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Is This The End of Hollywoods ‘Bad Moms’?

Mashable - Sat, 03/28/2026 - 11:00

From If I Had Legs, I'd Kick You to Nightbitch and Die My Love, mothers in crisis are leading cinema lately. And while woman-on-the-verge is a well-explored cinematic trope, the sheer amount of recent releases exploring the subject is pointing towards a change in the way filmmakers tell mothers’ stories. In this How it Hits video, we look into the history of ‘bad moms’ on screen, and how recent films may be reflecting a wider cultural shift.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Were finding new Lego deals in Amazons Spring Sale — save on Tuxedo Cat and van Goghs The Starry Night

Mashable - Sat, 03/28/2026 - 11:00
The best Amazon Big Spring Sale Lego deals Best Lego art deal Lego Ideas Vincent Van Gogh The Starry Night $136 (save $33.99) Get Deal Best Lego Ideas deal Lego Ideas Tuxedo Cat $84.99 at Amazon (save $15) Get Deal Best Lego Botanicals Deal Lego Botanicals Japanese Red Maple Bonsai Tree $47.99 (save $12) Get Deal Best Lego Star Wars Deal Lego Star Wars Millennium Falcon A New Hope 25th Anniversary Collectable Model $67.99 (save $17) Get Deal Best Lego Nintendo Deal Lego Super Mario Piranha Plant $41.99 (save $18) Get Deal

Amazon's celebrating the arrival of springtime weather with the return of its Big Spring Sale. If you love finding Legos on sale sets amidst all the deals on tech and spring cleaning essentials, we have good and bad news. The bad: Some of our favorite Amazon Lego deals have already disappeared by day three of the spring sale. The good: New awesome Lego deals keep popping up.

Whether you're searching for a new Star Wars set or a spring-appropriate botanical display that doesn't need to be watered, we're tracking the best live deals on Lego sets at Amazon throughout the weekend:

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! Best Lego Botanicals Deal Opens in a new window Credit: Lego Lego Botanicals Japanese Red Maple Bonsai Tree (#10348) $47.99 at Amazon
$59.99 Save $12   Get Deal Why we like it

Lego's Botanicals sets are always a delight to have up on display, and this Japanese Red Maple Bonsai Tree is sure to add a lovely pop of red, orange, and green to your home. At the moment, it's on sale at Amazon for $47.99, which is just pennies away from its lowest-ever price point of $47.95, according to price tracker camelcamelcamel. What better time to scoop up this 474-piece set if it's caught your eye?

Best Lego Nintendo Deal Opens in a new window Credit: Lego Lego Super Mario Piranha Plant (#71426) $41.99 at Amazon
$59.99 Save $18   Get Deal Why we like it

MAR10 Day may be behind us, but The Super Mario Galaxy Movie is on the horizon, so it's a great time in general to be a Mario fan. If you're looking for a fun new set to build ahead of the upcoming film, this 540-piece Super Mario Piranha Plant set is a very fun option to have up on display. It's currently down to $41.99 at Amazon, so you can save $18 during the Big Spring Sale.

Best Lego Star Wars Deal Opens in a new window Credit: Lego Lego Star Wars Millennium Falcon A New Hope 25th Anniversary Collectable Model (#75375) $67.99 at Amazon
$84.99 Save $17   Get Deal Why we like it

There are plenty of exciting Lego Star Wars sets to piece together, but this Millennium Falcon build is a must for your collection if you're a fan. This 921-piece set sees you recreating the Millennium Falcon, as seen in A New Hope, and it's currently on sale for $67.99 at Amazon. Similar to the Lego Japanese Red Maple Bonsai Tree, this set is also just pennies away from its lowest-ever price of $67.95, so this is an excellent time to pick it up and save.

More Amazon Big Spring Sale Lego deals

Lego Star Wars deals

Lego Disney deals

Other Legos on sale at Amazon

Categories: IT General, Technology

The best gaming deals in Amazons Big Spring Sale: Shop Nintendo Switch, PS5, and Xbox

Mashable - Sat, 03/28/2026 - 11:00
A quick look at the best Amazon Spring Sale gaming deals: Best Console Deal ASUS ROG Xbox Ally $539.99 (save $60) Get Deal Best Video Game Deal Silent Hill f (PS5) $39.99 (save $30) Get Deal Best Gaming Monitor Deal Samsung Odyssey OLED G9 (G91SD) $799.99 (save $500) Get Deal Best Gaming Mouse Deal Logitech G305 Lightspeed Wireless Gaming Mouse $26.99 (save $23) Get Deal

We're in the middle of Amazon’s weeklong Big Spring Sale, and in the past few days, we've seen some of the best gaming deals of the year so far. And that's whether your console of choice is the PS5, Xbox, or Nintendo Switch. Whether you’re shopping for a new handheld console, a discounted game, or an upgrade for your setup, Amazon (and Woot!) is showing out with impressive price cuts.

Alongside our roundups of Lego deals, TV deals, and Pokémon deals, here are the best gaming offers you can find on-site right now.

Best gaming console deal Opens in a new window Credit: ASUS ASUS ROG Xbox Ally $539.99 at Amazon
$599.99 Save $60   Get Deal Why we like it

Handheld gaming PCs are still far from cheap, but Amazon has already shaved something off one of the newer Xbox-branded options. The ASUS ROG Xbox Ally is down to $539.99 from $599.99, which knocks $60 off the list price, and beats the price we saw heading into the sale by $10.

This is a new record-low price for the ROG Xbox Ally (confirmed by price tracker camelcamelcamel), making it an especially great deal if you're in the market for a portable system that blends Xbox branding with the flexibility of a Windows handheld. You're getting a 7-inch 1080p 120Hz touchscreen, AMD Ryzen Z2 A processor, 16GB of RAM, a 512GB SSD, and a three-month Xbox Game Pass Premium subscription bundled in.

This handheld model supports Xbox Game Pass, but you can also run games on Steam, Epic Games, and other Windows titles. That gives it a lot more versatility than a locked-down console-style device.

Best video game deal Opens in a new window Credit: Konami 'Silent Hill f' for PS5 $39.99 at Woot
$69.99 Save $30.00   Get Deal Why we like it

Sadly, our former top pick video game deal, Mario Kart World at its lowest price ever, sold out. That said, a video game deal for gamers on the opposite end of the spectrum is still available — Silent Hill f. The latest in Konami's Silent Hill franchise was released last fall, and to plenty of critical acclaim.

The reviewer at our sister site, PCMag (also owned by Ziff Davis), gave the horror survival game a 5/5 rating and the site's Editors' Choice Award. In his review, he wrote, "Silent Hill f is one of the best horror games I've played in years, and one of the best games of the year." If you've yet to pick it up, grabbing it for half off isn't a bad deal at all.

More Amazon Big Spring Sale gaming deals

Note: A selection of these deals is from Woot's video game sale, which is also on through March 31 (or until supplies last). Woot! is owned by Amazon.

PlayStation gamesNintendo Switch gamesNintendo Switch 2 gamesNintendo Switch accessoriesXbox gamesXbox accessoriesGaming miceGaming headsetsGaming keyboards Gaming monitorsMisc. gaming deals
Categories: IT General, Technology

The best Samsung deals in Amazons Big Spring Sale — save on tablets, TVs, phones, watches, and gaming monitors

Mashable - Sat, 03/28/2026 - 11:00
The best Amazon Big Spring Sale Samsung deals at a glance: Best Samsung tablet deal Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 FE+ 13.1-inch 128GB WiFi Android Tablet $549.99 (save $100) Get Deal Best Samsung TV deal Samsung 65-Inch Class The Frame Pro LS03FW 4K Neo QLED Mini LED Smart TV (2025 Model) $1597.99 (save $500) Get Deal

Amazon’s Big Spring Sale is here (March 25-31), and Samsung shoppers can enjoy an abundance of savings. A couple of standouts are live at Amazon — including not only discounted gaming deals, Amazon Echo deals, Dyson deals, and MacBook deals — but also hefty discounts on Samsung’s art-forward 2025 Frame Pro TV and a solid price cut on the new Galaxy Tab S10 FE+ tablet.

Now that we're in the thick of the sale, we rounded up all the best savings on Samsung devices including tablets, TVs, smartwatches, and more.

Best Samsung tablet deal Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 FE+ 13.1-inch 128GB WiFi Android Tablet $549.99 at Amazon
$649.99 Save $100   Get Deal Why we like it

With its best-ever price on Amazon, confirmed with price tracker camelcamelcamel, Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 FE+ is available for $549.99, down from $649.99. That is a 15% discount and $100 in savings on a big-screen Android tablet that looks especially appealing for note-taking, streaming, and casual multitasking.

The Tab S10 FE+ gives you a 13.1-inch display, Exynos 1580 processor, IP68 water resistance, 90Hz refresh rate, and an included S Pen. Samsung also says it supports features like Circle to Search, Handwriting Assist, and Math Solver, which make it feel a little more versatile than a basic entertainment slate. Add in up to 21 hours of battery life, and this is the kind of early spring sale deal that makes you understand while it’s currently selling fast — so grab yours before stock runs out. 

