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Will Arnett defined Hollywood ennui for years as a crumudgeonly horse/TV has-been of the hit Netflix animated series BoJack Horseman. Now, the Arrested Development star is becoming the face of New York City anxiety as a stand-up comedian, who is making sense of his impending divorce one joke at a time in Is This Thing On?

Bradley Cooper directs a script penned by himself, Arnett, and Mark Chappell. Arnett headlines this seeming dramedy as Alex, a middle-aged man who turns to stand-up while his wife Tess (Laura Dern) urges him to understand how their relationship went awry, so they can find a way to co-parent and move forward.

SEE ALSO: 2025 fall movie preview: Every upcoming film you ought to know about

From the trailer, we get a sense of Alex's desperation and how a desire to understand his circumstances — and perhaps self-flagellate — pitches him into New York's merciless comedy scene. Tough times when even your parents aren't on board with your schtick.

Cooper not only co-writes and helms Is This Thing On?, but is also set to appear in the film, alongside Andra Day, Amy Sedaris, Sean Hayes, Christine Ebersole, Ciarán Hinds, and Scott Icenogle.

Following his remake of A Star is Born and his self-starring biopic of Leonard Bernstein Maestro, Is This Thing On? is Cooper's latest directorial effort focusing on the intersection of act and personal sacrifice. Will it be as critically heralded as his previous efforts? We'll find out this fall.

Is This Thing On? will make its world premiere at the New York Film Festival on its closing night, Oct. 10. Searchlight Pictures will release the film in select theaters on Dec.19. Look for Mashable's coverage out of NYFF this fall.

SAVE $100: As of Aug. 26, the Sonos Arc Ultra is on sale for $899 at Amazon and Best Buy. That's 10% off its $999 MSRP and matches its lowest price on record.

Opens in a new window Credit: Sonos Sonos Arc Ultra $899 at Amazon
$999 Save $100 Get Deal

Whether you're preparing for football season or fall movies, you may want to invest in a soundbar to make the most of your viewing experience. After all, what good is that incredible TV display without sound that matches? If you're looking for the best of the best and don't mind splurging on great sound, we can't recommend the Sonos Arc Ultra enough — especially since it's on sale for its best price ever.

As of Aug. 26, the Sonos Arc Ultra is on sale for $899 at Amazon, and Best Buy. That's $100 off its sticker price and matches its lowest price on record, which it has only reached a couple of times before.

Is $899 still a lot for a soundbar? Well, yes. But even at full price, Mashable's Tech Editor Tim Beck Werth says the Sonos Arc Ultra justifies its price of admission. "While a single soundbar can't compete with the booming speakers you'll hear in a movie theater," he writes, "This speaker gave me the closest match to that experience I've ever had in my living room."

Thanks to Sonos Sound Motion and Dolby Atmos, the Arc ultra provides impressive surround sound. It can also double as a smart speaker, so you can listen to music or use voice controls to check the weather or set timers, even when the TV is off. It's an impressive speaker all around; it even looks as good as it sounds.

If you really want to upgrade your TV's sound, it's hard to beat the Sonos Arc Ultra as a standalone soundbar. At $100 off, we think it's worth the splurge.

Google has just rolled out some pretty big improvements to the camera feed in the Google Home app, making it faster, more reliable, and much easier to navigate. Here's everything that's new.

SAVE $125: Through Sept. 1, the Mill food recycling bin is $125 off during Mill's Labor Day sale — get it for $874 instead of its usual $999.

Opens in a new window Credit: Mill Mill Food Recycler $874
$999 Save $125 Get Deal

As a shopping reporter, it's a rare W when your favorite product that you've ever tested goes on sale. It's the cherry on top that's usually needed to convince someone to buy it and see if it'll change their life, too.

The most game-changing item in my arsenal is the Mill kitchen bin, which is currently $125 off during Mill's Labor Day sale (I can count on one hand the number of times I've seen Mill on sale before this). With the discount, you can bring the Mill food recycler home for $874 instead of its usual $999.

SEE ALSO: The 2025 guide to recycling electronics, beauty empties, and clothing

The Mill kitchen bin is slightly different from other at-home composters. Instead of creating actual decomposed organic material (with science that involves worms), Mill is simply dehydrating your food scraps, milling them down into an odorless material that resembles soil. When I say odorless, I mean it — Mill literally doesn't smell, and is such a glorious alternative to letting old food stink up the actual trash can. Mill holds all of your daily plate scraps and old fridge leftovers, turning it to food grounds silently overnight. Unlike traditional compost, you can put meat, most dairy, and even small amounts of desserts into Mill.

