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8 iPhone Privacy Features You're Probably Not Using
Your iPhone contains a lot of sensitive information, including your location, your personal photos, and more. There are several iPhone privacy features that you can use to help protect this information.
Apple released its list of the best App Store apps of 2024
Every year brings tons of new apps and games to Apple's app ecosystem. Now, the mothership itself has graced us with its list of the very best ones from 2024.
Apple released its 2024 App Store awards list on Wednesday. The list honors everything from everyday accessibility apps to games and even device-specific apps. It has 17 honors for the best app developers of the year.
Let's not waste any more time. Here are the App Store award winners for 2024.
SEE ALSO: The 10 best video games you may have missed in 2024 Apple App Store award winners for 2024Here are all the apps Apple decided to honor this year.
iPhone app of the year: Kino
iPad app of the year: Moises
Mac App of the Year: Adobe Lightroom
Apple Vision Pro App of the Year: What If…? An Immersive Story
Apple Watch App of the Year: Lumy
Apple TV App of the Year: F1 TV
And here are Apple's best games of the year.
iPhone Game of the Year: AFK Journey
iPad Game of the Year: Squad Busters
Mac Game of the Year: Thank Goodness You’re Here!
Apple Vision Pro Game of the Year: THRASHER: Arcade Odyssey
On top of that, here are some apps Apple recognized for their cultural impact:
Google announces agentic Gemini 2.0 with image and audio support
Not to be outdone by OpenAI's Sora drop, Google just released its new AI model Gemini 2.0.
On Wednesday, Google introduced Gemini 2.0 Flash, the first family member of the next generation of AI models. Gemini 2.0 Flash is described in the announcement as a "workhorse model" for developers, capable of powerful performance at scale. Flash supports image and audio generation, has native integration with Google Search, can write code, and works with third-party apps. Alongside the Gemini 2.0 Flash announcement, Google also introduced Deep Research, a Gemini feature that browses the web and compiles research reports based on the initial prompt.
Gemini 2.0 Flash is a step up from Gemini 1.0 in that has improved reasoning, longer context windows, ability to understand complex instructions, and native tool use — all of which has been designed to make the model more agentic, in other words capable of executing multi-step tasks on the user's behalf.
As part of this, Google said Gemini 2.0 would be available for Project Astra, a research prototype for testing a universal AI assistant. Google also shared other research prototypes: Project Mariner, which is specifically designed to explore "human-agent interaction," and Project Jules for developers.
SEE ALSO: Google adds Deep Research to Gemini for browsing the web on your behalfGemini 2.0 Flash is available as an "experimental model" via the Gemini API which can be accessed in Google AI Studio and Vertex AI. But casual users can also try out its improved chat capabilities in the Gemini desktop app, with mobile app support coming soon.
Apple Just Delayed These iPhone, iPad, and Mac Features (Again)
Today, Apple released iOS 18.2, iPadOS 18.2, and macOS Sequoia 15.2, but not everything went as smoothly as planned. Some features have been pushed off yet again.
How to watch Juventus vs. Manchester City online for free
TL;DR: Live stream Juventus vs. Manchester City in the Champions League for free on RTÉ Player. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.
The next round of Champions League fixtures includes some huge clashes between Europe's elite, but the biggest game of the bunch might be Juventus vs. Manchester City. Both sides have identical records in this year's competition, making this a must-win game.
If you want to watch Juventus vs. Manchester City in the Champions League for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.
When is Juventus vs. Manchester City?Juventus vs. Manchester City in the Champions League kicks off at 8 p.m. GMT on Dec. 11. This fixture takes place at the Allianz Stadium.
How to watch Juventus vs. Manchester City for freeJuventus vs. Manchester City is available to live stream for free on RTÉ Player in Ireland.
If you're abroad for this fixture, you might need to use a VPN to unblock RTÉ Player. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in Ireland, meaning you can unblock free live streams of the Champions League from anywhere in the world.
