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7 apps that look gorgeous on the iPhone Duos display

Mashable - 10 hours 23 min ago

Why would anyone want a foldable phone? That's easy: You want a pocketable phone that still has a display large enough to truly enjoy books, magazines, games, and perhaps do some work without squinting.

With the iPhone Duo (read our review here), Apple did an amazing job with the user interface, as well as optimizing its own apps to look great on the Duo. But it's up to third-party developers to bring their apps up to speed and create versions that play nice with the Duo's dual displays and all that screen estate on the inner display.

The news here is mixed: Many apps, even some very popular ones (we're looking at you, Google), still haven't been redesigned to look great on the Duo. But among those that have, there are a couple that really stand out in terms of design and creativity. Here's our list of the best iPhone Duo apps so far.

Two notes: I've skipped Apple's own apps. They look universally great, but it's to be expected, and everyone who gets the Duo gets all of them anyway. Second, some of my experience comes from beta versions of these apps that were shared with me in advance for the purpose of testing; your experience on finalized apps might be slightly different (hopefully even better).

Netflix Netflix went all in iPhone Duo, and we're here for it. Credit: Stan Schroeder/Mashable

One of the first apps to receive a complete Duo overhaul, Netflix is the one you'll show to friends on your new foldable iPhone. Not only does the larger inner display show a ton of content, but the app does different tricks depending on how you fold and position your iPhone Duo. Not all of it will be useful, but ultimately, video streaming apps are perfect companions for the Duo, and we're glad to see Netflix looking ahead here.

Edits Video editing on a phone can be hard. On the Duo, if you're using Edits, it's a little easier. Credit: Stan Schroeder/Mashable

Instagram's video editing app was one of the first to get thoroughly optimized for the Duo, and it's the type of app that really takes advantage of the extra screen space. Video editing can quickly get complex, and handling a video project's minutiae on a tiny phone display simply isn't as good as doing it on the Duo's large inner screen.

As a side note, Instagram, too, has been revamped for the Duo, but given its native vertical bias, it looks a bit odd when you hold the Duo horizontally. It's not bad, but I think Instagram's designers will probably do some more tinkering to really make use of the extra screen real estate on the Duo.

RainViewer I could stare at this precipitation chart all day. Credit: Stan Schroeder/Mashable

Weather app makers took the Duo seriously. I've gotten numerous pitches from several app makers that have updated their apps to play nice with the Duo. The one that looked nicest to my eyes was RainViewer, whose updated iOS app is currently under review by Apple. The app offers an incredibly clean, beautiful weather map focusing on incoming precipitation.

Other weather apps that have updated their apps for the Duo include Carrot Weather and Mercury Weather.

Deck-man Just like the olden days. Credit: Stan Schroeder/Mashable

The Deck-man mimics a walkman on the Duo. Yes, an actual, analog walkman, with cassette tapes that you virtually drag from a catalog on the left to the player on the right. The visual trick that Deck-man does is that the playback doesn't start until you've folded the iPhone Duo, as if you were closing an actual Walkman. This is way too annoying to actually use as a serious music player, but it's a nice novelty idea that you just cannot have on a normal, candybar phone. Your friends that were born in the 80s or earlier will probably be delighted with this one. Anyone younger will probably give you a puzzled stare.

Headspace Cute, simple, effective. Credit: Stan Schroeder/Mashable

This meditation app is an example of how you can create a very effective, Duo-friendly app with simple graphics and smart design choices. When I opened the app on the Duo for the first time, the smiling sun logo rising across the Duo's entire display brought a smile to my face.

Finalist This is where the matte display of the iPhone Duo really fits the task perfectly. Credit: Stan Schroeder/Mashable

Finalist is a beautiful daily planner/journal combo which has been thoroughly optimized for the Duo and looks absolutely beautiful in all orientations. This is where the fact that the Duo's inner display is matte really shines; spread out the phone on your desk with Finalist on, and it'll look like a wonderfully themed notebook holding all your tasks and meetings.

MD Vinyl Do I need this? No. But do I want it? Hell yeah. Credit: Stan Schroeder/Mashable

Sorry to include two retro music apps, but both Deck-man and MD Vinyl are perfect for showcasing what the Duo can do. Instead of cassette tapes, in MD Vinyl your music turns into records. To start playback, you need to actually move the needle onto the record, which will bring a true vinyl fan to tears (and make them subscribe to this app, which, frankly, is far from necessary to enjoy music). Yeah, it all works and looks nice on the regular iPhone, but the Duo's large display was made for apps like this, and the experience is just so much better there.

Bonus: Any app in side-by-side mode This will never stop being cool. Credit: Stan Schroeder/Mashable

The iPhone Duo has a special side-by-side mode which allows you to have two apps opened next to each other in landscape mode, and it immediately makes even the most pedestrian apps so much better. On a video call with someone and need to check out the weather? Pull up the Weather app next to your video call, and you'll feel like a multitasking machine, handing out weather reports like a pro. Numerous apps like email and calendar work so well together that you can even opt to glue them together persistently.

Apple iPhone Duo Save $1,000 at T-Mobile
  Preorder at T-Mobile Preorder at Apple.com Preorder at Verizon

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LE SSERAFIMs Huh Yunjin and creator Emily Fan know that fandom is personal

Mashable - 10 hours 32 min ago

At Spotify's New York City office, LE SSERAFIM's HUH YUNJIN and podcaster Emily Fan are comparing notes on what it means to be a creator in 2026. One is a K-pop star accustomed to sold-out concerts, choreographed performances, and a devoted global fandom. The other has spent more than a decade building an audience around her personality, turning her humor and observations about internet culture and everyday life into videos that keep people coming back for more.

But the two have something else in common: They're fans of each other.

YUNJIN has been subscribed to Fan's channel for years, while Fan is a proud FEARNOT, the name of LE SSERAFIM's fandom. In fact, their episode of Spotify's Show Notes opens with YUNJIN attempting to give Fan's community an official fandom name. Her suggestion? FanFan. (They're still workshopping it.)

HUH YUNJIN and Emily Fan discuss podcasting, creative expression, and what it means to build a fandom in 2026. Credit: Courtesy of Spotify

The playful moment captures the spirit of their conversation, which you can watch in full below. For all the differences between the highly produced world of K-pop and the personality-driven world of internet creators, YUNJIN and Fan have a lot to learn from each other, particularly when it comes to building and maintaining a fandom.

Mashable was invited behind the scenes of the Show Notes recording, which centered on YUNJIN's recent move into podcasting with HMM (Huh's Memo), a personal podcast on STAN:A, HYBE's artist-led podcast channel on Spotify. Unlike a traditional interview show, HMM finds YUNJIN reflecting on her thoughts and experiences in familiar spaces, like recording studios and rehearsal rooms. Fan is no stranger to the format herself, hosting her own podcast, Much to Discuss...!