A typical Mill day: Egg shells, old leftover takeout, stale goldfish, and an apple core. Credit: Leah Stodart / Mashable Mill can even take the wet food that my cats left in their bowls. Credit: Leah Stodart / Mashable

However, the most unique thing about Mill is that it offers to deal with your food grounds for you. If you don't have a garden, you don't really have much to do with the "compost" that countertop composters like Lomi and Reencle produce. Mill solves that glaring issue through a mail-back program: With a subscription, you'll get free pre-labeled boxes in which you'll pack up your finished food grounds to ship back to Mill. Then, Mill uses the grounds as a base for — wait for it — chicken feed. I've been using my Mill bin for about two years, and was recently notified that my Mill usage has diverted 500 pounds of food waste from a landfill, instead feeding farm chickens that were going to need to eat, anyway.

So far, the only potential source of hesitation I've really been able to pinpoint with Mill is how much it costs. It gets especially pricey when you factor in the mail-back pickup plan, which adds another $194 annually. But think about it this way: Mill's Labor Day discount just about covers an entire year of the pickup subscription.

Hybrids have come a long way in the past decade, and Toyota and Lexus are leading the charge. Today, their hybrids aren’t just efficient—they’re fun to drive, stylish, and packed with creature comforts.

SAVE 25% SITEWIDE: As of Aug. 26, save 25% off sitewide at Ruggable during the Ruggable Labor Day sale. with promo code REST.

Opens in a new window Credit: Ruggable Save 25% off sitewide with the Ruggable Labor Day sale Get Deal

Looking to change up your home decor with a few new pieces? A rug is a good way to bring a room together, and a fun change of pace. If you want to save some serious cash while giving your living space a quick makeover, make a beeline toward Ruggable, where you can score a Labor Day discount without having to do too much work.

As of Aug. 26, save 25% off sitewide at Ruggable during the Ruggable Labor Day sale. with promo code REST. Just check out as usual and the discount will be applied after you add the promo code.

SEE ALSO: Tumble vs. Ruggable: Which washable rug brand is better?

Ruggable is the home of machine-washable rugs that you can take up off the floor and toss into the washer. They're stain-resistant with hundreds of designs to choose from, and they're kid and pet friendly. They're also nonslip and durable so they can stand up to heavy use with an entire household putting them to the test.

Ruggable offers a wide variety of options from area rugs to runners and doormats and just about everything in between. Mashable's RJ Andersen took the washable rugs for a spin and loved the "plush and well-designed" rug, noting that "a few months later" it remains soft and easy to clean and maintain, especially when it comes to pet hair.

If you have a home where you need a rug that can not only be washed in the washer but stand up to heavy traffic, pet dander, and the damage kids can do, Ruggable is a good option. And saving 25% on the rug of your choice is a great deal, so outfit your home for fall and save some moola.

Audiobookshelf has officially released version 2.29, and it brings a bunch of new features and fixes that make the self-hosted audiobook and podcast server even better. If you're using this to manage your own collection, you'll have a much easier time navigating your audiobooks.

SAVE $1,498.01: The Anker Solix F3000 portable power station with 400W solar panel is on sale at Amazon for $1,999.99, down from the list price of $3,498. That's a 43% discount and the lowest price we've ever seen at Amazon for this bundle.

Opens in a new window Credit: Anker Anker Solix F3000 portable power station with 400W solar panel $1,999.99 at Amazon
$3,498 Save $1,498.01 Get Deal

If the Burning Man storm and the wild Phoenix haboob are any indication of what fall weather will like, we could be in for some interesting experiences. If you're not excited about another season of storms that lead to power outages, now is the time to grab a portable power station so you're ready for storm season. If you're in the market, check out today's stellar deal at Amazon.

As of Aug. 26, the Anker Solix F3000 portable power station with 400W solar panel is on sale for $1,999.99 at Amazon, marked down from the normal bundle price of $3,498. That works out to a major savings of $1,498.01, or a 43% discount. Today's sale price is the lowest we've ever seen Amazon offer for this bundle.

For starters, this deal comes with the Anker Solix F3000 portable power station, which offers 3,072Wh of power. That's three times as much as the Mashable Choice Anker Solix C1000 portable power station. While that model is great for a weekend of camping, the Solix F3000 is ideal for home backup during power outages.

