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Home Depot's Halloween 2024 lineup will include an upgraded 12-foot skeleton and a new skeleton dog

Mashable - Thu, 03/14/2024 - 17:29

UPDATE: Mar. 15, 2024, 10:45 a.m. EDT This story has been updated with a statement from a Home Depot spokesperson about the status of the 12-foot Inferno Pumpkin Skeleton.

Never mind the calendar: Home Depot shared a sneak peek of its Halloween 2024 lineup at its annual Store Managers Meeting Thursday, revealing that its beloved 12-foot skeleton will be returning for the fourth year in a row — and for the first time, with a slight makeover. This year's iteration of the iconic prop (nicknamed "Skelly") will feature newly upgraded LCD eyes with eight swappable settings while remaining at its same usual price of $299.

As per Home Depot Halloween tradition, the 12-footer will be joined by a crew of other larger-than-life Halloween props when it eventually goes on sale, including a new giant skeleton dog billed as "Skelly’s loyal pal." Measuring five feet tall and seven feet long, the bony good boy features a posable mouth and striking, Messi-esque LCD eyes with eight settings.

Credit: Home Depot / Mashable composite

Other new additions to Home Depot's lineup include a seven-foot animated Frankenstein's monster, a nine-foot headless horseman, a seven-and-a-half-foot animated plague doctor — too soon? — and a ten-foot "Murderous Maple" tree.

SEE ALSO: Live, laugh, LifeEyes™️: How the 12-foot Home Depot skeleton became a perennial hit

Home Depot hasn't set a date for its official Halloween 2024 launch just yet, but history points to the possibility of a limited selection arriving online as soon as April.

“I am excited to say that our team continues to push the limits on innovation in the decorative holiday category,” said Lance Allen, Home Depot's senior merchant of decorative holiday. “This year we increased our realism within the animatronics category, created some impressive, licensed characters and even brought back some fan favorites. Overall, we are most proud of the quality and value we are able to bring to our customers with these pieces so they can continue to grow their collections.”

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The announcement is a real "I lived, bitch" moment for the 12-foot skeleton, which was the subject of discontinuation rumors last fall despite quickly selling out during all three of its online restocks. The real victim may actually be the 12-foot Inferno Pumpkin Skeleton, Skelly's sidekick of the past two years, which didn't resurface in this week's preview. But don't count it out just yet.

"Halloween enthusiasts will have to wait just a little bit longer before we unveil our entire collection," a Home Depot spokesperson told Mashable. "We encourage our customers to keep their eyes peeled for upcoming announcements for our Halloween décor."

The full Home Depot Halloween 2024 collection will initially be available on the company's website before it makes its way to stores later this year.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Mashable's favorite cloud gaming laptop just dropped to a record-low $469

Mashable - Thu, 03/14/2024 - 17:25

SAVE $180: As of March 14 (Pi Day!), the Acer Chromebook 516 GE is on sale for just $469 at Best Buy. That's a savings of 28% and a new record-low for the cloud gaming laptop.

Opens in a new window Credit: Acer Acer Chromebook 516 GE (Intel Core i5-1240P, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD) $469.00 at Best Buy
$649.00 Save $180.00 Get Deal

If you're in the market for a gaming laptop, but don't want to spend a small fortune, allow me to introduce the Acer Chromebook 516 GE. Hands-on tested by Mashable's own Dylan Haas, the cloud gaming laptop has earned a spot in our best gaming laptops and best cheap laptops roundups. And, conveniently, it just dropped to a new record-low price, making it a total steal for budget shoppers.

As of March 14, the Acer Chromebook 516 GE — packed with an Intel Core i5-1240P processor, 8GB of RAM, and 256GB of storage — is on sale for only $469 at Best Buy. That's a significant $180 price drop and the biggest savings we've seen to date.

It's important to note that this isn't your traditional gaming laptop; it's a cloud gaming laptop. That means you'll be streaming games (similar to streaming shows a la Netflix) instead of downloading them or owning a physical copy. You won't have to deal with constant upgrades for new games or buying fancy new hardware, but you may endure some fidelity loss. You'll need a really reliable and strong internet connection in order to stream games swimmingly. "We used Xbox Game Pass as our cloud platform of choice during testing, and we had an overall great experience," our reviewer noted.