Live stream Juventus vs. Manchester City on RTÉ Player by following these simple steps:
Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)
Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)
Open up the app and connect to a server in Ireland
Sign in to RTÉ Player
Watch Juventus vs. Manchester City for free from anywhere in the world
The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but leading VPNs do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can access free live streams of the Champions League without actually spending anything. This obviously isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to stream Juventus vs. Manchester City (plus more Champions League fixtures) before recovering your investment.
What is the best VPN for RTÉ Player?ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport on RTÉ Player, for a number of reasons:
Servers in 105 countries including Ireland
Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more
Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure
Fast connection speeds free from throttling
Up to eight simultaneous connections
30-day money-back guarantee
A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.
Live stream Juventus vs. Manchester City in the Champions League for free with ExpressVPN.
How to watch Arsenal vs. Monaco online for free
TL;DR: Live stream Arsenal vs. Monaco in the Champions League for free on Virgin Media Player. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.
The next round of Champions League fixtures includes some really interesting matchups, including Arsenal vs. Monaco.
Arsenal and Monaco have indentical records in this year's competition, with Arsenal ahead on goal difference. It looks like a close game between two exciting sides.
If you want to watch Arsenal vs. Monaco in the Champions League from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.
When is Arsenal vs. Monaco?Arsenal vs. Monaco in the Champions League kicks off at 8 p.m. GMT on Dec. 11. This fixture takes place at the Emirates Stadium.
How to watch Arsenal vs. Monaco for freeArsenal vs. Monaco is available to live stream for free on Virgin Media Player in Ireland.
If you're abroad for this fixture, you might need to use a VPN to access Virgin Media Player. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in Ireland, meaning you can unblock Virgin Media Player to stream the Champions League for free from anywhere in the world.
Live stream Arsenal vs. Monaco for free by following these simple steps:
Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)
Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)
Open up the app and connect to a server in Ireland
Visit Virgin Media Player
Watch Arsenal vs. Monaco for free from anywhere in the world
The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but most do offer free-trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can access free live streams of the Champions League without actually spending anything. This obviously isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to stream Arsenal vs. Monaco (plus more Champions League fixtures) before recovering your investment.
What is the best VPN for Virgin Media Player?ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport on Virgin Media Player, for a number of reasons:
Servers in 105 countries including Ireland
Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more
Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure
Fast connection speeds free from throttling
Up to eight simultaneous connections
30-day money-back guarantee
A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.
Live stream Arsenal vs. Monaco in the Champions League for free with ExpressVPN.
Customize Your Mac's Finder Sidebar to Show Only What You Need
Finder is used to navigate your Mac’s drives, iCloud, and other storage locations. Customizing the app to show exactly what you need can make you far more productive.
Amazon deal of the day: The Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 4, our fave sub-$100 speaker, is at its best price ever
We're exactly two weeks away from Santa sliding down the chimney, so it's time to check off your shopping list. If you're on a bit of a budget this year, there's plenty of deals on gadgets and gizmos from major brands at Amazon (think Apple, Solo Stove, and Kindle). To help you on your mission, we've rounded up some of the best deals we could find on Dec. 11.
Here are our top picks for the best Amazon deals of the day. If none of these catch your eye, check out our picks from Dec. 9 and Dec. 10 as well. Many of those are still live, including a 71% price drop on the Amazon Echo Buds with active noise cancellation and a $100 Lyft gift card for only $85.
Our top pick: Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 4 Opens in a new window Credit: Ultimate Ears Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 4 $59.99 at Amazon$99.99 Save $40.00 Get Deal
Last week, we featured the Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 4 as one of our best Amazon deals of the day when it was on sale for $79.99. This week, it's $20 cheaper and our top pick. This tiny powerhouse is our favorite sub-$100 Bluetooth speaker for its well-rounded sound profile that wows for a speaker of its size. It's also got an impressive battery life of 14 hours and a rugged design that can handle drops from up to five feet and be dunked in water for up to 30 minutes. Slash 40% off as of Dec. 11 and pick up the fourth-generation speaker for only $59.99 at Amazon. That's the lowest price it's ever been.
