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iPhone 16: Release date, price, specs, features, and other rumors

Mashable - Fri, 05/17/2024 - 20:22

The iPhone 16 rumors are flooding in – and we're curious about how it'll be different from the iPhone 15.

We’re hearing tons whispers about a RAM boost for the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus models.

The iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max, on the other hand, are reportedly getting some striking upgrades to the cameras that may dazzle the masses. Here’s a compilation of everything we know so far about next year's iPhone 16 line.

SEE ALSO: iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus review iPhone 16 release date

The iPhone 16 release date is expected to be September of next year. After Apple has its whole shebang of an event showcasing the next-generation handsets, the iPhones typically ship about a week or two later.

iPhone 15 Credit: Apple

In the past, Apple has deviated from this cadence due to reported production hindrances (e.g., supply chain issues). For example, the iPhone 12 and the iPhone 14 Plus shipped in October, but typically, get unveiled some time during the first half of September every year.

iPhone 16 design

Let’s dive into arguably the most important aspect of the iPhone’s design: the screen.

There haven’t been any significant changes to the display sizes since the iPhone 12, but according to reliable leaker Unknownz21, the upper-tier iPhone 16 models are going to be a little bit more unwieldy in your hands.

Display

The iPhone 16 Pro will reportedly have a 6.3-inch display while the iPhone 16 Pro Max will pack a 6.9-inch panel. You may be wondering, “What about the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus? Will they get a screen size bump, too?” The answer is likely no. The lower-tier models will reportedly have the same display sizes as their predecessors.

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iPhone 15 screen sizes

  • iPhone 15 - 6.1 inches

  • iPhone 15 Plus - 6.7 inches

  • iPhone 15 Pro - 6.1 inches

  • iPhone 15 Pro Max - 6.7 inches

iPhone 16 screen sizes (rumored)

  • iPhone 16 - 6.1 inches

  • iPhone 16 Plus - 6.7 inches

  • iPhone 16 Pro - 6.3 inches

  • iPhone 16 Pro Max - 6.9 inches

Ross Young, a well-known display analyst and Apple leaker, was the first to claim that the iPhone 16 Pro models will have larger screens. 

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However, he offered slightly different numbers: 6.2 inches and 6.8 inches. What could be the reason behind the discrepancy? According to MacRumors, it’s "likely due to the difference between actual display area and viewable display area."

Another rumor we're hearing is that the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus will continue to have 60Hz refresh-rate displays. This is a little disappointing considering other phones in the market at least have 90Hz screens, making navigating through the UI smoother, zippier and seamless.

Finally, according to MacRumors, citing popular Weibo leaker "Instant Digital," the iPhone 16 Pro will reportedly have a 20% brighter display for SDR content. In other words, the iPhone 16 Pro will reportedly emanate up to 1,200 nits of brightness.

Thinner bezels

The iPhone 16 will also reportedly have slimmer bezels, according to a report from The Elec (h/t MacRumors). Apple is tipped to be using something called Border Reduction Structure (BRS) technology, which reduces the internal footprint of the circuitry inside, allowing for thinner bezels (without sacrificing anything important aspects like display performance, for example).

Thinner bezels means that the iPhone 16 series should yield more screen real estate for users.

Action Button

A report from MacRumors claims that every single model in the iPhone 16 line will feature an Action Button — not just the iPhone 15 Pro variants. The current-gen iPhone 15 Pro models' Action Button can be programmed to launch a range of apps and functions, including Flashlight, Camera, Silent Mode, Voice Memo, Focus, Magnifier, Translate (coming to iOS 17.2), and a range of accessibility features.

When iPhone 16 drops, however, the rumor mill states that Apple will add more functionality to the Action Button.

Capture Button

The Action Button was all the rage for the iPhone 15 series, however, according to MacRumors and The Information, a new Capture Button will be one of the biggest selling points for the iPhone 16. Reportedly placed slightly under the power button, the Capture Button is a camera-focused feature that can do the following:

  • Zoom in and out of photos/videos with swiping gestures

  • Allows users to focus on subjects

  • Activates the shutter button

While MacRumors and The Information both concur that Apple is testing a "capture button" on the iPhone 16, both aren't on the same page on whether it's a mechanical button or a capacitive one. MacRumors says it's the latter, but the Information claims it's both.

Solid-state buttons

Apple reportedly planned on introducing solid-state buttons with the iPhone 15 Pro models, but instead, we got a customizable Action Button. For the uninitiated, solid-state buttons aren’t buttons per se – they’re panels that feature haptic feedback sensations that simulate real button presses (Think of the iPhone SE series' Home button). On the plus side, the solid-state buttons aren’t totally out of the picture. According to respected Apple leaker and analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple is working on debuting solid-state buttons on the iPhone 16 Pro models instead.

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Kuo added that these solid-state buttons will add two additional Taptic Engines, which will help fire off tangible feedback to users. (If this is true, the number of Taptic Engines in the iPhone 16 will increase to three — up from one.)

According to a tip from Weibo (via MacRumors), the Action Button on the iPhone 16 Pro will be a solid-state button and sit flush against the chassis. To make room for this change, Apple will reportedly move the mmWave antenna to the left of the iPhone 16 Pro as opposed to the right. This Weibo tip comes from a leaker with the moniker "Instant Digital," a bean spiller that reportedly has an accurate track record, according to MacRumors.

iPhone 16 renders

Based on all the design notes listed above (as well as some details from leaker Majin Bu), digital artist Aaron Carpenter gave us a good look at what the iPhone 16 could look like:

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As you can see, you'll find the Action Button, which was left out of the lower-tier models on the current generation iPhone, now present on the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus.

iPhone 16 AI

The iPhone 16 will reportedly featured an AI-powered Siri.

Siri is about to get a whole lot smarter. Credit: Apple

In other words, Siri is maturing into a more sophisticated digital assistant. According to Kuo, this means that Siri will bring new hardware to the iPhone 16, including updated microphones with better water resistance and an improved signal-to-noise ratio.

iPhone 16 cameras

Apple debuted a new zoom lens with a "tetra-prism" design on the iPhone 15 Pro Max, which simply means that engineers found a way to "fold" the shooter so that it still has telephoto capabilities without taking up too much space. This new camera increases the Pro Max’s optical zoom from 3x to 5x.

iPhone 15 Pro Credit: Apple

However, according to Digital Chat Station (DCS), a bean-spiller on the Chinese social media site Weibo, both the iPhone 16 Pro and the iPhone 16 Pro Max will get the new tetra-prism telephoto camera.

DCS also added that the iPhone 16 Pro Max specifically is getting the Sony IMX903 sensor, an upgrade from the Sony IMX803 sensor. This means that the iPhone 16 Pro Max wide lens will have a larger sensor size, allowing for more light gathering for better photos and videos in low-light conditions.

Credit: John Keeble/Getty Images

According to Jeff Pu, a tech analyst from Haitong International Securities (a Hong Kong investment firm), the ultrawide cameras are getting a boost, too.

Pu stated tthe iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max models will also feature a 48-megapixel ultrawide camera with better light gathering. As such, camera performance in dimmer environments should improve. As it stands now, the iPhone 15 Pro models have a 12MP ultrawide camera.

The ultrawide camera is perfect for taking landscape photos, allowing you to capture more scenery. However, compared to the main camera, the ultrawide lens tends to deliver a slight drop in crispness and sharpness. If this rumor is true, the new 48-megapixel ultrawide camera may ameliorate this minor foible.

Ming-Chi Kuo claims that Apple will upgrade the rear cameras on the iPhone 16 Pro models, introducing a stacked design. What will a stacked design do? According to Apple Insider, it increases light capture and provides wider dynamic range, so Night Mode should get a sweet boost.

