Mashable

SAVE UP TO 38%: Video doorbells from brands like TP-Link, Arlo, and ecobee are up to 38% off at Amazon.

Video doorbell deals at Amazon Best overall deal Arlo 2K Video Doorbell $79.99 at Amazon (save $50) Get Deal Best deal under $50 TP-Link Tapo Smart Video Doorbell $49.99 at Amazon (save $20) Get Deal Best wired doorbell deal ecobee Smart Video Doorbell $127.95 at Amazon (save $32.04) Get Deal

It's a shock when someone actually calls your phone, but when someone shows up at your doorstep unexpected is even more of a surprise. Instead of hiding in another room, a video doorbell allows you to check on your front porch from your phone. From the doorbell's live stream, you'll be able to tell if it's your Amazon delivery, the neighborhood kids, or someone you'd rather not encounter.

A video doorbell is also a great way to get immediate notifications when a package is delivered, instead of checking your Amazon account every few minutes. If you're ready for a doorbell upgrade that adds to your home security, check out these sales at Amazon during the week of Oct. 30.

Best overall deal Opens in a new window Credit: Arlo Our pick: Arlo 2K Video Doorbell $79.99 at Amazon
$129.99 Save $50.00 Get Deal Why we like it

With 2K video resolution, the Arlo Video Doorbell gets the job done perfectly, and it's currently 38% off at Amazon. Instead of the list price of $129.99, the Arlo is down to just $79.99. The Arlo focuses on showing you exactly what you'd want to see when checking on your front porch: a head-to-toe view with a 180 degree-wide angle.

With the Arlo app, you'll be able to get real-time notifications from motion alerts and live streaming. There's also a night vision mode which is especially great during darker winter months. The doorbell's weather resistance means it'll hold up in any weather.

Best deal under $50 Opens in a new window Credit: TP-Link Our pick: TP-Link Tapo Smart Video Doorbell $49.99 at Amazon
$69.99 Save $20.00 Get Deal Why we like it

Increasing your home's security system doesn't have to come with a huge cost. With Amazon's sale price, the TP-Link Smart Video Doorbell can be all yours for just $49.99, marked down from the list price of $69.99. While some video doorbells use 1080p resolution, the TP-Link uses 2K which means you'll have a sharper image to see fine details like faces or license plate information.

Instead of getting up to open the door, you can arrange for the doorbell to call your phone, allow you to answer the door with your smartphone.

A common downfall of video doorbells is giving you alerts that you don't need — like when the cat walks by. Instead, the TP-Link allows you to set specific activity zones to monitor for motion or people.

Best wired doorbell deal Opens in a new window Credit: ecobee Our pick: ecobee Smart Video Doorbell $127.95 at Amazon
$159.99 Save $32.04 Get Deal Why we like it

If you'd rather not worry about re-charging your video doorbell, check out the wired ecobee Smart Video Doorbell. Equipped with a 1080p HDR camera, the ecobee allows you to see a live view of your porch from your smartphone or tablet. You'll get a 175 degree vertical view and a 187 degree horizonal view of what's happening outside of your front door.

With the wired configuration, the doorbell can withstand outdoor temps that range from -13 to 113 degrees Fahrenheit while also being waterproof and dust proof.

The doorbell comes with everyone you'd need to install it yourself including mounting plates, two wire extenders, a chime adapter, and screws.

A staggering new update has confirmed that February’s UnitedHealth data breach has impacted over 100 million Americans, now marking it as the largest healthcare data breach in U.S. history. But the fallout extends beyond individual patients — it touches entire families, elevating the scope and scale of this unprecedented attack.

SEE ALSO: 23andMe data breach settlement could give up to $10K to victims

The revised figure was disclosed on Oct. 24 by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office for Civil Rights, which updated its data breach portal to reflect the full breadth of the breach. While the attack occurred in February, this latest report is the first official accounting of the impact widespread.

For context, a ransomware group called ALPHV targeted UnitedHealth Change Health's payment processing system in February 2024. As reported by Forbes, the breach didn’t just expose data; it crippled critical services to hospitals, clinics, and medical practices nationwide, causing widespread operational chaos across the healthcare network.

UnitedHealth reportedly paid the ransomware hacker group $22 million in a desperate bid to recover the stolen data and halt further exposure. But in a bold move, the hackers reneged on the deal, pocketing the payout while keeping the data — leaving tens of millions of Americans' information dangling on the dark web.

Here's the statement that Forbes received from UnitedHealth regarding the breach:

“We continue to notify potentially impacted individuals as quickly as possible, on a rolling basis, given the volume and complexity of the data involved and the investigation is still in its final stages. Change continues to update the status of the event and we also issued the substitute notification via the wire. Most importantly, Change Healthcare is also in regular communication with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office for Civil Rights and other regulators regarding our notification process. We are committed to notifying potentially impacted individuals as quickly as possible. We continually encourage consumers to reach out with questions and take the below steps"

If you suspect that you've been affected by this data breach, Forbes suggests that you monitor your bank and credit card statements, request a credit freeze, and keep an eye out for medical fraud (review insurance statements for any unfamiliar claims and services).