Amazon Echo Spot Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Echo Spot $44.99 at Amazon$79.99 Save $35.00 Get Deal
The newest gadget in the Amazon Echo lineup, the Echo Spot is a basically a fancy alarm clock designed to sit atop your nightstand. It can help you wake up and wind down with smart features. Control your smart devices with your voice, ask for the weather, play your favorite morning tunes or white noise to fall asleep, and of course, set alarms. And don't worry, there's no integrated camera watching you sleep. Usually $79.99, it's on sale for just $44.99 as of Dec. 11. That's 44% in savings and matches its best price ever.
Apple iPad, 10th generation Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPad, 10th generation (64GB, WiFi) $279.00 at Amazon$349.00 Save $70.00 Get Deal
The 10th generation iPad may not be the fanciest iPad in the Apple ecosystem, but it's the most affordable current model — and that certainly matters for something. It offers a powerful A14 Bionic chip, a Liquid Retina display, and comes in a variety of colors. However, only the silver option is left in stock at the time of writing. In our best iPad roundup, Mashable shopping reporter Sam Mangino writes, "It's perfect for someone who wants a portable screen for streaming, playing games, and reading. It's also a nice choice if you're interested in using your tablet as a laptop but don't want to spend a ton of money." Usually $349, it's on sale for just $279 as of Dec. 11. That's 20% in savings and just $20 shy of its record-low.
Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 with Stand Opens in a new window Credit: Solo Stove Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 with Stand $197.99 at Amazon$299.99 Save $102.00 with on-page promotion Get Deal
Ideal for intimate hangs with friends this season, the Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 is designed with smokeless 360-degree airflow for four to six people to enjoy. Weighing in at about 22 pounds, it's also portable, making it ideal for camping trips and tailgates as well as backyard gatherings. The Bonfire 2.0 bundled with a stand is usually $299.99, but it's on sale at Amazon for just $197.99 with an on-page promotion. Just click "Redeem" next to the promo to apply it to your cart.
Kindle Paperwhite Kids Opens in a new window Credit: Kindle Kindle Paperwhite Kids $144.99 at Amazon$179.99 Save $35.00 Get Deal
A step up from the basic Kindle Kids, the Kindle Paperwhite Kids is our favorite option for little readers. The newest version, released in October, comes in its thinnest, fastest form yet — and in a variety of new designs. The seven-inch display also packs a higher contrast ratio and 25 percent faster page turns. Otherwise, it's still the Paperwhite Kids we know and love, with a waterproof build, two-year worry-free guarantee, and six months of Amazon Kids+ included. It's usually $179.99, which we find to be a bit steep, but as of Dec. 11, it's down to $144.99 at Amazon. That's just shy of 20% in savings.
None of these deals catching your eye? Check out Amazon's daily deals for even more savings.
The Onion has been denied bid to buy Alex Jones InfoWars
A federal bankruptcy judge has rejected The Onion’s unexpected effort to acquire the conspiracy-laden media outlet InfoWars from its founder, Alex Jones. The judge cited concerns that the satirical news site's winning bid drastically undervalued the property.
SEE ALSO: Yes, The Onion really bought Alex Jones' InfoWarsThe Onion, owned by media conglomerate Global Tetrahedron, snagged auction rights to InfoWars last month with a sealed bid totaling roughly $1.7 million in cash and an additional noncash component that brought the offer closer to $7 million. That figure still fell short of a competing $3.5 million bid from Jones’ associates at First United American Companies, which helps market the supplements frequently advertised on InfoWars.
However, after reviewing the numbers, U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Christopher Lopez said even the higher offer might not have been enough. In a ruling that tossed out The Onion’s attempt to finalize the deal, Lopez made it clear that InfoWars could command a bigger payout.
"I don’t think it’s enough money," Lopez said in his ruling. "I’m not going to approve the sale… I think you’ve got to go out and try to get every dollar. I think that the process fell down."
