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Mashable is a leading source for news, information & resources for the Connected Generation. Mashable reports on the importance of digital innovation and how it empowers and inspires people around the world. Mashable's 25 million monthly unique visitors and 10 million social media followers have become one of the most engaged online news communities. Founded in 2005, Mashable is headquartered in New York City with an office in San Francisco.
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Gaming monitor deals that take the pain out of upgrading: Save up to $650 on our top picks from LG and Samsung

Thu, 08/20/2026 - 10:47
The best gaming monitor deals at a glance: BEST OLED deal LG 27-inch Ultragear OLED 27GX790A-B $499.99 (save $500) Get Deal Best budget pick Samsung 27-inch Odyssey G55C $199.99 (save $130) Get Deal Best curved deal Samsung 57-inch Odyssey Neo G95NC $1,449.99 (save $650 + get a free $120 Amazon credit) Get Deal

Gaming hardware might come with major sticker shock, but upgrading your gear can truly make a world of difference in how you experience your favorite games. If your current setup is feeling lifeless, I've spotted a few deals on gaming monitors that'll take some of the pain out of upgrading. A discount of up to 50% is a great excuse to make the jump to a new monitor, don't you think?

While the market is wide and varied, here are three of the best deals we could find on gaming monitors as of Aug. 20. Gaming is not a cheap hobby by any means, but it also doesn't have to cost a fortune.

Best OLED gaming monitor deal Opens in a new window Credit: LG LG 27-inch Ultragear OLED 27GX790A-B $499.99 at Amazon
$999.99 Save $500   Get Deal Why we like it

LG's Ultragear gaming monitors are some of the most popular models on the market for their premium specs, excellent build quality, reliability, and performance. And the OLED 27GX790A-B is no exception.

It packs a brilliant 27-inch matte 1440p OLED panel with VESA DisplayHDR True Black 400, a blistering 480Hz refresh rate, and a 0.03ms response time for fluid gameplay. There's also plenty of ports on board, including dual HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 2.1, and USB 3.0 (1 upstream / 2 downstream). While the LG UltraGear OLED 27GX790A-B's premium specs might be out of reach on a normal day, this 50% discount makes it a whole lot more approachable. At $499.99, it's the cheapest it's ever been.

Best curved gaming monitor deal Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung 57-inch Odyssey Neo G95NC $1,449.99 at Amazon
$2,099.99 Save $650.00 + get a $120 Amazon credit Get Deal Why we like it

If you like to be in the center of the action while gaming, this Samsung Odyssey Neo G9 monitor deal is for you.

Beyond its wild 57-inch screen real estate, the Odyssey Neo G95NC also features a 1,000R curve that envelops you as you play. A 1,000R curve is considered ideal for a monitor, as it closely matches the human field of view, reduces eye strain, and enhances depth perception. It's worth noting, however, that the G9's 32:9 aspect ratio isn't compatible with every game (check that your faves will work before pulling the trigger). The G95NC packs a solid 240Hz refresh rate, a 1ms response time, VESA DisplayHDR 1000, and G-Sync and FreeSync Premium Pro compatibility. There's also plenty of ports for connectivity, including HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 2.1, and a USB Hub.

Not only is it 31% off as of Aug. 20, but you'll also get a free $120 Amazon credit with your purchase for a limited time.

Best budget gaming monitor deal Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung 32-inch Odyssey G55C $199.99 at Amazon
$329.99 Save $130   Get Deal Why we like it

If you're a little curious about curved monitors, but don't want to break the bank making the switch, Amazon's deal on the Samsung Odyssey G55C can transform your gaming experience for under $200.

It packs a 32-inch 2560x1440 QHD display with a 1000R curvature and 16:9 aspect ratio. That means the screen will wrap around your field of view, enhancing the depth of your games while reducing eye strain. It also features a 165Hz refresh rate, 1ms response time, AMD Radeon FreeSync, HDR10, and an eye-saver mode to reduce screen flickering during extended gaming periods.

While it's not the most premium monitor on the market, Samsung monitors have a solid reputation. If you're balling on a budget, it's a hard deal to pass up for only $199.99. That's just $10 away from its best price ever.

The best deals on 3D printers this week — shop Bambu Lab, Creality, and Flashforge with steep discounts

Thu, 08/20/2026 - 09:35
The best 3D printer deals at Amazon: Best for everyday printing Flashforge 3D Printer $378.99 (save $170) Get Deal Best overall 3D Printer Bambu Lab P1S 3D Printer $499.99 (save $49.01) Get Deal Best for large-scale prints Creality K1 Max 3D Printer $548.98 (save $170) Get Deal

Getting into 3D printing usually means choosing between speed, print quality, and not blowing your whole budget — but this week's deals make that trade-off a lot less painful. Three printers from Bambu Lab, Creality, and Flashforge are discounted right now, with savings up to $171 (31% off).

There's a fit here no matter what you're after — a beginner-friendly all-rounder, a large-format speed machine built for bigger projects, and a quiet, filtered option for everyday use.

Best for everyday printing Opens in a new window Credit: Flashforge Flashforge 3D Printer $378.99 at Amazon
$549 Save $170.01   Get Deal Why we like it

The AD5M Pro is the printer that gets out of your way. Setup takes 10 minutes or less with no experience required, and full-auto leveling means you skip manual adjustments before your first print. It moves fast, up to 600mm/s with 20,000mm/s² acceleration, backed by a CoreXY metal structure that keeps output stable and precise even at that speed.

It's also the pick for anyone printing at home or in a shared space. It's quiet enough for a living room or classroom, and the enclosed design keeps fumes and dust from escaping into the room. There's also a built-in camera so you can check on prints remotely or capture time-lapse videos, easy nozzle swaps for different filament types, and automatic recovery if the power cuts out mid-print.

Best overall 3D Printer Opens in a new window Credit: Bambu Lab Bambu Lab P1S 3D Printer $499.99 at Amazon
$549 Save $49.01   Get Deal Why we like it

The Bambu Lab P1S earns the top spot in this lineup because it balances speed, quality, and ease of use better than most printers at this price. It sets up in about 15 minutes, handles calibration automatically with auto bed leveling, and prints fast — up to 500mm/s — without sacrificing quality. That combination makes it approachable for someone printing their first model, while still being capable enough that experienced makers won't outgrow it quickly.

What sets it apart is the AMS add-on, which unlocks multi-color and multi-material printing (up to 16 colors) without any manual filament swapping. It's fully enclosed, so advanced filaments like ABS and ASA print consistently, and the build volume is generous enough for bigger projects.

Best for large-scale prints Opens in a new window Credit: Comgrow Creality K1 Max 3D Printer $548.99 at Amazon
$719 Save $170.01   Get Deal Why we like it

The Creality K1 Max packs a massive 300x300x300mm build volume into a compact footprint, giving you room for larger prints while staying space-efficient. Pair that with a 600 mm/s print speed and 20,000 mm/s² acceleration, and you get a printer built to move fast without making you choose between size and speed.

The AI Lidar scans the first layer and automatically halts the print if something's off, while the onboard camera monitors for print failures or debris mid-print. It also comes with dual hands-free auto leveling and dual-fan cooling that hardens each layer before warping or stringing can set in.

Keep your food dry and cold: Score $30 off Ninja’s FrostVault cooler on Amazon

Thu, 08/20/2026 - 08:04

SAVE $30: As of Aug. 20, the 30qt Ninja FrostVault cooler in cloud white is discounted to $169.99 at Amazon. That's $30 off its full price of $199.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Ninja Ninja FrostVault 30qt Hard Cooler with Dry Zone $169.99 at Amazon
$199.99 Save $30   Get Deal

Throughout the summer, Amazon has had some excellent outdoor deals, and it's not slowing down as we inch closer to fall.

If you're someone who can't wait to enjoy camping trips and outdoor gatherings in the cooler weather, the retailer has plenty of discounts worth exploring right now, including a $30 price cut on the 30qt Ninja FrostVault cooler in cloud white.

This durable cooler is normally priced at $199.99 at the retailer, but shoppers can snag it for $169.99 right now instead. Unfortunately, only the cloud white model is down to this price, but the other available colors are priced just $10 higher.

SEE ALSO: Purple's Labor Day sale gets you a king mattress for the price of a queen — shop now for up to $400 off

From food to drinks, this 30-quart cooler can handle it all. When it comes to the latter, it can hold up to 48 cans without ice or 26 with ice. And thanks to a heavy-duty build with up to three inches of insulation, they'll stay safe and cool while you're out and about. What really stands out about this cooler is the FrostVault Dry Zone.

This keeps your food in its own section of the cooler so it stays dry and cool, away from the drinks. It's a really helpful way to keep everything packed together without it getting all soggy from the ice and condensation. Plus, this cooler comes with integrated handles, so carrying it around during fall outings will be much easier.

