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Netflix has a diverse lineup of documentaries coming this month, covering everything from Hollywood careers and iconic photography to a high-profile criminal case. And as the year comes to an end, you don't want to miss out on these interesting stories.

Ryobi's versatile Lithium Project Kit removes the stress of home DIY projects, technical jobs, and school assignments, with a range of handy tools to help you work fast and efficiently. You'll save time and money if you get it now at a massive 61% off with a Home Depot deal.

Task Manager is much more than just a tool for monitoring system performance and force-closing unresponsive apps or ones that are slowing down your Windows PC. It's actually a versatile utility you can use to track down, manage, and disable startup apps, monitor services running on your PC, and even check on suspicious Windows apps and services that may be doing some shady stuff behind your back. The catch is that the tools needed for sleuthing are tucked away, but enabling them is effortless.

Google might be looking to expand the social side of YouTube to a separate app, according to a report.

The diligent detectives over at Android Authority spotted several references, both in the form of code and visual assets, to something called "Tamba" in the latest build of YouTube for Android. These include a logo that looks like a more improvisational take on the regular YouTube logo and code strings for features like private messages, group chats, "hearts" (AKA likes), follower requests, and more that would seem to signal that Google wants to build a sort of YouTube-centric social network, according to the report.

Mashable has reached out to Google for comment and will update this story if we hear back.

SEE ALSO: YouTube could be coming for Spotify and Audible's audiobook listeners

It's unclear from the investigation whether or not this would be a full, separate app, or merely an experimental testing ground for social features within the YouTube app. Additionally, it's possible that none of this ever makes it into a product for public consumption.

It should be noted that the YouTube app has already begun incorporating some social features in the past year, such as direct messaging.

We'll have to wait and see if this turns out to be a real app meant for the public. Here's hoping that the name is a reference to Kansas City Chiefs legend Tamba Hali.

Want more tech and digital culture news delivered to your inbox daily or sent straight to your device? Sign up for Mashable's Top Stories newsletter or get Mashable push alerts today.

SAVE $500: As of Nov. 4, get the Roborock Qrevo Edge 3 Pro for $999.99 at Amazon, down from its usual price of $1,499.99. That's a discount of 33%.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Roborock Qrevo Edge 3 Pro $999.99 at Amazon
$1,499.99 Save $500   Get Deal at Amazon

If you're tired of vacuuming, you're not alone. It's a never-ending task that always has to be done, so it's understandable that you might be burned out on picking up dirt and debris every day or so. This is a task that, in 2026, you can outsource to a robot without blinking an eye, as there are tons of robot vacuums up to the task. We've found an early Black Friday deal on one that can handle the job with gusto, in fact.

As of Nov. 4, get the Roborock Qrevo Edge 3 Pro for $999.99 at Amazon, down from its usual price of $1,499.99. That's $500 off and a discount of 33%.

SEE ALSO: The Black Friday 2026 countdown is on: Our top 7 hacks for finding the best deals

The Roborock Qrevo Edge 3 Pro offers 36,000Pa of suction, meaning it can tackle even the toughest jobs. It uses its AdaptiLift Chassis 3.0 to raise itself up to climb over thresholds, efficiently sweep carpets and and hardwood floors, and alternatively mop floors as you direct. It uses 360-degree scanning to make a precise map of your home so it can do all of this on its own without needing your input as well, with the capability to recognize over 300 obstacles and navigate around them.

It can clean closer to your corners, walls, and furniture thanks to its FlexiArm technology so those hard-to-reach nooks and crannies aren't an issue. And when it's time to mop, its mop attachment spins at 200 RPM with plenty of downward pressure to handle even sticky and stubborn stains without leaving residue. All this, and it can clean its own mop heads and empty itself.

If you're ready to give a robot vacuum and mop its marching orders so you can rest, this is a great choice to roll with, especially for this price.

SAVE $300: As of Nov. 4, get the Hisense C3 Smart Laser Projector for $1,699.99 at Amazon, down from its usual price of $1,999.99. That's a discount of 15%.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Hisense C3 Smart Laser Projector $1,699.99 at Amazon
$1,999.99 Save $300   Get Deal at Amazon

Want a larger screen to enjoy your favorite movies and shows on, but don't want to splurge on a TV to do it? You've got options, especially since there are early Black Friday deals already rolling out. For instance, a smart projector is a great way to enjoy all that kind of content on a larger-than-life screen. And thanks to this deal from Amazon, you can snap one up right now for a great price.

As of Nov. 4, get the Hisense C3 Smart Laser Projector for $1,699.99 at Amazon, down from its usual price of $1,999.99. That's $300 off and a discount of 15%.

SEE ALSO: The best early Black Friday deals for getting out of town without going broke

You can use this projector to cast a 65-inch image up to a 300-inch picture anywhere you've got the space to do it. With support for both IMAX Enhanced and Dolby Vision certification, it's a fantastic option for hosting a home movie night for you or the neighborhood wherever you please.

It boasts an eye-popping 4K UHD resolution with pixel-by-pixel reconstruction for the best picture possible, as well as the kind of depth and motion clarity you'd expect from a display of the same price and caliber. Just set it up where you'd like to project from and swivel with its 360-degree horizontal and 135-degree vertical gimbal and you're good to go.

This is a great way to set up the cinematic paradise of your dreams without having to pay thousands for a comparable TV, so grab yours while you can.

Node-RED is a visual programming tool that allows you to create complex automations without having to write code. It can be used for everything from industrial applications to controlling escape room experiences, but it can also be a really powerful tool for your smart home.