More Samsung tablet dealsBest Samsung TV deal Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung 65-Inch Class The Frame Pro LS03FW 4K Neo QLED Mini LED Smart TV (2025 Model) $1,597.99 at Amazon
$2,097.99 Save $500.00   Get Deal Why we like it

Samsung’s 65-inch The Frame Pro LS03FW is down to $1,597.99 at Amazon, which knocks 24% off its $2,097.99 list price and saves you $500.

That is a pretty appealing cut for a 2025 model, especially one built to double as décor. Samsung boasts that this set as a TV that transforms into a personal art gallery when it is not in use, with Art Mode, a matte display, customizable bezels, and a slim wall-friendly design. It also packs Mini LED lighting, Samsung’s NQ4 AI Gen3 processor, and support for VRR gaming up to 4K 144Hz, so it is not just about looks.

More Samsung TV dealsMore Samsung deals

Samsung phones

Samsung smartwatches

Samsung gaming monitors

Categories: IT General, Technology

Our favorite DJI deals from the Amazon Spring Sale: Drones, mics, and power stations at record lows

Mashable - Sat, 03/28/2026 - 11:00
The best Amazon Big Spring Sale DJI deals at a glance: Best DJI Drone deal DJI Mavic 4 Pro Triple Camera Flagship Drone $4,399 (save $829) Get Deal Best DJI Mic Deal DJI Mic Mini (2TX + 1 RX + Charging Case) $79 (save $20) Get Deal Best DJI portable power station deal DJI Power 1000 V2 $364 (save $335) Get Deal Best DJI Gimbal Deal DJI Osmo Mobile 7P Gimbal $98.98 (save $30.02) Get Deal Best for Creators DJI Osmo Pocket 3 $439 (save $60) Get Deal

The Amazon Big Spring Sale has entered day three, bringing a slew of deals across tons of categories. Until March 31, you'll find major savings from the retailer on everything from robot vacuums to Apple Watches and outdoor deals. And we're on the case, highlighting the best deals across the most sought-after categories.

If you're looking to save on DJI products, now's the time to do so. It isn't just a drone company. DJI produces the viral DJI Mic Mini and a number of other content creation tools, including portable power stations, action cameras, and smartphone gimbals.

DJI has emerged as a Mashable reader and editor favorite, and our reporters use DJI products like the Mic Mini in our everyday work. You'll also see DJI products all over TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, where the company's products are popular with creators.

Please note: Due to the DJI drone ban and ongoing import problems, DJI products at Amazon are usually sold through third-party sellers. We recommend checking the seller's reviews and shopping accordingly (check the "Ships from" and "Sold by" information.)

Best Amazon Big Spring Sale DJI drone deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon DJI Mavic 4 Pro Triple Camera Flagship Drone $4,399 at Amazon
$5,228 Save $829   Get Deal Why we like it

This DJI drone is in stock right now, so if you've been thinking of a reason to pick one up, it's time to lock in. It's a tri-camera unit with a 100MP 4/3 CMOS Hasselblad camera with a max flight time of 51 minutes. It also comes with three batteries, spare propellers, a charging hub, shoulder bag, and other goodies. Plus, its new gimbal gives you 360-degree rotation with Dutch angles and a 41km range for timelapse and panoramic images.

More DJI drone dealsBest Amazon Big Spring Sale DJI mic deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon DJI Mic Mini (2TX + 1 RX + Charging Case) $79 at Amazon
$99 Save $20   Get Deal Why we like it

This TikTok-famous DJI Mic Mini set is well-loved for a reason. It sounds great, offers up to 48 hours of recording time, and it's perfect for users both new and old thanks to its accessibility and simple setup. It comes with a receiver, two transmitters, a charging cable, phone adapter, four windscreens, two magnetic clips, and a case, so you're all set to start using it immediately.

More DJI mic dealsBest Amazon Big Spring Sale DJI camera deal Opens in a new window Credit: DJI DJI Osmo Mobile 7 Smartphone Gimbal $98.98 at Amazon
$129 Save $30.02   Get Deal Why we like it

This is the smartphone gimbal our tech editor personally uses and recommends for shooting social video at home and at events. DJI recently replaced the 7P with a new model, the DJI Osmo Mobile 8, which is also on sale. However, it's hard to argue with an under-$100 price tag. This handy gimbal lets you shoot steady video and track your face, and it pairs well with DJI wireless microphones.

More DJI camera dealsBest Amazon Big Spring Sale DJI power station deal Opens in a new window Credit: DJI DJI Power 1000 V2 $364 at Amazon
$699 Save $335   Get Deal Why we like it

Read Mashable's full review of the DJI Power 1000 V2.

It's easy to forget that DJI sells power stations, too. But the brand recently revamped its portable power lineup, and the upgraded DJI Power 1000 V2 is practically tailor-made for anyone shooting video. In her recent review, Mashable's Lauren Allain writes: "After testing the upgraded DJI Power 1000 V2, I'm convinced this is a great model for content creators, those who prioritize a super-quiet power station, or anyone looking for exceptional value in portable power."

It has a 1,024Wh capacity and features dedicated SDC ports that can super-fast-charge your DJI drone batteries, so you can get back in the air in about 30 minutes. Plus, when the station itself finally runs out of juice, you can plug it into a standard wall outlet and hit a full 100 percent charge in just 56 minutes.

More DJI power station deals

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

Categories: IT General, Technology

Ive tested e-readers for years — these are the best Kindle deals in the Amazon Big Spring Sale

Mashable - Sat, 03/28/2026 - 11:00
The best Kindle deals from the Amazon Spring Sale: Best Kindle deal Amazon Kindle Colorsoft $169.99 (save $80) Get Deal Best Kids Kindle Deal Amazon Kindle Colorsoft Kids $189.99 (save $80) Get Deal Kindle Paperwhite Deal Amazon Kindle Paperwhite $134.99 (save $25) Get Deal Kindle Scribe Deal Amazon Kindle Scribe $249.99 (save $150) Get Deal

I read a lot and it's not just because I love it — which I obviously do — but it's also my job. I feel like the luckiest girl in the world that every day, I get to research and test e-readers. After years of testing, I'll confidently tell you that Amazon's Kindles are the best e-readers. My beloved Paperwhite is a true companion. It comes with me to the gym so I can read on the ellipitical. It's always in my beach bag in the summer. And you know I'm already loading up my Paperwhite's library for my upcoming trip to Greece.

If I've convinced you to jump on the Kindle train, that's perfect timing, as Amazon's Big Spring Sale is underway. Running March 25 through 31, the retailer dropped prices on its e-readers. The deals are a bit of a mixed bag. Some devices, like the Kindle Colorsoft and the Kindle Colorsoft Kids, are marked down to their lowest prices ever. Meanwhile, the rest of the line-up is on sale, but I've seen better deals.

That being said, if you want a Kindle for all your warm weather reading adventures, now is the time to buy. I've rounded up and explained the best Kindle deals of the moment so you can make an informed purchase.

Best Kindle Deals Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Kindle Colorsoft $169.99 at Amazon
$249.99 Save $80   Get Deal

Usually, the Kindle Colorsoft is way too expensive for my liking, but once it goes on sale, all is forgiven. During Amazon's Big Spring Sale, the Kindle Colorsoft is marked down in a big way. Right now, grab the Kindle Colorsoft for just $169.99. That saves you $80 off its $249.99 list price.

The big draw of the Kindle Colorsoft is its color displays. The e-reader has a color resolution of 150 ppi and a black and white resolution of 300 ppi. Even with the addition of color to the Kindle Colorsoft, it remains a speedy device. Plus, it comes with no ads. Temper your expectations around color with the Colorsoft: the hues tend to be more muted than what you get on a TV or tablet. The Kindle Colorsoft is waterproof, so you can take it to the pool or beach. If you're looking for a color e-reader, this is a deal to shop during Amazon's Big Spring Sale.

More Kindle deals

Kindle devices

Kids Kindles

Kindle Bundles

Categories: IT General, Technology

Apple AirTags have never been cheaper — get $15 trackers in Amazons Spring Sale

Mashable - Sat, 03/28/2026 - 11:00
The best Apple AirTag deals from Amazon's Big Spring Sale: Best AirTag Bundle deal Apple AirTag (1st Gen) 4-Pack $59.99 (save $39.01) Get Deal

Amazon’s Big Spring Sale is officially underway, and we’re already seeing some pretty promising price drops across multiple categories, including $300 price cuts on MacBooks and $400 off Apple Watches. C'mon, what's not to like?

Of course, we’re holding out to see if Amazon’s going to gift us with additional Apple deals (we're looking at you, MacBook Neo, currently marked down by just $9.01), but there’s one in particular that requires fast action: Apple AirTag 4-packs are now down to their lowest ever price of $59.99, and they're selling fast. We're seeing this deal go in and out of stock as the Big Spring Sale continues, so please grab them now while they're available!