Gaming aside, the Acer Chromebook 516 GE is also just "a really solid laptop in general," Haas added. He credited its bright and brilliant 16-inch display, impressive 120Hz refresh rate, quality build, and bevy of ports. It's only real downfall? Clocking six hours of heavy gaming, its battery life is just meh.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Kobi Libii on the ‘American Society of Magical Negroes’ backlash

Mashable - Thu, 03/14/2024 - 17:07

Mashable speaks to director Kobi Libii and actor Justice Smith about working together on The American Society for Magical Negroes, the backlash the film received upon the trailer release, and pitching a Black film to a room full of white decision-makers.

The American Society of Magical Negroes hits theaters on March 15.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Celebrate Pi Day with delicious deals on pizza pies, Solo Stoves, and a Lenovo tablet

Mashable - Thu, 03/14/2024 - 16:59

You don't have to be a fan of mathematics to score great deals on Pi Day. Here are some of our favorite deals to help celebrate 3.14.

Best Pi Day sales to shop today Best Pi Day outdoor deal Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 $229.99 (save an extra $20 with code PIZZA) Get Deal Best Pi Day tech deal Lenovo Tab P11 Pro Gen 2 $299.99 (save $130) Get Deal Best Pi Day pizza deal Papa Murphy's Take and Bake Pizza save 31.4% on all online orders with code PIDAY24 Get Deal

Pi Day only comes around once every year. For those who are fans of 3.14, the infinite number associated with Pi, March 14 is a whimsical celebration. And for fans of pizza (or deals in general), today is a great day to score some savings. Here's just a slice of our favorite Pi Day sales.

Best Pi Day outdoor deal Opens in a new window Credit: Solo Stove Our pick: Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 $229.99 at Solo Stove
$299.99 Save $70.00 Use code PIZZA to save an additional $20 Get Deal Why we like it

If you love nights by the fire but don't like the associated smoke, a Solo Stove could be the solution. And thanks to the brand's Pi More Save More sale, you could get a hefty discount. Use code PIZZA to take $20 off a purchase of $150, $50 off a purchase of $300, $120 off a total of $600, and $160 off a purchase of $600 or more.

Mashable Senior Shopping Reporter Haley Henschel reviewed the Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 and wrote, "The Solo Stove is a vast improvement over any traditional fire pit or campfire I, or anyone else in my family, have ever used." One downside Henschel mentions is the price. The Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 typically costs $299.99, but thanks to today's sale code, you can score the stove for just $229.99. Summer nights in the backyard around the fire pit await.

Best Pi Day tech deal Opens in a new window Credit: Lenovo Our pick: Lenovo Tab P11 Pro Gen 2 $299.99 at Lenovo
$429.99 Save $130.00 Get Deal Why we like it

A reliable tablet can be an amazing addition to anyone's gadget lineup, especially if you're often on the go or traveling. Thanks to today's Lenovo Pi Day Deals, the Tab P11 Pro Gen 2 could be yours for just $299.99. The tablet's 11.2-inch screen has an OLED screen and touchscreen capabilities. It also resists fingerprints, so your tablet will never get fingerprint smudges. It comes with 128 GB of storage and weighs just over one pound so it's travel-friendly.

Best Pi Day pizza deal Opens in a new window Credit: Papa Murphy's Our pick: Papa Murphy's Take and Bake Pizza Save 31.4% on all online orders with code PIDAY24 Get Deal Why we like it

If your number-one priority on Pi Day is to enjoy eating a pizza pie, Papa Murpy's has just the deal. Order online today and use code PIDAY24 to save 31.4% on your order. There's no minimum on this deal, so you have the freedom to order any pie you choose to score this savings.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Bill Skarsgård and FKA twigs get bloody in 'The Crow' trailer

Mashable - Thu, 03/14/2024 - 16:22

Murder. Bloody rampages. Questionable tattoos. These are just a taste of what awaits in the trailer for The Crow.

Directed by Rupert Sanders, The Crow is less a remake of the original 1994 movie and more of a modern reimagining of the source comics by James O'Barr. The film follows soulmates Eric Draven (Bill Skarsgård) and Shelly Webster (FKA twigs), who are brutally murdered by shadowy figures from Shelley's past (including a menacing Danny Huston). But this is just the beginning of their story.

Instead of dying outright, Eric gets a chance to save Shelley from beyond the grave. With a guiding crow to help him, he'll walk between the land of the living and the dead, dealing out brutal retribution along the way. And I mean brutal — count how many times Skarsgård gets shot in the trailer alone to see what I'm talking about.

The Crow hits theaters June 7.

Categories: IT General, Technology

YouTube is making its app look better on TV

Mashable - Thu, 03/14/2024 - 14:25

YouTube has been dabbling with minor improvements for its TV app, most notably reducing the amount of overlap when you're watching a video and interacting with it.