Amazon early Black Friday deals at a glance Best Apple deal Apple MacBook Air, 13-inch (M5, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) $1,099 (save $200) Get Deal Best Lego deal Lego Pokémon Eevee $47.99 (save $12) Get Deal Best Amazon device deal Amazon Kindle Bundle (16GB Kindle, Knit Case, Kindle Click) $190.97 (save $34) Get Deal Best kitchen deal Ninja Crispi Air Fryer $149.99 (save $30) Get Deal Best headphones deal Bose QuietComfort $169 (save $190) Get Deal Best TV deal TCL 75-inch QM8L SQD-Mini-LED QLED 4K TV $1,497.99 (save $1,502) Get Deal

There's still a stash of leftover Halloween candy, but it's time to start thinking about holiday shopping. Amazon's early Black Friday deals are coming in hot this year, and since everything feels expensive lately, it's a great time to shop sales.

Shop for home improvement updates for winter projects, treat yourself to an Advent calendar or two, or get a 75-inch TV for watching this season's best football games. Amazon is also loaded with sales on gift-worthy items, so you can take care of your holiday list before Thanksgiving arrives.

Check back as the Mashable team of shopping experts will keep this page updated as we get closer to Black Friday.

Best MacBook deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple MacBook Air, 13-inch (M5, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) $1,099 at Amazon
$1,299 Save $200   Get Deal at Amazon

Read Mashable's full review of the 15-inch Apple MacBook Air (M5).

Why we like it

Sitting at the sale prices we saw during October Prime Day, both the 13 and 15-inch MacBook Air with M5 chip are $200 off. The Air is a great choice if you're looking for a combination of powerful processor and lightweight design. We're also impressed with the MacBook Air's speakers, not to mention the sharp display.

Best Lego deal Opens in a new window Credit: Lego Lego Pokémon Eevee $47.99 at Amazon
$59.99 Save $12   Get Deal at Amazon Why we like it

You can never go wrong with snagging a Lego set for yourself or any other brick fan in your friends circle. While it's still in stock, get the Lego Pokémon Eevee for $47.99 at Amazon. The set will look fantastic amid the holiday display on your bookshelf. Eevee stands at about 7.5 inches tall and has movable limbs as well as head tilt abilities.

Best Amazon device deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Kindle Bundle (16GB Kindle, Knit Case, Kindle Click) $190.97
$224.97 Save $34   Get Deal Why we like it

Now that the leaves are crunchy and we're staying indoors more, it's the perfect time to get an e-reader. As a surprise early Black Friday deal, Amazon has the standard Kindle on sale sold as a bundle with the new Amazon Click page-turning remote for the Kindle and a knit case. The basic Kindle is Mashable's top choice for a budget e-reader noting it has quick performance and plenty of storage space.

Best kitchen deal Opens in a new window Credit: Ninja Ninja Crispi Air Fryer $149.99
$179.99 Save $30   Get Deal Why we like it

Mashable awarded the Ninja Crispi as the best kitchen gift of 2026. Air fryers have proven they deserve space on the kitchen counters but Ninja went ahead and added glass containers, and now we're cooking everything in the Crispi. The 4-in-1 model comes with two glass containers that nest inside of each other for easier storage when not using the air fryer.

Best headphones deal Opens in a new window Credit: Bose Bose QuietComfort $169 at Amazon
$359 Save $190   Get Deal at Amazon Why we like it

On the list of tech we use all day everyday, we have phones, laptops, and headphones. If your current headphones leave your ears or head sore, it's time for something more comfortable. Before you head off on holiday travel, upgrade to the Bose QuietComfort headphones while they're on sale for $169. Mashable's lineup of the best headphones ranks the Bose QuietComfort as the best budget Bose option, made even better thanks to the pre-Black Friday sale.

Best TV deal Opens in a new window Credit: TCL TCL 75-inch QM8L SQD-Mini-LED QLED 4K TV $1,497.99 at Amazon
$2,999.99 Save $1,502.00   Get Deal at Amazon Why we like it

Black Friday is a great time to make a TV upgrade, but you might not have to wait until the end of November. Now's your chance to get a 75-inch TCL QLED TV for half off. It comes with built-in Google TV, up to 6,000 nits brightness, and a super thin design for a modern look. Plus, Amazon is tossing in free delivery and unpacking in the room of your choice.

Xbox has launched its new Nano Controller, designed for easy portability and smaller hands. Even so, gamers with larger mitts may still find this lightweight controller worth picking up.

SEE ALSO: IKEA and Xbox's YXSTABY gaming furniture is functional without being in your face

Announced last month, the Xbox Nano Controller offers the functionality of a traditional Xbox Wireless Controller in a much smaller package. Measuring 133mm x 66.5mm x 36.6mm, it's a little more than half the height and notably slimmer than its older sibling, as well as roughly a third the weight at 101g.

Opens in a new window Credit: Xbox Xbox Nano Controller $49 at Amazon
  Shop Now at Amazon

I got to try the new Xbox controller ahead of its launch, and I've had a good experience so far.

Xbox Nano Controller: My first impressions

The Nano Controller's small rectangular form factor doesn't feel cramped, as those familiar with the Wireless Controller might expect. While the Nano doesn't have its sibling's large ergonomic handles, its smaller substitutes and remarkably lightweight build still make it easy to hold.

