Mashable
I test headphones and earbuds. These are the best deals on both in Amazons Big Spring Sale.
As a shopping reporter, trust me when I say I understand better than most that Amazon's sale schedule can feel a little fatiguing. However, as a headphones reviewer, I also can't deny that this year's Big Spring Sale offers a great opportunity to upgrade your audio game on the cheap.
Having spent a few years testing headphones, and the last year covering the latest in noise-cancelling tech, open earbuds, and sleep earbuds, I went into this last week of March curious to see what the third iteration of Amazon's Big Spring Sale could bring. Sure, I'd seen the mega-retailer offer some solid tech deals in the two years prior, but the second day of this sale is proving that Amazon isn't playing with savings in headphones this year.
SEE ALSO: Amazon Big Spring Sale 2026: Live updates on the top dealsAlready, the newly announced Apple AirPods Max 2 are $19 off, even though they're still in their preorder phase. Sony's latest flagship headphones and earbuds are both marked down, and Shokz has plenty of deals for anyone looking for a new pair of workout earbuds. And as of March 27, Bose finally has some discounts too, on three of their popular models: the QuietComfort headphones, QuietComfort Ultra 2 headphones, and Ultra Open earbuds.
This sale is on for one week, from March 25 to March 31 at 11:59 p.m. PT. Anything is possible, but with most of the below deals, I don't imagine we'll see wild fluctuations in price. In other words, if you see a pair of headphones or earbuds you like, I recommend scooping them up.
My colleagues and I will be updating this post throughout the sale, so we'll let you know if anything new and major drops.
Best headphones deal Sony WH-1000XM6 $398 at Amazon$459.99 Save $61.99 Get Deal at Amazon Why we like it
Sony's flagship headphones, the Sony WH-1000XM6, are still relatively new, all things considered, meaning that catching them on sale isn't always a given. Granted, even though their sale price of $398 does net you a nice $61.99 price cut, they're still expensive headphones. (If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, I recommend the Sony WH-CH720N). That said, if you're looking for the best of the best, these Sony headphones offer some of the best sound, noise cancellation, and all-day wear I've ever tried. Plus, unlike their predecessor, their ear cups actually fold. Grab them on sale in any of the available four colorways.
If the WH-1000XM6 are out of your price range, go for a more budget-friendly option. The JLab Lux are surprisingly great for a pair of headphones under $100, and right now you can get them for just $41.99.
Check out our full review of the Sony WH-1000XM6.
More headphones dealsJLab JBuds Lux ANC — $41.99 $79.99 (save $38)
Sony WH-CH520 — $48 $69.99 (save $21.99)
Soundcore Q30 — $55.99 $79.99 (save $24)
Sony WH-CH720N — $98 $179.99 (save $81.99)
Sennheiser Accentum — $99.95 $189.95 (save $90)
JBL Live 770NC — $119.94 $199.95 (save $80.01)
Sony ULT Wear — $148 $249.99 (save $101.99)
Beats Solo 4 — $149.95 $199.95 (save $50)
Beats Studio Pro — $159.99 $349.99 (save $190)
Marshall Monitor III — $248.99 $379.99 (save $131)
Sennheiser Momentum 4 — $249.95 $449.95 (save $200)
Bose QuietComfort — $249 $349 (save $100)
Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e — $274.99 $399 (save $124.01)
Sonos Ace — $299 $399 (save $100)
Bose QuietComfort Ultra 2 — $399 $449 (save $50)
Apple AirPods Max 2 — $529.99 $549 (save $19.01)
$129.99 Save $41.99 Get Deal at Amazon Why we like it
As much as I love a good pair of premium earbuds, I'm less in love with the idea of paying over $200 for quality ANC and sound when you can get that for much, much cheaper. For day-to-day use, I often find myself reaching for the Sony WF-C710N earbuds. They have great battery life, a compact case for easy portability, really solid ANC, and a rounded sound profile worthy of the Sony name. Bracetti called them the best Sony earbuds you can get for under $100 (when they're on sale), and I'm comfortable saying they're some of the best earbuds under $100, period.
Check out our full review of the Sony WF-C710N.
