Blogroll

Tesla Roadster launch was postponed by two weeks due to high winds

Mashable - Wed, 09/30/2026 - 13:58

Tesla's second-generation Roadster could be the most postponed car ever. Originally announced in November 2017, and slated for a 2020 launch, the allegedly super-quick electric car has been delayed time and time again.

After many, many teasers and subsequent delays over the last two years, Tesla was finally slated to unveil the Roadster on Oct. 1. Alas, that's not going to happen.

On Monday, Tesla's official X account said the event has been rescheduled to Oct. 15.

"We've been tracking the weather closely with local meteorologists, but given the severe conditions predicted & because this event can only be held outdoors, we've made the difficult decision to reschedule.

New date is October 15. Additional details to follow," the message said.

This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed.

Tesla CEO Elon Musk chimed in with a clarification of his own: "Due to high winds, the new Roadster demo is postponed by 2 weeks," he tweeted.

The countdown timer on Tesla's website has now changed to reflect the Oct. 15 launch.

SEE ALSO: Tesla launched Cybercab in Austin. Hours later, the feds launched an investigation.

This, of course, caused a hurricane of tweets dunking on Musk saying, essentially, that windy weather shouldn't be a problem for a car. This is a car, however, that (according to Musk) will be able to fly in certain configurations, at least over a short distance. It appears that the flying part will depend on the weather.

Categories: IT General, Technology

5 unusual storage devices that are faster than any SSD (and why we don't use them for PC storage)

How-To Geek - Wed, 09/30/2026 - 13:30

You may think that if you've spent money on one of the most expensive SSDs (hopefully not too recently, given the prices), you've got the fastest storage in the world. In a way, it's true. But not in every context.

Categories: IT General, Technology

I connected Excel to a folder on my PC, and my weekly report now updates itself

How-To Geek - Wed, 09/30/2026 - 13:00

I used to hate combining weekly Excel reports. Copying data from one workbook to another works well enough, but it gets tedious when you have to do it every week. Then you have to remember whether you've done it, or worry about overwriting existing data. Thankfully, Excel can connect to a folder and combine those files for you, and even though it sounds like Excel wizardry, the setup takes just four simple steps.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The best early October Prime Day gaming deals: PS5, Nintendo Switch, and Xbox deals worth grabbing now

Mashable - Wed, 09/30/2026 - 12:57
The best early Prime Day gaming deals: Best video game deal Starfield (Standard Edition PS5) $39.18 (save $10.81) Get Deal Best console deal Nintendo Switch (Renewed) $189.99 (save $40.50) Get Deal Best gaming monitor deal Samsung 32-inch Odyssey G5 $199.99 (save $150) Get Deal Best gaming headset deal HyperX Cloud III S $129.99 (save $50) Get Deal Best gaming keyboard deal Razer BlackWidow V4 X $99.99 (save $30) Get Deal Best gaming mouse deal Razer Basilisk V3 $34.98 (save $35.01) Get Deal

Amazon’s October Prime Day is now less than a week away, and the early gaming deals are getting better with each day. We’re already seeing decent price cuts on PS5, Nintendo Switch, and Xbox games, as well as cheaper consoles, gaming monitors, headsets, mice, keyboards, and other setup upgrades ahead of the Oct. 6-7 sale.

SEE ALSO: Lego's Pokémon Eevee is close to its best-ever price at Amazon — save $12 before October Prime Day

Some of the strongest offers have already shifted since these deals first started appearing, so we’ve refreshed our picks to focus on what’s actually worth buying right now. That includes a sub-$200 renewed Nintendo Switch, the best deal on Starfield on PS5, and sizeable savings on gaming gear from HyperX, Samsung, Razer, and more.

We’ll keep updating this page as Prime Day gets closer, but these are the best gaming deals live right now.

Best video game deal Opens in a new window Credit: Xbox Starfield (Standard Edition PS5) $39.18 at Amazon
$49.99 Save $10.81   Get Deal Why we like it

Starfield only made the jump to PS5 in April, and the Standard Edition is already at a sizable discount. The game is currently listed at $47.31 (usually $49.99), but an on-page coupon drops it to $39.18 at checkout — for a saving of $10.81 in total. This is the full base game rather than a trimmed-down edition, giving you Bethesda’s huge sci-fi RPG with deep character customization, ship building, and over 1,000 planets to explore.

More early Prime Day video game deals

PS5

Nintendo Switch

Xbox

Best console deal Opens in a new window Credit: Nintendo/Amazon Renewed Store Nintendo Switch with Neon Blue and Red Joy-Con (Renewed) $189.99 at Amazon
$330.49 Save $140.50   Get Deal Why we like it

The standard Nintendo Switch is still hovering above $300, but Amazon Renewed is once again offering a much cheaper way into the platform. The Neon Blue and Red Joy-Con model is down to $189.99 in refurbished "Acceptable" condition, saving $140.50 off its $330.49 list price.

You’ll need to be fine with some light cosmetic wear, but you’re still getting the full 6.2-inch Switch experience with detachable Joy-Con and handheld, tabletop, and docked TV play for plenty of both first-party Nintendo and third-party multiplatform games.