Check out the best Amazon deals of the day as of Oct. 30: OUR TOP PICK Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max, Core Wireless Controller, and 1-month Game Pass Ultimate Bundle $79.99 at Amazon (save $56.98) Get Deal BEST TABLET DEAL Amazon Fire HD 10 $74.99 at Amazon (save $65) Get Deal BEST HOME SECURITY DEAL Arlo Video Doorbell 2K (2nd gen) $79.99 at Amazon (save $50) Get Deal BEST HOME DEAL Dyson Pure Cool TP4B $299.99 at Amazon (save $250) Get Deal BEST KITCHEN DEAL Ninja Mega Kitchen System BL770 $99.99 at Amazon (save $100) Get Deal

With Black Friday still a month away and Prime Day in our rearview, there's no major shopping event dropping prices on products on Oct. 30. Instead, there are just deals for the sake of deals. And TBH, these are our favorite kind. If you're looking to save some money and tick off your holiday shopping list, now is as good of a time as any.

Here are our top picks for the best Amazon deals of the day on Oct. 30. Make sure to check out our picks from Oct. 28 and Oct. 29 if you missed them as well. Plenty of those deals are still live — including a record-low M2 iPad Air and the Beats Solo 4 back at their Prime Day price.

Our top pick Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon / Microsoft Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max, Core Wireless Controller, and 1-month Game Pass Ultimate Bundle $79.99 at Amazon
$136.97 Save $56.98 Get Deal

As of June 2024, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers can play Xbox games (via cloud streaming) on compatible Amazon Fire TV Stick devices. In other words, you don't need to buy a $500 gaming console to play high-end console games. If you've been wanting to try it out for yourself, this bundle allows you to get started at a discount. It includes the Fire TV Stick 4K Max, a compatible Xbox wireless controller, and one month of Game Pass Ultimate for only $79.99. That's 41% in savings. When you're not gaming, you can stream all of your favorite shows and movies in 4K or display some artwork on your TV with over 2,000 pieces of museum-quality images. The Fire TV Stick 4K Max is the most advanced streaming stick in the Fire TV lineup, with WiFi 6E support, Dolby Vision (plus HDR, HDR 10, HDR10+, HLG), Dolby Atmos audio, and 16GB of storage.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Fire HD 10 tablet $74.99 at Amazon
$139.99 Save $65.00 Get Deal

Released last Oct., the Fire HD 10 tablet is "lighter and faster than its predecessors, with a long battery life and vivid picture that makes it great for on-the-go entertainment," as Mashable reviewer SaVanna Shoemaker wrote in her review. It's a solid no-frills tablet that's great for browsing social media, watching your favorite shows, answering emails, and doing other daily tasks. As of Oct. 30, it's back down to just $74.99 at Amazon — that's 46% in savings and the same record-low it hit on Prime Day.

Read our full review of the Amazon Fire HD 10.

Opens in a new window Credit: Arlo Arlo Video Doorbell 2K (2nd Gen) $79.99
$129.99 Save $50.00 Get Deal

Our top pick for a doorbell camera, the Arlo video doorbell is an all-seeing camera that serves as a virtual doorman with a huge 180-degree field of view, motion alerts, night vision, and two-way audio. You can unlock even more features with the Arlo Secure plan, which you can test for yourself with a free 30-day trial. Install it with or without wires, depending on your preference. As of Oct. 30, it's on sale for just $79.99 instead of $129.99. That's 38% in savings.

Opens in a new window Credit: Dyson Dyson Pure Cool TP4B Purifying Fan $299.99 at Amazon
$549.99 Save $250.00 Get Deal

The Dyson Pure Cool TP4B works double duty keeping the air in your home fresh and cool. With its fully sealed HEPA filtration and Air Multiplier technology, it can keep dust, debris, pet hair, odors, gases, and other pollutants at bay. Plus, its integrated sensors keep you in the know about your air quality. It's a great home addition for season changes — especially when it's on sale for just $299.99 instead of $549.99. That's 45% in savings.

Opens in a new window Credit: Ninja Ninja Mega Kitchen System BL770 $99.99 at Amazon
$199.99 Save $100.00 Get Deal

If you can't decide between a full-size blender and a personal one, the Ninja Mega Kitchen System offers the best of both worlds. Plus, it's 50% off as of Oct. 30, knocking it down to just $99.99 — the lowest price we've seen since last holiday season. It includes a 1,500-watt motor base, a 72-ounce blender pitcher, an 8-cup food processor bowl, and two 16-ounce single-serve to-go cups for your at-home and on-the-go needs.

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

The M4 MacBook Pro is finally here. The M4 chip made its debut on the iPad Pro earlier this year, but now it's being housed in several refreshed devices, including the iMac, Mac mini, and now the MacBook Pro.

Curious to see how Apple spiced up the MacBook Pro this year? Read on to find out.

M4 MacBook Pro: 3 new features that may make you upgrade M4 MacBook Pro Credit: Apple

The 14-inch M4 MacBook Pro has a starting price of $1,599 and comes with the following specs:

• Entry-level M4 chip

• 16GB of RAM

• 512GB storage

• 24 hours of battery life

• Available in Space Black

This marks three features that may make the new M4 MacBook Pro attractive for an upgrade. Firstly, it starts at 16GB, which means Apple is no longer stingy with memory for its base configurations. Secondly, the MacBook Pro's claimed 24-hour battery life rating is quite impressive. (The M3 MacBook Pro was rated for 22 hours of battery life.)

Thirdly, Space Black, a popular colorway that was only featured in the M3 Pro and M3 Max models last year, is now available for the entry-level configurations.