More earbuds dealsCMF Buds 2a — $24.65 $39 (save $15.35)
JBL Vibe Beam — $29.94 $49.95 (save $20.01)
Sony WF-C510 — $48 $69.99 (save $21.99)
Nothing Ear (a) — $58.99 $109 (save $50.01)
Nothing Ear — $77 $129 (save $52)
OnePlus Buds 4 — $79.99 $129.99 (save $50)
Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE — $128.21 $149.99 (save $21.78)
Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 — $169 $229 (save $60)
Soundcore Sleep A30 Special sleep earbuds — $179.99 $199.99
Apple AirPods Pro 3 — $199 $249 (save $50)
Technics EAH-AZ100 — $247.99 $299.99 (save $52)
Sony WF-1000XM6 — $298 $329.99 (save $31.99)
$229.99 Save $31.99 Get Deal at Amazon Why we like it
People love the Bose Ultra Open earbuds, but the Sony LinkBuds Clip are just as comfortable, sound at least as good, and at their full price, cost about $70 cheaper than the Bose buds. I have testing samples of both on my desk, and I find myself reaching for the Sony buds more.
On sale, they're over $100 cheaper than the Bose Ultra earbuds. Mashable contributor Simon Cohen deemed these earbuds a Mashable Selects winner, which means they're a favorite of the Mashable team. This sale price of $198 marks their biggest discount ever, and the first time they've ever gone below $200. For earbuds that just launched in January, that's not too shabby.
Check out our full review of the Sony LinkBuds Clip.
More open earbuds dealsSoundcore V20i — $26.99 $49.99 (save $23)
Soundcore C50i — $39.98 $69.99 (save $30.01)
Baseus Bowie MC1 Pro — $47.49 $89.99 (save $42.50)
EarFun Clip — $48.98 $69.99 (save $21.01)
Nothing Ear(Open) — $98.99 $149 (save $50.01)
Shokz OpenSwim Pro — $139.95 $179.95 (save $40)
Shokz OpenRun Pro — $159.95 $179.95 (save $20)
Shokz OpenDots ONE — $159.94 $199.95 (save $40.01)
Bose Ultra Open — $229 $299 (save $70)
Amazons buy three for the price of two deal on books, movies, and music is back during the Big Spring Sale
As a special treat for those who love physical media, Amazon is running a special promotion during their Big Spring Sale. As of March 27, on books, movies, and music, get three for the price of two. No matter what your vice is — hardcovers, Blu-rays, vinyl, or CDs — you can bundle any combination to get the discount.
Big name books, movies, and music are covered in the sale. If you still haven't read Andy Weir's Project Hail Mary, you can pick that up alongside Grammy award winning artist Olivia Dean's The Art of Loving. Plus, you can catch up on the latest Marvel and get The Fantastic Four and Thunderbolts* on Blu-ray.
There are plenty of great items that qualify for the deal, here's how to redeem.
How to redeem Amazon three for two dealThere's no special code required to score Amazon three for two deal. All you need to do is add any combination of the qualifying items in your cart and the discount will be automatically applied at checkout.
Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Get three for the price of 2 on books, movies, and music. Get Deal Three for two booksThe Body Keeps Score by Bessel van der Kolk M.D. — $14.18 $19 (save $4.72)
The Correspondent by Virginia Evans — $19.58 $28 (save $8.42)
The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon — $11.99 $18 (save $6.01)
The Housemaid by Freida McFadden — $10.78 $18.99 (save $8.22)
The Last Letter by Rebecca Yarros — $9.85 $15.99 (save $6.14)
The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins — $15.68 $29.99 (save $14.31)
Murdle: Volume 1 by G.T. Karber — $12.48 $16 (save $3.52)
Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir — $13.98 $22 (save $8.02)
Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt — $12.98 $19.99 (save $7.01)
Theo of Golden by Allen Levi — $14.98 $20 (save $5.02)
Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? by Bill Martin Jr. and Eric Carle — $4.82
Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown — $5.38 $10.99 (save $5.61)
Honey Bunny Funnybunny by Marilyn Sadley and Roger Bollen — $5.98 $9.99 (save $4.01)
How to Catch the Easter Bunny by Adam Wallace by Andy Elkerton — $5.81 $10.99 (save $5.18)
I Love You Like No Otter by Ross Rossney and Sydney Hanson — $5.37 $8.99 (save $3.62)
K-Pop Demon Hunters: For the Fans! by Angela Song — $5 $6.99 (save $1.99)
See You Later, Alligator by Sally Hopgood and Emma Levey — $8.91 $16.99 (save $8.08)
The Very Hungry Caterpillar's Peekaboo Easter — $9.31 $9.99 (save $0.68)
World of Eric Carle, Around the Farm — $11.99 $17.99 (save $6)
Abbey Road: Anniversary Edition by The Beatles (Vinyl) — $22.98 $29.99 (save $7.01)
Chromakopia by Tyler, The Creator — $34.97 $36.98 (save $2.01)
Ctrl by SZA (Vinyl) — $19.50 $24.98 (save $5.48)
Currents by Tame Impala (Vinyl) — $31.62
Kiss All The Time. Disco, Occasionally. by Harry Styles (CD) — $13.99 $17.98 (save $3.99)
Lemonade by Beyoncé — $23.94 $29.98 (save $5.04)
The Life of a Showgirl (Sweat & Vanilla Perfume CD with Poster) — $12.32 $13.98 (save $1.66)
Stick Season by Noah Kahan (Vinyl) — $39.98
Alien (4K) — $16.19 $26.99 (save $10.80)
The Sound of Music (4K, Blu-Ray, and Digital) — $33.19 $39.99 (save $6.80)
Star Wars: Return of the Jedi (4K) — $24.99
How to watch Spain vs. Serbia online for free
TL;DR: Live stream Spain vs. Serbia in a 2026 International Friendly for free on RTVE. Access this free streaming site from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.