Best gaming monitor deal Samsung 32-inch Odyssey G5 (G50F) Series QHD Gaming Monitor $229.99 at Amazon
$349.99 Save $120   Get Deal at Amazon Why we like it

Finding a 32-inch 1440p panel from a top-tier brand under $200 is a steal. You're getting a 180Hz refresh rate and a 1ms response time, plus G-Sync and FreeSync support to keep fast-paced action smooth and free of screen tearing. It also comes with a height-adjustable ergonomic stand right out of the box, so you can pivot, tilt, and swivel to your setup's needs — a practical feature most budget displays cut to trim costs.

More early gaming monitor deals Best gaming headset deal Opens in a new window Credit: HyperX HyperX Cloud III S – Wireless Gaming Headset for Multi-Platform $129.99 at Amazon
$179.99 Save $50   Get Deal Why we like it

The HyperX Cloud III S is a wireless upgrade at $129.99, down $50 from its $179.99 list price — that's its lowest-ever price on Amazon (confirmed by price tracker camelcamelcamel). In exchange, you’re getting up to 120 hours of battery life over 2.4GHz, or as much as 200 hours through Bluetooth, alongside 53mm angled drivers and HyperX’s memory foam cushioning. It also works on PC, PS5, PS4, Nintendo Switch, Mac, and mobile devices, with both USB-A and USB-C connectors included for easier switching between platforms.

More early gaming headset deals Best gaming keyboard and mouse deals Opens in a new window Credit: Razer Razer BlackWidow V4 X Mechanical Gaming Keyboard $99.99 at Amazon
$129.99 Save $30.00   Get Deal Opens in a new window Credit: Razer Razer Basilisk V3 $34.98 at Amazon
$69.99 Save $35.01   Get Deal Why we like it

Getting a top-tier wired mouse at half off makes the Razer Basilisk V3 an easy pick. It has 11 programmable buttons, a smart scroll wheel that toggles between tactile clicks and free-spin scrolling, and a thumb rest shaped for long gaming sessions.

If you're upgrading your keyboard too, the Razer BlackWidow V4 X has real tactile mechanical switches instead of those squishy membrane keys. It includes six dedicated macro keys, custom RGB lighting for each key, and a physical volume roller right above the number pad, so you don't have to tab out of your game to tweak audio.

More early keyboard and mouse deals
Categories: IT General, Technology

Sharks WandVac hand vacuum is on sale for less than $80 at Amazon — save $50 before Prime Day

Mashable - Wed, 09/30/2026 - 12:38

SAVE OVER $50: As of Sept. 30, the Shark WandVac is on sale for $79.98 at Amazon. That's $50.01 off its full price of $129.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Shark Shark WandVac Cordless Hand Vac $79.98 at Amazon
$129.99 Save $50.01   Get Deal

When you don't have time to take an upright vacuum around your house or wait for a robot vacuum to run its course, handheld vacuums are perfect for quick cleanups. If you've been hoping to buy one, Amazon's dropped a great deal on the Shark WandVac ahead of Prime Big Deal Days.

The Shark WandVac is normally priced at $129.99, but Amazon has it on sale right now for $79.98. That saves you just over $50, and this deal is just a few dollars away from its lowest-ever price of $75.99.

The rose gold model has the lowest price, but the black, white, and sage green models are available for a cent more at $79.99.

SEE ALSO: 30+ early October Prime Day deals: We found live deals on Bose, Lego, and Apple

Whether it's pet hair on seat cushions or crumbs in the car, the Shark WandVac can clear it up. It has a lightweight design for carrying around, weighing just 1.4 pounds, plus a high-speed, brushless motor that offers powerful suction for cleaning up a variety of surfaces. For trickier spots with pet hair, it also comes with a Multi-Surface Pet Tool. There's even a Duster Crevice Tool attachment, which helps reach tight spaces.

Emptying the hand vacuum is quick and easy, done by just touching a button. That way, you don't have to worry about your hands getting dirty in the process. And once you're all done, it can be slotted back into the charging dock.

This Shark WandVac deal is well worth taking advantage of before Prime Big Deal Days. Don't miss out on $50.01 off.

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

4 Gemini tips and tricks I use in Android Auto

How-To Geek - Wed, 09/30/2026 - 12:30

Android Auto is a bit of a double-edged sword. It makes driving easier in plenty of ways, but throw Gemini into the mix, and suddenly there’s a lot more you can ask your car screen to do. It’s not just “play this” or “text that” anymore. Gemini can actually have a conversation with you.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Amazon deal alert: The Mammotion Luba Mini 2 AWD robot lawn mower drops to $1,699 ($300 off)

Mashable - Wed, 09/30/2026 - 12:21

SAVE $300: As of Sept. 30, the Mammotion Luba Mini 2 is marked down to $1,999 at Amazon. That's $300 off on the regular list price of $1,699.

