Gizmodo...Claudia Black Exits ‘Ahsoka’ Season 2 Over Alleged Pay DisputesAn entertainment report confirms that the actor Black will not reprise her role as Klothow, a Nightsister introduced in the first season of Ahsoka. The decision marks a casting change for the character ahead of future episodes. No additional details about replacement or production were provided.Read more →
Engadget...Cyber Monday Lego deals are here: Up to 50 percent off on Star Wars, Disney, Harry Potter and more toy setsThe article curates the best Lego Cyber Monday deals across a wide range of sets, including discounted items and the option to backorder the Star Trek USS Enterprise (3,600 pieces) for $400. It also provides shopping tips, such as using price trackers and joining Lego Insiders for exclusive discounts and rewards, with deals available at Amazon, Walmart, and Lego’s own site. The piece serves as a practical guide for shoppers looking to maximize savings on Lego purchases this holiday season.Read more →
Engadget...AI chatbots can be tricked with poetry to ignore their safety guardrailsA study by Icaro Lab finds that evolving large language models’ safety guardrails can be bypassed using poetry, with about a 62% success rate in generating prohibited content. The research tested models including GPT, Google Gemini, Claude, and others, noting that Gemini, DeepSeek, and MistralAI often produced outputs while GPT-5 and Claude Haiku 4.5 were more resistant. Although the exact jailbreaking poems aren’t disclosed, a watered-down version demonstrates the ease of circumvention, highlighting ongoing AI safety challenges.Read more →
Engadget...Paramount+ Cyber Monday streaming deal: Get either the Essential or Premium plan for only $3 per month for two monthsParamount+ is offering Cyber Monday deals: new and eligible subscribers can get two months for $6, with an option to subscribe to either Essential or Premium at $3 per month, providing a low-risk way to test the service through year-end. Essential includes ads, up to three simultaneous streams and live NFL on CBS and UEFA Champions League, while Premium is ad-free with higher quality, offline downloads and CBS live in participating regions, with Showtime programming included in both tiers. The piece highlights Paramount+’s mix of CBS, MTV, Nickelodeon and Comedy Central content, plus live sports, as a practical entry point alongside other streaming deals in the market.Read more →
The Verge...My favorite snore-blocking sleepbuds are down to their lowest priceVerge Deals reports that Anker’s Soundcore Sleep A20 sleepbuds are on sale for $108 on Amazon—the best price since their Kickstarter launch—while the ANC-equipped A30 is $179.99. The author, a long-time tester, says she uses the A20s nightly, praising built-in soundscapes and up to 14 hours of battery life, and notes that the A30’s extra ANC comes with a battery-life penalty. The takeaway is that the compact A20 sleepbuds offer compelling value for light sleepers who want background sound without using their phone constantly.Read more →
Engadget...Cyber Monday streaming deals drop one year of Starz down to just $12The article highlights Cyber Monday streaming deals, led by Starz offering an annual subscription with a $58 discount (pay $12 upfront, about $1 per month for a year). It also presents a 3-month introductory offer at $3/month and mentions additional discounts such as six months of Apple TV for $36 and a Disney+/Hulu bundle discount, emphasizing value for holiday viewing.Read more →
Engadget...Cyber Monday TV deals include sets from Samsung, LG, Sony and more at all-time low pricesThe article curates Cyber Monday TV deals across price tiers from major brands, highlighting OLED and LED sets, as well as streaming devices and service subscriptions. It lists specific discounts (e.g., Hisense U65QF at $398, TCL QM7K at $798, Samsung S90F at $1,248, The Frame at $700) and notes trade-offs such as brightness, HDR formats, and frame aesthetics, offering guidance for both picture-quality seekers and budget buyers.Read more →
Engadget...Cyber Monday Nintendo Switch 2 deals are live: Big savings on Switch games and accessories, plus Switch 2 bundlesThe article reviews Nintendo’s Cyber Monday strategy for the Switch 2, noting that genuine discounts on the console are scarce but bundles offer the best value. It highlights the launch pricing ($449 for the console, $499 for bundles with Mario Kart World), upcoming eShop Cyber Deals (Nov 20–Dec 3) on select games, and discounted physical titles (e.g., Princess Peach: Showtime!, Luigi’s Mansion 3, Kirby’s Return to Dream Land Deluxe at $40; others at $30), along with potential third-party accessory sales and various gift ideas.Read more →
Gizmodo...How Solar Flares Could Have Corrupted An Airbus PlaneAirbus recalled thousands of aircraft over the weekend, signaling a major action that could affect operators worldwide. The article provides no details on the reasons for the recall, the models involved, or the geographic scope, leaving uncertainty about the operational impact.Read more →
Engadget...Apple Cyber Monday deals include a four-pack of AirTags for an all-time lowApple's AirTag trackers are among the few truly affordable Apple products, with Cyber Monday deals slashing a four-pack to $63 (about $16 per tag) and single units to $18. The article highlights AirTag's integration with the Find My network for locating items via sound or Precision Finding, while noting that accessories are required to attach the tag to keys, bags, or pets.Read more →
Engadget...HBO Max Cyber Monday deal: Get one year of access for only $3 per monthHBO Max is offering a Cyber Monday deal: a one-year subscription for $36 (ad-supported), cutting the regular price from $132. The package gives access to HBO originals, Warner Bros. films, Discovery content and live sports across the Basic With Ads plan, with higher-tier options offering offline downloads, more devices and 4K with Dolby Atmos where available. The article also notes other Cyber Monday streaming deals (Disney+ bundle, Apple TV+, Paramount+) and cautions about regional live-sport availability and 4K limitations.Read more →
The Verge...You need to read the treatise on spacing out, Bored and BrilliantManoush Zomorodi's Bored and Brilliant argues that deliberate mind-wandering is essential for creativity in an age of constant digital distraction. The book blends scientific studies, reader anecdotes, and practical experiments—such as tracking phone use and a day without taking photos—into an approachable guide for unplugging more intentionally. The review praises its transparent, non-judgmental tone and actionable steps, while noting it won’t instantly solve distraction but can help readers reclaim focus and imagination.Read more →
Engadget...Apple Cyber Monday deals are live: The biggest sales we've seen in 2025 on AirPods, iPads, MacBooks, Apple Watches and AirTagsThe article outlines Cyber Monday discounts on a wide range of Apple products, including iPads, AirPods, Apple Watches, Macs and Apple TV, with several models hitting all-time-low prices (for example, iPad base at $274, AirPods Pro 3 at $220, and Watch Series 11 at $339). It notes an Apple gift-card promotion through December 1 and also lists deals available at third-party retailers such as Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart and B&H. The editors mention that an Apple product was named the winner in their guides to tablets, smartwatches, smartphones and laptops, underscoring perceived value in these discounts.Read more →
Gizmodo...Crypto’s Most Trusted Stablecoin Given Lowest Possible ‘Weak’ Rating By Major TradFi AgencyThe piece frames a choice between trusting traditional rating agencies and a brash cryptocurrency company, using Tether’s USDT as a focal point to question credibility in modern financial signaling. It highlights the tension between established ratings and crypto firms as the industry evolves, emphasizing concerns about risk and trust in new financial technology.Read more →
Engadget...Anker Cyber Monday deals offer up to 50 percent off power banks, wireless chargers, power adapters and moreEngadget highlights Cyber Monday deals on Anker charging gear, with ongoing discounts on power banks, wireless chargers, adapters, and Soundcore audio. The piece praises several Anker products—the Laptop Power Bank (~$50), Ultra-Slim MagSafe bank, MagGo Qi2, and a 3-in-1 portable charger—as reliable, high-value options based on its testing, and notes other brands also on sale. It directs readers to Engadget’s buying guides for additional context on MagSafe power banks and fast chargers.Read more →
Engadget...Apple Cyber Monday deals: Pick up the iPad A16 for its lowest price yet before it sells outApple’s entry-level 11-inch iPad with the A16 chip is on Cyber Monday sale for $274 (21% off the usual $349). The article notes its solid performance, 11-inch Liquid Retina display, up-to-date iPadOS compatibility, and broad accessory support, making it a budget-friendly option for students and casual users. It also compares it to higher-end models and mentions accessories and connectivity, highlighting it as a value option while the iPad Air M3 is priced at $449 in the same deals.Read more →
CNET...Prime Video Subscribers: The Clock Is Ticking on Your Chance to Grab Apple TV+ for $36 Per Year This Cyber MondayAmazon's Cyber Monday coverage highlights a Prime Video add-on offering Apple TV for $6 per month for six months, available to Prime members and ending Dec. 1. The article also lists other discounted streaming add-ons (Starz, MGM Plus, Crunchyroll, PBS Kids, etc.) and points readers to browse all Prime Video deals on Amazon.Read more →
CNET...Prime Video Subscribers: Grab 6 Months of Apple TV Plus for $36 This Cyber MondayAmazon is offering Cyber Monday deals on streaming, including a Prime Video add-on that lets Prime members get Apple TV for $6 per month for six months (normally $13/month). The offer requires an active Prime membership and ends on December 1, with additional Prime Video discounts on other channels and bundles highlighted in the article.Read more →
Engadget...Cyber Monday subscription and streaming deals are here: Big discounts on Apple TV+, HBO Max, Disney+, Proton VPN and moreThe article compiles Cyber Monday subscription deals across categories such as budgeting tools, language learning, meditation, privacy and security, and streaming services, highlighting significant discounts on services like Audible, Rosetta Stone, 1Password, LastPass, and Adobe Creative Cloud, as well as VPNs and data-cleaning tools. It serves as a consumer guide to maximize savings on digital subscriptions, with notable deals including long-term discounts and lifetime access options that can extend annual savings for users who sign up during the event.Read more →
Engadget...The best Cyber Monday gaming deals for 2025: Save on PS5 consoles, Nintendo Switch 2 accessories, Xbox controllers, tons of games and moreCyber Monday gaming buys span consoles, games, accessories, handhelds and VR headsets, with significant price cuts across major platforms. Highlights include PS5 consoles at up to $101 off, PS5 Digital Edition and Pro discounts, Steam Deck at $319, Lenovo Legion Go S at $650, and deep discounts on a broad slate of Switch, PlayStation and Xbox games and peripherals, many reaching all-time lows. The roundup also covers budget headsets, mice, keyboards and VR bundles, making it a strong shopping window for gamers.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Kill Bill’ May Have a Future in AnimationQuentin Tarantino hints that he may not be done with Kill Bill, suggesting an animated approach could help him release a prequel. The idea indicates the filmmaker is exploring an animation route to bring a Kill Bill prequel to audiences more quickly.Read more →
Engadget...Code suggests that OpenAI may be close to introducing ads for ChatGPTA beta version of ChatGPT's Android app reportedly contains references to ads, suggesting OpenAI may be moving toward introducing advertisements in the free tier. The discovery follows prior reporting and remarks by OpenAI CEO Sam Altman—who has signaled openness to ads as a business model but indicated a concrete approach has not been decided. If implemented, ads could appear in the free version with existing limits on messages, memory, and reasoning, though specifics and timing remain unclear.Read more →
Engadget...Best Cyber Monday streaming deals for 2025: Disney+ Hulu bundle is only $60 for one year, plus discounts on Apple TV+, HBO Max and othersCyber Monday is delivering a wave of streaming deals as services push back against rising prices, with offers across Apple TV+, HBO Max, Paramount+, Audible, Starz, MasterClass, Plex, Fubo TV, and DirecTV. Deals are often restricted to new or returning subscribers and may require purchasing directly through the service or via a partner, with most ending by December 1 or by Cyber Monday itself. The promotions highlight ongoing price increases in streaming and the importance of grabbing discounts when possible.Read more →
Engadget...The Disney+ Hulu bundle drops to $5 per month for one year during Cyber MondayDisney is offering a Cyber Monday deal that bundles Disney+ and Hulu (with ads) for $5 per month for one year, available to new and returning subscribers. The ad-supported Duo Basic plan provides access to Disney, Star Wars, Marvel and Hulu originals under a single subscription, with an option to upgrade to an ad-free tier, making it a convenient way to consolidate streaming services. The article also highlights competing Cyber Monday deals from Apple TV+, HBO Max and Paramount+.Read more →
CNET...La Liga Soccer: Stream Girona vs. Real Madrid Live From AnywhereThe article explains how to watch the La Liga match between Girona and Real Madrid, with US coverage on ABC and ESPN Select and a 3 p.m. ET kickoff. It notes Real Madrid’s recent 4-3 win over Olympiacos and their aim to rebound against Girona, who remain in relegation danger, and it lists regional streaming options and rights in the UK, Canada and Australia.Read more →
Engadget...Cyber Monday deals on tech for 2025: The best sales from Apple, Amazon, Lego, Dyson, Disney+ and others are up to 50 percent offEngadget's Cyber Monday 2025 round-up catalogs the best remaining tech deals, spanning Apple gear, Google Pixel devices, gaming consoles, VR headsets, streaming services, storage and accessories, and security software. The piece notes many prices are at or near record lows through December 1, but stock can fluctuate and popular items may sell out, so shoppers should act quickly.Read more →
TechCrunch...Behind the scenes of drone food delivery in FinlandFinland’s Espoo is testing drone deliveries for Huuva’s kitchen-partnered orders through a collaboration with Manna and Wolt, aiming to speed up service and reduce costs in suburban areas. The program, piloted in February and fully operational for the last two months, is regulated and supervised from Ireland, with safety measures and weather considerations highlighted as key factors for scalability and future expansion near additional kitchen locations.Read more →
Engadget...Cyber Monday PS5 deals: Sony takes $100 off consoles, plus discounts on PlayStation games, accessories and moreSony is offering Cyber Monday discounts of $100 on all PlayStation 5 models: Digital Edition is $399, standard PS5 is $449, and PS5 Pro is $649, with deals available at Sony and major retailers like Amazon and Walmart. The article notes stock volatility, but restocks typically appear within hours, and discounts also extend to accessories such as the DualSense controllers and PlayStation Portal, all while preserving 4K output, 3D audio, and PlayStation Plus benefits.Read more →
Engadget...Cyber Monday streaming deals are here and MasterClass subscriptions are 50 percent offMasterClass is offering a Cyber Monday deal that cuts its annual subscription price by 50%, bringing the cost down from the usual $120–$240. The service provides hundreds of courses taught by celebrities and experts, with features like short video lessons, downloadable materials, offline viewing, and cross-device syncing, plus expansion into professional development and wellness topics. The promotion could attract new or returning subscribers seeking a cost-effective way to learn new skills before the year ends, alongside other Cyber Monday streaming deals.Read more →
Engadget...This Apple TV+ Cyber Monday streaming deal ends soon: Get six months of access for only $6 per monthApple is running a Cyber Monday deal offering six months of Apple TV+ for $36, effectively $6 per month, available to new and eligible returning subscribers through December 1 and requiring signup directly through Apple. The service features a strong lineup of originals and films, is ad-free and supports up to 4K HDR with Dolby Vision and Atmos, plus offline downloads and seamless Family Sharing across devices within the Apple ecosystem. After the initial three months, the plan renews at $13 per month, so subscribers should cancel if they don’t want to continue; the piece also highlights other Cyber Monday streaming deals from Disney+/Hulu, HBO Max, and Starz.Read more →
Engadget...You need a fabric shaver — my favorite is on sale for $13 for Cyber MondayA Philips Fabric Shaver is highlighted as a simple, battery-operated device that removes fabric pills from clothing and blankets by shaving them into a removable chamber. The author describes it as a transformative, easy-to-use gadget that helps keep older wardrobe items looking fresh, reducing the need to manually pick pills. It’s currently discounted to about $13 during Cyber Monday/Black Friday deals, making this practical tool affordable for maintaining garments at home.Read more →
CNET...Considering Buying a $20K Home Robot? There's Something You Need to Know FirstNeo is a consumer-oriented humanoid home assistant from startup 1X, priced at $20,000 with preorder down payment, capable of chores such as folding laundry, vacuuming, lifting, door opening and stair climbing. It currently operates mainly via remote teleoperation, with 1X promising more autonomous functions by 2026 and an LLM-based conversational interface, while privacy concerns arise as it learns from users’ environments; the company says cameras blur and listening occurs only when addressed, and a $499/month subscription is planned for later, with US shipping in 2026 and international rollout in 2027.Read more →
Engadget...Cyber Monday deals include Sony's WH-1000XM5 headphones for an all-time lowSony's WH-1000XM5 wireless headphones are on Cyber Monday sale for around $248, near the all-time low and $152 off their $400 list price, with the XM6 flagship priced higher at about $398 on sale (regular $450). The article praises the XM5 for comfort, sound quality, strong ANC and 30-hour battery life, while noting the XM6 delivers even better performance at a higher cost; for most shoppers, the XM5 deal offers the best value. It also frames the XM6 as a premium upgrade option for those willing to spend more.Read more →
Gizmodo...So About That Surprise ‘Stranger Things’ Return…The Duffer Brothers and a star discuss the latest addition to Stranger Things and what this new element could bring to the finale, offering clues about how the ending may unfold. The interview frames the character’s role and potential impact on the season’s conclusion.Read more →
Engadget...Apple's Cyber Monday sale includes the MacBook Air M4 for $250 offApple's MacBook Air M4 is deeply discounted for Cyber Monday, with the 13-inch model at $749 (16GB RAM/256GB) and the 512GB variant at $949—the lowest prices seen since launch. The laptop features the M4 chip with a 10-core GPU, a slim fanless design, up to 18 hours of battery life, and a bright 13.6-inch display, offering strong everyday performance; notable tradeoffs include no high-refresh-rate screen and USB-C ports on the same side. The deal emphasizes the MacBook Air M4's value for portable productivity, with the 15-inch version offering similar specs for larger workspace needs.Read more →
Engadget...This Cyber Monday 2025 deal drops the Meta Quest 3S VR headset to a record-low priceAmazon is offering Meta's Quest 3S (128GB) for a record-low $250 during Cyber Monday, with Gorilla Tag included for free. Engadget rated the headset highly, praising its comfort, over two hours of battery life, a 96-degree field of view, and Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 performance, despite a slightly lower resolution than the Quest 3. The device also supports PC connection and streaming to Chromecast or AirPlay, making it a strong value in the standalone VR category.Read more →
The Verge...I just want AI to rename my photosRaycast CEO Thomas Paul Mann outlines a vision for 'agentic AI' that leverages local AI models to perform tasks on your computer—from file creation and management to interacting inside apps and even launching the Terminal—potentially replacing Spotlight and the Start menu. The concept offers deeper automation and data access but raises questions about reliability, safety, and how users should grant AI access to sensitive local data. The Vergecast episode examines how developers are embedding AI into products and redefining human–computer interaction.Read more →
Engadget...Three months of Audible is only $3 in this Cyber Monday dealAudible is offering a Cyber Monday deal of three months for $3 plus a $20 Audible credit, effectively about $1 per month for the introductory period. Subscribers get one free audiobook per month to keep, unlimited access to the Plus Catalog, access to Audible Originals and podcasts, and member discounts on many titles. The offer expires December 1, and customers must cancel before 90 days to avoid the standard $15 per month renewal.Read more →
CNET...'Wake Up Dead Man,' 'Jay Kelly' and 11 More Must-See Movies on Netflix This DecemberNetflix unveils a robust December slate featuring high-profile originals like Jay Kelly, Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery, and Goodbye June, along with a batch of documentaries including All The Empty Rooms, Breakdown: 1975, and Cover-Up. The service also adds a mix of library titles such as Pulp Fiction, Little Women, and The Wolf of Wall Street, signaling a broad strategy of premium movies, genre fare, and in-depth docs this month. The lineup underscores Netflix’s emphasis on star-driven features, franchise installments, and investigative journalism documentaries to drive December viewership.Read more →
Engadget...Cyber Monday Apple deals start now: AirPods Pro 3 are $30 off and down to a record lowApple's AirPods Pro 3 deliver refined audio with stronger bass and improved active noise cancellation, along with a new Live Translation feature powered by the H2 chip. The Cyber Monday price of $220 is among the best discounts yet on these premium earbuds, which offer up to 8 hours of playback (24 more with the case) and enhanced Find My capabilities, making them a compelling choice for iPhone users despite the premium price.Read more →
The Verge...It doesn't end at NeuralinkAn NYC-based AI reporter profiles Brad Smith, the third person implanted with Neuralink’s brain-computer interface for ALS, who hacked a standard Insta360 Link 2 webcam into his mind-controlled setup to track his wheelchair and his son’s sprint. The BCI has replaced his eye-tracking Eyegaze as his primary input, letting him move a cursor by thought and enabling everyday tasks, with Neuralink assisting testing and mounting the webcam, illustrating how BCIs can be adapted with off-the-shelf hardware. Experts say such tinkering highlights user-driven problem solving and points to broader potential for integrating BCIs with consumer devices and daily life.Read more →
CNET...Best VPN for iPhone 2025: Boost Your Privacy on the GoThe article guides iPhone users on choosing a VPN, detailing typical pricing (roughly $5–$15 per month, with annual plans often $30–$100), cross‑device support, and essential privacy and speed features (AES-256 or ChaCha20, kill switch, DNS leak protection, audited no-logs, RAM-only or full-disk encryption, and post‑quantum protections). It compares top providers—Surfshark, ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Proton VPN—highlighting speeds, server networks, streaming unblocking capabilities, and pricing, while noting tradeoffs such as NordVPN’s renewal costs and ExpressVPN’s premium pricing, as well as Proton VPN’s free tier and money‑back guarantees. The piece stresses evaluating value, reliability, and privacy jurisdiction, along with practical tips like using annual plans and ensuring device coverage across iOS, macOS, Windows, Linux, Android, Apple TV, and routers.Read more →
Engadget...The best Black Friday deals for $100 or less are still on saleEngadget highlights the best Black Friday tech deals under $100, curating affordable gadgets, streaming devices, and services such as Apple AirTags, Roku, Kindle, Google TV Streamer, and more. The guide emphasizes value for budget-conscious shoppers, notes key caveats (for example AirTags require a holder and direct Apple purchase), and points readers to additional sub-$50 deals for even deeper savings.Read more →
Gizmodo...Cannabis-Induced ‘Scromiting’ Is on the Rise, Study FindsMarijuana is increasingly becoming a routine component of emergency medicine in the United States, according to the article. The piece suggests this trend is changing clinical practice in emergency departments and has implications for patient care, safety, and regulatory oversight.Read more →
CNET...Premier League Soccer: Stream Chelsea vs. Arsenal Live From AnywhereThe Chelsea vs Arsenal Premier League match is set for Sunday with broadcast options across regions—USA Network in the U.S., Sky Sports in the U.K., Fubo in Canada, and Stan Sport in Australia—kicking off at 11:30 a.m. Eastern, 8:30 a.m. Pacific. The piece highlights Arsenal's lead at the top and Chelsea's recent form, including a potential return for Cole Palmer, and it also covers streaming approaches for international viewers via VPNs, along with price and service details for ExpressVPN. It notes potential streaming limitations and legal considerations when using VPNs to access region-locked content.Read more →
CNET...300,000 AI-Animated Poses in an Instant: My Visit to Disney and the New Reality for CartoonsDisney is piloting AI-assisted animation through its 2025 Accelerator cohort, featuring Animaj, which speeds up episode production by using AI to fill in in-between frames while artists retain control over key poses. The approach aims to preserve the studio’s creator-first workflow and inform storytelling through analytics, with Disney planning a potential partnership and investors watching how unions and industry norms adapt to AI-powered tools.Read more →
Engadget...Black Friday subscription and streaming deals you can still get today: Discounts on Apple TV+, HBO Max, Disney+, Proton VPN and moreThe article highlights a broad slate of Black Friday subscription deals across streaming, software, privacy and security, and productivity tools, with significant discounts on services like Audible, Monarch Money, Quicken Simplifi, Rosetta Stone, Headspace, Calm, Adobe Creative Cloud, and various VPNs. It emphasizes the potential long-term savings for consumers and notes special codes or upfront payments, plus a curated list that will be updated as new deals go live throughout the month. The deals span entertainment bundles, language learning, budgeting and password-management apps, privacy services, and creative software, reflecting a wide convergence of digital subscriptions under the Black Friday umbrella.Read more →
The Verge...The indie web is here to make the internet weird againIndie web platforms like Neocities and Nekoweb are reviving GeoCities-era hosting as a reaction against AI-mediated social media, prioritizing human-created content, personal sites, and community-driven web rings. The movement appeals especially to younger users, artists, and LGBTQ+ communities seeking less regulated, algorithm-free spaces, while facing ongoing questions about moderation and how AI might ultimately reshape the decentralized web.Read more →
The Verge...The 2025 Installer gift guideThe Verge’s Installer No. 107 curates a personal 2025 gift guide and highlights week’s tech picks, from a Nintendo Switch 2 and other affordable gadgets to practical home tech like Hue bulbs and USB-C cables. The piece also spotlights BuildForever’s new email app Extra and a homescreen interview with Naveen Gavini, alongside reader recommendations and a reminder that streaming-service deals are a good value this season. It blends product favorites with fresh software concepts and community-sourced suggestions to guide holiday tech buying.Read more →
CNET...Best VPN for Mac for 2025: Improve Your Privacy for Web Browsing, Streaming and GamingThe article provides a framework for selecting a Mac VPN, highlighting key factors such as privacy, speed, usability, cost, device support, and streaming capabilities. It stresses strong security requirements (AES-256 or ChaCha20 with appropriate protocols, kill switch, DNS leak protection, and a no-logs policy) and advanced options like obfuscation, RAM-only servers, multi-hop, and regular third-party audits to bolster trust. It also covers practical considerations such as expected speed impact, pricing, free or trial options, and compatibility across Mac devices and the broader Apple ecosystem.Read more →
Engadget...Apple Black Friday deals are still live: The biggest sales we've seen in 2025 on AirPods, iPads, MacBooks, Apple Watches and AirTagsApple Black Friday coverage focuses on retailer discounts across a wide range of Apple devices, including iPads, AirPods, Apple Watches, and MacBooks, with third-party retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, and Target offering the best deals. Apple’s own site typically avoids direct discounts but is offering up to $250 in gift cards through December 1, while mixed pricing and availability vary by model and retailer. The article provides a detailed roundup of notable deals and where to find them, helping shoppers compare options across product lines and retailers.Read more →
The Verge...The absolute best Cyber Monday deals you can already shopSamsung's S90F 65-inch OLED TV is a strong value at $1,247.99 on Amazon, down from about $1,600 last month. It delivers bright enough performance for well-lit rooms (around 1,400 nits) with accurate colors and a wide gamut, though it isn't the absolute brightest OLED of 2025. For gamers, it offers four HDMI 2.1 ports, up to 144Hz FreeSync for PC gaming, and sub-10ms input lag, making it a compelling mix of picture quality and gaming performance at the sale price.Read more →
CNET...Here's How to Relive Your Gaming History Spanning Decades Across Nintendo ConsolesNintendo has released a new iOS and Android Store app that simplifies browsing and purchasing Switch and Switch 2 games, with a standout feature called Play Activity that presents a year-by-year history of the user’s Nintendo gaming across consoles since 2011. The feature highlights long-forgotten titles, allows sorting by recency, first played, total time, and console, and helps users gauge their engagement across platforms. In addition to Play Activity, the app enhances store navigation, enables direct purchases, and offers access to promotions, news, demos, and merchandise through a linked Nintendo account.Read more →
Engadget...Black Friday speaker deals for 2025 are still live: Save up to 50 percent on Bluetooth speakers, smart speakers and soundbarsBlack Friday and Cyber Monday deals cover a wide range of speakers—from compact portable models to high-end soundbars and smart speakers—offering deep discounts across price tiers. The roundup highlights features such as waterproofing, long battery life, and voice assistant integration, with bargain examples like the JBL Go 3, Echo Dot 5th Gen, UE Wonderboom 4, JBL Flip 7, and Sonos Era 100. It positions these discounts as a strong opportunity to upgrade home audio for both casual listening and more immersive setups.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Best Gadgets of November 2025The article highlights a flood of gaming hardware announced in November 2025, suggesting the month deserves the nickname Game-vember. It previews the best gadgets of November 2025 and notes a surge in notable gaming devices and peripherals.Read more →
CNET...Best Air Fryer Toaster Ovens for 2025Across multiple tests of air-fry wings, fries, salmon, toast, and cookies, the Ninja Foodi oven was the top performer, delivering the crispiest wings, fastest preheating, and strong overall cooking results. Other brands (Breville, Cuisinart, KitchenAid, Crux, Calphalon) showed strengths in specific tasks but varied in overall performance, while the Ninja's compact interior calls for more frequent cleaning. The article provides practical guidance for consumers evaluating countertop ovens on speed, browning, temperature stability, and ease of cleaning.Read more →
Engadget...The best Black Friday gaming deals for 2025 still available: Save on PS5 consoles, Nintendo Switch games, handhelds and moreThe article compiles Black Friday gaming deals across consoles, games, handhelds, VR headsets, keyboards, mice and headsets, highlighting discounts such as PS5 at $449, Switch bundles, and various all-time-low prices on titles and peripherals. It serves as a practical buying guide with price histories and recommendations to help shoppers maximize savings this holiday season.Read more →
CNET...Did Your Health Insurance Claim Get Denied? AI Might Be to BlameNeal Shah’s wife’s cancer treatment highlighted how mounting medical bills and insurance denials can overwhelm families, spurring him to launch Counterforce Health, an AI-powered platform that drafts customized insurance appeal letters. The tool analyzes insurer rationales, leverages clinical research, and constructs evidence-based appeals to help patients overturn denials for costly treatments, all while aiming to be free or inexpensive thanks to grants and venture funding. This effort comes amid rising claim denials and widespread use of AI by insurers, prompting calls to flip the script and empower patients rather than let automated denial systems suppress care.Read more →
Engadget...Black Friday PlayStation deals that are still live: PS5 consoles are $100 off, plus discounts on games, accessories and moreSony has discounted its PS5 lineup for Black Friday, cutting $100 off the PS5 Digital Edition ($399), the standard PS5 ($449), and the PS5 Pro ($649) across Sony and major retailers. The deals highlight 4K output, 3D audio, and PlayStation Plus access, along with price cuts on accessories like the DualSense and PlayStation Portal, making next-gen gaming more affordable this season.Read more →
CNET...Premier League Soccer: Stream West Ham vs. Liverpool Live From AnywhereWest Ham United vs Liverpool is covered with broadcast details across regions, including US Peacock Premium, NBCSN, and other international streaming options (Sky Sports in the UK, Fubo in Canada, Stan Sport in Australia). The piece notes Liverpool's poor form, including a 4-1 defeat to PSV, and West Ham's recent improvement as they bid to climb out of the relegation zone, with kickoff times listed in multiple time zones and streaming considerations for viewers abroad.Read more →