Of course, K-pop idols already share an enormous amount of their lives with fans. Between livestreams, social media, dedicated fan platforms, and vlogs, the industry has built an entire ecosystem around keeping artists and their audiences connected. But podcasting offers another way to deepen that relationship, giving artists like YUNJIN room to slow down, reflect, and explore their thoughts at greater length.

For YUNJIN, the idea grew out of touring, when she found herself wanting more time to speak to fans directly during the traditional "ending ments" that close K-pop concerts. That desire to connect through conversation is familiar territory for Fan, who has built an audience of more than 1.5 million YouTube subscribers and parlayed that support into new creative opportunities, including writing, directing, and starring in her first short film, Bad Company.

SEE ALSO: Le Sserafim on tech, style, and staying connected in a digital world

And as both women explained, building a fandom isn't simply about creating something people want to watch or listen to. It's about giving them a reason to care about the person behind it.

Following the Show Notes taping, Mashable sat down with YUNJIN and Fan to talk about podcasting, creative freedom, the surprising moments that resonate with fans, and what separates an audience from a fandom.

The following conversation has been edited for length and clarity.

When you're making something, are you thinking about what fans want to hear from you, or do you start with what you want to say and trust that they'll connect with it?

HUH YUNJIN: I think fans feel when something is authentic or not. When you're really in tune with what you truly want to talk about or express, the support and appreciation for it will follow eventually, even if it's not right away. I don't think it's in service to anybody if you're chasing something that's so immediate.

Emily Fan: I really feel the same. When you're catering too much of yourself to external factors, that's only going to end up biting you in the butt in the long term. Being able to express what you authentically want to express and then trusting that the audience will follow is the more beneficial route to go. If you start making stuff for the sake of following what's mainstream or what you think other people are going to like, you're going to cultivate an audience who maybe wouldn't actually be interested in the things you want to say.

From K-pop to internet comedy, HUH YUNJIN and Emily Fan have more in common than you might think. Credit: Courtesy of Spotify YUNJIN, there's an intimacy to podcasting that's different from posting on social media or going live. What kind of relationship with fans are you hoping to create through HMM?

YUNJIN: I knew that I wanted to do something like this for a very long time, but I think when it really settled in that this was something I wanted to pursue was during the tour.

It's part of K-pop concert culture to do ending ments at the end of a show, where each member goes through and says how they felt about the day and shows appreciation to the fans. Every time I did something like that, I felt like I had so much that I wanted to say and express.

Through performing and through music, I can really connect with fans, but just talking and telling them how I feel through conversation is another factor. That's one of my main goals of podcasting.

Emily, you're a K-pop fan yourself. What do you think creators can learn from the way K-pop artists build and maintain their fandoms?

Fan: I think what K-pop does really well is interaction. When I think about things like Bubble or Weverse, even livestreaming, there's a pretty direct line to the fans, aside from the physical barrier of a phone. That's something that really cultivates a connection, and I think that's one of the points of the K-pop industry that makes for such a strong foundation of fandom.

Creators can take away things like the ability to respond to comments. Something I really like doing is, at the end of my videos, I've been making it a tradition to say, "Thanks for watching, and today I hope you guys get to bounce on a trampoline," or little things like that. It's that call-and-response sort of thing that's helpful in maintaining a relationship with the audience.

And YUNJIN, what do you think K-pop artists can learn from internet creators?

YUNJIN: I respect content creators so much because they're so authentic to what they want to create. There are so many mediums, whether it's sketches or commentary videos, or people writing on Substack. I think we can really learn from the creative mediums and the diversity of what you can make yourself. The authenticity of everything is something I really respect.

Behind the scenes of Spotify's Show Notes, where HUH YUNJIN and Emily Fan compared notes on creativity and community. Credit: Courtesy of Spotify Have either of you been surprised by something that resonated with your fans?

Fan: I do some gaming content, and I hesitate to even call it gaming. It's literally me on the computer being like, "What's going on?" My gamer tag was just a random sentence because so many usernames were taken. It was "the wasps are inside." It literally makes no sense.

That caught on so much that it almost became an inside joke in the comments. If someone says to you, "The wasps are inside," you're going to be like, "What the hell are you talking about?" unless you watch my videos. Then it actually means something. It's one of those things that's for the community, and no one outside of it is going to know what it means.

YUNJIN: There was this one time I bleached my eyebrows, and I said something in Korean about how there's so much beauty in trying not to be beautiful. There are so many definitions of beauty.

Fans came up to me in person and thanked me for helping them look at beauty through a wider lens and not confine themselves to what's conventionally beautiful. I didn't know that would resonate with fans. It was just something I'd said because of my eyebrows! That was really sweet.

YUNJIN, between songwriting, performing, and now podcasting, you're creating in many different ways. Has the podcast expanded how you think about yourself as a creator?

YUNJIN: I think it has allowed me to be more creative day to day. Just the simple act of turning on the camera, clipping on a mic, and talking about how I feel about things is something that people can potentially resonate with.

When you're performing or writing a song or singing or dancing, there's a [specific] time for that. But when you're talking about your thoughts and using that as your medium, whatever I feel can be a source of a story and something to say. It's expanded when I'm creative. I can constantly be thinking of something to make. I'm open a lot more.

We're seeing more K-pop artists experiment with podcasting. What do you think podcasts can bring to the fan experience that other kinds of content can't?

YUNJIN: So much of the K-pop world feels so otherworldly — visually, too, with all the production that goes into it. Which is why fans love Weverse DMs or lives, because it's like, "Oh my God, my idol is a normal person too sometimes." With podcasts, it's a lot more direct and a lot more personal, and there's so much more that you can really express. I think that's the biggest appeal.

Two creators, two very different audiences, and a shared understanding of what makes fandom personal. Credit: Courtesy of Spotify Emily, you've been creating online for years, and some of your viewers have grown up alongside you. What do you think keeps people coming back even as your content changes?

Fan: I tend to be quite hard on myself. I look at my earlier videos, and in my eyes, they're objectively not good. Sometimes I wonder how I've retained an audience. But I think the throughline is almost a lack of production value, and I don't mean that negatively. It's a girl with a camera who has ideas or things to say about society or about what we observe in media.

There's something refreshing about that, where the content is solely dependent on what I'm saying and who I am as a person, as opposed to anything else. There's not a particular gimmick; especially now that I've diversified into reactions, gaming, vlogging, and commentary, the throughline is just me.

YUNJIN: I think that is a big reason why I want to tap more into this, because it's so human.

Finally, do you think there's a difference between building an audience and building a fandom?

Fan: I feel like an audience could be more passive consumption, and fandom is a bit more active. When I think of someone who's in a fandom, I think of someone who's actively seeking out your music or films or content. To cultivate that type of audience, it goes back to engaging and interacting. I think that's how you build a deeper relationship.

