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Whatever the occasion that has you looking for dad gifts (Father's Day, the winters holidays, for example), stay far away from clichés like whiskey stones and pocket knives and try to think outside the box. Unless your dad is an avid tie collector and seriously *lives* for ties, then avoid this played-out gift. Instead, get him something that says, “I see your hobbies and I respect them."

Even if your dad says he doesn't need anything, he deserves something cool and special, like a new gadget, a subscription box, or something that will keep him looking ageless for years to come. That’s why we've rounded up plenty of ideas for all types of dads, whether he has a green thumb, an affinity for craft beer, a massive music collection, or a deep appreciation for learning new skills and hobbies.

Wicked fans, it's almost time for your moment in the spotlight.

Tickets are now on sale for special Christmas sing-along screenings of Wicked, so you can belt out "Defying Gravity," "Popular," and "The Wizard and I" in theaters. (Please, please do not do this in non-sing-along screenings, I beg you.)

SEE ALSO: How director Jon M. Chu made 'Wicked' with Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo

The announcement comes after weeks of runaway success for the movie musical, directed by Jon M. Chu. Not only did Wicked pick up four Golden Globe nominations — including Best Picture (Musical/Comedy) and acting nods for Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande — it also became the highest-grossing Broadway musical adaptation ever.

Wicked sing-alongs hit theaters Dec. 25. Wicked (without any singing involved) is now in theaters.

Apple is once again facing a billion dollar lawsuit, as thousands of victims come out against the company for its alleged complicity in spreading child sex abuse materials (CSAM).

In a lawsuit filed Dec. 7, the tech giant is accused of reneging on mandatory reporting duties — which require U.S.-based tech companies to report instances of CSAM to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) — and allowing CSAM to proliferate. In failing to institute promised safety mechanisms, the lawsuit claims, Apple has sold "defective products" to specific classes of customers (CSAM victims).

Some of the plaintiffs argue they have been continuously re-traumatized by the spread of content long after they were children, as Apple has chosen to focus on preventing new cases of CSAM and the grooming of young users.

"Thousands of brave survivors are coming forward to demand accountability from one of the most successful technology companies on the planet. Apple has not only rejected helping these victims, it has advertised the fact that it does not detect child sex abuse material on its platform or devices thereby exponentially increasing the ongoing harm caused to these victims," wrote lawyer Margaret E. Mabie.

SEE ALSO: 'Abysmal' working conditions, exploitation of webcam models exposed

The company has retained tight control over its iCloud product and user libraries as part of its wider privacy promises. In 2022, Apple scrapped its plans for a controversial tool that would automatically scan and flag iCloud photo libraries for abusive or problematic material, including CSAM. The company cited growing concern over user privacy and mass surveillance by Big Tech in its choice to no longer introduce the scanning feature, and Apple's choice was widely supported by privacy groups and activists around the world. But the new lawsuit argues that the tech giant merely used this cybersecurity defense to skirt its reporting duties.

"Child sexual abuse material is abhorrent and we are committed to fighting the ways predators put children at risk," wrote Apple spokesperson Fred Sainz in response to the lawsuit. "We are urgently and actively innovating to combat these crimes without compromising the security and privacy of all our users. Features like Communication Safety, for example, warn children when they receive or attempt to send content that contains nudity to help break the chain of coercion that leads to child sexual abuse. We remain deeply focused on building protections that help prevent the spread of CSAM before it starts."

Tech companies have struggled to control the spread of abusive material online. A 2024 report by UK watchdog National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC) accused Apple of vastly underreporting the amount of CSAM shared across its products, with the company submitting just 267 worldwide reports of CSAM to NCMEC in 2023. Competitors Google and Meta reported more than 1 million and 30 million cases, respectively. Meanwhile, growing concern over the rise of digitally-altered or synthetic CSAM has complicated the regulatory landscape, leaving tech giants and social media platforms racing to catch up.

While Apple faces a potential billion-dollar lawsuit should the suit move to and be favored by a jury, the decision has even wider repercussions for the industry and privacy efforts at large. The court could decide to force Apple into reviving its photo library scanning tool or implement other industry features to remove abusive content, paving a more direct path toward government surveillance and wielding another blow to Section 230 protections.

It's already easy to spend hours staring at YouTube, and now it's about to get slightly easier.

According to a list of upcoming "experimental" features on YouTube, multiplayer gaming is coming to the home for videos on the internet. No, that doesn't mean you'll be able to play any of 2024's biggest hits with your friends via YouTube. But it does mean that simple puzzle games like Magic Tiles 3 and Ludo Club will be playable with other users on the site.

SEE ALSO: OpenAI's Sora first look: YouTuber Marques Brownlee breaks down the problems with the AI video model

At the moment, those are the only two titles with multiplayer on YouTube. There are actually more than 100 playable games on YouTube under the "Playables" banner, but it took until now for users to be able to play them with other users.

Hey, at least you have something else to do while watching four-hour video essays about crappy hotels.

SAVE: As of Dec. 10, the Lenovo Legion Go handheld gaming PC is $549.99, or $150 off the original price, which falls just shy of its $170-off discount we saw during Black Friday 2024. Snag one just before the holidays.

Opens in a new window Credit: Lenovo Lenovo Legion Go (512GB) $549.99 at Best Buy
$699.99 Save $150.00 Get Deal

While the Steam Deck is certainly a fantastic handheld gaming PC, it has its limitations. Mainly, it doesn't support a lot of games because you're locked into using the Steam OS — unless you possess a bit of Linux know-how, you're not going to be able to access other game launchers. Thankfully, it's not the only handheld of its kind on the market today.

The Lenovo Legion Go is an alternative option that'll allow you to use your other favorite game launchers like PC Game Pass, and it's $150 off the usual price just ahead of the holiday season. This is close to the price we saw it hit during Black Friday, which was $170 off. So, $549.99 for the 512GB model isn't too shabby.

SEE ALSO: Asus ROG Ally X review: 3 ways it beats the Steam Deck

The Legion Go is a portable powerhouse that comes equipped with an AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme CPU and 16GB of RAM, which should be enough horsepower to ensure that most (if not all) of your favorite games will run smoothly on the handheld console. It also has a massive 8.8-inch display with a 2560x1600 resolution and 144Hz refresh rate, so the specs are great all around. And if 512GB of storage ends up not being enough for you down the line, the Legion Go also features a microSD expansion slot.