In the fallout of a colossal $1.2 billion defamation judgment by families of the Sandy Hook shooting victims, Alex Jones has been forced into bankruptcy, and his signature platform, InfoWars, has landed on the auction block. But following a judge’s decision to reject The Onion’s bid — one initially expected to clinch the deal — Jones might be getting a shot at retaking control.
Ben Collins, the former disinformation reporter now heading Global Tetrahedron, isn't giving up. In a post on X, he vowed to keep chasing InfoWars, declaring that he'll "seek a path towards purchasing InfoWars in the coming weeks."
For now, though, the entire process is stuck in a holding pattern. Lopez handed the keys back to the court-appointed trustee, Christopher Murray, faulting him for mishandling the previous auction. Murray must now figure out a new game plan to sell off InfoWars.
Shop handmade gifts at Etsy this holiday season and take $5 off any order of $30 or more
SAVE $5: Etsy orders of $30 or more are eligible for a $5 discount when you use checkout code LASTCHANCE24.
Opens in a new window Credit: Etsy Save $5 on orders of $30+ use code LASTCHANCE24 Get DealGifting is hard work, especially if you're shopping for people who have everything. It's also nearly impossible to shop for that friend who says they like something and buys it immediately after saying so. But have no fear because there's a great retailer that has something unique and thoughtful for everyone. And thanks to this last-minute shopping deal, you'll save $5 on your purchase.
Shop Etsy for holiday gifts and save $5 on any purchase of $30 or more when using code LASTCHANCE24. But you'll need to hurry because this promo code expires at 11:59 pm ET tonight, Dec. 11.
Etsy is packed with creative gifts that have a handmade touch. The Etsy list of sellers includes over 9 million creative entrepreneurs worldwide. To find the perfect gifts this holiday season, check out the selection of one-of-a-kind jewelry, thoughtful toys and games, or get a personalized gift that will be enjoyed for years to come.
If you're totally stumped on what to gift, Etsy has a really cool gift finder mode that allows you to browse based on interests or by selecting who you're shopping for.
And it's not too late to be shopping at Etsy because plenty of shopfronts are still packed with gifts that'll arrive before Dec. 25, and some even come with free shipping.
If you're still struggling with finding the perfect holiday gift, check out the massive selection of thoughtful options at Etsy. Choose your items tonight before midnight ET and use code LASTCHANCE24 to save $5 on any order of $30 or more.
15 New iPhone Features You Should Check Out in iOS 18.2
The phased rollout of Apple Intelligence continues with iOS 18.2, but there are plenty of other new features for those who couldn't care less about AI. As ever, you can install the update via Settings > General > Software Update once it's available.
Thank your Amazon driver this holiday season with a free $5 tip
FREE $5 TIP: As of Dec. 11, thank your Amazon delivery driver with a $5 tip at no cost to you. This offer is available for customers up to the first 2 million "thank you" requests. After that, your "thank you" notes will still be sent, but tips will no longer be.
Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Tip your Amazon driver Get DealAmazon delivery drivers have a lot to handle. They work to get your packages to you on time so you don't have to be empty-handed during the holidays. And they do it through the wind, sleet, and snow – kind of like the Postal Service. But it can be a thankless job, getting you all your doodads and your gifts. So why not thank your Amazon driver with a $5 tip courtesy of Amazon?
As of Dec. 11, Amazon will award the first 2 million drivers who receive "thank you" requests from customers with a $5 tip per delivery. You're limited to sending one tip per delivery, and all you have to do is click a button. Your gratitude will be shared, and your driver will get a quick monetary token of your appreciation.
All you have to do is head over to this page and click the button that says "Thank my driver" or use any Alexa-enabled device. Say "Alexa, thank my driver" and you'll be able to thank those veritable Amazon heroes for your most recent delivery from over the past 14 years.