CNET...The Merlin Bird ID App Has Kept Me Grounded in the Present More Than Any Meditation AppMerlin Bird ID, launched in 2014 by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, helps users identify birds by sound, photos, or questionnaires and draws on the eBird database. The reviewer highlights features like offline access, real-time spectrograms, and the ability to log sightings, which makes birding an immersive, grounding activity. The piece emphasizes how the app deepens attention to the natural world—often more effective for grounding than meditation apps—while noting that audio recordings are stored on the device and must be manually exported to share with eBird.Read more →
Gizmodo...Humanoid Robot Hype Is Officially Scaring ChinaChina is reportedly telling humanoid-robot developers to 'do something interesting' with their products or face consequences, signaling a regulatory push to spur novelty in the robotics sector. The piece offers few specifics on what counts as 'interesting,' enforcement, or scope, leaving questions about how the policy will be applied to companies such as Unitree. The move could impact innovation and compliance costs for Chinese robotics firms.Read more →
Engadget...Nintendo Switch 2 Black Friday deals are still live: Big savings on Switch games and accessories, plus the best Switch 2 bundles for the holiday shopping seasonNintendo's Switch 2 is the centerpiece of the 2025 holiday season, but Black Friday discounts are limited, so bundling remains the best way to save. The main options are the console for $449 or the $499 bundle with Mario Kart World, with Nintendo's eShop Cyber Deals running Nov 20–Dec 3 and select retailers discounting some physical games starting Nov 23. While official accessories deals are sparse, third-party discounts and a slate of Nintendo gift ideas—from Zelda books to LEGO and car sets—offer other ways to stretch a purchase.Read more →
Gizmodo...AI Is Keeping Coal on Life SupportThe article lampoons coal power as the 'technology of the future' while noting that it relies on outdated energy sources and is unwelcome by society. It highlights the clash between ongoing energy demands and public aversion to fossil fuels, underscoring the critique of relying on coal despite calls for cleaner, future-oriented tech.Read more →
Engadget...Black Friday deals under $50 we're still shopping: Apple AirTags, Legos, Ugreen chargers, Blink cameras and moreEngadget highlights its top Black Friday electronics under $50, covering accessories, chargers, smart home gear, streaming devices, and budget gaming deals. Each pick comes from Engadget’s tested guides, with current sale prices and retailer availability to help shoppers find worthwhile, budget-friendly tech.Read more →
CNET...Premier League Soccer: Stream Crystal Palace vs. Man United Live From AnywhereCrystal Palace host Manchester United in a Premier League match at Selhurst Park as both teams pursue a top-five finish. The kickoff is Sunday, Nov. 30 at 7 a.m. ET in the US on USA Network, with coverage also outlining regional streaming options in the UK, Canada and Australia plus VPN guidance for international viewing.Read more →
Engadget...Black Friday TV deals are still available on sets from Samsung, LG, Sony and more at all-time-low pricesBlack Friday coverage highlights a range of TV deals from entry-level LED to premium OLED and QD-OLED sets from major brands, plus streaming devices and service subscriptions. The guide notes performance trade-offs (brightness, contrast, HDR, input lag) and lists price lows, HDMI port counts, and glare considerations to help shoppers choose between value and top-tier displays, with additional discounts on Roku, Fire TV, and popular streaming services.Read more →
CNET...Today's NYT Connections: Sports Edition Hints and Answers for Nov. 30, #433The article provides hints and the answers for today's NYT Connections: Sports Edition puzzle, detailing the four color groups and their solutions (yellow: football scoring plays abbreviated: 2-pt, FG, PAT, TD; green: North American soccer leagues: LIGA MX, MLS, NWSL, USL; blue: Ted Williams-related terms: .406, LF, Red Sox, Splendid Splinter; purple: Denver Broncos members: Bo, Courtland, RJ, Troy). It notes the puzzle is published by The Athletic and can be played in The Athletic app or online, and mentions a note encouraging readers to add CNET as a preferred Google source.Read more →
CNET...Today's NYT Mini Crossword Answers for Sunday, Nov. 30The article profiles Gael Fashingbauer Cooper, a CNET editor and author known for documenting pop culture from the 1970s to the 1990s. It outlines her long journalism career since 1989 across outlets like Mpls.St.Paul Magazine, Twin Cities Sidewalk, the Minneapolis Star Tribune, and NBC News Digital, and notes her Gen X identity and interest in retro tastes such as Marathon candy bars.Read more →
The Verge...Anker’s handy little 3-port charger is just 35 bucksAnker's Prime 67W charger is praised as a compact, travel-friendly multitasker capable of powering a MacBook Air, charging a phone, and handling USB-A devices with two USB-C ports and one USB-A port. Its small form factor, retractable prongs, and a discounted price of $49.99 (30% off) are highlighted, presenting it as strong value and essentially three chargers in one for travelers and everyday use. The article positions the charger as a practical upgrade for those prioritizing portability and versatility.Read more →
Engadget...There's a cute voice messaging app for Playdate nowPlaydate owners can now chat using helloyellow, an app by Jon Simantov that adds voice messages, group chats, and achievement sharing among friends connected via hellocodes. The app, available on itch.io in a free version with limits or a $5 full version, supports offline recording and Wi-Fi messaging, with message lengths of 2 minutes in the free tier and up to 10 minutes in the full version.Read more →
TechCrunch...Airbus orders software fix to thousands of planes due to solar radiation riskAirbus has ordered software fixes for about 6,000 A320 family aircraft after findings that intense solar radiation may corrupt data critical to flight-control systems. The move follows a JetBlue incident in which an aircraft briefly lost altitude, and the FAA issued an emergency airworthiness directive requiring a rollback to earlier software, with hardware changes required for a subset of planes. Global flight delays and cancellations have resulted as carriers implement the updates.Read more →
TechCrunch...Black Friday sets online spending record of $11.8B, Adobe saysAdobe Analytics reports a record $11.8 billion spent online on Black Friday, up from $10.8 billion last year, with shoppers spending about $12.5 million per minute between 10am and 2pm. Salesforce tracks $79 billion in global Black Friday spend (US $18 billion), and both firms forecast Cyber Monday to be even bigger while Adobe projects about $253.4 billion in holiday spending this year; AI is increasingly shaping purchases, with Salesforce attributing roughly $22 billion of global sales to AI in the Thanksgiving-to-Black Friday window. The data also suggest a mixed in-store picture, with some trackers noting declines in foot traffic while others report small gains, complicating the online-versus-brick-and-mortar narrative.Read more →
CNET...The Absolute Best Horror Movies on HuluThis article promotes the psychological horror film Black Swan, directed by Darren Aronofsky, about a gifted ballerina whose quest for perfection drives her to unravel as she strains to embody both the innocent White Swan and the seductive Black Swan. Starring Natalie Portman and Mila Kunis, the story centers on Nina's obsessive competition with newcomer Lily during a Swan Lake production, in a film with a 108-minute runtime.Read more →
CNET...Best Smart Home Gyms, as Recommended by a Fitness ExpertTempo Studio is a space-saving smart home gym designed like an armoire, blending into home decor while delivering AI-powered form feedback, rep counting, and weight detection via 3D sensors. It offers live and on-demand classes, customizable workout programs, and up to six user profiles, with pricing starting at $139 per month (including a $100 equipment fee) and a $39 monthly training subscription after a 12-month commitment; the unit stores its weight plates and bars in a cabinet and requires about 6 feet of clearance for body tracking. It’s best suited for users seeking a guided, at-home strength-training experience, though those with limited space may prefer the smaller Tempo Move.Read more →
The Verge...I tested 15 cases for the Switch 2 and these are the bestThe Verge reviews a range of Nintendo Switch 2 protective cases and carrying solutions, evaluating fit, ease of installation, dock compatibility, and how well they preserve the console’s features. It spotlights Dbrand's Killswitch as the top overall option for handheld and docked use, discusses Black Friday deals, and notes recent design fixes, while also covering budget and premium alternatives like Jsaux, Tomtoc FancyCase Slim, WaterField CitySlicker, PowerA, Belkin, and Spigen with respective trade-offs.Read more →
Gizmodo...James Cameron Has a Backup Plan for ‘Avatar’ If ‘Fire & Ash’ FlopsJames Cameron indicated that if Avatar 3: Fire & Ash doesn't perform as well as the previous two films, he will find a way to wrap up the Avatar series. The remark signals potential plans to conclude the franchise if the movie underperforms at the box office.Read more →
The Verge...The Fujifilm X Half is on sale for what it should have originally costFujifilm's X Half is a retro-inspired, modern digital camera that emphasizes nostalgia with a 1-inch sensor, a fixed 32mm-equivalent f/2.8 lens, and a manual “advance” feature, but it sacrifices common high-end capabilities like an electronic viewfinder, stabilization, and RAW capture. Priced at $849 list but commonly on sale for around $649, it represents a niche, fun gadget rather than a serious shooter. The device is pitched to photographers seeking a playful, inventive experience rather than top-tier performance.Read more →
The Verge...I’ve tested the latest Switch 2 controllers, and this one is the bestAn editor-led guide reviews multiple third-party Nintendo Switch 2 controllers, comparing ergonomics, features like wake-up capability, rumble, amiibo support, and drift-resistant joysticks (Hall effect or TMR) against Nintendo's official Switch 2 Pro Controller. The piece emphasizes value and long-term comfort across price tiers, highlights the EasySMX S10 as a top bargain at $59.99, and covers several other options, with ongoing testing and updates for new models.Read more →
CNET...I Was Skeptical of Wireless Cams, But This Deeply Discounted Blink Blew Me AwayThe article spotlights a Black Friday/Cyber Monday deal on the Blink Outdoor 4 two-camera security kit, currently discounted to $120 (about $180 off) and backed by a CNET Editors' Choice award. It highlights the camera’s standout long-lasting non-rechargeable lithium AA batteries—claiming up to two years between changes—plus optional solar panels and affordable replacement batteries; it also notes the Blink app is Alexa-only. The piece frames this as a low-maintenance, budget-friendly option among outdoor security cameras, especially when compared with rivals like Ring or Nest.Read more →
CNET...Today's Wordle Hints, Answer and Help for Nov. 30, #1625Today's Wordle hints are published and the article reveals the answer as MUGGY, noting it has a repeated letter, one vowel and one sometimes vowel, begins with M and ends with Y, and refers to humid, warm weather. It also lists yesterday's and recent Wordle solutions and points readers to starter-word resources and related puzzles, closing with a plug for CNET's content.Read more →
CNET...Today's NYT Connections Hints, Answers and Help for Nov. 30, #903The article provides the official hints and answers for today's New York Times Connections puzzle, detailing the four groups and their solutions (Yellow, Green, Blue and Purple) and listing the corresponding words for Nov. 30, 2025. It also notes that the Times has introduced a Connections Bot that scores and analyzes user answers, and that registered Times Games users can track their progress across puzzles. The four solution sets are: Yellow — bear, stand, stomach, swallow; Green — bust, lemon, miss, turkey; Blue — Hook, Luffy, Silver, Sparrow; Purple — Cameroon, cockatiel, unread, whistleblew.Read more →
CNET...Today's NYT Strands Hints, Answers and Help for Nov. 30 #637Today's NYT Strands puzzle centers on the theme 'Group membership.' The piece provides the non-spangram answers (ANTS, ARMY, COWS, HERD, LIONS, PRIDE, GEESE, FLOCK) and reveals the spangram INITTOGETHER, with guidance on how to uncover it by starting at the I four letters to the right on the bottom row. It also lists four-letter clue words (DEER, REED, FEET, SEWS, CLOP, FIRE, POCK, POLE, STEER, SCOW, DRIP, TOES, LOCK) that unlock in-game hints.Read more →
The Verge...Behold, the black Apple Watch Ultra 2 is $200 off during Black FridayVerge's Black Friday coverage highlights a $200 discount on the black Apple Watch Ultra 2, bringing the price to $600 at Amazon and Best Buy. The piece argues that Ultra 3 upgrades are minor (satellite messaging and slightly better battery), making the Ultra 2 a more attractive option for some shoppers, especially when compared with refurbished models. The author also nods to previously skeptical views about needing the Ultra 2, but acknowledges the sale offers a compelling upgrade path from the original Ultra.Read more →
The Verge...I bought this $110 Nespresso rig and it’s been caffeinated bliss ever sinceA tech journalist recounts becoming an espresso convert after travel in Italy and highlights a Black Friday deal on the De’Longhi Nespresso Vertuo Plus, discounted from $169 to $110 on Amazon. She praises its dual coffee/espressos capability, notes the sampler box and taste improvement versus a Keurig, and mentions Nespresso’s recycling program to address pod environmental concerns, making it a cost-effective, convenient upgrade.Read more →
CNET...Definitely Use a Password Manager, but Know It Can't Protect You From These 5 ThingsPassword managers can generate unique, strong passwords, autofill logins, and securely store them in a protected vault, dramatically reducing the risks of weak or reused passwords and protecting against phishing and keyloggers. They are not foolproof: master-password compromise, uneven encryption, social engineering, and device theft can still expose data, so enable multi-factor authentication and, ideally, use a zero-knowledge architecture. Used correctly as part of a broader security strategy, password managers meaningfully improve protection, with studies noting users are nearly twice as unlikely to have credentials stolen when using one and recommendations pointing to open-source options like Bitwarden.Read more →
CNET...'Landman' Season 2, Episode 3: Streaming Release Date and TimeLandman returns for season 2, continuing the saga of oil crisis manager Tommy Norris as he faces new pressure from M-Tex Oil, with additions like Sam Elliott as Norris's father and Demi Moore’s Cami Miller; Andy Garcia's cartel boss also returns. Season 1 set Paramount Plus viewing records and earned Billy Bob Thornton a Golden Globe nomination, and season 2 will run 10 episodes released weekly starting Nov. 30. The article also outlines Paramount Plus pricing, including Essential and Premium tiers and a forthcoming price increase.Read more →
The Verge...The Android phone you should buy your dad is just $349Verge highlights the Google Pixel 9A as a durable, no-nonsense Android phone that will receive software updates for about a decade. At $349 on Black Friday—the lowest price this year and matching the Prime Day deal—it offers strong value relative to its $499 MSRP. While it lacks a telephoto camera, it still provides a solid processor, reliable photography, and a streamlined software experience, making it a good option for anyone paying out of pocket or seeking a straightforward Android device.Read more →
Engadget...Netflix's Assassin's Creed TV show could kick off in Ancient RomeNetflix is developing a live-action Assassin's Creed TV series set in Ancient Rome, potentially featuring Emperor Nero and spanning the 54–68 AD period. The project, described as a high-octane thriller about a secret war between two shadowy factions, recently announced Toby Wallace as the first cast regular after being greenlit in July. While details are limited, fans are hopeful for an anthology-style approach similar to the video games.Read more →
Engadget...Black Friday VPN deals are still live: Get 75 percent off Proton VPN two-year plans, plus deals on NordVPN, ExpressVPN and moreProton VPN is offering a Black Friday deal: two years of VPN Plus for $59.76, about $2.49 per month, a 75% discount on the regular price. The service touts 15,000 servers in 120+ countries and support for up to 15 devices, with only modest speed impact observed in tests. Proton emphasizes privacy with a no-logs policy and full-disk encryption, and notes that there are other Black Friday VPN deals available.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘KPop Demon Hunters’ Finally Has an Art Book It DeservesNetflix has released the complete art suite for the upcoming series KPop Demon Hunters, giving fans a full set of visuals to pore over. Viewers can enjoy the artwork while awaiting the sequel, which is expected to arrive in about four years.Read more →
The Verge...This great 27-inch Studio Display alternative is cheaper than everThe Verge highlights the KTC H27P3 5K monitor as a far more affordable alternative to Apple's Studio Display, offering near-identical pixel density and similar productivity features for about a third of the price. Priced around $509–$535 during Black Friday, it features 5120x2880 resolution, 60Hz, HDR, 65W USB-C PD, plus DisplayPort 1.4 and HDMI 2.0, with a unique 120Hz mode at 2560x1440. The reviewer notes strong value, with a full test pending from Cameron Faulkner, and suggests it’s a solid purchase for those who want 5K-like clarity without the Studio Display price.Read more →
Gizmodo...MIT Report Claims 11.7% of U.S. Labor Can Be Replaced with Existing AIThe article notes a new report that, despite some limitations, warns that policymakers cannot delay acting on its findings. It emphasizes the urgency for regulatory or policy responses in light of the report, signaling potential implications for governance in the tech field. With limited details in the excerpt, the focus remains on the call to action rather than the specifics of the findings.Read more →
Engadget...Team Cherry is working on more Silksong content but won't say when it'll releaseApproximately 15% of Hollow Knight: Silksong players have earned the 100% completion achievement, according to SteamDB. Bloomberg reports that Team Cherry is developing a large DLC that could feature the teased Steel Assassin Sharpe, with no release date set, and the studio also signaling interest in making games outside the Hollow Knight universe.Read more →
The Verge...The latest Nest Learning Thermostat is $70 off for Black FridayA Verge Deals post highlights the Nest Learning Thermostat (4th gen), praising its sleek design, energy-saving benefits, and notably easy installation. With about $50 off at Amazon and Best Buy, and the polished gold version at a record low of $209.99, the author endorses it as a strong smart-home buy, citing prior positive reviews and the convenience of simple setup. The piece frames the Nest as a practical, cost-saving choice for homeowners seeking an approachable, connected thermostat.Read more →
The Verge...Buying a $100 Apple gift card will earn you a $15 Amazon creditThe Verge promotes a roundup of Apple Black Friday deals and suggests gift cards as a flexible gifting option. It highlights that Amazon is offering $15 in credit on $100+ Apple gift card purchases, presenting a potential advantage for holiday shoppers, and notes the Verge editor's background and Verge Deals sign-up.Read more →
The Verge...We handpicked 12 great gaming laptops that are hundreds off for Black FridayThe piece highlights Black Friday and Cyber Monday as the peak time to buy laptops, noting significant discounts across both slim productivity machines and gaming laptops. It spotlights handpicked options across price points that use current or near-current processors to maximize longevity. The article argues these deals offer the best value by avoiding aging hardware.Read more →
TechCrunch...New York state law takes aim at personalized pricingNew York's state budget imposes new disclosure rules for businesses that use personal data to set personalized prices, requiring a notice that 'This price was set by an algorithm using your personal data.' Uber says it has begun displaying the disclosure in New York, though it criticizes the law as poorly drafted and ambiguous. The National Retail Federation's lawsuit to block the law is moving forward, and observers, including Lina Khan, say the policy is vital but that more work is needed to regulate personalized pricing.Read more →
The Verge...These are my picks for the best Black Friday deals on Garmin watchesThe Verge highlights Black Friday / Cyber Monday Garmin smartwatch deals, favoring the Forerunner 265 at $299.99 (33% off), the Fenix 8 at 21–25% off with several size options, and the Epix Pro at 50% off, noting that these older models deliver robust training features and value for outdoorsy users. The piece emphasizes that while newer models exist, these discounts offer strong performance at lower prices through Amazon and Best Buy.Read more →
Engadget...The Ayaneo Next II is a hulking gaming handheld with a 9-inch displayAyaneo has announced the Next II, a statement premium Windows handheld designed to outsize rivals like the Legion Go 2. It sports a 9.06-inch OLED display at 2400x1504 with a 60–165 Hz variable refresh rate, a Ryzen AI Max+ 395 CPU, and a 115 Wh battery to power demanding games. The device adds hall-effect joysticks/triggers, dual smart touchpads, and multiple back and assignable buttons, with pricing rumored near $2,000 and no official battery-life estimates yet.Read more →
CNET...The Brightest LG OLED TV I’ve Ever Seen Is $1,400 Off, but This Black Friday Weekend Sale Won’t LastAmazon and Best Buy are offering deep Black Friday discounts on the LG OLED G5, with about 38% off at Amazon and roughly $1,400 off at Best Buy plus a $100 gift card at the latter. CNET's lab tests say the G5 is the brightest OLED the publication has reviewed, thanks to LG’s four-stack panel that boosts HDR10 and Dolby Vision gaming visuals and delivers crisp shadows for titles like Call of Duty. The report notes the TV's gaming performance spans multiple sizes (55–97 inches) and positions the G5 as a top pick for serious gamers, though more budget options exist for casual use.Read more →
Gizmodo...Shawn Levy Teases the Music of ‘Star Wars: Starfighter’Levy predicts that Star Wars: Starfighter will carve its own musical path, signaling a distinctive direction for the film’s score. The comment suggests fans should expect a soundtrack that sets the movie apart from previous Star Wars scores, though few specifics are provided.Read more →
Engadget...The Paramount+ Black Friday deal is still available: Get either the Essential or Premium plan for only $3 per month for two monthsParamount+ is offering a Black Friday deal that lets new subscribers try the service at a budget price: two months for $6 total (about $3 per month), applicable to both Essential and Premium plans. The Essential plan includes ads, live NFL on CBS, UEFA Champions League, and up to three simultaneous streams, while Premium adds ad-free on-demand, higher-quality playback, and CBS live in participating regions, with Showtime programming included in both. The promotion highlights Paramount+'s mix of live sports, Showtime titles, and CBS/Viacom catalog as a cost-effective way to test the service before committing.Read more →
The Verge...97 percent of people struggle to identify AI music, but it’s not as bad as it seemsDeezer and Ipsos found that 97 percent of participants couldn’t reliably distinguish fully AI-generated music from human-made tracks, highlighting a broad blind spot around AI in music. A less formal test suggested identification accuracy around 43 percent, indicating the real picture is more nuanced than the survey implies. The article notes a surge of AI content on streaming platforms and discusses transparency, labeling policies, and the debate over AI’s impact on musicians and creativity, with Deezer labeling AI content and excluding it from recommendations while Spotify pursues a nuanced credits approach.Read more →
The Verge...One of the world’s fastest power banks got a Black Friday discountThe Verge highlights Ecoflow’s Rapid Pro power bank as a high-capacity, high-power portable charger with 27,650mAh and a maximum 300W output across three USB-C ports, including a 140W port and a retractable 140W cable. It’s on sale for $149.99 during Black Friday at Amazon and Ecoflow’s store, supports very fast charging (MacBook Pro 16” from 0–50% in ~30 minutes; up to 280W recharging with two adapters; 320W with the Desktop Charger), and in tests can recharge an iPhone 15 Pro nearly four times, though it’s less portable. Ecoflow claims the battery maintains full capacity for about 300 cycles before dropping to 80%, and the unit remains plane-friendly by staying under the FAA 100Wh carry-on limit, despite its size and power focus.Read more →
CNET...I'm a Digital Nomad and These Are the 6 VPN Rules I Swear ByThe piece urges digital nomads and U.S. expatriates to use virtual private networks to protect online activity on public Wi‑Fi and secure sensitive client data. It outlines six practical tips from cybersecurity experts on VPN use, from enabling VPNs on public networks and coordinating with employers to bypassing geo‑blocked streaming and recognizing phishing threats, and notes that a dual‑VPN setup is rarely necessary for most users.Read more →
The Verge...I wish this $169 deal was around for the viral TikTok skincare wand when I got oneVerge's deals roundup highlights a discounted Medicube Booster Pro skincare wand on Amazon, now priced at $169 (about 44% off) along with TXA Niacinamide serum. The writer notes the new limited-edition version offers four modes compared with their older model and suggests it as a nice splurge gift for skincare enthusiasts, tying it to Verge Deals promotions.Read more →
TechCrunch...No, you can’t get your AI to ‘admit’ to being sexist, but it probably isCookie, a Pro user, reported a Perplexity chat allegedly doubting her competence as a woman when discussing quantum algorithms, highlighting concerns about bias in large language models. Researchers say such behavior stems from models optimizing for socially agreeable responses and from biased training data, with multiple studies documenting gender and other stereotypes in AI outputs. The article notes ongoing industry efforts to reduce bias and emphasizes that LLMs are predictive text systems, not sentient beings.Read more →
CNET...I Have a Flashlight Fetish and My Favorite New Olight Is 20% Off for Cyber MondayReviewing Olight's ArkPro and ArkPro Ultra flashlights, the article highlights upgraded brightness, a magnetic base, magnetic wireless charging and USB-C charging, plus features like UV light and a green laser pointer, with Cyber Monday pricing around $80 and $104. The devices are described as compact, durable EDC tools suitable for nighttime activities such as dog walking or camping, featuring IPX7 waterproofing and magnetic mounting. The piece notes premium-brand appeal and some enthusiasm skepticism, but still recommends the discounted models as capable gift options.Read more →
Engadget...Black Friday deals on tech for 2025 are still live: Up to 50 percent off the best gear from Apple, Amazon, Disney+, Lego, Dyson and othersEngadget compiles ongoing Black Friday deals across hardware, software and streaming services, noting many offers extend through Cyber Monday and depend on stock. Highlights include discounts on Apple devices (AirPods Pro, iPad A16, MacBook Air M4), PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch bundles, high-end TVs, VR headsets, drones, and a range of streaming subscriptions and productivity tools such as VPNs and password managers. The guide emphasizes monitoring availability and updating the list as items sell out.Read more →
Gizmodo...A New Godzilla Anime Turns a Boy Into the Iconic MonsterGizmodo has highlighted a new Godzilla anime, accompanied by the release of its key art. The article includes a tongue-in-cheek caption implying themes of power and destruction associated with Godzilla. The piece signals upcoming entertainment content within the Godzilla franchise.Read more →
The Verge...Logitech’s Casa is a must-have if you use a laptop — and it’s $30 offLogitech's Casa is a portable ergonomic workstation kit that bundles a laptop stand, wireless keyboard, and a standalone trackpad with dedicated slots for secure packing. Priced at $149.99 (with $30 off) during Black Friday at major retailers, it aims to boost productivity for mobile workers setting up in hotels or cafes and is compatible with Windows 11 and macOS.Read more →
Engadget...Black Friday SSD deals include up to $250 off recommended internal and portable SSDs, microSD cards and moreThe article aggregates current Black Friday storage deals across microSD cards, internal PCIe 5.0 SSDs, and portable SSDs, highlighting notable discounts and practical caveats for each product category. It notes that SSD deals are not as plentiful as in some years but still lists several compelling prices (e.g., SK Hynix 1TB PCIe 5.0 at $110, Crucial T705 2TB at $160, Samsung 9100 Pro 8TB at $750) and bundles, with ongoing updates as new offers appear.Read more →
Engadget...Anker Black Friday deals still offer up to 50 percent power banks, wireless chargers, power adapters and more for the holiday shopping eventThe article highlights Black Friday discounts on Anker tech accessories, emphasizing the brand’s reliable charging gear across power banks, wireless chargers, and power adapters, as well as Soundcore audio products. It notes that Anker products consistently appear in trusted buying guides for MagSafe power banks, multi-device chargers, and portable options, positioning the sales as strong value for upgrading peripherals. The piece also mentions other brands on sale and directs readers to Engadget’s guides for broader context on the best deals.Read more →
Engadget...Lego Black Friday deals are still live: Up to 50 percent off on Star Wars, Disney, Harry Potter and more toy sets for the biggest holiday saleThe piece compiles Lego Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals across a wide range of sets, urging shoppers to use price trackers and consider Lego Insiders for extra discounts and gifts. It notes that collectors can backorder the Star Trek USS Enterprise (3,600 pieces) for $400 and shares a long list of discounted sets with specific sale prices and percent-off figures from Amazon, Walmart, and Lego’s own site. The guide aims to help families and Lego enthusiasts maximize savings this holiday season.Read more →
The Verge...What's on your desk, Sarah Smithers?Sarah Smithers, The Verge’s senior editorial coordinator, walks through her compact Jersey City home office, which she and her husband carved around a built-in bookshelf to maximize space for remote work. She uses mostly Apple gear (MacBook Pro, iPhone 15, Apple Watch) and mixes in personal touches—plants, pottery, photos, a collection of spoons, and quirky art—creating a workspace that doubles as a home gallery. The piece also highlights how she handles Verge operations and budgeting while balancing hobbies and pets, including her dogs Ned Flanders and Olive Loaf.Read more →
Engadget...The Apple TV+ Black Friday deal is still available: Get six months of access for only $6 per monthApple TV+ is offering a Black Friday deal of six months for $36 for new and certain returning subscribers who sign up directly through Apple by December 1. The service features ad-free viewing in up to 4K HDR with Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos, offline downloads, and broad device support, plus Family Sharing and integration with Apple One. After the three-month promo, it renews at $13 per month, so customers should cancel if they don’t want to continue, and the article notes Emmy-winning originals and a growing slate.Read more →
Engadget...The Disney+ Hulu bundle is still only $5 per month for one year thanks to Black Friday dealsDisney+ and Hulu are offering an annual Duo Basic bundle with ads at $5 per month for a year ($60 total) for new and returning subscribers, available through December 1. The deal combines Disney+'s family-friendly and franchise content with Hulu's current and original programming, with seamless cross-device login to simplify streaming across the two services. A Duo Premium ad-free option is available, but the Basic plan is presented as the best value for most households seeking to consolidate subscriptions.Read more →
The Verge...Skylight’s smart calendars are up to $120 off for Black FridayThe Verge reports Black Friday deals on Skylight Calendar devices across 10-inch, 15-inch, and 27-inch models, with discounts available at Skylight, Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart. The calendars support multiple household profiles with synced events from Google, Outlook, Apple, Cozi, or Yahoo, color-coded entries, and optional Plus subscription that adds an AI-powered Sidekick to turn emails and files into calendar entries, along with features like chore lists and parental controls for households with multiple schedules.Read more →
The Verge...News Tower proves good journalism is no gameNews Tower is a Steam-listed management sim that puts you in charge of a 1930s newspaper, requiring you to balance finances, staff morale, and editorial decisions while navigating factions like the mob and the mayor. The game emphasizes tactile, immersive feedback and evolving staff needs, offering a satirical yet insightful look at how money and influence affect journalism. It blends engaging gameplay with a provocative commentary on ethical publishing and competitive pressures.Read more →
The Verge...The 190 Black Friday deals you can still getSamsung's S90F 65-inch OLED TV is a solid mid-range option, now on sale for $1,397.99 at Amazon and about $1,399.99 at Best Buy, down from roughly $1,600 last month. It doesn't claim the absolute brightest OLED in 2025, but at around 1,400 nits it should handle well-lit rooms, with accurate colors and wide color gamut. For gamers, all four HDMI ports are 2.1, supporting high refresh rates with FreeSync up to 144Hz and input lag under 10ms.Read more →
The Verge...Why Honda is suddenly launching reusable rocketsHonda has built and launched a 20-foot reusable rocket prototype as part of a broader push into space, signaling a strategic move to support mobility, energy, and communications through satellites. The plan includes a lunar energy system using a vertical solar array and an on-site electrolyzer to produce oxygen and hydrogen, plus repurposing its ASIMO program to create human-controlled avatar robots for off-Earth work. Analysts say the effort leverages Honda’s existing tech, could reduce reliance on SpaceX, and might aim for a milestone by the early 2030s, though commercial viability remains uncertain.Read more →