YUNJIN: It also feels more like a community, cultivating a fandom. It's like we see something in each other.

Fan: And with content creators, there's a sense of feeling like you're on the same level. There's less of that degree of separation. The people who are in your fandom, rather than your general audience, are the people who are going to support you in other things you do outside of content. For my short film Bad Company, the people who were the most excited were those I would consider part of my fandom rather than my general audience.

YUNJIN: A general audience might be a fan of what you make, but fans are typically fans of who you are as a person. No matter what you do, they'll be supportive of you because it is you.

Fan: Exactly. You can have tens of millions of followers, but that doesn't necessarily mean your audience is engaged with you.

Watch or listen to the full podcast conversation on Spotify's Between Episodes, and explore more creator-to-creator conversations.

Birdbuddys new $99 smart bird feeder is its most affordable: Where to buy the Birdbuddy Nook

Mashable - 11 hours 32 min ago

TL;DR: Birdbuddy’s next-gen smart feeders are officially here. The Birdbuddy Nook ($99) and Birdbuddy Home ($219) bring upgraded 2K HDR video, audio birdsong identification, dual-band WiFi, and solar options.

Opens in a new window Credit: Birdbuddy Birdbuddy Nook $99 at Birdbuddy
  Shop Now at Birdbuddy Opens in a new window Credit: Birdbuddy Birdbuddy Home $219 at Birdbuddy
  Shop Now at Birdbuddy

Backyard birdwatching is getting a major upgrade. Months after they were first revealed at CES 2026 as the Birdbuddy 2 and 2 Mini, Birdbuddy's next-gen smart feeders are officially dropping today (Oct. 22) with fresh names: the compact Birdbuddy Nook and the flagship Birdbuddy Home.

Both feeders feature a redesigned instant-wake-up camera system engineered to eliminate lag and capture feathered visitors the exact millisecond they touch down on the perch.

SEE ALSO: Your backyard is now a live TV show: The Birdfy app just landed on Roku

For apartment balconies, smaller yards, or first-time smart birders, the Birdbuddy Nook ($99) delivers an accessible, compact footprint measuring 6.95 x 5.91 x 5.31 inches (or 6.24 inches deep with perch).

It offers the exact same core camera quality, 2K resolution, AI species recognition, and audio birdsong identification as the full-sized model. Designed specifically for tighter outdoor spaces, it comes with a smaller seed capacity, an easy-refill roof, and the option to add a single solar panel or a perch extender.

SEE ALSO: Birdbuddy just launched two new smart bird feeders, and I got to test them early (with my parrot's help)

If you're looking for maximum specs and backyard coverage, the Birdbuddy Home ($219) introduces a redesigned circular camera housing that supports both portrait and landscape mounting orientations. It captures 2K HDR video with slow-motion recording and a wide 135-degree field of view behind a Gorilla Glass–protected lens.

Measuring 9.0 x 6.1 x 6.3 inches (with perch), it boasts a larger seed capacity, an integrated perch extender, dual integrated solar panels with an automatic night sleep mode, and dual-band WiFi (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz). To track local visitors, its AI species recognition pairs visual camera feeds with a high-fidelity microphone for real-time birdsong audio identification.

While we're putting both models through their paces for a full hands-on review soon, the $99 Nook marks the most affordable entry point into the Birdbuddy ecosystem yet.

Sony just announced the new PlayStation Pulse and Pulse Edge wireless headsets — how to preorder

Mashable - 11 hours 55 min ago

TL;DR: Sony announced the PlayStation Pulse Wireless Headset ($99.99, out Nov. 19) and the premium Pulse Edge (coming in early 2027). Both feature planar magnetic drivers and AI noise rejection, with preorders opening Oct. 29.

Opens in a new window Credit: PlayStation PlayStation Pulse Wireless Headset   Learn More Opens in a new window Credit: PlayStation PlayStation Pulse Edge   Learn More at PlayStation

If you're playing PS5 games through basic TV speakers, you're missing out. Sony is upgrading its console audio lineup with the announcement of the PlayStation Pulse Wireless Headset and the flagship Pulse Edge Wireless Headset.

The standard PlayStation Pulse Wireless Headset ($99.99) comes packed with studio-inspired planar magnetic drivers, each with four magnets, to deliver clean sound separation, deep bass, and precise spatial audio for pinpointing directional cues such as enemy footsteps or weapon reloads.

Credit: PlayStation

It features built-in volume controls, an integrated microphone with AI-enhanced noise rejection to block out background clatter, and an updated, durable form factor with rotating earcups that lay flat for easier travel. It connects seamlessly via PlayStation Link, using an included USB Type-C adapter, for lossless, ultra-low-latency audio across PS5, PC, Mac, and PlayStation Portal — plus simultaneous Bluetooth connectivity so you can answer phone calls mid-session.

For players seeking top-tier performance, the premium Pulse Edge Wireless Headset offers more substantial hardware upgrades. It features planar magnetic drivers with double the magnet volume — eight magnets per driver — to deliver richer, deeper bass while keeping subtle details crystal clear.

Credit: PlayStation

It adds Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), a detachable boom mic (with a hidden mic option when detached), dedicated built-in Game Audio and Chat Balance controls for PS5, a standard 3.5mm audio/microphone jack, and a protective hard-shell carrying case.

While the $99.99 standard Pulse headset hits shelves starting Nov. 19 in white and midnight black, the Pulse Edge is slated to launch in early 2027. Sony has not yet announced pricing or preorder dates for the Pulse Edge, but players eyeing the standard Pulse can secure their preorders starting Oct. 29 through PlayStation Direct and participating retailers.

Looking for the perfect GTA 6 upgrade? The Samsung Odyssey G7 4K curved gaming monitor is $400 off.

Mashable - 12 hours 31 sec ago

TL;DR: The Samsung 37-inch Odyssey G7 (G75F) 4K curved gaming monitor is on sale for $499.99 at Amazon, down from its $899.99 list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung 37-Inch Odyssey G7 (G75F) $499.99 at Amazon
$899.99 Save $400   Get Deal at Amazon

Amazon has just made one of Samsung's larger 4K gaming monitors only $20 off its lowest-ever price, giving anyone preparing for GTA 6 a chance to upgrade their setup without blowing almost $1,000 on a new display. It’s even cheaper than the deal we covered back in August.

As of Oct. 22, the Samsung 37-inch Odyssey G7 (G75F) curved gaming monitor has dropped to just $499.99 at Amazon, cutting a whopping $400 from its $899.99 list price for a 44% discount. Keep in mind that rather than being sold by Amazon directly, this offer’s coming from third-party seller Beach Camera Same Day Shipping, but Amazon is still handling fulfillment — with delivery estimated for Oct. 30 at the time of writing. 