Finally, it's worth pointing out that the iPhone 16 Pro, as we reported in April, will allegedly tackle lens flare and ghosting issues by using anti-reflective coating on the cameras.

Featured Video For You History of iPhone (updated) iPhone 16 battery life

As we reported in early April, a Weibo leaker by the name of "OvO Baby Sauce OvO" seemingly unveiled the new new battery sizes across the iPhone 16 lineup:

  • iPhone 16: 3,561mAh

  • iPhone 16 Plus: 4,006mAh

  • iPhone 16 Pro: 3,355mAh

  • iPhone 16 Pro Max: 4,676mAh

All the iPhone 16 models have some sort of increase from two to six percent except for the iPhone 16 Plus, which reportedly has a reduction of nearly nine percent compared to the iPhone 15 Plus.

Keep in mind that an increase in battery size doesn't necessarily mean that the device will deliver longer battery life. And in the same vein, a battery size reduction doesn't necessarily lead to shorter runtimes. There are other aspects at play (the display's efficiency, for example). So we won't know for sure how battery life is affected until we get the phones in our hands.

It's also worth noting that Kuo claimed that Apple is increasing the the iPhone 16 Pro Max's "battery energy density,"

iPhone 16 specs

The iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max are equipped with 8GB of RAM while the lower-tier models, the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro Max, are stuck with their predecessors’ 6GB of RAM. If that bums you out, don’t worry. According to Pu, the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus are expected to join the 8GB of RAM bandwagon, too.

iPhone 15 lineup Credit: Apple
Storage

According to news aggregator account "yeux1122" from Naver, a Korean blog, the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max will feature options that offer 2TB of storage.

That is double the current max storage capacity of the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max.

Chipset

In recent years, Apple has followed the trend of putting last year's chip into the two entry-level models while the Pro models, the Pro and the Pro Max, get the new-generation chip. For example, the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus got the A16 Bionic chip, the same inside the iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max. However, the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max got outfitted with the new A17 Pro chips.

If this pattern continues, it should follow that the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus get the A17 Pro while the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max get the A18 chips. Pu hinted that this is how it will be for the iPhone 16 line, hinting that the A17 Pro will reportedly be less efficient. In other words, the iPhone 16 models equipped with this chip may take a battery life hit. This is because the next-generation chip will offer tremendous performance gains at the expense of power efficiency.

However, another rumor tells a different story.

According to an alleged iOS 18 code leak from MacRumors, the entire iPhone 16 line will get an A18 chip. However, there’s a chance that Apple will use a “Pro” identifier name to differentiate from the standard and Pro models (e.g., A18 chip and A18 Pro).

The iPhone 16 Pro models will also reportedly support Wi-Fi 7 (current models support WiFi 6E). Wi-Fi 7 should offer zippy transfer speeds that exceed 40 Gbps, quadrupling what WiFi 6E can do.

According to Pu (via 9to5Mac), the iPhone 16 Pro will come with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X75 modem, which can reach a 5G download rate of up to 7.5 Gbps.

We’ll periodically update this rumor hub as new iPhone 16 leaks trickle in, so be sure to bookmark this page. 

Categories: IT General, Technology

How Marisa Abela embodied Amy Winehouse in 'Back to Black'

Mashable - Fri, 05/17/2024 - 19:55
Marisa Abela breaks down her process of becoming Amy Winehouse in 'Back to Black'
Categories: IT General, Technology

You can now create interactive charts with GPT-4o — how to access with ChatGPT

Mashable - Fri, 05/17/2024 - 19:38

ChatGPT, underpinned with GPT-4o, just got a little more useful for people who like doing stuff with charts.

OpenAI announced in a blog post that paying members (Plus, Team, and Enterprise tiers) will get access to some new time-saving chart and table features "in the coming weeks" as part of its new GPT-4o initiative. These include the ability to upload charts directly from Google Drive or Microsoft OneDrive to ChatGPT, rather than having to download them first and then upload them separately.

Tweet may have been deleted SEE ALSO: How to get GPT-4o with free ChatGPT

Aside from that, users who upload datasets to ChatGPT can mess around with a new interactive, full-screen view as the chatbot performs data analysis. You can also customize charts to your liking and ask questions if needed.

This is the kind of time-saving convenience that AI can be useful for if done correctly. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman decided to, instead, market GPT-4o by (somewhat unbelievably) comparing it to the dystopian movie Her because it can take in and spit out more video and audio content than before. While this may not appeal to everyone, the capability to more easily sort through charts could be quite beneficial.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Don't feel like cooking? Collect the best DoorDash promo codes of the week.

Mashable - Fri, 05/17/2024 - 19:14

UPDATE: May. 17, 2024, 12:45 p.m. EDT This article has been updated with the latest DoorDash promo codes from across the web. Note that some of these codes are location-specific or exclusive to new users.

Best DoorDash promo codes this week: Best deal for new users Use code US25SAVU1Q24 Get 25% off your first order ($15 minimum) Get Deal

We all love a good, home-cooked meal. But who has the time to make one every single night? Couldn't be us. That's why we always keep our delivery apps at the ready. Our app of choice at the moment? DoorDash. There's a constant bounty of promo codes, scoring you savings not just on takeout, but also on grocery delivery and select retail stores.

You can find our favorite DoorDash promo codes from across the web below, so take a look and then chow down while booting up your favorite streaming service or video game. Oh, and a lot of these codes will be exclusive to new users, so if you already have an account, you may want to consider creating a new one (you didn't hear that from us). Also, because some codes are location-specific, they may not work for everyone. Just test them out and see which ones stick for you!

SEE ALSO: The best deals on streaming services this week How do I use a DoorDash promo code?

Before we get into our picks for the week, let us quickly go over how to use a DoorDash promo code, because if you don't know how to do that, you won't benefit from any of the great deals we're about to show you. Thankfully, the process is really easy. (If you already know how to do this, feel free to keep scrolling to get straight to the latest DoorDash coupons.)

All you need to do is load up your shopping cart with whatever is on the menu for the night and head to the checkout screen. Once you get there, scroll down to the bottom where you'll find a section labeled "Summary."

The 'Summary' section lives at the bottom of the checkout screen. Credit: DoorDash

Tap on that section and you'll be brought to a separate screen titled "Promo codes, rewards & gift cards." Then, just input your promo code (and gift card, if you have one) and head back to the checkout screen. You should now see your discount applied automatically.

This is where you'll use your promo code and get those sweet benefits. Credit: DoorDash

Congrats! You just scored some savings, and that takeout order is going to taste so much better because of it. Now, on to this week's promo codes — take a look below, and enjoy your meal.

Best DoorDash promo codes this week
Categories: IT General, Technology

The best Memorial Day headphone deals during Amazon's sale so far: AirPods, Beats, JBL, and more

Mashable - Fri, 05/17/2024 - 19:06
Best Memorial Day headphone deals at Amazon Best noise-canceling headphones deal Apple AirPods Max $449.99 at Amazon (save $99.01) Get Deal Best earbuds deal Beats Powerbeats Pro $159.95 at Amazon (save $90) Get Deal Best over-ear headphones deal Beats Solo4 with AppleCare+ $169.95 at Amazon (save $59) Get Deal

Amazon's Memorial Day sale is officially underway, and features a ton of great deals on tech, fitness gear, outdoor items, and plenty more must-see offers. The sale will run until May 27, so you have plenty of time to peruse the savings and start shopping.

SEE ALSO: Memorial Day sales are already kicking off — here's what you need to know

Headphones in particular are seeing some sweet early discounts during the event, especially AirPods and Beats models (if you've been wanting a pair of the AirPods Max, they're $100 off). Below, we've rounded up a list of the best headphone deals from Amazon's Memorial Day sale so far. Take a look, and be sure to keep checking back with us, as we'll be updating this article with any new deals we come across.