SEE ALSO: Pre-order the new Anker Solix C1000 v2 and save $370

With that extra power comes significant weight — 91.5 pounds to be exact — so Anker went ahead and eased our sore backs by equipping the F3000 with durable wheels and a retractable handle, so you can easily roll the power station around your home.

Anker says the F3000 can power a 190W refrigerator for up to 42 hours during a power outage or keep your most essential appliances going for up to 10 hours. You'll be able to do so with the four standard AC ports, two USB-A, two USB-C, and 30 amp plug options.

Today's bundle deal also includes a 400W solar panel, which can be a lifesaver when it comes to recharging the Solix F3000 portable power station. The solar panel's legs can keep it harnessing the sun's power at four different angles, and it's made with durable materials that are scratch-resistant. The panel is also waterproof, so you won't need to worry if the weather suddenly gets wet.

Before the storm knocks out power and your refrigerator turns into a warm box, get prepared with the Anker Solix F3000 portable power station with 400W solar panel. It's on sale at Amazon for the lowest price we've ever spotted, and the timing couldn't be more perfect as we head into autumn storms.

Spotify has been pretty good about adding features that make sense for a music service, but the latest is pushing the boundaries a bit. The company is adding a new in-app messaging feature that's rolling out to users this week. This is much better than sharing a song on your Instagram story or dropping a link in a text message.

On top of being a widely heralded actor, Paul Mescal has become an internet boyfriend through an array of hunky, heartbreaking performances in everything from Aftersun and Normal People to All of Us Strangers and Gladiator II. The Irish actor is not letting up on us. This winter, he appears in the romantic drama The History of Sound opposite Challengers' Josh O'Connor, and then comes Hamnet, where Mescal offers us a take on William Shakespeare that is both smoldering and deeply sad. So have tissues at the ready.

Hamnet stars Mescal as the legendary playwright. But far from focusing on Shakepeare's heady times as the toast of the Globe theatre, London, and the queen herself, this drama focuses on his family, and in particular, the personal tragedy that inspired him to write Hamlet: the death of his young son, Hamnet.

Two-time Academy Award-winner Chloé Zhao directs this much-anticipated adaptation of Maggie O'Farrell's beloved historical novel of the same name. Beyond exploring Shakespeare's perspective of this tragic time, the trailer suggests O'Farrell and Zhao, who co-wrote the adapted screenplay together, will also delve into what the death of her only son was like for his wife, Anne "Agnes" Hathaway, played here by acclaimed actress Jessie Buckley, who has awed critics with her jaw-dropping turns in Men, The Lost Daughter, and Wild Rose.

Sure to be a tearjerker packed with powerful performances from a pair of Oscar nominees, Hamnet is one to watch this fall — starting with its premiere at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival. Look for Mashable's coverage out of the fest, including our review of Hamnet.

Hamnet opens in theaters in limited release on Nov. 27 and nationwide in the US on Dec. 12.

Framework, the modular computer company behind the best repairable laptops, is rounding out a busy year with one of its biggest announcements yet: A new Framework Laptop 16 with Nvidia GeForce RTX 5070 graphics is coming this fall.

Preorders are now live on Framework's website, with prices starting at $1,499 in pre-built and DIY Edition configurations. The first shipments are slated to go out in November.

The original Framework Laptop 16 now starts at $1,299 as a cheaper entry-level option (previously $1,399). Its Ryzen 9 configurations will be phased out, but the Ryzen 7 version will stay in production.

Opens in a new window Credit: Framework Framework Laptop 16 (DIY Edition) $1,499
Pre-order Here Opens in a new window Credit: Framework Framework Laptop 16 (Pre-built) $1,799
Pre-order Here

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Framework's fandom has been clamoring for an Nvidia-powered GPU module ever since the company first released its 16-inch desktop replacement in 2023 with the "holy grail" of modular, upgradeable graphics. (The original version has AMD Radeon graphics.)

In a blog post, Framework CEO Nirav Patel said the company spent the last two years working on the new module in partnership with Nvidia, AMD, and Compal, its Taiwanese manufacturing partner, calling it "a huge leap in performance and capability."

Crucially, the new graphics module will be backwards compatible with the OG Framework Laptop 16. Patel added: "That means any current owner can pick up the new module and get the latest generation of graphics!" No need to buy an entirely new machine — that's Framework's whole shtick.