Don't forget: Apple recently released a new generation of Apple AirTags, so we don't know how much longer these trackers will be available, especially at this record-low price. We've already seen M4 MacBook Airs, iPad Airs, and AirPods Max headphones go out of stock, and AirTags could be next.

Best deal overall Apple AirTag Tracker (4-Pack) $59.99 at Walmart
$99 Save $39.01   Get Deal at Walmart Get Deal at Best Buy Get Deal at Amazon Why we like it

The updated Apple AirTag 2 is still at full price, but you can get a four-pack of first-gen AirTags for just $59.99 right now, or $15 per tracker.

These little trackers are total lifesavers for anyone who's always misplacing their keys or wants some peace of mind by stashing one in their checked luggage. (I use them to keep tabs on my dogs when I'm visiting my parents.) You can track your stuff directly in the Find My app, and if you’re nearby, your iPhone can lead you straight to the exact cushion your wallet is hiding under.

Note: If these trackers go out of stock at Amazon, you can also find them at this price at Best Buy and Walmart.

The best AirTag dealsThe best Apple AirTag accessory dealsThe best Apple AirTag alternative deals
Categories: IT General, Technology

Weve found the best AirPods deals to shop in Amazons Big Spring Sale — $99 AirPods are still live

Mashable - Sat, 03/28/2026 - 11:00
A quick look at the best Amazon Spring Sale AirPods deals: Best AirPods 4 Deal Apple AirPods 4 $99.99 (save $29.01) Get Deal Best AirPods Pro Deal Apple AirPods Pro 3 $199 (save $50) Get Deal Best AirPods Max deal AirPods Max (1st Gen, USB-C) $449.99 (save $99.01) Get Deal

It's official: Amazon's Big Spring Sale is back in a bit way and will run until March 31. As always with these major sale events, we've been on the case since day one, helping you find the very best deals across all kinds of products. And we've spotted some awesome deals on Apple AirPods — deals that sound as good as Apple audio tech.

The AirPods Pro 3, AirPods 4 (both with and without ANC), and first-gen AirPods Max are on sale at Amazon. They're going fast though: AirPods Max 2 have already sold out with a slim discount.

SEE ALSO: The best Apple deals to shop ahead of the Amazon Big Spring Sale — save on AirPods, iPads, and MacBooks

If you've been looking to score new earbuds or headphones to pair with your Apple tech this year, we've gathered up our favorite early AirPods deals for you into one place.

Note that no AirPods (except the just-released AirPods Max 2) have hit their lowest prices on record yet, so there's always a chance they could get cheaper. We'll be sure to update this page if new deals go live throughout the week.

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!

FYI: You don't need to be an Amazon Prime member to shop the sale, but members will receive exclusive deals on a variety of items.

Best AirPods deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple AirPods 4 $99.99 at Amazon
$129 Save $29.01   Get Deal Why we like it

If you're not looking to drop a ton of cash on new earbuds, one of our favorite deals is on the AirPods 4 without Active Noise Cancellation. These AirPods have dropped to just $99 at Amazon, saving you $30 on list price. We think these are the best budget earbuds for Apple users.

If you had your eye on the AirPods 4 with ANC, the good news is those are also on sale right now. They are currently marked down to just $149.99 at Amazon, or roughly $30 off their original list price of $179. So no matter which option you choose, you can save some cash right now.

Best AirPods Pro deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple AirPods Pro 3 $199.99 at Amazon
$249 Save $49.01   Get Deal Why we like it

The AirPods Pro 3 are some of our favorite earbuds for Apple users, earning spots on both our lists of the best headphones and best earbuds. Our review had high praise for them, with writer Adam Doud calling them, "a remarkable upgrade in functionality over their predecessors, with better battery life and ANC, as well as a new heart rate sensor."

Boasting great sound quality and noise-cancelling features, alongside a hefty battery life that can last up to eight hours (with ANC) on a single charge, these AirPods are a nice upgrade indeed. Ahead of Amazon's Big Spring Sale, they're marked down to $199.

Read Mashable's full review of the Apple AirPods Pro 3.

Best AirPods Max deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple AirPods Max (1st Gen, USB-C) $449.99 at Amazon
$549 Save $99.01   Get Deal Why we like it

Premium noise-canceling headphones from brands like Sony and Bose are much better value, but AirPods Max are a popular pick nonetheless. (If nothing else, they're super stylish.) Apple announced the AirPods Max 2 with better ANC and smart features earlier this month, and now the first-gen models with USB-C charging are on sale on Amazon for $449.99. That's about $100 off their regular retail price of $549. But it's just the purple colorway available at this price for now — the other variants have been snapped up already.

Read Mashable's full review of the first-generation Apple AirPods Max.

More AirPods deals
Categories: IT General, Technology

I test laptops for a living — these are my favorite MacBook deals from the Amazon Big Spring Sale

Mashable - Sat, 03/28/2026 - 11:00
A quick look at the best MacBook deals from Amazon's Big Spring Sale: Best MacBook Air deal Apple MacBook Air, 15-inch (M4, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) $1,099 (save $300) Get Deal Best MacBook Pro deal Apple MacBook Pro, 14-inch (M5, 24GB RAM, 1TB SSD) $1,799 (save $100) Get Deal Best MacBook Neo deal (that's barely a deal) Apple MacBook Neo (A18 Pro, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD) $689.99 (save $9.01) Get Deal Best New Release Apple MacBook Air, 13-inch (M5, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) $1,049 (save $50) Get Deal

Amazon's third annual Big Spring Sale is live through March 31. The event mainly revolves around seasonal essentials like cleaning supplies and outdoor gear, but it's also hosting some very attractive deals on must-have tech — including flagship Apple products like MacBooks. As Mashable's resident laptop expert, I'm on the case.

Apple actually just refreshed its MacBook lineup earlier this month, announcing updated MacBook Airs and Pros in addition to an all-new budget MacBook Neo. Most configurations of these new releases are seeing their very first (tiny) discounts during the Big Spring Sale, while their predecessors are priced to move at up to $300 off.

SEE ALSO: Amazon's Big Spring Sale is surprisingly good: We found 111+ deals on Apple, DJI, Sony, and Dyson

Keep in mind that Apple has discontinued its last-gen MacBooks, which means they'll only be available on the refurbished market once third-party retailers' inventories dry up. If you see a good deal on an M4 MacBook Air or Pro on Amazon this week, don't wait too long to add it to your cart. A few configurations are starting to go in and out of stock, and I think they'll sell out long before this summer's Prime Day sale.

I'll continue to monitor Amazon's Big Spring Sale MacBook deals as the sale continues into next week, so check back if nothing catches your eye just yet. Note: Deals marked with a 🔥 have dropped to a record-low price.

Best MacBook Air deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple MacBook Air, 15-inch (M4, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) 🔥 $1,099 at Amazon
$1,399 Save $300   Get Deal Why I like it

The M4 MacBook Air may be a last-gen laptop, but it's still an incredibly capable ultraportable. (In our testing, it proved much faster than much pricier Windows laptops.) It has the same 12MP Center Stage webcam, Liquid Retina display, and 18-hour battery life as its new M5 counterpart, which just offers slightly faster performance and newer wireless connectivity. This 15-inch configuration with 16GB of memory and 512GB of storage has never been cheaper.

Read Mashable's full review of the Apple MacBook Air (M4).

More MacBook Air dealsBest MacBook Neo deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple MacBook Neo (A18 Pro, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD) $689.99 at Amazon
$699 Save $9.01   Get Deal Why I like it

Nine bucks off barely counts as a discount, but this is the best MacBook Neo deal I've seen outside of the Apple Store itself. (You can get $100 off there, but only if you're a college student, a parent of one, or school faculty.) This colorful little laptop has the same premium aluminum build as any other MacBook, and it boasts incredibly impressive single-core performance; in basic everyday tasks like web browsing, it's just as fast as an M4 MacBook Air. This particular model comes with Touch ID.

Read Mashable's full review of the Apple MacBook Neo.

Best MacBook Pro deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple MacBook Pro, 14-inch (M5, 24GB RAM, 1TB SSD) $1,799 at Amazon
$1,899 Save $100   Get Deal Why I like it

A MacBook Pro has more ports and a brighter, smoother display than a MacBook Air. It's also better at handling heavier workloads (like video editing) over a long period of time since it has fans. I recommend it as an upgrade pick for power users like content creators and developers. This current-gen M5 model is well future-proofed with 24GB of RAM and 1TB of storage. It's only $50 away from its record-low price from December.

Another configuration with an older, but more powerful M4 Pro chip is still in stock at the same price, though it comes with half the storage.

Read Mashable's full review of the 14-inch Apple MacBook Pro (M5).