Forgoing larger handles also helps keep the Nano's design small enough to comfortably fit in a jacket pocket or handbag, making it more likely to be used with portable devices. Like the Xbox Wireless Controller, the Nano Controller can connect to Xbox consoles, Windows PCs, tablets, compatible smart TVs, and iOS or Android devices. 

In addition to this increased portability, the Nano Controller's reduced size and lightweight build specifically targets people with smaller hands, making it easier for children and petite adults to use. The Nano's design lets players' fingers travel a shorter distance when switching between buttons, while its lightweight design should help them play longer without getting fatigued.

Credit: Microsoft

According to a 2000 study by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) (via Wayback Machine), the average hand length of a 40-year-old American man is about 7.6 inches (19.3cm), measured from the tip of the middle finger to just below the crease of the wrist. The average breadth is 3.5 inches (8.9 cm), measured from the exterior edge of the pinky to the exterior edge of the index finger. In comparison, the same measurements for an average 40-year-old Japanese woman are 6.8 inches (17.2 cm) and 3.1 inches (7.8 cm).

My own hand measurements are roughly 6.7 inches (17cm) and 2.6 inches (6.5cm), so slightly smaller than the average Japanese woman. Apparently, this puts my hand size on par with that of a large-handed American 11-year-old, according to a study done by the U.S. Department of Health, Education, and Welfare in the 60s.

As such, I'm pleased to report that someone with similarly sized hands should have little trouble holding and operating the Xbox Nano Controller, which fits comfortably in my hands and feels delightfully lightweight.

Yet despite it being targeted toward smaller hands, large-handed individuals and average-sized adults may enjoy the Nano as well. My dad's hand measurements are close to those of the average American man, but he preferred the Xbox Nano Controller over the Wireless Controller on first use, citing its more closely spaced buttons and, in particular, its significantly lighter weight.

Credit: Mashable composite: Microsoft

The Nano Controller's diminutive size is by far its most prominent selling point. Still, it also has another notable advantage over the Xbox Wireless Controller: an internal rechargeable battery.

The Xbox Wireless Controller uses two AA batteries, which can power it for up to 40 hours. If you'd prefer the ease of plugging it in to recharge, you'll have to buy an Xbox Rechargeable Battery for $24.99, which provides up to 30 hours of playtime per charge.

In contrast, the Nano Controller has an internal battery that can be recharged via a USB-C port on its top (though a cable doesn't come included). Microsoft hasn't stated exactly how long the Nano Controller's battery lasts. Still, even if its battery life is shorter than the Wireless Controller's, the ease with which the Nano Controller can be charged should help make up for it.

Where to buy the Xbox Nano Controller

The Nano Controller launched today, and it's more affordable than the full-sized Wireless Controller, setting players back $49.99 as opposed to $64.99. Factoring in the Wireless Controller's $24.99 Rechargeable Battery accessory, that's around $40 less for similar functionality.

If you already have a standard Xbox Wireless Controller and are happy with it, there's no need to rush out and pick up a Nano right away. However, if you have small kids or small hands, like to game on the go, or would just like a more lightweight option, then the Xbox Nano Controller seems like a useful alternative to have in your pocket.

The Xbox Nano Controller is available now at the Xbox online store for $49.99, or via Amazon for $49.

Amazon redesigned its Kindle e-reader for 2026, and it now includes a removable back panel, allowing users to replace the battery more easily. As much as we like the idea of a repairable Kindle, Mashable's testing found that the back panel can come off too easily when removing the Kindle from its case, exposing the device's innards.

Customers have taken notice of this design issue, too. A Reddit user also reported the back of their Kindle popping off with minor pressure, and so did TikTok user Jackie's Book Tally, who posted a video of the new Kindle coming apart while removing it from the case. The issue primarily affects the plastic, non-aluminum base Kindle model, based on our testing and customer reports.

Mashable's testing also revealed that when this happens, it can lead to some frame alignment problems. As a result, I'm updating my Kindle review. Previously, I rated the 2026 Kindle as a 5 out of 5 on performance. With this back panel issue, I'm changing that to a 4 out of 5.

When we asked Amazon about the issue, a spokesperson emphasized that the back panel is designed to come off the frame. It doesn't mean the device is broken or needs to be replaced.

An unexpected design issue

Testing is an ongoing process here at Mashable. Even after we publish a review, we'll update it as we spend more time with the product, especially if we experience something that changes our first impressions. We want to know how a piece of tech blends into our lives. That's why a comment from my editor on the new Kindles stuck with me.

Mashable Tech Editor Timothy Beck Werth went hands-on with the 2026 Kindles at an Amazon preview event. After I completed testing the new basic Kindle, he asked if I'd had trouble removing it from its case. Werth had noticed that during a demo, one of the Kindle bodies briefly popped out of place. It was a relevant question because I actually had experienced that issue. When Amazon sent us a new Kindle to test, it came with a new fabric cover, too. I used the device in the case, and all was well until I tried to remove it from said case.

Whenever I removed the 2026 Kindle from its case, the frame separated. Credit: Samantha Mangino / Mashable

When I took the Kindle out of the cover, it was particularly difficult. Sure, that means it's a secure fit, but there was so much resistance that I noticed some bending and strain in the device's frame, as if it were coming apart. Then, once I got the Kindle out of the case, I realized it had actually come apart. The back of the Kindle detached from the screen, exposing the internal components.

Once fully out of the case, there was significant separation on the Kindle frame. Credit: Samantha Mangino / Mashable

In my three years testing Kindles, this has never happened before. No matter how many times I've taken the 2022 or 2024 Kindles out of their cases, I've never once been concerned about the e-readers' structure. But the 2026 Kindles have gone through a major redesign.