Best noise-canceling headphones deal Apple Airpods Max $449.99 at Amazon
$549.00 Save $99.01 Get Deal Why we like it

The AirPods Max are popular for good reason, and they happen to be $100 off during Amazon's Memorial Day sale. If you want to stay within the Apple ecosystem, there's truly no better pair of over-ear headphones for you. They feature personalized spatial audio, active noise cancellation, a transparency mode for when you want to hear the world around you, and a 20-hour battery life. Plus, they just look great.

More noise-canceling headphones dealsBest earbuds deal Opens in a new window Credit: Beats Beats Powerbeats Pro $159.95 at Amazon
$249.95 Save $90.00 Get Deal Why we like it

The Powerbeats Pro are some of the best earbuds you can buy if you're an active person. While they don't support noise cancellation, they still boast stellar sound quality and can keep a charge for almost 10 hours. The adjustable ear hooks keep the buds secure on your head, and their reinforced design helps them resist water and sweat, making them an amazing option for gymgoers. Pick up a pair during the Amazon Memorial Day sale and save $90.

More earbuds dealsBest over-ear headphones deal Opens in a new window Credit: Beats Beats Solo4 with AppleCare+ $169.95 at Amazon
$228.95 Save $59.00 Get Deal Why we like it

The Beats Solo4 are a fantastic pair of over-ear headphones, featuring personalized spatial audio and dynamic head tracking support, as well as a 50-hour battery life. Their ultra-light design and cushioned earcups make them ideal for all-day wear, and the impressive Fast Fuel feature allows you to get up to five hours of battery with a 10-minute charge when you're in a pinch. This bundle is on sale for just $169.95 during Amazon's Memorial Day sale, and comes with two years of AppleCare+.

More over-ear headphones deals
Categories: IT General, Technology

The Amazon Memorial Day is already live with incredible deals on tech, summer prep, home goods, and more

Mashable - Fri, 05/17/2024 - 19:00

Memorial Day is still a handful of days away, but we're already seeing the sale prices roll in. Here are some of the best Amazon Memorial Day sale items to shop today.

Best Amazon Memorial Day Sale items to shop today Best tech deal Beats Studio Buds $79.99 at Amazon (save $69.96) Get Deal Best summer prep deal Traeger Grills Pro 575 $599.95 at Amazon (save $200.04) Get Deal Best deal to treat yourself Amazon Kindle Scribe (32 GB) $279.99 at Amazon (save $110) Get Deal Best tech deal for kids Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids Pro $99.99 (save $50) Get Deal Best summer self-care deal Hydro Flask All Around travel tumbler (40 ounce) $29.96 at Amazon (save $9.99) Get Deal

While we're still a few months away from shopping the mega deals during Prime Day 2024, Amazon is putting out some great deals during the Memorial Day Sale, which is already underway. It's an ideal time to grab anything you'll need for the summer season ahead, like upgrades to tech, kitchen appliances for summer projects, or a new e-reader for relaxing afternoons spent in the shade.

If you're in the market for some fresh items before summer, here is our list of the best Amazon Memorial Day Sale items to shop today. We expect sale items to continue rolling in as we approach May 27, so keep an eye on this page as we update it with additional deals.

Check out the full list of Amazon Memorial Day Sale deals here.

Best tech deal Opens in a new window Credit: Beats Our pick: Beats Studio Buds $79.99 at Amazon
$149.95 Save $69.96 Get Deal Why we like it

Investing in a reliable and high-quality pair of earbuds can be pretty life changing. You deserve to enjoy your favorite songs, podcasts, and audiobooks with a comfortable pair of earbuds and the Beats Studio Buds are up for the task. Plus, thanks to the Amazon Memorial Day Sale, you'll be getting the Buds for just $79.99 instead of the usual price of $149.95, which is an impressive 47% discount and the lowest we've ever seen at Amazon. They come in a great range of colorways, too, so you can still grab black or white or go for something more bold like Sunset Pink or Ocean Blue.

In terms of sound, Mashable's review of the Beats Studio Buds by Alex Perry awards them a 4.25/5 which means they earn a Mashable Choice Award. He mentions the massive bass, strong battery life (Beats mentions this goes up to 24 hours with the included case), and compatibility with both Android and iOS turn them into a top choice.

More tech deals:Best summer prep deal Opens in a new window Credit: Traeger Our pick: Traeger Grills Pro 575 $599.95 at Amazon
$799.99 Save $200.04 Get Deal Why we like it

What's summer without backyard barbecues? If your old charcoal grill is looking sad, the impressive Traeger Grills Pro 575 is on sale for $599.95, down from the normal price of $799.99 which means you'll be scoring a savings of $200.04. The Traeger uses wood pellets to fuel the grill rather than gas or charcoal and can reach a max temperature of 500 degrees Fahrenheit. Adding to the impressive upgrades, the Traeger grill can connect to your home's WiFi which gives you control of the grill via the associated app on your phone or tablet. This means you can turn down the heat while inside prepping the potato salad.

The Traeger Grills Pro 575 has 575 square inches of grilling space which the brand says can fit 24 burgers, five racks of ribs, or four chickens.

More summer prep deals:Best deal to treat yourself Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Our pick: Amazon Kindle Scribe (32GB) $279.99 at Amazon
$389.99 Save $110.00 Get Deal Why we like it

Summer is a great time to take it slow and relax. If 2024 has felt chaotic in a less-than-ideal way, take some time to unwind this summer with the Amazon Kindle Scribe, which doubles as an e-reader and a notebook. The Amazon Memorial Day sale bring the price down to $279.99 which is $110 off the normal price of $389.99. You'll be free to enjoy all those books you've been meaning to get around to on the Kindle Scribe's large 10.2-inch screen which is the largest of any Kindle.

But what's unique about the Scribe is the ability to use it as a journal. Sketch, drawn, write, and take notes in the margins of books with the Kindle Scribe. The included Premium Pen allows users to write handwritten notes and easily covert them into text later or create folders to keep your projects organized.

If you're looking to take it easy this summer and savor the warm afternoon breeze with a book or a journal entry, the Kindle Scribe is a great investment.

Best tech deal for kids Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Our pick: Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids Pro $99.99 at Amazon
$149.99 Save $50.00 Get Deal Why we like it

The kids will be on summer break in just a few short weeks, which means they'll be in need of some entertainment. Luckily, the Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids Pro is on sale for just $99.99 as part of the Memorial Day Sale, saving you $50 on the tablet.

Not only can kids stream their favorite shows from the Fire HD 8 Kids Pro, they can make voice and video calls to the grandparents or friends from school they won't see over the summer. Of course, educational content is also available through the Fire 8 Kids Pro thanks to the included Amazon Kids+ subscription for a year. Parents are still in control with the ability to set time parameters and approve of any purchases before they occur.