There are so many huge International Friendlies taking place this week. And no, we're not talking about games in which the dominant side can experiment with their selection and still win by a few goals. We're talking about genuinely competitive games between top sides.
Spain face Serbia in one of the most interesting matchups this week. Spain look unbeatable right now, but Serbia possess the talent to give them problems. Expect the likes of Lamine Yamal and Mikel Oyarzabal to light up the Estadio de la Cerámica.
If you want to watch Spain vs. Serbia in a 2026 International Friendly for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.
When is Spain vs. Serbia?Spain vs. Serbia kicks off at 4 p.m. ET on March 27. This fixture takes place at the Estadio de la Cerámica.
How to watch Spain vs. Serbia for freeSpain vs. Serbia is available to live stream for free on RTVE.
RTVE is geo-restricted to Spain, but anyone can access this free streaming service with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in Spain, meaning you can access free live streams on RTVE from anywhere in the world.
Lve stream Spain vs. Serbia for free by following these simple steps:
Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)
Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)
Open up the app and connect to a server in Spain
Visit RTVE
Stream Spain vs. Serbia for free from anywhere in the world
The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but most do offer free-trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can watch Spain vs. Serbia without actually spending anything. This clearly isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to stream select games before recovering your investment.
If you want to retain permanent access to free streaming sites from around the world, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for streaming live sport is on sale for a limited time.
What is the best VPN for RTVE?ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport on RTVE, for a number of reasons:
Servers in 105 countries including Spain
Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more
Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure
Fast connection speeds free from throttling
Up to eight 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 a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.99 (with money-back guarantee).
Live stream Spain vs. Serbia for free with ExpressVPN.
How to watch Netherlands vs. Norway online for free
TL;DR: Live stream Netherlands vs. Norway in a 2026 International Friendly for free on NPO. Access this free streaming site from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.
The 2026 World Cup is not too far away, so top international sides from around the world are using this domestic break to build momentum and find their best starting 11.
There are a number of interesting fixtures taking place this week, including Netherlands vs. Norway. On paper, there's not much between these talented sides. If Norway are going to win, they'll need other players to step up in the absence of Erling Haaland. He's sitting this one out as he recovers from a busy schedule with Man City.
If you want to watch Netherlands vs. Norway in a 2026 International Friendly for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.
When is Netherlands vs. Norway?Netherlands vs. Norway kicks off at 3:45 p.m. ET on March 27. This fixture takes place at the Johan Cruijff ArenA.
How to watch Netherlands vs. Norway for freeNetherlands vs. Norway is available to live stream for free on NPO.
NPO is geo-restricted to the Netherlands, but anyone can access this free streaming service with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the Netherlands, meaning you can access free live streams on NPO from anywhere in the world.
Lve stream Netherlands vs. Norway for free by following these simple steps:
Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)
Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)
Open up the app and connect to a server in the Netherlands
Visit NPO
Stream Netherlands vs. Norway for free from anywhere in the world
The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but most do offer free-trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can watch Netherlands vs. Norway without actually spending anything. This clearly isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to stream select games before recovering your investment.
If you want to retain permanent access to free streaming sites from around the world, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for streaming live sport is on sale for a limited time.
What is the best VPN for NPO?ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport on NPO, for a number of reasons:
Servers in 105 countries including the Netherlands
Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more
Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure
Fast connection speeds free from throttling
Up to eight 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 a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.99 (with money-back guarantee).
Live stream Netherlands vs. Norway for free with ExpressVPN.
Is it worth buying a Nintendo Switch 2 for Pokémon Pokopia?
Pokémon Pokopia isn't the first big hit for Nintendo Switch 2, but it's arguably the first one to make a lot of people online feel left out about not owning the console.