Part of that redesign is the removable back panel that allows users to replace the battery. Unfortunately, I think this change was a little too successful, and now the Kindle's back panel can come apart from the frame accidentally when applying pressure.

How to fix the 2026 Kindle if the back comes off

We reached out to Amazon for comment, and an Amazon spokesperson relayed that this is part of the redesign: "Your Kindle is designed to open along the edge of the display in order to replace the battery. If the back panel shifts when you remove a case or cover, press it firmly back into place on all four corners and along the edges, and keep reading."

Even after putting the frame back together, there appears to be gapping around the screen. Credit: Samantha Mangino / Mashable

Having taken the 2026 Kindle in and out of its case several times, I've noticed the frame separation is occurring frequently. The upside is that it's exceptionally easy to put the frame back in place. With a little pressure, the frame clicks back; however, I have noticed some issues with the power button and gapping around the screen.

The first time this happened, the power button was caught in the frame, and I had to pop it back off to get it to sit right, leaving it scratched. On top of that, even after the screen is clicked back into place, there is gapping along the seam with my review unit, which requires you to apply extra pressure to fix.

The gapping can be fixed by applying pressure around the frame. Credit: Samantha Mangino / Mashable

Fortunately, the frame issue does not affect the actual operation of the new Kindle. It's still a quick processing e-reader.

We have only encountered this issue on the basic Kindle model, not the Paperwhite Signature Edition or the new aluminum-body Kindles.

If you've experienced any issues with your 2026 Kindle, let Mashable know at editors@mashable.com.

Amazon Kindle (2026) $149.99 at Amazon
  Shop Now at Amazon Shop Now at Best Buy Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Kindle, Aluminum (2026) $189.99 at Amazon
  Shop Now at Amazon

Want to learn more about getting the best out of your tech? Sign up for Mashable's Top Stories and Deals newsletters or get Mashable push alerts today. 

Black Friday is no longer just a day; it's a season. While the day after Thanksgiving once marked the start of the holiday shopping schedule, it's now just the peak of a month-long deals extravaganza. Retailers kick things off as early as Halloween and keep the deals coming all the way through Cyber Monday. It's a lot.

Going into the chaos of Black Friday without a game plan is risky — and a great way to end up with buyer's remorse. If you're unsure of what exactly you're looking for this season, you might want to take a glimpse at all of the major retailers' ad scans to get an idea of what's popular, what's getting discounted, and when the best time is to buy certain items. We recommend checking out our gift guides for inspiration as well. And while planning your Black Friday attack, be sure to set a budget to prevent overspending.

SEE ALSO: Everything to know about Black Friday 2026: Best deals, sale dates, how to shop smart, and more

Knowing what you're looking for is only the first step. Shopping like a well-oiled machine is where things get tough, but we've got you covered with our top hacks for securing the best deals on Black Friday 2026 (and beyond). With an overall hunger for savings amidst RAMageddon price increases, we're going to let you in on some of our secrets.

Here are some of our best tips for shopping during Black Friday 2026.

1. Utilize wishlists to track price drops

It's easy to get click-happy when you see all of the sparkly discounts in front of you. Do yourself (and your budget) a favor and utilize the wishlist feature on each retailer's website you plan on shopping. Every product page has an "add to list" button, so you can start adding all of your must-have products into one central place well before the big day. Not only will this help keep you more organized and less click-happy, but it's also one of the easiest ways to track price drops on your top items and seamlessly scoop them up before they're gone. Amazon's wishlist feature is particularly clutch, as it lets you rank items based on priority, add notes, and compare the current price to when you added it to the list.

SEE ALSO: Creating an Amazon wishlist is our go-to Black Friday shopping hack 2. Download apps from Walmart, Target, Amazon, Best Buy, and more

We all know millennials like to make big purchases on their desktops, but it's not a bad idea to download the mobile apps from major retailers for Black Friday — particularly Walmart, Target, Best Buy, and Amazon. They'll be plastering their biggest deals across the screen, making things organized and easy to navigate even on a bumpy commute or at a loud relative's house. The apps will also give you access to exclusive app-only perks, like wishlist alerts, personalized suggestions, scan-and-go features, and more. The Amazon app will even show you deals on recent items you've searched. It's like it knows you too well.

3. Verify a product's MSRP on the brand's website

Before you spend your hard-earned cash, make sure you aren't being duped into thinking a discount is better than it is. How? Cross-check the product listing with the actual manufacturer's website. If you can't find the exact product on the brand's website, you can also cross-check the price with competing retailers. We've seen product list prices fluctuate on Amazon, Walmart, Best Buy, and Target, which can either make discounts appear better than they are or downplay how good a deal actually is. A good rule of thumb is to just verify it for yourself.

This Anker Solix power station below is a great example. While Amazon lists the MSRP at $1,199, highlighting a 43 percent discount, a quick search on Anker's website shows the MSRP for the same power station is actually $999.99. While the sale price is the same on both websites, the discount isn't quite as good as it appears on first glance.

Left: Amazon's listing for the Anker Solix S2000 power station lists the MSRP as $1,199. Credit: Screenshot: Amazon Right: Credit: Screenshot: Anker 4. Check price-tracking tools like CamelCamelCamel

We'll let you in on a little secret. Our secret weapon during major sales (particularly at Amazon) is the free price-tracking tool CamelCamelCamel.

