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5 Android apps with desktop companions so good you'll forget you have a phone

How-To Geek - Wed, 10/07/2026 - 15:00

Android phones can do so much, but that doesn't stop many of us from also having a laptop or desktop PC in our lives. That's why it's handy to have apps that can work on both screens. There's no need to switch devices and break your flow.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The Social Reckoning review: Aaron Sorkins indulgences fail this Facebook follow-up

Mashable - Wed, 10/07/2026 - 15:00

Yes, Aaron Sorkin wrote 2010's The Social Network, a historical drama that recounted how sexist computer nerd Mark Zuckerberg launched Facebook. Now, Sorkin has returned with The Social Reckoning, which focuses on how one brave whistleblower revealed some of the sinister decisions Zuckerberg made to favor his finances over the well-being of Facebook users. But this time, Sorkin is directing in place of David Fincher. And this means there's no end to his stylistic indulgences, which have grown increasingly stale since his West Wing days. 

Sorkin's predilection for banter, his oft-condescending tone, and his Newsroom tendency to depict women as sexy, scolding, or both, undermine the story he's trying to tell. Even his treatment of Zuckerberg (played here by Succession's Jeremy Strong) misses the mark, turning the tech titan into a caricature of capitalist greed. The Social Reckoning feels far less revelatory and far more like it's preaching to a choir — or more specifically, an all-male choir. 

The Social Reckoning is misogynistic.  Jeremy Allen White and Mikey Madison co-star in "The Social Reckoning." Credit: Sony Pictures

The problem begins with Sorkin's portrayal of whistleblower Frances Haugen, played here by Academy Award–winning actress Mikey Madison (Anora). 

Sorkin introduces Facebook coder Frances with a leering eye. Cinematographer Jeff Cronenweth films her at her home computer, wearing thigh-high shorts. His lens tilts slowly down her bare legs to reveal leg warmers and dangling, naked toes. The shot lingers long enough you might wonder if this is a Tarantino joint. The specificity of the leg warmers, which are matched by knitted fingerless gloves, is later explained to be related to a medical issue rather than sartorial eccentricity. In this introduction, however, it just feels fetishistic. 

This male gaze gets hornier as Frances begins meeting secretly with Wall Street Journal investigative reporter Jeff Horwitz (The Bear's Jeremy Allen White). He's staying at a hotel, so to deter suspicion about why she'd be there, she dresses up as if she's meeting someone for a date. In Sorkin's mind, this means low-plunging, skin-tight dresses with nude illusion lace that feel more suited to a red carpet. (And yes, even Madison's red carpet look for this movie's red carpet is more demure than her costumes in it!) So, even as Madison is sharply delivering technical dialogue, a medium or wide shot will revel in her cleavage and curvy figure. 

Elsewhere, other heralded actresses, including Emmy winner Betty Gilpin and BAFTA winner Wunmi Mosaku, play more corporate figures dressed in mercilessly snug-fitting suits that draw attention to their busts and hips. And though Canadian Screen Acting nominee Anna Lambe, playing one of Frances' colleagues, isn't as relentlessly ogled, she — like every other woman mentioned — is essentially a scold. 

Frances is giving Jeff all the info he needs to write his expose series. But along the way, she will repeatedly berate him and call him stupid. (He'll say she's "mean.") Lambe's role is mostly scorning Frances for her concerns about Facebook empowering extremist groups. Mosaku is a crisis manager who is sternly teaching Zuckerberg to look less like a robot ahead of his Senate Judiciary hearing. Gilpin's Wall Street Journal executive is 80 percent glowering, save for a one-on-one scene with Madison that seems to have been put there by Sorkin solely to beat the Bechdel Test. 

And to that end, Sorkin's dialogue between Frances and Jeff is repeatedly infuriating. He seems to be trying to recreate the bouncy will-they-won't-they banter of the films of Frank Capra, who gets name-dropped by Jeff in a patronizing tone. (He chastises Frances for only knowing two of Capra's movies.) It's insulting to suggest that audiences can only be interested in the dialogue between these two if there's a flirtatious frisson. And frankly, the actors seem to resist that pressure, doubling down in the sternness of their characters. Still, it's galling that Sorkin's dialogue resolutely builds Jeff to be one of a dying breed, the intellectual man, when he's actually a tediously smug misogynist.  

In the film, Jeff is a political reporter who wants to investigate Facebook without joining it, and doesn't even know how to use GPS. (He prefers paper maps in 2019!) He bullies his intern — whom he calls "the female one" — into joining Facebook so he can observe her experience for data collection. When he demands she like and reshare whatever crosses her feed, she worries people will believe it's really her, and he ignores her. Then, when a frustrated Frances accuses him of "mansplaining," he counters that women only say that when they're losing an argument.

SEE ALSO: Women's mansplaining experiences will make you want to throw things

Admittedly, White's charisma and a gentle tone that feels like he's stolen Ryan Gosling's voice softens the rough edges of some of these egregiously off-putting moments. But overall, what Sorkin imagines will entertain the audience so they'll eat the vegetables of this whistleblower story is actually poisoning the plate. 

