Broadcom just announced an AI chipset that translates audio in real time directly on the device

Broadcom and a company called CAMB.AI are teaming up to bring on-device audio translation to a chipset. This would allow devices that use the SoC to complete translation, dubbing and audio description tasks without having to dip into the cloud. In other words, it could massively improve accessibility for consumers. The companies promise ultra-low latency and enhanced privacy, being that all processing is kept local to the user's device. The wireless bandwidth should also be drastically reduced. As for the audio description piece, there's a demo video of the tool being used on a clip from the film Ratatouille . The AI can be heard describing the scene in various languages, in addition to a written translation appearing on-screen. This looks incredibly useful, particularly for those with vision issues. There is a major caveat. This is a tightly controlled clip with plenty of edits. We have no idea how this tech will work in a real world scenario. Also, we don't know how accurate the information will be . It does feature a voice model that's already being used by organizations like NASCAR, Comcast and Eurovision. The companies boast that this will enable on-device translation in over 150 languages. We don't know when these chips will begin showing up in TVs and other gadgets. The tech is in the testing phase for now, so it's gonna be a while. Broadcom also recently teamed up with OpenAI to help the latter company to manufacture its own chips . This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ai/broadcom-just-announced-an-ai-chipset-that-translates-audio-in-real-time-directly-on-the-device-050036717.html?src=rss

Apple delays next version of iPhone Air: Report

The iPhone Air is being sold in China without a physical SIM tray, supporting only eSIM connectivity

Paramount+ is getting a price hike and ending free trials

Paramount+ is making some changes that will make its streaming service get more to watch. During Paramount's earnings report today, the company announced that it will increase the subscription prices for Paramount+ in the US during the first quarter of 2026. Price hikes were also announced today for viewers in Canada and Australia. The new pricing was not shared, but a dollar or two more per month has become the standard change. Considering most streaming services jack their prices every year or two, the news was probably inevitable; the last increase for Paramount+ was back in June 2024 . But today's announcement also revealed that Paramount+ will no longer offer free trials, which is a common practice for most digital entertainment subscriptions. The changes appear to be part of a reassessment of the Paramount+ finances. The company's approach to increase long-term profitability includes shifting away from certain hard bundles and low-margin subscriptions, reducing investment in select international markets without a clear path to sufficient scale, retiring free trials, and reviewing discount practices. These new moves follow Skydance's acquisition of Paramount over the summer, an $8 billion purchase which received regulatory approval after some pretty scuzzy interactions with FCC Chairman Brendan Carr. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/entertainment/streaming/paramount-is-getting-a-price-hike-and-ending-free-trials-231146302.html?src=rss

Rode's Rodecaster Video S is a smaller, cheaper production console for creators

Rode is today launching the Rodecaster Video S, a smaller and cheaper version of its existing all-in-one production console. The Rodecaster Video is targeted at professionals and environments regularly producing multi-camera content. The S, meanwhile, is aimed at bedroom streamers, video podcasters and other indie creators with more modest production needs. Consequently, the focus here is on trimming down unnecessary features to get the price to a more reasonable $500. Rode Its easy to spot the differences by sight alone, since the hardware is smaller than its bigger sibling. Its got fewer input and scene buttons, and is clad in plastic, rater than metal, since it probably wont need to be moved around a lot. The number of HDMI inputs/outputs drops from 4/2 on the original to 3/1 here, and theres only one multi-function USB-C port. Similarly, theres only two headphone outputs here, and youll only get 24GB internal storage rather than the microSD-card slot found on the original. The Rodecaster Video S is available to pre-order today, with units expected to ship across December, depending on your territory. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/entertainment/streaming/rodes-rodecaster-video-s-is-a-smaller-cheaper-production-console-for-creators-230052793.html?src=rss

Rodecaster Video S review: Compact and comprehensive video production

The Rodecaster series of podcast mixers have become a mainstay among audio creatives. Last year, the company expanded the line with its first multimedia model the Rodecaster Video . It was a more niche proposition, aimed at streamers, video podcasters and live producers, and, at $1,200, people with deeper pockets. Today, Rode returns with the Rodecaster Video S (RCV-S), a streamlined version that offers much of the same functionality for less than half the cost of the original ($499). If you currently use Ecamm Live, OBS, a Stream Deck , a Rodecaster Pro/Duo , a video capture card or Blackmagic Atem type switcher, then theres a good chance the RCV-S does something, or many things, useful to you. Maybe it can replace all those products, some of them or enhance your workflow. Its a little complicated, but within that complication is a lot of versatility. With three HDMI inputs, one USB webcam/mic input and up to four NDI/wireless camera inputs, video is clearly the focus here. But there are also two XLR/Combo ports for studio microphones and instruments and the option to connect up to two of Rodes wireless lav mics (such as the Wireless Go ) directly without the need for a receiver. The RCV-S, like Blackmagics popular Atem Mini , outputs over HDMI at 1080p/60 (no 4K) or can be used over USB as a virtual camera just like youd find in Zoom or Teams. Unlike the Rodecaster Pro or Duo, there are no faders; instead, there are two rows of pads for switching between video sources and scenes. Theres 20GB of onboard storage for media such as overlays, graphics and audio/video clips and you can record shows directly onto USB hard-drives or stream natively to Twitch, YouTube and other platforms via RTMP/S. Theres a lot going on, and how you want to use it all is largely up to you. While the RCV-S leans more toward live productions such as streaming or podcasts, you can use it for conventional YouTube-style video production, depending on your workflow or video preferences. Rodecaster Video versus Rodecaster Video S The huge price difference between the original Rodecaster Video and the new S model might lead you to expect some serious feature trimming this time around, but Rodes garden shears have been fairly kind. Most notably, the number of sources you can connect has been reduced from six to four. Meanwhile, the number of scenes you can create is now five, down from seven. As mentioned above, there are three HDMI inputs, not four, and only one USB webcam/mic input, down from two on the original. There are still nine channels of audio with two headphone outputs, but the line outputs on the original are no longer here. The SD card slot for media has also been removed in favor of internal storage. In short, theres a little bit less connectivity, but not enough for it to feel hobbled, especially for the more casual users this is clearly aimed at. In-use https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MY-4x7dAbdY At its most basic, the RCV-S is an all-in-one video switcher. You dont need to connect it to a PC, just plug in your video and audio sources and you can jump between them in real time with a choice of transitions. For a more polished production you can create scenes via the menu with a selection of layouts for multiple cameras, picture-in-picture and so on. That could be two talking heads for a podcast, overlaying your web camera on top of your gameplay or a top-down camera mixed with a different perspective for cooking tutorials or presentations. You can create scenes directly on the device in advance or live via templates, but things get a lot easier and more creative when you use Rodes companion Rodecaster app. Here, youll find a scene creator tool thats both visual and intuitive, plus it has the option to make custom layouts where you can freely resize and place all your different media wherever you want, add borders or rounded corners and so on. While the main pads are primarily for switching between sources and scenes, they can also trigger media pre-made video clips, overlays and graphics, for example. You can assign media to them without reducing the number of sources/scenes that are available to switch between, just tap the Media/Overlay button to temporarily change the functionality of the pads. You can also set up chromakey/green screening directly on the device or via the Rodecaster App, too. Once you have everything set up, you can directly record output onto a USB SSD, again, without the need for a PC. Theres even the option to record only the main output (program) or a multi-track version which will export a recording of every input as a separate file that you can edit as you see fit. This is helpful if youre using apps like Adobe Premier or Davinci Resolve. If you shoot multi-camera dance tutorials, for example, you can jump between your main and wide camera and then to a close up without having to hunt-down the right part from each file you recorded on different memory cards. Rode recently updated the Rodecaster Video firmware to add support for up to four NDI wireless cameras as additional sources. Typically these are remote or security-style cameras, but Rodes Capture mobile app also supports NDI streaming, meaning you can use your phone wirelessly as another camera that you can switch to, which is particularly useful. Though do note, the Rodecaster Video will need to be hard-wired to your router on the same network as your phone for this to work. Audio The Rodecaster Video S handles audio and video with ease. James Trew for Engadget While the RCV-S offers nine audio tracks, its fair to say it isnt really designed for live audio mixing in the pure sense since there are no faders. Instead, you have to access different channels via the menu on a small display and a dial Its a lot of hunting and pecking. If youre connected to a PC, the Rodecaster app does offer a software mixer with faders though, which makes adjusting levels on the fly much easier. The good news is that some voice enhancement tools, such as Depth, Sparkle and Punch have been carried over from the Rodecaster Pro/Duo, giving you a little more fine-grained control over how you or your guests sound. Theres a slight drawback when using the RCV-S as a standalone unit, in that you need to physically push the buttons to change the scene, which might not be ideal if youre trying to make a polished recording or cant always be near the console. Thankfully, Rode has a solution in auto switching. Im mentioning it here, in the audio section, as the RCV-S can switch cameras based on which one has the strongest audio or based on user-defined priority. Typically, that would be whoever is talking in a podcast, but it could also be in-game sound or when you switch to playing a musical instrument. Auto switching works well, but its not quite dependable enough to rely on for full autonomy in a professional environment say while recording a panel at a conference but it solves a problem if youre on your own, and it could at least save some time in a casual podcast situation. Things to consider The Rodecaster Video S (top) vs. The Rodecaster Video (bottom) James Trew for Engadget Its clear that the RCV-S, despite having fewer inputs than the original Rodecaster Video, is still quite a complex, open-ended tool. If you already have a streaming setup you like and the software and interfaces you need, then the appeal of the RCV-S will be down to whether it can do what you need more efficiently. For live video production, its an easier sell, as there arent many all-in-one devices to compete with it that can be used standalone. For example, Blackmagics Atem series is incredibly popular, and until now, had the advantage on price with the Mini Pro costing just $330. Even the Mini Pro ISO ($550) that exports multi-track video was half the price of the original Rodecaster Video. The RCV-S now offers comparable connectivity, onboard recording, more expansive audio features and multi-track export for $50 less. For general content creators its a little trickier. As someone that makes YouTube videos, the appeal to me is the chance to consolidate a few devices into one and remove some friction in my recordings. Right now, I have a Rodecaster Duo handling my audio, a capture card for my main camera and I swap out that camera for a smaller one if I am shooting top-down footage or need a second angle. That means I have several different devices on my desk, and Im constantly doing a dance of unplugging things and juggling media or different recordings before I get everything ready to edit. The Rodecaster Video S has a tiny display for menus and settings. James Trew for Engadget With the RCV-S I can ditch my standalone capture card and permanently leave multiple cameras connected to the Rodecaster so that they are ready to go at any time. I can even remove the Rodecaster Duo and bring it back out again on the occasions I need more immediate control over multiple sources of audio (which is sometimes, but not often). The appeal in my case is fewer devices on my desk, and the ability to record multi-camera video without having to set up every shot, every single time, which saves significant time that I can then use to actually get more work done. There are, of course, some limitations. Not least of all is the lack of 4K. Im still inclined to record on camera for my primary shot to ensure I still have a 4K copy for YouTube and then use the Rodecaster Video S for everything else, but as a small creator, convenience and flexibility is very appealing. For streamers and live video production, the Rodecaster Video S is a very capable tool that offers a wide range of functionality for an accessible price that will no doubt become the central hub for many creators. The real kicker here is the price. Lets be clear, $500 is still significant money. But at less than half the price of the original Rodecaster with decent connectivity and basically the same functionality, it's an easy recommendation to those who were holding off based on price alone. Likewise, if youre just starting out with content creation and need something with solid video credentials and audio chops, Rode makes a good case for itself with the Rodecaster Video S. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/general/rodecaster-video-s-review-compact-and-comprehensive-video-production-230000221.html?src=rss

Gemini for TV is rolling out to the Google TV Streamer

Google is continuing to push its Gemini AI assistant into as many of its products as possible. The latest to get the treatment is Google TV Streamer, where Gemini for TV will begin rolling out today and over the coming weeks. The Google TV Streamer had a few minor AI features when we reviewed the hardware, but this new voice-controlled application of Google's Gemini is more robust. It can offer suggestions for viewing based on the preferences of whoever is watching or provide additional context for the content playing. We knew from The Android Show this spring that Google was planning to bring Gemini to additional platforms, including televisions. A lot of those plans have been coming to fruition in the final quarter of 2025; for instance, last month Google opened early access to Gemini for Home , which brings a specially-designed AI assistant to its Google Home smart speaker hardware. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ai/gemini-for-tv-is-rolling-out-to-the-google-tv-streamer-220448361.html?src=rss

Meta is killing off the external Facebook Like button

Next year will see the end arrive for two of Facebook's external social plugins. The platform's Like button and Share button for third-party websites will be discontinued on February 10, 2026. The blog post from Meta explains that site admins shouldn't have to take any additional steps as a result of the change, although they can choose to remove the plugins before the discontinue date. Any remaining plugins will gracefully degrade, which sounds much more dramatic than what will actually happen, which is that they'll render as a 0x0 invisible element. Ending support for these features marks the end of an era for Meta and Facebook. External Like and Share buttons were introduced in 2013. The tools were promoted as ways for sites to generate more traffic through the social network, which was a major way that people shared and saw articles at that time. The company's official line is that the plugins reflect an earlier era of web development, and their usage has naturally declined as the digital landscape has evolved. But Facebook also plays a much smaller role in the broader Meta business operation than it once did, and anecdotally, it's less common to see sites running only integrations with a single social network. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/meta-is-killing-off-the-external-facebook-like-button-205207354.html?src=rss

Snap is bringing back 2D Bitmoji for Snapchat+ subscribers

Snap is offering Snapchat+ subscribers the chance to have 2D Bitmoji avatars once again. In the coming days, theyll be able to activate a setting called Comic Bitmoji. Snap said this will revive the charm of classic avatars, while keeping all the benefits of todays 3D infrastructure. If you turn on Comic Bitmoji, all Bitmoji avatars that you see in Snapchat will be rendered in 2D. Youll also be able to send stickers to your friends in that style. Snap switched from 2D to 3D avatars back in 2023. The company said the move allowed it to offer a larger array of customizations, including more body types, hairstyles and makeup looks. However, many users yearned for a return to a 2D look. Nearly 100,000 of them signed a Change.org petition demanding the return of 2D Bitmoji, and Snap said it listened. CEO Evan Spiegel signed the petition too. Snap says Comic Bitmoji effectively applies a filter to the 3D avatars. To make the animations and expressions work properly in the 2D format, the team had to make adjustments to proportions, shading and outlines, according to Fast Company . Snap said that more than 320 million people use Bitmoji every day, so getting the 2D renders right was important. Its a little disappointing that Snap is locking the the Comic Bitmoji setting behind a paywall. However, it seems like just the kind of feature that might prompt more users to sign up for a Snapchat+ subscription. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/apps/snap-is-bringing-back-2d-bitmoji-for-snapchat-subscribers-202257144.html?src=rss

Renders show off Samsung's upcoming Galaxy S26+

It looks like Samsung is sticking with its Plus line of Galaxy phones, according to a report by Android Headlines . This comes after rumors swirled that the company would be dropping the Plus line in favor of the slim Edge handset. This report indicates that not only is Samsung keeping the Plus, but it's ditching the well-reviewed Edge entirely. A leaker has given us a peek at the forthcoming S26+ and it looks similar to the company's other modern smartphones. The camera island has been tweaked a bit. The leak shows a small, raised camera island, which is different from the design of the S25+ . Exclusive: Samsung Galaxy S26 Plus Official CAD Renders & Rumors https://t.co/gkh378hnYW #GalaxyS26Plus #Samsung #Android Androidheadline (@Androidheadline) November 10, 2025 Also, the leaked images seem to suggest that the S26+ won't have the full-width camera that was rumored to be coming with the S26 Edge . That phone is now reportedly cancelled, so we don't know when we'll get that camera. The publication suggests that the S26+ will be 7.35mm thick, which is in line with the S25+. It also seems to be decidedly chunkier than the S25 Edge, so this is likely not a covert rebrand. The Verge has suggested that the company is also ditching the long-rumored S26 Pro. In other words, we'll likely be getting a standard S26, the S26+ and the S26 Ultra next year. That's the same naming convention as this year . We won't have too long to wait for actual details from Samsung. The company typically reveals new Galaxy phones sometime in January. It's been reported that Samsung is dropping the Edge due to poor sales . However, Dutch fansite Galaxy Club has reported that the company is still developing a slim handset for release sometime in the coming years. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/mobile/smartphones/renders-show-off-samsungs-upcoming-galaxy-s26-194014359.html?src=rss

Northern lights could be visible in 15 states this week

US residents across 15 states could be in for a show tonight and throughout the week. Incoming coronal mass ejections may spark geomagnetic storms that blaze up the northern lights for all to see, according to a report by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Forecasters anticipate geomagnetic activity and aurora displays from November 10 until November 12 in states such as New York, Minnesota, Iowa and Alaska, among others. This is due to a trio of coronal mass ejections that began on November 7. NOAA As previously stated, the latest NOAA aurora forecast map notes that 15 US states are fully or partially above the view line. This isn't an exact science, as it's entirely possible that those living below the view line could get a glimpse of something in the night sky. Auroras are fickle, so it's also possible that the lightshow will be understated. A number of conditions have to align for the perfect display. If you're planning on heading out tonight for a look, here are some tips. Make sure to find a north-facing vantage point with a clear view of the horizon. You want to be as far from light pollution as possible, so head away from large cities. Use a mobile phone to scan the skies as the camera is actually better at picking up faint lights before being visible to the naked eye. This can help pinpoint where to focus attention. The last truly powerful and widespread aurora event in the US took place last year . That geomagnetic storm was one of the strongest in the past two decades. It's unlikely this week's activity will be quite as striking. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/science/space/northern-lights-could-be-visible-in-15-states-this-week-180056871.html?src=rss

Venmo introduces a rewards program for its debit card users

PayPal has introduced a Venmo cash back rewards program that the company is calling Venmo Stash. The program is designed to scale rewards with user engagement, offering more cash back to those who use more of the platform's suite of products. The rewards are earned when users spend on their Venmo Debit Mastercard, but only at curated bundles of certain brands. Unless users are judicious about only using their Venmo debit cards at these brands, this could mean a net monthly cash back far below what is advertised. In the companys announcement , Paypal depicts brands like McDonalds, TikTok Shop, Uber and Uber Eats bundled together, while another bundle shows Amazon, DoorDash, Domino's and Walgreens. Users can change their bundle of brands every 30 days. Cash back tiers start at 1 percent when users spend at their chosen brands, scaling to 2 percent when auto reloads are turned on to keep a balance in Venmo. The highest tier is 5 percent cash back, which requires customers to receive monthly Direct Deposits on Venmo of at least $500. PayPal says it will be introducing more ways to earn rewards next year. The fine print for Venmo Stash mentions a monthly reward cap, the amount of which is only visible during the enrollment process. Once this cap is reached, no more rewards can be earned until the next calendar month. PayPal has been making moves lately in hopes of enticing new customers. Earlier this year it offered a free year of Perplexity Pro to its users, along with early access to the AI powered Comet browser. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/big-tech/venmo-introduces-a-rewards-program-for-its-debit-card-users-170807513.html?src=rss

Headspace annual subscriptions are half off for Black Friday

Headspaces Black Friday deal is live, offering 50 percent off its annual subscription through December 4. That brings the cost of a full year down to $35, giving you access to guided meditations, courses and stress-management tools that can help you stay balanced heading into the new year. Headspace has become one of the most recognizable names in digital mindfulness. The app blends practical meditation guidance with structured courses and calming soundscapes designed to make everyday stress easier to manage. Its programs cover everything from beginner-friendly introductions to mindfulness to focused content on topics like anxiety, productivity and sleep. Subscribers get access to hundreds of guided sessions led by the Headspace team, including short daily practices that can be completed in a few spare minutes, plus longer courses that help build consistency. The apps Sleepcasts and soundscapes are unique, designed to create a steady nighttime routine that promotes better rest. For mornings, there are breathing exercises and motivational mini-sessions that can help set focus for the day ahead. Headspace also includes personalized progress tracking, mood check-ins and optional reminders that make it easier to stay consistent with your new mindfulness habits. For anyone new to meditation, the apps clear structure is a major strength. You dont have to know where to start, since it suggests sessions based on your goals or current mood. This annual deal is ideal for users who want to stick with mindfulness practice over time, or anyone interested in incorporating a new habit into their lives. Paying for the year upfront typically saves money compared with the monthly plan, and the discount brings that cost down even further. Whether youre learning the basics of meditation or refining an existing routine, the full library provides enough variety to keep things engaging throughout the year. If youre still comparing wellness apps, check out our guide to the best meditation apps to see how Headspace stacks up against other options. But for those ready to commit to a calmer routine, this annual offer is one of the simplest ways to start the habit at a lower cost. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/headspace-annual-subscriptions-are-half-off-for-black-friday-163051719.html?src=rss

Resident Evil's mobile spinoff arrives on November 18

Capcom has announced that its Resident Evil mobile spinoff will be available on November 18. Resident Evil Survival Unit will be downloadable in more than 150 countries throughout the world via iOS and Android. This title is free to play, but you know the drill. There will be plenty of stuff available to buy in the game. We've been tracking this one for a while and it certainly looks intriguing . Survival Unit is a strategy game, complete with base-building mechanics and real-time battles against powerful creatures inspired by the Resident Evil universe. The major hook here is that you can play as characters from across the franchise, like Leon S. Kennedy, Jill Valentine and Claire Redfield. How can these protagonists exist in the same game? It's all thanks to some multiversal shenanigans. The title is set in a parallel universe, which also opens up the door for more unannounced characters to show up. Resident Evil Survival Unit is being co-developed by Joycity, the company behind 3on3 FreeStyle Rebound , and Aniplex, which made Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba The Hinokami Chronicles 2 . Both devs are working in close collaboration with Capcom. Hopefully this will tide folks over while waiting for the next mainline franchise title , Resident Evil Requiem . This is technically Resident Evil 9 and it comes out on February 26, 2026. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/resident-evils-mobile-spinoff-arrives-on-november-18-161418205.html?src=rss

Nintendo announces its Black Friday and Cyber Monday 2025 sale: Switch 2 bundles, Switch game deals and more

Nintendo gear is always sought after during the holiday shopping season, but this year likely more so than others. The Nintendo Switch 2 is the console launch of 2025 and it will undoubtedly be at the top of many wish lists for both kids and adults alike. If you were hoping to save a bit on the console during the Black Friday shopping season, you may be disappointed. The Nintendo Black Friday sale was just announced , and unsurprisingly, there aren't a lot of true deals to be had. This is typical of Nintendo legit Nintendo Black Friday deals are hard to come by but there are ways to at least get the best value for your money if you're going to pick up a Switch 2 before the year is out. As has been the case for many years, the marquee Nintendo deals for the holidays come in the form of console bundles. When the Switch 2 launched earlier this year, it was available as just the console only for $449 or bundled with Mario Kart World for $499 . Both options are still available now, but there's a new bundle to consider as well the console with the new Pokmon Legends: Z-A game , which also costs $499. Considering the games by themselves cost $70 each, you do save a bit by picking up a console bundle. you can pick up the console and its bundles at most retailers including Amazon , Walmart , Best Buy and others. When it comes to deals on Nintendo Switch 2 games, the Nintendo eShop will have Cyber Deals starting on November 20, running through December 3. The shop will feature holiday offers on select games, so it appears we'll all just have to go to the online store on November 20 to see the games on offer. Starting on November 23, select retailers will have discounts on some physical Switch games including Princess Peach: Showtime! , The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom , Luigis Mansion 3 and Kirbys Return to Dream Land Deluxe . Those will each be $40, while other games like Super Mario Odyssey, Nintendo Switch Sports , Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door and Splatoon 3 will be $30. Even if you can't get huge discounts on Nintendo consoles or new games this year, that doesn't mean you can't find decent deals on other Nintendo gear. There are plenty of great ideas for gifts for the Nintendo fan in your life , and Engadget's Sam Rutherford got to see a bunch of them in person when he attended Nintendo's holiday showcase. From collectibles to clothing to plushies and holiday decor, there's really a ton to choose from but you may want to pace yourself if you're also a Nintendo fan finding things that you want to pick up for yourself in the process of looking for good gifts. Here are just some of the best Nintendo gift ideas that you can look out for during Black Friday and Cyber Monday. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/nintendo-announces-its-black-friday-and-cyber-monday-2025-sale-switch-2-bundles-switch-game-deals-and-more-155223898.html?src=rss