This genius tool lets you see the historical data on the sale prices for a particular item. At a glance, it gives you an idea of how good that deal is (or isn't). You just plug a product's Amazon listing into the search bar or use the Camelizer browser extension to get instant insight into the product's price history over the last weeks, months, or even years. Even if you're shopping elsewhere, you can get an idea of a product's price history before purchasing.

Walmart offers a similar tool called Camelmart, if you prefer to shop there or want to compare prices.

CamelCamelCamel's price history for the XM6 headphones shows they're currently at their best price ever. Credit: Screenshot: CamelCamelCamel 5. Check the shipper and seller on each product

Amazon, Walmart, Target, and Best Buy are all home to thousands of third-party sellers, which can be both a gift and a curse. Many of these third-party sellers are perfectly legit; some are even operated directly from brands themselves. However, there are also some sellers with not-so-great reviews, which is why Mashable tries to recommend products shipped and sold directly from Amazon, Walmart, Target, or Best Buy whenever possible.

For example, Samsung recently raised prices on its Galaxy S26 Ultra smartphones, but these phones are listed with discounts at Amazon. However, when you check the "Sold by" section, you'll see the seller is actually an entity called ReNew Pros (We Record Serial Numbers). Most shoppers probably don't even realize they're not buying directly from Amazon. This seller only has a 76% positive customer rating at Amazon, which is useful information if you're considering a purchase.

Credit: Screenshot: Amazon

You can check the shipper/seller on each product page, though the text can be easy to miss. On Amazon, look under the "Buy Now" button or search the page for the phrases "Ships from" or "Sold by" to see the actual seller. On Walmart, it lives under the shipping options, and on Best Buy, it lives directly under the product listing. Target will only list the shipper/seller if it's a third-party.

6. Follow Mashable's shopping experts' Black Friday coverage

Mashable's Black Friday page is the hub for pretty much every Black Friday sale that matters, with links to all of our coverage, including spotlight deals broken down by retailer (Walmart, Amazon, Best Buy, Target, etc.), as well as by categories like TVs, robot vacuums, Amazon devices, or kitchen appliances. This will save you from wasting time skimming websites on your own and getting overwhelmed. If there's a great deal you need to know about, we've got you.

We'll be updating these lists regularly before, during, and after the Black Friday and Cyber Monday shenanigans, so check back for all the latest and greatest deals that drop. Stores also love to throw in sneaky coupon codes or freebies. These can be easy to miss when you're in a hurry to order, so we'll let you know when we spot one.

If you'd rather not be glued to the internet this season, you can also sign up for the Mashable Deals newsletter to stay in the loop via email or text.

Mashable Deals Be the first to know! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Loading... Sign Me Up By signing up, you agree to receive recurring automated SMS marketing messages from Mashable Deals at the number provided. Msg and data rates may apply. Up to 2 messages/day. Reply STOP to opt out, HELP for help. Consent is not a condition of purchase. See our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. Thanks for signing up! 7. Shopping on Amazon? Take advantage of Alexa's exclusive features

If you own a newer Echo smart speaker, you can take advantage of exclusive features. Open up your Alexa mobile app and turn on the advanced deal alerts feature (you'll find it under More > Settings > Notifications > Amazon Shopping), then check the Deal Recommendations and Shopping Recommendations. If you already have a wishlist organized and ready to go, you'll get a pop-up alert or a yellow ring light on your Echo speaker whenever Alexa finds out about an upcoming deal on one of the items on your list. Alexa will even let you know if an item on your wishlist is going on sale up to 24 hours before the sale goes live, so you can plan accordingly.

Amazon has also put work into its Alexa for Shopping feature this past year, so don't be afraid to utilize it. The tool is available on the app, desktop website, and Echo Show devices and combines Amazon's AI assistant Rufus with Alexa+. It's like having a personalized AI co-pilot assisting you with any questions you may have during your shopping experience. You can ask it direct questions about product features, view up to a full year of price history for specific items, or even have it set alerts to notify you of discounts.

To paraphrase the great Dr. Peter Venkman, most people probably think about running two GPUs from different manufacturers at the same time, on the same computer as "... dogs and cats living together ... MASS HYSTERIA!"

TL;DR: Ahead of Black Friday, the Bambu Lab P1S Combo is $479 at Amazon, down from $549. That’s $70 off, or about 13% in savings. The bundle includes the P1S printer and an automatic material system (AMS); the standalone P1S does not include the AMS.

Opens in a new window Credit: Bambu Bambu Lab P1S Combo $479 at Amazon
$549 Save $70   Get Deal at Amazon Opens in a new window Credit: Bambu Bambu Lab P1S 3D Printer $349 at Amazon
$399 Save $50   Get Deal at Amazon

If a 3D printer is on your holiday shopping list (even if it’s for you), Bambu Lab’s P1S comes in two versions worth comparing: the printer on its own and a Combo package that offers multicolor printing.

SEE ALSO: We love this 'idiot-friendly' 3D printer, and the upgraded model is currently $133 off

Right now, Amazon has the Bambu Lab P1S Combo for $479, down from $549. That’s $70 in savings, or about 13% off, ahead of Black Friday. The bundle includes the same printer sold in the standalone P1S listing, plus Bambu Lab’s AMS, which automatically feeds and switches compatible filament. The included system has four filament slots, letting you print with up to four colors without manually swapping spools between color changes.

Both versions have an enclosed design, automatic bed leveling, and a 256-by-256-by-256-millimeter build volume, with advertised printing speeds up to 500 millimeters per second. You can also browse the MakerWorld model library to get your creative juices flowing. The main thing you have to decide is whether you want multicolor printing (the Combo includes it, whereas the standalone doesn't).