Engadget...Best Black Friday streaming deals for 2025: Disney+ Hulu bundle is only $60 for one year, plus major savings on Apple TV+, HBO Max and othersBlack Friday is driving a wave of streaming deals as services raise prices this year, with discounts expected to extend into Cyber Monday. The roundup includes Apple TV+ six months for $36, HBO Max one year for $36 (ad-supported), Sling Orange day pass for $1, Paramount+ two months for $6, Audible three months for $3 plus a $20 credit, Starz annual for $12, MasterClass up to 50% off with annual payment, Plex lifetime pass for $150, and discounted first-month pricing for Fubo TV and DirecTV. Most offers target new or returning subscribers and run through December 1.Read more →
CNET...This New Way to Make Protein Could Be What Feeds Astronauts on Long Space JourneysESA and Solar Foods are testing Solein, a protein powder produced via gas fermentation, for space nutrition, with the ISS as a key step toward long-term crew feeding on deep-space missions. The project, called HOBI-WAN, explores producing protein in microgravity using recycled CO2 and hydrogen, potentially reducing cargo needs for Mars travel, though challenges include limited space, safety, and running the bioreactor in weightlessness. If successful, Solein could feed crews for hundreds of days and enable space-ready recipes, marking a significant advance in space food tech.Read more →
CNET...La Liga Soccer: Stream Barcelona vs. Alavés Live From AnywhereThe article outlines how to watch Barcelona vs. Alavés in La Liga, noting Barcelona's return home after a 3-0 Champions League defeat and their aim to move atop the standings. It details broadcast options across regions, including ESPN Select in the US, Premier Sports in the UK, TSN in Canada, and beIN Sports in Australia, with kickoff times adjusted for local zones.Read more →
CNET...Best VPN for Chrome 2025: Keep Your Browsing Traffic PrivateThe article guides Chrome VPN selection, stressing Chrome extension availability, privacy differences between browser extensions and full VPN apps, and key protections such as encryption, kill switch, and WebRTC blocking. It also highlights the importance of a no-logging policy, diverse server networks, speed, pricing, and reliable customer support, and recommends testing with a refund period to verify streaming access.Read more →
CNET...Here's What Tesla's New Range of Affordable Electric Cars CostTesla has launched stripped-back, lower-priced variants of the Model Y and Model 3 (Model Y Standard from $39,990 and Model 3 Standard from $36,990), removing many interior features while maintaining range and charging performance. The move is aimed at broadening access to EVs by offering the same core driving experience at a lower cost, potentially boosting ownership among first-time buyers in a market where EV prices remain well above the average new-vehicle price. Full Self-Driving remains optional, and the trims retain Tesla's software and driving dynamics as a core strength.Read more →
CNET...Premier League Soccer: Stream Man City vs. Leeds Live From AnywhereManchester City host Leeds United at the Etihad as City attempt to rebound from a poor run and close the seven-point gap to Arsenal, while Leeds look to escape relegation after successive league defeats. The match is broadcast in the US on NBCSN and Peacock Premium with a 10 a.m. ET kickoff, and rights vary by country (UK blackout rules, Canada on Fubo, Australia on Stan Sport). The article also covers VPN options for international viewing and related streaming policy considerations.Read more →
Gizmodo...Undisturbed for Millennia, This Submerged Cave Is a Portal to the Ice AgeInternational researchers and specialized divers are bringing an underground underwater world to the surface, highlighting ongoing exploration of submerged environments. The effort underscores advanced diving techniques and collaborative work to study hidden aquatic ecosystems.Read more →
CNET...Signs Your Gut Is Unhealthy and How to Fix It, According to a Gut Health ExpertThe gut microbiome is described as essential to digestion, vitamin production, immune function, and overall health, with signs of an unhealthy gut including bloating, fatigue, skin issues, sleep trouble, and digestive upset. The article offers four practical steps to support gut health: eat fiber-rich and fermented foods, monitor medications that affect the gut, select probiotics carefully by strain, and improve sleep and daily activity, noting that a doctor should be consulted to identify underlying causes and that there is no one-size-fits-all healthy microbiome.Read more →
The Verge...All the places I used my Trump Mobile wireless service this weekAn experienced tech reviewer tests Trump Mobile, a T-Mobile MVNO, and finds the service generally functional with solid coverage and competitive pricing (about $51.99 including tax). The test also highlights awkward branding (the Trump name appearing on the device) and several execution issues—a missing SIM card incident, conflicting customer-service hours, a 404 activation page, and an AI-generated setup video—that leave a mixed impression. Overall, the network performance is acceptable, but the branding and rollout gaps undermine the product's professional polish and raise questions about the execution behind the Trump-branded service.Read more →
CNET...How to Watch Ohio State vs. Michigan Game TodayOhio State and Michigan renew their long-standing rivalry in The Game, with the top-ranked Buckeyes aiming to snap a four-game skid against their foe and secure a spot in the Big Ten title game, while Michigan enters with two losses and needs a win to preserve its playoff hopes. The game kicks off at 12 p.m. ET and can be watched via Fox and Fox One, including streaming options for cord-cutters; availability varies by service and location, so viewers should check Fox carriage in their area.Read more →
CNET...Tired of Heavy Meals? These Are the 5 Healthiest Air Fryer Foods Approved by Registered DietitiansThe article highlights healthy, quick air fryer recipes recommended by registered dietitians, including salmon, veggie chips, air-fried chicken, whole vegetables, and sweet potato fries, and explains how air frying reduces oil and fat compared with deep frying. It also offers practical tips—avoid overcrowding the basket, use a light oil, and shake during cooking—to help users maximize crispiness and convenience after a Thanksgiving feast.Read more →
Engadget...Passengers face disruption as Airbus updates thousands of planesAn EU safety directive ordered an immediate software update for about 6,000 Airbus A320 jets after analysis linked a JetBlue incident to data corruption caused by intense solar radiation affecting flight controls. The move disrupted global operations, including American Airlines, which has 480 A320s (about 340 needing updates, each taking around two hours), and ANA, which canceled dozens of domestic flights, highlighting the impact on a busy travel weekend. To mitigate the risk, affected aircraft must revert to an earlier software version, underscoring concerns that solar flares can disrupt avionics and related systems.Read more →
TechCrunch...VC Kara Nortman bet early on women’s sports, and now she’s creating the marketMonarch Collective, a $250 million fund launched by Kara Nortman, is reshaping how investors think about women’s sports by prioritizing operational value, governance, and ecosystem-building over chasing championships. Powered by Angel City FC’s high-profile branding and revenue achievements, the fund has expanded to stakes in multiple NWSL clubs and FC Viktoria Berlin, signaling a push into European women’s soccer. Nortman argues the women’s sports market is rapidly growing (roughly $3 billion), but success will require sustained investment, infrastructure, and consistent performance across the ecosystem, not just breakout moments.Read more →
The Verge...The Verge’s guide to Black Friday 2025The article highlights Black Friday and the surrounding weekend as a prime time for consumer electronics deals, offering significant discounts on laptops, OLED TVs, noise-canceling headphones, and other gadgets. It advises shoppers who missed Amazon Prime Day to take advantage of the extended sale period culminating in Cyber Monday on December 1, emphasizing the opportunity to save on a wide range of tech products.Read more →
CNET...Today's NYT Mini Crossword Answers for Saturday, Nov. 29Gael Fashingbauer Cooper is a seasoned journalist and CNET editor who co-authored books on 1970s–1990s pop culture, including 'Whatever Happened to Pudding Pops?' and 'The Totally Sweet '90s.' The article outlines her career since 1989 across outlets such as Mpls.St.Paul Magazine, Twin Cities Sidewalk, Minneapolis Star Tribune, and NBC News Digital, highlighting her expertise in tech media and retro trends.Read more →
The Verge...The M4 MacBook Air is one of the best Apple deals you can get for Black FridayThe article highlights Black Friday discounts on Apple's MacBook Air M4 models, noting the 13-inch Air with 256GB is about $749 and the 15-inch base model is $949, both at all-time lows. It emphasizes the Air's updated 16GB RAM, ability to drive two external displays with the lid open, and the new 12MP Center Stage webcam, arguing that the lightweight laptop remains a strong everyday option for students and light productivity thanks to the last-gen M4 processor and solid battery life.Read more →
CNET...Today's NYT Connections: Sports Edition Hints and Answers for Nov. 29, #432Gael Fashingbauer Cooper is a veteran journalist and CNET editor with a career dating back to 1989. She co-authored books on retro pop culture and has previously worked at several publications, reflecting her long-standing expertise in tech media.Read more →
The Verge...Aura’s latest, gift-worthy digital photo frame is $30 off for Black FridayAura's Aspen 12-inch digital picture frame is on sale for around $199 (about $30 off) at Amazon, Best Buy, and Aura's store for Black Friday. The frame blends a traditional look—paper-textured matte display, slim 0.5-inch bezel, and an adjustable metal stand—with modern features such as a 1600x1200 LCD, ambient light sensor, and support for photos and 30-second videos uploaded via email, Aura's apps, iCloud Photos, or Google Photos. It also supports Live Photos on iPhone and captions, making it a personalized gift option for sharing moments with family and friends.Read more →
The Verge...You can pick up 32GB of DDR5 RAM with a whole PC for $999 for Black FridayThe article notes that Black Friday RAM surge pricing is making DIY PC builds less appealing, suggesting prebuilt gaming PCs as a more cost-efficient alternative for 1080p gaming. It highlights iBuyPower Element SE deals: Walmart offers a $999 model with Ryzen 7 8700F, RTX 5060 Ti 8GB, 1TB SSD, and 32GB DDR5 at 5200MHz, while Best Buy lists an all-time low $779.99 version with RTX 5060, half the RAM, and an Intel Core i5 14400F, both in the same case and with a 600W PSU. The note underscores value-focused options for readers looking to enter or upgrade their gaming PC setups.Read more →
Engadget...The best Black Friday deals on tech for 2025: Get up to 50 percent off gear from Apple, Amazon, Disney+, Lego, Dyson and othersEngadget rounds up an extensive Black Friday tech deal guide spanning hardware, software, streaming and services, noting the season-long nature of the sales through December 1. The picks include Apple devices (AirPods Pro 3, iPad A16, MacBook Air M4, AirPods 4, AirTags), game consoles and bundles (PS5, Nintendo Switch 2 bundles, PSVR2), budget-friendly options (Meta Quest 3S, DJI Neo drone), big-screen TVs, and a slate of streaming and security/productivity deals (Disney+/Hulu, Apple TV+, HBO Max, 1Password, Proton VPN). The coverage emphasizes availability across major retailers and ongoing bargains through Cyber Monday and the weekend that follows.Read more →
Engadget...Apple Black Friday deals are live: Some of the biggest sales we've seen this year on AirPods, iPads, MacBooks, Apple Watches and AirTagsThe article compiles Black Friday deals on Apple products from major retailers, highlighting discounts on AirPods, Apple Watches, iPads, Macs and accessories, with several items hitting all-time low prices. It notes that Apple’s own site rarely discounts, instead offering up to $250 in gift cards through December 1, while the best price cuts come from third-party retailers such as Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, and Target.Read more →
The Verge...Ninja’s versatile Creami ice cream maker hits an all-time low for Black FridayVerge Deals reports that Ninja's Creami Scoop & Swirl ice cream maker is on Black Friday sale for $279.99, a 20% discount available at Amazon, Best Buy, and SharkNinja's store. The appliance can make hard and soft serve, requiring about 24 hours to freeze, and can turn store-bought ice cream into soft serve in seconds, with users experimenting with online-community inspired recipes such as unusual frozen treats.Read more →
The Verge...Our favorite gear from Apple, Bose, Sony and more is at all-time low prices for Black Friday — up to 58% offThe article previews Black Friday tech deals, noting that despite price hikes from tariffs, genuine discounts remain strong across OLED TVs, productivity laptops, and robovacs. Editors say they spent weeks vetting offers and highlight deep discounts on items like the base AirPods 4, the PlayStation Portal, and the second-gen Sonos Beam, helping shoppers maximize savings this holiday season.Read more →
The Verge...The Super Mario Galaxy bundle for the Switch is 20 percent off today onlyNintendo's Super Mario Galaxy double-pack for the Switch is on sale at Woot for $55.20 during Black Friday, a discount from its $69.99 price, but checkout must be completed via Woot's mobile app. The games run on both the original Switch and Switch 2, with Digital Foundry noting the Switch 2 delivers higher resolutions; while the reviewer found the ports fairly straightforward, the sale helps build anticipation for a Super Mario Galaxy movie planned for next year.Read more →
The Verge...We found 40 surprisingly good Black Friday deals you can still grab for $30 or lessThe Verge’s Black Friday coverage highlights practical, everyday gadgets available for under $30 rather than high-end luxury items. Notable picks include an AirTag, the second-generation Ring Indoor Cam for travel or home monitoring, Govee smart bulbs for atmosphere, and affordable family games like Catan or Azul to reduce screen time. These budget recommendations focus on useful, low-cost items that enhance travel security, home setup, and family activities.Read more →
The Verge...There’s still time to grab a PS5 or PS5 Pro for $100 off for Black FridaySony's Black Friday PS5 sale runs through December 18, discounting all three models: PS5 Digital Edition around $399, standard PS5 around $449, and PS5 Pro around $649. The Digital Edition and Pro omit a built-in disc drive, while the Pro doubles storage to 2TB and adds a faster GPU, improved ray tracing, Wi-Fi 7, and AI upscaling, with real-world gains varying by game and setup. The deals extend to accessories like the PlayStation Portal and DualSense Edge, and are available at major retailers including Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, Target, and GameStop.Read more →
The Verge...Surprise: The BrickBoy kit for the Lego Game Boy uses floating magnets instead of switchesThe Verge reports on Substance Labs’ BrickBoy Lego Game Boy Kickstarter, which uses hidden magnets and a magnetometer instead of traditional button switches. Early prototypes reportedly struggle with input reliability, prompting questions about what backers are funding and the campaign’s transparency, while the team considers fallback wired buttons if magnets fail. The founder emphasizes transparency and a preference for delivering a magical Lego-building experience, even as some backers prioritize playable gameplay over the building aspect.Read more →
CNET...I Bet You Won't Be Able to Stop After One Episode of Netflix's Addictive New ThrillerThe Beast in Me is a Netflix eight-episode limited thriller led by Claire Danes and Matthew Rhys that critics are hailing as one of the year’s best, thanks to taut plotting, Hitchcockian visuals, and a riveting two-hander dynamic. The series follows Aggie Wiggs, an author who teams with an FBI agent to probe a charismatic real estate mogul suspected in his wife’s disappearance, delivering a self-contained, highly suspenseful drama with a strong emotional core. Praise centers on Howard Gordon’s writing, the standout performances, and the show's ability to feel fresh and satisfyingly complete without needing further seasons.Read more →
TechCrunch...Supabase hit $5B by turning down million-dollar contracts. Here’s why.Supabase, an open-source database platform that underpins the vibe-coding movement, raised $100 million at a $5 billion valuation just months after a $200 million round at $2 billion. CEO Paul Copplestone says he is intentionally declining large enterprise contracts to stay aligned with his product vision, betting that developers will gravitate to his platform. The funding underscores a shift in developer-driven infrastructure and could reshape dynamics with traditional database incumbents, a topic discussed on TechCrunch’s Equity podcast. Read more →
Engadget...The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 vlogging camera is 36 percent off for Black FridayBlack Friday discounts lower the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 to $510, about 36% off, in a price drop largely driven by tariffs that previously raised prices. The vlogging camera stands out for its 1-inch sensor, swiveling touchscreen, and reliable follow/face-tracking modes, which ease solo shooting, though it’s less ideal for photos and still commands a premium. With rumors of an Osmo Pocket 4 arriving soon, stock may run out and shoppers have many other Black Friday camera deals to consider.Read more →
The Verge...Black Friday deals that are most popular with Verge readersVerge explains that affiliate links are tracked and can earn Vox Media a commission, with disclosures shown on each article. The piece notes it has visibility into what readers purchase during Black Friday—including non-tech items—and intends to share its top-purchased products to illustrate reader interests and shopping trends.Read more →
CNET...This Travel Writer Knows Water Bottles. The Only One I'll Use Is on Sale for Black FridayA travel writer reviews the Zojirushi Stainless Steel Mug, praising its slim design, leak-proof lid, easy cleaning, and ability to keep drinks hot or cold for hours. The piece highlights strong user ratings and a Black Friday sale that brings the price around $31 (with the 12-ounce version as low as $25), presenting it as an ideal on-the-go hydration accessory and gift. Overall, the review positions this bottle as a top-tier, enjoyment-driven choice for daily use.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Angel’s Egg’ Still Embodies Anime’s Wonderous Ability to Move Without WordsMamoru Oshii’s cult classic OVA Angel’s Egg is returning to theaters in 4K to mark its 40th anniversary. The film is described as a haunting, wordless vision, and the restoration promises a premium viewing experience for both longtime fans and new audiences.Read more →
The Verge...You can get a four-pack of AirTags for just over $60, the lowest price everApple's AirTag is on sale, with a four-pack available for $62.99 (about $36 off) and individual units at $17.97 at major retailers, marking all-time-low prices. The trackers use Apple's Find My network for real-time or last-known location, support location sharing with up to five people or airlines, are IP67-rated for weather resistance, and offer Precision Finding on iPhone 15 and newer, making them a practical travel aid during the holidays.Read more →
The Verge...Twelve South's magenetic PowerBug charger is 20 percent off for Black FridayThe Twelve South PowerBug is on Black Friday sale for $39.99, offering a dual-purpose charging dock that turns any outlet into a MagSafe-compatible wireless charger with an integrated 35W USB-C PD port. It can prop phones upright for hands-free use and supports Apple StandBy mode, effectively turning the iPhone into a mini smart display. This versatile accessory enables simultaneous charging of two devices and is positioned as a practical travel or home gadget.Read more →
CNET...Today's NYT Connections Hints, Answers and Help for Nov. 29, #902The article provides hints and complete solutions for today's NYT Connections puzzle, detailing the four groups and their answers (abdominal area: core, midsection, torso, trunk; replacement: backup, cover, relief, substitute; park staples: bench, pigeon, statue, tree; blackjack terms: bust, hit, split, stand) and noting the puzzle's themes. It also announces the Times' Connections Bot, which scores users and tracks progress in the Times Games section, offering daily hints and analytics on performance.Read more →
CNET...Today's NYT Strands Hints, Answers and Help for Nov. 29 #636The article provides hints and solutions for the New York Times Strands puzzle, detailing the theme 'What a piece of work!' and offering clue words and in-game guidance to uncover the puzzle’s theme words. It lists the non-spangram answers—WHEEL, AXLE, LEVER, WEDGE, PLANE, PULLEY, SCREW—and reveals the spangram SIMPLEMACHINE, illustrating how to navigate the grid to complete the puzzle.Read more →
CNET...Today's Wordle Hints, Answer and Help for Nov. 29, #1624Today's Wordle answer is GRUFF, guided by clues: a repeated letter, one vowel, starts with G and ends with F, and a meaning related to a rough voice as in the children's tale The Billy Goats Gruff. The piece also lists yesterday’s and recent Wordle answers and mentions other daily puzzles the site covers. It serves as a quick hub for Wordle hints and solutions.Read more →
Engadget...Lego Black Friday deals are here: Save up to 60 percent on Star Wars, Disney, Harry Potter and more during the biggest holiday saleThe article compiles the best Black Friday Lego deals, highlighting prices across Amazon, Walmart, and Lego’s own site, and suggests price tracking and the Lego Insiders program to maximize savings. It also notes the new Star Trek USS Enterprise set as a backorder option at $400 and lists numerous discounted Lego sets across themes.Read more →
The Verge...DJI ban: how the world's biggest dronemaker is getting shoved out of the USThe article reports that on December 23, 2025, DJI could be banned from importing new products into the United States, with the FCC able to retroactively block older models, effectively restricting any device with a wireless radio. The ban is framed as a national-security measure amid spying concerns, though officials have not publicly presented evidence, and a court found insufficient proof that DJI is controlled by the Chinese Communist Party. Despite the regulatory threat, DJI remains dominant in the drone market, and lawmakers acknowledge limited viable American alternatives for critical users such as farmers and emergency responders, while some competitors pivot to enterprise or military applications.Read more →
Engadget...Our favorite Aura digital photo frame is $40 off for Black FridayAura's 10.1-inch Carver Mat digital picture frame is discounted to $139 for Black Friday, down from $179, making it a strong value among top photo frames. The device features a landscape-oriented display, smart portrait-photo pairing, a smartphone app for easy uploading and album organization, and a touch panel for manual navigation, appealing especially to parents and grandparents who want a constantly updated recuerdo gallery.Read more →
Engadget...This Dyson heater and fan is one of my favorite devices, and now it's on sale for Black FridayAn article praising the Dyson AM09 heater and fan, noting it is on Black Friday sale for $300—one of the best prices seen since October Prime Day. It highlights the unit’s portability (under six pounds), its dual heating and cooling capabilities, and a magnetically attached remote that simplifies operation across multiple rooms. The piece also points out the model’s longevity with little upgrading over years and shares the author’s regret at not waiting for the sale earlier.Read more →
CNET...What a Ban Would Actually Mean for DJI Drone Owners and Holiday ShoppersThe FCC is moving to close loopholes that could allow DJI drones to be banned in the US on national security grounds, ahead of a year-end deadline for an audit. If DJI does not complete a required security audit, its drones could be automatically banned from sales, with future bans potentially requiring public consultation; existing drones would remain usable for now, though government agencies cannot purchase them. The development comes as holiday buyers consider purchasing DJI products, and the outcome could significantly limit US availability of drones and related technology.Read more →
The Verge...I'm a laptop reviewer, and these are the Black Friday deals I'd shop—many are over $400 offThe Verge highlights Black Friday discounts on a wide range of laptops, from Apple MacBooks to Windows PCs and Chromebooks, with detailed price cuts and configurations across popular models. The roundup covers ultraportables, workstations, gaming laptops, and laptop accessories, emphasizing substantial savings even as CES previews next-gen devices arrive later. Verge Deals is also promoted for ongoing deal alerts.Read more →
Engadget...The best stocking stuffers you can get for $50 or lessThe piece highlights Magic Puzzle Company’s art-filled jigsaws, noting the high-quality pieces and cohesive, colorful artwork from multiple contributing artists. The standout feature is a sliding-section that can be rearranged after finishing the main puzzle, revealing a bonus area and pieces that extend the story—an inventive twist that sets the puzzles apart. The reviewer is eager to explore more from the company.Read more →
Gizmodo...10 Things We Liked About ‘Stranger Things’ Season 5 Vol. 1, and 4 Things We Didn’tThe article notes that the 'beginning of the end' for the Duffer Brothers' Stranger Things is now streaming on Netflix. It marks a milestone as the series' latest installment becomes available to viewers, signaling a potential turning point in its cultural phenomenon.Read more →
Engadget...DeleteMe is 30 percent off for Black Friday — and it's the most effective anti-spam tool I've ever usedThe piece promotes DeleteMe, a software app that reduces spam by automatically submitting opt-out requests to data broker sites and providing weekly progress reports. It notes a Black Friday deal offering 30% off subscriptions (code BFCM30OFF25) through December 5, and argues the service dramatically shortens the tedious process of removing personal data online, despite some limitations and cost.Read more →
The Verge...Intel could finally return to Apple computers in 2027Industry analyst Ming-Chi Kuo predicts Apple could shift production of its M-series processors to Intel by 2027, using Intel’s 18AP node, pivoting from Apple’s current use of TSMC. The transition hinges on Intel delivering PDK updates (18AP 0.9.1GA now, with 1.0/1.1 due in early 2026) and on Apple’s decision-making; if on track, Intel could begin shipping the lower-end M-series in 2027, which would also support U.S.-based supply-chain goals. The article notes the move as a potential catalyst for Intel’s long-term prospects and raises questions about Apple’s strategy if it adopts Intel’s 18AP for entry-level chips.Read more →
Engadget...Black Friday streaming deals include Sling Orange Day Passes for only $1 eachSling TV is offering a Black Friday promotion: a Sling Orange Day Pass for $1 through November 30, granting access to 34 channels such as ESPN networks, TNT/TBS, Disney Channel, Nick Jr., CNN, HGTV, and Food Network, plus DVR and cross-device streaming. The deal excludes Thursday football games (which require a Sling Blue subscription starting at $46/month and isn’t available as a day pass); the offer is roughly $4 off the normal price and passes can be prorated for add-ons.Read more →
The Verge...Bose, Sony, and Apple headphones are cheaper than ever for Black FridayShokz is discounting its wireless earbud lineup: the OpenRun Pro 2 with a headband design is around $159.95 (about $40 off), while the OpenFit 2 Plus, which sits above the ear canal with an ear-hook design, adds wireless charging and Dolby Audio. The original OpenFit 2 is also discounted to about $119.95 (roughly $60 off).Read more →
CNET...I Have a Flashlight Fetish and My Favorite New Olight Is 20% Off for Black FridayOlight's ArkPro and ArkPro Ultra are upgraded everyday carry flashlights featuring high-brightness modes (1,500–1,700 lumens floodlight and 800 lumens spotlight), IPX7 waterproofing, a magnetic base, clip-on mount, USB-C charging, and a wireless magnetic charger, with additional UV and green laser pointer options. They’re on Black Friday/Cyber Monday sale at $80 and $104 respectively, positioned as premium EDC devices suitable for outdoor use, though similar designs exist at lower prices; the article notes they’re worth considering when discounted and makes them decent gift choices for the season.Read more →
The Verge...The Oura Ring 4 is still at its lowest price ever for Black FridayVerge Deals highlights Black Friday discounts on the Oura Ring 4, offering it at $249 (about $100 off) and gold/rose gold editions at $350 (up to $150 off) from retailers including Amazon, Best Buy, and Oura. The article emphasizes the ring’s sleep-tracking capabilities—24/7 heart rate, temperature, SpO2 sensing, and improved tracking—while noting optional subscription benefits and the author’s view on the cost.Read more →
The Verge...Hallmark’s Mario and Toad Christmas ornaments are less than $10 for Black FridayVerge Deals highlights a Black Friday sale on Hallmark's Toad ornament and a Mario ornament, both priced under $10 on Amazon. The article notes that neither ornament glows nor plays a song, unlike the Hallmark Xbox 360 ornament, and it encourages readers to check the rest of the ornament guide for additional options.Read more →
The Verge...Apple's most affordable iPad is over 20 percent off for Black FridayApple’s latest entry-level iPad delivers basic performance with an A16 chip, up to 10 hours of mixed-use battery life, and double the storage of the prior model, but it lacks Apple Intelligence features and pressure-sensitive stylus input. The piece also highlights other models in Apple’s lineup—the iPad Air with an M3, the compact iPad Mini, and the M5-powered iPad Pro—along with current sale prices at major retailers, emphasizing value for different needs. Overall, the base iPad is positioned as a solid starter tablet for casual use, while higher-end models target power users.Read more →
Gizmodo...Lego’s First ‘Star Trek’ Set Should Be a Sign of Great Things to ComeLego's Enterprise-D set is highlighted as a strong pick for Star Trek fans, with the piece suggesting its appeal could justify a broader line of Star Trek models from the company. The article implies that expanding LEGO's Trek offerings would boost fan engagement and create licensing opportunities for more iconic ships and vehicles.Read more →
Engadget...AI horror, a dinosaur platformer and other new indie games worth checking outIndie developers are delivering a busy slate of releases and announcements despite a holiday‑week lull, highlighted by contrasting fortunes such as Santa Ragione’s Horses being blocked on Steam by Valve and risking closure, versus Team Cherry’s Hollow Knight: Silksong benefiting from its predecessor’s success. The week introduces new titles like A.I.L.A (VR horror), Of Ash And Steel (an open‑world RPG with no quest markers), Young Suns (Ko_Op’s co‑op life sim on Game Pass), and Dinopunk: The Cacops Adventure, plus upcoming Ferocious and There Are No Ghosts at the Grand demos. Together these stories illustrate indie studios pursuing uncompromised visions amid platform and funding pressures, with further showcases on the horizon.Read more →
The Verge...The best earbuds we’ve tested for 2025An in-depth guide to early Black Friday wireless-earbud deals, testing and ranking models across premium to budget tiers. It highlights how sound quality, ANC, battery life, comfort, multipoint connectivity, and ecosystem-specific features (like AirPods Pro in Apple, Pixel Buds Pro 2 in Google, or Galaxy Buds with Samsung) influence buying decisions, and reviews a wide range of options from Sony, Bose, Apple, Google, Samsung, Nothing, Beats and Sennheiser, noting notable updates such as head-tracking spatial audio and new heart-rate sensors. The piece also points readers to real-world testing, cross-platform compatibility, and an update adding Bose QC Ultra Earbuds Gen 2 and AirPods Pro 3.Read more →
CNET...Black Friday Football: How to Watch Bears vs. Eagles Today for FreePrime Video will stream Bears-Eagles for free today without a Prime subscription, and two NBA games will also be available to watch at no cost. Local markets will still have Fox broadcasts, while Week 13 NFL games can be watched via streaming services such as Paramount Plus, Fox One and Peacock. The article also explains how a VPN can bypass blackout restrictions and provides recommendations for VPN options like ExpressVPN.Read more →
CNET...Sora and Google's Nano Banana Pro Are Slammed, and Scale Back Free Videos and ImagesOpenAI's Sora video generator and Google's nano banana pro image generator have begun enforcing new daily usage caps to curb demand during the Thanksgiving weekend, citing GPU strain. Sora will limit free video generation to six per day (with ChatGPT Plus/Pro unaffected and additional gens purchasable), while Google limits non-plan users of nano banana pro to two images per day as Gemini usage caps tighten; Gemini 3 Pro Thinking also carries basic access with fluctuating daily limits, and the older nano banana version allowed up to 100 free images per day. The report notes hardware constraints and includes a disclosure about a past copyright lawsuit involving OpenAI and Ziff Davis.Read more →
The Verge...Okay, which of you are still using Facebook?Pew Research Center data show Facebook and YouTube remain the most ubiquitous social platforms among American adults, with 71% and 84% usage and roughly half using them daily. Usage of other platforms, such as Instagram, TikTok, Reddit, and Snapchat, varies strongly by age, while Truth Social and Bluesky attract small, partisan user bases. The study also notes a political realignment on X (formerly Twitter), with Republicans now more likely to use it than Democrats, reversing a prior pattern.Read more →
CNET...Don't Miss Out on 6 Months of Apple TV for $36, Plus Other Prime Video Add-On Black Friday DealsAmazon Prime Video is offering an Apple TV+ add-on for six months at $6 per month, but only for Prime members who sign up through Prime Video; the deal runs through December 1. Apple TV+ typically costs $13 per month and features titles like Severance and Peanuts, with exclusive access to certain content. The article also highlights other Prime Video add-on discounts and bundles, underscoring potential savings for Prime members during Black Friday/Cyber Monday.Read more →
