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OpenAI will launch its "strongest model yet" this week, with GPT-5.6 Sol set for public release after White House-imposed delays.

Announced by the company on X on Wednesday, the next generation flagship model will roll out gradually from July 9, alongside two lighter models: the "everyday" Terra and lower cost Luna.

This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed. SEE ALSO: OpenAI might give a 5 percent stake to the US government

In a blog post, OpenAI says it spent weeks putting GPT‑5.6 Sol through its paces for weaknesses, during which time it "strengthened protections for higher-risk activity, sensitive cyber requests, and repeated misuse." The company called it "our most capable model yet for cybersecurity" and claimed GPT‑5.6 Sol stands up to competitor Anthropic's Claude Mythos 5 using a third of output tokens (the blocks of text an AI model processes to generate responses).

The news comes after reports that the White House told OpenAI to limit the initial release of GPT-5.6 to a select testing group. In its blog post, the company described this as a "small group of trusted partners whose participation has been shared with the government." Now, OpenAI has the green light for GPT-5.6's public release. The announcement arrives a week after OpenAI reportedly proposed giving the U.S. government a five percent stake in the company, with CEO Sam Altman in early talks with President Donald Trump, according to the Financial Times.

Featured Video For You Is ChatGPT Changing the Way We Write?

Competitor Anthropic also experienced restraints from the U.S. government, with the White House ordering the company "to suspend all access to Fable 5 and Mythos 5 by any foreign national, whether inside or outside the United States." Anthropic is now allowed to share Mythos 5 with "a set of U.S. organizations that operate and defend critical infrastructure," and Fable 5, a version of Mythos, is out globally.

Disclosure: Ziff Davis, Mashable’s parent company, in April 2025 filed a lawsuit against OpenAI, alleging it infringed Ziff Davis copyrights in training and operating its AI systems.

I’ve been wanting to print some keycaps for a while, so when an excuse presented itself to make the function row a little more “functional,” I leapt at the opportunity.

Team USA's World Cup journey came to a strange end this week after losing 4-1 to Belgium, shortly after Donald Trump admitted intervening to help reverse striker Falorin Balogun's red card suspension.

Jimmy Kimmel guest host Tiffany Haddish had the perfect joke about the situation on Monday, and on Tuesday — following the USA's defeat — Daily Show host Ronny Chieng joined in with the criticism.

"Trump only has himself to blame, because thanks to him we went from being heroes of our own Disney sports movie to being the villain in some weird European film," says Chieng in the clip above. "Up until last week America was the scrappy underdog again, but then Trump's intervention galvanised Belgium and the world to defeat Team USA for the integrity of the game. And just like everything else he tried to fix, he made it worse and ruined our reputation in the process."

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SAVE OVER $50: As of July 8, the NutriBullet Chill Ice Cream Maker is on sale for $149.62 at Amazon. That's $50.37 off the full price of $199.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: NutriBullet NutriBullet Chill Ice Cream Maker $149.62 at Amazon
$199.99 Save $50.37   Get Deal

Looking for a way to beat the heat this summer? The NutriBullet Chill Ice Cream Maker can help you out by creating some tasty frozen treats to enjoy in your own kitchen. Now is a great time to buy it, as Amazon's slashed just over $50 off select colors for a limited time.

As of July 8, the black and mint chip green NutriBullet Chill Ice Cream Makers have been discounted from $199.99 to $149.62 at Amazon. The white model is on sale for just a few cents higher at $149.99, so you can pick out a color that best suits your personal tastes.

SEE ALSO: De'Longhi has expanded its espresso machine lineup — where to buy Classic Matte Black and Classic Stainless Steel

There's a nice variety of frozen treats that the NutriBullet Chill is able to whip up, with five presets to choose from: Ice Cream, Sorbet, Gelato, Smoothie Bowl, and Frozen Yogurt. These are churned together with the help of a double-sided blade and dual-direction rotation which, according to the store page, ensure creamier results.

It also features a sleek design, with an LED display that shows a progress ring that helps you track the churning process. Plus, it looks quite compact, so it won't take up too much space on your countertop.

Now is a great time to pick up the NutriBullet Chill Ice Cream Maker at Amazon.

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Early this year, I installed Zorin OS on a couple of older PCs that originally ran Windows 10, and it turned out to be exactly what I needed. The desktop felt familiar enough that I could start using Linux without feeling like I had to relearn everything. Before long, it stopped feeling like an experiment and became something I actually enjoy using.

Baseus, the phone charger and cable company, is starting to step out into more fields. I recently went hands-on with their newest security camera, the X1 Pro, and it actually impressed me in quite a few ways.

For a long time, I've held firm that arguments about the necessity of video game remakes are largely boring and pointless. After all, what makes any video game necessary? Who gets to decide that?

I still don't know the answers to those questions, but I do know that Assassin's Creed Black Flag Resynced is the first time in a long time where I can't really think of a good reason why a remake should exist. That's not to say the work that Ubisoft has done to rebuild one of the best games in the series was shoddy; in fact, I've really enjoyed the handful of hours I've spent roaming the recreated world of 2013's Black Flag.

But I think I'm largely enjoying it because it's built on such a solid foundation that it would be hard to screw up. Black Flag Resynced seems like a high-quality take on a game that isn't old or flawed enough to have needed it.

SEE ALSO: 'Star Fox' for Nintendo Switch 2 is a magnificent Hollywood take on a classic Black Flag Resynced is an enjoyable throwback to Assassin's Creed's past

I haven't spent enough time with this new take on Black Flag to render a definitive verdict on it, but after having played enough to freely sail around the Caribbean in the boots of roguish pirate privateer, the best case I can make for the existence of Resynced is that it's a warm reminder of what Assassin's Creed used to be before the series took an RPG turn around a decade ago.

There's no such thing, as far as I can tell, as an enemy who can resist being assassinated in Black Flag Resynced. If you sneak up behind a guy, he is dead. You're not spending a lot of time sifting through gear or agonizing over a skill tree in this game, and even as someone who generally really likes the four big RPG Assassin's Creed games, I cannot emphasize enough how nice it is to play one of these that doesn't revolve around that stuff. It's nice to be reassured that the old ways work just as well now as they did 13 years ago.

It's fair to wonder, then, what exactly is different about Black Flag Resynced if Ubisoft didn't morph the game to conform to the franchise's modern design standards. You can read a substantive account of all the changes on Ubisoft's website, but in summary, the parkour system was subtly refined, traversal routes through the game's many tropical and urban environments were massaged to account for that, and mission design was reconsidered in order to give players a bit more latitude to succeed even if they "fail" to do something like tail an NPC for a story objective.

The boat combat is still great. Credit: Ubisoft / Steam

That last point is crucial. You can now fail a tailing mission (long the bane of every Assassin's Creed fan) and rather than a hard game over screen, the game will pivot the mission objective, giving you an alternate path to success. In more open-ended stealth sequences, I've also noticed a lot more instances of being able to eavesdrop on guards to find different methods of finishing the mission. The basics of stealth here are largely unchanged, to my memory, but it feels a lot less rigidly mechanical, and I think that works to the benefit of Black Flag Resynced.

On top of that, there are new crew members to collect, new side missions, and optional Animus Rifts to fill out the story. One change I absolutely cannot approve of, though, is the exclusion of the modern-day story elements from the original Black Flag. Those first-person sequences set in a fictional game development studio (which was obviously a riff on Ubisoft) were some of the best frame story moments in the entire Assassin's Creed series.

I understand there's a segment of the population that just doesn't care about the present-day sci-fi nonsense in these games, but they always gave the series a distinct character. That has never been more clear than it has been in the last couple of games, which have been almost entirely uninterested in engaging with that character. It just bums me out that you can't play an Assassin's Creed expecting to see a plot point about a Roman goddess taking control of the internet anymore.

I'm just not sure this is the specific Assassin's Creed game that needed it

Modern-day quibbles aside, Black Flag Resynced is an exceptionally respectable take on a great game. The changes to mission design alone will probably make it a little more palatable to a modern audience, to say nothing of the gorgeous new visuals. That said, was this really the Assassin's Creed game that needed this treatment?

If Ubisoft wants to dedicate resources to remaking these games, I just feel like there are a couple of better candidates. The very first game in the series immediately comes to mind, especially given that it barely resembles any of the releases that came after and, frankly, was not a very good game when it came out in 2007. Honestly, the idea of a less punishing mission structure would actually benefit the original Assassin's Creed far more than Black Flag, as would a simplified approach to parkour traversal.

I could also make a case for 2012's Assassin's Creed III, which is similarly one of the worst in the series despite an incredibly compelling American Revolution setting. That would admittedly be a taller task for the developers, as III suffers from a heavy dose of racist Native American stereotypes and other narrative foibles on top of its gameplay shortcomings. But the point remains that if remaking a game can be a redemptive act, I would have rather seen the effort that went into Black Flag Resynced go into a recreation of one of these other, lesser games instead.