Jeremy Strong is an unfunny parody of Mark Zuckerberg.  Jeremy Strong plays Mark Zuckerberg in "The Social Reckoning." Credit: Sony Pictures

In The Social Network, Jesse Eisenberg was widely praised for his depiction of Zuckerberg as an arrogant asshole, determined that he was the smartest guy in the room. In The Social Reckoning, none of that frat boy swagger remains. Strong, an award-winning actor in his own right, plays Zuckerberg stiffly, whether he's practicing his testimony or speaking to his staff. His arguments are flat and unconvincing, even as he faces one of the most pivotal moments in Facebook's history: whether to shut down President Donald Trump's ability to post on Facebook during the Jan. 6th insurrection. 

It might be a technically accurate portrayal of the Silicon Valley icon. But it makes Zuckerberg look like a pencil brought to life by an incompetent Etsy witch. So, as he spouts his supposed faith in free speech or his determination to make Facebook an unstoppable financial juggernaut, there's an uncanny valley-like disconnect. Sorkin makes no attempt to connect how Zuckerberg from The Social Network, where he was a cocky yuppie in a bathrobe and shower sandals, might have become this pod person muttering about percentages in a bland business suit.

To Sorkin's credit, he brings in comedian Bill Burr as an emotive foil. Playing the role of Zuckerberg's counsel, he agitates and bellows, hitting the Facebook founder with some of the sharp words many in the public might love to throw at him. But it's a problem when a tertiary character who's in maybe seven minutes of the movie feels like the only real person, even though the movie is based on real people. 

In the end, The Social Reckoning feels like a finger-wagging lecture. Perhaps Sorkin means to spice it up with Golden Age Hollywood banter, a portrait of Zuckerberg as a dead-eyed ghoul, and a slathering of sex appeal from the female cast. But Sorkin's dusty devices, problematic archetypes, and cringeworthy dialogue make the film feel instantly dated. Scroll on.

The Social Reckoning opens in theaters Oct. 9. 

Categories: IT General, Technology

This Owala water bottle matches the burgundy iPhone and is under $20 on Prime Day

Mashable - Wed, 10/07/2026 - 14:58

TL;DR: As of Oct. 7, the 24-ounce Owala FreeSip Twist is on sale at Amazon for $19.97 in select colorways. At full price, this water bottle will run you $29.99, meaning this deal saves you $10.02.

Opens in a new window Credit: Owala Owala FreeSip Twist (24 ounce) $19.97 at Amazon
$29.99 Save $10.02   Get Deal

Prime Big Deal Days is ending soon, and I've officially added the first real temptation of the sale to my cart: an Owala water bottle.

Like a few other of my Mashable colleagues, I've owned an Owala FreeSip for years, and though I love her down, I can't deny that the 40 ounce behemoth, though wonderful on my desk, can be a little less convenient while traveling or when I'm out and about all day long. Enter: the Owala FreeSip Twist.

SEE ALSO: October Prime Day 2026: Live updates on Apple, Kindle, Lego, and Samsung deals

My colleague Sam Mangingo wrote about how the Twist is the perfect travel companion, easily fitting into backpack side pockets and cup holders. Don't get me wrong, I can make it work with the FreeSip Sway thanks to the tapered bottom, but traveling isn't my only use case. I'm someone who very much subscribes to the big purse lifestyle, so I'm often carrying at least one book, one notebook, several pouches full of various "just in case" items, and my water bottle (yes, I'm a Virgo). In other words, I wouldn't hate having a slightly smaller bottle for taking on the go.

I especially wouldn't mind it because this one is on sale for less than $20, instead of its usual $29.99. Plus, there are plenty of color options, including the gorgeous black cherry (and yes, it bears a striking resemblance to the burgundy iPhone colorway, for anyone looking to settle some FOMO). This deal could easily last through the end of the sale, but it could just as easily go back up in price. My advice? If you're in my boat, the price likely won't drop any further during the sale, so it's probably worth grabbing sooner rather than later.

Categories: IT General, Technology

24 Advent calendars are already on sale for October Prime Day, including Lego models that could sell out

Mashable - Wed, 10/07/2026 - 14:55
Best Prime Day deals on 2026 Advent calendars Best Lego Advent Calendar deal Lego Star Wars Advent Calendar 2026 $35 (save $9.99) Get Deal Best puzzle Advent calendar deal Galison 12 Days of Christmas Holiday Puzzle Countdown $20.99 (save $6) Get Deal Best Advent calendar deal for young kids Little Golden Books Advent Calendar with 24 Winter Holiday Books $26.97 (save $3.02) Get Deal

It's only October, but somehow it's time to start thinking about the holidays. If you're one to celebrate with an Advent calendar, you know the rush is real, and plenty of popular models sell out well before December begins.

Amazingly, Amazon has tons of models on sale for October Prime Day. Almost all of the Lego Advent calendars are about $10 off (and in stock), while plenty of other models for both kids and adults are included in early sales.

SEE ALSO: 15 early Prime Day deals on Lego: We found rare deals on Lego Star Wars, Lego Pokémon, and more

We've listed some of our favorite options below, but check back as we continue to update this article.