More tech deals for kids:Best summer self-care deal Opens in a new window Credit: Hyrdro Flask Our pick: Hydro Flask All Around Travel Tumbler $29.96 at Amazon
$39.95 Save $9.99 Get Deal Why we like it

If you struggle with staying hydrated, welcome to the club. It's easy to think drinking water would be no issue, but actually downing the ounces throughout the day can be an issue. With summer temps requiring even more hydration, grab the 40 oz Hydro Flask All Around travel tumbler to help keep you drinking water this summer. The double-wall design means your preferred drinks will stay cold and the flexible straw makes taking a quick sip a second-nature task.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Bring home a new computer during the Lenovo Memorial Day Sale

Mashable - Fri, 05/17/2024 - 18:41

Ready to buy a new laptop? The Lenovo Memorial Day Sale has plenty of great deals to shop now:

The best Lenovo Memorial Day Sale deals Best Laptop Deal Lenovo LOQ (16-inch, AMD Ryzen 5, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050, 8GB RAM, 512 GB SSD) $759.99 at Lenovo (Save $370) Get Deal Best 2-in-1 Laptop Deal Lenovo Yoga 7i 2-in-1 (14-inch) $834.99 at Lenovo (Save $95) Get Deal Best Gaming Laptop Deal Legion Pro 5i (Gen 8 Intel, RTX 4050, 16GB RAM, 1 TB SSD) $1,082.99 (Save $477) Get Deal

If you're shopping around for a new laptop, you know things can get pretty pricey. It's always a good idea to save on new tech when you can, and now that we're inching ever closer to Memorial Day, you've got a great opportunity to do just that with the Lenovo Memorial Day Sale.

As of May 17, you can shop the Lenovo Memorial Day Sale for a variety of discounts on desktops, laptops, and more with accessories like earbuds, mice, and other goodies with slashed prices as well. That means you can score a gaming laptop, a home office rig, and even more without having to pay the sticker price.

Below, find some of our favorite picks from the sale, and check out everything on offer. These deals may not stay in stock long, but they're worth grabbing while still available.

Best laptop deal Opens in a new window Credit: Lenovo Lenovo LOQ (16-inch, AMD Ryzen 5, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050, 8GB RAM, 512 GB SSD) $759.99 at Lenovo
$1,129.99 Save $370.00 Get Deal Why we like it

The Lenovo LOQ is a great daily driver laptop that still packs a punch with an RTX 4050 GPU. It's also equipped with an AMD Ryzen 5 processor, 8GB RAM, a 512GB SSD, and a 16-inch display. It has all the other niceties you'd expect from a laptop (including an HD webcam and a full keyboard with numpad) that can make spending time at home working with your laptop a much more pleasant experience. It's also quite affordable now that it's been discounted, so if you need a do-it-all laptop that's still a formidable contender in terms of what it's capable of handling, this is an excellent choice.

Best 2-in-1 laptop deal Opens in a new window Credit: Lenovo Lenovo Yoga 7i 2-in-1 (14-inch) $834.99 at Lenovo
$929.99 Save $95.00 Get Deal Why we like it

The Lenovo Yoga 7i 2-in-1 hybrid laptop's convertible display has four different configurations in a svelte package that's perfectly portable. It boasts an Intel Core Ultra 5 125U processor, 512GB of storage, 16GB of RAM, Intel Iris Xe graphics, and a 16-inch display with 1920 x 1200 resolution. Plus, it can be used with the included Lenovo Digital Pen. With a versatile 1080p display, a full keyboard with numpad, webcam, fingerprint reader, and a slew of other features, this is an excellent MacBook alternative that's worth the more affordable price.

Best gaming laptop deal Opens in a new window Credit: Lenovo Legion Pro 5i (Gen 8 Intel, RTX 4050, 16GB RAM, 1 TB SSD) $1,082.99 at Lenovo
$1,529.99 Save $447.00 Get Deal Why we like it

The Legion Pro 5i is a great option for anyone looking for a gaming laptop, but isn't willing to spend an entire paycheck and then some. It features a 13th Generation Intel Core i5-13500 processor with an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050 GPU, 16GB RAM, a 16-inch display, and 1 TB SSD. It's still plenty premium enough to handle the heavy-hitters on PC and can make for a capable desktop replacement if need be, but its primary use will definitely be handling your backlog over the next few months as you tackle some of the best PC games right now – and yes, don't worry, it can absolutely handle Crow Country.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Scottie Scheffler's arrest: The internet reacts with shock...and memes

Mashable - Fri, 05/17/2024 - 18:39

The PGA Championship — one of golf's four major tournaments — got off to a tragic, then quite strange, start.

There was a fatal pedestrian accident in the early hours near Valhalla Golf Club in Louisville, Kentucky, the site of this year's tournament. It caused a delay in the golf activities and lots of traffic outside the club. Thus there was a bit of confusion as Scottie Scheffler — the best golfer in the world and the recent Masters champion — attempted to get into Valhalla to play his second round at the PGA. That confusion, and traffic changes, and, apparently, some kind of misunderstanding led to a Louisville cop arresting Scheffler.

Yes, the world No. 1 was arrested and charged with, via ESPN, "second-degree assault of a police officer, third-degree criminal mischief, reckless driving, and disregarding traffic signals from an officer directing traffic." This all seemingly stemmed from Scheffler not understanding where he was supposed to go, a cop trying to stop him, then, as an ESPN reporter who witnessed the event put it, an "officer [attaching] himself" to the car.

Tweet may have been deleted

It's all bizarre. Scheffler might also be the last person you'd expect to have a run-in with law enforcement — he is well-known as a super nice, if a bit milquetoast, person.

The internet reacted with a mix of shock, memes, and, frankly, confusion with the police.

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It has certainly been an odd day for the typically staid world of golf. Scheffler was able to make it back to the course in time to play on Friday. Clearly there will be a long legal process moving forward.

But fans at the club were clearly in support of Scheffler. He was greeted with massive cheers and chants of "Free Scottie."

Categories: IT General, Technology

'Babes' Ilana Glazer and Michelle Buteau on showing the reality and hilarity of pregnancy

Mashable - Fri, 05/17/2024 - 18:32
Ilana Glazer and Michelle Buteau get real about pregnancy in this 'Babes' interview.
Categories: IT General, Technology

The 40-inch 2-Series Amazon Fire TV just hit an all-time low price

Mashable - Fri, 05/17/2024 - 18:21

GET $100 OFF: As of May 17, you can snag a 40-inch 2-Series Amazon Fire TV for just $149.99, down from $249.99. That's a 40% discount or $100 off.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon 40-inch 2-Series Amazon Fire TV $149.99 at Amazon
$249.99 Save $100.00 Get Deal

Looking for a new TV that won’t put you into financial ruin? Amazon’s running a limited-time deal on the 40-inch 2-Series Amazon Fire TV, and it’s the lowest price we’ve seen yet. Like, it beats Cyber Monday prices.

As of May 17, you can score a 40-inch 2-Series Amazon Fire TV for just $149.99, down from $249.99 at Amazon. That’s a 40% discount and $100 off the original price.

SEE ALSO: All the Amazon Fire TV Sticks are back down to their Big Spring Sale prices

The 2-Series features 1080p resolution and comes with built-in Amazon Fire TV capabilities. You can watch your favorite shows and movies and stream free content with apps like Freevee and Pluto TV. Plus, with this deal, you can get six months of MGM+ streaming service on the house.

With smart capabilities and Alexa integration, this 40-inch TV is ideal for anyone who wants to upgrade their entertainment center without breaking the bank.

We’d like to note just one thing: This version does not support 4K resolution. So, if you’re looking for something a little flashier and with higher resolution capabilities, you may want to consider other options available on the market, like the 4-Series or Omni QLED Series.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Amazon deal of the day: Grab the powerhouse M3 MacBook Air for its lowest price yet

Mashable - Fri, 05/17/2024 - 18:02
Amazon deals of the day at a glance: OUR TOP PICK 13-inch MacBook Air (M3, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD) $949.99 at Amazon (save $149.01 with on-page coupon) Get Deal BEST SAMSUNG DEAL Samsung 14-inch Galaxy Book3 Pro (Intel Core i7-1360P, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) $851.63 at Amazon (save $598.36) Get Deal BEST SMARTWATCH DEAL Garmin fēnix 7X Pro Sapphire Solar Edition $799.99 at Amazon (save $200) Get Deal BEST HYDRATION DEAL Hydro Flask wide mouth water bottle $26.57 at Amazon (save $23.38) Get Deal BEST TV DEAL Amazon 40-inch 2-Series Fire TV $149.99 at Amazon (save $100) Get Deal

You've officially made it to the weekend. Celebrate with some impressive deals we found at Amazon on May 17, including all-time lows on fancy laptops, a high-tech smartwatch, a 40-inch Fire TV, and double-wall insulated water bottles to keep your water cold all summer long.