With tons of people sharing wild builds on social media, Pokopia is pretty hard to resist for lovers of Animal Crossing, Minecraft, and any of the game's other big influences. Unfortunately, the Nintendo Switch 2 costs money, and we live in uncertain economic times. All of this raises the question: Should you buy a Switch 2 for Pokopia?
SEE ALSO: 'Pokémon Pokopia': How to get the Suck ability to move water around Why you should buy a Switch 2 for PokopiaThe arguments for getting a Switch 2 just for Pokopia are pretty straightforward: It's a great game, and the Switch 2 is a great console.
At this point, you already know if Pokopia is your cup of tea or not. I don't need to explain to you why it is or isn't. All I can say is that I'm super not into life sim games generally, but Pokopia got its hooks in me pretty good for a couple of weeks. The developers at Nintendo, Koei Tecmo, and Game Freak have delivered the best Pokémon game in years, full of whimsy and personality, and you can potentially play it forever if you want.
But the nice thing about a Switch 2 is that it can play other games, too. Games like Mario Kart World, Donkey Kong Bananza, Pokémon Legends: Z-A, and any number of visually enhanced Switch 1 games. That doesn't even get into the massive treasure trove of third-party games, big and small, that you can get on the eShop. Heck, you can even play Virtual Boy games on it, if that's your thing. The Switch 2 might not get every big, hyped up AAA blockbuster (don't count on it getting GTA6), but just about everything else that's worth playing will eventually make its way onto Nintendo's console in due time.
Heck, there are even rumors of a brand new Star Fox game and a full remake of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time coming in 2026. The Switch 2's lineup could very well be pretty stacked by the end of this year.
Why you shouldn't buy a Switch 2 for PokopiaThe argument against buying a Switch 2 for Pokopia is also easy to lay out: It costs a lot of money that you could spend elsewhere, especially in these economic conditions.
Considering that a Switch 2 on its own is $450 and Pokopia is $70 on top of that, it's hard to blame anyone who would rather hold onto their $520 for the time being, especially if the person reading this is really only interested in Pokopia and wouldn't want to play the other games I listed above.
In the end, there is more to life than video games. But video games are also pretty damn cool, so there's no wrong decision here.
Meet Claude Mythos: Leaked Anthropic post reveals the powerful upcoming model
An accidental leak has now been officially confirmed by AI company Anthropic regarding its most powerful AI model yet.
The model, now known as "Claude Mythos," was originally uncovered in a report from Fortune. Anthropic has since confirmed the details about the leak to the outlet.
The data leak included details about the upcoming release of the Claude Mythos AI model, an "exclusive CEO event," and other internal assets such as PDFs and images, according to Fortune. In total, the leak included nearly 3,000 assets that Anthropic had not previously published.
Claude Mythos leak detailsAccording to Anthropic, the leak was the result of an issue with the content management system (CMS) that the company uses. The data was uploaded to the CMS by the company. However, Anthropic failed to mark the items as private so the data was stored in a publicly accessible data lake.
SEE ALSO: Anthropic wants to hire a weapons expert. It's not what you think.Some of the data was unused assets from past announcements from Anthropic. Other leaked data was internal corporate information such as employee details or info about an invite-only CEO event.
Also found within the leaked data, however, was information about Claude Mythos in an unpublished blog post draft.
Claude Mythos and CapybaraAccording to the leaked draft about Claude Mythos, Anthropic has completed its training of the model and refers to it as “by far the most powerful AI model we’ve ever developed.”
In a statement provided to Fortune after the leak, an Anthropic spokesperson described Claude Mythos as an AI performance “step change” and said the model is “the most capable we’ve built to date.” Anthropic says that Claude Mythos is currently in the trial stage and available to select "early access customers."
SEE ALSO: Anthropic sues Pentagon as Claude downloads soarIn addition to the new AI model, the leaked post also mentions a new, unreleased AI model tier from Anthropic called Capybara.
Anthropic currently offers three different tier levels for each of its AI models: Opus, Sonnet, and Haiku. Opus is currently its most powerful and most expensive tier whereas Haiku is the smallest and least expensive. Capybara would sit even above Opus as Anthropic's largest and most intelligent AI model tier.
Capybara cybersecurity risksThe leaked post also details Anthropic's concerns about the cybersecurity risks that Claude Mythos brings to the table, too. It appears that Anthropic believes that Claude Mythos could be used by hackers to run cyberattacks.
“In preparing to release Claude Capybara, we want to act with extra caution and understand the risks it poses — even beyond what we learn in our own testing," reads the leaked Anthropic post. "In particular, we want to understand the model’s potential near-term risks in the realm of cybersecurity — and share the results to help cyber defenders prepare.”