The company announced a small update for the platform on Wednesday in a blog post, which aims to improve functionality with a bump to the left. If you're watching a YouTube clip on your TV and want to pull up the video description or comments, YouTube will now push the still-playing clip to the side and bring up the info beside it, rather than on top.

SEE ALSO: Uh, YouTube? Spotify just added full music videos

"We began tinkering with the idea of reducing the size of the video player and simplifying the interactions, so signature features such as comments can live alongside the content rather than obscuring it," wrote YouTube on TV interaction designer Joe Hines and product manager Aishwarya Agarwal in the post.

"During testing, users shared with us that they wanted the video to be smaller so they could better read comments while watching. And we hope this design enables users to engage more deeply with other features such as chapters, key plays and shopping, all directly on their TVs."

via GIPHY

Yes, essentially YouTube is just moving the video over a squanch, but it sure looks cleaner while making it easier for creators to sell you things while you're watching. YouTube seems particularly focused on this being an improved experience for sports fans looking to bring up live scores alongside their streams, while also benefiting creators who make their videos shoppable, with the list of products available to buy sitting beside the video. Hines and Agarwal said the team will be working on extending the layout to accommodate videos with live chat, Fantasy View, and Multiview down the line.

The feature will roll out "over the next few weeks" on the YouTube app on TV and "in the next few days" will come to YouTube TV subscribers.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Ethan Hawke's 'Wildcat' trailer is a haunting, human glimpse of Flannery O'Connor biopic

Mashable - Thu, 03/14/2024 - 14:13

Gothic writer Flannery O'Connor, a canonical literary figure, was transfixed by distinctive obsessions: religion, race, redemption, and life in the American South. In Wildcat, directed by Ethan Hawke and starring his daughter Maya Hawke, the life of O'Connor and her way of observing the world is unfurled.

"Dear God, please," says Maya in her role as O'Connor. "I can never seem to escape myself unless I am writing."

The newly-released trailer is a glimpse at the biopic which made its debut at the Toronto International Film Festival last year. Not only does the film probe into O'Connor's tortured writing process, but it examines facets of her religious core, strained familial relationships, and Lupus diagnosis at the age of 24. Muted blue tones and the sound of a typewriter serve as the backdrop for it all.

SEE ALSO: 25 best movies of 2023, and where to watch them

Wildcat, written by Ethan Hawke and Shelby Gaines, also stars Laura Linney, Philip Ettinger, Rafael Casal, and Steve Zahn. The film is coming soon, though no dates have been announced.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The best VPN for Disney+

Mashable - Thu, 03/14/2024 - 13:57

Disney+ is packed full of exciting content that can keep you entertained for absolutely ages, but what if you're located somewhere that the streaming service isn't available? Your only real option is to invest in a VPN.

There are plenty of impressive VPNs that can unblock Disney+ (and other streaming sites like Netflix), as well as providing data protection, traffic encryption, virus protection, and much more. These security tools are becoming increasingly popular, and it's clear to see why.

We all need more content options right now, and for that we require something that can bypass geo-restrictions to access blocked entertainment. That something is a VPN.

What is a VPN?

VPNs are useful security tools that provide protection for your information by creating a private network that hides your real IP address. All of your activity is untraceable and secure, because all of your online traffic passes through an encrypted tunnel. Nobody can see into the tunnel, and everything inside the tunnel is protected against online threats like hackers, viruses, and malware.

The act of hiding your real IP address is what can trick leading streaming sites into thinking you are based in another country.

What are the benefits of using a VPN?

VPNs are primarily used to provide protection for your sensitive information, but there's another reason that VPNs are so popular. These tools can be also be used to watch content that is normally blocked in your location.

By hiding your real IP address and connecting you to a server in another country, you can watch all your favourite content from that location. For example, you could watch all the extra films and shows on American Disney+ that are not usually accessible outside of the U.S. There is so much content out there that can be accessed with the help of a VPN.

How do you unblock extra content on Disney+?

Using a VPN to unblock Disney+ is really easy. All you need to do is open up your preferred VPN, select a server in order to spoof your IP to an address with access to Disney+, and then head to the streaming site. This quick and easy action makes Disney+ think you're in a location with access when you're not in the country, so you can watch all that great content that is normally unavailable. Not too complicated, right?

We should make it very clear that you still need to be subscribed to Disney+ for this trick to work. A VPN is not going to grant access to the streaming site for free. A VPN provides access to more libraries from around the world, once you're subscribed.

What is the best VPN for Disney+?