But hey, if nothing else, I'm happy to sail around while listening to sea shanties again. Gotta take every win you can get these days.

SAVE OVER $100: As of July 8, the Bluetti AC70 portable power station is on sale for $328.99 at Amazon. That's $100.01 off its full price of $429.

Opens in a new window Credit: Bluetti Bluetti AC70 Portable Power Station $328.99 at Amazon
$429 Save $100.01   Get Deal

Portable power stations are great to have on hand in the summertime. From camping trips and outdoor adventures to assisting during outages, they can give you an extra boost of power when you need it most. If you've been thinking about buying a model, the good news is Amazon has quite a few on sale right now. The Bluetti AC70 portable power station is among them, with its price marked down to $328.99.

Compared to its full list price of $429, you're saving just over $100 on this model. As of July 8, this portable power station has a "limited time deal" tag, so you'll want to make your move quick before the price goes back up.

SEE ALSO: Amazon is packed with outdoor deals for summer from Coleman

The Bluetti AC70 is packed with power, with a 768Wh capacity, 1,000W inverter, and up to 2,000W in power lifting mode. Plus, its compact size makes it a breeze to take on-the-go. It weighs 22.5 pounds and features a helpful handle on the top.

With the help of the Bluetti app, you can also monitor the status of the power station, set a charge/discharge mode, and update the battery. It's an easy way to keep an eye on it while it's being used. Plus, it comes with a LiFePO4 battery that can last over 3,000 charging cycles.

If you've been searching for a solid portable power station, don't miss out on this great deal on the Bluetti AC70 portable power station at Amazon.

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SAVE $200: As of July 8, the DJI Mavic 4 Pro Fly More Combo is on sale for $3,099.95 at Amazon. That's a 6% discount on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: DJI DJI Mavic 4 Pro Fly More Combo $3,099.95 at Amazon
$3,299.95 Save $200   Get Deal

The DJI Mavic 4 Pro Drone Fly More Combo is on sale for a limited time at Amazon. If you’re looking for a premium drone bundle that gives you everything you need to capture professional-quality footage straight out of the box, this deal is tough to beat. Not to mention, it's currently at its best-ever price according to camelcamelcamel.

As of July 8, the DJI Mavic 4 Pro Fly More Combo is on sale for $3,099.95 at Amazon. That's over $200 off right now.

This bundle is built for creators who want professional-quality drone footage. It combines advanced camera technology with intelligent flight features for smooth and cinematic results. The camera system captures video in incredible quality, with rich colors and strong low-light performance, so it’s ideal for all kinds of high quality content.

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This Fly More bundle also includes everything you need to keep filming for longer, including extra intelligent flight batteries, a multi-battery charging hub, a 64GB memory card, backpack, landing pad, cleaning kit, card wallet, and card reader. 

Even the navigational tools are impressive thanks to the omnidirectional obstacle sensing. This helps detect and avoid hazards while navigating more challenging environments. It also benefits from intelligent flight modes like subject tracking, automated orbits, and waypoint navigation.

You can find this DJI deal online at Amazon right now.

SAVE $80: As of July 8, the Dyson Cyclone V10 Origin is on sale for $399.99 at Amazon. That's a 17% discount on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Dyson Dyson Cyclone V10 Origin $399.99 at Amazon
$479.99 Save $80   Get Deal

If you've been holding off on buying a Dyson until the price comes down, now is the time.

Dyson vacuums rarely come cheap, but this week Amazon has been dropping a number of discounts on popular models, like this latest deal on the Dyson Cyclone V10 Origin. As of July 8, it's on sale for $80 off the list price, bringing it down to $399.99.

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It’s a powerful cordless vacuum, giving you up to 60 minutes of runtime. Its power trigger helps maximize battery efficiency by only using power when you need it, and it has three cleaning modes that let you adjust the suction to suit your cleaning needs.

The Motorbar cleaner head is designed to deep clean both carpets and hard floors, automatically detangling long hair and pet hair as you vacuum. It also converts into a handheld vacuum for cleaning cars, stairs, upholstery, and other hard-to-reach areas, and comes with a crevice tool plus two additional accessories.

And like you’d expect from a Dyson, the filtration is top notch. In fact, it captures 99.99% of particles, even ones as small as 0.3 microns, helping to release cleaner air back into your home.

Get this Dyson deal at Amazon now.

SAVE $60: As of July 8, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 is on sale for $289.99 on Amazon. That's a 17% discount on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 $289.99 at Amazon
$349.99 Save $60   Get Deal

A new Galaxy Watch 9 is expected to be announced later this month at the Galaxy Unpacked event. However, for now, the Galaxy Watch 8 still reigns supreme as Samsung's top smartwatch. And right now (as of July 8), it's on sale at Amazon for $60 less than usual. This deal brings the price down from $349.99 to $289.99, so don't miss out.

With this smartwatch, health and fitness features are a major focus, with advanced sleep tracking and Sleep Coaching to help improve your rest, plus Bedtime Guidance to suggest your ideal bedtime. Runners can also benefit from the built-in Running Coach, which analyses performance and offers personalized training plans for everything from 5Ks to marathons.

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But it's not just a fitness tracker. Galaxy AI adds extra features that essentially turn it into a personal assistant on your wrist, with notifications, weather, and more all available from the watch. It also tracks key health metrics, including heart rate, Energy Score, and blood pressure (when calibrated with a compatible blood pressure cuff).

You can find this deal at Amazon right now.

Nothing has officially unveiled the Phone (4b), the first smartphone in its new (b) series and the latest entry point into the company's growing product lineup. Building on the Phone (4a) series, the Phone (4b) pairs Nothing's signature transparent design with upgraded everyday features.

Preorders are now live, with the Phone (4b) available in black, white, and blue. Here's everything you need to know before placing your order.

Opens in a new window Credit: Nothing Nothing Phone (4b)   Shop Now What's new with the Nothing Phone (4b)?

The Nothing Phone (4b) marks the debut of the company's new (b) series, offering a more affordable way into the Nothing ecosystem. It combines the transparent aesthetic Nothing is known for with a refined Glyph Bar, a new unibody-inspired design, and the same clean Nothing OS experience found on the company's higher-end phones.

Another big upgrade is the largest battery ever fitted to a Nothing smartphone, plus Nothing OS 4.1 running Android 16. The software also brings the company's full suite of Essential AI tools to the Phone (4b), including features designed to help users search, organize, and capture information more easily.

What you’re getting with the Nothing Phone (4b)

The Nothing Phone (4b) brings a mix of performance upgrades, a bigger battery, smarter software, and camera improvements aimed at making everyday use feel smoother.

Credit: Nothing More power and the biggest battery yet

The Nothing Phone (4b) is powered by the Snapdragon 6 Gen 4 processor, which is designed to deliver smoother performance, better efficiency, and faster AI features. Paired with Qualcomm's 6th-generation AI Engine, the phone can handle tasks like photography enhancements, voice recognition, and Nothing's Essential AI tools more responsively.

For gamers, the Phone (4b) includes a custom 4,400mm² vapor chamber designed to help manage heat during demanding tasks. The Phone (4b) also packs a 5,200mAh battery, and Nothing rates it for up to 18 hours of mixed usage, including up to 22 hours of YouTube playback, and 26 hours of Instagram browsing. It supports 33W wired fast charging, reaching 50% battery in under 30 minutes.

A smoother, brighter screen for everyday use

The Phone (4b) has a 6.77-inch Super AMOLED display with a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate for smooth scrolling and gaming. It supports HDR10+ and reaches up to 2,000 nits peak brightness for a clearer view in bright conditions.

A 1,000Hz touch sampling rate is designed to keep controls feeling more responsive, while Super AMOLED technology helps deliver deeper blacks and more vibrant colors.

More creative tools and steadier shots

The Phone (4b) comes with a 50MP main camera with optical image stabilization (OIS) to help capture sharper photos and steadier videos. It also has a 119-degree ultrawide camera and smart sensors to keep colors and lighting looking natural in different conditions.

Nothing is also improving its image processing with TrueLens Engine 4. Its Ultra XDR feature combines 13 RAW frames to help capture more detail, especially in tricky lighting situations with bright highlights and dark shadows.

For video creators, the Phone (4b) can record 4K video at 30fps and introduces Dual Capture, allowing users to record from the front and rear cameras at the same time. It also includes creative tools like Disco and DV filters, Signature Presets, and Playground for experimenting with different looks.

Credit: Nothing Nothing OS 4.1 brings AI into the mix

The Phone (4b) runs Nothing OS 4.1 based on Android 16, bringing the company's signature clean interface along with new customization and AI features.