The Framework Laptop 16's Nvidia graphics module has been two years in the making. Credit: Framework

The RTX 5070 module, which comes with 8GB of VRAM, is said to offer a 30 to 40 percent increase in gaming framerates compared to the original Radeon RX 7700S graphics module. It will also enable display output and power input over the rear USB-C port and have a quieter new thermal system. Framework will continue to sell the Radeon module with the same updated thermals.

The Framework Laptop 16's graphics module can be replaced with an expansion bay shell. Credit: Framework Framework Laptop 16: What else is new?

On the CPU side, the updated Framework Laptop 16 will be powered by AMD Ryzen AI 300 Series processors in eight-core Ryzen 7 and 12-core Ryzen 9 options. Users can swap the device's graphics module for an expansion bay shell to utilize their integrated graphics for less intensive tasks.

The Framework Laptop 16's mainboard now comes with AMD Ryzen AI 300 Series processors. Credit: Framework SEE ALSO: Best Windows laptops for 2025: Three of our picks last longer than M4 MacBooks

Here are the rest of the upgrades coming to the Framework Laptop 16 this fall:

• An updated mainboard design (see below)

• Configurable with up to 96GB of RAM and up to 10TB of storage (previously 8TB)

• A new 240W USB-C adapter (previously 180W)

• Added G-Sync support for its 165Hz, 2560 x 1600 display panel

• An updated webcam module

• A more rigid aluminum top cover

• An updated keyboard with new artwork and adjusted firmware behavior

The new mainboard design supports four simultaneous display outputs over its back four expansion card slots (previously three). And with the updated keyboard, the laptop will no longer wake up if its keys are triggered while the lid is closed.

Like its Nvidia graphics module, most of the Framework Laptop 16's new features and components are compatible with the original version. The sole exception is the Gen 1 display panel, which won't get G-Sync support.

Earlier this year, Framework refreshed the smaller, thinner Framework Laptop 13 with Ryzen AI 300 Series CPUs and launched two all-new products: the Framework Laptop 12, its first touchscreen convertible, and the pint-sized Framework Desktop. (Both are up for preorder.) The company notched a record-high month for manufacturing volume in July after briefly pausing shipments and adjusting prices in April amid fluctuating U.S. tariffs.

SAVE $1,400: As of Aug. 26, get the LG 77-Inch Class OLED evo AI 4K C5 Series Smart TV for $2,296.99, down from its usual price of $3,696.99. That's a discount of 38% and the lowest price we've seen.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon LG 77-Inch Class OLED evo AI 4K C5 Series Smart TV $2,296.99 at Amazon
$3,696.99 Save $1,400 Get Deal

Fall is fast approaching, and that means several things: Halloween, cooler temperatures, and a whole slate of new TV shows and sports. You're going to want to have a great TV to soak up all the fall goodness, and there's no better time to get a new display than right now, given that you can save a whopping $1,400 on a fantastic LG 4K TV right now.

As of Aug. 26, get the LG 77-Inch Class OLED evo AI 4K C5 Series Smart TV for $2,296.99, down from its usual price of $3,696.99. That's $1,400 off and a discount of 38%. It's also the lowest price we've seen.

SEE ALSO: The 10 best TV shows of 2025 (so far), and where to stream them

The LG C5 is the latest in LG's C-series, with a ton of screen real estate at 77 inches as well as 4K resolution and OLED technology to help bring whatever you're watching to life. You'll get deep, colorful hues, a crisp picture, and excellent sound as well thanks to both Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos support.

It's a great option for both movie and TV show lovers as well as gamers, with Filmmaker Mode to satisfy the cinephiles and a slew of game-centric settings, with a 0.1ms response time and up to a 144Hz refresh rate. Toss in NVIDIA G-Sync, AMD FreeSync Premium, and VRR, and you're set to handle a wide variety of content.

If a new TV is in the cards for you, this is one you should invest in, especially since it's down to its lowest price yet. Now's a good time to snag one and save.

SAVE $90: As of Aug. 26, the Sonos Era 300 is on sale for just $359 instead of $449 across retailers, including Amazon, Walmart, Best Buy, and Sonos itself. That's 20% in savings and its best price on record.

Opens in a new window Credit: Sonos Sonos Era 300 $359 at Amazon
$449 Save $90 Get Deal

Already a bit on the costly side, Sonos recently announced that it will raise prices this year due to President Trump's tariff policies. In other words, when you find a Sonos speaker on sale, add it to your cart ASAP.

