an aircraft

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: Dental additions

  • Green: Metaphors for a dramatic and chaotic event

  • Blue: Second words in David Lynch titles

  • Purple: What "Jet" might refer to

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 #750 is...

What is the answer to Connections today
  • Dental additions: BRIDGE, CROWN, FILLING, VENEER

  • Metaphors for a dramatic and chaotic event: CIRCUS, ROLLER COASTER, SOAP OPERA, WHIRLWIND

  • Second words in David Lynch titles: DRIVE, HIGHWAY, PEAKS, VELVET

  • What "Jet" might refer to: AIRPLANE, BLACK, HOT TUB NOZZLE, NFL PLAYER

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 June 30

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

Apple has an incredibly ambitious roadmap for smart glasses and headsets, report claims

Mashable - Mon, 06/30/2025 - 13:14

Apple's Vision Pro headset seems to have taken a back seat lately, but a new report claims that Apple still has a very ambitious roadmap with seven head-mounted products in the pipeline.

This is according to Apple sleuth Ming-Chi Kuo, who detailed the company's plans in a blog post Sunday. Kuo claims that Apple views head-mounted devices as "the next major trend in consumer electronics," and that it's currently working on three Vision series products and four smart glasses variants.

SEE ALSO: The 20+ best Apple deals live ahead of Prime Day Vision Pro and Vision Air

Starting with the Vision Pro, Apple is reportedly working on an upgraded version of the headset, scheduled to enter mass production in the third quarter of 2025. This is said to be a very simple upgrade, with the main processor upgraded from Apple's M2 to M5, and other specifications remaining the same.

In the third quarter of 2027, Apple plans to launch what Kuo calls "Vision Air," a "substantially lighter" headset that will be powered by the latest flagship iPhone processor. The Vision Air will reportedly have fewer sensors, more plastic and less glass, and magnesium alloy instead of titanium alloy, which should reduce weight more than 40 percent compared to the Vision Pro, and allow Apple to sell it at a "significantly lower price point" than the $3,499 Vision Pro.

Featured Video For You Apple Vision Pro: I tried it on a plane and it was chaotic

And yes, Apple is still planning to launch an upgraded Vision Pro, with a new design, lighter body, and a lower price point, but that's not coming before the second half of 2028.

Apple Smart Glasses

As for the oft-rumored Apple smart glasses, Kuo says that Apple plans to mass produce a "Ray-Ban-like" product in the second quarter of 2027. These reportedly won't have a display; just like the Ray-Ban Meta glasses, they'll have audio playback, voice control, a camera, and AI environmental sensing. Apple's version will also have a gesture recognition user interface, says Kuo.

Then there are the "XR Glasses," which are reported to have a LCoS (liquid crystal on silicon) display, voice control, and gesture recognition. For these, AI functionality will be "critical to product success," Kuo says. The report also claims that there's an additional variant in development with a later production timeline.

Finally, Kuo says that Apple has halted development of a "display accessory" that would be cable-tethered to the Max, but there's still a chance that it could be restarted.

Slow and steady wins the race?

One immediate takeaway from all this is that Apple reportedly isn't launching any major new products in either of these categories for two more years (the slightly updated Vision Pro barely counts).

The good news is that, if Kuo's sources are accurate, Apple still plans to have a very wide and varied ecosystem of head-mounted devices in a few years' time. Competitors such as Meta, as well as Xiaomi — which just launched its own version of smart glasses — are already a few steps ahead, so Apple's gonna have to up its game.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Our audio expert has hand-picked this deal ahead of Prime Day — get $30 off Sony WH-CH720N headphones

Mashable - Mon, 06/30/2025 - 13:06

SAVE OVER $30: As of June 30, Sony's WH-CH720N headphones are on sale for $114 at Amazon. This is 24% off their list price of $149.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Sony Sony WH-CH720N Noise Canceling Wireless Headphones $114 at Amazon
$149.99 Save $35.99 Get Deal

We're coming up on Amazon Prime Day, and if you've been hoping to buy a new pair of headphones during the sale, you're in luck. Our headphones expert has already tracked down some early Prime Day deals on headphones and earbuds that are worth checking out right now. This includes a discount on the Sony WH-CH720N headphones.

Sony's WH-CH720N headphones are on sale right now for $114. This is 24% off their list price of $149.99, allowing you to keep over $30 in your pocket. This deal only applies to the black headphones.

SEE ALSO: Are you 18-24? Get 6 months of Amazon Prime for free ahead of Prime Day.

While these headphones aren't as premium as Sony's new XM6 headphones, they're still a great option to pick up that's more budget-friendly. Boasting a comfortable and lightweight fit, noise-canceling features, and high-quality sound, Sony's WH-CH720N headphones will still provide you with a great listening experience for your music, podcasts, audiobooks, and more. They even have up to 35 hours of battery life, making them a perfect fit for long trips.

If you're in need of new headphones, this deal on Sony WH-CH720N headphones is worth jumping on while still live.

Amazon's Prime Day sale event starts on July 8 this year. If you're planning to shop the sale, have a look at everything you need to know about Amazon Prime Day 2025 to plan ahead.

The best early Prime Day deals, hand-picked by Mashable's team of experts
Categories: IT General, Technology

Our robot vacuum expert recommends this deal ahead of Prime Day — save $150 on the Roomba 105

Mashable - Mon, 06/30/2025 - 12:59

SAVE $150: As of June 30, the iRobot Roomba 105 is on sale for $299.99 at Amazon. This is 33% off its list price of $449.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Roomba iRobot Roomba 105 $299.99 at Amazon
$449.99 Save $150 Get Deal

Amazon Prime Day is just a week away, but the retailer has already dropped some excellent early deals that are worth considering. If you've had a robot vacuum on your shopping list, we've come across quite a few early deals, including over $100 off the iRobot Roomba 105.

The iRobot Roomba 105 is normally listed for $449.99, but you can pick it up for $299.99 ahead of Prime Day. Our Roomba expert considers it the best cheap Roomba deal ahead of Prime Day. According to Leah Stodart, "this Roomba is genuinely a bang for your buck."

SEE ALSO: How to sign up for Amazon Prime ahead of Prime Day

This robot vacuum offers a powerful clean that's well worth its discounted price tag. With a multi-surface brush, edge-sweeping brush, and 7,000 Pa suction, the iRobot Roomba 105 can move through dirt, dust, and debris scattered across your floor. And thanks to LiDAR technology, it can map out your home so it gets every little corner and crevice while avoiding any obstacles in its way.

Who needs Prime Day to score a great deal? Grab the iRobot Roomba 105 for $150 off right now.

To learn more about exact start times for Prime Day, what's new this year, and more of our favorite early deals, have a look at our breakdown of everything you need to know about Amazon Prime Day 2025.

The best early Prime Day deals, hand-picked by Mashable's team of experts
Categories: IT General, Technology
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