Blogroll

In early September, Apple held a big event to announce a ton of new stuff, but one product stood out more than any other: The iPhone Duo.

Apple's first foldable device has two displays, a wealth of multitasking features, and a trendy form factor that's sure to be a conversation-starter. But it also begs the question: Why get an iPad when you could get one of these, or vice versa? Has Apple made a "phablet" that makes the iPad redundant?

Let's take a look at what makes these devices different, and explore why you might want one or the other.

SEE ALSO: Apple iPhone Duo vs. iPhone 18 Pro Max: How to decide between them iPhone Duo vs. iPad: Price

The iPhone Duo starts at $1,999. It absolutely must be noted, first and foremost, that this is more expensive than the starting price for any iPad model. Even the most premium one, the iPad Pro, starts at $1,199, and all but its most high-end variants come in below the starting price of the iPhone Duo. That's to say nothing of the fact that you can get a standard iPad for as little as $449, an iPad Mini for $599, or an iPad Air for $699.

So, if you want an Apple touchscreen device with a bigger display than the average iPhone, the iPhone Duo is not the most cost-effective way to accomplish that. Not by a long shot.

The only exception, if you were planning to buy a new iPhone and a new iPad Pro, opting for the Duo alone could save some money. But that's a very specific use case

iPhone Duo vs. iPad: Specs and design Even an iPad Air is way, way bigger than an iPhone Duo. Credit: Joe Maldonado/Mashable

Since there are several different kinds of iPads, it would take way too long to list out all of their specs compared to the iPhone Duo. However, display size is probably the most important factor here, so these are the different display sizes for each device:

• iPhone Duo: 5.4-inch cover display, 7.6-inch inner display

• iPad: 11-inch display

• iPad Mini: 8.3-inch display

• iPad Air: 11-inch or 13-inch display

• iPad Pro: 11-inch or 13-inch display

If display size is what you're after, the iPhone Duo will provide the smallest one of this group by a good margin. It's probably great for reading books, sketching art, or watching movies by the standards of a phone, but any iPad will be better for those things on a pure screen real-estate level.

Storage is going to be another primary concern. The regular iPad and iPad Mini both top out at 512GB, while the Air tops out at 1TB and the Pro at 2TB. You can also get an iPhone Duo with up to 2TB of storage, but that costs a staggering $3,199. By comparison, the 2TB iPad Pro is $2,299, a full $900 cheaper. Again, the iPad provides a stronger value here if storage is the main thing you care about.

It should also be pointed out that at 254g, the iPhone Duo is significantly lighter than any iPad model. It would be weird if it weren't, considering it's a phone and not a tablet. I would also hope it goes without saying that not a single iPad model has a screen that can bend, so if that's really appealing to you, this is a no-brainer.

Oh, one more thing: The iPhone Duo has two 48MP camera lenses on the back for something resembling real photography. Meanwhile, every modern iPad has but a lone 12MP lens. Technically, you can take pictures with an iPad, but that doesn't mean you should. If you care about photography, get an iPhone Duo.

iPhone Duo vs. iPad: Software features Split-screen multi-tasking is available on both devices. Credit: Stan Schroeder/Mashable

In announcing the iPhone Duo, Apple emphasized that the user experience took a lot of cues from iPadOS. But this fact still needs to be shouted from the rooftops: These two devices do not use the same operating system.

The iPhone Duo runs on iOS 27, and the iPad on iPadOS. They are similar because every Apple OS is similar, but they are not the same. There are two separate App Stores, and apps are designed specifically to work in one environment or the other. Some apps will have wildly different interfaces or features depending on the device you're using, and in some cases, apps just will not be supported at all, at least not natively.

Apple has outfitted iOS 27 with multitasking features specifically for the Duo, meaning you can have two apps open at once, side by side on the inner display. That's great and convenient, especially since you can drag and drop elements from one app to another. Unfortunately for the iPhone Duo, this is old hat for iPads; they've had split-screen multitasking for a while, and you can have more than two apps open at a time on an iPad.

That said, the iPhone Duo has some tricks the iPad doesn't, thanks to its form factor. For example, you can photograph someone using the inner display while the outer display shows the subject of the photo that you're seeing. That works with FaceTime calls, too.

As far as I know, there is basic parity between the two devices with AI features. Siri AI should work on both, and apps like Image Playground exist on the iPad, too. One final point here is obvious: if you want something to use as a telephone, get an iPhone Duo. By default, iPads can't even connect to cellular networks unless you pay extra for a model that can. You wouldn't want to use a big tablet as a phone, anyway.

iPhone Duo vs. iPad: Apple Pencil and accessory support An iPhone Duo can't do this. Credit: Joe Maldonado/Mashable

There are pros and cons to both devices when it comes to accessory support. Most importantly, you can use an Apple Pencil on the iPhone Duo's displays, which was a nice surprise during the announcement. Beyond that, though, things get a little more tricky.