Anthropic described its unreleased model as “currently far ahead of any other AI model in cyber capabilities” and that the model “presages an upcoming wave of models that can exploit vulnerabilities in ways that far outpace the efforts of defenders.”
The company said in the leaked draft blog that it was providing early access to organization to give them "a head start in improving the robustness of their codebases against the impending wave of AI-driven exploits.”
How to watch England vs. Uruguay online for free
TL;DR: Live stream England vs. Uruguay in a 2026 International Friendly for free on ITVX. Access this free streaming site from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.
The 2026 World Cup is fast approaching. It can't come soon enough for most football fans, so huge International Friendlies like England vs. Uruguay are a welcome taster of what's to come. It's at this time that sides will look to hone in on their best 11 and build some momentum before this summer's massive tournament.
England are favorites to win this contest at home, but Uruguay are stacked with elite talent like Barcelona's Ronald Araujo and Real Madrid's Federico Valverde. It's going be a fascinating battle at Wembley Stadium.
If you want to watch England vs. Uruguay in a 2026 International Friendly for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.
When is England vs. Uruguay?England vs. Uruguay kicks off at 3:45 p.m. ET on March 27. This fixture takes place at Wembley Stadium.
How to watch England vs. Uruguay for freeEngland vs. Uruguay is available to live stream for free on ITVX.
ITVX is geo-restricted to the UK, but anyone can access this free streaming service with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the UK, meaning you can access free live streams on ITVX from anywhere in the world.
Lve stream England vs. Uruguay for free by following these simple steps:
Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)
Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)
Open up the app and connect to a server in the UK
Visit ITVX
Stream England vs. Uruguay for free from anywhere in the world
The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but most do offer free-trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can watch England vs. Uruguay without actually spending anything. This clearly isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to stream select games before recovering your investment.
If you want to retain permanent access to free streaming sites from around the world, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for streaming live sport is on sale for a limited time.
What is the best VPN for ITVX?ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport on ITVX, for a number of reasons:
Servers in 105 countries including the UK
Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more
Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure
Fast connection speeds free from throttling
Up to eight 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 a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.99 (with money-back guarantee).
Live stream England vs. Uruguay for free with ExpressVPN.
How to watch Switzerland vs. Germany online for free
TL;DR: Live stream Switzerland vs. Germany in a 2026 International Friendly for free on RTS. Access this free streaming site from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.
There are a number of really interesting International Friendlies taking place this week, including Switzerland vs. Germany.
This is a great opportunity for these sides to test out new formations, experiment with new players, and generally build some positive momentum before this summer's World Cup. We expect a competitive contest between two experienced sides, with the likes of Joshua Kimmich and Florian Wirtz expected to feature.
If you want to watch Switzerland vs. Germany in a 2026 International Friendly for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.
When is Switzerland vs. Germany?Switzerland vs. Germany kicks off at 3:45 p.m. ET on March 27. This fixture takes place at the St. Jakob Park.
How to watch Switzerland vs. Germany for freeSwitzerland vs. Germany is available to live stream for free on RTS.
RTS is geo-restricted to Switzerland, but anyone can access this free streaming service with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in Switzerland, meaning you can access free live streams on RTS from anywhere in the world.
Lve stream Switzerland vs. Germany for free by following these simple steps:
Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)
Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)
Open up the app and connect to a server in Switzerland
Visit RTS
Stream Switzerland vs. Germany for free from anywhere in the world
The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but most do offer free-trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can watch Switzerland vs. Germany without actually spending anything. This clearly isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to stream select games before recovering your investment.
If you want to retain permanent access to free streaming sites from around the world, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for streaming live sport is on sale for a limited time.
What is the best VPN for RTS?ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport on RTS, for a number of reasons:
Servers in 105 countries including Switzerland
Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more
Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure
Fast connection speeds free from throttling
Up to eight 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 a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.99 (with money-back guarantee).
Live stream Switzerland vs. Germany for free with ExpressVPN.
Im a tech editor, and I found 45+ Amazon Big Spring Sale tech deals Id actually buy
As Mashable's tech editor, it's my job to test the latest and greatest products from brands like Apple, Samsung, and DJI. But I also get to test cool under-the-radar finds and random gadgets only true tech nerds know about. For day two of the Amazon Big Spring Sale, I hand-picked a fresh batch of tech deals that are actually worth shopping. I've also included some deals from competing retailers if they have the better price.