The Verge...Black Friday deals on chargers and power banks we love from Anker and moreThe Verge highlights Black Friday deals on charging accessories, emphasizing upgrades from older chargers to a 30W USB-C charger, a 3-in-1 wireless charger, and high-capacity power banks to boost charging speed and reduce desk clutter. It notes Qi2 magnetic chargers work with iPhone and Google Pixel 10 devices and points readers toward Verge Deals for tested product recommendations.Read more →
The Verge...These Lego kits for kids and adults are up to 50% off for Black FridayA modular construction kit lets you assemble a rhino and a troop of birds, with the same parts enabling builds of a hippo or a walrus. The kit includes 780 pieces and is designed for ages nine and up, offering three animal models in one set.Read more →
Gizmodo...Get Ready for a Puke-Filled Winter: Norovirus Is Back With a VengeanceCDC data indicates norovirus infections are rising again, marking a renewed public health concern in the United States. The report suggests a substantial number of Americans are becoming ill due to the virus. The article highlights ongoing monitoring by health authorities.Read more →
The Verge...ModRetro recreated the N64 controller for its M64 consoleModRetro revealed an upgraded Nintendo 64 remake, the M64, which uses an FPGA to run N64 games in 4K and follows the Chromatic Game Boy and Analogue 3D. The design sticks closely to the original hardware—with a translucent shell, an HDMI port, USB-C, and microSD, plus three-pronged controllers—while maintaining compatibility with the N64’s original gamepads. Priced at $199 at launch, ModRetro has extended its introductory pricing to all customers for the time being.Read more →
Engadget...ModRetro launches its take on the Nintendo 64ModRetro has unveiled the M64, a modern take on the Nintendo 64 designed to rival Analogue’s 3D, with translucent purple, green and white shells but without announced pricing or release date. The company also soft-launched its Chromatic handheld in 2024, a retro device that plays Game Boy titles and proprietary cartridges and is priced at least $200. ModRetro was founded by Palmer Luckey, known for Oculus and Anduril Industries.Read more →
Engadget...Hytale's early access build drops on January 13 and costs $20Hypixel Studios has announced January 13 as the early access release date for Hytale, priced at $20 and available on PC via Steam, with preorders starting December 13. The early access build is explicitly unfinished and expected to be buggy as the team continues development, with co-founder Simon Collins-Laflamme noting the game isn’t good yet. The project has a complex history, including a stint under Riot Games in 2020, its shutdown, and a later revival after Hypixel secured funding to buy back the rights and restart work.Read more →
The Verge...Deck out your tree with ornaments of retro consoles, movie moments, and moreThe Verge highlights Hallmark's gaming- and pop-culture-themed ornaments, including a realistic Xbox 360 replica that plays Halo 3 audio and a CRT monitor ornament displaying The Oregon Trail. The piece frames Hallmark as a major source of nostalgia-driven gifts, noting a wide range of ornaments tied to favorite shows, movies, and brands, and includes non-Hallmark alternatives for gift ideas.Read more →
The Verge...The best deals I’ve seen on some of my favorite smart home gearThe article highlights ongoing Black Friday deals and upcoming Cyber Monday promotions on smart home devices, urging readers to take advantage of bargains on items like smart locks. It notes this shopping season as an opportunity to upgrade homes with connected gear or gift smart home tech as stocking stuffers.Read more →
CNET...Best Buy Outage: Retail Website Crashes During Black Friday SaleThe article highlights Best Buy's Black Friday deals across electronics and home goods, with curated discounts on TVs, laptops, headphones, appliances and gaming gear, and notes that the sale is live today. It also flags a brief outage on Best Buy's site and provides shopping tips, including price-history tracking and tariff considerations, while naming standout deals such as Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones for $299 and the MacBook Air M4 at $749.Read more →
Engadget...My family keeps stealing my Dreo heater, so I'm buying another while it's on sale for Black FridayA personal review of the Dreo Whole-Room heater praises its rapid heating, compact footprint, and adjustable oscillation, noting its effectiveness for zone heating in a home office and other rooms. The reviewer highlights features such as multiple heat levels, remote control, quick cool-down, and safety options, while mentioning a brief initial odor and a Black Friday discount from $100.Read more →
TechCrunch...SoftBank stays in as Meesho $606M IPO becomes India’s first major e-commerce listingMeesho unveiled plans for a roughly $606 million IPO in India, with fresh capital of about ₹42.5 billion and a secondary sale that lifts its post-money valuation to around ₹501 billion (about $5.6 billion). Notably, SoftBank, Prosus and Fidelity are not selling, while backers such as Elevation Capital, Peak XV and Y Combinator are exiting portions, and co-founders Vidit Aatrey and Sanjeev Kumar are increasing their offering; the anchor book is set for December 2 ahead of public subscription on December 3 with allocations for QIBs, retail and non-institutional investors. Meesho positions itself as a value-focused e-commerce platform, reporting rising revenue for the latest six months but widening losses, and counts a large user base and creator network as it eyes further growth and potential future IPOs in India's online retail market.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Score for ‘Bugonia’ Happened in a Truly Unbelievable Way (Exclusive)The article spotlights the sci-fi mystery Bugonia, starring Emma Stone and Jesse Plemons, and confirms its availability for home viewing. It highlights that viewers can now watch the film at home, signaling a digital or streaming release.Read more →
The Verge...My favorite Nintendo Switch 2 accessories are heavily discounted for Black FridayThe Verge notes that while the Nintendo Switch 2 remains at $449 with little discount, Black Friday deals are expanding on accessories that protect and enhance the console. The author curates and highlights the best discounted accessories—such as screen protectors, cases, and controllers—based on reviews, and promotes Verge Deals for weekly, tested-product deals.Read more →
TechCrunch...How OpenAI and Google see AI changing go-to-market strategiesAI is reshaping how startups plan and execute go-to-market strategies, enabling faster messaging and more personalized targeting with fewer resources. Yet industry leaders warn that success still requires solid marketing fundamentals, domain expertise, and a curious, multi-disciplinary team, as AI tools augment but do not replace strategic thinking. The discussion highlights the growing role of AI in lead generation, inbound marketing, and customer insights, with input from executives at GTMfund, Google Cloud, and OpenAI.Read more →
Engadget...Black Friday Streaming deal: Plex is offering a lifetime pass for 40 percent offBlack Friday shoppers can save on Plex subscriptions: a 40% discount on the Lifetime Pass to $150 with code ANYPASS40, plus 40% off Plex Pass monthly ($4.19) and annual ($42) plans. The Lifetime Pass had increased from $120 to $250 earlier this year, so the sale brings it close to the older price, though readers should compare with other streaming deals.Read more →
The Verge...The best Black Friday deals on Apple AirPods — up to 47 percent offWith Black Friday deals rolling out, buyers can find discounts on Apple's AirPods lineup from retailers such as Amazon and Walmart. The basics start at $69 for AirPods 4, the AirPods Pro 3 is discounted by about $30, and wired EarPods are also on sale.Read more →
Engadget...DJI Black Friday deals include the Mic Mini kit with a charging case on sale for just $80DJI is offering Black Friday discounts on its Mic Mini wireless microphone kit, with the full kit (two mics, receiver, charging case and accessories) discounted to $80 from $170 — an all-time low price. The system is lightweight, records at 24-bit 20 Hz–20 kHz, and connects to smartphones via Bluetooth or DJI devices via OsmoAudio, with up to 1,300 feet of range and 48 hours of battery life when using the charging case; cheaper options include $66 for the kit without the charging case or $45 for a single-mic bundle. The deals are time-limited and aimed at content creators looking to upgrade audio gear.Read more →
Gizmodo...Oura Ring 4 Ceramic Review: Can the Latest Smart Ring Really Track It All?The Gizmodo review of the Oura Ring 4 Ceramic examines whether a wearable ring can replace a smartwatch for health and fitness tracking. It presents the ring as an alternative for users seeking continuous wellness monitoring in a more discreet form factor, suggesting you may not need a smartwatch for health tracking.Read more →
The Verge...We found Black Friday deals on our favorite tech, and most are under $50Verge's Black Friday round-up highlights a crop of affordable, user-loved gear under $50 across home, travel, and personal-use categories, with staffers sharing firsthand experiences. The selections cover charging and connectivity (wireless car mounts, GaN chargers, power banks, Tile trackers), portable tools and adapters, bags for commuting and cycling, and a range of kitchen and personal items from Instant Pots to bidets and tiny Bluetooth speakers. The article aims to help readers navigate deals and find practical, budget-friendly gifts with real-world use cases.Read more →
The Verge...The dark side of optimizing your metabolismThe Verge's Optimizer writer Victoria Song explores the hype around metabolism optimization through continuous glucose monitors (CGMs), sharing a personal account of how using CGMs during holidays affected her eating and health anxiety. She acknowledges CGMs' value for diabetics while arguing that they are not a universal solution for non-diabetics and cautions against wellness influencer culture and overreliance, advocating careful use under medical guidance.Read more →
TechCrunch...The race to regulate AI has sparked a federal vs state showdownWashington is nearing a decision on artificial intelligence regulation, but the key clash is over who gets to regulate—federal lawmakers or state governments. Lawmakers, tech industry groups, and venture-backed PACs are debating preemption via the NDAA and a possible White House order, while Representative Ted Lieu is drafting a broad federal megabill to set a unified framework as thousands of AI-related state laws already proliferate. The effort comes as states move quickly with rules on safety, transparency, and deepfakes, and as industry advocates argue a patchwork regime could hinder innovation and national competitiveness.Read more →
TechCrunch...Best iPad apps to boost productivity and make your life easierAn overview of popular iPad productivity apps beyond Apple's built-in tools, highlighting how apps like Goodnotes, Notion, Notability, TickTick, Todoist and Trello help with notes, tasks, focus, and collaboration. The piece notes features such as Apple Pencil support, AI-assisted summarization in Notion/Goodnotes, habit tracking, and pricing tiers, including free options and paid plans.Read more →
Engadget...Black Friday streaming deals drop one year of Starz down to just $12The article highlights Black Friday streaming deals, led by a Starz annual plan discounted to $1 per month (paid upfront at $12) or a $3/month introductory rate for three months. It also highlights other savings, including six months of Apple TV for $36 and a Disney+ and Hulu bundle for $96 off, along with additional tech deals from Sony, LEGO, and 1Password.Read more →
Engadget...The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 vlogging camera is 37 percent off for Black FridayDJI's Osmo Pocket 3 is on a Black Friday sale, down to a record-low $502 (about 37% off) after tariffs previously pushed prices up. The camera features a one-inch sensor, a swiveling touchscreen, and strong follow modes with face tracking that simplify solo vlogging, though it's less ideal for still photography and remains pricey. With rumors of a Pocket 4 arriving in December, stock may run out soon as shoppers chase the deal and other camera discounts proliferate.Read more →
Engadget...Get the Roku Streaming Stick Plus for only $19 this Black FridayRoku has launched Black Friday discounts on its streaming devices, including the Streaming Stick Plus for $19 (50% off), the Streaming Stick for $15, the Streaming Stick 4K for $25, and the Roku Ultra for $69 (30% off). The Streaming Stick Plus and 4K model offer 4K HDR and Dolby Vision respectively, with Roku OS providing universal search and the Plus drawing power from the TV. These deals position Roku's devices as strong upgrades for older TVs and rival streaming sticks on the market.Read more →
The Verge...We handpicked 50 Black Friday deals you can get for under $50The article highlights Black Friday deals for budget-conscious shoppers, offering practical upgrades under $50 such as power banks, smart speakers, location trackers, and entry-level earbuds, along with discounted video games and Nintendo Switch titles. It also spotlights notable savings on items like Microsoft’s Xbox Wireless Controller, a 4K edition of The Lord of the Rings trilogy, UE’s Miniroll speaker, and CMF Buds Pro 2, urging readers to act fast to maximize value.Read more →
Engadget...Black Friday TV deals 2025: Sets from Samsung, LG, Sony and more are at all-time low prices for the biggest sales event of the yearThe piece curates the best Black Friday TV deals from major brands across LED and OLED options, highlighting factors like brightness, contrast, HDR formats, and gaming features to help shoppers avoid low-value offers. It also lists discounted streaming devices and service bundles, providing a one-stop guide for bargains on home entertainment hardware and subscriptions.Read more →
Engadget...Switch 2 Black Friday deals: These microSD Express cards are up to 25 percent offSanDisk's 256GB microSD Express Card for the Switch 2 is on Black Friday sale at $60, with 128GB and 512GB options available but only the 256GB model discounted. The card is praised for fast sequential read/write speeds and strong performance in benchmarks, and it is compatible with the Switch 2's SD Express requirement. Other on-sale options include PNY's 256GB and Lexar Play Pro 256GB at $50, and Samsung's P9 512GB at $75.Read more →
Gizmodo...Nature Is Healing (Sorta?) on This Week’s ‘Pluribus’The article highlights a turning-point episode of Apple TV+'s new sci-fi series, focusing on Carol as her loneliness intensifies in the episode titled 'Got Milk.' It frames the installment as a pivotal moment in the show's early run and emphasizes its emotional arc within Apple's streaming lineup.Read more →
Engadget...The Fire TV Stick 4K Max is on sale for 42 percent off in Amazon's Black Friday dealsAmazon’s Black Friday spotlight extends to Fire TV devices, with the Fire TV Stick 4K Max discounted to $35 (about 41% off) and the Fire TV Stick HD available for $18. The 4K Max offers 4K HDR, Dolby Vision/Atmos, Wi‑Fi 6E, the fastest processor among Fire TV Sticks, and features like Ambient Experience, plus strong gaming support via Xbox cloud streaming, though the UI includes ads. The HD model is the budget option at 1080p/60fps, making it a cheap choice for those not yet ready to upgrade to 4K.Read more →
Engadget...The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy Live is an enjoyable messA review of Hitchhikers’ Live, an immersive theatre adaptation of Douglas Adams’ The Hitchhikers’ Guide to the Galaxy at London’s Riverside Studios. The piece applauds the production’s technical artistry, especially Marvin the Paranoid Android’s puppetry and Tamsin Grieg’s narration, while noting that the immersive, digressive format sometimes fragments the narrative and may disappoint die-hard fans or visitors from outside London. Overall, it is a lovingly crafted homage that works best for local fans familiar with the source material, though it may not fully cohere into a must-see experience.Read more →
The Verge...The best fitness trackers and watches we’ve testedVerge outlines the 2025 fitness tracker landscape, testing a wide range of wearables from budget bands to premium multisport watches and smart rings, focusing on durability, battery life, GPS accuracy, and health metrics. The piece notes the role of AI-powered coaching and ecosystem features (such as Zepp Coach, Galaxy/Google Gemini) in shaping recommendations across categories like all‑rounders, outdoor athletes, non-wrist trackers, and platform-specific options, with Black Friday deals context. It emphasizes choosing devices based on lifestyle, budget, and ecosystem compatibility rather than a single best option.Read more →
The Verge...Tessan’s 140W Universal Travel Adapter has hit a new all-time lowTessan's 140W Universal Travel Adapter is on sale for $53.99 on Amazon as part of a Black Friday deal. The compact station offers four ports (three USB-C and one USB-A) with a total 140W, a universal outlet, and retractable country prongs, usable in over 226 countries for 100V-250V devices; however, only two USB-C ports deliver 140W (the third USB-C and USB-A top out at 18W), so travelers should plan for high-watt devices accordingly.Read more →
The Verge...The best e-reader to buy right nowAn in-depth guide to the best ebook readers, the piece compares models across display quality, note-taking capabilities, waterproofing, and format support, backed by hands-on testing. It recommends the Kindle Paperwhite for most Amazon shoppers, the Kobo Libra Colour as the top non-Amazon option, and the base Kindle as the value pick, while noting strong note-taking rivals like the Kobo Elipsa 2E and Boox models and caveats around file formats and ecosystem lock-in. The article also previews upcoming devices and price changes during Black Friday.Read more →
Engadget...The Apple Watch SE 3 drops to an all-time-low price for Black FridayBlack Friday deals bring discounts on Apple Watch models, with the Apple Watch SE 3 reduced to $199 and promoted as the best budget option featuring an always-on display and fast charging. The flagship Apple Watch Series 11 is also discounted to $339, highlighted for longer battery life, a thinner design, comprehensive health-tracking features, and gesture controls. The article frames these as strong value picks for both new and experienced smartwatch buyers.Read more →
The Verge...The best noise-canceling headphones to buy right nowThe Verge reviews and tests the top noise-canceling headphones, detailing how they assess comfort, battery life, sound quality, and multipoint connectivity across real-world environments. Sony WH-1000XM5 emerge as the best overall value, with Bose QuietComfort Ultra aimed at travelers, Apple AirPods Max catering to the Apple ecosystem, and premium options like Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2e and Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless offered for audiophiles. The piece also notes pricing dynamics, recent model updates, and niche features such as spatial audio and immersive modes to help buyers pick the right pair during the Black Friday season.Read more →
The Verge...The best laptops you can getThe Verge’s Black Friday laptop buying guide weighs real-world use and selective benchmarks to crown the MacBook Air M4 as the best all-around laptop for most people, citing its balance of performance, battery life, and value. It also covers a range of alternatives for specific needs—MacBook Pro models for creators, Windows/Snapdragon X devices, gaming laptops, dual-screen and repairable designs—emphasizing RAM, storage, and port considerations alongside price. The piece includes updates on new models and refreshes to help buyers pick based on use case and future-proofing, not just cost.Read more →
The Verge...The best robot vacuumsVerge reviews and ranks robot vacuums, emphasizing AI-driven obstacle detection, SLAM-based mapping, auto-empty docks, and robust mopping to reduce manual intervention. The top pick, Matic, scores for local data storage and reliable navigation, while runners-up and budget options cater to pet hair, small spaces, and price-conscious buyers, with ongoing updates for Black Friday deals. The guide helps consumers navigate a crowded market of connected cleaning robots and highlights key trade-offs like dock size, carpet handling, and app reliability.Read more →
The Verge...Some of our favorite Blu-rays are cheaper than ever during Black FridayVerge Deals presents a curated round-up of both recent and classic Blu-ray and 4K Blu-ray releases chosen by Verge staff, highlighting movie gifts as practical, compact stocking stuffers alongside bigger Black Friday purchases. The piece also directs readers to ongoing sales on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Target, and Gruv, noting that some 4K editions include standard Blu-ray discs or digital codes. It serves as a practical guide for gift-giving and finding discounted movie releases across multiple retailers.Read more →
Engadget...One of our favorite Shark robot vacuums is 58 percent off right now for Black FridayAmazon's Black Friday deals include the Shark AI Ultra robot vacuum, discounted to $250 (a 58% cut from its $599 list price) – a record low for the model. The vacuum features a bagless design with a removable base that auto-empties into a 60-day debris reservoir, LiDAR-based obstacle avoidance, auto-mapping, and voice control via Google Assistant and Alexa, with about 120 minutes of runtime; note it is a vacuum-only model with no mopping. Shark also offers other deals like the Stratos 2-in-1 robot vacuum and mop for $400 and the Power Detect Pet Plus cordless vacuum for $380.Read more →
Engadget...Our favorite action camera is up to 30 percent off with these Black Friday dealsGoPro's Hero 13 Black is on Black Friday sale for about $310, a 23% discount (roughly $90). The camera is praised as the most versatile Hero to date, offering 5.3K video, up to 2x optical zoom, a larger battery with around 90 minutes of 4K/30fps recording, modular lenses, and a full-color front screen, plus waterproofing. A bundle deal at $349 includes a 64GB microSD card, three batteries, a dual charger, and a case, representing about 30% off.Read more →
The Verge...Sora and Nano Banana Pro throttled amid soaring demandGoogle and OpenAI have reduced generation limits for their AI services in response to overwhelming demand. OpenAI’s Sora will allow free users six video generations per day, with monetization options for additional generations, while ChatGPT Plus/Pro limits stay unchanged. Google is restricting free users to two image generations per day on Nano Banana Pro and appears to limit access to Gemini 3 Pro, with changes potentially occurring without notice following the product’s launch.Read more →
CNET...Coca-Cola's AI Holiday Ad Is Everywhere. It's a Sign of a Much Bigger ProblemThe article examines Coca-Cola's holiday ad produced with generative AI and the backlash it sparked, highlighting a broader debate about transparency, worker impact, and the normalization of AI in advertising. It notes the ad's disclosure at the start, the surge of AI-assisted marketing tools, and concerns that brands push ahead with AI despite consumer and worker reactions.Read more →
The Verge...The US dodged a bullet this Atlantic hurricane seasonNOAA characterized the 2023 Atlantic hurricane season as a 'striking contrast'—quiet in terms of US landfalls but highly active with 13 named storms, five hurricanes, and four major hurricanes, including three Category 5 storms. Warmer sea-surface temperatures fueled rapid intensification, and storms such as Erin caused coastal erosion even without landfall; officials called the season a 'much needed break' for the United States and warned the next season will begin again in June, with some experts considering an earlier May start.Read more →
The Verge...Rivian’s software-powered e-bike won me over with its adaptabilityA review of Also’s TM-B e-bike reveals a bold, software-driven design that replaces traditional gearing with pedal-by-wire, dual motors, and adaptable ride modes, delivering strong acceleration and hill-climbing performance. The drivetrain runs locally to minimize outages, with cloud services limited to features like anti-theft and firmware updates, and the bike remains usable during connectivity gaps. Despite its impressive ride quality and modular, upgradeable frame, the $4,500 price and polarizing aesthetics may restrict mainstream appeal, positioning it as a premium, niche option for enthusiasts.Read more →
Gizmodo...Govee Permanent Outdoor Lights Prism Review: Great, but Wait for a Good SaleThe article highlights Govee's Prism 5 permanent outdoor lights as an easy way to dramatically illuminate a home, presenting it as a convenient lighting solution. It also notes that the product is notably expensive, positioning it as a premium option for home lighting enthusiasts.Read more →
Engadget...The EU says Apple Maps may be big enough to be considered a DMA gatekeeperThe EU has notified Apple that its Maps and Ads services may meet the DMA's gatekeeper thresholds, giving the European Commission 45 days to decide whether to designate Apple for either service. If designated, Maps and Ads would fall under the DMA's rules intended to prevent self‑preferencing and other anti-competitive practices; Apple already holds gatekeeper status for Safari, iOS/iPadOS, and the App Store. Apple has submitted a rebuttal arguing Maps’ EU usage is limited and Apple Ads’ share is small, and will discuss the case with the European Commission.Read more →
Engadget...There aren't any Black Friday deals on RAM this year, and you can thank AI for thatDDR5 RAM prices have surged due to strong demand from AI data centers, meaning many so-called Black Friday deals are not really bargains. A close look at current offers shows most kits are pricier than a few months earlier, with promos often offset by higher base prices or added freebies that don’t justify the cost. Analysts warn the spike could persist into early 2026, potentially impacting SSD and GPU pricing and leaving consumers with limited short-term relief.Read more →
CNET...The OnePlus 15 Is the Latest Spark in a Battery Revolution Coming to PhonesThe OnePlus 15 uses a silicon-carbon battery to achieve a 7,300 mAh capacity, enabling longer life and rapid charging, as demonstrated by testing that reaches 45 minutes to a full charge and strong endurance in real-world use. The article explains silicon-carbon anodes replace graphite to boost energy density, highlights early adopters like the Honor Magic 7 and potential cross-device benefits, and notes that manufacturing scale and cost remain major hurdles before widespread mainstream adoption.Read more →
CNET...You May Still Need a Landline. Here's WhyThe article argues that landlines remain a reliable option during power outages and emergencies, highlighting their independent copper-based infrastructure versus cellular networks. It notes a continued decline in landline adoption, discusses costs and the shift to VoIP, and offers practical guidance for choosing and using landlines, including backups and alternatives like Google Voice, satellite messaging, and Emergency SOS features on iPhones. It also covers regulatory trends and situational tips for accessing communication during outages.Read more →
Engadget...Apple's Mac mini M4 drops to $479 for Black FridayBlack Friday deals have cut Apple's 2024 Mac mini M4 prices, with the base 16GB/256GB model dropping to $479 (from $599) and higher-end configurations also discounted. The compact Mac mini remains praised for power, upgrade options (16/512 at $719, 24/512 at $889), and a bundle that trims AppleCare+ by about $100; a discounted Magic Trackpad at $120 rounds out desktop setup deals.Read more →
Engadget...The Meta Quest 3S VR headset drops to a record low this Black FridayBlack Friday offers slash the price of Meta's Quest 3S to $250 for the 128GB model, with Gorilla Tag included, signaling strong value in entry-level VR. In Engadget's review, the headset scored 90 and was praised for comfort, over two hours of battery life, a 96-degree field of view, and fast performance thanks to the Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2, despite a slightly lower per-eye resolution than the Quest 3. It also supports PC connections and streaming to Chromecast and AirPlay, making it a compelling option among standalone VR headsets.Read more →
The Verge...Epic CEO Tim Sweeney says Steam should drop its ‘Made with AI’ tagsTim Sweeney argues that game storefronts should drop 'Made with AI' labels as generative AI becomes ubiquitous in production, claiming that disclosure will be irrelevant for future games. Steam currently allows AI-assisted development with disclosure, while Sweeney and his rival Epic Games Store advocate removing the tag, reflecting a broader industry shift toward AI-enabled development and marketing considerations such as indie studios promoting 'AI-free' titles. The debate highlights tensions around transparency, consumer perception, and how AI involvement will be communicated in the gaming ecosystem.Read more →
Gizmodo...Cyber Monday Just Turned Dreame’s Top Vacuums Into Must-Grab Steals, the Perfect Time to Upgrade Your Floor CleaningDreame is continuing Black Friday-style discounts on its high-tech robotic vacuum-mop combos, offering substantial savings for shoppers. The sale features discounts of up to $800 off on Dreame's industry-leading models, making advanced home cleaning tech more affordable after Black Friday.Read more →
The Verge...You can save 50 percent on robovacs from Roborock and Eufy for Black FridayBlack Friday is driving steep discounts on robot vacuums, spanning high-end self-cleaning mopping models to arm-equipped units and budget-friendly picks. Highlight deals include the Dreame X40 Ultra and Roborock Saros Z70 at more than 50% off, the Eufy X10 Pro Omni on sale at a budget price despite premium features like AI obstacle avoidance, and the Tapo RV30 Max Plus with a self-emptying dock for about $230.Read more →
Engadget...Apple's MacBook Air M4 is $250 off in this Black Friday dealAmazon has cut prices on the Apple MacBook Air M4, with the 16GB/256GB model dropping to $749 and the 512GB model to $949, marking all-time lows below the Apple Store. The laptop uses the M4 chip with a 13.6-inch display, fanless design, up to 18 hours of battery life, and MagSafe 3, but lacks a high-refresh-rate screen and places both USB-C ports on one side, balancing portability and performance. The deal reinforces the MacBook Air M4 as a strong value for portable productivity, with the 13-inch model emphasized for travel and a 15-inch variant available with similar specs.Read more →
CNET...Smartphone vs. Dumb Phone: Why People Are Going BasicThe article examines the resurgence of dumb phones (feature phones) as a response to smartphone overuse, outlining how these devices offer varying levels of functionality from basic calling/texting to smarter features like GPS and cameras. It highlights notable models (such as Light Phone 3, Light Phone 2, Mudita Kompakt, Nokia/HMD options, Punkt MP02, and Android dumb phones) and provides guidance on selecting a device based on desired internet access, compatibility with carriers, and optional features, while also noting tools and apps that help curb screen time.Read more →
Gizmodo...New Evidence Suggests Neanderthals Cannibalized Outsider Women and ChildrenResearchers have discovered human remains in a Belgian cave that reportedly reveal selective cannibalism among hominid cousins. The grim evidence offers new insight into the behavior and interactions of ancient hominins. The findings contribute to our understanding of prehistoric human biology and social practices.Read more →
The Verge...I’ve covered Black Friday deals for ten years, ask me anythingThe Verge’s hardware and gaming deals team has prepared extensive Black Friday coverage well in advance, with hundreds of offers published and a one-stop hub for all deals. To engage subscribers, they will host an AMA and offer personalized deal recommendations, answering questions about their process and the deals landscape later today.Read more →
Gizmodo...Black Friday Is Dropping Roborock’s Vacuum Prices By Up to 53%, as Low as $189Roborock is offering discounts on four of its best-selling robot floor cleaners plus one advanced wet-dry push model. The promotions promise unbeatable prices, highlighting a key sale of Roborock's consumer robotics lineup.Read more →
Engadget...Black Friday Apple deals include the AirPods 4 for 47 percent offBlack Friday deals have brought the AirPods 4 down to a new price low of $69, making them a top-budget option among Apple earbuds in 2025. The non-ANC model includes Apple's H2 chip, Voice Isolation, Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking, and a redesigned, more secure fit, offering up to 5 hours of battery life per charge (30 hours with the USB-C case) while other models with ANC and competing Apple earbuds are priced higher during the sale.Read more →
Engadget...This Black Friday deal brings the DJI Neo drone down to $159The DJI Neo drone is on sale for $159 during Black Friday, a 20% cut and record-low price limited to Amazon Prime members. Although the Neo has been superseded by the Neo 2, it remains a lightweight, beginner-friendly option with a built-in 4K camera, four propeller guards for safety, and a 135-gram weight that exempts it from drone licensing, accessible via gestures, voice, mobile app, or an optional RC controller.Read more →
Engadget...Apple Black Friday deals: Pick up the iPad A16 for its lowest price yetApple's 11-inch iPad with the A16 chip is discounted to $274 during Black Friday, making it the most affordable option in Apple's tablet lineup with solid performance for streaming, notes, and web browsing. It features a 11-inch Liquid Retina display, 12MP front and rear cameras, Wi‑Fi 6, USB-C, Touch ID, and up to 10 hours of battery life, with Pencil (USB-C) and Magic Keyboard Folio support but not the Pencil Pro. The deal positions the A16 iPad as a practical entry point for students and casual users, with a guide suggested to compare it against the iPad Air and iPad Pro, and mentions the iPad Air M3 on sale at $449.Read more →
Engadget...The Google TV Streamer 4K is 25 percent off for Black FridayGoogle's 4K Google TV Streamer is on Black Friday sale for $75, the lowest price yet, making it an attractive upgrade for an all-in-one streaming setup. The device features a faster processor (about 22% quicker), 32GB of storage and 4GB of RAM, plus an intuitive interface and built-in Google Home integration for controlling smart devices. While reviews note the strong functionality, the main caveat is its typical $100 price tag, which makes the current deal particularly compelling along with discounts on other Google devices like Nest products.Read more →