When it comes to choosing a VPN specifically for Disney+, we've tested PureVPN, CyberGhost, NordVPN, and ExpressVPN, all of which can successfully stream Disney+ content at the time of writing.

We recommend taking your time and carefully assessing all of the options listed here, and then pinpointing the service that best fits your requirements and lifestyle. There is something for everyone in this roundup.

These are the best VPNs for Disney+ in 2024.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The best VPN for Chrome

Mashable - Thu, 03/14/2024 - 13:56

Google Chrome is the most popular web browser in the world, and it's already highly secure, making it the best choice for those worried about their privacy and safety online.

One of the great things about the browser is that you can easily customise it and add extensions to personalise your experience. One such option is to add a VPN extension so that you're further protected from threats and the risks associated with your ISP potentially spying on what you're doing.

VPN extensions work a little differently from full VPN services, as they simply route browser traffic through a proxy server rather than encrypt data like a true VPN connection. This is still useful if you want to view content without restrictions, like watching U.S. Netflix content from the UK.

What is a VPN?

Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) offer protection for your data and identity when you're online by creating a private network that hides your real IP address. This means that all of your activity is untraceable and secure. Try thinking about VPNs like encrypted tunnels through which all of your online traffic passes through. Nobody can see into the tunnel, and everything inside the tunnel is protected against online threats like viruses, hackers, and malware.

Do you need a VPN for Chrome?

We all know that Chrome OS is a secure service, but you still need to protect your web traffic from online threats. For this task, you need a VPN. You'll also need to use a VPN if you want to unblock extra content from top streaming sites. These cybersecurity services can hide your real IP address and connect you to a server in another country, meaning you get access to all the movies and shows from that location.

What is the best VPN for Chrome?

Many VPN services and extensions are available, so how do you know what's best for you? You will need a service that is highly secure and offers a fairly strong level of encryption, but you'll also want a service that's easy to set up and use, with a no-logs policy. Whatever your reason for using a VPN service, it's important to pick out the right VPN for your needs, and we're here to help you find it.

We have tracked down all your best options for making Google Chrome even more secure, including popular services like TunnelBear and ExpressVPN.

These are the best VPNs for Chrome in 2024.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The best PS5 headsets from all the top brands

Mashable - Thu, 03/14/2024 - 13:55

Great gaming is all about total immersion — getting so deep into the game it’s like you’re really there, right at the centre of the action. And that’s why every serious gamer needs a gaming headset. It’s the key accessory for every gamer.

This isn't exactly new information, but gaming accessories don’t cheap, whether we're talking monitors, controllers, or headsets. And it can be hard to choose the right product, with so much jargon to work your way through and understand. That's why we’re here to help, to guide you through the best options and explain how they work.

If you’re looking for a new headset for your PS5 to achieve immersive gaming nirvana, we can help point you in the right direction.

Do you need a gaming headset?

Gaming headsets block out background noise and produce an accurate, detailed, and powerful sound that puts you in the centre of the action. It’s not just about the immersive experience. For competitive gamers, a headset can be the difference between success and failure by detecting small but crucial subtle sounds, especially with games like Call of Duty and Fortnite. If you can hear gunshots in the distance, or footsteps creeping up on you, you’re ahead of the competition.

What are the most important gaming headset features?

Some of the jargon around gaming headsets can be confusing, so we've broken down some of the most important features to help you make sense of everything:

  • Comfort — If the headset isn’t comfortable, those long gaming sessions will be a slog. Look out for headsets that are lightweight, or have memory foam ear pads and adjustable features.

  • Durability — Many gaming headsets are plastic, which can mean they’re flimsy or cheap-feeling. Headsets with a durable metal or wire frame, or which use durable materials like leather for long-lasting comfort.

  • Isolation — Some headsets and games make use of very slight directional audio cues, so it’s important to have an effective seal where the earcups sit on your head. If the seal isn't tight, find something that fits better or get replacement pads.

  • Microphone — Check if the headset’s mic has noise-cancellation or a mute function. All of this combines to improve voice clarity, minimise distractions, and maintain privacy. The mic is a crucial part of the headset.

  • Noise Cancellation — Some gaming headsets take isolation even further by offering noise cancellation. This technology uses little microphones that detect incoming noise and produce anti-soundwaves to block out external distractions.

  • Style — Style is important to many gamers. Most of the best gaming headsets offer multiple colour options, or RGB lighting that flashes along to the gameplay.

Keep these features in mind when shopping around for your next headset.

What are the best headset brands?