More MacBook Pro deals
Categories: IT General, Technology

Stream for less in 2026: Score Spring Sale streaming deals on Paramount+, Spotify, Starz, and more

Mashable - Sat, 03/28/2026 - 11:00
The best Big Spring Sale streaming deals at a glance: Best streaming deal Paramount+ Premium $2.99/month for 2 months (save $22) Get Deal Best music streaming deal Spotify Premium free for 3 months (save $38.97) Get Deal Best deal for readers Kindle Unlimited $0.99 for three months (save $34.98) Get Deal Best streaming device deal Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Select $17.99 (save $22) Get Deal Best Free Streaming Offer New Walmart+ members get Peacock or Paramount+ free $98/year for your first year of Walmart+ (12 months of Peacock or Paramount+) Learn More Best streaming add-on deal Starz (Roku add-on) $2.99/month for 2 months (save $16) Get Deal

The biggest story in the streaming world over the past 12 months (besides the confusing Warner Bros. situation)? Price hikes. So many price hikes. So, we could all benefit from some streaming deals right about now.

Black Friday is the best time of year to score discounts on streaming apps, but any major sale or shopping holiday tends to deliver a few discounts. And Amazon's Big Spring Sale (officially running until March 31) is holding true to that trend. While the overall number of deals is no match for Black Friday, we'll certainly take any discounts we can get.

As Mashable's go-to streaming expert, I'm keeping a close eye out for streaming deals throughout the Big Spring Sale. While things started out slow, we've got some new additions from Roku, including add-ons for popular streaming services like AMC+, MGM+, and Starz. Prime Video add-ons are also starting to ramp up (finally). I'll keep updating this list as any new streamers join the party.

SEE ALSO: Amazon Big Spring Sale 2026: Live updates on the top deals

Below, I've rounded up the best streaming offers live during the sale. I've also included deals on streaming devices like Fire TV Sticks, as well as some evergreen streaming deals I think are worth grabbing.

Best streaming deal overall Opens in a new window Credit: Paramount+ Paramount+ Premium $2.99/month for 2 months (save $22) Get Deal Why we like it

On the surface, this is the same offer as the streamer's Black Friday deal. However, because Paramount Plus hiked its prices in January, this Big Spring Sale discount actually saves you more money. It now costs $13.99 per month for the ad-free Premium plan and $8.99 per month for the ad-supported Essential plan.

Through March 31, you can lock in two months of either plan for only $2.99 per month. That saves you $22 if you choose the Premium plan (why wouldn't you?). Both new and ex-subscribers are eligible for this deal, and it's valid on Paramount+ as a standalone service or on the add-on subscriptions from Roku and Prime Video.

Psst. It's also worth mentioning that an extra discount code is floating around that could potentially knock the price down to just 99 cents per month for two months. However, it appears to work for some folks and not others. Try adding the additional promo code BG2L7M at checkout to see if you're one of the lucky ones.

Best streaming add-on deal Opens in a new window Credit: Starz Starz (Roku add-on) $2.99/month for 2 months (save $8/month) Get Deal Why we like it

I think Starz is honestly one of the most underrated streaming services out there. It's home to Lionsgate theatrical hits, so you'll be able to watch recent releases like The Housemaid (starting April 1) and Greenland 2: Migration. Plus, it has its own original series that are worth watching, like the TV adaptation of Lisa Taddeo's book Three Women and the serial killer comedy Sweetpea. For a limited time, Roku users can score a Starz subscription for only $2.99 per month for two months and get a taste of what the streamer has to offer. It usually costs $10.99 per month, so you'll save about $16 on two months of streaming.

Best music streaming deal Opens in a new window Credit: Spotify Spotify Premium free for 3 months (save $38.97) Get Deal Why we like it

If you've never tried Spotify Premium before, you can snag three free months of the music streaming service through March 31. Typically, it costs $12.99 per month, so you'll keep nearly $40 in your pocket with this deal. A Premium account unlocks ad-free listening, the ability to download music for offline listening and collaborate with friends in real time, 15 hours of audiobook time, and lossless audio. Plus, you'll get weekly listening stats and, should you choose to keep your subscription, access to the famous Wrapped stats.

Already tried Spotify Premium? Amazon Music Unlimited is also offering three free months of its streaming service through March 31. It regularly goes for $11.99/month for Prime members and $12.99/month for non-Prime members, so you can save up to $38.97 with this streaming deal. Besides unlimited music streaming, you'll also get access to one audiobook per month.

Best streaming device deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Select $14.99 at Amazon
$39.99 Save $25 Redeem the code FTVSELECT Get Deal Why we like it

The newest Fire TV Stick, the 4K Select, is the first streaming device in Amazon's lineup to shake things up in awhile. While it still offers the same plug-and-play design you know and love, it features a brand-new operating system called Vega. Given how laggy the previous operating system could be on Fire TV Sticks, we're pretty excited about this change. It also offers support for Alexa+, Amazon Kids+, Amazon Luna, Xbox Game Pass, and NordVPN, and delivers 4K quality with HDR10+ support.

As part of the Big Spring Sale, it's now down to just $14.99 instead of $39.99. Redeem the code FTVSELECT to access this discount.

More Amazon Big Spring Sale streaming dealsPrime Video add-onsRoku Channel add-onsStandalone streaming service dealsMore Amazon Big Spring Sale streaming device dealsEvergreen streaming deals worth grabbing
Categories: IT General, Technology

Amazon is clearing out last-gen tech in the Big Spring Sale: Apple and Sony on sale

Mashable - Sat, 03/28/2026 - 11:00
Last-chance deals on last-gen tech: Apple AirTag (4-Pack) $59.99 (save $39.01) Get Deal Best Amazon Device Deal Amazon Echo Dot $39.99 (save $10) Get Deal Best audio deal Sony WF-1000XM5 Earbuds $248 (save $81.99) Get Deal Best smartwatch deal Apple Watch Ultra 2 (GPS + Cellular, 49mm) $499 (save $300) Get Deal Best tablet deal Apple iPad Air, 11-inch (M3, WiFi + Cellular, 256GB) $649.99 (save $199.01) Get Deal Best e-reader deal Amazon Kindle Scribe (16GB) $249.99 (save $150) Get Deal Best Apple deal Apple MacBook Air, 13-inch (M4, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD) $899 (save $100) Get Deal Best robot vacuum deal Eufy X10 Pro Omni $429.99 (save $270) Get Deal Best TV deal Amazon 50-inch Fire TV Omni QLED Series 4K TV $379.99 (save $90) Get Deal

Got spring cleaning on your mind? So does Amazon: The retail giant is putting last-gen tech on sale at deep discounts during the Big Spring Sale (March 25 to 31), its main seasonal savings event, to clear out its remaining inventory.

Older versions of some of our favorite gadgets are currently on sale there for record-low prices (or close to them). The zippy M4 MacBook Air? Up to $150 cheaper than the iterative M5 version Apple announced this month. The superb Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds? Only $248. Previous-generation Echo devices? Grab the 2022 Echo Dot smart speaker for 20% off. Finally, the first-gen AirTags have literally never been cheaper, and this could be your last chance to grab them now that the AirTag 2 has been released.

SEE ALSO: Amazon Big Spring Sale 2026: Live updates on Apple, Samsung, DJI, Kindle deals

We'll be updating this list of past-gen tech deals with more offers as Amazon's Big Spring Sale continues, so check back soon. In the meantime, this is your opportunity to clean up with last-chance deals on last-gen gadgets.

Amazon Echo dealsSmartwatch and fitness tracker dealsHeadphone and earbud dealsTablet and e-reader dealsLaptop dealsMiscellaneous tech deals

Keep checking back for more Amazon Spring Sale deals on past-gen products. We're still holding out hope that the Sony XM5 headphones will get a more notable price drop. The Mashable shopping team is working overtime to cover this shopping event, so don't miss out!

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

Categories: IT General, Technology

What home will look like for the Artemis 2 crew headed to the moon

Mashable - Sat, 03/28/2026 - 11:00

Tired of having too much space? Step into Orion, NASA's compact deep-space rental, where you and three carefully selected crewmates — er, roommates — share a single "open-concept floor plan."

Move-in includes white-glove transport on a 322-foot mega-stretch limo from Cape Canaveral, Florida. The 3 to 4Gs along the way are simply part of the… atmosphere.

Your home away from Earth comes with a do-it-yourself toilet awaiting installation on Day 1, a suitcase-size kitchenette, a free-floating gym, a stowage compartment that doubles as a radiation shelter, and six windows. But what this cozy 330-cubic-foot cabin lacks in personal space more than makes up for in actual outer space.

Gravity not included. Serious astronauts only. Must be comfortable hanging a privacy curtain if you don’t quite fit in the bathroom, sleeping in a bag strapped to the wall — and, oh yeah, remembering you're on a 685,000-mile test flight.

"It’s going to feel a lot bigger in microgravity in 3D," said Christina Koch, one of Orion's first occupants. "I’m really counting on that."