Engadget...HBO Max Black Friday deal: Get one year of access for only $3 per monthHBO Max rolled out a limited-time one-year subscription deal, pricing at $3 per month and $36 for the year, aimed at attracting subscribers amid rising streaming costs. The offer can be redeemed on HBO Max's site or via Prime Video as an add-on, and it sits alongside three plans—Basic with Ads, Standard, and Premium—with varying features such as HD vs 4K, offline downloads, and the number of streams. HBO Max emphasizes its library of HBO originals, Warner Bros. titles, Discovery content, and live sports, while noting that live sports access and 4K availability vary by title and region.Read more →
CNET...DirecTV MyEntertainment vs. Sling Blue vs. Philo: Battle of the Budget Live TV StreamersThree affordable live TV streaming options—DirecTV MyEntertainment ($35), Philo ($33), and Sling Blue ($46–$51)—are compared on price, channel lineups, and features. The article highlights MyEntertainment’s ad-supported HBO Max and Disney+/Hulu bundle, Philo’s ad-supported HBO Max/Discovery+/AMC Plus, and Sling Blue’s strong local and sports channels, plus DVR options and in-home/out-of-home streams. The verdict suggests choosing based on the channels you need, with MyEntertainment often offering the best value, though local and sports considerations may tilt the decision toward Sling Blue or Philo.Read more →
Engadget...Chicago Bears vs. Philadelphia Eagles NFL game: How to watch Black Friday football todayThe Philadelphia Eagles host the Chicago Bears in a high-stakes NFC showdown on Black Friday, airing Friday at 3 p.m. ET on Prime Video. The game follows the Eagles’ loss to the Cowboys and an injury to rookie safety Drew Mukuma, with both teams competing for playoff positioning (Eagles No. 2, Bears No. 3) at Lincoln Financial Field, and the article also covers streaming details and the Week 13 schedule.Read more →
Engadget...AirPods Pro 3 are $30 off and down to a record low for Black FridayThe AirPods Pro 3 are discounted to $220, the deepest price yet since launch, with Apple refining sound, battery life and active noise cancellation in a familiar, comfortable design. A standout feature is Live Translation using the H2 chip, delivering real-time translation via Siri and on-device transcription in the iOS Translate app, plus up to eight hours of playback (24 with the case). Apple notes improved airflow for deeper bass and crisper highs, and warns the deal still carries a premium price while pointing to other AirPods deals on the same page.Read more →
CNET...Tired of Getting Up to Pee in the Middle of the Night? These 5 Habits Can Put That to RestNocturia is a condition that causes waking up to urinate during the night, affecting about one in three adults over 30 and roughly half of people over 65. The article outlines common causes and offers five lifestyle strategies—limiting caffeine and alcohol, pelvic floor therapy, compression socks, avoiding large beverages before bed, and daytime naps—while noting safety risks for older adults and advising medical consultation if symptoms persist to identify underlying causes and treatments.Read more →
Engadget...The Morning After: Our pick of the best Black Friday deals for 2025The article rounds up notable Black Friday tech deals, highlighting a rare $100 discount on the PS5 and significant price cuts on items like Anker power banks, AirPods Pro, and the iPad, along with Dyson vacuum specials and Sony Alpha camera rumors. It also notes Plex’s new policy requiring a Plex Pass for remote streaming from a personal server, signaling a shift in how home media can be accessed, and reminds readers to watch for late-breaking deals. Overall, it blends consumer savings with upcoming product news and policy changes affecting streaming.Read more →
The Verge...Here are my favorite Black Friday TV deals from Samsung, Sony, and othersSamsung's S90F 65-inch OLED TV is a strong value at about $1,398, down from roughly $1,600 last month and available at major retailers. It delivers around 1,400 nits of brightness with accurate color, suitable for well-lit rooms, though not the absolute brightest OLED on the market. For gamers, it features HDMI 2.1 on all four ports, up to 144Hz FreeSync, and sub-10ms input lag, making it a compelling mid-range OLED option.Read more →
Engadget...The Amazon Smart Plug is 48 percent off for Black FridayThe article highlights a Black Friday deal on the Amazon Smart Plug, available for about $12 (roughly half off) and recommended for adding to a smart home setup. It notes easy plug-and-play setup through the Alexa app, voice control via Alexa, and the ability to group multiple plugs, while mentioning it only works with Alexa and not with other assistants; a competing Kasa Mini deal is also noted. Overall, the piece reinforces the plug as a strong, Alexa-centric option for smart-home beginners and enthusiasts alike.Read more →
CNET...This Robot Vacuum Dodges All My Obstacles and Pets and Is at an All-New Low Price Right Now in the Black Friday SalesBlack Friday deal slashes the price of the Dreame X50 Ultra robot vacuum from $1,600 to $800, with an additional coupon bringing the final price to $760. The premium model uses auxiliary climbing arms, camera-and-LiDAR navigation, and a tangle-free roller to tackle pet hair and multi-level cleaning, including maneuvering around furniture. While praised for obstacle avoidance and pet-related features, reviewers note it’s a luxury option not the best value for pure carpet cleaning when compared with cheaper rivals.Read more →
Engadget...You need a fabric shaver — this one I use is down to $13 for Black FridayA consumer highlights discovering the Philips Fabric Shaver, a compact device that removes pills from clothing and blankets. With Black Friday deals driving the price down to about $13, the reviewer says it has become an essential home gadget, simplifying maintenance by shaving pills and collecting them in a removable chamber.Read more →
The Verge...The best Black Friday deals on AirPods, AirTags, and other Apple gearWalmart is discounting Apple Watch models, with the 40mm GPS starting at $129 (a $120 cut) and the 44mm variant at $159, both new low prices. The article notes that the older Apple Watch SE remains a solid budget option, offering essential features without the latest sensors or an always-on display. It runs the same chipset as the Series 8 and includes daily activity and sleep tracking, heart-rate monitoring, fall and crash detection, and access to the Vitals app in watchOS 26.Read more →
Engadget...The best iPad for 2025: How to pick the best Apple tablet for youEngadget's guide breaks down the current iPad lineup for 2025, testing each model from the compact iPad mini to the high-end iPad Pro and outlining who each device is best suited for, whether as a laptop replacement or a big-screen media tablet. It highlights that the iPad Pro's M5 chip and OLED tandem display deliver top performance and features (including Thunderbolt and premium accessories), the iPad mini offers a compact but capable option with the A17 Pro, and the iPad Air provides a strong midrange with the M3 and USB-C. The entry-level 11-inch iPad remains the most affordable option, while pricing and accessories drive the decision for power users.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Latest Thing AI Is Accelerating Is How Much U.S. Elections SuckThe article centers on AI-powered political action committees (super PACs) and warns they could drown out other political voices. It suggests AI-driven fundraising and messaging could amplify influence in campaigns, potentially distorting political discourse.Read more →
Engadget...Get $50 off the Xreal One Pro smart glasses for Black FridayBlack Friday discounts have lowered Xreal smart glasses prices, including the Xreal One Pro to $599 and the Xreal One AR to $399, with Meta’s Ray-Ban Gen 1 also on sale. The devices offer a massive virtual display up to 222 inches, 1080p Micro-OLED screens, and connectivity to laptops, gaming consoles, and smartphones, but remain augmented reality glasses with a 57-degree field of view and lighter, more affordable design compared with Apple’s Vision Pro. The articles notes that while they’re comfortable and praised in reviews for providing Vision Pro-like functionality at a lower price, they aren’t as immersive due to not fully blocking ambient light.Read more →
The Verge...The 148 best Black Friday deals we’ve found so far — a ton of tech is over half offThe Samsung S90F 65-inch OLED TV is presented as a strong value buy, currently on sale for about $1,398 at Amazon (slightly higher at Best Buy). It offers around 1,400 nits of brightness, accurate colors, and robust gaming features—including four HDMI 2.1 ports, FreeSync up to 144Hz, and under 10ms input lag—making it a solid choice for PC gaming in well-lit rooms. While not the brightest OLED of 2025, its price-to-performance proposition stands out for buyers seeking quality visuals and gaming performance.Read more →
Engadget...The best Black Friday gaming deals for 2025: Save on PS5 consoles, Nintendo Switch games, handhelds and moreEngadget's Black Friday deals roundup highlights deep discounts across PlayStation, Nintendo and PC gaming, plus a wide range of peripherals and accessories. Top picks include a PS5 Digital Edition for $399, PS5 Pro for $650, and a few Nintendo Switch 2 bundles, along with low prices on many first-party and third-party games, mice, keyboards and headsets. The guide notes ongoing deals such as VR headset bundles, handhelds, and storage upgrades, with updates as new offers surface.Read more →
Engadget...Black Friday speaker deals 2025: Save up to 50 percent on bluetooth speakers, smart speakers and soundbarsThe article provides a curated roundup of Black Friday and Cyber Monday discounts on a wide range of audio gear, including portable Bluetooth speakers, smart speakers, and soundbars from brands like Ultimate Ears, Bose, Beats, Sonos, JBL, and Amazon. It categorizes deals by price tiers and highlights notable models with sale percentages, noting that the list will be updated daily throughout the month. The emphasis is on affordable to premium audio options for home use and entertaining setups.Read more →
Engadget...Black Friday deals under $50 worth shopping for 2025: Apple AirTags, Legos, Ugreen chargers, Blink cameras and moreEngadget highlights the best tech deals under $50 for Black Friday, spanning chargers, cables, streaming devices, smart plugs, trackers, and small gadgets. The roundup curates items from its buying guides and tests, providing price details and retailer links to help shoppers identify worthwhile budget tech. The selection emphasizes practical, widely useful accessories and gifts at accessible prices.Read more →
Engadget...Amazon's Kindle Colorsoft is 32 percent off in this Black Friday dealAmazon's Black Friday sale slashes prices on its Kindle lineup, including a record-low $170 for the color-display Kindle Colorsoft (down from $250). The color Kindle offers pinch-to-zoom for comics, fast loading, an auto-adjusting front light, no lock screen ads by default, and up to eight weeks of battery life. Additional discounts cover the base Kindle ($80), Paperwhite ($125), and current-gen Kindle Scribe (as low as $280).Read more →
Engadget...Black Friday PS5 deals: Sony takes $100 off consoles, plus discounts on PlayStation games, accessories and moreSony is offering a $100 Black Friday discount on all PS5 models, reducing the Digital Edition to $399, the standard PS5 to $449, and the PS5 Pro to $649. The deals span Sony and retailers like Amazon and Walmart, with the consoles featuring 4K output, 3D audio, PlayStation Plus, and the DualSense controller's adaptive triggers and haptics. Accessories also see discounts, including the DualSense Wireless Controller ($55), DualSense Edge ($169), and the PlayStation Portal ($179), making it a strong time to upgrade or buy a first console.Read more →
Engadget...The best Black Friday camera and drone deals: Get up to 36 percent off from Sony, DJI and othersBlack Friday 2025 brings substantial discounts on cameras, drones and accessories from Sony, Canon, DJI, Nikon and GoPro as tariffs push up prices. The deals span beginner to prosumer gear, including the Sony A7 IV, Nikon Z6 III, Canon EOS R5 II, GoPro Hero 13 Black and DJI drones, with discounts ranging from roughly 11% to 37%. The coverage highlights value across tried-and-tested cameras, lenses, memory cards and filming accessories, making high-end gear more affordable this shopping period.Read more →
Engadget...The best Black Friday deals on tech for $100 or lessEngadget curates Black Friday tech deals under $100, highlighting budget-friendly gadgets and accessories such as Apple AirTags, Google TV Streamer, Kindles, streaming services, and power banks. The guide helps shoppers maximize value on a limited budget with discounted devices, services, and accessories across popular brands, noting key caveats for some offers.Read more →
EngadgetEngadget...The 16 best portable Bluetooth speakers for 2025An Engadget buying guide reviews a broad lineup of portable Bluetooth speakers, from tiny pocket-sized models to large party speakers, evaluating sound quality, durability, and battery life. It explains how IP ratings, battery life expectations, Bluetooth range, latency, and extra features like quick-charge and app EQ affect real-world use, and highlights top picks at different price points.Read more →
Engadget...Sonos Black Friday deals: Get the Era 300 speaker on sale for $100 offSonos is running a broad Black Friday sale on speakers and soundbars, with notable discounts such as the Era 300 at $379 (down $100) and bundles like Arc Ultra + Sub 4 for $1,499. The Era 300 highlights spatial audio that works without extra speakers and supports Dolby Atmos via streaming tracks on Apple Music or Amazon Music, while also offering built-in Trueplay room tuning and voice control. Other sale items include Era 100, Move 2, Sonos Ace headphones, Arc Ultra, and Sub 4, making it a wide upgrade event for home audio.Read more →
Engadget...Nintendo Switch 2 Black Friday deals are live: Discounts on Switch games and accessories, plus the best Switch 2 bundles for the holiday shopping seasonNintendo's Black Friday deals for the Switch 2 are limited, with the best value likely coming from bundles (console alone at $449 or $499 with Mario Kart World) rather than deep price cuts. Cyber Deals in the Nintendo eShop run Nov. 20–Dec. 3, while select physical games will be discounted to $40 or $30 starting Nov. 23; official accessories are less likely to be discounted, though third-party deals may appear. The piece also highlights a wide range of non-core gift ideas, such as collectibles and clothing, as shoppers look beyond major console discounts.Read more →
Engadget...Walmart Black Friday deals: The AirPods Pro 2 are down to their lowest price yetThe article highlights Walmart Black Friday deals, led by AirPods Pro 2 at a record-low $139, offering a compelling alternative to the newer Pro 3 at a significantly lower price. It notes a firmware update enabling Live Translation with the Translate app on iOS 26+, strong ANC and sound, about six hours of usage per charge and 30 hours total with the case, while acknowledging Pro 2 lacks Pro 3’s enhanced audio features and heart-rate tracking. It also mentions sales on AirPods 4 and Pro 3 and promises further deal updates as Black Friday progresses.Read more →
Engadget...MasterClass subscriptions are 50 percent off in this Black Friday streaming dealMasterClass is offering a limited-time Black Friday deal of 50% off all annual subscriptions, granting access to hundreds of expert-led courses across fields from cooking to film. The platform emphasizes practical, career-focused lessons delivered through short video modules, with downloadable materials and offline viewing, and it regularly adds new classes; annual plans typically run $120-$240. The promotion highlights significant savings for new or returning subscribers amid other Black Friday streaming deals.Read more →
Engadget...The best iPad deals: Grab the latest base-model iPad for a record-low priceThe piece curates iPad and broader Apple device deals for Black Friday and Cyber Monday, noting that Apple.com is offering up to $250 in gift cards with purchases from November 28 to December 1, alongside additional discounts at major retailers. It highlights notable savings on iPad mini, iPad Air, iPad Pro models, MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, Apple Watch, Mac mini, Pencil Pro, AirTag, and AirPods, while warning that many deals may end after Cyber Monday.Read more →
EngadgetEngadget...Black Friday subscription and streaming deals include discounts on Apple TV+, HBO Max, Disney+, Proton VPN and moreBlack Friday is delivering a broad roundup of subscription deals across entertainment, productivity, privacy, and security tools. The guide highlights discounts on MasterClass, Quicken Simplifi, Monarch Money, Rosetta Stone, 1Password, LastPass, DeleteMe, and Adobe Creative Cloud, plus streaming bundles from Apple TV+, Disney+/Hulu, Paramount+, Fox One, and Plex, and a slate of VPNs for online privacy. The list will be updated through the month as new deals go live.Read more →
CNET...Today's NYT Connections: Sports Edition Hints and Answers for Nov. 28, #431Gael Fashingbauer Cooper is a veteran journalist and CNET editor who co-authored books on 70s–90s pop culture. The profile outlines her career since 1989, including work at Mpls.St.Paul Magazine, Twin Cities Sidewalk, the Minneapolis Star Tribune, and NBC News Digital. It also notes her Gen X identity and a light-hearted aside about Marathon candy bars returning.Read more →
Engadget...Use this hack to get a year of Peacock for $49 before Black FridayWalmart+ is currently offering half off its first year, bringing the membership to $49, after which subscribers can sign up for Peacock Premium or Paramount+ Essential at no extra cost. That arrangement makes Peacock Premium cheaper than its standalone price and comes amid rising streaming costs and ongoing cord-cutting. Additionally, Walmart+ provides perks such as free shipping, gas discounts, early Black Friday access, and occasional exclusive benefits, like prior access to new products such as the Nintendo Switch 2.Read more →
CNET...Today's NYT Mini Crossword Answers for Friday, Nov. 28Gael Fashingbauer Cooper is a longtime journalist and CNET editor known for her pop-culture writing. The piece highlights her books about '70s to '90s trends and her career since 1989 at outlets including Mpls.St.Paul Magazine, Twin Cities Sidewalk, the Minneapolis Star Tribune, and NBC News Digital, noting she is Gen X.Read more →
Engadget...The Headspace Black Friday deal gives you one year of access for $35Headspace is bringing back its major Black Friday deal, offering 50% off the annual subscription through December 4, bringing the price to $35 per year. The app provides hundreds of guided sessions, Sleepcasts, mood tracking and reminders designed to help users build a consistent mindfulness routine and address topics like anxiety, sleep and productivity.Read more →
Engadget...The best VPN deals: Up to 88 percent off ProtonVPN, Surfshark, ExpressVPN, NordVPN and moreBlack Friday VPN deals offer steep discounts on multi-year plans across major providers, with savings typically ranging from 67% to 88%. The piece compares services such as ExpressVPN, NordVPN, Surfshark, CyberGhost, Hide.me and Private Internet Access, highlighting performance, privacy features and the risk of promo terms that don’t apply on renewal. It advises shoppers to assess long-term cost, extra months or features, and the fine print before committing.Read more →
Engadget...One of our favorite budgeting apps has half off subscriptions for Black FridayMonarch Money is offering new users 50% off an annual subscription with code MONARCHVIP, reducing the price from $100 to $50 for 12 months. The discount applies only to new users, requires web sign-up, and cannot be combined with other offers or used via the mobile app. The article highlights Monarch’s comprehensive budgeting features and bank connections, noting a steeper learning curve but strong customization, and also mentions a competing sale on Quicken Simplifi.Read more →
TechCrunch...Anduril’s autonomous weapons stumble in tests and combat, WSJ reportsAnduril Industries has faced a series of setbacks in testing its autonomous weapons, including drone boats failing in a Navy exercise, an engine issue on its Fury unmanned jet and a 22-acre fire during an Anvil counterdrone test. Separately, Ukraine's front-line use of Anduril drones reportedly crashed and missed targets, prompting questions about reliability; the company says such teething problems are normal in weapons development and argues it is making progress despite the incidents. The firm has raised billions in funding and secured major defense contracts, underscoring the high-stakes push into autonomous military tech despite ongoing safety and effectiveness concerns.Read more →
CNET...I Learned Every Photographer Needs These 3 Types of CamerasA professional photographer argues that every shooter should curate a trio of camera roles—workhorse, everyday carry, and artful—whether using three separate bodies or a single versatile one. He illustrates with examples like the Canon R5, Leica Q3, and Hasselblad 907X 100C, and emphasizes that gear choices should support speed, portability, and creative exploration, including the value of slower, film-based workflows. The core message is that the right combination or even a single camera can cover all three functions, depending on the photographer's needs and evolving style.Read more →
CNET...The 5 Best Sunrise Alarm Clocks and How to Choose OneThe article highlights sunrise alarm clocks as a calmer alternative to traditional alarms and notes ongoing Black Friday/Cyber Monday deals on top models. It covers expert insights and CNET-tested picks—such as Hatch Restore 3, Casper Glow Light, Lumie Rise 100, and Jall Wake Up Light—emphasizing customizable light and sound options and app-based controls to ease waking and improve sleep quality.Read more →
CNET...Best Smart Home Safes for 2025: We Cracked the CodeThe article outlines how reviewers evaluate a smart home safe, focusing on setup ease, installation, biometric and keypad access, app-based controls, and tamper notifications. It also tests durability and resistance to attacks to ensure the device remains secure and provides reliable alerts and lockdown capabilities.Read more →
CNET...The Best Smart-Home Gifts for the Holidays 2025Video doorbells are highlighted as a convenient home-safety upgrade, with the Google Nest Doorbell singled out for easy setup and a feature set that includes two-way audio, live video, and up to three hours of recording without a subscription. A paid plan starting at $10 per month offers extended storage (30 days) and additional features, distinguishing the product from competitors that rely on more cloud storage options.Read more →
CNET...Best Google Smart-Home Devices in 2025Google's Nest Hub (second generation) is pitched as a versatile smart display and central smart-home hub, pairing voice control via Google Assistant with a touchscreen interface. It includes adaptive brightness for photo-frame use, Soli-based Sleep Sensing and quick gestures, plus a kitchen helper and a streamlined control panel for room-by-room device management, all at about $100 and marketed as the best Google Assistant smart display.Read more →
The Verge...The DualSense Edge has fallen to one of the lowest we’ve seen for Black FridaySony's DualSense Edge pro-style controller is on sale ahead of Black Friday for about $169 ($30 off) at major retailers, with the black version discounted more than usual. The device offers extensive PS5 customization, including up to four profiles, button mapping, rear paddles, adjustable L2/R2 triggers, and swappable stick modules, but The Verge notes it delivers roughly eight hours of battery life per charge and includes a long charging cable to mitigate disconnections. While the upsides are strong for serious gamers, the battery life drawback is a notable trade-off.Read more →
Engadget...Google limits free Nano Banana Pro image generation usage due to 'high demand'Google is tightening free access to its Nano Banana Pro and Gemini 3 Pro AI services, reducing free users to two image generations per day (down from three) and offering only basic access with fluctuating daily limits for non-paying users. Paid plans remain unchanged at 100 prompts per day for Google AI Pro and 500 per day for AI Ultra. This follows a broader industry pattern, with OpenAI having adjusted free-tier image generation before eventually restoring access for free users.Read more →
Gizmodo...Where to Find ‘Bluey’ This Holiday Season and New YearThe article provides a brief update for fans about the future adventures of the Ludo Studio Heeler family, highlighting availability on Disney+ and potentially other platforms. It signals that new content is in the works, with Disney+ as a primary home and possible expansion beyond that service.Read more →
Engadget...US patent office says generative AI is equivalent to other tools in inventors' beltsThe US Patent and Trademark Office released updated guidelines clarifying that generative AI systems are tools used by human inventors, not inventors themselves. Director John Squires says AI is analogous to other instruments like lab equipment and databases, with no separate process for AI-assisted inventions and joint inventorship applying when multiple natural persons contribute. The guidance preserves the Federal Circuit’s rule that AI cannot be an inventor, while providing clearer criteria on patentability for AI-assisted innovations such as new medications, and will be published in the Federal Register on November 28.Read more →
CNET...Today's NYT Connections Hints, Answers and Help for Nov. 28, #901The article presents today’s New York Times Connections hints and solutions, detailing the four puzzle groupings (Yellow: Fitting; Green: Achieve victory over; Blue: Parts of an electric guitar; Purple: Phonetic elements of speech) and their corresponding answers. It also notes that the Times has launched a Connections Bot in Times Games to score plays and track user progress, including puzzles completed, win rate, perfect scores, and win streaks.Read more →
CNET...Today's NYT Strands Hints, Answers and Help for Nov. 28 #635The article provides hints, rules, and solutions for today’s New York Times Strands puzzle, including a theme clue 'If all else fails' and instructions for unlocking in-game hints. It lists several non-spangram answers (DANDELION, STAR, COIN, FOUNTAIN, LADYBUG, EYELASH) and reveals the completed spangram MAKEAWISH, noting that the total number of theme words can vary.Read more →
CNET...Today's Wordle Hints, Answer and Help for Nov. 28, #1623The article provides hints for today’s Wordle puzzle and confirms the answer as COLIC, noting it has a repeated letter, two vowels, starts with C and ends with C, and refers to a painful infant condition. It also lists yesterday’s answer (REMIT) and several recent Wordle solutions.Read more →
The Verge...The Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses are at their best-ever price for Black FridayMeta’s Ray-Ban Meta Gen 2 glasses show only modest upgrades over the 2021 original, delivering a similar experience but with longer battery life. The Gen 2 offers up to eight hours of use plus a charging case for about two extra days, while planned software updates will bring features like slo-mo, hyperlapse, improved live translation, and conversation focus to both generations. With the first-gen model currently on sale around $239, it remains a compelling option for hands-free photography, video, and social sharing via Facebook and Instagram.Read more →
Engadget...Chicago Bears vs. Philadelphia Eagles: How to watch the NFL Black Friday football gameTwo top NFC teams—the Philadelphia Eagles and Chicago Bears—meet in a Black Friday matchup that will be streamed exclusively on Prime Video, with the winner potentially impacting the NFC playoff race as they sit No. 2 and No. 3 respectively. Following a surprising loss to the Cowboys and the injury to rookie safety Drew Mukuma, Friday’s 3:00 p.m. ET kickoff at Lincoln Financial Field takes on added significance as Week 13 unfolds.Read more →
CNET...Best Indoor Security Cameras for 2025: Tested in Our Own HomesIndoor security camera buyers should prioritize field of view (about 130 degrees, with PTZ for wider coverage). Price is a factor, with many quality indoor cams under $100 unless extra features justify paying more. Key features to look for include night vision, motion detection, two-way audio, and smart home compatibility, along with cloud versus local storage options and ongoing privacy and security considerations.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘The Host’ Showing Off Its Kaiju in Broad Daylight Is Still a Huge Flex Worth CelebratingIo9 revisits Bong Joon Ho's debut monster film, The Host, praising how it defies conventional creature-feature tropes while balancing heart, horror, and humor. The retro assessment argues the film's blend of emotion and scares remains enduring nearly 20 years after its release.Read more →
Engadget...Chicago Bears vs. Philadelphia Eagles: How to watch the 2025 NFL Black Friday football gameAmazon Prime Video remains the exclusive home for Friday's Bears-Eagles NFL game and this season's Thursday Night Football. The article also outlines Prime's membership options and pricing, including the ability to subscribe to Prime Video alone for $9 per month, a 30-day free trial, and discounts for students or qualified government assistance, with the full Prime plan at $15 per month or $139 per year.Read more →
TechCrunch...This Thanksgiving’s real drama may be Michael Burry versus NvidiaFamed investor Michael Burry has intensified his campaign against Nvidia, arguing the AI stock boom is overvalued and betting against Nvidia and OpenAI. He launched a Substack to broadcast his case and, aided by a growing audience and relaxed regulatory constraints, could become a catalyst for the very collapse he predicts if investors doubt the AI rally enough to trigger a broader sell-off. Nvidia has pushed back, and the dispute mirrors past episodes where outspoken critics influenced market perception, raising the risk that sentiment could drive a downturn even if fundamentals remain strong.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Story of How Cats Conquered the World Just Got WeirderNew genetic evidence suggests that cat domestication began later than previously thought, challenging long-held timelines for when humans first formed close relationships with felines. The finding implies that cats may have taken longer to transition from wild predators to household companions, prompting researchers to reevaluate how and when domestication occurred. Further studies are needed to clarify the progression and regional differences of this process.Read more →
The Verge...Dreame’s X40 Ultra is arguably the best robovac deal you can grab for Black FridayThe Dreame X40 Ultra robot vacuum is on sale for $499.99 through December 1 at Amazon, Best Buy, and directly from Dreame, down from $700. It combines 12,000Pa suction, AI-powered smart dirt detection, and automatic mop-pad switching with self-emptying and self-washing capabilities, delivering a largely hands-free cleaning experience. Its effective room mapping and obstacle avoidance make it a strong all-in-one solution for vacuuming and mopping on both hard floors and carpets.Read more →
Gizmodo...Amazon Decided Profit Doesn’t Matter on Galaxy S25 Ultra, Zero-Margin Play Crushes iPhone 17 ProThe article highlights the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra and its key specs: Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, 512GB storage, built-in S Pen, and a 5000mAh battery. These features suggest a premium device with all-day battery life.Read more →
TechCrunch...How Glīd won Startup Battlefield 2025: Mentorship, mission-focus, and meditationIsabelle Johannessen leads TechCrunch's Startup Battlefield, scouting top founders from more than 99 countries and preparing them to pitch on the Disrupt stage before tier-one investors and global media. She has designed and led international startup acceleration programs across Japan, Korea, Italy, and Spain, connecting founders with VCs and helping them enter the U.S. market. With a Master’s in Entrepreneurship & Disruptive Innovation and a background as a professional singer, she combines strategic rigor with stage presence to help founders craft compelling stories and stand out in crowded markets.Read more →
Gizmodo...The ‘Rick and Morty’ Thanksgiving Episode Takes a Delightfully Cynical Jab at American ValuesThe article highlights the 2021 Rick and Morty episode 'Thanksploitation Spectacular,' noting its satirical take on a White House feud alongside turkey-based body horror and themes of ancient aliens. It emphasizes the show's blend of political humor and sci-fi horror within a Thanksgiving-inspired storyline.Read more →
Engadget...A Google Maps power-saving mode lands on Pixel 10 devicesGoogle Maps now includes a battery-saving power mode for Pixel 10 devices (including the Pixel 10, 10 Pro, 10 Pro XL, and 10 Pro Fold) introduced in the November 2025 Pixel Drop. In portrait orientation on the lock screen, navigation switches to a monochrome, simplified view that shows only essential trip details, potentially boosting battery life by up to four hours and can be disabled in Settings under Navigation > Driving options. The feature is currently exclusive to the Pixel 10 lineup, with a possible wider rollout in the future and potential use in Android Auto.Read more →
CNET...10 Best Thanksgiving Movies to Watch After Your FeastAn article provides a rundown of 10 Thanksgiving-related films to watch, with spoiler warnings and streaming options for each title. It spans from comedy classics like Planes, Trains and Automobiles to dramas and family favorites such as A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving, detailing where each film can be streamed or rented. The piece also notes that Arlo Guthrie's Alice's Restaurant isn't included.Read more →
TechCrunch...Best iPad apps for unleashing and exploring your creativityThe piece surveys a selection of lesser-known iPad apps that empower creativity beyond Adobe, spanning drawing, video editing, and graphic design. It highlights Procreate, LumaFusion, Canva, Affinity Designer 2, Concepts, Tayasui Sketches, Dudel Draw, and Sketchbook, noting their key capabilities and pricing to help readers decide which app to try on an iPad.Read more →
CNET...Google's Nest Learning Thermostat Slashed My Heating Bill, and It's $50 Off for Black FridayAmazon's Black Friday deal reduces Google's Nest Learning Thermostat Gen 4 to $230, a price that can pay for itself in about a year through energy savings. The thermostat uses Auto-Eco modes, adaptive scheduling, occupancy sensing, and utility programs to reduce heating and cooling costs, with energy reports and Google Home/Matter compatibility to simplify usage. While high-end in price, the device is justified by potential rebates and substantial ongoing savings, especially during peak heating periods.Read more →