Here are our top picks for the best Amazon deals of the day. Be sure to check back at our deals from May 15 and May 16, as most of those deals are still going strong. Happy weekend!

Our top pick Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Amazon deal of the day: 13-inch MacBook Air (M3, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD) $949.99 at Amazon
$1,099.00 Save $149.01 with on-page coupon Get Deal

A new record-low price on a new MacBook is cause for celebration. The 13-inch M3 MacBook Air, which was just released back in March, is on sale for just $949.99 at Amazon as of May 17 when you clip the on-page coupon. That's its biggest discount to date. The new Air features a zippy M3 chip that's reportedly 60 percent faster than the M1 chip from the 2020 Air models and 15 percent faster than the M2. But that's not its only upgrade; it also features WiFi 6E (a step up from last generation), supports up to two 5K, 60Hz external displays while closed, and comes in a brand-new midnight black shade. We reviewed its 15-inch sibling and were highly impressed, to say the least. "The 15-inch M3 MacBook Air continues to blur the line of the Air and Pro models, providing ample “oomph” for creatives, professionals, and students who need robust performance that can handle their multifaceted workflows," our reviewer wrote.

Read our full review of the M3 MacBook Air.

Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung 14-inch Galaxy Book3 Pro (Intel Core i7-1360P, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) $851.63 at Amazon
$1,449.99 Save $598.36 Get Deal

If you're not a Mac person, perhaps this deal on the Samsung Galaxy Book3 Pro will spark your interest. This particular model boasts a 14-inch 3K AMOLED display, a 13th gen Intel Core i7 processor, 16GB RAM, 512GB of storage, and an upgraded port assortment from its predecessor (two Thunderbolt 4 ports, USB type-A port, HDMI port, and microSD slot). An early 2023 release, it's no longer the latest and greatest in the Galaxy Book lineup (that honor would go to the Galaxy Book4 Pro), but it's still a powerful laptop that can handle everything from work to play. And at just $851.63 (reg. $1,449.99), it's quite the steal. That's 41% off its usual cost and a new all-time low.

Opens in a new window Credit: Garmin Garmin fēnix 7X Pro Sapphire Solar Edition $799.99 at Amazon
$999.99 Save $200.00 Get Deal

A watch that caters to data-driven athletes and adventurers, the Garmin Fēnix 7X Pro Solar is back down to its all-time low Black Friday price at Amazon as of May 17. The 51mm version is down to $799.99, while the 47mm version is down to $699.99 — that's $200 in savings on either option. While we haven't reviewed the 7X Pro, we did try out its predecessor and found it to be quite the powerhouse. The new edition features a lighter case (one of our biggest pet peeves of the 6X Pro), better battery life, more accurate GPS, and even more in-depth data and apps. Plus, it packs an impressive solar-charging feature that extends battery life up to nine days (in smartwatch mode).

Opens in a new window Credit: Hydro Flask Hydro Flask stainless steel wide mouth water bottle $26.57 at Amazon
$49.95 Save $23.38 Get Deal

Up your hydration this summer with a Hydro Flask bottle that keeps your water ice cold for 24 hours. As of May 17, a ton of Hydro Flask bottles and accessories are on sale at Amazon. One of our top picks, however, is this stainless steel wide mouth water bottle, which fits 40 ounces of H2O in its leakproof, double-wall vacuum insulated container. It's usually $49.95, but it's on sale for just $26.57 — that's 47% in savings and its lowest price ever.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon 40-inch 2-Series Fire TV $149.99 at Amazon
$249.99 Save $100.00 Get Deal

While it's not the fanciest TV in Amazon's lineup, the 2-Series has one thing that outshines the others: an insanely low price tag. The budget-friendly, no-frills smart TV may not support 4K resolution (you'll want to check out the 4-Series for that), but it still offers the basic smart capabilities of the Fire TV experience, hands-free control through on-board Alexa, and support for HDR 10, HLG, and Dolby Digital Audio. If you're looking to add HD entertainment to any room, it's going to be pretty hard to beat this price. Regularly only $249.99, you can grab the 40-inch 2-Series Fire TV for only $149.99 as of May 17 — that's 40% in savings and the lowest price to date.

None of these deals catching your eye? Check out Amazon's daily deals for even more savings.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The Amazon Book Sale is packed with great deals on Kindles and books for all readers

Mashable - Fri, 05/17/2024 - 17:49

UPDATE: May. 17, 2024, 10:28 a.m. EDT The Amazon Book Sale is officially underway with hundreds of deals. We're updating this page with the best deals throughout the inaugural sale which run through Monday, May 20.

Best Amazon Book Sale Deals Best Kindle deal Amazon Kindle Scribe (32GB) with Premium Pen $279.99 at Amazon (Save $110) Get Deal Best subscription deal Kindle Unlimited $0 for three months at Amazon (Save $35.97) Get Deal Best book deal Up to 60% off physical books From $6 at Amazon (Save up to 60% on books) Get Deal Best e-book deal Save up to 90% on e-books From $0.99 at Amazon (Save up to 90%) Get Deal

The flights are booked and the itinerary is planned. Summer vacation is right around the corner, and we can't wait to kick back in the sun with a great read. Whether you need in-flight entertainment or a beachside book, the Amazon Book Sale has got you covered.

The Amazon Book Sale is currently live and runs through Monday, May 20, offering deals across physical books, Kindles, e-books, and audiobooks. No matter what format you prefer to read in, the savings are abundant. Physical books are up to 60% off while e-books are as low as 99 cents.

The Kindle Scribe (32GB) is down to its lowest price ever at $279.99, saving you $110. If you already have an e-reader you love, sign up for Kindle Unlimited during the sale and enjoy three months free, where you'll gain access to Kindle's collection of four million books.

Explore all the deals here or read on for our favorites.

Best Kindle deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Kindle Scribe (32 GB) with Premium Pen $279.99 at Amazon
$389.99 Save $110.00 Get Deal

If you've been known to annotate every margin of your physical books but want the convenience of an e-reader, the Kindle Scribe is the answer. And during the Amazon Book Sale, you can find it for just $279.99, its lowest price ever. You'll save $110, scoring 29% off.

The Kindle Scribe has 32GB of storage and comes with its premium pen to get you writing. In addition to writing in your e-books, the Scribe includes a notebook feature for journaling. Plus, it converts handwritten notes to text and allows you to mark up PDFs too. The anti-glare screen is perfect for reading in the sun and the weeks of battery life means you can leave the charger at home while on vacation.

Of the Kindle family, the Paperwhite Signature is our favorite pick overall thanks to its features and reasonable price. While the Paperwhite Signature isn't on sale during the Amazon Book Sale, we still think it's worth the price if it fits your reading desires.

Best subscription deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Kindle Unlimited at Amazon
Subscribe to Kindle Unlimited and get your first three months free Get Deal

Voracious readers need Kindle Unlimited. The subscription service includes millions of e-books, audiobooks, and magazines for just $11.99 per month. But thanks to the Amazon Book Sale, you can get your first three months free. That saves you $35.97 while giving you access to millions of reads.

There's no commitment with the Kindle Unlimited subscription — cancel at any time. If you're not into it after your three-month trial, go ahead and cancel for no charge.