Best Lego Advent calendar deal Opens in a new window Credit: Lego Lego Star Wars Advent Calendar 2026 $35 at Amazon
$44.99 Save $9.99   Get Deal Why we like it

A top-seller every year and one that's very likely to sell out, the Lego Star Wars Advent Calendar is a classic. On October Prime Day, secure yours for $35, marked down from the normal price of $44.99. This year's model features icons from The Mandalorian and Grogu. In total, the 24 days of surprises has 293 pieces to display on the included winery diorama.

More Lego Advent calendar dealsBest puzzle Advent calendar Opens in a new window Credit: Galison Galison 12 Days of Christmas Holiday Puzzle Countdown $20.99 at Amazon
$26.99 Save $6   Get Deal Why we like it

Featuring 12 mini 80-piece puzzles, the Galison Holiday Puzzle Countdown is a great way to celebrate the season or a fun gift. All 12 days feature a wintry design by artist Michael Storrings. Galison used recycled paper to make these no-dust puzzle pieces, and each puzzle measures five by seven inches.

More puzzle Advent calendar dealsBest Advent calendar for young kids Opens in a new window Credit: Golden Books Little Golden Books Advent Calendar with 24 Winter Holiday Books $26.97 at Amazon
$29.99 Save $3.02   Get Deal Why we like it

With 24 mini paperback Little Golden Books, any kid would be thrilled to open each of the 24 days on this calendar. In total, the calendar holds 576 pages of holiday magic from books like Richard Scarry's Christmas Mice and classics like The Night Before Christmas. On sale for just under $27, this Prime Day deal brings each book down to about $1.13. For quality time with classic books, this deal is one to hop on quickly.

More Advent calendar deals for young kidsMore Advent calendar deals
Categories: IT General, Technology

Save $10 on preorders of Nintendos remake of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time on Prime Day

Mashable - Wed, 10/07/2026 - 14:51

TL;DR: Physical preorders for Nintendo's The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time remake are already $10 off at Amazon. Preorder for $59.99 and get a preorder price guarantee.

Opens in a new window Credit: Nintendo 'The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time' (Digital) $59.99 at Amazon
  Shop Now Opens in a new window Credit: Nintendo 'The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time' (Physical) $59.88 at Amazon
$69.99 Save $10.11   Get Deal

We're edging closer and closer to the Nintendo Switch 2 remake of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. The official release date is Nov. 5, but Zelda fans are already buzzing thanks to the first-look gameplay footage.

Preorders for both the digital and physical copies are already available at Amazon. The digital version costs $59.99, while the physical edition was initially priced at $69.99 but has been reduced to $59.88 — great news for those of us who prefer to have the actual game in our hands.

There's another good reason to order from Amazon, as the retailer is offering a preorder price guarantee. That means if the preorder changes between now and when you're charged, you'll pay the lowest price point between when you order and when you receive the game.

If you're a serious Zelda fan, it's worth getting that preorder in soon.

Nintendo has revealed that the first print run of the physical edition will come with "special packaging that features textured foil cover art." That's one for the collectors, who will also love the Legend of Zelda-themed hardware coming this fall to mark the franchise's 40th anniversary. That will include a special-edition Switch 2 console, a Pro Controller, and a carrying case, all out Oct. 29.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The Pokémon TCG 30th Celebration Pokemon Greninja ex Box is on sale and flying out the door at Amazon

Mashable - Wed, 10/07/2026 - 14:45

TL;DR: The Pokémon TCG 30th Celebration Pokemon Greninja ex Box is in stock and available for $94.75 at Amazon for October Prime Day. That's over $8 off the list price of $99.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: The Pokémon Company Pokémon TCG 30th Celebration Pokemon Greninja ex Box $91.92 at Amazon
$99.99 Save $8.07   Get Deal

Amazon's October Prime Day is absolutely stacked with deals. Everything from TVs to DJI drones, kitchen, power stations, gaming hardware, and Apple devices. There's a special place for Pokémon deals, which are hugely popular — even when discounts are relatively small.

It's no surprise that Pokémon fans are crazy for the 30th Celebration collection, especially with any kind of savings. The deals are going fast as a result.

As of Oct. 7, the Pokémon TCG 30th Celebration Pokemon Greninja ex Box is in stock and available for $91.92. That's a saving of $8.07, and every cent helps when you're in the trading card collecting game.

This Pokémon TCG 30th Celebration Pokemon Greninja ex Box deal is actually above the market value right now, but stocks are going, and nobody wants to miss a chance to catch this particular Pokémon deal. This box contains one foil promo card featuring Greninja ex, one foil oversize card, and four booster packs.

Grab the Pokémon TCG 30th Celebration Pokemon Greninja ex Box while it's still marked down and available for October Prime Day.