For instance, iPads don't support MagSafe accessories or wireless charging of any kind right now. They might in the future, but they don't in the present. The iPhone Duo does support those things, but unlike the iPad, it doesn't support external, attachable keyboards. It's much easier to use an iPad like a laptop than an iPhone Duo.

At the end of the day, one of them is a tablet, and the other is a phone. I think they can co-exist.

Preorder the new Apple products Apple iPhone 18 Pro, 256GB Save up to $1,200 at T-Mobile
  Pre-order Here at T-Mobile Pre-order Here at AT&T Wireless Pre-order Here at Walmart iPhone 18 Pro Max, 256GB Save up to $1,200 at T-Mobile
  Pre-order Here at T-Mobile Pre-order Here at Walmart Pre-order Here at Apple.com Apple Watch Series 12 (GPS, 42mm) $399 at Amazon
  Pre-order Here at Amazon Pre-order Here at Best Buy Pre-order Here at Walmart Apple AirPods 5 earbuds $129 at Amazon
  Pre-order Here at Amazon Pre-order Here at Apple.com Pre-order Here at Walmart

“Can it run DOOM?” It’s the question people love to half-jokingly ask about every gadget with a screen. Android, of course, can run DOOM — but what about Android Auto? That’s an entirely different beast.

Microsoft's PowerToys suite of Windows utilities, which you can download from GitHub or install through the Microsoft Store, has earned a reputation as a tool designed for — and used exclusively by — Windows power users. But the reality is more nuanced.

SAVE $9.99: The 2026 Lego City Advent Calendar is on sale at Amazon for $25, down from the normal price of $34.99. That's a 29% discount.

Opens in a new window Credit: Lego 2026 Lego City Advent Calendar $25 at Amazon
$34.99 Save $9.99   Get Deal

December and Black Friday are still several months away, but the year's hottest Advent calendars are already on sale. If you want the best selection, it's time to get shopping. Each year, Lego puts out a handful of fantastic Advent calendars, and if you're in the mood for a classic winter scene, check out this deal.

As of Sept. 11, the 2026 Lego City Advent Calendar is on sale at Amazon for $25, marked down from the normal price of $34.99. That's a 29% discount that saves shoppers $9.99 well before the season begins.

With 252 delightfully cheery pieces, the Lego City Advent Calendar is always a seasonal joy. This year's version has Santa himself, a handful of elves, a Christmas tree, and a snowman holding an irresistible cup of cocoa.

Each daily surprise comes with simple step-by-step instructions, and the entire collection can sit in the included fold-out Santa's workshop area.

SEE ALSO: Lego's huge 4,154-piece Tropical Aquarium set drops to its lowest price yet at Amazon — save over $50

As we get closer to December, it's likely this model will begin to come in and out of stock. Since it's in stock and inexplicably on sale, we suggest jumping on this deal as soon as possible. This feels like a hidden deal that could vanish at any moment.

SAVE $250: As of Sept. 11, you can grab an unlocked Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra (256GB) or Galaxy Z Fold 8 (256GB) on sale at Amazon for $1,049.99 (reg. $1,299.99) and $1,649.99 (reg. $1,899.99), respectively. That's $250 in savings on either phone.

Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra (256GB, Unlocked) $1,049.99 at Amazon
$1,299.99 Save $250   Get Deal Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 (256GB, Unlocked) $1,649.99 at Amazon
$1,899.99 Save $250   Get Deal

Not everyone is an iPhone person. While the tech world is fully consumed by news of the iPhone Duo, 18 Pro, and 18 Pro Max releases, Android folks can quietly snag a new Samsung Galaxy phone for less.

Amazon has an unlocked Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra base model with 256GB of storage for just $1,049.99 instead of $1,299.99. That's $250 in savings. And if you'd prefer a foldable phone like the iPhone Duo, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 with 256GB is also on sale for only $1,649.99 at Amazon — a savings of $250 as well.

The Galaxy S26 Ultra is Samsung's premium flagship device, which goes to head to head with Apple's new iPhone 18 Pro Max. "If there's ever been a phone to make you ditch Apple, this is it," Mashable's tech editor Timothy Beck Werth cheered in his review. It features a world-class camera array, a brilliant 6.9-inch AMOLED display with up to 120Hz refresh rate, a speedy Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, battery that lasts all day with heavy use, an included stylus, and a Privacy Display. It's expensive, but ultimately worth the investment for the right person. Plus, a nearly 20% discount certainly helps.

The Z Fold 8 is a worthy Duo alternative for Android users. Plus, it's worth mentioning that Samsung has been in the foldable game for years. The Z Fold 8 is our favorite Android foldable to date, and our tech editor says it's "undeniably fun to use and show off." It's incredibly thin and light, features a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 that can support heavy multitasking, and is a dream machine for editing photos, reading, gaming, and streaming. Its biggest flaw is the dual 50MP wide and 50MP ultrawide cameras, which are "fine, but not elite." A $250 price drop might be enough to make up for that, though.