Amazon Big Spring Sale tech deals: Best of the best Best Kindle deal Kindle Paperwhite $134.99 (save $25) Get Deal Best Charger Deal Anker Nano 45W GaN Smart Charger $27.99 (save $12) Get Deal Best Budget Headphones Sony WH-CH520 Wireless On-Ear Headphones $48 (save $21.99) Get Deal Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones Sony WH-1000XM6 Noise-Cancelling Headphones $398 (save $61.99) Get Deal Best Drone Deal DJI Neo Mini 4K Drone $149 (save $50) Get Deal Best Fitness Tracker Deal Google Pixel Watch 4 $289.99 (save $60) Get Deal Best Creator Deal DJI Mic Mini $45 (save $14) Get Deal Best Streaming Deal Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Select $14.99 (save $25 with code FTVSELECT) Get Deal Best Apple Deal Apple AirPods Pro 3 $199 (save $50) Get Deal Best Tech Accessories Deal Apple AirTags, 1st Gen (4-Pack) $59.99 (save $39.01) Get DealBetween inflation, a global memory shortage, and overall economic anxiety (trust me — I'm feeling it, too!), you don't want to miss a chance to save some money.
I've personally tested many of these products, and I'm only recommending genuine deals, because we all know big retailers like to play fast and loose with the definition of the word "deal."
So, whether you have an old laptop that needs replacing or want to check out last-chance deals on last-gen tech, check out my guide to the best Big Spring Sale tech deals.
Kindles starting at $94.99I don't know what I'd do without my Kindle. As an avid book collector, I have literally run out of space to store books, and so I depend on my Kindle Paperwhite. And just like during Black Friday, you can grab my beloved Kindle on sale for $134.99, with the base Kindle available for under $100.
Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Kindle $94.99 at Amazon$109.99 Save $15 Get Deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Kindle Paperwhite $134.99 at Amazon
$159.99 Save $25 Get Deal More Kindle deals
Kindle Colorsoft — $169.99 $249.99 (save $80)
Kindle Colorsoft Essentials Bundle — $187.97 $312.97 (save $125)
Kindle Scribe — $249.99 $399.99 (save $150)
During the Big Spring Sale, you can shop wireless Sony headphones starting at just $48. On day one of the savings event, Sony's flagship cans, the famous XM6 headphones, are also discounted to $398, their best-ever price. I loved these headphones, and as I wrote in my review, "The ANC in the XM6 is as good as or better than any I've ever heard."
However, if you're looking for something in the mid-range, you can also grab the bass-heavy Sony ULT Wear Headphones on sale for $148, another Mashable Choice winner, at a 41% discount.
Opens in a new window Credit: Sony Sony WH-CH520 Wireless Headphones Bluetooth On-Ear $48 at Amazon$69.99 Save $21.99 Get Deal Opens in a new window Credit: Sony Sony WH-1000XM6 Noise-Cancelling Headphones $398 at Amazon
$459.99 Save $61.99 Get Deal Select MacBooks, iPads, and Apple Watches are all at record prices
Amazon always delivers solid Apple discounts during its big sales, and this time around, you can score record-low prices Apple Watches and newly released MacBook Pro laptops. Early shoppers cleaned up on the M4 MacBook Air and M4 iPad Air, which are both now out of stock — womp, womp. You can also score deals on AirTags, AirPods, and even the brand-new AirPods Max 2.
Pro tip: If you're looking for the AirPods Max headphones, they're in and out of stock at Amazon but still available at Target and Walmart — for now.
Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple MacBook Air, 13-inches (M4, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD) $899 at B&H Photo & Video$1,199 Save $300 Get Deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple AirPods Pro 3 $199 at Amazon
$249 Save $50 Get Deal More Apple deals
Apple AirTags — $59.99 $99 (save $39.01)
Apple AirPods 4 — $99 $129 (save $30)
Apple Watch SE 2 — $189 $249 (save $50)
Apple Watch SE 3 — $219 $249 (save $30)
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 42mm) — $299 $399 (save $100)
Apple iPad, 11-inch (A16, WiFi, 128GB) — $299 $349 (save $50)
Apple AirPods Max Headphones (1st Gen) — $449.99 $549 (save $99.01) — Almost sold out!
Apple Watch Ultra 2 (49mm) — $499 $799 (save $300)
Apple iPad Air, 11-inch (M3, WiFi + Cellular, 128GB) — $549.99 $749 (save $199.01)
Apple MacBook Neo (A18 Pro, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD) — $689.99 $699 (save $9.01)
Apple MacBook Air, 13-inches (M4, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) — $949 $1,199 (save $250)
Anker makes my favorite fast chargers, and I literally use the company's GaN USB-C chargers every day of my life. However, the next Anker charger I want to try is this little phone charger, which comes with a smart display and fun colors (you can match it to your iPhone, if you're into that sort of thing).