Opens in a new window Credit: Mammotion Mammotion Luba Mini 2 $1,699 at Amazon
$1,999 Save $300   Get Deal

A robot vacuum is one thing, but a robot lawn mower is next-level stuff — a luxury item for the people who love their garden but don't always have time to give it their full attention. It's also a luxury item for the few people who can afford it, unfortunately, as they're usually marked at a premium price.

Fear not, because October Prime Day is almost here (launching Oct. 6), with early pre-sale deals bringing a selection of robot lawn mowers to a more affordable price point.

Sure, summer's over, but now's a good time to take advantage of out-of-season prices on gardening tech, so you're ready to roll as soon as springtime hits in 2027. And we really recommend checking out the marked-down Mammotion Luba Mini 2.

As of Sept. 30, the Mammotion Luba Mini 2 is available for $1,699 at Amazon. Compared to the list price of $1,999, you're saving $300 with this limited-time deal.

This high-spec robo-mower uses 360° LiDAR and Dual-Camera AI Vision technology to navigate your garden and avoid obstacles along the way. It easily climbs slopes — making it a solid choice for uneven outdoors spaces — and gets close to edges for a tidy finish.

It also allows you to set specific mowing zones and adjust the cutting height via the app. You don't even need to use the app. Thanks to the DropMow mode feature, which is exactly as it sounds — just drop the Mammotion Luba Mini 2 on the lawn, and it sets to work without any mapping or pre-programming. That said, it boasts intelligent route mapping and — despite being an off-season purchase right now — performs well in cold weather.

Get the Mammotion Luba Mini 2 and save $300 ahead of Prime Day. Now priced at just $1,699.

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

An early Prime Day Kindle deal has finally dropped — save $90 on the Kindle Colorsoft Kids

Mashable - Wed, 09/30/2026 - 12:08

SAVE $90: As of Sept. 30, the Kindle Colorsoft Kids is priced at $209.99 at Amazon. That's 30% off on the list price of $299.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Kindle Colorsoft Kids $209.99 at Amazon
$299.99 Save $90   Get Deal

If you didn't already know, Amazon raised the prices of some of its own devices — including Kindles. This annoying tech price crunch, known as RAMageddon, is a result of the AI industry. And it's not stopping anytime soon, which is why you should jump on October Prime Day deals — particularly if you want a Kindle or another Amazon device.

The good news is that early deals are already live, including a can't-miss discount on the latest version of the Kindle Colorsoft Kids.

As of Sept. 30, the Kindle Colorsoft Kids is marked down to $209.99 — that's $90 off the regular list price of $299.99.

This is the first-ever color Kindle for kids. It comes with a 12-month subscription to Amazon Kids+, which gives your little ones access to a near-endless selection of books, including full-color illustrations.

It also has a parent dashboard where you can see their reading progress, add titles, adjust age filters, and manage their screen time allowance.

With Kindle prices in flux, this is a great opportunity to get a bargain on the latest and best Kindle for kids. Grab the Kindle Colorsoft Kids for £209.99 and make a saving of $90 before Prime Day has even begun.

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

Jimmy Kimmel roasts Trump over his meeting with AI executives

Mashable - Wed, 09/30/2026 - 12:06

Trump had a meeting with tech leaders recently, where he once again banged on about changing the name of artificial intelligence to "super intelligence" — with Jimmy Kimmel playing a clip of him saying "everybody likes it."

"Yes, I'm sure the guy whose company's name is OpenAI is very excited about this development," says Kimmel in the monologue above. "He's obsessed with changing the names of things. Ever since Don Jr. he's been in love with changing the names of things.

"The idea that our guardrails against AI are being erected by an 80-year-old man, it's like asking your grandpa to set up a WiFi router in your house. You just wouldn't do it."

Want more of the best of late night? Sign up for Mashable's Top Stories newsletter.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Ryobi’s real advantage over Milwaukee and DeWalt isn’t the price—it’s the ecosystem

How-To Geek - Wed, 09/30/2026 - 12:00

Ryobi is a go-to in the DIY and homeowner space for multiple reasons. Not only do they have a ton of tools for just about any task, but they also make dozens of accessories for hobbies, outdoor activities, and more. Just like tools in general, there's a lot of personal preference and brand loyalty involved, and while Ryobi gets hate online, they're clearly winning in several ways.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The ultimate hands-off clean: Save $220 on the self-emptying Shark Matrix Plus 2-in-1 robot vacuum

Mashable - Wed, 09/30/2026 - 11:59

SAVE $220: As of Sept. 30, the Shark Matrix Plus 2-in-1 Robot Vacuum and Mop is available for $229.99 at Amazon. That's 49% off on the list price of $449.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: SharkNinja Shark Matrix Plus 2-in-1 Robot Vacuum and Mop $229.99 at Amazon
$449.99 Save $220   Get Deal

Let me guess: You've always wanted a robot vacuum but never wanted to pay full price? Hey, we get it. The robot vacuum is a real luxury item, and not everyone has hundreds of dollars sitting around for such a purchase. Thankfully, October Prime Day is almost here — the two-day sale officially launches on Amazon on Oct. 6 — and discounts are already dropping.