If the 30qt Ninja FrostVault cooler in cloud white has caught your eye, act fast to save at Amazon.

Want to learn more about getting the best out of your tech? Sign up for Mashable's Top Stories and Deals newsletters today.

Record-low deal: Get $200 off Amazons 50-inch Omni QLED 4K TV

Thu, 08/20/2026 - 07:51

SAVE $200: As of Aug. 20, the Amazon Fire TV 50-inch Omni QLED 4K TV is on sale for $269.99 at Amazon. That's a $200 drop from its list price of $469.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Fire TV 50-Inch Omni QLED Series 4K UHD smart TV $269.99 at Amazon
$469.99 Save $200   Get Deal

Cooler weather is right around the corner, and if you can't wait to settle in for fall's batch of streaming shows and movies, you'll want a high-quality TV to watch it all on. If you've been thinking about an upgrade, Amazon's been dropping great deals recently, including the Amazon Fire TV 50-inch Omni QLED 4K TV.

As of Aug. 20, this smart TV has been slashed from $469.99 to $269.99. That's a solid $200 discount, and not too far from its lowest-ever price of $249.99. It's only on sale at this price for a limited time, so act fast to save.

SEE ALSO: Best Buy's 60th Anniversary Sale is live: We found the best deals on TVs, iPhones, Pokémon, and more

Since this 50-inch Fire TV is a smart TV, you'll be able to access all of your favorite streaming services right from the home screen. What you watch will look stunning as well, as this TV boasts a 4K resolution QLED display that sharpens details and brings out rich colors on screen. It even comes with Dolby Vision IQ and HDR10+ Adaptive to give pictures an added color boost, and also supports HDR10 and HLG.

Another cool highlight of this TV is that it can automatically optimize the brightness of what you watch using a built-in sensor that detects the room's lighting. That way, you won't miss any of the action happening on screen. It also comes with the Fire TV Ambient Experience, which lets you display art or photos when you're not watching anything.

If you're thinking it's time to grab a new TV, don't miss out on this great deal on the Amazon Fire TV 50-inch Omni QLED 4K TV at Amazon.

Want to learn more about getting the best out of your tech? Sign up for Mashable's Top Stories and Deals newsletters today.

Seth Meyers launches A Closer Look as summer video podcast series

Thu, 08/20/2026 - 07:43

Seth Meyers' Late Night may be on summer vacation but the news keeps rolling. So, the host has launched a version of his popular deep dive segment "A Closer Look" as a video podcast series during the break.

A Closer Look: Out of Office is now streaming on YouTube, Peacock, and major podcast platforms. For the series, Meyers catches up with supervising writer/producer Sal Gentile on a video call to unpack the last current affairs.

"You had another name which I did really like," Gentile says in the first episode. "A Closer Look: Proof of Life, to show people we're still alive. Kind of like the way Mitch McConnell releases a new photo."

For the first episode, Meyers and Gentile explore Donald Trump's Air Force One catering cart switcheroo, and the Department of Justice's push to revive the case of vandalism concerning the controversially renovated Lincoln Memorial reflecting pool.

Apparently Meyers saw the word "vacation" and thought, I'll pack my podcast equipment.

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Weird Al Yankovics Tiny Desk Concert is an absolute treat

Thu, 08/20/2026 - 07:15

'Weird Al' Yankovic on Tiny Desk Concert? It happened. Again.

The music comedy legend and king of parody squished himself and eight musicians into NPR's minuscule performance space for the latest fundraising episode, and it's honestly a delightful time. You'll snack upon renditions of some of his big hits from Weezer-style "Skipper Dan" to Backstreet Boys parody "eBay," and epic Star Wars-inspired "American Pie" tribute "The Saga Begins."

Weird Al has actually appeared on Tiny Desk Concert before, playing a set of originals in 2010.

"It's really great to be back at Tiny Desk. We did play here in 2010 and apparently we did so great they invited us back 16 years later," he said during the set.

You can watch the set above or on NPR's YouTube channel. It's a treat.

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Rosie ODonnell has another Kimmel monologue dig at Trump

Thu, 08/20/2026 - 06:24

Rosie O'Donnell's Jimmy Kimmel Live! guest-hosting run has been peppered with digs at Donald Trump. On Monday, the comedian called the president "Mango Mussolini," and on Tuesday, "President Oompa J. Loompa."

And on Wednesday, O'Donnell, a longtime Trump critic, started the show with another.

"A special hello to those of you watching from home and from the White House," the host started her monologue with. "But I do have some bad news for President Petty Roosevelt. That's all I'm gonna say about you tonight, sweetheart."

With Kimmel on vacation, O'Donnell's guest-hosting run comes after weeks led by Tiffany Haddish, Ike Barinholtz, and Colman Domingo, and there's more monologues where that came from.

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NYT Connections hints today: Meanings for each word for Aug. 20, 2026

Thu, 08/20/2026 - 06:22

Looking for spoiler-free NYT Connections hints or just wondering why Connections is trending today? We've got what you need to understand the clues for today's puzzle without spoiling any of the answers.

Of course, Mashable has also provided daily hints and answers for Connections, Wordle, and Strands for years, so we can help you if that's also what you need.

While we are focused more on meanings than hints in this story, sometimes learning that many of the words have completely unrelated meanings is a clue in and of itself. Connections frequently includes clues that involve words within words and other visual clues.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for August 20, 2026 Telephone meaning

A device for making calls.

Apostrophe meaning

A form of punctuation frequently used to indicate possession.

Oxford meaning

A city in England.

Serial meaning

Things that happen as part of a sequence.

Hawaiian meaning

Something linked to Hawaii.

Okina meaning

A consonant in the Hawaiian language.

Ratchet meaning

A tool frequently used to tighten or remove bolts.

Comma meaning

Punctuation used to indicate a pause, though not a complete stop.

White meaning

A color that represents all visible light frequencies.

Pigment meaning

An ingredient that infuses color into items or materials.

Atomic meaning

Describing something linked to atoms.

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Dragonfly meaning

A flying insect often found near water.

Diavola meaning

Italian for devil.

Cedilla meaning

A mark used to change a letter from a hard sound to a soft sound.

Meat lovers meaning

Frequently used to describe a collection of pizza toppings.

Social Security meaning

A U.S. program designed to provide assistance to those with low income for a variety of reasons.

Have you learned the meanings and still want the things? Check out the hints and answers for today's NYT Connections puzzle.

Are you also playing NYT Strands? Get all the Strands hints you need for today's puzzle.

Meet The Mashable 101: Our list of the content creators shaping the internet today

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Connections.

The best celeb interview podcasts of the week (Aug. 20, 2026)

Thu, 08/20/2026 - 06:04

It won't shock you that there's a superabundance of interview podcasts and internet series out there. You're probably subscribed to a bunch of content creators (perhaps those who made this year's Mashable 101) or maybe you depend on your feed to hand-deliver the most viral clips. But your time is precious, so we've rounded up the best on the internet this week.

Whether you're into deadpan showdowns, niche hot takes, or simply wholesome interviews between creative minds, here's what we reckon is worth your time (and of course, we'd never leave out Mashable's own Say More, what are you, nuts?).

SEE ALSO: The Mashable 101: The creators defining the internet in 2026 1. Iconic Guest: Ziwe x Law Roach

The whole "name a more iconic duo" thing gets thrown around these days, but it applies with full effect here. In the latest episode of Iconic Guest, writer and comedian Ziwe Fumudoh interviews iconic stylist Law Roach — and if you watch just one podcast interview this week, make it this one. The host and guest are matched in deadpan, aligned in stone-faced determination, as the pair unpack Roach's career one Zendaya hat, dystopian definition, and "Hatuna Makata" at time.

Where to watch: YouTube, TikTok, Instagram

2. Subway Takes: Kareem Rahma x Lucy Dacus

Yes, it's not technically a podcast, it's an internet interview series, shut up, move on.

Kareem Rahma's Subway Takes keeps our feeds brimming with steaming hot perspectives, and the latest episode of his wildly popular web series won't leave my consciousness. The journalist interviewed musician Lucy Dacus on a boat off Rhode Island during Newport Folk Fest, asking for her hottest take.

Her answer? "Birds shouldn't walk."

Where to watch: TikTok, Instagram

3. Say More: Kristy Puchko x Hannah Einbinder and Jane Schoenbrun

Mashable's Entertainment Editor Kristy Puchko sat down in the Say More studio with filmmaker Jane Schoenbrun and actor Hannah Einbinder to unpack Teenage Sex and Death at Camp Miasma, one of the best horror films of the year. It's a wonderful chat between likeminded horror fans, talking KFC, Little Death (Jack Haven), Counting Crows, and the inspirations behind this unforgettable slasher.