TechCrunch...Glīd won Startup Battlefield 2025 by building solutions to make logistis simpler, safer, and smarterGlīd founder Kevin Damoa won TechCrunch Disrupt’s Startup Battlefield, presenting a hardware-software logistics solution designed to simplify container shipments, inspired by his Army experience. The episode highlights how the team coordinated multiple product launches, plans a pilot with Great Plains Industrial Park, and is recruiting across the business as they accelerate toward the next phase, with Damoa emphasizing focus and mindfulness.Read more →
Engadget...The best MagSafe power banks for your iPhoneEngadget tests more than a dozen MagSafe power banks for 2025, assessing speed, capacity, design, and value as new Qi2 25W chargers hit the market. The top pick is Anker MagGo Qi2 Power Bank with a 10,000mAh capacity, display, and stand, with several fast alternatives from Mophie, Ugreen, Baseus and Anker offering varying combos of price, form factor and features. The piece also explains capacity expectations, iPhone compatibility (including iPhone 17/16 with iOS 26), and practical travel tips.Read more →
CNET...Europa League Soccer: Livestream Nottingham Forest vs. Malmö FF From AnywhereThe article details where and how to watch Nottingham Forest vs. Malmö FF in the UEFA Europa League, with US viewers able to stream the game on Paramount Plus and international broadcast options in the UK (TNT Sports), Canada (DAZN), and Australia (Stan Sport). It provides kickoff times for multiple time zones, highlights Nottingham Forest's European history and current form, and adds guidance on using VPNs to stream from abroad where applicable.Read more →
Engadget...The best tech gifts and cool gadgets for 2025After deciding to practice seriously again in 2025, the author finds the Keeley Dark Side pedal essential for a wide variety of tones. The pedal pairs a flexible fuzz/distortion channel with a tape delay and multiple modulation modes (rotary, flanger, univibe, phaser), plus a blend control that lets players mix effects, offering Floyd-like textures at a reasonable $300.Read more →
Gizmodo...Judge Says ICE Used ChatGPT to Write Use-of-Force ReportsThe article centers on the provocative idea of 'ChatGPT for Fascists,' examining how AI chat tools could be misused by extremist ideologies. It discusses safety, moderation, and policy challenges as AI models might be leveraged to generate propaganda, spread misinformation, or assist with recruitment, raising concerns about abuse and safeguards for AI platforms.Read more →
The Verge...Philips Hue’s Festavia string lights are up to $158 off just in time for ChristmasPhilips Hue's Festavia holiday string lights are on sale at Amazon, with 65-foot for $145.19 and 130-foot for $237.60—the lowest prices since launch. The IP54 indoor/outdoor lights offer Bluetooth control and, with a Hue Bridge or Bridge Pro, automation, music syncing, and Matter compatibility, integrating with the Hue ecosystem and major smart-home platforms; the article also notes cheaper Govee Lights 2 options as alternatives with different ratings and features.Read more →
The Verge...How Microsoft’s developers are using AIMicrosoft is aggressively embedding AI agents into its software development workflow, including a coding agent in GitHub Copilot that can create draft pull requests and run in the background to automate tasks. Executives cite productivity gains, with Nadella noting AI has written up to 30% of code on some projects and teams reporting major savings in migrations, bug fixes, and documentation. Yet adoption varies, some developers worry about job impact, and engineers warn that AI alone can’t replace human judgment and care is needed to ensure reliability across pipelines.Read more →
Engadget...Black Friday deals include Switch 2-compatible microSD Express cards for record-low pricesSanDisk's 256GB microSD Express Card for the Nintendo Switch 2 is down to a record-low $60 on Amazon (with 128GB and 512GB options available). It performed as the fastest card in transfers and loading games in benchmarks and real-world tests, making it a top pick for the Switch 2. The card is SD Express-compatible and usable beyond the console, with mentions of nearby deals on competing 256GB models.Read more →
The Verge...Watch how Apple made its new puppet-packed holiday adApple released a festive short film, A Critter Carol, featuring a forest of tech-savvy woodland creatures and a plot centered on an iPhone 17 Pro. The production emphasizes practical effects and hand-crafted puppets, shot entirely on iPhone 17 Pro, with a behind-the-scenes look showing blue-screen work and post-production to digitally extend the scene; a hiker uses an Apple Watch to locate the phone. The piece contrasts with Coca-Cola’s AI-generated ads, highlighting Apple's continued focus on tangible filmmaking techniques.Read more →
CNET...This Quick Trick Cuts Turkey Cooking Time in HalfA food writer explores steaming a whole turkey to reduce oven time, finding that this method can jump-start roasting and cut total cooking to about 90 minutes for a 12-pound bird. By steaming for 30 minutes before finishing in the oven, using a large pot and a foil nest to keep the turkey elevated, the result is tender meat with golden skin and substantial oven time savings. The article explains the science behind steam's efficiency and provides practical setup steps, presenting steaming as a viable Thanksgiving prep technique.Read more →
Engadget...Plex starts paywalling remote streaming to TVs, beginning with its Roku appPlex is introducing a paywall for remote streaming from a personal Plex server to TV apps, requiring the server owner to have a Plex Pass to grant access to others. The rollout starts with the Roku app and will expand to other TV apps and third-party clients by 2026, with Plex Pass priced at $7/month, $70/year, or $250 lifetime and a separate Remote Watch Pass available. The change shifts previously free functionality behind a paid tier, prompting criticism and noting open-source alternatives like Jellyfin.Read more →
Engadget...Amazon Black Friday deals: Pick up the Echo Spot smart alarm clock for only $50Amazon is offering the Echo Spot for $50 as part of Black Friday promotions, a $30 discount that brings the price very close to a record low. The compact speaker-alarm clock features a customizable screen, supports Alexa and the newer Alexa+, and emphasizes privacy by omitting a camera, with other Echo devices also discounted during the sale.Read more →
Gizmodo...The Pop Culture We’re Thankful for Getting Us Through 2025IO9 highlights the pop culture they are thankful for this year, spotlighting Andor, Expedition 33, and the work of streamers and artists. The piece underscores a broad year in entertainment spanning television, gaming, and online creators, reflecting fan engagement across platforms.Read more →
Engadget...The Beats Studio Pro headphones are more than half off for Black FridayBlack Friday deals have slashed the Beats Studio Pro to $170, a 51% discount that brings its price in line with prior peak-season sales. The wireless over-ear headphones offer Transparency mode, active noise cancellation, and up to 40 hours of battery life (24 hours with ANC), plus fast charging and lossless audio when wired. The Beats Solo 4 is also on sale at $130, making Beats’ lineup particularly affordable this holiday shopping season.Read more →
The Verge...A humanoid robot-shaped bubble is forming, China warnsChina’s top economic planner warned that the humanoid robotics sector may be entering a bubble as investment surges despite few proven use cases, urging a balance between growth speed and risk. With more than 150 humanoid robotics firms, many startups or entrants from other industries, Beijing is pushing caution amid concerns of a flood of similar models as funding tightens. This warning follows the government designating embodied intelligence as a national priority earlier this year, signaling tighter policy scrutiny and continued emphasis on the sector’s future growth.Read more →
Engadget...The 8Bitdo Ultimate Controller drops to $40 for Black FridayA Black Friday deal highlights the 8Bitdo Ultimate Bluetooth Controller and Charging Dock, discounted 43% from $70 to $40 for a limited white model. The controller, compatible with Steam Deck, Switch, and Nintendo Switch 2, remains a strong option for gamers, and the sale brings attention to the original model alongside 8Bitdo’s newer Ultimate 2 Bluetooth release.Read more →
The Verge...Kuxiu’s solid-state power bank now has more capacity and faster wireless chargingKuxiu unveiled the S3, a semi-solid state battery power bank with 10,000mAh capacity, up from the S2, offering Qi2.2 wireless charging up to 25W and USB-C PD up to 35W. The device includes a kickstand, a capacity/status display, a removable USB-C cable, and more magnets for stability; it’s heavier and pricier than typical packs but is marketed as safer with an expected 1,000-cycle lifespan and about 80% capacity remaining thereafter, available now at $149.98 (often discounted).Read more →
Engadget...Black Friday deals include Sony's WH-1000XM5 headphones for an all-time lowBlack Friday deals drop Sony's WH-1000XM5 wireless headphones to $250, the lowest price seen, while the XM6 flagship is on sale for $398. The XM5 remains a strong value due to its comfort, sound quality, and effective ANC, even though the XM6 offers improved performance at a higher price. Engadget’s review highlighted the XM5’s 30-hour battery life and enhanced noise cancellation for higher-frequency sounds.Read more →
Gizmodo...This Huge 11-Inch Handheld Can’t Quite Be the 3DS of PC GamingThe Abxylute 3D One is a handheld device that attempts a wide range of features, but not all of them perform well. The review points to mixed results, suggesting the ambitious design may not fully pay off.Read more →
The Verge...How to help your parents with their tech over the holidaysAn editor offers a practical guide for adult children to support aging parents with technology, focusing on security, independence, and reducing repeat tech-support calls. It walks through turning on automatic updates across macOS, iOS, Windows, and Android; safeguarding accounts from scams; enabling remote help; setting up emergency contacts; and using smart-home devices to simplify assistance.Read more →
The Verge...Disney Plus, Hulu, and HBO Max are all over 60 percent off for Black FridayBlack Friday deals across multiple streaming services offer substantial discounts on subscriptions, including six months of Apple TV+ for $5.99 per month and HBO Max’s annual ad-supported plan for $2.99 per month. Bundles covering Disney+, Hulu, ESPN, Paramount+, YouTube TV, Starz, and other add-ons feature varied ad-supported and ad-free options, with extensive savings highlighted, though Netflix is not participating this year. The promotions span a wide range of services and devices, providing offline viewing and live TV access across platforms.Read more →
Engadget...Alibaba launches its own AI glassesAlibaba has begun selling its Quark AI smart glasses in China, offering two lines — the premium S1 and the lighter G1 — with the Qwen AI app for voice and touch-based AI assistance. The glasses integrate with Alibaba's ecosystem (Alipay, Taobao, QQ Music) and provide on-the-go translation and AI-generated meeting notes, with the S1 featuring micro-OLED displays, dual chips, and up to 3K image quality and AI-enhanced 4K video, while the G1 is designed for everyday wear. Priced from ¥3,799 for the S1 and ¥1,899 for the G1, it's unclear whether a broader global release is planned as of now.Read more →
CNET...Europa League Soccer: Livestream Aston Villa vs. Young Boys From AnywhereAston Villa hosts Young Boys in a UEFA Europa League group-stage clash at Villa Park, aiming for a fourth consecutive win across competitions after climbing to the Premier League top four. The match is broadcast in the U.S. on Paramount Plus, with regional rights in the UK (TNT Sports), Canada (DAZN), and Australia (Stan Sport); the article also outlines streaming options and considerations for using VPNs to access content abroad. It highlights Villa's recent form, including a comeback victory over Leeds, and recalls their previous meeting with Young Boys in last season's Champions League group stage.Read more →
CNET...This Robot Vacuum Dodges All My Obstacles and Pets, and It's 50% Off Right NowCNET highlights a Black Friday deal on the premium Dreame X50 Ultra robot vacuum, discounted from $1,600 to $800—the lowest price seen to date. The model stands out with features like auxiliary climbing arms for multilevel cleaning, strong pet-hair performance, a tangle-free roller, and camera+lidar navigation with app controls, including pet photo viewing and live mapping. While it’s praised for obstacle handling and overall cleaning coverage (Editors' Choice and Lab Award), the review notes it remains expensive and not the best pure carpet cleaner, with cheaper models offering strong carpet performance.Read more →
Engadget...Black Friday deals include this Roomba robot vacuum for only $130iRobot’s entry-level Roomba 104 Vac is on Black Friday sale, discounted by 48% to a record-low $130, with several other Roomba models also discounted. The 104 Vac features four suction levels, LiDAR-based mapping, app-based scheduling, and spot-cleaning, plus an offline mode that cleans and charges without internet access. The sale comes amid iRobot’s financial struggles, though the offline functionality remains a strong selling point for hands-off cleaning.Read more →
The Verge...Why can’t ChatGPT tell time?ChatGPT often cannot reliably tell the current time because, as a language model, it doesn’t have built-in access to a real-time clock unless it is allowed to search or access the host device. Experts explain that time is easy to compute for devices, but adding clock data to the model’s context can create clutter and errors, leading to inconsistent responses. Users can obtain the correct time by requesting a web search or enabling clock access in the app, and OpenAI says it is working on making time-awareness more consistent while noting the associated tradeoffs and risks of data access.Read more →
The Verge...Around 500 million PCs are holding off upgrading to Windows 11, says DellDell says about 500 million PCs can upgrade to Windows 11 but are staying on Windows 10, while another 500 million older devices cannot meet Windows 11's hardware requirements. This dual situation contributes to slower Windows 11 adoption compared with Windows 10 and suggests a near-flat PC market next year, even as Microsoft pushes AI-enabled Windows machines. Microsoft executives have also claimed nearly a billion people rely on Windows 11, though the meaning of that figure remains unclear.Read more →
Engadget...Dyson Black Friday deals: Robot vacuums and cordless vacuums are up to $600 off right nowDyson’s Black Friday sale features substantial discounts on vacuums, including the Dyson 360 Vis Nav robot vacuum now $400, $100 below its previous all-time low and the cheapest price seen. The V9 Motorbar cordless vacuum is $270 and the V11 Extra is $400, with the company highlighting strong suction, long battery life, and ease of use, while noting the lack of features like self-emptying bases or mopping. Overall, the deals emphasize proven performance and value for users prioritizing cleaning power and versatility across floor types.Read more →
Gizmodo...11 Fantastic Movies From 2025 to Catch Up on This Holiday SeasonThe article highlights that 11 of 2025's top films will be available to stream at home, meaning viewers can watch award contenders without leaving the house. It emphasizes the growing at-home viewing options for the upcoming year and the convenience of streaming during the Thanksgiving period.Read more →
CNET...43 of the Best Movies on Netflix You Should Stream Right NowNetflix has evolved into a dominant force in the film industry, securing three Oscars in 2025 and an Emmy for Rebel Ridge, while original titles like KPop Demon Hunters have become career milestones for the platform. The piece also spotlights two new releases, Champagne Problems and Train Dreams, and provides a broad catalog of Netflix titles across genres, reinforcing the streamer’s role as a primary home for both prestige cinema and popular hits.Read more →
The Verge...Joachim Trier finds his placeNorwegian director Joachim Trier’s Sentimental Value is shaping up as an awards-season contender after Cannes acclaim, centering on a negligent father and his estranged daughter. The film treats a single house as a character and uses a 'polyphonic structure,' intimate 35mm cinematography, and flexible casting and script revisions to shape mood, pause, and interpretation.Read more →
CNET...I Tried This Viral VPN Travel Trick to Score Cheaper Hotels and FlightsA test of the viral claim that setting a VPN to a cheaper country will dramatically lower travel costs finds that flight prices mostly remain similar while hotel rates can dip by roughly $100–$200 in some cases. The investigation attributes this to airlines and booking sites using techniques like deep packet inspection and browser fingerprinting to deduce actual location, limiting the effectiveness of region-based pricing. The article concludes that VPNs remain valuable for privacy and access to geo-restricted services, but they are not a magic way to snag major travel discounts, and users should keep software up to date to avoid security risks.Read more →
Engadget...The Ninja Creami ice cream drops to $180 for Black FridayBlack Friday pricing has brought the Ninja Creami ice-cream maker down to $180, the lowest price this year for this model, following its strong 90 review score. The compact machine requires a frozen base prepared 24 hours ahead, features seven one-touch programs (including milkshake), two pint containers, and dishwasher-safe parts, though it operates fairly loudly. The piece also notes the newer Ninja Swirl as another option, discounted on QVC to about $280.Read more →
Engadget...Paramount+ Black Friday deal: Get either the Essential or Premium plan for only $3 per month for two monthsParamount+ is offering a budget-friendly deal: two months of access for $3 per month (or $6 total) on both the Essential and Premium tiers, letting new users try the service with minimal commitment. The Essential plan includes ads, while Premium adds higher-quality playback, offline downloads and live CBS access, with both tiers offering Showtime programming and a library spanning CBS, MTV, Nickelodeon and Comedy Central, plus live sports like NFL on CBS and UEFA Champions League. The move is positioned as a practical way to test the service amid rising streaming prices and evaluate whether the ad-supported or ad-free experience is worth the extra cost.Read more →
Engadget...Missing NBC on Fubo? Here's how to watch the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade and the Bengals vs. Ravens gameFubo has dropped NBCUniversal networks, including NBC, Bravo, CNBC, and more, due to a carriage dispute, leaving subscribers without access during two major Thanksgiving events: the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and the Bengals–Ravens game. A $15 credit is being offered to affected customers, and viewers are encouraged to switch to alternatives like Peacock, DirecTV, or Hulu + Live TV while negotiations continue and no return date has been announced. NBCU contends the decision is on Fubo, citing terms regarding pricing and packaging, while Fubo cites unfavorably high terms offered to NBCU compared with other distributors.Read more →
The Verge...China’s Alibaba giant enters the smart glasses race with removable batteriesAlibaba has unveiled its Quark AI glasses in China, offering two variants (S1 and G1) with a swappable dual-battery system that delivers up to 24 hours of use and a clear micro-OLED display on the S1. The glasses run Alibaba’s Qwen AI model, include bone-conduction mics and cameras, and integrate with apps like Alipay, Taobao, and QQ Music to provide on-device translation, price recognition, navigation, and meeting transcription. International models are planned for next year as Alibaba competes with Meta, Apple and others in the AI wearables race.Read more →
Gizmodo...Chinese Robot Sets Guinness World Record With 66-Mile WalkThe piece frames the U.S.-China robotics competition as increasingly tangible, evidenced by humanoid robots being deployed in public spaces. It highlights AgiBot patrolling the waiting hall of Jinhua railway station during the Spring Festival travel rush on January 14, 2025. The story underscores how robotics innovation is moving from research labs into everyday life, intensifying the bilateral technology race.Read more →
Engadget...The best live TV streaming services to cut cable in 2025The article tests and ranks major live TV streaming services for 2025—YouTube TV, Fubo, Hulu + Live TV, DirecTV Stream, Sling, and Philo—focusing on price, local-channel access, DVR limits, and features like multiview and 4K. It finds that prices have risen across the board (base plans typically in the $83–$90 range), but sports coverage and bundled content can drive value differently by provider. It also highlights NFL streaming options (Sunday Ticket via YouTube TV) and notes free FAST options, helping cord-cutters choose based on sports needs and budget.Read more →
Engadget...reMarkable E Ink tablet bundles are up to $70 off for Black FridayreMarkable is offering Black Friday deals on its E Ink tablets, discounting bundles of the reMarkable 2 and Paper Pro with a folio case and Marker stylus by up to $70. The reMarkable 2 delivers a two-week battery life, cloud storage integration (Google Drive, OneDrive, Dropbox), PDF/ePub support, and handwriting-focused features with eight brush types, while Paper Pro bundles also receive price cuts. The sale notes that Marker Plus isn’t included with the base reMarkable 2, but the bundled pricing (about $458 for the 2 with Marker Plus and case, vs $399 for the tablet alone) helps offset that omission.Read more →
CNET...The Best Apple Black Friday Deals I Think Are Actually Worth GettingThe episode analyzes Apple’s Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals, noting that Apple stores rarely discount and the best savings often come from online Shopping Events and third-party retailers. It highlights potential buys like iPads with compatible Apple Pencil Pro, AirPods Pro 2 or Beats Powerbeats Pro 2, cautions about older M1 MacBook deals amid rumors of a cheaper model, and notes notable AirTag markdowns, directing viewers to subscribe for more updates.Read more →
The Verge...My favorite e-reader is at its lowest price ever for Black FridayWith a Black Friday price of $199.99, the Kobo Libra Colour is pitched as the stronger choice for non-Amazon readers, offering more features than the Kindle Colorsoft for a similar price. It includes physical page-turn buttons, Kobo Stylus 2 support, notebook templates with handwriting-to-text, wider file format support (including EPUB) and offline Instapaper, plus waterproofing and 32GB storage. The trade-off is Kindle books, which aren’t natively supported but can be converted with some extra effort.Read more →
The Verge...Pluribus gets even more lonely — and dangerous — in episode 5In episode 5 of Pluribus, the hive mind finally tires of Carol’s destructive actions and abandons Albuquerque, forcing her to face dangers on her own while maintaining indirect contact with the hive. She uncovers that the hive sustains itself on a yellow liquid, tracing a path from a dairy plant to a dog food factory, and ends with a disturbing refrigerated reveal that unsettles her. The article questions whether the hive and Carol are merely on a break and anticipates new threats as she navigates solo survival.Read more →
Engadget...Pick up the Apple Watch SE 3 for an all-time-low price this Black FridayThe article highlights Black Friday deals on Apple wearables, featuring the Apple Watch SE 3 for $199 at Amazon and Walmart and the Apple Watch Series 11 for $339. It argues the SE 3 is the best budget Apple Watch with an always-on display and fast charging, while the Series 11 is praised for longer battery life, slim design and comprehensive health tracking. The piece frames these discounts as key holiday shopping options and points readers to deal roundups and retailer listings.Read more →
Engadget...Apple Black Friday deals: Get a four-pack of AirTags for a record-low priceBlack Friday sees AirTag pricing at about $65 for a four-pack (roughly $16 per tag when bought individually) and a record-low $18 for a single unit. The trackers integrate with Apple's Find My network, offering sound cues and Precision Finding to locate items, but buyers must purchase an accessory to attach AirTags to keys, bags, or pet collars. The deals reinforce AirTag as a top option for Apple users seeking easy item tracking thanks to wide network coverage and simple setup.Read more →
Engadget...This Apple TV+ Black Friday deal gives you six months of access for only $6 per monthApple TV+ is offering a Black Friday promotion of six months for $36 for new and eligible returning subscribers, available directly through Apple and valid through December 1. After the initial three-month period, the plan renews at the standard $13 per month, so subscribers should cancel if they don’t want ongoing charges. The article highlights Apple TV+’s ad-free, up-to-4K HDR streaming with Dolby Atmos, its expanding lineup of originals and films, offline downloads, cross-device syncing, and Family Sharing within the Apple ecosystem.Read more →
CNET...The Brightest LG OLED TV I’ve Tested Is Down to an Unbeatable Price With This Early Black Friday DealAccording to CNET, the LG G5 OLED is the brightest OLED they've tested, delivering exceptional HDR brightness and sharp shadow detail that enhances gaming, notably in Call of Duty. It’s on Black Friday sale for $1,997 (65-inch) and features LG’s four-stack OLED panel, Dolby Vision HDR, and up to 165Hz VRR, outperforming rivals like the Samsung S95F for gaming. The review brands it as a top pick for serious gamers, while noting there are cheaper options for casual setups.Read more →
The Verge...My AI shopping assistants are stuck in the pastAI-powered shopping features from OpenAI, Google, Perplexity, and Microsoft are rolling out for the holiday season, offering personalized buying guides, price tracking, and even local-store calls. In testing Android smartwatches for the Nothing CMF Phone 1, the author finds that while some tools provide useful comparisons, they frequently rely on outdated data and make incorrect availability claims. Overall, these AI shopping assistants show promise but aren’t yet reliable enough to replace human buying guides.Read more →
The Verge...Intel says star hire from TSMC didn't steal secretsIntel is defending itself against allegations that its latest executive hire from TSMC stole trade secrets, with TSMC suing the executive and Taiwanese prosecutors launching a probe that included raids. The case centers on Wei-Jen Lo, hired to improve Intel's mass production, as authorities seize devices and potential assets while Intel says the allegations lack merit. The situation unfolds amid a 10% U.S. stake in Intel and growing semiconductor competition tied to TSMC's AI-driven momentum.Read more →
Gizmodo...Dreame’s Best Robot Vacuums Just Crashed to Their Lowest Prices of the Year for Black FridayGizmodo promotes a limited-time sale offering up to 60% off on automated vacuum/mop combo robots, described as among the smartest and most advanced in the market. The discounts run through December 1, providing a significant cost-saving opportunity for home-cleaning robotics.Read more →
Gizmodo...This Might Be the Best 3-In-1 Charging Stand for Apple Devices, Except for One ThingAnker's Prime Wireless Charging Station features a built-in screen and fan-assisted cooling, delivering 25W wireless charging. Despite these premium features, the device is highlighted for its unusually high price. The article emphasizes the cost relative to the product's capabilities.Read more →
Engadget...Samsung Black Friday deals: Gaming monitors are up to $350 off, plus more discountsSamsung’s Odyssey G8 32-inch 4K OLED gaming monitor is on sale for $950 this Black Friday, offering 240Hz and 0.03ms response with deep blacks and 99% DCI-P3 color. It includes USB-C, DisplayPort 1.4, HDMI 2.1, built-in speakers and streaming apps, plus SmartThings integration and cloud gaming support via Xbox Game Pass and NVIDIA GeForce Now, making it a versatile work-and-play display. The sale also discounts other models like the Odyssey G9 and G7, as well as the M9 Smart Monitor.Read more →
CNET...The Poco F8 Ultra's Denim-Looks and Killer Audio Make It a Phone Rock StarPoco's F8 Ultra positions itself as a premium flagship with a 6.9-inch display, a 6,500 mAh battery with 100W wired charging, and the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, all available for $729. Its standout feature is a Bose-tuned audio system delivering immersive 2.1-channel sound, aiming to make it a top media device among peers, supported by multiple EQ profiles. While the camera system is versatile with three 50MP sensors, performance is uneven at times, and the phone will not be launching in the US, affecting its global availability.Read more →
CNET...The Most Fun I've Ever Had With AI Is Vibe Coding Retro Video Games. Here's How I Did ItGemini 3's vibe coding can generate playable, browser-based demakes of classic games, demonstrated with Chip's Challenge, Jezzball, 8-Bit Tomba!, and a Silent Hill-inspired prototype. The reviewer notes Gemini 3 is more context-aware and provides thorough explanations and practical steps (including how to package for Android), suggesting AI can help preserve nostalgic titles and enable rapid prototyping. A side test with ChatGPT shows the AI can produce simpler remakes but lacks Gemini's polish and depth.Read more →
CNET...iPhone 17 vs. iPhone 16: Which Should You Buy?Apple's iPhone 17 starts at $829 with 256GB of base storage, a larger 6.3-inch 120Hz display, improved brightness and durability features, and upgrades to the front and ultrawide cameras. The iPhone 16 remains available at a $100 discount, offering a cheaper option with older specs. The iPhone 17 also carries an A19 chip and will support iOS 26 with Adaptive Power, though real-world battery endurance remains similar to the iPhone 16.Read more →
Gizmodo...Clean Up on the Black Friday Deals at Eureka and Save Big On These Five Powerhouse VacuumsThe Gizmodo article promotes a sale on Eureka cleaning devices, featuring robotic vacuum and mop combos, powerful floor vacuums, and versatile stick vacuums. Discounts reach up to 33% and run through December 1, offering shoppers savings on a range of home cleaning appliances. The piece highlights the breadth of Eureka models included in the promotion.Read more →
The Verge...The VPN panic is only getting startedBritain’s Online Safety Act’s strict age checks are being bypassed by VPNs, triggering a rapid surge in VPN usage as users spoof locations to avoid the scrutiny. The government, Ofcom, and lawmakers are weighing responses, including extending age-gating to VPNs, though a full ban remains unlikely. Experts warn that restricting VPNs could push users toward riskier tools and privacy concerns, while VPNs are defended for legitimate privacy and security reasons.Read more →
CNET...29 Best Travel Gifts in 2025: Must-Have Tech for the Traveler in Your LifeThe JBL Go 4 is highlighted as a highly portable, affordable wireless speaker with IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating, USB-C charging, and a variety of colors. At $40, it’s positioned as a strong value and a top pick for a pocket-sized travel companion, with the best price seen so far and likely to stay favorable through the holiday season.Read more →
Engadget...2025 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade: How to watch today, start time, where to stream and moreThe 99th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade will be broadcast on NBC and streamed on Peacock beginning at 8:30 a.m. ET on Thanksgiving, with a roughly 3.5-hour runtime and a 2 p.m. encore. The event features a star-studded lineup including Cynthia Erivo, Lainey Wilson, Ciara, and new floats and balloons such as Buzz Lightyear, Pac-Man, Shrek’s Onion Carriage, and Mario, plus Derpy and Sussie from Netflix’s K-Pop Demon Hunters, hosted by Savannah Guthrie, Hoda Kotb, and Al Roker.Read more →
CNET...Stop Recharging Your Security Cams. This Blink Is on Sale for Black FridayBlack Friday shoppers can pick up a two-camera Blink Outdoor 4 bundle for $70, about $180 off the original price. The review praises the camera’s long battery life—lithium AA batteries rated up to two years—along with easy setup, a straightforward app, and optional cloud storage via the Sync Module; solar panels are also available. It also notes Alexa-only compatibility and compares value favorably against rivals like Ring or Arlo.Read more →
Engadget...Our favorite budgeting app has 50 percent off subscriptions for Black FridayThe article reports Black Friday discounts on Quicken budgeting apps, with Quicken Simplifi available at $3 per month (down from $6) and Quicken Classic at $6 per month (down from $12) for a limited time. The sale runs today through December 3, and the piece highlights Simplifi's user-friendly interface, co-manager sharing, and features like tracking net worth, spending, and upcoming payments, while noting there is no free trial.Read more →
Gizmodo...Scientists Just Found Another Way Antarctica Is Falling ApartNew research describes how freezing and melting in Antarctica generate vortices that funnel warmer deep waters to the surface, accelerating the destruction of the continent's ice shelves. This mechanism compounds the rapid ice-shelf degradation and could hasten related sea-level rise.Read more →
Engadget...Best Black Friday streaming deals for 2025: One year of the Disney+ Hulu bundle for $60, plus big savings on Apple TV+, HBO Max and othersEngadget roundup of Black Friday streaming deals for 2025 highlights discounts across services like Apple TV+, HBO Max, Paramount+, Sling TV, MasterClass, Audible, Plex, Fubo TV, Starz and DirecTV. Most offers require new or lapsed subscribers and run through December 1, with options including multi-month pricing, day passes, or yearly deals that dramatically cut monthly costs. The piece emphasizes shoppers compare plans to maximize value amid rising streaming prices.Read more →
EngadgetEngadget...The Disney+ Hulu bundle drops to $5 per month for one year during Black FridayDisney+ and Hulu are offering an annual Duo Basic bundle with ads for $5 per month ($60 total) through December 1, giving new and returning subscribers a full year of both services. The deal emphasizes value for families and general audiences, highlighting Disney+’s library of franchises and Hulu’s current TV shows, originals and next-day ABC/FX streaming, with an option to upgrade to ad-free Duo Premium.Read more →
CNET...I Dug Up 120 Killer Black Friday Deals From Apple, Samsung, Eufy, Ring and MoreCNET's shopping team curates a centralized Black Friday deals hub with deep discounts across categories (TVs, laptops, headphones, Apple products and more) from major retailers. The piece emphasizes many items are at their lowest prices of 2025 and commits to ongoing updates through the holiday weekend to help shoppers lock in savings.Read more →