Google's annual Year in Search is always a fascinating look at what we’re exploring online, but one of the more overlooked trends is what we’re humming to find on the internet.

Hum to Search, a lesser-known but delightful feature of Google’s search engine, is both entertaining and incredibly useful. So much so that Google has compiled a list of the 10 most hummed songs in the US and worldwide, a perfect nod to all of us who can’t shake that earworm and need a little help identifying it.

Here's the top 3:

1. "Beautiful Things" by Benson Boone

It’s no surprise that Benson Boone’s pop ballad clinched the number one spot on both the US and global top 10 Hum to Search lists. The Washington-raised singer-songwriter went viral on TikTok this year during the rollout and release of “Beautiful Things,” amassing over 4.1 million videos created with the track.

With more than 1.6 billion streams on Spotify, “Beautiful Things” has become one of the year’s most-played songs, even earning Boone a Grammy nomination for Best New Artist. It’s easy to see why this track has been stuck in so many heads.

2. "Axel F" by Crazy Frog

The Crazy Frog remix of “Axel F” had its moment back in the quirky days of 2005 (not to make you feel old, but I was seven then). However, thanks to a wave of nostalgia sparked by Netflix for the release of Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F, the viral hit has made a surprising comeback.

To be fair, it was the best-selling ringtone of its time and has somehow maintained its odd cultural grip on Americans, at least. Strangely enough, “Axel F” didn’t manage to secure a spot in the global top 10.

3. "Wellerman" by Santiano

TikTok has been obsessed with “Wellerman” and other sea shanties for a couple of years, but it’s surprising to see Santiano’s version of “Wellerman” break into the top three. The popular New Zealand folk song first went viral in 2021 after Scottish singer Nathan Evans’s cover, sparking hundreds of subsequent renditions.

SEE ALSO: Youtube Music 2024 recap: How to get yours

It seems that, much like how Pandora operates, Google’s Hum to Search feature relies on its database for matches. As a result, the German band Santiano gets the recognition for a viral trend that might otherwise have pointed to someone else.

Rounding out the rest of the list we have:

4. Past Lives - sapientdream & Slushii

5. Too Sweet - Hozier

6. Die With A Smile - Lady Gaga & Bruno Mars

7. Lovely - Billie Eilish

8. Thick Of It - KSI

9. Not Like Us - Kendrick Lamar

10. Dubidubidu - Christell

Global top 10

Globally, here's what everyone around the world was humming:

1. Beautiful Things - Benson Boone

2. Bling-Bang-Bang-Born - Creepy Nuts

3. Die With A Smile - Lady Gaga

4. Past Lives - Slushii

5. Wellerman - Santiano

6. Lovely - Billie Eilish

7. Dubidubidu - Christell

8. Until I Found You - Stephen Sanchez

9. nadaaniyan - Akshath

10. MASHA ULTRAFUNK - HISTED

The best gift card deals at a glance as of Dec. 10: OUR TOP PICK Hulu $100 gift card $85 (save $15) Get Deal BEST FOOD DELIVERY GIFT CARD DEAL Instacart $100 gift card $85 (save $15) Get Deal BEST RIDESHARE GIFT CARD DEAL Lyft $100 gift card $85 (save $15) Get Deal BEST RESTAURANT GIFT CARD Panera Bread $50 gift card $40 (save $10) Get Deal BEST TECH GIFT CARD DEAL Meta Quest $50 gift card $45 (save $5) Get Deal

While gift cards might have a bad rep as lazy or impersonal, you can't argue with their practicality. As least you know they'll be used, right?

If you're at a loss for gift ideas this year, we've found some solid gift card deals as of Dec. 10 that'll help you snag something to fit the bill for just about anyone on your list. From tech to streaming to rideshare services, there's a little something for everyone (even yourself). The best part? They'll be delivered via email, so you don't have to worry about delayed shipping.

Best gift card deal overall Opens in a new window Credit: Hulu Hulu gift card $85.00 at Best Buy
$100.00 Save $15.00 Get Deal Why we like it

Streaming costs continue to rise with no remorse, including Hulu, which recently jumped from $7.99 to $9.99 per month. With a $100 gift card, you'll be able to give someone in your life an entire year of streaming on Hulu (currently $99.99 per year) — even if that someone is you. Better yet, you'll only have to pay $85. With digital delivery, you'll have immediate access to your gift card after purchase and redemption information will be emailed to your inbox.

Best rideshare gift card deal Opens in a new window Credit: Lyft Lyft gift card $85.00 at Amazon
$100.00 Save $15.00 with on-page coupon Get Deal Why we like it

A $100 Lyft gift card can go a long way. It's especially useful on those days when fare hikes are out of control (like after an NFL game or when Taylor Swift is in town). If you're looking for a last-minute gift for someone in your life, this is truly the gift that keeps on giving long after the holiday season. Just check the on-page coupon and save $15 at checkout, dropping the price to only $85.

Best food delivery gift card Opens in a new window Credit: Instacart Instacart gift card $85.00 at Amazon
$100.00 Save $15.00 Get Deal Why we like it

It may not be the most glamorous gift in the world, but everyone needs groceries. And with the astronomical grocery prices lately, a $100 Instacart gift card could really help someone in your life. And the best part is you only have to pay $85 for it. Just add the $100 gift card option to your cart and the savings will be applied automatically.

More gift card deals

• Bath & Body Works $50 gift card — $40 $50 (save $10)

• Panera Bread $50 gift card — $40 $50 (save $10)

• Vudu $50 gift card — $40 $50 (save $10)

• Fandango $50 gift card — $42.50 $50 (save $7.50)

• Cracker Barrel $50 gift card — $42.50 $50 (save $7.50)

• Barnes & Noble $50 gift card — $42.50 $50 (save $7.50)

• Meta Quest $50 gift card — $45 $50 (save $5)

• PetSmart $100 gift card — $90 $100 (save $10)

• DoorDash $100 gift card — $90 $100 (save $10)

• Uber $100 gift card — $90 $100 (save $10)

• Get $10 in promo credit when you spend $100+ on Lowe's gift cards using code LOWES

• Get $5 in promo credit when you spend $50+ on Google Play gift cards using code GOPLAY

• Get $20 in promo credit when you spend $100+ on Razer Gold gift cards using code RAZERGOLD

Don't see what you're looking for? Check out even more gift card deals over at Amazon.