Opens in a new window Credit: Anker Anker Nano 45W GaN Smart Charger $27.99 at Amazon$39.99 Save $12.00 Get Deal DJI drones on sale starting at $149
Yes, technically, DJI drones are banned in the United States, but they're still widely available from third-party sellers at Amazon. (It's complicated.) If you're a creator, real estate professional, or wedding photographer who wants to take beautiful aerial videos in 4K — or just an aspiring pilot looking to have some fun outdoors — these drones are by far the most popular choice.
Opens in a new window Credit: DJI DJI Neo Mini 4K Drone $149 at Amazon$199 Save $50 Get Deal More deals on DJI drones
DJI Mini 4K — $209 $299 (save $90)
DJI Mini 4K Fly More Combo — $309 $449 (save $140)
DJI Mini 3 Drone — $379 $549 (save $70)
DJI Mini 3 Fly More Combo — $499 $719 (save $220)
Please note: Due to the ongoing DJI drone ban, all DJI drones are sold through third-party sellers at Amazon. Do your research into the seller and shop accordingly.
Amazon Echo device dealsAs per usual, some of the best deals of the spring Amazon sale are on Amazon's own products, particularly in the Echo lineup. I was at the fall 2025 event where Amazon unveiled its new Echo smart home products, which include refreshes to the popular Echo Dot and Echo Show devices. You can also grab Fire TV Sticks starting at just $14.99, letting you stream movies and enjoy cloud gaming at home.
Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Select $14.99 at Amazon$39.99 Save $25 Use code FTV Select Get Deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Echo Show 11 $169.99 at Amazon
$219.99 Save $50 Get Deal More Echo device deals
Amazon Echo Pop Kids — $29.99 $49.99 (save $20)
Amazon Echo Spot — $49.99 $79.99 (save $30)
Amazon Echo Show 5 — $69.99 $89.99 (save $20)
Amazon Echo Dot Max — $74.99 $99.99 (save $25)
Amazon Echo Show 8 — $139.99 $179.99 (save $40)
Amazon Echo Studio — $189.99 $219.99 (save $30)
We've been waiting for this one: Our favorite Bose headphones are finally seeing discounts on day three of the Amazon Spring sale. The Bose QuietComfort Ultra (Gen 2), the brand's current flagship, are supremely comfortable. And if you need something a little more affordable, their younger sibling is also on sale.
Opens in a new window Credit: Bose Bose QuietComfort Ultra (Gen 2) $399 at Amazon$449 Save $50 Get Deal Opens in a new window Credit: Bose Bose QuietComfort wireless headphones $249 at Amazon
$349 Save $100 Get Deal TV deals
During Prime Day, you can grab TVs starting at just $99. However, I recommend spending a little more than that. You can grab 55-inch Fire TVs at a very reasonable price, or a 65-inch QLED TV from Samsung, which was released last year and just got its first big price cut. Unfortunately, I'm still waiting for good deals on my favorite TV: The Frame art TV from Samsung.
Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon 55-inch Fire TV 4 Series $279.99$459.99 Save $180 Get Deal Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung 65-Inch Q8F 4K QLED Smart TV (2025) $597.97 at Amazon
$897.97 Save $300 Lowest-ever price Get Deal More TV deals
Roku 24-Inch Select Series Smart TV — $99.99 $119.99 (save $20)
Roku 40-inch Smart TV 2026 — $129 $229.99 (save $100.99)
Amazon 43-inch 4-Series 4K Fire TV (newest model) — $199.97 $329.99 (save $130.02)
Hisense 65-inch E6 Series QLED 4K UHD Smart Fire TV — $376.97 $549.99 (save $173.02)
Hisense 75-inch Class U6 Series Mini-LED 4K Fire TV — $597.96 $899.99 (save $302.03)
Samsung 55-inch The Frame LS30F QLED 4K TV — $797.99 $1,197.99 (save $400)
Hisense 75-inch U7 Mini LED QLED 4K TV — $897.96 $1,999.99 (save $1,102.03)
For the Big Spring Sale, Amazon is going hard with DJI deals, and you can find massive discounts on the brand's popular line of creator gadgets. I personally use the DJI Mic Mini and DJI Osmo Mobile 7P Gimbal when shooting videos for Mashable (check our Instagram story to see my latest).
But let me also call your attention to the cult-favorite DJI Osmo Pocket 3 Vlogging camera, which almost never goes on sale like this. Pro creators and YouTubers are obsessed with this camera (in my review, I wrote, "it should replace whatever vlogging camera you're using now"), so grab it before it goes out of stock again!