If you have the Sonos Era 300 speaker on your wishlist, now's the time to get it. As of Aug. 26, it's on sale for just $359 (reg. $449) across multiple retailers: Amazon, Walmart, Best Buy, and Sonos itself. That's 20% in savings and matches its best-ever price from Black Friday last year.

From high-end soundbars to Bluetooth speakers, there's no denying Sonos makes excellent audio gear. The Era 300 is no exception. Mashable's Stan Schroeder spent some time with it and called it "the king of sub-$500 smart speakers." It's a bit odd looking, but it's packed with impressive audio technology, including six amps, four tweeters, and two woofers. It's the first Sonos speaker to support spatial audio, features Sonos Voice Control and Alexa, offers customizable sound in the Sonos app, and can connect seamlessly with other Sonos products. Schroeder adds, "It singlehandedly produces sound that can often match larger speakers, perhaps even entire hi-fi systems."

It requires an adapter to connect a 3.5mm jack and it's kind of expensive on a regular day, but we're willing to overlook those things for its booming sound. Plus, at $90 off, it's an even better value — especially since a tariff-related price hike is on its way.

Your phone does have a feature for turning it into a mobile hotspot, but it doesn’t work great as a router, at least not in the long term and for regular use. When you’re traveling or when you need a steady connection for work, a smartphone doubling as a mobile hotspot won’t cut it.

It's been a while, but Google seems poised to finally release some new Nest products.

Android Headlines got the exclusive on a handful of new Google Nest products that are supposedly coming "very soon," though no release date or window was given. These include a new smart speaker, indoor and outdoor security cameras, and a video doorbell. This is noteworthy because Google hasn't released any new Nest products since 2021, if you can believe that. You'd be forgiven for thinking the brand was dead entirely.

Per Android Headlines, the new Google Home Speaker looks like previous Nest speakers, but this one is powered by Gemini instead of Google Assistant.

SEE ALSO: 'Was 1995 30 years ago?' Google's AI overviews is having issues with a simple question

There's also a new Nest Cam Indoor for your household monitoring needs. It's getting a resolution bump from 1080p to 2K, which should make footage a lot sharper. It can also zoom in on certain areas and crop the video if needed. Interestingly, the new camera can store up to an hour of footage locally in case the internet goes out. Needless to say, it should also support Gemini in some capacity, as will the new Nest Cam Outdoor.

Speaking of which, the outdoor camera also gets the same resolution bump, the same zoom and crop feature, and the same local storage capacity. It's like the indoor camera except, well, not indoors. Lastly, there's a new Nest wired doorbell camera that'll get all of the above features as well. In addition to that, every one of these camera-enabled devices is getting Daily Summaries, a Gemini-powered feature that summarizes things you may have missed throughout the day.

Four years is a long time between product refreshes, but at least this one seems substantial.

SAVE 50%: The 100-inch Hisense Class U8 Mini-LED TV is on sale at Amazon for $3,499.99, down from the list price of $6,999.99. That's a savings of $3,500 and the lowest price we've ever seen at Amazon.

Opens in a new window Credit: Hisense 100-inch Hisense Class U8 Mini-LED TV $3,499.99 at Amazon
$6,999.99 Save $3,500 Get Deal

If you've ever wanted a truly epic TV but haven't felt like it was the right time to buy, Amazon might have just given you the go-ahead. Late summer isn't traditionally one of the best times to buy a new TV, but since nothing is normal anymore, we're stoked about this deal.

As of Aug. 26, the 100-inch Hisense Class U8 Mini-LED TV is on sale for $3,499.99 at Amazon, marked down from the list price of $6,999.99. That's a massive 50% discount and a savings of $3,500. To make this deal even sweeter, this is the lowest price we've ever clocked at Amazon.

A 55-inch TV is usually best for a smaller room or a kids' room while a 65 or 75-inch TV is pretty sufficient for most living rooms. But a 100-inch TV brings about an entirely new experience. Getting into that size range typically comes with massive prices, but Hisense is one of the best TV brands making affordable options and Amazon is making things even better with today's deal.

SEE ALSO: Upgrade your TV sound setup: 3 Bose soundbar deals for every budget

This 100-inch QLED Hisense TV comes with impressive specs all around. The QLED display means it'll be great for watching in bright rooms or during Sunday afternoon games, with up to 5,000 Nits of brightness. Hisense also added an anti-reflection coating into the screen to help lessen glare. The 165Hz refresh rate means this is a great TV for gaming. Plus, it uses Google TV so you're in for an intuitive app menu and won't need to grab a streaming stick.