SPEND $100, SAVE $25: As of Dec. 10, spend $100 on select toys at Target and save $25. Alternatively, spend $50 and save $10 on select toys at Target.

Opens in a new window Credit: Target Spend $100, Save $25 on Select Toys Get Deal

If you didn't stock up on everything you need for holiday gifting during Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales, now's the time to shop for everything that's left. If you have some little ones you have to find the perfect gift for, you might need to grab some toys and games on the double. Target is making that super easy for you with a deal that's going on right now that'll let you fill your cart and save some serious cash at the same time.

As of Dec. 10, spend $100 on select toys at Target and save $25. You can also spend $50 and save $10 when you shop select Target toys. This Target Circle deal will automatically be applied to your cart once you hit the purchase threshold. All you have to do is find what you want and add it to your cart, then purchase it. You must be a Target Circle member to apply these deals.

As far as what you can choose from, there's a wide variety of goodies you can get this discount on. Everything from Barbie dolls to board games is included, with deals on Miniverse toys, Hot Wheels cars, Play-Doh sets, and plenty of other options that should work for all ages. Many of the toys that will work with this deal are also on sale, so you get additional savings.

This is a great way to stock up on all your last-minute toy and game gifts, or just grab some goodies that you might have had your eye on for a while. The more you buy, the more you can save, and this deal will apply both online and in-store, just in case you'd rather go see what's available at your local Target. Either way, you'll want to shop fast – this deal will end within the next 48 hours.

SAVE $20: The Amazon Kindle Kids is on sale for $109.99 at Amazon, down from the usual price of $129.99. That's a 15% discount.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Kindle Kids $109.99 at Amazon
$129.99 Save $20.00 Get Deal

The screen time battle is never-ending, but there's one screen that's much less deserving of time limits. While kids can get glued to the screen watching shows or playing games, one particular screen is the gateway into the imaginative and educational world of books. And thanks to Amazon's sale price, you can gift it this holiday season for less.

As of Dec. 10, the Amazon Kindle Kids is on sale for $109.99 at Amazon, down from the list price of $129.99. That's a savings of $20 and a $15 discount.

Like the awesome Amazon Kindle, the kids' version brings a glare-free reading experience to younger people. With 16GB of storage, kids will be able to download their favorite books for reading at home during quiet times or to stay entertained while traveling. For parents or grandparents looking to cut down on screen time with kids, rest assured the Amazon Kindle Kids has no apps, videos, or games — nothing but books on this device.

Amazon gives each device six months of free access to Amazon Kids+ which means kids have access to thousands of digital books, arranged into age-appropriate categories. These include chapter books and graphic novels, designed for use by kids between the ages of 3 and 12.

The Kindle Kids screen measures six inches and it's just as bright as the Kindle Paperwhite, our favorite version of the device for adult readers. Plus, the Kindle Kids can get up to six weeks of battery life before it'll need recharging. The Kindle Kids comes with an included kid-friendly cover including Space Whale, Ocean Explorer, and Unicorn Valley.

In addition to coming with free access to Amazon Kids+, the Kindle comes with another major benefit — an awesome warranty. Like many Amazon devices designed for kids, the Kindle Kids comes with the two-year worry-free guarantee. This states that should the Kindle Kids break within the first two years of ownership, Amazon will replace it for free.

What's more, the Parent Dashboard on the Kindle Kids allows parents to add books from their own accounts into the Kindle Kids' library. Parents can also view reading progress, filter books based on age, and even set a bedtime.

While many books are educational on their own, the Kindle Kids includes Vocabular Builder and Word Wise to help build reading skills. Those with dyslexia might prefer to read with OpenDyslexic, a font that some readers find easier.

If you're looking for great tech gifts for kids this holiday season, but want something educational, the Kindle Kids is perfect. Thanks to today's sale at Amazon, the Kindle Kids is 15% off and sure to be a gift enjoyed for years to come.

The suspect in the high-profile killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson was taken into custody Monday morning at a McDonald's in Altoona, Pennsylvania, after an employee recognized him from NYPD-released surveillance photos. Now that McDonald's is being bombarded with negative Google reviews.

The negative comments tend to focus on saying there are "rats" in the restaurant, a not-so-subtle nod to snitching. It's part of a larger trend known as "review bombing," in which people leave reviews for everything from restaurants and stores on Yelp and Google to books on GoodReads that don't have much to do with the actual restaurant, store, or book.

SEE ALSO: As some on the internet celebrate a CEO's murder, content moderators are at a crossroads

"This location has rats in the kitchen that will make you sick and your insurance isn't going to cover it," one reviewer wrote, according to Axios.

In response, Google has taken action to remove the negative reviews. "These reviews violate our policies and have been removed," a Google spokesperson said in a statement emailed to Reuters. Their policy specifies that reviews "should reflect a genuine experience at a place or business," which these reviews clearly did not. The policy states that "content that has been posted from multiple accounts to manipulate a place's rating" will be removed.

These negative reviews come from people who appear to sympathize with Luigi Mangione, the 26-year-old suspected shooter of the UnitedHealthcare CEO.

UnitedHealthcare has been at the center of a national debate regarding the American health insurance industry. According to CBS News, health insurance costs are far outpacing inflation, and Americans are paying more for healthcare than ever. The Peter G. Peterson Foundation reports that U.S. healthcare spending reached $4.5 trillion in 2022, averaging $13,493 per person.

GET $130 OFF: As of Dec. 10th, the Lenovo IdeaPad 3i Intel Celeron 4GB RAM 64GB eMMC laptop is on sale for $119, down from $249, at Best Buy for a savings of $130.