TL;DR: Minecraft Dungeons II releases on Sept. 29, for PC, Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, and Switch 2. Pre-ordering either the $29.99 Standard Edition or the $49.99 Deluxe Edition before Sept. 28 unlocks the Twisted Cape, Twisted Chicken pet, and two hero skins.

Opens in a new window Credit: Minecraft Minecraft Dungeons II — Standard Edition $29.99 at Minecraft
  Pre-order Here Opens in a new window Credit: Minecraft Minecraft Dungeons II — Deluxe Edition $49.99 at Minecraft
  Pre-order Here

Put down the diamond pickaxe and unsheathe your sword — Minecraft Dungeons II drops on Sept. 29, and digital pre-orders are officially open.

The sequel expands on the original in a ton of exciting ways. Mojang Studios and Double Eleven are sending players on a brand-new quest across the Overworld and beyond to stop a mysterious evil threatening two different worlds. You can tackle the campaign entirely solo or grab up to three buddies for local couch co-op or online cross-play.

Along the way, you'll clash with hordes of aggressive mobs, craft legendary builds using upgraded armor and weapons, and master deep combat mechanics designed to test your party.

If you are planning to jump into the action on day one, choosing the right version comes down to how much extra loot you want in your inventory.

Standard Edition: $29.99

The Standard Edition is the simple choice for gamers who just want the core campaign without any extra filler. At $29.99, it gets you full access to the base game on launch day alongside the Minecraft Launcher setup. Even with the base version, anyone who pre-orders before Sept. 28 scores a batch of launch-window cosmetics to customize their character.

Preorder bonuses for both editions include:

• Twisted Cape

• Twisted Chicken Pet

• Two additional hero skins

SEE ALSO: Crumbl Cookies just announced a Minecraft menu, complete with exclusive mystery spoons Deluxe Edition: $49.99

If you know you are going to sink dozens of hours into grinding gear, the Deluxe Edition packs a massive punch for $49.99. For the extra twenty bucks, you get access to two future DLC expansion packs as soon as they drop down the line. On top of post-launch story content, it grants instant access to the Minecraft Launcher, the ethereal Soul Cape cosmetic, an aquatic Blub Pet companion, and four Deluxe hero skins.

Whichever version fits your budget, lock in your order before Sept. 28 so you don't miss out on that mutated chicken pet on day one.

Smart bulbs are one of the most common entries into the world of smart home devices, but they're not without their problems. If your internet goes down, you may find that you lose features or simply can't control your bulbs at all. There are several ways to stop this from happening.

TL;DR: Igloo just launched a brand-new Winnie the Pooh-themed collection. Prices start at $27.99.

Igloo's Winnie the Pooh collection at a glance: Disney Winnie the Pooh Hunny Pot 15 Oz Coffee Mug $27.99 Shop Now Disney Winnie the Pooh Hunny Pot 32 Oz Travel Mug $39.99 Shop Now Disney Winnie the Pooh Plush Tote Cooler Bag $39.99 Shop Now Disney Winnie the Pooh Hunny Pot Cooler Bag $39.99 Shop Now Disney Winnie the Pooh & Pals Little Playmate 7 Qt Cooler $49.99 Shop Now

Igloo (the cooler company) just launched a brand-new Winnie the Pooh-themed collection, and I am living for it. I'm also super happy to see a brand choose a different character than Snoopy for fall — I love Snoopy, but the Peanuts gang just seems to get an unfair amount of publicity during the Ber months. Anyway, I digress.

The limited-edition collection includes five pieces, and prices start at $27.99:

• Disney Winnie the Pooh Hunny Pot 15-ounce Coffee Mug ($27.99): The most affordable item in the collection is a 15-ounce travel coffee mug. It has a tinted yellow, leakproof flip 'n' sip lid with a small mouth-opening cover that clips into place. Its double-walled, vacuum-insulated design keeps your drinks cold or hot, depending on what you put in it. You could honestly put soup in this too...don't @ me.

• Disney Winnie the Pooh Hunny Pot 32-ounce Travel Mug ($39.99): My favorite piece in the collection is the 32-ounce travel mug. One is on its way to my apartment right now. It's built like the coffee mug, but it comes with a leak-resistant silicone straw with a little honey bee topper.

• Disney Winnie the Pooh Plush Tote Cooler Bag ($39.99): This tote bag doubles as a cooler. It would make a super cute lunch box for a preschooler or kindergarten student. (Hell, I'd carry this around in my truck for snacks.) It's insulated, so it'll keep your goodies hot or cold.

• Disney Winnie the Pooh Hunny Pot Cooler Bag ($39.99): The Hunny Pot Cooler is probably my second favorite item in the lineup. You could literally use this as a kitschy purse if you wanted to. According to the product description, it can hold up to nine cans. (Do with that what you will.)

• Disney Winnie the Pooh & Pals Little Playmate 7-quart Cooler ($49.99): If you prefer a more traditional-looking, hard cooler, the seven-quart Winnie the Pooh & Pals Little Playmate Cooler is $49.99. It also holds up to nine cans.