As pointed out by price tracker camelcamelcamel, this is only $20 short of its lowest-ever price of $479.99, and is the lowest price we’ve covered for this model at Mashable in recent memory. 

SEE ALSO: Samsung's biggest 4K gaming monitor just got a huge discount at Amazon — save $500

Whether it’s hooking up your PS5 or Xbox to play Grand Theft Auto 6, waiting for the eventual PC port, or any other games you feel like playing, buying the Odyssey G7 gives you an enormous 37-inch 4K UHD (3,840 x 2,160) VA display. Unlike the 40-inch ultrawide version, it sticks with a traditional 16:9 aspect ratio, giving console players a much bigger picture without having to deal with unsupported ultrawide resolutions.

Unlike the 40-inch ultrawide version, it sticks with a traditional 16:9 aspect ratio, giving console players a much bigger picture without having to deal with unsupported ultrawide resolutions.

Meanwhile, the aggressive 1,000R curvature brings more of the screen into your peripheral vision, which should be particularly welcome when exploring sprawling open worlds like Leonida. Additionally, VESA DisplayHDR 600 delivers greater contrast, brighter highlights, and more detail in darker environments.

Especially important to note for PC gaming in general, the G7’s 165Hz refresh rate and 1ms GtG response time still make this one a perfect choice for day-to-day fast-paced titles like Apex Legends, Fortnite, and even some games on Roblox.

The Pokémon TCG Prismatic Evolutions Elite Trainer Box is down to its lowest price in months — save almost $30

Mashable - 12 hours 12 min ago

TL;DR: The Pokémon TCG Scarlet & Violet Prismatic Evolutions Elite Trainer Box is on sale for $155.94 at Amazon, down from its typical price of $184.95.

Opens in a new window Credit: The Pokémon Company Pokémon TCG Scarlet and Violet Prismatic Evolutions Elite Trainer Box $155.94 at Amazon
$184.95 Save $29.01   Get Deal at Amazon

If you’re waiting to get an invite to buy the 30th Celebration ETB at below market value, fans of the Pokémon TCG can grab one of the rarest modern Elite Trainer Boxes with a new discount at Amazon. 

As of Oct. 22, the Pokémon TCG Scarlet & Violet Prismatic Evolutions Elite Trainer Box is down to $155.94 at Amazon. Down from its usual $184.95 price, that’s $29.01 off and a whole $18.05 cheaper than the $173.99 Amazon deal we covered on Oct. 5. What’s more, this ETB is sold and shipped directly by Amazon, rather than a third-party seller, with free delivery set for between Nov. 2-11 at the time of writing. 

SEE ALSO: The Pokémon TCG Perfect Order Booster Bundle is under $45 at Amazon — save $15

Aside from a very brief price drop to the $150 mark, we haven’t seen a major price drop like this since April (confirmed by the price tracker camelcamelcamel). That said, you can still buy the Prismatic Evolutions ETB for less elsewhere — with Walmart now selling the box for $126.50 (down from $199.99), and TCGplayer going slightly lower with listings as cheap as $126.24, matching its current estimated market price. 

Inside the Elite Trainer Box are nine Prismatic Evolutions booster packs of trading cards, a full-art foil Eevee promo card, 65 Stellar Tera Eevee sleeves, 45 Energy cards, dice, condition markers, a player's guide, card dividers, and a Pokémon TCG Live code card.

Among those packs, you’ll have the chance to pull some of the most valuable chase cards in the modern Pokemon TCG (which you can also buy à la carte on TCGplayer) — including the legendary SIR Umbreon ex ($1,200+), SIR Sylveon ex ($400+), and SIR Leafeon ex ($300+).

The Magic: The Gathering Reality Fracture Bundle is down to a record-low price at Amazon — save nearly $10

Mashable - 12 hours 16 min ago

TL;DR: The Magic: The Gathering Reality Fracture Bundle is available to preorder for $48.49 at Amazon, down from its $57.99 list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Magic: The Gathering Magic: The Gathering Reality Fracture Bundle $48.49 at Amazon
$57.99 Save $9.50 Get Deal at Amazon

If you haven't picked up any Magic: The Gathering Reality Fracture cards yet, you don't need to spend over $150 on a full Play Booster Box to get started. With the release of the standard nine-pack bundle box just a day away, Amazon has now made it so that trading card collectors can pay less than ever to explore Jace’s Echoverse. 

As of Oct. 22, preorders for the Magic: The Gathering Reality Fracture Bundle are down to just $48.49 at Amazon in a limited-time deal, saving you $9.50 on its $57.99 list price. That's a 16% discount for the box, sold and shipped directly by Amazon.

This is the lowest price available at the retailer (confirmed via the price tracker camelcamelcamel), but keep in mind that, despite the Bundle coming out on Oct. 23, the free delivery you’ll receive is estimated for Oct. 29 and Oct. 31. 

If Amazon runs out of stock, Walmart is also selling the bundle for $48.49, while TCGplayer has gone slightly cheaper with listings as low as $47.54. That’s only 85 cents above its estimated market price of $46.69. 

SEE ALSO: Magic: The Gathering Reality Fracture Play Booster Box preorders are on sale — now under $155 at Amazon

You're getting nine Reality Fracture Play Boosters, each containing a Legendary card alongside its alternate Echoverse version, at least one Traditional Foil, and potentially multiple Rares. Beyond those packs, there's a bundle-exclusive Traditional Foil alternate-art promo card, 30 Lands (including 10 Borderless variants), an oversized Spindown life counter, a card storage box, and two reference cards.

This set’s based around Jace Beleren's attempt to replace the existing Multiverse with his own creation. Reality Fracture also features twisted versions of familiar Magic legends, with plenty of new cards to collect and experiment with.

Soundcore by Anker Q20i headphones are yours for under $40 at Amazon — save over $30 right now

Mashable - 12 hours 23 min ago

SAVE OVER $30: As of Oct. 22, the Soundcore by Anker Q20i headphones are on sale for $39.97 at Amazon. This deal saves you $30.02 off their full price of $69.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Soundcore Soundcore by Anker Q20i $39.97 at Amazon
$69.99 Save $30.02   Get Deal at Amazon

Early Black Friday deals are already rolling out ahead of November, with Amazon leading the charge by offering discounts on a wide variety of items. If you've been hoping for headphone deals during this time, you're in luck, as there are already quite a few that have caught our eye. This includes a price cut on select colors of the Soundcore by Anker Q20i headphones.

As of Oct. 22, these headphones are marked down to $39.97 on Amazon. Normally they cost $69.99, so you're saving over $30 by taking advantage of this offer.