In a capsule roughly the size of a minivan, four astronauts — Koch, Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, and Jeremy Hansen — will spend about 10 days proving the spacecraft can safely sustain human life. The mission could launch as early as this Wednesday, April 1. 

The stakes reach far beyond comfort. Artemis II is NASA's first crewed mission beyond low-Earth orbit in more than a half-century — a critical test before astronauts attempt moon landings later this decade. If Orion cannot function as a reliable flying habitat, the agency's broader moon-return plans cannot proceed.

SEE ALSO: No guarantees: Inside the biggest risks facing NASA's Artemis 2 crew

The spacecraft, dubbed Integrity by the crew, must serve as cockpit, lab, dining room, bathroom, bedroom, and lifeboat all at once. Every bag, laptop, and checklist must justify its place. The astronauts will have over 50 percent more room than their Apollo predecessors — but far less than crews aboard the sprawling, 13,000-cubic-foot International Space Station.

The crew will spend their days running demonstrations and monitoring systems. One thing they won't do is leave the confines of the capsule: The mission will loop around the moon's far side — potentially carrying humans farther from Earth than ever before.

"For me, I actually feel completely 100 percent bought-in when I get in Orion. It's like climbing into my bed, and I'll feel warm and tucked-in." Engineers demonstrate how the Artemis 2 crew will sit for launch inside the Orion spacecraft, using a mock ship at NASA's Johnson Space Center. Credit: NASA / Robert Markowitz Going to the bathroom and eating

Once the launch phase ends, Koch and Hansen will begin transforming the vehicle into living space. They will set up the toilet, water dispenser, and food warmer — and fold away the seats. Afterall, why sit in microgravity when you can float? 

Meals will be simple. A compact hot plate warms food pouches that are rehydrated using water from pressurized tanks in the service module. Menu options tested by NASA's food lab include shrimp, macaroni and cheese, and tortillas.

The toilet occupies about 5 cubic-feet under the floor near the main hatch. Astronauts can close a door or hang curtains for privacy. That may matter: Hansen, a Canadian Space Agency astronaut, is about 6-foot-2. 

The airflow-based system resembles the American toilet on the space station, though Orion lacks its complex water recycling. If it fails — not uncommon in orbit — the crew will rely on backup urine collection bags. They can still use it to dispose of solid waste outside — a poop chute, so to speak.

Thanks to weightlessness, astronauts can use the entire volume of the Orion spacecraft, not just the floor space. Credit: NASA infographic

To Debbie Korth, Orion's deputy program manager, the setup represents progress.

"Much nicer creature comforts than maybe some of the previous lunar exploration missions had," she said.

Exercising on the spacecraft

On Artemis II, fitness is both necessity and experiment. Near the hatch, engineers installed a flywheel device that allows astronauts to row against resistance or perform strength exercises like squats and deadlifts.

The harder they pull, the harder it pulls back. Because each motion pushes against the spacecraft, NASA will study how exercise vibrations affect Orion's steering. Engineers will also monitor how life-support systems handle spikes in carbon dioxide and humidity after workouts.

"Canada did get more than its fair share of the volume on this mission by assigning me," Hansen said. "I'm getting a little bit conscious about my size."

Shelter and survival on Orion

During the four-day outbound journey — when Orion travels beyond much of Earth’s magnetic protection — astronauts will rehearse using a radiation shelter beneath the cabin floor. After clearing storage lockers, they can hunker into a shielded cavity designed to reduce exposure during a solar storm.

For emergencies such as depressurization, the crew will wear new orange survival suits for re-entry. These are essentially mini body-shaped survival shelters, capable of providing food, water, medication, and waste removal for up to 144 hours.

Years of training in confined environments, including practice sleepovers at Johnson Space Center and cramped recovery simulations at sea, have helped the astronauts build a family-like dynamic. Then again, sibling bonds also bring sibling squabbles. 

For most nights, all four of the crew will sleep at the same time, attaching their sleeping bags to Orion's interior walls. Credit: NASA

"For me, I actually feel completely 100 percent bought-in when I get in Orion," said Wiseman, who will command the mission. "It's like climbing into my bed, and I'll feel warm and tucked-in." 

"A metal-and-plastic bed," Glover quipped. 

After parachutes slow Orion for splashdown, Navy divers will open the hatch to assist the crew. When the astronauts emerge, they'll step onto an inflatable raft. 

NASA has a nickname for it: The front porch.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Say goodbye to monthly cloud fees with this 100TB lifetime plan

Mashable - Sat, 03/28/2026 - 11:00

TL;DR: Lock in enough cloud storage for life with this 100TB lifetime subscription to Internxt Cloud Storage, now only $974.97 (reg. $9,900) through March 31.

Opens in a new window Credit: Internxt Internxt Cloud Storage Lifetime Subscription: 100TB $974.97
$9,900 Save $8,925.03   Get Deal

If you’re sick of continuously upgrading your cloud storage and paying a fortune every month, there’s now another way. Internxt Cloud Storage lets you lock in enough space to last a lifetime, and you only have to pay once. Right now, you can secure 100TB lifetime subscription to Internxt Cloud Storage for just $974.97 (reg. $9,900) through March 31.

If you rely on Apple for your cloud storage, the most space you can rent is 12TB. That sets you back $59.99 a month, or $1,080 every 18 months. Internxt Cloud Storage lets you lock in 100TB of space for life for less than that — and it’s super secure and encrypted.

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Say goodbye to monthly fees and clunky external hard drives, and let Internxt Cloud Storage provide a better solution. Unlike the competitors, who access and profit from your data, Internxt Cloud Storage provides end-to-end encryption, so not even Internxt itself can view anything. The company is also GDPR compliant, audited, and verified by Securitum.

Internxt offers cross-platform compatibility, so it’s easy to transfer data from your existing cloud storage provider. It also has user-friendly apps for Android, iOS, web browsers, and desktop. You’ll also enjoy speed without limits, so you’ll get the best performance out of your connection.

Get this 100TB lifetime subscription to Internxt Cloud Storage, now only $974.97 (reg. $9,900) until March 31.

Want to see more deals? Visit the shop and use code MARCH15 to save an extra 15% sitewide through March 29. Exclusions apply.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Categories: IT General, Technology

This Microsoft Office deal adds AI capabilities to your favorite apps

Mashable - Sat, 03/28/2026 - 11:00

TL;DR: Get the Microsoft Office suite, complete with AI capabilities, with this Microsoft Office 2024 Home and Business for Mac or PC Lifetime License, on sale now for $99.97 (reg. $249.99) through April 5.

Opens in a new window Credit: Microsoft Microsoft Office 2024 Home & Business for Mac or PC Lifetime License $99.97
$249.99 Save $150.02   Get Deal

We all know how much more productive we can be with some help from AI, so imagine what your go-to Microsoft Office apps can do when they’re AI-powered. Right now, you can get a Microsoft Office 2024 Home and Business for Mac or PC Lifetime License for just $99.97 (reg. $249.99) until April 5.

Whether you need help with work or play, there’s a Microsoft Office app ready to make your life a little easier. This Microsoft Office 2024 Home and Business license equips your computer with five helpful tools and works on both Mac and PC devices for ultimate flexibility.

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This lifetime license gives you permanent access to five apps, with no monthly subscription fees required. You’ll get Word to help with document creation, Excel to create spreadsheets, Outlook to manage your emails, PowerPoint to design presentations, and OneNote to elevate your note-taking.

Each app includes AI enhancements, such as text, formatting, and design suggestions, as well as AI assistance for analyzing data, identifying trends, and building better charts and graphics in Excel. A Focus Mode option in Word helps you concentrate on your work, and PowerPoint includes an option to record presentations with voice, video, and closed captions.

Get this Microsoft Office 2024 Home and Business for Mac or PC Lifetime License, on sale now for $99.97 (reg. $249.99) through April 5.

Want to see more deals? Visit the shop and use code MARCH15 to save an extra 15% sitewide through March 29. Exclusions apply.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Categories: IT General, Technology

This $60 app makes kids’ screen time easier to feel good about

Mashable - Sat, 03/28/2026 - 11:00

TL;DR: Get the Pok Pok lifetime subscription for $59.99 (reg. $250) and give kids ages 2 to 8 access to open-ended, Montessori-inspired learning games with no ads or in-app purchases.

Opens in a new window Credit: Pok Pok Pok Pok: Lifetime Subscription $59.99
$250 Save $190.01   Get Deal

Handing a kid a screen is easy. Finding something on it that doesn’t feel like brain rot is harder. If you’re looking for something a bit more thoughtful for your little one, Pok Pok focuses on open-ended, play-based learning, and its lifetime subscription is on sale for $59.99 (reg. $250).

Screen time tends to get a bad reputation, and not without reason. A lot of apps are fast, loud, and designed to keep kids tapping and scrolling for as long as possible. Pok Pok takes a different approach. Built around Montessori principles, it focuses on hands-on exploration, independence, and letting kids learn at their own pace.