M4 MacBook Pro specs

On the M4 model, RAM can go up to 32GB and storage can go up to 2TB. There are also more expensive variants that include the more powerful M4 Pro or M4 Max chips, which substantially increase the price.

The 14-inch M4 Pro model, for instance, starts at $1,999, and as far as I can tell, the absolute minimum you can expect to pay for a 14-inch M4 Max model is $3,199.

The higher-end M4 chips can go all the way up to 128GB of RAM and 8TB of storage. There's also a 16-inch model with the same internal options, but of course, it's more expensive. The cheapest 16-inch model available starts at $2,499.

As far as ports go, the new MacBook Pros have plenty of options for users to choose from. There are no USB type-A ports on any of these devices, but the M4 model has three Thunderbolt 4 ports with support for external displays, an SD slot, a headphone jack, and an HDMI port.

The M4 Pro and M4 Max models upgrade those Thunderbolt 4 ports to Thunderbolt 5, but keep everything else the same.

In addition to Space Black, the new MacBooks are also available in Silver.

For more information about Apple's big week of refreshed devices, check out our Mac announcements hub.

Apple's "Mac week" continues with the launch of new 14- and 16-inch MacBook Pros powered by M4-series chips (M4, M4 Pro, and M4 Max). Starting prices range from $1,599 to $3,999 — all with a base RAM of 16GB — and preorders are now live in the Apple Store.

The new MacBook Pros will begin shipping on Friday, Nov. 8.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple MacBook Pro (M4 chip series) Starting from $1,599 Pre-Order Here

This story is developing.

GET $20 OFF: As of Oct. 30, you can get the ASUS ZenScreen 15.6-inch portable monitor at Amazon for just $119. That's a 14% discount or $20 off.

Opens in a new window Credit: ASUS Our pick: ASUS ZenScreen 15.6-inch portable monitor $119.00 at Amazon
$139.00 Save $20.00 Get Deal

If you travel a lot or work remotely, you may have found that there’s only so much screen space a laptop can provide (even the larger displays can feel constraining when you're trying to juggle multiple windows or tasks).

Enter a portable monitor. These little gadgets can double your workspace and make it easier to get work done or stay connected while on the go. And right now, you can get one of Amazon’s most popular portable monitors for 14% off.

SEE ALSO: I used this portable monitor with my MacBook Air for the first time — and now my setup feels complete

As of Oct. 30, the ASUS ZenScreen 15.6-inch portable monitor (MB166C) is on sale for $119, marked down from $139. That’s $20 off the list price and a solid price for a lightweight, high-end display that can work with your laptop, tablet, or smartphone. (It also comes with a three-year warranty.)

The ZenScreen (MB166C) features a flicker-free, low blue light screen that’s easy on the eyes and a USB-C connection. It has a built-in tripod socket on the rear and a foldable sleeve, so you can use it however works best for you, whether it's propped up on a desk or table or held in your hands.

Bonus: It comes with three months of Adobe Creative Cloud.

Target has quietly announced its official Black Friday sale in an FAQ page on its website, stating that "Black Friday starts online Thursday, 11/28 and in stores Friday, 11/29."

The lead-up to that sale will involve much more fanfare.

In a press release Wednesday, the bullseye retailer said it will host a new Early Black Friday Sale from Thursday, Nov. 7 to Saturday, Nov. 9. This first-of-its-kind savings event will usher in "thousands of hot new deals" storewide, including up to 50% off small appliances; up to 50% off tech; and up to 30% off select toys, clothing and shoes, and holiday trees and lights. (Look for brands like Barbie, Dyson, Lego, and Shark.) These offers will be available online, through the Target mobile app, and in stores.

Adding to the festivities is the return of Target's "Deal of the Day" program from Nov. 1 to Dec. 24. These one-day doorbusters will feature discounts of up to 50% off and exclusives for members of Target Circle, the retailer's free rewards program. Upcoming Deals of the Day include 15% off select prepaid gift cards (Nov. 1), Circle-only Apple Watch SE discounts (Nov. 2), 40% off matching sleepwear (Nov. 3), and a Circle-only deal on the Tineco iFloor 3 Breeze (Nov. 4).

SEE ALSO: When do Black Friday sales start? Be on the lookout for early holiday deals.

To cap things off, Target also plans to drop new batches of weeklong deals every Sunday in November. The first wave goes live on Nov. 3 with up to 50% off headphones and floorcare, up to 30% off select home decor, up to 25% off TVs and soundbars, and "buy one, get one 50% off" select toy brands.

Those who plan on perusing Target's seasonal deals should know that its Holiday Price Match Guarantee goes into effect on Nov. 7 (the start of that three-day sale). Under this policy, shoppers can request a price-match for anything bought there through Dec. 24 if it happens to get cheaper post-purchase. Target will also price-match Amazon and Walmart deals on certain items within 14 days of purchase.

Target previously announced that it adjusted the regular prices of over 2,000 items for the holiday season, and that Black Friday proper will coincide with its exclusive launch of the official Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour Book and Swift's The Tortured Poets Department: The Anthology on CD and vinyl.

Target's Black Friday hours

Target hasn't confirmed its 2024 Black Friday hours just yet, but in years past, its stores have opened at 6 a.m. local time that day.

Target stores will be closed on Thanksgiving Day, as they have been since 2020. That became a permanent company policy in 2021.