Orders beyond your 14-day window won't be eligible to tip, and you can't send multiple $5 tips to the same driver over and over. But this is such a small, easy gesture to show your thanks, and well worth getting in on while there's still some cash floating around on Amazon's part.
Head on over, press the button, and share the love. Your drivers don't get enough of it.
Top Tech Deals: $109 Robot Vacuum, Google Pixel Sale, Anker Power Bank, and More
Christmas is only two weeks away, and that means we're now in the final stretch of holiday shopping. If you're looking to get yourself a new phone, find the perfect gift, or grab a few stocking stuffers, these are the best deals available this week.
Wrap up your holiday gift list with up to $100 off Apple at Target
SAVE $100: As of Dec. 11, Target is offering up to $100 off Apple products. Shop iPads, Apple Watches, and more.
Best Apple deals as of Dec. 11: Best deal overall 10.9-inch Apple iPad (WiFi, 10th Gen, 2022) $279.99 (save $70) Get Deal Best Apple Watch deal Apple Watch Series 9 (41mm, GPS) $299.99 (save $100 ) Get Deal Best accessory deal Apple 35W Dual USB-C Port Compact Power Adapter $39.99 (save $20 ) Get DealIf you’re still looking to fill some gaps on your holiday gift list, Target has a pretty good sale going on right now that could be worth a look.
SEE ALSO: The perfect stocking stuffer for Apple Watch loversAs of Dec. 11, you can get up to $100 off Apple products at Target. Shop discounts on iPads, Apple Watches, and accessories like the Apple Pencil. Whether you’re buying for a tech-savvy friend, need something else to pop in a stocking, or are just looking to treat yourself, this could be an opportune time to scoop up some Apple gear for less.
Here are the best deals we could find:
Best deal overall Opens in a new window Credit: Apple 10.9-inch Apple iPad (64GB, WiFi, 10th Gen, 2022) $279.99 at Target$349.99 Save $70.00 Get Deal Why we like it
You can score a 10.9-inch Apple iPad (64GB, WiFi, 10th Gen, 2022) for just $279.99 at Target. That’s a 20% discount and $70 off the list price.
This iPad is available in blue, pink, yellow, and silver, so there are some fun color options. It has a 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display with True Tone and an A14 Bionic chip, which provides fast performance for browsing the web, streaming shows, or running apps.
With an all-day battery life, Apple Pencil (1st Gen) and Magic Keyboard Folio compatibility, and iPadOS 16, this tablet is built to handle everything from school work to creative projects.
Best Apple Watch deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple Watch Series 9 (41mm, GPS) $299.99 at Target$399.99 Save $100.00 Get Deal Why we like it
The Apple Watch Series 9 (41mm, GPS) is on sale for $299.99, down $100 from the sticker price of $399.99.
This watch comes in a variety of colors, but not all stores may have every option in stock. It has an S9 chip and tons of features like GPS, fall and crash detection, workout tracking, and heart rate monitoring. It’s also IP6X-certified against dust and swim-proof up to 50 meters.
Plus, it comes with one year of hardware repair coverage through the Apple Limited Warranty.
Best accessory deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple 35W Dual USB-C Port Compact Power Adapter $39.99 at Target$59.99 Save $20.00 Get Deal Why we like it
Plenty of Apple accessories are on sale right now, including the Apple 35W Dual USB-C Port Compact Power Adapter. It's normally $59.99 but is marked down to $39.99 at Target, so you're saving $20.
This power adapter has two USB-C ports, so you can charge two devices (e.g., MacBook Air, iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, or AirPods) at the same time.
macOS Sequoia 15.2 Arrives With Image Playground and More
Today, Apple released the macOS Sequoia update, bringing the second wave of Apple Intelligence features and a few non-AI enhancements to compatible Mac computers.
Just hours left to score 25% off JetBlue flights in early 2025
TAKE 25% OFF: Use code HELLO2025 to get 25% off the base fare of JetBlue flights that take off between Jan. 7 and April 2, 2025 excluding a few blackout dates. Book by 11:59pm ET on Dec. 11.