You can't buy these items on the Igloo Amazon storefront just yet, so you'll have to shop direct until it's updated (if it is — remember, this is a limited-edition collection!).

Shop Igloo deals on Amazon

• Igloo Classic Playmate Cooler — $16.99 $22.99 (save $6)

• Igloo Marine Cooler — $34.98 $46.99 (save $12.01)

• Igloo Tag Along Too Cooler — $39.99 $49.99 (save $10)

• Igloo Coolers Retro Collection — $49.99 $65.99 (save $16)

The best iPhone 18 preorder deals at a glance: Preorder at T-Mobile Get iPhone 18 Pro for free with qualifying trade-in or by switching Get Deal Preorder at AT&T Get iPhone 18 Pro for free with qualifying trade-in Get Deal Preorder at Visible Get $480 of monthly service credits with purchase Get Deal Preorder at Total Wireless Take $600 off iPhone 18 Pro or Pro Max Get Deal Preorder at Apple Get up to $885 in credit with trade-in Get Deal

In case you missed Apple's Sept. 9 event, there are a few new iPhones in town. And the big carriers are already competing to offer the best iPhone preorder deals and lock in new customers.

The annual iPhone launch is basically the first indicator of fall. This year, the foldable iPhone Duo has captured most of the hype, but the tried-and-true iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max flagship models also deliver some exciting new updates. While the Duo won't be available to preorder until October, the 18 Pro and Pro Max hit shelves on Friday, Sept. 18. Better yet, preorders open Sept. 12, so you can secure your new phone ASAP.

The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max come in four new colors: deep black, silver, burgundy, and glacier blue. The 18 Pro starts at $1,199, while the Pro Max starts at $1,299 for the 256GB models (storage options go up to 2TB). That's a $100 price increase over last year, and new phones are getting very expensive. Fortunately for our wallets, carriers like T-Mobile are offering up to $1,200 off, and you can also take advantage of the Apple Upgrade program if you don't mind leasing your iPhone.

Save up to $1,200 with iPhone 18 preorder deals

If you're ready to preorder your new device but your wallet isn't quite keeping up with your enthusiasm, we've found a few ways to save some money. To take advantage of most carriers' offers, you'll need to switch providers, trade in an older iPhone, or choose a specific phone plan. Smaller carriers like Visible and Total Wireless are also offering up to half off the new iPhone if you sign up for certain plans.

Here are the best preorder deals for the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max:

• Apple: Trade in an iPhone 13 or later model and get between $175 and $885 in credit towards the iPhone 18 Pro or Pro Max. You can also score up to $1,200 in trade-in credit through specific carriers.

• AT&T: Get the iPhone 18 Pro for free or up to $1,200 off iPhone 18 Pro Max with qualifying trade-ins of iPhone 14 or later and activation on AT&T Premium 2.0 plan or higher. You can also get up to $800 in credit to pay off your current device just by switching to AT&T.

• T-Mobile: Get the iPhone 18 Pro for free when you switch to T-Mobile and bring your number or trade-in an eligible phone on an Experience Beyond plan. You can also score up to $930 in trade-in credit when you switch a line to T-Mobile's Experience More or Go5G Plus plans.

• Total Wireless: Save $600 on iPhone 18 Pro or Pro Max on the All Access plan.

• Verizon: Get up to $1,200 off when you add a new line (with qualified trade-in) on eligible myPlan or up to $1,020 off when you upgrade with an eligible trade-in on existing myPlan.

• Visible: Buy the iPhone 18 Pro with Visible+ Pro and receive $480 through monthly service credits. New and existing members are eligible.

• Walmart: The big box retailer doesn't have any preorder deals just yet, but you can finance the new iPhone and pay as little as $78/month if you qualify through OnePay, a Klarna-backed service.

• Xfinity: Get the iPhone 18 Pro Max for free with a qualifying trade-in and device payment plan on the Mobile Plus plan.

What about Amazon iPhone preorder deals?

As of this writing, Amazon's iPhone 18 Pro listings aren't live, and Amazon typically isn't the best place to shop for Apple smartphones. However, we'll update this page if any iPhone 18 Pro Amazon deals do go live in the days ahead. You can preorder the new AirPods 5 and Apple Watches at Amazon.

Apple AirPods 5 earbuds $129 at Amazon
  Pre-order Here at Amazon Pre-order Here at Apple.com Pre-order Here at Walmart Apple Watch Series 12 (GPS, 42mm) $399 at Amazon
  Pre-order Here at Amazon Pre-order Here at Best Buy Pre-order Here at Walmart Apple iPhone 18 Pro, 256GB Save up to $1,200 at T-Mobile
  See It at T-Mobile See It at AT&T Wireless See It at Walmart iPhone 18 Pro Max, 256GB Save up to $1,200 at T-Mobile
  See It at T-Mobile See It at Walmart See It at Apple.com

TL;DR: Right now, you can get Samsung's newest mid-range phone for $799.99, plus a $200 Amazon gift card to spend on whatever else you want.

Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung Galaxy S26 FE (256 GB) $799.99 at Amazon
$999.99 Save $200   Get Deal

While the internet's busy arguing over Apple's new $2,000 foldable phone, Samsung is handing out $200 in digital cash to Android users.

Right now, you can get the Samsung Galaxy S26 FE (256 GB) for $799.99, plus a $200 Amazon gift card to spend on whatever else you want. All you have to do is add it to your cart, check out, and you should receive the phone and a physical Amazon gift card on your selected shipping date (though the listing mentions the gift card may ship separately, depending on your location).

SEE ALSO: Apple's iPhone Duo is here, and Samsung is already throwing shade

If you want to spend a little less (and you don't need a ton of storage), you can get the 128 GB version for $699.99. This one comes with an Amazon gift card, too.

The Samsung S26 FE was basically made for anyone who wants to take influencer-level videos without spending a fortune on video equipment. It has an Exynos 2500 chip, a 4,900 mAh battery, a bright 6.7-inch 120Hz AMOLED display, and a 50MP camera packed with Galaxy AI features. That includes a feature called "My FanCam" that automatically keeps your subject centered in video.

Physical media is having a bit of a revival at the moment, and vinyl is getting a lot of attention with claims about its supposed superiority over digital audio. Music CDs, on the other hand, have received a more muted revival.

It won't shock you that there's a superabundance of interview podcasts and internet series out there. You're probably subscribed to a bunch of content creators (perhaps those who made this year's Mashable 101), or maybe you depend on your feed to hand-deliver the most viral clips.

But your time is precious, so we've rounded up the best on the internet this week.

Whether you're into deadpan showdowns, niche hot takes, or simply wholesome interviews between creative minds, here's what we reckon is worth your time (and of course, we'd never leave out Mashable's own Say More, what are you, nuts?).

SEE ALSO: The Mashable 101: The creators defining the internet in 2026 So True with Caleb Hearon: Trixie Mattel

Settle in, friends. Trixie Mattel's interview with Caleb Hearon is all the glorious chat you need. The drag icon, podcaster, entrepreneur, musician, and DJ joined the So True host for the unfiltered chat of dreams. "Does the devil wear Skechers?" Maybe!

How to watch: YouTube, TikTok, Spotify, Apple Podcasts,

Baby, This Is Keke Palmer: Tommy Davidson

In Living Color legend Tommy Davidson sat down with Keke Palmer for one of the realest chats you'll see this week. In the latest episode of Palmer's podcast, the actor and comedian unpacked his adoptive childhood, growing up in D.C. between Black and white communities, early stand-up shows (including a tragedy that changed his perspective), those iconic impressions, and, of course, In Living Color.

How to watch/listen: YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Instagram, TikTok

In Your Dreams With Owen Thiele: Lisa

In one of the most delightful interviews of the week, Owen Thiele chatted with none other than global superstar Lisa. It happened! In the latest episode of In Your Dreams, the pair talked a little Blackpink history, how she learned Korean after joining the group, starring on The White Lotus, and more. Grab a blanket and a comforting beverage and enjoy.

How to watch/listen: YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, TikTok, Instagram

Royal Court: Brittany Broski x Nicole Kidman and Sandra Bullock

The Practical Magic 2 press circuit has seen some enchanting interviews this week, with stars Nicole Kidman and Sandra Bullock charming the likes of Therapuss with Jake Shane, Good Hang with Amy Poehler, and more. But it's Brittany Broski we have to highlight here, as the Hollywood icons enter the realm of the Royal Court. Margaritas and real estate restoration crimes all around.

How to watch: YouTube, Instagram, TikTok

Mythical Kitchen: Gillian Anderson

Gillian Anderson enjoyed her "last meal" on Mythical Kitchen, joining host and chef Josh Scherer for a delicious walk down memory lane. The Teenage Sex and Death at Camp Miasma star feasted on fried chicken with dipping sauce (they had to), as well as family favourites like her mother's tuna noodle casserole, a Thanksgiving green glass jello, and raisin pie. Plus, Scherer throws in the carrot-ginger dressing from Dojo restaurant on St. Mark’s Place, where Anderson worked as a server.

How to watch: YouTube, TikTok, Instagram

And, of course...Say More: Belen Edwards x Adults cast

Who better to help us deal with adulthood than the Adults cast? In this week's episode of Mashable's Say More, Entertainment Reporter Belen Edwards asked stars Malik Elassal, Lucy Freyer, Jack Innanen, Amita Rao, and Owen Thiele pressing questions from the Mashable staff about becoming an adult. It's news you can use!