SEE ALSO: The 65+ absolute best stocking stuffers for 2026

If you have a busy travel season coming up for the holidays, the hybrid active noise-canceling on these headphones can make flights or car rides easier to sit through. They can reduce up to 90% of outside noise, so you can sink into your favorite music or podcasts without the outside world interrupting. And for those moments when you'd prefer to hear what's going on, they also offer a Transparency mode that you can switch to.

Sound quality is top-notch as well, thanks to 40mm dynamic drivers, and they boast a hefty 40-hour battery life when you've got ANC on. Without it, that can extend up to 60 hours, which is more than enough time to last you through a long trip.

If Soundcore by Anker Q20i headphones have caught your eye, act fast to save on them at Amazon.

The Roborock Qrevo 2 Pro robot vacuum hits best-ever price at Amazon — save $250.01 ahead of Black Friday

Mashable - 12 hours 29 min ago

SAVE OVER $250: As of Oct. 22, the Roborock Qrevo 2 Pro Set robot vacuum and mop is down to its lowest-ever price of $649.98 at Amazon. That's $250.01 off its full price of $899.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Roborock Roborock Qrevo 2 Pro Set Robot Vacuum and Mop $649.98 at Amazon
$899.99 Save $250.01   Get Deal at Amazon

Black Friday sales are coming up fast, but Amazon's way ahead of the game with some excellent early deals already available to shop. Even robot vacuums are seeing some nice discounts right now, including recent releases like the Roborock Qrevo 2 Pro. This model is currently at its lowest-ever price at the retailer, so why wait for seasonal sales to grab it?

As of Oct. 22, shoppers can scoop up the Roborock Qrevo 2 Pro Set — which comes with two extra mop pads and two dust bags — for $649.98, down from its full price of $899.99. That saves you just over $250.

SEE ALSO: The 65+ absolute best stocking stuffers for 2026

With the help of 25,000Pa HyperForce suction, the Roborock Qrevo 2 Pro Set can power through crumbs, debris, pet hair, and more that's lodged in carpets or scattered on hard surfaces. It even automatically boosts suction on carpets for a deeper clean. Plus, when it switches to mopping, it can lift the mopping module up to 15mm if it hits carpet, so there's no need to worry about it getting all wet during cleaning.

Edges and corners can't escape this cleaner, as the FlexiArm Edge Mopping System and reversible side brush help clean as close as 1.85mm along walls. And on top of that, the dock keeps everything running smoothly by automatically emptying the dust, refilling the water tank, and cleaning the mop at 167°F (then drying it with warm air at 113°F).

Get ahead of Black Friday shopping with this excellent deal on the Roborock Qrevo 2 Pro Set robot vacuum and mop at Amazon.

Global Rush to Fix PHP Security Flaw Leaves Some Websites Offline

NYT Technology - 12 hours 44 min ago
Governments and businesses in Kenya, the Netherlands and elsewhere were scrambling to prevent hackers from exploiting a vulnerability in PHP, a widely used programming language.

Meet Claude Duet, the latest AI agent intended to lighten your workload

Mashable - 13 hours 20 min ago

Anthropic has announced Claude Duet, a new AI agent intended for professionals and small businesses that promises to help manage daily life.

Amid competition from Meta’s Muse and OpenAI’s Dots, Anthropic on Wednesday said Claude Duet will track your messages and tasks, surfacing what it deems important, and complete tasks it's asked to perform. It’s designed to operate without supervision, but will reportedly seek permission before acting on the user’s behalf.

SEE ALSO: Anthropic is pitching Congress its own AI safety bill, report says

Anthropic says you can describe a task to Duet in a short message, and it’ll figure out which apps to use and the steps to take in the background. You’ll be notified when the task is done or if there’s something you need to know.

Some of the examples provided by Anthropic include:

  • Replying to missed Gmail and Slack messages

  • Run payroll using Gusto

  • Draft reminders for unpaid invoices found in Intuit QuickBooks or Stripe.

  • Draft a job posting, seek user approval, and post it to LinkedIn

  • Build a social campaign for product launches using Canva

  • Set up and manage a Shopify store

But Anthropic says there are still guardrails. User approval is required before it sends messages, makes payments, signs documents, or deletes files. And even with user approval, Claude Duet won't perform tasks like trading securities or moving money between accounts.

Claude Duet is built around Claude Opus 5.5, and, because it runs on a virtual machine, the user’s computer or phone doesn’t have to be on for it to operate.

Claude Duet is available on iOS, Android, and claude.ai for users of Anthropic’s Pro and Max plans. It will share subscribers’ existing Claude usage limit. Currently in research mode, interested users can join a waitlist for access.

AI agents like Duet, Muse, and Dots have been immensely popular this year. For example, Meta's Muse has already been downloaded 10 million times in less than two months, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg revealed Wednesday. But in that short time, the app has been beset with controversy, including reportedly creating files on users' friends and loved ones and sending a Facebook Marketplace buyer to a user's home.

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iPhone Duo reviewers dislike this one thing about Apples foldable

Mashable - 14 hours 7 min ago

The iPhone Duo officially launches on Friday, Oct. 23, and the first reviews have officially arrived (including our own).

Tech reviewers seem unanimous: The iPhone Duo is a really fun phone, especially for a first-generation device.

Apple iPhone Duo Save $1,000 at T-Mobile
  Preorder at T-Mobile Preorder at Apple.com Preorder at Verizon

However, most early reviewers also agree on what they dislike about the iPhone Duo: The under-display FaceTime selfie camera.

In Mashable's glowing iPhone Duo review, Stan Schroeder wrote that the FaceTime camera was one of the few knocks on the device.

"The FaceTime camera that’s hidden in the inner display is bad," Schroeder said. "Any attempt of taking a half-decent selfie will result in a very processed, smudgy, AI-looking photo."

Marques Brownlee had a similar, if not more critical take on the iPhone Duo's FaceTime camera, in his review for his 21.4 million YouTube subscribers. Brownlee called the camera "very first-gen" and "bad." 

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"The photo quality is trash," Brownlee said, not mincing words.

Why the iPhone Duo camera is unique The under-display FaceTime camera on the iPhone Duo's inner display. Credit: Stan Schroeder / Mashable

For those unaware, while the iPhone Duo has dropped the telephoto rear lens you'll find on the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max, the foldable device still has a total of four cameras. There are two rear cameras: a 48MP main camera and a 48MP ultra-wide camera. Plus, there's a 12MP Center Stage front camera, and a camera that Apple has only referred to as a "FaceTime camera."

What's the difference between the selfie camera and the FaceTime camera? The selfie camera is located on the outer display, and the FaceTime camera is located under the screen on the inner display, so it can only be used when the device is unfolded.