Our best editor-vetted Prime Day deals right now

Apple AirPods Pro 3 Noise Cancelling Heart Rate Wireless Earbuds — $179.00 (List Price $249.00)

Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones — $238.00 (List Price $399.99)

Ring Indoor Cam Plus 2K Wired Security Camera (2-Pack, White) — $99.99 (List Price $119.98)

Apple iPad 11" 128GB Wi-Fi Retina Tablet (Blue, 2025 Release) — $399.99 (List Price $449.00)

Ring 2nd Gen 2K Wired Video Doorbell With Chime (2026 Release) — $114.98

Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Plus Streaming Player With Remote (2025 Model) — $69.99

Apple Watch Series 12 (GPS, 42mm, S/M Black Sport Band) — $399.00

Blink Outdoor 4 1080p 3-Camera Kit With Sync Module Core + Doorbell   — $189.99 (List Price $259.98)

Categories: IT General, Technology

4 things you can 3D print for your car (and 3 you really shouldn't)

How-To Geek - Wed, 10/07/2026 - 14:30

3D printing is one of the best things that's happened to cars. There's a near-endless sea of modifications and improvements you can make, ranging from universal stuff like dashboard mounts to highly specific pieces that are no longer being made for older cars.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Rare Shokz deal: The Shokz OpenFit Pro earbuds are over $50 off on October Prime Day

Mashable - Wed, 10/07/2026 - 14:27

SAVE $90: As of Oct. 7, the Shokz OpenFit Pro Open-Ear Earbuds are available for $199.45 on Amazon. That's a savings of $50.50 off the regular list price of $249.95 — their lowest-ever price on Amazon.

Opens in a new window Credit: Shokz Shokz OpenFit Pro Open-Ear Earbuds $199.45 at Amazon
$249.95 Save $50.50   Get Deal

Sales like October Prime Day are a great opportunity to score tech you've always fancied adopting but never had the cash to splash at full price. One such item might be a pair of open-ear earbuds, which are seeing constant innovation and offer a completely different experience from regular earbuds and headphones.

The point of open-ear buds is that you can hear the world around you. You're not plugged in and closed off like you are with earbuds that drive into your ear canal. Audio brand Shokz has delivered another innovation with the Shokz OpenFit Pro Open-Ear Earbuds, which add noise technology to the open-ear listening experience. And now you can get them at an all-time low price on Amazon thanks to October Prime Day, which is in the home stretch of its final day.

As of Oct. 7, the Shokz OpenFit Pro Open-Ear earbuds have dropped to a record Amazon price of just $199.45, marked down from the regular list price of $249.95. That means you save an impressive $50.50 overall.

The noise reduction technology works by analyzing ambient noise and responding in real-time, providing personalized noise reduction tailored to your ear shape and environment. You can also adjust and customize settings in the app.

Other features include a mammoth 50-hour battery life, AI-enhanced call clarity, improved ear hooks to keep them firmly in place — even during workouts and other activities — plus support for Dolby Atmos with head tracking for optimal sound.

Grab the Shokz OpenFit Pro Open-Ear earbuds while they're available at this all-time low price and save over $50. Prime Day ends tonight (Oct. 7), so there's limited time to save.

Our best editor-vetted Prime Day deals right now

Apple AirPods Pro 3 Noise Cancelling Heart Rate Wireless Earbuds — $179.00 (List Price $249.00)

Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones — $238.00 (List Price $399.99)

Ring Indoor Cam Plus 2K Wired Security Camera (2-Pack, White) — $99.99 (List Price $119.98)

Apple iPad 11" 128GB Wi-Fi Retina Tablet (Blue, 2025 Release) — $399.99 (List Price $449.00)

Ring 2nd Gen 2K Wired Video Doorbell With Chime (2026 Release) — $114.98

Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Plus Streaming Player With Remote (2025 Model) — $69.99

Apple Watch Series 12 (GPS, 42mm, S/M Black Sport Band) — $399.00

Blink Outdoor 4 1080p 3-Camera Kit With Sync Module Core + Doorbell   — $189.99 (List Price $259.98)

Categories: IT General, Technology

I found the 10+ best October Prime Day MacBook deals: Save up to $600 on the MacBook Pro and MacBook Air

Mashable - Wed, 10/07/2026 - 14:15
The best October Prime Day MacBook deals at a glance: Best MacBook Air Deal Apple MacBook Air, 13-inch (M5, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) $1,099 (save $200) Get Deal Best MacBook Pro deal Apple MacBook Pro, 14-inch (M5 Pro with 18-core CPU/20-core GPU, 24GB RAM, 2TB SSD) $2,699 (save $500) Get Deal Best MacBook Neo deal (for now) Apple MacBook Neo (A18 Pro, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD) $689 (save $10) Get Deal

Genuinely good MacBook deals have been harder to come by in the wake of Apple's summer price hikes. Thanks to Prime Big Deal Days, that's finally changed.

Live now through midnight PT on Oct. 7, Amazon's 48-hour fall savings event for Prime members serves as its unofficial kickoff to the holiday shopping season. (It's often referred to as "October Prime Day.") The sale has ushered in sizable MacBooks discounts, the likes of which we haven't seen in months. Of special note is a $200 discount on the M5 MacBook Air that completely erases its price increase; this week marks the first time shoppers have been able to buy it for as low as $1,099 since June.

Check out my running list of the best October Prime Day MacBook deals below. I'll continue to update it as the sale continues.