The PS5 offers some seriously impressive enhancements across the board, but if you really want to make the most of the next-gen audio, your best option is a gaming headset from a top brand like SteelSeries, Turtle Beach, or Razer. All of these leading names are experts in delivering comfort, style, and of course, impressive audio. They have to be good, because they are up against some pretty stiff competition from the Sony Pulse 3D, the official audio companion for the PS5.

What is the best headset for the PS5?

We know that it can be tricky when you're partnering your headset with something as precious as your PS5. But we've handpicked a selection of headsets that should appeal to just about every gamer out there. All you need to do is check out everything we've lined up and pick a favourite. Then it's game on.

These are the best headsets for the PS5 in 2024.

Categories: IT General, Technology

NYT's The Mini crossword answers for March 14

Mashable - Thu, 03/14/2024 - 13:22

The Mini is a bite-sized version of The New York Times' revered daily crossword. While the crossword is a lengthier experience that requires both knowledge and patience to complete, The Mini is an entirely different vibe.

With only a handful of clues to answer, the daily puzzle doubles as a speed-running test for many who play it.

So, when a tricky clue disrupts a player's flow, it can be frustrating! If you find yourself stumped playing The Mini — much like with Wordle and Connections — we have you covered.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections today: See hints and answers for March 14 SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Here's the answer and hints for March 14

Here are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Thursday, March 14, 2024:

AcrossFlexible gymnastics move
  • The answer is split.

Innocently clueless
  • The answer is naive.

Keeping it to zero is a Sisyphean task
  • The answer is inbox.

___ cotta (pottery material)
  • The answer is terra.

Looks fabulous, in slang
  • The answer is slays.

DownFoul tempers
  • The answer is snits.

Group of speakers at a conference
  • The answer is panel.

Fall zodiac sign
  • The answer is Libra.

Tusk stuff
  • The answer is ivory.

State university that has a trademark on burnt orange
  • The answer is Texas.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Stephen Colbert and Jon Hamm can't escape the dreaded shower witch

Mashable - Thu, 03/14/2024 - 13:00

In a gloriously silly Late Show bit as unhinged as a dodgy hotel shower curtain, Jon Hamm and Stephen Colbert anger "the magical being that guards the barrier between the showers in reality": THE SHOWER WITCH.

During a regular segment, Colbert seems unable to stop dropping shower-related words into his awards season monologue, slowly but surely descending into bathroom madness, rushing offstage, and finding Hamm trapped among the same tiled hell.

"Listen to me or you'll end up just like me," Hamm warns. "Everything I love is a shower. My shower? My shower! Even the time I spend in my shower! I can't even shower at night, Stephen. I'm tossing and turning in my tub!"

Colbert eventually finds himself in front of the dreaded Shower Witch, played by a superbly cackling Amy Sedaris. There's a lesson in here...somewhere.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Amazon's latest AI feature lets sellers automatically generate a product page

Mashable - Thu, 03/14/2024 - 12:43

Amazon is providing sellers with a mountain of AI-powered tools. The latest: a simple copy-paste of their own website URL can be used to generate a product page on Amazon.

Announced in a blog post by Mary Beth Westmoreland, Amazon’s VP of worldwide selling partner experience, this feature will simplify the process of creating a product page on the tech giant's website. Using generative AI, Amazon will automatically create a "high-quality" product page based on a seller's own brand site link. Amazon says this will make it easier for sellers to "transform their existing product pages on other websites into rich product listings tailored to Amazon’s store, with far less effort."

SEE ALSO: Amazon launches AI shopping assistant called...Rufus?

By providing a URL, brands hand over the work to Amazon: those links are "automatically parsed" by Amazon's generative AI-based features.

Amazon will use AI to create product pages on Amazon. Credit: Amazon.

The feature is rolling out to sellers in the U.S. in the coming weeks.

Amazon has been heavily investing in artificial intelligence tools for both users and businesses, like a new e-commerce bot and AI-generated summaries for products. AI-centric products are being marketed as useful, intended to streamline work and decision-making. Of the latest tool, Amazon presents it as a win-win: "This will further enhance and streamline the process of creating product listings, saving our selling partners more time and effort while developing listings for Amazon’s store that appeal to customers and help drive sales."

Categories: IT General, Technology

'Ezra' trailer promises a deeply moving father-son road trip

Mashable - Thu, 03/14/2024 - 12:36

Road trip films feel like a dime a dozen, but Ezra promises more heart than most.