SAVE $158.56: As of Oct. 30, get the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra for $491.43. That's a 24% discount and the lowest price we've seen.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra $491.43 at Amazon
$649.99 Save $158.56 Get Deal

When you think of the word "Ultra" in relation to smartwatches, you probably conjure images of the Apple Watch Ultra. But that's not the only one on offer, which is good news for Android fans. Samsung has its own line of wearables, and its premium Galaxy Watch is one that's meant to be in direct competition with the Apple Watch Ultra. If you've had your eye on one for a while but wasn't sure when to lock yours in, good news: that day is today.

As of Oct. 30, you can get the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra for $491.43 at Amazon. That's $158.56 off its normal price of $649.99 and a discount of 24%. It's also the lowest price we've tracked on the watch so far, beating its most recent sale price in September.

This is Samsung's most premium smartwatch, and it comes with a wide variety of features – many of which you'll find on Apple's wearable. That includes fitness tracking that includes the ability to keep up with your workouts, sleep and heart rate tracking, and a variety of other sensors to stay in touch with your health. It can even offer fitness tips to help up your daily performance rating and a swath of other options beyond that.

This watch also comes with Galaxy AI capabilities that let you compare the day prior's performance and Energy Score, an amalgam of your heart rate, sleep and overall steps taken the prior day to see how much has changed and how ready you are for a similar physical day. Plus, it boasts 100-hour battery life that should help you stay on the go without having to stop and charge your watch. If you're ready for a wearable upgrade and you use the Android ecosystem, this is a great choice.

GET 25% OFF: As of Oct. 30, you can snag the Solawave 4-in-1 Radient Renewal Skincare Wand for just $126.75 at Ulta. That's a 25% discount and $42.25 off the list price. (It's still full price on the Solawave website.)

Opens in a new window Credit: Solawave Our pick: Solawave 4-in-1 Radiant Renewal Skincare Wand $126.75 at Ulta
$169.00 Save $42.25 Get Deal

Black Friday is on the horizon, and retailers everywhere are gearing up for the season with pre-Black Friday sales and early bird deals. Even Ulta is getting in on the action with an Early Black Friday Deals event, where they’re offering up to 40% off select beauty products until Nov. 23.

One deal we couldn’t pass up is this 25% discount on the Solawave 4-in-1 Radiant Renewal Skincare Wand. You can get the coveted Solawave skincare wand (granted, this is the upgraded version of the OG Advanced Skincare Wand) for just $126.75 at Ulta. That’s $42.25 off the original price.

SEE ALSO: The best beauty tech we've tested, from the Dyson Airwrap to SolaWave

This little skincare tool isn’t just a trendy beauty gadget — it actually works. “Immediately after using the red light therapy wand, I was surprised to find that I noticed a slight improvement in my skin,” Mashable’s RJ Andersen writes in their review of the OG Advanced Skincare Wand. “By the end of my second week, my skin was definitely looking better: A few hormonal acne scars on my chin had faded, the redness in my cheeks went down, and I swore to my partner that a broken capillary on my cheek had completely disappeared.”

But the Skincare Wand isn’t the only Solawave product that’s on sale. You can also score a deal on the Eye Recovery Pro Red Light Therapy Mask, the Neck & Chest Rejuvenating Red Light Therapy Mask, and the Bye Acne: 3 Minute Blue + Red Light Acne Treatment tool.

You'll have to act fast, though, as these deals are only available until Nov. 23.

As of today, Oct. 30, the Kindle Colorsoft Signature Edition is available at Amazon. Pre-orders for the latest Kindle model opened earlier in October, but today marks the first day of Amazon shipping out the new devices.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Kindle Colorsoft Signature Edition (32GB) at Amazon
Get Deal

Instead of waiting until tomorrow for a sweet Halloween treat, readers are in luck at Amazon because the brand new Kindle Colorsoft Signature Edition is available to order. This marks the first Kindle that comes with a color display.

With a metallic black shell, the Kindle Colorsoft Signature Edition brings a color display to browsing book covers, reading manga, magazines, browsing travel guides, or fun illustrated kids' books. The 7-inch display uses high contrast while still being easy on the eyes, aiming to give an experience similar to reading a physical book.

Another feature unique to the Kindle Colorsoft is the ability to highlight text in yellow, orange, blue, and pink. Your book club titles or textbooks for school can now be highlighted with a color-coded system to help keep you organized.

Like many other Kindle models, the Colorsoft uses a glare-free display and it's waterproof so no worries if you take it along to the pool or a relaxing bath. Amazon says readers should expect to get about eight weeks of battery life with each charge.

The Kindle Colorsoft comes with 32GB of storage and it's priced at $279.99, which makes it more expensive than the Mashable top Kindle recommendation, the Kindle Paperwhite, which costs $159.99. However, you'll use color with the Paperwhite model and it's only available with 16GB of storage.

Bring color back to your books thanks to the Kindle Colorsoft which is officially available for order at Amazon as of today.

Apple is announcing a bunch of Mac devices this week — and some of it may have just leaked early.

As spotted by developer Charlie Joseph on X (formerly Twitter), an image asset for the M4 Max chip was briefly on Apple's website before being taken down. Given that there is no M4 Max chip yet (at least, not at the time of writing), that's a pretty big leak. With everyone expecting new MacBook Pros to get announced this week, it seems reasonable to assume there will be a model with an M4 Max chip in it.