Where to watch: Mashable, YouTube, Instagram, TikTok

4. Good Hang: Amy Poehler x Keke Palmer

One of the most wholesome interview podcasts on the internet, Amy Poehler's Good Hang is always exactly that. This week, the host interviewed Keke Palmer, whose own brilliant podcast Baby, This is Keke Palmer should already be on your weekly listening list. The star of The Burbs and I Love Boosters makes it hard for Poehler to keep it together, unpacking whether Jesus was a Virgo ("You can't have disciples if you can't organise them!"), Kelis' 1999 eternal banger "Caught Out There," and whether you can say "Macbeth" on a podcast.

Where to watch: YouTube, Instagram, TikTok

5. Mythical Kitchen: Angela Giarratana

Angela Giarratana enjoyed her "last meal" on Mythical Kitchen, joining her friend, host and chef Josh Scherer, for one of the most gleeful, fun, and real chats you'll see this week. The Smosh star, writer, comedian, and actor feasted on her favourites: extra dirty gin martinis, her grandmother's pastina, the tuna melt from San Diego's Beginners Diner, the roast pork from Miami's La Carreta, her party-leaving strategy order from Silverlake Ramen, and more. It's a hoot.

How to watch: YouTube, Instagram, TikTok

6. Vanity Fair's Lie Detector Test: Marc Jacobs

OK, I'm just going to let you watch this one. Vanity Fair's Lie Detector Test — the one that threw Merrily We All Roll Along stars Daniel Radcliffe, Jonathan Groff, and Lindsay Mendez into the sea — values the truth and nothing but the truth. Fashion legend Marc Jacobs' interview goes to some real corners of possibility, but it's the very first question, involving styling Luigi Mangione, that has people talking.

Where to watch: YouTube, Instagram, TikTok

7. Criterion Closet: Colman Domingo

If you're invited to the Criterion Closet, you usually have a plan. And Oscar-nominee Colman Domingo absolutely did, picking out Ousmane Sembène's Black Girl, Ermanno Olmi's Il Posto, John Berry's Claudine, René Clément's Purple Noon, Cher's Oscar-winner Moonstruck, and a Wong Kar-wai box set. But Domingo lets fate decide his final film, closing his eyes to select Russian Civil War film Coup de Grâce.

From YouTubers and TikTok stars to streamers and podcasters, Mashable talks to creators about how they built their platforms, the gear they swear by, and the trends they see coming next. Read more of our creator coverage, sign up for our Trending Now and Top Stories newsletters or get Mashable push alerts to discover the internet's most exciting voices. 

Best Buys 60th Anniversary Sale is live: We found the best deals on TVs, iPhones, Pokémon, and more

Thu, 08/20/2026 - 05:32
Shop the best deals of Best Buy's 60th Anniversary Sale: Best Apple deal Apple iPhone Air (256GB, Unlocked) $839.99 (save $160) Get Deal Best TV deal Hisense 65-inch U6 Pro Mini LED QLED 4K TV $598.99 (save $501) Get Deal Best Windows laptop deal Asus Zenbook A14 (Snapdragon X2 Elite, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) $999.99 (save $350) Get Deal Best robot vacuum Shark Matrix Plus 2-in-1 Robot Vacuum & Mop $349.99 (save $350) Get Deal Best earbuds deal Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 $199.99 (save $50) Get Deal Best headphones deal Beats Studio Pro $159.99 (save $190) Get Deal Best Lego deal Lego Animal Crossing Blathers’ Museum Collection $55.99 (save $24) Get Deal Best Pokémon TCG deal Pokémon TCG Scarlet & Violet Destined Rivals Elite Trainer Box $112.50 (save $207.50) Get Deal Best speaker deal Marshall Stanmore III $199.99 (Save $200) Get Deal Best fitness tracker deal Apple Watch Series 11 $299 (Save $100) Get Deal

Best Buy's 60th Anniversary Sale is happening this week, which is great news for anyone who's missed out on the loads of tech deals we've seen so far this summer. (It's probably the biggest sale we'll get until Labor Day.) The event runs through Sunday, Aug. 23, and My Best Buy Plus and Total members earn 10% back in rewards on most purchases.

While the sale is live both online and in stores, it would behoove you to visit your nearest brick-and-mortar Best Buy this Saturday, Aug. 22. That day, in-person shoppers will be able to score $100 Best Buy gift cards for only $60 (while supplies last), among other exclusive deals. We can see people camping out for that one.

As things currently stand, the sale involves some pretty great deals on RGB and OLED TVs, Apple gadgets, Windows laptops, headphones, and even collectibles like Lego sets and Pokémon cards. We've done a little digging and rounded up a list of our favorite deals below. Make sure you check back later this week: Best Buy is planning on dropping another round of discounts on Friday, Aug. 21.

Best Apple deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPhone Air (256GB, Unlocked) $839.99 at Best Buy
$999.99 Save $160   Get Deal Why we like it

It's not every day that you can score a discount on an iPhone with no strings attached. But during Best Buy's 60th Anniversary Sale, you can nab an unlocked iPhone Air with any storage capacity for $160 off. That means you can bring it to any provider without having to navigate a trade-in. Mashable's reviewer called the iPhone Air the "sexiest iPhone" he's ever tested. It's incredibly thin and light, has a gorgeous OLED display, and its camera performs better than you'd expect. It may not be the phone for everyone, but it's the iPhone with the best value.

More Apple deals

AirPods

AirTags

iPads

iPhones

MacBooks

Best TV deal Opens in a new window Credit: Hisense Hisense 65-inch U6 Pro Mini LED QLED 4K TV $598.99 at Best Buy
$1,099.99 Save $501   Get Deal Why we like it

We can't stop raving about the Hisense U6 Pro. We named it our favorite budget TV of 2026, as it lands perfectly in the sweet spot of performance and value. And during Best Buy's Anniversary Sale, it's even more of a steal; the 65-inch model is down to a record-low $598.99. That's cheaper than it was on Prime Day. While it's not an OLED display, it does offer an impressive full-array local dimming setup, vibrant quantum-dot color, and deep black levels, an anti-glare coating for minimal reflections, and a peak brightness of 1,200 nits. It also packs a native 144Hz refresh rate, AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, and two HDMI 2.1 ports for gamers. Every size is currently discounted, but the 65-inch model is what we'd recommend for most people.

More TV deals

60-inch and under

65-inch TVs

75-inch to 77-inch TVs

85-inch TVs

Best Windows laptop deal Opens in a new window Credit: ASUS Asus Zenbook A14 (Snapdragon X2 Elite, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) $999.99 at Best Buy
$1,349.99 Save $350   Get Deal Why we like it

Mashable's laptop expert named the Asus Zenbook A14 the "best Windows laptop for most people" in 2026 for a few reasons. It's ultraportable, packs an amazing battery life of over 27 hours (!), a stunning OLED display, a lightweight build, and impressive performance that rivals the MacBook Air. While the 2026 version got a price bump, this discount at Best Buy knocks it back down below $1,000.

More Windows laptop dealsBest robot vacuum deal Opens in a new window Credit: Shark Shark Matrix Plus 2-in-1 Robot Vacuum and Mop $349.99 at Best Buy
$699.99 Save $350   Get Deal Why we like it

This robot vacuum combines powerful vacuuming with sonic mopping, so it can clean carpets and hard floors in a single run. Its Matrix Clean technology makes multiple passes over dirt and debris, and the CleanEdge Detect targets dust and hair around corners and edges. It also features a self-cleaning brushroll, HEPA filtration, and a bagless, self-emptying base that can hold up to 60 days' worth of dirt. And right now at Best Buy, it's $350 off — an impressive 50% savings.

More robot vacuum dealsBest earbuds deal Opens in a new window Credit: Beats Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 $199.99 at Best Buy
$249.99 Save $50   Get Deal Why we like it

For working out, these are some of the best earbuds available. With a secure hook fit and built-in heart rate monitoring, workout earbuds can't get any better than this. In fact, when given the full review treatment, they were described as "ideal for all workouts, especially running."

More earbud dealsBest headphones deal Opens in a new window Credit: Beats Beats Studio Pro $159.99 at Best Buy
$349.99 Save $190   Get Deal Why we like it

These headphones have Personalized Spatial Audio and dynamic head tracking for a 360-degree listening experience. They also offer impressive noise cancellation to block out distractions, with different modes to keep you aware of your surroundings. They offer up to 40 hours of battery life, USB-C, Bluetooth, and 3.5mm connectivity, plus compatibility with both Apple and Android devices. This week, the Black/Gold pair is a whopping 54% off at Best Buy. They're only $159.99; the other colors cost $10 extra.