Opens in a new window Credit: JetBlue Save 25% on JetBlue flights use code HELLO25 Get DealHard to believe it, but we only less than three weeks left in 2024. If you can't wait for a fresh start, this might be an awesome realization. But looking back, one thing was certain in 2024 —the cost of travel was pretty hard to swallow. If you're looking to kick off 2025 in style with a vacation that doesn't cost a small fortune, check out this great deal from JetBlue.
Until 11:59pm ET tonight (Dec. 11) use code HELLO2025 when booking at JetBlue to take 25% off the base fare of non-stop flights. You'll need to be booking travel that takes place between Jan. 7 and April 2, 2025 to score this discount, excluding flights that take off on Fridays and Sundays. You'll also need to avoid the blackout period of Feb. 15 to 22.
For those who have getaway plans in the first several months of 2025, this JetBlue deal could save you hundreds of dollars. JetBlue's list of destinations is expansive, covering the entire continental U.S. which includes some great holiday destinations. Head to Denver for some winter skiing, Phoenix to get out of the cold, or New York to take in the best that Broadway has to offer.
SEE ALSO: The 5 best Bluetooth trackers for travel and lost luggageThe deal also extends to JetBlue flights in Mexico, Ecuador, and the tropical paradise of the Caribbean. Just keep in mind this deal excludes JetBlue flights take take you over the Atlantic to the carrier's European destinations.
This deal is the perfect excuse to get some friends together for a long weekend away, finally make it back home to visit family, or take the opportunity to head somewhere entirely new.
While you're planning the beginning of 2025, hop on this JetBlue flight deal that'll shave 25% off the base fare. But hurry because this deal ends tonight at 11:59 ET.
Google adds Deep Research to Gemini for browsing the web on your behalf
A new Google Gemini tool can do the work of researching the web for you.
On Wednesday, Google announced Deep Research, a feature for the paid version of its AI model, Gemini Advanced, which acts as a sort of AI research assistant. When using Deep Research mode in the dropdown, users can ask Gemini for help with research topics like grad school programs or a competitive industry analysis and Deep Research will compile a detailed report of what it has found on the web.
SEE ALSO: Anthropic releases AI tool that can take over your cursor"It's these kinds of journeys where you're going to have to open many tabs and spend quite a lot of time hunting for information, and we really wanted to help speed up the process of going from like zero to 60 in a new topic, fast," said Gemini Senior Product Manager Aarush Selvan, during a demo for Mashable.
Google's Deep Research tool is indicative of the next phase of generative AI where models can execute multi-step tasks on the user's behalf. Anthropic's Claude has a programming feature that can take over your cursor and conduct computing tasks like clicking and typing. Microsoft recently released its Copilot Vision feature which visually processes what the user sees on the Edge browser to help with comparison shopping or research. OpenAI is rumored to be releasing an AI agent for coding and web browsing. Google is also reportedly working on a Chrome feature for similar web-browsing capabilities. All of these features have agentic AI properties that push generative AI towards autonomous behavior.
Deep Research starts by outlining a research plan for how it's going to compile information – genAI's way of showing its work. When you hit start, it gets to work browsing the web on your behalf and finding relevant information. Once it's finished, the new report opens up in a new canvas that shows citations that you can click into. You can also ask follow up questions or ask for specific edits like adding new sections of information. Plus, you can open the report in Google Docs, which is a useful perk.
Via GiphyThe feature works off of the existing Google Search architecture. So it's essentially doing a bunch of googling for you and compiling what you might have found on the web — just way faster. Since it leans on Google Search, Deep Research also inherits its rules around restricted or banned content, so it won't read adult sites or sites that violate its policies said Selvan.
Selvan also explained that Deep Research can't access websites that require a login, like many social media sites, and also can't bypass paywalled sites. When asked about how the feature responds to sites that block web crawlers, a spokesperson said, "Deep Research currently will not use any URLs opted out via Google-Extended to generate the research reports." Google-extended is the web crawler that Gemini uses to scrape sites for training data.