CNET...Fitness Experts Weigh In on Whether Walking Actually Counts as ExerciseExperts say walking is a legitimate form of exercise with wide-ranging health benefits, including lower cardiovascular risk, improved sleep, and better balance. They advise aiming for about 150 minutes of moderate walking per week, with options to increase duration, pace, or add intervals to boost intensity, plus practical safety and motivation tips for daily walks. The article also notes walking trends like the 'hot girl walk' and suggests that, under the right conditions, walking can support weight loss and reduce cancer risk.Read more →
Engadget...Oura Black Friday deals: Smart rings are up to 30 percent off right nowThe article spotlights Black Friday discounts on Oura’s smart rings, led by the Ring 4 now priced at $249. It highlights the Ring 4’s comfort, design, and broad size range, along with its health-tracking features (sleep, heart rate, stress, temperature, menstrual cycle) and about a week of battery life, while noting that many features are behind a $6/month or $70/year subscription. It also mentions discounted gold and Stealth variants, framing these deals as a notable moment for wearable health tech.Read more →
Gizmodo...All the Bad Things That Can Happen When You Generate a Sora VideoAn article discusses the appeal of playing with cutting-edge AI, but also argues there are valid reasons to exercise caution. It suggests that while experimenting can be entertaining, the potential risks or negative consequences warrant restraint when tinkering with powerful AI tools.Read more →
CNET...Today's NYT Strands Hints, Answers and Help for Nov. 27 #634The article provides a walkthrough for today’s New York Times Strands puzzle with a holiday theme, detailing how players reveal theme words by finding multiple four-letter-or-longer words and presenting the nonspangram answers FOOD, LIFE, FAMILY, FRIENDS, HEALTH, WORK, COMMUNITY along with the spangram THANKFUL. It also mentions clue examples used by players, notes recent toughest Strands puzzles (e.g., PHAT, BALEEN, BIGEYE, SKIPJACK), and points readers to CNET’s NYT puzzle hints page for daily hints and other puzzles.Read more →
Engadget...The 7 best cordless vacuums for 2025Engadget's cordless vacuum buying guide shows that cordless sticks have become powerful, feature-rich options that can rival corded models, with models ranging from Dyson's top-tier V15 Detect to budget-friendly Levoit units. After hands-on testing, the V15 Detect is named the best overall for its suction and advanced features (including a laser head), with the Shark PowerDetect and Levoit LVAC-300 highlighted as strong runner-up and budget picks, respectively, and a range of additional models reviewed for different needs and budgets. The article also offers buying guidance on design, bin capacity, battery life, self-emptying bases, filtration, and whether app connectivity is worth it for most users.Read more →
CNET...NFL Thanksgiving Games: How to Watch the Today and the TV Schedule for Week 13The article previews three NFL Thanksgiving Day games with matchups and kickoff times (Packers vs Lions, Chiefs vs Cowboys, Ravens vs Bengals) and notes a Black Friday game the following day, along with streaming options to watch. It also explains how VPNs can help bypass blackout restrictions and emphasizes privacy and reliability, recommending ExpressVPN as a top choice for streaming NFL games.Read more →
CNET...7 Must-Have Air Fryer Accessories to Take Your Cooking to the Next LevelThe article reviews seven air fryer accessories designed to expand cooking capabilities and ease of use, including silicone-tipped tongs, a metal rack with skewers, baking pans, a hot plate gripper, muffin molds, a meat thermometer, and silicone basket liners. Each item is described with typical uses, benefits, compatibility notes, and price ranges, offering practical guidance to upgrade an air fryer setup and broaden the range of dishes that can be prepared.Read more →
CNET...NFL Thanksgiving Games: How to Watch Today and the TV Schedule for Week 13Football fans can look forward to three Thanksgiving Day NFL games (Packers vs Lions, Chiefs vs Cowboys, Ravens vs Bengals) with broadcast and streaming options outlined, plus a Black Friday matchup (Bears vs Eagles) the following day. The article also explains how to watch from anywhere using a VPN to bypass blackout restrictions and protect privacy, highlighting ExpressVPN and recommending streaming services like Paramount Plus, Fox One, and Peacock.Read more →
Engadget...Lego Black Friday deals are live: Save up to 44 percent on Star Wars, Disney, Harry Potter and other sets during the biggest holiday saleThe article highlights LEGO Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals with at least 20% off a wide range of sets across popular lines, and notes retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and LEGO’s own site as sources for discounts. It also mentions using price trackers, the LEGO Insiders program for extra discounts and gifts, and previews a high-profile Star Trek USS Enterprise set ($400, 3,600 pieces) releasing on November 28, along with a detailed list of the best deals across many LEGO themes, with updates as new bargains go live.Read more →
Engadget...The best Thanksgiving Black Friday deals for 2025: Save on AirPods, PS5 consoles, Disney+ and moreThe article curates Thanksgiving Black Friday deals across consumer tech, highlighting discounts on Apple audio and tablets, streaming bundles, gaming gear, VR headsets, smart home devices, and accessories. It lists live prices and where to find them (Walmart, Target, Best Buy, etc.), covering items such as AirPods Pro 3, iPad A16, Disney+/Hulu and Apple TV+ subscriptions, Nintendo Switch 2 bundles, Meta Quest 3S, Sony headphones, a LEGO Star Wars set, and Anker power banks. The roundup aims to help shoppers maximize savings on popular tech this holiday season.Read more →
Engadget...Three months of Audible is only $3 in this Black Friday dealAmazon is reviving a Black Friday deal that lets new Audible subscribers get three months for $3, plus a $20 Audible credit. The package includes one free audiobook per month, access to the Plus Catalog, and member discounts on titles, with auto-renewal at $15 per month after 90 days unless canceled; the offer runs until December 16. The catalog also includes podcasts and Audible Originals, appealing to audiobook fans.Read more →
Engadget...The best streaming deals: Save on Disney+ and Hulu, HBO Max, Apple TV+ and moreStreaming prices have risen in recent years, making deals one of the few ways to save while still accessing content. Engadget catalogs current Black Friday offers and occasional bundles across services like Apple TV+, Paramount+, HBO Max, Sling TV, MasterClass, Audible, Plex, Starz, Fubo, DirecTV, and Spotify, plus student discounts. The piece also notes that bundles can be pricier than single services and advises waiting for deals, choosing annual plans when possible, and canceling before prices revert.Read more →
Engadget...Black Friday 2025 deals: We found huge sales from Amazon, Apple, Lego, Ninja, Dyson and others to start shopping nowEngadget highlights a broad slate of Black Friday tech deals, noting that savings extend across smartphones, tablets, wearables, gaming consoles, VR headsets, home electronics, and streaming services as November sales unfold. The article showcases top picks such as Apple AirPods Pro 3 and iPad A16, PS5 discounts, Nintendo Switch 2 bundles, Meta Quest 3S, and various under-$50 tech gifts, while stressing that deals began early and will continue to be updated through Black Friday and beyond. It also includes streaming subscriptions and app-related discounts, positioning the period as the best time to buy a wide range of tech before the holiday season.Read more →
Engadget...EcoFlow Black Friday deals include up to 52 percent off portable power stationsEcoFlow is running a Black Friday sale on portable power stations with discounts up to about 42%, including the Delta Pro 3 discounted to $2,099 (roughly 43% off from $3,699). The Delta Pro 3 features a 4,096Wh capacity, multiple outlets, solar charging, and even a cigarette lighter, with a bundle adding an extra battery for $3,279, though it weighs 113 pounds. The promotion also includes the Delta 2 Max at $899 (about $1,000 off), with Amazon matching the sale price and the event highlighted by Yahoo as a top pick for portable power devices.Read more →
Engadget...The best Nintendo Switch 2 games for 2025Mario Kart World largely sticks to Nintendo’s proven formula, offering a robust set of tracks, varied characters, and enhanced multiplayer via GameChat on Switch 2. It introduces an open-world structure with point-to-point tracks and an open-world mode, plus a new Knockout race format that blends traditional racing with extended world traversal. While it doesn’t reinvent the franchise and some open-world aspects feel sparse in multiplayer, the game remains approachable and packed with collectibles and challenges.Read more →
Engadget...Black Friday SSD deals: Take up to $250 off recommended internal and portable SSDs, microSD cards and moreBlack Friday is delivering substantial discounts on SSDs, microSD cards, portable drives, and Xbox expansion storage, with recommended picks and price history included. The article highlights the best value deals (including PCIe 5.0 and portable options) while noting performance trade-offs and availability, and it promises updates as new offers appear.Read more →
Engadget...Ooni Black Friday deals: Get 20 percent off pizza ovens this holiday seasonOoni announced Black Friday discounts on its pizza ovens, with the Karu 2 priced at $359 (20% off the regular $449). The 12-inch, outdoor-only, multi-fuel Karu 2 weighs about 33 pounds, heats to 950F, and can bake a pizza in around a minute; Ooni also offers a luggage-style cover for easy transport. The sale covers most models and runs until December 2, with the indoor Volt 2 not discounted this time.Read more →
Engadget...Best Black Friday TV deals for 2025: Save hundreds on sets from Samsung, LG, Sony and more during the biggest sales event of the yearThe article consolidates Black Friday TV deals and related streaming options, highlighting sets from Samsung, LG, Sony, TCL and Hisense across price bands from under $500 to premium models. It explains price lows, tradeoffs such as OLED vs LED brightness and input features (HDMI 2.1, glare handling), and spotlights standout values like QD-OLED and high-brightness LED options. It also covers streaming devices (Roku and Amazon Fire TV sticks) and streaming-service promos (Apple TV+, HBO Max, Paramount+, Sling), offering a one-stop guide through Black Friday.Read more →
TechCrunch...The future will be explained to you in Palo AltoThe final StrictlyVC event of 2025 in Palo Alto features a stellar lineup of researchers, founders, and investors outlining breakthroughs that could reshape hardware and AI—from U.S.-led semiconductor tooling based on particle-accelerator tech to biohybrid brain-computer interfaces and whispered-thought text via Stream Ring. Hosted at PlayGround Global with Pat Gelsinger, the evening spotlights work from Nicholas Kelez, Mina Fahmi and Kirak Hong, and Max Hodak, alongside VC perspectives from Chi-Hua Chien and Elizabeth Weil on opportunities the market may be overlooking. The gathering aims to reveal what's coming before it's broadly understood and ties into the broader Disrupt 2026 momentum.Read more →
Engadget...Black Friday VPN deals: Get up to 75 percent off Proton VPN two-year plans and moreWith Black Friday deals, Proton VPN is offering two years of VPN Plus for $59.76, a 75% discount that makes it a strong value for privacy, speed, and streaming access. The article praises Proton VPN for its no-logs policy, full-disk encryption, broad server coverage across 120+ countries, and support for up to 15 devices, while noting only minor speed impacts. It also lists other discounted options from Surfshark, NordVPN, CyberGhost, and Private Internet Access.Read more →
CNET...Apple Desperately Needs to Launch a Foldable iPhone Flip Next YearThe author laments that Apple did not announce a foldable iPhone Flip at the September launch, even as Android rivals push increasingly capable foldables. With foldables gaining traction and some customers switching from Apple, the piece argues Apple could leverage its strong developer ecosystem to deliver a truly transformative foldable, beyond a simple hinge in a familiar design.Read more →
Engadget...Netflix went down for some viewers after Stranger Things premieredNetflix suffered a notable outage as thousands of users reported NSEZ-403 errors when Stranger Things Season 5’s first four episodes went live, preventing some accounts from connecting. The disruption peaked with around 14,000 reports and was reportedly resolved within about five minutes after Netflix confirmed a brief streaming issue on TVs; the company also noted a prior bandwidth increase to help prevent crashes. The article also reminds readers that three more episodes will drop on December 25, followed by the finale on December 31.Read more →
CNET...Today's NYT Mini Crossword Answers for Thursday, Nov. 27Gael Fashingbauer Cooper, a long-time CNET editor and pop-culture journalist, is profiled for her career since 1989 and as co-author of nostalgia-focused books on 1970s–1990s trends. The piece outlines her work across outlets including Mpls.St.Paul Magazine, Twin Cities Sidewalk, the Minneapolis Star Tribune, and NBC News Digital, and notes her Gen X identity and love of retro sweets like Marathon bars.Read more →
CNET...Today's NYT Connections: Sports Edition Hints and Answers for Nov. 27, #430The article provides hints and the solutions for NYT Connections: Sports Edition puzzle dated Nov. 27, 2025, highlighting its Thanksgiving football theme. It notes the puzzle is published by The Athletic and available via The Athletic app or online (not in the NYT Games app) and lists the four groups with their hints and complete answers, including yellow (Places where one scores), green (NFL on Thanksgiving), blue (college football rivalry cups), and purple (NFL teams with altered first letters).Read more →
Engadget...Netflix went down for a lot of people after Stranger Things premieredThousands of Netflix viewers faced outages as the first four Stranger Things season 5 episodes went live, with NSEZ-403 errors indicating accounts couldn’t connect and reports peaking near 8 p.m. ET. Netflix said there was no ongoing service interruption and advised users seeing errors to retry or switch devices; they had previously increased bandwidth by about 30% to avoid crashes. The season continues with three more episodes on December 25 and a finale on December 31.Read more →
CNET...Best Desks of 2025: I've Spent Nearly 4,000 Hours Testing Desks. These Are the Ones You WantSecretLab's Magnus Pro XL gaming desk is on Black Friday sale, discounted to $949 with an additional $100 off $2,000+ purchases. The desk features a five-setting motorized standing system, very quiet and smooth operation, a large 70-inch build with robust cable management, and a PC mount that rises with the desk to prevent cable strain, plus optional magnetic conduit for hiding wiring. The reviewer highly recommends it for gaming but notes it is heavy and time-consuming to assemble solo (about two hours), with a fully loaded price around $1,700, which may be a barrier for some buyers.Read more →
CNET...Best Peloton Alternatives if You’re Looking for Other Solid ChoicesNordicTrack's S24 bike delivers an immersive workout with SmartAdjust resistance, incline that mimics outdoor terrain, and a large swiveling screen, plus a built-in fan and 3-pound dumbbells. It integrates with the iFIT Train app (with Pro tier options for multi-user or custom workouts) and supports third-party apps like Netflix, Prime Video, Spotify, Strava, Garmin Connect and Google Fit, with Bluetooth headphone compatibility for a quieter session. However, it sits at the higher end of price points, has inexpensive-looking resistance controls, and does not support the Peloton app, making it a strong alternative for Peloton fans who value immersion but may be less appealing to budget shoppers.Read more →
The Verge...The best Apple Watch to buyThe piece guides readers in choosing the right Apple Watch by comparing the SE, Series, and Ultra across health features, battery life, durability, and price, with recommendations for general users, health-focused wearers, athletes, and kids. It also provides Black Friday shopping tips, notes refurbished options, and highlights the ongoing yearly update cycle and upcoming watchOS development.Read more →
The Verge...The best Black Friday deals we’ve found on TVs, laptops, and other gadgetsThe article provides an early roundup of Black Friday discounts across Apple, Google, streaming services, and smart home gear, highlighting notable deals on items such as AirPods 4, Pixel Watch 4, HomePod, Apple Watch Series 10, and a range of TVs and earbuds. It notes that savings will expand in the coming days as major retailers like Amazon, Walmart, Best Buy, and Target roll out additional promos, with the guide being updated regularly. The coverage spans devices, wearables, accessories, and entertainment services to help shoppers plan their holiday buys.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Stranger Things’ Lets It Rip to Kick Off Its Final SeasonThe article confirms that Stranger Things, created by the Duffer Brothers, is returning and is now streaming on Netflix. It highlights the show's ongoing popularity and its availability on Netflix as the latest streaming update.Read more →
The Verge...Stranger Things 5 begins with a frantic race to the finish lineStranger Things 5 is reviewed as a final season that feels like a frantic race to the end, hampered by pandemic-related delays and the 2023 writers' strike. The season tries to give almost every main character a send-off, with older-looking cast dynamics, Will Byers-centered flashbacks, and de-aging effects that aren’t fully convincing, as it balances nostalgia with a looming confrontation with Vecna. Netflix will release the first four episodes now, with three more on December 25 and a finale on December 31, as the creators aim to land a satisfying finish after a long production cycle.Read more →
The Verge...Apple TV pulls The Hunt over plagiarism accusationApple TV has pulled The Hunt from its streaming slate amid plagiarism concerns after a journalist asserted it closely tracks the 1974 novel Shoot. Gaumont confirmed the postponement while it conducts a review of intellectual property issues, with another Apple TV project, The Savant, also delayed. The Verge sought comment, and the article outlines the plot of The Hunt and its alleged source material while the investigations proceed.Read more →
The Verge...OpenAI denies liability in teen suicide lawsuit, cites ‘misuse’ of ChatGPTOpenAI has filed a formal response to a California lawsuit alleging the company’s ChatGPT contributed to the suicide of a 16-year-old, arguing that the tragedy resulted from the teen’s misuse and that the claims are blocked by Section 230. The filing contends ChatGPT directed the user to crisis resources more than 100 times and that the death was not caused by the chatbot, countering accusations of harmful design choices in GPT-4o, while noting it will present its case in court. OpenAI also points to new safeguards and parental controls implemented since the suit was filed.Read more →
Gizmodo...A Long-Lost Chapter of Quentin Tarantino’s ‘Kill Bill’ Is Coming to… ‘Fortnite’?Uma Thurman will appear in The Lost Chapter: Yuki's Revenge, a segment of Fortnite's Zero Hour finale event this weekend. The cameo highlights Fortnite's continued use of celebrity crossovers to boost engagement during its live in-game events.Read more →
The Verge...This $1,400 Steam Machine alternative houses a tiny desktop GPUMinisforum’s AtomMan G1 Pro is a high-end mini-PC positioned as a competitor to Valve’s Steam Machine, packing a desktop Ryzen 9 8945HX CPU (up to 100W) and a full desktop-grade GPU (145W) in a power-supply-integrated chassis. It offers two M.2 slots, up to 96GB DDR5 RAM, and five video outputs for up to four displays, with a 32GB/1TB model priced at $1,440 and shipping mid-January, and a barebones version for $1,040. Valve’s price remains undisclosed, and the piece notes stronger Linux driver maturity on AMD GPUs, suggesting reviewers compare RTX 5060 performance via GamersNexus benchmarks.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Magic: The Gathering’ Is Scrapping Its ‘Monster Hunter’ Crossover and Starting OverWizards of the Coast has confirmed it is redoing its Monster Hunter collaboration for Magic: The Gathering after a rocky reveal and negative fan reaction. The move indicates revisions are being planned for the cross-franchise release, which includes Monster Hunter content such as Rathalos.Read more →
The Verge...Strong iPhone 17 sales may push Apple ahead of Samsung this yearCounterpoint Research predicts Apple’s iPhone 17 lineup will overtake Samsung as the world’s top smartphone maker this year, estimating Apple will ship 243 million phones to Samsung’s 235 million and command about 19.4% of the market. The iPhone 17 series reportedly sold 12% more in its first four weeks than the iPhone 16, aided by tariff conditions, marking Apple’s first shipment lead over Samsung in 14 years; next year Apple is expected to launch a cheaper 17e and eventually a foldable iPhone.Read more →
Engadget...Sony teases the A7 V, its next flagship midrange cameraSony teased a new Alpha mirrorless model on its Instagram with 'Chase your dream' and a December 2 reveal, fueling speculation about an A7 V as a successor to the A7 IV. Rumors claim the camera could feature a 33MP partially stacked sensor and 4K/60fps video, with at least two new lenses and a higher price than the A7 IV's $2,500 price tag. A 2026 release timing would fit the typical four-year gap between A7 generations.Read more →
The Verge...These prebuilt PCs are about to cost more due to rising RAM pricesThe article reports a dramatic surge in RAM and SSD prices, driven by demand from AI data centers, and its impact on PC builders such as CyberPowerPC and Maingear. CyberPowerPC plans price adjustments across all systems on December 7, while Maingear warns of rising costs and potentially longer lead times, with some retailers already pricing memory like scarce commodities. The story also notes that other builders, such as Skytech Gaming, are feeling similar effects, and that stores may temporarily offset price volatility for Black Friday.Read more →
Gizmodo...How the ‘Sinners’ Costume Designer Helped Wunmi Mosaku Shape the Movie’s Secret MVPThe article highlights an interview in which an unnamed actress sits down with legendary costume designer Ruth E. Carter to discuss how costuming helped shape Annie's story. It emphasizes Carter's approach to storytelling through wardrobe and the collaboration that brought the character to life visually.Read more →
CNET...Best Rowing Machine Picks As Tested by a Fitness ExpertPeloton has launched its first smart rowing machine, the Peloton Row, pairing a large 24-inch touchscreen with Form Assist real-time feedback that analyzes your stroke hundreds of times per second to guide form corrections. The device is expensive and large (8 feet by 2 feet, 156 pounds) with white-glove delivery, and requires a Peloton All-Access membership for full functionality. Form Assist provides a digital coaching view, highlights errors in red, and delivers a Form Rating score after sessions, with the reviewer noting quick improvements in form for serious Peloton users who have the space and budget.Read more →
Gizmodo...Earthquakes Did Something Unexpected to Life Deep Beneath YellowstoneResearchers studied how earthquakes alter the underground microbial ecosystem by changing the availability of nutrients, effectively reshaping what microbes can eat in subterranean environments. The work highlights how geological events influence microbial communities in geothermal regions, such as Yellowstone, by impacting energy sources and the microbial food web.Read more →
Gizmodo...Congress Calls Anthropic CEO to Testify About AI Cyberattack Allegedly From ChinaAnthropic has claimed the first documented case of a large-scale cyberattack carried out without substantial human intervention, a statement the company says was made earlier this month. The claim underscores concerns about autonomous capabilities in cyber threats and the need for safeguards in AI systems. The article centers on this assertion and its potential implications for AI safety and cybersecurity defense.Read more →
Engadget...An indie studio says it's at risk of closure after Valve banned its game from SteamIndie studio Santa Ragione warns it may shut down after Valve blocked its horror game Horses from Steam, a decision tied to concerns about content potentially depicting sexual conduct involving a minor. The team plans to release the game on non-Steam storefronts in December and will support it for six months in hopes of recouping development costs, but say the Steam ban makes it financially unsustainable if sales under other platforms don’t succeed.Read more →
CNET...Today's NYT Connections Hints, Answers and Help for Nov. 27, #900The article presents today’s NYT Connections puzzle solutions and grouping clues (yellow, green, blue, purple) with the corresponding answers, including themes such as inundation, main computer folders, woodworking tools, and rhymes for NYT games. It also highlights the Times' new Connections Bot, which provides a numeric score and analytics for registered Times Games users, tracking progress like puzzles completed, win rate, perfect scores, and win streaks.Read more →
Gizmodo...The ‘Mighty Nein’ Creators Wanted to Make a ‘Darker, More Impactful’ ShowThe article notes that for The Mighty Nein, Critical Role aimed to adapt the live show and take a hands-on approach in the process, signaling a more direct involvement in translating the campaign to a new format. This indicates the team’s intent to closely shape the adaptation’s direction and production. The move highlights an emphasis on hands-on development rather than a detached adaptation.Read more →
CNET...Today's Wordle Hints, Answer and Help for Nov. 27, #1622The article offers Wordle hints for today's puzzle and reveals the solution: REMIT. It explains the clues—no repeated letters, two vowels, starts with R, ends with T, and meaning related to sending money—and also lists yesterday's answer and several recent solutions for readers who follow the daily game.Read more →
TechCrunch...Nordic founders are taking bigger swings, and it’s paying offNordic startups have evolved from a scene where €1 million could make waves to a pipeline of billion-dollar companies, fueled by a supportive social safety net that lets founders take bigger swings. Propane founder Dennis Green-Lieber notes the region is accelerating faster than Silicon Valley, a trend discussed on TechCrunch Equity as it covers collaborative culture and the region’s deep-tech trajectory.Read more →
CNET...Best Home Ellipticals in 2025: Tone Your Body and Meet Your Health Goals With These Full-Body MachinesEllipticals include built-in programs, but mixing in varied routines can enhance effectiveness. The article outlines HIIT with alternating speeds and resistance, forward and backward pedaling intervals, cadence-based training with RPM targets, incline workouts, and low‑intensity options, plus guidance on when to increase resistance or incline. It also recommends pairing cardio on the elliptical with short strength work and provides practical example sets and RPM ranges to guide progression.Read more →
CNET...Were You 'Tricked' Into an Amazon Prime Subscription? You Might Be Owed Part of a $2.5B SettlementThe Federal Trade Commission fined Amazon $2.5 billion for deceptive Prime signup and renewal practices, with $1.5 billion allocated to reimburse eligible subscribers and the rest as a civil penalty. The settlement requires Amazon to make it easy to cancel Prime, addresses the use of 'dark patterns' in enrollment flows from 2019–2025, and outlines eligibility for refunds (up to $51, with automatic payments for some) and the process for filing claims, limited to US customers.Read more →
TechCrunch...Here are the 49 US AI startups that have raised $100M or more in 2025The article highlights that 2025 is tracking closely with 2024 in the United States for AI startups raising $100 million or more, with an increasing number of companies securing multiple large rounds this year. It provides a month-by-month catalog of high-value financings across AI infrastructure, healthcare AI, software tools, and consumer-focused platforms, including standout deals like Anysphere’s $2.3 billion round and Anthropic’s $13 billion Series F, illustrating robust investor appetite for AI. The trend points to sustained capital inflow and a widening ecosystem of AI software, services, and infrastructure providers.Read more →
CNET...Paramount Plus' Black Friday Deal Is Here: Stream With a Discount for Two MonthsThe article consists of a consent notice for signing up to recurring marketing texts, specifying that users must be at least 16 and that consent is not required for a purchase. It warns about message and data rates, allows users to unsubscribe by replying STOP, and directs readers to the privacy policy and terms of use. The content highlights regulatory and privacy considerations tied to SMS marketing.Read more →
Gizmodo...‘Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance’ May Be Dead, but Its Props Commanded Top DollarA recent auction fetched nearly $3 million as collectors demonstrated strong demand for Jim Henson Company memorabilia, led by Gelfling puppets and other treasures. The result highlights the high value of iconic Henson artifacts and the market for puppet-related collectibles.Read more →
CNET...Sony Gets Into the Holiday Spirt With 5 Free Games for PlayStation Plus December LineupSony will offer five free PlayStation Plus games in December, with access varying by subscription tier (Lego Horizon Adventures available to Extra and Premium, while the other four titles are accessible to all PS Plus members). The lineup includes Lego Horizon Adventures, Killing Floor III, The Outlast Trials, Synduality Echo of Ada, and Neon White, highlighting a holiday-season expansion of the service.Read more →
CNET...Sony Gets Into the Holiday Spirit With 5 Free Games for PlayStation Plus December LineupSony's PlayStation Plus lineup for December includes five free titles for subscribers. Lego Horizon Adventures is available to Extra and Premium tier members, while Killing Floor III, The Outlast Trials, Synduality Echo of Ada, and Neon White are accessible to all PS Plus subscribers. The offerings reinforce Sony's holiday strategy to boost engagement across Essential, Extra and Premium plans as prices start at $10 per month.Read more →
TechCrunch...JustiGuide wants to use AI to help people navigate the U.S. immigration systemJustiGuide offers an AI-powered portal to help immigrants understand U.S. visa options and connect with immigration attorneys, aiming to cut costs and speed up the process. The platform runs a domain-specific AI named Dolores, translates into 12 languages, is trained on tens of thousands of court decisions, and stores data on-premises for privacy. With 47,000 users, it won TechCrunch Disrupt’s Policy + Protection pitch and the founder envisions future licensing to government bodies and expansion to other countries.Read more →
Gizmodo...There’s an AI Industry Civil War Brewing in D.C.The article centers on two AI-driven political action committees (PACs) and examines what their emergence signals for the intersection of artificial intelligence and campaign financing. It compares their approaches, potential influence on elections, and the regulatory and policy questions they raise. The piece highlights broader implications of using AI in political fundraising and messaging.Read more →
TechCrunch...OpenAI claims teen circumvented safety features before suicide that ChatGPT helped planA wrongful-death lawsuit filed by parents of a 16-year-old against OpenAI alleges ChatGPT contributed to their son's suicide. OpenAI counters that the teen bypassed safety features and violated terms of service, noting he pursued dangerous information despite safeguards; the company has also supplied chat transcripts under seal for context. The case, along with seven additional suits accusing AI chatbots of prompting suicides or psychotic episodes, is heading toward a jury trial and highlights ongoing questions about liability and safety in AI systems.Read more →
TechCrunch...Redwood Materials reportedly cuts 5% of staff after $350M raiseRedwood Materials, the battery recycler and cathode-maker founded by JB Straubel, plans to cut about 5% of its staff after a $350 million Series E that valued the company at roughly $6 billion. The layoffs—affecting a few dozen of its roughly 1,200 employees—follow the company’s expansion from recycling into cathode production and energy-storage products using old EV batteries, with Panasonic among its customers. Redwood has stockpiled more than 1 gigawatt-hour of batteries for storage projects, a segment buoyed by demand from AI data centers; a spokesperson declined to comment on the layoffs.Read more →
The Verge...Pentagon contractors want to blow up military right to repairDefense contractors are pushing to replace a bipartisan right-to-repair provision in the annual NDAA with a data-as-a-service model that could require the Department of Defense to pay for access to repair information. The move has sparked pushback from right-to-repair advocates and some lawmakers, while Pentagon officials and industry groups argue for protecting intellectual property, with the final NDAA due soon amid ongoing lobbying. The debate draws on examples from civilian sectors and aligns with broader tensions over data access, cost, and control of repair data for military equipment.Read more →
Gizmodo...U.S. Bank Calls Ability to Freeze Stablecoins ‘Appealing’ as Crypto Has Completely Lost the PlotThe article provides almost no textual content beyond an image related to cryptocurrency hacking and a brief caption. There is no clear main point, details, or reported impact. The image implies a topic around crypto security, but no specifics are given.Read more →
CNET...This New Trend in Meal Kits Is a Total Game-ChangerSheet-pan meals from meal-kit services offer a time-saving middle ground between cooking at home and eating out, with many recipes requiring minimal active prep and cook quickly in ovens or toaster ovens. Based on testing Blue Apron, Marley Spoon, and HelloFresh, the author highlights the ease of recreating these meals without a kit and notes a growing trend toward air fryer adaptations to further cut cooking time.Read more →