The phone includes Nothing's full Essential AI experience, including native ChatGPT integration across the interface, clipboard, and widgets, alongside Google Gemini, Circle to Search, and Hey Google. The Essential Key, a dedicated shortcut for Nothing’s AI tool, gives you quick access to Essential Space, Search, Voice, Apps, and Playground.

Audio and durability

It features dual stereo speakers that Nothing says deliver a 20% improvement in stereo effect compared to the Phone (4a), along with Nothing's 160-level volume control for more precise adjustments.

The phone is designed for everyday durability, with an IP64 rating for dust and water resistance, a fingerprint-resistant coating, and recycled materials used throughout its construction.

Credit: Nothing Where to buy

The Nothing Phone (4b) is available to pre-order for £299 ($399). Drops are taking place in the company's stores from July 11. Listings go live online from July 17. Nothing is limiting its launch to the UK, Europe, and India.

Kids aren't the only ones who get excited about birthday gifts. You can be a full-grown adult and still lose your shit when you open up the gift that topped your wish list. But as you get older, it does become a little more difficult to come up with a list of birthday gift ideas. You can't just ask for all the coolest new toys anymore. Well, you can if you want — we're not going to stop you.

SEE ALSO: Try Gift Lab: Our interactive gift guide

If your birthday is coming up and you're struggling to think of what you want, don't sweat it. We compiled the ultimate birthday wish list, with gifts ranging from tech to outdoor essentials to home goods. To make your search easier, we've separated our gift ideas into categories: Our current favorite birthday gifts, gifts under $25, gifts under $50, gifts $50 to $150, and gifts $150+.

Read on for some birthday inspo and start casually dropping hints to your friends and family. And hey, happy birthday!

Our top picksColor-changing smart light bulbs Opens in a new window Credit: Philips Philips Hue Smart Bulbs $99.99 at Best Buy
  Shop Now

I have put a Hue light bulb in every lamp in my apartment, and it's so rare that I use the Big Light now. These color-changing bulbs let me dim the lights when I want to relax or emit fun colors while I'm watching a movie. And the best part is, I don't have to get out of bed to turn the lights off at night.

A digital camera that captures film-style photos Opens in a new window Credit: Camp Snap Camp Snap camera $69.95 at Camp Snap
  Shop Now

I love taking and having film photos, but 1) film is expensive, and 2) all of the film cameras I have are chunky. The Camp Snap camera is an amazing alternative. It's digital and incredibly lightweight — and the pictures truly do look like they were taken on film. They're clear yet stylized enough to give that vintage feel. And you can take multiple versions of the same shot without feeling like you're wasting film.

Coffee from around the world Opens in a new window Credit: Atlas Coffee Club Atlas Coffee Club gift subscription Starting at $55 Shop Now

I personally don't drink coffee, but my dad is a big coffee guy. I got him and his wife a three-month subscription to Atlas Coffee Club for Christmas and they freakin' loved it. They sent me a text every month to let me know where their coffee came from, and they love trying new roasts from around the world. Each month, you get coffee beans and a postcard from different countries, so you get to try beans you can't get from your grocery store. You can select from whole beans, grounds, Keurig pods, and Nespresso pods. Subscriptions can be three, six, or 12 months.

A new Kindle Kindle Paperwhite $159.99 at Amazon
  Shop Now at Amazon Shop Now at Best Buy

Listen, I used to be such a physical books-only kind of person. Then I bought a Kindle Paperwhite, and it changed my reading game for good. I'm able to easily take the e-reader on the plane, to the beach, or even in the bathtub (shoutout to the Paperwhite being waterproof). Plus, I can read library books for free from the Libby app. If you're a reader, trust me when I say a Kindle should be at the top of your birthday list this year.

A gorgeous TV that doubles as art Hisense CanvasTV (55-inch, QLED) $699.99 at Best Buy
$999.99 Save $300   Shop Now at Best Buy Shop Now at Amazon

Samsung's The Frame TV made waves when it came out a few years ago, but the price is just not attainable for everyone. The Hisense CanvasTV is an amazing, budget-friendly (well, friendlier) alternative if you want an art TV for your birthday. The Google TV interface is amazing, and the TV truly does blend in with your art and decor. This is a bougie birthday ask, but one that's worth it.

Birthday gifts under $25Elevate your cooking game Oil dispenser and sprayer $9.99 at Amazon
  Shop Now at Amazon

We love a multi-functional product, and this 2-in-1 oil dispenser would be a great addition to your kitchen. It pours and sprays, so you can drizzle olive oil or coat a pan for cooking without reaching for two separate bottles.

Whatever you want from Amazon Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon / Mashable composite Amazon e-gift card   Shop Now

If your Amazon wish list is calling your name, ask for an Amazon gift card for your birthday. Get the present you've been dreaming of on someone else's dime.

Learn something new Opens in a new window Credit: Coursehorse Coursehorse Gift Card Starting at $5 at Coursehorse Shop Now

You’ve successfully completed one more trip around the sun, so to celebrate, develop a new skill or indulge a passion by taking an IRL class on the subject of your choice. Coursehorse partners with real-world instructors and schools in major cities to offer nearly 70,000 classes in subjects such as art, language, music, cooking, self-defense, gardening, and anything else you could possibly want.

Simple Lego flowers Lego Roses building kit $9.39 at Walmart
$45 Save $35.61   Shop Now at Walmart Shop Now at Amazon

Lego sets can be pretty freakin' expensive, but if you're looking for some more budget-friendly building kits for your birthday list, we've found a fun one. It includes two buildable roses that you can display after you've put them together. Wilting not included!

A delicious-smelling candle Opens in a new window Credit: Paddywax Paddywax Candles Starting at $17 Shop Now

Paddywax candles are unbeatable. They smell amazing, have cute designs, and won't break the bank. Scents range from fruity to savory to musky to floral. I personally love the wisteria & willow and fresh air & sea salt scents.

A puzzle with a few tricks up its sleeve Opens in a new window Credit: Magic Puzzle Company Magic Puzzle Company (Big Rock City puzzle) $22.99 at Amazon
  Shop Now

Magic Puzzle Company makes incredibly fun 1,000-piece jigsaw puzzles that have a secret envelope for you to open when you're done. This surprise envelope unlocks a "magical twist ending," so placing that final piece will be even more exciting. The intricate designs feature tons of little Easter eggs, like puzzle pieces in the shape of items in the scene. The Big Rock City puzzle has a hot dog-shaped piece and music note-shaped piece to name a couple.

Somewhere to put your headphones Opens in a new window Credit: Coreminded Universal headphone stand $23.99 at Amazon
  Shop Now

Rather than laying your headphones throughout your home or having them clutter up your desk, ask for a universal headphone stand for your birthday. This one is compatible with almost any pair of over-ear headphones or gaming headsets — and it has a pretty sleek look, too.

A stylish candle warmer lamp Opens in a new window Credit: Geezo Candle warmer lamp $24.99
  Shop Now

Big candle fan? Then a candle warmer should be on your birthday list. It helps your candle last longer and you don't need an open flame burning in your home. And if you're going to ask for a candle warmer, make it a cute one. With a glass lamp shade, this warmer blends seamlessly into your home decor.

Backup battery for your phone Anker portable charger $25.99 at Amazon
  See It at Amazon

This portable charger from Anker is great for travel or being out on the town all day. It has enough juice to recharge your phone a couple of times, and it comes in four colors.

Cold hard cash Opens in a new window Credit: Visa Gift card Starting at $10 at Giftcards.com Shop Now

You really can't beat the gift of cold, hard cash — or a gift card. A Visa card is a perfect birthday gift because you can spend it on literally whatever you want; buy yourself something fun or get some help with groceries. Best of all, you don't need to decide exactly what you want before your birthday. The gift card starts at $10.

New reading materials Opens in a new window Credit: Bookshop.org Bookshop.org Gift Cards Starting at $10 at Bookshop Shop Now

Support independent bookstores from around the country with a gift card to Bookshop. Starting at $10, the gift cards can either be used to buy books from a specific shop you love, or the purchase can feed the site’s profit-sharing pool to benefit all of Bookshop's partner stores. 

Gifts $25 to $50A way to keep track of your keys Apple AirTag $38.86 at Amazon
  Shop Now at Amazon Shop Now at Walmart Shop Now at Best Buy

In our opinion, the first thing you add to your keyring should be an AirTag. You can monitor where they are in Apple's Find My app, and you'll get an alert on your phone if you ever leave them behind somewhere.

The viral Owala FreeSip reusable water bottle Opens in a new window Credit: Owala Owala FreeSip insulated water bottle $29.99 at Amazon
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The Owala FreeSip is a fan-favorite and Mashable staff-favorite reusable water bottle. The innovative spout lets you sip like a straw or chug like a cup. Plus, the bottles come in super cute color combinations.