Keep in mind the 100-inch TV weighs 140 pounds with the included stand, so you might want to have a friend on-hand during installation.

While it's hanging out at a record-low price and right in time for the sports seasons and fall's new shows, upgrade to the 100-inch Hisense Class U8 Mini-LED TV for under $3,500 at Amazon. Plus, Season 2 of Fallout deserves an epic screen.

A decade ago, adult industry insiders and observers alike talked about the rapidly growing field of independent content creation platforms — cam sites, clip stores, fan pages, etc. — as almost revolutionary forces.

Coupled with increasingly affordable and accessible production tools, these platforms would allow more diverse creators to find niche communities who'd support them as they crafted innovative new content. These platforms would also cut out the middlemen — the studios that paid performers a set fee for a scene but almost never offered royalties, and the managers who lined up work and handled logistics for a 10 to 20 percent cut of their clients' paychecks — giving talent more control over their work and far more ways to profit from it.

That was the hope, at least. 

In reality, a smutty gold rush of established sex workers and (especially over the last five years) starry-eyed newbies, eager to get in on this potential, quickly saturated these new platforms. "Just undressing on camera isn't enough anymore," says indie creator Kisscat. "This is a competitive market where production quality, creative concepts, and consistency win."  

SEE ALSO: Is AI porn the next horizon in self-pleasure — and is it ethical?

As Mashable recently reported, the amount of work that goes into creating a steady stream of adult content, keeping fickle fans engaged, and managing the back-end logistics of an indie adult career is astounding. Many who try to take it all on themselves burn out quickly. Instead, most successful creators now rely on a wide array of specialized gear and support services to maintain or grow their brands and profits — some of which then go right back into more gear and services. 

As Angela Jones, a professor who studies camming and other forms of independent sex work, points out, this means that new creators who already have the resources to identify and invest in the right goods and services often have a leg up on the competition. This systemic privilege flies in the face of the ostensibly revolutionary, open-to-all promise of independent platforms.

But that doesn't mean novices from low-resource backgrounds can't succeed, they add. But if you want to make it as an indie creator without prior experience, expert support, or a wad of startup cash, longtime performer Cherie DeVille argues, "you have to be scrappy, creative, and incredibly determined."

It also helps to understand what your competition is investing in, how you can potentially get by without some of those tools, and whether and when you should start investing your profits in them. In that respect, Mashable can help. A dozen content creators and academics who study the indie adult content ecosystem told us about the equipment and support they need to make porn — aside from naked bodies — and how they decide when to (re)invest in it.

An (incomplete) list of the goods and services porn creators rely on

At a baseline, creating your own content means taking on the tasks and expenses that studios used to shoulder. You have to source your own props, makeup, and wardrobe, and manage any travel or bookings involved in working with other performers. You also need to be able to record and edit, which often means securing regular access to a suitable computer and software suite, as well as mics and lighting, and maybe even dedicated cameras and tripods. 

Some performers, like Kisscat, whose native language is Russian, also need specialized programs to help with video subtitle generation and real-time translation. Jones notes that this baseline equipment is getting more affordable and easier to find with every passing year. But creator Penny Barber points out that cutting-edge equipment — the sort you might want if you're trying to maintain such an edge — is still pretty pricey. "My first big purchase was my Canon EOS C500 Mark II" camera, she says. "She costs as much as a car — but she combines professional quality with amateur usability." 

This is not just a potentially big initial cost — equipment is a sporadic but rolling expense. Folks who want to do occasional headline-grabbing stunts like Bonnie Blue will need to drop a ton of cash to, say, vet dozens of potential scene partners and fly them all out to a third location for a scene. 

Those who want to stay on par with their competitors' videos may need to invest in new production equipment on the reg. ("While we don't upgrade it every month, we always keep an eye on new tech," says Kisscat.) And just keeping things fresh for your fans involves constantly investing in new getups and props. "My lingerie bill is astronomical," says creator Kiki D'Aire.

"Once you're established, your outfits, your toys — I get my fans to buy all of that stuff for me," says performer Hime Marie. Barber sometimes raises fan funds for some tech upgrades, too. But it takes time to reach that level of fan engagement and support, and it's hard to count on it. 

On top of all this, performers can face a ton of potential monthly or annual expenses, such as: 

• Regular STI testing, gym expenses, and other basic health and wellness costs. 