Deep Research is live today for Gemini Advanced, which costs $20 a month.
The best gaming laptop deals up for grabs before the holidays: Shop Alienware, Acer, and more
Cyber Weekend ushered in some of the best gaming laptop deals of the entire year — but if you didn't buy then, you're not completely out of luck. Best Buy, HP, Dell, Lenovo, and other tech retailers have put current and last-generation configurations of gaming laptops on sale for up to $700 off ahead of the holidays, as well as some likely refreshes at CES.
SEE ALSO: The best laptops of 2024, tested and approved by Mashable's expertsRead on for a brief rundown of the best gaming laptop deals across the web as of Dec. 11. That includes three of Mashable's current favorite models, one of which is still chilling at its Cyber Monday price (with a freebie to boot).
Our top pick Opens in a new window Credit: Alienware Alienware m16 R2 (Intel Core Ultra 7 155H, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD) $1,499.99 at Best Buy$1,899.99 Save $400.00 Get Deal Why we like it
Read Mashable's full review of the Alienware m16 R2.
Former Mashable Tech Editor Kimberly Gedeon was impressed by this 16-incher's mid-range performance and build quality, especially its "super clicky" keyboard. She also liked its inclusion of a Stealth mode hotkey to dial back its RGB lighting, and its support of Nvidia Advanced Optimus for automatic GPU switching depending on the task. (There's an MUX switch to do it manually, too.) "The Alienware m16 R2 blends portability and power to deliver a laptop that can handle both play and work," she wrote. It snagged a 4.5/5 rating and a Mashable Choice Award.
The model Gedeon tested featured an Intel Core Ultra 7 155H processor, RTX 4070 graphics, 16GB of memory, and 1TB of storage. It's currently on sale for $1,499.99 at Best Buy (normally $1,899.99). That's not quite as good as its Black Friday price of $1,299.99, but $400 off is still pretty decent. For reference, that same discount made it sell out on Dell's website earlier in the week; it's now back in stock there, but it doesn't ship until late December.
Best budget pick Opens in a new window Credit: Acer Acer Nitro V 15 (Intel Core i5-13420H, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) $599.00 at Walmart$799.00 Save $200.00 Includes free copy of "Assassin's Creed Shadows" Get Deal Why we like it
Read Mashable's full review of the Acer Nitro V 15.
Another Mashable Choice Award winner, the 2023 Nitro V 15 is our No. 1 budget gaming laptop largely because it's fully capable of handling graphically intense games Cyberpunk 2077 without getting too hot (though its fans will make themselves known). Gedeon also liked its understated design, deeming it "the perfect balance of fun and serious"; she rated it a 4.7/5 overall. Its dim 1080p display and its passion for clinging to fingerprints are the two biggest things you'll have to reckon with, but its current sale price might push those cons aside.
Walmart has a model with an Intel Core i5-13420H CPU, RTX 4050 graphics, 16GB RAM, and 512GB of storage on sale for just $599, or $200 off — a still-live Cyber Monday deal that includes a free copy of Assassin's Creed Shadows, which is set for release in February. It's slightly pared down compared to the configuration we tested, which had an Intel Core i7-13620H processor and 1TB of storage (but the same GPU), but if it's shipping with that Triple-A game, it should be plenty powerful for most titles.
Best splurge Opens in a new window Credit: Asus Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 (AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD) $1,649.99 at Best Buy$1,999.99 Save $350.00 Get Deal Why we like it
Read Mashable's full review of the Asus ROG Zephyrus G14.
Thin, light, and understated, this 14-incher "is perfect for those who want to bring a respectable, MacBook Pro-esque laptop to the office — before gaming at night with a beastly gaming rig," Gedeon wrote. She gave it a 4.3/5, praising its design, performance, speakers, keyboard, and pretty OLED display, but docking a few points for its tendency to run hot.