More headphone dealsBest Lego deal Opens in a new window Credit: Lego Lego Animal Crossing Blathers’ Museum Collection $55.99 at Best Buy
$79.99 Save $24.00   Get Deal Why we like it

This Animal Crossing-themed Lego set builds into a brickified replica of Blathers’ Museum, where players complete exhibits by donating fish, fossils, and art. It's geared toward ages seven and up, and contains 543 pieces — including minifigures of Blathers himself and Lily, a frog villager. Best Buy's Anniversary Sale offers 30% off the list price, leaving you to pay just $55.99. FYI: It sold out at Target at the same price.

More Lego dealsBest Pokémon TCG deal Opens in a new window Credit: The Pokémon Company Pokémon TCG Scarlet & Violet Destined Rivals Elite Trainer Box $112.50 at Best Buy
$320 Save $207.50   Get Deal Why we like it

This Elite Trainer Box contains nine Destined Rivals booster packs, 45 energy cards, foil promo art of Team Rocket's Wobbuffet, six damage-counter dice, and other accessories. Best Buy has it marked down to $112.50 during its 60th Anniversary Sale — a whopping 65% off its regular price there — which is only a couple bucks above its current market price. For comparison's sake, it's currently going for around $130 at Amazon and Walmart.

More Pokémon TCG dealsBest speaker deal Opens in a new window Credit: Marshall Marshall Stanmore III $199.99 at Best Buy
$399.99 Save $200   Get Deal Why we like it

The Marshall Stanmore III is a larger home speaker designed to fill a room with sound, with a wider soundstage than its predecessor. Its two-way driver system delivers crisp treble and controlled bass, and the Dynamic Loudness adjusts the sound depending on the volume. It also has Bluetooth 5.2, RCA and 3.5mm inputs, plus Marshall’s classic rock-inspired design.

More speaker dealsBest fitness tracker deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple Watch Series 11 $299 at Best Buy
$399 Save $100   Get Deal Why we like it

The newest Apple Watch is packed with incredible health and fitness features, including sleep tracking, ECG, heart-rate alerts, and hypertension notifications. It also gives you workout metrics such as training load, heart rate zones, and Pacer, plus safety features including fall and crash detection. Battery life is up to 24 hours, with fast charging available for a quick top-up.

More fitness tracker deals

The Kindle Scribe Premium Pen has never been cheaper — act fast to buy for $47.99 at Amazon

Thu, 08/20/2026 - 05:27

SAVE $32: As of Aug. 20, the Kindle Scribe Premium Pen is on sale for $47.99 at Amazon. That's a 40% discount on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Kindle Scribe Premium Pen $47.99 at Amazon
$79.99 Save $32.00   Get Deal

The Kindle Scribe Premium Pen is currently on sale at Amazon for its best-ever price. The stylus is designed for a more natural writing experience, with extra features that make it more advanced than the standard Kindle Scribe pen. And right now it's down to $47.99 from $79.99, saving you $32.

As the name suggests, this stylus is designed specifically for the Kindle Scribe, with a sleek, matching design and an improved eraser for a writing experience that feels like using a traditional pen on paper. You can choose between two colors, tungsten and metallic jade (both at the same reduced price), so it matches your e-reader perfectly.

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It lets you write, underline, and highlight directly in books, as well as create journals, lists, and other notes. It doesn't need any setup or pairing and is battery-free, so there's no need to charge it. It attaches magnetically to the side of the Kindle Scribe and also fits in the pen holder on a Kindle Scribe Cover.

To erase, just turn the pen upside down. There's also a shortcut button that can be customized to highlight, erase, or switch between pen, fountain pen, marker, and pencil styles. The package includes the Premium Pen, five replacement tips, and a tip replacement tool.

This price is a new low for the Premium Pen, so if you're interested, head to Amazon now to grab this new deal.

The latest iPhone 18 news, leaks, and rumors: Release date, price increases, and colors

Thu, 08/20/2026 - 05:24
At a glance:
  • Release date: We're expecting the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max to arrive in fall 2026, but rumor has it the iPhone 18 may not arrive until early 2027.

  • Colors: Possible leaks point to four main color options for the Pro models this year: light blue, silver, dark gray, and dark cherry.

  • Key upgrades: Besides iOS 27 and the Siri AI beta, we're expecting bigger batteries, camera improvements (including variable aperture for the main camera), and possibly a smaller Dynamic Island.

  • Pricing: Most new phones are arriving with price increases, and we think a starting price increase is very likely for the new iPhone 18 lineup, sadly.

Apple's flagship smartphone hasn't taken a year off from its updates since 2007, and barring a massive surprise, 2026 won't be different — but there will be a twist.

The Cupertino-based tech giant is widely expected to launch a new lineup of iPhones later this year, including the iPhone 18 Pro, 18 Pro Max, and the rumored iPhone Ultra, the company's first-ever foldable. The regular iPhone 18, the 18e, and the new iPhone Air are likely to arrive early next year.

We asked you to predict what Apple will do next. See the results and find out how to get a shot at winning an Apple Watch!

As we await the iPhone 18 — and its updated operating system, iOS 27 — rumors continue to trickle out. The pace of leaks on the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max, in particular, is likely to increase after a massive hack exposed thousands of Apple's internal documents, reportedly including iPhone 18 Pro suppliers and tests.

We won't see any of the new Apple phones in the wild for a couple more months, but we can bring you all of the latest iPhone 18 rumors and the most likely updates in one place.

SEE ALSO: Apple reportedly working on anti-phone snatching security feature iPhone 18 lineup pricing

If you're in the market for a new iPhone, you should circle September in your calendar. That's when Apple typically holds its big iPhone launch event, and there's no reason to believe Apple will change that for the iPhone 18. The first week of September is most likely, probably Wednesday, Sept. 9, to give attendees enough time to travel after Labor Day (Sept. 7).

Expect to see new Apple CEO John Ternus take the stage, as his term of office officially begins Sept. 1. What he'll be introducing, alas, may put more of a dent in your wallet.

Thanks to the ongoing RAM shortage caused by the AI industry (also known as RAMageddon), tons of smartphones, laptops, and gaming consoles are seeing huge price hikes. Experts who've spoken to Mashable say that trend isn't going to stop anytime soon.

As the world's number-one smartphone maker, Apple has advantages over its rivals, but a price increase is very likely. Apple recently raised prices on a variety of its products, and outgoing Apple CEO Tim Cook even took the unusual step of preparing us for a pricier iPhone.

"Price increases are unavoidable," Cook told the Wall Street Journal in a June interview. The Journal quoted an analysis showing that the memory chip components in the iPhone 18 Pro will cost Apple $150 more than those in the iPhone 17 Pro.

So should you expect the phones to cost just $150 more than their predecessors (check the iPhone 17 prices for reference)? You wish. There's the pesky fact that Apple is a for-profit company, and the iPhone is the #1 smartphone in the world for a reason, even though it's already pricier than Samsung's.

How much of an increase will Apple fans bear? We may be about to find out, but the Journal estimated the iPhone 18 Pro at $1,399 ($300 more than last year). Apple analysts are coming to similar conclusions; one research note seen by 9to5Mac predicted $250 to $300 price increases.

iPhone 18, 18 Pro, and 18 Ultra launch dates The iPhone 18 Pro Max smartphones at last year's iPhone launch event. Credit: CNET

Barring a huge turn under Ternus, Apple will release the iPhone 18 Pro, the iPhone 18 Pro Max, and the foldable iPhone Ultra in early September. Apple's first foldable iPhone is the biggest headline here, but the Pro models will also bring numerous improvements.

The iPhone 18, however, alongside the cheaper iPhone 18e, and the next-gen iPhone Air, are rumored to come next year, likely in March 2027.

iPhone 18 and iPhone 18 Pro design

Again, Apple has not released any official teasers or other imagery for the iPhone 18 lineup yet, so anything reported to date could be wrong. Still, from the sum total of all reports, it sounds like Apple isn't really reinventing the wheel, design-wise. But Ternus, a hardware guy, is reportedly bringing the company's industrial design group into the center of the Apple fold.

Looking further into the future, the iPhone 20 is said to bring big changes, including a curved waterfall display.

Per our friends at CNET (Mashable and CNET are both owned by Ziff Davis), the display sizes will be roughly the same as last year:

  • iPhone 18: 6.3 inches

  • iPhone 18 Pro: 6.3 inches

  • iPhone 18 Pro Max: 6.9 inches

In August, Bloomberg's Mark Gurman shared on X that popular phone case maker Otterbox is already selling iPhone 18 Pro cases, even though the phone hasn't been announced yet. This is noteworthy because the case's packaging indicates that both the 17 Pro and 18 Pro fit in the same case, suggesting the two phones are about the same size, as CNET suggested.

This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed.

However, the display quality might be a little different this year. Prominent leaker Instant Digital shared on Chinese social media that Apple's brightness demands are unusually high this year, so it would be reasonable to expect much brighter displays than in previous years.