Unlike the other three cameras, Apple is not promoting the FaceTime camera's megapixels. And it turns out that there's a good reason for that. It's only 4MP. And this is also likely why Apple has simply been referring to this camera as a "FaceTime camera," which PCMag's Eric Zeman and Gizmodo's Ray Wong both point out in their reviews.

"It’s four megapixels, and the photos it takes are low-res, washed out, and just not sharp at all," Wong said for Gizmodo. "You won’t be taking selfies with this camera; it’s meant primarily for video calls, which still look muddy, but it’s serviceable in a pinch."

"I think this camera is best left for FaceTime calls," Zeman said in PCMag's review. "The photos I snapped with it look pretty rough in terms of focus, contrast, and noise."

When Apple announced the FaceTime camera as being an under-display lens, it seemed the concern was focused on how visible or distracting it would be for users utilizing the larger inner-display to, say, watch videos. Most reviewers are happy with that design choice, but they do take issue with the FaceTime camera's output.

Apple and Samsung can't get the selfie camera on their foldables right The inner display and pinhole selfie camera on the Galaxy Z Fold 8. Credit: Joseph Maldonado / Mashable

So, why does the FaceTime camera take "bad" photos? Does it have something to do with how Apple has fitted the inner-display camera under the screen in order to hide it from view? It doesn't seem likely — and Apple's not the only company that appears to have struggled to figure it out. 

Samsung also previously had trouble with under-display cameras on their foldables but, as Gizmodo's Wong points out, they stopped putting the inner-display camera under the screen with the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7. The new Galaxy 8 series features pinhole cutouts for the selfie cameras.

As for Samsung's current inner-display cameras, the quality is also very poor. Mashable's Tech Editor Timothy Beck Werth reviewed both the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8 earlier this year and had similar critiques of those devices' inner-display selfie cameras. 

Some reviewers describing the iPhone Duo's FaceTime camera have used words like "bad," "low-res," and "trash" to describe it, and Werth used the same language to describe the Z Flip 8's selfie camera. "Unfortunately, I found the selfie camera to be a bit trash, and I'm too vain to get any use out of it," he wrote.

Perhaps Apple will figure out a way to enhance the quality of the FaceTime camera in future generations of the iPhone Duo. All things considered, though, this is the one thing that reviewers most dislike about the iPhone Duo. But it doesn't seem to have sullied their overwhelmingly positive reviews regarding everything else about Apple's first foldable device.

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How to watch Patriots vs. Bears in the NFL online for free

Mashable - 14 hours 52 min ago

TL;DR: Live stream New England Patriots vs. Chicago Bears for free on 7Plus. Access this free livestream from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

It's that time of the week again, with Thursday Night Football hosting yet another big showdown. Today's game sees the New England Patriots visit the Chicago Bears.

Both teams are 4-2 for the season and coming off wins. The big story here is between the franchises' respective quarterbacks, Drake Maye and Caleb Williams, who have a relationship dating back to their high school days and were draftmates in 2024. Their last meeting saw the Patriots score a decisive win.

Can Maye lead them to another victory and make it a four-week streak?

If you want to watch Patriots vs. Bears in the NFL for free from anywhere in the world, here's all the information you need.

When is Patriots vs. Bears?

New England Patriots vs. Chicago Bears starts at 8.15 p.m. ET on Oct. 22. This fixture takes place at Soldier Field.

How to watch Patriots vs. Bears for free

Patriots vs. Bears in the NFL is available to live stream for free on 7Plus.

7Plus is geo-restricted to Australia only, but anyone can secure access with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in Australia, meaning you can live stream Patriots vs. Bears for free from anywhere in the world.

Access free live streams of the NFL by following these simple steps:

  1. Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (we recommend ExpressVPN)

  2. Download the app to your device of choice

  3. Open up the app and connect to a server in Australia

  4. Visit 7Plus

  5. Watch Patriots vs. Bears for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.99 at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but they do tend to offer generous money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can watch Patriots vs. Bears without committing your cash. This is obviously not a long-term strategy, but it gives you enough time to stream this fixture (plus NFL action) before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for the NFL?

ExpressVPN is the best service for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream the NFL, for a number of reasons:

  • Servers in 105 countries, including Australia

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

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

  • Fast connection speeds free from throttling

  • Up to 10 simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $68.40 and includes an extra four months for free — 81% off for a limited time. This plan includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and usually offers a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.99.

Live stream New England Patriots vs. Chicago Bears for free from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The Anker Solix C300 power station is under $200 at Amazon — save $50.01

Mashable - 15 hours 17 min ago

SAVE $50.01: As of Oct. 22, the Anker Solix C300 is on sale for $199.98 at Amazon. That's a 20% discount on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Anker Anker Solix C300 $169.99 at Amazon
$249.99 Save $80   Get Deal at Amazon

Power cuts, weekends off-grid, and camping trips all leave you needing a reliable power source to keep your devices charged. This is what makes portable power stations so useful: they offer the flexibility to stay connected even when you're away from a wall outlet.

As of Oct. 22, the Anker Solix C300 is on sale. Normally $249.99, it is $50 off right now, down to $199.98.

The Anker C300 packs a 288Wh battery and delivers up to 300W of output, so it's a suitable option for charging everyday electronics such as phones, tablets, and laptops. Plus, Anker says the compact design is about 30% smaller than comparable power stations, making it easier to pack and carry.

You'll also have a few ways to recharge the station itself. It supports USB-C charging, car charging, and solar input (solar panels are sold separately). If you're using dual USB-C PD input, Anker says the battery can reach 80% in around an hour. And the battery is built to last, too. It has a LiFePO4 battery that is designed for long-term use, protected by smart temperature control and an impact-resistant design.

Find this portable power station deal at Amazon.

Running in the dark? The Shokz OpenRun Pro headphones are $70 off at Amazon.

Mashable - 15 hours 21 min ago

SAVE $70: As of Oct. 22, the Shokz OpenRun Pro headphones are on sale for $109.95 at Amazon. That's a 39% discount on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: SHOKZ Shokz OpenRun Pro $109.95 at Amazon
$179.95 Save $70.00   Get Deal at Amazon

Running in winter often means heading out during the dark. Even if you head out at sunrise or squeeze in a few miles after work, the shorter days mean daylight runs are few and far between. When visibility is low, being able to hear traffic, cyclists, and other people around you is important. The Shokz OpenRun Pro headphones are designed with that in mind, and right now they're on sale at Amazon.

Unlike traditional headphones or earbuds that sit over or inside your ears, these use bone conduction technology to deliver audio through vibrations in your cheekbones. Your ears remain uncovered, so you can listen to your running playlist while staying more aware of your surroundings.

These Shokz headphones are designed specifically for runners. A lightweight titanium frame wraps around your head to keep the headphones in place while you run. In addition to providing bone conduction sound, Shokz's audio technology delivers enhanced bass.