Opens in a new window Credit: Lenovo Lenovo IdeaPad 3i Intel Celeron 4GB RAM 64GB eMMC laptop $119.00 at Best Buy
$249.00 Save $130.00 Get Deal

Laptops are there for you when you're looking through job listings for a new career, finishing up a course for a teaching certificate, or simply diving into the zeitgeist on YouTube. But they can also be pricey, which is why we're psyched about this laptop deal for less than $150.

If you need a laptop on the cheap, this deal is not to be missed. As of Dec. 10, the Lenovo IdeaPad 3i Intel Celeron 4GB RAM 64GB eMMC laptop is currently on sale for only $119, down from $249, at Best Buy. That's a 52% discount.

SEE ALSO: I love finding gaming laptop deals, and $300 off the HP Omen is one of the best

Sure, this laptop isn't the most powerful machine we've written about. It might not be up to snuff to run modern high-end games or perform pro-grade edits on video, however it's got more than enough power to get you into productivity software and onto the web. Its Intel UHD graphics may even be able to run contemporary games on lower settings.

With 4GB of RAM and an Intel Celeron processor, expect to be able to stream video in HD and check social media without a hitch. 64GB of storage means you'll be able to hold onto a collection of photographs, documents, and music without constantly deleting files to make room. A 15.6-inch, 1920 x 1080 screen is spacious and pixel-rich enough for you to enjoy video, read, and work on documents.

This standout laptop deal is a wonderful chance to get access to the web, productivity tools, and digital content on a budget laptop that looks like it costs $400 more than its asking price.

On Monday, 26-year-old Luigi Mangione was named the suspect in the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. And, almost immediately, the internet was brazen about its thirst for him.

When news broke out about the shooting last Wednesday, the internet also wasn't shy about its lack of sympathy about the killing.

Jokes and memes popped up, fueled by Americans' anger toward the healthcare system and the elite class.

SEE ALSO: As some on the internet celebrate a CEO's murder, content moderators are at a crossroads

As more details emerged — from "deny," "defend," and "depose" etched on the ammunition (the words are shorthand for insurer tactics) to an early photo harkening comparisons to Timothée Chalamet — the killer became more of a star online. He was called "The Adjuster" by fan fiction writers and a folk hero by others.

The release of the suspect's name only increased the online frenzy. He is young, conventionally attractive, and has photos of himself shirtless online. (The latter is only a portion of his social media footprint, having allegedly been a fan of controversial podcaster Andrew Huberman and a wannabe reader of Ayn Rand, whose work influenced today's conservatives.) 

The discovery of the suspect's online presence and shirtless photos led to, as one can expect, more memes, jokes, and even a fancam:

Tweet may have been deleted Tweet may have been deleted Tweet may have been deleted Tweet may have been deleted

A man being attractive is enough for online horniness to ensue — but about an alleged murderer? Well, yes. People have had the hots for killers for decades, including abhorrent serial killers like Jeffrey Dahmer and Ted Bundy. The term for such infatuation is called hybristophilia, and the American Psychological Association defines it as a "sexual interest in and attraction to those who commit crimes." There are various theories as to why hybristophilia happens, such as women believing they can "fix" the killer or it being an extreme form of fanaticism. 

The suspect is white, as are the aforementioned serial killers. The internet would likely be having a different conversation if the suspect wasn't white due to implicit bias of who people believe commits crimes (people of color).

The victim also made a difference in the public response. On the same day the suspect's name was released, Daniel Penny was found not guilty of the death of homeless man Jordan Neely. While the internet is sympathetic towards the CEO murder suspect, the same isn't true for Penny.

This might be because, in addition to potential hybristophilia, people online are also drawn to the alleged political motivations of the suspect. The New York Times reported that he had a manifesto on him that railed against healthcare companies for valuing profit over people. A spokesperson for someone who knew the suspect told the Associated Press that the suspect experienced severe back pain for years. This may have contributed to these resentments. Difficulty receiving healthcare and anger towards the system are experiences many Americans relate to — regardless of their political affiliation. In a politically polarized time, people on either side of the political spectrum have rallied around this "folk hero."

Given that there's still much to learn about the killing and an eventual trial to be had, the thirst for the suspect may not die down anytime soon.

As we approach the Jan. 19 deadline for the potential TikTok ban, there have been several significant developments: a federal appeals court panel upheld the Biden-era law; creators are now encouraging their followers to head to other platforms; and TikTok is begging courts to let a new administration weigh in.

SEE ALSO: TikTok requests emergency injunction to delay U.S. ban

So, what does this mean for the future of the app in the U.S.?

How would the TikTok ban work?

The latest attempt at banning TikTok in the U.S. is also the only one that has stuck. President Joe Biden signed a bill into law in April that gave ByteDance, TikTok's parent company, nine months to get a new buyer or be banned in U.S. app stores — and the clock is running out.

The ban wouldn't simply delete the app off your phone or erase the site from the internet but would rely on internet hosting companies and app stores like Apple and Google. If they distribute or update TikTok, they'll face penalties.

When will TikTok get banned?

The deadline for Biden's law is Jan. 19 — the day before President-elect Donald Trump takes office.

What can be done to slow — or outright stop — the ban?

A few things can be done to change the tide of the TikTok ban.

The path of least resistance would be for TikTok to comply with Biden's law and divest from ByteDance. Plenty of wealthy folks and companies, from Steven Mnuchin to Rumble to Kevin O’Leary, have tossed their hats in the ring. So far, it's unclear who's in the lead to buy the app reportedly worth billions — or where TikTok truly stands on selling.

But TikTok is still fighting the potential sale. On Friday, Dec. 6, a federal appeals court panel upheld the Biden-era law. TikTok is expected to appeal the decision to the Supreme Court, but it's not a given that the court will take the case — and TikTok would like some time to get their case through. So, on Monday, Dec. 9, the platform asked an appeals court for an emergency injunction to block Biden's law until the U.S. Supreme Court has time to weigh in.

SEE ALSO: As the 2025 TikTok ban deadline looms, here's what we know

An injunction would also punt the law to the Trump administration, and Trump has been newly interested in keeping TikTok around without a necessary sale. Lest we forget, he did attempt to ban it through an executive order in 2020, but he asserted during his 2024 campaign that he is "gonna save TikTok."

Why are we doing this?