This could be your chance to get a robot vacuum at a significant discount. Indeed, we've spotted a standout deal — an impressive 49% off the Shark Matrix Plus 2-in-1 Robot Vacuum and Mop.

As of Sept. 30, the Shark Matrix Plus 2-in-1 Robot Vacuum and Mop is available for just $229.99. Normally priced at $449.99, this robot vacuum is currently on sale for $220 off. According to the price tracker camelcamelcamel, that's $30 below its previous record low.

If you're new to robot vacuums, this is a perfect model. It will suit beginners while offering all the great features you want. First off, it's a dual-clean combination model that both vacuums and mops, taking care of carpets and hard floors.

Controlled by an app, it maps out your home and uses a matrix grid pattern to ensure no spots are missed. It gets deep into room edges and corners and has the smarts to avoid obstacles in its path. When it's finished the job — as you put your feet up, by the way — it returns to its charging station to self-empty and power up.

At this price, it's one of the best deals we've seen on a budget-level robot vacuum — a model that we once ranked in our roundup of the best robot vacuums to buy.

Get the Shark Matrix Plus 2-in-1 Robot Vacuum and Mop for just $229.99 and save a massive $220 ahead of Prime Day.

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

Early Prime Day steal: Philips top-tier DiamondClean 9500 smart toothbrush drops to $149.96

Mashable - Wed, 09/30/2026 - 11:53

SAVE OVER $130: As of Sept. 30, the Philips Sonicare DiamondClean 9500 is available for $149.96 at Amazon. That's a 46% saving on the regular list price of $279.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Philips Philips Sonicare DiamondClean 9500 eoectric toothbrush $149.96 at Amazon
$279.99 Save $130.03   Get Deal

We all need a high-powered electric toothbrush for tip-top oral hygiene, but with the prices these devices go for, it can be tricky to take the plunge and splash out. Because, let's be honest, a toothbrush isn't a glamorous purchase. Enter October Prime Day, launching on Amazon next week and bringing a huge array of discounts on the items you always need but never want to pay full price for.

Early deals are already flying around on Amazon, including a massive 46% off the Philips Sonicare DiamondClean 9500 — an app-connected toothbrush bundle that includes a selection of heads, a travel case, and a charging glass.

As of Sept. 30, the Philips Sonicare DiamondClean 9500 is marked down to $149.96. This electric toothbrush is usually listed at $279.99, so that makes an overall saving of $130.03. That's a major chunk of cash, and according to price tracker camelcamelcamel, it marks this Philips toothbrush's lowest-ever price on Amazon.

It's much more than a regular electric toothbrush. It connects with the Sonicare app to give you real-time feedback and guidance on your brushing, advising where and how to brush and how to improve your routine. It also has multiple modes to choose from — including White+, Gum Care, and Deep Clean+ — plus three intensity levels. Not to mention a pressure ring that alerts you when you brush too hard and the promise to remove 2,000% more plaque than other toothbrush models.

It's like the Rolls-Royce of electric toothbrushes, but an affordable one. Indeed, you can score a deal on the Philips Sonicare DiamondClean 9500 before Prime Day officially begins. Now priced at just $149.96 — a saving of over $130.

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

One of our favorite Ninja kitchen gadgets is $100 off at Amazon — shop the Ninja Luxe Café Premier for $499.99

Mashable - Wed, 09/30/2026 - 11:24

SAVE $100: As of Sept. 30, the Ninja Luxe Café Premier 3-in-1 espresso machine is on sale for $499.99 at Amazon. That's a $100 discount off its full price of $599.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Ninja Ninja Luxe Café Premier 3-in-1 Espresso Machine $499.99 at Amazon
$599.99 Save $100   Get Deal

The sleek Ninja Luxe Café Premier 3-in-1 espresso machine is one of our favorite kitchen appliances from the brand, striking "the perfect balance of user-friendly design with high-end settings." Ahead of Prime Big Deal Days, Amazon has dropped a nice deal on this popular model.

As of Sept. 30, this Ninja espresso machine is priced at $499.99 on Amazon. That's $100 off its usual full price of $599.99, and not too far from its lowest-ever price of $479.99. It may not be live for long, though. With October Prime Day fast approaching, this deal may not last long beyond the 48-hour shopping window.

SEE ALSO: 30+ early October Prime Day deals: We found live deals on Bose, Lego, and Apple

Whether you enjoy a tasty espresso drink or just a plain ol' cup of coffee, the Ninja Luxe Café Premier makes brewing simple and easy. It has a 3-in-1 design, with two espresso styles (double shot or quad shot), three drip coffee styles (classic, rich, or over ice), and two cold brew styles (cold-pressed espresso or cold brew coffee).

Its built-in conical burr grinder has 25 settings, which help you grind up the beans exactly how you'd like them for your preferred drinks. Plus, its Dual Froth System steams and froths milk for various drinks. We consider it Ninja's best espresso and coffee machine, so why not grab it while it's still on sale?

Don't miss out on $100 off the Ninja Luxe Café Premier 3-in-1 espresso machine at Amazon.