Where to watch: Mashable, YouTube, Instagram, TikTok

And here are a few more the internet loved this week:

• Call Her Daddy: Alanis Morrisette

• Hot Ones Versus: Inde Navarrette vs. Michael Johnston

• Las Culturistas with Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang: Carly Rae Jepsen

• Conan O'Brien Needs a Friend: Matt Groening

• The Romesh Ranganathan Show: Ray Winstone

• We're Here to Help: Jake Johnson x Zooey Deschanel

From YouTubers and TikTok stars to streamers and podcasters, Mashable talks to creators about how they built their platforms, the gear they swear by, and the trends they see coming next. Read more of our creator coverage, sign up for our Trending Now and Top Stories newsletters, or get Mashable push alerts to discover the internet's most exciting voices. 

Big corporations exist to make money, and T-Mobile is making that very clear with its application of one new iOS 27 feature.

At Apple's big iPhone launch event this week, the company announced a feature called iPhone Handoff, which is coming with the latest iOS update. The feature will allow eSIM users to use the same phone number on two iPhones and choose which device is active at any given time. The active phone can receive calls, texts, and other cellular communications.

It'll only be available to T-Mobile customers in the U.S. at first, and that's where things get interesting: T-Mobile announced on its website that the feature will cost $5 per month.

SEE ALSO: I played with Apple’s new iPhones. Here’s what surprised me most

So, in other words, you can buy an iPhone Duo and an iPhone 18 Pro and switch between them whenever you want without much hassle, aside from adding an extra $5 to your T-Mobile bill every month.

How to set up the iPhone Handoff feature

Activating one phone is seemingly as simple as unlocking it, but you can't use them both for texting, calling, etc., at the same time. To set it up, go to the eSIM section of the Settings app, tap Phone, tap Continue, then tap Transfer. If it works, you'll get a message saying a device has been activated when you unlock it.

It's unfortunate that this feature is only available to T-Mobile customers stateside right now, and that T-Mobile is taking advantage of that fact to charge a small fee to use it. But, at the very least, it does sound reasonably intuitive.

SAVE $50.03: The 32-inch Samsung Class HD H5000F Smart TV is on sale at Amazon for $97.96, down from the normal price of $147.99. That matches the record-low we've seen at Amazon.

Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung 32-inch Samsung Class HD H5000F Smart TV $97.96 at Amazon
$147.99 Save $50.03   Get Deal

It's hard to find anything for under $100 these days, let alone something you could potentially use for several hours every day. But if you're one to shop for deals that are so attractive they make you do a double-take, we've found something special.

As of Sept. 11, Amazon is selling the 32-inch Samsung Class HD H5000F Smart TV for only $97.96, marked down from the normal price of $147.99. That works out to a 34% discount, matching the record low we've seen on Amazon.

You've always considered putting a TV in the garage, the entry way, or making an upgrade to the guest room, and now here's your chance to do so for under $100. While the 32-inch Samsung is fairly petite in display size, it's perfect for a kids' room, rec room, or catching games in the garage. For under $100, the options are endless.

SEE ALSO: Sony just announced new headphones, which means you can get the older Sony WH-CH720N for nearly half off

This 2025 Samsung TV has HDR for contrast and detail, as well as object tracking sound for a more real-life experience. In addition, the slim design gives the TV a modern feel.

Since everything is too expensive these days, scoring a Samsung TV for under $100 feels like a heck of a win. Just be sure to check out before this deal vanishes from Amazon.

Shop more TV deals on Amazon.

Back when I used the Steam Deck as my main PC handheld, I forgot the sudo password I'd created the first time around. Naturally, I started to panic and thought I'd need to reflash my Deck and lose all my data, but then I found a solution that let me reset my Steam Deck's sudo password in just a few minutes. All you need for this is a wired keyboard (or a wireless keyboard with a dongle and a USB dock) and some focus, because there's some typing involved.

SAVE UP TO $1,200: Verizon is packed with iPhone 18 deals, including options that save up to $1,200 on a new device.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple iPhone 18 Pro preorders at Verizon Save up to $1,200 Learn More

Welcome to a great week for Apple fans. Earlier this week, we got introduced to the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and the iPhone Duo, Apple's first foldable phone. If you've made the decision to upgrade, you're probably searching for the best deal on preordering the iPhone 18 Pro. Verizon has some attractive options on offer, which we've broken down into easy-to-digest terms below.

If you're interested in signing up for a Verizon Simplicity Pro plan, you can look forward to a simple $80 monthly bill. Broken down, it works out to a $50 device payment for the iPhone 18 Pro and a $30 bill for the Verizon Unlimited plan. More benefits of this option include the ability to upgrade to the newest iPhone once every 12 months.

SEE ALSO: Our first take on the iPhone 18 Pro: Intelligent photography

Another option at Verizon is to sign up for a myPlan account to save up to $1,200 on a new iPhone 18 model. If you switch to Verizon or open a new line, you're eligible to save the full $1,200 with a qualified trade-in. Those who upgrade an existing myPlan account can save up to $1,200 with an eligible trade-in.