The version we tested featured an AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS CPU, a GeForce RTX 4060 GPU, 16GB of memory, and 1TB of storage. It's typically priced at $1,599.99, and it's not currently on sale. But Best Buy has the upgraded version with RTX 4070 graphics and 32GB of RAM marked down to $1,649.99, which is $350 off its $1,999.99 MSRP.
More gaming laptop deals under $1,000Asus TUF Gaming A15 (AMD Ryzen 7 7435HS, Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD) — $499 $719.99 (save $220.99)
MSI Thin 15 (Intel Core i5-13420H, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) — $649.99 $899.99 (save $250)
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How to watch Atletico Madrid vs. Slovan Bratislava online for free
TL;DR: Live stream Atletico Madrid vs. Slovan Bratislava in the Champions League for free on Virgin Media Player. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.
The next round of Champions League fixtures includes some really exciting matchups, including Atletico Madrid vs. Slovan Bratislava.
Atletico Madrid have been inconsistent in this year's competition, but are still very much in the running to make the knockout rounds. In contrast, Slovan Bratislava have been extremely consistent (but not in a good way). They've really struggled, and have yet to win a single point.
If you want to watch Atletico Madrid vs. Slovan Bratislava in the Champions League from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.
When is Atletico Madrid vs. Slovan Bratislava?Atletico Madrid vs. Slovan Bratislava in the Champions League kicks off at 5:45 p.m. GMT on Dec. 11. This fixture takes place at the Metropolitano Stadium.
How to watch Atletico Madrid vs. Slovan Bratislava for freeAtletico Madrid vs. Slovan Bratislava is available to live stream for free on Virgin Media Player in Ireland.
If you're abroad for this fixture, you might need to use a VPN to access Virgin Media Player. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in Ireland, meaning you can unblock Virgin Media Player to stream the Champions League for free from anywhere in the world.
Live stream Atletico Madrid vs. Slovan Bratislava for free by following these simple steps:
Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)
Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)
Open up the app and connect to a server in Ireland
Visit Virgin Media Player
Watch Atletico Madrid vs. Slovan Bratislava for free from anywhere in the world
The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but most do offer free-trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can access free live streams of the Champions League without actually spending anything. This obviously isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to stream Atletico Madrid vs. Slovan Bratislava (plus more Champions League fixtures) before recovering your investment.
What is the best VPN for Virgin Media Player?ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport on Virgin Media Player, for a number of reasons:
Servers in 105 countries including Ireland
Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more
Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure
Fast connection speeds free from throttling
Up to eight simultaneous connections
30-day money-back guarantee
A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.
Live stream Atletico Madrid vs. Slovan Bratislava in the Champions League for free with ExpressVPN.
Apple Watch Ultra 3 might get this life-saving feature
Apple's upcoming Watch Ultra 3 is getting a feature that might actually save your life.
According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, the next Ultra will come with the ability to send emergency texts via satellite, similar to the functionality Apple introduced to the iPhone 14 in 2022.
SEE ALSO: Apple Music launches three new radio stations, including Apple Music ChillThe feature could be of massive importance to hikers, who could send a distress signal even when cell reception is non-existent. The feature would not require an iPhone nearby (though it could be a good backup option if you do carry a phone but it gets broken, lost, or loses battery).
I tested the feature out when it launched, and it worked as expected; I was able to get a satellite signal and send a text within seconds. Gurman's report does not have any additional details about the feature, but I reckon it would work similarly on Apple Watch Ultra.
If the report is accurate, it's a pretty big deal, as it would make Apple's Watch Ultra the first mainstream smartwatch that has this capability.
The Apple Watch Ultra got only minor updates since it launched in 2022 (the Apple Watch Ultra 2 had a brighter display, and the 2024 version was unchanged except for the new, black color option). This makes it likelier for Apple to launch a bigger upgrade next year. Gurman also claims that the new version might come with blood pressure monitoring, though that feature has been delayed in the past.