Lawmakers argue that TikTok poses a national security threat because its parent company is based out of China and is subject to Chinese intelligence laws. According to lawmakers, China could theoretically (and hypothetically) force ByteDance to give its data to China. TikTok has denied the claims that this could happen and argues that the ban violates the First Amendment right to free speech because it "subjects a single, named speech platform to a permanent, nationwide ban, and bars every American from participating in a unique online community with more than 1 billion people worldwide." TikTok has its free speech supporters; the American Civil Liberties Union said in a statement to Reuters that it sets a "flawed and dangerous precedent."

"Banning TikTok blatantly violates the First Amendment rights of millions of Americans who use this app to express themselves and communicate with people around the world," Patrick Toomey, the deputy director of the ACLU's National Security Project, told Reuters.

For now, we wait. We'll find out soon — at least before Jan 19 — if TikTok hopes to continue in the U.S. without selling.

Walking out of A Complete Uknown and into the streets of New York City, not far from where Bob Dylan tramped about in his vagabond days of the 1960s, I felt empty and unsatisfied. Far from unlocking the secrets of the widely heralded singer-songwriter's heart, co-writer/director James Mangold's biographical drama keeps the man behind the legend and lyrics a mystery. But as I've gotten distance from that night, I've come to appreciate in reflection that this was precisely Mangold's purpose.

Dylan's lyrics in songs like "The Times They Are A-Changin'" and "Blowin' in the Wind" spoke to his generation and generations to follow. Now 83, he is still a massive influence, not just on folk music but also rock and American music as a whole. Because so many relate to his lyrics, we like to think we could relate to him. As we do with all celebrities whose work we admire or whose personas we envy, we yearn to confirm that they are who we imagine, and in some way are like us. And yet, they don't owe us this interiority. Dylan, even in his decades of fame, even as he chaotically tweets, is still — after 60 years in the spotlight — an unknown in many ways. 

The title of this film, pulled from Dylan's lyrics for "Like a Rolling Stone," warns audiences at the outset. A Complete Unknown, despite its immersive and rigorous re-creation of the 1960s folk era and a star-studded cast committed to capturing the specifics of luminaries like Dylan, Woody Guthrie, Pete Seeger, Johnny Cash, and Joan Baez, refuses to play by the expectations of a standard Hollywood biopic by demystifying its subject. From the first scene to the finale, Dylan (as portrayed by Timothée Chalamet) is a man who is of the people and yet apart from them. He refuses to be held down by social norms, romantic obligations, genre conventions, or community pressures. Perhaps he is sincere. Perhaps his mystique is a pose. Perhaps we don’t really want to know.

A Complete Unknown travels from Dylan's beginnings in music to the jolt of him going electric.  Timothée Chalamet plays Bob Dylan in "A Complete Unknown." Credit: Searchlight Pictures

Adapted from Elijah Wald's book Dylan Goes Electric! Newport, Seeger, Dylan, and the Night That Split the Sixties, Mangold's movie begins in 1961 New York City, where a scrawny, scraggly man struts through Manhattan's downtown streets, a newspaper clipping in his hand. Bob Dylan (Chalamet) is seeking out the hospice where his idol, Woody Guthrie (Scoot McNairy), idles, partially paralyzed and voiceless but not alone. Tracing him to Jersey, Dylan comes upon another folk star, Pete Seeger (Edward Norton), who not only walks the walk of singing political songs but also defends them against a government terrified of the voice of its people. 

The three become fast friends, the thrumming of their connection as instant and enchanting as the song Dylan plays to impress his heroes. Soon, he'll find not only his place in the folk scene and Greenwich Village but also in the bed of a beautiful artist and activist called Sylvie Russo (Elle Fanning). (She is based on Dylan's ex Suze Rotolo, who is pictured along the musician on 1963's album cover for The Freewheelin' Bob Dylan.) But once Dylan hits his groove, the film launches forward several years to 1965, when he's an established megastar whose emerging interest in electric guitar threatens to outrage his fanbase at the Newport Folk Festival, and his early allies. 

Timothée Chalamet is perfectly earnest yet irritating as Bob Dylan.  Timothée Chalamet plays Bob Dylan in "A Complete Unknown." Credit: Searchlight Pictures

This, too, is the point. Whether flirting with Sylvie or playing for Woody, young Bob is devotedly constructing his own mythology. To his fellow male musicians, this is easily accepted; the construction of his stage persona is as valid as his scribbling lyrics or building his band. However, Dylan's female lovers suffer the friction where fiction meets real life. 

While among his boys, he is cool and charmingly chaotic, to the women in his life he is a charismatic terror. His tales of carnival origins collide with personal mementos that lay bare his real name (Robert Zimmerman) and banal middle-class background. Though they live together, Sylvie demands to know the "real" Bob. Meanwhile, Dylan's sometimes-lover, sometimes-rival Joan Baez (Monica Barbaro) confronts the creative genius at his most desperate and selfish as he crashes into her hotel room to insult her craftsmanship while disturbing her peace, casually snatching her guitar. 

Simply put, this Dylan is a fuckboy, thinking chiefly of himself with great esteem, despite the heavy reliance he has on others to house him, make the coffee, and give him the support his early career demands. Chalamet effortlessly flits about from stage to motorcycle ride to crummy hotel room, embracing the rogue poet and his indulgences at every turn. Chalamet's movie star charm smooths some of the rough edges, but his performance smartly allows Dylan's tenacious self-centeredness to sting. 

This portrayal sings that this is a man who dances to the beat of his own drum, whatever the costs. But what drives the beating of that drum is left undiscovered. Maybe the audience is invited to psychoanalyze Bob's motivations behind his sometimes impulsive, often reckless actions. But after 60 years, no one has been able to succinctly distill Dylan. (Coming close may have been Todd Haynes with I'm Not There, the surreal biopic that had a slate of actors play the singer through various guises in settings fictional, factual, and parable.) 

Edward Norton, Elle Fanning, and Monica Barbaro are the heart of A Complete Unknown.  Ed Norton plays Pete Seeger in "A Complete Unknown." Credit: Searchlight Pictures

Because Mangold's script binds his audience to a protagonist who willfully distances himself from everyone, it's essential that the supporting players erupt with the emotions Bob could never dare express. Norton, Fanning, and Barbaro do so in a symphony of feelings, which carry the film. 