Amazon Music's Fan Groups are a refreshingly old-school way to share and find tunes

Amazon is in the middle of rolling out Alexa+, the long-awaited, AI-infused update for its voice assistant. At the same time, the company has also been giving a fair bit of attention to Amazon Music, adding things like Alexa+ integration and AI-powered playlists. And as of today, Amazon is rolling out a new community-focused feature called Fan Groups. As the name suggests, Fan Groups are a way for users to connect around different musical interests and what makes this more fun to me is that these arent limited to Amazon-curated groups. Once Fan Groups fully rolls out, anyone will be able to create a public group in Amazon Music based around a genre, region, time period or anything else you want to focus the group on. Right now, Fan Groups are only available in Canada during a a beta period, but theyll come to other countries (including the US) early next year. Amazon has had testers building out some Fan Groups in the meantime so that testers dont walk into a ghost town. When you first open the Groups tab, which will be part of Amazon Musics bottom navigation, youll see a top rail with Groups youve joined and a scrolling list of ones you can check out. Some of the examples Amazon showed off include K-pop Now, Red Dirt Americana and Indie Insiders, all of which feel pretty self-explanatory. Each group includes a featured playlist at the top and then a scroll of posts by people whove joined the group. Members can share any song, album or playlist on Amazon Music along with a comment; you can then have a discussion on the post. Itll be familiar to anyone who has used a Facebook Group over the years. Somewhat interestingly, Amazon is also letting you share external links Beyond the posts view, theres also a music-only tab that just shows everything that has been shared to the group. One of the more intriguing features in Fan Groups is the ability to just hit play and listen to everything thats been shared over time its something that should be good for exploration as well as just seeing if the groups tastes are aligned with your own. In the quick demo I saw of Fan Groups, it felt like the rare new social tool that could be useful. Music is obviously an extremely social art, one that so many love sharing with other fans. Discovery is also a huge part of being a music fan, and I appreciate the fact that Amazon is building a way to get recommendations from other human beings and not just algorithms and AI. The only issue is that getting traction for a social network built inside of a specific service isnt the easiest thing to do you could just as easily share music on Facebook or any number of other apps. But the potential for finding new music and sharing what youre into with other fellow obsessives make this feature worth a look once it fully launches. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/amazon-musics-fan-groups-are-a-refreshingly-old-school-way-to-share-and-find-tunes-150000084.html?src=rss

How to watch PlayStation's State of Play Japan tomorrow

Sony is bringing things home with State of Play Japan . The special episode will feature the same type of PlayStation gaming announcements as a typical State of Play broadcast, but with a focus solely on Japan and Asia. While we don't know exactly what Sony will unveil, it promises 40 minutes of everything from beloved series to distinctive indie creations, the show, hosted by voice actor Yuki Kaji, will be packed with great games, interviews, and new looks at anticipated titles. Maybe if we all think hard enough we can manifest updates on Phantom Blade Zero or Marvel Tokon: Fighting Souls , which we first learned about at Playstation's State of Play in June. The whole show will air in Japanese on the PlayStation YouTube channel for Japan, but the general PlayStation YouTube channel will show State of Play Japan with English subtitles. Catch State of Play Japan live on Tuesday, November 11 at 2PM PT / 5pm ET. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/playstation/how-to-watch-playstations-state-of-play-japan-tomorrow-140519040.html?src=rss

The Logitech MX Master 4 comes with haptic feedback, less rubber and the same general shape

Editors note (11/10/25) : After spending another month with the MX Master 4, our impressions remain largely unchanged. The new textured plastic finish and silicone thumb rest have shown no signs of wear, and weve continued to see no erratic behavior with the electromagnetic scroll wheel. Battery life still lines up with Logitechs rating, while the haptic feedback and Actions Ring functionality remain useful if inessential. Weve added an official review score to this post as a result. Our original hands-on is below. Original post (9/30/25) : If youve shopped around for a wireless mouse at any point in the past decade, youve probably seen lots of people recommending a Logitech MX Master. Theres good reason for that: They arent cheap, but theyre usually comfortable, versatile and loaded with features designed to make working in front of a monitor all day a little less annoying. The current MX Master 3S has sat at the top of our own wireless mouse buying guide for some time now. Now, three years after releasing the 3S, Logitech is rolling out the new MX Master 4 , which costs $120 and will ship in October. Ive been able to test it out for the past few weeks. For the most part, this is an iterative update, with the same general shape, battery life, 8K DPI sensor and ultra-quiet clicks as the MX Master 3S before it. It is a touch heavier (150 grams vs. 141g), wider (3.48 inches vs 3.32 in.) and taller (5.05 inches vs. 4.92 in.) than the last model, and the main click buttons are slightly larger. But if you found the 3S or older MX Master 3 comfortable, you should have few issues here. That said, this is still a hefty mouse designed for palm grippers and right-handed users: Its gentle contours, generous hump, ample thumb rest and large buttons will fit like a glove if that describes you, but lefties and those with especially petite hands wont agree. The flashiest change here is the addition of haptic feedback, which is built into a small panel within the mouses thumb rest. You can customize the intensity of this effect through Logitechs Options+ software or turn it off entirely but it essentially brings a modicum of smartphone-style feedback to your desktop. When you first pair the mouse, for one, youll feel a little bump. The same goes if you move between devices using Logitechs Flow feature . When battery is low, itll vibrate. If youre trying to precisely line up a graphic in an app like Photoshop, youll get a little buzz when youve moved it to the exact right spot. Jeff Dunn for Engadget Youll also feel it when you hover over options in the Actions Ring , a customizable overlay that presents different shortcuts depending on the app youre using. This pops up when you click the side panel; you could use it quickly access the screenshot tool while in Chrome, for instance, or the brightness and contrast sliders in Photoshop. If all of this sounds like a gimmick, well, yeah it kind of is. Its not the kind of thing anyone needs . But the effect is surprisingly subtle on the default medium setting, and theres a level of reassurance that comes with feeling a confirmed action instead of just seeing it. I found it more pleasant than distracting. The catch is that only a few apps will natively support the MX Master 4s haptics at launch: Photoshop, Lightroom and Zoom, with Adobe Premiere Pro to follow soon after. Youll still be able to utilize the haptic feedback on a system level on Windows and macOS, and Logitech is releasing an SDK for more developers to integrate the functionality, but well have to see how many do so. Another change is with the mouses coating, which trades the 3S rubbery finish for a lightly textured plastic around the top. (The thumb rest area and right side still use a denser rubber.) Some users have complained about older MX Master mice peeling and wearing down after extended use; time will tell how well the new model holds up, but it should avoid the same sort of sweat-induced degradation. Either way, Ive found it smooth to the touch without being slippery. I also havent been able to replicate the accuracy issues some 3S buyers have had with that mouses electromagnetic scroll wheel, which is still made of a high-quality metal and lets you conveniently swap between a notched and free-spin scroll on the fly. Customizing the Actions Ring in Logitech's Options+ app. Logitech/Jeff Dunn for Engadget There are other minor tweaks and improvements. The receiver included with the Windows model is now USB-C instead of USB-A. The horizontal scroll wheel on the side which remains a blessing for navigating spreadsheets is now more exposed and extends a little farther with each spin. The PTFE feet on the bottom are a bit larger for a smoother glide. The dedicated gesture button is no longer awkwardly integrated into the thumb rest; instead, its been pulled out ahead of the two programmable side buttons. Logitech says theres a more powerful chip inside the mouse to improve connection quality. The edges around the main click buttons are now translucent: nothing major, but a bit more stylish. The screws on the bottom are now exposed, too, which Logitech says should be helpful for recycling purposes down the road. The rest is largely the same as before, which isnt a bad thing. The best feature here is still the virtually silent main buttons, which keep a pleasing level of travel but will never bother anyone around you. Battery life is still rated at a solid 70 days, which seems about right I havent charged the mouse in about a month and the Options+ app says I still have about 50 percent juice left. The design still feels super sturdy, with no flexing or creaking. The side buttons feel firm and tactile. Options+ is resource-heavy but still intuitive enough for reprogramming buttons and customizing app-specific settings. It can still track on a variety of surfaces, including glass or the fabric of my couch. You can still connect to three devices simultaneously and switch between them with a button on the bottom, too. Logitech On the downside, theres no USB-C cable included in the box anymore, and the polling rate is still set at a basic 125Hz, which means tracking isnt quite as buttery smooth as it could be. (Though you'd never want to use something this heavy for gaming.) The Mac version doesnt come with a USB receiver, and theres still no built-in storage compartment for the dongle with either model. You also need to keep Options+ open to feel the haptic feedback, which is annoying, especially if your work limits use of third-party software. Some of those complaints have been issues for a while, so its frustrating to see them three years later. Still, theyre probably not dealbreakers. The MX Master 4 may not be a essential upgrade if youre happy with an older MX Master mouse, and if those didnt work for you before, this one probably wont work for you now. But if youre a power user in the market for a new productivity mouse, wed expect this newest iteration to be as popular as its predecessors. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/computing/accessories/the-logitech-mx-master-4-comes-with-haptic-feedback-less-rubber-and-the-same-general-shape-070129482.html?src=rss

TCL's new budget-friendly QLED TV line starts at $600

TCL just announced a new line up of budget-friendly QLED TVs with plenty of bells and whistles. The T7 Series offers quantum dot technology and a native refresh rate of 144Hz. The sets are available in multiple sizes, from 55-inches all the way up to 85-inches. That last one will certainly fill up the living room. They also ship with the company's proprietary AI processor that automatically optimizes color, contrast and clarity. This should lead to some stunning 4K HDR performance. To that end, the TVs integrate with Dolby Vision and HDR10+. The sound is also on point here. The televisions offer Dolby Atmos and Dolby Digital+ audio processing. The whole thing is powered via Google TV that allows for hands-free voice control via built-in microphones. The prices here are fairly reasonable, considering the tech involved. These TVs start at $600 for the 55-inch model and go up to $1,400 for the 85-inch model. We don't have a release date just yet. These aren't the only interesting displays the company has announced this year. The QM6K Mini LED is available in sizes up to 98-inches, with a starting price of $700 for the smallest model. The QM7K is another Mini LED that ships with Bang & Olufsen speakers. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/home/home-theater/tcls-new-budget-friendly-qled-tv-line-starts-at-600-140024183.html?src=rss

iFit workouts are coming to Samsung Health, with free and paid options

Samsung has partnered with iFit to bring its guided workouts to the Samsung Health app. The integration gives Samsung Health users limited free access to iFit content, offering one video from each of the seven workout categories high-intensity interval training (HIIT), Pilates, yoga, strength, recovery, barre and mindfulness per month. For access to a bigger catalog, Samsung Health users can also snag an iFit subscription for cheaper than the usual cost ($15 per month) of the basic plan, with the option for $10 per month or $100 per year. There are also perks for anyone buying a new Samsung device. You can get 30 days free when buying a Galaxy phone, three months with the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro and six months with any of the latest Galaxy Watch models. Samsung and iFit announced their partnership in July, and just a few weeks ago rolled out Galaxy Watch compatibility for some NordicTrack and ProForm machines, which can now display certain metrics, like live heart rate, on-screen while you work out. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/apps/ifit-workouts-are-coming-to-samsung-health-with-free-and-paid-options-140000756.html?src=rss

Black Friday Apple deals include the Mac mini M4 for $100 off

It's a good idea to look for Black Friday Apple deals this time of year if you're thinking about upgrading an aging laptop or picking up a pair of AirPods or an Apple Watch as a gift. One of the best discounts we're tracking at the moment is on the M4-powered Mac Mini desktop it's $100 off right now, down from $599 to $499. That applies to the 16GB of RAM/256GB SSD model, and it's pretty close to its all-time-low price. We gave the Mac mini M4 a 90 in our review , in part, because it packs an incredible amount of power into such a small design. It also has front facing USB-C and headphone ports, a first for the Mac mini lineup. Plus, it starts with 16GB of RAM, an upgrade from its predecessors. However, if you want more memory or storage, the other Mac Mini M4 models are also on sale. You can get 16GB of RAM and 512GB of SSD for $690, down from $799. Then there's the option for 24GB of RAM and 512GB of SSD at $890, down from $999. Plus, if you want to bundle in three years of AppleCare+, each model ends up being about $100 cheaper than normal. If you're looking to build a desktop setup from scratch, there's a small but notable discount on Apple's Magic Trackpad as well. It's down to $120, which is only seven percent off its usual price but it's the cheapest we've seen it. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/black-friday-apple-deals-include-the-mac-mini-m4-for-100-off-150749530.html?src=rss

Black Friday deal: The Google TV Streamer 4K drops to a record-low price

One of the best streaming devices you can get today is deeply discounted on Amazon ahead of Black Friday. The Google TV Streamer is going for just $75 right now the lowest price we've seen it hit yet. The device normally costs $100. The Amazon deal applies to both color options, White and the soft gray Haze. The Google TV Streamer is our top pick for an all-in-one streaming device . It has a faster processor than Google's previous streaming devices (22 percent faster, according to the company), so you can switch between apps and different media without lagging. It also has more storage and memory, at 32GB and 4GB, respectively. Google TV streamer has an intuitive interface and keeps all of your favorite content from different streaming apps organized in one menu. It also seamlessly integrates Google Home, allowing you to control your smart home devices from a slideout panel on the TV. The 4K streamer comes in a set-top wedge design, rather than the dongle of Chromecasts past, but you'll have to pick up an HDMI cable separately if you don't already have one you can use. It comes with a small remote that you can ping by pressing a button on the streamer for when you inevitably misplace it. In her review of the device , Engadget's Amy Skorheim called the Google TV streamer a full-featured, competent device with an interface thats better than most at pulling together all the disparate threads of a streaming experience. One of its only downsides is the relatively high cost at $100, so don't let this deal go to waste. In addition to the streaming device, Google has a bunch of other tech on sale for Black Friday . The entry-level Nest thermostat is on sale for $90 right now, and the Nest Wi-Fi Pro 6E router has dropped to $120 for a single-pack; that's 40 percent off. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/black-friday-deal-the-google-tv-streamer-4k-drops-to-a-record-low-price-173858286.html?src=rss

The best Christmas gifts to give everyone on your 2025 holiday shopping list

This time of year has a lot of merry and bright things to be excited about, but it can be stressful if youre stumped on what to get your mom, dad, best friend, coworker or kids teacher as a holiday gift. Whether you enjoy or dread buying gifts for people, its safe to say we all want to give our loved ones things they will enjoy and appreciate. But theres a lot of noise, junk and bad deals disguised as good deals to sift through as we get closer and closer to the holidays. Allow us at Engadget to help you through it. Here, youll find all of our holiday gift guides collected in one place, so you can more easily find the best Christmas gifts you need this year. Are you looking for white elephant gift ideas? Are you struggling to come up with a good gift for the father figure in your life? Are you just looking for a good board game to pick up for your own family? Weve got you covered with gift ideas for all of those scenarios and more. Check back here throughout the season as we add more of our gift guides to the list. Best tech gifts and gadgets Trying to find the right gift for an unabashed gadget lover during the holidays can be difficult, especially if you dont keep up with tech industry news yourself. Fortunately, youre reading Engadget.com, a site entirely staffed by people who spend all day figuring out what new stuff is and isnt actually good. So allow us to help. Weve rounded up some of our favorite gadgets and gear that just might satisfy the avid geek in your life. Read more: The best tech gifts and gadgets Best board game gifts We could all use more time away from screens of all types and sizes, and board games are a fun way to do that and bond with friends and family. You can find plenty of unique sets out there now, from word puzzles to whodunnits to calming playthroughs that showcase the beauty of the little things in life. From games with giant monsters to those with haunted mansions, were sure at least one of our suggestions will be a hit with you and your loved ones. Read more: The best board games to gift this season Best gifts under $50 We wouldnt blame you if you try to do all of your tech shopping around the holidays. Thats when you can typically get the best sales, both on relatively affordable gear and (more importantly) on big-ticket items. But it would be wrong to think that only the most expensive tech is worth gifting. Since we at Engadget test a plethora of gadgets every year, we know that there are some hidden (and not so hidden) tech gems at lower price ranges you just have to know where to find them. Read more: The best gifts under $50 that make great stocking stuffers Best gifts for remote workers There's a pretty good chance you know at least one person who works remotely in some fashion. While the WFH life has its perks nobody likes a long commute it comes with its own set of challenges, from lacking pro-level equipment to dealing with household disturbances. If youre looking to give a gift to someone who spends much of their time in their home office, weve rounded up a few techy gift ideas that should make their days a little more delightful, or at least easier to manage. Read more: The best gift ideas for the remote worker in your life Best white elephant gift ideas According to legend, the King of Siam would give a white elephant to courtiers who had upset them. The recipient had no choice but to simply thank the king for such an opulent gift, knowing that they likely could not afford the upkeep for such an animal. It would inevitably lead them to financial ruin. This story is almost certainly untrue, but it has led to a modern holiday staple: the white elephant gift exchange. These gift ideas will not only get you a few chuckles, but will also make your recipient feel (slightly) burdened. Read more: The best white elephant gift ideas Check out the rest of our gift ideas here. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/the-best-christmas-gifts-to-give-everyone-on-your-2025-holiday-shopping-list-170018456.html?src=rss

Apple's AirPods 4 drop to $85 ahead of Black Friday

Black Friday Apple deals are already trickling in, and one of the best we're tracking is on the AirPods 4 . They're down to $85 right now, which is a new record low. While these buds don't provide active noise cancellation, they're still a great option for those who want all of the conveniences of a pair of Apple earbuds in an affordable package. The Apple AirPods 4 are the best budget AirPods you can get in 2025, with Apple's H2 audio chip to support some of the more advanced audio features from more expensive models. They offer Voice Isolation, Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking and more. If you get the model without active noise cancellation, you won't have features like Transparency Mode and Conversation Awareness, or Apple's hearing health tools. But, the entry-level model still offers great sound quality for the price. This model also features the redesigned shape, which makes for a more comfortable and secure fit so you don't have to worry about them falling out of your ears. A force sensor on the stem allows for basic touch controls, including play and pause, play next track, previous track and answer a call. You can also summon Siri by pressing and holding the stem. You can expect to get up to 5 hours of battery life on a charge with the non-ANC model, and up to 30 hours using the USB-C charging case. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/apples-airpods-4-drop-to-85-ahead-of-black-friday-162917226.html?src=rss

The best record players for 2025

Everyone knows by now that vinyl is back . The classic format has seen a resurgence for years at this point, and new albums these days almost always include a vinyl preorder. If youve finally decided to embark on the hobby, or if youre looking to upgrade your current setup, weve compiled a list of the best turntables you can buy for under $600. Obviously, there are some very good, very popular options out there for around $1,000, but we had to start somewhere, and we had to narrow down the options a bit. Plus, theres no reason for novices or even experienced spinners to spend that much to get a decent deck. Best record players for 2025 Other record players we tested Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT This is about as basic as it gets, unless you opt for the AT-LP60X which ditches the Bluetooth connectivity. This is a perfectly decent option for someone just getting into vinyl, but if you spend a little more for the AT-LP70X, you wont be in quite as big of a hurry to upgrade once you surrender to the obsession. Cambridge Audio Alva ST The Alva ST has a refined design that made me want to keep it out in my living room longer than many of the models on this list. The controls are limited on the top to power and individual options for 33 and 45 RPM speeds. Everything else is on the back panel, including Bluetooth pairing and preamp buttons. To complete the look, Cambridge Audio opted for a 1mm aluminium top plate, which sits on an MDF plinth with a layer of EVA to absorb vibrations in between. While the overall audio performance on the Alva ST is warm and inviting, there is a lack of detail across genres. Ive noticed albums dont have a particularly wide soundstage, and songs lack their normal punch at times, so some sound compressed compared to when theyre played on other turntables. Additionally, the free swinging tone arm needs more resistance so its not so prone to dropping on a record immediately if it slips out of your fingers when you have the cueing lever down. Since this turntable is fully manual operation, I felt a bit of peril every time I went to lower the needle. (The price increased during testing for this guide.) Denon DP-300F Denons DP-300F is a mixed bag. On one hand, you get the convenience of fully automatic operation, dedicated speed and record size buttons and somewhat refined design. There are also some confounding decisions though, like the permanently affixed cables, the preamp switch being under the platter and the overall midrange build quality for a $500 turntable. The sound from the preamp and Denons cartridge has a clear lack of depth and detail that almost any model at this price should offer. How to shop for a turntable The first question youll need to ask yourself when looking for a turntable is how you plan to use it. Are you into vinyl for the ritual? If you simply like the concept of physical media, having to flip a record to finish it or the need to intentionally swap out an album when its done, thats just fine. You probably can make do with a more affordable turntable since overall sound quality may not be a main concern. If you crave the warmth of analog sound, and you want the collection youve invested in to sound its best, youll need to consider something with better specs. Youll also need to account for where and how youre going to listen to vinyl. Are you planning to connect this turntable to headphones or Bluetooth speakers? Do you have shelf or tower speakers youre going to use? Are you willing to invest in a dedicated preamp or would you rather a new turntable come with one built in? All of these questions will impact your buying decision even the Bluetooth codecs, if youre going the wireless route. Best record players Billy Steele for Engadget Automatic, semi-auto and manual operation If youre just getting into vinyl, an automatic turntable will save you a lot of stress. These are the models that place the stylus for you all you have to do is push a button. When you get to the end of the record, the turntable will also return the tonearm to its resting spot automatically. Or, if you need to stop your session mid-side, theres a button for that too. Some turntables have semi-automatic operation. Maybe they cant place the needle for you, but they do have an automatic stop when a side of a record is complete. This auto stop, which sometimes comes with an on/off switch, can prevent unnecessary wear on your stylus and vinyl. Plus, many turntables with automatic operation allow you to take control if you need to drop the stylus in a certain place (thats not the beginning of the record) or if you have a die-cut vinyl (like the It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown soundtrack ). Then theres the fully manual option. Here, youre solely responsible for placing the tonearm and taking it off when the music stops. A lot of turntables have a cue lever to assist with the process, and a lot of tonearms have a mechanism that lowers them slowly rather than violently dropping them on a record. This adds one more step to the ritual, and its one many purists prefer. Preamp The biggest decision youll need to make in terms of a preamp is to decide if you want one built into your turntable or if youd rather use a separate one. It can be very convenient, especially for beginners, to use a built-in component to amplify the signal from the turntable before it hits any speakers or headphones. The downside is that youre left with what the company provides from the factory, so if youre looking to upgrade, youll have to disable the preamp inside. On most turntables, theres a switch that allows you to do this, so its no trouble. But, opting to skip the preamp on some models could save you money that could be invested elsewhere. A dedicated preamp typically uses higher-quality components and reduces noise by keeping internal parts properly separated. More robust models may even provide controls for things like tone or multiple inputs, while the basic options will simply allow you to plug in, play and forget it. If youre after the best possible clarity and realism from your record collection, wed recommend a dedicated preamp right from the start. Best record players Billy Steele for Engadget Removable cartridge/headshell The next item youll want to consider is if the turntable youre eyeing can be upgraded in the future. The best way to do this is by swapping out the cartridge. Most turntables allow you to do this but there are some that dont, so youll need to pay attention to this detail. Upgrading the cartridge down the road is a great way to improve overall sound quality without having to buy a new turntable, new speakers or a new amp. Belt drive vs. direct drive There are two main types of turntables: belt drive and direct drive. All of the models we tested for this guide are belt drive, which means theres a thin belt that connects the platter to the motor to make the thing spin. Direct drive turntables are widely used by DJs and Technics was the first to make them. Here, the motor is directly under the platter and connected to it directly so the setup is less prone to wearing out. This is especially key when youre doing things like scratching. Direct-drive turntables tend to be more expensive than their belt-driven counterparts. Counterweight and anti-skate control Most turntables will include a counterweight on the tonearm and some form of anti-skate control. Both of these help keep the stylus in place with the correct amount of pressure, all to ensure proper operation with minimal wear on your records. Sometimes the anti-skate elements are built into the tonearm while other models offer a dedicated dial on the surface of the plinth. The ability to adjust both of these can help you fine-tune the performance of your turntable over time, which may be necessary after upgrading the cartridge or other components. Other components to consider Some final items youll want to evaluate on a prospective turntable purchase include the materials used for the base (plinth), platter and even the feet. Cheaper turntables may be mostly plastic affairs while more expensive models can use solid MDF (medium-density fibreboard) for the plinth. A lot of turntables have aluminum platters with a felt pad while others may feature a thick acrylic version. And while entry-level turntables may have small, plastic feet, premium models come with larger, adjustable, rubberized feet for better vibration isolation. While some of these come down to personal preference a frosted acrylic platter looks really nice there are some performance boosts to be gained depending on how the company uses the components. How we test turntables Since most turntables under $600 meet the criteria for entry-level through midrange, we tested every model with a set of Audio-Technica AT-SP3X powered speakers. These offer balanced sound for turntables with a 1.1-inch tweeter and 3-inch woofer in each unit. And at $269, they wont break the bank if you need speakers for your new turntable and theyll provide ample sound performance even if you spend more than our budget on a new deck. For all of our test units that didnt have a built-in preamp, we used the Fluance PA-10 . At $100, its an affordable upgrade if youre looking to bypass a turntables included components or if youre looking to go more analog with your turntable purchase. There are no buttons or controls, just connect your turntable, speakers and ground wire (if youre using one) and youre ready to go. Its simple, straightforward and inexpensive, so its a great option for beginners and more experienced vinyl collectors alike. In terms of performance testing, we play a variety of genres on each turntable to evaluate sound quality. We also carefully examine the overall experience of putting a record on, setting the speed, placing the tonearm and more, which allows us to judge how well each turntable will work for users at different experience levels. Lastly, we take notes on design and components, comparing those elements from each turntable with our other test subjects to make our recommendations. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/audio/best-record-player-120000239.html?src=rss