A personalized Yeti mug Opens in a new window Credit: Yeti Yeti Rambler 24-ounce mug $35 at Yeti
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This Yeti Rambler 24-ounce mug is a great size for both true coffee lovers and beer drinkers. It can also hold two Moscow mules, according to Yeti, if that's more your speed. The Rambler is available in an array of fun and neutral colors. Plus, you can customize it with an etched design or monogram. For just $6 to $10, you can choose designs from Yeti's library or upload your own file.

Our favorite incense Opens in a new window Credit: Houseplant Houseplant x ripple incense droplets $35 at ripple
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I'll admit, I'm not a big fan of the incense smell you'd experience in your local Earth Magic shop. However, I've become obsessed with Seth Rogen's incense droplets from the Houseplant x ripple collab. The scents are room-filling without being overpowering, and they smell amazing. My apartment feels so cozy every time I light one of these little incense cones. I'll definitely be buying more once I run out, and giving these as gifts to everyone I know.

Mini zodiac cupcakes Opens in a new window Credit: Baked by Melissa Baked by Melissa zodiac cupcakes $37
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Birthday cake is the standard, but might we suggest this fun alternative: mini cupcakes selected by an astrologer specifically for your zodiac sign. This Baked by Melissa offering comes with 25 cupcakes, and the flavors vary depending on your sign — though there are some fan-favorites that show up in each zodiac variation. These also make for a great last-minute ask if you're in Manhattan or Boston, as there's same-day delivery for select locations.

A cast iron skillet Opens in a new window Credit: Lodge Lodge cast iron skillet $40.75 at Amazon
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A cast iron skillet is the true sign that you're graduating from cheap nonstick cookware and all mismatched plates. It's something you probably want, but don't particularly want to spend the money on. Lodge has different sizes depending on what you want to cook.

A Lego set that doubles as decor Opens in a new window Credit: LEGO Lego Orchid $49.99 at Amazon
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One of our favorite gifts under $50 is this Lego Orchid that's fun to build and adds a nice touch of greenery to your space that feels more unique than a plastic plant. This set is part of the Lego Icons line, which also features succulents, a bonsai tree, and a bouquet, in case orchids aren't your thing.

A smart speaker Echo Dot smart speaker $49.99 at Amazon
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Find yourself wondering out loud what the weather will be like today, or how to convert cups to liters? Add an Echo device into your home and get answers to all of your formerly rhetorical musings. The Echo Dot is also a decent low-key speaker.

A media streaming stick Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K $49.99 at Amazon
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The Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K is one of the best streaming devices we've tested, and it's also one of our favorite birthday gift ideas. It can turn your old TV into a smart TV, or take it on vacation to access your streaming services without logging in on the Airbnb TV.

The delicious scent without the fire hazard Opens in a new window Credit: Pura Pura Smart Fragrance Diffuser $49.99 at Amazon
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If candles are a no-go, opt for a Bluetooth-enabled diffuser to make any room in your home smell divine. The Pura Smart Fragrance Diffuser holds two fragrances and is controlled entirely through the app. Schedule one scent to wake up to and one to fall asleep to with the in-app calendar feature. Pura collaborates with brands like NEST, Anthropologie, Disney, and The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City to source their scents, so whatever the occasion calls for, they’ve got your back.

Gifts $50 to $150A custom neon sign Opens in a new window Credit: GITM Store Custom Neon Sign $53.96 at Amazon
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Pick out a funny phrase, inside joke, or family name and get a custom sign in as little as one week. It might sound too good to be true, but Mashable editors have ordered from this Amazon storefront before and had a great experience. In fact, this is one of our favorite undiscovered gems on Amazon.

Coffee from around the world Opens in a new window Credit: Atlas Coffee Club Atlas Coffee Club gift subscription Starting at $55 Shop Now

Atlas Coffee Club is a coffee subscription that sends you coffee beans and postcards from a different country each month. So, you get to try roasts you probably can't get from your grocery store, and you get to learn about a new place — and maybe get some travel inspo. You can select from whole beans, grounds, Keurig pods, and Nespresso pods. Subscriptions can be three, six, or 12 months.

A personal blender for morning and night Ninja Blast Max portable blender $69.95 at Amazon
$99.99 Save $30.04   Shop Now at Amazon

Make protein shakes, smoothies, or margaritas with ease with the Ninja Blast Max portable blender. It holds up to 22 ounces, and the blending cup detaches so you can drink right out of it. The Blast Max comes in fun shades like blue raspberry, pink lemon, moss green, and lavender.

An endless supply of veggies and herbs Opens in a new window Credit: AeroGarden AeroGarden Sprout $52.80 at Amazon
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Whether you're an enthusiastic home chef, like a bit of greenery, or simply can't stand running to the grocery store every time a recipe calls for some cilantro, a hydroponic garden is a great way to keep veggies and herbs on hand, even if you don't have a green thumb.

Film vibes from a digital camera Opens in a new window Credit: Camp Snap Camp Snap camera $65 at Camp Snap
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Film photos are back in a big way, but not all of us have the patience to fill up an entire roll and then wait for it to get developed. Camp Snap is a really neat camera that takes film-esque photos and stores them on an SD card so you can pull them to your computer or phone and post them immediately. It's super lightweight and has a pretty low profile compared to film cameras, making it easy to slip into your purse or pocket on a night out.

A tea and coffee lover's best friend Opens in a new window Credit: Cosori Cosori Electric Gooseneck Kettle $69.99 at Amazon
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There's a certain electric gooseneck kettle that's beloved by design nerds, but that's also a tad overpriced (more than a tad, really). Instead, make the smart choice and opt for the infinitely more practical Cosori Electric Gooseneck Kettle. It still has plenty of charm — not to mention pre-set buttons for tea, coffee, and boiling water.

A pack of disposable cameras Opens in a new window Credit: Fujifilm Fujifilm disposable cameras $53.99 at Amazon
$79.99 Save $26.00   Shop Now

We have a couple of camera options on this list, but sometimes you really just want that classic disposable camera experience. You'll capture some fun, in-the-moment memories with no do-overs. A three-pack of disposable cameras costs $79.99 (these have become kind of expensive since the invention of digital/phone cameras).

Fancy olive oils Opens in a new window Credit: Brightland Brightland olive oil Mini Artist Series $85 at Brightland
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This is one of our favorite gifts to give someone who's difficult to shop for, so it also makes a great gift to ask for when you aren't sure what you want. Brightland makes infused olive oils that come in super cute bottles. This set includes four mini bottles of chili, garlic, lemon, and basil-flavored olive oils. Your kitchen will feel elevated with these on display and in your cooking rotation.

Our favorite creator mic DJI Mic Mini $45 at Amazon
$59 Save $14   Shop Now at Amazon

The DJI Mic Mini is wildly popular amongst creators on TikTok, and for good reason. It's easy to use and actually sounds great. It's maybe not ideal for large productions, but for social video, it's awesome.

Color-changing smart light bulbs Opens in a new window Credit: Philips Philips Hue Smart Bulbs $99.99 at Best Buy
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Turn your bedroom into a party with these color-changing smart light bulbs. You can control the lights from your phone and set whatever mood you're feeling. This kit includes two smart Bluetooth bulbs.

Something to make your life a little more eco-friendly Opens in a new window Credit: Stasher Stasher Bags starter kit $99.99 at Stasher
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Whether you're packing your lunch or storing leftovers, using plastic bags should be your last resort. Heck, you should be trying to stay away from all single-use plastics if you're able to. But, if you want to start small, these Stasher bags are a great option to make your daily life more eco-friendly. These silicone bags are secure and completely reusable — either wash them by hand or stuff them in the dishwasher. Grab a starter pack for $99.99.

A beginner-friendly sewing machine Opens in a new window Credit: Singer Singer M1150 sewing machine $119.98 at Amazon
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Sewing has become a popular hobby amongst TikTokkers, and whether you've never touched a sewing machine in your life or you're just in need of a new one, the Singer M1150 is a solid machine for sewists of all levels. It hits all your basics at a reasonable price point.

A year of ad-free music Opens in a new window Credit: Spotify Spotify Premium 12-month subscription e-gift card $120
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Maybe a Spotify Premium membership isn't in your budget this year, or maybe it's a monthly bill you'd just rather have someone else foot for you. Whatever the case, add a 12-month Spotify subscription gift card to your b-day list. It's especially great if you've got someone shopping for you who notoriously waits until the last minute to buy gifts, since it can be delivered via email or text.

Luxurious towels Opens in a new window Credit: Brooklinen Brooklinen Super-Plush Turkish Cotton Bath Sheets $129 at Brooklinen
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Multiple Mashable staff members revere Brooklinen towels as the softest towels ever. The brand's bath sheets are bigger than a standard bath towel, meaning you feel more coziness and less cold air as you step out of the shower.