For his part, Norton plays a warm father figure. The edge of the actor's early career, when he played harrowing killers in Primal Fear and American History X, has been softened by the gentle sag of middle age, as well as an elegant mellowing of spirit. As Pete stands before a scowling government official, playing Guthrie's "This Land is Your Land" sweetly but defiantly, the eloquence and wisdom of rebelling with a genuine smile is made clear. This enchanting scene also sets the stage for how drastically different Dylan's brand of raspy, mumbled, and disillusioned folk was from his icons. 

Sunny, sophisticated, and street-smart, Sylvie is a dream girl for a starving artist new to the city. Far from some doting hanger-on, Fanning brings a sturdy intellect to Sylvie's every knowing stare, raised eyebrow, and patient reply. If anyone should have been easy to open yourself to, it should have been her. That Bob can't is his tragedy, not hers. 

Monica Barbaro plays Joan Baez in "A Complete Unknown." Credit: Searchlight Pictures

Last but not least, Barbaro is a revelation as Joan Baez. Her voice is pretty, where Bob's is rough. He is swift to mock her publicly and privately for her beauty, and for trying too hard. It's a critique that's distinctly misogynistic, ignoring the unforgiving double standards women face, and Joan doesn't let him get away with it. She calls him an asshole to his face, but — notably — after a night in bed together. 

Baez famously wrote the heartbreaking song "Diamonds and Rust" about their rocky romance. ("My poetry is lousy, you said.") In A Complete Unknown, their chemistry is undeniable; the jealousy that cuts both ways, and the ache they share as artists and lovers is breathtaking, cutting to the core, even as she smiles sharply. 

Each of these performances masterfully fleshes out these figures so they exist beyond their connection to Dylan. You can see how they tie together, how it hurts when he cuts that tie, but also that each is a tapestry even without him. This, above all else, makes A Complete Unknown remarkable, setting it apart from countless dramas about an abusive (and always male) creative genius whose bad behavior is effectively shrugged off as the cost of art. 

Here, Mangold doesn't criticize Bob's behavior but lays it bare, showing how it isn't separate from why he was embraced. He was the creative nomad we admired and maybe at times wished to be. But this rolling stone's relentless motion has its costs, and this movie makes that clear too. 

A Complete Unknown is a rare and wonderful musician biopic.  Timothée Chalamet plays Bob Dylan in "A Complete Unknown." Credit: Searchlight Pictures

In the end, A Complete Unknown will be praised for many of its elements. Chief among them will be Chalamet's performance, which has already won public praise from filmmaker Paul Schrader and Bob Dylan himself. The 28-year-old actor deserves such accolades, simultaneously conveying a wisdom beyond his years and a waifish daring that muddles to make a distinct yet elusive portrait of Bob Dylan. Beyond that, he keenly imitates Dylan's signature singing style, allowing the performance to have a fluidity and urgency that might have been lost in lip-syncing to old tracks. 

And yet, what awes me most about A Complete Unknown is the storytelling outside of its subject. By thoughtfully establishing Pete Seeger, Joan Baez, and Sylvie/Suze, Mangold shows subtly yet powerfully how an artist is shaped by their surroundings. Bob may not let us into his innermost workings, but we are witness to who he pretends to be, depending on who he's trying to impress, bewilder, or enrage. And yet, Mangold refuses to treat these supporting characters as if they are slim stakes meant to pin down his larger-than-life talent. Like the rigorous and immersive production design that ushers audiences into 1960s Greenwich Village, the character-building Mangold and his ensemble deliver allows us to walk into this defining era with ease, turning A Complete Unknown almost into a hangout movie. And that in itself is pretty outstanding. 

A Complete Unknown opens only in theaters Dec. 25. 

TL;DR: Simplify your setup with a 13-port Docking Station with dual HDMI, and it's only $44.97 through December 15. 

Unless you're a wire-management wizard, keeping multiple devices on your desk is a recipe for a cable nightmare. From needing multiple adapters to juggling limited USB ports, staying connected is its own frustrating challenge, but a reliable docking station can streamline your setup.

The 13-in-1 Docking Station is the ultimate tool for simplifying your workspace. With a 13 ports, including USB 3.0, USB-C, HDMI, and Ethernet, this compact device eliminates the need for additional adapters, and it's still on sale, but that won't last much longer. Get it while it's $44.97 because it usually costs $70. 

Connect everything in one place

Time to ditch the adapters. Connect up to three displays using two 4K HDMI ports and one VGA port for legacy monitors. Data transfers are no problem with a few USB 3.0 ports, and you can also use your docking station as a charger. 

This docking station is made from lightweight, durable aluminum, so it go along for the ride to work or school. The SD and TF card slots simplify transferring photos and videos, and there's even a gigabit Ethernet port if the WiFi is ever too slow.

Whether you’re setting up a workstation or need a reliable hub during travel, this docking station is an elegant solution. Mac users especially can benefit from trading in all their adapters for one device that only takes one USB-C port. 

Limited supply

You have until December 15 at 11:59 p.m. PT to get a 13-in-1 Docking Station on sale for $44.97. Price goes up after that. 

13-in-1 Docking Station with Dual HDMI - $44.97

See Deal

StackSocial prices subject to change. 

Opens in a new window Credit: Tech Zebra 13-in-1 Docking Station with Dual HDMI $44.97
$70.00 Save $25.03 Get Deal

TL;DR: Live stream RB Leipzig vs. Aston Villa in the Champions League for free with a 30-day trial of Prime Video. Access this free live stream from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The Champions League is back with another batch of huge games, including RB Leipzig vs. Aston Villa.

Aston Villa haven't had things all their own way in the Premier League, but things are going pretty well in the Champions League. They find themselves in nith place after five games, with a strong chance of progressing to the knockout rounds. RB Leipzig have lost five from five in this year's competition, so will be desperate to secure their first points.

If you want to watch RB Leipzig vs. Aston Villa in the Champions League for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is RB Leipzig vs. Aston Villa?

RB Leipzig vs. Aston Villa in the Champions League starts at 8 p.m. GMT on Dec. 10. This fixture takes place at the Red Bull Arena.