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To the uninitiated, Montessori is a child-centered learning approach that encourages curiosity through interaction rather than instruction. Pok Pok translates that to a digital format with a collection of games designed for kids ages 2 to 8, helping build early skills in areas like numbers, problem-solving, cause and effect, and language.

Why Pok Pok stands out:

  • Encourages creativity: Open-ended play lets kids explore without strict rules

  • Calm, low-stimulation design: Handcrafted visuals and sound avoid overwhelming kids

  • Grows with your child: Activities adapt to different ages and stages

  • Learning through play: Supports cognitive, social, and emotional development

  • Inclusive by design: Reflects diverse families and experiences

  • Regular updates: New activities keep things fresh over time

  • Privacy-focused: COPPA-certified, there are no ads or in-app purchases aimed at kids

Unlike many kids’ apps, there are no levels to beat or scores to chase. Kids can simply open the app, tap into an activity, and explore. It’s also built with real-life use in mind, whether that’s keeping kids occupied during travel or just giving parents peace of mind without worrying about what’s on the screen.

With the lifetime subscription, you get ongoing access to a growing library of activities across your family’s devices, along with regular updates over time.

Formerly a $250, a lifetime subscription to the parent-approved Pok Pok is on sale for $59.99.

Want to see more deals? Visit the shop and use code MARCH15 to save an extra 15% sitewide through March 29. Exclusions apply.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Verizon is giving away the Google Pixel 10 Pro XL for free — how to claim yours this weekend

Mashable - Sat, 03/28/2026 - 11:00

TL;DR: Get the Google Pixel 10 Pro XL for free from Verizon when signing up for a new line on the Unlimited Ultimate plan.

Opens in a new window Credit: Google Verizon: Free Google Pixel 10 Pro XL   Get Deal

We know the focus right now is very firmly on Amazon's Big Spring Sale, but can we pull you away from all the Apple, Samsung, and DJI deals for a moment? There's a battle being waged between top mobile carriers to offer you flagship phones for free, and we'd hate for you to miss out.

We've already highlighted free promotions on the iPhone 17 and Samsung S26 Ultra, and now it's Google's time to shine. Verizon has quietly dropped a massive deal on Google's most powerful device: the Google Pixel 10 Pro XL. For a limited time, you can score this powerful model for free. And the best part? This deal does not require a trade-in, making it one of the cleanest ways to upgrade your tech for less.

Here are the steps you need to take to get the Google Pixel 10 Pro XL for free this weekend.

How to claim a free Google Pixel 10 Pro XL

To score the Google Pixel 10 Pro XL for free with Verizon, you’ll need to follow these simple steps:

  • Add a new line — this promotion is reserved for new line additions

  • Pick the right plan — select the Unlimited Ultimate plan to qualify for the full credit

  • 36-month credit — the phone is paid via monthly bill credits spread over 36 months

With all these "free" deals, there are some costs to keep in mind. Verizon will still charge for sales tax on the full retail price of the phone upfront, and there is a one-time $35 activation fee.

The Google Pixel 10 Pro XL is an absolute beast, boasting the latest Tensor G5 chip and Google's most advanced AI camera features to date. If you're undecided on whether to go with the Google Pixel 10 Pro XL or Samsung S26 Ultra, Mashable's Adam Doud says "Google has added some useful AI features (which isn't always the case), and the powerful main camera beat out the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra in our head-to-head test."

If you've been wanting to make the switch to Google, this limited-time offer from Verizon could be your best opportunity to upgrade for less.

Categories: IT General, Technology

TikToks mindfulness tips are getting better. These 3 worked for me

Mashable - Sat, 03/28/2026 - 11:00

TikTok has long been full of efficiency-driven wellness influencers offering tips on how to become more grounded, more calm, and more mindful. But over the last two years, a new era of TikTok influencing has risen. One that is less perfectionist — and more practical.

Back in 2024, the last time we investigated the state of mindfulness TikTok tips, what we found was a mix of traditional meditation routines, ASMR sound bath videos, and jargon-filled advice on "optimization." If I had followed the advice of the most watched mindfulness videos back then, my day might have looked something like this: 

  • Wake up early. Do guided meditation and/ or yoga. 

  • Breakfast. No external stimulation. Soak up the day. 

  • Get to work, girlboss.

  • Time for a mid-day walk. Remember: No external sounds! Stay present. 

  • Work some more. Check in with your body and do some breathwork at your desk. 

  • Dinner and after work activities. Allotted time for fun starts now.

  • Journal about the day. Junk journaling is allowed, so long as you make it visually pleasing. 

  • Before bed: No screens, sleep sounds on. Nighty night. 

SEE ALSO: 'Not everything needs to be known': How one day with no phone changed my life

This may at least be more achievable than most "biohacking" self-optimization routines that go viral online. But it's still a daunting list. I attempted to follow this routine at the time. According to my notes, this is what I actually managed:

  • Wake up at 8 am. Stretch and do a breathing meditation (via free trials on Open or Moments or Breathwrk). 

  • Try my best to finish all my tasks at work, fueled by at least two coffees and one sandwich. Read during lunch because it's the only time I have. Oh, the sun is gone now. 

  • Cook dinner, something I earnestly love to do. Crash on the couch with my roommate and a movie. 

  • Get ready for bed. Feel weird about journaling because I spent all day writing and what do I have to say about it? Another breathing exercise. Sleep.  

The exhausting effort to match up to TikTok's image of perfection left me pessimistic. I do well with a routine, ask any of my friends, but I simply wasn't interested in the apps and activities TikTok said I should try. Even if they were backed by science, they didn't feel like me.

But that was then. In 2026, TikTok's mindfulness culture (like the world itself) has changed dramatically — and this time, more in need of personal calm than ever, I found three mindfulness trends that actually worked.

Brainrot is the enemy: picking apart 75 Smart 

I may not like TikTok telling me what to do, but I do love feeling smarter. So as the app obsesses over curing "dopamine addiction," combating brainrot, and reclaiming attention, I can get behind trends like friction-maxxing — and I'm not opposed to 75 Smart, a riff on Andy Frisella's controversial "75 Hard" fitness regime that originally began as a simple 30-minute daily reading challenge. 

75 Smart seems to have become a TikTok trend as of December 2025. In the most strict 75 Smart routine, users commit to all of this every single day: two "deep focus" learning sessions, 15 minutes of meta-learning (learning about learning), an "intellectual" creation of any kind, nonfiction reading, and a ban on consuming "low value" dopamine content.  

In looser interpretations of 75 Smart — more akin to my interests — users commit to just one intellectual or creative act every day. Others take a middle ground approach, reconfiguring their daily to-do list around low stimulation goals, like silent 15-minute walks, no social media before and after work, and reading everyday. And this lower-stakes interpretation was what actually triggered small changes for me.

For example, I already read before bed every night. But instead of turning to doomscrolling once I put the book down, I began to read long articles I'd been putting off, or opted for a Wikipedia deep dive on a niche subject. Before long I returned to the breathwork apps I tried in 2024 — trying quick, 5-minute routines, often with moving visualizations so I wasn't going cold turkey on the screen altogether. 

Similarly, I couldn't go for one 75 Smart suggestion, entirely silent days. To me, sound is not an enemy. But I did want to feel more grounded after leaving dreamland, so I swapped out my usual mix of news podcasts, music, and the latest tabletop RPG session for Apple Music's "Sollos" playlists. 

This "audio-wellness venture" was launched in 2025, a collaboration with Universal Music Group, Apple Music, and a team of cognitive scientists to transform their music catalogues into audio experiences that promote focus, relaxation, and sleep. "Songs have been enhanced with auditory beats or colored noise to help encourage specific brain responses," Apple notes — such as Gamma waves and white noise for focus, or Delta waves and pink noise for sleep.

They're not all just sound bowls and ambient music, either. I could listen to radio stalwarts like Selena Gomez, Niall Horan, and Ariana Grande. Popular DJs and some of my faves (shoutout to AURORA) feature on the playlists, too. The idea is to take what people are already listening to daily, and make it a little better. For me, it offered a smoother transition into my busy, sound-filled mornings. I found that I didn't lose as much time to the distractions of podcasts, YouTube videos, and TikToks before starting a long work day.

Credit: Mashable Screenshot / Apple Music Credit: Mashable Screenshot / Apple Music

75 Smart doesn't completely avoid the pitfalls of perfectionism rampant on TikTok, via the same proclivity toward optimization I despised in 2024. Some 75 Smart "corporate girl edition" videos, for example, can be ruthless about "failing" at daily tasks.

So I wasn't going to succeed with a strict 75 Smart routine, but I could boost the things I already did, and add ones that fit in my life seamlessly. 

Stretching like a Chinese auntie

TikTok, according to multiple reports, is at a "very Chinese time in its life." The meme, a spin on the final line of Fight Club, is partly a backlash to the U.S. government's TikTok ban threat, partly widespread interest in Chinese tech and cultural exports. Bolstered by the popularity of the Lunar New Year and Chinese Zodiac discourse, feeds are spilling over with cross-cultural exchange.