With a new trailer dropped Wednesday, the film sees Bobby Cannavale as Max, a stand-up comedian living in New York with his father Stan (Robert De Niro). He's co-parenting his son Ezra (William Fitzgerald), who has autism. Max and his ex-wife Jenna (Rose Byrne) process difficult news about their son, and Max finds himself with a booking on Jimmy Kimmel Live! in LA, thanks to his manager Jayne (Whoopi Goldberg). So, Max takes Ezra head across the country on a road trip that promises more than a few moving moments. What's best for Ezra? Max, Jenna, and Stan all have their own ideas.

Written by Tony Spiridakis and directed by Tony Goldwyn, Ezra premiered at last year's Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). It's finally headed to cinemas on May 31.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Apple Vision Pro may be coming to more countries soon

Mashable - Thu, 03/14/2024 - 11:40

Apple's Vision Pro is currently only sold in the U.S., but that might change soon.

According to MacRumors, the code in visionOS, the software platform for Apple's Vision Pro headset, indicates that Apple is about to add support for new languages on the Vision Pro's virtual keyboard.

SEE ALSO: Apple Vision Pro teardown: What's inside the $3,500 headset

In total, 12 new languages will be added: Chinese (Simplified), English (Australia), English (Canada), English (Japan), English (Singapore), English (Singapore), English (UK), French (Canada), French (France), German (Germany), Japanese, and Korean.

This in turn probably means that Apple plans to launch the Vision Pro in Australia, Canada, China, France, German, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, and the UK next, with Hong Kong and Taiwan being potential candidates as well. None of this is official, of course, and it doesn't mean that the Vision Pro is coming to all of these countries and regions at the same time, but it does provide some indication of Apple's plans for the headset.

Featured Video For You Apple Vision Pro Tech & Specs

Apple originally launched the Vision Pro in the U.S. in February, and at the time the company provided only very vague info on when it may launch elsewhere, saying the headset would be coming to additional countries later this year.

Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo predicted in January that Apple would launch the Vision Pro internationally ahead of the company's Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) which will likely take place in June 2024.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Copilot gets free GPT-4 Turbo upgrade: 3 new features coming to the AI assistant

Mashable - Thu, 03/14/2024 - 11:00

UPDATE: Mar. 14, 2024, 12:48 p.m. EDT This article was updated to add a quote from Microsoft indicating how users can access the newly upgraded free Copilot tier.

GPT-4 Turbo now underpins ChatGPT rival Copilot, upgrading the Microsoft AI assistant from the less-developed GPT-4 model, according to Microsoft's CEO of Advertising and Web Services, Mikhail Parakhin.

The best part is that this upgrade is affecting the free tier, which means you needn't pay a penny to access the expanded capabilities.

GPT-4 Turbo is an updated variant of GPT-4. As Mashable's Cecily Mauran explained, it can process more text in a single prompt. Plus, it supports new vision, text-to-speech, and DALL-E features.

Curious about the three most significant upgrades coming to Microsoft Copilot? Stick around.

SEE ALSO: Windows 11 Copilot, ChatGPT's rival, is smarter now: 16 new commands 3 new features coming to "free" Copilot, thanks to GPT-4 Turbo

The issue with GPT-4 is that it has a knowledge base that cuts off at September 2021. Thankfully, GPT-4 Turbo's knowledge base is less outdated.

1. New knowledge cut-off date

GPT-4 Turbo updates Copilot's knowledge base cut-off date from September 2021 to April 2023. As such, you should be able to ask it for more information that was once restricted for free users.

2. Handles about 300 pages of text in a single prompt

GPT-4 only has a context window of 8K. However, GPT-4 Turbo has a context window of 128K. To put this into perspective, as Mauran explained, Microsoft Copilot's free tier can now process nearly 300 pages of text in a single prompt.

3. Less "lazy"

Last December, OpenAI acknowledged that GPT-4 Turbo suffered from "laziness." In other words, the model offered lethargic responses to users' prompts. As such, as we reported in January, OpenAI updated GPT-4 Turbo, announcing, "This model completes tasks like code generation more thoroughly than the previous preview model and is intended to reduce cases of 'laziness' where the model doesn’t complete a task."

You may be wondering, why is Microsoft suddenly being so charitable? As XDA Developers pointed out, rumor has it that Microsoft is releasing a new GPT-4.5 Turbo model, which may be reserved for the paid tier, restricting non-paying users to GPT-4 Turbo.

"For free users of Copilot in Creative mode, GPT-4 Turbo is now powering that experience. Copilot Pro users remain able to toggle GPT-4 Turbo on or off in Creative mode," a Microsoft spokesperson told Mashable.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Improve your game with this golf simulator on sale for $150

Mashable - Thu, 03/14/2024 - 11:00

TL;DR: As of March 14, you can get the PhiGolf World Tour Edition golf simulator on sale for just $149.99 (reg. $249) by snagging this open box deal — that's a savings of 39%.