The smart temperature-controlled mug Opens in a new window Credit: Ember Ember Mug 2 $129.95 at Amazon
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There's a lot of debate about what makes a good gift, but getting something that is a) practical and b) something just extravagant enough that you'd never get it for yourself may be the infallibly perfect combo. We think for coffee and tea drinkers, that combo is found in the Ember Mug 2. This temperature-controlled mug may be unnecessary, but boy, does it feel good to take a hot sip of coffee after forgetting you poured it an hour ago.

A cute travel bag Opens in a new window Credit: Baboon to the Moon Baboon to the Moon $145 at Amazon
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You've probably seen Baboon to the Moon bags if you've been online in the last half-decade. They're bright and colorful (or muted and neutral if you'd rather), and come in three sizes to fit your travel needs.

The gift of clean air Levoit Core 300S smart air purifier $119.99 at Amazon
$149.99 Save $30.00   Shop Now at Amazon

We know, we know, an air purifier is not the sexiest gift, but it is a practical one. The Levoit Core 300S is a smart air purifier with a companion app that lets you control the device and see real-time stats about your home's air quality. It's suitable for spaces up to 1,095 square feet.

A portable, waterproof speaker Bose SoundLink Flex $154.99 at Amazon
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Beach days and outdoor adventures are made complete with your favorite playlist. The Bose SoundLink Flex is a portable speaker that can handle the elements while still providing stellar sound quality. It's waterproof, rust- and drop-resistant, and even floats. Plus, it comes in five fun colors. For even bigger sound, try the Bose SoundLink Max.

A 3-in-1 portable fan Shark ChillPill $149.99 at Shark
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Beat the summer heat with Shark's 3-in-1 portable fan. It has 10 fan speeds, a misting attachment, and a cooling plate attachment. Whether your warmer months are filled with outdoor concerts or buildings without AC, you're going to want to add the Shark ChillPill to your birthday list.

Gifts $150+A new Kindle Kindle Paperwhite $159.99 at Amazon
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The Mashable team has tested every Kindle e-reader, and we think the Kindle Paperwhite is the right e-reader for most people. Instead of asking for a book, ask for a Kindle for your birthday and save yourself money and space. Sure, it doesn't smell the same as a new book, but now you'll have no excuses for not keeping up with your yearly reading resolutions.

The viral Hatch alarm clock Opens in a new window Credit: Hatch Hatch Restore 3 sunrise alarm clock $169.99 at Amazon
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Intrigued by sleepmaxxing? The Hatch Restore 3 sunrise alarm clock could help you get a better night's rest. It's designed to help you create a bedtime routine to help you fall asleep more easily. It's packed with different sleep sounds and light levels to ease you in and out of sleep.

Sleep earbuds that also track your sleep Anker Soundcore Sleep A30 Special sleep earbuds $179.99 at Amazon
$229.99 Save $50   Shop Now at Amazon Shop Now at Soundcore

The Anker Soundcore Sleep A30 Special earbuds are our top pick for the best sleep earbuds. Our tester liked their noise cancellation, comfort and fit, reliable performance, and sleep data. The sleep tracking was more accurate than data from a sleep-tracking phone app.

A desk you can take anywhere Opens in a new window Credit: Miller Kern / Mashable Logitech Casa Pop-Up Desk $179.99 at Amazon
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If you work remotely, you gotta get this portable desk from Logitech. The Casa Pop-Up Desk includes a wireless keyboard, wireless trackpad, and a desk stand that doubles as a discreet and stylish carrying case. It comes in three colors, so you can match your aesthetic. This is an especially great tool if you like working from coffee shops or moving around while you work.

A new comforter Opens in a new window Credit: Buffy Buffy Comforter $195 at Buffy
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Comforters, like a mattress, shouldn't be an item you cheap out on. They're supposed to last you a while, so why not have something a little more luxurious? The Buffy Cloud comforter is a sustainable comforter made from recycled fiber and eucalyptus. Mashable Senior Shopping Reporter Leah Stodart reviewed it, calling it "the first piece of bedding I've used that actually feels kind of dreamy."

Sony's bass-heavy headphones Opens in a new window Credit: Joe Maldonado / Mashable Sony ULT Wear headphones $198 at Amazon
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Sony's ULT Power Sound lineup is for true bass lovers. The ULT Wears have Sony's impressive sound quality and noise cancellation, and are made even more impressive by the addition of the ULT button, which punches up the bass two additional levels. These headphones are booming, and the best part is they're relatively budget-friendly.

A pressure cooker and air fryer in one Opens in a new window Credit: Instant Pot Instant Pot Duo Crisp $199.95 at Amazon
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Your new favorite kitchen appliance: a pressure cooker that can air fry, roast, bake, dehydrate, slow cook, prepare rice, steam, sauté, and more. Impress guests with your culinary skills (that are in fact just throwing all the ingredients listed in the recipe into this thing and then waiting a few hours).

A trusty pet camera Opens in a new window Credit: Furbo Furbo pet camera $129 at Amazon
$210 Save $81   Shop Now

If you're anything like us, you view your pet like it's your actual child. We support that. Now, you can up your pet parent game by picking up a Furbo pet camera. Not only does it livestream what your pet is up to while you aren't home straight to your phone, but it also has the ability to toss treats and produce two-way audio for quick check-ins.

Design-friendly humidifier Opens in a new window Credit: Vitruvi Vitruvi Cloud Humidifier $229 at Amazon
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There's something to be said for a product that can marry form and function, and this Vitruvi humidifier does just that. Admittedly, $229 is probably a hefty price for a humidifier you're buying for yourself, but it's a great splurge gift if you prefer your household appliances not be eyesores.

Your own personal ice cream maker Ninja Creami $199.95 at Amazon
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If you're as chronically online as we are, you've likely seen people whipping up frozen treat concoctions with the Ninja Creami. The countertop ice cream maker has presets for gelato, ice cream, sorbet, smoothie bowls, milkshakes, and mix-ins if you want to channel your inner Dairy Queen. You do need to freeze your ingredients beforehand, so it's not an instantaneous sweet treat fix, but you have creative freedom to try out whichever flavors your sweet tooth desires.

A portable, smokeless fire pit Opens in a new window Credit: Solo Stove Solo Stove Ranger 2.0 $199.99 at Solo Stove
$229.99 Save $30   Shop Now

Whether you're a hardcore camper or you just like unwinding with a few beers by the fire, Solo Stove's Ranger fire pit is a fantastic gift to ask for. It's designed to be smokeless and portable, making it great for balconies, backyards, beach hangs, or camping trips. Mashable Senior Shopping Reporter Haley Henschel reviewed the larger Solo Stove Bonfire and wrote that it burns "beautiful, clean fires when conditions are right." The best part? The Ranger is typically on sale for $199.99, so whoever gifts it has 30 extra dollars to spend on your birthday.

A Bluetooth record player Sony PS-LX3BT Bluetooth turntable $248 at Amazon
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Senior Shopping Reporter Haley Henschel called Sony's Bluetooth turntable the "perfect record player for beginners." It's stylish and super simple to use, and you can connect it to a wireless speaker, soundbar, or wireless headphones via Bluetooth.

A pair of AirPods Pro AirPods Pro 3 $219 at Amazon
$249 Save $30   Shop Now at Amazon Shop Now at Walmart

When you already own a pair of earbuds, it can be hard to justify splurging on a new pair — even if you really, really want to. And that's why the AirPods Pro (Gen 3) earbuds are an ideal birthday present. Apple stepped up its audio game with these buds, which feature improved sound quality and active noise cancellation. For a cheaper alternative, ask for the latest 4th Gen AirPods, which are $129 without ANC or $179 with ANC.

A cool drone with a 4K camera DJI Mini 4K $209 at Amazon
$299 Save $90   Shop Now at Amazon

DJI drones have exploded in popularity over the last few years, and the DJI Mini 4K is a great option from the brand. It's beginner-friendly and suitable for recreational use. You'll be able to capture stunning 4K scenes.

A heated massage gun Opens in a new window Credit: Therabody TheraGun Mini Plus massage gun $279.99 at Amazon
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If you pick any massage gun, make it this one. The TheraGun Mini Plus is portable and easy to maneuver over sore muscles. But the absolute best feature is the temperature settings. It has heat built in, which feels amazing on tight muscles and joints. Plus, you can add on a cooling massage head if you prefer cooling therapy instead (or in addition).

Five hair tools in one Opens in a new window Credit: Bethany Allard / Mashable Shark FlexStyle $299.99 at Amazon
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Instead of asking for the $600 Dyson Airwrap, you can get a product that performs nearly identically for half the price in the Shark FlexStyle (trust us, we tested them head-to-head). Pick up a version for textured hair or straighter hair for $299.99.