• The price of an extra room or a studio that you can use for shooting exclusively. You don't just need the privacy, creator Jessica Ryan explains. You ideally need a place that's not just your room — that you can alter as needed —  to keep things interesting for fans. 

• An accountant or tax preparer, who can help you figure out what you're on the hook for and what you can write off — something that's especially hard for people dealing with the American tax system to figure out on their own. "You want someone who can guide you," argues D'Aire, "so Uncle Sam gets his share — but not too much." 

• A lawyer who can help you incorporate as a business in order to protect yourself from legal and financial risks — something Marie argues is especially important for everyone. Even if you only use your lawyer once, maintaining corporate status is an ongoing process.    

• A P.O. box, dedicated phone, suite of privacy software, and other tools that might help you maintain your anonymity in the face of nosy fans and rampant data brokers. 

• A content protection service that will monitor for attempts to pirate and distribute your content for free, and handle the hassle of sending out copyright takedown requests. 

• Marketing and public relations services, like SEO optimization, paid promotions on other performers' platforms, or even email marketing. It may seem like an odd investment for an adult performer, but as creator Lexi Luna points out, in the competitive market, "you need new eyes to find you, so the more you can do to attract new fans, the better."  

• Camera operators and editors. While many folks craft their own content, not everyone has the skill or inclination to do so — and some who do get too busy with the business of managing their brands to keep up. So folks like Marie depend on specialist contractors. 

Creators who want to run their own site and sell clips directly also have to factor in the cost of web hosting and a suitable content management system. Card companies and banks, ever-skittish about their reputations and varied laws about taboo products around the world, don't like working with adult content directly. So running your own site also requires investing in intermediary services, which ensure payments are processed reliably — for a cut of every sale. 

Most creators use platforms like OnlyFans because these sites handle basic payment logistics, ensure a level of privacy and security, and come with a built-in audience. However, as a tradeoff, OnlyFans takes a 20 percent cut off of their income — and some cam sites even take upwards of 50 percent of a performer's earnings.  

A few turn to social media or general managers as well, who will take at least 10 to 20 percent of a creator's income to manage some combination of promotion, fan engagement, and strategic planning. In developing countries, especially — but not exclusively — cammers in particular often agree to exchange a cut of their income for the chance to work in a dedicated studio, which will ideally supply equipment and assist with strategy and promotion.    

The exact constellation of investments creators make varies wildly, but they can be a huge shock when you're just starting out — especially if you're not mobilizing and monetizing an existing fan base. Marie, who made her name camming about a decade ago, stresses that "if I had nothing to my name and I wanted to start an OnlyFans now, regardless of how beautiful and bubbly I am, not a lot is really going to happen for me for at least the first few months — arguably even a year," as it simply takes time to establish your brand and build a following. 

It takes dedication and skill to start earning even a few thousand dollars per month on a fan site. In practice, Kisscat says, "beginners often reinvest almost everything" into starter equipment and support services. 

Even after that initial investment period, the performers Mashable spoke to for this story say that they often invest 20 to 50 percent of their profits into goods and services every month, depending on whether they're focused on maintaining their standing or on growing their brand. 

Investing in adult content creation takes risk 

It's hard, as a new creator, to know which services you need to invest in — where to allocate the resources you have. Especially when, as Gwyn Easterbrook-Smith, a researcher who studies the careers of indie adult content producers, explains, aggressive salespeople now try to convince newbies "that they need more equipment and professional services than they actually do."  

Newcomers might, for example, see that established creators use content protection services and figure that's a necessary immediate investment. But their videos may not actually be at high risk of piracy early on — or the losses they do suffer to piracy may not merit the cost. 

"Being a creator can cost an arm and a leg if you're not careful," stresses performer Mag Numb. 

Self-proclaimed managers, consultants, and coaches also exploit performers' need for support and uncertainty about what support they need, explains Easterbrook-Smith, to sell advice and aid that might "do more harm than good." D'Aire adds that "everybody I know has a story about a brand manager who ran their account into the ground or outsourced work to the Philippines." 

At the worst end of the opportunistic spectrum, recent reporting suggests way too many cam studios and fan site managers hook performers with promises of support, only to steal their profits, subject them to unsafe working conditions, or trap them into outright sex trafficking. 

Being a creator can cost an arm and a leg if you're not careful. - Performer Mag Numb

"Be mindful of the percentage they're asking for," Ryan suggests. "If somebody is asking for over 30 percent of your profits, that should be a red flag," signaling some form of exploitative intent.  