If you find stepping onto the course exciting, taking a step back during the colder months might be frustrating. However, with technology being what it is, there are ways to train at home so you can stay on top of your game.

The PhiGolf golf simulator could be an excellent training tool for you to rely on when you can't get out on a course. Plus, it's compact and easy to use almost anywhere. Connect to the simulator app to play rounds at home or in the office, whether alone or against others online.

This World Tour Edition gives you access to virtual versions of over 38,000 real-life courses (including country clubs) that were meticulously mapped out with GPS and L1 Technologies. Not only does that open up new golfing opportunities for you, but it also gives you an advantage to practice on the courses you are scheduled to play in advance.

You also get a weighted training stick that's made to feel like you're swinging an actual golf club. This club also analyzes your swings with a nine-axis motion sensor, giving you real-time feedback via Bluetooth and the app. Users will get a 3D analysis of their swing, chip, drive, and putt.

It's labeled as "new, open box", which is typically considered extra inventory from store shelves. While it may come to you in different packaging, it's still considered a new product.

Funded successfully on Kickstarter, seasoned golfers and those just starting can find value in this tech-forward trainer with hours of entertainment and skill-building opportunities — no matter what it's like outside.

Get this new, open-box PhiGolf World Tour Edition golf simulator while it's on sale for just $149.99 (reg. $249) for a limited time.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: PhiGolf PhiGolf World Tour Edition golf simulator (open box) $149.99 at the Mashable Shop
$249.00 Save $99.01 Get Deal
Categories: IT General, Technology

Save hundreds on select new Motorola smartphones with these deals

Mashable - Thu, 03/14/2024 - 11:00

Looking to buy a new smartphone, but want to go outside of the iPhone and Samsung box? Check out these deals on Motorola phones at Amazon, Best Buy, and Motorola.

Best Motorola smartphone deals Best folding Motorola smartphone deal Motorola Razr+ $699.99 at Amazon ($300) Get Deal Best Motorola smartphone with stylus deal Motorola Moto G Stylus $249.99 at Best Buy (Save $150) Get Deal Best Motorola Endless Edge display deal Motorola Edge+ $599.99 at Motorola (Save $200) Get Deal

Whether you're in dire need of a new phone or you just like looking at shiny new tech, a new smartphone is always a fun purchase to make. If you've already seen everything makers like Apple and Samsung have to submit to the market, it might be time to turn your eye to Motorola instead, especially given that it's the home of the Motorola Razr, the phone every cool person had in the 2000s.

Times have changed, but Motorola has managed to retain some of the cool it oozed back in the day when a Razr was the sharpest phone you could possibly keep in your pocket. It's given us the Razr+, for example, a modern take on the classic phone, and several other models to choose from, too.

If you're looking to put down some cash on a new phone right now, it's a great time to do so. There are multiple sales on Motorola phones at retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and Motorola's digital storefront as well. In fact, you can save up to $300 on your favorite model. Check out our picks — but act quickly, because these sales likely won't stick around very long.

Best folding Motorola smartphone deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Motorola Razr+ $699.99 at Amazon
$999.99 Save $300.00 Get Deal

The Motorola Razr+ is the modern take on the classic flip phone, reimagined for today's users. It has dual screens with a 3.6-inch external display and a 6.9-inch pOLED screen on the inside. The external display can be used to check for texts, notifications, and other updates, while you can scroll and operate your phone as normal with the internal screen. You can use Motorola's built-in Flex View to contort the phone into different positions and change your viewing angle. You can also pretend it's the 2000s again by snapping the phone closed when you have an argument. Either way, it's a very cool smartphone with a form factor that'll have all eyes on you. You can also opt for the Motorola Razr, which has a much smaller external display and is a bit more affordable. It's $200 off at Best Buy, making it just $499.99 down from $699.99.

Best Motorola smartphone with stylus deal Opens in a new window Credit: Best Buy Motorola Moto G Stylus $249.99 at Best Buy
$399.99 Save $150.00 Get Deal

The Motorola Moto G is an unassuming but attractive phone that comes paired with a stylus. It's no slouch, however, with a 6.6-inch 120Hz display and support for Dolby Atmos. Its 50MP camera is great for snapping photos, and its built-in stylus is excellent for taking notes, sketching, or using your phone without tiring out your poor swiping fingers. It also boasts a 5000mAh battery (holding a charge up to two days) that means you won't have to recharge halfway through your day, making this a good phone to keep on you if you're a heavy user. Alternatively, Amazon is offering the Motorola Moto G without the built-in stylus for 32% off at just $169.99.