If you're in the mood to buy a new iPhone and sign up for a Verizon Simplicity or myPlan account, you can snag a free Apple Watch and Apple iPad. Over 36 months of bill credit, Verizon will cover the cost of both the Watch and tablet.

Finally, anyone who switches to Verizon Business with an eligible trade-in can get the iPhone 18 Pro (256GB) for free. If you prefer the iPhone 18 Pro Max, switching to Verizon Business will offer a savings of $1,200 on the upgraded model.

Keep in mind preorders for the iPhone 18 Pro at Verizon begin on Sept. 12 at 8 a.m. ET and preorders for the iPhone Duo begin on Oct. 16 at Verizon.

All of the best iPhone 18 Pro preorder and trade-in deals

• AT&T: Get the iPhone 18 Pro for free with qualifying trade-ins of iPhone 14 or later

• T-Mobile: Get the iPhone 18 Pro for free when you switch or trade in an eligible phone on an Experience Beyond plan

• Total Wireless: Save $600 on iPhone 18 Pro or Pro Max on the All Access plan

• Verizon: Get up to $1,200 off when you add a new line (with qualified trade-in) on eligible myPlan

• Visible: Buy the iPhone with Visible+ Pro and receive $480 through monthly credits

• Xfinity: Get the iPhone 18 Pro Max for free with a qualifying trade-in and device payment plan on the Mobile Plus plan

Documentaries continue to thrive on Netflix this month, as evidenced by the solid stance of the true-crime three-parter Death of the Pastor's Wife that's been holding strong in the top spot on the streamer's Top 10, as of this writing. But the hits keep on coming, with two of this weekend's picks below also occupying space on that chart, proving that Netflix knows how to doc.

TL;DR: Apple’s brand-new iPhone 18 Pro, 18 Pro Max, and foldable iPhone Duo are officially hitting AT&T. To lure switchers, AT&T is offering up to $1,200 off with an eligible iPhone trade-in in any condition, up to $800 to cover your tab if you switch, and automatic bill credits if you ever hit a network outage.

AT&T iPhone 18 and Duo deals Apple iPhone 18 Pro (256 GB) $33.34/month | With trade-in deal: As low as $0/mo ($1,200 off) Learn More Apple iPhone 18 Pro Max (256 GB) $36.12/month | With trade-in deal: As low as $2.78/mo ($1,200 off) Learn More Apple iPhone Duo (512 GB) $55.56/month | With trade-in deal: As low as $22.22/mo ($1,200 off) Learn More

Thinking about upgrading your phone or jumping ship from another carrier? Apple just dropped its latest iPhone lineup, and AT&T is rolling out some massive incentives to get you onto its network.

Whether you want Apple’s first-ever foldable or a top-tier camera setup, here is everything you need to know about the new phones and the deals AT&T is offering.

Apple’s big splash this year is its very first foldable, the iPhone Duo. Closed, it feels like a normal pocketable phone with a 5.4-inch outer screen, but it flips open into a huge 7.6-inch inner display for gaming, watching videos, or running apps side-by-side. It runs on the ultra-fast A20 Pro chip, sports an eSIM-only design so Apple could fit a dual-battery system inside, and comes in star white or night sky.

If you prefer a classic, heavy-duty phone, the 18 Pro lineup gives you a choice between a 6.3-inch screen on the standard Pro or a massive 6.9-inch display on the Pro Max. The biggest upgrade here is in the camera: a new 48MP main sensor equipped with an actual physical variable aperture, giving you real hardware control over background blur and low-light shots. Both run on the A20 Pro chip, feature Ceramic Shield 2 for 3x better scratch protection, and come in black, silver, glacier, or an all-new burgundy.

How the AT&T promos work and what to know

AT&T is running a few different stackable offers right now, but there are a few important conditions to keep in mind before you click buy:

• Up to $1,200 Off via Trade-In — You can trade in an eligible iPhone in any condition to get up to $1,200 off. The catch? Securing the full $1,200 requires an Unlimited Premium 2.0 plan and a trade-in of an iPhone 14 or newer. Lower tiers like Unlimited Extra 2.0 cap out at $930 off, while older iPhones yield lower credit amounts.

  All savings are delivered via monthly bill credits over a 36-month installment plan — if you leave AT&T early, you forfeit remaining credits and owe the balance.

• Up to $800 Switcher Credit — Coming from T-Mobile or Verizon? AT&T offers up to $800 to help pay off your remaining device tab on your old carrier.

• Save $200 Online — Order on AT&T or through the AT&T app to shave an extra $200 off per line right off the top.

• Next Up Anytime ($10/mo) — An optional add-on that lets you swap your phone for a new model up to three times in a 12-month period once a third of the device is paid off.

SEE ALSO: I played with Apple’s new iPhones. Here’s what surprised me most Checkout costs and fine print

Expect a $35 activation/upgrade fee per line plus sales tax paid upfront on the full retail price of the phone. Also, if you add a line to secure a promo, you must keep all other lines active for at least 90 days, or your credits will stop.