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

Soon youll be able to get ready to pre-order the iPhone Duo

Mashable - Wed, 09/30/2026 - 11:22

Apple's first foldable phone, the iPhone Duo, will be available for pre-order on Oct. 16. But if you really want one, you can prepare for that moment four days in advance.

Reddit users noticed that Apple's pre-order page for the iPhone Duo now says you can "come back on 10.12 to get ready for pre-order."

To see what that means, just visit the pre-order page, where you can already pick your phone's finish and storage, choose whether you want to trade in an old device, and pick financing options, AppleCare coverage, and your preferred carrier.

Right now, you can't really do much with that, as the "Continue" button is greyed out. But on Oct. 12, you'll presumably be able to save all that data, so you can pre-order the phone with one click when the time comes.

The time will officially come at 5 a.m. PT (8 a.m. ET) on Oct. 16, and the iPhone Duo will start shipping to customers on Oct. 23.

SEE ALSO: iPhone Duo wallpapers: How to download them now

While there's no official word on this, rumors have long claimed that the iPhone Duo might be in short supply at launch. While not everyone will be able to pre-order it right away, making sure you have everything set up before the pre-order window opens might help you get your device a bit sooner.

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

Categories: IT General, Technology

The Home Depot’s 2026 holiday drop is officially live: Shop smart trees, giant animatronics, and more

Mashable - Wed, 09/30/2026 - 11:09
Home Depot holiday collection 2026 lineup: 6.5-foot Animated LED App Controlled Santa $299 at The Home Depot Shop Now 8.5-foot Giant-Sized LED Towering Santa $299 at The Home Depot Shop Now 7.5-foot SMART Grand Duchess Twinkling Balsam Fir LED Pre-Lit Tree $349 at The Home Depot Shop Now 9-foot Smart Grand Duchess Twinkling Pre-Lit Tree $549 at The Home Depot Shop Now

If you thought we were done going feral over artificial pine trees, think again. The Home Depot just announced its official 2026 holiday collection, and the retailer is bringing back its internet-famous Grand Duchess Christmas tree with a major high-tech glow-up.

This year’s viral favorite now features Hubspace app integration, so you can customize your tree’s light displays and twinkling effects directly from your phone. The new lineup also packs plenty of extra holiday energy, including giant app-controlled Santas to dominate your front yard. The full collection drops in stores nationwide starting Oct. 5, but you can already snag the biggest hero items online right now.

Talk to your guests through a 6.5-foot smart Santa

Forget stiff, silent decor — this life-sized Santa acts as an interactive host for any indoor setup. Internal servo motors drive fluid movements with blinking eyes and a warm, glowing lantern. Through the Décor-Pro app, you can trigger built-in phrases, record up to 30 custom voice clips, or broadcast your voice in real-time using "Live" mode. Motion-sensor activation, a 6-hour timer, and a quick 45-minute setup make this an instant holiday centerpiece.

Opens in a new window Credit: The Home Depot 6.5-foot Animated LED App Controlled Santa $299 at The Home Depot
  Shop Now Let this cordless 8.5-foot giant Santa take over your front yard

If your yard display goal is pure, unadulterated neighborhood dominance, this 8.5-foot Towering Santa is the answer. Rated for both indoor and outdoor use, it features a warm lantern with a realistic flickering flame effect to guide Santa’s path. It also runs on three AA batteries, so no tripping over trailing extension cords or hunting for outdoor outlets. A built-in 6-hour timer handles nightly display duty automatically, while a quick 45-minute setup ensures your giant yard flex goes up with minimal hassle.

Opens in a new window Credit: The Home Depot 8.5-foot Giant-Sized LED Towering Santa $299 at The Home Depot
  Shop Now The viral tree that broke TikTok is now app-controlled

The tree that took over TikTok is back, and it finally has the tech upgrade everyone was waiting for. Now integrated with the Hubspace app, this 7.5-foot Grand Duchess Twinkling Pre-Lit Tree lets you swap between 10 light functions, adjust brightness, and set custom schedules straight from your phone — or via Alexa and Google Assistant voice commands. Packing 3,271 branch tips and 2,250 color-changing micro fairy LEDs (which stay lit even if a bulb goes out), it gives you an ultra-lush, professional look instantly.

Opens in a new window Credit: The Home Depot 7.5-foot SMART Grand Duchess Twinkling Balsam Fir LED Pre-Lit Tree $349 at The Home Depot
  Shop Now Go big with this ultimate floor-to-ceiling holiday centerpiece

If you have vaulted ceilings or simply want the grandest display on the block, the 9-foot Grand Duchess is the ultimate statement piece. Packing a massive 4,539 evergreen branch tips and 3,400 color-changing micro fairy LEDs, it delivers a dense, glow-heavy look that easily fills larger living rooms. Like its 7.5-foot sibling, it connects straight to the Hubspace app for custom scheduling, 10 lighting modes, and hands-free voice control via Alexa or Google Assistant.

Opens in a new window Credit: The Home Depot 9-foot Smart Grand Duchess Twinkling Pre-Lit Tree $549 at The Home Depot
  Shop Now

These sellout-risk decor pieces won't last through October. Stock up on your holiday essentials now over at The Home Depot.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The 4 best iPads of 2026: Should you buy the 2026 iPad Air with M4 chip?