Best book deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Books up to 60% off during the Amazon Book Sale Get Deal

For loyal readers of physical books, the Amazon Book Sale is for you too. Limited-time deals are available across all genres from cookbooks to romance. Find major savings on classics like Toni Morrison's The Bluest Eye to new releases like Expiration Dates by Rebecca Serle.

More book deals Featured Video For You How to make Amazon returns and contact customer service Best e-book deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon E-books up to 90% off Find e-books during the Amazon Book Sale for as low as $0.99 Get Deal

If you're picky about the books you want to read, then maybe Kindle Unlimited isn't for you. The good news is, during the Amazon Book Sale, e-books are available at jaw-dropping prices. Seriously, you can save up to 90% on buzzy books like Babel by R.F. Kuang.

More e-book deals
Categories: IT General, Technology

Memorial Day sales are already kicking off — here's what you need to know

Mashable - Fri, 05/17/2024 - 17:41
Best Memorial Day deals 2024 Best mattress deal Avocado Eco Organic Mattress $699 at Avocado Green Mattress (save $78) Get Deal Best furniture and home appliance deal Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 $229.99 at Solo Stove (save $70) Get Deal Best kitchen deal Refurbished KitchenAid 6-quart Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer $209.99 at KitchenAid (save $120) Get Deal Best tech deal Insignia 65-inch Class F30 Series LED 4K UHD Smart Fire TV $349.99 at Best Buy (save $100) Get Deal

We're only in the middle of May, but when has that ever stopped retailers from starting their Memorial Day sales early? This year is no different, so it's time to prepare for those summer savings. Here's everything you need to know about this year's big Memorial Day sales, plus some early offers for you to start shopping right now.

When is Memorial Day, and when do the sales start?

This year, Memorial Day falls on Monday, May 27. But Memorial Day weekend — the time when most of the big sales will be taking place — starts on Friday, May 24. We expect to see lots of discounts on offer during the three-day weekend, especially from mattress, appliance, and outdoor goods brands. No matter what you're shopping for, you should be able to find plenty of cost-cutting deals, many of which have already begun.

SEE ALSO: Spring cleaning starter kit: 8 products to cover all your bases Are Memorial Day sales starting early?

Some Memorial Day sales are already getting started as we speak, with some brands holding "early access" events leading up to a bigger sale during Memorial Day weekend (more on those below). Others aren't necessarily labeled as early Memorial Day sales, but you can already find a lot of savings on outdoor items, home appliances, and select electronics at retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart. We do think the deals will be much better as we get closer to Memorial Day, so it may be best to just wait it out.

Though Memorial Day weekend doesn't officially begin until May 24, keep an eye out for sales starting earlier that week on May 20. (Update: Amazon's Memorial Day sale has officially begun, and features savings of up to 40% off on Amazon devices, other select electronics, outdoor goods, and more. The sale runs until May 27.)

What to buy during Memorial Day sales

Memorial Day is always a huge time for doorbuster mattress sales, but we also expect to see big discounts on outdoor items and appliances for the summer, as well as other select home appliances and electronics. Look out for items like grills, lawn care equipment, gardening supplies, and outdoor furniture.

We also foresee popular kitchen items going on sale, as well as big-ticket items like TVs, headphones, laptops, and fitness equipment.

What are the best Memorial Day sales?

The worthwhile Memorial Day sales aren't all that plentiful just yet, but more will be on the way shortly. Here are some of the best Memorial Day sales and deals that we could find so far.

Best Memorial Day deals 2024Best mattress deal Opens in a new window Credit: Avocado Green Mattress Avocado Eco Organic Mattress $699.00 at Avocado Green Mattress
$777.00 Save $78.00 Get Deal Why we like it

It's no secret that a good mattress is going to cost you quite a big chunk of change, but thankfully during Avocado's Memorial Day sale, their budget-friendly Eco Organic Mattress is extremely affordable (starting at just $699 for a twin size). Made from certified organic latex, cotton, and wool, the Eco Organic Mattress strikes a great balance between comfort and support with its medium-firm feel, making it a great choice for all types of sleepers. The mattress also features natural cooling, and absorbs motion transfer.

More mattress deals
  • Amerisleep: Save $450 on select mattresses

  • Avocado: Save up to 20% on mattresses and more

  • Bear: 35% off sitewide, plus free sleep accessories

  • Beautyrest: Save up to $1,200 on select mattresses and base sets

  • Birch: 25% off sitewide, plus two free pillows

  • Brooklyn Bedding: 25% off sitewide

  • Casper: 30% off all mattresses and 10% off everything else

  • Cocoon by Sealy: Save 35% on all mattresses + free Sealy sleep bundle ($199 value)

  • Cozy Earth: Save up to 30% on bedding

  • DreamCloud: Up to 50% off mattresses

  • Emma: Up to 55% off mattresses plus two free pillows

  • Helix: Up to 30% off sitewide, plus two free pillows

  • Layla: Up to $200 off mattresses, plus two free pillows

  • Leesa: 25% off mattresses, plus two free pillows

  • Nectar: Up to 40% off mattresses

  • Nolah: 35% off mattresses, plus free pillows

  • Plank: Up to 25% off sitewide

  • Purple: Up to $800 off mattresses + base

  • Saatva: Up to $600 off select mattresses

  • Serta: Save up to $900 on select mattresses and adjustable bases

  • Siena: Save up to $500 off mattresses

  • Sleep Number: Up to 50% off smart beds

  • TempurPedic: Save up to $500 on select adjustable mattresses

  • Vaya: Save up to $300 off any mattress

  • WinkBeds: Save up to $300 on mattresses

  • Zoma: Save $150 on all mattresses

Best furniture and home appliance deal Opens in a new window Credit: Solo Stove Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 $229.99 at Solo Stove
$299.99 Save $70.00 Get Deal Why we like it

Looking to upgrade your hangouts this summer? A Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 certainly won't hurt, and you can save $70 on one during the Memorial Day sale. The totally smokeless, portable stove will become one of your outdoor get-together essentials, whether you're just looking to sit around the fire telling stories or fire up some grub.

More furniture and home appliance deals
  • Dyson: Up to 70% off cordless stick vacuums

  • Home Depot: Up to 50% off home decor and furniture

  • LG: Bundle select items and save up to $200

  • Lowe's: Up to 35% off home appliances

  • Samsung: Save up to $1,200 on refrigerators and laundry machines

  • Shark: Up to 30% off select products

  • Solo Stove: Up to 30% off sitewide

  • Wayfair: Way Day sale starting on May 4

Best kitchen deal Opens in a new window Credit: KitchenAid Refurbished KitchenAid 6-quart Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer $209.99 at KitchenAid
$329.99 Save $120.00 Get Deal Why we like it

Picking up a refurbished device has its benefits — namely, savings. This certified refurb Stand Mixer from KitchenAid is over $100 off, and features a bowl-lift design that drastically improves stability and control while you work. It has 11 different speeds (including a half-speed option), as well as a 6-quart bowl that'll work well for small and large batches. Plus, you get to finally say you have a KitchenAid mixer.

More kitchen deals
  • KitchenAid: Up to $150 off select Stand Mixers

  • Our Place: Up to 40% off cookware and kitchen gear

Best tech deal Opens in a new window Credit: Insignia Insignia 65-inch Class F30 Series LED 4K UHD Smart Fire TV $349.99 at Best Buy
$449.99 Save $100.00 Get Deal Why we like it

A 65-inch 4K TV for just $349.99? We're so in. This Insignia TV features support for 4K Ultra HD, HDR, Apple Air Play, and Amazon Alexa. It's also a Fire TV, so that means you'll have access to Amazon's easy-to-use interface to boot up all your favorite streaming apps and more. It's wall-mountable, too, if you want to save some space. Not bad for a budget TV, huh?