How I picked the best October Prime Day MacBook deals

The Mashable team has reviewed every current MacBook and monitors their prices continuously throughout the year. The deals I'm personally recommending here involve the lowest prices on select models in at least three months, which I vetted using the Amazon price-tracking tool camelcamelcamel and our past coverage of MacBook deals. Things are looking a bit better than usual so far: MacBook Pro deals maxed out at $400 off last Prime Big Deal Days, but right now, select models are up to $600 off.

SEE ALSO: October Prime Day 2026 live: Updates on the latest deals on AirPods, Yeti, Kindles, and Owala water bottles

I've marked the models that haven't yet fallen to three-month lows as "MacBook deals to watch." (They're certainly not bad deals given Apple's price hikes this year, but they could be even better.) That's also the section where I've plopped the best live deals on the budget MacBook Neo, which is only $10 off on Amazon right now.

Finally, I'm keeping an eye on other retailers' MacBook deals this week to see if any of them manage to beat Amazon's prices. None of them have yet, though Best Buy was matching some of its offers at the time of writing. Check there if the configuration you want happens to sell out during Prime Big Deal Days.

Best MacBook Air deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple MacBook Air, 13-inch (M5, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) $1,099
$1,299 Save $200   Get Deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple MacBook Air, 15-inch (M5, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) $1,299 at Amazon
$1,499 Save $200   Get Deal

The latest MacBook Air is a Mashable Choice Award winner and one of our top-reviewed products of the year. In his testing, Mashable tech editor Timothy Beck Werth found the M5 chip to be ridiculously powerful (probably more powerful than the average person really needs, TBH). It also has a fantastic display, a great-sounding speaker system, and a sharp Center Stage webcam.

The 13- and 15-inch sizes of the MacBook Air are both now $200 off on Amazon, starting at just $1,099 and $1,299, respectively. Best Buy was matching those deals the last time I checked.

More MacBook Air dealsBest MacBook Pro deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple MacBook Pro, 14-inch (M5 Pro with 18-core CPU/20-core GPU, 24GB RAM, 2TB SSD) $2,699 at Amazon
$3,199 Save $500   Get Deal

The M5 Pro chip is one of Apple's upgraded laptop CPUs. It's designed to handle the ultra-demanding workloads of "pro users — like data modelers, post-production sound designers, and STEM students — who require robust processing power and graphics," according to a company press release.

Right now, you can save $500 on a 14-inch MacBook Pro with an M5 Pro chip that has 18 CPU cores and 20 GPU cores, plus 24GB of RAM and a healthy 2TB of storage. This laptop typically retails for $3,199, but you'll pay $2,699 — a 16% savings. (Best Buy is also price-matching Amazon here.) I want to point out that it costs exactly the same as another 14-inch MacBook Pro with the same amount of RAM and storage, but a lesser M5 Pro chip with 15 CPU cores and 16 GPU cores. If you're splurging on a new laptop for AI or creative work, this is more of a bargain.

More MacBook Pro dealsMacBook deals to watch
Categories: IT General, Technology

The Pokémon TCG 30th Celebration Pokemon Sylveon ex Box is in stock and on sale at Amazon — save over $10

Mashable - Wed, 10/07/2026 - 14:14

TL;DR: The Pokémon TCG 30th Celebration Pokemon Sylveon ex Box is in stock and available for $94.75 at Amazon for October Prime Day. That's over $10 off the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: The Pokémon Company Pokémon TCG 30th Celebration Pokemon Sylveon ex Box $94.75 at Amazon
$107.50 Save $12.75   Get Deal

What's actually selling over October Prime Day? We're seeing the usual rush to buy AirPods, MacBooks, and iPads. We're also seeing trendy items like DJI drones and Owala bottles selling well. But nothing is coming close to Pokémon.

The world continues to go wild for Pokémon cards, and now we're simply pointing you in the direction of items that are in stock.

The Pokémon TCG 30th Celebration Pokemon Sylveon ex Box is in stock and available for $94.75 at Amazon for October Prime Day. That's over $10 off the list price. It's important to note that this is above market price, but stock is severely limited elsewhere.

The Pokémon TCG 30th Celebration Pokemon Sylveon ex Box contains one foil promo card featuring Sylveon ex, ready for competitive play and display in collections. You also get one foil oversize card featuring Sylveon ex for showcasing your favorite Pokemon in a larger format, and four booster packs containing additional cards to expand your deck.

Score the Pokémon TCG 30th Celebration Pokemon Sylveon ex Box for over $10 off on October Prime Day.