On the upside, your service is backed by the AT&T Guarantee: if a qualifying network outage hits your area, your phone will automatically ping you via iOS 27 and issue a bill credit without making you call customer service.

Release and preorder dates

Preorders for the new devices are split across two dates:

• iPhone 18 Pro & Pro Max — Preorders begin Sept. 12 at 5:00 a.m. PT.

• iPhone Duo — Preorders begin Oct. 16 at 5:00 a.m. PT.

Just make sure to double-check your current plan and trade-in device before preorders go live so you can grab the full discount. Orders can be placed online at AT&T, via the AT&T app, or in AT&T retail stores.

All the best iPhone 18 Pro preorder and trade-in deals

• AT&T: Get the iPhone 18 Pro for free with qualifying trade-ins of iPhone 14 or later

• T-Mobile: Get the iPhone 18 Pro for free when you switch or trade in an eligible phone on an Experience Beyond plan

• Total Wireless: Save $600 on iPhone 18 Pro or Pro Max on the All Access plan

• Verizon: Get up to $1,200 off when you add a new line (with qualified trade-in) on eligible myPlan

• Visible: Buy the iPhone with Visible+ Pro and receive $480 through monthly credits

• Xfinity: Get the iPhone 18 Pro Max for free with a qualifying trade-in and device payment plan on the Mobile Plus plan

I've spent a frankly unreasonable amount of time in Excel, so I've had plenty of opportunities to find out which habits make my life easier—and which ones come back to haunt me later. Over the years, I've gradually ditched a handful of things that seemed harmless at the time but made my spreadsheets harder to sort, filter, update, or understand. Here are five things I stopped doing in Excel, and why my spreadsheets have become much more reliable as a result.

Apple's next big iOS update is finally on the launch pad.

At its "Surprise and Shine" event on Sept. 9, Apple showed off new wares like the iPhone 18 Pro lineup, the foldable iPhone Duo, new Apple Watches, and the AirPods 5. One of the smaller (but still significant) nuggets of news to come out of the event concerned iOS 27. Specifically, when you can finally download it to your iPhone.

Users with compatible iPhones will be able to install iOS 27 on Monday, Sept. 14.

How to download iOS 27

If you have one of the compatible iPhones (keep scrolling for the full list), then starting on Monday, Sept. 14, you can look for iOS 27. Apple typically releases a new iOS at 10:00 a.m. PT (1:00 p.m. ET).

Follow these steps to get iOS 27 set up on your iPhone:

• Go to the Settings app on your phone

• Go to General

• Go to Software Update and wait as the system checks for new updates

• When iOS 27 appears, you can download and install the new OS

You can also click "Automatic Updates" and turn this feature to "On." That way, iOS 27 should automatically download once it's available (your phone must be locked and charging to download automatic updates).

What's new with iOS 27? This is a big one! Siri AI, new Apple Intelligence tools, and Liquid Glass updates are all coming soon. Credit: Apple

If you haven't been following along, iOS 27 is the one that finally brings us Siri AI. You can now talk to Siri like you would an AI chatbot, and it's powered by Google Gemini.

Some of the most exciting changes coming to iPhones involve new AI photo-editing features, such as spatial reframing. Users will more easily be able to remove unwanted details, or even describe the edits they'd like to Siri by voice or text. Android smartphones from Google and Samsung have had a full suite of AI editing tools for a couple of years now, and Apple is finally catching up. Smart photo editing will also help users make the most of the iPhone 18 Pro Max's new camera features.

Apple also included some new and subtle customization options for Liquid Glass, various small updates for apps like Health, Photos, and Notes, and more.

SEE ALSO: 5 Siri AI and iOS 27 features we’re looking forward to Every iPhone that supports iOS 27

Of course, you can only go through that whole downloading process if you have a device that supports iOS 27. Here are the devices that work with the new iOS:

• iPhone SE (second generation or later)

• iPhone 11

• iPhone 11 Pro

• iPhone 11 Pro Max

• iPhone 12

• iPhone 12 Mini

• iPhone 12 Pro

• iPhone 12 Pro Max

• iPhone 13

• iPhone 13 Mini

• iPhone 13 Pro

• iPhone 13 Pro Max

• iPhone 14

• iPhone 14 Plus

• iPhone 14 Pro

• iPhone 14 Pro Max

• iPhone 15

• iPhone 15 Plus

• iPhone 15 Pro

• iPhone 15 Pro Max

• iPhone 16

• iPhone 16e

• iPhone 16 Plus

• iPhone 16 Pro

• iPhone 16 Pro Max

• iPhone 17

• iPhone 17e

• iPhone Air

• iPhone 17 Pro

• iPhone 17 Pro Max

• iPhone 18 Pro

• iPhone 18 Pro Max

• iPhone Duo

If you don't have one of those, you're out of luck. We should also note that Siri AI will not be coming to Europe due to some regulatory issues. Sorry, European friends.