SEE ALSO: Apple's new Mac mini has a power button in the most unusual place

Of course, it's impossible to say what that will look like on a practical level right now. The M4 Max could provide big boosts to battery efficiency, overall performance, and maybe even gaming performance if Apple felt like going down that road. But without even so much as a press release to go off of, it's tough to predict how much better M4 Max will be.

There will also most likely be regular M4 and M4 Pro models, too. The M4 Pro also made its way into the new Mac mini. If you've been in the market for a new MacBook Pro, keep an eye out.

"I'm 17 and AFRAID of Sabrina Carpenter," is the latest so-called fan behavior getting ridiculed online. 

The original tweet, posted by Pop Fan Account (@Popmvsics) on Oct. 12, reads: "You guys are disgusting and weird for defending a literal weirdo. Im 17 and AFRAID of Sabrina Carpenter when she's performing. You guys need help." It quickly went viral, racking 17.9 million views and becoming the copypasta du jour online. 

Tweet may have been deleted

While the phrase is funny, it highlights a growing tension in fan culture, where social media amplifies extreme behaviors while complicating traditional fan-artist relationships. The post is part of a misogynistic thread shaming the "Espresso" singer for her sexy persona and suggestive dance moves on her Short an' Sweet Tour.

SEE ALSO: What is facial contrast makeup? It's the latest TikTok trend dictating how to feel beautiful.

A follow-up tweet reads: "You never see Taylor showing herself on stage like that. Anyways queen Tay Tay remains Sabrina’s ender." Notably, Carpenter doesn't "show herself" in the video that sparked the response and, ironically, she opened for Swift’s Eras Tour.

Online posts like "I'm 17 and AFRAID of Sabrina Carpenter" often go viral, painting pop music fandom in a negative light. However, scholars argue that real fandom is rooted in positive relationships with artists. "A lot of it isn't coming from real fans. It's from people who want to be loud, get attention, and be rewarded by the algorithm. It’s rooted in that outrage economy more than genuine fan reactions," Georgia Carroll, a fan culture expert, told Mashable.

There’s a constant tension between fans building community online and the profit-driven nature of social media platforms. In an email to Mashable, Mark Duffett, an Associate Professor in Media and Cultural Studies at the University of Chester, explained that fans form communities to maintain the thrill of an artist's performance. But often, the community becomes more important than the artist. "For many, fandom starts with appreciating the artist but quickly becomes about the sense of belonging within the fan community," added Jenessa Williams, a postdoctoral fellow at Stanford's Digital Civil Society Lab who wrote her PhD on music fandom.

However, to be part of these communities on platforms like stan Twitter, the side of X/Twitter devoted to fervently discussing artists and celebrities, fans are at odds with the algorithms. "Platforms are advertising machines. Their goal is to have as much consistent use as possible to sell their high user base to advertisers. Algorithms will show you things that make you angry because that keeps people on the site longer," says Mel Stanfill, Associate Professor of English at the University of Central Florida and author of Fandom is Ugly. This optimization for engagement often encourages negative interactions over genuine community-building.

SEE ALSO: Why is the internet fighting over Chappell Roan?

The behavior encouraged by platforms, combined with unprecedented access to celebrities, creates a complex ecosystem that genuine fans must navigate. Recently, with the death of One Direction’s Liam Payne and Chappell Roan's comments about the tolls of modern fame, pop music fandom is in a moment of reflection.

According to experts, parasocial relationships — where fans feel a personal connection to celebrities — are normal. The term dates back to the 1950s and describes the feeling of knowing a celebrity even if you've never met them. But social media has intensified these relationships. Fans once engaged with artists through music and magazine profiles, but now they can access them daily on TikTok, Instagram, and X/Twitter. Following a daily updates account means being inundated with images and news about the artist daily.

"[Social media] causes a sort of blurring of boundaries, where people do feel like they are closer to celebrities than they ever have," Stanfill explained.

Chappell Roan's rise to fame coincided with her steady stream of TikTok posts, fostering a sense of intimacy with her fans. In August, she uploaded a video setting boundaries, asking fans not to yell at her on the street, request photos, or invade her and her family's privacy. "I don't care that abuse and harassment, stalking is a normal thing to do to people who are famous," she said. "I don't care that it’s normal. I don't care that this crazy type of behavior comes along with the career field I've chosen. That does not make it OK. That doesn’t make it normal. It doesn’t mean I want it. It doesn’t mean that I like it. I don’t want whatever the fuck you think you're supposed to be entitled to whenever you see a celebrity." 

The series of TikToks went viral, and Roan quickly faced backlash from all directions. As Stanfill explained, "She wasn't trying to manipulate people, but it did cultivate a certain kind of relationship where her fans felt like they know her. They responded to her as if they knew her, and they went too far." By setting boundaries, Roan broke the unspoken contract of constant accessibility that many fans expect from celebrities.

"When that emotional attachment is denied, people can react negatively. They can be embarrassed that they have done something they shouldn't. Sometimes people who are embarrassed will behave badly to protect their self-image," said Stanfill.

At the risk of being robbed of her personhood, Roan is smartly attempting to set boundaries with fans before it spirals even more out of control — a luxury that the members of One Direction didn't have during their meteoric rise. At the height of their fame, they fostered deep connections with fans through constant livestreaming and tweeting, building intense bonds that sometimes blurred personal boundaries.