As of Oct. 22, you'll find these on sale for $109.95, saving you $70 on the usual list price. The deal is available across three colors: black, beige, and pink.

Head to Amazon to grab this deal now.

The Fire TV Stick 4K is 50% off before Black Friday — shop for $29.99 at Amazon

Mashable - 15 hours 26 min ago

SAVE $30: As of Oct. 22, the Fire TV Stick 4K is on sale for $29.99 at Amazon. That's 50% off the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Fire Stick 4K $29.99 at Amazon
$59.99 Save $30.00   Get Deal at Amazon

Amazon's Fire TV Stick 4K is back with a fresh design, and if you've been considering upgrading your streaming setup, this new model is already on sale at Amazon.

As of Oct. 22, you can save 50% off the list price. It's now down to $29.99, making it a great choice if you're looking for an affordable way to stream your favorite shows and movies in 4K.

With this streaming device, you'll get 4K streaming, HDR10+ picture quality, and WiFi 6 support for fast, smooth navigation. Like many of the new Fire Sticks, it comes with the updated Fire TV interface, which makes it much easier to navigate thanks to the dedicated content categories. Another great new upgrade is Direct Power. This means the stick can be powered by your TV via the included USB-C cable, so there's no need for a separate wall adapter or messy cables.

The Alexa Voice Remote has also been redesigned and comes with both power and volume controls, dedicated buttons for Live TV and the Fire TV menu, and voice search to help you find shows or even control compatible smart home devices.

Ready to upgrade your streaming? This deal can be found on Amazon now, but it's only available for a limited time.

How the A.I. Boom Is Driving Up Sales of Gray Paint

NYT Technology - 15 hours 29 min ago
Tech companies are painting data centers with gray coatings on top of gray concrete and steel to resist fire, rust and static electricity. That has made data centers a fast-growing market for paint makers.

The best budget-friendly headphones deal: Sonys WH-CH720N are under $90 at Amazon

Mashable - 15 hours 30 min ago

SAVE OVER $90: As of Oct. 22, the Sony WH-CH720N headphones are on sale for $88 at Amazon. That's a 51% discount on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Sony Sony WH-CH720N $88 at Amazon
$179.99 Save $91.99   Get Deal at Amazon

If you've had your eye on a new pair of headphones, there's a pretty good deal right now at Amazon.

The Sony WH-CH720N headphones are currently selling for $88, down from their usual price of $179.99, proving that you don't need to spend a lot to get reliable sound from a top brand. And both the white and pink models are included in the deal at more than half off the list price.

With these headphones, you'll get solid active noise cancellation thanks to Sony's Integrated Processor V1 and Dual Noise Sensor Technology that help cut out background noise. You can also switch to Ambient Sound mode if you'd rather hear what's going on around you. Adaptive Sound Control adjusts the audio experience based on your surroundings.

They're also a solid option if you plan to use them for calls. Sony's Precise Voice Pickup Technology helps keep your voice clear and accurate. Plus, the battery lasts up to 35 hours on a full charge, so you've got more than a whole day of use. And if you're in a rush, just plug them in for three minutes, and you'll get up to an hour of listening time.

You can find this Sony deal at Amazon now.

The best sexting apps and sites of 2026: Find your kind of dirty talk

Mashable - 15 hours 31 min ago

Based on my extensive hands-on testing and expert input, I’ve picked the best sexting apps and online sites for different kinds of dirty talk, whether you're messaging a partner, meeting someone new, or paying a verified creator.

Because sometimes the anticipation of a hookup is even hotter than the main event. In my experience, sexting is the ultimate form of digital foreplay. It can help long-distance partners feel closer, give long-term couples something to look forward to, and let singles explore sexual chemistry before meeting in person. Of course, everyone involved needs to be a consenting adult who's genuinely interested in taking the conversation to a steamier level.

SEE ALSO: A beginner's guide to sexting

Sexting isn't exactly new, either. A 2015 study of 870 heterosexual U.S. adults found that nearly 88 percent of participants had sexted. That wasn't a nationally representative estimate of all American adults, but it gives us an idea of how common sexting was among the people surveyed.

You can use just about any mainstream dating app, like Tinder, Hinge, and even Hily, to find a potential sexting partner (though I think Pure is probably the best dating app for this). A match isn't permission to send something explicit, though. Ask first, and don't assume that someone looking for a hookup also wants phone sex or a photo exchange. (You know what they say about assuming.)

But once you've actually found someone who matches your freak, the next question is where to have that conversation. An app that helps you meet people isn't necessarily the one with the privacy features you want for sharing intimate messages.

You've heard of safe sex. But what about safe sexting?

As fun as the buildup is, no app can guarantee that a recipient won't save or share what you send. Sliding into the DMs on a standard social media app might feel like spontaneous fun, but a private conversation and a disappearing conversation aren't the same.

Platform rules matter, too. Mashable has reported on Instagram account removals affecting sex workers, educators, and LGBTQIA+ users, including disputed enforcement decisions. That's separate from encryption, but it's another reason to understand the services you're using instead of assuming every DM inbox works the same way.

As one of Mashable's dating app experts, I've spent the last four years testing dozens of platforms to find the best sexting apps for the job. My highest priority is always user safety. I also spoke with security expert Gary Orenstein with Bitwarden, who stressed that for sharing intimate content, "privacy features cannot be optional — they’re essential." He recommends looking for apps with three key features: end-to-end encryption, disappearing messages, and screenshot detection.

Those features do different jobs. End-to-end encryption is designed to keep the service carrying your messages from reading their contents. Disappearing messages reduce the history left in a chat, while screenshot alerts may tell you when someone takes a screenshot. None can stop a recipient from photographing the screen with another device.

Following Confide's closure, Signal became my top recommendation for encrypted messaging with an existing partner or trusted connection. Its "Screen Security" setting protects content on your own device; it doesn't control screenshots on someone else's. Signal also warns that disappearing messages aren't designed to protect you from a recipient determined to keep a copy.

SEE ALSO: Gen Z has a new dating app profile rule, apparently

Whether you're looking for a free messenger for your partner, a place to find a willing sexting buddy, or an interactive session with connected toys, the picks below serve different purposes for different people. Paid creator chats and AI fantasies belong in their own categories, with their own costs and privacy considerations. If you believe in safe sex, bring that same care to your sexts.

Here's what I liked, what you can do for free, and the details worth knowing before you hit send.

Recent updates to this guide:
  • Signal (July 2026): Promoted to our No. 1 overall recommendation following the official closure of Confide. Its open-source encryption makes it the gold standard for secure, free sexting.

  • Lovense Remote: Added as our top choice for "Group Sexting." It remains the best interactive option for couples and polyamorous groups to sync Bluetooth toys across long distances.

  • FetLife: Expanded our analysis of its custom community groups, cementing its spot as the best social network for exploring niche kinks safely.