The best early Black Friday gaming laptop deals Best Early Black Friday HP Gaming Laptop Deal HP Omen MAX 16 (AMD Ryzen AI 7 350, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070, 32GB RAM, 2TB SSD) $2299 (Save $350) Get Deal Best Early Black Friday MSI Gaming Laptop Deal MSI Vector 16 HX AI (Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5080, 32GB RAM, 2TB SSD) $2989 (Save $650.99) Get Deal Best Early Black Friday ASUS Gaming Laptop Deal ASUS ROG Strix G16 (AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5060, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD) $2299.99 (Save $1400) Get Deal

Need a new portable gaming battle station? Some of the best Black Friday gaming laptop deals have started showing up weeks ahead of Black Friday proper, and we're seeing early price cuts on brands like HP, MSI, and more.

The discounted laptops include options with RTX 50-series graphics, plenty of RAM, and SSDs with room for more than three or four games at a time with the ever-inflating install sizes we're seeing. So if you've been looking for a powerful computer that can tackle some of the year's biggest games, now's the time to buy.

To help you build your holiday shopping list, we've sifted through the deals to help you find the ones that are most worth the money right now.

Here are the best early Black Friday gaming laptop deals you can shop right now.

Best early Black Friday HP gaming laptop deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon HP Omen MAX 16 (AMD Ryzen AI 7 350, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070, 32GB RAM, 2TB SSD) $2,299 at Amazon
$2,649 Save $350   Get Deal at Amazon Why we like it

This model pairs the AMD’s Ryzen AI 7 350 processor with an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 laptop GPU armed with 8GB of GDDR7 RAM, which lets you run current releases at high settings. Plus, the chip’s built-in NPU can help tackle background AI tasks you may want or need to run so that your CPU and GPU can do the heavy lifting for gaming. It also boasts a 2TB SSD, which is more than enough storage space for you to keep a modest game library installed instead of juggling downloads every time a 150GB title shows up.

Best early Black Friday MSI gaming laptop deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon MSI Vector 16 HX AI (Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5080, 32GB RAM, 2TB SSD) $2,989 at Amazon
$3,639.99 Save $650.99   Get Deal at Amazon Why we like it

Few laptops come closer to a full-sized tower gaming computer than the MSI Vector 16 HX AI. It pairs an Intel 24-core Core Ultra 9 275HX with an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5080 laptop GPU and 16GB of GDDR7 memory for a powerful combination. It also has a 2TB NVMe SSD, so you've got plenty of room for additional games, and its RGB keyboard includes a full numeric keypad if you want to double this laptop up for work and play.

Best early Black Friday ASUS gaming laptop deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon ASUS ROG Strix G16 (AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5060, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD) $2,299.99 at Amazon
$3,699.99 Save $1,400   Get Deal at Amazon Why we like it

The ASUS ROG Strix G16 offers a zippy AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX with 16 cores and 32 threads that boosts to 5.4GHz. That's more CPU power than most gaming laptops at this size usually offer, so you're getting a hefty amount of gaming power in a portable packge. Its NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5060 laptop GPU with 8GB of GDDR7 makes it a powerful contender as well, with a 1920 x 1200 panel at 165Hz with a 3ms response time to cut down on lag time. It has a 1TB SSD for a respectable amount of storage, and a per-key RGB keyboard that you can customize to your liking.

More early Black Friday gaming laptop deals

• MSI Katana 15 HX (RTX 5070, i7-14650HX, 32GB/1TB) — $1,949 $2,249 (save $300)

• Lenovo Legion Pro 5 (RTX 5070 Ti, Ultra 9 275HX, 64GB/4TB + 1TB dock) — $4,049 $4,549 (save $500)

• GIGABYTE AORUS Master 16 Gen 2 (RTX 5090, Ryzen 9 9955HX3D) — $4,599.99 $4,899.99 (save $300)

I got tired of my Apple TV not turning my TV on through CEC, and I really didn’t want to connect my TCL Fire TV to the internet. So, I decided to take things back a few decades and use an IR emitter in a new way—through Home Assistant. Now that Home Assistant has better infrared support, all it took was a $10 ESP32 board and a few small components, and my TV was smart without any internet access required.

Look, we all know impossible guys who say they don't need anything. It's why finding Christmas gifts for dads is so notoriously difficult. But here at Mashable, we take gift-giving very seriously, and we're up for the challenge. We've spent the year testing the latest gadgets and reporting on the latest trends, from retro-themed Legos to new flagship noise-cancelling headphones. We've also got some unique gifts for men that probably wouldn't occur to you — one of the benefits of scouring the internet for a living.

Remember: The best gifts for men should make your guy feel seen. They should make him feel like you truly get him. So, before you click “buy” on something that will definitely require a gift receipt, let us take the wheel and show you some of the year's best gift ideas for men that are sure to make an impression — whether it's for Christmas, Father's Day, Valentine's Day, birthdays, or something else. And if you need even more gift ideas, check out some of our favorite gifts for boyfriends.

After rolling out tests last year, Netflix announced yesterday that it's debuting AI-powered search, which the streaming company is calling AI Discover.

A new tab on the Netflix TV app, AI Discover is where users can tell the platform what they're in the mood for, and Netflix will surface some TV and movie options from its catalog.

SEE ALSO: Druski is bringing his viral comedy empire to Netflix

Here's how it works, according to Netflix's blog post about the launch:

• Pick a theme, such as "Something Light" or "Scare Me." You can also pick a theme by how much time you have or who you're watching with.