After Payne's death on Oct. 16, many fans, including the New Statesman's Anna Leszkiewicz, pondered their complicity in what was ultimately a tragedy tied to fame. She wrote, "How could we justify doing this to such young people – separating them from their families, their normality, and their sense of themselves – then laughing as they fumble their way through adulthood? How many victims does the pop music industry have to produce before something changes?"

Since One Direction joined Twitter in 2010, the rapid spread of information online has only intensified, permanently reshaping fandom and heightening the stakes for artists navigating fame.

Before social media, if a fan saw a celebrity on the street, they might phone a friend, and by that point, the celebrity would no longer be at the spot where they saw them. Now, that information can be posted online for thousands to see instantaneously. 

In a profile in Rolling Stone, Roan explained that she posted the now-infamous TikTok after a fan grabbed and kissed her and someone called her dad after his number leaked online. "The things that make platforms great for activism also make them great for harassment," said Stanfill. Without social media, Roan's dad's phone number wouldn't have reached so many people.

Williams pointed out that social media has also changed how fans perceive interactions with their idols. "There's this wider economy of fans being able to show that they've had the interaction," she told Mashable. "They can be more concerned with getting the video — which becomes content — than they are actually worried about having that genuine connection."

On platforms like TikTok, X, and Instagram, videos of fans interacting with artists routinely attract thousands of views. The viral appeal of these clips fuels the commodification of fan-artist interactions, turning genuine moments into performances for the camera. "Chappell Roan is reaching fame in the age of TikTok and constant surveillance," noted Carroll.

Following Payne's death, hundreds of thousands of Directioners returned to social media, the very platforms where they once shared excitement over album drops and music videos, to mourn. Amid heartfelt tributes and cherished memories, users also reexamined the band's years in the spotlight, casting new light on the overwhelming amount of content produced and the intense scrutiny it brought.

Williams suggests that fans focus on building community within their fandom, creating connections with fellow fans rather than seeking validation from the artist. "[That] can be a lot more healthy than striving for that interactional recognition from the artists," she explained. A sense of community can serve as a substitute for the need to feel close to an artist, and even for the impulse to know everything about them. Why not get to know someone equally passionate, posting about what they love?

As fans and artists navigate these evolving norms, there's an opportunity to redefine what a healthy, positive fan community looks like — one that values a relationship with the art over viral moments or the need to know every detail about an artist.

SAVE 30%: As of Oct. 30, the 5th Gen Echo Dot and Jack Skellington Bundle is on sale for $62.98 at Amazon. That's a 30% discount from its $89.98 list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Echo Dot Bundle: Echo Dot and Jack Skellington Shell $62.98 at Amazon
$89.98 Save $27.00 Get Deal

Halloween's coming up and if you're still in the spirit of spooky season, Amazon has a wonderful Echo Dot bundle to check out. Complete with a limited edition shell of Jack Skellington's head from The Nightmare Before Christmas, this Echo Dot bundle is a great pick-up for the season.

For a limited time, the Jack Skellington Echo Dot bundle is on sale for $62.98, 30% off its list price of $89.98. The shell can also be purchased separately for $39.99, if you just want that. Though if you've been hoping to get an Echo Dot for your home, this is a nice bundle to save an extra $27 on the items together.

SEE ALSO: Save $45 on the kid-friendly Echo Show 5 at Amazon

As stated before, the bundle comes with a shell of Jack's head that can be removed at any point to reveal the charcoal 5th Gen Echo Dot beneath. So if you just want to save Jack for the seasons, you can keep a standard Echo Dot out for the rest of the year. However, with the shell on, it has a fun effect where the mouth lights up with the light ring from your Echo Dot, making it a very fun little display piece.

With Black Friday right around the corner, there are sure to be plenty more deals and bundles like this to check out at Amazon. It won't be the only retailer with a selection to look through, though. Best Buy and Walmart are starting up their Black Friday sales fairly soon, so get your list and check it twice so you don't miss out on any offers as they appear.

ChatGPT knows you had a chat a while back with now-vital information, and it's now making it much easier for you to find it.

Announced on X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday, OpenAI has added a tool to its conversational AI platform that makes searching your chat history much more convenient. Now, when you open ChatGPT in the web app, you'll spot a magnifying glass icon in the top left, where you can trawl the depths of your conversations for keywords and phrases.

Tweet may have been deleted

According to OpenAI, "Plus and Team users will have access within the day. Enterprise and Edu users will have access in one week. Free users will start getting access throughout the next month."

When I asked ChatGPT itself for more information about the new history search feature, the AI bot said the feature was "designed to save time and keep information organized" and "lets you quickly locate information from past chats, making it easier to revisit helpful responses or continue a conversation from where you left off."

According to ChatGPT, the AI searches through your past conversations for your chosen terms, and "will return relevant conversations from your history that match those terms." You can click on a result to open that chat. ChatGPT suggested possible uses as tracking ongoing projects, learning and study, and "brainstorming".

SEE ALSO: OpenAI's AGI readiness team has been dissolved

The news comes months after ChatGPT has faced a fair bit of criticism for chat history data storage; in May, Mashable reported about ChatGPT saving user chat history, even if you'd opted out of sharing your data to train the model. When I asked ChatGPT about the new history search feature today, it provided information about privacy, control, and data visibility, saying, "Only you have access to your conversation history, and OpenAI doesn’t use these conversations for training unless you explicitly consent by opting in."