Some iPhone 18 models could also have a smaller camera bump compared to previous models. There are reports of a slightly redesigned Dynamic Island on the screen itself, with the pill-shaped notification hub potentially being made smaller in the iPhone 18 Pro models. One alleged leaked image purports to show an iPhone 18 Pro with a downsized Dynamic Island cutout.

This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed. iPhone 18: rumored hardware features

So we know the software the iPhone 18 will run: iOS 27, introduced at WWDC 2026. Time to start talking about some of the internal hardware changes Apple is reportedly making to the iPhone 18 lineup.

For starters, it sounds like the lineup will have a standardized 12GB RAM count across the board. In previous years, the Pro models had 12GB of RAM, while the base model had only 8GB. According to Korean outlet The Bell, Apple will be upgrading the base model to the Pro models in that regard. It's also widely expected that Apple will adopt new A20 and A20 Pro chips for the base and Pro models, respectively.

It's also expected that the new iPhones will have a new C2 modem for improved cellular connectivity, and they may also have 5G satellite support. Also reported: a new N2 chip for better WiFi performance.

As for the battery, leaker Digital Chat Station on Weibo reported that the batteries will finally be upgraded to 5,000mAh, which would be a big improvement over the iPhone 17 Pro. This year, 5,000mAh has become the new standard for flagship phones, including in Samsung's new Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra.

Instant Digital posted in a separate Weibo leak that the back glass of the iPhone 18 Pro has been altered, resulting in a new unified look, as opposed to the two-tone look of the iPhone 17 Pro. Whether that change will affect durability (or if it's just an aesthetic difference) remains to be seen. Other possible upgrades include an improved LTPO+ display, Apple's new C2 modem, 5G via satellite connectivity, and the improved N2 chip, which should improve hotspot and AirDrop reliability.

The most colorful iPhone 18 Pro rumors

Courtesy of leakers, we may already know the iPhone 18 Pro colors. If that's the case, the must-see equivalent of the iPhone 17's unforgettable "cosmic orange" shade is said to be a wine-like "dark cherry," which we'd expect to sell like hot... cherry pies?

Based on numerous leaks, the most likely color lineup for the iPhone 18 Pro will be silver, dark gray, light blue, and the aforementioned "dark cherry."

Sadly, we think fans of black iPhones are out of luck, though the rumored dark gray color looks black in supposed dummy units shared by leakers like Sonny Dickson.

This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed. This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed. What about the iPhone 18 Pro Max?

Several reports out of China say that because the iPhone 18 Pro Max will have a much larger battery, it may be a bit of a chunky boy.

We're not talking about a huge increase in weight and width: a quarter of a millimeter in thickness and 7 grams more, respectively. Still, every gram counts on the heftiest iPhone model you can get — so iPhone 17 Pro Max upgraders may want to check that their pocket linings can bear the bulk of a larger iPhone 18 Pro Max.

The iPhone 17 Pro has helped Apple break sales records in 2026. Credit: Stan Schroeder / Mashable iPhone 18 camera rumors

Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, a source of many spot-on iPhone reports, says the iPhone 18 Pro, in particular, will have "some of the biggest camera hardware upgrades in the lineup's history."

Why? First, the telephoto camera has a larger aperture. But more important is the variable aperture.

First reported by Digital Chat Station on Weibo, variable aperture is a huge deal. It would let the iPhone 18 Pro camera capture varying amounts of light in different situations — potentially leading to a huge leap in photo quality if you know what you're doing.

For instance, the bokeh effect famously associated with portrait mode on iPhones would be possible in-camera rather than through software processing, resulting in more natural and generally better-looking shots.

While all of that sounds great, leaker Ice Universe poured some water on the fire by claiming that variable aperture would be exclusive to the iPhone 18 Pro Max. This is the first indication, as far as we can tell, that the regular Pro won't have a variable aperture. That would certainly be disappointing to people who want the feature but don't want a gigantic phone, but perhaps the Pro Max's size gives it an advantage in terms of including the technology.

Also, perhaps Ice Universe is wrong. We'll find out soon.

What about Siri AI?

Of course, one of the first things many users will want to know about the iPhone 18 when they get their hands on one: what is the new, revamped, AI-upgraded Siri experience like?

If you're feeling adventurous, you can try it yourself by installing the iOS 27 beta.

The new features include Siri becoming an actual chatbot with its own app. It can also understand what's on your screen and help you write, create images, and edit photos.

For an overview, check out our guides to iOS 27 and Siri AI's top features.

The Segway Navimow i110N robot lawn mower is down to its best-ever price at Amazon — save $300+

Thu, 08/20/2026 - 05:24

SAVE OVER $300: As of Aug. 20, the Segway Navimow i110N robot lawn mower is back to its lowest-ever price of $788 at Amazon. Compared to its full price of $1,099, you're saving $311 with this deal.

Opens in a new window Credit: Navimow Segway Navimow i110N Robot Lawn Mower $788 at Amazon
$1,099 Save $311   Get Deal

Yard work can often feel like a hassle, particularly in the summer when it's really warm outside. A robot lawn mower can help take trimming the grass off your to-do list, at least, and while some models can be really pricey, Amazon's been a great spot to look for deals lately.

One that's worth checking out is the Segway Navimow i110N robot lawn mower, which is back to its lowest-ever price at the retailer. For a limited time, this robot mower has had over $300 slashed off its price tag at Amazon, plummeting from $1,099 to $788. Since this is the cheapest this model has ever been at Amazon, this is a great opportunity to make a move.

SEE ALSO: Best Buy's 60th Anniversary Sale is live: We found the top deals on TVs, iPhones, Pokémon TCG, and more

The Segway Navimow i110N can mow yards up to 0.25 acres with various layouts, thanks to custom RTK positioning technology and vision sensors that help it navigate more complex yards as it mows. It also has an AI-powered Assist Mapping feature that identifies the edges of your lawn, so it can easily maneuver around the entire area for an efficient cut.

There's no need to worry about it running into objects on your lawn or in your garden, as it's fitted with a 140-degree field-of-view camera and built-in AI algorithms that can detect over 150 types of objects. That way, you can just set it up to go trim without worrying about anything getting in its way and slowing it down.

Worry less about mowing this summer and get a little help from the Segway Navimow i110N while it's still on sale at Amazon.

Want to learn more about getting the best out of your tech? Sign up for Mashable's Top Stories and Deals newsletters today.

Rare gaming display deal: Get $300 off the Acer Predator X27U F5 gaming monitor

Thu, 08/20/2026 - 05:18

TL;DR: The Acer Predator X27U F5 26.5-inch QD-OLED gaming monitor is on sale for $499.99 at Amazon, down from its $799.99 list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Acer Acer Predator X27U F5 Gaming Monitor $499.99 at Amazon
$799.99 Save $300 Get Deal

Jumping to a QD-OLED display with a high refresh rate can get expensive very quickly, but Amazon has carved a sizeable chunk off one of Acer’s speedier Predator models. 

As of Aug. 20, the Acer Predator’s 26.5-inch F5 QD-OLED gaming monitor (X27U model) has been discounted to $499.99 at Amazon. That’s $300 off its original $799.99 price tag, for a 38% discount. Sold and shipped by Amazon directly, free delivery is estimated for Aug. 25 at the time of writing, and it even comes with the retailer’s usual 30-day refund or replacement policy if there are any issues. 

The Predator X27U F5 combines a 2560 x 1440 QHD resolution with a QD-OLED panel, delivering the deep blacks and punchy contrast OLED is known for. It’s especially great for competitive play, as its 500Hz refresh rate and 0.03ms response time are geared towards extremely high-frame-rate games like Fortnite and Counter-Strike 2

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Even when you’re playing the newest titles like Marvel: TOKON Fighting Souls, the included AMD FreeSync Premium Pro and NVIDIA G-Sync compatibility help keep gameplay looking smooth and reduce tearing.

What’s more, this gaming monitor’s panel comes with another must-have feature: 99% DCI-P3 coverage and VESA DisplayHDR True Black 500 certification, adding extra appeal for anyone prioritizing richer colors and stronger HDR performance alongside raw speed. 

On the off-chance you’re willing to spend a bit more, the massive 57-inch Samsung Odyssey Neo G9 gaming monitor is still $650 at Amazon. For anyone looking for an extra cheap monitor to have on the side, Samsung’s 32-inch Odyssey G5 gaming monitor has never been cheaper.

The Magic: The Gathering Marvel Super Heroes Play Booster Box is back under $125 — save over $80

Thu, 08/20/2026 - 05:12

TL;DR: The Magic: The Gathering Marvel Super Heroes Play Booster Box is on sale for $124.98 at Amazon, down from its $209.70 list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Magic: The Gathering Magic: The Gathering Marvel Super Heroes Play Booster Box $124.98 at Amazon
$209.70 Save $84.72 Get Deal

The Magic: The Gathering Marvel Super Heroes Play Booster Box has bounced around in price lately, but Amazon has now dropped these trading cards below $125.