Mashable - Wed, 09/30/2026 - 11:00

At this point, iPads can do (almost) anything your laptop can do thanks to iPadOS 26. Not to mention, the iPad Air with M4 just got a memory boost up to 12GB, putting it a tier above some laptops. Whether you want to stream, browse the internet, illustrate, or edit videos, you can do it on the iPad.

The rapid pace of Apple's update schedule makes shopping for a tablet all the more difficult. So, we tested every model to help you find the best iPad for you.

2026 iPad price increases

With the global memory crisis, iPad pricing took a hit. Apple raised prices across the board. Here's a breakdown of the price increases.

This year, iPad prices rose as much as $200 across models. Credit: Mashable How much will iPads cost during Prime Big Deal Days?

Since we can't predict the future, we can only rely on past data to know how cheap iPads will be during Prime Big Deal Days (running Oct. 6 and 7). We rounded up the all-time low prices on every iPad model to get an idea of what to expect during Amazon's October Prime Day.

The 11th generation iPad is the cheapest but the iPad Air has had the most recent price drop. Credit: Mashable

Unfortunately, I don't suspect any of the iPads will reach new all-time lows during Prime Big Deal Days, simply because all of Apple's tablets increased in price this year. That being said, I would like to see solid deals on iPads for this upcoming sale. In an ideal world, sale prices on iPads would fall below the prices of these models before they were increased.

Which iPad model should I buy?

The right iPad for you depends purely on your needs. Do you want something that has enough storage and speed for streaming? Do you want to use it to read? Do you want to use a tablet as your primary workstation? Your answers should factor into your decision.

To get you started, we believe the best iPad for most people is the M4 iPad Air (2026). It has exceptional performance but is also in the middle range for both price and capability.

Categories: IT General, Technology

We tested the most popular Ninja appliances, and these are our favorites

Mashable - Wed, 09/30/2026 - 11:00

We wanted to test our way through the best Ninja had to offer in kitchen appliances. We brought the most popular products from the brand into our kitchens to see how the Creami, Slushi, Foodi, and Ninja Kitchen System stacked up.

Why buy Ninja?

There are plenty of kitchen appliance brands out there, so why Ninja? Generally, we find its products to be some of the best value products. They tend to be the most affordable options on the market that still deliver excellent performance.

Plus, Ninja products are really beginner-friendly devices that are easy to use with minimal setup required. The appliances bring ease with delicious end products. The Creami is a perfect example of this. Traditional ice cream making requires a bit of skill, knowing how to cook custards to the right temperature with hours of churning. But the Creami simplifies ice cream making with a user-friendly product that still delivers a fantastic end result.

Just because they're beginner-friendly devices doesn't mean they're only for beginners. They're convenient devices with professional-level performance that help develop a more efficient kitchen.

Other products we tested

Having rounded up the best Ninja kitchen appliances means we tested a lot of products and not all of them made it to the list, two notable exceptions being the Ninja Creami Deluxe and Foodi Grill and Air Fryer.

The Ninja Deluxe was my introduction to the Creami lineup, and it is great. It spun up creamy frozen confections and even featured a frozen drink setting. However, compared to the Swirl, it required several re-spins to get the right texture.

Meanwhile, the Foodi Grill was another great multicooker from Ninja. The indoor grill made delicious, juicy chicken breasts with actual char marks. Plus, its air-frying capabilities were a little too good. It got things crispy fast, but often felt like it dried out food in the process. Plus, it was just so large that it didn't feel like a practical device for most people.

That being said, these devices are good, but not in our all-star line-up.

Categories: IT General, Technology

European spacecraft snaps stunning views of home and the moon

Mashable - Wed, 09/30/2026 - 11:00

Europe's Jupiter-bound Juice spacecraft photographed Earth and the moon as it whipped past our home planet on Monday, stealing energy to fly the long trip.

During its flyby, the European Space Agency's probe came within 5,370 miles of Earth, jetting over the Indian Ocean. It made its closest approach at 7:45 a.m. ET. One of its monitoring cameras captured Africa, and its navigation camera snapped Madagascar and the moon.

Earth's gravity bent the spacecraft's trajectory by 20 degrees and sped it up by about 7,800 mph. Juice, short for Jupiter Icy Moons Explorer, burned little fuel to get that boost, officials said.

The space flyby marked the mission's second Earth pop-in and ticked off yet another gravity assist to fling the spacecraft onward. The series of maneuvers began in 2024 with a combined moon-and-Earth flyby, and it also included a pass by Venus in 2025. Juice will return for a third and final Earth flyby in Jan. 2029, which should set it on its final course to Jupiter. It should arrive at the gas giant in 2031.

"We used only a small amount of the propellant reserved for this flyby," said Angela Dietz, Juice's spacecraft operations manager, in a statement. "This gives us more to use at Jupiter to carry out observations of the planet's icy moons."