Best Motorola Endless Edge display deal Opens in a new window Credit: Motorola Motorola Edge+ $599.99 at Motorola
$799.99 Save $200.00 Get Deal

The Motorola Edge+ is an attractive phone that features the brand's 6.7-inch Endless Edge display, which wraps around nearly 90 degrees on both sides of your phone for more viewing real estate. Its HDR10+ support means eye-popping colors and smooth scrolling thanks to the 90Hz refresh rate. It's also nice for photos thanks to its 108MP Quad Pixel camera sensor and Macro Vision for up close shots. Add on up to 40 hours of battery on a single charge and 12GB of DDR5 memory and you have a formidable phone that can hang with the best of them. Don't sleep on this phone, especially if you like the idea of having more room on your display to play with.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Get a lifetime of language lessons for $149.97

Mashable - Thu, 03/14/2024 - 11:00

TL;DR: Through March 17, if you want to learn a new language on your own schedule, Babbel could help you do it, with short and sweet lessons for 14 different languages for only $149.97 for a lifetime subscription. 

Learning a new language isn't easy, and there's no way to skip to the end. Being able to choose when, where, and how you learn could make it a better time than powering through tough classes or paying for an expensive tutor. Babbel gives you that flexibility.

This language-learning app has thousands of hours of instruction for 14 different languages, and each lesson is short and sweet so you can do them whenever you want. Through March 17, you can get a lifetime subscription to Babbel on sale for just $149.97.

Lifetime access to lessons in 14 languages

A lifetime subscription to Babbel means having a lifetime to study French, Spanish, German, Italian, Russian, Danish, Dutch, and more at your own pace. Each lesson is short and ranges from 10 to 15 minutes, so you could get through a few Swedish lessons on your lunch break or knock out a couple Portuguese practice sessions before bed. 

This isn't just rote memorization either. Babbel was developed by over 100 linguists, so it focuses on practicalities like real-life conversation topics and refining your pronunciation with speech-recognition technology. Your progress even syncs across devices. 

Study a world of language

Whether you're getting ready for an international vacation or just want to pick up a cool new skill, there's thousands of hours of language lessons to work through with Babbel, and a lifetime might be just enough time to do it. 

Until March 17 at 11:59 p.m. PT, you can get a lifetime subscription to Babbel Language Learning for $149.97. 

StackSocial prices subject to change. 

Opens in a new window Credit: Babbel Babbel Language Learning: Lifetime Subscription (All Languages) $149.97 at the Mashable Shop
$599.00 Save $449.03 Get Deal
Categories: IT General, Technology

Keep your AirPods clean with this handy $15 tool

Mashable - Thu, 03/14/2024 - 11:00

TL;DR: Through March 17, give your earbuds a refresh with the Apple AirPod deep cleaner (2-pack) for only $14.99 (reg.$29). 

If you’ve ever taken a second to look at your AirPods before tuning into your favorite podcast, you know very well what lies within the cracks. The Apple AirPod deep cleaner tool is a simple solution to getting rid of grime, earwax, and bacteria once and for all. This tool makes it so you don't have to sacrifice sound quality, hygiene, or functionality ever again. 

This simple AirPod cleaning tool is made of high-quality materials and comes with a durable case — and you can get two on sale for $14.99. It’s super easy to use, and won’t cause damage to the headphones or jack. It has a round metal nib, plush brush, and a special charging hole cleaning brush so you can get deep into the crevices

If you’re constantly on the move, you most likely never leave home without your Airpods. The deep cleaner pen is compact and lightweight and fits perfectly in small compartments, bags, and purses. It makes a great travel companion for anyone who’s on the go. This 2-pack comes in handy for when you need one for travel and one to keep at home. 

Make cleaning your earbuds part of your hygiene routine. The last thing you want is an excess of gunk built up in your headphones because you didn't take the time to clean them. This versatile tool is also great for cleaning other electronic devices such as tablets, cameras, phones, keyboards, etc. The deep cleaner pen gets down in those hard-to-reach places of your digital products so they can continue functioning properly. 

For a limited time, get a 2-pack of Apple AirPod deep cleaners for only $14.99 (reg.$29). 

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Tech Essential Apple AirPod Deep Cleaner (2-Pack) $14.99 at the Mashable Shop
$29.95 Save $14.96 Get Deal
Categories: IT General, Technology
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