Additionally, ChatGPT said, "If you prefer, you can turn off chat history altogether in the settings. When history is off, conversations will not be saved or searchable."

Notably, there are some things ChatGPT might not want you to be able to retrieve from the archives, considering the AI chatbot has been accused of sharing election debate misinformation, being ableist toward job applicants with disabilities, and exposing trade secrets shared by Samsung workers using the platform. Being able to easily find receipts might cause more of a headache for the company than it seems.

We've also reported about people using ChatGPT to argue with their partners, so adding the ability to quite literally dredge up the past through searching chat history could be potential fight kindling for relationships — perhaps there are some things that shouldn't be searchable.

Apple's new Mac mini is pretty amazing. It's a machine I dreamed about when I was a kid: a quiet little aluminum box that packs immense power (especially if you equip it with Apple's new M4 Pro chip).

There's one thing about the latest Mac mini, however, that strikes me as odd. The device has two USB-C ports and a headphone jack on the front, and three more Thunderbolt ports, an Ethernet port, an HDMI port, and a power plug on the back.

There's no visible power button, though. So how do you turn this thing on and off? Easy: You lift it, reach under it, and (probably) blindly search with your hand until you find the power button — because the power button is located on the bottom of the Mac mini.

SEE ALSO: M4 Mac mini vs. M2 Mac mini: What are the differences?

Now, the Mac mini does not lay fully flat on the surface of your desktop (floor, etc), so you might be able to turn it on and off without lifting it into the air. But given that desktop computers — even if they're as tiny as the new mini — are typically stowed away somewhere at the back of your table, or beneath it, this could be a bit of a nuisance.

Perhaps it's not as bad as it appears. Credit: Apple

Apple's product design is typically pretty great, but the company does make odd decisions like this every once in a while, with the most egregious example being the Magic Mouse, which is charged via a plug on the bottom. Arguably, the power button placement on the new Mac mini is even worse, as turning the computer on and off (or forcing a reboot) might be something you do more often than you charge your mouse.

SEE ALSO: M4 Mac mini officially unveiled – the most affordable Mac and it's compact like an Apple TV box

It's possible that the Mac mini is so...well, mini, that Apple had to get creative when it comes to power button placement as to conserve as much space as possible. Still, the power button does seem like something that could fit on the back, or the front, or the top of the mini — anywhere besides the bottom, really. It all seems quite odd, though perhaps it's something you can get used to; we'll tell you how this works in practice once we spend some time with the mini.

SAVE $700: As of Oct. 30, the 75-inch Samsung The Frame TV is on sale for $2,299.99 at Best Buy. That's $700 off its list price of $2,999.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung 75-inch Class LS03D The Frame Series QLED 4K TV $2,299.99 at Best Buy
$2,999.99 Save $700.00 Includes 1-Month Game Pass Ultimate Trial Get Deal

If you've been on the hunt for a new TV but want something that can blend in a little bit more with your living space, Samsung's The Frame TV is just what you need. Not only does this stunning 4K QLED offer a great picture, but it doubles as a frame for your favorite art pieces, so you can have it set up to display them on your wall when you're not watching your favorite shows or films. It's a worthy investment, and even better when you can find it on sale.

Thankfully, Best Buy is here to help with a nice $700 discount on the 75-inch version of The Frame. Normally, this TV costs $2,999.99, but you can score it for just $2,299.99 right now. Not only that, but Best Buy is also offering a free one-month trial of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate with your purchase, so you can be all set to play some games on it right off the bat.

SEE ALSO: The LG OLED evo G4 smart TV is at its lowest-ever price at Amazon

The Frame offers a wide variety of different art pieces to choose from, too. It was recently revealed that New York's Museum of Modern Art made 27 pieces of art available to display on the device, so you can have the likes of Vincent van Gogh, Henri Rousseau, Georgia O'Keeffe, and Frida Kahlo on your wall. All of this alongside its high-quality display and smart features make The Frame worth adding to any home.

Don't miss out on this excellent deal on the 75-inch Samsung The Frame TV. If you're hoping to find even more TV deals, have a look at our breakdown of when Black Friday sales start to get a good look at different retailers participating in the sale event and when their deals will drop. Some locations, like Best Buy and Walmart, are starting sooner than you think, too.

SAVE OVER 90%: As of Oct. 30, Audible is offering three months of its Premium Plus plan for $0.99 per month. Normally, the Premium Plus membership costs $14.95 per month, so you're saving 93% on the membership for those first three months.

Opens in a new window Credit: Audible Audible (3-Month Subscription) $0.99 at Audible
$14.95 Save $13.96 Get Deal

Believe it or not, but we're already nearing the end of 2024. And with the holidays right around the corner that means some of the biggest sale events of the year are ready to kick off. In anticipation of the Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales, Audible's holiday offer is here to spread a little cheer with one of its best deals on its Premium Plus membership. You can get your first three months of the service for just $0.99 per month.

Normally, this membership costs $14.95 per month. After the three months is up it will go back to that price, but this is an excellent deal to just get a taste of what Audible is like. Alongside a wealth of titles to choose from, including some excellent Audible Originals led by phenomenal talent, this plan provides you with one free credit a month to use on any title you like. That's three audiobooks you'll get for just $3 over those three months, which is definitely worth it.