As of Aug. 20, the Magic: The Gathering Marvel Super Heroes Play Booster Box is ready to buy for $124.98 at Amazon. From its $209.70 list price, this takes $84.72 off in total, for a 40% discount, and puts each Play Booster at roughly $4.17 before tax. This particular listing is sold by third-party seller DOUBLE INFINITY GAMING, although Amazon handles the shipping. Free delivery is currently estimated for Sept. 2-9, with the fastest option arriving Sept. 2-6. Just keep in mind that Amazon marks the box as a final sale, so it isn't eligible for returns. 

If you'd rather buy from Amazon itself, there’s also a $139.99 listing sold and shipped directly by the retailer. 

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Walmart currently has the same Marvel Super Heroes Play Booster Box for $119.95 with free shipping, while TCGplayer goes lower still. Unopened boxes there start at $113.75, including shipping, just below the current $114.53 market price. 

Inside the display are 30 Play Boosters, each containing 14 Magic cards. Every pack includes one Traditional Foil card alongside one to four cards of rare or higher rarity, three to five uncommons, six to nine commons, and one land. 

Play Boosters are made with Limited play and drafting in mind, but the sheer number of packs also makes this box ideal for anyone wanting to tear through the Marvel crossover and hunt down heroes, villains, borderless artwork, and cards such as The Mind Stone. 

Hurdle hints and answers for August 20, 2026

Thu, 08/20/2026 - 05:04

If you like playing daily word games like Wordle, then Hurdle is a great game to add to your routine.

There are five rounds to the game. The first round sees you trying to guess the word, with correct, misplaced, and incorrect letters shown in each guess. If you guess the correct answer, it'll take you to the next hurdle, providing the answer to the last hurdle as your first guess. This can give you several clues or none, depending on the words. For the final hurdle, every correct answer from previous hurdles is shown, with correct and misplaced letters clearly shown.

An important note is that the number of times a letter is highlighted from previous guesses does necessarily indicate the number of times that letter appears in the final hurdle.

Want more tech and digital culture news delivered to your inbox daily or sent straight to your device? Sign up for Mashable's Top Stories newsletter or get Mashable push alerts today.

If you find yourself stuck at any step of today's Hurdle, don't worry! We have you covered.

SEE ALSO: Hurdle: Everything you need to know to find the answers Hurdle Word 1 hint

A group of three.

Hurdle Word 1 answer

TRIAD

Hurdle Word 2 hint

A complaint.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for August 20, 2026 Hurdle Word 2 Answer

GRIPE

Hurdle Word 3 hint

An animal that is used for transportation.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for August 20, 2026 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for August 20, 2026 Hurdle Word 3 answer

HORSE

Hurdle Word 4 hint

To make fun of.

Hurdle Word 4 answer

TEASE

Final Hurdle hint

Common description of an act that removes steam from car windows.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Games available on Mashable Hurdle Word 5 answer

DEFOG

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8 review: The perfect phone for cool teens — with generous parents

Thu, 08/20/2026 - 05:00

The new Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8 is an interesting phone in a time when most phones are aggressively boring.

Flip it open in front of someone for the first time, and they will inevitably ask questions about it or ask if they can hold it.

When the pink colorway first appeared on the Galaxy Unpacked livestream, the Mashable group chat blew up — and we're a bunch of phone snobs with most of our feet firmly planted in Apple-land.

But the Z Flip 8 is more than a pretty face. While the new $1,199.99 price tag is definitely a big pain point, it's an easy recommendation unless you need Ultra or Pro-level cameras for creative or professional reasons. And if you do, you'll be paying a lot more for the iPhone 17 Pro Max, Pixel 11 Pro Fold, Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, or Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra anyway.

Galaxy Z Flip 8: By the numbers Credit: Joseph Maldonado / CNET Group

This phone has mostly iterative upgrades over last year's Galaxy Z Flip 7, and despite rumors to the contrary, it does have a new Snapdragon chipset.

  • Inner display: 6.9-inch FHD+ AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate

  • Outer display: 4.1-inch HD+ AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate

  • Processor: Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy chipset

  • Colors: Pink, cream, graphite, mint

  • Unfolded dimensions: 166.9 x 75.4 x 6.1 mm

  • Folded dimensions: 85.7 x 75.4 x 13.1 mm

  • Weight: 180 grams

  • RAM: 12GB

  • Storage: 256GB, 512GB

  • Battery: 4,300mAh

  • Cameras: 50MP wide, 12MP ultrawide, 10MP selfie camera

Galaxy Z Flip 8 review: Design Credit: Joseph Maldonado / CNET Group

The new Samsung flip phone is lighter and thinner than its predecessor, the Galaxy Z Flip 7. It still has ultra-thin bezels, and while it's not quite as thin as the excellent Galaxy Z Fold 8 (or the Z Fold 8 Ultra), Samsung did shave off 0.6mm.

When unfolded, it feels nice and light in your hand, and even when it's folded, it slips right into your pocket like a flip phone should. I'm one of the few phone reviewers who has hated the trend of bigger and bigger phones, which is why I held onto my iPhone SE as long as I could. I love the way phones like the Z Flip 8 and the Motorola Razr Ultra feel in my pocket compared with iPhone or the oversized Galaxy S26 Ultra.

For the Galaxy Z 8 series, Samsung also added flex titanium hardware, which results in a more durable hinge and less visible crease. The phone certainly feels solid, and the crease on the flexible display really does disappear.

Credit: René Ramos / CNET Group Credit: Joseph Maldonado / CNET Group

The phone also won me over with its charming good looks. This is a smartphone with good vibes. I love the pink color (which is more of a purple-pink than a bubblegum or millennial pink), and I really like the white color as well.

For a lot of reasons, I think this would be the ideal phone for a young person or college student, or as a starter phone for a cool teen, if your parents love you enough to splurge on a $1,199.99 device.

Galaxy Z Flip 8 review: Performance Credit: René Ramos / CNET Group

Last year, we complained about the Z Flip 7's Exynos processor, but this year, Samsung opted for the same Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy chipset found in the Z Fold 8 Ultra. When we ran the Geekbench 7 benchmarking test, the phone received a single-core score of 2,658 and a multi-core score of 7,157.

That single-core score is actually a little higher than the Z Fold 8, though the Z Fold 8 had a higher multi-core score of 9,919. Its scores are also significantly higher than those of the Motorola Razr Ultra, the flagship entry in the Razr lineup this year.

What this means is that the phone can handle basic AI processes on the device without breaking a sweat, and you can run tons of apps at the same time without slowing it down. The processor is also critical for photo processing, which is one of the few pain points with this phone. I found the color and light balance to be much better on the Z Fold 8, but the Z Flip 8 actually performed better with digital zoom (we'll come back to this in the camera test section).

Samsung also redesigned the outer display experience from the ground up, and it's now easier to access apps and widgets when the phone is closed (though not all apps will work on the front display).

Galaxy Z Flip 8: Setup, migration, and software

Setting up the Z Flip 8 was incredibly easy. Assuming you already have another Galaxy device, you can quickly transfer the contents. You do have to scroll through and accept a lot of terms of service and other screens when you first boot up the phone, which was annoying. Samsung was also keen to stress that it has made it as simple as possible to migrate from iOS to Android, and overall, the phone has better compatibility with Apple devices.

Crucially for me, Samsung has introduced Quick Share, an AirDrop-like feature that lets you quickly and wirelessly send photos, videos, and other files to nearby devices, including Apple devices. I was able to select all of the photos and videos I took for this review and send them to my MacBook Pro work laptop in seconds.

Like last year, the phone is also equipped with a fingerprint sensor.

Setting up the phone Credit: Screenshot by Timothy Werth Credit: Screenshot by Timothy Werth Galaxy Z Flip 8: The cameras are just OK

There's a simple reason that the Z Flip 8 couldn't be my everyday phone: the cameras.

The Z Flip 8 has a 50MP main camera, a 12MP ultrawide, and a 10MP selfie camera. By comparison, I got good results with the larger Z Fold 8, which has dual 50MP cameras. The Z Flip 8's cameras suffer in comparison, especially for a phone that costs over $1,000.

Samsung redesigned the outer display experience for the Z Flip 8. Credit: René Ramos / CNET Group

If you're a professional who depends on high-quality pictures and videos (like, say, a tech journalist), this phone won't meet your needs. Likewise, even if creators love the design of this phone, it won't suit their video needs the way the iPhone 17 Pro Max would, for example.

However, for the vast majority of people, I think the cameras are good enough. Hence, why I think this phone makes sense for young people, or folks who prefer a small phone that disappears in their pocket.

The results of my camera test

Ultimately, I found that the Z Flip 8 sometimes oversaturated my photos, as you can see in this New York City park scene. The sky wasn't quite so blue that day, I'm afraid.