A portable projector Anker Nebula Capsule Projector $279.99 at Amazon
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With the Anker Nebula Capsule, you can project up to 120 inches and have movie nights inside or outdoors. The projector is ultra-portable and has decent audio, doubling as a Bluetooth speaker. Our reviewer praised the image quality and compact size.

A red light therapy mask Shark CryoGlow LED mask $349 at Amazon
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Mashable writers and editors have tested a number of red light masks, and we think the Shark CryoGlow is the best choice for most people. Our reviewer noticed a "significantly reduced" number of new pimples and improved appearance of forehead fine lines after three months of use. In addition to LED light therapy, the mask features cooling under-eye pads for depuffing during treatments.

An Apple Watch Apple Watch Series 11 $329 at Amazon
$399 Save $70   Shop Now at Amazon

An Apple Watch lets you access smartphone features conveniently on your wrist. You can control your music, send and receive texts, monitor your health, and tons more. The latest Apple Watch isn't too different from the previous model, but it has a significantly longer battery life, which we love.

Year-round spa days TheraFace Pro $299.99 at Amazon
$419.99 Save $120   Shop Now at Amazon

You can ask for a day at the spa, or you can ask for the gift of getting a facial whenever you want and from the comfort of your home. In her review of the device, Mashable Deputy Shopping Editor Miller Kern wrote that the TheraFace Pro is "a hell of a lot cheaper than getting regular professional facials, and I truly feel like I've received a spa treatment every time I use [it]."

An indoor garden Opens in a new window Credit: Miller Kern / Mashable Gardyn Studio $499 at Gardyn
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Yard space is not easy to come by, but you can still have the garden of your dreams. Gardyn is an indoor hydroponic system that lets even the most notorious plant killers grow a thriving harvest. There are three starter kits to choose from: salad lover, budding florist, and chef faves. The smaller Gardyn Studio houses 16 plants, while the larger Gardyn Home holds 30.

A robot vacuum and mop combo Eufy C28 robot vacuum $599.99 at Eufy
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Robot vacuums with roller mops have been the hot trend in 2026. Our robot vacuum expert named the Eufy C28 the best budget roller mop, so you'll get a great cleaning helper without having to ask someone to drop $1,000+ on your birthday. This robot vacuum has some of the best battery life on the market and impressive debris pickup.

The iPad mini Apple iPad mini (2024, 7th generation, A17 Pro chip) $489 at Amazon
$599 Save $110   Shop Now at Amazon Shop Now at Amazon Shop Now at Walmart

Our reviewer called the iPad mini 7 the "best choice" if you want a compact tablet, and said it looks better and is a lot more powerful than previous-generation iPad minis. It supports the Apple Pencil Pro, and we named it the best tablet for reading.

A fancy desk chair Opens in a new window Credit: Branch Verve Chair $549 at Branch
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Our favorite type of birthday gift is something you want to buy yourself but just can't justify spending your own money on. The Verve chair is a prime example of that. It's super comfy and ergonomic, and it comes in really cute colors, but it's definitely on the luxury end of pricing. If you work from home or just spend a lot of time sitting at a desk, put this at the top of your birthday wish list.

A camera to rival your phone Opens in a new window Credit: Nikon Nikon Z 30 Mirrorless Digital Vlogging Camera Bundle $696.95 at Amazon
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When giving your friends and family birthday gift ideas, it's usually best to look for gifts under $50. But if you have a partner or parent who really loves you, then it's okay to dream big.

An easy-to-use mirrorless camera designed with creators in mind, the Nikon Z 30 boasts video, camera, and live streaming capabilities at an affordable price. The camera body can be purchased alone or with one or two kit lenses. There’s also the creators’ accessory bundle, which comes with a mic, tripod grip, and Bluetooth remote.

A handheld gaming console that's not a Switch Opens in a new window Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable Lenovo Legion Go $699.99 at Best Buy
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Mashable Tech Reporter Alex Perry described the Lenovo Legion Go as "beefier and more powerful" than the Nintendo Switch. It has a huge display, solid performance, and all-around great specs. It's not a one-to-one competitor of the Switch, but rather a portable way into PC gaming that's "really good at running all kinds of games."

A new phone Opens in a new window Credit: Stan Schroeder / Mashable iPhone 17 Starting at $799 Shop Now

Thinking of upgrading from an iPhone that has a Lightning port? Don't spend your own money on an expensive phone — have someone who loves you spend their money! The iPhone 17 starts at $799, while the iPhone 17 Pro starts at $1099. (Group gift, anyone?)

A TV that blends into your decor Hisense CanvasTV (55-inch, QLED) $699.99 at Best Buy
$999.99 Save $300   Shop Now at Best Buy Shop Now at Amazon

Samsung's The Frame TV made waves when it came out a few years ago, but the price is just not attainable for everyone. The Hisense CanvasTV is an amazing, budget-friendly (well, friendlier) alternative if you want an art TV for your birthday. The Google TV interface is amazing, and the TV truly does blend in with your art and decor. This is a bougie birthday ask, but one that's worth it.

A MacBook Air Apple MacBook Air, 15-inch (M5, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) $1,149.99 at Amazon
$1,299 Save $149.01   Shop Now at Amazon Shop Now at Best Buy Shop Now at Apple.com

We named the Apple MacBook Air M5 the best MacBook for most people. So, if you're in the market for a new laptop — and want to stay in the Apple ecosystem — this is the one to ask for on your birthday.

Within just three days of each other, Chinese and Japanese spacecraft got up close and personal with two different asteroids. 

The China National Space Administration sent Tianwen-2 to visit Kamo'oalewa, a 300-foot-wide rock some call a quasi-moon of Earth, on July 2. The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, aka JAXA, sent its Hayabusa2 spacecraft by a 1,500-foot-wide space rock dubbed Torifune on July 5. 

The missions, which each scored photos of their targets, show a thirst for knowledge about these dinosaur killers and how to potentially stop them, should one ever be on a collision course with our planet. Though neither of these so-called near-Earth asteroids is a threat, scientists and engineers hope to use these and other close encounters to prepare for potential dangerous ones in the future. 

In a post on X, the European Space Agency congratulated both space programs for their successes while promoting its own Hera mission, a robotic spacecraft on its way to visit Dimorphos, the asteroid NASA's DART mission intentionally slammed into for asteroid target practice in 2022. 

SEE ALSO: Mysterious yellow crystals on Mars may soon have an explanation

Asteroids are the ancient detritus leftover from the formation of the solar system about 4.6 billion years ago. They're rocky objects that orbit the sun, mostly within the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter. 

Unlike planets, asteroids didn't grow large enough to become worlds of their own. The upshot is that they've kept some of that early material intact, serving as time capsules from the dawn of the solar system. 

After studying Kamo'oalewa for many months, Tianwen-2 will attempt to collect a sample from the asteroid. Credit: CNSA / Xinhua

For Tianwen-2, the journey to Kamo'oalewa took more than a year — roughly 400 days, according to Xinhua, China's state-run news agency, which released the image Monday. Scientists used navigation data during the approach to refine their knowledge of the asteroid's orbit. At the time, it was about 26 million miles away from Earth.

Though Kamo'oalewa, which means "oscillating celestial object" in Hawaiian, doesn't orbit Earth, it's sometimes known as a quasi-moon because it takes roughly the same orbital path as the planet around the sun. Some astronomers think it could even be an ancient blown-off piece of Earth from a long-ago collision — a chip off the old block, as it were. 

The spacecraft has come within 12 miles of the asteroid. After studying it for several months, the mission will attempt to collect samples. If successful, China will be the third nation, following Japan and the United States, to bring home bits of asteroid rubble. 

"Besides the intense scientific interest, this is another step toward utilizing the rich resources of accessible asteroids to boost the human settlement of the Earth-Moon system and beyond," said Dale Skran, chief operating officer of the National Space Society, in a statement. "This type of exploration also helps us to plan the protection of Earth from larger rogue asteroid impacts."

The Hayabusa2 mission reached asteroid Torifune, named after a god and ship in Japanese mythology, as part of its extended mission. Launched in 2014, the spacecraft has already visited asteroid Ryugu and returned samples to Earth in 2020.

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Because the spacecraft was traveling at about 3 miles per second, the flyby required a different navigation strategy from how it approached Ryugu. The Japanese space agency said engineers used a combination of images and radio tracking to guide the spacecraft. The peanut-shaped Torifune was about 62 million miles from Earth when the spacecraft reached it.

After their encounters, both missions intend to visit other targets. JAXA is sending Hayabusa2 to 1998 KY26, a 36-foot-wide asteroid. The journey there will take about five years. China plans to eventually send Tianwen-2 to comet 311P beyond Mars. 