Our best editor-vetted Prime Day deals right now

Apple AirPods Pro 3 Noise Cancelling Heart Rate Wireless Earbuds — $179.00 (List Price $249.00)

Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones — $238.00 (List Price $399.99)

Ring Indoor Cam Plus 2K Wired Security Camera (2-Pack, White) — $99.99 (List Price $119.98)

Apple iPad 11" 128GB Wi-Fi Retina Tablet (Blue, 2025 Release) — $399.99 (List Price $449.00)

Ring 2nd Gen 2K Wired Video Doorbell With Chime (2026 Release) — $114.98

Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Plus Streaming Player With Remote (2025 Model) — $69.99

Apple Watch Series 12 (GPS, 42mm, S/M Black Sport Band) — $399.00

Blink Outdoor 4 1080p 3-Camera Kit With Sync Module Core + Doorbell   — $189.99 (List Price $259.98)

Categories: IT General, Technology

I tested the top 10 popular Linux distros, here's how I'd rank them

How-To Geek - Wed, 10/07/2026 - 14:00

I’ve been using Linux for over a decade now, and during that time I’ve tested dozens of distros — both popular and obscure options. Like most distro hoppers, I usually find my next one on DistroWatch. However, it’s worth remembering that DistroWatch’s rankings aren’t representative of a distro’s quality or user count. It simply ranks how many people visit each distro’s page on DistroWatch.

Categories: IT General, Technology

I disabled DLSS to see if I could live without it and I lasted about five minutes

How-To Geek - Wed, 10/07/2026 - 13:30

I built a brand new PC in 2024, and it cost me around $3,000. I built it with the expectation that I'll be able to play all of the latest games at max settings for the next few years. And yes, I obviously knew that DLSS would play a part in that.

Categories: IT General, Technology

I turned Excel into a portal for everything on my PC and finally made sense of my files

How-To Geek - Wed, 10/07/2026 - 13:00

You might not think of Excel as a tool for managing your PC. I didn't either. But after years of accumulating files, I used it to build an inventory of everything in my Windows user folder, and suddenly I could see my computer in a way I never had before. Once that information is in Excel, I can filter it, combine different criteria, build dashboards, and follow whatever rabbit hole I happen to find.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Pokémon TCG 30th Celebration Mini Tins are on sale for October Prime Day — grab all 10 for $45 off

Mashable - Wed, 10/07/2026 - 12:56

TL;DR: The Pokémon TCG 30th Celebration Mini Tins Full Box is on sale for $354.88 at Amazon, down from its $399.95 list price on October Prime Day.

Opens in a new window Credit: The Pokémon Company Pokemon TCG 30th Celebration Mini Tins Full Box $354.88 at Amazon
$399.95 Save $45.07   Get Deal

Keen collectors going after all the Pokemon TCG’s 30th Celebration Mini Tins have a real challenge, but plenty of Amazon sellers have knocked down their prices to help you secure the whole set on Prime Day. 

As of Oct. 7, the Pokémon TCG 30th Celebration Mini Tins Full Box is $354.88 at Amazon, down $45.07 from its $399.95 list price. With 11% off, you’re still getting the same sealed assortment of 10 collectible Mini Tin designs. There is currently one left in stock via third-party seller AIGDistributionLLC, but Drizzle’s Deals and Strawberri Entertainment are also selling the collection at the same price, with only a slightly delayed delivery window. 

SEE ALSO: The best October Prime Day deals on Pokémon: Score fresh price drops on the 30th Celebration expansion

At this price, you’re paying only $35.48 per tin, saving $3.31 compared to buying them individually for $38.79 on Amazon. And for those, you don’t know what you’re getting, as each tin is picked randomly. 

Each of these 10 tins contains two 30th Celebration booster packs of trading cards, a sticker sheet, a matching Pokémon art card, and a Pokémon TCG Live code card. Across the full display, that gives you 20 booster packs altogether, plus 10 sticker sheets and 10 art cards. 

Our best editor-vetted Prime Day deals right now

Apple AirPods Pro 3 Noise Cancelling Heart Rate Wireless Earbuds — $179.00 (List Price $249.00)

Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones — $198.00 (List Price $399.99)

Ring Indoor Cam Plus 2K Wired Security Camera (2-Pack, White) — $59.98 (List Price $119.98)

Apple iPad 11" 128GB Wi-Fi Retina Tablet (Blue, 2025 Release) — $399.99 (List Price $449.00)

Ring 2nd Gen 2K Wired Video Doorbell With Chime (2026 Release) — $49.99 (List Price $114.98)

Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Plus Streaming Player With Remote (2025 Model) — $37.99 (List Price $69.99)

Apple Watch Series 12 (GPS, 42mm, S/M Black Sport Band) — $399.00

Blink Outdoor 4 1080p 3-Camera Kit With Sync Module Core + Doorbell   — $65.99 (List Price $259.98)

Categories: IT General, Technology

Dont miss this October Prime Day deal: Grab the Fire TV Stick HD at its lowest-ever price from Amazon

Mashable - Wed, 10/07/2026 - 12:49

SAVE OVER $20: As of Oct. 7, the Fire TV Stick HD is back to its lowest-ever price of $15.99 at Amazon for Prime Big Deal Days. That's $24 off its full price of $39.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Fire TV Stick HD $15.99 at Amazon
$39.99 Save $24   Get Deal

Since it's the last day of Amazon's Prime Big Deal Days sale, the clock is ticking for Prime members to save on a variety of items. That's especially true of the Fire TV Stick HD. This streaming device already has a countdown timer on its store page, so if you're hoping to grab it for $15.99, now is your last chance before its price goes back up to $39.99.