SEE ALSO: Hundreds of Audible audiobooks are up to 80% off at Amazon

An Audible Premium Plus membership also includes access to exclusive sales and discounts, so you can save even more on select titles you come across. Sometimes they'll even hold a 2-for-1 credit sale, which is a great opportunity to stock up on two titles with your available credit for the month.

A membership plan like this can also make for a really nice gift for the holidays. Thankfully, the Audible holiday offer is set up to run through Dec. 31, so you have plenty of time to think it over. With Black Friday on the horizon, Amazon is sure to have even more discounts to check out, and we'll make sure to keep you updated on all of them as they appear.

SAVE OVER $800: As of Oct. 30, the LG 55-inch OLED evo G4 smart TV is on sale at Amazon for $1,796.99. That's a 31% saving on list price, and the lowest it's ever been on Amazon.

Opens in a new window Credit: LG 55-inch LG OLED evo G4 smart TV $1,796.99 at Amazon
$2,599.99 Save $803.00 Get Deal

If you're serious about the quality of your TV, the LG OLED evo G4 smart TV is something to seriously consider. This model is a stunning 4K flatscreen TV that will make every watch feel like you're at the cinema.

And the best part, as of Oct. 30, this TV is at its lowest-ever price at Amazon. Saving you an incredible $803, you can now purchase this TV for $1,796.99. This reduced price is specific to the 55-inch model and for the TV-only option. However, if you're interested in premium audio bundles, there are several reduced options on these too, including a Home Theater Audio option.

But this TV is so good that if additional audio bundles aren't in your budget, you won't be missing out. The TV already benefits from Dolby Atmos which creates an incredible immersive 3D sound experience.

SEE ALSO: Save $400 on this gaming-friendly TV from Sony

One of our favorite features is the clever use of AI to improve picture quality. Powered by the a11 AI Processor, it enhances the viewing experience by optimizing both the picture and sound quality. It features AI Picture Pro and AI Super Upscaling for smoother, crisp visuals, adapting content for the best possible display.

Even without AI, the picture quality is already top-notch. It has over 8 million self-lit pixels and benefits from brightness Booster Max, which enhances picture brightness. Dolby Vision and Filmmaker Mode further ensure that colors are reproduced as intended by filmmakers, so you know you're getting the best viewing experience.

Don't miss out on this limited-time deal, head to Amazon now.

SAVE $30: As of Oct. 30, the Amazon Fire TV 40-Inch 2-Series is on sale at Amazon for $169.99, saving you 15% on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Fire TV 40-Inch 2-Series $169.99 at Amazon
$199.99 Save $30.00 Get Deal

Cozy season is here, so it's time for movies, early nights, and, more movies. It's also the perfect season to upgrade your TV, because who wants to rewatch Love Actually on an old screen?

And as of Oct. 30, you can add the discounted Amazon Fire TV 40-Inch 2-Series to your list of upgrade options. Currently reduced by 15%, this model is now just $169.99. This deal is specific to the TV-only option. To add the four-year protection plan you'll need to pay a bit more.

As with most Amazon devices, the Amazon Fire TV 40-Inch 2-Series has Alexa voice control. An incredibly handy feature when you need to search through multiple streaming platforms for your favorite show. You can also use Alexa to search the internet and control smart home devices, for example, robot vacuums with Alexa built in.

For entertainment, the TV runs on Amazon's Fire OS, so you'll have access to popular streaming apps like Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, and more. It also features two standard HDMI inputs and one ARC input, making it easy to connect gaming devices. And it supports Dolby Audio for even better sound quality. Image quality is great too, with an HD 1080p resolution to enjoy.

Head over to Amazon to grab this deal and upgrade your TV in time for snuggle season.

SAVE OVER $300 As of Oct. 30, this robot vacuum and mop combo is on sale at Amazon for $135.95. That's a saving of 74% on list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: XIEBro T8S Robot Vacuum and Mop Combo $135.95 at Amazon
$529.99 Save $394.04 Get Deal

Who doesn't love robot vacuums? They reduce your endless list of chores, they clean, and if you're really lucky, they mop too. We're sold.

But of course, nothing in life comes without a catch, and the robot vacuum catch is the price tag. You'll rarely find a high-performing vacuum for less than a few hundred dollars. So that's why we love this latest deal at Amazon. As of Oct. 30, you can purchase the T8S Robot Vacuum and Mop Combo at the reduced price of $135.95, saving you 74% and almost $400 on list price.

This model is great at removing dust, pet hair, and paper scraps. It has a 300ml dust box and 260ml water tank, with a roller brush for added cleaning. The electronically controlled water tank gives you two-speed water output options to choose from via the app or remote.

SEE ALSO: I've tested over 20 robot vacuums and these are the best for every budget in 2024

Powered by a 2600mAh battery, it can run for up to 120 minutes in quiet mode, covering up to 1290 square feet. When the battery runs low, it'll automatically return to the charging dock. The 8S model also features 3D obstacle avoidance, climbs up to 15-degree inclines, and is able to reach tight spaces with its nifty design.

It has three cleaning modes: auto, spot, and edge. Auto cleaning is perfect for everyday use, spot cleaning focuses on a targeted area to tackle concentrated messes, and edge cleaning runs the vacuum along baseboards and edges.

This is a limited-time deal at Amazon, so don't miss out.