The best keyboards for 2025

Typing, gaming, coding or just browsing how your fingers connect with your keyboard can change the whole feel of your setup. Whether youre looking for something whisper-quiet and compact or a thunderous mechanical board that sings with every stroke, the best keyboards make a real difference in comfort and performance. Some people want a minimalist board that lives neatly next to their laptop or slips into a travel bag. Others need a full-size model with a numpad, dedicated macros and a build that stands up to long sessions. Todays keyboard market is more diverse than ever. Youll find boards designed for elegant workspace minimalism, gaming keyboards with aggressive RGB-lit setups and ergonomic keyboards built to reduce strain when you spend hours typing. Wireless models offer flexibility and tidy desks, while wired options still lead when speed and reliability matter most. Whether youre upgrading your first desktop, building a pro-level gaming rig or simply looking for a board that works better day after day, weve found the keyboards worth your time and money. Table of contents Best keyboards for 2025 What to look for in a keyboard Best keyboards for 2025 What to look for in a keyboard Design Size The first thing youll want to consider when it comes to your next computer keyboards design is size. There are a number of different keyboard layouts to choose from, but the most common are full-sized, tenkeyless and those smaller than tenkeyless. Full-sized keyboards, or 100 percent, include a function row at the top and a complete numpad with arrow keys on the right side, along with all of the rest of the alphanumeric keys youd expect on a standard QWERTY layout. Tenkeyless, or 80 percent, removes the number pad but keeps the arrow keys and the function row, reducing the overall width measurement of the board by a decent amount. Compact keyboards keep things ultra simple by including only the alphanumeric keys and modifiers like Alt, Shift, Ctrl and others and they come in different sizes like 60 percent, 65 percent and more. These are the most popular sizes out there, but you can find plenty of other designs that include different mixes of keys along with the standard letters and numbers all should have. Aside from size, there are two other big categories that you could use to define a keyboard: ergonomic and mechanical. Ergonomic keyboards are designed with, you guessed it, better ergonomics in mind, taking into account where you should position your fingers, hands and forearms to maintain proper posture. Separately, mechanical keyboards use mechanical switches (of which there are many types) that differ greatly from the membrane or scissor-switch keyboards youll find dominating most wired and wireless options widely available today. We have guides to the best ergonomic keyboards and best mechanical keyboards, but well summarize what you need to know about both here. Ergonomic keyboards If you deal with discomfort from working at a computer all day, ergonomic keyboards can help. These specially designed boards re-orient the keys, allowing you to hold your elbows farther apart and maintain a straighter line from your forearms to hands. Some people find this subtle change more comfortable. Ergonomic keyboards typically fall into two categories: Alice and split keyboards. The former is a single unit with an A-shaped gap in the center of the keys. Split models come in two separate pieces which you can arrange as you like on your desk. Additional ergonomic features like tenting and negative tilt can make typing feel even more comfortable, and are often available on both Alice and split boards. Tenting raises the middle of the keys up so your hands take on more of a handshake position. Negative tilting lowers the top of the keyboard to keep your wrists angled downward instead of back towards your forearms. The way the keys are arranged on the keyboard may make typing easier as well. Traditionally, keyboards are staggered, with one row of letters slightly offset from the row beneath it. Columnar keyboards arrange the keys in a grid of rows and columns. This style takes a little getting used to, but some people find it allows them to type faster. You can also make the keys of some keyboards do more than just produce letters. Programmable boards let you map shortcuts and other functions, including macros, which may keep you from reaching for the mouse quite so often, saving you time and possibly strain as well. Mechanical keyboards Mechanical keyboards have blown up in popularity as more people have been thrust into creating their own workspaces at home. Its easy to see why: Compared to a traditional membrane keyboard, a good mechanical board is more durable, more satisfying to press and, most importantly, infinitely more customizable. The best of them usually come with a price premium, but even some cheaper models let you hot-swap between keycaps, switches and other materials, letting you tinker with different typing sensations and sound profiles until you find a combination that best expresses your preferences. Do you want each press to feel deep and full or fast and light? Do you need them to sound loud and clacky or almost totally muffled ? Do you prefer your keycaps to look subdued and professional, stuffed with RGB lights or written in an Elvish language from The Lord of the Rings for some reason? With the right new keyboard, its all up to you the only things really holding you back are your imagination and your wallet. We have a dedicated buying guide that digs deeper into the key aspects to consider when buying a mechanical gaming keyboard, so we encourage you to look at that for a full rundown. To keep things high-level, the most influential part of your purchase is your keyboards switch type. These little mechanisms slot underneath the keycaps and generally have the biggest effect on how your keyboard feels and sounds as you type away. You can broadly separate mechanical switches into three buckets: linear, tactile and clicky. Linear switches feel smooth all the way down; theyre often popular with gamers since they tend to be light and fast to actuate. Tactile switches create a tangible bump sensation partway through a press; many people who spend all day typing prefer them because they clearly confirm each press without (always) being all that loud. Clicky switches are functionally similar to tactiles but make an audible click sound to match the bump; your coworkers may hate them, but others love the full-throated sense of feedback they provide. To be clear, just because two switches fall within the same bucket doesnt mean they feel or sound exactly the same. The only way to figure out which switch works best for you is to do your research and, preferably, try some out for yourself. Other keyboards have a mechanical-style feel but are built on different mechanisms entirely. The hot new trend in gaming-focused keyboards, for example, is Hall effect switches, which use tiny magnets to register keystrokes and let you customize the sensitivity of each press. Optical switches, meanwhile, offer similar functionality by replacing the physical contact point of a typical mechanical switch with a beam of infrared light. More recently, weve seen a couple keyboards launch with inductive switches, which can work like magnetic switches but use inductive coils in the keyboards printed circuit board (PCB) to cater to all switches collectively and dont require a sensor for each individual switch. We touch on a couple of magnetic-switch keyboards in our picks below, but for a fuller breakdown of this sort of tech, we recommend you check out our dedicated buying guide to the best gaming keyboards . Connectivity Youve got two options here: wired or wireless. Wired keyboards typically have an attached cable that plugs into a USB-A or USB-C port on your computer (or docking station), although some come with cables that can be removed. Wireless mechanical keyboards connect to your machine either via Bluetooth or a wireless receiver dongle. Theres always the chance of some latency with wireless keyboards, so keep that in mind if youre picking one up to use primarily with a gaming PC. Of course, youll only have to worry about battery life with Bluetooth keyboards. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/computing/accessories/best-keyboard-120000018.html?src=rss

The best tech gifts and cool gadgets for 2025

It can be tough to find a good gift for tech obsessives. Since they keep up with the latest releases, they probably already have the new high-profile gadgets out there. Luckily, Engadget staffers keep their eyes peeled all year long for the truly unique stuff. We travel to CES, attend product launches, cover major and minor tech events we also cant help but buy ourselves any zany , clever , addictive or productive tech we happen to stumble across. In short, weve got some ideas about good gifts for tech nerds (which we are). Here are the best tech gifts and gadgets for 2025. Best tech gifts and gadgets Check out the rest of our gift ideas here. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/computing/the-best-tech-gifts-and-cool-gadgets-for-2025-140052697.html?src=rss

YouTube TV is giving subscribers a $20 credit as consolation for the Disney blackout

YouTube TV has notified subscribers that a $20 credit is heading their way in light of its ongoing standoff with Disney, which has resulted in numerous channels going dark on the platform, including ESPN, ABC News and Disney Channel. In an email to subscribers, the YouTube TV Team said subscribers should expect to see an email in the coming days about the credit, which will be applied to their next bill after it's redeemed. We know its been disappointing to lose Disney content, and we want you to know we deeply appreciate your patience, the email said. YouTube TV and Disney had a deadline of October 30 to reach a new agreement about Disney's content moving forward, but that date passed with no deal. Negotiations are ongoing, according to the company. We've been working in good faith to negotiate a deal with Disney that pays them fairly for their content and returns their programming to YouTube TV, the team said in the email. If that $20 still isn't enough to make up for the weeks of lost content, you can always pause your subscription in the meantime. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/youtube-tv-is-giving-subscribers-a-20-credit-as-consolation-for-the-disney-blackout-231000002.html?src=rss

Blue Origin scrubs New Glenn's second flight due to bad weather

Blue Origin has postponed the second flight of its New Glenn rocket, which was slated to send a pair of NASA spacecraft on the first step of their journey to Mars on Sunday afternoon. The heavy-lift launch vehicle was scheduled to take off from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida at 2:45PM ET., but multiple holds were issued during the under-two-hour launch window due to inclement weather. Blue Origin called off the launch attempt around 4:13PM. The next launch opportunity is as yet unclear. Blue Origin was previously given a backup opportunity set for Monday afternoon, but the FAA has since issued an emergency order restricting commercial launches for the time being due to the government shutdown. As of November 10, commercial space launches can only take place between 10:00PM and 6:00AM. Blue Origin said on Sunday that its reviewing opportunities based on the weather, and did not mention the FAAs order. New Glenn's development has faced significant delays over the last decade since it was first announced, and finally took its maiden flight at the beginning of this year. Its first stage booster is intended to be reusable, and the company plans to recover the booster from the upcoming launch by landing it on an autonomous landing platform vessel dubbed Jacklyn, also known as the barge. Blue Origin attempted the same during its first flight, but failed. The spacecraft on board New Glenn are twin satellites built by Rocket Lab and operated by UC Berkeley for NASA's Escapade mission to study the effects of space weather. They'll be following a new trajectory to the red planet, lingering in a lazy, 12-month kidney bean-shaped orbit around Earth until Mars is in alignment, according to UC Berkeley . Escapade should reach Mars in 2027. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/science/space/blue-origin-scrubs-new-glenns-second-flight-due-to-bad-weather-214349212.html?src=rss

How to adjust the Liquid Glass effect in iOS 26.1

Apple's latest iterative update for iPhones brings a welcome change for those who aren't a fan of its Liquid Glass design overhaul. After user complaints that the Liquid Glass' translucent design was hard to read, Apple introduced a compromise in iOS 26's fourth beta that allowed for a more frosted look as well as a Reduce Transparency option buried in the Accessibility settings. Now, Apple is making this Liquid Glass toggle available for all iPhone users with iOS 26.1. What is Liquid Glass? Apple debuted Liquid Glass at WWDC 2025 as its major visual redesign, which prompted a lot of comparisons to Windows Vista . Everything from switches and sliders to sidebars and panels would imitate glass, so that users can see the underlying colors and content. While some iPhone users liked the fluidity and freshness, others said the transparent look often created legibility issues, caused lag from the animations and led to eye strain over extended periods of time. How to reduce the Liquid Glass effect To access the new Liquid Glass toggle, make sure your iPhone is updated to iOS 26.1 . You can check which version you're by navigating to Settings, then General, then Software Update. After you confirmed that you're on the most recent iOS, you can go back into Settings, then Display & Brightness. From there, you'll find a new setting for Liquid Glass that lets you choose between Clear or Tinted. The Clear option is Apple's original vision for Liquid Glass with see-through controls, while the Tinted option increases opacity and adds more contrast. You can preview the differences between the two choices in the Liquid Glass setting before you commit to one. When in use, the Tinted option switches to the same frosted look first seen by iOS beta testers, which adds a more solid background to panels that have been Liquid Glass-ified. It's important to note that there are only two options and Apple didn't instead opt for a slider to adjust opacity. However, Apple is leaning more into customizability with its operating systems, as indicated by its recently introduced Spatial Scenes feature. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/mobile/smartphones/how-to-adjust-the-liquid-glass-effect-in-ios-261-203634681.html?src=rss

OneXPlayers premium gaming handheld packs an external 85Wh battery

For about the price of a mid-range custom PC build, you could instead opt for a top-of-the-line gaming handheld called the OneXFly Apex. OneXPlayer launched its latest Indiegogo campaign for its upcoming handheld that starts at $1,399 and goes up to $2,299 for a fully kitted-out version. While most portable gamers are better off with the Steam Deck , the OneXFly Apex separates itself from the crowd with high-end specs, an external 85Wh battery, and the option for liquid cooling. OneXPlayer hasn't divulged the estimated play time you'll get with its massive battery, but it's designed to be quickly swapped out with a spare battery that's sold separately. If the battery runs low, you can either wait a few hours to recharge or hardwire into a power outlet to keep gaming. You can build the OneXFly Apex with up to an AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 chip and 128GB of memory. The Windows handheld has up to 4TB of local storage, but you can expand it by another 4TB thanks to both a mini SSD and a microSD card slot. OneXPlayer uniquely offers an optional liquid cooling module for the OneXFly Apex, which you have to pay $60 more for. While the starting price may turn people away, OneXPlayer also included non-contact capacitive joysticks that will never get stick drift and Hall triggers that can be toggled for short or long travel modes to justify the handheld's cost. The OneXFly Apex crowdfunding campaign managed to reach its goal of 100,000 Hong Kong dollars, or roughly $12,850, in less than two minutes. OneXPlayer currently offers four configurations of its gaming handheld, which is expected to start shipping in January 2026. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/onexplayers-premium-gaming-handheld-packs-an-external-85wh-battery-185515162.html?src=rss

Black Friday Apple deals include the AirPods 4 for $90

Apple's AirPods 4 have dropped back down to a record low price in an early Black Friday deal on Amazon. If you aren't looking for active noise cancellation, the model without ANC is a steal at 30 percent off, bringing it down to just $90 from its usual price of $130. The ANC version is on sale too, for anyone not on as tight a budget. AirPods 4 with active noise cancellation are going for $150 right now, down from $180. The Apple AirPods 4 are the best budget AirPods you can get in 2025, with Apple's H2 audio chip to support some of the more advanced audio features from more expensive models. They offer Voice Isolation, Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking and more. If you get the model without active noise cancellation, you won't have features like Transparency Mode and Conversation Awareness, or Apple's hearing health tools. But, the entry-level model still offers great sound quality for the price. This model also features the redesigned shape, which makes for a more comfortable and secure fit so you don't have to worry about them falling out of your ears. A force sensor on the stem allows for basic touch controls, including play and pause, play next track, previous track and answer a call. You can also summon Siri by pressing and holding the stem. With the ANC version, you also have access to Live Translation, which can be initiated by pressing and holding the stem on both AirPods simultaneously. You can expect to get up to 5 hours of battery life on a charge with the non-ANC model, and up to 30 hours using the USB-C charging case. On the other model with ANC active, that play time drops by about an hour. Check out our coverage of the best Apple deals for more discounts, and follow @EngadgetDeals on X for the latest tech deals and buying advice. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/black-friday-apple-deals-include-the-airpods-4-for-90-162917761.html?src=rss

Get half off our favorite budgeting app for Black Friday

Budgeting can be a stressful, challenging and uncomfortable experience. While it's completely possible to do it on your own, we've become fans of a few great budgeting apps. Take our favorite budgeting app Quicken , which is having a 50 percent off sale for Black Friday . The Quicken Simplifi app is down to $3 monthly from $6 monthly, adding up to $36 for the year. Quicken Classic , the company's original desktop software for experienced investors is also half off at $6 monthly, down from $12 monthly. The sale starts today and is available until Wednesday, December 3. One of the many things that sets Quicken Simplifi apart from its competitors is its sleek, easy to use interface. The setup is pretty straightforward and it allows for your spouse or financial advisor to act as co-manager of the account. It also clearly shows figures like net worth, recent spending, upcoming recurring payments and more. Plus, there's an option to say if you're expecting a refund. Quicken Simplifi unfortunately doesn't offer a free trial so testing it out with a discount means less money invested if it's not for you. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/get-half-off-our-favorite-budgeting-app-for-black-friday-140025864.html?src=rss

Black Friday deals for 2025 are here early: We found the best sales from Apple, Amazon, Lego, Dyson and more

Black Friday has become the time to buy the hottest tech of the year. Whether you're shopping for yourself or stocking up on gifts for the holidays, Black Friday deals are sure to bring the best prices of the year to things like headphones, game consoles, robot vacuums, phone accessories and everything in between. You don't even have to wait until Black Friday proper to save a ton of money. Over the past few years, we've seen Black Friday tech deals start earlier and earlier to the point where the entire month of November is packed with discounts. If you're on the hunt for solid tech deals, Engadget has you covered. We've collected the best Black Friday deals on tech you can get right now, and we'll continue to update this post as we get closer to the big day at the end of November. Note that you probably have the best chance of snagging record-low prices when we get to about one week before Thanksgiving, but these deals available now are worth considering. Black Friday deals to shop now Apple AirPods 4 for $90 (30 percent off): These are the most affordable AirPods you can get, and the latest model has been substantially improved over the previous. They have a better fit and noticeably better sound quality than their predecessor, plus some advanced features previously only found on pricer models. Apple AirTags (four pack) for $65 (34 percent off): iPhone users who frequently misplace things should invest in a few AirTags. Slip them into your wallet, bag, jacket and other belongings to keep track of their locations in the Find My app. Just make sure that, if you're going to attach one to your keys, you also pick up an AirTag holder to go along with it. Lego Disney advent calendar 2025 43253 for $31 (31 percent off): I probably don't need to tell you 'tis the season for advent calendars . Lego has a bunch , and this one in particular is on a good deal right now. Like most Lego advent calendars, this one includes a number of bricks and minifigs that, when put together, make a coherent, themed scene. Google TV Streamer 4K for $75 ($25 off): Our top pick for the best streaming device right now, the latest version of Google's streamer supports 4K video and an excellent, easy-to-use interface that will feel familiar to anyone who's seen a set with the Google TV technology built in. It provides access to all of the major streaming services including Netflix, Disney+, HBO Max, YouTube and more, plus it has a handy on-screen pop up that lets you control all compatible smart home devices right from your TV. Also available at Walmart . Apple Mac Mini M4 for $499 ($100 off): Desktop users looking for an upgrade should consider the latest Mac Mini, which runs on the M4 chip and 16GB of RAM as standard in the base configuration. This version has a smaller design that takes up less space, front-facing USB-C ports and a headphone jack, plus Thunderbolt 5 support. Apple Watch SE 3 for $200 ($50 off): The SE has been our top pick for the best Apple Watch for those on a budget, and the latest model only solidifies that further. It has the same chipset found in the latest flagship Apple Watches, fast-charging capabilities, an always-on display and most of the same activity-tracking features you'll find in more expensive model. Apple iPad mini for $399 ($100 off): Apple's smallest tablet, the iPad mini is the best option for those who prefer their tablet be roughly the size of a paperback book. The latest model runs on the A17 Pro chipset and has an upgraded 128GB of storage in the base configuration. It also supports the Apple Pencil Pro. Jisulife Life 7 handheld fan for $25 (14 percent off): This handy little fan is a must-have if you life in a warm climate or have a tropical vacation planned anytime soon. It can be used as a table or handheld fan and even be worn around the neck so you don't have to hold it at all. Its 5,000 mAh battery allows it to last hours on a single charge, and the small display in the middle of the fan's blades show its remaining battery level. Leebin 2025 electric spin scrubber for $40 (43 percent off, Prime exclusive): This weird little scrubber makes cleaning my bathroom and shower much less of a pain. Just choose the brush head you need for your job and the rotating head takes care of most of the hard work. I love the adjustable handle, which extends from 12 to 50 inches so you can get into hard-to-reach places without breaking a sweat. Monarch Money budgeting app (one year) for $50 (50 percent off with code MONARCHVIP): One of our favorite budgeting apps , Monarch Money gives you a lot of control over the organization of your funds. There's a helpful goals feature for when you're planning out big purchases or financial milestones you want to hit, and we found the month-in-review recap it provides to be more thorough than other budgeting apps we tried. There's even Zillow integration for folks looking to buy a home. Cosori 9-in-1 air fryer for $90 (25 percent off): I personally have this air fryer, one of our top picks , in my house and I've used it for over a year with no issues. I love that it makes good use of vertical space so it doesn't take up too much space on my counter, and its rounded-square shape allows me to cook more food than you'd think in one go in the basket. It crisps all kinds of foods up well and generally takes a lot of the guess work (and time) out of making a good meal. Bose QuietComfort headphones for $199 (43 percent off): These noise-cancelling headphones have a comfortable (albeit a bit boring) design, an Aware mode that lets you hear more of your surroundings when you need to and up to 24 hours of battery life. Also available at Best Buy . Dyson 360 Vis Nav robot vacuum for $500 (50 percent off): This is one of the best robot vacuums you can get, period. It doesn't have a self-emptying base, but its superior suction power almost makes up for that. It's one of the strongest robot vacuums I've ever tested, and it has excellent obstacle avoidance. The latter means you will rarely, if ever, have to attend to it getting caught on the edge of a carpet or getting stuck under a piece of furniture. If a cordless stick vacuum is what you're looking for, don't forget to check out all of the other Dyson Black Friday deals . EcoFlow Black Friday deals get up to 80 percent off: Portable power stations are an investment, but they can be crucial pieces of tech during emergencies. The top pick from our friends at Yahoo Tech has been heavily discounted in this early Black Friday sale. You can pick up the EcoFlow Delta Pro 3 for $1,400 off, down to $2,299, or the power station with an extra battery bundled in for $2,699 off, down to $3,599. Black Friday FAQs When is Black Friday 2025? Black Friday 2025 lands on November 28. Which stores have Black Friday deals? Many physical retail stores have Black Friday deals including Walmart, Target, Best Buy and others. Even more retailers have online Black Friday deals, including Amazon, GameStop, Costco and others. When do Black Friday sales start? Gone are the times when Black Friday sales were one-day-only affairs. Now, Black Friday deals are often available starting on Thanksgiving, or even earlier. Last year, we saw Black Friday deals online begin the week before Black Friday proper. When do Black Friday sales end? Black Friday and Cyber Monday have blended a lot over the past few years. Now, you can expect to see a good portion of Black Friday deals extend through the weekend and into Cyber Monday. It's not uncommon for Black Friday deals to expire at the end of Cyber Monday. Which retailers have the best Black Friday tech deals? The best Black Friday tech deals are typically available online at retailers like Amazon, Walmart, Best Buy and Target. It's also a good idea to check the store websites of the companies that make the products you want for example, if you're looking for a Sonos speaker, check the Sonos website on Black Friday. Most of the time, you'll find the best Black Friday tech deals are matched at multiple retailers. Does Apple have Black Friday sales? No, you will usually not find Black Friday sales at Apple stores or on Apple's website. However, you can find Black Friday deals on Apple devices elsewhere; we recommend checking Amazon, Best Buy and other big retailers for discounts on iPads, Apple Watches and more on Black Friday. Does Amazon have Black Friday sales? Yes, Amazon has Black Friday sales. The online retailer's site will look similar to Prime Day on Black Friday, with discounts on all sorts of items from household essentials to fashion to tech. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/black-friday-deals-for-2025-are-here-early-we-found-the-best-sales-from-apple-amazon-lego-dyson-and-more-100052430.html?src=rss

The Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold is $300 off in this early Black Friday deal

November is here, which means gift giving season is right around the corner, as is Black Friday . The latter, though, may feel like it's already here thanks to all the deals you can already get right now. A few of the best ones are on Google devices, namely the latest Google flagship smartphones. Take the Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold , which has only been out since late August. It's now down to $1,499 from $1,799 a 17 percent discount. This deal is available at both Amazon and Best Buy , and seems to be the first big markdown on the Pixel 10 Pro Fold. Notably, this deal is on the 256GB model, but the 512GB and 1TB Pixel 10 Pro Folds are also $300 off. We gave the Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold an 88 in our review , thanks to its improved durability, with an IP68 rating. It also has upgraded software and multitasking, along with Pixelsnap charging . Plus, we found it has the best cameras of any flexible phone. One of our biggest gripes is the price though this discount certainly helps. It's also quite a bulky device and can feel pretty heavy. Other Google phones are also on sale for Black Friday right now. The Pixel 10 Pro has dropped to a record low of $749, while the Pixel 10 Pro XL with a whopping 1TB of storage is also cheaper than ever at $1,249. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/the-google-pixel-10-pro-fold-is-300-off-in-this-early-black-friday-deal-123036348.html?src=rss

The Apple Watch SE 3 drops to $200 before Black Friday

The era of holiday shopping is coming and there are a lot of great tech gift options for loved ones or as a treat for yourself. That includes the new Apple Watch SE 3 , which you can snag for only $200 right now. We consider this to be the best budget Apple Watch , and arguably the best smartwatch for folks who have never owned one before. The latest version runs on the same chipset found in the new flagship models, and it has most of the same fitness and workout tracking features you'll find in those more expensive devices as well. The SE 3 also now has an always-on display, making it easier to glance down throughout the day to check the time or see activity stats without moving your wrist, and fast-charging support makes it a more viable sleep tracker. Just plop it down on its charger for a bit at the end of the day and put it back on to monitor your sleep overnight. Also discounted is the high-end Apple Watch Ultra 3 , which you can snag for $100 off. The sale model comes with 64GB of storage, a 49mm screen and GPS and cellular service. Notably, it's also only available with the one size, adjustable band and in two colors: a Black titanium case with Black Ocean band and a natural titanium Case with Anchor Blue Ocean band. The Apple Watch Ultra 3 came out in early September and is one of the first smartwatches to support satellite communications . This feature means you can call, send messages or share your location with emergency services through the watch even if you don't have a connection. The new Ultra 3 also has a larger screen thanks to thinner bezels and a battery that can last for up to 42 hours. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/the-apple-watch-se-3-drops-to-200-before-black-friday-133057187.html?src=rss

This SanDisk 256GB microSD Express card for Switch 2 is cheaper than ever before Black Friday

If you already picked up a Switch 2, you're probably looking for deals that can help you kit out your new console without spending too much money. While maybe not the most exciting thing, a microSD Express card will be a key component for long-term gaming bliss. SanDisk's 256GB microSD Express Card for the Switch 2 is on sale for the first time ahead of Black Friday, down to $60 right now. This model is also available in storage sizes of 128GB and 512GB, but at the moment, only the 256GB model has a discount. This particular model easily made our list of the best microSD cards for the Nintendo Switch 2 . It even made our list of the best Switch 2 accessories . It just gets the job done. We loved the speed on offer here. It was the fastest of all the cards we tested when transferring games and loading games. We also found that it performed admirably at just about every test we threw at it. The card was always consistently right near the top, thanks to outstanding sequential read and write performance. This was backed up by benchmark testing with PC tools like CrystalDiskMark. The Switch 2 only works with SD Express cards, so this covers that. Luckily, this card isn't just for Nintendo's latest console. It'll work with just about everything, if you ever find it outstays its usefulness as a storage container for Mario and friends. Elsewhere when it comes to microSD Express cards on sale: PNY's 128GB card is down to $40. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/this-sandisk-256gb-microsd-express-card-for-switch-2-is-cheaper-than-ever-before-black-friday-151331869.html?src=rss

Proton VPN deal: Get 75 percent off two-year plans before Black Friday

Now is arguably the best time of year to sign up for a VPN, or gift a subscription to someone. Black Friday VPN deals are already available, with one of the best being on our favorite VPN overall. Proton VPN is offering two years of access to its VPN Plus tier for $59.76, which works out to $2.49 per month. That's a discount of 75 percent compared with the regular price of $10 per month. Overall, you'd save $180. Proton VPN is our pick for the best VPN overall because it checks all of the boxes it needs to. There is a free plan with unlimited data, but with that you can only connect to servers in a few countries and the connection might not be fast enough for you to watch anything from your preferred streaming service's library in that locale. The VPN Plus tier unlocks a lot more options, such as the ability to connect to 15,000 servers across more than 120 countries and simultaneous protection for up to 15 devices. The apps are well-designed Proton has clients for Windows, Mac, iOS and Android and it's easy to find a feature or setting you're looking for. In our testing, Proton VPN Plus had a relatively small impact on browsing speeds. Our download speeds dropped by 12 percent and uploads by 4 percent, while the global average ping remained below 300 ms (which is especially impressive if you're connecting to a server on the other side of the planet). Perhaps, most importantly, though, it's Proton's commitment to privacy that helps make its VPN an easy recommendation. There's a no-logs policy, meaning it does not log user activity or any identifiable characteristics of devices that connect to the VPN. Proton's servers use full-disk encryption to bolster privacy as well. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/proton-vpn-deal-get-75-percent-off-two-year-plans-before-black-friday-153737908.html?src=rss

Lego Black Friday deals: Get up to 40 percent off Star Wars and Disney sets with these early sales

Lego sets make popular gifts all year round, but now is the time when they're some of the most in-demand items you can get. They make great gifts for anyone who you know loves these little building bricks, kids and adults like. Black Friday Lego deals can make it easier for you to get all the sets you want for the holidays because you can typically save at least 20 percent on most sets you'll find. Yes, that often includes the most popular ones from the Star Wars, Super Mario, Harry Potter and other collections. If you're shopping online, don't forget to use a price tracker to make sure you're actually getting a good Lego deal before you buy. Below, we've collected the best Lego Black Friday deals we could find right now. You'll find Lego deals across the board this holiday season at retailers like Amazon and Walmart , but don't overlook Lego's own site . If you join the free Lego Insiders program, you'll build up points with each purchase that you can redeem in the future, get special discounts and sometimes get exclusive gifts when you buy. While not a deal, arguably the hottest Lego for Black Friday will be the brand new Star Trek USS Enterprise set , which was announced recently. It has a whopping 3,600 pieces and will be a must-have for any Star Trek fans. The set will be available starting November 28 for $400. Best Lego Black Friday deals LEGO Star Wars Advent Calendar 2025 75418 for $27 (40 percent off) LEGO Disney Frozen Advent Calendar 2025 43273 for $31 (32 percent off) Lego Harry Potter Advent Calendar 2025 76456 for $39 (13 percent off) LEGO Star Wars Brick-Built Star Wars Logo 75407 for $48 (20 percent off) LEGO Star Wars Grogu with Hover Pram Building Toy Set 75403 for $65 (36 percent off) LEGO Star Wars Millennium Falcon A New Hope 25th Anniversary Collectable Model 75375 for $68 (20 percent off) LEGO Star Wars R2-D2 Building Toy Set 75379 for $80 (20 percent off) LEGO Harry Potter Hogwarts Castle and Grounds 76419 for $136 (20 percent off) LEGO Creator 3 in 1 Magical Unicorn Toy 31140 for $7 (32 percent off) LEGO City Donut Truck Toy 60452 for $16 (20 percent off) LEGO Speed Champions 2 Fast 2 Furious Nissan Skyline GT-R (R34) Race Car 76917 for $18 (28 percent off) LEGO Botanicals Happy Plants Building Toys 10349 for $20 (13 percent off) LEGO Botanicals Mini Orchid Building Set 10343 for $24 (20 percent off) LEGO Ideas Tuxedo Cat 21349 for $81 (19 percent off) LEGO Art Hokusai The Great Wave Framed Japanese Wall Art Building Set 31208 for $85 (15 percent off) This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/lego-black-friday-deals-get-up-to-40-percent-off-star-wars-and-disney-sets-with-these-early-sales-155007211.html?src=rss

Get up to 42 percent off portable power stations with these EcoFlow early Black Friday deals

The EcoFlow Black Friday sale is in full swing, knocking thousands of dollars off portable power stations and their accessories. One of the best discounts at the moment is on the Delta Pro 3 , which is 37 percent off and down to $2,299. That's the lowest we've seen it and, considering it typically costs $3,699, it's a great deal. Amazon's matching the sale price as well. The Delta Pro 3 topped Yahoo's list of the best portable power stations , and for very good reason. This thing is a beast. It boasts a 4,096Wh capacity, so it can power an average 500-watt refrigerator for over 24 hours. That's with continuous use. It can be stretched out to two or three days by only running the appliance during daylight hours. There's even a discounted bundle that includes an extra battery for $3,599 . It includes four standard 120V AC outlets and a single 240V outlet. It could potentially be a temporary hub of a whole-home battery backup. There are numerous charging options here, including a standard AC outlet, solar panels and, interestingly, a cigarette lighter. The only potential downside here is the Delta Pro 3 really pushes the boundaries of what can be considered portable. It weighs 113 pounds, though it does have wheels and a telescoping handle. The Delta Pro 3 is just one of the products on sale right now. The Delta Pro Ultra, which is intended as a whole-home backup , is down to $3,999 . This represents a savings of more than $2,000. Another Yahoo top pick, the Delta 2 Max , is $1,000 off and down to $899. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/get-up-to-42-percent-off-portable-power-stations-with-these-ecoflow-early-black-friday-deals-130041303.html?src=rss

How to stretch the clock on your lock screen in iOS 26

Apple has continued its trend of giving users more creative freedom over how their iPhones look and feel, and one of the most striking new customization options in iOS 26 is the ability to stretch the clock on your lock screen. The feature, part of Apples refreshed design language for iPhone software, allows the time to expand across more of the screen, giving it a bold, modern appearance. Whether you prefer the minimalist look of small numerals or the dramatic impact of an oversized clock, iOS 26 makes it easy to adjust your lock screen style to suit your taste. This new resizing option is officially referred to as adaptive time, and it transforms what used to be a static lock-screen element into something that feels more fluid and responsive. By dragging a simple on-screen handle, you can expand or shrink the size of the time display, creating a distinctive visual effect that gives your lock screen a fresh new personality. How to stretch your lock-screen clock To access the stretch option, start by waking your iPhone and remaining on the lock screen. Instead of unlocking the device, press and hold anywhere on the display to enter customization mode. This brings up a carousel of your saved lock screens, allowing you to edit the one thats currently active. Tap Customize, then choose the Lock Screen option to enter the editor. Once the editing screen appears, tap directly on the clock. This will bring up the familiar font and color panel introduced in earlier versions of iOS. To make the stretch feature available, the first font option (the default and leftmost style) must be selected. It should also be set to use the Arabic Western script. After confirming these settings, tap the clock again to close the font panel. If the wallpaper supports the feature, a small circular drag handle will appear in the lower-right corner of the clock. Touch and hold this handle, then drag it downward to stretch the clock. The digits will expand in real time as you move your finger. When youre happy with the size, release the handle. To save your changes, tap Done in the top-right corner of the screen. Exiting customization mode will reveal your new, enlarged clock on the lock screen. If the stretch feature doesnt appear, the issue is usually related to the font or wallpaper. Some wallpapers, particularly those with subjects that fill the upper portion of the frame, limit how much the clock can expand. If the image leaves little open space, iOS hides the handle to prevent the time from overlapping key parts of the photo. Switching to a simpler or more spacious wallpaper usually resolves this. Understanding the stretched clock feature In previous versions of iOS, the lock-screen clock was fixed in place. Regardless of the wallpaper used, its size and position remained the same. iOS 26 changes that by introducing a resize handle that appears on the bottom-right corner of the clock once the screen is in edit mode. When this handle is dragged downward, the digits expand, allowing the time to stretch dramatically toward the center of the screen. The feature works in both directions, meaning the clock can also be shrunk back to its previous size if the stretched look is too much for you. The stretched clock effect works best with the new Liquid Glass interface design Apple introduced in iOS 26. This approach blends the clocks font with the background, creating a subtle depth effect where the time appears to hover over the wallpaper. However, the resizing tool is not available on every setup. It only works when specific conditions are met, including the use of the default clock font and the standard Arabic Western script. If any other font or script is selected, the stretch handle will not appear. Cherlynn Low for Engadget Troubleshooting and limitations The stretch function in iOS 26 is a visual adjustment, not a full-scale redesign of the lock screen, and there are a few limitations to be aware of. It works only with the default clock font, and changing the typeface or script will remove the resize option entirely. Users who rely on different numeral styles or custom fonts wont see the handle appear. Similarly, widgets can interfere with resizing if they occupy too much space beneath the clock. Removing them temporarily can make it easier to adjust the clock size. Some users have reported that the stretch handle disappears after software updates or when certain Focus modes are active. However, restarting your iPhone or disabling those modes typically restores it. As this is a relatively new feature, Apple may still be refining how it behaves across different iPhone models and lock-screen setups. The visual impact of the stretched clock depends largely on your wallpaper. Minimal backgrounds with clean space at the top allow the time to expand without cluttering the screen. Complex or busy images tend to reduce the effect, as the clock will automatically adjust its transparency and positioning to stay readable. The stretched design looks particularly polished on wallpapers that match Apples new Liquid Glass aesthetic, where colors subtly blend through the numerals for a semi-transparent glow. Making the most of your stretched clock While the stretch feature is primarily cosmetic, it contributes to the broader trend of personalization across iOS. Apples lock-screen customization tools now include options for widgets, depth-aware wallpapers, color filters and dynamic animations, giving users more control than ever over their devices appearance. The stretched clock fits naturally into this toolkit, offering an easy way to change the entire mood of your lock screen in seconds. For users who prefer a bold, modern design, the larger clock size provides immediate impact and better visibility. Those who favor a more minimalist layout can keep it subtle by dragging the handle upward to restore the smaller, classic look. Whatever your preference, the process is reversible and quick, meaning you can experiment freely without losing your original layout. Apples focus with iOS 26 is clearly on personalization and polish. The stretched clock may seem like a small detail, but it captures the overall philosophy behind this update, blending design flexibility with simple, intuitive gestures. With just a few taps and a short drag, your iPhones lock screen can transform into something uniquely yours, whether thats a subtle enhancement or a bold statement across the display. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/mobile/smartphones/how-to-stretch-the-clock-on-your-lock-screen-in-ios-26-130032926.html?src=rss

Dyson Black Friday deals: Early sales include up to $330 off cordless vacuums

Early Black Friday deals are starting to pop up across the web, and a great one to check out is at Dyson . While we still think you have the best shot to get the steepest discounts the closer to Black Friday we get, some of the discounts on Dyson's site right now are some of the best we've seen. One of those is $330 off the Dyson V9 Motorbar cordless vacuum , bringing it down to $270. Dyson devices are all over our list of the best cordless vacuums , and for good reason. The company makes effective products. The V9 Motorbar has been designed to clean all floor types, in addition to upholstery. It's also been engineered to squeeze into tight spots, which is great for hitting those oft-neglected parts of the home. The suction power is on point and the battery lasts for 40 minutes before requiring a charge. That's just enough time to vacuum a standard-sized home if you don't stop for too many breaks. The V9 is getting a bit long-in-the-tooth. If you want a newer model, the V11 Extra is on sale for $400 , which is a discount of $260. This one boosts the suction power and increases the battery life to 60 minutes. The early Black Friday sale isn't just for cordless vacuums. The 360 Vis Nav robot vacuum is on sale right now for $500 , which is a massive discount of $500. This is one of our favorite robot vacuums , primarily because of its incredible suction power. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/dyson-black-friday-deals-early-sales-include-up-to-330-off-cordless-vacuums-173533457.html?src=rss

Steam store pages get a mini makeover to better suit wide screens

Store pages on Steam are looking a lot less cramped thanks to a new update. Pages have been made wider, with support for higher resolution images and new viewing modes for trailers and screenshots. You'll notice changes in the top carousel and in the About the Game section, where some new formatting options should make things look a bit more organized. The update just rolled out to the public after first being tested among beta users. With this update, pages have been widened to 1200 pixels, which Valve says felt like a good balance where we can show more content on screen without overwhelming the page and making it hard to navigate. There's now the option of a large pop-up view called theater mode in the carousel, as well as full-screen mode. In addition to games' store pages, Valve has slightly tweaked the appearance of search results and recommendation pages to be wider, and made store hubs, Steam Charts and the News Hub look more uniform. You may also notice some more colorful backgrounds on games' store pages and in bundle detail pages. Where you won't see changes yet, though, is the homepage. While Valve says it's working on similar adjustments for the homepage, those aren't rolling out with this update. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/pc/steam-store-pages-get-a-mini-makeover-to-better-suit-wide-screens-200142506.html?src=rss

The Google TV Streamer 4K hits a record-low price before Black Friday

If you'd rather not spend the money on a brand new TV this year, you can make an old set feel new again with a streaming device. Our favorite streaming device is on sale right now ahead of Black Friday: you can grab the Google TV Streamer 4K for only $75, which is the lowest price we've seen so far. The Amazon deal applies to both color options, White and the soft gray Haze. The Google TV Streamer is our top pick for an all-in-one streaming device . It has a faster processor than Google's previous streaming devices (22 percent faster, according to the company), so you can switch between apps and different media without lagging. It also has more storage and memory, at 32GB and 4GB, respectively. Google TV streamer has an intuitive interface and keeps all of your favorite content from different streaming apps organized in one menu. It also seamlessly integrates Google Home, allowing you to control your smart home devices from a slideout panel on the TV. The 4K streamer comes in a set-top wedge design, rather than the dongle of Chromecasts past, but you'll have to pick up an HDMI cable separately if you don't already have one you can use. It comes with a small remote that you can ping by pressing a button on the streamer for when you inevitably misplace it. In her review of the device , Engadget's Amy Skorheim called the Google TV streamer a full-featured, competent device with an interface thats better than most at pulling together all the disparate threads of a streaming experience. One of its only downsides is the relatively high cost at $100, so don't let this deal go to waste. In addition to the streaming device, Google has a bunch of other tech on sale for Black Friday . The entry-level Nest thermostat is on sale for $90 right now, and the Nest Wi-Fi Pro 6E router has dropped to $120 for a single-pack; that's 40 percent off. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/the-google-tv-streamer-4k-hits-a-record-low-price-before-black-friday-173858462.html?src=rss

Black Friday Apple deals include $100 off the Mac mini M4

While there are lots of great Black Friday sales on cheaper devices, it's the big ticket items that really make a world of difference. Take Apple's 2024 Mac mini M4 , which has dropped to $499 from $599 as part of early Black Friday deals . The 17 percent discount brings Apple's mini desktop computer with 16GB of RAM and 256GB of SSD to only $30 more than its all-time low. We gave the Mac mini M4 a 90 in our review , in part, because it packs an incredible amount of power into such a small design. It also has front facing USB-C and headphone ports, a first for the Mac mini lineup. Plus, it starts with 16GB of RAM, an upgrade from its predecessors. However, if you want more memory or storage, the other Mac Mini M4 models are also on sale. You can get 16GB of RAM and 512GB of SSD for $690, down from $799. Then there's the option for 24GB of RAM and 512GB of SSD at $890, down from $999. Plus, if you want to bundle in three years of AppleCare+, each model ends up being about $100 cheaper than normal. If you're looking to build a desktop setup from scratch, there's a small but notable discount on Apple's Magic Trackpad as well. It's down to $120, which is only seven percent off its usual price but it's the cheapest we've seen it. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/black-friday-apple-deals-include-100-off-the-mac-mini-m4-150749362.html?src=rss

The 22 best gift ideas for the remote worker in your life

For many folks, working from home is simply the new normal. If youre looking to treat someone who spends most of their time in the home office, this holiday season is as good a time as any to make their daily routine a little more convenient. As a collection of remote workers ourselves, we at Engadget have rounded up a few gift ideas that should add a bit more delight to the WFH life. Best gifts for remote workers Check out the rest of our gift ideas here. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/computing/accessories/the-22-best-gift-ideas-for-the-remote-worker-in-your-life-140037336.html?src=rss

Get 50 percent off Headspace annual subscriptions in this Black Friday deal

Meditation app Headspace is bringing back one of its biggest annual deals this Black Friday. Through December 4, youll be able to get 50 percent off the regular annual subscription price, bringing a full year of guided meditations, sleep sounds and mindfulness tools down to $35 per year. If youve been looking to build a better daily routine, this discount makes it easier to start. Headspace has become one of the most recognizable names in digital mindfulness. The app blends practical meditation guidance with structured courses and calming soundscapes designed to make everyday stress easier to manage. Its programs cover everything from beginner-friendly introductions to mindfulness to focused content on topics like anxiety, productivity and sleep. Subscribers get access to hundreds of guided sessions led by the Headspace team, including short daily practices that can be completed in a few spare minutes, plus longer courses that help build consistency. The apps Sleepcasts and soundscapes are unique, designed to create a steady nighttime routine that promotes better rest. For mornings, there are breathing exercises and motivational mini-sessions that can help set focus for the day ahead. Headspace also includes personalized progress tracking, mood check-ins and optional reminders that make it easier to stay consistent with your new mindfulness habits. For anyone new to meditation, the apps clear structure is a major strength. You dont have to know where to start, since it suggests sessions based on your goals or current mood. This annual deal is ideal for users who want to stick with mindfulness practice over time, or anyone interested in incorporating a new habit into their lives. Paying for the year upfront typically saves money compared with the monthly plan, and the discount brings that cost down even further. Whether youre learning the basics of meditation or refining an existing routine, the full library provides enough variety to keep things engaging throughout the year. If youre still comparing wellness apps, check out our guide to the best meditation apps to see how Headspace stacks up against other options. But for those ready to commit to a calmer routine, this annual offer is one of the simplest ways to start the habit at a lower cost. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/get-50-percent-off-headspace-annual-subscriptions-in-this-black-friday-deal-163051169.html?src=rss

A Pizza Delivery is a dreamy indie adventure that tests your will to press on

Nothing brings people together in uncertain times quite like food. Get to talking and laughing and reminiscing over a meal, and suddenly things don't seem so bleak anymore, even if only temporarily. A Pizza Delivery is all about rediscovering the spark through these little moments of human connection just strangers bonding over a slice of pizza, and regaining a bit of hope in the process. It's wistful and heartfelt in a kind of vague, nonspecific way, with some beautiful scenery and an atmospheric soundtrack to really hammer home the vibes. Still, while A Pizza Delivery feels close to achieving its goals, it could use more polishing to fully get there. It's not a bad way to spend a couple of hours on a cozy evening in, but you'll have to look past the parts where it's a little broken. A Pizza Delivery begins with its main character, B, delivering a pizza to an apartment in a strange building in the middle of nowhere. Then a pay phone outside rings, and B's boss tells her there's just one last delivery she has to make. But, there's a spare pizza pie in her scooter's cargo box too, to share slices with anyone else she comes across during the journey. The place B has found herself in is not normal reality, but a space where people go when they are stuck in life, feeling empty and unfulfilled. Each area seems its own wholly distinct little world: an empty city, a broken down factory that sits beneath dancing auroras, a prairie where a sole cottage stands among a smattering of sunflowers. You must explore the ins and outs of each area to help get B to her final destination and piece together her story, collecting items and solving some light puzzles to unlock whatever comes next. What this game really has going for it is the mood. There's a kind of Wristcutters: A Love Story feeling to the whole thing that I couldn't help but latch onto. The offbeat, crestfallen characters you encounter each have their own sad story to tell, but after a bit of conversation and a slice of pizza, they're off to (hopefully) make a fresh start and reclaim their lives. The general sense is that B will have the same opportunity if she can push through and complete her mission. And we did get there in the end, but there were some serious hiccups along the way. Controlling B's scooter is a somewhat clunky experience, and if you make the mistake of dismounting while it's still moving, B will end up stuck in a cursed, floating arabesque that won't let up for an indeterminable amount of time. I found myself repeatedly trapped in this broken position when trying to switch from riding the scooter to walking. The alternative is to come to a full stop and wait out the subsequent animation, which involves B very slowly parking and engaging the kickstand. A still from A Pizza Delivery showing a blizzard scene, with the character seen trudging through low visibility toward the red light of a pay phone Dolores Entertainment Most of the puzzles were fairly easy to figure out, but one in which B has to trudge through a blizzard seemed to have no rhyme or reason behind it and almost made me rage-quit the game. Instead, I stepped away for a few hours and came back to it later, and only made it out after an extremely frustrating 45 minutes or so of wandering aimlessly, repeatedly going out of bounds and getting kicked back to the start of the area. Early in the game, you pick up a compass that would seem to be the solution to this puzzle, as the instructions are all direction-based. But, you can't actually use the compass, and trying to navigate based on the way it's oriented in your inventory doesn't help. B's story didn't entirely come together for me like I hoped either. Even after collecting all of the memory items, her background felt incomplete. I found myself wishing I knew more about her and what got her to this place once she was finally on her way to leaving it. But I don't regret sticking it out. The ending was ultimately a touching reward and pretty darn uplifting. A Pizza Delivery is available now for PS5, Xbox Series X/S and PC. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/a-pizza-delivery-is-a-dreamy-indie-adventure-that-tests-your-will-to-press-on-130000842.html?src=rss

Halo Infinite will get its last major content update on November 18

The next major update for Halo Infinite will also be its last. Halo Studios, which is part of Microsofts Xbox Game Studios, has announced that its rolling out Operation: Infinite on November 18. Its going to be the last major update for the first-person shooter, because the whole team will now be focusing on the multiple Halo titles under development. Xbox previously announced that its releasing Halo: Campaign Evolved , a remake of the first game in the franchise, Halo: Combat Evolved , sometime in 2026. It will be available for the Xbox, PC and PS5. According to unverified reports , Halo Studios is also working on a new multiplayer live service project similar to Fortnite . Operation: Infinite will double the earning rate for Career Rank and Spartan Points. The final free Operation Pass will have no expiration date and will unlock three new armor sets. Upgrading to the 100-tier Premium Pass will give players the chance to unlock five more unique armor sets, six weapon models and over 30 exclusive Spartan customizations. The last major update will also add a new asymmetrical map for select Ranked modes. While Operation: Infinite is the games last major update, Halo Infinite will still have a rotating selection of daily and weekly challenges, as well as a new slate of Ranked Seasons for those who want to keep playing it. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/halo-infinite-will-get-its-last-major-content-update-on-november-18-130000955.html?src=rss

Get 50 percent off one of our favorite budgeting apps before Black Friday

Those looking for a better way to keep track of their finances should consider a budgeting app . There are dozens of them on the market now, and one of our favorites is running a discount for new subscribers. Monarch Money is offering 50 percent off annual plans right now when you use the code MONARCHVIP at checkout. With the typical yearly price being $100, this will save you $50. As mentioned before, the discount is only for new users and it can't be combined with other offers. The code only works when you sign up through the web as well. You can't redeem it through the Monarch mobile app. We feel that Monarch has a steeper learning curve than some other budget trackers and that certain aspects of the app are slightly more complex than they probably need to be. But it offers a great deal of customization and granularity , which outweighs our misgivings. On the main dashboard, you'll see your net worth along with your latest transactions, spending versus the previous month, your income so far for the month and details about upcoming bills, your investments and goals you've set. There's also a link to a month-in-review page, which offers an in-depth overview of what's been happening with your money that month. You'll also be able to take a peek at how your net worth has changed over time. Monarch can connect to your bank and track Apple Card, Apple Cash and Savings accounts. It can pull in your transactions and balance history automatically and detect your recurring expenses and income. The app can even keep your car valuation up to date. While it might take a little work to set up Monarch (and you might have to tweak things here and there), it's a detailed budgeting app that can help you keep better track of your income, expenditure and net worth. If you're a former Mint user (RIP), Monarch Money is a great alternative if you haven't yet found a Mint replacement . But it's worth mentioning that our favorite Mint replacement service, Quicken Simplifi , also has a sale going on right now. It's offering 50 percent off when you sign up for an annual subscription, billed at $3 per month with the discount. That comes out to $36 for the first year. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/get-50-percent-off-one-of-our-favorite-budgeting-apps-before-black-friday-174011805.html?src=rss

Ports-a-plenty, a zen garden creator and other new indie games worth checking out

Welcome to our latest roundup of what's going on in the indie game space. This week saw the arrival of some fairly high-profile ports, a relaxing garden creation game and much more. I've even managed to tear myself away from Football Manager 26 for long enough to tell you about some of them. Barely a week goes by without a fun theme event taking place on Steam and one that runs until November 10 is also going down on the Nintendo eShop . The Metroidvania Fusion Festival is a celebration of what else? the broad spectrum of Metroidvania games. It features 245 projects, including upcoming games and demos, and a sale with discounts of up to 90 percent. I've grabbed a few demos to check out this weekend, including Key Fairy (a pacifist bullet-hell game that sees you grappling and dancing your way around enemies), Echo Weaver (a time-loop puzzler that I've mentioned before ) and 2D platformer Little Ghost , in which you explore a mixed media world as a cute specter. In terms of deals, Blasphemous is 75 percent off, Blasphemous II is half off, 2D action game Gunbrella (which I've had on my wishlist for years) is 65 percent off and body horror delight Carrion is 22 percent off. I can wholeheartedly recommend Turbo Kid , a quasi-sequel to one of my favorite films of the same name. That's 35 percent off in this sale. Elsewhere this week, I read a solid profile of developer Lente Cuenen in the The New York Times . Cuenen is the developer of Spilled! , a relaxing waterway cleanup game I've been meaning to check out for a while. The piece is an intriguing look into the life of Cuenen, who makes games about boats while living on her boat in the Netherlands. New releases A couple of notable indies made the leap onto Xbox Series X/S and PlayStation 5 this week, including 1000xResist . This narrative-driven sci-fi adventure from Sunset Visitor and publisher Fellow Traveller Games earned widespread acclaim when it debuted on Steam and Nintendo Switch last year, particularly for its storytelling, visuals and how it explores various themes. It won a Peabody Award too. I have yet to dive into 1000xResist , even though it's been on my PC and Steam Deck for months. PS5 and Xbox Series X/S players now have the chance to jump in as well. What's more, 1000xResist is on Game Pass Premium, Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass. A little over a year after releasing the full version of the Satisfactory on PC, Coffee Stain Studios and Coffee Stain Publishing have brought the multi-million-selling factory builder to PS5 and Xbox Series X/S . You can play solo or with friends as you construct factories on an alien planet. You'll explore the planet to find resources and maybe even engage in a little combat. In general, both critics and players have rated Satisfactory highly. Some might say its more than satisfactory. Pools was one of my favorite games of last year. It's a disquieting walking simulator, an eerie journey through a liminal space. I could almost smell the chlorine as I explored the mazy swimming pool-inspired environments. It's more eerie than downright scary. Developer Tensori brought the experience to iPhone, iPad and Mac this week. The iPad version also works on Apple Vision Pro. To that end, a virtual reality version of Pools is coming to PS VR2 on November 25. You'll be able to check it out in flatscreen on PS5 on the same day. Thrasher is the latest title from Brian Gibson, the artist and composer of the intense rhythm game Thumper (and also the bassist for the noise rock band Lightning Bolt). The arcade action game debuted on Meta Quest and Apple Vision Pro last year. It made the leap to Steam (and SteamVR) this week, so you can now play it on a flatscreen for the first time. Thrasher is a very trippy-looking game from developer Puddle and publisher Creature Label. It seems like quite the wild ride and it was named Apple's Vision Pro game of the year for 2024. For what its worth. the team behind Thrasher says that the game runs at 90 fps on Steam Deck. Here's a completely different change of pace. Dream Garden is all about creating a relaxing garden space for yourself. You can use hills, rivers, ponds and pebbles to shape the landscape, then add decorations. With the rake tool, you can trace patterns in the sand. There are no limits or timers in this Japanese-inspired game from the duo at Campfire Studio. Dream Garden is out now on Steam . The Falconeer first took flight five years ago it was an Xbox Series X/S launch title , fact fans. A new edition for Steam called The Falconeer: Revolution Remaster is a complete rework, as solo developer Tomas Sala rebuilt the game from the ground up. It features new tech, overhauled and expanded environments, gameplay upgrades and all of the previous DLC. I'm glad to hear that Sala has improved the flight mechanics. I found it a bit tough to get to grips with the aerial combat when I played The Falconeer back in 2020, but I enjoyed it otherwise. The remastered version (which looks much grander in scope than the original game) is available as a free upgrade for existing owners on Steam . Everyone else can hop in for free until 1PM ET on November 10. While the remaster is now the default option, you'll still be able to access the original version of The Falconeer via a dedicated Steam branch, Hooray for game preservation! Upcoming It wouldn't be an edition of our weekly indie roundup without a dog game, would it? You can play Sheepherds! solo, but Ultimo Disco primarily designed it as a party game for couch co-op or online multiplayer. It is, as the name suggests, a sheepherding game in which you'll corral flocks of sheep to shear their wool. You can earn cosmetic items and outfits for your pooch, and bump up the difficulty with optional challenges if you like. Sheepherds! is coming to Steam on November 17. We're big fans of the Playdate around these parts and it's always fun to learn about new games that are coming to the wonderful little handheld. Panic held a showcase this week to shine a spotlight on some upcoming games, as well as others included in the fall sale that runs until November 13. Fauna is Cadin Batrack's follow up to Playdate comics The Botanist and To Dust . It's choose-your-own-adventure visual novel with a branching narrative, this time set in a near future in which large language models have advanced to the point where humans can talk to animals. The animals use their newfound communication skills to seek equal rights. Fauna seems pretty interesting! It's coming to Playdate soon . Zachary Snyder's Diora is a puzzle adventure that tasks you with discovering a mysterious force that is manipulating structures and the people around them. At first glance, it reminds me a bit of Fez and the Monument Valley series. Diora will hit Playdate on December 16. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/ports-a-plenty-a-zen-garden-creator-and-other-new-indie-games-worth-checking-out-120000091.html?src=rss

The Lisbon Airport is turning away private jets inbound for the Web Summit

Startup founders and government officials have been confronted with a unique flavor of first-world problem at this year's Web Summit , Financial Times reports . The Lisbon Airport has been forced to turn some private jets away, sending flights to seek runway space at airports as far away as Badajoz, a Spanish city two hours away from Lisbon. The issue might come with the territory. Web Summit is a technology business conference that tends to attract investors, startups and high-profile keynote speakers this year's conference features talks from the CEO of Qualcomm and the President of Microsoft, for example many of whom prefer to fly private. That poses a problem for the Lisbon Airport. Please be advised that there is currently a shortage of private jet slots during Web Summit at Lisbon Airport (LIS) and surrounding smaller airports, Web Summit organizers reportedly told attendees. Lisbon Airport is experiencing difficulty managing the volume of traffic, resulting in a lack of available take-off and landing slots for all operations. FT writes that this kind of airport bottleneck is a first for the conference, and likely caused as much by a growing predilection for private jets as it is the larger number of attendees at this year's Web Summit. Setting aside the environmental impact of flying private, you'd think all those brilliant minds could come up with some kind of solution beyond flying further away and driving into Portugal. Maybe a jet that hundreds of people can charter at once? This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/big-tech/the-lisbon-airport-is-turning-away-private-jets-inbound-for-the-web-summit-222136161.html?src=rss

The redesigned Disney+ app is rolling out to more users in the US

Disney is rolling out its redesigned interface for Disney+ to more users in the US today. The redesign brings the streaming service in line with the loud, key art-forward approach of Netflix, and follows a price increase for both tiers of Disney+ that the company introduced in October. The biggest change in the new Disney+ is the addition of a horizontal navigation bar with separate tabs for recommendations (For You), Disney+, Hulu and ESPN. Disney is leaning on a new algorithm that better uses your viewing history to make recommendations, and it now also integrates live TV streams via a dedicated tab in its vertical menu. Outside of the US, the new interface is also being paired with the rebranding of Disney's Star streaming service to Hulu. The new interface is the latest step in Disney's plan to eventually completely fold Hulu into Disney+ in 2026. The Hulu has a dedicated tab in the app, but eventually it'll just be one of the many sources of content Disney+ collects. Meanwhile, the live TV component of Hulu + Live TV will eventually be merged with Fubo , creating an even larger YouTube TV competitor that Disney will have 70 percent stake in. The growing competition between Google and Disney could be one of several reasons the companies have yet to settle the carriage dispute that's currently blocked channels like ABC and ESPN on YouTube TV. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/entertainment/streaming/the-redesigned-disney-app-is-rolling-out-to-more-users-in-the-us-204759533.html?src=rss

Bioware says next Mass Effect is still in development despite turmoil at EA

Development on the next Mass Effect is still underway, Mass Effect executive producer Mike Gamble confirmed in a blog post celebrating the series' N7 Day fan holiday. Bioware shared that it had started work on the new game in 2020, but Electronic Arts' decision to go private have naturally called the future of the series into question. Gamble's blog post doesn't share many details about the new game beyond the fact that Bioware is heads-down and focused exclusively on Mass Effect. What does seem more clear is that the game could have some kind of connection to the Mass Effect TV show currently in development at Amazon. The writers room is going strong, and weve got a lot figured out about how it fits within the Mass Effect canon, and where it sits in respect to the new game, Gamble says. Notably, the series is set after the events of the original trilogy of games, and follows a new story in the universe's timeline. It wont be a retread of Commander Shepards story. Dragon Age: The Veilguard , Bioware's last game, was not the smash hit EA apparently wanted it to be , and Bioware has appeared to go through a period of contraction in response. High-profile senior staff were let go in January 2025 , and even before the game was released, EA began moving Bioware developers to other studios. EA itself may also be adjusting its larger game development strategy. Following its proposed acquisition, the publisher announced a partnership with Stability AI in October to create new AI-powered tools to better streamline its development process. The Mass Effect series is beloved, and Mass Effect: Legendary Edition , the 2021 remaster that packaged all the trilogy's DLC and games into a single package, was a great reminder. With a new entry and a TV show in the works, Bioware seems poised for a comeback. It just needs to survive EA until then. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/bioware-says-next-mass-effect-is-still-in-development-despite-turmoil-at-ea-200000050.html?src=rss

Meta says it will invest $600 billion in the US, with AI data centers front and center

Meta said on Friday that it's investing $600 billion in US infrastructure and jobs by 2028. Although the announcement is light on specifics (and heavy on standard Big Tech self-congratulation), it sounds like much of it will go toward AI data centers . At Meta, we're focused on creating the next generation of AI products and building personal superintelligence for everyone, the company wrote. Data centers are crucial to reaching these goals and helping America maintain its technological edge. If you feel like this isn't the first you've heard of Meta and $600 billion in US spending, you're right. That's the figure Mark Zuckerberg gave during a September White House dinner with Big Tech CEOs. But more memorable was the hot-mic moment later captured between Zuckerberg and President Trump. Sorry, I wasn't ready, the Meta CEO said to the president, referring to his $600 billion pledge. I wasn't sure what number you wanted to go with. Meta's announcement today includes figures intended to bolster its claim to be a champion of US infrastructure. The company says that, since 2010, its data centers have supported over 30,000 skilled trade jobs and 5,000 operational jobs. Meta adds that it's currently bringing over $20 billion to US subcontractors. As for the superintelligence mention, it also surfaced when Zuckerberg announced data center investments in July. That term typically refers to a hypothetical point at which AI surpasses human cognitive abilities. (Steve Wozniak, Geoffrey Hinton and others want it banned until its proven safe and controllable .) The company views its AI glasses as a central part of that future. Zuckerberg said in July that anyone without them may eventually suffer from a pretty significant cognitive disadvantage. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ai/meta-says-it-will-invest-600-billion-in-the-us-with-ai-data-centers-front-and-center-195000377.html?src=rss

Sen. Warren: Big Tech's tax breaks could have covered benefits for millions of Americans

Data can paint a much starker contrast than words alone, and US Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) appears to get that. On Friday, her office published numbers on Big Tech's tax breaks in Republicans' Big Beautiful Bill. When compared with the benefits those sums could have provided for working families, it helps to fortify what some might otherwise dismiss as run-of-the-mill rhetoric. According to Sen. Warren, the bill's tax breaks for Microsoft alone will total $12.5 billion in 2026. When compared with the average cost of SNAP benefits, that sum could have provided food assistance to 5.2 million people. Or, it could have covered Medicaid for 1.6 million adults (or 3.8 million children), or lowered Affordable Care Act (ACA) premiums for 1.9 million Americans. Meanwhile, Warren says Amazon is set to score a $16 billion tax break this year. That's the equivalent of Medicaid for 2 million adults (or 5.4 million children), lower ACA payments for 2.4 million Americans or SNAP benefits for 6.6 million people. What about the tax breaks Alphabet gets? Warren says Google's parent company is looking at a $17.9 billion tax cut this year. That could pay for Medicaid for 2.3 million adults (or 5.4 million kids), lower ACA premiums for 2.8 million people or food assistance for 7.5 million people. If youre confused about why Big Tech is helping to pay for a lavish White House ballroom , look no further. Regardless, Warrens analysis goes on to break down the $137 billion in tax breaks for all corporations in 2026, the $132 billion routed to the wealthiest one percent in 2027 and more. You can read the senator's full report for more details. Donald Trump and Republicans in Congress are knocking millions of Americans off their health insurance and ripping away food assistance from families all so they can fund giant tax cuts for billionaires and giant corporations, Warren said in a statement. This is a matter of priorities: Trump and Republicans are fighting for their billionaire buddies, while Democrats are fighting for American families. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/big-tech/sen-warren-big-techs-tax-breaks-could-have-covered-benefits-for-millions-of-americans-174831791.html?src=rss

Fitbit appears to be experiencing a partial outage

Fitbit is mostly associated with tracking your steps, workouts and sleep, but also among its arsenal of overall health features is the ability to track your food intake. You can use it to see how many calories youve consumed versus how many youve burned, and even scan the barcode of pre-made food items to add them to your daily log. But the food log feature in the Fitbit app currently appears to be broken, or at least not working as its supposed to. As spotted by 9to5Google , various problems have been reported during the last 24 hours, and while the page still loads as it should, adding items is proving difficult. Attempting to search for a meal or food pulls up a blank page, while the barcode scanner seems to be completely broken, returning a maintenance error message when you try to use it. A number of Fitbit users are reporting similar issues, with only the custom food creation function working properly. Some have also said that they tried updating the app to fix it, but with no success. One user who deleted and re-installed the Fitbit app said that didnt work either, while another said they really rely on the calorie count feature, which obviously wont be accurate if you cant log every meal you eat. Google, Fitbit's parent company, has not officially commented on the matter at the time of writing, and well update this article if it responds to our request for one. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/wearables/fitbit-appears-to-be-experiencing-a-partial-outage-174249152.html?src=rss

Today's best iPad deals include $100 off the iPad mini

We generally think Apples iPads are the best tablets for most people, but they dont come cheap. To help those looking to grab one today get the most value possible, were keeping an eye on sale prices and rounding up the best iPad deals we can find each week. This weeks selection includes the return of a $100 price drop for the iPad mini , along with a $50 discount for the entry-level iPad and early discounts on the recently updated iPad Pro. Beyond tablets, the MacBook Air , Apple Watch SE 3 and Apple Watch Ultra 3 have all dropped to new all-time lows, while a four-pack of AirTags is also steeply discounted at $65. Its worth remembering that official Black Friday sales are just around the corner, so we expect to see more deals in the days and weeks ahead. But if you cant hold out a little longer, here are all the top deals on Apple gear that we could find this week. Best iPad deals Apple iPad (A16) for $299 ($50 off) : The entry-level iPad comes with a faster A16 chip, 2GB more RAM and 128GB of storage by default. It earned a score of 84 in our review if you only need a tablet for roaming the internet, watching shows and doing some lighter productivity tasks, it should do the job. With the new iPadOS 26 update, it also has most of the same multitasking features available with the more expensive models. We've seen this price for much of the past several months it's $20 above the tablet's all-time low, but it's still a bit cheaper than buying direct from Apple. Also at Walmart , Best Buy and Target . Apple iPad Pro (11-inch, M5) for $945 ($54 off) : Apple's newest iPad only came out less than a month ago, but it's already $50 or so off at various retailers. At Amazon, the base model with an M5 chip and 256GB of storage is down to a slightly less pricey $945. We gave this iPad Pro a score of 85 in our review . It has a class-leading OLED display and an impressively thin design, while the new M5 chip is more than powerful enough to do just about anything you'd want to do with an iPad. It's the only Apple tablet to support fast charging, too. That said, it's still far more iPad than casual buyers ever need, so it's best suited for hardcore iPad users and those with cash to burn. Also at Best Buy and B&H for $949. Apple iPad Pro (13-inch, M5) for $1,247 ($52 off) : The 13-inch iPad Pro is virtually the same as the 11-inch version, only it's bigger. It's also more expensive, but the extra screen space might be worth it if you're committed to using the Pro as your main computer. Amazon isn't listing this as a discount, but rest assured it's still about $50 off Apple's MSRP. Again, given that these tablets were just launched, any sort of price drop is worth noting. Also at Best Buy and B&H for $1,249. Best Apple deals Apple MacBook Air (13-inch, M4) for $750 ($250 off) : Apple's latest MacBook Air is the top pick in our guide to the best laptops , and it earned a score of 92 in our review . It's not a major overhaul, but the design is still exceptionally thin, light and well-built, with long battery life and a top-notch keyboard and trackpad. Now it's a bit faster. (Though we'd still love more ports and a refresh rate higher than 60Hz.) This is a new all-time low for the base model with 16GB of RAM and a 256GB SSD, but higher-end configurations are also $250 off. Apple MacBook Air (15-inch, M4) for $950 ($250 off) : The 15-inch MacBook Air is nearly identical to the smaller version; apart from its roomier display, it adds better speakers and a more spacious trackpad. This deal marks another all-time low, and other configs are similarly discounted. Also at Walmart . Apple Watch SE 3 (40mm, GPS) for $199 ($50 off) : This is the first major discount we've seen for the third-gen version of Apple's entry-level smartwatch, which was released in September. The big upgrade here is the always-on display, which means you no longer have to wake the watch to check the time or your notifications. (This tech was previously limited to the more expensive Apple Watch models.) The watch now runs on the same S10 chip as its higher-end siblings as well, plus it still covers the essential health and fitness features. If youre in the market for your first smartwatch, or if you only want a watch for step counting, sleep tracking and notifications, it's a strong value. Just note that this deal only applies to the Starlight finish as of this writing. Apple Watch Series 10 (42mm, GPS) for $280 ($119 off) : As a general rule, most people should buy the newest version of whatever Apple product they want. That said, the new Apple Watch Series 11 is only a minor upgrade over the Series 10: The battery lasts a little longer, the glass is more scratch-resistant, the cellular model has 5G support and thats about it. If youre mostly worried about saving cash and still need the more advanced health features the SE lacks such as an ECG app and hypertension alerts this is the best discount we've seen for last years model. Apple Watch Ultra 3 (49mm) for $700 ($100 off) : The Ultra 3 is a much more niche device than Apple's other wearables, aimed at serious athletes and adventurers more than the typical gym-goer. It's the biggest and most rugged Apple Watch, with the brightest display (up to 3,000 nits), longest battery life (up to 42 hours) and most advanced components. It also supports satellite communications . This discount doesn't make it cheap by any means, but it does represent a new low. Apple Mac mini (M4) for $499 ($100 off) : The newest version of Apples tiny desktop PC has a smaller overall footprint, a faster M4 chip, 16GB of RAM as standard (finally), two front-facing USB-C ports, an extra Thunderbolt 4 port and the ability to drive three external displays. It doesn't have any USB-A ports, however. We gave the M4 Pro model a review score of 90 . This deal is for the entry-level version with a base M4 chip, 16GB of RAM and a 256GB SSD weve seen it fall as low as $469 before, but this is still a decent savings. Also at Best Buy , Walmart and B&H . Apple Pencil Pro for $99 ($30 off) : The top-end option in Apples confusing stylus lineup , the Pencil Pro supports pressure sensitivity, wireless charging, tilt detection, haptic feedback and Apples double tap and squeeze gestures , among other perks. Its a lovely tool for more intricate sketching and note-taking, but the catch is that its only compatible with the M4 iPad Pro, M2 and M3 iPad Air and most recent iPad mini. We've seen this deal fairly often over the course of the year, but it's a fine discount compared to buying from Apple directly. Also at Best Buy , Walmart and Target . Read more Apple coverage : The best AirPods The best Apple Watches The best MacBooks The best iPhones The best iPads Follow @EngadgetDeals on X for the latest tech deals and buying advice . This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/todays-best-ipad-deals-include-100-off-the-ipad-mini-150020786.html?src=rss

Denmark set to ban social media for users under 15 years of age

The government of Denmark said on Friday that lawmakers from its political right, left and center have reached an agreement to ban social media for anyone under 15, as reported by The Associated Press . If enacted, the move would be one of the most ambitious attempts globally to keep children off social media. Momentum has been building in recent years around concerns that social media is harming its younger users . The countrys Digitalization Ministry would set the minimum age at 15 for certain social media platforms but has not clarified which ones would be affected. The government also did not share specifics on how enforcement would work. A statement from the Digitalization Ministry reads, in part, Children and young people have their sleep disrupted, lose their peace and concentration, and experience increasing pressure from digital relationships where adults are not always present, as reported by The Associated Press . Digitalization Minister Caroline Stage said Danish authorities are finally drawing a line in the sand and setting a clear direction. In December, the worlds first country-wide social media ban for children will go into effect in Australia , banning children under 16 from major social media platforms. Platforms that want to operate in the country must employ age-verification technology and would face fines if they fail to enforce the nations age limits. Some age-verification methods, particularly facial recognition and showing of ID, have faced heavy skepticism as they have been implemented around the world. In the UK and Italy anyone wanting to watch porn online must now upload a selfie or provide ID to verify they are above age limits. If the same methods are employed to verify teenagers' ages, questions will undoubtedly arise about data safety and privacy involving minors' data. Texas recently came close to enacting a similar ban , though it ultimately didn't pass. Utah passed laws in 2023 that require parental consent before teens can create social media accounts. Florida passed a social media ban for children that is currently held up in court . This move will undoubtedly spark more conversation around the potential harms of social media on adolescents, as well as whether social media access will be perceived as personal parenting decisions that should remain free from government intervention. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/social-media/denmark-set-to-ban-social-media-for-users-under-15-years-of-age-171602408.html?src=rss

Proton VPN deal: Two-year plans are 75 percent off ahead of Black Friday

A VPN subscription can make for a good holiday gift. Everyone could do with having a VPN to help protect their online activity from prying eyes (and, perhaps, access more things to watch from their favorite streaming services). It's something useful that a gift recipient may have never realized they needed. Of course, you may be looking for a great deal on a VPN yourself, and the Black Friday discount for Proton VPN is nothing to sniff at. You can get two years of access to the VPN Plus tier of the service for $59.76, which works out to $2.49 per month. That's a discount of 75 percent compared with the regular price of $10 per month. Overall, you'd save $180. Proton VPN is our pick for the best VPN overall because it checks all of the boxes it needs to. There is a free plan with unlimited data, but with that you can only connect to servers in a few countries and the connection might not be fast enough for you to watch anything from your preferred streaming service's library in that locale. The VPN Plus tier unlocks a lot more options, such as the ability to connect to 15,000 servers across more than 120 countries and simultaneous protection for up to 15 devices. The apps are well-designed Proton has clients for Windows, Mac, iOS and Android and it's easy to find a feature or setting you're looking for. In our testing, Proton VPN Plus had a relatively small impact on browsing speeds. Our download speeds dropped by 12 percent and uploads by 4 percent, while the global average ping remained below 300 ms (which is especially impressive if you're connecting to a server on the other side of the planet). Perhaps, most importantly, though, it's Proton's commitment to privacy that helps make its VPN an easy recommendation. There's a no-logs policy, meaning it does not log user activity or any identifiable characteristics of devices that connect to the VPN. Proton's servers use full-disk encryption to bolster privacy as well. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/proton-vpn-deal-two-year-plans-are-75-percent-off-ahead-of-black-friday-153737110.html?src=rss

Black Friday deals 2025: The best tech sales we could find so far from Apple, Amazon, Lego, Dyson and more

Black Friday has become the time to buy the hottest tech of the year. Whether you're shopping for yourself or stocking up on gifts for the holidays, Black Friday deals are sure to bring the best prices of the year to things like headphones, game consoles, robot vacuums, phone accessories and everything in between. You don't even have to wait until Black Friday proper to save a ton of money. Over the past few years, we've seen Black Friday tech deals start earlier and earlier to the point where the entire month of November is packed with discounts. If you're on the hunt for solid tech deals, Engadget has you covered. We've collected the best Black Friday deals on tech you can get right now, and we'll continue to update this post as we get closer to the big day at the end of November. Note that you probably have the best chance of snagging record-low prices when we get to about one week before Thanksgiving, but these deals available now are worth considering. Black Friday deals to shop now Apple AirTags (four pack) for $65 (34 percent off): iPhone users who frequently misplace things should invest in a few AirTags. Slip them into your wallet, bag, jacket and other belongings to keep track of their locations in the Find My app. Just make sure that, if you're going to attach one to your keys, you also pick up an AirTag holder to go along with it. Lego Disney advent calendar 2025 43253 for $38 (16 percent off): I probably don't need to tell you 'tis the season for advent calendars . Lego has a bunch , and this one in particular is on a good deal right now. Like most Lego advent calendars, this one includes a number of bricks and minifigs that, when put together, make a coherent, themed scene. Dyson 360 Vis Nav robot vacuum for $500 (50 percent off): This is one of the best robot vacuums you can get, period. It doesn't have a self-emptying base, but its superior suction power almost makes up for that. It's one of the strongest robot vacuums I've ever tested, and it has excellent obstacle avoidance. The latter means you will rarely, if ever, have to attend to it getting caught on the edge of a carpet or getting stuck under a piece of furniture. If a cordless stick vacuum is what you're looking for, don't forget to check out all of the other Dyson Black Friday deals . EcoFlow Black Friday deals get up to 80 percent off: Portable power stations are an investment, but they can be crucial pieces of tech during emergencies. The top pick from our friends at Yahoo Tech has been heavily discounted in this early Black Friday sale. You can pick up the EcoFlow Delta Pro 3 for $1,400 off, down to $2,299, or the power station with an extra battery bundled in for $2,699 off, down to $3,599. Apple Mac Mini M4 for $499 ($100 off): Desktop users looking for an upgrade should consider the latest Mac Mini, which runs on the M4 chip and 16GB of RAM as standard in the base configuration. This version has a smaller design that takes up less space, front-facing USB-C ports and a headphone jack, plus Thunderbolt 5 support. Apple Watch SE 3 for $200 ($50 off): The SE has been our top pick for the best Apple Watch for those on a budget, and the latest model only solidifies that further. It has the same chipset found in the latest flagship Apple Watches, fast-charging capabilities, an always-on display and most of the same activity-tracking features you'll find in more expensive model. Apple iPad mini for $399 ($100 off): Apple's smallest tablet, the iPad mini is the best option for those who prefer their tablet be roughly the size of a paperback book. The latest model runs on the A17 Pro chipset and has an upgraded 128GB of storage in the base configuration. It also supports the Apple Pencil Pro. Jisulife Life 7 handheld fan for $25 (14 percent off): This handy little fan is a must-have if you life in a warm climate or have a tropical vacation planned anytime soon. It can be used as a table or handheld fan and even be worn around the neck so you don't have to hold it at all. Its 5,000 mAh battery allows it to last hours on a single charge, and the small display in the middle of the fan's blades show its remaining battery level. Leebin 2025 electric spin scrubber for $40 (43 percent off, Prime exclusive): This weird little scrubber makes cleaning my bathroom and shower much less of a pain. Just choose the brush head you need for your job and the rotating head takes care of most of the hard work. I love the adjustable handle, which extends from 12 to 50 inches so you can get into hard-to-reach places without breaking a sweat. Monarch Money budgeting app (one year) for $50 (50 percent off with code MONARCHVIP): One of our favorite budgeting apps , Monarch Money gives you a lot of control over the organization of your funds. There's a helpful goals feature for when you're planning out big purchases or financial milestones you want to hit, and we found the month-in-review recap it provides to be more thorough than other budgeting apps we tried. There's even Zillow integration for folks looking to buy a home. SanDisk microSD Express card (256GB) for $60 (12 percent off): If you have a Switch 2, no regular microSD card will do if you want to expand the console's storage. You need a newer microSD Express card, and currently there are only a handful on the market. We did some testing to find the best microSD Express card for the Switch 2 and found that performance was, in general, very similar amongst all the readily available cards. We recommend getting whichever fits within your budget at the capacity you want. Google TV Streamer 4K for $75 ($25 off): Our top pick for the best streaming device right now, the latest version of Google's streamer supports 4K video and an excellent, easy-to-use interface that will feel familiar to anyone who's seen a set with the Google TV technology built in. It provides access to all of the major streaming services including Netflix, Disney+, HBO Max, YouTube and more, plus it has a handy on-screen pop up that lets you control all compatible smart home devices right from your TV. Also available at Walmart . Cosori 9-in-1 air fryer for $90 (25 percent off): I personally have this air fryer, one of our top picks , in my house and I've used it for over a year with no issues. I love that it makes good use of vertical space so it doesn't take up too much space on my counter, and its rounded-square shape allows me to cook more food than you'd think in one go in the basket. It crisps all kinds of foods up well and generally takes a lot of the guess work (and time) out of making a good meal. Bose QuietComfort headphones for $199 (43 percent off): These noise-cancelling headphones have a comfortable (albeit a bit boring) design, an Aware mode that lets you hear more of your surroundings when you need to and up to 24 hours of battery life. Also available at Best Buy . Shark AI Ultra robot vacuum with 60-day self-emptying base for $300 (50 percent off): This is a version of one of our top picks for the best robot vacuums . We generally like Shark machines because they do a good job cleaning all types of flooring, produce accurate home maps and the companion app is pretty easy to use. This one in particularly comes with a self-emptying base that can hold up to 60 days worth of debris. Black Friday FAQs When is Black Friday 2025? Black Friday 2025 lands on November 28. Which stores have Black Friday deals? Many physical retail stores have Black Friday deals including Walmart, Target, Best Buy and others. Even more retailers have online Black Friday deals, including Amazon, GameStop, Costco and others. When do Black Friday sales start? Gone are the times when Black Friday sales were one-day-only affairs. Now, Black Friday deals are often available starting on Thanksgiving, or even earlier. Last year, we saw Black Friday deals online begin the week before Black Friday proper. When do Black Friday sales end? Black Friday and Cyber Monday have blended a lot over the past few years. Now, you can expect to see a good portion of Black Friday deals extend through the weekend and into Cyber Monday. It's not uncommon for Black Friday deals to expire at the end of Cyber Monday. Which retailers have the best Black Friday tech deals? The best Black Friday tech deals are typically available online at retailers like Amazon, Walmart, Best Buy and Target. It's also a good idea to check the store websites of the companies that make the products you want for example, if you're looking for a Sonos speaker, check the Sonos website on Black Friday. Most of the time, you'll find the best Black Friday tech deals are matched at multiple retailers. Does Apple have Black Friday sales? No, you will usually not find Black Friday sales at Apple stores or on Apple's website. However, you can find Black Friday deals on Apple devices elsewhere; we recommend checking Amazon, Best Buy and other big retailers for discounts on iPads, Apple Watches and more on Black Friday. Does Amazon have Black Friday sales? Yes, Amazon has Black Friday sales. The online retailer's site will look similar to Prime Day on Black Friday, with discounts on all sorts of items from household essentials to fashion to tech. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/black-friday-deals-2025-the-best-tech-sales-we-could-find-so-far-from-apple-amazon-lego-dyson-and-more-100052387.html?src=rss

Lego Black Friday deals: Early sales include up to 40 percent off Star Wars and Disney sets

Lego sets are probably at the top of your kid's wish list, and maybe they're at the top of your personal list, too. With so many to choose from, you'll be able to find one that makes a great gift for anyone who you know loves these little building bricks. Black Friday Lego deals are what to look for this time of year, because you can typically save at least 20 percent on a good number of sets. Yes, that often includes the most popular ones from the Star Wars, Super Mario, Harry Potter and other collections. In general, we always recommend using a price tracker when determining if a Lego deal is in fact a good one. Below, we've collected the best Lego Black Friday deals we could find right now. You'll find Lego deals across the board this holiday season at retailers like Amazon and Walmart , but don't overlook Lego's own site . If you join the free Lego Insiders program, you'll build up points with each purchase that you can redeem in the future, get special discounts and sometimes get exclusive gifts when you buy. While not a deal, arguably the hottest Lego for Black Friday will be the brand new Star Trek USS Enterprise set , which was announced recently. It has a whopping 3,600 pieces and will be a must-have for any Star Trek fans. The set will be available starting November 28 for $400. Best Lego Black Friday deals LEGO Star Wars Advent Calendar 2025 75418 for $27 (40 percent off) LEGO Disney Frozen Advent Calendar 2025 43273 for $31 (32 percent off) Lego Harry Potter Advent Calendar 2025 76456 for $39 (13 percent off) LEGO Star Wars Brick-Built Star Wars Logo 75407 for $48 (20 percent off) LEGO Star Wars Grogu with Hover Pram Building Toy Set 75403 for $65 (36 percent off) LEGO Star Wars Millennium Falcon A New Hope 25th Anniversary Collectable Model 75375 for $68 (20 percent off) LEGO Star Wars R2-D2 Building Toy Set 75379 for $80 (20 percent off) LEGO Harry Potter Hogwarts Castle and Grounds 76419 for $136 (20 percent off) LEGO Creator 3 in 1 Magical Unicorn Toy 31140 for $7 (32 percent off) LEGO City Donut Truck Toy 60452 for $16 (20 percent off) LEGO Speed Champions 2 Fast 2 Furious Nissan Skyline GT-R (R34) Race Car 76917 for $18 (28 percent off) LEGO Botanicals Happy Plants Building Toys 10349 for $20 (13 percent off) LEGO Botanicals Mini Orchid Building Set 10343 for $24 (20 percent off) LEGO Ideas Tuxedo Cat 21349 for $80 (20 percent off) LEGO Art Hokusai The Great Wave Framed Japanese Wall Art Building Set 31208 for $85 (15 percent off) This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/lego-black-friday-deals-early-sales-include-up-to-40-percent-off-star-wars-and-disney-sets-155007870.html?src=rss

The Apple Watch SE 3 is cheaper than ever ahead of Black Friday

Black Friday will be here before you know it, but you can already save on some sought-after tech. Case in point: the new Apple Watch SE 3 . Apple's most affordable smartwatch is even cheaper right now, down to just $200. We consider this to be the best budget Apple Watch , and arguably the best smartwatch for folks who have never owned one before. The latest version runs on the same chipset found in the new flagship models, and it has most of the same fitness and workout tracking features you'll find in those more expensive devices as well. The SE 3 also now has an always-on display, making it easier to glance down throughout the day to check the time or see activity stats without moving your wrist, and fast-charging support makes it a more viable sleep tracker. Just plop it down on its charger for a bit at the end of the day and put it back on to monitor your sleep overnight. Also discounted is the high-end Apple Watch Ultra 3 , which you can snag for $100 off. The sale model comes with 64GB of storage, a 49mm screen and GPS and cellular service. Notably, it's also only available with the one size, adjustable band and in two colors: a Black titanium case with Black Ocean band and a natural titanium Case with Anchor Blue Ocean band. The Apple Watch Ultra 3 came out in early September and is one of the first smartwatches to support satellite communications . This feature means you can call, send messages or share your location with emergency services through the watch even if you don't have a connection. The new Ultra 3 also has a larger screen thanks to thinner bezels and a battery that can last for up to 42 hours. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/the-apple-watch-se-3-is-cheaper-than-ever-ahead-of-black-friday-133057960.html?src=rss

Early Black Friday deals include $300 off the Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold

Somehow it's already November, which means gift giving season is right around the corner. While Black Friday sales can help with that, there are some great early deals running for anyone who wants to check off their list with time to spare. Take the Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold , which has only been out since late August. It's now down to $1,499 from $1,799 a 17 percent discount. This deal is available at both Amazon and Best Buy , and seems to be the first big markdown on the Pixel 10 Pro Fold. Notably, this deal is on the 256GB model, but the 512GB and 1TB Pixel 10 Pro Folds are also $300 off. We gave the Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold an 88 in our review , thanks to its improved durability, with an IP68 rating. It also has upgraded software and multitasking, along with Pixelsnap charging . Plus, we found it has the best cameras of any flexible phone. One of our biggest gripes is the price though this discount certainly helps. It's also quite a bulky device and can feel pretty heavy. Other Google phones are also on sale for Black Friday right now. The Pixel 10 Pro has dropped to a record low of $749, while the Pixel 10 Pro XL with a whopping 1TB of storage is also cheaper than ever at $1,249. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/early-black-friday-deals-include-300-off-the-google-pixel-10-pro-fold-123036874.html?src=rss

Engadget Podcast: Our favorite gadgets of 2025

2025 is almost over (gasp!), so it's time to look back at all of the best devices we've seen so far. In this episode, Engadget Deputy Editor Billy Steele joins Devindra to talk about the highlights of the year, which range from the usual suspects (like Google's Pixel and the iPhone 17 Pro), to surprises like the Ninja Swirl. Also, we chat about yet another super-thin phone and the latest sampler from Teenage Engineering. Subscribe! iTunes Spotify Pocket Casts Stitcher Google Podcasts Topics Engadgets Best of 2025: phones, tablets, cameras, even EVs! 1:40 Reuters reports Meta projected 10% of its revenue ($16B) came from ads for scams this year 32:20 Moto Edge 70 is another super thin smartphone, but who wants it? 41:43 Netflix is going big on video podcasts in 2026 42:56 You can now stream PS5 games you own to the PS Portal via the cloud 48:23 Around Engadget: Why DJI drones may be banned in the U.S. 52:27 Pop culture picks 56:05 Credits Host: Devindra Hardawar Guest: Billy Steele Producer: Ben Ellman Music: Dale North and Terrence O'Brien This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/mobile/smartphones/engadget-podcast-our-favorite-gadgets-of-2025-143000733.html?src=rss

Form brings better, AI-enabled swim coaching to its smart goggles

Back in 2019 , Form made and youre going to have to forgive me for the most inevitable pun in history a big splash with its first smart swimming goggles. The company has released several upgrades since, and it just announced the latest version of its HeadCoach software, which is designed to deliver personalized swim coaching using AI. Available through Form Premium, HeadCoach 2.0 effectively functions like a virtual coach, analyzing each swim and providing immediate feedback in the Form app. Itll highlight both your strengths and areas of improvement, reminding you what to focus on via the goggles augmented reality display. HeadCoach 2.0 analyzes metrics like distance per stroke (DPS), stroke rate, pace and heart rate, as well as your personal Form Score and existing app data. Insights can be tailored to an objective you set, such as improving your technique or preparing for a race, with HeadCoach zoning in on what you should be trying to achieve in your next session to achieve your goals. HeadCoach 2.0s insights are based on data from millions of swims, with input from professional coaches and Olympic swimmers. The idea appears to be data-led virtual guidance informed by humans, so you can trust the feedback you get in the app. HeadCoach 2.0 is available now to all Form Premium subscribers, which costs $10 per month after a free one-month trial. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/wearables/form-brings-better-ai-enabled-swim-coaching-to-its-smart-goggles-140655591.html?src=rss

EcoFlow early Black Friday deals: Get up to 42 percent off portable power stations

EcoFlow is hosting an early Black Friday sale on portable power stations. This drops prices by up to 42 percent on many of its well-regarded products. For instance, the Delta Pro 3 is on sale for $2,299 . This is a discount of 37 percent, as the typical cost is $3,699. That's a significant drop in price. Amazon's matching the sale price as well. The Delta Pro 3 topped Yahoo's list of the best portable power stations , and for very good reason. This thing is a beast. It boasts a 4,096Wh capacity, so it can power an average 500-watt refrigerator for over 24 hours. That's with continuous use. It can be stretched out to two or three days by only running the appliance during daylight hours. There's even a discounted bundle that includes an extra battery for $3,599 . It includes four standard 120V AC outlets and a single 240V outlet. It could potentially be a temporary hub of a whole-home battery backup. There are numerous charging options here, including a standard AC outlet, solar panels and, interestingly, a cigarette lighter. The only potential downside here is the Delta Pro 3 really pushes the boundaries of what can be considered portable. It weighs 113 pounds, though it does have wheels and a telescoping handle. The Delta Pro 3 is just one of the products on sale right now. The Delta Pro Ultra, which is intended as a whole-home backup , is down to $3,999 . This represents a savings of more than $2,000. Another Yahoo top pick, the Delta 2 Max , is $1,000 off and down to $899. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/ecoflow-early-black-friday-deals-get-up-to-42-percent-off-portable-power-stations-130041108.html?src=rss

Get $430 off this Roomba robot vacuum and mop with an AutoWash dock

While Black Friday can be a great opportunity to score deals on your Christmas shopping, sometimes it's just a way to get the things you need at better prices. Take the iRobot Roomba Max 705 Combo Robot Vacuum & Mop , which is down to $869 from $1,300 at Wellbots. This practical purchase is available for a Black Friday discount by using the code ENGABF430 at checkout. We're big fans of iRobot, with the company making two of our favorite robot vacuums for 2025 . Its Roomba Max 705 Combo offers both a vacuum and a mop to, hopefully, get out any messes this holiday season. The device also comes with an AutoWash Dock, which empties the robovac, washes the mop, dries it with heat and then charges its battery. The robot vacuum has dual rubber brushes for cleaning up any debris, while the PowerSpin roller mop gets rid of extra grime and streaks. The company uses PrecisionVision AI and ClearView Pro LiDAR to make a 3D map of all rooms and to avoid obstacles like dogs and their toys. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/get-430-off-this-roomba-robot-vacuum-and-mop-with-an-autowash-dock-140023379.html?src=rss

This 256GB microSD Express card for the Switch 2 is cheaper than ever in this Black Friday deal

The SanDisk 256GB microSD Express Card for the Switch 2 is down to $60 via Amazon , which is a record-low price. This model is also available in storage sizes of 128GB and 512GB, but neither version is on sale. This particular model easily made our list of the best microSD cards for the Nintendo Switch 2 . It even made our list of the best Switch 2 accessories . It just gets the job done. We loved the speed on offer here. It was the fastest of all the cards we tested when transferring games and loading games. We also found that it performed admirably at just about every test we threw at it. The card was always consistently right near the top, thanks to outstanding sequential read and write performance. This was backed up by benchmark testing with PC tools like CrystalDiskMark. The Switch 2 only works with SD Express cards, so this covers that. Luckily, this card isn't just for Nintendo's latest console. It'll work with just about everything, if you ever find it outstays its usefulness as a storage container for Mario and friends. Elsewhere when it comes to microSD Express cards on sale: PNY's 128GB card is down to $40. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/this-256gb-microsd-express-card-for-the-switch-2-is-cheaper-than-ever-in-this-black-friday-deal-151331707.html?src=rss

Blizzard confirms it's adding a virtual currency for World of Warcraft

Ahead of its 21st anniversary, World of Warcraft is dealing with some controversy around its latest update. Developer Blizzard has confirmed that WoW is introducing a new Hearthsteel housing-related virtual currency with its upcoming Midnight expansion, and users are worried that it could become a microtransaction trap on a game that already costs $15 a month to play. In its post, Blizzard said the aim of the new currency is to allow players to purchase multiple items at once while offering financial protections for the parties involved. You may want a full set of chairs to place around a dining table, multiple place settings for your invited guest [or]... many candles, the company wrote. Using an in-game currency can help make the process of obtaining many of these types of inexpensive items more efficient. Blizzard clarified that players will be able to buy Hearthsteel with their Battle.net balance and in-game gold via WoW tokens. It will also keep the catalog of Hearthsteel items small relative to what you can earn through gameplay. Housing items tied to core fantasies of a player's race or class, or that already exist in Azeroth, won't be sold in the shop, the blog post states. Thematically important decor that players know and love will also not appear in the shop. The Hearthsteel currency was first uncovered by dataminers, and now that Blizzard has confirmed it, players are concerned. It's not even about the currency, said one WoW Reddit user . It's about a large, dedicated portion of the player base crying out for years that we don't want the game to head this direction and here it is. It's hard to look at the new currency and not think of Microsoft's recent edict to its Xbox division. Last month, the software giant reportedly implemented an across-the-board goal of 30 percent profit margins for its gaming division, which it internally called accountability margins. That's a huge amount above Xboxs own average in the last six years of between 10 and 20 percent. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/blizzard-confirms-its-adding-a-virtual-currency-for-world-of-warcraft-133007304.html?src=rss

Apple's MacBook Air M4 drops to a new record-low price ahead of Black Friday

The Apple MacBook Air M4 laptop has long hovered at $799 at Amazon a full $200 below its Apple Store price. But it just dropped down to $749 , which is the lowest price we've seen since this model was introduced in March. This sale is for the model with 16GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage, across all four colorways, but the 512GB model is also down to $949 another all-time low versus the Apple Store price of $1,199. We ranked this as our favorite Apple laptop in our list of the best MacBook computers . Heck, it's even our very favorite laptop . Full stop. The performance is exceptionally snappy, thanks to the M4 chip. We appreciated the upgraded battery life, which now lasts for around 18 hours per charge. That's well beyond a full day of work. The design is lightweight, but sturdy. This has become a hallmark for modern MacBook Air computers. The screen is both gorgeous and roomy, even though it's technically just a 13-inch panel. There's support for the P3 wide color gamut and it can reach up to 500 nits of brightness. This is a near-perfect laptop, but there are a couple of nitpicks. There's no USB-C port on the right side, limiting how users can arrange accessories on a desk. Also, the screen is capped with a 60Hz refresh rate. Another potential complication is the looming specter of the M5 chip. The company has already released the MacBook Pro M5 , so a new MacBook Air is likely coming in the nearish future. (Read: sometime in early 2026). If you need more screen space, you'll find a similar discount on the 15-inch MacBook Air on Amazon, too. Most color options are $250 off and down to $949 for the base model (you guessed it another all-time low). This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/apples-macbook-air-m4-drops-to-a-new-record-low-price-ahead-of-black-friday-183808440.html?src=rss

Get up to $330 off cordless vacuums thanks to Dyson early Black Friday deals

Dyson is holding an early Black Friday sale on vacuums and related products. Sure, Black Friday isn't for another month, but who are we to turn down a fantastic deal? To that end, the Dyson V9 Motorbar cordless vacuum is on sale for just $270 , which is a discount of $330. That's more than half off. Dyson devices are all over our list of the best cordless vacuums , and for good reason. The company makes effective products. The V9 Motorbar has been designed to clean all floor types, in addition to upholstery. It's also been engineered to squeeze into tight spots, which is great for hitting those oft-neglected parts of the home. The suction power is on point and the battery lasts for 40 minutes before requiring a charge. That's just enough time to vacuum a standard-sized home if you don't stop for too many breaks. The V9 is getting a bit long-in-the-tooth. If you want a newer model, the V11 Extra is on sale for $400 , which is a discount of $260. This one boosts the suction power and increases the battery life to 60 minutes. The early Black Friday sale isn't just for cordless vacuums. The 360 Vis Nav robot vacuum is on sale right now for $500 , which is a massive discount of $500. This is one of our favorite robot vacuums , primarily because of its incredible suction power. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/get-up-to-330-off-cordless-vacuums-thanks-to-dyson-early-black-friday-deals-173533120.html?src=rss

Anker Laptop Power Bank review: All my favorite battery features together at last

Over the past couple years, Ive tested around 60 different power banks for Engadget. In that time, battery manufacturers have given their products features with varying degrees of usefulness, ranging from smart (straps and built-in cables) to handy (displays and wireless charging pads) to really not necessary (Bluetooth connectivity, specialized recharging bases). Ankers Laptop Power Bank (25K, 165W) manages to combine all the cleverest new features into one sleek-looking charging brick and it costs less than some other banks in its class. Theres a built-in display that not only lets you know how much charge the bank has left, it also tells you how many watts are flowing through each port to your devices. Pressing the button on the side cycles through the batterys current temperature and the overall health of the bank, including how many charge cycles its gone through. All of those bits of info should help prolong and gauge the banks longevity. Big capacity in a tidy package The 25,000 mAh capacity puts it well within the TSAs 100Wh capacity limit and I have taken this battery on two flights in my carry-on with no issue. The capacity is enough to fill my tester smartphones (an iPhone 15 and a Galaxy S23 Ultra) around four times each. Separately, it pushed my aging 16-inch MacBook Pro from 10 percent to 78 percent. That translates to around nine additional hours of use for my typical workload (Wi-Fi, VPN, too many Chrome tabs and other basic productivity apps). My only gripe with the design is that the very shiny screen has become slightly dull with use. It doesnt look bad, just not as mint-fresh as when it was unboxed. Thats to be expected, and Ill take the luxe finish over some ruggedized enclosure any day. Two built-in cables and a big capacity let you charge two devices at once. Amy Skorheim for Engadget Sure, forget your cables at home Possibly the power banks most useful features are the two built-in USB-C cables, and one even loops around to create a handy carry strap. It feels robust and well-anchored enough that I dont fear lugging it around like that. The other cable retracts into the unit and extends up to two feet when needed. The end stays neatly tucked into a well in the body and stays magnetically in place. The cords not only look tidy, their inclusion means youll never find yourself in the ironic position of having a dead device and a full battery pack, but no way to connect the two. Both cables serve in-out functions so you can easily plug them into any USB-C power adapter for a refill. There are also two additional USB (one Type-A and one Type-C) ports, so if youve got a specialized cable, such as Lightning, smartwatch or microUSB connector, youll be able to charge those devices too. Admirable speeds The 165-watt rating, as with any power bank, doesn't mean youll get that power out of a single port. The rating is a combined, almost theoretical total, achieved with all four ports engaged. The three USB-C outlets are rated at a max of 100W, but to get to that speed, youll need a device capable of taking it my biggest energy hog is my laptop and it maxed out at around 90 watts using the power bank. But for all but the most extreme cases, thats plenty fast. My tester iPhone 15 went from near-dead to 70 percent refilled in around 40 minutes. The Galaxy S23 Ultra powered up from five to 100 percent in under an hour, and my 16-inch MacBook got a 68 percent refill in just over 50 minutes. Thats not the fastest performance Ive tested, but its better than most other banks and plenty quick enough to get you back in action in a decent amount of time. Amy Skorheim for Engadget Wrap-up Its gratifying when, after years of testing one type of product, you get one that is, more or less, an ideal example of the category. This is the battery I grab when Im heading to get some work done at the coffee shop. Ive taken it with me on road trips and on flights, and it hasnt let me down once. The fact that you dont need to remember to grab a cable takes away an extra bit of stress, and the accurate display means you know just about how much more you can squeeze out of the bank's rather sizable depths. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/computing/accessories/anker-laptop-power-bank-review-all-my-favorite-battery-features-together-at-last-130036854.html?src=rss

The 10 best white elephant gifts that are worth stealing

There are a lot of competing ideas as to what a white elephant gift exchange really is. The origins of the term white elephant point to one definition: According to legend, the King of Siam would give a white elephant to courtiers who had upset them. It was a far more devious punishment than simply having them executed. The recipient had no choice but to simply thank the king for such an opulent gift, knowing that they likely could not afford the upkeep for such an animal. It would inevitably lead them to financial ruin. While that story is almost certainly untrue, it can inform one approach to the white elephant gift exchange: gifting something just useful or amusing enough that it wont immediately get tossed into the trash, but is also somewhat of a burden. However, every workplace, friend group and family unit has their own approach to white elephant gift exchanges nowadays. Some compete to get a gift that others will surely want to steal, while others scavenge for the most niche and targeted gag gifts. Almost all of them, though, typically have a price limit that keeps the burden of gift giving to a minimum usually $50 or less. So with all of that in mind, here are some white elephant gift ideas that will get you a few chuckles without requiring you to spend too much (or think too hard about it). Best white elephant gift ideas White elephant FAQs What is white elephant? A white elephant gift exchange is a party game typically played around the holidays in which people exchange funny, impractical gifts. How does white elephant work? A group of people each bring one wrapped gift to the white elephant gift exchange, and each gift is typically of a similar value. All gifts are then placed together and the group decides the order in which they will each claim a gift. The first person picks a white elephant gift from the pile, unwraps it and their turn ends. The following players can either decide to unwrap another gift and claim it as their own, or steal a gift from someone who has already taken a turn. The rules can vary from there, including the guidelines around how often a single item can be stolen some say twice, max. The game ends when every person has a white elephant gift. Why is it called white elephant? The term white elephant is said to come from the legend of the King of Siam gifting white elephants to courtiers who upset him. While it seems like a lavish gift on its face, the belief is that the courtiers would be ruined by the animals upkeep costs. Check out the rest of our gift ideas here. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/the-10-best-white-elephant-gifts-that-are-worth-stealing-150516734.html?src=rss

The Morning After: GTA 6 is delayed until November 2026

Rockstar Games has announced Grand Theft Auto VI 's launch is being delayed once again to November 19, 2026. Thats roughly a year from now. It was previously delayed from its 2025 launch window to May 26, 2026. And now again. If you have the feeling its been a while since the last GTA game, youd be right. GTA V was originally released in 2013 and has been re-released multiple times since then. In fact, its a rare game thats spanned PS3, PS4 and PS5. Rockstar is likely self-assured that the game will do fine. Grand Theft Auto Online , a multiplayer mode for GTA V that can also be downloaded as a standalone game, remains a hit. We continue to supply content to GTA Online , and in fact weve had terrific results there. And GTA+ continues to grow its membership. In fact, its had 20 percent growth year-over-year. And GTA V has sold more than 220 million units, said Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick in an interview with The Game Business. Mat Smith Get Engadget's newsletter delivered direct to your inbox. Subscribe right here! The news you might have missed How I learned to love the flawed PlayStation Portal as a new dad Black Friday 2025: The best early tech deals so far Our favorite advent calendars for 2025 (Ive already got a Taskmaster one)Mat Apple may release its first low-cost MacBook in early 2026 The budget-friendly system is in early production. Apple may debut a low-cost Mac laptop in the first half of 2026. According to a Bloomberg report, its in early production, and Apple is testing the devices internally. The idea may be to create a rival to cheap Chromebooks and Windows PCs, nudging folks into that money-spinning ecosystem. The company is said to be making the system with casual users, students and businesses in mind. (Id guess many of those users are paying more for MacBooks with power theyll never really tap into.) The report suggests itll have a lower-end LCD display, and its expected to run on an A-series iPhone processor that would still, apparently, deliver better performance than the M1. Continue reading. Why DJI drones might be banned in the US Everything you need to know about the Chinese companys future in America. DJI drones still face a potential US ban, due to national security concerns. Its a combination of the companys Chinese origins and laws compelling cooperation with state intelligence services. Its also a very visible, notable drone maker and flying robots understandably make folks nervous. After losing a recent lawsuit and an appeal, DJI is nearing a key December 23, 2025, deadline under the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which could trigger an automatic ban. A recent FCC vote and pending legislation could also block sales and even theoretically prevent people from using already-purchased drones by cutting off radio access. DJI might have to hope a ban will create enough customer outcry to stimulate a political response in its favor. Continue reading. Driving Hondas lighter, faster and more fun next-gen hybrid prototype New hybrids are coming soon from Honda. Engadget Honda revealed its new hybrid car tech, and its lighter, faster and actually fun. Thats accomplished by massive weight savings and a surprising S+ Shift mode, which simulates an eight-speed transmission for manual driving fans. We got a first look at the platform that will transform the next-gen Civic and Prelude, officially, hopefully marking the end of the slow, droning hybrid car. Continue reading. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/general/the-morning-after-gta-6-is-delayed-until-november-2026-121525547.html?src=rss

How to generate AI images using ChatGPT

Since March of this year , it's been possible to generate images directly within ChatGPT. Following a period where it briefly wasn't available to free users, you now don't even pay for one of OpenAI's subscriptions to use the tool. And while making images inside of ChatGPT is easy, there are some nuances worth explaining. For example, did you know you can ask ChatGPT to edit photos you've taken? It's more powerful than you might think. Heres everything you need to know about generating AI images with ChatGPT. How to create images with ChatGPT using text prompts To begin making an image in ChatGPT, you can start by typing in the prompt bar. Igor Bonifacic for Engadget To begin generating images in ChatGPT, start typing in the prompt bar what you want to see. There's no need to overthink things; as long as you have some version of generate an image followed by a description of your idea, ChatGPT will do the rest. Depending on the complexity of your prompt, it may take up to two minutes for ChatGPT to complete your image request. Sometimes the process can take longer if OpenAI's servers are experiencing greater traffic than usual. How to create images with ChatGPT using existing photos You can also upload images to ChatGPT. Igor Bonifacic for Engadget In addition to generating images from text prompts, ChatGPT can modify existing photos or images you upload. This is my preferred way of making images with ChatGPT; I don't need to describe the composition, I can use an existing one to guide the chatbot. To use a photo as a starting point for a new generation, follow these steps: Tap the + icon, located to the left of the prompt bar. Select Add photos & files . Select the image you want ChatGPT to edit. If uploading an image from your phone, you'll need to grant ChatGPT access to your camera roll. Write a prompt describing the changes you want. Keep in mind any photos you upload to OpenAI's servers may be used by the company to train future models . You can opt out of allowing your data to be used for training by following these steps: Open the sidebar menu.On mobile, tap the two lines on the top left of the interface. On desktop, click on the OpenAI logo. Tap your name to access account settings. Tap Data controls . Toggle off Improve the model for everyone . How to edit the images ChatGPT generates ChatGPT gives you a few different ways to modify an image to your liking. Igor Bonifacic for Engadget If you're unhappy with ChatGPT's output, you have two options. You can either prompt it to create an entirely new image, or edit parts of the picture it just generated. As before, you can simply write what changes you want to see in the prompt bar. OpenAI also gives users a few different shortcuts to accomplish the same task. To generate an entirely new image: On mobile, tap the two arrows icon below the image ChatGPT created. Select Try again , Add details or More concise . Alternatively, tap the image ChatGPT created and select Edit . Describe what you want ChatGPT to add, remove or replace through the prompt bar. To edit part of an existing image generation: Tap the image ChatGPT created. Tap Select . On desktop, instead click on the paintbrush icon on the top right. Use your finger to mask the section of the image you want ChatGPT to tweak. The slider on the left allows you to adjust the size of the masking brush. Describe what you want ChatGPT to add, remove or replace through the prompt bar. Like all AI systems, ChatGPT is non-deterministic, meaning even if you prompt it in the same way multiple times, it won't generate the exact same response each time. Tips to create better images with ChatGPT The best advice I can offer is to be specific when prompting ChatGPT. The more detail you can provide when describing what you want from it, the better the results. And remember: ChatGPT can hallucinate as you may have noticed from one of the example pictures I included above. In the image of the tortoiseshell cat, not only is the tortie not sitting on the window sill as instructed, it's sitting on a table that doesn't make much sense. So, most of all, be patient. Prompting an AI model is not exact science, and it can take a few tries before it creates the result you want. FAQs How do you access ChatGPT? ChatGPT is available on the web, desktop and mobile. To access it on your computer, open your preferred browser and navigate to chatgpt.com . OpenAI also offers dedicated Mac and Windows apps you can download from the company's website . On iOS and Android, you'll need to download the ChatGPT app from either the App Store or Google Play before you can start using the chatbot. Since ChatGPT runs on OpenAI's servers, as long as you can access the chatbot, you'll be able to use it to create images no matter the age of your phone or computer. Can ChatGPT generate images for free? Yes, ChatGPT can generate images for free, as long as you have an OpenAI account. However, there is a daily rate cap and GPT-5 will take longer to make an image. Following March 27, 2025 , OpenAI briefly limited free users to three image generations per day. The company has since relaxed that restriction, though it doesn't list a specific limit on its website. In my experience, you'll be able to generate about six to seven images every 24 hours. OpenAI's $20-per-month Plus plan offers expanded and faster image creation, while its $200-per-month Pro tier includes unlimited image generation as a perk. Can ChatGPT recreate an existing photo? No. For copyright reasons, ChatGPT can't replicate photos or exact real world events. For example, when I asked it to recreate the photo of Zinedine Zidane's iconic 2006 World Cup headbutt, ChatGPT refused. I can make an artistic reinterpretation inspired by the emotion or energy of that moment for example, a stylized painting showing the tension and intensity of competition, without depicting real individuals, it told me. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ai/how-to-generate-ai-images-using-chatgpt-120000560.html?src=rss

The best Apple AirTag accessories for 2025

Apples AirTag is a small tracker that helps you monitor your essentials from keys and wallets to luggage and backpacks. To make the most of it, youll want the right accessories to keep it secure and easy to attach. The best AirTag accessories protect your tracker, add style and make it easier to fit it into your daily routine. Theres a wide range of options depending on how you use your AirTag. Some holders are slim enough to slip into a wallet while others are rugged enough to clip onto a bike or a pet collar. You can find leather key rings that match your Apple gear, silicone loops for gym bags and hard cases that stand up to travel or outdoor use. Many come in different colors and finishes so you can match them to your style while keeping your items easy to find. From minimalist inserts to heavy-duty mounts, these AirTag accessories combine form and function to keep your tracker protected and your belongings within reach. Best AirTag holders for 2025 AirTag holder FAQs Why do AirTags need a holder? AirTags need a holder because they do not have built-in keyring holes like Tile, Chipolo and other Bluetooth trackers do. How do you attach an AirTag to things? You'll need a holder or case to attach an AirTag to your stuff. If you're comfortable slipping an AirTag into an interior pocket of a bag or coat, you can do so without an extra accessory. But if you want to use one to keep track of your keys, wallet, backpack or even your pet on their collar, you'll need an accessory that can accommodate that use case. Do AirTag holders affect tracking performance? No, AirTag holders should not affect tracking performance. Do AirTag holders protect against scratches and impacts? Yes, AirTag holders can protect against scratches and impacts. Many AirTag cases encircle the edge of the tracker only, leave the two disk sides exposed. For the most protection, look for an AirTag holder than goes around the entire Bluetooth tracker like a sleeve. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/computing/accessories/best-apple-airtag-cases-holders-accessories-123036404.html?src=rss

The best gaming handhelds for 2025

Handheld gaming systems are having a moment. While people have been gaming on the go since the halcyon days of the Game Boy, recent years have brought an avalanche of devices that let you play all sorts of games anywhere you want. But new machines seem to arrive every week, and figuring out which ones are actually worth buying can be overwhelming. Depending on your tastes, the right handheld could be a $100 emulator or a $1,000 portable PC. To help you narrow things down, weve spent months researching the best handheld gaming consoles and testing several top contenders. Here are the ones we like the most right now. Editors note (November 2025) : A barrage of new mobile emulation handhelds have been announced since our last update, including two follow-ups to our current best for most pick (the Retroid Pocket 6 and the more marginally updated Retroid Pocket G2 ) and a new version of our best overall pick (the AYN Odin 3 ). Other competitors like Ayaneos KONKR Pocket Fit are also on the way, and theres been a wave of new dual-screen models like the AYN Thor , Ayaneo Pocket DS and Anbernic RG DS . We think our current recommendations will still satisfy most shoppers, but since were still working to test most of these newer devices, we wanted to give a heads-up for anyone who wants the absolute latest. In the meantime, weve added testing notes on a few other emulation-focused handhelds as well as a couple new portable PCs like the ASUS ROG Xbox Ally X. Table of contents Best handheld gaming devices for 2025 What about the Nintendo Switch 2? Other gaming handhelds we've tested What to know about the gaming handheld market Best handheld gaming devices for 2025 What about the Nintendo Switch 2? Sam Rutherford for Engadget Read our full Nintendo Switch 2 review The new Nintendo Switch 2 is already more popular than any of the handhelds above, but we havent made it a formal pick in this guide since it exists in its own world. As one of the newest devices from the big three console manufacturers, most people arent choosing between it and the handheld PCs or emulation devices above. The main reason to buy a Switch 2 is to play new Nintendo games, and no other device can (legally) offer that. Likewise, the Switch 2 doesnt even try to offer the flexibility of a Steam Deck, ROG Ally X or even the Retroid Pocket 5. That said, the hardware itself is a significant upgrade over its predecessor, with dramatically improved performance, a sharper, faster and bigger 7.9-inch display, magnetic Joy-Con controllers and more storage. Its a wholly more polished take on the Switch 1s ideas. Does that make it a must-buy right now? Unless youre worried about a tariff-induced price hike which may not be the most outlandish fear not really. Donkey Kong Bananza is a joy, Mario Kart World is fun enough and playing Cyberpunk 2077 on a Nintendo console is kind of surreal, but the list of true must-plays that are exclusive to the Switch 2 is still limited. Thats OK its only been a few months. But dont feel like you must rush out and splash the cash today unless you have a serious case of Donkey Kong -induced FOMO. Other gaming handhelds we've tested The Lenovo Legion Go 2. Sam Rutherford for Engadget Note: This is a selection of noteworthy gaming handhelds weve tested, not a comprehensive list of everything we've ever tried. Lenovo Legion Go 2 The Lenovo Legion Go 2 is a capable alternative to the ROG Xbox Ally X with a mondo-sized 8.8-inch display. That screen is the main reason to consider it, as its a vivid OLED panel that supports VRR and has a 144Hz native refresh rate. Like the Switch, it also comes with detachable controllers one of which includes a useful touchpad for navigating Windows plus a built-in kickstand for tabletop play. That said, its an absolute tank at just over two pounds, and we found it to perform a little worse than the Xbox Ally X at equal settings. Its also even more expensive, starting at $1,100 and rising to $1,350 for a config with the same Ryzen Z2 Extreme chip. Its a lovely device if youve got cash to burn and to be fair, none of these Windows handhelds are for anyone looking for value but the Xbox Ally X is a better buy for most. The MSI Claw 8 AI+. Sam Rutherford for Engadget MSI Claw 8 AI+ The original MSI Claw was a flop , but the newer Claw 8 AI+ is much more appealing if youre willing to pay for a larger and slightly more powerful alternative to the ASUS ROG Ally X. With its Intel Core Ultra 7-258V chip and 32GB of RAM, it typically pumped out 10 to 15 percent higher frame rates than last-gen models like the ROG Ally X and Lenovo Legion Go in our testing. (Another model is available with the Ryzen Z2 Extreme chip.) Battery life is relatively strong, while its 8-inch 120Hz IPS display is plenty bright and supports VRR. There are smooth Hall effect thumbsticks and triggers, two Thunderbolt 4 ports and a built-in fingerprint sensor beyond that. The Claws main issue is its price: At $1,100 after recent price hikes, its hard to justify over the ROG Xbox Ally X, which is already too expensive for most people. ASUS' handheld is lighter and easier to grip on top of that though the Claw is thinner and its overhauled Xbox UI, while far from perfect, is still easier to get around than MSIs Center M hub. There's a smaller 7-inch version of this handheld for $900 as well, but we havent tested that one. The ModRetro Chromatic. Jeff Dunn for Engadget ModRetro Chromatic The ModRetro Chromatic is a competitor to the Analogue Pocket that can similarly play actual Game Boy cartridges via FPGA. With its premium metal frame, loud speaker, tight d-pad and beautifully bright 2.56-inch display, its an impressive modernization of Nintendos classic handheld. ModRetro also publishes a number of games specifically for the device, including a pretty great version of Tetris that comes bundled in the box. However, for many, its faithfulness to the original Game Boy probably goes too far: It requires three AA batteries for power, and unlike the Analogue Pocket it doesnt support custom save states. Its also designed for Game Boy and Game Boy Color games only; it cant play any Game Boy Advance cartridges or games from other retro handhelds like Analogues device, nor does doesnt support ROMs. For only $20 less than the Pocket, that makes it a tough sell, even if the hardware is arguably higher-quality. Theres also the lethal, autonomous elephant in the room: ModRetro is founded by Palmer Luckey, the idiosyncratic entrepreneur behind the Oculus Rift who has gone on to form Anduril Industries, a defense contractor that makes drones, surveillance systems and other AI-powered military tech. He has also espoused political views that many people and this is the tamest way I can put this may not be comfortable backing. We are not here to police where you can spend your money, and the Chromatic does much of what it wants to do well. Still, all of these handhelds are just so inessential, and no other option that we know of is as closely tied to an arms dealer. The Lenovo Legion Go S. Sam Rutherford for Engadget Lenovo Legion Go S (Windows, Z2 Go chip) The Windows 11 version of the Lenovo Legion Go S has the same relatively comfortable design and commendable 8-inch 120Hz display as the SteamOS model we highlight above. With the Z2 Go model we tested, though, its performance lags too far behind the ROG Ally X, Claw 8 AI+ and original Legion Go for something priced at $730. Windows is still clunky, too. The Ayaneo Flip DS. Photo by Jeff Dunn / Engadget Ayaneo Flip DS The Ayaneo Flip DS is a cool concept: a powerful Windows machine with a clamshell design and dual displays, sort of like a supercharged Nintendo DS. It feels sturdy, it performs roughly on par with the other Ryzen 7 7840U (or 8840U) handhelds in this guide, and its 7-inch top display is sharp, fast and bright. The second screen makes it a natural fit for emulating Wii U or 3DS games, but you could also, say, look up a guide or play a YouTube video without having to close whatever youre playing. Unfortunately, this is more of a neat idea than a fully thought-out product. The folding design means that the joysticks have to be short and recessed, while the face buttons and d-pad are uncomfortably flat. The whole thing is overly thick and heavy, plus it runs very hot. Battery life tops out around two hours, and actually managing two displays on a Windows handheld is about as clunky as you'd expect. With prices now starting above $1,100, the Flip DS is hard to recommend unless youre (oddly) desperate for a handheld Wii U emulator. We're always happy to see more weird hardware, though. The Ayaneo Kun. Photo by James Trew / Engadget Ayaneo Kun The Ayaneo Kun is one of the more decadent Windows handhelds weve tested. With a sharp 8.4-inch display, a Ryzen 7 8840U chip, up to 64GB of RAM, up to 4TB of storage, a sizable 75Whr battery and a 54W max TDP, its both a capable gaming device and a feasible replacement for a desktop PC. But it now starts at a pricey $999, its huge and it suffers from the usual Windows-related issues. It also lacks VRR, and that Ryzen chip is no longer the latest and greatest. The Kun is still a fine device in a vacuum, but the ROG Xbox Ally X is a better buy. This is technically an older model for Ayaneo, too, as the company seems to launch a new handheld every other hour these days. The Retroid Pocket Classic. Jeff Dunn for Engadget Retroid Pocket Classic The Retroid Pocket Classic is another Game Boy-style vertical handheld in the vein of the Analogue Pocket, but like the other Retroid models weve highlighted, its an Android device designed to emulate games via ROM files, not genuine cartridges. (Naturally, it can also play native Android games.) Its still far clunkier to set up and use as a result, and its overall design feels more toy-like than either the Pocket or ModRetro Chromatic. But its Snapdragon G1 Gen 2 chip is easily powerful enough to play any classic handheld system (along with most other retro games that dont require joystick controls), while its 3.9-inch OLED display is superbly bright, sharp and colorful. The battery can last more than 10 hours when emulating lower-power systems, and Retroid sells a version with six face buttons instead of the standard four if you want to play older Sega Genesis and Saturn games in particular. The Analogue Pocket is still more premium and rewarding to use, but if you want a similar form factor and can live with the typical quirks that come with a device like this, the Classic is a good value at $129. Of the many Game Boy-style handhelds out there that solely rely on software emulation, its the one wed recommend first. The Retroid Pocket Mini (bottom) and Retroid Pocket 5. Jeff Dunn for Engadget Retroid Pocket Mini The Retroid Pocket Mini is essentially a smaller version of the Retroid Pocket 5. It runs on the same Snapdragon 865 chip and feels just as sturdy, but it has a smaller 3.92-inch display with a 4:3 aspect ratio. This makes it a more natural fit for older retro consoles, as you wont get the black boxes youd see on a 16:9 display like the one on the Pocket 5. If you mainly want to emulate systems like the SNES, Sega Genesis or Game Boy Color and dont mind paying extra for a rich OLED display, its a good little device. But the tiny screen is limiting if you ever want to play newer games, and we wish there wasn't so much empty space around the display. This device had also generated some controversy within the retro gaming community for having persistent issues with inaccurate shaders (and for the slapdash way Retroid handled the matter). The company replaced the original model with a V2 iteration that addresses those concerns, however. Retroid Pocket 4 Pro and Retroid Pocket 4 The 4.7-inch Retroid Pocket 4 Pro is the predecessor to the Pocket 5. Its performance isnt significantly far off the newer model, so it remains a nice value if youre determined to spend less than $200 on an emulation device. It misses out on the larger OLED display and more ergonomically-friendly design of its follow-up, however. The base Pocket 4 may also be worth a look if you want to stay under $150, but its weaker chip makes it less adept at emulating games from the PS2, GameCube and up. The Miyoo Mini Plus (left) and TrimUI Brick. Jeff Dunn for Engadget Miyoo Mini Plus The Miyoo Mini Plus is a highly affordable handheld with a well-built, Game Boy-style form factor that fits nicely with older games. Its 3.5-inch display pops for something in the $60 to $80 range, its battery lasts as long as it needs to and it can emulate consoles up to the original PlayStation without much issue. Its Linux-based software is extensively customizable , though it requires some tinkering to get it working optimally. Like many cheapo handhelds, it also lacks fast charging. Since its from a smaller Chinese firm and isnt available at major retailers, it can also be difficult to actually buy. It's a nice choice if you want something more compact than the Retroid Pocket Classic, but that model's roomier design, more vibrant OLED panel and longer battery life makes it worth the extra cash for most people. TrimUI Brick The TrimUI Brick is another low-cost vertical handheld thats surprisingly well-built for an $80-ish device, thanks to its brushed metal backplate and impressive 3.2-inch IPS display. It has a weaker chip than the Retroid Pocket Classic, but it can still emulate older handheld games just fine, and its tiny frame makes it much easier to actually fit in a pocket. That said, while it has a sharper and more vivid screen than the Miyoo Mini Plus (its closest rival), the face buttons, d-pad and especially back buttons are all stiffer, and its stock UI feels similarly bootleg. (Some of the icons for different systems in the game library: GomeBuy, Fanicon, and PloyStotion.) You can fix the latter with custom firmware , but Retroids interface is easier to grok by default, and its setup process is less annoying. Most people interested in this class of device will be happier paying up for the Pocket Classic instead. The Anbernic RG35XX Plus. Photo by Jeff Dunn / Engadget Anbernic RG35XX Plus The Anbernic RG35XX Plus is another wallet-friendly vertical handheld. For about the same price as the Miyoo Mini Plus, it offers a faster chipset, more RAM and a bigger battery alongside a similarly impressive design. Its stock OS is overly sloppy and cheap-looking, however, and while its stronger chip is appreciated, it's still far behind the Retroid Pocket Classic. The Anbernic RG35XXSP. Jeff Dunn for Engadget Anbernic RG35XXSP The Anbernic RG35XXSP is a variant of the RG35XX Plus based on the same internals, only it apes the clamshell form factor of the old Game Boy Advance SP . Thats a great design to rip off if you must pick one, and the hardware doesnt feel nearly as cheap as its (pre-tariff) price tag of $60 or so would suggest. But the software issues noted above still apply (both here and with the many other devices in the same RGXX family). Weve also seen several user reports of quality control issues with the RG35XXSPs battery, which is automatically disqualifying. Anbernic RG405M The Anbernic RG405M is another 4:3 handheld with a 4-inch display and a pleasing metal frame. It's an OK alternative to the Retroid Pocket Mini if you want a little more screen space for less cash, but its slower, and it lacks the Minis OLED display. We find the Retroids grooved back to be comfier to hold over time as well. And again, Anbernic has paused handheld shipments to America as of this writing. The PlayStation Portal. Photo by Devindra Hardawar/Engadget PlayStation Portal The PlayStation Portal is an odd accessory thats designed to stream games from a PlayStation 5. It lacks built-in apps, so it doesnt support traditional emulation. Because its entirely dependent on the quality of your home Wi-Fi, we cant guarantee how well itll actually perform. It doesnt work with Bluetooth earbuds either. The 8-inch display is fine and the DualSense-style controls are great, so PlayStation diehards who want a second screen for local PS5 streaming may see the appeal. Sony recently added the ability to stream a selection of games via the cloud , which is a step in the right direction, but you need an expensive PlayStation Plus Premium subscription to take advantage. In general, theres little here that you cant do with a smartphone and mobile game controller , so most people are better off saving their $200. Logitech G Cloud The Logitech G Cloud wouldve been a great Android pick when it launched if it cost about $150 less. Its 7-inch 1080p display is bright, vibrant and generally more pleasing to look at than the panel on the AYN Odin 2, its battery lasts a good 10 to 12 hours per charge and its design is comfy to hold for hours at a time. Alas, the G Cloud still tends to retail for $300, which is just too much when the Retroid Pocket 5 offers more power at a lower price. What to know about the gaming handheld market Jeff Dunn / Engadget You can break down the gaming handheld market into three broad tiers. At the top, you have x86-based portable gaming PCs like the Steam Deck or ASUS ROG Xbox Ally X . These are the most powerful handhelds you can buy, as they seek to replicate the experience of a moderately specced gaming desktop. The Steam Deck runs on Linux, but most others use Windows. If you want to play modern, recently released PC games on the go (and need something stronger than a Switch), this is the type of device youd get. They can also emulate the widest range of retro consoles. Theyre typically the largest and most cumbersome devices to hold, however, and their battery life can be short. Naturally, theyre also the most expensive, costing anywhere from $400 to more than $1,000. Further down on the price spectrum are mobile handhelds like the Logitech G Cloud or Retroid Pocket . These devices often run Android or Linux and can range from under $50 to $400-ish (before tariffs). They arent equipped to play modern console or PC titles, but theyre usually more compact than a portable PC, and you can still use them for mobile games and cloud streaming. While most are marketed toward those ends, many gamers actually buy them to emulate classic games through software like RetroArch . Getting emulators to work can be complicated , and accessing the BIOS and ROM files required to play games this way is legally murky . One lawsuit from Nintendo led to the shutdown of the most prominent Switch and 3DS emulators , for instance. (Engadget does not condone piracy.) Backing up files of games you already own for personal use only is considered more defensible, though, so for that a mobile handheld can be a more user- and wallet-friendly way to play the classics provided you dont want to just use your phone . Well call the last tier handhelds that do their own thing. This is a catch-all for things like the Switch 2 or Playdate : portable devices that run heavily customized software and aim to provide a unique gaming experience. They arent necessarily ideal for emulation or playing the latest multiplatform titles; instead, they often have distinct game libraries. They might not have the widest appeal as a result (Switch excluded), but theyre often easier for less tech-literate folks to just pick up and use. Recent updates November 2025 : The ASUS ROG Xbox Ally X replaces the older ROG Ally X as our new favorite Windows gaming handheld. Weve also added testing notes on the Lenovo Legion Go 2, ModRetro Chromatic and a couple of emulation-based handhelds in the Retroid Pocket Classic and TrimUI Brick. Were working to test several other recent releases for our next update, including updated versions of the Retroid Pocket 5 and AYN Odin 2. August 2025 : Weve added the SteamOS version of the Lenovo Legion Go S as a new recommendation and updated our top Windows pick to reflect the upcoming release of ASUS and Microsofts ROG Xbox Ally devices , which will feature an overhauled Windows UI. Weve also added a note on the recently released Nintendo Switch 2. Well include testing notes on the Retroid Pocket Classic , TrimUI Brick and ModRetro Chromatic in the near future. (Note: Yours truly went on paternity leave after our last update apologies for the delay!) May 2025 : Weve tested the Retroid Pocket Flip 2 and recommended it as an alternative to the Retroid Pocket 5. Were also watching out for the first third-party devices that run SteamOS, starting with the new Lenovo Legion Go S , and the next ASUS ROG Ally device, which seems to be arriving soon based on recent leaks . March 2025 : Weve edited this guide for clarity and added testing notes for the MSI Claw 8 AI+ and Lenovo Legion Go S (Windows version). Our main picks are unchanged. Looking ahead, were keeping an eye on upcoming Windows handhelds from Acer and Ayaneo , a pair of new emulation devices from Retroid, the first third-party devices to ship with SteamOS and more machines that run on AMDs Ryzen Z2 chips , among others. January 2025 : We have a new top pick among emulation-focused handhelds: the Retroid Pocket 5. Beyond that, weve added notes on a few other devices weve tested, including the Retroid Pocket Mini and Anbernic RG35XXSP; lightly edited other blurbs to reflect changes in the market; and removed a couple write-ups for products thatve been discontinued. We're also keeping an eye on new handhelds thatve recently been announced or are strongly rumored to arrive in the near future, including devices from MSI and Lenovo . August 2024 : Weve replaced the ASUS ROG Ally, our prior pick for the best Windows gaming handheld, with the new and improved ROG Ally X. Weve also checked to make sure all availability and pricing details noted throughout the guide are accurate. June 2024 : Weve updated this guide to ensure all of our recommendations are up to date, adding a note on ASUS upcoming ROG Ally X in the process. Weve also included details on two new handhelds weve tested since our previous update: the MSI Claw and Ayaneo Flip DS . Staying on top of this market is a tall task, but were currently looking at recent noteworthy releases like the PSP-esque AYN Odin 2 Mini and the GBA-style Anbernic RG35XXSP as well. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/best-handheld-gaming-system-140018863.html?src=rss

Guillermo del Toro delivers a Frankenstein for the tech bro era

There's a reason the story of Frankenstein endures. Its examination of mankind's hubris and inhumane scientific progress has only become more relevant since Mary Shelley's time. The pursuit of innovation at all costs has led to new monsters, born from people who failed (or refused) to consider the consequences of their actions. So it's no wonder that Victor Frankenstein in Guillermo del Toro's Netflix adaptation feels so much like a modern day tech bro. He is practically their template. Squint a bit, and you can see Frankensteins recklessness in Mark Zuckerberg ignoring Facebooks role in promoting the genocide in Myanmar , with Elon Musk lying about Teslas real self-driving capabilities (potentially leading to several crashes), or Sam Altmans OpenAI building a hallucinating AI search engine trained on stolen content. Screw the consequences, they just want to shout its alive! as their products go viral (and as their investors lap up the engagement). Del Toro's Frankenstein is a remix of the major elements of the novel there's the doomed love story, the mad scientist driven by his ego and the sympathetic monster who demonstrates far more humanity than his creator refashioned in the director's opulent style. But it's also clear from the film's explosive opening, where an Arctic ship encounters Victor Frankenstein (Oscar Isaac) being chased by a seemingly unkillable Creature (Jacob Elordi), that del Toro isn't shying away from his campier horror roots. Arms are torn off, gallons of blood are spilled. This Frankenstein contains multitudes. Why did Victor Frankenstein go through hell to reanimate the dead? Because he could. In the novel and this film, the whole ordeal was always about bragging rights and demonstrating his greatness as a scientist. He didnt consider what he owed to the new life form, or the cruelty of bringing a being into the world with no companion. It didnt matter who he hurt. Sound familiar? Mia Goth and Jacob Elordi in Frankenstein Netflix What truly makes del Toro's Frankenstein work is his understanding of the characters. As Victor Frankenstein, Oscar Isaac embodies the punk rock charm of a rebel scientist who thinks he alone can invent a way to reanimate life. But he also lives with the memory of an abusive father who likely killed his beloved mother. Elizabeth fascinates and intrigues Victor, but she's also disgusted by his apathy for the natural world. It's not hard to see why she feels immediate sympathy for the Creature, who is portrayed by Jacob Elordi as a sort of child-like super human. He's an immediate disappointment to Frankenstein, who can't help but repeat the cycle of abuse he experienced with his father. Looking back at his career, it's as if del Toro has been trying to adapt Shelley's novel through all of his films. You can see elements of the story in his debut feature Cronos , which centers on a device that makes people immortal (but also curses them with a thirst for blood). The tragic father and son relationship between Frankenstein and the Creature is mapped directly onto the evil vampires in Blade 2 . The Gothic romance between Frankenstein and his sister-in-law Elizabeth (who also has eyes for the Creature) echoes Crimson Peak . And the desire for a seemingly evil being to fit into normal human life is front and center in del Toro's Hellboy films. Jacob Elordi in Frankenstein Netflix In an interview with NPR , del Toro mentioned that, as a child, seeing the monster appear for the first time in the 1931 Frankenstein film was an epiphany. It was an experience that helped him understand his own faith, and seemingly his entire view of life and art. His Frankenstein is the work of someone who has been living with the story for decades. It comes to life with lavish sets, his love of voluptuous colors (there's a scene of a red scarf floating in the air that haunts me) and his fascination with the macabre. Theres a lesson in Frankenstein for todays tech elite, but given their current obsession with AI despite its potentially massive societal and environmental impacts, I have little hope theyll learn anything from it. But when Guillermo del Toro was asked about using generative AI by NPR, he spoke as someone who truly understood Shelleys novel. Id rather die, he said. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/entertainment/tv-movies/guillermo-del-toro-delivers-a-frankenstein-for-the-tech-bro-era-080000058.html?src=rss

Realme GT 8 Pro with Ricoh GR camera launching on November 20 in India

Realme GT 8 Pro will come with a switchable camera bump which can be detached and replaced with round, square, robot-theme

Elon Musk says Tesla owners can text and drive very soon

Elon Musk went on stage on Thursday night during Teslas annual shareholders meeting and made some big claims and promises. The company is almost comfortable letting owners with Full Self-Driving (FSD) text and drive, he said. At the moment, its vehicles are still strictly monitoring drivers to make sure their eyes are on the road, but Musk said that Tesla will enable unsupervised FSD that will allow texting and driving within a month or two. To note, Teslas FSD is currently capable of level 2 autonomous driving. Musk is promising at least a level 4 capability, in which the driver can be disengaged as the car performs all driving tasks for them, within a short span of time. While he said that Tesla will look at its safety data first, he didnt discuss the steps its taking to enable texting while driving and whether its already discussing the legalities of it with regulators. Talking about the Cybercab, Musk said production of the robotaxis will begin by April next year. Since it will be specifically built with autonomy in mind, it will not have pedals, a steering wheel and even side mirrors. The Cybercabs manufacturing process, he explained, is vastly different from typical car production and is more comparable to phone manufacturing. Thats why he thinks the company will be able to produce one unit every 10 seconds. Musk also talked about the flying car he teased on Joe Rogans show . When asked at the event, he said the demo will now take place on April 1, 2026, instead of this month or the next like he told Rogan. It remains to be seen whether were going to get April Fooled, but Musk claimed that production of Teslas flying vehicle will happen a year or so after its unveiling. As always, take Musks claims with a grain of salt, as hes pretty infamous for being overly ambitious with his timelines. While Musk was on stage talking about Teslas plans, an Optimus humanoid robot was standing by the side. The CEO said Optimus is bound to become the biggest product of all time, bigger than cellphones, bigger than anything. Tesla will start with a 1-million production line and then a 10-million production line, but he said the company expects to eventually produce 100 million to a billion Optimus robots a year. He envisions a world wherein the humanoid machines will provide people with medical care as well as a world wherein instead of being jailed, Optimus follows criminals around to stop them from committing more crimes. Before Musk went on stage, Teslas shareholders had voted to approve his pay package worth up to $1 trillion over the next 10 years. Tesla has to hit several goals for Musk to become the first trillionaire, though, including reaching a market value of $8.5 trillion from its current worth of $1.4 billion and selling a million Optimus robots. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/transportation/evs/elon-musk-says-tesla-owners-can-text-and-drive-very-soon-042454805.html?src=rss

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