Being "spiritually Chinese" — and, yes, it is as reductive as you think it is — has led to multiple wellness trends across the app. TikTok users are hitting up traditional medicinal healing shops; Ginseng 1668 & Herbs Inc. in New York City has become a viral sensation. They're also drinking hot water before bed to get better sleep, and adopting traditional herbal face masks.

And then there's the widespread embracing of our inner Chinese aunties.

During one scroll, I came across the account of yoga practitioner @MindfulnessWithKat, advising her followers how to "stretch like a Chinese auntie." To my surprise, I already did most of Kat's auntie exercises every morning, mainly natural body movements that I know feel good and have done for years to loosen my chronically tight limbs and creaky joints.

Once I followed Kat, my feed filled up with more "auntie" guidance, including tips for more peaceful sleep and videos praising Qi Gong, an ancient movement practice similar to Tai Chi. 

View this post on Instagram

I had long trained my algorithm to avoid fitness and dieting influencers, but this was different. The exercises looked like the way my body was already used to moving. So I locked in, following Kat's frequent uploads for a week, which incorporate the slow pace and tissue stretches of Yin yoga with mindful tension release.

Not a fad, not a joke, just something that works. And I loved every minute of it. 

Let your hands go

My body doesn't easily sit still. I'm always completing a task or doing an errand. If I'm at rest, my hands are twirling through my hair or over a fidget device. Oh, and I don't have a mind's eye. Meditation is hard for me. 

But this year, TikTok showed me that my noisy hands might actually be mindfulness tools in themselves.

Where 2024's trends beelined toward new tech — yoga apps, meditation podcasts on Spotify, the latest wearable — 2026 is all about going back to the days of yore. TikTok users are reviving old crafts in an effort to reclaim our attention spans from screens. They're obsessing over traditional lace work, needlepoint, and intricate beading projects. Fiber artists have become some of the most popular creators online.

Handcrafts are my bread and butter. I love an excuse to build something physical, or to copy art down to the finest detail. I love giving very thoughtful, time-intensive gifts fashioned with sweat and tears. So if the internet tells me I can reclaim my time and mental fortitude with a little crocheting or hand beading? Sign me up. 

After discovering this connection, I rushed to whip out my macrame rope and gathered supplies to needle felt another tiny animal to add to my collection (this time, a lamb finger puppet for my niece's first birthday). I put my phone away. I locked in.

My mind is still when my hands are busy. That internal voice quiets as I hyperfocus on getting the details right. And I am awash in a sense of fulfillment seeing the result of hours of patience held right there in my hands. 

I looked down at the little lamb at the tip of my pointer finger and thought: I could do this forever.

My birthday lamb <3 Credit: Chase DiBenedetto / Mashable

To sum up a week of reevaluation: TikTok's wellness influencers are finally starting to favor curiosity, critical thinking, and reflection over self-optimization. You see it in the promotion of an "anti-hustle" lifestyle, as well as the dumb phones now proliferating among the chronically online. Authenticity, including the failures that come with it, are cool now. 

TikTok, often prone to romanticizing detachment and aloofness, seems to have learned an important lesson over the last two years: Presence is more important than performance. 

Categories: IT General, Technology

The best hookup apps for 2026: I swiped until my thumb hurt

Mashable - Sat, 03/28/2026 - 11:00

In the age of on-demand everything, it’s no surprise that we can get "dates" (and I use that term loosely) with the tap of a button. Thanks to classic hookup apps like Tinder and newcomers like Pure, finding a sexy new friend can be as straightforward as ordering a pizza. As for the quality, well, that’s about the same as your pizza — hit or miss, depending on the time of day, where you're located, and how hungry you are.

Fortunately, you’ve got me, your resident dating app expert (though I prefer modern-day Carrie Bradshaw), to guide you to the promised land, aka the best hookup apps.

I’ve spent the past three years (yes, years) researching, downloading, and testing dozens of the top dating apps to find the best ones for all kinds of daters, including the one-night-stand crowd. From discrete sexting apps to dating sites for serious relationships, I've swiped through them all. I also consulted a panel of sex and relationship experts to make sure my picks are solid.

How to get the most out of hookup apps

My number one rule is to be brutally honest about what you’re looking for. You’re here for a good time — so own it. That means staying in your lane; don't go looking for a one-night stand on an app like eharmony.

"Hookup apps help prevent situations where people are on mainstream dating sites with the intention of having a casual hookup but are unclear about these intentions," Suzannah Weiss, resident sexologist for Biird and author of Subjectified: Becoming a Sexual Subject, tells Mashable. "They also give women a space to be openly sexual creatures without judgment."

And here's a little insider secret I picked up from Alexander Liebisch, the CEO and founder of TinderProfile.ai: Timing is everything. He found that people messaging on Tinder's "free tonight" feature after 10 p.m. on a weekend had a 45 percent higher chance of hooking up.

So, whether you're looking for a one-night stand, a regular FWB situation, or just a space to explore your sexuality, I've got you covered. Based on all my hands-on testing and expert consultations, I’ve broken down the best hookup app for every type of person and mood.

Recent updates to this guide

  • Hinge: Hinge just keeps getting better, so I’ve bumped it up higher on my list as of October 2025. Its user base is growing, and my own recent tests on the app have been surprisingly positive.

  • Sniffies (added September 2025): I've added Sniffies, the map-based app for queer men, because it's been gaining a lot of traction. (It got a little too spicy for Apple and was pulled from the App Store, so it's now technically a dating site.) Don't say I didn't warn you about the NSFW content.

  • FetLife (added September 2025): FetLife is my new favorite "Honorable Mention." It's not your typical hookup app; it's more of a social network for the kink community (and, oddly enough, the best hookup app for gamers). Just remember: it's a community, so don't treat it like Tinder.

Why some popular hookup apps didn't make the cut

You might notice a few apps that pop up in ads or other lists are missing here. That’s intentional. I swipe through the good, the bad, and the downright sketchy so you don’t have to. For an app to make my list, it has to be effective, safe, and worth your time.

Here's a shortlist of apps that didn't make the cut this year:

  • Wild: You’ve probably seen ads for this one. On paper, Wild sounds like the perfect casual dating app. In practice, the paywalls are aggressive, the distance filter doesn't work, and you have to pay for anything that's even remotely useful. Unless you're willing to spend serious cash upfront (and hope for the best), the experience feels limited compared to more open apps like Tinder.

  • DOWN: This app (formerly "Bang With Friends") is known for its simple "Get Down" vs. "Get Date" feature. It sounds clever, but in reality, the experience is messy at best. Many users report feeling scammed by subscriptions that don't deliver matches, or finding that the few real people on there are... let's say "odd." It’s hard to recommend an app when the main user complaint is "Is anyone real?" Hard pass.

  • Facebook Dating: Yes, Facebook has a dating section, and it’s surprisingly massive (and completely free, which is huge). While it's a decent option for casual dating, the vibe tends to be a bit more "friends of friends" and "relationship-focused" than the anonymous, no-strings energy you get from apps like Pure or Feeld. (For Mashable's Chance Townsend, signing up was "the most uneventful dating experience" of his life.) It's worth a shot if you're already on Facebook, but it didn't quite crack my top tier for hookups specifically.

Apps I've cut from the list

  • Plenty of Fish (removed January 2025): POF went through a rebrand recently, and honestly, I'm not impressed. My latest tests showed they got rid of key features like free messaging for non-matches, and I kept running into the same old profiles. At the end of the day, it just doesn't offer anything special that other apps aren't already doing better, so it's off the list.

  • Match (removed August 2025): I know some people say they've found casual hookups on Match, but that's not what it's for. Match is where you go to find a serious, long-term relationship, and I still recommend it for that. But for a hookup? You're just fishing in the wrong pond, so I've removed it from this guide to avoid any confusion.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Anker chargers, Casetify cases, and Brick are just some of the best phone accessory deals from Amazons spring sale

Mashable - Sat, 03/28/2026 - 10:30

We're in the thick of Amazon's Big Spring Sale, and as we sort through all the best home and tech deals, we're seeing plenty of great cell phone accessories on sale.

Whether you're looking to improve your creator setup with a built-in mount, refresh your case, or simply upgrade your ancient cell phone charger, we found something on sale that can help you out.

You'll want to shop these deals before Amazon's Spring Sale wraps up on March 31 at 11:59 p.m. PT.

The Octobuddy Octobuddy Max $14.44 at Amazon
$16.99 Save $2.55   Get Deal at Amazon Why we like it

The Octobuddy is a creator favorite, and for good reason. The adhesive accessory makes mounting your phone basically anywhere a possibility, thanks to the suction cups lining the back of it. This Big Spring Sale discount saves you 15%, bringing the case down to $14.44 from $16.99.