How to watch RB Leipzig vs. Aston Villa for free

RB Leipzig vs. Aston Villa is available to live stream on Prime Video in the UK, but you don't need to be subscribed to Amazon Prime to watch this fixture. Instead, you can watch RB Leipzig vs. Aston Villa (plus more Champions League fixtures) for free with a 30-day trial of Amazon Prime.

If you're abroad for this fixture, you might need to use a VPN to watch the Champions League for free on Prime Video. This process is straightforward:

1. Sign up for a 30-day Amazon Prime trial (if you're not already a member)

2. Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

3. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

4. Open up the app and connect to a server in the UK

5. Watch RB Leipzig vs. Aston Villa for free from anywhere in the world on Prime Video

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Year Subscription + 3 Months Free) $99.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but most do offer free-trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can watch RB Leipzig vs. Aston Villa on Prime Video without committing with your cash. This isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to stream select Champions League fixtures before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for Prime Video?

ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport on Prime Video, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries including the UK

• 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 also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

Stream RB Leipzig vs. Aston Villa in the Champions League for free with ExpressVPN.

TL;DR: Live stream Dinamo Zagreb vs. Celtic 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 Dinamo Zagreb vs. Celtic.

Celtic have performed pretty well in this year's competition, and have a strong chance of making the knockout rounds if they continue to pick up points. They will fancy their chances of taking three points from Dinamo Zagreb, but there are no easy games in the Champions League.

If you want to watch Dinamo Zagreb vs. Celtic in the Champions League from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Dinamo Zagreb vs. Celtic?

Dinamo Zagreb vs. Celtic in the Champions League kicks off at 5:45 p.m. GMT on Dec. 10. This fixture takes place at the Maksimir Stadium.

How to watch Dinamo Zagreb vs. Celtic for free

Dinamo Zagreb vs. Celtic 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 Dinamo Zagreb vs. Celtic for free by following these simple steps:

1. Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

3. Open up the app and connect to a server in Ireland

4. Visit Virgin Media Player

5. Watch Dinamo Zagreb vs. Celtic for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Year Subscription + 3 Months Free) $99.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

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 Dinamo Zagreb vs. Celtic (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 Dinamo Zagreb vs. Celtic in the Champions League for free with ExpressVPN.

SAVE 20%: Buy 5 select stocking stuffers at Amazon and get 20% off the total including Apple accessories, Hershey's candy, Play-Doh kits, dog toys, and more.

Best stocking stuffers at Amazon Best Apple iPhone accessory Apple iPhone FineWoven Wallet with MagSafe (Dark Green)​​​​​​​ $32.41 at Amazon (save $26.59) Get Deal Best family game deal Risk Strike $9.56 at Amazon with on-page coupon (save $12.43) Get Deal Best kids' deal Play-Doh Kitchen Creations Grill 'n Stamp Playset $7.83 at Amazon (save $9.16) Get Deal

It's crunch time when it comes to buying holiday gifts. In order for them to arrive on time to wrap up and gift on time, you'll want to be checking out asap. If you shopping list doesn't yet contain stocking stuffers, Amazon has a nice deal in store this week for shoppers.

Until 11:59 pm PT on Friday, Dec. 13, shoppers can save 20% at Amazon when buying 5 eligible stocking stuffers. The selection is massive, including Hershey's candy, toys for kids, Apple accessories, guitar accessories from Fender, and more.

What's more, plenty of the eligible stocking stuffers are already on sale which means you'll be able to stack and extra 20% off those items for some pretty great savings. That makes some of these stocking stuffers well over 50% off.

To get this deal, add 5 eligible items to your Amazon cart and proceed to checkout. The discount will apply automatically. Here are some of our favorite stocking stuffers from the sale, or browse the entire list. Just be sure to checkout before midnight on Friday to save.

Best Apple accessory deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPhone FineWoven Wallet with MagSafe (Dark Green)​​​​​​​ $32.41 at Amazon
$59.00 Save $26.59 Get Deal Why we like it

Even the most organized people could use some help with keeping track of important items. The Apple iPhone FineWoven Wallet with MagSafe is a dream come true for those who like to keep everything important safely tucked into place. Attaching to the back of an iPhone, the wallet is the ideal way to keep credit cards and ID safely and securely attached to the back of the phone.

Featuring strong magnets, the wallet snaps onto iPhones, and it can even stack on top of a MagSafe case. Plus, it's made from a durable micro twill material that's meant to stand up to some battering.

While the Apple iPhone Wallet with MagSafe usually sells for $59, the dark green colorway will cost a total of $32.41 after taking 20% off the already discounted price at Amazon.

Best family game deal Opens in a new window Credit: Hasbro Risk Strike $9.56 at Amazon
$21.99 Save $12.43 with on-page coupon Get Deal Why we like it

The card and dice game Risk Strike is part of Amazon's stocking stuffer sale, bringing the game down to just $9.56 with the on-page coupon and the 20% off offer. This quick-strategy game takes an average of 20 minutes to play, making it great for family game nights. The portable size also means it can be perfect for brining along to holiday gathering or packing for trips.

Risk Strike is designed for two to five players and for anyone aged 10 and up.

Best kids' deal Opens in a new window Credit: Play-Doh Play-Doh Kitchen Creations Grill 'n Stamp Playset $7.83 at Amazon
$16.99 Save $9.16 Get Deal Why we like it

For families looking for interactive toys that don't involve screen time, it's tough to beat the classic entertainment of Play-Doh. The Play-Doh Kitchen Creations Grill 'n Stamp Playset is included in Amazon's stocking stuffer deal this year which means the set is marked down to just $7.83 after the 20% discount.

Designed for kids ages three and up, the playset includes six colors of Play-Doh to use on the mini barbecue to craft burgers, hot dogs, and kebabs.