• Netflix will match you with recommendations.

• If you're not satisfied, you can search by more specific themes that pop up.

• You can "Tune Your Recommendations" to either keep or toss a recommended piece of media.

"Think of AI Discover as our test kitchen: we're trying out new recipes for discovery, and your use and feedback help us decide which ones to keep, improve, or serve up next," the blog post states. "Some may even make their way into the main Netflix experience."

Featured Video For You Is Gen Z driving a return to cinema theatres?

AI Discover is beginning to roll out to U.S. Netflix users who watch in English, with plans to expand it in the upcoming weeks.

Mashable initially reported that the AI search engine is powered by OpenAI, though Netflix's blog post doesn't clarify this. It does state that the engine will search content by mood, which is consistent with yesterday's launch.

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

TL;DR: The best early Black Friday travel deals include hotel discounts, flight sales, and luggage markdowns. We’ve rounded up offers you can book now and upcoming promotions to watch, along with booking deadlines, eligible travel dates, and restrictions to read before you commit.

Best early Black Friday travel deals at a glance: Best flight deal Fly one-way for $59 Select one-way flights starting at $59 Get Deal Best hotel deal Stay at Rancho Bernardo Inn in San Diego and get one complimentary night Stay one night for free Get Deal Best travel accessory deal Appl AirTag (2nd Gen) $23 (save $6) Get Deal

I’m traveling more than ever these days, which is one of my favorite perks of being a journalist. I get to visit places I might not have otherwise, and it’s made me want to plan more trips of my own. The only problem is that traveling is expensive. Like, exorbitantly expensive.

SEE ALSO: Black Friday vs. Cyber Monday: Which day should you shop for the best deals?

Between flights, hotels, and meals, there’s a lot to account for before you’ve even packed a bag. (Not to mention figuring out who’s going to watch the pups.) I love having a trip to look forward to, but I’d prefer not to spend the weeks leading up to it wondering if it’s going to leave me in financial ruin.

With Black Friday coming up, I’m rounding up travel deals for anyone else trying to make a little more room in their budget for a trip. I’ve included when to book, when you can travel, and the restrictions worth reading before you commit.

Best early Black Friday hotel deal Opens in a new window Credit: Rancho Bernardo Inn Get a complimentary third night on qualifying three-night stays plus a $50 daily resort credit, a waived resort fee, and complimentary self-parking when you book directly using code CYBER26 Learn More at Rancho Bernardo Inn Why we like it

Rancho Bernardo Inn in San Diego is offering a complimentary third night on qualifying three-night stays, plus a $50 daily resort credit, a waived resort fee, and complimentary self-parking when you book directly using code CYBER26. If you’re looking for more room, there’s a separate offer for 50% off suites with the same extras using code SUITECYBER26.

The resort has three pools, a spa, a golf course, and on-site dining, so there’s plenty to do if your vacation plans mostly involve not having plans. You can book either offer through Dec. 4, 2026, for eligible stays through March 31, 2027. Blackout dates and restrictions apply, and you’ll need to book directly with the property.

More early hotel and resort deals

• The Wildbirch Hotel, Anchorage, Alaska — 25% off eligible stays through April 30, 2027, with an extra 5% off for World of Hyatt members. This JdV by Hyatt hotel is in Anchorage’s Mushing District and offers rooftop Aurora Alerts. Book by Dec. 8; no promo code is required. The rate is prepaid and nonrefundable, so make sure your dates are settled before committing

• Hotel Crescent Court, Dallas — 25% off the best available rate, plus a $75 hotel credit and waived destination fee. Book by Dec. 31, 2026, for eligible stays through March 31, 2027, using code EXCLUSIVELUXE. The offer includes rooms and suites.

• Westgate Resorts, multiple destinations — Up to 60% off, with property-specific extras. The campaign runs Nov. 2–Dec. 2, 2026, for eligible travel from November 2026 through December 2027. Advertised Las Vegas perks include no resort fees and a $75 daily dining credit; benefits and discounts vary by destination and promotional phase.

• Resorts World Catskills, Monticello, New York — Up to 25% off eligible stays through May 20, 2027. Book by Dec. 31, 2026. Taxes, mandatory resort fees, and gratuities are not included, and the offer cannot be combined with other promotions.

• Resorts World NYC, Jamaica, New York — Up to 25% off eligible stays through May 20, 2027, when booked by Dec. 31, 2026. Taxes, mandatory resort fees, and gratuities are extra; the offer cannot be combined with other promotions.

• Resorts World Bimini, Bahamas — Up to 25% off eligible stays through May 20, 2027. Book by Dec. 31, 2026. Taxes, mandatory resort fees, and gratuities are not included, and the promotion cannot be combined with other offers.

Upcoming Black Friday hotel deals

• C Lazy U Ranch, Granby, Colorado — One child stays free per paying adult on qualifying stays at this all-inclusive guest ranch. Book Nov. 20–Dec. 4, 2026, for stays Jan. 21–April 25, 2027. The travel window includes Presidents’ Day weekend and spring break, which makes it worth checking if you’re planning around the school calendar.

• South Seas, Captiva, Florida — Up to 30% off stays of three nights or more. Book Nov. 17–Dec. 3, 2026, for eligible stays Nov. 29, 2026–Dec. 31, 2027. Blackout dates and exclusions apply.