Why some popular sexting apps didn't make the cut

You've probably seen other "best of" lists recommending apps and platforms that I've intentionally left off. My goal is to recommend secure spaces where you can build genuine, mutual connections without burning through cash or risking your digital privacy.

Here's why a few common names didn't make the cut this month:

  • "Paid Operator" platforms (InstaBang, Arousr, SextLocal): Many web-based platforms marketed for fast sexting don't connect you with real local users. Instead, they hire paid "chat operators" who use fantasy scripts specifically designed to keep you replying and draining your wallet per message. While there is a market for paid fantasy, I don't consider it mutual sexting. This guide prioritizes authentic, user-to-user interaction (with the explicit exception of SextPanther, which uses clearly verified, real adult performers).

  • Basic Couples Messengers (Between, Paid Vaults): While apps like Between offer private spaces for long-distance couples, they lack the specific, sex-positive interactive features (like integrated toy controls, screenshot blocks, or custom timer countdowns) that make digital foreplay fun. If you want to level up your intimacy, highly interactive platforms like We-Vibe and Lovense are much better options.

Brewers vs. Rays: How to watch the 2026 World Series for free

Mashable - 15 hours 32 min ago
How to watch the World Series for free: Free trial Fox One Free 3-day trial, then $19.99/month Get Deal Free trial YouTube TV Sports + News plan Free 10-day trial, then $49.99/month for your first 5 months Get Deal Free trial Fubo Sports Free 5-day trial, then $63.99/month for your first month Get Deal FREE TRIAL Hulu + Live TV free 3-day trial, then $49.99/month for your first month (save $40) Get Deal FREE TRIAL DirecTV Stream free 5-day trial, then starting at $59.99/month Get Deal

The stage is set. The Milwaukee Brewers swept the two-time defending champion Los Angeles Dodgers in the NLCS and will face the Tampa Bay Rays in the 2026 World Series, following their ALCS Game 6 win against the Cleveland Guardians. The Brewers have yet to win a World Series, only making one appearance in 1982 and losing to the St. Louis Cardinals in Game 7. Meanwhile, the Rays have appeared twice in the World Series (2008 and 2020), and have yet to secure the victory. Whichever team you're rooting for, it's sure to be a dramatic week (or more) of games. And either outcome will result in history being made.

Lucky for baseball fans, watching the postseason in 2026 is a whole lot easier than watching regular-season games. You can even watch for free with some strategic planning. We've rounded up the best ways to watch the World Series for free below. Let's play ball.

When is the 2026 World Series?

The 2026 World Series schedule is as follows:

  • Game 1 — Friday, Oct. 23 at 8 p.m. ET in Milwaukee

  • Game 2 — Saturday, Oct. 24 at 8 p.m. ET in Milwaukee

  • Game 3 — Monday, Oct. 26 at 8 p.m. ET in Tampa Bay

  • Game 4 — Tuesday, Oct. 27 at 8 p.m. ET in Tampa Bay

  • Game 5 (if necessary) — Wednesday, Oct. 28 at 8 p.m. ET in Tampa Bay

  • Game 6 (if necessary) — Friday, Oct. 30 at 8 p.m. ET in Milwaukee

  • Game 7 (if necessary) — Saturday, Oct. 31 at 8 p.m. ET in Milwaukee

What channel will the 2026 World Series be on?

The World Series has exclusively aired on Fox since the early 2000s, and this year is no different. You can watch the games play out live on your local Fox network if you have cable.

Can I watch the World Series without cable?

You have a couple of different options to access Fox in 2026 without cable: a digital antenna, a Fox One subscription, or a cable replacement service. Each option has its pros and cons, of course, so we'll leave it up to you to decide what's best for your situation.

A digital antenna is a relatively cheap (generally between $25 and $40) way to gain access to your local TV stations, but you need to be within a certain radius of the stations themselves and free of obstructions in order to get a clear broadcast. Fox One subscriptions give you access to not only your local Fox station, but the entirety of the Fox TV portfolio. It's a great choice for sports fans in general, but it might be overkill if you just want access to your local station for the World Series.

Finally, a cable replacement service (like YouTube TV or DirecTV) gives you access to 100+ live TV channels, including Fox. If you want a long-term way to watch live broadcasts, these are pretty well-rounded options that still cost less than cable. But that definitely doesn't mean they're cheap.

How to watch the World Series for free in 2026

Fortunately, there are a few ways you can watch the World Series (or at least a big chunk of it) without paying a cent. Two words: free trials. Not only does Fox One offer a free trial to new subscribers, but YouTube TV and Fubo do as well. If you've never subscribed to those services and you plan your trials strategically, you'll be able to watch the World Series for free — even if it goes to Game 7. If you don't qualify for any of the free trial options, we recommend either signing up for Fox One for one month at $19.99 or grabbing yourself a digital antenna.

Fox One: 3-day free trial Opens in a new window Credit: Fox One Fox One free 3-day trial, then $19.99/month Get Deal

Fox One, the new direct-to-consumer streaming service from Fox, gives subscribers access to the entire Fox TV portfolio. That includes your local Fox station live, as well as Fox News, Fox Sports, Fox Weather, FS1, FS2, Fox Business, Fox Deportes, Big Ten Network (B1G), Fox Network, and Fox Nation. Basically, if it's on Fox, it's on Fox One. A subscription costs $19.99 per month or $199.99 per year, but new subscribers can kick things off with a free trial that lasts for three days. You'll at least be able to watch two (maybe three) games with this trial period.

YouTube TV: 10-day free trial Opens in a new window Credit: YouTube YouTube TV Sports + News plan free 10-day trial, then $49.99/month for 5 months (save $110) Get Deal

YouTube TV is a comprehensive cable replacement service with over 100 live TV channels, unlimited DVR, and customizable add-ons. It's definitely overkill if you're just looking to watch your local Fox station for the World Series, but it holds a lot of value if you want to watch live TV long-term. You can try out the Sports + News plan for 10 days with a free trial if you're new to YouTube TV, which would give you the ability to watch the entire World Series for free. Just beware: if you forget to cancel, you'll be charged $49.99/month (for your first five months) and $71.99/month thereafter.

Fubo: 5-day free trial Opens in a new window Credit: Fubo Fubo Sports free 5-day trial, then $45.99 for 1 month (save $10) Get Deal

Like YouTube TV, Fubo offers TV lovers a cable replacement with tons of live channels. It also offers a five-day free trial for new subscribers, giving you the ability to watch most of the World Series for free. There are three different tiers you can choose from: Pro, Elite, and Elite with Sports Plus. All three plans include Fox. As the most affordable option, the Pro tier offers 228 channels and will run you $63.99 for your first month, should you forget to cancel.

More free trial options:

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