More tech deals
Categories: IT General, Technology

Microsoft risks billions in fines as EU investigates its generative AI disclosures

Mashable - Fri, 05/17/2024 - 17:21

Microsoft may face a harsh scolding from the European Union (EU) after failing to provide information on risks posed by generative AI tools.

The tech company has until May 27 to present the commission with appropriate documents that outline potential harm arising from Bing’s generative AI features specifically, like its AI assistant Copilot and image generator Image Creator by Designer. As TechCrunch reported, the EU worries that such tools could pose a threat to "civic discourse and electoral processes."

The fines would be processed under requirements for Very Large Online Search Engines (VLOSEs) within the EU's Digital Services Act (DSA), and levy up to one percent of Microsoft's global annual turnover against the company.

"The request for information is based on the suspicion that Bing may have breached the DSA for risks linked to generative AI, such as so-called 'hallucinations', the viral dissemination of deepfakes, as well as the automated manipulation of services that can mislead voters," the commission wrote. "Generative AI is one of the risks identified by the Commission in its guidelines on the integrity of electoral processes, in particular for the upcoming elections to the European Parliament in June."

SEE ALSO: Reddit's deal with OpenAI is confirmed. Here's what it means for your posts and comments.

Should Microsoft still fail to provide the requested information, the commission can impose penalties of up to 5 percent of its average daily income or worldwide annual turnover.

In March, the European Union approved what many called a landmark AI regulation, known simply as the AI Act, which establishes oversight and enforcement procedures for AI technology deemed "high risk." The law additionally bans certain risky AI applications, including "emotion recognition, predictive policing, and AI that manipulates human behavior or exploits people’s vulnerabilities."

Meanwhile, the bloc is also utilizing the DSA to probe social media companies, as leaders open several investigations into child safety and emotional wellbeing across apps like TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Run, don't walk: The 13-inch M3 MacBook Air is $150 off at Amazon

Mashable - Fri, 05/17/2024 - 17:07

GET $149.01 OFF: As of May 17, the 13.6-inch Apple MacBook Air (M3, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD) is on sale for $949.99, the lowest price we've seen.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple 13.6-inch Apple MacBook Air (M3, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD) $949.99 at Amazon
$1,099.00 Save $149.01 Get Deal

If you’ve been eyeing the 13.6-inch Apple MacBook Air, now’s the time to get your wallet out. This powerful laptop has hit another all-time low, beating last month’s discount by an additional $39.

As of May 17, the 13.6-inch Apple MacBook Air (M3, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD) is now $949.99 at Amazon. That’s even lower than it was last month when it was on sale for $989. It’s also the lowest price we’ve seen for this particular MacBook Air model. (Click the on-screen coupon to get the full discounted price.)

SEE ALSO: Best Apple deals May 2024: MacBook Airs and Apple Watches are worth buying this week

The M3 chip makes this laptop a must for anyone who needs something fast, efficient, and able to handle multiple tasks at once. It’s also lightweight and less than one-half-inch thin, making it ideal for students and hybrid workers who are always on the go.

It has an 18-hour battery life, a 13.6-inch liquid retina display, and a 1080p FaceTime HD camera. There are three mics, and four speakers are built-in, so you can video chat with coworkers, friends, and family with crystal clear audio.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Score up to 49% off Beats earbuds at Amazon

Mashable - Fri, 05/17/2024 - 16:46

UP TO 49% OFF: As of May 17, Amazon is offering up to 49% off Beats earbuds and headphones.

Our top picks: Best deal overall Beats Studio Buds true wireless noise-canceling earbuds $79.99 at Amazon (save $69.96) Get Deal Best runner-up deal Beats Powerbeats Pro wireless earbuds $159.99 at Amazon (save $89.96) Get Deal Best on-ear headphone deal Beats Solo3 wireless headphones $149.99 at Amazon (save $78.96) Get Deal

If you've been caught humming America's unofficial song of the summer ("That's that me, espresso!"), it might be time for some new headphones. Starting today, May 17, get up to 49% off Beats earbuds and headphones at Amazon.

SEE ALSO: The best headphones for 2024 (and why they made our list)

Whether you’re looking for an over-ear option or a compact pair of earbuds, Amazon's sale on Beats headphones has you covered. Here are some of our favorite deals from the sale:

Best deal overall Opens in a new window Credit: Beats Our pick: Beats Studio Buds true wireless noise-canceling earbuds $79.99 at Amazon
$149.95 Save $69.96 Get Deal Why we like it

The Beats Studio Buds true wireless noise-canceling earbuds feature two listening modes: active noise canceling (ANC) and transparency mode, so you can tune in and out of your surroundings as needed.

These earbuds come with three soft ear tip sizes and offer a comfortable, secure fit, making them perfect for long commutes, workouts, or just jamming out at home. With up to eight hours of listening time (or up to 24 hours combined with the included pocket-sized charging case), you can enjoy uninterrupted music all day long.

They also feature a built-in microphone and are IPX4-rated sweat- and water-resistant, so you can take a call or hit the gym without worrying about damaging your earbuds. Plus, they come in multiple color options, including sunset pink and ocean blue.

If you need extra security, you can get these same buds with two years of Apple Care+ for $99.99 (down from $178.95).

Best runner-up deal Opens in a new window Credit: Beats Our pick: Beats Powerbeats Pro wireless earbuds $159.99 at Amazon
$249.95 Save $89.96 Get Deal Why we like it

If you want the quality of Studio Buds but are afraid they’ll fall out, the Beats Powerbeats Pro wireless earbuds are a solid alternative. Although these buds aren’t noise-canceling, they do feature an over-the-ear hook design to help keep them in place.

With these buds, you can get up to nine hours of listening time (24 with the charging case). They also have a fast-charge feature that’ll give you one-and-one-half hours of playback with a quick five-minute charge.

Best on-ear headphones deal Opens in a new window Credit: Beats Our pick: Beats Solo3 wireless headphones + 2 years of Apple Care+ $149.99 at Amazon
$228.95 Save $78.96 Get Deal Why we like it

The Beats Solo3 wireless headphones aren’t noise-canceling, but they come with two years of Apple Care+ and have more than 78,000 reviews, averaging 4.7 stars.

These headphones feature the Apple W1 chip and Class 1 wireless Bluetooth connectivity. With up to 40 hours of battery life, you can take them anywhere without worrying about running out of power.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Reddit's deal with OpenAI is confirmed. Here's what it means for your posts and comments.

Mashable - Fri, 05/17/2024 - 16:05

A few months back, reports emerged that Reddit had signed a $60 million deal with OpenAI to allow the ChatGPT creator to train its LLM using Reddit content. On Thursday, the deal was confirmed.

In a blog post shared by Reddit and OpenAI the companies unveiled the details of the agreement, which essentially sees the "front page of the internet" trading its content for access to AI tools and an advertising partnership.

"Keeping the internet open is crucial, and part of being open means Reddit content needs to be accessible to those fostering human learning and researching ways to build community, belonging, and empowerment online," reads the blog post. "Reddit is a uniquely large and vibrant community that has long been an important space for conversation on the internet."

SEE ALSO: The women getting guys to rate their nudes on Reddit

But what exactly does this mean for Reddit's users? How will your posts, comments, and images be affected by this new partnership?

What does the OpenAI deal mean for your Reddit posts and comments?

In a nutshell, it means your content is being used to train ChatGPT.

"OpenAI will bring Reddit content to ChatGPT and new products, helping users discover and engage with Reddit communities," reads the core deal point outlined in the blog. "To do so, OpenAI will access Reddit’s Data API, which provides real-time, structured, and unique content from Reddit. This will enable OpenAI’s AI tools to better understand and showcase Reddit content, especially on recent topics."