Overall, you're saving $24 on the Fire TV Stick HD through this offer, which is a solid chunk off its newly increased list price. We may not see a price cut like it again until Black Friday.

SEE ALSO: The 100+ best October Prime Day deals: We're tracking our Apple, Bose, Yeti, and Sony favorites

With this Fire TV Stick, which pairs well with an HD TV, you'll be able to boot up your favorite streaming apps and enjoy a variety of shows and movies in 1080p Full HD. You can even pin your favorite apps to the home screen for easy access, and get personalized recommendations from Alexa+ if you're looking for something new to watch. Plus, with WiFi 6 support, you'll enjoy smooth streaming.

It's also an incredibly portable streaming device that easily connects to your TV's HDMI port. So, if you want to take it somewhere outside your home, getting it set up again will be easy-breezy.

The clock is already counting down on this deal. Act fast to save on the Fire TV Stick HD at Amazon before its deal runs out after today.

Prime members only have 48 hours to shop Amazon’s Prime Big Deal Days sale. Sign up for a Prime 30-day free trial if you want to save some cash, and follow Mashable’s guide to the best October Prime Day deals and live blog for the latest updates.

The best deals this week, hand-picked by our shopping experts
Categories: IT General, Technology

The best live Bose speakers deals for October Prime Day: Last chance to save up to $120

Mashable - Wed, 10/07/2026 - 12:42
The best Bose speaker deals on October Prime Day: Best TV speaker deal Bose TV Speaker $199 (save $80) Get Deal Best portable speaker deal Bose SoundLink Max $279 (save $120) Get Deal Best waterproof speaker deal Bose SoundLink Flex $99 (save $60) Get Deal

If you're in the market for a new speaker, there's no sweeter sound than words like "October Prime Day," the sale event that's now in its final day on Amazon. The sale, running until the end of Oct. 7, means deals across a range of tech, including TVs, headphones, and, of course, Bluetooth speakers.

When you're buying a new speaker, you want a reliable brand name as much as you want a good price. That being the case, it's worth checking out the discounts on Bose Bluetooth speakers, which includes a record-low price and a saving of $120.

We've looked through the listings and found a selection of the best deals on Bose speakers. Don't forget that October Prime Day officially ends at the close of business today, so this could be your last chance to snag a speaker at these prices.

Best Bose TV speaker deal Opens in a new window Credit: Bose Bose TV Speaker $199 at Amazon
$279 Save $80   Get Deal Why we like it

No home cinema set-up is complete without a soundbar, and the Bose TV Speaker is now seriously affordable. It connects via Bluetooth (and also supports HDMI-ARC) and offers features such as an enhanced dialogue mode, a bass booster, and spatial audio. It rarely dips below this discounted price of $199, so it's a great deal while it's available.

Best Bose portable Bluetooth speaker deal Opens in a new window Credit: Bose Bose SoundLink Max $279
$399 Save $120   Get Deal Why we like it

If you need a speaker you can carry around the house or even throw in your bag for on-the-go listening, we recommend the Bose SoundLink Max. Not least of all, because it's got the biggest discount in this roundup — an impressive savings of $120 off the regular list price. It has up to 20 hours of playtime, enough for an all-day party.

Best Bose waterproof Bluetooth speaker deal Opens in a new window Credit: Bose Bose SoundLink Flex $99
$159 Save $60   Get Deal Why we like it

The Bose SoundLink Flex is a scaled-down version of the Max. It's designed to be even easier to take on your travels — particularly to the pool or beach or general adventure destinations thanks to being both waterproof and dustproof. It has 12 hours of battery and comes in a variety of super fun colorways. Choose one that suits your vibe. Now available at a record-low price.

More October Prime Day speaker deals
Categories: IT General, Technology

5 useful Google Maps accessibility features most people overlook (and they help everyone)

How-To Geek - Wed, 10/07/2026 - 12:30

Google Maps is usually associated with directions, traffic updates, and finding nearby places. But it also has a solid set of accessibility tools that many people don’t know about. These cover different needs, including mobility, vision, and hearing, and many of them help everyone, not just the people they were built for. Stair-free walking routes can help if you’re carrying luggage or pushing a stroller, and spoken walking directions let you keep your eyes up while you move.

Categories: IT General, Technology

NYT Strands hints, answers for October 7, 2026

Mashable - Wed, 10/07/2026 - 12:27

Today's NYT Strands hints will be easy if you're vibrant.

Strands, the New York Times' elevated word-search game, requires the player to perform a twist on the classic word search. Words can be made from linked letters — up, down, left, right, or diagonal, but words can also change direction, resulting in quirky shapes and patterns. Every single letter in the grid will be part of an answer. There's always a theme linking every solution, along with the "spangram," a special, word or phrase that sums up that day's theme, and spans the entire grid horizontally or vertically.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable

By providing an opaque hint and not providing the word list, Strands creates a brain-teasing game that takes a little longer to play than its other games, like Wordle and Connections.

If you're feeling stuck or just don't have 10 or more minutes to figure out today's puzzle, we've got all the NYT Strands hints for today's puzzle you need to progress at your preferred pace.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for October 7, 2026 NYT Strands hint for today’s theme: Color for the cure

The words are related to bright hues

Today’s NYT Strands theme plainly explained

These words describe a vibrant color.