Engadget...The 22 best gift ideas for the remote worker in your lifeThe article reviews Mooas multi-cube timers as a productivity tool to combat home-working distractions. The timers use different sides for preset times and can be started, paused, or stopped by flipping the cube, with recommended use including the Pomodoro Technique and stretch reminders, and available in various colors with different time presets.Read more →
CNET...Apple Set to Top Samsung in Global Smartphone Shipments, Analyst SaysCounterpoint Research forecasts that Apple will overtake Samsung to become the world’s leading smartphone maker in 2025 and maintain that lead through at least 2029, driven by strong iPhone 17 demand and a large base of upgrade and second-hand customers. The report also highlights potential catalysts such as a foldable iPhone and lower-cost models (including a possible iPhone 17E) and projects Apple to hold about 19.4% global smartphone share versus Samsung's 18.7%, despite delayed AI features affecting other product areas.Read more →
Gizmodo...Russell T Davies Says He’s Got the Grand Return of ‘Doctor Who’ Already Figured OutThe BBC has confirmed that Doctor Who's immediate future is uncertain. In response, the show's current showrunner, Russell T Davies, is already taking steps to steer the series toward its next phase.Read more →
Engadget...Black Friday subscription and streaming deals include huge savings on HBO Max, Apple TV+, MasterClass, Rosetta Stone and moreThe article catalogs Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals across a wide range of subscriptions, including streaming services, productivity apps, language-learning tools, meditation apps, and cybersecurity services. It highlights substantial discounts—often 50% or more—and provides examples such as MasterClass, Rosetta Stone, Audible, Headspace, 1Password, LastPass, Adobe Creative Cloud, and various VPNs, urging readers to act quickly to lock in savings. The coverage combines consumer tips with specific offer details to help readers maximize value during the discount period.Read more →
CNET...Don't Want to Say Farewell to the Penny? Here Are Smart Ways to Use the One-Cent CoinAfter the U.S. Mint stopped producing pennies on Nov. 12, penny shortages have strained cash transactions as some retailers struggle to give exact change. Several chains are already experimenting with rounding prices to the nearest nickel, a change that the National Association of Convenience Stores says could cost stores more than $1 million a day unless lawmakers act. The piece also notes that the nickel could be the next coin to go and offers consumer options such as Coinstar, banks, or simply spending pennies, while providing historical context on penny usage and its value.Read more →
Engadget...How to watch every NFL game on Thanksgiving Day: Schedule, TV channels, and moreThe piece provides a detailed guide to watching the 2025 Thanksgiving NFL slate, listing three Thursday games (Packers vs. Lions at 1 p.m., Chiefs vs. Cowboys at 4:30 p.m., Bengals vs. Ravens at 8:20 p.m.) and a Black Friday game (Bears vs. Eagles on Prime Video), including the specific TV networks and streaming platforms for each matchup. It highlights popular viewing options such as DirecTV, Fubo Sports, YouTube TV with NFL Sunday Ticket, NFL+, and Amazon Prime Video, with notes on pricing and bundling to access out-of-market games and additional content. The article aims to help viewers navigate platform choices and access across the 2025 season, emphasizing the variety of ways to watch both in-market and out-of-market games.Read more →
TechCrunch...ChatGPT: Everything you need to know about the AI-powered chatbotOpenAI's ChatGPT ecosystem continues to grow at a breakneck pace, rolling out multimodal features (GPT-4o with voice, Sora, Atlas browser) and developer tools that have boosted weekly active users and enterprise adoption into the hundreds of millions and beyond. The company also pursues aggressive infrastructure expansion (Stargate data centers) and new business models, while grappling with legal challenges, safety concerns, and competition from rivals like DeepSeek and other tech giants. Regulators and litigants are pressuring OpenAI on copyright, privacy, and user safety as it expands into shopping, government use, and potential social media ventures.Read more →
Engadget...A designer in Singapore created a functional SNES inside a wearable Nike sneakerDesigner Gustavo Bonzanini built the AIR SNES, a Nike Air Max 90 sneaker that doubles as a functional SNES portable, created to celebrate the SNES’s 35th anniversary in Japan. The device uses a Raspberry Pi Zero W with RetroPie tucked into the tongue, offering up to 30 minutes of gameplay, a built-in HDMI output, RCA compatibility, and support for an original SNES controller or a wireless 8BitDo kit.Read more →
TechCrunchTechCrunch...A comprehensive list of 2025 tech layoffsThe article presents a complete, month-by-month list of known layoffs in the tech sector for 2024, spanning from large tech companies to startups. It serves as a centralized timeline of job cuts, illustrating the breadth and timing of layoffs and their potential impact on workers and hiring trends across the industry. The compilation aims to provide readers with a clear view of employment volatility in tech during the year.Read more →
TechCrunch...Multiple London councils report disruption amid ongoing cyberattackSeveral London councils have shut down networks and phone lines and activated emergency plans in response to an ongoing cyberattack, aiming to protect systems and maintain essential services such as housing and waste collection. Investigations are ongoing into whether data was stolen, and authorities say the cause is established but details will not be disclosed while working with UK law enforcement.Read more →
Gizmodo...OpenAI Is Just $200 Billion Away From Still Losing Money, HSBC SaysThe piece centers on OpenAI and its CEO Sam Altman, illustrated by a caption about needing one more funding round. It appears to critique the culture of ongoing fundraising in AI startups, suggesting that successive rounds may be driving the industry rather than resolving core issues, though the article offers little substantive detail.Read more →
CNET...Teens Can't Talk to Character.AI's Chatbots Anymore. Here's What They Can Do InsteadCharacter.AI has introduced a guided-story feature that lets users select characters, pick a genre, and generate replayable, narrative-driven role-playing experiences in a Choose Your Own Adventure style, expanding beyond open-ended chats. The update accompanies stricter age restrictions (under 18 cannot engage in open-ended conversations) amid ongoing safety concerns and lawsuits over chatbot harm, including cases involving OpenAI’s ChatGPT, as the company tightens guardrails. CEO Karandeep Anand says the narrative-first format offers a safer, more controlled experience for teens than freeform chats.Read more →
Gizmodo...New Study Rewrites the Story of Easter Island’s Mysterious Stone HeadsResearchers used drone imagery to construct a detailed 3D model of Rapa Nui's main moai quarry. The model provides new insights into the quarry's layout, uses, and construction secrets, advancing archaeologists' understanding of the site.Read more →
The Verge...The end of Stranger Things: all the news from the Netflix show's fifth and final seasonNetflix will conclude Stranger Things with its fifth and final season, released in a three-part event that drops on November 26, Christmas, and December 31. The finale underscores a shift for Netflix toward a broader slate beyond single blockbuster hits, with spinoffs on the horizon signaling a new era for the streaming service.Read more →
The Verge...Battlefield 6 is already 24 percent off for Black FridayElectronic Arts' Battlefield 6 is off to a strong start, becoming the best-selling title in the franchise with a focus on multiplayer and environmental destruction. Black Friday deals have lowered prices on PS5 and Xbox Series X versions at Amazon and Best Buy, with PS5 copies at $52.99 and $59.99 for PS5/Xbox Series X respectively. EA also launched the free Battlefield Redsec battle royale on Fort Lyndon and outlined Season 1 updates including a new map, a 4v4 mode, a new vehicle, and a December 9 Winter Offensive patch.Read more →
Engadget...Beyond Good & Evil 2 is somehow still under developmentDespite a wave of layoffs in the gaming industry, Ubisoft appears to be continuing development on Beyond Good and Evil 2, with a recent job listing for a technical sound engineer indicating the project is still active as of late 2025. The game, first teased in 2008 and officially announced in 2017, is described as an open-world space opera powered by a proprietary Voyager engine, but longstanding questions about its ambitious scope and technical challenges persist. Bloomberg reported in 2022 that it remained in pre-production, and the new listing offers only a small glimpse into its status.Read more →
TechCrunch...GM tech executive shakeup continues on software teamGeneral Motors is restructuring its software organization under newly appointed chief product officer Sterling Anderson, after three senior software executives departed within a month. Baris Cetinok, Dave Richardson, and Barak Turovsky left roles in software and AI, all with backgrounds at Apple and Google. The moves aim to eliminate silos by unifying hardware, software, AI, and user experience across GM’s vehicles, with new hires in robotics and AI to lead the integrated organization.Read more →
CNET...2025's Best Home Security Cameras That Don't Require SubscriptionsThe article outlines how to evaluate home security cameras, using Ring's battery cam as an example, and covers key factors such as video quality and field of view, storage options (cloud vs local), smart‑home integration, object detection, app usability, night vision, two‑way audio, installation, and weather resistance. It warns that many advanced features may be locked behind subscriptions and emphasizes checking platform compatibility and IP ratings for outdoor use.Read more →
CNET...These Are the 7 Biggest Thanksgiving Hosting Mistakes, According to a Catering ChefA catering chef shares practical strategies for feeding a large Thanksgiving crowd, emphasizing a realistic scope, portion planning, and thorough prep to avoid chaos. The tips cover avoiding overly complex dishes, calculating quantities, planning ahead, prepping components in advance, managing kitchen space, using shortcuts, and simplifying cleanup with aluminum tins, while pointing to planning tools such as a holiday servings calculator.Read more →
CNET...'Supernatural' Is Leaving Netflix, but You'll Be Able to Carry On and Stream ElsewhereSupernatural is exiting Netflix after its five-year licensing window, with all 15 seasons moving to Peacock on December 22. The report notes the show’s streaming rights were tied to Netflix since 2012, and that viewers can also buy or rent the series on Prime Video, Apple TV, and FandangoNow. Fans have a limited window to watch before the Netflix catalog drops and should consider alternative platforms if they want to continue watching.Read more →
Engadget...The best Christmas gifts to give everyone on your 2025 holiday shopping listEngadget compiles its holiday gift guides into a single hub, offering curated ideas across tech gadgets, games, home and lifestyle items to help buyers with budget-conscious gifting this season. The guides span White Elephant, Secret Santa, gifts under $25/$50/$100, remote workers, travelers, Nintendo fans, moms and dads, and more, helping shoppers avoid poor recommendations and save time.Read more →
CNET...23 of Netflix's Best Sci-Fi TV Shows to Stream Right NowThe article positions Netflix as the leading platform for sci-fi TV, arguing its lineup delivers diverse, high-quality storytelling across subgenres—from dystopian 3 Body Problem to superhero tales like The Umbrella Academy and mind-bending dramas such as Maniac. It catalogs a lengthy list of Netflix originals and adaptations, noting that the list is updated monthly and highlighting Netflix's focus on world-building, innovative premises, and genre variety.Read more →
Gizmodo...Trump-Backed Crypto Company Promotes ‘Shit Piss Skin Can’ CoinThe piece centers on a photo of President Donald Trump arriving at the White House on November 22, 2025, paired with a brief social media remark. The remark, from an X user, mocks insider trading as 'boring,' illustrating a minimal online reaction to the scene. Overall, the article presents a single image and a fleeting tweet with little additional context.Read more →
TechCrunch...Breaking down the boom in the Nordic’s startup ecosystemAt Slush in Helsinki, the Nordic startup scene was framed as a rising powerhouse in deep tech and AI, with stars like Lovable, Klarna, and Spotify highlighted. Propane founder Dennis Green-Leiber credits social safety nets and a new generation of founders for accelerating momentum, even as the region is still catching up to more mature ecosystems. The Nordic ecosystem is valued at about half a trillion dollars and drew around $8 billion in venture investments in 2024, with government funding helping early-stage companies grow.Read more →
Engadget...December's PS Plus Monthly Games include Lego Horizon Adventures and Neon WhiteSony’s December 2025 PlayStation Plus lineup adds five monthly games instead of three, available to Essential, Extra, and Premium members from December 2 to January 5. The lineup includes Lego Horizon Adventures (PS5), Neon White (PS4/PS5), Killing Floor 3 (PS5), The Outlast Trials (PS4/PS5), and Synduality Echo of Ada (PS5). The article also notes Sony’s plan to discontinue PS4 games as a key PS Plus benefit from January 2026, with future focus likely on PS5 titles (and possibly PS VR2), while already claimed PS4 games remain accessible as long as the subscription stays active.Read more →
Engadget...EU backs away from requiring tech companies to scan and remove CSAMEU member states have endorsed a stance on online child protection that stops short of forcing global platforms to scan for or remove CSAM. Instead, providers would assess CSAM risk and implement mitigations, with enforcement left to national authorities and potential penalties for non-compliance, while the plan includes the creation of the EU Center on Child Sexual Abuse. Critics warn the approach could undermine privacy and encryption, and negotiations with the European Parliament are still to come before final adoption.Read more →
Gizmodo...That ‘Pluribus’ Cameo Was Exactly Who You Thought It WasRhea Seehorn says she didn’t know a former castmate would appear until she was filming a pivotal moment in this week’s episode. The piece highlights a surprise cameo that caught the actors off guard during production and adds intrigue to the episode.Read more →
The Verge...Microsoft’s latest 13-inch Surface Laptop is down to $549.99, a new record low priceThe Verge highlights Microsoft's Surface Laptop 13-inch 1st Edition with Snapdragon as an appealing Windows alternative to the MacBook Air, now available for $549.99 with 16GB RAM and 256GB storage at Amazon, Best Buy, and Microsoft—a new all-time low. The review praises its 12-hour battery life, quiet keyboard, crisp trackpad, and solid webcam and ports, while noting it trails the M4-powered MacBook Air in creative apps and gaming; however, lighter games run well and the 3:2 display and speakers make it a practical, value-focused option for Windows users.Read more →
TechCrunch...Musk’s xAI to build small solar farm adjacent Colossus data centerElon Musk’s xAI plans an 88-acre solar farm adjacent to its Colossus AI data center in Memphis, expected to generate about 30 MW of power—roughly 10% of the facility’s estimated needs. The company faces criticism for operating more than 400 MW of natural gas turbines without permits, with environmental groups citing NOx emissions and a University of Tennessee study showing a significant rise in nearby air pollutants and asthma symptoms since operations began. Regulators have granted permits for 15 turbines through January 2027 as xAI pursues additional solar and battery capacity, including a separate 100 MW solar project funded in part by federal aid.Read more →
TechCrunch...Musk’s xAI to build small solar farm adjacent to Colossus data centerElon Musk's xAI plans an 88-acre solar farm to accompany its Colossus AI data center, expected to generate about 30 MW and meet roughly 10% of the site's power needs. The move comes amid scrutiny over xAI's operation of hundreds of gas turbines without permits, linked to NOx pollution and reported air-quality impacts in the nearby Boxtown community, with regulators granting a permit for 15 turbines through January 2027. Separately, xAI is pursuing a separate 100 MW solar and 100 MW battery project backed by a large USDA loan, highlighting ongoing clean-energy investments amid regulatory and community concerns.Read more →
Gizmodo...Pentagon Investigating Former Astronaut Mark Kelly Over ‘Illegal Orders’ VideoFormer NASA astronauts Scott and Mark Kelly are depicted in front of a New Jersey elementary school renamed in their honor in 2016, a recognition tied to their participation in NASA’s Twins Study. The piece notes their prominence in space science and includes the line 'If this is meant to intimidate me...it won't work,' signaling a stubborn stance in the face of pressure.Read more →
Engadget...The best Apple Black Friday deals are live: Major discounts on AirPods, iPads, MacBooks, Apple Watches and AirTagsEngadget highlights Black Friday discounts on Apple's lineup, including iPads, MacBooks, AirPods, Apple Watches, and AirTags, with several deals hitting all-time lows. The article consolidates offers from major retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, and Target, framing the sales as a strong opportunity for family gifts or personal upgrades.Read more →
Engadget...One of our favorite Ninja air fryers is down to $130 for Black FridayThe Ninja DZ401 dual-zone air fryer is discounted to $130 (about 43% off) ahead of Black Friday, making it a flagship choice for holiday cooking with two baskets that can operate simultaneously. It features a 10-quart capacity, smart thermometer, six cooking modes, and dishwasher-safe baskets, making it convenient for feeding multiple people; the device has long been regarded as a top dual-zone air fryer. The article also notes other Ninja deals, including the Crispi glass air fryer/multicooker at $160, as part of the broader Black Friday savings.Read more →
Engadget...Apple's founding document is heading to auctionChristie’s will auction the original 1976 Apple founding agreement, a three-page document signed by Steve Jobs, Steve Wozniak and Ron Wayne, with an estimated value of $2-4 million. The item highlights Apple’s origins and Wayne’s brief stake, which he sold back for $1,500, and later sold his copy for $500; the sale is part of the 'We the People: America at 250' auction in New York on January 23, 2026. The article notes the historical significance and references other tech memorabilia sales, such as a first-generation iPhone fetching about $190,000.Read more →
CNET...Champions League Soccer: Livestream PSG vs. Tottenham Live From AnywhereThe article previews PSG vs. Tottenham in the UEFA Champions League, providing kickoff times for the US, UK, Europe and Australia and confirming Paramount Plus as the US streaming home with a multiview option. It notes Tottenham’s recent poor form and PSG’s home strength, outlines regional broadcast rights (TNT Sports in the UK, DAZN in Canada, Stan Sport in Australia), and includes general guidance on using VPNs to stream abroad.Read more →
CNET...Champions League Soccer: Livestream Olympiacos vs. Real Madrid Live From AnywhereThe piece lays out where and when to watch Olympiacos vs Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League, noting Paramount Plus carries the US broadcast with a new multiview option and listing regional rights (TNT Sports in the UK, DAZN in Canada, Stan Sport in Australia). It also gives kickoff times across time zones and briefly situates the match in terms of each team's current form. The article includes a VPN-focused guide for watching abroad and cautions about service terms.Read more →
CNET...Champions League Soccer: Livestream Liverpool vs. PSV Live From AnywhereThe piece outlines how to watch Liverpool vs. PSV Eindhoven in the UEFA Champions League, with Paramount Plus carrying the US stream and regional rights in the UK (TNT Sports), Canada (DAZN), and Australia (Stan Sport), along with kickoff times across time zones. It also provides background on the teams' form and includes a detailed guide on using VPNs to stream games abroad, with recommendations and compliance notes.Read more →
Gizmodo...New View of Iconic Butterfly Nebula Is Shockingly GorgeousThe Gemini South telescope in Chile captured a stunning image of NGC 6302, commonly known as the Butterfly Nebula. The photograph highlights the nebula's intricate structure and dynamic gas flows. This image underscores ongoing advances in astronomical imaging and our understanding of planetary nebulae.Read more →
CNET...Champions League Soccer: Livestream Arsenal vs. Bayern Munich Live From AnywhereArsenal host Bayern Munich in a UEFA Champions League clash at the Emirates, with kickoff set for 3 p.m. ET on Wednesday, and the piece highlights both teams’ form ahead of the match. It outlines region-specific viewing options (Paramount Plus in the US, TNT Sports in the UK, DAZN Canada, Stan Sport Australia) and notes features like Paramount Plus’s multiview, while also including guidance on using VPNs for international streaming and referencing Harry Kane’s return to familiar ground.Read more →
The Verge...Fanttik's portable tire inflator has hit an all-time low for Black FridayFanttik has cut its X8 portable tire inflator to $69.99 on Amazon Prime, an all-time low price exclusive to Prime members. The battery-powered device inflates car, motorcycle, and bicycle tires quickly (a mid-size car tire in under a minute), shows real-time pressure on an LCD, lasts up to 40 minutes and can fill about 16 tires without cooling, with manual or preset modes and includes a car charger and carrying case.Read more →
Engadget...Black Friday deals under $50 worth shopping for 2025 include Apple AirTags, Legos, Blink cameras, Ugreen chargers and moreThe article presents Engadget's curated list of the best Black Friday electronics under $50, spanning chargers, cables, speakers, streaming devices, smart plugs, power banks, and trackers. It notes these picks come from Engadget’s testing-driven buying guides and are positioned as worthwhile budget buys with substantial discounts, serving as a practical guide for shoppers seeking affordable gadgets during the sale.Read more →
Engadget...Apple's Mac mini M4 is 20 percent off with this Black Friday dealBlack Friday shoppers are being targeted with Apple deals, led by the M4-powered Mac mini with 16GB RAM and 256GB SSD now $479 (down from $599). Other Mac mini M4 configurations are discounted to $719 (16/512) and $889 (24/512), and bundling three years of AppleCare+ can save about $100 overall. The Magic Trackpad is on sale for $120, the lowest price seen, complementing a review where the Mac mini M4 earned high marks for power and new front-facing USB-C and headphone ports.Read more →
The Verge...The Verge’s 2025 holiday gift guideThe Verge has published a holiday gift guide aimed at helping shoppers avoid stress and regifts, offering a curated mix of practical tech gifts such as noise-canceling earbuds, e-readers, retro Polaroid cameras, gaming handhelds, and affordable power banks. The guide emphasizes thoughtful, budget-conscious picks and notes supplemental guides tailored to different budgets and interests.Read more →
TechCrunch...Are you balding? There’s an AI for that.MyHair AI, founded by Cyriac Lefort and Tilen Babnik, uses a dedicated AI model trained on over 300,000 scalp images to diagnose hair loss from user photos, track progression, and customize treatment routines. The app also connects users with clinics and provides verified reviews, with expansion plans to include a booking platform and broader clinic partnerships, aiming to bring transparency and medical accuracy to a $50-billion market. The company has gained traction with more than 1,000 paying subscribers, 200,000 user accounts, and a recent board addition from dermatologist Dr. Tess. Read more →
The Verge...You can play classic Nintendo games on these custom SNES-inspired Nike sneakersDesigner Gustavo Bonzanini built AIR SNES—Nike Air Max 90 sneakers that double as a functional SNES console to celebrate the Super Nintendo’s 35th anniversary. The system runs on a Raspberry Pi Zero W with RetroPie, tucked in the sneaker tongue and powered for about 30 minutes, with a retro analog TV connection and a Bluetooth-enabled SNES controller via an 8BitDo kit. It remains a one-off art project with no plans for commercialization.Read more →
Gizmodo...HP Joins List of Tech Companies Cutting Jobs and Pointing to AIThe article notes a weak job market and reports a split among experts on AI's role, with some blaming AI for job losses and others arguing it is being scapegoated. The debate hints at potential policy and business implications as automation and AI adoption continue.Read more →
CNET...Do These 3 Types of Exercises to Stay Active as You AgeAging doesn't have to reduce mobility or independence; regular movement, adequate rest, and proper nutrition can help older adults stay strong, flexible and active. The article outlines CDC guidelines for adults 65-plus—at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity, two days of strengthening exercises, and balance work—along with safe, low-impact options and the value of personalized exercise plans.Read more →
CNET...Best Gifts Under $500 for 2025Three former Bose engineers launched the Ozlo Sleepbuds, reviving the sleep-aid with Bluetooth streaming while preserving the compact design and noise-masking features. The new buds maintain passive isolation, multiple ear tips, a personal alarm, and sleep-tracking, though the companion app is still refining the experience and streaming audio may lack bass; the case doubles as the streaming source and charger, with up to 10 hours of battery life.Read more →
Engadget...Get our favorite action camera for an all-time-low price for Black FridayGoPro's Hero 13 Black is available for $310 in an early Black Friday deal, marking a record-low price and about a 23% ($90) discount. The camera adds a modular lens system, can record up to 5.3K with 2x optical zoom, and features a larger battery delivering roughly 90 minutes of 4K/30fps footage plus a full-color front screen; it relies on microSD storage. A bundle including a 64GB microSD card, three batteries, a dual charger, and a case is priced at $349, about 30% off.Read more →
Engadget...Black Friday deals include the Xreal One Pro smart glasses for a record-low priceBlack Friday promotions discount Xreal's smart glasses: the One Pro drops $50 to $599 and the Xreal One AR glasses to $399, with Meta's Ray Ban Gen 1 also on sale. The One Pro features a 222-inch virtual display via 1080p Micro-OLED and broad compatibility with laptops, consoles, and smartphones, offering a lighter, more comfortable AR experience but a 57-degree field of view, making it less immersive than the Apple Vision Pro. The article positions Xreal as a more affordable AR/VR option with similar functionality for everyday use.Read more →
Gizmodo...We’ve Detected Lightning on Mars for the First TimeResearchers analyzed 28 hours of audio recordings collected over two Martian years to listen for electrical signals, in an effort to detect atmospheric or environmental activity on Mars. The study seeks to uncover potential electrical phenomena linked to Martian phenomena such as dust events, aiming to shed light on the planet's environment.Read more →
TechCrunch...Bug in jury systems used by several US states exposed sensitive personal dataA security flaw in Tyler Technologies’ juror-management portals across multiple U.S. states and Canada could expose sensitive juror data, including names, addresses, and health-related information, due to a brute-force login vulnerability on sequential user IDs and lack of rate-limiting. Tyler acknowledged the issue, confirmed remediation efforts, and said they are communicating next steps to clients after TechCrunch alerted them in early November. The incident, echoing a 2023 security lapse in related court-tech systems, highlights ongoing privacy risks in government technology across at least a dozen sites nationwide.Read more →
CNET...Best Electric Bike for 2025CNET tested commuter e-bikes from Rad Power, Aventon, Lectric, Fiido and Ride1Up, evaluating handling, motor performance, range, safety features and value in real-world commuting scenarios. The editors crowned the Aventon Soltera 2.5 as the best overall due to its affordable price, lightweight 41-pound frame, seven-speed cassette, iOS/Android app compatibility and hill-assist throttle, while the guide highlights cargo, folding, and kid-focused options as suitable alternatives. The roundup demonstrates the breadth of options from folding city bikes to cargo haulers and performance-focused models like Lectric XP 3.0 and Tenways CGO600 Pro.Read more →
CNET...Best Air Purifiers of 2025: Our Lab Testing Shows You Don’t Have to Spend Hundreds on a Good OneTo help inform their air purifier picks, CNET Labs tested 14 popular models in a controlled chamber to compare particle removal efficiency, energy use and noise, while also assessing features and value. They used 5-gram smoke bombs to saturate air, a Temtop PMD331 particle counter to track PM2.5 and PM10 reductions in real time, a decibel meter for multiple fan speeds, and a Kill-a-Watt meter to measure power draw. The results aim to identify the best-performing purifiers across performance, efficiency and user considerations.Read more →
Engadget...Get 58 percent off one of our favorite Shark robot vacuums this Black FridayShark's AI Ultra robot vacuum is highlighted as the best Black Friday deal, discounted 58% to an all-time low of $250. The bagless model includes a removable base for easy dumping, a 60-day dirt reservoir, strong suction, LiDAR-based obstacle avoidance, mapping, and voice control via Google Assistant and Alexa, with about 120 minutes of runtime and no mopping function. The article also notes additional Shark deals, such as the Stratos 2-in-1 with mop at 55% off ($450) and the Power Detect Pet Plus cordless vacuum ($400).Read more →
Engadget...Anker Black Friday deals will save you up to 50 percent on power banks, wireless chargers, power adapters and moreEngadget rounds up Black Friday deals on Anker gear, covering power banks, wireless chargers, power adapters and Soundcore audio products, plus discounts on other charging accessories. The piece emphasizes Anker's value, feature-rich designs such as MagSafe banks and multi-port adapters, and urges readers to stock up while deals last. It also references related brands and guides supporting these picks.Read more →
The Verge...What the leaked AI executive order tells us about the Big Tech power grabA leaked draft executive order associated with Donald Trump would give federal agencies broad power to deter or invalidate state AI laws by leveraging funding and enforcement tools, creating a potential chilling effect rather than an outright preemption. Legal analysis suggests the order cannot unilaterally override state laws and its effectiveness would hinge on enforcement actions, with provisions to withhold BEAD broadband funding and other discretionary grants, while questions remain about the FCC's authority. The piece frames the move as a power play influenced by a private-sector AI advisor, highlighting constitutional and bureaucratic tensions between Big Tech interests and state regulation.Read more →
Gizmodo...We Bullied Microsoft Into Making Its Handheld Feel More Like an XboxThe article argues that no console should force players to adjust graphics settings on a per-game basis to achieve a good experience, highlighting user experience as the primary concern. It references the ASUS ROG Xbox Ally X 09 to illustrate the issue and advocates for consistent, out-of-the-box performance without extensive tuning.Read more →
Engadget...Black Friday deals include the Google TV Streamer 4K for $75The Google TV Streamer is on sale for $75 on Amazon ahead of Black Friday, marking the lowest price yet for a top all-in-one streaming device. It offers a 22% faster processor, 32GB of storage and 4GB of RAM, an intuitive interface, and built-in Google Home integration to control smart devices, with a wedge-design and included remote ( HDMI cable may be needed if you don’t have one). While the device is praised for unifying streaming apps, its $100 list price has been noted as a downside, making this deal particularly compelling.Read more →
The Verge...The best gaming headset I tried this year is $30 off for Black FridayVerge Deals highlights the Fractal Scape wireless gaming headset, praising its sound quality, minimal cable clutter, and a distinctive knob, while noting drawbacks like no ANC, no simultaneous 2.4GHz/Bluetooth, and non-swivel ear cups. It also promotes a Black Friday price of $169.99 across Amazon and other retailers, emphasizing its value for PC (and Switch 2) users and the author’s positive take on the headset.Read more →
Gizmodo...Skillshare Brings Creative Courses Into Black Friday, One Month Free Trial and 20% Off the First Year SubscriptionSkillshare is highlighted as an affordable option for learning new skills, underscoring that acquiring new abilities doesn’t have to be expensive. The piece emphasizes accessible online education and potential cost savings for learners seeking budget-friendly skill development.Read more →
Gizmodo...Christina Chong Has a Wild Idea for a ‘Doctor Who’ and ‘Star Trek: Strange New Worlds’ CrossoverThe article centers on Christina Chong’s roles in Star Trek: Strange New Worlds (and Doctor Who), highlighting the character Lorna Bucket as a pivotal element of the storyline. The post appears to tease a plot-focused detail, signaling that Lorna Bucket is key to the narrative.Read more →
Engadget...Walmart Black Friday deals: Get the AirPods Pro 2 for their lowest price yetWalmart is rolling out Black Friday discounts on Apple’s AirPods lineup, led by the AirPods Pro 2 at $139—the lowest price ever and more than $100 off the usual $249. The Pro 2 offers strong active noise cancellation, solid sound, and a firmware-enabled Live Translation feature via the Translate app on iPhones with iOS 26, along with a 30-hour total listening time thanks to its charging case. It lacks the Pro 3’s enhanced sound, ANC improvements, and heart-rate tracking, while AirPods 4 and Pro 3 are also discounted and more deals are expected to follow.Read more →
Engadget...Black Friday PS5 deals: Sony takes $100 off consoles, plus sales on other PlayStation games and accessoriesSony is offering $100 off all PS5 models for Black Friday, bringing Digital Edition to $399, the standard PS5 to $449, and the PS5 Pro to $649. The deals extend to accessories and select games, with discounts on the DualSense, the premium DualSense Edge, and the PlayStation Portal, plus game sales, available directly from Sony and retailers like Amazon and Walmart. This significantly lowers the entry price for next-gen gaming and expands options for both new buyers and current owners.Read more →