The part about Reddit's Data API is key. This means that along with everything you've posted on Reddit in the past, you can safely assume that anything you post going forwards will immediately become AI training material.

Featured Video For You How to delete your Reddit account Can Reddit users opt out?

If the thought of training an AI doesn't sit well with you, you can obviously decide not to post or comment on Reddit anymore. But what about all your old posts? Well, the honest answer lies in Reddit's User Agreement, which makes it clear exactly what rights you're giving up when you use the platform:

"When Your Content is created with or submitted to the Services, you grant us a worldwide, royalty-free, perpetual, irrevocable, non-exclusive, transferable, and sublicensable license to use, copy, modify, adapt, prepare derivative works of, distribute, store, perform, and display Your Content and any name, username, voice, or likeness provided in connection with Your Content in all media formats and channels now known or later developed anywhere in the world. This license includes the right for us to make Your Content available for syndication, broadcast, distribution, or publication by other companies, organizations, or individuals who partner with Reddit. You also agree that we may remove metadata associated with Your Content, and you irrevocably waive any claims and assertions of moral rights or attribution with respect to Your Content."

Basically, when you post on Reddit, they can pretty much do what they want with it — including making your content "available for syndication, broadcast, distribution, or publication by other companies, organizations, or individuals who partner with Reddit."

And if you decide to delete your content at some point down the line? Mashable has reached out to Reddit to ask if deleted content can still be used to train OpenAI, and we will update this article when we receive a response.

UPDATE: May. 17, 2024, 3:02 p.m. GMT Reddit confirmed to Mashable that it doesn't license deleted posts and comments — so it's possible that content deleted prior to the deal's completion may not be included. But given that OpenAI now has access to Reddit's API, it's probably safe to assume that anything newly posted is immediately being used to train its AI.

Categories: IT General, Technology

GPT-4o, Bumble Fumbles, and Subtle Asian news

Mashable - Fri, 05/17/2024 - 13:48
From OpenAI's GPT-4o to Bumble's anti-celibacy ads, host Josh Burstein takes us on a comedic journey through the week's top stories.
Categories: IT General, Technology

How to watch the 2024 Tour de France online for free

Mashable - Fri, 05/17/2024 - 13:29

TL;DR: Live stream the 2024 Tour de France for free on SBS on Demand, RTBF, France TV, RaiPlay, or ITVX. Access these free streaming platforms from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

It really doesn't get any tougher than the Tour de France. The conclusion you quickly reach when watching this famous event is that it's much better to be sat at home, watching these incredible athletes put their bodies through hell. This is where we can help.

If you're interested in watching the Tour de France for free from anywhere in the world, we've got all the information you need.

What is the Tour de France?

The Tour de France is an annual men's multi-stage bicycle race held in France (and occasionally passing through nearby countries). This prestigious race is the oldest of the Grand Tours, and consists of 21 stages taking place over the course of 23 or 24 days.

The reigning champion is Jonas Vingegaard.

When is the 2024 Tour de France?

The 2024 Tour de France is the 111th edition of the race. This year's event takes place from June 29 to July 21, starting in Florence and finishing in Nice. For the first time, the race will not finish in (or near) Paris due to preparations for the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

How to watch the 2024 Tour de France for free

The good news is that cycling fans from around the world can watch the 2024 Tour de France for free. That's because free streaming of the famous race is being offered by these countries:

Anyone from around the world can access these free streaming platforms with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in another country, meaning you can unblock free streaming sites from around the world. That might sound complicated, but the process is actually really simple.

Live stream the 2024 Tour de France for free from anywhere in the world by following these simple steps:

  1. Sign up for a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

  2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

  3. Open up the app and connect to a server in a location that is offering free streaming of the 2024 Tour de France

  4. Connect to your preferred streaming platform from the list above

  5. Watch the 2024 Tour de France from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Year Subscription + 3 Months Free) $99.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for unblocking streaming sites are not free, but they do tend to offer free trials and money-back guarantees. By using these offers, you can watch the 2024 Tour de France without committing with your cash. This isn't a long-term solution, but you have plenty of time to watch the Tour de France without actually spending anything.

What is the best VPN for the Tour de France?

Multiple VPNs can reliably unblock streaming sites from around the world, but ExpressVPN is the top choice. ExpressVPN is the best service for streaming sport, for a number of reasons:

  • Servers in 105 countries

  • Easy-to-use apps for Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS, as well as platforms like Linux, Android TV, Amazon Fire TV, and routers

  • Strict no-logging policy

  • Fast connection speeds free from throttling

  • Up to eight simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95, saving you 49% on list price. This discounted plan includes an extra three months of coverage and a year of unlimited cloud backup for free. Subscribers also get a generous 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can watch the Tour de France and then recover your investment after the race has concluded.

Watch the 2024 Tour de France for free with ExpressVPN.

Categories: IT General, Technology

How to watch the 2024 Giro d’Italia online for free

Mashable - Fri, 05/17/2024 - 13:18

TL;DR: Live stream the 2024 Giro d’Italia for free on SBS on Demand, RTBF, or RaiPlay. Access these free streaming platforms from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

It really doesn't get much tougher than cycling. We'll be honest and say that we don't fully understand the appeal of setting out in the morning to punish yourself over long climbs through potentially miserable conditions, but this sort of thing clearly works for a lot of people, because we see plenty of enthusiasts out there on the roads every day.

What we can see the appeal of is watching the very best cyclists in the world going wheel to wheel in one of the most prestigious cycling events on the calendar. We're talking about the Giro d'Italia, and we've got all the information you need to watch this year's event.

What is the Giro d’Italia?

The Giro d'Italia is an annual multiple-stage bicycle race primarily held in Italy. The Giro d'Italia is one of cycling's most prestigious three-week-long Grand Tours, and is arguably the world's second most important stage race after the Tour de France.

When is the 2024 Giro d’Italia?

The 2024 Giro d'Italia is the 107th edition of the famous race. This year's event takes place from May 4 to May 26.

How to watch the 2024 Giro d’Italia for free

It's possible to live stream the 2024 Giro d'Italia for free on these streaming platforms:

These free streaming services are geo-restricted to their country of origin, meaning you'll be blocked if you attempt to connect from anywhere else in the world. That is unless you're using a VPN. These powerful tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to secure servers in other countries, meaning you can access free streaming platforms from any location.

Stream the 2024 Giro d'Italia for free by following these simple steps:

  1. Sign up for a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

  2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

  3. Open up the app and connect to a server in Australia, Belgium, or Italy

  4. Visit SBS on Demand, RTBF, or RaiPlay

  5. Watch the 2024 Giro d’Italia for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Year Subscription + 3 Months Free) $99.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

Most of the best VPNs for streaming are not free, but they do tend to offer money-back guarantees. By taking advantage of these guarantees, you can watch Giro d’Italia live streams without committing with your cash. This is a sneaky trick, but it works.

What is the best VPN for Giro d’Italia?

There are a lot of streaming-friendly VPNs out there for you to consider, but ExpressVPN is probably the best service for live streaming top sporting events. ExpressVPN is a great choice for streaming the Giro d’Italia, for a number of reasons:

  • Servers in 105 countries including Austria, Belgium, and Italy

  • Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more

  • Strict no-logging policy so your data is always secure

  • Fast connection speeds

  • Up to eight simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This heavily discounted plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a 30-day money-back guarantee. You can sign up to watch 2024 Giro d’Italia and then recover your investment with the money-back guarantee.

Live stream the 2024 Giro d’Italia for free with ExpressVPN.

Categories: IT General, Technology
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