NYT Strands spangram hint: Is it vertical or horizontal?

Today's NYT Strands spangram is diagonal.

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NYT Strands spangram answer today

Today's spangram is Tickled Pink.

NYT Strands word list for October 7
  • Shocking

  • Quartz

  • Flamingo

  • Tickled Pink

  • Barbie

  • Bubblegum

Meet The Mashable 101: Our list of the content creators shaping the internet today

Looking for other daily online games? Mashable's Games page has more hints, and if you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now!

Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to today's Strands.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Wordle today: Answer, hints for October 7, 2026

Mashable - Wed, 10/07/2026 - 12:26

Today's Wordle answer should be easy to solve if you always get to the bottom of it.

If you just want to be told today's word, you can jump to the bottom of this article for today's Wordle solution revealed. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for October 7, 2026 Where did Wordle come from?

Originally created by engineer Josh Wardle as a gift for his partner, Wordle rapidly spread to become an international phenomenon, with thousands of people around the globe playing every day. Alternate Wordle versions created by fans also sprang up, including battle royale Squabble, music identification game Heardle, and variations like Dordle and Quordle that make you guess multiple words at once. 

Wordle eventually became so popular that it was purchased by the New York Times, and TikTok creators even livestream themselves playing.

What's the best Wordle starting word?

The best Wordle starting word is the one that speaks to you. But if you prefer to be strategic in your approach, we have a few ideas to help you pick a word that might help you find the solution faster. One tip is to select a word that includes at least two different vowels, plus some common consonants like S, T, R, or N.

What happened to the Wordle archive?

The entire archive of past Wordle puzzles was originally available for anyone to enjoy whenever they felt like it, but it was later taken down, with the website's creator stating it was done at the request of the New York Times. However, the New York Times then rolled out its own Wordle Archive, available only to NYT Games subscribers.

Is Wordle getting harder?

It might feel like Wordle is getting harder, but it actually isn't any more difficult than when it first began. You can turn on Wordle's Hard Mode if you're after more of a challenge, though.

Here's a subtle hint for today's Wordle answer:

Verify.

Does today's Wordle answer have a double letter?

There are no recurring letters.

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Today's Wordle is a 5-letter word that starts with...

Today's Wordle starts with the letter P.

The Wordle answer today is...

Get your last guesses in now, because it's your final chance to solve today's Wordle before we reveal the solution.

Drumroll please!

The solution to today's Wordle is...

PROVE

Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be a new Wordle for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.

Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.

Reporting by Chance Townsend, Caitlin Welsh, Sam Haysom, Amanda Yeo, Shannon Connellan, Cecily Mauran, Mike Pearl, and Adam Rosenberg contributed to this article.

Meet The Mashable 101: Our list of the content creators shaping the internet today

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to today's Wordle.

Categories: IT General, Technology

NYT Connections hints today: Meanings for each word for Oct. 7, 2026

Mashable - Wed, 10/07/2026 - 12:26

Looking for spoiler-free NYT Connections hints or just wondering why Connections is trending today? We've got what you need to understand the clues for today's puzzle without spoiling any of the answers.

Of course, Mashable has also provided daily hints and answers for Connections, Wordle, and Strands for years, so we can help you if that's also what you need.

While we are focused more on meanings than hints in this story, sometimes learning that many of the words have completely unrelated meanings is a clue in and of itself. Connections frequently includes clues that involve words within words and other visual clues.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for October 7, 2026 Dichotomy meaning

A sharp division or contrast between two things that are completely different or opposed to each other.

Monologue meaning

A long, uninterrupted speech delivered by a single person in a conversation, play, movie or show.

Tetracycline meaning

A broad-spectrum antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections and acne.

Trident meaning

A three-pronged spear or instrument

Bank meaning

A licensed financial institution that accepts public deposits and provides loans

Squirrel meaning

A small-to-medium rodent with a long, bushy tail that typically climbs trees and eats nuts and seeds.

Stash meaning

To store, hide, or keep something safely.

Store meaning

A supply of items kept for future use.

Choreography meaning

The art and process of designing, planning, and arranging specific steps, movements, and patterns for dances and stage performances

Musical meaning

A stage and film production that tells a story through songs and dance.

Orchestrations meaning

The careful coordination of multiple separate elements or tasks to work together smoothly and achieve a specific goal.

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Play meaning

To perform an entertainment or a particular character.

Cinnamon meaning

A warm, fragrant spice made from the dried inner bark of tropical evergreen trees.

Hamburger meaning

A patty (typically beef) served inside two circular buns.

Hot dog meaning

A cooked sausage served inside a long, sliced bun.

Sticky meaning

Made of, covered with, or having the property of a substance that adheres to things that tou.

Have you learned the meanings and still want the things? Check out the hints and answers for today's NYT Connections puzzle.

Are you also playing NYT Strands? Get all the Strands hints you need for today's puzzle.

Meet The Mashable 101: Our list of the content creators shaping the internet today

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to today's Connections.

Categories: IT General, Technology
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