Credit: Timothy Werth / Mashable

I also found that in bright sunlight, some of the photos looked a little overexposed. The highlights were too bright in some cases, giving the photos a glossy sheen.

Credit: Timothy Werth / Mashable

Strangely, the digital zoom on the Z Flip 8 seemed to work better than on the Z Fold 8, for reasons I don't understand. Both phones lack a telephoto lens for high-quality zoom shots. Still, it worked well enough, and better than expected in some cases.

Left: Credit: Timothy Werth / Mashable Right: Credit: Timothy Werth / Mashable

However, I did get great results with selfies, so long as I didn't rely on the front-facing 10MP selfie camera. One of the coolest features of the Z Flip 8 is that you can see a live video of the camera preview when the phone is folded, letting you line up the perfect selfie. This is so handy that I don't think you ever need to use the inner 10MP selfie camera, and I don't know why it's included at all. The drop-off in photo quality is very apparent.

Left: A selfie taken with the main camera. Credit: Timothy Werth / Mashable Right: Credit: Timothy Werth / Mashable

Fortunately, Portrait mode works well, so long as you're using the main cameras.

Credit: Timothy Werth / Mashable A full suite of AI features

If you're an AI user, there's a lot to love about the Galaxy Z Flip 8. Thanks to the Snapdragon processor, you can get a lot accomplished on device.

With the Z 8 series, users get access to Gemini LM, which is a great perk. On top of that, you can get free six months of Google AI Pro, unlocking a ton more AI features (just be sure to cancel after six months if you don't want to be charged!).

However, the only AI feature I really find myself using on these devices are the AI photo editing tools, which work very well.

The AI eraser can help you eliminate unwanted pimples, photobombers, or other details from your shots. The tool easily erased a tote bag strap from one of my selfies, and eliminated people in the background of photos I took at a dog park.

Credit: Timothy Werth / Mashable Credit: Timothy Werth / Mashable

You can also have more fun with your photos, by adding fantastical details. Crucially, when you edit photos with AI, an AI content watermark is added automatically to your photo (in addition to a digital watermark), which I very much appreciate.

Credit: Timothy Werth / Mashable Credit: Timothy Werth / Mashable Is the Galaxy Z Flip 8 worth it?

While this isn't the right phone for me, I'm a big fan of foldable smartphones, and I had a lot of fun testing this phone. If you don't need a 200MP camera or 8K video recording (and who does, really?), then this phone will suit your needs just fine.

I do resent the $100 price increase for the new generation of Samsung foldables, but the global memory crisis has driven up prices on almost everything this year. If you can take advantage of trade-in offers from your mobile carrier, that should help offset the cost.

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip8 $1,199.99 at Amazon
  See It at Amazon See It at Samsung See It at T-Mobile

Whats new to streaming this week? (Aug. 21, 2026)

Thu, 08/20/2026 - 05:00

Looking for something great to watch at home? Streaming subscribers are spoiled for choice between Hulu, Netflix, HBO Max, Disney+, Apple TV, Prime Video, Shudder, Paramount+, Peacock, and more. And that's before you even look at the vast libraries of movies and television programs within each streamer!

Don't be overwhelmed or waste an hour scrolling through your services to determine what to watch. We've got your back, whatever your mood. Mashable offers watch guides for all of the above, broken down by genre: comedy, thriller, horror, documentary, and animation, among others. But if you're seeking something brand new (or just new to streaming), we've got you covered there, too.

12. Rosebush Pruning

Karim Aїnouz's satire of wealth comes to Mubi this week, with a major cast of rich characters fit to eat. Written by Efthimis Filippou (who co-wrote The Lobster, Dogtooth, and Alps with Yorgos Lanthimos), Rosebush Pruning takes us to Catalonia, where an affluent extended American family lives a life of bacchanalian excess. Like Succession and The End, there are childish grownups (Callum Turner, Lukas Gage, and Riley Keough), a haunted patriarch (Tracy Letts), and an outsider (Elle Fanning) who threatens the very foundations of this privileged life. What could go wrong? — Shannon Connellan, Senior Editor

Starring: Callum Turner, Riley Keough, Elle Fanning, Jamie Bell, Tracy Letts, and Pamela Anderson

How to watch: Rosebush Pruning debuts on MUBI on Aug. 21.

11. Passenger

No more driving, thanks. I'll be staying put after watching the trailer for Passenger. The latest horror film from André Øvredal (The Last Voyage of the Demeter) follows engaged couple Tyler (Jacob Scipio) and Maddie (Lou Llobell), whose van life road trip takes a dark turn when they witness an accident — and become literally haunted by it. What is the entity leaving claw marks on their van? All we know is you'll be unlikely to ever stop for a bathroom break next time you hit the road. — S.C.

Starring: Jacob Scipio, Lou Llobell, and Melissa Leo

How to watch: Passenger is now streaming on Paramount+.

10. The Dynasty: UConn Huskies

When it comes to basketball, the UConn Huskies are synonymous with dominance. Look no further than their 12 NCAA Championships, or their 111 game win streak, both records across women's and men's programs. Now, step inside their locker room through the decades in The Dynasty: UConn Huskies. Apple TV's three-part documentary series offers an in-depth look at the rise of the Huskies, featuring interviews with coach Geno Auriemma and UConn legends like Diana Taurasi, Sue Bird, Maya Moore, Breanna Stewart, Paige Bueckers, and Azzi Fudd. If you love women's basketball, consider this a must-watch. — Belen Edwards, Entertainment Reporter

Starring: KK Arnold, Geno Auriemma, Sue Bird, Paige Bueckers, Jim Calhoun, Swin Cash, Chris Dailey, Mickie DeMoss, Jana El Alfy, Jamelle Elliott, Azzi Fudd, Jeff Goldberg, Sally Jenkins, Steve Kerr, Rebecca Lobo, Jackie MacMullan, Maya Moore, Alexa Philippou, Shea Ralph, Semeka Randall, Jennifer Rizzotti, Breanna Stewart, Sarah Strong, Diana Taurasi, and Tamika Williams-Jeter

How to watch: The Dynasty: UConn Huskies debuts on Apple TV on Aug. 21.

9. Outer Banks, Season 5

It's time for one last adventure with the Pogues, as Netflix's hit teen drama Outer Banks comes to an end this week. In its fifth and final season, Outer Banks sees its core group at rock bottom. They're mourning the loss of JJ (Rudy Pankow), and they've lost the Blue Crown, which is now in the murderous hands of Chandler Groff (J. Anthony Crane). As threats from Corsairs and Kooks alike converge on the Pogues, they've got one last shot to take their future and their freedom into their own hands. You know what to do, Pogues. Bring it on home. — B.E.

Starring: Chase Stokes, Madelyn Cline, Madison Bailey, Jonathan Daviss, Carlacia Grant, and Drew Starkey

How to watch: Outer Banks, Season 5 is now on Netflix.

8. Conan O'Brien Must Go, Season 3

Conan O'Brien's completely silly comedy travel show is back for a third season, sending the comedy icon (and former Mashable CEO) to India, the Netherlands, Morocco, and the Philippines this time around. Watching O'Brien meet locals, take part in customs, and create tomfoolery in beautiful locations around the globe is the kind of travel show we want, nay deserve. And we very much hope that means more post-credit scene shenanigans. — S.C.

Starring: Conan O'Brien

How to watch: Conan O'Brien Must Go, Season 3 debuts on HBO Max on Aug. 21.

7. Buffet Infinity

Who's hungry? Simon Glassman's trippy, experimental horror satire takes a bite out of capitalism and consumerism, coming to Shudder this week. What started as a YouTube sketch made by the Canadian filmmaker during lockdown, Buffet Infinity is made up entirely of fake local TV ads, which weave a tale of rivalry between restaurants. And things get…weird. — S.C.

Starring: Kevin Singh, Claire Theobald, Donovan Workun, and Allison Bench

How to watch: Buffet Infinity debuts on Shudder on Aug. 23.

6. It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia Season 18

The Gang returns for Season 18, continuing It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia's reign as the longest-running American live-action sitcom. On their latest outing, Charlie (Charlie Day), Mac (Rob Mac), Dennis (Glenn Howerton), Dee (Kaitlin Olson), and Frank (Danny DeVito) have their hands full with a twisted wedding, conspiracy theories, ADHD diagnoses, and a visit to the Renaissance Faire. As always, expect chaos and the worst decisions known to mankind. — B.E.

Starring: Charlie Day, Rob Mac, Glenn Howerton, Kaitlin Olson, and Danny DeVito

How to watch: The first two episodes of It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia Season 18 are now streaming on Hulu, with new episodes airing Mondays at 9 p.m. ET on FXX, FX, and Hulu.