SEE ALSO: The best creator-approved deals to shop in Amazon's Big Spring Sale — DJI drones and mics on sale An affordable Anker MagSafe charger Anker MagSafe Charger Pad $14.99 at Amazon
$29.99 Save $15.00   See It at Amazon See It at Walmart Why we like it

Don't feel like spending $40 on an Apple MagSafe charger? No problem. You can grab one from Anker for nearly one-third of the price. Thanks to this 50% off Spring Sale deal, Anker's 15-watt MagSafe charger is just $14.99.

A smart charger Anker Smart Display Charger $27.99 at Amazon
$39.99 Save $12.00   Get Deal at Amazon Get Deal at Amazon Get Deal at Amazon Why we like it

If you don't play about your phone battery's health, investing in a smart charger can be worth it. This one from Anker has a smart display that lets you check charging status, but the real noteworthy feature of this 45-watt pocket-sized charger is that it will automatically adjust its output for your device's specific needs. Grab it for $29.99, saving you $10 off its $39.99 list price.

The most convenient tripod setup Moft Phone Tripod $33.99 at Amazon
$39.99 Save $6   Get Deal at Amazon Why we like it

Much like the Octobuddy, the Moft phone tripod can be spotted in many a creator's arsenal. The magnetic accessory can be slapped onto the back of your phone to add an instant tripod in basically any situation. Typically, you'd have to shell out $39.99 for the accessory, but for Amazon's Spring Sale, this case is down to $33.99 in a variety of colors.

The Casetify Impact case Casetify Impact case for iPhone 17 Pro Max $51.20 at Amazon
$64 Save $12.80   Get Deal at Amazon Why we like it

If you haven't owned a Casetify case yourself, you've almost certainly had someone in your life who has. They're pricey, but they're cute and offer 8.2 feet of drop protection. Pick one up over the Big Spring Sale for $51.20, saving you 20% on their usual $64.

The internet-famous Brick Opens in a new window Credit: Brick Brick $47.20 at Brick
$59 Save $11.80   Get Deal Why we like it

Scared of looking at your screen time report each week? Mashable's Samantha Mangino credits the Brick for cutting hers in half. If that's not convincing enough, the Brick is getting a rare deal — you can save 20% on one, nabbing it for $47.20 instead of $59, or 25% on two, grabbing them for $88.50 instead of $118. Note: this deal isn't available on Amazon, only Brick's website, but it was too good not to mention.

An all-in-one Anker charging station Anker Prime 3-in-1 Charging Station $104.99 at Amazon
$149.99 Save $45.00   Get Deal at Amazon Why we like it

Constantly fumbling for chargers for your earbuds, phone, and smartwatch? Simplify your system with a charging station. This one from Anker is usually $149.99, but is currently all the way down to $104.99 during Amazon's sale.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Get productive with work from home essentials on sale at Amazons spring sale: Standing desks, monitors, more

Mashable - Sat, 03/28/2026 - 10:15
A quick look at the best work from home deals at Amazon's spring sale: Best noise-canceling headphones deal Sony WH-1000XM6 $398 at Amazon (save $61.99) Get Deal Best home office deal FlexiSpot Comhar Electric Standing Desk $249.99 at Amazon (save $100) Get Deal Best monitor deal Samsung 27-inch Essential S3 Curved Monitor $115.99 at Amazon (save $64) Get Deal

Emotionally, working from the comfort of home can be a blessing. But from a physical comfort or productivity standpoint, working from home can turn into a curse without the right setup. Amazon's Big Spring Sale is the perfect time to optimize your home office for getting shit done, even if your home office is just a corner in the living room.

SEE ALSO: Amazon Big Spring Sale 2026: Live updates on the top deals

One underrated WFH hack is just to keep your space clean. Even if it's not a conscious distraction, a mess in the background (or that weird smell from the washing machine) is hard to compartmentalize when you're at home all day. So, take advantage of Amazon's spring cleaning deals and get your big annual clean out of the way on a day off. And during the week, send the robot vacuum out and throw on some noise-cancelling headphones.

For other classic WFH struggles, we've picked eight work from home essentials on sale at Amazon that'll change the game on a daily basis.

An ergonomic mouse Anker 2.4G Wireless Vertical Ergonomic Optical Mouse $19.98 at Amazon
$29.99 Save $10.01   See It at Amazon Why we like it

An ergonomic mouse (or vertical mouse) looks like it would take some serious getting used to, but you'd be surprised at how natural it feels. These weird-shaped mice keep your hand in a neutral handshake position rather than making you twist your hand to lay flat on a traditional mouse. Relief can be felt all the way from wrist to shoulder.

This wireless vertical mouse from Anker is on sale for less than $20, making it $50 less than the sale price on the popular Logitech Lift Mouse.

A wireless charger Opens in a new window Credit: Twelve South Twelve South HiRise MagSafe Wireless Charger Stand $35.99 at Amazon
$79.99 Save $44.00   Get Deal Why we like it

On a stressful day, nothing sends you over the edge quite like wrestling with tangled cords when your laptop's about to die. One quick way to de-clutter your space is to switch to a wireless charging station for your phone. This MagSafe stand props your phone up while it charges and can charge AirPods, too. The glacier blue option is more than 50% off during the Big Spring Sale.

A standing desk Flexispot Comhar Electric Standing Desk $229.99 at Amazon
$299.99 Save $70   Get Deal at Amazon Why we like it

Many WFH-ers accidentally find themselves taking fewer desk breaks than they would at the office, mostly because there are simply fewer reasons to stand up at home. A standing desk offers a physical change of pace from an otherwise sedentary workday. Benefits range from relieving back strain or achy legs to boosting productivity, especially on the days when you're nodding off.

The FlexiSpot Comhar desk can switch from sit to stand mode (46.5 inches) with the press of a button. It also features a built-in drawer and two USB charging ports.

A cervical neck stretcher Restcloud Neck and Shoulder Relaxer $19.99 at Amazon
  See It at Amazon Why we like it

Working location aside, neck and shoulder tension is a pretty universal side effect of staring at a computer for a living. This popular neck stretcher and cervical traction pillow from Restcloud is designed to hug the natural C-shape curve of the neck — the antithesis of tech neck. Lying on it for just a few minutes per day can relieve pressure on your neck muscles and spine.

An air purifier Blueair Blue Pure 311i Max air purifier $169 at Amazon
$229.99 Save $60.99   See It at Amazon Why we like it

Allergies or not, no one is completely immune to the respiratory irritants naturally floating around in our homes. But pollen season is a great time to grab an air purifier on sale — the Blueair Blue Pure 311i Max is our favorite air purifier deal at Amazon's spring sale. Its HEPA filter quietly captures airborne particles known to make us feel crappy, like pollen, dust, mold spores, and pet dander.

The 311i Max can clean up to 1,858 square feet in an hour (the largest capacity of any purifier on sale for less than $200).

Noise-cancelling headphones Sony WH-1000XM6 $398 at Amazon
$459.99 Save $61.99   Get Deal at Amazon Why we like them

Read Mashable's full review of the Sony WH-1000XM6.

A $61.99 discount on headphones doesn't seem that exciting if the headphones still cost almost $400. But it's a little different when we're talking about Sony's latest flagship headphones, which have only gone on sale a few times in their 10 months on the market.

The WH-1000XM6 and their pristine active noise cancellation are the best you can buy to get you in the zone at home, whether you need to seal out construction during a meeting or blast your eardrums with a focus playlist. Other upgrades from the 1000XM5 include improved mic and overall call quality. Plus, the whole headset finally folds.

A walking pad UREVO CyberPad Smart Walking Pad with 14% Auto Incline, Brushless Motorized Under Desk Treadmill for Office Fitness, Elegant Speed Lights, Spacious Surface, Digital Controller, AI-Powered App $379.99 at Amazon
$449.99 Save $70   See It at Amazon

We don't underscore the importance of going for at least a small walk in the sun around here. But since the typical work schedule doesn't block time off for an hour-long daily stroll, a walking pad is a game-changing way to squeeze in extra steps throughout the workday.

Make it an under-desk treadmill if you have a standing desk, or hop on while you listen to a camera-off presentation. If you're actually trying to break a sweat, the Urevo CyberPad can hit up to a 14 percent incline. It's compact enough to be stored under most beds or couches, or can be flipped up to store against a wall.

A curved monitor Samsung 27-inch Essential S3 Curved Monitor $115.99 at Amazon
$179.99 Save $64.00   See It at Amazon Why we like it

The freedom to work from the couch is certainly a pro of working from home, but hunching over like that for days (weeks? months?) on end can wreak havoc on your body. (Take it from someone who took way too long to curate a legitimate desk setup when working from home during COVID.)

Plus, pairing your work laptop with a monitor that doesn't suck to look at can positively impact productivity. It's much easier to jump between 30 open tabs when they're spread out between two screens, and the slight bend of my curved display really does feel more immersive than a flat screen. The 27-inch Samsung Essential S3 has one of the biggest discounts of all monitor deals during the Big Spring Sale, down 36% from its usual $179.99.

Categories: IT General, Technology
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