TL;DR: The new Motorola Razr is available for free with T-Mobile. Activate a new line on an Experience More plan to qualify for this limited-time offer.

Opens in a new window Credit: Motorola Motorola Razr Free when you activate a new line on an Experience More plan. Shop Now

Want to know a truly 10/10 life experience? No, we're not talking about marrying the love of your life or witnessing the birth of your child. We're talking about slamming shut a foldable phone.

The good news for anyone interesting in making this ultimate power move is that flip phones are back. And mobile carriers like T-Mobile are giving away some of the best flip phones for free. For a limited time, T-Mobile is giving away the new Motorola Razr for free. You don't need to trade anything in to qualify. You just need to activate a new line on T-Mobile's Experience More plan.

Each month, your statement will display a standard finance charge for the phone, immediately followed by an equal promotional credit that balances that charge down to nothing. Essentially, you are entering a two-year commitment with the network. If you decide to cancel your service, move to a competing carrier, or try to upgrade to next year's model before those 24 months are completed, the remaining unpaid balance on the phone's retail value will become due immediately.

You will also need to pay tax on the full retail value of the device upfront, plus a $35 connection charge. That's a small price to pay for a premium foldable phone that goes for over $700.

The Motorola Razr offers a massive 3.6-inch Extreme AMOLED cover screen with a 90Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness of 1,700 nits. Motorola also upgraded the camera suite, packing a massive 50-megapixel main sensor alongside a highly capable 50-megapixel ultrawide lens. It's all powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7450X processor, with 8GB of RAM, 256GB of built-in storage, and a robust 4,800mAh battery that delivers 36 hours of regular use.

Score the new Motorola Razr for free with T-Mobile.

Meta may have finally found a way to make smart glasses look normal. That might be the problem.

On June 23, Meta announced a new line of AI-powered Meta Glasses, starting at $299. The collection includes three frame styles: Meta Adventurer, Meta Fury, and Meta Glasses by Kylie, a slim oval frame designed in collaboration with Kylie Jenner.

Like Meta's Ray-Ban and Oakley smart glasses, the new frames are meant to make AI wearable, stylish, and a little less like something you would only see at a tech conference. They can take photos, record video, play audio, handle calls, and let users interact with Meta AI hands-free. In other words, Meta is selling them as everyday eyewear that can also document what you see. That's exactly where the issue lies.

Online, users have been debating the new glasses with the usual mix of alarm, jokes, defensiveness, and rage. Some people have argued that the backlash ignores genuinely useful features, especially for creators, travelers, parents, and blind or low-vision users.

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Others have been more blunt, saying the glasses make it too easy for strangers to record people without their knowledge and then turn those interactions into content.

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On a phone, recording usually requires a visible gesture. Someone has to pull it out, aim it, and hold it up. Smart glasses remove most of that very difficult process (sarcasm, detected). A person can be talking to you, looking at you, or sitting across from you on the subway while the camera is already built into their frames.

Meta's glasses do include a small LED indicator that lights up when photos or videos are being captured, but people also argue that the light can be easy to miss, especially in bright settings or crowded spaces.

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That concern is no longer just hypothetical. In February 2026, three women reported they were secretly recorded by men wearing smart glasses during staged pickup-style interactions, then posted online without consent. One woman said she was approached in a Washington, D.C., airport lounge and later discovered that the man had filmed her with smart glasses. Another said she was filmed in a grocery store and found the clip online, where it had already been viewed millions of times.

SEE ALSO: Pranksters and pickup artists are using Meta Ray-Ban glasses to harass strangers for content

There have also been concerns in more intimate settings. In September 2025, a woman went viral after saying she realized during a Brazilian wax at a Manhattan European Wax Center that her esthetician was wearing Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses.

The employee reportedly said the glasses were not charged and were prescription, and there was no evidence that the appointment was recorded. Still, the reaction made clear that the presence of a wearable camera can be enough to make people feel exposed, especially in situations where privacy is part of the service.

Drama has had real digital ramifications. In December 2025, TikTokker Anthony Festa went viral after posting about arriving for a 6 a.m. Solidcore class on Nov. 30 and finding the studio empty, with no instructor present. He filmed himself on his Meta glasses doing a makeshift private workout, and the situation escalated after he alleged staff pressured him to take the video down.

While initially about the workout class, the situation brought up a recurring question: if wearable cameras make it easy to document everything in real time, what responsibility do public spaces have to make their rules clear before someone starts filming?

The recording light is now becoming a legal issue, too. On June 4, 2026, Pennsylvania state Rep. Joe Ciresi introduced a bill that would require smart glasses and other wearable recording devices to include a visual indicator when recording audio or video.

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This is aimed at a real loophole in the current smart-glasses setup. On TikTok, retailers sell "ghost dot" stickers to block or dim the recording light, and similar LED-blocking stickers have appeared on retail sites.

The bill is part of a wider wave of scrutiny around where smart glasses could go next. In February, the New York Times reported that Meta had been exploring facial recognition for its smart glasses through an internal feature called "Name Tag," which could allow a wearer to identify people and receive information about them through Meta AI (Meta has not launched that feature for consumers). U.S. Sens. Ed Markey of Massachusetts, Ron Wyden of Oregon, and Jeff Merkley of Oregon sent a letter to Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg in March demanding more information about these reported plans, and in May, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton launched an investigation into Meta AI Glasses over concerns.

And in June, the Verge reported that people in at least 30 states were offering to remove the recording light from Ray-Ban Meta glasses, including a New Jersey modder who said he performed the service multiple times a week. Meta has responded, saying tampering with the light violates its rules and that it removes listings for those services, but the reporting has given lawmakers a concrete example of why a tiny indicator light may not be enough on its own.

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Smart glasses have been a hard sell. Google Glass became a punchline more than a decade ago, and even Meta’s more recent Ray-Ban and Oakley glasses have had to fight the same basic problem: people do not always love the idea of a camera sitting on someone else's face. Reuters reported in November of last year that smart-glasses sales were growing, but that mainstream shoppers still had concerns about privacy, comfort, and price.

Meta seems to know that. Its newest rollout isn't just about making the glasses cheaper — it's about making them look like something people might actually want to wear, even before they think about the technology inside. By tapping Kylie as the face of this much chicer version, Meta's launch event pulled in a fashion-and-internet crowd that included stylist Law Roach, creator Nara Smith, and DJ Peggy Gou.

The glasses have since popped up on everyone from F1 WAGs to influencers — perhaps for fashion, perhaps as a gift from Meta — though not without the inevitable internet backlash that accompanies every such sighting.

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As lawmakers rush to catch up, Meta is simultaneously making its smart glasses cheaper, more fashionable, and more ordinary. But the more "ordinary" this tech looks, the more concerns it brings.

TL;DR: Get Microsoft Office Home & Business for Mac 2021 for $42.97 (reg. $219) and own Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams, and OneNote with a lifetime license.

Opens in a new window Credit: Microsoft Microsoft Office Home & Business for Mac 2021: Lifetime License $42.97
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Between streaming services and different phone apps, you’re probably paying for too many recurring subscriptions as is. Those monthly charges sure have a way of piling up! If you’d rather make one purchase and move on, Microsoft Office Home & Business for Mac 2021 is available for $42.97 (reg. $219) through July 17 at 11:59 p.m. PT.

Unlike Microsoft 365, this version doesn’t require an ongoing subscription. A single purchase installs the software on one compatible Mac, giving you lifetime access to the classic desktop versions of Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams (Basic), and OneNote.

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For many users, those are the apps that utilized most. Whether you’re writing up documents in Word, organizing budgets and data in Excel, forming presentations in PowerPoint, or managing email through Outlook, the suite covers the everyday tasks students, families, freelancers, and small business owners rely on.

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If Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook are already part of your everyday work routine, this lifetime license could end up paying for itself relatively quickly. You can pick up Microsoft Office Home & Business for Mac 2021 for $42.97 (reg. $219) through July 17 at 11:59 p.m. PT.

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TL;DR: Bring home a reliable and affordable workhorse laptop, the Lenovo ThinkPad L15 Gen 3, for just $439.99 (reg. $799) while supplies last.

Opens in a new window Credit: Lenovo Lenovo ThinkPad L15 Gen 3 (2022) 15.6" 16GB RAM 512GB SSD Win11Pro (Refurbished) $439.99
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Looking for a laptop with plenty of memory and high RAM capacity? That can be an expensive feat these days, but this Lenovo ThinkPad L15 Gen 3 delivers all that in a sleek, portable — and, most importantly, affordable — package.

Right now, you can snag a Lenovo ThinkPad L15 Gen 3 for just $439.99 while supplies last.