More sale stocking stuffers at Amazon

• Uni-ball Impact Gel Pens — $9.19 $13.04 (save $3.81)

• Boggle Classic Game — $9.59 $17.63 (save $8.04)

• goDog Bubble Plush Dragons Squeaky Dog Toy — $10.36 $15.75 (save $5.39)

• Play-Doh Kitchen Creations Rising Cake Oven Kitchen Playset — $10.79 $21.99 (save $11.20)

• Hershey's Assorted Chocolate — $12.79 $15.99 (save $3.20)

• Fender Flash Guitar Tuner — $14.39 $29.99 (save $15.60)

• Play-Doh Modeling Compound 36-Pack Case of Colors — $21.11 $28.99 (save $7.88)

• Hasbro Gaming Electronic Battleship Reloaded Board Game — $25.10 $34.99 (save $9.89)

• Apple iPhone 16 Pro Silicone Case with MagSafe and Camera Control (Denim) — $27.84 $49 (save $21.16)

As of Dec. 10th, Dyson vacuums are available for discounts up to 54% on Dyson, Best Buy, Walmart, and elsewhere across the web.

The best Dyson deals Best Dyson vacuum deal Dyson Digital Slim $229.99 (Save $270) Get Deal Best Dyson vacuum deal for small houses Dyson V8 Absolute $299.99 (Save $220.00) Get Deal Best Dyson vacuum deal with accessories Dyson Gen5detect Cordless Vacuum with 7 accessories $699.99 (Save $250) Get Deal

There's nothing like a clean house for the holidays. Whether you had a vacuum kerfuffle and you need to replace it before all the in-laws show up at your apartment, or you're looking to surprise someone with a major upgrade, Dyson's surge of holiday deals come at a great time. We've tested plenty of Dysons and love them.

We're amazed at the prices we're seeing on cordless vacuums from Dyson right now. Shop now to find deals up to 54% off at Dyson, Best Buy, Walmart and more. Here are our standouts as of Dec. 10.

Best Dyson vacuum deal Opens in a new window Credit: Dyson Dyson Digital Slim $229.99 at Dyson
$499.99 Save $270.00 Get Deal Why we like it:

The Dyson Digital Slim is a vacuum designed for dexterity, and right now it's 54% off. Only 4.4 pounds, this vacuum is incredibly light, yet still manages to go for up to 40 minutes on a charge. Designed to clear particles from the air as it vacuums, the Digital Slim traps particles as small as 0.3 microns and releases only clean air, scrubbing up to 99.9% of particles from the air.

True to its name, the Digital Slim has a small digital display on its handle, showing you precisely how much battery life is left. If you're looking for a vacuum for an apartment or smaller space, this is a great pick.

SEE ALSO: 4 best robot vacuums and mops of 2024, tested hands-on at home Best Dyson vacuum deal for small houses Opens in a new window Credit: Dyson Dyson V8 Absolute $299.99 at Walmart
$519.99 Save $220.00 Get Deal Why we like it:

The Dyson V8 Absolute is a cordless vacuum that's got a bit more brawn than the Slim and some of the versatility of Gen5detect, while still staying lightweight. At 5.8 pounds, it's light enough to deploy without strain. It comes with a decent collection of Swiss army-style accessories, including a hair screw and combination tool. It also has some very Dyson, high-end features, like no-touch emptying.

This is a perfect cordless vacuum for houses with different types of flooring, rugs, and carpets. With forty minutes of battery life, it has more than enough juice for most needs.

Shop now and get the Dyson V8 Absolute Cordless Vacuum for $299.99 and save $220.

Best Dyson vacuum deal with accessories Opens in a new window Credit: Dyson Dyson Gen5detect Cordless Vacuum with 7 accessories $699.99 at Best Buy
$949.99 Save $250.00 Get Deal Why we like it:

One vacuum head usually won't solve every problem. If you live in a home that requires more than one approach to vacuuming, the Dyson Gen5detect Cordless Vacuum is a perfect fit. With seven accessories, including motor bar, hair screw, crevice nozzle, and a wall dock, this vacuum has all your needs covered.

The Dyson Gen5detect Cordless Vacuum is currently on sale for $699.99 for a savings of $250 at Best Buy. It's also available in a unique Prussian Blue and Copper colorway for the same price from Dyson.

More Dyson deals

• Dyson V12 Detect Slim — $399.99 $649.99 (save $250)

• Dyson V15s Detect Submarine — $749.99 $949.99 (save $200.00)

• Dyson V7 Advanced Cordless Vacuum Cleaner — $199.99 $399.99 (save $200)

• Dyson V11 Extra Cordless Vacuum Cleaner — $399.99 $599.99 (save $200.00)

FREEBIE ALERT: As of Dec. 10, the Meta Quest 3S (256GB) includes a free $30 Best Buy e-gift card.

Opens in a new window Credit: Meta Meta Quest 3S (256GB) $399.99 at Best Buy
Includes free $30 Best Buy gift card Get Deal

Tech retailers gave away oodles of free gift cards and credits with the purchase of Meta's new Quest 3S VR headset over Cyber Weekend. The best offers have long expired this far into December — see: a $100 Amazon voucher — but one store still has the spirit: At the time of writing, the Quest 3S with 256GB of storage ($399.99) comes with a free $30 gift card via Best Buy.

The gift card will be sent via email after the order is fulfilled. Same-day pickup and next-day shipping were both available for last-minute gift hunters when we last checked.

This deal tacks further savings onto the Quest 3S, which is sold as part of a bundle that includes a copy of Batman: Arkham Shadow and three months of the Meta Quest+ gaming subscription service. Altogether, the 256GB version is a $473.95 value even before you factor in the gift card freebie.

The Quest 3S is available with less storage (128GB) for $299.99, but the base model does not currently have a gift card attached to it — at Best Buy or elsewhere.

SEE ALSO: Meta Quest 3S review: Best VR headset for new gamers, but seasoned players will notice flaws

An October 2024 release, the Quest 3S is a Mashable Choice Award winner and our favorite VR headset for beginners. It "made me feel like Tony Stark without needing his billionaire bank account," wrote former Tech Editor Kim Gedeon, who gave it a 4.6/5 rating in her review. She dinged it a few points for its imprecise IPD adjustment wheel, its delicate straps, and its could-be-crisper displays, but was otherwise impressed by its fit and performance. Its wireless design, ergonomic controllers, and huge game library were high points.

Gedeon found 128GB of storage to be plenty in her testing, but noted that "if you plan to take a lot of photos and videos (perhaps you're a VR streamer), you'd be better off with the 256GB variant."