SEE ALSO: Starship reaches orbit for the first time ever but returns home early

Juice's two monitoring cameras kept shooting photos throughout the visit, taking their final shots on Tuesday. Meanwhile, the navigation camera turned toward the edge of the moon. Those frames are more than just stunning pictures; they are a test of a new method for pinpointing the spacecraft's position, a skill Juice will need to steer around Jupiter's moons. 

In the next few weeks, the agency expects to release high-resolution views of Earth and the moon from JANUS, Juice's main science camera, once scientists have reviewed them. (If you're wondering what that acronym stands for, it's a Latin phrase: "Jovis, Amorum ac Natorum Undique Scrutator," which loosely means, "Comprehensive exploration of Jupiter and his loves and descendants.")

As Juice swung around Earth for a gravity assist, it caught a view of Africa, with the moon visible as a tiny gray speck to the right of the planet. Credit: ESA / Juice / JMC

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Once Juice arrives at Jupiter, the spacecraft will make 35 flybys of the giant moons Ganymede, Europa, and Callisto. All three moons have oceans, and scientists want to know whether they could support life, now or perhaps in the past. Juice will also study Jupiter's intense magnetic field and radiation before it settles into orbit around Ganymede in 2034.

Why fly in such a loopy way? A direct trip would naturally take less time, but it would require a massive rocket and a staggering amount of fuel. Juice would then need even more fuel to slow down so it wouldn't overshoot Jupiter. By borrowing speed from Earth, the moon, and Venus, Juice saves fuel it will need later for the actual science part of the mission.

The Juice spacecraft caught Madagascar at its closest approach to Earth during a flyby on Monday, Sept. 28, 2026. Credit: ESA / Juice / NavCam

Scientists used the flyby as a rehearsal, giving them a chance to test Juice's instruments on a real target in space. They got the first during the 2024 moon-and-Earth flyby and the second when Juice observed interstellar Comet 3I/ATLAS in 2025. 

Juice didn't waste the opportunity to see Earth in a new way, spending several days in its "magnetotail." That's the part of the magnetic field that a steady stream of charged particles from the sun sweeps out behind the planet. As Juice took measurements down the tail, the European-Chinese Smile mission watched the Northern Lights, a magnetic field phenomenon at the north pole that happens when solar energy crashes into Earth's atmosphere.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The best early Prime Day deals under $50: Our favorite budget deals on earbuds, beauty tech, and more

Mashable - Wed, 09/30/2026 - 11:00
The best early Prime Day deals under $50: Best Amazon Device Deal Fire TV Stick 4K Max $44.99 (save $40) Get Deal Best Earbud Deal JBL Vibe Beam 2 Noise-Canceling Earbuds $39.94 (Save $25.01) Get Deal Best Kitchen Deal Chefman Everything Maker & Pizza Oven $39.99 (Save $20) Get Deal Best Home Security Deal Blink Battery Doorbell 2K+ $40.98 (Save $79) Get Deal Best Beauty Deal Tymo Hair Straightener Brush $47.99 (Save $12) Get Deal Best Outdoor Deal Amazon Basics Camping Chair $26.77 (save $4.72) Get Deal

Prime Big Deal Days is on its way once more, and Amazon's fall sale is open to Prime members on Oct. 6 and 7. Discounts cover everything from kitchen gadgets to smart home devices, which makes this the perfect time to cross a few names off your holiday list early. And if you don't want to wait until early October to get cracking on your must-buy list, you don't have to — some of the best deals are actually live right now.

Some prices have already started to fall in the weeks leading up to the event, especially on Amazon's own devices. Fresh deals are popping up each day, and plenty of them come in under $50. That's good news if you're shopping for stocking stuffers, a small gift for a coworker, or something for yourself that won't eat into your holiday budget.

We'll keep this list updated leading up to and throughout the sale. In the meantime, here are some of the best early Prime Big Deal Days deals you can grab for less than $50.

Best Amazon device deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max $44.99 at Amazon
$84.99 Save $40.00   Get Deal Why we like it

The Fire TV Stick 4K Max recently saw its list price increase at Amazon to $84.99, but there's good news for shoppers ahead of Prime Big Deal Days: it's currently on sale for $44.99. That's nearly half off, which is a discount we'll certainly welcome. It's a worthy investment if you're looking for a streaming upgrade, boasting 4K Ultra HD picture quality alongside support for Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and even Dolby Atmos audio to really immerse you in what you watch.

Best earbud deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon JBL Vibe Beam 2 Noise-Canceling Earbuds $39.94 at Amazon
$64.95 Save $25.01   Get Deal Why we like it

These earbuds have active noise cancellation to cut down on the chatter around you, plus a Smart Ambient mode that lets outside sound back in when you need to hear what's going on in the real world. They boast 10 hours of playtime with an additional 30 hours from the charging case, and they're IP54-rated, so rain and sweat won't hurt them. For under $50, they're a great option to toss in your bag and go.

Best kitchen deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Chefman Everything Maker & Pizza Oven $39.99 at Amazon
$59.99 Save $20   Get Deal Why we like it

This versatile "everything" oven heats from the top and bottom plates simultaneously to give pizza a crispy crust, and it's ready to cook in as little as three minutes. The 12-inch nonstick plates also work for plenty of other goodies: quesadillas, omelets, pancakes, grilled sandwiches, you name it. When it's time to clean up, just wipe it with a damp cloth. Then close it and stand it upright so it doesn't take up much counter space when dinner is over.