• The Island Resort, Fort Walton Beach, Florida — 30% off Standard Rooms and 50% off Pool View Rooms, with Standard Rooms advertised from $129 per night. Book Nov. 18–Dec. 4, 2026, using BLKFRI26 or CYBRMON26. The pitch lists eligible stays through Oct. 31, 2027; availability and restrictions apply.

• Sonesta Resorts St. Maarten — Up to 50% off eligible all-inclusive stays of five nights or more. Early access runs Nov. 16–22, followed by the public sale Nov. 23–Dec. 1, 2026, for travel through Dec. 31, 2027. Advertised starting rates are $285 at Sonesta Maho Beach Resort and $485 at Sonesta Ocean Point Resort, plus a 21% tax and service charge. Shorter stays receive smaller discounts.

• Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club, Anguilla — Up to 30% off stays of three nights or more, plus a $200 food and beverage credit. Book Nov. 21–Dec. 2, 2026, for eligible stays Dec. 2–18, 2026; Jan. 1–10, 2027; or April 1–Aug. 15, 2027.

• Hotel Terra and Teton Mountain Lodge & Spa, Jackson Hole, Wyoming — 30% off stays of at least three consecutive nights. Book Nov. 27–Dec. 3, 2026, for eligible stays Nov. 28, 2026–June 30, 2027. Three-bedroom suites are excluded, and blackout dates apply.

• Yavapai Lodge, Grand Canyon Village, Arizona — 30% off eligible stays Nov. 27, 2026–Aug. 31, 2027. Book Nov. 27–Dec. 7, 2026. Select periods are blacked out.

Best early Black Friday flight deal Opens in a new window Credit: Southwest Select one-way fares from $59 to $129 or travel from Dec. 1, 2026, through March 3, 2027 Get Deal at Southwest Why we like it

I’d much rather spend my vacation budget on being somewhere than getting there. If you feel the same and aren't committed to an airline, Southwest is advertising select one-way fares from $59 to $129 for travel from Dec. 1, 2026, through March 3, 2027. You’ll need to book by Nov. 5 at 11:59 p.m. Pacific time, so this one won’t be around until Black Friday.

The sale covers select routes within the continental U.S. and between Hawaiian islands, with a 21-day advance purchase requirement. The fares shown in the sale include Burbank to Santa Rosa from $69 one way, Las Vegas from $71, and Reno/Tahoe from $79. Obviously, those only help if Burbank is a reasonable place for you to start, but you can choose other departure destinations.

The fine print: These are Basic fares, which are nonrefundable and non-changeable outside the airline’s stated exceptions. Sale travel is available Monday through Saturday, with Dec. 26, Dec. 28, and Jan. 2 blacked out. Seats and eligible dates are limited, and optional extras may cost more.

Best early Black Friday luggage deal Samsonite Freeform 21" Hardside Carry-on Spinner Luggage (Black) $129.99 at Amazon
$219.99 Save $90   Get Deal at Amazon Why we like it

When it comes to suitcases, I'm super loyal. I had one large red suitcase I traveled with for six years before it finally gave out, and then I bought Target’s Open Story Hardside Medium Checked Suitcase, and it's done pretty well so far. We're a couple years in, and I don't really have any complaints.

But if you're looking for a deal, the Samsonite Freeform Hardside Carry-On is $129.99 at Amazon, down from $219.99. That’s $70 in savings, or about 32% off. I haven’t personally tried this one, so I can’t compare it to my Open Story suitcase, but it’s a worthwhile option if you’re specifically shopping for a carry-on. The Freeform has a hard shell, spinner wheels, and a TSA-approved lock.

More luggage and travel accessory deals

• Samsonite Omni PC 24-inch Hardside Checked Suitcase, Black — $113.05 $139.00 (save $25.95)

• Coolife Three-Piece Hardshell Luggage Set, Apricot Black — $119.98 $149.99 (save $30.01)

• American Tourister Stratum 3.0 28-inch Spinner — $120 $149.99 (save $29.99)

• Delsey Paris Helium Aero 21-inch Carry-On, Titanium — $159.99 $179.99 (save $20)

It's amazing to see how far AI tools have come. From text to code to images, and now even animations and graphics. Anthropic has been pushing Claude into visual work since it launched Claude Design back in April 2026, and in October, it made animation official with Claude Motion.

I've covered some seriously weird products over the years. Have I been somewhat numbed by Minion WiFi routers and Pikachu sneakers? Without a doubt, but it's honestly reassuring that I still possess the capacity to be shocked.

I still take a moment to pause when I come across a fully functioning Xbox Series X console encased inside a five-foot alligator. That pause reminds me that I'm human.

The Xbox Series X-BITE is a 1-of-1 console that sits embedded directly in the reptile's torso, visible only through a glowing green Xbox Nexus logo cut into the scales on its flank. A matching bite-marked wireless controller rests between its jaws, and the gator is completed by Xbox-green irises and Nexus-inspired pupils.

Credit: Microsoft

Can we all take a moment to appreciate how simultaneously absurd and epic that is? I want this console intensely. But also, I want to be very far away from it at all times.

Microsoft isn't actually selling this beast. Instead, they are giving away the console via a social media sweepstakes running through Nov. 10. To be in with a chance of winning, follow these steps:

1. Follow @Xbox on your platform of choice.

2. Repost the designated XBOX sweepstakes post.

3. Manually add #XbiteSweepstakes to your repost.

Credit: Microsoft

Entries close at 11:59 p.m. PT on Nov. 10. If selected, the winner has exactly 48 hours to confirm delivery before a runner-up is drawn.