5. Power Ballad

Writer/director John Carney (Flora and Son) returns with another movie about the space where music and feelings collide. Critics out of SXSW cheered his latest, but in my review, I yearned for his earlier films, like Once and Sing Street, which took bigger swings and were wonderful because of that.

SEE ALSO: 'Power Ballad' review: Paul Rudd and Nick Jonas fall short of charming

Power Ballad stars Paul Rudd as Rick Power, a middle-aged frontman for a wedding band who thinks his dream of rock stardom is long gone. That is, until a fateful meeting with a former boy band member who's going solo turns things around. The song they write together is a hit! The only problem is, Rick's getting none of the credit. Nick Jonas stars as this pop idol. And the two are fun together, but unfortunately, most of the hijinks of this dramedy keep them apart. — Kristy Puchko, Entertainment Editor*

Starring: Paul Rudd, Nick Jonas, Jack Reynor, and Havana Rose Liu

How to watch: Power Ballad is now available for rent or purchase on Prime Video.

4. The Audacity

From Succession and Better Call Saul writer Jonathan Glatzer comes The Audacity, a sharp Silicon Valley satire that originally aired on AMC and just hit Netflix this week. Billy Magnussen stars as data-mining CEO Duncan Park, whose quest for greatness leads him down some wildly unethical paths. Caught in the crossfires is his therapist, Dr. JoAnne Felder (Sarah Goldberg), who gets more than she bargains for when she tries to exploit her relationships with her "billionaire man children" clients.

SEE ALSO: 'The Audacity's Sarah Goldberg searches for the humanity in Silicon Valley

What follows is a delicious send-up of the tech world, bursting with questions about how Silicon Valley and its overlords have warped our humanity over time. It's a cutting commentary that manages to feel both heightened and close to home, all anchored by incredible lead performances. As I wrote in my review, "There are few joys in television greater than watching two great actors have it out, and you'll get plenty of that in The Audacity thanks to Magnussen and Goldberg." — B.E.

Starring: Billy Magnussen, Sarah Goldberg, Zach Galifianakis, Rob Corddry, Meaghan Rath, Simon Helberg, Paul Adelstein, Lucy Punch, Everett Blunck, Thailey Roberge, and Ava Marie Telek

How to watch: The Audacity is now streaming on Netflix.

3. Toy Story 5

Woody and Buzz are back with Toy Story 5, but the real hero of this latest Disney/Pixar adventure is Jessie the Cowgirl (voiced by Joan Cusack). She's taken over as sheriff, leading the toys of Bonnie's room through highs and lows. But when a digital tablet named Lilypad (Greta Lee) appears, playtime could change forever.

In my review for Mashable, I wrote, "Whether she is cheering for her friends or condemning her foes, Jessie is exhilarating, funny, and riveting. Cusack's performance is bolstered by a top-tier animation team who created a beautiful and gleefully alive cowgirl, and who have continued that careful illustration to a broader cast of characters. Perhaps predictably, Toy Story 5 is an unabashed crowd-pleaser." — K.P.

Starring: Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Joan Cusack, Blake Clark, John Ratzenberger, Ernie Hudson, Tony Hale, Conan O'Brien, Greta Lee, and Melissa Villaseñor

How to watch: Toy Story 5 is now available for purchase or rental on digital.

2. Mother Mary

David Lowery has wowed critics with a surreal array of films, ranging from the artsy A Ghost Story to the whimsical Pete's Dragon to the mind-bending The Green Knight. With Mother Mary, he offers two highly acclaimed actresses facing off over passion and fashion.

Anne Hathaway stars as Mother Mary, a pop star who's long been away from the spotlight. On the eve of her comeback performance, she returns to Sam Anselm (Michaela Coel), a bold costume designer — and the best friend that Mother Mary betrayed.*

In my review for Mashable, I cheered, "Mother Mary is not only slippery, riveting, unnerving, and haunting, but also one of the most enthralling films 2026 is likely to reveal."*K.P.

Starring: Anne Hathaway, Michaela Coel, Hunter Schafer, Atheena Frizzell, Kaia Gerber, Jessica Brown Findlay, Isaura Barbé-Brown, Alba Baptista, Sian Clifford, and FKA twigs

How to watch: Mother Mary debuts on HBO Max on Aug. 21.

Best of streaming this week: The Vampire Lestat: One Night Only LIVE

Hello, fellow Beautiful Unwell. Still gagging over that Vampire Lestat cliffhanger? Still got his glam rock/pop songs stuck in your head? Well, ahead of The Queen of the Damned, AMC+ is now giving audiences worldwide a chance to see the one and only time star Sam Reid performed composer Daniel Hart's biting original songs live.

SEE ALSO: 'The Vampire Lestat: One Night Only – LIVE': Everything you should know

In my review of the concert at New York City's Beacon Theater, I reveled, "Reid's onstage persona evoked David Bowie, Mick Jagger, and Steven Tyler, as he crooned, strutted, flipped his hair, flung a scarf, and generally oozed sex appeal with a crooked grin. At one point, he recreated the shoulder shimmy that drove fans wild in the Season 2 episode where Armand recalls seeing the vampire onstage, performing as a Harlequin for humans. The crowd caught the reference and screamed with appreciation. Occasionally, Reid would reach out a hand out to his audience. He'd crawl on the floor. He made the stage his own."

Now you can see it for yourself. — K.P.

Starring: Sam Reid

How to watch: The Vampire Lestat: One Night Only LIVE begins streaming on AMC+ on Aug. 23.

(*) denotes a blurb came from a prior list.

Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and more are all just $55 for life

Thu, 08/20/2026 - 05:00

TL;DR: Get lifetime access to Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and more with a lifetime license for Microsoft Office, just $54.99 (reg. $249.99).

Opens in a new window Credit: Microsoft Microsoft Office 2024 Professional Plus for Windows: Lifetime License $54.99
$249.99 Save $195   Get Deal

Microsoft 365 costs more the longer you use it. Instead of paying $99.99 per year at a minimum, you can officially switch over to Microsoft Office to get many of the same apps for a one-time fee. Microsoft Office 2024 Home and Business works on PC or Mac, includes all the latest AI updates, and lasts for life. Pick it up on sale for $54.99 (reg. $249.99).

This version comes with Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook, redesigned with a unified interface that feels cleaner, faster, and more intuitive, and it doesn’t require an internet connection to access.

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Performance gets a noticeable lift with this version of Office. Excel handles large datasets more efficiently, PowerPoint lets you record full presentations with audio and video, and Outlook includes enhanced accessibility tools and improved search. Word introduces Focus Mode and Smart Compose, giving you a writing space that feels distraction-free and intelligently supportive.

Offline access and a one-time purchase might matter most of all. Your license is tied to your Microsoft account rather than your device, so you can keep using it continuously without subscription fees. You also get Microsoft’s built-in security improvements, including new protections against malicious add-ins.

Whether you’re a small business owner, a freelancer juggling multiple clients, or someone who prefers dependable offline tools, Office 2024 Home & Business gives you a streamlined experience that free apps can’t match.

Stop paying every month for basic apps and get Microsoft Office for life for $55.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

This Apple MacBook Pro is down to under $400

Thu, 08/20/2026 - 05:00

TL;DR: A quality refurbished Apple MacBook Pro from 2020 with a 13-inch display, Core i5 processor, 16GB of RAM, and 1TB SSD is on sale for $399.99 (reg. $1,999).

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple MacBook Pro 2020 (Refurbished) $399.99
$1,999 Save $1,599.01   Get Deal

Anyone shopping for a dependable laptop for everyday tasks without the new Mac price tag should take a look at this refurbished Apple MacBook Pro. The 2020 model has dropped to $399.99 (reg. $1,999), bringing a familiar Apple machine back within reach.

This MacBook Pro features a 13-inch Retina display, a 2GHz 10th Gen Intel Core i5 processor, 16GB of RAM, and a 1TB solid-state drive. That’s a strong spec list for day-to-day tasks like web browsing, email, streaming, document editing, and file management. Turbo Boost pushes the processor to 3.8GHz when a task calls for it, while WiFi and Bluetooth cover all standard connectivity needs. Above the keyboard, a Touch Bar puts app-specific controls within reach as you switch between programs.

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Each unit is quality refurbished and ships in Grade A or Grade B condition. That means it’s been thoroughly tested, cleaned, and restored to full working order, with cosmetic wear that varies by device. For anyone open to minor signs of previous use, the value compared to buying new is hard to beat.

Students, remote workers, and anyone in the market for a capable travel or home machine are the natural fit here. Writing projects, résumé updates, and online learning all fall squarely within what this configuration handles, minus the premium that a newer model commands. Storage is generous at 1TB, so a full media library fits without an external drive, though the 2020 Intel generation does trail Apple silicon on battery life and heavier creative work.

Get this refurbished 2020 MacBook Pro while it’s on sale for $399.99 (reg. $1,999).

StackSocial prices subject to change.

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