How to navigate adult content creation as a newbie

Some performers get around the expenses and risks of indie adult content creation by leaning on friends and family, who can lend them equipment or even act as altruistic support staff. But not everyone has a network of skills and resources to draw on as they journey into the porn world. 

If you're trying to hack it as a creator with limited resources, then Ryan has some basic advice: "Keep it simple, stupid."

Your competition, starting out with a bespoke shooting space and fancy camera, might have an advantage, she explains. But it's possible to start out shooting on a phone in your room whenever you have some good natural light and a few moments of privacy and silence. 

"Fans aren't going to pay much more for high production values," Luna adds. At least at the outset, "what's important is that the camera isn't shaky and the sound doesn't hiss." 

"Some top creators still film on an iPhone with poor lighting," concurs Kisscat. "But they have 10,000s of fans because they know how to connect with people and sell their presence." 

SEE ALSO: Pornhub copies TikTok with a feature fit for goonscrolling

Starting small and scrappy — doing as much as you can on your own — may actually benefit you in the long-term, D'Aire argues. You can learn a lot from tutorials on YouTube or Reddit, not just about how content creation works, but about what is and isn't easy for you, and thus what goods and services you might need to invest in once you have saved a little cash. And consulting communities of creators on sites like Reddit, who're often happy to share tips and tricks, will help you find peers who will support you as you vet scams versus valid investments. 

"As you get more proficient, you'll definitely want to maximize your potential" by investing in better equipment and more services," says D'Aire. But you can buy what you need as that need arises and your budget allows. You can find plenty of used equipment these days, adds Barber. 

"Even with mediocre gear, a creator who knows how to do what they want will outperform someone who has excellent gear and no knowledge" of branding or clear goals, she says. 

An Agatha Christie-style mystery on a luxury yacht, The Woman in Cabin 10 sees Keira Knightley trying to get to the bottom of a murder at sea.

The twist? Even though she's convinced she saw a body in the water after hearing an argument in the next door cabin, everybody else on the boat seems to be convinced that there was nobody in the next cabin.

SEE ALSO: 29 best thriller movies on Netflix right now

Guy Pearce, David Ajala, Art Malik, Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Kaya Scodelario, David Morrissey, Daniel Ings, and Hannah Waddingham make up the all-star cast of Simon Stone's adaptation of the bestselling 2016 novel by Ruth Ware.

The Woman in Cabin 10 is streaming on Netflix starting Oct. 10.

The freedom to install apps from outside of the Play Store is one of Android’s best features. You can find all sorts of tools and projects that might not get past Google’s approval process. However, it's also the perfect playground for bad actors, and Google is trying to clean things up.

Instagram is launching a new feature exclusively for students, a return to form for the Meta platform — lest we forget Facebook's humble beginnings.

Launched in tandem with students returning to class, Instagram announced Schools on Instagram, a private, student-only space, on Tuesday, Aug. 26. All college students have to do is verify themselves on UNiDAYS, aka the same platform that verifies students' enrollment, so they can get deals on things like Apple products and HBO Max subscriptions.

"At UNiDAYS, we're committed to creating safer, more rewarding digital experiences for the next generation," Jon Hawley, the Chief Executive Officer at UNiDAYS, said in a press release from Meta. "We do this by making verification and digital identity a foundation, not a barrier for young people. We're proud to partner with Instagram to champion digital trust and online safety. This new feature, underpinned by our world-leading verification technology, enables students to build more authentic, meaningful, and secure connections online."

SEE ALSO: TikTok is reinventing 2004 Facebook with new features for college students

After students verify themselves, they'll be able to "Add school" on their profile, which will show up as a banner that they can show only to classmates or share it only with classmates and mutuals.

Probably one of the most useful tools in Schools on Instagram is that students can connect with classmates through a school directory by browsing, searching, and filtering by year. Instagram says this will make it easier to connect and build community, but it will undoubtedly also make it easier to find out if that hot guy in your dorm is single, much like CEO Mark Zuckerberg's long-rumored intention with the original Facebook two decades ago. All of these features closely mirror TikTok's UNiDAYS-powered Campus Verification feature announced last week. In other words, Meta (aka today's Facebook) is copying TikTok, which was copying Facebook.

Time? It's a flat circle.

UPDATE: Aug. 26, 2025, 5:22 p.m. EDT This story has been updated to accurately reflect the privacy settings for the "Add school" banner.