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If you’re in the market for a laptop that can actually keep up with your workload, the Lenovo ThinkPad is up for the challenge. This laptop comes equipped with an AMD Ryzen 5 Pro 5675U processor and an impressive 16GB of RAM that can handle your entire to-do list — and all without costing upwards of $1,000 (we’re looking at you, MacBooks).

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Christian Brantley is better known online as CircleToonsHD. With a distinctive animation style that focuses on strategically simple character designs, he's created a workflow that allows him not only to create cartoons regularly but also to comment on emerging news and trends in gaming, tech, and other areas of pop culture.

With an irreverent sensibility and energetic attitude, the graphic designer turned indie animator earned over a million views on videos like "How AI Killed the Internet" and "How One Item Fractured Elden Ring's Fanbase." Posting videos regularly, he's earned over 500,000 followers on TikTok and 4 million subscribers on YouTube. Plus, he's launched his own video game, a virtual card game called Fool's Blade.

But how did Circle grow from a side project to an indie animation success story? While Brantley was at VidCon 2026, he sat down with Mashable Entertainment Editor Kristy Puchko to dig into the secrets of success, including how he discovered his "superpower" and when he knew it was time to bet on himself.

Credit: Ian Moore / Mashable / Adobe Stock What is it you love about content creation?

CircleToonsHD: I think what really brings me to content creation is when it finally becomes like a physical manifestation — where you can see the fans, like VidCon. Because it's really easy to fall into the numbers, likes, and subscriptions. And that's kind of nebulous. But when you can finally make actual tangible impacts, either with my game [Fool's Blade] or my content? People go, "You inspired my work," or "I'm going to college because of the stuff that you put out," you know?

I had someone in my meet-and-greet say that they are going to college for animation, partially because of stuff they watch from me. That's the same feeling I [had] watching animators back in the day, in early YouTube, that inspired me to make my stuff. So, if you can kind of make those impacts and those connections, that's like everything for me.

It makes it tangible, you know? We had a huge meet-and-greet yesterday. We met so many amazing people, and they showed me on their iPads the art they're making. They showed me their channels and stuff, telling me, "I have 300 subscribers — it's so small." And I'm like, "Have you ever seen a room with 300 people? Like, that's huge. That's super cool."

What were some of the animators that inspired you?

Ooh, the early Newgrounds days, early YouTube days, the Egoraptors of the world — he's still around making some amazing stuff with Glitch Productions. Really, those precursor early YouTube days were, like, so pivotal and formative for everything that I make.

Was there a moment when you were like, "I've made it!"?

There's kind of like two modes of "made it."

I had a few videos kind of explode in, like, 2016 or 2017, and they were getting millions of views. And I was like, "Oh my gosh." That was the first time I made it. But I didn't have enough subs or consistency to make it my full-time job. The money wasn't coming in. So it was really mind-blowing that millions of people were watching the content. But I was like, "This can't kind of be a full-time job. It could just like a quick flash in the pan thing." Because it's really easy to have, like, one thing explode and then never again.

So I was really excited about that. I worked a full-time job, where I was a graphic designer and large-format pressman. I was doing YouTube at the same time for about three years. Then one day, the money just ticked slightly above. And I was like, "I'm gonna bet on myself, I'm gonna do this." And I left to do YouTube full time, and it's the best bet I ever made.

I made that bet on myself. It was nerve-racking at first, but when it came through, and now I could pour those kinds of hours into it full time, it really started flowing in. So I hunkered down and built out the style. I built out the production so I could make animations every week, because that wasn't common in the YouTube space, and it still isn't.

I honed in on a different style that was efficient and fun, and that allowed me to get in front of jokes and current pop culture. So I really had this leg up when something crazy happened in the gaming space, or the movie space, or the internet space. I could have something out in three minutes, and all my other animator buddies are like, "Oh my gosh, like, that's a superpower." And so that really is when I knew that could do it full time and bet on it. I had that timing.

What is it you love about working on the internet?

Oh man, the connections you can make over long distances. I have a lot of buddies that — tangible, in-person [relationships] now — but that initially would come from just shooting over a message on Twitter, on Instagram, on Discord, being like, "Hey, I love your stuff, like, do you want to like make something?" And that just can't happen anywhere else.

A lot of times, when I was growing initially, I would be super nervous reaching out to these bigger creators. And now it's the other way around, and so I have, like, a window into how it felt to help out, I guess.

So a buddy of mine that came here, YouTube's GarrettTheCarrot, I've been around him to see him grow from like 70,000 to now something like 6 million subs. He was talking about he was so nervous to reach out to me and I was like, "Dude, your work is awesome; I don't care if you have one follower if you're creative." Meeting other creatives is infectious, and it makes your creative work better, and it makes it easy to work online.

When was the moment where you knew you wanted to be an animator?

I've always had an interest in art. I paint. I do graphic design. I was always sketching in a book. But I think when I realized that indie animation and people putting themselves out there was getting just as successful and fun, and later on lucrative as TV and movie, and it was real, you know? I was like, "I want to give it a whirl," because it became a real thing.

How long did it take before you saw significant growth in followers, and what do you think instigated that?

I tell people that I made over 2000 things before I made a penny. A lot of people post a 10th video, and [if it doesn't go viral are] like, "It's not for me." And I'm like, "You're not even in the flames! You've got to get in there."

My YouTube channel was created in 2012, and there's some fun animations there. But about 2016 or 2017 [I developed the style I use now], so [there were about] five, six years until it started doing something recognizable under the brand. But I was constantly posting stuff on YouTube, and Instagram, and Twitter, and grinding it out.

So I always tell people that don't blow up in their first six months, "You're not even 10% into it yet. You gotta bet on yourself over and over again." And it's important that you enjoy what you're doing. If you're doing it for the only explicit purpose of blowing up or making it big, you're not doing it for the right reasons.

Mashable is reporting live from VidCon 2026 in Anaheim. Follow our coverage for creator interviews, panel highlights, and the biggest moments from the convention floor.

The interview above was edited for length and clarity.

Several single women recently told Mashable the truth about dating in 2026: it's bleak. But that doesn't mean there's no hope. While singles are increasingly frustrated with dating apps, one coach said the apps aren't keeping people single; it's how they're using them. If you're swiping into the void and avoiding talking to people, yes, it may be hard to find a date! But it is absolutely possible to find your person online. In fact, Mashable recently interviewed several married couples who met on dating apps.

According to 2023 findings from the Pew Research Center, one in ten partnered adults (married, living with a partner, or in a committed relationship) met their partner on a dating app or site. If you're a younger adult and/or LGBTQ, you're more likely to have met your significant other online: one in five adults under 30 and nearly one in four for LGBTQ adults.

SEE ALSO: My favorite dating app just got even cooler with a new feed redesign

The same study found that almost half (44 percent) of dating app users said a major reason for using them was to meet a long-term partner. So, if that's you, you're certainly not alone, despite what you might see people lament on TikTok. 

But with so many apps, from Bumble to eharmony, it can be challenging to determine which ones to invest in. And the discourse on dating app culture can be unrelenting. In 2025, singles told Mashable they'd rather meet a potential partner in person, but they're begrudgingly on the apps. Some, like Tinder, have seen their revenue decrease in recent years, while Hinge is growing. Even then, though, daters bemoan even the most popular of apps. A Kinsey scientist recently told Mashable where daters are going wrong: use dating apps as a tool, not to let them run the show — and stop self-optimizing, already.

Despite the frustration over The Apps™, it's undeniable that if you want to date from the comfort and safety of your home, they're the way to do it. If you're, say, introverted or have difficulty approaching someone in person, an app can still be useful.

What is the #1 best dating app?

Considering the variation in experiences on all the dating apps, it's difficult to quantify which ones are the "best." Some people find their spouses on Tinder, while others are disappointed that their matches are only looking for hookups. 

That being said, if you're looking for something serious, your best bet is likely an app with a large user base, options for you to indicate what you're looking for in your bio, and filters to weed out who you really want to partner with. There are also apps whose branding is geared towards finding one's ultimate match — like eharmony and Match, both decades-old sites with reputations for helping users find their spouse. Hinge, Bumble, and Coffee Meets Bagel also have a reputation for more "serious" connections.

Depending on the type of relationship you're seeking, you may also benefit from a more niche app. Take one app on our list, SilverSingles, for people over 50. Sure, there are older adults on apps like Tinder and Bumble as well, but you may have more luck finding someone age-appropriate if you're in a space meant just for you.

Which dating site is best for serious relationships?

Mashable has researched to pick out a few from the plethora of dating sites (and apps) out there. These options are available for both Android and Apple users, so the type of phone you have won't determine your options. In terms of monetary investment, you can use some of these for free (like Tinder and Bumble), while others are more pay-to-play. We've also included some "niche" options, like the aforementioned SilverSingles and Elite Singles, so you have more than the standard buffet of dating apps.

Here are the best dating apps for serious relationships: