My beloved Dyson AM09 heater and fan is 40 percent off for Prime Day

Believe it or not, October Prime Day is actually a good time to save on Dyson devices. Plenty of cordless vacuums are on sale this year, as well as a few viral hair stylers . But, none of those top my trusty AM09. Dysons Hot+Cool AM09 heater and fan is on sale for $300 right now thats 40 percent off and one of the best prices Ive seen. My love for the AM09 is well documented . At this point, Ive had it for more than five years and I bought it when it was $280 on super-sale at QVC. Previously, I had a Dyson tower fan that worked well until it kicked the bucket after a few years of use. I took the plunge with the AM09 because I generally had a great experience with the tower fan, and at the time, I had been living in apartments that were consistently chilly during wintertime and downright stifling during the summer months. Now, my house is not all that much different than my apartments of yesteryear and my original AM09 is still kicking. It does a great job circulating air in the summer (its not an air conditioner, to be clear) and it cuts the chill in my particularly icy office during the winter. I love its handy fan, which attaches magnetically to the top of the fan so you dont lose it and lets you control the fan speed and heater temperature with just a few presses of a button. But the real kicker with the AM09 is how lightweight it is: at just under six pounds, its incredibly easy to pick up and tote upstairs, downstairs or in the other room, wherever you need it the most. It has literally gone from my home office upstairs down to the main floor of my house and down again into our basement all in the same day for different purposes. Am I a little miffed that, in my impatience, I bought a discounted Dyson heater/fan/air purifier over the summer because I desperately wanted another AM09 and it wasnt on sale at the time ? Yes but at least you, dear reader, can learn from my shopping woes and get the AM09 instead. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/my-beloved-dyson-am09-heater-and-fan-is-40-percent-off-for-prime-day-223428328.html?src=rss

Sennheiser's HDB 630 headphones combine wireless convenience with wired lossless audio

Sennheiser hasnt debuted a premium set of wireless headphones since the Momentum 4 arrived in 2022. Sure, there were two sets of Accentum cans, but those offer more mid-range performance in the $180-$250 range. Instead of a Momentum 5 for its latest release, the company has revealed the HDB 630: a $500 set of wireless noise-canceling headphones that offer lossless listening via wired connection. If youre thinking the HDB 630 looks an awful lot like the Momentum 4, youre correct. Sennheiser says this new model inherited the chassis from those 2022 headphones, but theres a new acoustic system inside for focused listening. That setup includes 42mm dynamic drivers what were designed for purity, not hype. As such, the company promises youll hear the vibe that left the mastering studio thanks to careful attention to the midrange, vocals and overall dynamics. Those drivers are supported by a high-resolution digital audio engine that works for both wired and wireless listening. Via either the USB-C or 3.5mm ports, you can expect to hear tunes in up to 24-bit/96kHz resolution. The HDB 630 also comes with a USB-C transmitter dongle for phones, tablets and other devices so that you can harness higher-quality listening with aptX Adaptive even if your gadgets dont support it natively. With only an estimated 16 percent of smartphone hardware supporting native wireless high-res sound, the included dongle brings this capability to 80 percent of smartphone models in an instant through their USB Type-C port, Sennheiser explained in a press release. There are several audio features available on the HDB 630 for an audiophile experience. First, Sennheiser employs the Crossfade feature from its HE 1 headphones that blends the left and right channels to make it seem like youre listening to speakers. Theres also a new Parametric Equalizer for more granular EQ control, complete with bandwidth, filter and A/B settings. The company says any settings tweaks are then applied to the HDB 630s advanced processing system so listeners determine the tuning rather than the content or app providing it. Lastly, users will soon have the ability to share presets via QR code. Another item Sennheiser retained from the Momentum 4 is long battery life. Like that model, the HDB 630 will last up to 60 hours with ANC enabled, so you wont be reaching for a charging cable often. Whats more, a 10-minuted top up will give you seven hours of use. And when its time to travel, theres an airline adapter included in the box. The HDB 630 is available for pre-order starting today for $499.95. Shipping is scheduled to begin October 21 from Sennhesier and other retailers. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/audio/headphones/sennheisers-hdb-630-headphones-combine-wireless-convenience-with-wired-lossless-audio-220000711.html?src=rss

Tesla's stripped-back standard models bring the Model 3 and Y back under $40,000

Tesla has been promising less expensive versions of its electric vehicles for several months, and today the company introduced two 'standard' models. The Standard Model 3 sedan will retail starting at $36,990 and the Standard Model Y SUV will start at $39,990. While these price tags make Tesla EVs available for less than $40,000, the cost is still not down to the $35,000 level that the company once briefly had for the Model 3. Although the price tags seem lower, the US ended its federal tax incentive for EVs on September 30. That offered buyers a savings of $7,500 on purchases of electric vehicles. These Standard models effectively cost about $2,000 more than the old spec, now called 'Premium,' would have retailed for last week. Both have an EPA estimated range of 321 miles on a full battery. However, these Standard versions will also have fewer features than their counterparts. They're only available with rear-wheel drive, and they won't offer the Autopilot or the Autosteer driver assistance programs. The trims have also been stripped back, with only the first row of seats containing heaters, no second-row touchscreen and no AM/FM radio. On the opposite end of the spectrum, Tesla updated the higher-end Performance version of its Model Y last week. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/teslas-stripped-back-standard-models-bring-the-model-3-and-y-back-under-40k-205012564.html?src=rss

Prime Day TV deals: Save up to $500 on sets from Samsung, LG, Sony and more

Its time for another October Prime Day sale , and that means Amazon is selling a number of well-regarded TVs for lower prices than usual. Not every deal is exclusive to the event, and its still possible that these sets drop even further as we approach Black Friday. But for now, a number of highly-rated sets from LG, Samsung, Sony and other brands are at or near their lowest prices to date. Weve rounded up all the best October Prime Day TV deals weve seen thus far below, along with a few discounts on streaming players we like. Just note that you may need to be an Prime subscriber to access some of the discounts in Amazon's Prime Big Deal Days event, which runs through October 8. Best Prime Day TV deals TCL QM7K 55-inch Mini-LED TV for $570 ($330 off MSRP) : If youre willing to stretch your budget a little further, the TCL QM7K is a fairly comprehensive step up, with noticeably improved contrast, brightness and color volume. It has a 144Hz refresh rate with 288Hz support at 1080p, too, though its still limited to two HDMI 2.1 ports. (As with the QM6K, however, neither of those is an eARC port, so hooking up a soundbar wont block a game console if you have multiple systems.) This discount represents a new low, beating the previous best mark we've seen by roughly $30. Hisense U8QG 65-inch Mini-LED TV for $998 ($500 off) : Several reviews suggest that the Hisense U8QG ticks most of the requisite boxes for a LCD TV in 2025: robust local dimming and mini-LED backlighting, exceptionally high brightness, vibrant quantum-dot colors, a fast refresh rate (165Hz in this case), support for the major HDR formats and so on. Its a higher-end option than something like the TCL QM6K or QM7K with superior brightness and contrast, though it still falls short of a good OLED TV when it comes to the latter. Like most LCD panels, itll also look a bit washed out if you view it from an angle. It has three HDMI 2.1 ports, which is one fewer than many other TVs in this price range, though it uniquely includes a USB-C video input if you want to hook up a gaming laptop or Nintendo Switch. (Just note that you wont get VRR or HDR when using that.) Youd mainly get it over an OLED TV if youre willing to trade some picture quality for something better-suited in a bright room. This deal on the 65-inch model matches the best price we've tracked. Samsung S90F 55-inch QD-OLED TV for $1,100 ($498 off) : The Samsung S90F is an upper-tier model with a QD-OLED panel, which blends the usual perks of a quality OLED set near-perfect contrast, wide viewing angles, clear motion, low input lag with a layer of quantum dots. This helps it produce a wider gamut of more vivid colors compared to traditional WOLED TVs . It also comes with four HDMI 2.1 ports and has a fast refresh rate of 144Hz. It doesnt support Dolby Vision HDR, however, and reviews we trust say that the LG C5, a competing WOLED model, retains darker black levels in a bright room. This deal marks a new low for the 55-inch model, while the 65-inch and 77-inch versions are also at all-time lows of $1,598 and $2,298, respectively. Just make sure you only buy the 55-, 65- or 77-inch model, as every other size in the US uses a lesser WOLED panel. Shady, we know. LG C5 65-inch OLED TV for $1,373 ($1,324 off) : The LG C5 cant produce the same bold colors as a QD-OLED display like the Samsung S90F, but reviews almost universally agree that its an exceptional OLED TV otherwise. It should get brighter with non-HDR content, and as noted above it should produce deeper blacks in well-lit environments. It also has just about all the essential gaming features, plus it supports the popular Dolby Vision HDR format (but not HDR10+). If you need that, or if you want an OLED set in this price range for a bright-ish room, its well worth a look. This is nearly an all-time low for the 65-inch model, beating its typical street price by about $125. Other sizes are also on sale, but note that the 42- and 48-inch models cant get as bright as the larger versions. LG B5 55-inch OLED TV for $997 ($100 off) : The B5 is LGs entry-level OLED TV for 2025, and as such its a level below the C5 in terms of brightness and color performance. Its technically limited to a 120Hz refresh rate instead of 144Hz as well, though that isnt a huge deal right now unless you plan on hooking up a gaming PC. If anything, last years LG C4 which isnt seriously discounted as of this writing is a better value for most on the whole. But if you just want to save cash, the B5 still provides most of the core benefits of an OLED display at a lower price. This is a new all-time low for the 55-inch variant. Samsung S95F 55-inch QD-OLED TV for $1,998 ($200 off) : If youre willing to pay for a top-of-the-line OLED TV, the Samsung S95F should fit the bill. Reviews around the web praise it for being especially bright for an OLED TV while retaining the bold colors and superb contrast youd want from a high-end QD-OLED panel. That brightness combined with the screens matte finish means its particularly adept at fending off glare, so itll be effective in either a dark or bright room. Its also loaded with gaming features, including a 165Hz refresh rate. That said, the matte coating means black levels wont be as deep in a well-lit environment, and theres still no Dolby Vision support. This is the lowest price weve seen for the 55-inch model. LG G5 55-inch OLED TV for $1,768 ($732 off) : The LG G5 competes with the Samsung S95F in the top end of the OLED TV market. Most reviews say it can get even brighter than Samsungs model, it supports Dolby Vision and its lack of a matte coating means it wont lose its inky black levels in a bright room. That said, having a glossy finish also means that its more susceptible to direct reflections. And while its picture is a level above most other WOLED TVs, it isnt quite on par with the S95F when it comes to color volume. Still, if youre mainly going to watch things in the dark, it might be the better buy. This is a new low for the 55-inch variant. Sony Bravia 8 II 65-inch QD-OLED TV for $2,798 ($702 off) : Its certainly not cheap, but the Sony Bravia 8 II has earned plaudits for its excellent image processing, upscaling and overall accuracy alongside the expected color, contrast and motion benefits of its QD-OLED display. This should help it make lots of movies and shows look closer to their original intent. It also uses the handy Google TV interface. This deal marks the best price to date for the 65-inch version. That said, if you cant stomach the high price, other reviews note that the older Sony A95L offers similar performance a bit less, while more recent competitors like the LG G5 and Samsung S95F can get noticeably brighter (even if theyre not always as accurate). Those two should be better for gaming as well, as the Bravia 8 II only has two HDMI 2.1 ports one of which is an eARC port for soundbars and its input lag is slightly higher. Samsung The Frame (2024) 55-inch LED TV for $798 ($700 off) : Samsungs The Frame series has always been for people who care about their TVs aesthetic more than its picture quality, since its designed to resemble a framed piece of wall art . Its still overpriced for a TV with no local dimming or Dolby Vision HDR, but this deal ties the lowest price weve seen for the 55-inch model, making it at least a little more reasonable. Other sizes are also on sale. Note that this deal is for the 2024 model this years version is discounted as well, but its panel still isnt great for the price. Wed recommend saving as much cash as possible if you really want one of these things. Roku Streaming Stick 4K for $30 ($20 off) : The Streaming Stick 4K is worth considering if you prefer a stick-style streamer that plugs directly into your TV, or if youre partial to Rokus app-centric interface, which many find simpler to navigate than the content-heavy UIs pushed by Google and Amazon. It supports Apple AirPlay and the major HDR formats, and its performance remains quick enough for most. Youll have to deal with some ads, though, and no Roku player supports the Twitch app. This deal is $5 more than the devices all-time low but ties the best price weve seen in several years. Roku Streaming Stick Plus for $24 ($16 off) : The Streaming Stick Plus is cheaper alternative to the Streaming Stick 4K with no Dolby Vision support and no long-range Wi-Fi extender built in. The latter means it may be less reliable if you dont get a consistent connection in your TVs room. (Both sticks are limited to Wi-Fi 5, though.) That said, this model can typically be powered straight from a TVs USB port instead of requiring a separate power supply. If you can live with the sacrifices, it may not be worth paying extra. This deal represents a new all-time low. Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K for $25 ($25 off) : The standard Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K offers the same core experience as the pricier Fire TV Stick 4K Max , only it comes with a slightly slower processor, half the storage (8GB) and Wi-Fi 6 instead of Wi-Fi 6E. For most people just looking for a casual streamer on the cheap, those shouldnt be huge losses. This model is also more powerful than the just-announced Fire TV 4K Select , though its Fire OS interface can still be messy and ad-heavy , with special emphasis on Amazons own services. This deal is $3 more than the sticks all-time low, though it matches the best price weve seen since Black Friday last year. Amazon Fire TV Stick HD for $18 ($17 off) : The Fire TV Stick HD is the budget pick in our guide to the best streaming devices . It can only stream up to 1080p, and it can run a bit choppier than the 4K models since it has a slower chipset and half the RAM (1GB). The usual issues with the Fire TV interface still apply here too. But if you just want to add streaming apps to an aging TV or basic monitor for as little cash as possible, it should get the job done. This discount ties the device's lowest price to date. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/prime-day-tv-deals-save-up-to-500-on-sets-from-samsung-lg-sony-and-more-180051945.html?src=rss

Google's Michel Devoret is one of the 2025 winners of the Nobel Prize in Physics

The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences has awarded Google's Chief Scientist of Quantum Hardware the Nobel Prize in Physics alongside former Google employee John Martinis, and University of California, Berkeley professor John Clarke. This is the second year in a row that current or former Google employees have been awarded the prestigious prize: In 2024, a former Google vice president was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics and the Nobel Prize in Chemistry was shared by researchers from Google DeepMind. This year's Nobel Prize in Physics is being awarded in recognition of the discovery of macroscopic quantum mechanical tunnelling and energy quantization in an electric circuit. Google puts it more plainly in its blog , writing that Devoret, Martinis and Clarke created a superconducting electrical circuit with a feature called a Josephson Junction that can be used to create and manipulate quantum phenomena. BREAKING NEWS The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences has decided to award the 2025 #NobelPrize in Physics to John Clarke, Michel H. Devoret and John M. Martinis for the discovery of macroscopic quantum mechanical tunnelling and energy quantisation in an electric circuit. pic.twitter.com/XkDUKWbHpz The Nobel Prize (@NobelPrize) October 7, 2025 Google says the group's experiments with Josephson Junctions in 1984 and 1985 were important, not just for the field of physics, but also its current research into quantum computing. The work of the company's Quantum AI team is occasionally trotted out as a glimpse of a future where major scientific discoveries are driven by hyperefficient computers. See, for example, the Willow quantum chip the company announced last year. Google is ultimately still working on creating the fundamental components that will power these computers, though. And Josephson Junctions form the basis for todays superconducting quantum bits (qubits), an enabler of many of the quantum computing milestones it's hit in the last few years. It is wonderful to be able to celebrate the way that century-old quantum mechanics continually offers new surprises, Olle Eriksson, Chair of the Nobel Committee for Physics, shared in a press release announcing the winners . It is also enormously useful, as quantum mechanics is the foundation of all digital technology. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/science/googles-michel-devoret-is-one-of-the-2025-winners-of-the-nobel-prize-in-physics-192226450.html?src=rss

The best fast chargers for 2025

Fast chargers have become essential as phones, tablets and even laptops demand more power to keep up with daily use. Many new devices no longer include a charger in the box, so finding the best fast charger for you is important if you want reliable speed without damaging your battery. A good charger saves you time, keeps your devices powered during busy days and often supports multiple gadgets at once. The best fast charger options now go beyond smartphones. Tablets like the iPad Pro, foldables such as the Galaxy Z Fold series and laptops with USB-C charging all benefit from higher wattage and newer standards like USB-C PD and GaN. Some models are compact enough to fit in your pocket, while others have several ports so you can power a laptop, phone and earbuds at the same time. With so many different devices and charging standards, choosing the best fast charger depends on your setup and how you use it. This guide breaks down our top picks to help you find the right match for your gear. Best fast chargers for 2025 What to consider before buying a fast charger Before you start looking at specific chargers, it's critical to determine three things: how many devices do you need to charge, how much power do they require and whether or not you're planning on traveling with any of them. The reason for the first question is simple. If you only need to charge a single device, like an iPhone or Android phone, it's cheaper and usually more space-efficient to get a lower-wattage phone charger with one port instead of two or three. Next, it's critical to figure out how much electricity your gadgets need because it doesn't make sense to buy a power brick that pushes out more juice than your device can actually use. This may sound a bit tricky, but most major manufacturers will list a product's max charging speeds in its tech specs, which is typically denoted by a specific wattage (15W, for example) or a quick-charge rating. Unfortunately, very powerful or large laptops like gaming notebooks can suck a ton of juice (more than 140 watts), which means they may rely on more traditional power adapters with barrel plugs. This may result in them not being compatible with universal chargers. Some of these PCs may also support charging over USB-C, so even if a specific adapter can't deliver its full power draw, it can still send over some energy but it will do so at a slower rate compared to the laptop's included charger. To get the best performance, using a fast charging cable, such as a USB-C cable, can make a big difference in maintaining consistent power delivery. For frequent travelers, size and weight are often important considerations, because the bigger and heavier a charger is, the more annoying it will be to lug around. You'll also want to think about other factors like support for international plugs, which can be a big help to anyone who regularly visits other countries. If youre already traveling with power banks or a charging station, choosing a compact GaN charger can help streamline your gear. Finally, you'll want to figure out if your smartphone uses a proprietary charging standard or if it's compatible with the USB Power Delivery spec (USB PD). For example, the OnePlus 13's included SuperVOOC power adapter can send up to 100 watts to the phone. However, if you use a generic USB-PD charger, speeds top out at 45 watts. Thats still pretty quick, but not nearly as fast as OnePlus' brick and the same applies to devices with super fast charging support. Also, make sure your charging cable and connector are up to spec, as lower-quality accessories can bottleneck your charging speeds. Fast charger FAQs What is GaN? When looking for chargers, you may notice that some are marked as GaN, which stands for gallium nitride. This is an important distinction because, when compared to older adapters that use silicon switches, GaN-based devices support increased power efficiency and output, allowing manufacturers to create more compact bricks that run cooler and support higher wattages. Depending on the specific power output, GaN adapters can be 30 to 50 percent smaller and lighter than silicon-based alternatives. That might not sound like much, but when theyre sitting in a bag alongside a laptop and a half dozen other accessories you might have, cutting down on excess bulk and weight goes a long way. Do fast chargers affect battery life? Technically yes, because the process of sending a ton of watts into a gadget and potentially generating additional heat while doing so can decrease battery health over time. That said, modern devices and chargers use various protocols to ensure temperatures and power levels stay within preset limits in large part to avoid damaging the product or creating a safety risk. At a base level, simply charging a gadget regardless of speed will cause degradation over time (nothing stays perfect forever, you know?). So as long as you use compatible chargers and cables, the impact of fast charging is generally quite negligible. What's the difference between a fast charger and a regular charger? There isn't a single generally accepted definition of fast charging. However, with power adapters capable of sending as little as five watts or less, it's important to know how much juice your device is getting, especially if you need to recharge something quickly. So depending on who you ask (particularly when it comes to smartphones), any charger that can push out more than 15 to 18 watts is generally considered to be fast. That said, with some phones capable of receiving more than 100 watts and up to 240 watts for some laptops, it's more important than ever to consider what devices you own before buying a new fast charger. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/computing/accessories/best-fast-chargers-140011033.html?src=rss

Mastodon is adding Bluesky-like starter packs

Mastodon, the federated social network built on ActivityPub, is taking cues from Bluesky and introducing its own version of the social platform's Starter Packs. The hope is that Mastodon's Packs will make it easier to find people to follow when you first join a server, a sometimes daunting task given the distributed nature of decentralized social networks. In comparison to Starter Packs, which let Bluesky users curate a list of accounts that you can follow in one foul swoop, Packs will come with some modifications and improvements. For one thing, Mastodon's nonprofit developer Mastodon gGmbH says that users will have a say in whether they appear in Packs. Packs will be incorporated in the discovery features Mastodon already has, so if you don't want to be included in a Pack, you can just toggle off the existing Feature profile and posts in discovery algorithms setting. The developer also says that there will be a more neutral way to remove yourself from a Pack once you're added. On Bluesky, to be removed from a Starter Pack you have to either report the pack or block its creator. According to Mastodon gGmbH, once you're notified you've been added to a Pack, you'll be able to remove yourself in a similar fashion to the way Mastodon lets you remove yourself from Quote Posts . Mastodon gGmbH says it's collaborating with other Fediverse developers on a Fediverse Enhancement Proposal (FEP), that once completed, will allow the feature to be used by any developer building an app on ActivityPub. Bluesky's feature is one of its better additions to the microblogging format, so it makes sense Mastodon would want to adopt it. In fact it's so good that Meta added a clone of it to Threads late last year. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/social-media/mastodon-is-adding-bluesky-like-starter-packs-182014446.html?src=rss

Meta makes Facebook Reels more like their Instagram counterparts

Meta is rolling out some serious changes to Facebook Reels to make the experience more like Instagram Reels. First of all, the Reels will now be accompanied by friend bubbles. This shows users which posts their friends like and makes it easy to start a chat instantly about what you're both interested in. Instagram does something similar and also lets users send Reels as direct messages. Meta The recommendations engine is also getting a refresh, with Meta claiming that it learns your interests quicker and shows you newer and more relevant Reels. The company says that the new engine recommends 50 percent more reels that have been published that day. The new algorithm will also take preferred video length into account, as it will recommend Reels that are longer if you've been watching longer content or the opposite. Reels are now accompanied by a Not Interested button for improved recommendations. Meta This is 2025, so you know Meta is also throwing some AI into the mix. Reels will now offer AI-powered suggestions for deep dives into particular interests. This is going to be a boon for my dad when he wants to watch hundreds of short Sopranos clips in a single sitting. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/social-media/meta-makes-facebook-reels-more-like-their-instagram-counterparts-180822646.html?src=rss

Steam is back online after outage

Steam went down on Tuesday. Steamstat.us indicated earlier that the Steam Store, Steam Community and Web API were all down. But it's been all systems go for the better part of the past hour. Engadget staffers' experience matches that. Earlier, when trying to access the Steam Store on Steam Deck and in the mobile app, only the UI loaded as an empty wrapper. Now everything appears to be loading normally. At the peak of the outage, Steamstat.us showed over 1.5 million page views in the previous hour. That typically means lots of annoyed gamers are trying to find out why they're having problems. PC Gamer reports that APIs for Valve's first-party games (including Counter-Strike 2 and Deadlock ) were also offline earlier. We'll keep an eye on the situation and update if the problems return. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/pc/steam-is-back-online-after-outage-170514965.html?src=rss

This Prime Day iPad deal brings the iPad A16 down to a record low for Amazon's October sale

The entry-level Apple iPad with the A16 chip is on sale for $280 as a Prime Day promotion. This is a discount of around $70 and represents a record-low price for the 11-inch tablet. The deal is available in multiple colorways and is one of the best Apple deals for Prime Day this year. This tablet made our list of the best iPads and we particularly recommend it for the budget-conscious. It may lack some of the bells and whistles of its more expensive cousins, but it still gets the job done . It's fast enough for most common tasks and the battery life is solid, at 10 hours per charge. It also ships with 6GB of RAM, which is a decent enough metric. The tablet integrates with Wi-Fi 6 and features a USB-C connector, along with a pair of 12MP cameras. There's also a Touch ID sensor, which can be used to unlock the device and to make payments. This is the most basic tablet in Apple's lineup, so it lacks some features. It doesn't integrate with the Apple Pencil Pro or the Magic Keyboard. The display is also not quite as gorgeous as the iPad Air or Pro, but it's still a Liquid Retina panel. Elsewhere among the Apple deals for Prime Day, you can get $150 off the iPad Air both the 11-inch model and the 13-inch model . This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/this-prime-day-ipad-deal-brings-the-ipad-a16-down-to-a-record-low-for-amazons-october-sale-082743171.html?src=rss

California bans loud commercials on streaming platforms

California has passed a law to ban loud commercials on streaming platforms like Netflix and Hulu. This is great news for people who don't want to wake the neighborhood up when a streaming show suddenly turns into an aggressively loud ad for migraine medication. Governor Gavin Newsom just signed the law and the ban goes into effect on July 1, 2026. On that date, streaming services won't be allowed to transmit the audio of commercial advertisements louder than the video content the advertisements accompany. TURN DOWN THE VOLUME Californians don't want to hear commercials at a volume any louder than what they were previously enjoying their program at. I just signed legislation enforcing this regulation across streaming platforms. Governor Gavin Newsom (@CAgovernor) October 6, 2025 Newsom said that California is dialing down this inconvenience across streaming platforms, which had previously not been subject to commercial volume regulations passed by Congress in 2010. He's referring to the Commercial Advertisement Loudness Mitigation (CALM) Act, which barred the audio of TV commercials from being broadcast louder than the TV program being aired . California's new law makes streaming platforms comply with those same volume regulations. The bill was authored by State Senator Tom Umberg, who said it was inspired by every exhausted parent whos finally gotten a baby to sleep, only to have a blaring streaming ad undo all that hard work. The full text of the bill is available right here . California holds some major sway in the entertainment industry, so here's hoping that this type of legislation will come to other states. Americans don't agree on much, but everyone hates loud ads. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/big-tech/california-bans-loud-commercials-on-streaming-platforms-155809660.html?src=rss

PowerWash Simulator 2 arrives on October 23

The sequel to 2022s surprisingly engaging first-person clean-em-up, PowerWash Simulator , finally arrives on October 23.If you enjoyed the first game (along with the other 17 million people it got its hooks into), it looks like youre in for even more shockingly dirty locations on which you can unleash your trusty power washer. A new release date trailer shows off a variety of tools you can use to get the job done, as well your own customizable home base that youre free to decorate, cover in muck and clean to your hearts content. There are also cute cats to play with, a very knowing reference from the developers to this being a 2025 video game, which means you must be able to pet an animal of some description. The latest trailer doesnt focus on it, but PowerWash Simulator 2 also introduces split-screen co-op. The original quickly cemented itself as the ultimate chillout game, so you can now kick back and clean twice as effectively with the help of a buddy. You can also share campaign progress when playing online with friends. PowerWash Simulator 2 hits the PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Switch 2 and PC on October 23, and its coming to Game Pass , for those still hanging around those parts after Microsoft's recent price hike. Heres hoping for an eventual DLC add-on as good as the first games (slightly random) Shrek tie-in. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/powerwash-simulator-2-arrives-on-october-23-154854867.html?src=rss

Prime Day deals include the Google Pixel 9a for a new record low, plus discounts on Pixel 10 phones

The Google Pixel 9a is our top pick for the best midrange phone on the market right now. It's a great value at $499, but when it's $150 off like it is for Amazon Prime Day , you'll be hard-pressed to find a better smartphone in this price range. You can pick it up for only $349 during the sale, or step up to either the Pixel 10 and Pixel 10 Pro , which both are on sale for the first time. The Pixel 9a may lack the cutting-edge sizzle of ultra-premium phones that cost triple what you'll pay here. But in return, you get strong performance, a sleek design, a robust battery that lasts over 28 hours and camera quality that rivals that of competitors costing $1,000 or more. The phone has a simple design with an aluminum frame and a recycled polycarbonate back. It has an IP68 rating for solid protection against dust and water. On the front, you have a spacious 6.3-inch OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate. The screen's brightness can reach an impressive 2,700 nits, matching the standard Pixel 9. Its resolution is a crisp 1080 x 2424 (422 PPI). In Engadget's tests , the Pixel 9a's camera preserved more details and produced a generally better-looking image than the Galaxy S25 Ultra's . (If you aren't familiar, that's a $1,300 phone.) The Pixel 9a does lack a dedicated telephoto lens. But Google has included the Super Res Zoom AI upscaling feature to help compensate for the loss. Amazon's deal includes all four colors available for the phone: obsidian, porcelain, peony and iris. There's no guarantee stock will last through all of October Prime Day , so you may want to consider pouncing soon if this deal is for you. Also on sale are the Pixel 10 and Pixel 10 Pro , which you can pick up for $$649 and $799, respectively. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/prime-day-deals-include-the-google-pixel-9a-for-a-new-record-low-plus-discounts-on-pixel-10-phones-120044715.html?src=rss

The best Prime Day kitchen deals include up to 50 percent off our favorite Instant Pots, blenders and more

New gear can make cooking easier (and sometimes more fun) but the best kitchen tech isnt cheap. Thats why its a good idea to wait for a sale like Amazon's Prime Day . At Engadget, weve tested plenty of kitchen gear (and have opinions to accompany said testing) so we searched for discounts on what we actually recommend. We found deals on some of our preferred brands like air fryers from Breville, Instant Pot cookers, sous vide machines and even a Ninja ice cream maker. Weve linked to our testing and reviews so you can get the information you need before you buy. Here are the best Prime Day deals on kitchen tech we could find. The best Prime Day kitchen deals Ninja Slushi for $300 ($50 off) : We havent officially tested this one just yet, but given our love of both the Creami and the Creami Swirl , its a fair bet that this one will do good things with cold stuff too. This is the lowest price of the year so far. Vitamix 2-Speed Immersion Blender for $90 ($40 off with Prime) : For quick sauces and soups, we like this nifty two-speed hand blender from Vitamix, and said so in our guide to cheap kitchen gadgets . It even comes with a whisk for making your own whipped cream. Vitamix 5-Speed Immersion Blender for $200 ($100 off with Prime) : If you want a little extra oomph from your hand blender, grab this one. We named it the best counter top replacement model in our guide to the best immersion blenders . The 625 watt motor is more powerful than most and the blender head is intelligently designed to reduce suction and prevent scratches plus it fits inside a wide mouth mason jar. Ninja Creami ice cream maker $180 ($50 off) : This is one of our favorite pieces of kitchen tech and we called it a frozen fantasy-maker in our review. Note that the unit itself dipped down to $160 last Black Friday but this matches the lowest price we've seen this year. Hamilton Beach Digital Rice Cooker for $37 ($13 off with Prime) : Our top pick for a budget rice cooker is great for small kitchens (but probably not for big families). We thought it outperformed other cookers that are four times the price, though its not the best for all-day warming of rice as the bottom bigs got a little overdone. Instant Pot Vortex Plus with Clear Cook for $80 ($20 off with Prime) : This Vortex air fryer model is similar to our top airfryer pick , but is missing the Odor Ease feature. It still has the Clear Cook window that lets you keep an eye on your food as it crisps and the Vortex cooking tech heats up remarkably fast, with almost no pre-heating time. Instant Pot Vortex Plus Air Fryer (4QT) for $65 ($65 off with Prime) : Heres a smaller version of our best overall air fryer. This one has a four-quart capacity, which is perfect for one person and small kitchens. And, like its larger sibling, pre-heats quickly thanks to a 1600-watt output. Instant Pot Vortex 2-QT Mini for $38 ($22 off with Prime) : The budget model from our air fryer guide may not be large but its two-quart basket is enough to reheat leftovers for two or cook up a batch of frozen appetizers. And, because of its small size, it doesnt take up a ton of space on your countertops ideal for a small kitchen. Ooni Koda 16 Gas Pizza Oven for $520 ($129 off) : Ooni dominates our list of the best pizza ovens . The Koda can run on a propane tank or natural gas line and heats up to 950 degrees in just 20 minutes. Plus its big capacity can cook a 16-inch pizza in around one minute. Breville InFizz Fusion beverage maker for $200 ($50 off) : We called this fizz-maker the bubble master in our review. True, its pricier than rivals in the same space, but the upscale design that actually looks good on a countertop somewhat makes up for the price premium. We also appreciate the Fusion Cap that helps prevent messy eruptions when youre bubbling up your drinks. Cosori Air Fryer Pro Compact for $85 ($15 off with Prime) : One of our concerns with the Cosori 9-in-1 was that it was a little on the wide side, taking up extra countertop space. The Pro Compact has a more space-saving design while still packing a five-quart basket. Instant Pot 4QT Vortex mini air fryer for $55 ($35 off with Prime) : This models four-quart capacity falls between our top Instant Pot air fryer pick and the budget model. It has the Clear Cook window feature, six presets and it comes in pink in addition to the standard white and black. Instant Pot Duo Plus for $90 ($50 off with Prime) : We named this the best multicooker in our guide to the best kitchen tech weve tested. It can cook a dizzying array of foods from basic beans and rice to homemade yogurt. We like this one because its simple to use, and has quick-cooking modes for soup, eggs and grains. Theres even a sous vide cooking function. KitchenAid Artisan Series Stand Mixer for $379 ($121 off ) : Theres a reason this is so popular among home bakers and chefs. The Artisan KitchenAid is sort of the gold standard stand mixer, as we point out in our guide to the best kitchen tech . This isnt an all-time low (it was $350 as recently as May), but matches the July Prime Day price. Breville Bambino Plus for $400 ($100 off) : In our gift guide for coffee lovers , this espresso machine earned our respect for its compact size and the fact that it doesnt cost a grand, like some machines do. Plus the controls are easy for beginners to learn but makes silky milkfoam for pro-level latte artists. Breville Juice Fountain Plus for $130 ($20 off) : This went as low as $110 back in January, but its still a decent discount on a high-powered juice extractor. We were won over by its impressive juicing abilities and despite how it looks, it's surprisingly easy to clean as long as you do it right away. Ninja Dual Foodie Zone Air Fryer (DZ302) for $160 ($70 off) : If you want to air fry two different things at the same time, this is the one to get. This is the same in specs, capacity and wattage as our top pick for a dual-zone air fryer , just with a different model number. It even has a feature that makes sure the two different foods are ready at the same time. Ninja 5.5-quart Air Fryer XL (AF150AMZ) for $130 ($50 off with Prime) : This one earned an honorable mention in our guide to air fryers. Its double the capacity of our budget pick and has a dehydrate preset. While we found the round basket a little cramped, we liked how the fryers vertical design saved counter space. Just note that this went as low as $90 in July. Vitamix Explorian E310 Blender for $330 ($50 off) : This isnt the best deal weve seen this year this Vitamix dropped to $300 as recently as May. But if youre in the market for a blender that can turn the most recalcitrant nut into the creamiest butter, we think this wont let you down. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/the-best-prime-day-kitchen-deals-include-up-to-50-percent-off-our-favorite-instant-pots-blenders-and-more-193009814.html?src=rss

We found the best Prime Day Anker deals on power banks, wireless chargers and other accessories

Maybe youre not looking to snag an iPad, a robot vacuum or a VR headset this Amazon Prime Day because youre set with what you already have. Instead, though, consider picking up a few discounted essential gadgets, or really, devices you dont want to be left without in a pinch. Charging gear falls into this camp, and Anker makes some of our favorite power banks, cables, wireless chargers and more. A bunch of Ankers gear is on sale for October Prime Day, making now a great time to stock up. Personally, I always end up getting an extra charging cable or surge protector for my house, or I take stock of the gifts Ill need over the next couple of months and pick up a power brick while theyre deeply discounted. Here, weve collected all of the best October Prime Day deals on Anker devices and other charging accessories so you dont have to go searching for them. Anker Prime Day deals: Power banks Power banks are not as straightforward as you might think. They come in all shapes, sizes and capacities and can have extra features like magnetic alignment, built-in kickstands, extra ports and more. It's worth considering how you'll use a power bank before you decide on the right one to buy. Smartphones dont need huge-capacity bricks to power up a couple of times over; a 5K or 10K portable charger should be plenty if thats all youre looking to support. If you want a more versatile accessory that can charge a tablet, laptop or gaming handheld, consider a brick with a higher capacity and more ports so you can charge multiple devices simultaneously. Anker Prime Day deals: Wireless chargers A good wireless charger can lighten your cable load. While wired charging remains faster and more efficient, wireless chargers can clean up your space by eliminating a few of those cables that constantly trip you up. We recommend thinking about where you'll use a wireless charger before buying one. Those outfitting a home office with new tech may want a wireless charging stand that puts their phone in an upright position thats easier to see while its powering up, while those who want a wireless charger for their nightstand might prefer a lay-flat design or a power station that can charge a smartphone, smartwatch and pair of earbuds all at once. Anker Prime Day deals: Charging gear Plenty of other charging gear is on sale for Prime Day. Its never a bad idea to pick up a few 30W USB-C adapters so you always have what you need to reliably power up your phone. Same goes for extra USB-C (or USB-A) cables that can live in your car, in your office at work or by the couch. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/we-found-the-best-prime-day-anker-deals-on-power-banks-wireless-chargers-and-other-accessories-164536745.html?src=rss

Xbox Game Pass Ultimate is still $20 a month if you buy pre-paid codes

Microsoft may have made the unfortunate decision to raise the price of a Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription to $30 a month, but you don't have to live by the company's rules at least not yet. Most online retailers are still selling codes for prepaid Game Pass subscriptions at the original $20 a month price. That means you can pay $60 for three months of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate , stack your codes and keep your subscription without having to downgrade or cancel. As the highest tier in Game Pass, an Ultimate subscription gives you the ability to download and play a library of over 200 games on your PC or Xbox. With Xbox Cloud Gaming, you can also stream the majority of those games to other devices, too, whether it's a smartphone, LG TV or in-car display . It's worth noting, though, the benefits of Ultimate did change with the introduction of the higher price. Microsoft shared that Ultimate subscribers will now also receive the benefits of an Ubisoft+ subscription at no additional cost, a $16 a month value that unlocks access to a back catalog of Ubisoft games from franchises like Assassin's Creed and Far Cry. Starting in November, the new Ultimate subscription also includes access to Fortnite Crew , Epic's $12 a month plan that gives you V-Bucks, battle passes and more in Fortnite . While those new benefits might justify a higher price monetarily, whether that's a convincing reason to stay subscribed is a separate question. This likely won't be the last time Microsoft will raise the price of its subscription service. Avoiding those fees by buying pre-paid Game Pass codes seems like an excellent way to try out the new Ultimate before committing to cancelling your subscription, downgrading your plan or sticking with Microsoft's new price. You can purchase three months of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate for $60 a month. Stacking four three-month codes should come out to around $240. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/xbox/xbox-game-pass-ultimate-is-still-20-a-month-if-you-buy-pre-paid-codes-222333122.html?src=rss

OpenAI has disrupted (more) Chinese accounts using ChatGPT to create social media surveillance tools

OpenAI has disclosed that a now-banned account originating in China was using ChatGPT to help design promotional materials and project plans for a social media listening tool. OpenAI says that this work was purportedly done for a government client. The tool was a probe that could crawl social media sites like X, Facebook, Instagram, Reddit, TikTok and YouTube for specific political, ethnic or religious content as defined by the operator. The company said it cannot independently verify if the tool was used by a Chinese government entity. OpenAI disrupted similar efforts earlier this year. The company also says it banned an account that was using ChatGPT to develop a proposal for a tool described as a High-Risk Uyghur-Related Inflow Warning Model that would aid in tracking the movements of Uyghur-related individuals. China has long been accused of alleged human rights abuses against Uyghur Muslims in the country. OpenAI began publishing threat reports in February 2024 , raising awareness of state-affiliated actors using large language models to debug malicious code, develop phishing scams and more. The company's latest blog post serves as a roundup of notable threats and banned accounts over the last quarter. The company also caught Russian-, Korean- and Chinese-speaking developers using ChatGPT to refine malware, as well as entire networks in Cambodia, Myanmar and Nigeria using the chatbot to help create scams in an attempt to defraud people. According to OpenAI's own estimates, ChatGPT is being used to detect scams three times as often as it is to create them. . This summer, OpenAI disrupted operations in Iran, Russia and China that were using ChatGPT to create posts, comments and to drive engagement and division as part of online influence campaigns. The AI-generated content was used on various social media platforms in both the originating nations and internationally. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ai/openai-has-disrupted-more-chinese-accounts-using-chatgpt-to-create-social-media-surveillance-tools-142538093.html?src=rss

Vampire Survivors will soon offer online co-op

Its been nearly four years since Vampire Survivors debuted in early access and developer Poncle is still adding new features to the hit game. A fall update will introduce an online co-op mode to the PC and console versions. The studio brought couch co-op to the auto-shooting roguelike back in 2023, and soon you and your buddies will be able to lay waste to thousands of enemies together without needing to be in the same room. Online co-op will use a system where you create a lobby and share a code with friends so they can join, or vice-versa. You can go monster hunting with up to three of your buds, or even let them take care of the dirty work while you roam the map in search of secrets. Poncle says there are four more announcements to come over the next several weeks. The studio teased that, next week, it might finally answer a burning question that has been asked thousands of times. My money is on that being will you ever add vampires ? This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/vampire-survivors-will-soon-offer-online-co-op-141430146.html?src=rss

Nintendo just released a mysterious animated short

Most of what Nintendo uploads to its Nintendo Today app is fairly predictable; think a screenshot or trailer for an upcoming game or the latest soundtrack being agonisingly drip-fed onto Nintendo Music . But todays surprise drop is more mysterious than usual. If you opened up the app this morning, youll have been met with a decidedly Pixar-like animated short, with virtually no context. Titled Close to you, the almost four-minute video focuses on a baby playing with what appears to be an enchanted pacifier. In the childs attempt to catch the flying soother, they start to walk for what seems to be the first time, given the reaction of the mother when she walks into the room. The whole thing is accompanied by some typically pleasant piano music, but ends without Nintendo telling us what any of it means. Could this be a teaser for the recently- announced The Super Mario Galaxy Movie ? Is the child in the short a young Rosalina, perhaps? They certainly seem to have a relationship with magic. There's also already some speculation that Nintendo could be teasing a Pikmin film. Anyway, the short is now all over Nintendos various social media platforms too, so hopefully well find out more soon. For now, it's a perfectly nice (albeit unexpected) way to spend a few minutes. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/entertainment/nintendo-just-released-a-mysterious-animated-short-140749774.html?src=rss

Prime Day Apple deals include the iPad A16 for $280

Prime Day has brought the entry-level iPad down to its lowest price yet. You can pick up the iPad A16 for $280 right now, which is $70 off and a record-low for the 11-inch tablet. If you're on a budget, this is the iPad to get, and it's one of the best Apple deals for Prime Day this year. This tablet made our list of the best iPads and we particularly recommend it for the budget-conscious. It may lack some of the bells and whistles of its more expensive cousins, but it still gets the job done . It's fast enough for most common tasks and the battery life is solid, at 10 hours per charge. It also ships with 6GB of RAM, which is a decent enough metric. The tablet integrates with Wi-Fi 6 and features a USB-C connector, along with a pair of 12MP cameras. There's also a Touch ID sensor, which can be used to unlock the device and to make payments. This is the most basic tablet in Apple's lineup, so it lacks some features. It doesn't integrate with the Apple Pencil Pro or the Magic Keyboard. The display is also not quite as gorgeous as the iPad Air or Pro, but it's still a Liquid Retina panel. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/prime-day-apple-deals-include-the-ipad-a16-for-280-082743946.html?src=rss

Google's Pixel Buds Pro 2 are cheaper than ever for Prime Day

The unfortunate reality of living in a world that's largely abandoned headphone jacks is that you have to own a pair of wireless earbuds to listen to things on your phone. Accepting that, you might as well own a good pair of earbuds, and if you're on Android, Google's wireless earbuds are one of your best options . You can purchase a pair of Google's Pixel Buds Pro 2 for $170 for Prime Day , $60 less than its normal $230 price. That's a pretty great deal for a pair of wireless earbuds that rival Apple's AirPods Pro 3 . The Pixel Buds Pro 2 are compact wireless earbuds with a touch-sensitive surface and a small circular ring in the back to help them stay in your ears. You can currently purchase the buds in bluish-gray Moonstone, off-white Porcelain, pink Peony or light black Hazel color options, but whichever you choose, you'll get solid active noise cancellation and a collection of other helpful audio features. In terms of ANC, Engadget's review of the Pixel Buds Pro 2 found that the earbuds do a good job of blocking out low-to-mid-range noise but still struggle to block out nearby voices. On the whole, though, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 sounds better than Google's previous wireless earbuds, particularly when you're listening bass-forward tracks. The capabilities of the Pixel Buds Pro 2 extend beyond just listening to music, of course. Like its competitors, Google has turned its wireless earbuds into hearing protection, too. The Pixel Buds Pro 2 were recently updated to support what Google calls Loud Noise Protection, which can reduce incoming loud noises to protect your ears. That's on top of features like Adaptive Audio, which can adjust noise cancellation and volume based on your surroundings, and Talk to Gemini Live, which gives you a hands-free way to have a free-flowing conversation with Google's AI chatbot. There might be other earbuds that offer better audio performance, but the Pixel Buds Pro 2 is the best option if you're on Android and want a seamless experience. For $170 during Prime Day, that's hard to pass up. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/googles-pixel-buds-pro-2-are-cheaper-than-ever-for-prime-day-130038433.html?src=rss

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones are $100 off for Prime Day

The battle for overall wireless headphone supremacy is fiercely contested every year, but when it comes to banishing undesirable noise, Bose usually comes out on top. That was certainly the case when we pitted 2025s contenders for your cash against each other, and Boses QuietComfort Ultra took away the title of best noise-canceling headphones. And right now, the very same headphones are $100 off for Prime Day at $329. Note that this deal applies to the previous generation QuietComfort Ultra, rather than the refreshed second-gen model Bose has just announced. These offer improved battery life, ANC and audio performance, and they also support lossless audio over a wired USB-C connection for the first time. However, these headphones also cost $449 out of the gate, which is considerably more than the heavily slashed price of their predecessor. If you dont have to have the latest and greatest in every product line, the first-gen QuietComfort Ultra will be more than enough for the vast majority of people. They still offer exceptional noise-canceling, very good sound and a comfortable design. Boses Immersive Audio spatial sound feature can be a bit hit and miss, but with the right content it can be incredible. And while $329 is still a lot of money, $100 is a big saving on what were very recently the best Bose headphones you can buy. Click here for our rolling coverage of the best Prime Day 2025 deals, which well be updating as the event rolls on. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/the-bose-quietcomfort-ultra-headphones-are-100-off-for-prime-day-123043790.html?src=rss

Prime Day deals include the Google Pixel 9a for a new record low

At its typical $499, the Google Pixel 9a is Engadget's pick for the best mid-range phone . But when it's $150 off, you'll be hard-pressed to find a better deal on any piece of tech. Right now, you can get Google's budget-friendly phone for a record-low $349 thanks to Amazon Prime Day . The Pixel 9a may lack the cutting-edge sizzle of ultra-premium phones that cost triple what you'll pay here. But in return, you get strong performance, a sleek design, a robust battery that lasts over 28 hours and camera quality that rivals that of competitors costing $1,000 or more. The phone has a simple design with an aluminum frame and a recycled polycarbonate back. It has an IP68 rating for solid protection against dust and water. On the front, you have a spacious 6.3-inch OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate. The screen's brightness can reach an impressive 2,700 nits, matching the standard Pixel 9. Its resolution is a crisp 1080 x 2424 (422 PPI). In Engadget's tests , the Pixel 9a's camera preserved more details and produced a generally better-looking image than the Galaxy S25 Ultra's . (If you aren't familiar, that's a $1,300 phone.) The Pixel 9a does lack a dedicated telephoto lens. But Google has included the Super Res Zoom AI upscaling feature to help compensate for the loss. Amazon's deal includes all four colors available for the phone: obsidian, porcelain, peony and iris. There's no guarantee stock will last through all of October Prime Day , so you may want to consider pouncing soon if this deal is for you. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/prime-day-deals-include-the-google-pixel-9a-for-a-new-record-low-120044455.html?src=rss

Prime Day deals include the Beats Pill for only $80

Amazon Prime Day is officially here and bringing all-new low prices on some of our favorite speakers . That includes the Beats Pill, one of our picks for best portable Bluetooth speakers . Right now, you can get the Beats Pill for $80, down from $150. The 47 percent discount brings the speaker to $18 less than its July Prime Day price. Notably, like in July, only the Kim Kardashian branded version in light or dark grey is on sale. However, other than Kardashian holding the speaker in a product image, the devices are identical to other Beats Pills. Beats released the Pill in late 2024 after nearly a decade without a new portable speaker, and two years since it had discontinued the Pill+. We gave the 1.5-pound speaker an 83 in our review thanks to a huge increase in sound quality and double the battery (24 hours) of previous Beats speakers. It also offers lossless audio over USB-C, a durable build and IP67-rated water and dust resistance. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/prime-day-deals-include-the-beats-pill-for-only-80-114554645.html?src=rss

The Beats Studio Pro are on sale for $170 this Prime Day

Amazon Prime Day is upon us and that always means some steep discounts, including on headphones, so if you've been thinking about upgrading your audio, now's a good time to buy. Beats is running a sale on the high-end option from its line of wireless headphones. While the Beats Studio Pro normally retails for $250, it's going for just $170 during Prime Day. That's a hefty savings of $80, and close to a record-low price for the Beats Studio Pro, making this an attractive offer for the audiophiles. Apple-owned Beats refreshed these headphones in 2023. That update introduced some serious upgrades that listeners have come to expect for pro-tier headsets. The Beats Studio Pro improved active noise cancellation and added the very useful transparency mode. It also introduced spatial audio with dynamic head tracking for even more immersion when you're This model also supports USB-C wired audio and 3.5mm wired audio in addition to its wireless capabilities. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/the-beats-studio-pro-are-on-sale-for-170-this-prime-day-113043590.html?src=rss

The Morning After: The best Amazon Prime Day deals so far

If youre a Prime member or have a friend or family member who takes the hit for everyone elses benefit its time to grab a deal. Several of our most highly recommended products are now on sale for Prime Day and while most of these deals are exclusively for Prime members, there are always a few that anyone with an Amazon account can get. There are the usual suspects, of course: Roku TV sticks, AirTags and pretty much anything Amazon makes all have some heavy discounts. Weve highlighted the most notable discounts, but there are also significant savings on favorites, such as the Dyson V15 Detect stick vacuum (which I love), a random Lego Star Wars advent calendar a term that didn't exist 10 years ago and Apples AirPods 4. Based on previous Prime Days, more deals are likely to be announced during the morning, so keep your eyes on our main hub right here . Something thats tempting me? A $159 DJI drone . Mat Smith Get Engadget's newsletter delivered direct to your inbox. Subscribe right here! The news you might have missed Rabbit plots its redemption arc The best vlogging cameras Prime Day Apple deals include the iPad A16 for $280 Amazon Prime Day tech deals under $25: Save on Blink, Anker, Roku and Fire TV Why do AI data centers use so many resources? The AI boom introduced several kinds of wastefulness. AI data centers are causing massive strains on local resources, driving up water shortages and power demands. Why is that? The reliance on powerful, energy-hungry GPUs (graphics processing units) generates significantly more heat than traditional CPUs. Its less the processing and more the cooling that requires intensive water-guzzling evaporative systems. This has led to US data centers using more than double the amount of energy since 2018, with AI water consumption projected to hit 124 billion liters by 2028. There are some solutions, but the AI industrys energy demands continue to grow. Daniel Cooper examines what can be done. Continue reading. Nissan Leaf 2026 review Still the budget EV to beat. Engadget The third-gen Leaf is a pretty great upgrade, with the bigger miracle being how its stuck to the same $30,000 starting price as its predecessors. In his test drive, Devindra Hardawar loved the expansive infotainment screens as well as the solid driving performance and long range. It also has a more futuristic redesign. Continue reading. Dont buy an Echo Show (you can have mine) A billboard in your kitchen! Engadget Not everything from Amazons new hardware showcase or current sale bonanza is worth the investment. Take the Echo Show (the old one, not the two new devices teased last week). Amy Skorheim explains how her Show is now interrupting photo carousels with jarring advertising with increasing frequency. And theres no way to turn it off. Continue reading. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/general/the-morning-after-the-best-amazon-prime-day-deals-so-far-111603431.html?src=rss

This Ninja dual-zone air fryer is 30 percent off for Prime Day

Amazon Prime Day is officially here and there are deals running on everything from electronics to kitchen appliances. The latter includes a sale on Ninja's DZ302 10-quart Air Fryer with Dual Baskets , dropping its price from $230 to $160. The 30 percent discount brings the air fryer's price to just $10 more than its all-time low. The 10-quart Ninja DZ302 Air Fryer is a great investment for a lot of reasons, starting with its six settings. You can use it to air fry, air broil, bake, dehydrate, keep things warm and roast your food. Even better? It has two five-quart baskets that allow you to cook two different foods at two different settings. Also, despite it's capabilities, at under 15 inches, it doesn't take up too much counter top real estate (though it's probably too large for the smallest kitchens). The air fryer also comes with Ninja's Smart Finish feature, which ensures your two foods finish cooking at the same time. Plus, there's the Match Cook option which sets both baskets to the same instructions for when you're cooking one thing across both. Those two features are the main difference between the Ninja DZ302 and the 10-quart Ninja DZ401 Foodi our pick for best dual-zone air fryer . But, otherwise, the latter will give you a very similar device for $130. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/this-ninja-dual-zone-air-fryer-is-30-percent-off-for-prime-day-110026266.html?src=rss

One of our favorite slim Anker MagSafe power banks is down to a record low for Prime Day

Carrying around charging cables, adapters or even a bulky power bank defeats the purpose of traveling light. But now there are plenty of options for those who want a power bank as svelte as their phone even those who are investing in an iPhone Air . One of Anker's latest fits the bill: the Anker Nano 5K MagGo Slim power bank . Now, both Anker and Amazon are running sales on it for Amazon Prime Day , dropping the price from $55 to $40. The 27 percent discount a new low for the power bank and available in the black and white models. It's just about a third of an inch thick and attaches right to your iPhone. On that note, it works with any MagSafe compatible phone with a magnetic case. Anker's Nano 5K MagGo Slim is our pick for best, well, slim MagSafe power bank . It took two and a half hours to charge an iPhone 15 from 5 percent to 90 percent. However, it could boost the battery to 40 percent in just under an hour. Overall, though, the minimalist design and easy to grip matte texture, really sold it to us. Follow @EngadgetDeals on X for the latest tech deals and buying advice . This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/one-of-our-favorite-slim-anker-magsafe-power-banks-is-down-to-a-record-low-for-prime-day-121512227.html?src=rss

The Sonos Era 100 speaker is down to $179 for Prime Day

The well-regarded Sonos Era 100 speaker is on sale for $179 as part of the Amazon Prime Day festivities . This is a discount of around $40, as the typical price is $219. The deal is available for both the black and white colorways. We reviewed the Era 100 and came away impressed, saying that it provides affordable multi-room audio that actually sounds good. This model replaced the Sonos One speaker and it's an improvement on that design in every major way. The sound quality is great and it gets plenty loud for get-togethers and the like. The design is simple and attractive and there's both Bluetooth and line-in support. It includes built-in mics for Trueplay tuning and works with just about every music streaming service. It's a good little speaker. While it's easy to recommend this unit, there are a couple of little caveats. It doesn't offer voice support for Google Assistant, though it does integrate with Alexa and the company's proprietary voice assistant. Also, this is a single speaker so there's no real stereo separation. The company is also discounting the Beam 2 soundbar from $463 all the way down to $370. That's a savings of nearly $100. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/the-sonos-era-100-speaker-is-down-to-179-for-prime-day-103041817.html?src=rss

Prime Day Lego deals: Get up to 30 percent off Star Wars and Super Mario sets

October Prime Day is here, and Amazon is awash with discounts to consider. Amazon uses October Prime Day to kickstart the holiday shopping season even if you haven't even thought about the holidays yet, you should give the latest Prime Day Lego deals a look. A number of Lego sets from the Super Mario and Star Wars collections are already on sale for up to 30 percent off. When shopping for Lego sets on Amazon, we highly recommend checking a price tracker like Keepa or CamelCamelCamel before buying. It's not difficult to find Lego sets on sale at Amazon, but often those discounted prices have been around for a long time. We've clocked deals in which the sale price has been available for months already, going back as far as late spring and early summer 2025. Here, we're mostly highlighting discounts on new Lego sets, recent price drops and record-low (and close to them) prices on popular Lego sets from franchises like Star Wars, Super Mario and others. Best Amazon Prime Day Lego deals Lego Star Wars Advent Calendar 2025 75418 for $31 (30 percent off) Lego Minecraft Advent Calendar 2025 21280 for $38 (16 percent off) Lego Harry Potter Advent Calendar 2025 76456 for $38 (16 percent off) Lego Classic Medium Creative Brick Box 10696 for $18 (49 percent off) Lego Classic Vibrant Creative Brick Box Building Blocks 11038 for $42 (30 percent off) Lego Star Wars Brick-Built Star Wars Logo set 75407 for $50 (17 percent off) Lego Star Wars Spider Tank Building Toy 75361 for $35 (30 percent off) Lego Star Wars R2-D2 set 75379 for $80 (20 percent off) Lego Star Wars Ahsoka Ghost and Phantom II Spaceship Toy 75357 for $112 (30 percent off) Lego Super Mario: Mario Kart Donkey Kong & DK Jumbo set 72033 for $28 (19 percent off) Lego Super Mario World: Mario & Yoshi Building set 71438 for $104 (20 percent off) Lego Technic Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 Toy Car 42138 for $35 (30 percent off) Lego Creator 3 in 1 Forest Animals Red Fox Toys 31154 for $35 (30 percent off) Lego Botanicals Bouquet of Roses 10328 for $48 (20 percent off) Lego City F1 Garage & Mercedes-AMG & Alpine Cars set 60444 for $64 (20 percent off) Lego Ideas A-Frame Cabin Building Set 21338 for $126 (30 percent off) Lego Brick Tile backpack for $50 (29 percent off) This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/prime-day-lego-deals-get-up-to-30-percent-off-star-wars-and-super-mario-sets-121513345.html?src=rss

Amazon Prime Day tech deals under $25: Save on Blink, Anker, Roku and Fire TV

You dont have to spend a lot of money to take part in Amazons latest Prime Day Sale . Everything listed here is currently going for less than $25 and includes tech like speakers, mice, smart plugs, cables, wall adapters and power banks that fall below that price point. And these arent just any products with a pulse we pulled these from Engadgets buying guides , gift recommendations and reviews so its all stuff weve tested and currently recommend. Prime Day has always been a good time to stock up on small essentials, and this time around is no different. Here are the best tech deals for Prime Day that cost less than $25. The best Prime Day deals under $25 Blink Mini 2 security camera for $20 ($20 off) : This is the top budget pick in our guide to the best security cameras . The Mini 2 is a great option for indoor monitoring or you can put it outside with a weatherproof adapter , but since it needs to be plugged in, we like it for keeping an eye on your pets while you're away and watching over entry ways from the inside. Samsung EVO Select microSD card (128GB) for $13 ($4 off) : This Samsung card has been one of our recommended models for a long time. It's a no-frills microSD card that, while not the fastest, will be perfectly capable in most devices where you're just looking for simple, expanded storage. The larger-capacity 256GB model is on sale for $23 , but the 128GB is a better gigs-to-dollars deal. Jisulife Life7 handheld fan for $23 ($6 off with Prime) : This handy little fan is a must-have if you live 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 shows its remaining battery level. Amazon Fire TV Stick HD for $19 ($16 off) : Heres what we named the best budget streaming stick . At a price this low and only an HD resolution, you shouldnt expect a premium picture, but if you just want a quick way to get your streaming apps up and running on a basic screen, this will do the thing. Roku Streaming Stick HD for $18 ($12 off) : If you dont care about 4K (or your screen resolution isnt that high anyway) you can still get the same simple-to-use Roku OS that we liked in our guid e with this device. The best thing about Roku devices is the access to all the free content and this is an affordable way to get it. Ring Indoor Cam for $25 ($25 off) : While we thought the Blink Mini 2 was a better overall indoor camera in our guide , we do like the Ring app, which is ideal for beginners. Plus you get access to the Ring Neighbors app which is a fascinating glimpse into your neighborhoods Ring-captured events. Echo Pop smart speaker for $25 ($15 off) : The half sphere Pop is the most affordable Echo speaker in Amazons lineup. The sound wont be as full as its larger siblings, but will do a fine job of bringing Alexas help to smaller rooms. Just note that it went as low as $18 for Black Friday and October Prime Day last year. JLab Go Air Pop+ for $17.49 ($12 off) : JLab earbuds pop up in a few of our guides including the best running headphones and best budget buds . The Pop+ earbuds are smaller and lighter than the previous model, and the apps preset EQ modes let you customize your sound. Total battery life with the case comes in at more than 35 hours. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/amazon-prime-day-tech-deals-under-25-save-on-blink-anker-roku-and-fire-tv-084136589.html?src=rss

Anker's latest Prime charging devices are up to 27 percent off for Prime Day

Anker has a bunch of new Prime charging devices available and some of them are already getting solid discounts . The lineup includes a laptop-compatible Prime Power Bank (26,250mAh, 300W) . Prime members can currently get $60 off the portable battery, bringing it down to $170. This portable charger delivers a whopping 300W of total output between its two USB-C ports and single USB-A port. Anker says that, thanks to its 140W output (and if you're using a 5A cable), you can top up the battery of an M4 Pro MacBook Pro to 50 percent in 27 minutes and an iPhone 17 Pro Max to 50 percent in 22 minutes. You can keep tabs on what's happening on each port using the display. This is also the first Anker power bank that supports up to 250W of input recharging by using both USB-C ports simultaneously. This faster charging can top up the powerbank's own battery to 50 percent in just 13 minutes, according to Anker. This model has a capacity of 26,250mAh (99.75Wh), which is very close to the FAA's limit of 100W. It's TSA-approved, so you'll be able to take it on flights. It's capable of taking an M4 MacBook Pro from fully dead to an 80 percent charge. The power bank weighs 1.3 lbs the same as about three iPhones, Anker says. Other Anker Prime devices are on sale too. A new 3-in-1 MagSafe charger which can top up the batteries of your iPhone, Apple Watch and AirPods with wireless charging case simultaneously also has a $58 discount to $172 . While there are certainly less expensive 3-in-1 MagSafe options out there, this one includes Qi2 25W support for faster charging, as well as TEC active cooling. Anker suggests this can help speed up charging times and help guard against iPhone battery degradation over time. A three-port GaN Prime Charger that plugs into an outlet is $40 off too, now down to $110. Anker says it's as compact as an AirPods Pro 3 case and can provide a total output of 160W, with up to 140W via a single USB-C cable. The charger is said to offer smart power distribution, and you can monitor what's happening and adjust modes via an onboard display and controls. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/ankers-latest-prime-charging-devices-are-up-to-27-percent-off-for-prime-day-152040343.html?src=rss

Get 40 percent off this Roomba robot vacuum for Prime Day

The iRobot Roomba 104 robot vacuum is on sale for $150 for October's Prime Day . That's a nice little discount of 40 percent, which represents a savings of $100. This is a newer version of the unit that topped our list of the best budget robot vacuums . It's an entry-level robovac that gets the job done. The cleaning motor is fairly powerful and it ships with a multi-surface brush and an edge-sweeping brush. The vacuum uses LiDAR to map a home and to help it avoid obstacles when cleaning. It's also been equipped with specialized sensors to prevent falling down stairs. Steps are the natural enemy of all robot vacuums, except maybe this one . The Roomba 104 integrates with the company's proprietary app, which allows for custom cleaning schedules and the like. The robot can also be controlled via voice assistant and boasts compatibility with Siri, Alexa and Google Assistant. The vacuum will automatically head to the charger for some juice when running low, which is nice. The battery lasts around 200 minutes per charge, which is a decent enough metric for a budget-friendly robovac. The only downside here? This is just a vacuum. It doesn't mop and it doesn't come with a dedicated debris canister. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/get-40-percent-off-this-roomba-robot-vacuum-for-prime-day-164953827.html?src=rss

Get $200 off the Samsung Galaxy S25 for Prime Day

It's not as flashy as the Galaxy Z Fold 7 , but Samsung Galaxy S25 still gets you a great smartphone experience, just in a more traditional package. If you want to see for yourself, during Prime Day , you can get a Samsung Galaxy S25 for $660, $200 off its normal price and close to the phone's lowest price to date. The Galaxy S25 is a mix of old and new. The phone largely looks like the Galaxy S24 , but comes in new colors and a slightly thinner frame. It uses the same bright 6.2-inch, 120Hz AMOLED screen, but is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite chip. You're stuck with the same 50-megapixel wide, 12MP ultra-wide and a 10MP 3x telephoto, but the phone (sort of) supports Qi2, if you're willing to add on a case. The list goes on, but what matters, based on Engadget's review of the smartphone, is that battery life is long and Samsung seems to be delivering on the promise of smartphone AI features. In terms of battery life, the Galaxy S24 already started out strong at around 24 hours, but the Galaxy S25 goes a good bit past that with an additional four hours. That gives you more time for calls or watching videos one of the tangible benefits of a power-efficient 3nm Qualcomm chip. That performance also shines when it comes with AI. Samsung offers its own collection of Galaxy AI features, like the less-than-useful Now Brief and AI photo editing, but it's also just a good vehicle for Gemini. Google debuted the ability for Gemini to take action across on-device apps and services on the Galaxy S25, and it works well. At $800, a Galaxy S25 that largely carries over the features and components of the S24 isn't necessarily appealing. But for $200 off for Prime Day, and a guaranteed 256GB of base storage, purchasing Samsung's cheapest Galaxy S25 starts to make a lot more sense. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/get-200-off-the-samsung-galaxy-s25-for-prime-day-100037363.html?src=rss

Prime Day Apple deals include the AirPods 4 for only $90

If you prefer open-ear AirPods but still have an older model, this deal could be worth noting. Amazon's October Prime Day has the AirPods 4 on sale for $90, or 30 percent off their usual price. That's also the lowest we've seen them. When Apple updated its standard AirPods in 2024, it released two models: one with active noise cancellation (ANC) and one without. We consider the non-ANC models to be the best budget AirPods you can get, so they're an even better buy at this sale price. The ANC versions are also discounted at the moment, so you can pick them up for $120 instead of the usual $180. The AirPods' H2 chip brings a bunch of Pro-adjacent features to the standard model. That list includes Adaptive Audio, Conversation Awareness, Transparency, Personalized Spatial Audio and wireless charging. For calls, it supports Voice Isolation, which helps filter out background noise and make it easier for you to be heard. And if that call is via FaceTime, it supports Apple's 48kHz cinema-quality audio. Sound is improved over the AirPods 3. There's more low-end tone than the previous model right out of the gate, and the punchier treble opens the sound stage so it's wider and more immersive, Engadget's Billy Steele wrote . The improved frequency response is on full display with Dolby Atmos content (movies, music, and TV), but the AirPods 4 are also more sonically adept with non-spatial tunes and video. You can expect around five hours of battery life on a single charge. With the ANC model, that estimate drops to around four hours with the marquee feature activated. With either version, you can drop them in the charging case to extend their total time to around 30 hours. And hey, it's good to give your ears a rest now and then anyway. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/prime-day-apple-deals-include-the-airpods-4-for-only-90-130033004.html?src=rss

The best Prime Day speaker deals: JBL, Bose, Ultimate Ears and more

We're always ready to argue that high-quality speakers are a worthwhile investment, adding new dimensions to music and dialogue that make any kind of entertainment more enjoyable. That said, they're not exactly cheap. That's why our staff audiophiles get so excited whenever Prime Day rolls around it's an ideal time to sift through Amazon for bargains on the best smart speakers , soundbars and portable bluetooth speakers . This October Prime Day, our list of the best deals includes brands like Anker, Bose, JBL, Amazon Echo and more. So if you're ready to hear when your favorite TV actors are scratching themselves, let's get started. Best Prime Day bluetooth speaker deals JBL Xtreme 3 for $209 (36 percent off): Like the Xtreme 2, the JBL Xtreme 3 is a hefty bluetooth speaker with a 15-hour battery life and the ability to chain together with other JBL speakers. But don't fret if you've only got one even on its own, we've found the Xtreme 3's 100-watt output manages to sound both crisp and deep in any space. JBL Flip 6 for $100 (23 percent off): The JBL Flip 6 is a solid choice for an all-around bluetooth speaker, performing well in any room or on the go. It sounds good at almost any frequency and volume, runs for 12 hours on a single charge and is nearly impossible to damage with falls, dust or water. JBL Go 3 for $25 (37 percent off): The JBL Go 3 is a decent and highly affordable carabiner speaker for all your outdoor adventures as is its sister product, the Go 3 Eco, which is made from recycled materials. It's obviously not the most powerful speaker at 4.2 watts, but it has a surprisingly good functional range. Plus, the design looks good on any belt or backpack. Ultimate Ears Miniroll for $50 (37 percent off): Miniroll is the smallest speaker from Ultimate Ears , but it punches far above its weight, starting with UE's trademark massive volume buttons. While small enough to fit in a jeans pocket, its combination of a driver and radiator manages about 85 decibels. A Miniroll can run for about 12 hours on a single charge. Ultimate Ears Boom 4 for $100 (33 percent off): The UE Boom 4 is a balanced speaker that does well anywhere. Take it camping (it's waterproof and a charge lasts for 15 hours), to a party (it puts out loud 360 degree sound) or make it part of a permanent home system by chaining it with other UE speakers one of these plus two Minirolls or Wonderbooms would come pretty close to full surround sound. Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 4 for $70 (30 percent off): The Wonderboom 4 may be our favorite UE product. At just 1.2 pounds, it can pump out mighty sound on its own, or chain with other UE speakers for a deeper full-range experience. USB charging is simple and lasts for 14 hours between top-ups. Ultimate Ears Everboom for $231 (15 percent off): The Everboom is the middle ground of the UE line, with more powerful output than the Wonderboom and more portability than the Hyperboom. Its 360 degree sound pairs with an Outdoor Boost feature to work better outside, though it isn't quite as impressive in the middle ranges. Bose SoundLink Flex for $99 (33 percent off): We've rarely seen the Bose SoundLink Flex this cheap, so now is the time to snap up this high-fidelity outdoor speaker. It's small enough to carry in one hand and can be operated from up to 30 feet away via the Bose Connect app. We've also found it simple and fun to use for hands-free phone calls during breaks in the music. Bose SoundLink Revolve+ for $179 (40 percent off): The SoundLink Revolve+ line, Bose's original upright 360-degree speakers, continue to pack a punch. This current model features a 17-hour battery life, IP55 water resistance and the ability to connect to a smart speaker to extend your virtual assistant's range. Bose SoundLink Max for $299 (25 percent off): The Bose SoundLink Max may put you in mind of a classic boombox, with its detachable handle and thudding base. But inside it's all modern, with a 50-watt output, an effective range of 52.6Hz and a 20-hour rechargeable battery. It even comes with a 3.5mm AUX input to connect to a turntable, if you really want to embrace your inner 90s DJ. Beats Pill for $100 (33 percent off): We gave the revived Beats Pill a full review last year, and we stand by our opinion that it was worth waiting for. Its newly enlarged subwoofer delivers much more powerful bass that sounds clean and lossless even over USB-C. The latest Pill also travels well, with 24 hours of battery life and IP67 waterproofing. Marshall Emberton II for $100 (44 percent off): Marshall, the old warhorse of the audio world, continues to crush it with the portable and bluetooth-ready Emberton II. Although it looks like an antique, it's anything but, with 360-degree sound and over 30 hours of battery life from a single charge all weighing a little more than a quarter of a pound. Best Prime Day smart speaker deals Amazon Echo Dot 5th Generation for $35 (30 percent off): The Echo Dot, our favorite smart speaker under $50 , is now...even farther under $50. Despite being small enough to fit on a cluttered bookshelf, the Dot pumps out high-quality sound that can fill a room, and comes equipped with physical buttons to supplement Alexa's voice command interface. Amazon Echo Pop for $25 (38 percent off): The Echo Pop is Amazon's smallest and cheapest smart speaker, resembling an Echo Dot sliced in half. It's a little quiet, and probably best for extending Alexa's range rather than serving as the primary host for your virtual assistant. In a smaller room, though, this is as convenient and clear-sounding as any other Echo you'll use. Best Prime Day soundbar deals JBL Bar 9.1 for $700 (41 percent off): JBL designed the 9.1 soundbar for Dolby Atmos, and the results speak for themselves, with 820 watts of booming audio. The best thing about this soundbar is the pair of detachable wireless speakers you can place around your viewing room to make the sound even more surround. JBL Bar 300 for $250 (37 percent off): The Bar 300, part of JBL's 2023 soundbar explosion , is a mighty yet cheap soundbar with an integrated subwoofer. Despite being small, it manages to create a theatrical experience by working both Dolby Atmos and MultiBeam. Its voice sharpening algorithm is especially good at making dialogue clearer (for those of us who always have to put on the subtitles). JBL Bar 700 for $500 (44 percent off): Another 2023 drop, the JBL Bar 700 upgrades the Bar 300 by adding detachable wireless speakers for true 360-degree sound. While it costs twice as much as the 300, that money gets you more than four times the output, as the 700 tops out at 620 watts and thanks to a 10-inch subwoofer, you'll feel all of it. Amazon Fire TV Soundbar Plus for $150 (40 percent off): One of the cheapest soundbars you'll ever see, the Fire TV Soundbar Plus provides a noticeable boost to your TV's audio quality, even if it doesn't reach Dolby Atmos heights. It's simple, but that makes it a breeze to set up all you have to do is plug in one HDMI cable. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/audio/speakers/the-best-prime-day-speaker-deals-jbl-bose-ultimate-ears-and-more-070038290.html?src=rss

The Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones are $20 off for Prime Day

October Prime Day has Engadget's favorite wireless headphones on sale. You can get Sony's excellent WH-1000XM6 for $20 off. While that's far from the steepest tech discount you'll see this week, it's a record low for this product. (After all, Sony only launched the XM6 in March, so this is still new gear.) You can get them today for $430. The WH-1000XM6 takes a leap forward in sound quality, active noise cancellation (ANC) and other features. Our audio reviewer, Billy Steele, called them the best headphones you can buy right now . The crown is safe once again, he wrote. Sony has managed to overhaul its flagship headphones in all the right ways that keep the 1000X line atop our best headphones list. The XM6 has a powerful new chip, the QN3, that unlocks much of its potential. Sony also developed new drivers for this model, resulting in richer details, clearer vocals and a better overall balance. The headphones added four extra microphones to enhance ANC. The XM6 is especially improved at blocking out voices. If you're a fan of spatial effects, which simulate a wider soundstage, Sony added that for this generation. The (optional) 360 Spatial Sound feature transforms regular stereo content into something with a surround-sound effect. It's similar to what Apple and Bose have in their models. It's yet another audio effect option in Sony's app, alongside 360 Reality Audio and DSEE Extreme upscaling. The headphones are no slouch in the battery life department. The XM6 is rated for up to 30 hours with ANC on and up to 40 hours with it off. In Engadget's testing, we had no problem hitting those advertised figures. If you'd rather save more money for a lesser (but still great) pair of cans, Sony's last-gen model is also on sale. You can get the WH-1000XM5 for $100 off. The 2022 flagship headphones offer premium sound, ANC, and battery life. Typically $400, you can get them during October Prime Day for $300. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/the-sony-wh-1000xm6-headphones-are-20-off-for-prime-day-094527714.html?src=rss

Prime Day Kindle deals include the Colorsoft for a record-low $200

Prime Day is usually a good opportunity to snag deals on Amazon's own product lines, and this event is no exception. Amazon is currently offering some noteworthy discounts on its collection of ereaders. The standout is the Kindle Colorsoft , which is on sale for $200. That's a $50 savings on the 16GB model and a record low price for this product. The cost was one of the only real detractions we found in our review of Amazon's long-awaited color screen ereader, which has a bunch of nice features. The warm light of the screen is adjustable so that you can read easily in different lighting conditions, and there are no ads on the lock screen. If you're reading a lot of comics or manga, you'll likely appreciate both the color screen and the Colorsoft's pinch-to-zoom feature. Amazon says the Colorsoft can last up to eight weeks on a single battery charge, and it's waterproof in case you want to bring it to the beach or the pool (or if you just don't want to risk ruining it if you knock over your water bottle). Colorsoft isn't the only Amazon ereader that's on sale for Prime Day. The standard Kindle model is currently available for $85, down from its usual $110 cost. You can also pick up a Kindle Paperwhite for $125, discounted from $160. Both of these options made our ranking of the best ereaders , with the Kindle winning our recommendation for an entry-level option and the Kindle Paperwhite impressing us as the best premium pick. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/prime-day-kindle-deals-include-the-colorsoft-for-a-record-low-200-093010883.html?src=rss

This Dyson cordless vacuum is 44 percent off for Prime Day

If you've been eyeing a new Dyson vacuum but balking at their typically high price tags, Prime Day is the perfect day to make a move. You can get a Dyson V8 Plus for 44 percent off for Prime Day, bringing the powerful handheld vacuum down to $300, its lowest price to date. The Dyson V8 Plus is the same basic vacuum as the original V8, just with a wider selection of accessories that should ideally make it even more essential to your cleaning routine. The Dyson V8 Plus has 115AW of suction, and a 40-minute run time that should give you more than enough flexibility to clean a small home or apartment. Dyson also says the vacuum's filter can capture 99.9 percent of dust, particles and allergens. Like some of Dyson's other stick vacuums, the Dyson V8 Plus can work in handheld mode when you need to get in the crevices of couch cushions or shelves. It's also designed to easily empty dust and debris directly into a trash can without having to unscrew its filter. In terms of accessories, purchasing the V8 Plus gets you the main Motorbar cleaner head, a hair screw attachment for untangling long hairs, a mini soft dusting brush for sweeping off flat surfaces and a crevice tool for getting into small spaces. The Dyson V8 Plus, while good, isn't on Engadget's best cordless vacuums list , but a pick from the list is on sale for Prime Day. You can get the Dyson V15 Detect Plus for $570 during Amazon's sale, a not insignificant discount on a vacuum that's typically sold for more than $800. The Dyson V15 Detect Plus offers 240AW of suction in comparison to the V8 Plus' 115AW, and it can run for 60 minutes on a single charge, giving you even more time to clean. You'll also get more accessories in comparison to Dyson's other vacuum. On top of the usual suspects like the hair screw tool and the mini dusting brush, the V15 Detect Plus also supports the company's Fluffy Optic cleaner head, which uses a built-in light to reveal hidden dust and hair. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/this-dyson-cordless-vacuum-is-44-percent-off-for-prime-day-090036877.html?src=rss

The 6 best air fryers for 2025, tested and reviewed

Youve probably been tempted to jump on the air-fryer bandwagon in recent months and, if you have not yet taken the plunge, were here to help. Like the ubiquitous Instant Pot that came before it, air fryers have surged in popularity as of late, promising extra crispy foods of all kinds without the mess and danger of a big vat of hot oil. These small appliances come in all shapes and sizes now and they can be a versatile addition to your kitchen, so long as you know what they are (and arent) capable of. For those who are still deciding on which kind of air fryer is right for them, our guide can demystify the space for you and highlight some of the best air fryers you can get right now. Our current favorite is the Instant Vortex Plus air fryer , but there are a number of others we like that may better suit your lifestyle. Table of contents What does an air fryer do? Best air fryers for 2025 Buying guide for air fryers Air fryer pros and cons Best air fryer accessories How to clean an air fryer How to find air fryer recipes How we test air fryers What does an air fryer do? Lets clear one thing up first: its not frying. Not really. Air fryers are more like smaller convection bake ovens, ones that are often pod-shaped. Most work by combining a heating element and fan, which means the hot air can usually better crisp the outside of food than other methods. They often reach higher top temperatures than toaster ovens which is part of the appeal. For most recipes, a thin layer of oil (usually sprayed) helps to replicate that fried look and feel better. However, it will rarely taste precisely like the deep-fried or pan frying version when it comes out of the air fryer basket. Dont let that put you off, though, because the air fryer, in its many forms, combines some of the best parts of other cooking processes and brings them together into an energy-efficient way of air fryer cooking dinner. Or breakfast. Or lunch. Read more: Weve also rounded up the best pizza ovens and the best sous vide machines . Best air fryers for 2025 Buying guide for air fryers Convection ovens You can separate most of these machines into two types of air fryers, and each has different pros and cons. Convection ovens are usually ovens with air fryer functions and features. They might have higher temperature settings to ensure that food crisps and cooks more like actually fried food. Most convection ovens are larger than dedicated air fryers, defeating some of the purpose of those looking to shrink cooking appliance surface area. Still, they are often more versatile with multiple cooking functions, and most have finer controls for temperatures, timings and even fan speed. You may never need a built-in oven if you have a decent convection oven. They often have the volume to handle roasts, entire chickens or tray bakes, and simply cook more, capacity-wise, making them more versatile than the pod-shaped competition. The flip side of that is that youll need counter space in the kitchen to house them. It also means you can use traditional oven accessories, like baking trays or cake tins, that you might already own. Pod-shaped air fryers Pod-shaped air fryers are what you imagine when you think air fryer. They look like a cool, space-age kitchen gadget, bigger than a kettle but smaller than a toaster oven. Many use a drawer to hold ingredients while cooking, usually a mesh sheet or a more solid, non-stick tray with holes to allow the hot air to circulate. With a few exceptions, most require you to open the drawer while things cook and flip or shake half-cooked items to ensure the even distribution of heat and airflow to everything. Thats one of a few caveats. This type of air fryer typically doesn't have a window to see how things are cooking (with only a few exceptions), so youll need to closely scrutinize things as they cook, opening the device to check progress. Basket-style air fryers also generally use less energy theres less space to heat and many have parts that can be put directly into a dishwasher. Some of the larger pod-shaped air fryers offer two separate compartments, which is especially useful for anyone planning to cook an entire meal with the appliance. You could cook a couple of tasty chicken wings or tenders while simultaneously rustling up enough frozen fries or veggies for everyone. Naturally, those options take up more space, and theyre usually heavy enough to stop you from storing them in cupboards or shelves elsewhere. As mentioned earlier, you might have to buy extra things to make these pod fryers work the way you want them to. Some of the bigger manufacturers, like Philips and Ninja, offer convenient additions, but youll have to pay for them. Air fryer pros and cons Beyond the strengths and weaknesses of individual models, air fryers are pretty easy to use from the outset. Most models come with a convenient cooking time booklet covering most of the major foods youll be air frying, so even beginners can master these machines. One of the early selling points is the ability to cook fries, wings, frozen foods and other delights with less fat than other methods like deep frying, which gets foods the crispiest. As air fryers work by circulating heated air, the trays and cooking plates have holes that can also let oil and fat drain out of meats, meaning less fat and crisper food when you finally plate things up. For most cooking situations, you will likely need to lightly spray food with vegetable oil. If you dont, theres the chance that things will burn or char. The oil will keep things moist on the surface, and we advise refreshing things with a dash of oil spray when you turn items during cooking. Most air fryers are easy to clean especially in comparison to a shallow or deep fryer. Well get into cleaning guidance a little later. With a smaller space to heat, air fryers are generally more energy-efficient for cooking food than larger appliances like ovens. And if you dont have an oven, air fryers are much more affordable especially the pod options. There are, however, some drawbacks. While air fryers are easy enough to use, they take time to master. You will adjust cooking times for even the simplest types of food like chicken nuggets, frozen French fries or brussels sprouts. If youre the kind of person that loves to find inspiration from the internet, in our experience, you can pretty much throw their timings out of the window. There are a lot of air fryer options, and factors like how fast they heat and how well distributed that heat is can and will affect cooking. Theres also a space limitation to air fryers. This is not a TARDIS theres simply less space than most traditional ovens and many deep fat fryers. If you have a bigger family, youll probably want to go for a large capacity air fryer possibly one that has multiple cooking areas. You also might want to consider a different kitchen appliance, like a multicooker, sous vide or slow cooker to meet your specific cooking needs. You may also struggle to cook many items through as the heat settings will cook the surface of dishes long before its cooked right through. If youre planning to cook a whole chicken or a roast, please get a meat thermometer! Best air fryer accessories Beyond official accessories from the manufacturer, try to pick up silicone-tipped tools. Tongs are ideal, as is a silicon spatula to gently loosen food that might get stuck on the sides of the air fryer. These silicone mats will also help stop things from sticking to the wire racks on some air fryers. They have holes to ensure the heated air is still able to circulate around the food. Silicone trivets are also useful for resting any cooked food on while you sort out the rest of the meal. And if you find yourself needing oil spray, but dont feel like repeatedly buying tiny bottles, you can decant your favorite vegetable oil into a permanent mister like this. How to clean an air fryer Were keeping clean up simple here. Yes, you could use power cleaners from the grocery store, they could damage the surface of your air fryer. Likewise, metal scourers or brushes could strip away the non-stick coating. Remember to unplug the device and let it cool completely. Remove the trays, baskets and everything else from inside. If the manufacturer says the parts are dishwasher safe and you have a dishwasher the job is pretty much done. Otherwise, hand wash each part in a mixture of warm water, with a splash of Dawn or another strong dish soap. Use a soft-bristled brush to pull away any crumbs, greasy deposits or bits of food stuck to any surfaces. Remember to rinse everything. Otherwise, your next batch of wings could have a mild Dawn aftertaste. Trust us. Take a microfiber cloth and tackle the outer parts and handles that might also get a little messy after repeated uses. This is especially useful for oven-style air fryers use the cloth to wipe down the inner sides. If Dawn isnt shifting oily stains, try mixing a small amount of baking soda with enough water to make a paste, and apply that so that it doesnt seep into any electrical parts or the heating element. Leave it to work for a few seconds before using a damp cloth to pull any greasy spots away. Rinse out the cloth and wipe everything down again, and you should be ready for the next time you need to air fry. How to find air fryer recipes Beyond fries, nuggets and a revelation frozen gyoza, there are a few ways to find recipes for air-fried foods. First, we found that the air fryer instruction manuals often have cooking guides and recipe suggestions for you to test out in your new kitchen gadget. The good thing with these is that they were made for your air fryer model, meaning success should be all but guaranteed. They are often a little unimaginative, however. Many of the top recipe sites and portals have no shortage of air fryer recipes, and theres no harm in googling your favorite cuisine and adding the words air fryer on the end of the search string. Weve picked up some reliable options from Delish , which also has a handy air fryer time converter for changing oven and traditional fryer recipes. BBC Good Food is also worth browsing for some simple ideas, as is NYT Cooking , with the ability to directly search for air fryer suggestions. Aside from that, you can also grab plenty of cookbooks from your local bookshop with lots of recipes that you can use in your favorite air fryer. And if you have a killer recipe or unique use for your air fryer, let us know in the comments. Whats the air fryer equivalent of the Instant Pot cheesecake? Were ready to try it. How we test air fryers We put each air fryer we test through its paces by cooking a variety of foods in it including raw proteins like fish and chicken, raw vegetables like potatoes and cauliflower and frozen snacks like mozzarella sticks. We attempt to use each cooking method that the machine has pre-programmed, and when possible, follow a couple of recipes in any provided recipe booklets that come with the air fryer. We also clean the cooking basket and all other removable components as many times as possible, and will put those components into a dishwasher if they claim to be dishwasher-safe. We also make note of how loud the machine is when using different cooking settings and how warm the surrounding area becomes. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/home/kitchen-tech/best-air-fryers-133047180.html?src=rss

The best Amazon deals on Kindles, Echo speakers, Fire TV devices and more for Prime Day

Amazons own gadgets Echo speakers, Fire tablets, Kindles and the like are at the top of the list of tech on sale during October Prime Day . While there are some (Echos, Kindles) that we like more than others (Fire tablets), theres no question that youll get the best discount on all Amazon tech during Prime Day. The online retail giant typically discounts all of its in-house-made gear for Prime Day, and this year is no different. Here, weve collected all of the best October Prime Day deals on Amazon gear so you dont have to go searching for them. Prime Day Kindle deals Kindle Kids for $95 ($35 off): This is the same device as the base Kindle, but it becomes more kid-friendly thanks to the included cover, two-year warranty and the included year of Amazon Kids+ , which gives children ages 3-12 access to hundreds of appropriate ebooks and audiobooks. Just be sure to take note when you activate that subscription because it will renew after one year at the standard $6/month rate. Kindle Paperwhite for $125 ($35 off): The latest version of the Paperwhite has a seven-inch display, thinner bezels, an adjustable warm light, speedier page turns and a battery that can last up to 12 weeks on a single charge. This model is also IPX8 waterproof and has built-in Audible integration. Kindle Colorsoft for $200 ($50 off): Amazon's only color e-reader has a seven-inch, high-contrast display, an auto-adjusting front light, a color highlighting feature and an eight-week battery life. Kindle Scribe for $300 ($100 off): The Scribe is one of the best E-Ink tablets you can buy at the moment, and certainly the top pick if you want a writable table that also excels as an ereader. It provides a great reading and writing experience, thanks in part to its ability to access the entire Kindle ebook library, and it has handy Google Drive, Microsoft OneDrive and Dropbox integration. Prime Day Echo deals Echo Pop speaker for $25 (38 percent off): One of the newer Echo devices available, the Pop it sports a 1.95-inch front-facing speaker and a physical mic mute switch for extra privacy. The Pop also has built-in eero compatibility, so it can extend the area of your home Wi-Fi network if you already have an eero router system. Echo Dot speaker for $35 (30 percent off): One of the smallest Echo speakers, this version of the Dot has improved audio and a compact design that will fit almost anywhere. You'll control it mostly with Alexa voice commands, but there are a few onboard buttons, including a mic-off button for when you need more privacy. Echo Show 5 for $55 (39 percent off): This model is one of our favorite smart displays thanks to its compact design, ambient light sensor and sunrise alarm feature, all of which make it an excellent smart alarm clock. Amazon improved the speaker quality on this latest model, which gives sound deeper bass and clearer vocals. Echo Show 8 for $100 (33 percent off): This is our current top pick for the best smart display with Amazons Alexa thanks in part to its 8-inch touchscreen, 13MP camera that supports auto-framing for better video chats and its built-in Zigbee smart home hub. The 2023 model supports Visual ID, which will show personalized information on the devices display depending on whos using it, and video streaming from Netflix, Hulu, Prime Video and other services. Prime Day Fire TV deals Fire TV Stick 4K for $25 (50 percent off): This is the cheapest Fire TV Stick you can get to stream 4K content, plus it has support for Wi-Fi 6 and Dolby Vision and Atmos. With its live picture-in-picture feature, you can view security camera feeds right on your TV while youre watching your favorite show or movie. Fire TV Stick 4K Max for $40 (33 percent off): In addition to 4K HDR streaming with Dolby Vision and Atmos support, the 4K Max dongle includes Wi-Fi 6E connectivity, 16GB of built-in storage and live picture-in-picture capabilities. It also supports the Fire TV ambient experience, which lets you display photos and images on your TV screen when youre not actively watching something. Fire TV Cube streaming box for $100 (29 percent off): This model will provide the best performance of any Fire TV streaming device, and it supports 4K HDR content, Dolby Vision and Atmos and an enhanced version of the Alexa Voice Remote. Along with live picture-in-picture view and the Fire TV ambient experience, you can also hardware other devices to the Fire TV Cube including a cable box or a game console. Prime Day Fire tablet deals Fire HD 8 tablet for $55 (45 percent off): This is Amazon's most bare-bones tablet, featuring an eight-inch HD touchscreen, hexa-core processor and 13 hours of battery life. The improvements in the screen quality alone from the old-school Fire 7 tablet make it a better buy for most people, and this slab would make a good couch device for general web browsing, email checking, online shopping and more. Fire Max 11 tablet for $140 (39 percent off): Amazons most powerful tablet, the Fire Max 11 sports an 11-inch 2,000 x 1,200 touchscreen, an octa-core processor, up to 128GB of storage and 14 hours of battery life. It also works with a number of optional accessories, including a stylus and keyboard case . Fire HD 10 Kids tablet for $105 (45 percent off): This slab is designed for kids aged three to seven, with full parental controls plus one year of Amazon Kids+ for free with the tablet purchase. This model has a 10-inch FHD touchscreen, an octa-core processor and 13 hours of battery life, plus it comes with a two-year warranty and a protective case. Fire HD 10 Kids Pro tablet for $105 (45 percent off): This model is designed for kids aged six to 12 and comes with a slimmer protective case, a two-year warranty and one year of access to Amazon Kids+. Otherwise, you get a very similar experience here that you would with the non-Pro version, including parental controls, a 10-inch touchscreen, solid performance and a 13-hour battery life. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/the-best-amazon-deals-on-kindles-echo-speakers-fire-tv-devices-and-more-for-prime-day-081210730.html?src=rss

The best wireless earbuds for 2025

Wireless earbuds have become the go-to choice for listening on the move. Whether youre at the gym, commuting or relaxing at home, the best wireless earbuds give you comfort, freedom and solid sound quality without tangled cables. Theyre lightweight, slip easily into your pocket and connect quickly to your phone, tablet or laptop. The tricky part is choosing the right pair. Some models focus on powerful noise cancellation while others put battery life or affordability first. Then youve got features like water resistance for workouts or touch controls for quick track changes. With so many choices, finding the best wireless earbuds depends on what matters most to you, and thats exactly what this guide will help you figure out. Table of contents Best wireless earbuds of 2025 What to look for in the best wireless earbuds How we test wireless earbuds Other wireless earbuds we tested Wireless earbuds FAQs Best wireless earbuds of 2025 What to look for in the best wireless earbuds When it comes to shopping for earphones, the first thing to consider is design or wear style. Do you prefer a semi-open fit like AirPods or do you want something that completely closes off your ears? If youre shopping for earbuds with active noise cancellation, you'll want the latter, but a case can be made for the former if you want to wear them all day or frequent places where you need to be tuned in to the ambient sounds. The overall shape of earbuds can determine whether you get a comfortable fit, so can the size and weight, so youll want to consider all that before deciding. And remember: audio companies arent perfect, so despite lots of research, the earbud shape they decided on may not fit you well. Dont be afraid to return ill-fitting earbuds for something thats more comfortable. As wireless earbuds have become the norm, theyre now more reliable for basic things like consistent Bluetooth connectivity. Companies are still in a race to pack as much as they can into increasingly smaller designs. This typically means a longer list of features on the more premium sets of earbuds with basic functionality on the cheapest models. Carefully consider what you cant live without when selecting your next earbuds, and make sure key items like automatic pausing and multipoint connectivity are on the spec sheet. Youll also want to investigate the volume and touch controls as youll often have to sacrifice access to something else to make that adjustment via on-board taps or swipes. Some earbuds even offer app settings to tweak the audio profiles or firmware updates to improve performance over time. For those in the Apple ecosystem, features like auto-pairing with devices, especially with AirPods Pro 3, can be an added advantage, while Android users may want to look for models that offer similar cross-device functionality. When it comes to battery life, the average set of earbuds lasts about five hours on a single charge. You can find sets that last longer, but this is likely enough to get you through a work day if youre docking the buds during lunch or the occasional meeting. Youll want to check on how many extra charges are available via the case and if it supports wireless charging. Companies will also make lofty claims about call quality on wireless earbuds. Despite lots of promises, the reality is most earbuds still leave you sounding like youre on speakerphone. There are some sets that deliver, but dont get your hopes up unless reviews confirm the claims. Sound can be subjective, so we recommend trying before you buy if at all possible. This is especially true if you're an audiophile. We understand this isnt easy when most of us do a lot of shopping online, but trying on a set of earbuds and listening to them for a few minutes can save you from an expensive case of buyer's remorse. If a store doesnt allow a quick demo, most retailers have return policies that will let you take earbuds back you dont like. Of course, you have to be willing to temporarily part with funds in order to do this. We also recommend paying attention to things like Spatial Audio , Dolby Atmos, 360 Reality Audio and other immersive formats. Not all earbuds support them, so youll want to make sure a perspective pair does if that sort of thing excites you, especially if you plan to use them for playback of high-quality audio. How we test wireless earbuds The primary way we test earbuds is to wear them as much as possible. We prefer to do this over a one- to two-week period, but sometimes embargoes dont allow it. During this time, we listen to a mix of music and podcasts, while also using the earbuds to take both voice and video calls. Since battery life for earbuds is typically less than a full day, we drain the battery with looping music and the volume set at a comfortable level (usually around 75 percent). To judge audio quality, we listen to a range of genres, noting any differences in the sound profile across the styles. We also test at both low and high volumes to check for consistency in the tuning. To assess call quality, well record audio samples with the earbuds microphones as well as have third parties call us. When it comes to features, we do a thorough review of companion apps, testing each feature as we work through the software. Any holdovers from previous models are double checked for improvements or regression. If the earbuds were testing are an updated version of a previous model, well spend time getting reacquainted with the older buds. Ditto for the closest competition for each new set of earbuds that we review. Other wireless Bluetooth earbuds we tested Sony WF-C710N The WF-C710N is a set of compact and comfy earbuds that offer several of Sonys best features. While the ANC performance is above average for this price ($120), sound quality isnt as good as the companys slightly more expensive options. Battery life fell below stated figures and call performance isnt good enough to use these buds for work. Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 The newest version of the Powerbeats Pro have an improved, comfortable design, balanced bass and new H2 chips and a heart rate sensor inside. But heart rate support is currently limited on iOS. Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 The Galaxy Buds 3 combine ANC with an open-type design, which renders the noise-blocking abilities of the earbuds mostly useless. Still, theres great low-end tone with ample bass when a track demands it. There are also lots of handy features, most of which require a Samsung phone. But at this price, there are better options from Google, Beats and Sony Sennheiser Momentum Sport I really like the overall shape of the Momentum Sport earbuds. Theyre more comfortable than the Momentum True Wireless 4 and fit in my ears better. Whats more, the body temperature and heart rate sensors work well, sending those stats to a variety of apps. However, that sport-tracking feature works best with Polars app and devices, so theres that consideration. Also, the audio quality and ANC performance isnt as good as the MTW4, and these earbuds are pricey. Beats Solo Buds Theres a lot to like about the Solo Buds for $80. For me, the primary perk is theyre very comfortable to wear for long periods of time thanks to some thoughtful design considerations. You only get the basics here in terms of features and, as expected, the overall sound quality isnt as good as the pricier models in the Beats lineup. You will get 18 hours of battery life though, since the company nixed the battery in the case and beefed up the listening time in the buds themselves. Bose Ultra Open Earbuds Bose created something very unique for this set of earbuds that allows you to stay in-tune with the world while listening to audio content. The clip-on design is very comfortable, but sound quality suffers due to the open-type fit, especially when it comes to bass and spatial audio. Audio-Technica ATH-TWX7 These stick buds have a compact design thats comfortable to wear and the warm sound profile is great at times. However, overall audio performance is inconsistent and theres no automatic pausing. Master & Dynamic MW09 Retooled audio, better ambient sound mode and reliable multipoint Bluetooth are the best things the MW09 has to offer. Theyre expensive though, and you can find better ANC performance elsewhere. Wireless earbud FAQs What is considered good battery life for true wireless earbuds? Most wireless earbuds will last five hours on a single charge, at the least. You can find some pairs that have even better battery life, lasting between six and eight hours before they need more juice. All of the best wireless earbuds come with a charging case, which will provide additional hours of battery life but you'll have to return each bud to the case in order to charge them up. Is sound quality better on headphones or earbuds? Comparing sound quality on earbuds and headphones is a bit like comparing apples and oranges. There are a lot of variables to consider and the differences in components make a direct comparison difficult. Personally, I prefer the audio quality from over-ear headphones, but I can tell you the sound from earbuds like Sennheisers Momentum True Wireless 3 is also outstanding. Which wireless earbuds have the longest battery life? With new models coming out all the time, tracking the hours of battery life for each this can be difficult to keep tabs on. The longest-lasting earbuds weve reviewed are Audio-Technicas ATH-CKS5TW . The company states they last 15 hours, but the app was still showing 40 percent at that mark during our tests. The only downside is these earbuds debuted in 2019 and both technology and features have improved since. In terms of current models, Master & Dynamics MW08 offers 12 hours of use on a charge with ANC off (10 with ANC on) and JBL has multiple options with 10-hour batteries. What wireless earbuds are waterproof? There are plenty of options these days when it comes to increased water resistance. To determine the level of protection, youll want to look for an IP (ingress protection) rating. The first number indicates intrusion protection from things like dust. The second number is the level of moisture protection and youll want to make sure that figure is 7 or higher. At this water-resistance rating, earbuds can withstand full immersion for up to 30 minutes in depths up to one meter (3.28 feet). If either of the IP numbers is an X, that means it doesnt have any special protection. For example, a pair of wireless earbuds that are IPX7 wouldnt be built to avoid dust intrusion, but they would be ok if you dropped them in shallow water. Which earbuds stay in ears the best? A secure fit can vary wildly from person to person. All of our ears are different, so audio companies are designing their products to fit the most people they can with a single shape. This is why AirPods will easily fall out for some but stay put for others. Design touches like wing tips or fins typically come on fitness models and those elements can help keep things in place. Youll likely just have to try earbuds on, and if they dont fit well return them. What wireless earbuds work with PS5? PlayStation 5 doesnt support Bluetooth audio without an adapter or dongle. Even Sonys own gaming headsets come with a transmitter that connects to the console. There are universal options that allow you to use any headphones, headset or earbuds with a PS5. Once you have one, plug it into a USB port on the console and pair your earbuds with it. Recent updates September 2025: Updated to add AirPods Pro 3 to our top picks. May 2025: Updated to ensure top picks and buying advice remain accurate. March 2025: Updated the top pick for the best sounding wireless earbuds - runner up. January 2025: Updated the top pick for best sounding wireless earbuds. July 2024: Updated our list to include the Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/audio/headphones/best-wireless-earbuds-120058222.html?src=rss

DJI's tiny but powerful Neo drone drops to just $159 for Prime Day

Amazon's October Prime Day gives you the rare occasion to buy a DJI drone at a discount. The company's popular Neo drone is now available for $159 , making an already affordable product even more manageable with a $40 (20 percent) discount. That sum will get you a drone that's very friendly for beginners thanks to features like palm takeoff, but also powerful with subject tracking and even support for FPV flying. You can also grab it with two extra batteries and a charger for $229 (21 percent off) a deal I'd recommend if you plan to fly a lot. The Neo is tiny at just 135 grams so it's exempt from any drone license requirements and small enough to slide into a jacket pocket. At the same time, it's safe around people thanks to the protective propeller guards. Beginners can launch it directly from their palm either by pressing a button or giving a voice command, and it will fly one of six preprogrammed smart shots like Follow, Dronie or Rocket. The Neo can also be controlled using a smartphone via Wi-Fi or DJI controller, including the RC Motion 3 and even the DJI Goggles 3 for acrobatic FPV flying. It has a very respectable 6.2-mile line-of-sight range and can fly at up to 18 mph, or 36 mph with a special controller. Video quality is very good for such a cheap drone, with up to 4K 30 fps video via the 1/2-inch 12-megapixel sensor and software-based Rocksteady stabilization. The main drawbacks are the lack of obstacle detection, relatively short 17-minute battery life and banshee-like noise. However, this is a great first drone for creators and other users, particularly at the Prime Day sale price of $159 . As mentioned, you can also get iti with three batteries and a charger for $229 This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/cameras/the-dji-neo-drone-drops-to-only-159-for-prime-day-075559142.html?src=rss

The best Prime Day camera and drone deals: Get up to 41 percent off gear from DJI, Canon, Sony and others

Camera buyers usually mark Amazon's October Prime Day on their calendars as it's a great way to get a nice discount on a major purchase especially since recent tariffs have caused price increases with some brands . This year's sale looks like a good one, with genuine value available on camera equipment, drone and accessory purchases. Some key deals include discounts on DJI drones, action cams and wireless mics, along with sales on cameras from Sony, Canon, Insta360, GoPro and Nikon. Many of those cameras are ranked highly in our most recent camera guide , like Nikon's Z6 III and the P anasonic S5 IIx so feel free to check that out as you add items to your cart. Without further delay, here are the best Prime Day camera deals you can grab this week. Best Prime Day camera deals DJI Neo drone for $159 (20 percent off) : The DJI Neo may be an inexpensive, beginner-friendly drone, but it has powerful features like subject tracking and quick shots. It can shoot video at up to 4K 30 fps and is quick and maneuverable, though it's also fairly loud. You can also grab one with three batteries and a charger for $229 (21 percent off) . DJI Osmo Action 4 for $229 (23 percent off) : DJI's Osmo Action 4 is a solid deal at this price, as you're not giving up much in comparison to the most recent model, the Action 5. It has the same big 1/1.3-inch sensor that delivers excellent video quality, especially in low light. It also features a D-LogM profile to boost dynamic range, DJI's excellent clip-on mount and high-quality 4K 120p video. DJI Mini 4K drone for $239 (20 percent off) : The Mini 4K is a beginner-friendly drone , but it's still got plenty of nifty features. As the name suggests, it can capture 4K video at up to 30 FPS. It can also record 2.7K footage at 60 FPS. There's 2x digital zoom, a 3-axis gimbal and electrical image stabilization. The drone can transmit 1080p video from up to 10km away. DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro for $269 (21 percent off) : DJI's Osmo Action 5 Pro is a good alternative to GoPro's Hero 13 Black. I has a 1/1.3-inch sensor that makes it better than its rival in low light and rivals it in battery life as well with over two hours while shooting in 4K 60p. Another nice feature is 47GB of internal storage, something its main rivals lack. And the Osmo Action 5 Pro works directly with DJIs noise-cancelling Mic 2 and Mic Mini wireless microphones, providing an easy way to record high-quality sound. GoPro Hero 13 Black for $359 (17 percent off) : GoPros Hero 13 Black is now available with a new family of modular lenses called the HB series (ultra-wide, anamorphic and macro), making it far more versatile for action creators. It also has a slightly bigger battery that allows longer capture times, up to 90 minutes for 4K 30fps video. Other specs remain the same, including up to 5.3K at 60fps in 10-bit color, along with the excellent Hypersmooth stabilization. DJI Osmo 360 action cam for $413 (25 percent off) : It took DJI awhile to get a panoramic action cam into the market, but the Osmo 360 was worth the wait. It stacks up well against its main rival, Insta360s X5, by offering better video quality in low light or high-contrast situations. Its also easy to use, offers good battery life and trumps its competition with a large amount of built-in storage. Sony ZV-1F for $498 (17 percent off): Sony's ZV-1F is designed purely for vlogging thanks to the fixed 20mm lens that works perfectly for self-filming. It uses a 1-inch sensor like other compacts in this series and supports 4K shooting at up to 30 fps, the same as the ZV-1, and 1080p at up to an impressive 120fps. It offers vlog-ready features like background defocus and product showcase. Canon EOS R100 with RT-S18-45mm lens for $529 (15 percent off) : Canon's EOS R100 is the only modern mirrorless camera you can get with a kit lens for under $600. It comes with a 24-megapixel APS-C sensor that delivers great picture quality with Canon's pleasing skin tones. Canon EOS R50 with RF-S18-45mm lens $799 (9 percent off) : Canon's 24-megapixel APS-C EOS R50 is great for travel, parties, street photography and more thanks to the portable size and built-in flash. It offers nice image quality with warm, human friendly photos and is capable for creators as well with 4K 30fps supersampled video, with 10-bit and HDR capability. It comes with a kit lens that's solid for vlogging or photography with a 24-70mm full-frame equivalent zoom range. Sony A6100 with 16-50mm and 55-210mm lenses $800 (33 percent off) : If you want to hit the ground running with a camera and lenses on the cheap, Sony's A6100 is an outstanding value right now. While five years old, its autofocus system is still among the best thanks to its intelligent face- and eye-tracking, along with 4K 30 fps video. The color science and low-light capabilities are excellent, so photos are sharp and color accurate, even in dimly-lit environments. The drawbacks are bad rolling shutter and a low-resolution EVF. Still, you won't find much comparable in this price range with two lenses to boot. Panasonic Lumix S9 for $1,198 (20 percent off) : The S9 may be Panasonic's smallest full-frame camera but it comes with the same 24MP sensor and similar video features to the popular S5 II. To that end, it offers up to 6.2K video, in-body stabilization and reliable autofocus. The key feature though is a special LUT button that lets you easily choose a custom cinematic look designed by professional creators. Panasonic S5 II for $1,498 (25 percent off) : Its the companys first camera with hybrid phase-detect AF designed to make focus wobble and other issues a thing of the past. You can shoot sharp 4K 30p video downsampled from the full sensor width, or 4K 60p from an APS-C cropped size, all in 10-bit color. It even offers 5.9K 30p video. You also get a flip-out screen for vlogging and updated five-axis in-body stabilization thats the best in the industry. Photo quality is also good thanks to the dual-gain 24-megapixel sensor. The main drawback is the slowish burst speeds. Sony A7 IV for $2,198 (19 percent off) : Resolution is up considerably from the 24-megapixel A7 III to 33 megapixels, with image quality much improved overall. Video is now up to par with rivals with 4K at up to 60p with 10 bit 4:2:2 quality. Autofocus is incredible for both video and stills, and the in-body stabilization does a good job. The biggest drawback is rolling shutter that limits the use of the electronic shutter. Panasonic S5 IIx with two lenses for $2,298 (22 percent off): The S5 IIx is identical to the S5 II except that it offers high bitrate Apple ProRes capture directly to an external SSD. This deal is ideal for creators who want to hit the ground running as it includes both a 50mm f/1.8 portrait lens and a 22-60mm zoom. Nikon Z6 III for $2,397 (11 percent off) : Nikon's Z6 III is the best hybrid mirrorless camera for the money, thanks to the incredible performance of the 24-megapixel partially stacked sensor. You can shoot RAW bursts at up to 20 fps in electronic shutter mode while nailing sharp shots thanks to the much-improved autofocus. On the video side, it supports 6K RAW at up to 60 fps, or 4K 120p. All of that makes it ideal for creators and photographers alike, with the only drawback being the reduced resolution. Sony A7R V for $3,798 (10 percent off) : With a 61-megapixel sensor, the A7R V shoots sharp and beautiful images at a very respectable speed for such a high-resolution model (10 fps). It has equally fast and reliable autofocus, the sharpest viewfinder on the market and in-body stabilization thats much improved over the A7R IV. Video has even improved, with 8K and 10-bit options now on tap, albeit with significant rolling shutter Best Prime Day camera lens and accessory deals Osmo Mobile 7 for $68 (24 percent off) : One of the best things to elevate your smartphone footage is a gimbal like the Osmo Mobile 7 from DJI. The company makes some of the best drones you can buy, so it knows a thing or two about camera stabilization, so it will make your smarphone videos smooth as silk. It only weighs 300 grams, so itll be a lightweight addition to almost any travel kit. DJI Mic Mini $99 (41 percent off) : DJI's Mic Mini bundle includes two mic transmitters and a receiver that can be connected to a camera or phone, along with a charging case. The mics weigh just a third of an ounce and attach easily to subjects via magnets or clips. Everything pairs automatically and they offer high quality 24-bit 20Hz to 20K Hz recording. They also connect easily to smartphones over Bluetooth and other DJI devices like the Action 5 and Osmo Pocket 3 cams using DJI's OsmoAudio direct connection. DJI Mic 2 for $269 (23 percent off) : DJI's Mic 2 can not only be connected to a mirrorless camera like other mics, but also supports Bluetooth audio so can easily be connected to a smartphone as well. It picks up audio from your subject at a range of up to 820 feet (less with a Bluetooth connection) and automatically reduces background noise like wind, city sounds and even drone noise. This deal includes two mic transmitters, a receiver for your camera, a charging case and wind muffs. DJI RS 4 Mini $309 (16 percent off) : The RS 4 Mini is one of the best handheld camera stabilizers on the market thanks to features like its 4.4 pound payload and automatic axis lock. On top of that, the company introduced automatic tracking via its RS Intelligent Tracking Module to keep human subjects in frame no matter where they go. It also offers smoother gimbal tracking, longer battery life and faster charging. Lexar 128GB Professional 2000x SD Card $90 (31 percent off) : If you need very fast SD UHS II memory, Lexar currently has an excellent deal on its 128GB 2000x memory card. It offers 300MB/s read and 260Mb/s write speeds, quick enough to capture high data rate video or bursts of high-resolution photos. Amazon is also offering a solid discount on 256GB memory in the same lineup at $170 or 23 percent off . Manfrotto Befree GT PRO 4-section travel tripod $299 (36 percent off) : Belying its miniscule 4.23 pound weight, this model offers ultra-stable performance for timelapse and other shots, even in bad weather. It's also great for video thanks to the integrated 3-way pan/tilt head, featuring fluid cartridges for precise control and seamless movements. Panasonic Lumix G 25mm f/1.7 lens $248 (17 percent off) : Panasonic and Micro Four Thirds users on a budget in need of a fast 50mm equivalent prime should check this one out. It offers beautiful bokeh and fast speeds in low light, but costs nearly half the price of f/1.4 models. Nikon Nikkor Z 50mm f/1.4 Lens $497 (17 percent off) : If you want a fast 50mm portrait lens but don't have a ton to spend, Nikon's Nikkor Z 50mm f/1.4 lens is on sale for just $497, making it one of the cheapest full-frame options available. At the same time, it offers exceptional sharpness and excellent color rendition, with beautiful bokeh that will flatter your subjects. Panasonic Lumix S 85mm f/1.8 lens $448 (31 percent off) : I own this lens and it's fast, sharp and versatile for portraits while offering considerable savings compared to an f/1.4 portrait. It's also great for working pros due to the dust-, splash- and freeze-resistant design and very light weight next to other brands. Nikon Nikkor Z 35mm f/1.4 Lens $577 (15 percent off) : If you're looking for a fast full-frame Nikon Z prime in the 35-50mm category for portraits, architecture or street photos, Nikon has a stellar deal. The Nikkor Z 35mm f/1.4 lens is fast and sharp with painterly bokeh thanks to the 9-blade iris design. It's great for video as well, with the silent STM mechanism offering silent autofocus and suppressed focus breathing. Canon RF24-70mm F2.8 L lens $2,399 (8 percent off) : If you've been eyeballing a fast Canon RF mount zoom, now's the time to act. The RF24-70mm f/2.8 L lens rarely goes on sale, but is now available with a $200 (8 percent) discount. It offers an f/2.8 aperture across the entire zoom range so you get awesome bokeh for portraits and high versatility in low light situations. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/cameras/the-best-prime-day-camera-and-drone-deals-get-up-to-41-percent-off-gear-from-dji-canon-sony-and-others-073852143.html?src=rss

The best Amazon Prime Day deals: Get up to 58 percent off Apple, Samsung, Lego, Dyson, Shark and others during the October sale

October Prime Day 2025 is here, so Prime members can finally take advantage of the long-awaited discounts across Amazons site. The online retailer has hosted this kickstart to the holiday shopping season for the past few years, and it typically brings decent sale prices to all things homeware, clothing, shoes, and yes, technology. This year is no different a number of our top picks for the best tech you can buy right now have been discounted for Prime Day. Most Prime Day deals are exclusively available to Prime members, but there are always a few stragglers that anyone with an Amazon account can get. Weve gathered the best October Prime Day deals on tech that we could find here. Well be updating this post regularly throughout the duration of Prime Day, so check back to see the latest discounts. October Prime Day deals: Engadget's top picks Apple AirPods 4 (no ANC) for $90 (30 percent off): Apple's entry-level wireless earbuds are the best AirPods for folks on a budget. They have an open-ear design that some will prefer over eartips that stick into your ears full, plus they have much improved audio quality and the H2 chip that enables features like Voice Isolation, Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking and Adaptive EQ. Apple MacBook Air (13-inch, M4) for $799 (20 percent off): Our top pick for the best laptop for most people, the latest MacBook Air is impressively thin and light without skimping on performance. The M4 chipset is powerful enough to handle everyday tasks without breaking a sweat, plus some gaming and labor-intensive work. It has a comfortable keyboard, luxe-feeling trackpad and an excellent battery life. Amazon Smart Plug for $13 ($12 off) : We named this the best smart plug for Alexa users because it hooks up painlessly and stays connected reliably. Use it to control lamps or your holiday lights using programs and schedules in the Alexa app, or just your voice by talking to your Echo Dot or other Alexa-enabled listener. Leebein 2025 electric spin scrubber for $40 (43 percent off, Prime exclusive): This is an updated version of my beloved Leebein electric scrubber, which has made cleaning my shower easier than ever before. It comes with seven brush heads so you can use it to clean all kinds of surfaces, and its adjustable arm length makes it easier to clean hard-to-reach spots. It's IPX7 waterproof and recharges via USB-C. Jisulife Life7 handheld fan for $25 (14 percent off, Prime exclusive): 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. Dyson V15 Detect Plus for $570 (33 percent off): Our top pick for the best cordless vacuum on the market right now, the V15 Detect has some of the strongest suction power you'll find in a stick vacuum, plus a lightweight design and a dustbin that can hold more dirt and debris than it might seem. This model comes with five cleaning attachments, including the Fluffy Optic cleaner head that has LEDs to illuminate the floor as you're vacuuming so you can better see where all the dust bunnies are. October Prime Day deals on tech Apple iPad Air (11-inch, M3) for $449 ($150 off): The only major difference between the latest iPad Air and the previous generation is the addition of the faster M3 chip. We awarded the new slab an 89 in our review , appreciating the fact that the M3 chip was about 16 percent faster in benchmark tests than the M2. This is the iPad to get if you want a reasonable amount of productivity out of an iPad that's more affordable than the Pro models. Samsung EVO Select microSD card (128GB) for $13 (24 percent off): This Samsung card has been one of our recommended models for a long time. It's a no-frills microSD card that, while not the fastest, will be perfectly capable in most devices where you're just looking for simple, expanded storage. Lego Star Wars Advent Calendar 2025 75418 for $31 (30 percent off): 'Tis the season for advent calendars . They've flooded the internet, as they usually do this time of year, and there are plenty to choose from (and stock up on) before we get to December. Lego has a bunch, and this Star Wars one will be fun for everyone, not just kids, to open up each day at the end of the year. Anker 622 5K magnetic foldable power bank with stand for $34 (29 percent off, Prime exclusive): This 0.5-inch thick power bank attaches magnetically to iPhones and won't get in your way when you're using your phone. It also has a built-in stand so you can watch videos, make FaceTime calls and more hands-free while your phone is powering up. Blink Mini 2 security cameras (two-pack) for $35 (50 percent off): Blink makes some of our favorite security cameras, and the Mini 2 is a great option for indoor monitoring. It can be placed outside with the right weatherproof adapter , but since it needs to be plugged in, we like it for keeping an eye on your pets while you're away and watching over entry ways from the inside. Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max for $40 (33 percent off): Amazon's most powerful streaming dongle supports 4K HDR content, Dolby Vision and Atmos and Wi-Fi 6E. It also has double the storage of cheaper Fire TV sticks. Anker Soundcore Space A40 for $45 (44 percent off): Our top pick for the best budget wireless earbuds , the Space A40 have surprisingly good ANC, good sound quality, a comfortable fit and multi-device connectivity. Anker MagGo 10K power bank (Qi2, 15W) for $63 (22 percent off, Prime exclusive): A 10K power bank like this is ideal if you want to be able to recharge your phone at least once fully and have extra power to spare. This one is also Qi2 compatible, providing up to 15W of power to supported phones. Levoit Core 200S smart air purifier for $70 ($20 off, Prime exclusive): This compact air purifier cleans the air in rooms up to 140 square feet and uses a 3-in-1 filter that removes microscopic dust, pollen and airborne particles. It has a mobile app that you can use to set runtime schedules, and it works with Alexa and Google Assistant voice commands. iRobot Roomba 104 Vac for $150 (40 percent off): This entry-level robot vacuum is an upgraded version of one of our favorite budget robot vacuums . iRobot makes robovacs that are easy to use, even for those who have never had a machine like this, and they do a good job of cleaning up all kinds of messes, including pet hair. Levoit LVAC-300 cordless vacuum for $250 ($100 off, Prime exclusive): One of our favorite cordless vacuums , this Levoit machine has great handling, strong suction power for its price and a premium-feeling design. Its bin isn't too small, it has HEPA filtration and its battery life should be more than enough for you to clean your whole home many times over before it needs a recharge. Shark Robot Vacuum and Mop Combo for $300 (57 percent off, Prime exclusive): If you're looking for an autonomous dirt-sucker that can also mop, this is a good option. It has a mopping pad and water reservoir built in, and it supports home mapping as well. Its self-emptying base can hold up to 60 days worth of debris, too. Amazon Kindle Scribe for $300 (25 percent off): The latest Kindle Scribe is one of the best E Ink tablets you can get, particularly if you want a slab that can handle both note-taking and e-reading well. Its edge is providing users full access to the Kindle ebook store and the ability to take notes to accompany reading material. This model has 16GB of storage and includes the Premium Pen. XReal One Pro AR glasses for $649 (16 percent off): The latest from XReal , these smart glasses can let you use almost any device, including your smartphone, with a large virtual display. Their 1080p Micro-OLED screens are bright and sharp, plus they're pretty comfortable to wear. Nintendo Switch 2 for $449: While not technically a discount, it's worth mentioning that the Switch 2 and the Mario Kart Switch 2 bundle are both available at Amazon now, no invitation required. Amazon only listed the new console for the first time in July after being left out of the initial pre-order/availability window in April. Once it became available, Amazon customers looking to buy the Switch 2 had to sign up to receive an invitation to do so. Now, that extra step has been removed and anyone can purchase the Switch 2 on Amazon. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/the-best-amazon-prime-day-deals-get-up-to-58-percent-off-apple-samsung-lego-dyson-shark-and-others-during-the-october-sale-050801203.html?src=rss

The best Prime Day SSD deals: Save on gear from Samsung, SanDisk, Crucial and others

October Prime Day is almost here again, and as always, we've put together a list of the best, most-discounted extra storage options for consoles and gaming PCs. Our guide to the top storage deals is split into three categories tiny microSD cards, portable external SSDs and generally faster (but more labor-intensive) internal SSDs. Whether you're building a gaming rig or just want to stop your PS5 from lagging, there's almost certainly a deal for you on our curated list. Take a look now to see what kind of extra storage might best fit your needs. Best October Prime Day SSD deals Crucial X10 4TB Portable SSD for $240 (39 percent off): The Crucial X9 is our current favorite portable SSD , but the X10 is a step beyond. Based on USB 3.2, it's compatible with a wide range of devices, and reaches reading speeds of 2,100MB/s all in an extremely portable pocket-sized case. Crucial BX500 1TB 3D NAND SATA 2.5-inch Internal SSD for $64 (33 percent off): The BX500 is Crucial's budget-conscious SSD option, but that doesn't mean it disappoints. This internal solid state drive cuts down on battery consumption and improves processing with read speeds reaching 540MB/s. It comes with a three-year warranty, too. Crucial P310 2TB for $122 (49 percent off): The 2TB level of the Crucial P310 is available at the lowest price we've seen all year. It's a compact drive that works great in small laptops or Steam Decks especially the latter, given Valve's warning against cramming in large SSDs . For this small size and great price, you get read speeds of over 7,000MB/s. Samsung 990 Evo Plus 1TB for $70 (33 percent off): This is an incredible deal on an internal SSD from a reliable brand. All capacities of the Samsung 990 Evo Plus are currently on sale, but even the 1TB option can visibly boost your performance with top read speeds of 7,250MB/s. There's no heatsink, but nickel plating on the controller reduces both heat output and energy use. Samsung 990 PRO 2 TB for $170 (19 percent off): Samsung's 990 Pro series represents a massive leap forward for the brand, cutting energy costs by around half while boosting speeds up to at least 7,000MB/s write and 5,000MB/s read. This version comes with 2TB of storage and its own built-in heatsink. Samsung Fit Plus 256GB for $23 (30 percent off): The Samsung Fit Plus isn't just the best thumb drive on the market right now it's one of the best SSDs , period. This deal gets you 256GB of storage and read speeds of 400MB/s for almost unfathomably cheap. It's also built to resist water, extreme temperatures, magnets and even radiation. Kingston SX1000 1TB High Performance for $89 (23 percent off): If you can't swing a Crucial X9 or X10 right now, Kingston offers a much more affordable alternative. The SX1000 can handle both PC backups and gaming storage with ease, nearly matching the X9 in our speed tests. It's also easy to carry around, though keep a tight grip as it's not officially rated for any drop height. SanDisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD for $150 (29 percent off): The SanDisk Extreme line of portable SSDs provides a great middle ground in both price and performance. Read speeds of 1,050MB/s are enough for transferring most files you'll encounter day-to-day. Its external design holds up too, with a large carabiner loop, IP65 waterproofing and dustproofing and drop protection as high as three meters. Seagate Storage Expansion Card 2TB for $249 (31 percent off): This SeaGate SSD is specifically for expanding storage on the Xbox Series X and S, and it's designed to meet Xbox specs exactly. You'll get exactly the same performance booting a game from this card as you would from internal Xbox storage, which makes data management infinitely easier. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/the-best-prime-day-ssd-deals-save-on-gear-from-samsung-sandisk-crucial-and-others-170039457.html?src=rss

The best Prime Day kitchen deals include up to 50 percent off our favorite air fryers and more

New gear can make cooking easier (and sometimes more fun) but the best kitchen tech isnt cheap. Thats why its a good idea to wait for a sale like Amazon's Prime Day . At Engadget, weve tested plenty of kitchen gear (and have opinions to accompany said testing) so we searched for discounts on what we actually recommend. We found deals on some of our preferred brands like air fryers from Breville, Instant Pot cookers, sous vide machines and even a Ninja ice cream maker. Weve linked to our testing and reviews so you can get the information you need before you buy. Here are the best Prime Day deals on kitchen tech we could find. The best Prime Day kitchen deals Ninja Slushi for $300 ($50 off) : We havent officially tested this one just yet, but given our love of both the Creami and the Creami Swirl , its a fair bet that this one will do good things with cold stuff too. This is the lowest price of the year so far. Vitamix 2-Speed Immersion Blender for $90 ($40) : For quick sauces and soups, we like this nifty two-speed hand blender from Vitamix, and said so in our guide to cheap kitchen gadgets . It even comes with a whisk for making your own whipped cream. Vitamix 5-Speed Immersion Blender for $200 ($100 off) : If you want a little extra oomph from your hand blender, grab this one. We named it the best counter top replacement model in our guide to the best immersion blenders . The 625 watt motor is more powerful than most and the blender head is intelligently designed to reduce suction and prevent scratches plus it fits inside a wide mouth mason jar. Ninja Creami ice cream maker with extra pints $200 ($55 off with Prime) : Here's a bundle that includes two additional pint jars for the ice cream maker. It's one of our favorite pieces of kitchen tech and we called it a frozen fantasy-maker in our review. Note that the unit itself dipped down to $160 last Black Friday and the extra pints have gone as low as $16. Hamilton Beach Digital Rice Cooker for $37 ($13 off) : Our top pick for a budget rice cooker is great for small kitchens (but probably not for big families). We thought it outperformed other cookers that are four times the price, though its not the best for all-day warming of rice as the bottom bigs got a little overdone. Instant Pot Vortex Plus with Clear Cook for $80 ($20 off with Prime) : This Vortex air fryer model is similar to our top airfryer pick , but is missing the Odor Ease feature. It still has the Clear Cook window that lets you keep an eye on your food as it crisps and the Vortex cooking tech heats up remarkably fast, with almost no pre-heating time. Instant Pot Vortex Plus Air Fryer (4QT) for $65 ($65 off) : Heres a smaller version of our best overall air fryer. This one has a four-quart capacity, which is perfect for one person and small kitchens. And, like its larger sibling, pre-heats quickly thanks to a 1600-watt output. Instant Pot Vortex 2-QT Mini for $38 ($22 off with Prime) : The budget model from our air fryer guide may not be large but its two-quart basket is enough to reheat leftovers for two or cook up a batch of frozen appetizers. And, because of its small size, it doesnt take up a ton of space on your countertops ideal for a small kitchen. Breville InFizz Fusion beverage maker for $200 ($50 off) : We called this fizz-maker the bubble master in our review. True, its pricier than rivals in the same space, but the upscale design that actually looks good on a countertop somewhat makes up for the price premium. We also appreciate the Fusion Cap that helps prevent messy eruptions when youre bubbling up your drinks. Cosori Air Fryer Pro Compact for $85 ($15 off with Prime) : One of our concerns with the Cosori 9-in-1 was that it was a little on the wide side, taking up extra countertop space. The Pro Compact has a more space-saving design while still packing a five-quart basket. Instant Pot 4QT Vortex mini air fryer for $55 ($35 off with Prime) : This models four-quart capacity falls between our top Instant Pot air fryer pick and the budget model. It has the Clear Cook window feature, six presets and it comes in pink in addition to the standard white and black. Instant Pot Duo Plus for $90 ($50 off) : We named this the best multicooker in our guide to the best kitchen tech weve tested. It can cook a dizzying array of foods from basic beans and rice to homemade yogurt. We like this one because its simple to use, and has quick-cooking modes for soup, eggs and grains. Theres even a sous vide cooking function. Breville Bambino Plus for $400 ($100 off) : In our gift guide for coffee lovers , this espresso machine earned our respect for its compact size and the fact that it doesnt cost a grand, like some machines do. Plus the controls are easy for beginners to learn but makes silky milkfoam for pro-level latte artists. Breville Juice Fountain Plus for $130 ($20 off) : This went as low as $110 back in January, but its still a decent discount on a high-powered juice extractor. We were won over by its impressive juicing abilities and despite how it looks, it's surprisingly easy to clean as long as you do it right away. Ninja Dual Foodie Zone Air Fryer (DZ302) for $180 ($50 off) : If you want to air fry two different things at the same time, this is the one to get. This is the same in specs, capacity and wattage as our top pick for a dual-zone air fryer , just with a different model number. It even has a feature that makes sure the two different foods are ready at the same time. Note the price was $20 lower for Prime members back in July. Ninja 5.5-quart Air Fryer XL (AF150AMZ) for $130 ($50 off) : This one earned an honorable mention in our guide to air fryers. Its double the capacity of our budget pick and has a dehydrate preset. While we found the round basket a little cramped, we liked how the fryers vertical design saved counter space. Just note that this went as low as $90 in July. Vitamix Explorian E310 Blender for $330 ($50 off) : This isnt the best deal weve seen this year this Vitamix dropped to $300 as recently as May. But if youre in the market for a blender that can turn the most recalcitrant nut into the creamiest butter, we think this wont let you down. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/the-best-prime-day-kitchen-deals-include-up-to-50-percent-off-our-favorite-air-fryers-and-more-193009268.html?src=rss

The second-gen Kindle Scribe is $100 off in this Prime Day deal

Amazon Prime Day is here and you can save on all manner of tech, including Amazon's devices, from Kindle tablets to Echo speakers. Take the Amazon Kindle Scribe , which has dropped to $300 from $400. The 25 percent discount brings the second-generation device back down to its all-time low price. This deal is available on the 16GB model in Tungsten (dark grey) and doesn't include Kindle Unlimited. If you want more storage, the 32GB and 64GB versions are also 25 and 24 percent off, respectively. The Kindle Scribe is our pick for best e-reader E Ink tablet . It scored an 86 in our review , thanks to the smooth reading and writing experience it provides. We were also fans of its sleek and slender design. It has a 10.2-inch screen and offers front lights that auto-adjust to your needs. Our biggest gripe was the cost which, thanks to this deal, is less of an issue. It's worth noting that Amazon announced a few new Kindle Scribe models recently, but none of them are available just yet. The Kindle Scribe 3 has a thinner and lighter design, plus faster page-turning and writing experiences. The Kindle Scribe Colorsoft is Amazon's first full-color E Ink tablet. If you want the latest and greatest, it's worth it to wait but Amazon hasn't yet named specific release dates for either new model. During its latest hardware event , it only said the new Scribes were coming later this year. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/the-second-gen-kindle-scribe-is-100-off-in-this-prime-day-deal-134701405.html?src=rss

Prime Day Lego deals include up to 56 percent off Star Wars and Super Mario sets

October Prime Day is here, and Amazon is awash with discounts to consider. Amazon uses October Prime Day to kickstart the holiday shopping season even if you haven't even thought about the holidays yet, you should give the latest Prime Day Lego deals a look. A number of Lego sets from the Super Mario and Star Wars collections are already on sale for up to 38 percent off. When shopping for Lego sets on Amazon, we highly recommend checking a price tracker like Keepa or CamelCamelCamel before buying. It's not difficult to find Lego sets on sale at Amazon, but often those discounted prices have been around for a long time. We've clocked deals in which the sale price has been available for months already, going back as far as late spring and early summer 2025. Here, we're mostly highlighting discounts on new Lego sets, recent price drops and record-low (and close to them) prices on popular Lego sets from franchises like Star Wars, Super Mario and others. Best Amazon Prime Day Lego deals Lego City Advent Calendar 2025 60475 for $21 (40 percent off) Lego Star Wars Advent Calendar 2025 75418 for $31 (30 percent off) Lego Minecraft Advent Calendar 2025 21280 for $38 (16 percent off) Lego Harry Potter Advent Calendar 2025 76456 for $38 (16 percent off) Lego Star Wars: The Mandalorian Paz Vizsla and Moff Gideon Battle set 75386 for $17 (56 percent off) Lego Star Wars Brick-Built Star Wars Logo set 75407 for $50 (17 percent off) Lego Star Wars R2-D2 set 75379 for $80 (20 percent off) Lego Super Mario: Mario Kart Donkey Kong & DK Jumbo set 72033 for $28 (19 percent off) Lego Super Mario World: Mario & Yoshi Building set 71438 for $104 (20 percent off) Lego Classic Medium Creative Brick Box 10696 for $18 (49 percent off) Lego Botanicals Bouquet of Roses 10328 for $48 (20 percent off) Lego City F1 Garage & Mercedes-AMG & Alpine Cars set 60444 for $64 (20 percent off) Lego Brick Tile backpack for $50 (29 percent off) This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/prime-day-lego-deals-include-up-to-56-percent-off-star-wars-and-super-mario-sets-121513577.html?src=rss

Amazon Prime Day deals include up to 58 percent off Shark robot vacuums

Fall Prime Day has arrived and there are a good number of deals on tech we love. Case in point: Shark robot vacuums. Shark makes some of our favorite robovacs and a few of them are already discounted for Prime members ahead of the sale. The Shark AV2501S AI Ultra robot vacuum is one of them, with a whopping 58-percent discount that brings it down to $230. This discount marks a record low for this model. Shark offers several variations of its AI Ultra robot vacuums. There are small variations between them, and a different model is our pick for the best robot vacuum for most people. In general, you can expect solid cleaning performance from these devices, along with accurate home mapping and an easy-to-use app. The model that's on sale here is said to run for up to 120 minutes on a single charge, which should be enough to clean an entire floor in a typical home. The self-emptying, bagless vacuum can store up to 30 days worth of dirt and debris in its base. Shark says it can capture 99.97 percent of dust and allergens with the help of HEPA filtration. If you'd rather plump for a model that's able to mop your floors too, you're in luck: a Shark Matrix Plus 2-in-1 vacuum is on sale as well. At $300 for Prime members, this vacuum is available for $400 (or 57 percent) off the list price. Its mopping function can scrub hard floors 100 times per minute. You can also trigger the Matrix Mop function in the app for a deeper clean. This delivers 50 percent better stain cleaning in targeted zones, according to Shark. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/amazon-prime-day-deals-include-up-to-58-percent-off-shark-robot-vacuums-171836162.html?src=rss

Get three months of Audible for only $3 with this Prime Day deal

Audiobook fans can get three months of Audible for $3 for a limited time ahead of the fall edition of Amazon Prime Day . Users will be charged $0.99 per month for the first three months, after which it will auto-renew at $14.95 per month. Audible features thousands of titles in its catalog, including podcasts and Audible Originals. Subscribers will also get to choose one audiobook each month to keep in their collection for free, including best-sellers or new releases. Amazon Prime members will receive two credits the first month of their trial. Amazon has been bringing Prime Day back in the fall for a few years now, and this year it returns October 7 and 8. Great deals tend to start rolling out in the days ahead of the event and this year is no exception. There are already sales on Apple devices , smart doorbells and most importantly, Lego sets . If you're a book lover but don't have the time to sit down and read a hard copy, or you just prefer listening to the latest novel while on the go, then take advantage of this sale. It's a limited-time offer and will only be available through December 16. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/get-three-months-of-audible-for-only-3-with-this-prime-day-deal-090052863.html?src=rss

Bungie will conduct technical testing on Marathon later this month

After several silent months, Bungie has opened applications for players interested in participating in a closed technical test of Marathon . It's an invitation-only limited-time test, lasting just October 22-28. Those who are chosen to participate can only do so under a non-disclosure agreement, so don't expect to hear any juicy details or insights about the game's status later this month once the event wraps. While it's not a new public look at Marathon , news of a fresh round of testing marks a small step forward for this team extraction shooter. The game was originally slated for a September 2025 release, but in June, Bungie said it was indefinitely delaying the project. The pause was meant to give the studio time to address player feedback from the closed alpha test it conducted earlier in the spring. Considering the language used for this testing phase, we'll still have a while to wait before getting a new launch window. Whenever it does arrive, Marathon will be Bungie's first new title since the company introduced Destiny 2 back in 2017.Before the delay, the studio had also drawn raised eyebrows with Marathon after the alpha build used stolen artwork , which has been a repeat issue for Bungie. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/bungie-will-conduct-technical-testing-on-marathon-later-this-month-213422857.html?src=rss

Spotify, Canva and other apps can now connect to ChatGPT

Youll soon be able to interact with some of your favorite apps, including Spotify and Canva, right inside of ChatGPT. OpenAI announced the integration, which is enabled by the companys new Apps SDK , during its DevDay presentation. As of today, ChatGPT can connect to a handful of apps, with more to come over time and OpenAI working on submission guidelines that will allow developers to monetize their work. As a ChatGPT user, you can any access available third-party app by referencing it in your conversations with the chatbot. In the case of Spotify , for example, you can write Spotify, make a playlist for my party this Friday. The first time you mention an app in this way, youll be prompted to connect your account to ChatGPT. When working with Spotify, ChatGPT can make recommendations based on a mood, theme or a topic. The interface will eventually lead you to Spotify itself, where you can listen to what ChatGPT has created. Its early days, so while we might not be able to deliver on every request just yet, well continue to build, refine, and improve the experience over the coming weeks and months, Spotify says of the integration. OpenAI showed off other apps working inside of ChatGPT. For instance, an employee demoed Canva creating a few posters for a dog-walking business that they had talked to ChatGPT about starting. With todays announcement, ChatGPT can connect to Canva, Coursera, Figma, Spotify and Zillow. In the coming weeks, DoorDash, OpenTable, Target and Uber will also work with the chatbot. And later this year, OpenAI says it will begin accepting app submissions for review and publication. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/spotify-canva-and-other-apps-can-now-connect-to-chatgpt-194830116.html?src=rss

Apple is bringing back Slide Over in iPadOS 26.1

The reaction to iPadOS 26 has been mostly positive , but some users have bemoaned the absence of the decade-old Slide Over multitasking feature. Well, Apple just announced that it's coming back as part of iPadOS 26.1. It's actually already available, though just as part of the beta build. For the uninitiated, Slide Over is a multitasking tool that lets users quickly reveal and hide an app that slides in and out from the side of the screen. This is great for quickly revealing and hiding an app without permanently rearranging your workspace. Apple also got rid of Split View with iPadOS 26, but the new windowing system can easily do something similar. There has been no way with the new OS to mimic Slide Over, which has become a source of frustration for tablet fans . Whoa, Apple brought back Slide Over in iPadOS 26.1 Beta 2 and, unlike before, you can now resize it instead of just being a skinny window like it was on iPadOS 18 and earlier. Its basically now just a way to pin an app on top of every other app. pic.twitter.com/tHZk0DAkRk Robb Weeks (@jrobertweeks) October 6, 2025 Slide Over has been redesigned to work with that new windowing system and there's a major upgrade. Users can quickly resize the windows and change the aspect ratios, in addition to swiping right to completely hide them from view. There is also one major downgrade, according to reporting by 9to5Mac . Users can only have one active app in Slide Over at a time. In iPadOS 18 (and earlier), folks could switch between multiple apps in a Slide Over window, but it looks like that option has been removed. Given how iPadOS 26 radically reworked the way the system handles multiple apps, it's a safe bet that this old Slide Over behavior was incompatible with the latest OS. Engadget has reached out to Apple for clarification and will update this post when we hear back. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/mobile/tablets/apple-is-bringing-back-slide-over-in-ipados-261-190036025.html?src=rss

The best Prime Day vacuum deals: Save on machines from iRobot, Shark, Dyson and others

Robot vacuums are more than just a gimmick. Sure, we all enjoy anthropomorphizing a Roomba from time to time, but they're not gadgets for the sake of gadgetry keeping your living space clean is an incredibly rewarding task to automate. The only problem is that robot vacuums, and frankly all decent vacuums, are expensive. Fortunately, the steep discounts offered on Amazon this October Prime Day make the purchase a lot more justifiable, whether you want a robot buddy or a traditional vacuum cleaner. In this article, we're sharing a constantly updated list of Prime Day vacuum deals worth taking advantage of. Best Prime Day robot vacuum deals Dyson V15 Detect Plus for $570 (33 percent off): Our top pick for the best cordless vacuum on the market right now, the V15 Detect has some of the strongest suction power you'll find in a stick vacuum, plus a lightweight design and a dustbin that can hold more dirt and debris than it might seem. This model comes with five cleaning attachments, including the Fluffy Optic cleaner head that has LEDs to illuminate the floor as you're vacuuming so you can better see where all the dust bunnies are. Dyson Ball Animal Total Clean Upright Vacuum for $410 (38 percent off): Dyson is still the king of reinventing vacuums, and the bagless, hyper-maneuverable Ball Animal is a blast to use. The Ball design is based on ease of steering, but the hidden MVP is the sealing from the head to the canister, not a hair is getting out of this one once it's in. Shark AV2501AE AI Robot Vacuum for $459 (29 percent off): If you like the look of the AV2501S but have even more space to clean, the AV2501AE is also on sale. Its self-empty base can go a full 60 days before you have to dump it out, so it's ideal for large spaces, complex homes or areas that see heavy use. It's got the same features otherwise, including LiDAR mapping and two hours of autonomous work. Shark PowerDetect NeverTouch for $450 (55 percent off): This robotic mop/vacuum combo is engineering so you'll almost never need to revisit it after you set it up. It can clean its own mop, refill its own water tank and empty its own dustbin for up to 30 days at a time. It's also equipped with air jets that blast dirt out of corners the vacuum can't fit into. Shark Matrix Plus 2-in-1 for $300 (57 percent off, Prime exclusive): The Shark Matrix Plus takes the robot vacuum concept even further by working a mop into the design for hands-off wet cleaning. This model is self-cleaning, self-emptying, self-charging and capable of tackling ground-in stains on hard floors. Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe for $160 (27 percent off): Moving into manual vacuums, let's start with one of the best. The Shark Navigator Lift-Away is a champion at getting deeply ingrained crud out of carpets, but it's also capable of squaring away bare floors. You can switch between the two settings quickly, and the lift-away canister makes it easy to empty. iRobot Roomba 104 Vac for $150 (40 percent off, Prime exclusive): This entry-level Roomba is a good pick for anyone who's new to owning a robot vacuum. It features a multi-surface brush and an edge-sweeping brush to clean all types of flooring, and it uses LiDAR navigation to avoid obstacles as it goes. The iRobot mobile app lets you control the robot, set cleaning schedules and more. iRobot Roomba Plus 504 for $380 (36 percent off): For those looking to upgrade to a more advanced robot vacuum, the Roomba Plus 504 is a great next step. It can clean almost anything that might land on a home floor, and if it can't clean it, it can steer around it. Two brushes and strong suction get at tougher stains, and it even includes an app you can use to set cleaning zones and change suction force remotely. Roborock Q10 S5+ Robot Vacuum and Mop for $300 (25 percent off): The Roborock Q10 S5+ is another great option for a vacuum-mop combo. It's skilled at knowing what type of floor it's on and deploying or retracting the mop appropriately, and comes with precision LiDAR mapping. You can change its settings remotely from a paired app. Best Prime Day vacuum deals Levoit LVAC-300 cordless vacuum for $250 (29 percent off, Prime exclusive): One of our favorite cordless vacuums , this Levoit machine has great handling, strong suction power for its price and a premium-feeling design. Its bin isn't too small, it has HEPA filtration and its battery life should be more than enough for you to clean your whole home many times over before it needs a recharge. Shark CarpetXpert HairPro for $280 (24 percent off): Not all vacuums need to reinvent the wheel. The Shark CarpetXpert HairPro is the perfect midrange option, with a large brushroll for getting pet hair and other allergens out of your carpets. It's designed internally to suction and store hair without clogging, making it an even better fit for homes with pets. Amazon Basics Upright Bagless Vacuum Cleaner for $55 (21 percent off): All right, nobody goes to Amazon Basics to be impressed, but we have to admit this vacuum exceeds expectations. It's light, it has a big dust reservoir and it comes with all the attachments you'll need for a reasonably sized apartment. The filter is also simple to remove and clean. Black+Decker QuickClean Cordless Handheld Vacuum for $27 (33 percent off): Rounding out the list, we've got this small-but-mighty hand vacuum, perfect for crevices, shelves or cleaning out your car. It weighs about 1.4 pounds and hoovers up small messes in the blink of an eye. The lithium-ion battery stays charged for up to 10 hours. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/the-best-prime-day-vacuum-deals-save-on-machines-from-irobot-shark-dyson-and-others-151504087.html?src=rss

The best Amazon Prime Day deals under $50 include sales from Anker, Ring, Lego, Roku and others

You can snap up a lot of useful tech for less than $50 during Amazons October Prime Day sale . Were seeing discounts on streaming devices , mini speakers , earbuds , power banks , wall chargers , and more. But this isnt just random drek. The deals highlighted here are pulled from our own guides and reviews these are gadgets and accessories weve tried ourselves and currently recommend. If youre looking for small electronics and accessories (or if you just want to fill your Amazon cart without spending too much) this list of the best Prime Day deals under $50 is a great place to start. Best Prime Day deals under $50 UGREEN Nexode Pro 65W USB-C Flat Charger for $45 ($11 off with Prime) : One of our picks from our guide to fast chargers , this Ugreen fella has three ports (one of which is USB-A) and a 65-watt max power output. The folding prongs make it even more compact. Just note that its a bit wide and may block adjacent outlets in a crowded power strip. Instant Pot Vortex 2-QT Mini for $38 ($22 off with Prime) : The budget model from our air fryer guide may not be large but its two-quart basket is enough to reheat leftovers for two or cook up a batch of frozen appetizers. And, because of its small size, it doesnt take up a ton of space on your countertops ideal for a small kitchen. Amazon Echo Pop Kids for $33 ($17 off with Prime) : Among the announcements for the new Echo devices , Amazon did not include new Echo Pop Kids models, so this is still the most current model for now. Its good for smaller spaces, not necessarily audio fidelity, and it comes with six months of free access to Amazon Kids as well as early access to Alexa+. Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max for $40 ($20 off) : Amazon's most powerful streaming dongle supports 4K HDR content, Dolby Vision and Atmos and Wi-Fi 6E with double the storage of cheaper Fire TV sticks. It earned an honorable mention in our guide to streaming devices and also happens to make a good retro gaming emulator . Blink Video Doorbell for $35 ($35 off) : True, Amazon just announced new Blink devices , but those wont hit the market until after Prime Day is over. If you want a video doorbell right now at an impressively low price, this should serve. Weve tested Blink security devices before and have been impressed by what you get for such a small price. Ring Battery Doorbell for $50 ($50 off) : At $49.99 this juuust qualifies as an under $50 tech deal. If you dont have doorbell wires at your front entrance, you can still have a camera to capture all the package deliveries and neighborhood animal sightings with the Ring Battery Doorbell. It records video in HD with more vertical coverage than the last model, so you can see people from head to toe. Just note that newer Ring devices are on the way. Blink Mini 2 security cameras (two-pack) for $35 ($35 off) : This is currently the top budget pick in our guide to the best security cameras . The Mini 2 is a great option for indoor monitoring or you can put it outside with a weatherproof adapter , but since it needs to be plugged in, we like it for keeping an eye on your pets while you're away and watching over entry ways from the inside. Blink Mini 2 security cameras (three-pack) for $50 ($50 off) : A three pack is also on sale and squeezes in just under the $50 mark. Lego Star Wars: The Mandalorian Paz Vizsla and Moff Gideon Battle for $17 (56 percent off) : You can have a tiny version of the dramatic season-three battle from The Mandalorian to admire whenever you want. This 289-piece set is rated for kids seven and up, but no one will judge if you keep it for your own shelves. Check out more Lego sets in our Prime Day guide to Lego deals. Anker 622 5K magnetic power bank with stand for $34 ($14 off with Prime) : This 0.5-inch thick power bank attaches magnetically to iPhones and won't get in your way when you're using your phone. It also has a built-in stand so you can watch videos, make FaceTime calls and more hands-free while your phone is powering up. Ring Indoor Cam for $25 ($25 off) : While we thought the Blink Mini 2 was a better overall indoor camera in our guide , we do like the Ring app, which is ideal for beginners. Plus you get access to the Ring Neighbors app which is a fascinating glimpse into your neighborhoods Ring-captured events. Amazon Smart Plug for $13 ($12 off) : We named this the best smart plug for Alexa users because it hooks up painlessly and stays connected reliably. Use it to control lamps or your holiday lights using programs and schedules in the Alexa app, or just your voice by talking to your Echo Dot or other Alexa-enabled listener. Levoit Mini Core-P air purifier for $40 ($10 off with Prime) : This is the mini version of the top pick in our guide to air purifiers . It has a three-stage filter (pre, activated carbon and particle filters) though that particle filter is not a true HEPA filter. But its rated at 250 square feet and can help clear the air in your office or other small room. 8Bitdo Ultimate Bluetooth controller (Switch 2) for $45 ($25 off) : If youve got a Switch 2 and are looking for a good controller to go with it, we think this is a good one. Recommended in our guide to the best Switch 2 accessories , its got an Xbox style configuration with the left stick placed higher on the game pad, which some prefer. The lowest price we tracked before this is $50. Echo Pop smart speaker for $25 ($15 off) : The half sphere Pop is the most affordable Echo speaker in Amazons lineup. The sound wont be as full as its larger siblings, but will do a fine job of bringing Alexas help to smaller rooms. Just note that it went as low as $18 for Black Friday and October Prime Day last year. Roku Streaming Stick Plus 2025 for $24 (40 percent off) : This is our top pick for the best streaming device for accessing free and live content. The dongle supports 4K video and HDR and doesnt need to be plugged into the wall for power. Its a great way to access any streaming service you could ask for: Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, HBO Max and many more. Roku Streaming Stick HD for $18 ($12 off) : If you dont care about 4K (or your screen resolution isnt that high anyway) you can still get the same simple-to-use Roku OS with this device. The best thing about Roku streaming sticks is the access to all the free content so this is an affordable way to get it. Leebein 2025 electric spin scrubber for $40 ($30 off with Prime) : This is an updated version of the electric scrubber we love that makes shower cleaning easier than ever before. It comes with seven brush heads so you can use it to clean all kinds of surfaces, and its adjustable arm length makes it easier to clean hard-to-reach spots. It's IPX7 waterproof and recharges via USB-C. Jisulife Life7 handheld fan for $25 ($4 off with Prime) : This handy little fan is a must-have if you live 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 shows its remaining battery level. Anker Soundcore Select 4 Go speaker for $26 ($9 off with Prime) : This is one of our top picks for Bluetooth speaker . It gets pretty loud for its size and has decent sound quality. You can pair two together for stereo sound as well, and its IP67-rated design will keep it protected against water and dust. Amazon Echo Spot for $45 ($35 off): Amazon brought the Echo Spot smart alarm clock back from the dead last year with a new design and improved speakers. In addition to being able to control smart home devices and respond to voice commands, the Echo Spot can also act as a Wi-Fi extender for those that have Eero systems. It went as low as $45 for Black Friday last year. Samsung EVO Select microSD card (256GB) for $23 ($4 off) : This Samsung card has been one of our recommended models for a long time. It's a no-frills microSD card that, while not the fastest, will be perfectly capable in most devices where you're just looking for simple, expanded storage. Ring Pan-Tilt Indoor Cam $40 ($20 off) : If you like the idea of being able to move the camera around to follow the action in your home, you may want to get a pan-and-tilt option like this one. We will again note that new Ring devices are on the way, but if you dont have to have the latest thing and just want to see what your dog gets up to while youre gone, you may want to snag this 33 percent discount. Anker Soundcore Space A40 for $45 ($35 off) : Our top pick for the best budget wireless earbuds , the Space A40 have surprisingly good ANC, good sound quality, a comfortable fit and multi-device connectivity. JLab Go Air Pop+ for $17.49 ($12 off) : JLab earbuds pop up in a few of our guides including the best running headphones and best budget buds . The Pop+ earbuds are smaller and lighter than the previous model, and the apps preset EQ modes let you customize your sound. Total battery life with the case comes in at more than 35 hours. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/the-best-amazon-prime-day-deals-under-50-include-sales-from-anker-ring-lego-roku-and-others-120531317.html?src=rss

The best Prime Day TV deals: Save on sets from LG, Samsung, TCL and others

Black Friday remains the best time to grab a new TV at a discount, but Amazons latest October Prime Day sale looks like a decent opportunity to take the plunge if you need to upgrade right away. While the two-day event doesn't officially start until tomorrow, a number of well-regarded TVs from LG, Samsung, TCL and other manufacturers are at or near their best prices to date right now. You can find our full list of the best Prime Day TV deals below, along with a handful of discounts on streaming devices we like. We'll update this roundup as prices change and new offers arise over the course of the event. Best Prime Day TV deals TCL QM7K 55-inch Mini-LED TV for $598 ($100 off) : If youre willing to stretch your budget a little further, the TCL QM7K is a fairly comprehensive step up, with noticeably improved contrast, brightness and color volume. It has a 144Hz refresh rate with 288Hz support at 1080p, too, though its still limited to two HDMI 2.1 ports. (As with the QM6K, however, neither of those is an eARC port, so hooking up a soundbar wont block a game console if you have multiple systems.) This is only $1 more than the all-time low for the 55-inch model. Other sizes are similarly discounted. Hisense U8QG 65-inch Mini-LED TV for $998 ($500 off) : Several reviews suggest that the Hisense U8QG ticks most of the requisite boxes for a LCD TV in 2025: robust local dimming and mini-LED backlighting, exceptionally high brightness, vibrant quantum-dot colors, a fast refresh rate (165Hz in this case), support for the major HDR formats and so on. Its a higher-end option than something like the TCL QM6K or QM7K with superior brightness and contrast, though it still falls short of a good OLED TV when it comes to the latter. Like most LCD panels, itll also look a bit washed out if you view it from an angle. It has three HDMI 2.1 ports, which is one fewer than many other TVs in this price range, though it uniquely includes a USB-C video input if you want to hook up a gaming laptop or Nintendo Switch. (Just note that you wont get VRR or HDR when using that.) Youd mainly get it over an OLED TV if youre willing to trade some picture quality for something thats better-suited in a bright room. This deal on the 65-inch model isnt an all-time low, but it matches the best price weve tracked since July. Samsung S90F 55-inch QD-OLED TV for $1,298 ($300 off) : The Samsung S90F is an upper-tier model with a QD-OLED panel, which blends the usual perks of a quality OLED set near-perfect contrast, wide viewing angles, clear motion, low input lag with a layer of quantum dots. This helps it produce a wider gamut of more vivid colors compared to traditional WOLED TVs . It also comes with four HDMI 2.1 ports and has a fast refresh rate of 144Hz. It doesnt support Dolby Vision HDR, however, and reviews we trust say that the LG C5 , a competing WOLED model, retains darker black levels in a bright room. (The S90F has a more colorful image, though.) This deal marks a new low for the 55-inch model, while the 65-inch and 77-inch versions are also at all-time lows of $1,598 and $2,298, respectively. Just make sure you only buy the 55-, 65- or 77-inch model, as every other size in the US uses a lesser WOLED panel. Shady, we know. LG C5 55-inch OLED TV for $1,297 ($503 off) : The LG C5 cant produce the same bold colors as a QD-OLED display like the Samsung S90F, but reviews almost universally agree that its an exceptional OLED TV otherwise. It should get brighter with non-HDR content, and as noted above it should produce deeper blacks in well-lit environments. It also has just about all the essential gaming features, plus it supports the popular Dolby Vision HDR format (but not HDR10+). If you need that, or if you want an OLED set in this price range for a bright-ish room, its well worth a look. This ties the lowest price weve found for the 55-inch model; other sizes are also on sale, but note that the 42- and 48-inch models cant get as bright as the larger versions. LG B5 55-inch OLED TV for $997 ($100 off) : The B5 is LGs entry-level OLED TV for 2025, and as such its a level below the C5 in terms of brightness and color performance. Its technically limited to a 120Hz refresh rate instead of 144Hz as well, though that isnt a huge deal right now unless you plan on hooking up a gaming PC. If anything, last years LG C4 which isnt seriously discounted as of this writing is a better value for most on the whole. But if you just want to save cash, the B5 still provides most of the core benefits of an OLED display at a lower price. This is a new all-time low for the 55-inch variant. Sony Bravia 8 II 65-inch QD-OLED TV for $2,998 ($502 off) : Its certainly not cheap, but the Sony Bravia 8 II has earned plaudits for its excellent image processing, upscaling and overall accuracy alongside the expected color, contrast and motion benefits of its QD-OLED display. This should help it make lots of movies and shows look closer to their original intent. It also uses the handy Google TV interface. Outside of an extremely brief dip in June, this deal matches the best price to date for the 65-inch version. That said, if you cant stomach the high price, other reviews note that the older Sony A95L offers similar performance a bit less, while more recent competitors like the LG G5 and Samsung S95F can get noticeably brighter (even if theyre not always as accurate). Those two should be better for gaming as well, as the Bravia 8 II only has two HDMI 2.1 ports one of which is an eARC port for soundbars and its input lag is slightly higher. Roku Streaming Stick 4K for $30 ($20 off) : The Streaming Stick 4K is worth considering if you prefer a stick-style streamer that plugs directly into your TV, or if youre partial to Rokus app-centric interface, which many find simpler to navigate than the content-heavy UIs pushed by Google and Amazon. It supports Apple AirPlay and the major HDR formats, and its performance remains quick enough for most. Youll have to deal with some ads, though, and no Roku player supports the Twitch app. This deal is $5 more than the devices all-time low but ties the best price weve seen in several years. Roku Streaming Stick Plus for $24 ($16 off) : The Streaming Stick Plus is cheaper alternative to the Streaming Stick 4K with no Dolby Vision support and no long-range Wi-Fi extender built in. The latter means it may be less reliable if you dont get a consistent connection in your TVs room. (Both sticks are limited to Wi-Fi 5, though.) That said, this model can typically be powered straight from a TVs USB port instead of requiring a separate power supply. If you can live with the sacrifices, it may not be worth paying extra. This deal represents a new all-time low. Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K for $25 ($25 off) : The standard Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K offers the same core experience as the pricier Fire TV Stick 4K Max, only it comes with a slightly slower processor, half the storage (8GB) and Wi-Fi 6 instead of Wi-Fi 6E. For most people just looking for a casual streamer on the cheap, those shouldnt be huge losses. This model is also more powerful than the just-announced Fire TV 4K Select , though its Fire OS interface can still be messy and ad-heavy , with special emphasis on Amazons own services. This deal is $3 more than the sticks all-time low, though it matches the best price weve seen since Black Friday last year. Amazon Fire TV Stick HD for $18 ($17 off) : The Fire TV Stick HD is the budget pick in our guide to the best streaming devices . It can only stream up to 1080p, and it can run a bit choppier than the 4K models since it has a slower chipset and half the RAM (1GB). The usual issues with the Fire TV interface still apply here too. But if you just want to add streaming apps to an aging TV or basic monitor for as little cash as possible, it should get the job done. This discount ties the device's lowest price to date. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/the-best-prime-day-tv-deals-save-on-sets-from-lg-samsung-tcl-and-others-180051219.html?src=rss

Instagram will start handing out awards to select creators

Instagram is launching its own awards program, according to The Hollywood Reporter . This is sort of like the Oscars, but for short-form social media content. There isn't an awards ceremony, a comedian host or anything like that. Instead, the 25 winners will get physical rings. These rings will be designed by fashionista Grace Wales Bonner . Maybe they'll be worth a few bucks, as the recognition doesn't include a financial payout of any kind. However, winners will get a digital replica of a ring to put on their Instagram profile and stories. Instagram Honorees also receive the ability to customize the background color of their profiles, creating a unique gradient. Eva Chen, the head of fashion partnerships at Instagram, says this kind of customization is something that we havent really ever done before. Myspace let people do this more than 20 years ago and Friendster before that. Instagram has three billion monthly active users and there are only 25 recipients of the aforementioned ring. Judges will whittle down the list down to thousands and then hundreds before settling on the winners. These judges include platform head honcho Adam Mosseri, along with folks like Spike Lee and actress Yari Shahidi. Introducing Rings: an award from Instagram thats all about celebrating those who arent afraid to take creative chances and do it their way. pic.twitter.com/fnRgq0j51i Instagram (@instagram) October 6, 2025 There are no official categories like with other awards, but the winners will be chosen from across different topics and interest groups. The criteria was really tough, Chen says. But really, we were looking for people who take creative chances and who are always pushing the envelope and thinking about new ways to talk to their audience. Instagram hopes this will become a regular thing, just like those other awards . Wed love to see how its received and how the winners enjoy the literal Instagram spotlight, Chen says. Winners will be announced on October 16. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/social-media/instagram-will-start-handing-out-awards-to-select-creators-170531135.html?src=rss

Assassin's Creed Mirage's free DLC, Valley of Memory, drops on November 18

More than two years after the release of Assassin's Creed Mirage , the 13th major installment in the franchise gets a substantial content update for free. The story expansion, called Valley of Memory , is set to release on November 18 and adds six hours of additional gameplay. According to Ubisoft, the DLC follows the protagonist, Basim, into ninth-century AlUla as he tries to find his long-lost father. Along with the new region and map, the Valley of Memory DLC adds new assassination targets, side quests and contracts. Ubisoft is also teasing a unique twist on the franchise's classic black box missions, which allows players to carry out a main assassination quest however they want. The new main questline pits Basim against a dangerous band of robbers, but players will get several gameplay improvements to help complete the story. These changes will even be applied to the base game. The DLC introduces several parkour improvements, including a toggle for manual jumping, a smoother way to transition between rooftops and the ability to customize side and back ejects. Ubisoft adds replayable missions and challenges that allow for specific parameters, like killing only your main target or avoiding using Eagle Vision . Returning players will also find a new skill called Engineer 2, a new level 3 mod for all tools and two more difficulty levels. The free content comes as a welcome surprise for Assassin's Creed Mirage players, but the setting offers a clue as to why. Valley of Memory 's AlUla location is closely related to modern-day Saudi Arabia, which lines up with a previous report that claimed that the DLC was made possible thanks to a partnership between Ubisoft and an esports group that has backing from the Saudi government. In September, Ubisoft employees brought up serious concerns about working with Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, who also recently made a massive $55 billion acquisition of EA, alongside Silver Lake and Affinity Partners. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/assassins-creed-mirages-free-dlc-valley-of-memory-drops-on-november-18-163024978.html?src=rss

Dont buy an Echo Show (you can have mine)

Last week, Amazon announced two new Echo Show devices during its fall hardware event . From the stage, Amazon execs repeatedly used the phrase blend into the background. Amazon hardware chief Panos Panay told a personal story, recounting how Alexa+ was able to shift the balance at his dinner table, supplying his family with facts to settle their mealtime debates, no phones required. He praised the fact that Alexa+ can help without distracting you or taking you away from whats most important. Laudable sentiment, for sure. Its jarring to be ripped away from a moment by uninvited tech. So if the folks at Amazon really believe Alexa-enabled tech should fade into the background , they may agree that when Im in my kitchen slicing an apple for my kid and I glance up at my Echo Show cycling through family photos, its really frickin distracting when the shot of the forested field just outside my old house is replaced by a full-screen advertisement for Dewalt drill bits. It sure as heckfire takes me out of the moment. My Echo Show does not fade into the background; it sticks ads in my face. I dont remember it always being this way. I can recall a time, maybe a year or so ago, when my Echo Show 15 happily cycled through my photos with no billboard pop-ups. An Amazon rep I spoke with assured me that advertising has always been a part of the Echo Show experience, though they were less clear as to whether or not there may have been a change to the way ads were served on the home screen and photo carousel. That year-or-so-timeline jibes with what Im seeing on Reddit and Amazons help pages . From one to two years ago, complaints started popping up. People were suddenly confronted with ads and hoping, in vain, that someone could explain how to turn them off. The posts ranged from confusion to disbelief , to irritation and infuriation exactly the emotional range I experienced when a cereal ad popped up (coincidentally?) while I was making breakfast. I, like those hopeful redditors, wondered whether there was a secret setting, some buried menu option that would offer escape from the march of commerce while I washed the dishes. So I double checked with the Amazon rep and had it unequivocally confirmed: There is no way to turn these ads off. I get it. From the printing press to AI chatbots , ads have always been inseparable from technology. My very paycheck depends, in part, on that airline/insurance/PC banner over there on your screen. I accept that I must first close the Old Spice pop up to read an article on Deadline . I tolerate the pillow commercial on YouTube so I can watch Josh Johnson ruminate. I begrudgingly agree to these things; Theyre part of the contract. But a billboard in my kitchen? Family vacation pics interspersed with Moen faucet promos? Thats not something I agreed to. I shouldnt have to suffer through an ad so I can watch content if the content is my own damn pictures and the home page of a machine I paid hundreds of dollars to own. Built-in ads don't even subsidize the cost of an Echo Show like they do with Kindles buying one of Amazons ereaders with lockscreen ads at least knocks $20 off the price. If, as we were told last week, Alexa+ and its vessels are supposed to fade into the background, if were meant to invite this AI into our homes, into our kitchens, to our dinner tables, as a distraction-free helper, then un-opt-outable ads on the Echo Show home screen are not aligned with that goal. Ive unplugged my Echo Show 15. Soon Ill delete my data from it and stick it on the sidewalk with a big free sign on it. If youre in the neighborhood, youre welcome to pick it up. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/home/smart-home/dont-buy-an-echo-show-you-can-have-mine-155730401.html?src=rss

The best October Prime Day deals on Apple devices: Save on AirPods, iPads, AirTags and more

If youve been waiting for a discount before grabbing a new iPad, MacBook or Apple Watch, Amazons October Prime Day sale might be worth checking out. Prime Big Deal Days, as its officially called, doesnt technically begin until tomorrow, but were keeping an eye out for the best Apple deals that are going on in the lead-up to the event. So far, the selection is pretty strong, with the AirPods 4, iPad Air, MacBook Air and several other devices at or near the lowest prices we've seen. You can find our full roundup below, and well be updating this post over the course of the two-day event as more offers pop up. Best Prime Day Apple deals Apple AirPods 4 for $90 ($39 off) : The entry-level AirPods get you tons of Apple-friendly features from fast pairing with your iCloud devices to spatial audio to hands-free Siri and their lightweight design should fit most ears more comfortably than previous models. They still arent the richest-sounding or longest-lasting pair, and they don't support wireless charging, Find My tracking or built-in volume controls. They wont block much outside noise either. But if youre an iPhone owner who truly hates the feeling of earphones that jut into your ear canal, theyre a worthy value with this discount, which comes within a dollar of the lowest price weve seen. Engadgets Billy Steele gave the AirPods 4 a review score of 88 last year. Apple AirPods Max (USB-C) for $430 ($119 off) : The AirPods Max are bulkier and older than Sonys WH-1000XM6 the top pick in our guide to the best wireless headphones plus they rely on a weird, flimsy case to preserve power, so we only recommend them to hardcore Apple fans. That said, they offer most of the conveniences of the in-ear AirPods, while their ANC and warm sound profile still rank among the better options on the market. This model is virtually the same as the pair we reviewed way back in 2020, only it has a USB-C port and supports lossless audio with a cable. This discount is $30 off the pairs all-time low, but its the best price weve seen since July. Apple iPad Air (11-inch, M3) for $449 ($150 off) : We call the Air the best Apple tablet for most people in our guide to the best iPads . While its a good bit more expensive than the base model, it has a handful of subtle improvements that add up in day-to-day use. Its speakers are better. Its display is more color-rich, more glare-resistant and laminated, which means theres no gap between the display and the actual glass. Theres a faster chip and more RAM for gaming or more involved tasks. It also works with the Apple Pencil Pro and comfier Magic Keyboard. This $150 discount matches the lowest price weve seen. Other sizes and storage configurations are also similarly discounted. Apple iPad Air (13-inch, M3) for $649 ($150 off) : The 13-inch iPad Air is exactly the same as the 11-inch model, only it has a larger and slightly brighter display. It should be nice if youre willing to trade a little portability for more space for working or taking in movies. We gave this model a score of 89 in our review back in March. Apple iPad mini (A17 Pro) for $399 ($100 off) : The iPad mini is exactly what it sounds like : the smaller iPad. This latest iteration has an improved A17 Pro chip which is enough to support Apple Intelligence along with 128GB of storage in the base model and Apple Pencil Pro support. As always, youd buy it if you want a display you can more easily hold with one hand. This is another deal we've seen several times, but it's only $20 more than the lowest price we've tracked. Apple AirTags (4-pack) for $65 ($34 off) : With its enormous finding network and ultra-wideband tech for accurately locating nearby items, Apples AirTag is the top pick for iPhone users in our guide to the best Bluetooth trackers . This deal comes within a dollar of the best price we've seen for a four-pack. If youre not in desperate need for these, though, note that we may see an updated model later this year. Apple Pencil Pro for $99 ($30 off) : The Pencil Pro is Apples premium stylus, offering pressure sensitivity, wireless charging, haptic feedback and unique gesture controls compared to the standard Pencil. Its a dependably tool for sketching and note-taking; just note that its not compatible with the base iPad and most older models. This is another discount weve seen regularly over the past year, but its $30 off the pens list price. Apple MacBook Air (15-inch, M4) for $999 ($200 off) : The 15-inch MacBook Air is essentially the same as the 13-inch version, only it has a roomier display, a more spacious trackpad and better speakers. This deal is slightly higher than the laptops all-time low, and its another discount weve seen plenty of times before, but its a decent drop from Apples usual list price. Again, other versions with more memory and storage are also on sale. Apple Watch Series 11 (42mm, GPS) for $390 ($9 off) : The Series 11 is the top overall pick in our guide to the best smartwatches . Its not as compelling as the SE 3 from a value perspective, but it has a bigger, brighter and more scratch-resistant display, slightly longer battery life and support for more advanced health features like hypertension alerts and an ECG app. We gave it a score of 90 in our review. Just note that theres no pressing need to upgrade if youre happy with your current Apple Watch. This is a slight $9 discount, but we note it since the Series 11 has been on sale for less than a month, so any bit of savings are welcome. Apple Watch Series 10 (42mm, GPS + Cellular) for $329 ($170 off) : As a general rule, most people should buy the newest version of whatever Apple product they want. That said, the Series 11 is only a minor upgrade over the prior Series 10 the glass is more scratch-resistant, the cellular model has 5G support, the battery is marginally bigger and thats about it. If youre mostly worried about saving cash, want LTE support and still need the more advanced health features the Apple Watch SE lacks, this is a worthwhile discount for a version of last years model with cellular support. Apple Watch SE 3 (40mm, GPS) for $240 ($9 off) : Apple only released its latest crop of Apple Watches a couple weeks ago, but Amazon is selling each with a modest discount. The Watch SE 3, for instance, is available for $240: Thats just $9 off its list price, but its something if youre buying soon after launch anyway. As for the device itself, this third-gen version of the SE adds an always-on display, which makes it so you no longer have to wake the watch to check the time or your notifications. It now runs on the same S10 chip as its higher-end siblings, too, and 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 should be a strong value. Apple Watch Ultra 3 (49mm) for $780 ($19 off) : The Apple Watch Ultra 3 is a much more niche device than the Series 11 or SE 3, aimed at serious athletes and adventurers more than the typical gymgoer. It is 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 . The watch normally retails for $799, so this isnt a major discount, but since this is a brand-new device, any drop at all is worth noting for early adopters. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/the-best-october-prime-day-deals-on-apple-devices-save-on-airpods-ipads-airtags-and-more-125644485.html?src=rss

The best Amazon Prime Day deals on Anker power banks, wireless chargers and other accessories

You may not be looking to spend big on tech this October Prime Day , but it's still a good idea to look for tech essentials during the shopping event while you can get some at good discounts. Anker makes some of our favorite charging gear and I always end up picking up an accessory or two during Prime Day to ensure I have what I need when I need it most, and I feel better knowing I didn't spend full price on it. For example, in sales past, I picked up a couple of extra USB-C charging cables so I could keep one in my carry-on luggage so I always have one when I travel. My partner will likely be upgrading to an iPhone 17 this year, so we'll have to get a few more USB-C cables now that Lightning is officially banished from our home. Also, every year it seems I need yet another surge protector, so even though I picked one up the year before but one can never have too many. Here, we've collected all of the best October Prime Day deals on Anker devices and other charging gear we could find, and we'll update this post as the event goes on with the latest offerings. Anker Prime Day deals: Power banks Power banks are not as straightforward as you might think. They come in all shapes, sizes and capacities and can have extra features like magnetic alignment, built-in kickstands, extra ports and more. It's worth considering how you'll use a power bank before you decide on the right one to buy. Smartphones dont need huge-capacity bricks to power up a couple of times over; a 5K or 10K portable charger should be plenty if thats all youre looking to support. If you want a more versatile accessory that can charge a tablet, laptop or gaming handheld, consider a brick with a higher capacity and more ports so you can charge multiple devices simultaneously. Anker Prime Day deals: Wireless chargers A good wireless charger can lighten your cable load. While wired charging remains faster and more efficient, wireless chargers can clean up your space by eliminating a few of those cables that constantly trip you up. We recommend thinking about where you'll use a wireless charger before buying one. Those outfitting a home office with new tech may want a wireless charging stand that puts their phone in an upright position thats easier to see while its powering up, while those who want a wireless charger for their nightstand might prefer a lay-flat design or a power station that can charge a smartphone, smartwatch and pair of earbuds all at once. Anker Prime Day deals: Charging gear Plenty of other charging gear is on sale for Prime Day. Its never a bad idea to pick up a few 30W USB-C adapters so you always have what you need to reliably power up your phone. Same goes for extra USB-C (or USB-A) cables that can live in your car, in your office at work or by the couch. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/the-best-amazon-prime-day-deals-on-anker-power-banks-wireless-chargers-and-other-accessories-164536491.html?src=rss

Prime Day Apple deals include a four-pack of AirTags for a record-low price

Amazon's fall edition of Prime Day is nearly here, but you can already get some great deals on popular products like the Apple AirTag. Right now, a four-pack of Apple AirTags is $65 , or 34 percent off the regular price. If you're an Apple user, then the AirTag is the best Bluetooth tracker on the market for you. You can put these little discs in your wallet, in a backpack or in your luggage while you're traveling. Your AirTag's location will show up in your Find My app, powered by the vast network of iPhones, iPads and other compatible devices that receive the AirTag's Bluetooth signal. Keep in mind these only work when close enough to participating devices to be located. You can attach AirTags to just about anything thanks to an abundance of available accessories . Their built-in speakers can play a tone, triggered from your iPhone, to help you find them when the object they're affixed to is lost. On iPhone 11 and newer models, you can take advantage of the AirTag's Ultra Wideband capability and have your phone lead you right to your AirTag, complete with directional arrows on your iPhone screen. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/prime-day-apple-deals-include-a-four-pack-of-airtags-for-a-record-low-price-143112775.html?src=rss

The best Amazon Prime Day deals: Get up to 58 percent off on Apple, Samsung, Lego, Dyson, Shark and others before the sale begins

October Prime Day will be here soon on October 7 and 8, but as to be expected, you can already find some decent sales available now. Amazon always has lead-up sales in the days and weeks before Prime Day, and its wise to shop early if youre on the hunt for something specific and you see that item at a good discount. Prime Day deals are typically reserved for subscribers, but there are always a few that anyone can shop. We expect this year to be no exception, and were already starting to see that trend in these early Prime Day deals. These are the best Prime Day deals you can get right now ahead of the event, and well update this post with the latest offers as we get closer to October Prime Day proper. October Prime Day deals: Engadget's top picks Apple AirPods 4 (no ANC) for $90 (30 percent off): Apple's entry-level wireless earbuds are the best AirPods for folks on a budget. They have an open-ear design that some will prefer over eartips that stick into your ears full, plus they have much improved audio quality and the H2 chip that enables features like Voice Isolation, Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking and Adaptive EQ. Apple MacBook Air (13-inch, M4) for $799 (20 percent off): Our top pick for the best laptop for most people, the latest MacBook Air is impressively thin and light without skimping on performance. The M4 chipset is powerful enough to handle everyday tasks without breaking a sweat, plus some gaming and labor-intensive work. It has a comfortable keyboard, luxe-feeling trackpad and an excellent battery life. Leebein 2025 electric spin scrubber for $40 (43 percent off, Prime exclusive): This is an updated version of my beloved Leebein electric scrubber, which has made cleaning my shower easier than ever before. It comes with seven brush heads so you can use it to clean all kinds of surfaces, and its adjustable arm length makes it easier to clean hard-to-reach spots. It's IPX7 waterproof and recharges via USB-C. Jisulife Life7 handheld fan for $25 (14 percent off, Prime exclusive): 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. Amazon Smart Plug for $13 ($12 off) : We named this the best smart plug for Alexa users because it hooks up painlessly and stays connected reliably. Use it to control lamps or your holiday lights using programs and schedules in the Alexa app, or just your voice by talking to your Echo Dot or other Alexa-enabled listener. Dyson V15 Detect Plus for $570 (33 percent off): Our top pick for the best cordless vacuum on the market right now, the V15 Detect has some of the strongest suction power you'll find in a stick vacuum, plus a lightweight design and a dustbin that can hold more dirt and debris than it might seem. This model comes with five cleaning attachments, including the Fluffy Optic cleaner head that has LEDs to illuminate the floor as you're vacuuming so you can better see where all the dust bunnies are. October Prime Day deals on tech Apple iPad Air (11-inch, M3) for $449 ($150 off): The only major difference between the latest iPad Air and the previous generation is the addition of the faster M3 chip. We awarded the new slab an 89 in our review , appreciating the fact that the M3 chip was about 16 percent faster in benchmark tests than the M2. This is the iPad to get if you want a reasonable amount of productivity out of an iPad that's more affordable than the Pro models. Samsung EVO Select microSD card (128GB) for $13 (24 percent off): This Samsung card has been one of our recommended models for a long time. It's a no-frills microSD card that, while not the fastest, will be perfectly capable in most devices where you're just looking for simple, expanded storage. JLab Go Air Pop+ for $17.49 (42 percent off): These ultra-affordable wireless earbuds are 15 percent smaller and 40 percent lighter than the previous model, and they have a mobile app in which you can choose from three preset EQ modes to customize your sound. Total battery life with the case comes in at more than 35 hours, and they come with three different sizes of eartips so you can get the best fit. Lego Star Wars Advent Calendar 2025 75418 for $31 (30 percent off): 'Tis the season for advent calendars . They've flooded the internet, as they usually do this time of year, and there are plenty to choose from (and stock up on) before we get to December. Lego has a bunch, and this Star Wars one will be fun for everyone, not just kids, to open up each day at the end of the year. Anker 622 5K magnetic foldable power bank with stand for $34 (29 percent off, Prime exclusive): This 0.5-inch thick power bank attaches magnetically to iPhones and won't get in your way when you're using your phone. It also has a built-in stand so you can watch videos, make FaceTime calls and more hands-free while your phone is powering up. Blink Mini 2 security cameras (two-pack) for $35 (50 percent off): Blink makes some of our favorite security cameras, and the Mini 2 is a great option for indoor monitoring. It can be placed outside with the right weatherproof adapter , but since it needs to be plugged in, we like it for keeping an eye on your pets while you're away and watching over entry ways from the inside. JBL Go 4 portable speaker for $40 (20 percent off): The Go 4 is a handy little Bluetooth speaker that you can take anywhere you go thanks to its small, IP67-rated design and built-in carrying loop. It'll get seven hours of playtime on a single charge, and you can pair two together for stereo sound. Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max for $40 (33 percent off): Amazon's most powerful streaming dongle supports 4K HDR content, Dolby Vision and Atmos and Wi-Fi 6E. It also has double the storage of cheaper Fire TV sticks. Anker Soundcore Space A40 for $45 (44 percent off): Our top pick for the best budget wireless earbuds , the Space A40 have surprisingly good ANC, good sound quality, a comfortable fit and multi-device connectivity. Anker MagGo 10K power bank (Qi2, 15W) for $63 (22 percent off, Prime exclusive): A 10K power bank like this is ideal if you want to be able to recharge your phone at least once fully and have extra power to spare. This one is also Qi2 compatible, providing up to 15W of power to supported phones. Levoit Core 200S smart air purifier for $70 ($20 off, Prime exclusive): This compact air purifier cleans the air in rooms up to 140 square feet and uses a 3-in-1 filter that removes microscopic dust, pollen and airborne particles. It has a mobile app that you can use to set runtime schedules, and it works with Alexa and Google Assistant voice commands. iRobot Roomba 104 Vac for $150 (40 percent off): This entry-level robot vacuum is an upgraded version of one of our favorite budget robot vacuums . iRobot makes robovacs that are easy to use, even for those who have never had a machine like this, and they do a good job of cleaning up all kinds of messes, including pet hair. Levoit LVAC-300 cordless vacuum for $250 ($100 off, Prime exclusive): One of our favorite cordless vacuums , this Levoit machine has great handling, strong suction power for its price and a premium-feeling design. Its bin isn't too small, it has HEPA filtration and its battery life should be more than enough for you to clean your whole home many times over before it needs a recharge. Shark Robot Vacuum and Mop Combo for $300 (57 percent off, Prime exclusive): If you're looking for an autonomous dirt-sucker that can also mop, this is a good option. It has a mopping pad and water reservoir built in, and it supports home mapping as well. Its self-emptying base can hold up to 60 days worth of debris, too. Amazon Kindle Scribe for $300 (25 percent off): The latest Kindle Scribe is one of the best E Ink tablets you can get, particularly if you want a slab that can handle both note-taking and e-reading well. Its edge is providing users full access to the Kindle ebook store and the ability to take notes to accompany reading material. This model has 16GB of storage and includes the Premium Pen. XReal One Pro AR glasses for $649 (16 percent off): The latest from XReal , these smart glasses can let you use almost any device, including your smartphone, with a large virtual display. Their 1080p Micro-OLED screens are bright and sharp, plus they're pretty comfortable to wear. Nintendo Switch 2 for $449: While not technically a discount, it's worth mentioning that the Switch 2 and the Mario Kart Switch 2 bundle are both available at Amazon now, no invitation required. Amazon only listed the new console for the first time in July after being left out of the initial pre-order/availability window in April. Once it became available, Amazon customers looking to buy the Switch 2 had to sign up to receive an invitation to do so. Now, that extra step has been removed and anyone can purchase the Switch 2 on Amazon. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/the-best-amazon-prime-day-deals-get-up-to-58-percent-off-on-apple-samsung-lego-dyson-shark-and-others-before-the-sale-begins-050801654.html?src=rss

OpenAI agrees to buy 'tens of billions' worth of AMD chips

It was only a few weeks ago that NVIDIA pledged a $100 billion investment in OpenAI . Now, OpenAI has come to another agreement, this time with NVIDIA's competitor, AMD. OpenAI has announced a deal to use AMD's chips to create six gigawatts worth of AI infrastructure. AMD expects to make tens of billions of dollars from this agreement. According to OpenAI, AMD will act as a core strategic compute partner to drive large-scale deployments of its technology. OpenAI will use AMD's Instinct GPUs, with plans to deploy the first gigawatt of the Instinct MI450 GPUs during the second half of 2026 AMDs leadership in high-performance chips will enable us to accelerate progress and bring the benefits of advanced AI to everyone faster, Sam Altman, co-founder and CEO of OpenAI, said in a statement. The deal will also give OpenAI the chance to purchase 160 million AMD shares at a penny each. These shares will vest over time as different milestones are reached starting with that first one gigawatt deployment. Ultimately, these shares would give OpenAI up to a 10 percent stake in AMD. Agreements between major AI players are popping up everywhere. In its recent deal with NVIDIA, OpenAI plans to use the former's chips to make at least 10 gigawatts of AI data centers. The $100 billion investment will come in waves timed to each new gigawatt of power. This process should also start during the second half of 2026. OpenAI is also working with Microsoft on ways to share technology, with the latter having invested over $13 billion in the former for 49 percent of its profits. Meanwhile, Nvidia recently invested $5 billion in Intel to seamlessly connect the strengths of NVIDIAs AI and accelerated computing with Intels leading CPU technologies and x86 ecosystem. Intel has also been tasked with creating NVIDIA-custom x86 CPUs for the market and AI infrastructure platforms. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ai/openai-agrees-to-buy-tens-of-billions-worth-of-amd-chips-134816630.html?src=rss

Prime Day deals include this battery-powered Ring video doorbell for $80

If you've been considering a video doorbell for your front door, Prime Day deals may have just what you're looking for at a good price. A great deal available now is on the latest Ring Battery Doorbell Plus , which is 47 percent off and down to only $80. The Battery Doorbell Plus offers a 150-by-150-degree head to toe field of vision and 1536p high-resolution video. This makes it a lot easier to see boxes dropped off at your front door since it doesn't cut off the bottom of the image like a lot of video doorbells. This model features motion detection, privacy zones, color night vision and Live View with two-way talk, among other features. Installation is a breeze since you don't have to hardwire it to your existing doorbell wiring. Most users report that the battery lasts between several weeks and several months depending on how users set up the video doorbell, with power-heavy features like motion detection consuming more battery life. With most video doorbells today, you need a subscription to get the most out of them, and Ring is no exception. Features like package alerts require a Ring Home plan, with tiers ranging from Basic for $5 per month to Premium for $20 per month. You'll also need a plan to store your video event history. Ring was acquired by Amazon in 2018, and now offers a full suite of home security products including outdoor cameras , home alarm systems and more. This deal is part of a larger sale on Ring and Blink devices leading up to Prime Day. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/prime-day-deals-include-this-battery-powered-ring-video-doorbell-for-80-154508903.html?src=rss

Amazon's Echo Spot alarm clock drops to only $45 in this Prime Day deal

Amazon may have announced new Echo Show devices recently, but it didn't touch the humble Echo Spot . The smart alarm clock remains the smallest Echo device with a display, but it's one that's really best just for showing the time, weather and other quick bits of information. You can grab one now for only $45 thanks to Prime Day deals; that's 44 percent off its usual price. The latest incarnation of the diminutive Spot was introduced in July 2024, and this matches its record-low price. For that you get a comfortably bedside-sized device with a sharper display than its predecessor, as well as superior sound. The front face is divided into two halves, with a speaker positioned below the hemispherical display. What screen you do have is more than enough to display the time and weather information, plus it can show you the song or album title and accompanying artwork when youre listening to music on those improved speakers. It can naturally be used to boss around your other connected smart devices, too. Alexa might be baked in, but the Echo Spot is intended to be a fairly bare-bones smart alarm clock, so dont expect as many features as youll find on something like the Echo Show 5 . But a lot of people just want a modern alarm clock, and arguably the biggest selling point for the Echo Spot is its total lack of a camera. While that means it can do less than the original 2017 Echo Spot, which Amazon did put a camera in, the decision to remove it from a device that lives right next to your bed was probably for the best. Amazons Prime Day sale returns on October 7, so you can expect a range of deals on its various Echo devices. For our guide to all of the best early deals, head here. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/amazons-echo-spot-alarm-clock-drops-to-only-45-in-this-prime-day-deal-142550522.html?src=rss

Logitech's brand new MX Master 4 is already 25 percent off

Logitech released its newest mouse less than a week ago but you can already grab it for a discounted price. Right now, the Logitech MX Master 4 is available at Best Buy for $90, down from $120. The 25 percent markdown is the first deal we've seen on the device. The MX Master 4 comes three years after its predecessor (and our pick for best wireless mouse of 2025), the MX Master 3S. We tested the latest iteration for a few weeks and it still has all the comfort of the 3S, despite being slightly heftier. Plus, it has a lightly textured plastic on top, rather than the rubber on the 3S. The main difference between the two is the MX Master 4's haptic feedback. It's built into the thumb rest panel and you can change the intensity or turn it off through Logitechs Options+ software. You'll feel it at times such as when pairing the mouse, the battery is low or you've perfectly lined up a graphic in Photoshop. However, on that note, right now haptics only work with apps like Photoshop , Lightroom and Zoom, with Adobe Premiere Pro coming soon. If you plan to use Photoshop, Lightroom and the like, then buying the mouse from Best Buy is a good choice. The store is exclusively offering customers two complimentary months of an Adobe Creative Cloud subscription when you buy the MX Master 4. Follow @EngadgetDeals on X for the latest tech deals and buying advice . This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/logitechs-brand-new-mx-master-4-is-already-25-percent-off-130030050.html?src=rss

Get a bundle of two Blink Mini 2 cameras for only $35 for Prime Day

October Prime Day is right around the corner, but you can grab some good deals today. Blink security cameras are almost always on sale during Amazon's shopping events, and this time is no different. One of the best deals at the moment is on a duo of Blink Mini 2 cameras , which you can get for only $35. That's half off and a record-low price, not to mention less than what you'd typically pay for one full price. It's also Engadget's pick for the best budget security camera . This budget-friend, wired camera is well-suited for nighttime video: It has a built-in LED spotlight, color night vision and a low-light sensor. Day or night, it records in sharp 1080p resolution. It also has a wider field of view than its predecessor. The Blink Mini 2 is primarily designed for indoor use. But you can use it outdoors, too. You'll just need to fork over $10 for a weather-resistant adapter . Wherever you use the camera, it works with Alexa and supports two-way audio. (Hello, doggy, I'll be home soon.) It also supports person detection. (That's a neat feature that differentiates between people and other types of movement.) However, the feature requires a Blink Subscription Plan . They start at $3 per month or $30 per year for one device. The camera is available in black or white. Both colors are available for the $35 Prime Day deal, but they can't be mixed unless you buy each separately. It's worth noting that this deal is open to anyone no Prime subscription necessary. Amazon recently announced an upgraded version of this camera that supports 2K video, but it won't be available until later in October. You can also save on a bunch of other Blink (and Ring) security gear for Prime Day. The Blink Outdoor 4 cameras are some of our favorites, and most configurations are on sale for Prime Day, including bundles like this three-camera system that's 61 percent off. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/get-a-bundle-of-two-blink-mini-2-cameras-for-only-35-for-prime-day-201049013.html?src=rss

The Amazon Smart Plug drops to only $13 for Prime Day

Smart plugs can infuse some intelligence into regular old things around your home. When you're comfortable in bed, rather than getting up to turn off your light, you can connect it to a smart plug to control it from your phone or with your voice. They're some of the most affordable ways into the IoT world, but it's always great when you snag them on sale. Right now, you can pick up the Amazon Smart Plug for a record-low price of $13, down from $25. The 48 percent discount comes as part of Amazon Prime Day sales. Prime members can even get a two-pack for $24 52 percent off its normal price. The Amazon Smart Plug is our pick for best smart plug if you have an Alexa-enabled home. You can tell Alexa to turn off the lights or control it with the Alexa app. It's compatible with most plugged in devices, from lamps and fans to even kitchen appliances. You can also set it to turn on lights or devices at a certain time each day. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/the-amazon-smart-plug-drops-to-only-13-for-prime-day-130446520.html?src=rss

The best webcams for 2025

A good webcam makes a big difference whether youre jumping on work calls, streaming gameplay or catching up with friends across the country. Built-in laptop cameras often fall short, so investing in one of the best webcams gives you sharper video, better colors and features like background control or low-light correction. The market is full of options at different prices, which makes picking the right one tricky. Some focus on 4K resolution while others prioritize smooth frame rates or strong microphones. This guide rounds up the best webcams you can buy right now so you can find one that matches your setup and needs. Table of contents Best webcams for 2025 Factors to consider before buying a webcam How we test webcams Other webcams we tested Best webcams for 2025 Factors to consider before buying a webcam Resolution and field of view While some newer computers have 1080p webcams, most built-in cameras have a resolution of 720p, so youll want to look for an external webcam that has a higher resolution. FHD webcams will give you better video quality; ideally, youre looking for something that can handle 1080p at 60fps or 30fps. If youre considering a cheap 720p webcam, make sure to get one that supports at least 30fps (most will) or, even better, 60fps. However, if your primary concern is better picture quality during video calls, 1080p is the way to go. Some webcams can shoot in 4K, but thats overkill for most people. Not to mention most video conferencing services like Zoom, Google Meet and Skype dont even support 4K video. When it comes to streaming, Twitch maxes out at 1080p video, but YouTube added 4K live streaming back in 2016. Ultimately, with 4K webcam shots having such limited use, most people can get by with a solid 1080p camera. Field of view (FOV) controls how much can fit in the frame when youre recording. Most webcams I tested had a default field of view of around 78 degrees, which captured me and enough of my background to prove that I really need to organize my home office. On cheaper webcams youll usually see narrower fields of view (around 60 degrees), and those arent necessarily bad. They wont show as much of your background, but that also means you wont be able to squeeze as many friends or family members into frame when youre having Zoom birthday parties. On the flip side, more expensive webcams may let you adjust the field of view to be even wider than average, and some even offer features like digital zoom. Autofocus and other auto features Webcams with autofocus will keep the image quality sharp without much work on your part. You should be able to move around, step back and forth, and remain in focus the whole time. Some standalone webcam models let you manually adjust focus, too, if you have specific needs. Devices with fixed focus are less convenient, but they tend to be more affordable. In the same vein is auto framing, a feature that some high-end webcams now offer. Similarly to Apples Center Stage feature, the camera automatically adjusts to keep you in the center of the frame even as you move around. This used to be a feature only available on the most premium webcams, but now you can find it on sub-$200 devices. Youll also see other auto features listed in webcam specs, most notably auto light correction. This will adjust the cameras settings to make up for a dimly lit room. If you dont have bright lights, or often take calls in places where you cant control the lighting, this feature will be valuable. Alternatively, you might consider using your mirrorless camera as a high-quality webcam solution, taking all of the benefits and features with you (albeit in a cumbersome package). Microphones Most webcams have built-in microphones that, depending on your setup, might end up being closer to you than your computers own mics. Check to see if the model youre considering has mono or stereo mics, as the latter is better. Some even use noise-reduction technology to keep your voice loud and clear. While audiophiles and streamers will want to invest in a standalone microphone , most others can get by using a webcams built-in mic. Design There arent a ton of fascinating breakthroughs when it comes to external webcam design. Most are round or rectangular devices that clip onto a monitor or your laptop screen. Some have the ability to swivel or screw onto a tripod stand and others can simply sit on your desk beside your computer. But unless you really like having people stare up your nose, the latter isnt ideal. We recommend clipping your webcam to your monitor and ensuring that its at or slightly above eye level. A few webcams go above and beyond by adding hardware extras like built-in lights and lens covers, too. The former can help you stand out in a dark room, while the latter makes it so hackers cant view you through your webcam without your knowledge. Price Most external webcams that are just good enough to be a step up from your computers built-in camera cost between $60 and $150. If the webcam has the same resolution as the internal one on your laptop, you should look out for other specs like auto light correction, a wider field of view or an extra-long connecting cable that can provide a step-up in quality or ease of use. Spending $150 or more means you might get advanced features that tend to be present in a pro webcam like 4K resolution, vertical and horizontal recording options, stereo mics, customizable video settings and more. But unless youre spending hours on video calls each day or streaming multiple times each week, you can settle on a budget webcam and safely skip most of those high-end options. How we test webcams We primarily test webcams by putting them through as much real-world use as possible. We examine their design, how flexible they are and how easy they are to reposition, and make note of how heavy they are and if that affects their ability to stay put while sitting on top of a screen. We use each webcam for at least a week straight as our primary camera for all video chats, and we make sure to use the device in different lighting environments to test low-light performance. We also use any built-in microphones as our primary audio inputs on video calls as well. Finally, although most of these webcams are plug-and-play, we test out any proprietary software thats intended to work with each webcam, tweaking things like field of view, video resolution and effects, and using any special features like Show Mode on Logitech webcams. Others webcams we tested Logitech C920s Pro HD Our previous top pick, the Logitech C920s Pro HD webcam remains a solid option for those with less than $100 to spend and really only need a basic 1080p camera to upgrade their setup, or something affordable to make them look better on those inevitable Zoom calls. It has a 78-degree field of view, decent microphones and handy privacy shutter built in. The Brio 500 took the top spot away from this model thanks to its advanced light correction, auto-framing and Show Mode. Webcam FAQs Should I get a 4K or 1080p webcam? It depends on how you plan to use it. A 1080p webcam is more than enough for most video calls, online classes and casual streaming. The picture looks clear, loads quickly and works well even on slower internet connections. A 4K webcam makes sense if you want sharper detail, especially for content creation, professional streaming or recordings you plan to upload. The extra resolution also helps if you crop or zoom in during a call without losing much quality. Keep in mind that 4K requires more bandwidth and not every platform supports it, so think about whether your setup and audience will benefit before spending more. Georgie Peru contributed to this report. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/computing/accessories/best-webcams-123047068.html?src=rss

The best advent calendars for 2025: Our top picks from Lego, Pokmon, Funko Pop and more

Why settle for tiny pieces of chocolate when you could unwrap a Pokmon card, a Funko Pop or a Star Wars LEGO ship instead? Advent calendars have gone full geek mode, with options for fans of movies, comics, games and even science. Theyre the perfect way to add some holiday cheer to your desk, game shelf or living room. Consider this your guide to the best geeky countdowns for 2025. Best advent calendars for 2025 Check out the rest of our gift ideas here. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/the-best-advent-calendars-for-2025-our-top-picks-from-lego-pokemon-funko-pop-and-more-120042101.html?src=rss

The best vlogging cameras for 2025

Vlogging used to be a niche camera category, but its now at least equal to (if not dominating) the photo scene. All the major camera companies now have multiple creator models with new ones arriving nearly every month, including Nikons awesome new ZR hybrid creator camera built in collaboration with cinema company RED. Other recent creator models include Sony's powerful full-frame ZV-E1, the Insta360 X5 and Fujifilms X-M5. Some cameras in this guide, like the new Panasonic S1 II and Panasonics GH7, are hybrid mirrorless cameras with vlogging powers as part of a greater toolkit. All have certain things in common, however, like flip-around screens, eye-detect autofocus and some kind of stabilization. Prices, features and quality can vary widely, though. To that end, weve updated our guide with all the latest vlogging cameras designed for novice to professional creators with a wide range of budgets. Engadget has tested all of these to give you the best possible recommendations. Table of contents Best vlogging cameras for 2025 Upcoming cameras What to look for in a vlogging camera Best vlogging cameras for 2025 Best action and portable cameras If youre just starting out in vlogging or need a small, rugged camera, an action cam might be your best bet. In general, theyre easy to use as you dont have to worry about things like exposure or focus. Recent models also offer good electronic stabilization and sharp, colorful video at up to 4K and 60 fps. The downsides are a lack of control, image quality thats not on par with larger cameras and no zooming or option to change lenses. Best compact vlogging cameras Compact cameras are a step up from smartphones or action cameras, with larger sensors and much better image quality. At the same time, theyre not quite as versatile as mirrorless or DSLR cameras (and not necessarily cheaper) and they lack advanced options like 10-bit video. For folks who want the best possible quality without needing to think too much about their camera, however, theyre the best option. Best mirrorless vlogging cameras This is the class that has changed the most over the past couple of years, particularly in the more affordable price categories. Interchangeable lens cameras give you the most options for vlogging, offering larger sensors than compact cameras with better low-light sensitivity and shallower depth of field to isolate you or your subject. They also offer better control of your image with manual controls, log recording, 10-bit video and more. The drawbacks are extra weight compared to action or compact cameras, extra complexity and higher prices. Upcoming cameras Nikon ZR Nikons ZR has just arrived and I havent been able to test the final version yet, but its loaded with potential. Developed in collaboration with the cinema company RED that it acquired last year, it offers 6K RAW video at up to 60 fps using REDs new R3D NE format along with its Log3G10 color science. It has in-body stabilization with up to 7.5 stops of shake reduction, hybrid phase-detect autofocus and a huge 4-inch display with a superb 3,070 dot resolution and 1,000 nits of brightness. Thats all squeezed into a compact 540 gram (1.2 pound) body. Best of all, it costs just $2,200, making it not only more capable but much cheaper than many comparable cinema cameras. What to look for in a vlogging camera Vlogging cameras are perfect if you often work alone and either use a tripod, gimbal, vehicle mount or just your hands to hold a camera. It has to be good not just for filming yourself, but other B-roll footage that helps tell your story. The number one requirement is a flip-around screen so you can see yourself while filming. Those can rotate up, down or to the side, but flipping out to the side is preferable so a tripod or microphone wont block it. Continuous autofocus (AF) for video with face and eye detection is also a must. It becomes your camera assistant, keeping things in focus while you concentrate on your content. Most cameras can do that nowadays, but some still do it better than others. If you move around or walk a lot, you should look for a camera with in-body stabilization. Electronic stabilization is another option as long as youre aware of the limitations. If budget permits, its good to have a camera with a fast sensor that limits rolling shutter, which can create a distracting jello wobble with quick camera movements. Steve Dent/Engadget 4K recording is another key feature. All cameras nowadays can shoot 4K up to at least 24 fps, but if possible, its better to have 4K at 60 or even 120 fps. If you shoot sports or other things involving fast movement, look for a model with at least 1080p at 120 fps for slow-motion recording. Video quality and color accuracy are other important considerations, especially for skin tones. Good light sensitivity helps for shooting concerts or filming at night, and a log profile helps improve dynamic range in very bright or dark shooting conditions. If you want the best possible image quality and can afford it, get a camera that can record 4K with 10-bits (billions) of colors and log capture to boost dynamic range. That will give you more options when you go to edit. Dont neglect audio either its just as important as video. Look for a camera with a microphone port so you can plug in a shotgun or lapel mic for interviews, or at least one with a good-quality built-in microphone. Its also nice to have a headphone port to monitor sound to confirm that levels are good and theres no clipping or other issues. Youll also want good battery life and, if possible, dual memory card slots for a backup. Finally, dont forget about your cameras size and weight. If youre constantly carrying one while shooting, especially at the end of a gimbal or gorillapod, it might actually be the most important factor. Thats why tiny GoPro cameras are so popular for sports, despite offering lower image quality and fewer pro features. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/cameras/best-vlogging-camera-151603452.html?src=rss

OpenAI's first device with Jony Ive could be delayed due to 'technical issues'

OpenAI and Jony Ive could still have some serious loose ends to tie up before releasing their highly anticipated AI device. According to a Financial Times report, the partnership is still struggling with some technical issues that could ultimately end up pushing back the device's release date, which is expected to be sometime in 2026 . One of those lingering dilemmas involves figuring out the AI assistant's voice and mannerisms, according to FT 's sources. The AI device is meant to be a friend who's a computer who isn't your weird AI girlfriend, according to a FT source who was briefed on the plans. Beyond landing on a personality, OpenAI and Ive are still figuring out potential privacy concerns stemming from a device that's always listening . On top of that, the budget could reportedly be a challenge due to the increased computing power necessary to run these mass-produced AI devices. Outside these latest struggles, we still know very little about the upcoming product. Sam Altman, OpenAI's CEO, reportedly offered some clues to employees that it could be pocket-sized, aware of its environment and sans display. There are still plenty of questions about what OpenAI's first hardware project will amount to, but the company could be exercising more caution since similar devices, like the Humane AI Pin , were discontinued after failing to deliver on sales. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ai/openais-first-device-with-jony-ive-could-be-delayed-due-to-technical-issues-182226416.html?src=rss

Anker's latest Prime charging devices are already 20 percent off

Anker's latest Prime charging devices are already on sale thanks to some handy coupons. The best deals include the laptop-compatible Prime Power Bank (26,250mAh, 300W) , which is 20 percent off and down to $184 when you clip the on-page coupon on its Amazon page. This portable charger delivers a whopping 300W of total output between its two USB-C ports and single USB-A port. Anker says that, thanks to its 140W output (and if you're using a 5A cable), you can top up the battery of an M4 Pro MacBook Pro to 50 percent in 27 minutes and an iPhone 17 Pro Max to 50 percent in 22 minutes. You can keep tabs on what's happening on each port using the display. This is also the first Anker power bank that supports up to 250W of input recharging by using both USB-C ports simultaneously. This faster charging can top up the powerbank's own battery to 50 percent in just 13 minutes, according to Anker. This model has a capacity of 26,250mAh (99.75Wh), which is very close to the FAA's limit of 100W. It's TSA-approved, so you'll be able to take it on flights. It's capable of taking an M4 MacBook Pro from fully dead to an 80 percent charge. The power bank weighs 1.3 lbs the same as about three iPhones, Anker says. Other Anker Prime devices are on sale too. A new 3-in-1 MagSafe charger which can top up the batteries of your iPhone, Apple Watch and AirPods with wireless charging case simultaneously also gets a 20 percent discount to $184 when you use a clippable coupon. While there are certainly less expensive 3-in-1 MagSafe options out there, this one includes Qi2 25W support for faster charging, as well as TEC active cooling. Anker suggests this can help speed up charging times and help guard against iPhone battery degradation over time. A three-port GaN Prime Charger that plugs into an outlet is 20 percent off too, at $120 with a clippable coupon . Anker says it's as compact as an AirPods Pro 3 case and can provide a total output of 160W, with up to 140W via a single USB-C cable. The charger is said to offer smart power distribution, and you can monitor what's happening and adjust modes via an onboard display and controls. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/ankers-latest-prime-charging-devices-are-already-20-percent-off-152040336.html?src=rss

Uber and Lyft drivers in California are able to unionize under new law

California governor Gavin Newsom signed legislation on Friday that grants rideshare drivers in the state the right to unionize. It's the second state to grant organizing rights to rideshare drivers, who are independent contractors, following the passage of a similar law in Massachusetts in 2024 . There are over 800,000 rideshare drivers in California, and the bill that was just signed into law establishes a clear legal framework for union certification, bargaining processes and enforcement, according to a press release from the office of Assemblymember Buffy Wicks . This means drivers working for companies like Uber and Lyft will be able to collectively bargain for better pay, benefits and working conditions. Under the terms of the law, driver organizations will be able to apply for union recognition starting in May 2026 as long as they have support from at least 10 percent of active rideshare drivers in the state. The organization would then need support from at least 30 percent of active drivers to begin bargaining on their behalf. As part of a deal made in September, Newsom also signed a measure that reduces the insurance coverage requirements for Uber and Lyft in the case of accidents caused by uninsured drivers, Associated Press reports. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/transportation/uber-and-lyft-drivers-in-california-are-able-to-unionize-under-new-law-171309594.html?src=rss

This Roomba robot vacuum is on sale for $150 for Prime Day

Robot vacuums are great items to look for during events like October Prime Day . They're usually hundreds of dollars off, so you can save a ton if you're buying one as a gift or you want to upgrade an aging robovac you have at home already. One of the best deals this time around is on the iRobot Roomba 104 , which is 40 percent off and on sale for only $150. This is a newer version of the unit that topped our list of the best budget robot vacuums . It's an entry-level robovac that gets the job done. The cleaning motor is fairly powerful and it ships with a multi-surface brush and an edge-sweeping brush. The vacuum uses LiDAR to map a home and to help it avoid obstacles when cleaning. It's also been equipped with specialized sensors to prevent falling down stairs. Steps are the natural enemy of all robot vacuums, except maybe this one . The Roomba 104 integrates with the company's proprietary app, which allows for custom cleaning schedules and the like. The robot can also be controlled via voice assistant and boasts compatibility with Siri, Alexa and Google Assistant. The vacuum will automatically head to the charger for some juice when running low, which is nice. The battery lasts around 200 minutes per charge, which is a decent enough metric for a budget-friendly robovac. The only downside here? This is just a vacuum. It doesn't mop and it doesn't come with a dedicated debris canister. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/this-roomba-robot-vacuum-is-on-sale-for-150-for-prime-day-164953753.html?src=rss

ICE is planning to create a surveillance team that hunts for leads on social media

The US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has plans to build out a 24/7/365 surveillance team that focuses on scouring social media for case leads, as revealed in documents first discovered by Wired . According to public records, ICE has put out a request for information which allows the agency to detail its preliminary scope of work to gauge any interest from contractors that details using social media platforms like Facebook, X, Instagram, TikTok, Reddit and YouTube to develop leads on wanted individuals. For urgent cases, the team is expected to work on leads with ICE's Top 10 Most Wanted within a 30-minute timeframe. However, the breadth of work ranges all the way to low-priority cases, like those involving someone convicted of a non-violent misdemeanor or has no convictions but has a significant arrest history, with a more generous eight-hour window to generate leads. According to the documents, ICE wants at least 12 full-time staff to work at its National Criminal Analysis and Targeting Center in Williston, Vermont, which will require three staffers on duty at all times. On the other side of the country, ICE is looking for a minimum staff of 16 full-time contractors for its Pacific Enforcement Response Center in Santa Ana, California, that will also have a duty rotation of at least two staffers on for after-hour requirements and emergency situations. While the plans are in the very early stages, ICE's plans are aggressive and even ask how prospective contractors would use artificial intelligence to achieve its goals. The federal agency is no stranger to controversial tech though, as it has previously been accused of using facial recognition . This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/social-media/ice-is-planning-to-create-a-surveillance-team-that-hunts-for-leads-on-social-media-163743143.html?src=rss

The best Prime Day SSD deals: Save on gear from Samsung, Crucial, Seagate and others

If you've never considered adding a solid-state drive (SSD) to your PC or game console, October Prime Day is a great time to start and if you already know what a difference extra storage can make, October Prime Day is the perfect time to outfit your build. For those who haven't heard of SSDs, they're physical upgrades that stack on top of a device's storage to make more files accessible at once. The more data a console or PC can hold at a time, the quicker it can retrieve and process that data, which makes everything run faster. Here are the best SSD deals we've managed to find on Amazon. Best October Prime Day SSD deals Crucial X10 4TB Portable SSD for $240 (39 percent off): The Crucial X9 is our current favorite portable SSD , but the X10 is a step beyond. Based on USB 3.2, it's compatible with a wide range of devices, and reaches reading speeds of 2,100MB/s all in an extremely portable pocket-sized case. Crucial BX500 1TB 3D NAND SATA 2.5-inch Internal SSD for $64 (33 percent off): The BX500 is Crucial's budget-conscious SSD option, but that doesn't mean it disappoints. This internal solid state drive cuts down on battery consumption and improves processing with read speeds reaching 540MB/s. It comes with a three-year warranty, too. Crucial P310 2TB for $122 (49 percent off): The 2TB level of the Crucial P310 is available at the lowest price we've seen all year. It's a compact drive that works great in small laptops or Steam Decks especially the latter, given Valve's warning against cramming in large SSDs . For this small size and great price, you get read speeds of over 7,000MB/s. Samsung 990 Evo Plus 1TB for $70 (33 percent off): This is an incredible deal on an internal SSD from a reliable brand. All capacities of the Samsung 990 Evo Plus are currently on sale, but even the 1TB option can visibly boost your performance with top read speeds of 7,250MB/s. There's no heatsink, but nickel plating on the controller reduces both heat output and energy use. Samsung 990 PRO 2 TB for $170 (19 percent off): Samsung's 990 Pro series represents a massive leap forward for the brand, cutting energy costs by around half while boosting speeds up to at least 7,000MB/s write and 5,000MB/s read. This version comes with 2TB of storage and its own built-in heatsink. Samsung Fit Plus 256GB for $23 (30 percent off): The Samsung Fit Plus isn't just the best thumb drive on the market right now it's one of the best SSDs , period. This deal gets you 256GB of storage and read speeds of 400MB/s for almost unfathomably cheap. It's also built to resist water, extreme temperatures, magnets and even radiation. Kingston SX1000 1TB High Performance for $105 (9 percent off): If you can't swing a Crucial X9 or X10 right now, Kingston offers a much more affordable alternative. The SX1000 can handle both PC backups and gaming storage with ease, nearly matching the X9 in our speed tests. It's also easy to carry around, though keep a tight grip as it's not officially rated for any drop height. SanDisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD for $148 (29 percent off): The SanDisk Extreme line of portable SSDs provides a great middle ground in both price and performance. Read speeds of 1,050MB/s are enough for transferring most files you'll encounter day-to-day. Its external design holds up too, with a large carabiner loop, IP65 waterproofing and dustproofing and drop protection as high as three meters. Seagate Storage Expansion Card 2TB for $250 (31 percent off): This SeaGate SSD is specifically for expanding storage on the Xbox Series X and S, and it's designed to meet Xbox specs exactly. You'll get exactly the same performance booting a game from this card as you would from internal Xbox storage, which makes data management infinitely easier. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/the-best-prime-day-ssd-deals-save-on-gear-from-samsung-crucial-seagate-and-others-170039409.html?src=rss

The best Amazon Prime Day kitchen deals: Get up to 50 percent off our favorite air fryers and more

Whether you call it October Prime Day or use Amazons official title, Prime Big Deal days , the sale represents some of the lowest prices of the year in nearly every department and that includes kitchen gear. We have a slew of food enthusiasts on staff who have tested plenty of excellent kitchen tech, as seen in our reviews and buying guides . Weve covered everything from air fryers to sous vide machines and now, many of those gadgets are on sale. Here are the best Prime Day deals on kitchen tech we recommend, along with links to our testing so you can see why we vouch for it. The best Prime Day kitchen deals Ninja Creami ice cream maker with extra pints $200 ($55 off with Prime) : Here's a bundle that includes two additional pint jars for the ice cream maker. It's one of our favorite pieces of kitchen tech and we called it a frozen fantasy-maker in our review. Note that the unit itself dipped down to $160 last Black Friday and the extra pints have gone as low as $16. Hamilton Beach Digital Rice Cooker for $37 ($13 off) : Our top pick for a budget rice cooker is great for small kitchens (but probably not for big families). We thought it outperformed other cookers that are four times the price, though its not the best for all-day warming of rice as the bottom bigs got a little overdone. Instant Pot Vortex Plus with Clear Cook for $80 ($20 off with Prime) : This Vortex air fryer model is similar to our top airfryer pick , but is missing the Odor Ease feature. It still has the Clear Cook window that lets you keep an eye on your food as it crisps and the Vortex cooking tech heats up remarkably fast, with almost no pre-heating time. Instant Pot Vortex Plus Air Fryer (4QT) for $65 ($65 off) : Heres a smaller version of our best overall air fryer. This one has a four-quart capacity, which is perfect for one person and small kitchens. And, like its larger sibling, pre-heats quickly thanks to a 1600-watt output. Instant Pot Vortex 2-QT Mini for $38 ($22 off with Prime) : The budget model from our air fryer guide may not be large but its two-quart basket is enough to reheat leftovers for two or cook up a batch of frozen appetizers. And, because of its small size, it doesnt take up a ton of space on your countertops ideal for a small kitchen. Breville InFizz Fusion beverage maker for $200 ($50 off) : We called this fizz-maker the bubble master in our review. True, its pricier than rivals in the same space, but the upscale design that actually looks good on a countertop somewhat makes up for the price premium. We also appreciate the Fusion Cap that helps prevent messy eruptions when youre bubbling up your drinks. Cosori Air Fryer Pro Compact for $85 ($15 off with Prime) : One of our concerns with the Cosori 9-in-1 was that it was a little on the wide side, taking up extra countertop space. The Pro Compact has a more space-saving design while still packing a five-quart basket. Instant Pot 4QT Vortex mini air fryer for $55 ($35 off with Prime) : This models four-quart capacity falls between our top Instant Pot air fryer pick and the budget model. It has the Clear Cook window feature, six presets and it comes in pink in addition to the standard white and black. Instant Pot Duo Plus for $90 ($50 off) : We named this the best multicooker in our guide to the best kitchen tech weve tested. It can cook a dizzying array of foods from basic beans and rice to homemade yogurt. We like this one because its simple to use, and has quick-cooking modes for soup, eggs and grains. Theres even a sous vide cooking function. Breville Bambino Plus for $400 ($100 off) : In our gift guide for coffee lovers , this espresso machine earned our respect for its compact size and the fact that it doesnt cost a grand, like some machines do. Plus the controls are easy for beginners to learn but makes silky milkfoam for pro-level latte artists. Breville Juice Fountain Plus for $130 ($20 off) : This went as low as $110 back in January, but its still a decent discount on a high-powered juice extractor. We were won over by its impressive juicing abilities and despite how it looks, it's surprisingly easy to clean as long as you do it right away. Ninja Dual Foodie Zone Air Fryer (DZ302) for $180 ($50 off) : If you want to air fry two different things at the same time, this is the one to get. This is the same in specs, capacity and wattage as our top pick for a dual-zone air fryer , just with a different model number. It even has a feature that makes sure the two different foods are ready at the same time. Note the price was $20 lower for Prime members back in July. Ninja 5.5-quart Air Fryer XL (AF150AMZ) for $130 ($50 off) : This one earned an honorable mention in our guide to air fryers. Its double the capacity of our budget pick and has a dehydrate preset. While we found the round basket a little cramped, we liked how the fryers vertical design saved counter space. Just note that this went as low as $90 in July. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/the-best-amazon-prime-day-kitchen-deals-get-up-to-50-percent-off-our-favorite-air-fryers-and-more-193009513.html?src=rss

Shark robot vacuums are up to $400 off for Amazon Prime Day

For the Amazon Big Deal Days event (aka October Prime Day), a tasty deal on a Shark robot vacuum has popped up. You'll need to be a Prime member to take advantage of the offer on the Shark AV2501S AI Ultra robot vacuum , but if you are, you can get the device for over half off. The discount drops the price from $550 to $230. That means you can snap up the robot vacuum for $320 below list price. The discount marks a record low for this model. Shark offers several variations of its AI Ultra robot vacuums. There are small variations between them, and a different model is our pick for the best robot vacuum for most people. In general, you can expect solid cleaning performance from these devices, along with accurate home mapping and an easy-to-use app. The model that's on sale here is said to run for up to 120 minutes on a single charge, which should be enough to clean an entire floor in a typical home. The self-emptying, bagless vacuum can store up to 30 days worth of dirt and debris in its base. Shark says it can capture 99.97 percent of dust and allergens with the help of HEPA filtration. If you'd rather plump for a model that's able to mop your floors too, you're in luck: a Shark Matrix Plus 2-in-1 vacuum is on sale as well. At $300 for Prime members, this vacuum is available for $400 (or 57 percent) off the list price. Its mopping function can scrub hard floors 100 times per minute. You can also trigger the Matrix Mop function in the app for a deeper clean. This delivers 50 percent better stain cleaning in targeted zones, according to Shark. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/shark-robot-vacuums-are-up-to-400-off-for-amazon-prime-day-171836038.html?src=rss

Prime Day Lego deals: Get up to 56 percent off Star Wars and Super Mario sets

October Prime Day is nearly here, and new early deals are popping up every day. Amazon uses October Prime Day to kickstart the holiday shopping season even if you haven't even thought about the holidays yet, you should give the latest Prime Day Lego deals a look. A number of Lego sets from the Super Mario and Star Wars collections are already on sale for up to 38 percent off. When shopping for Lego sets on Amazon, we highly recommend checking a price tracker like Keepa or CamelCamelCamel before buying. It's not difficult to find Lego sets on sale at Amazon, but often those discounted prices have been around for a long time. We've clocked deals in which the sale price has been available for months already, going back as far as late spring and early summer 2025. Here, we're mostly highlighting discounts on new Lego sets, recent price drops and record-low (and close to them) prices on popular Lego sets from franchises like Star Wars, Super Mario and others. Best October Lego Prime Day deals Lego City Advent Calendar 2025 60475 for $21 (40 percent off) Lego Star Wars Advent Calendar 2025 75418 for $38 (16 percent off) Lego Minecraft Advent Calendar 2025 21280 for $38 (16 percent off) Lego Harry Potter Advent Calendar 2025 76456 for $38 (16 percent off) Lego Star Wars: The Mandalorian Paz Vizsla and Moff Gideon Battle set 75386 for $17 (56 percent off) Lego Star Wars Brick-Built Star Wars Logo set 75407 for $50 (17 percent off) Lego Star Wars R2-D2 set 75379 for $80 (20 percent off) Lego Super Mario: Mario Kart Donkey Kong & DK Jumbo set 72033 for $28 (19 percent off) Lego Super Mario World: Mario & Yoshi Building set 71438 for $104 (20 percent off) Lego Classic Medium Creative Brick Box 10696 for $18 (49 percent off) Lego Botanicals Bouquet of Roses 10328 for $48 (20 percent off) Lego City F1 Garage & Mercedes-AMG & Alpine Cars set 60444 for $68 (15 percent off) Lego Brick Tile backpack for $50 (29 percent off) This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/prime-day-lego-deals-get-up-to-56-percent-off-star-wars-and-super-mario-sets-121513566.html?src=rss

The Apple Watch SE 2 is on sale for a record-low price in this Prime Day deal

If, like me, you're wondering how it could possibly be October already, perhaps you need a watch. Probably one with a calendar function. Strangely enough, there are some solid deals on several Apple Watch models right now ahead of Amazon's Prime Big Deal Days event . The second-gen Apple Watch SE with LTE connectivity has dropped to $189 , which is a discount of $110 or 37 percent. That's a new record low price for this 40mm variant with a small/medium band. The discount applies to versions with an ink sport loop and denim sport band. It's worth bearing in mind that this deal is for the previous-gen model, which Apple released in 2022 . The company started shipping the latest Apple Watch SE in September. That starts at $240 for a GPS and Wi-Fi model without LTE connectivity. The third-gen SE 3 is now our pick for the best budget Apple Watch . However, if you're looking for a cheaper option for fitness tracking, at-a-glance notifications and, perhaps, quick access to a calendar, the second-gen SE is worth considering. Several variants of the Apple Watch Series 10 are on sale on Amazon as well. This is last year's version of the smartwatch, but it's still plenty capable and it supports some of the same new features as the Series 11 , such as sleep apnea detection and sleep scoring. You can pick one up for as little as $329 . This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/the-apple-watch-se-2-is-on-sale-for-a-record-low-price-in-this-prime-day-deal-162845820.html?src=rss

The Roku Streaming Stick Plus drops to a new record-low price for Prime Day

If you're looking for a way to upgrade an old TV or add a more convenient smart interface to your main set, Roku devices are good ways to do that. Thanks to Prime Day deals that you can already get now, you can get one of our favorite Roku streaming devices for less than $30. The Roku Streaming Stick Plus is on sale for just $24 right now, which is 40 percent off and the lowest price we've seen. We picked the Streaming Stick Plus as the best streaming device for free and live content, thanks in large part to The Roku Channel app that accompanies it. The Roku Channel features over 500 free TV channels with live news, sports coverage and a rotating lineup of TV shows and movies. In our hands-on review of the Roku Streaming Stick Plus, we thought it was perfect for travel thanks to its small size and the fact that it can be powered by your TV's USB port, nixing the need for a wall adapter. Menu navigation and opening or closing apps won't happen at quite the same speeds as more expensive streamers, but it's quick enough for what is ultimately a pretty low-cost option. The Wi-Fi range on this one is also weaker than Roku's pricier devices, but unless you are placing it exceedingly far from your router, it shouldn't be an issue. The Roku Streaming Stick Plus supports both HD and 4K TVs, as well as HDR10+ content. It doesn't support Dolby Vision, however; for that you'll need to upgrade to Roku's Streaming Stick 4K or Roku Ultra. It comes with Roku's rechargeable voice remote with push-to-talk voice controls. Roku's remote can also turn on your TV and adjust the volume while you're watching. If you've been thinking about getting a Roku device, or you already love the platform and want a compact and convenient way to take it with you when you travel, then this sale provides a great opportunity. If you'd prefer a more powerful and slightly more stationary device, the Roku Ultra is on sale for $69 right now, too. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/the-roku-streaming-stick-plus-drops-to-a-new-record-low-price-for-prime-day-134656750.html?src=rss

Apple's AirPods 4 drop to $90 for Prime Day

If you prefer open-ear AirPods but still have an older model, this deal could be worth noting. Amazon's October Prime Day has the AirPods 4 on sale for $90, or 30 percent off their usual price. That's also the lowest we've seen them. When Apple updated its standard AirPods in 2024, it released two models: one with active noise cancellation (ANC) and one without. We consider the non-ANC models to be the best budget AirPods you can get, so they're an even better buy at this sale price. The ANC versions are also discounted at the moment, so you can pick them up for $140 instead of the usual $180. The AirPods' H2 chip brings a bunch of Pro-adjacent features to the standard model. That list includes Adaptive Audio, Conversation Awareness, Transparency, Personalized Spatial Audio and wireless charging. For calls, it supports Voice Isolation, which helps filter out background noise and make it easier for you to be heard. And if that call is via FaceTime, it supports Apple's 48kHz cinema-quality audio. Sound is improved over the AirPods 3. There's more low-end tone than the previous model right out of the gate, and the punchier treble opens the sound stage so it's wider and more immersive, Engadget's Billy Steele wrote . The improved frequency response is on full display with Dolby Atmos content (movies, music, and TV), but the AirPods 4 are also more sonically adept with non-spatial tunes and video. You can expect around five hours of battery life on a single charge. With the ANC model, that estimate drops to around four hours with the marquee feature activated. With either version, you can drop them in the charging case to extend their total time to around 30 hours. And hey, it's good to give your ears a rest now and then anyway. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/apples-airpods-4-drop-to-90-for-prime-day-130033169.html?src=rss

Audible deal: Get three months for only $3 with this Prime Day discount

The traditional Amazon Prime Day Audible sale has returned for October Prime Day. Audiobook fans can get three months of Audible for just $3, or $1 per month for the first three months. Once the three-month initial period is over, though, the subscription will auto-renew at $14.95 per month. Audible features thousands of titles in its catalog, including podcasts and Audible Originals. Subscribers will also get to choose one audiobook each month to keep in their collection for free, including best-sellers or new releases. Amazon Prime members will receive two credits the first month of their trial. Amazon has been bringing Prime Day back in the fall for a few years now, and this year it returns October 7 and 8. Great deals tend to start rolling out in the days ahead of the event and this year is no exception. There are already sales on Apple devices , smart doorbells and most importantly, Lego sets . If you're a book lover but don't have the time to sit down and read a hard copy, or you just prefer listening to the latest novel while on the go, then take advantage of this sale. It's a limited-time offer and will only be available through December 16. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/audible-deal-get-three-months-for-only-3-with-this-prime-day-discount-090052719.html?src=rss

Prime Day Apple deals include 25 percent off a four-pack of AirTags

Prime Day Apple deals can be hard to come by, but right now you can save on one of Apple's smallest (and arguably one if its most useful) gadgets. A four-pack of Apple AirTags is down to $75 right now, which is 24 percent off its usual price. That brings each AirTag in the bundle down to $18.75 each. If you're an Apple user, then the AirTag is the best Bluetooth tracker on the market for you. You can put these little discs in your wallet, in a backpack or in your luggage while you're traveling. Your AirTag's location will show up in your Find My app, powered by the vast network of iPhones, iPads and other compatible devices that receive the AirTag's Bluetooth signal. Keep in mind these only work when close enough to participating devices to be located. You can attach AirTags to just about anything thanks to an abundance of available accessories . Their built-in speakers can play a tone, triggered from your iPhone, to help you find them when the object they're affixed to is lost. On iPhone 11 and newer models, you can take advantage of the AirTag's Ultra Wideband capability and have your phone lead you right to your AirTag, complete with directional arrows on your iPhone screen. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/prime-day-apple-deals-include-25-percent-off-a-four-pack-of-airtags-143112286.html?src=rss

How to change your Apple Account password

Your Apple Account is the key to everything you do on your iPhone, iPad, MacBook, Apple Watch and Apple Vision Pro. It keeps your purchases, subscriptions and personal data secure. If you think your account has been hacked, if youve logged in on a shared device or if you havent updated your password in a while, its a good idea to update it. Apple officially rebranded Apple ID as Apple Account in 2024, but your login details work the same way. Well walk you through how to reset or change your Apple Account password on your iPhone, iPad, Mac or the web. How to change your Apple Account password on your iPhone or iPad The fastest way to update your password is through your devices settings. This method works for iPhone, iPad and Vision Pro devices, and can also be started on Apple Watches if you have Stolen Device Protection enabled. Navigate to Settings > Your Name > Sign-In & Security . Tap Change Password . Youll need to enter your current password or device passcode. Enter your new password and confirm the new password. Tap Change . If you want to change your childs Apple Account password, you can do so if you have an iPhone, iPad or Apple Vision Pro running the latest version of iOS, iPadOS or visionOS with two-factor authentication turned on. Navigate to Settings > Family > Your childs account . Tap Apple Account & Password . Tap Change Childs Name Password . Youll be prompted to enter your device passcode and follow the onscreen instructions. How to change your Apple Account password on your Mac If youre on macOS Sequoia or later, the process is just as simple. Although the general process is the same as in previous macOS versions, specific menu names may be different. Navigate to the Apple menu > System Settings > Your Name . Select Sign-In & Security . Select Change Password . Youll need to enter your current password that you use to unlock your Mac. Follow the prompts to enter and verify your new Apple Account password. How to change your Apple Account password on the web If you dont have access to your devices, you can still change your password online. However, you will initially be prompted to access a trusted device to manage your Apple Account (where possible). Go to account.apple.com and sign in to your Apple Account. Navigate to Sign-In and Security > Password . Follow the prompts to enter and verify your new Apple Account password. How to reset your Apple Account password If you dont remember your password, Apple gives you a couple of ways to reset it. The easiest way to reset your password is by using your iPhone or other trusted Apple device (one thats already signed in to your Apple Account). Using your iPhone, iPad or Apple Vision Pro: Navigate to Settings > Your Name > Sign-In & Security > Change Password . Follow the onscreen instructions to reset your password. Using your Mac: Navigate to the Apple menu > System Settings > Your Name > Sign-In & Security > Change Password . Follow the onscreen instructions to reset your password. If you dont have access to a trusted device, there are a few things you can do: Borrow an Apple device from a friend or family member or use one at an Apple Store to access the Apple Support app. Youll be able to choose the option to Help Someone Else if you have access to your Apple Account email address or phone number. Reset your password on the web at iforgot.apple.com and follow the instructions. Tips for a strong Apple Account password When setting up your new password, keep these things in mind: Use at least eight characters Include a mix of uppercase, lowercase, numbers and symbols Avoid common words, birthdates or anything thats easy to guess Apple wont let you reuse a recent password, so be ready to come up with something fresh. iOS devices and password apps can generate strong passwords for you, but these are not going to be easy to remember. A password manager is a smart way to keep track of it if youre juggling multiple logins. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/computing/how-to-change-your-apple-account-password-120010992.html?src=rss

Kingmakers, the medieval battle game with modern weapons, has been delayed

Redemption Road's absolutely bonkers-looking medieval shooter, Kingmakers , was slated to launch in Early Access on October 8, but now its release has been pushed back with no new date in sight. The developers posted an update on Steam to say that the scheduled launch, just days away, will no longer be possible, going on to explain that they need a bit more time on content polish before we feel good about charging money for it. A statement posted by the developers of Kingmakers announcing that the game is delayed Redemption Road Games Kingmakers has generated a fair amount of hype since it was announced last year, and it sits among the top wishlisted titles on Steam. The game sends players back in time to a war-torn medieval era with a vast arsenal of modern weapons, from guns to tanks. And if you've seen the trailers , you know it's not just the concept that's bananas the gameplay we've been shown so far is completely over the top. In its statement about the delay, the team said that Kingmakers is an incredibly ambitious, uncompromising game, and we don't want to cut any planned features, for the sake of getting it out the door earlier. With Kingmakers , we set out to push the Unreal Engine 4 codebase to its absolute limits, while still providing true 60fps to midrange PCs, without the need for fake frames, the team wrote. We are an 80% engineering team, who got into this business to push technological barriers. We currently have tens of thousands of soldiers, each with AI and pathfinding that rivals what you'd expect from a AAA third person shooter. When you walk away from a battle, it continues to play out. Nothing is faked. The developers haven't provided any update on what the timeline looks like now beyond the fact that the game won't be ready for October 8. But, they added, We will be presenting a half hour long deepdive on Kingmakers gameplay very soon, with a comprehensive overview of everything we've been working on. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/kingmakers-the-medieval-battle-game-with-modern-weapons-has-been-delayed-211935670.html?src=rss

OpenAI acquires an AI-powered personal investing app

Just a day after dethroning SpaceX as the most valuable private company in the world, OpenAI has acquired another startup. This time, the AI giant acquired Roi , an app that offers a one-stop shop for all your financial portfolios and an AI chatbot that provides personalized investing advice . Details of the acquisition weren't made public, but TechCrunch reported that Sujith Vishwajith, the startup's CEO and co-founder, will be the only one joining OpenAI's team. It might come as a surprise for OpenAI to venture into the personal finance space, but this latest acquisition offers some hints at what the company could have in store for the future. OpenAI could be leaning into an AI chatbot that provides more than just responses to general queries and offers more personalization as a proactive assistant, as detailed in its blog post introducing Pulse . OpenAI is also no stranger to acquiring smaller companies that offer something that could advance ChatGPT. In May, the company acquired io , an AI hardware startup cofounded by former Apple designer Jony Ive, for $6.5 billion. OpenAI followed up that major purchase by spending another $1.1 billion to acquire Statsig , a startup that focused on product testing, in September. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ai/openai-acquires-an-ai-powered-personal-investing-app-192339271.html?src=rss