Best home security deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Blink Battery Doorbell 2K+ $40.98 at Amazon
$119.98 Save $79   Get Deal Why we like it

Keep an eye on who darkens your doorstep with this video doorbell. It records 2K footage with a head-to-toe view, so you can see a visitor's face and packages, pets, or other guests in the same frame. It's battery-powered, so you can mount it right outside your door without touching any wiring, though you can also connect it to your existing doorbell wiring if you'd like it to ring inside your home. When someone stops by, you can talk to them from your phone through two-way audio with noise cancellation.

Best beauty deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Tymo Hair Straightener Brush $47.99 at Amazon
$59.99 Save $12   Get Deal Why we like it

This tool is awesome for achieving pin-straight, sleek hair. It heats up and straightens your hair while you brush, so you can smooth out frizz and waves while detangling. Its teeth have an anti-scald design that lets you get close to your roots without burning your scalp, which makes it easy to use on the back of your head, too.

Best outdoor deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Basics Camping Chair $26.77 at Amazon
$31.49 Save $4.72   Get Deal

If you enjoy camping in this cooler fall weather, a camping chair is an important addition to your outdoor gear. If you're looking for a new option to chill out in, the Amazon Basics Camping Chair is on sale, exclusively for Prime members. It's a comfortable pick with a breathable mesh back, a built-in cup holder for your favorite drink, a side pocket, and a beverage cooler pouch that holds up to 4 12-ounce cans.

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The best early Prime Day drone deals: We found deals on DJI, Skyrover, Ruko, and more

Mashable - Wed, 09/30/2026 - 11:00
The best early Prime Day drone deals: Best DJI Deal DJI Neo Fly More Combo $259 (save $54) Get Deal Best Skyrover Deal Skyrover X1 $449 (save $170) Get Deal Best Ruko Deal Ruko Drone with Camera $239.97 (save $60.01) Get Deal Best Potensic Deal Potensic Atom 2 $319.99 (save $40) Get Deal Best Antigravity deal Antigravity A1 Infinity Bundle $1,521.74 (save $507.25) Get Deal

Prime Big Deal Days is coming in hot, but you don't have to wait until October to start filling your cart up with deals. If you're looking to get into flying drones or just want to add another to your collection, now's the time to start shopping.

Drones tend to hold their prices most of the year, so a sale like this with multiple price cuts is one of the few times where the drone you've had your eye on might be shoppable. There's plenty to choose from already, from favorites like DJI to Skyrover and several options in between. While some brands like Antigravity have yet to showcase any discounts ahead of the sale, you can shop several of the top drone brands on Amazon right now.

Of course, prices are bound to change throughout the sale, so we'll keep this page up to date as discounts come and go. But if you're ready to go ahead and dive in, these are the best drone deals you can grab ahead of Prime Big Deal Days.

Best DJI deal Opens in a new window Credit: DJI DJI Neo Fly More Combo $295 at Amazon
$349 Save $54   Get Deal Why we like it

This small drone weighs under 249 grams, so you can fly it recreationally in the U.S. without registering it with the FAA. It also folds down small enough to toss in a bag to carry around if you want to take it on the go. It records 4K UHD video and rotates all the way to vertical when you want footage for Reels or TikTok, and its larger sensor offers plenty of detail in low light. It runs for up to 18 minutes per charge, but the bundle features an additional two batteries. The DJI Neo's camera feed reaches about 6 miles, which is more range than you'll ever legally need.

Best Skyrover deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Skyrover X1 Drone $449 at Amazon
$619 Save $170   Get Deal Why we like it

This drone comes with three batteries, so you have up to 96 minutes of flight time before you have to find an outlet. It shoots 4K/60fps HDR video and 8K stills, and its 360-degree obstacle sensing monitors for branches and power lines while you're mid-flight. Its three-axis gimbal keeps footage steady, while its AI night mode and an f/1.7 aperture can help with low-light shots.

Best Ruko deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Ruko Drone with Camera $239.97 at Amazon
$299.98 Save $60.01   Get Deal Why we like it

This drone can return on its own when you press a button, when the battery gets low, or when it loses signal, making it a great option for beginners. It also has a built-in beeper to help you find it if it gets set down somewhere where it's hard to see. Its three-axis brushless gimbal can help take 4K video and 48MP photos more easily, and it has about 96 minutes of runtime per charge.

Best Potensic deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Potensic Atom 2 $319.99 at Amazon
$359.99 Save $40   Get Deal Why we like it

This compact drone can fold down to the size of a paperback and weighs 249 grams. Its 1/2-inch Sony sensor captures 48MP photos and 4K HDR video, and the f/1.8 aperture plus an AI night mode offer great footage in low light. Its three-axis gimbal helps to steady everything, and AI Track will lock onto a person or a car and follow, spotlight, or fly parallel to them to make capturing video even simpler.

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