Opens in a new window Credit: DJI DJI Mic Mini (2 TX + 1 RX + Charging Case) $79 at Amazon$99 Save $20 Get Deal Opens in a new window Credit: DJI DJI Osmo Pocket 3 Gimbal Camera $439 at Amazon
$499 Save $60 Get Deal More DJI creator deals
DJI Mic Mini — $45 $59 (save $14)
DJI Osmo Mobile 7P Gimbal — $98.98 $129 (save $30.02)
DJI Osmo Action 4 Essential Combo — $199 $289 (save $99)
DJI Osmo 360 Camera Standard Combo — $357.47 $549.99 (save $192.50)
DJI Osmo Pocket 3 Creator Combo — $569 $629 (save $60)
Spring cleaning is a big theme during the Big Spring Sale, and one of our all-time favorite Shark vacuums is currently marked down to just $149. The Mashable-tested and approved Shark Pet Cordless Stick Vacuum is a pet hair hero, but you can also save on the brand's popular robot vacuums, now up to 60% off.
Opens in a new window Credit: Shark Shark Pet Cordless Stick Vacuum $149 at Amazon$299 Save $150 Get Deal Opens in a new window Credit: Shark Shark Plus 2-in-1 Robot Vacuum & Mop $299.99 at Amazon
$749.99 Save $450 Get Deal Save on Dyson stick vacuums
Looking for a more premium cleaning machine, preferably one with lasers? Then you need a Dyson Detect stick vac. For the Big Spring Sale, you can grab one of the latest Dyson Detect vacuums, complete with the dust-illuminating laser attachment, while it's on sale.
Opens in a new window Credit: Dyson Dyson V15 Detect Plus Cordless Vacuum $599.99 at Amazon$849.99 Save $250 Get Deal JBL Bluetooth speakers — save 27%
I'm a big fan of JBL's Bluetooth speakers. In my testing, they've beaten out more expensive Bluetooth speakers from brands like Bose and Sonos. They're also extremely portable, super easy to use, and totally waterproof, i.e. perfect for spring and summer hangouts.
Opens in a new window Credit: JBL JBL Flip 7 Bluetooth Speaker $109.95 at Amazon$149.95 Save $40.00 Get Deal Opens in a new window Credit: JBL JBL Xtreme 4 Portable Bluetooth Speaker $299.94 at Amazon
$379.95 Save $80.01 Get Deal HEPA air purifiers for allergy season
Have you heard the bad news? Climate change is making seasonal allergies worse, which I can attest to firsthand. So, if you want to add some fresh air to your apartment or home, get a HEPA air purifier that can remove 99.98% of allergens, bacteria, and other microscopic particles. This Shark model is currently 45% off for Prime members, which is probably why it's almost sold out.
Opens in a new window Credit: Shark Shark HEPA Air Purifier — Large $179.99 at Amazon$329.99 Save $150 Get Deal A cloud gaming bundle
If you want to play games like Borderlands 3, Fallout: New Vegas, and Hogwarts Legacy without buying an expensive console, try this bundle from Amazon. It includes a Fire TV streaming stick and a Luna gaming controller, letting you play games right on Fire TV.
Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Plus + Luna Controller $64.98 at Amazon$119.98 Save $55 Get Deal Fitness trackers on sale
If you're coming out of a winter funk and looking for some workout motivation, strap on a fitness tracker. You can pick up Fitbit step counters for under $70, and the Google Pixel Watch 4 (our reviewer called it "a true runner's watch") for under $300.
Opens in a new window Credit: Fitbit Fitbit Inspire 3 $69.96$99.95 Save $29.99 Get Deal Opens in a new window Credit: Google Google Pixel Watch 4 $289.99 at Amazon
$349.99 Save $60 Get Deal The Brick phone blocker
Have you heard of the viral gadget, The Brick? This humble little device blocks you from using your phone during set times so you can break your doomscrolling and screentime addiction — and it works! In her review, Mashable's Sam Mangino wrote that the Brick is "the only thing that cuts my screen time in half."
Opens in a new window Credit: Brick The Brick $47.20 at Brick$59 Save $11.80 Get Deal Our favorite portable power stations
We've been testing a lot of power stations lately. These versatile devices can help you keep the lights on in an emergency, but they're also helpful for camping, festivals, and creators. One of our favorite Mashable-tested power stations from Anker is 46% off for sping, and you can pick up a bundle from Jackery that includes solar panels, also 46% off.
Opens in a new window Credit: Anker Anker Solix C1000 Gen 2 Portable Power Station $498 at Amazon$799 Save $301 Get Deal Opens in a new window Credit: Jackery Jackery Solar Generator 1000 v2 + 200W Solar Panel $698.99 at Amazon
$1,299 Save $600.01 Get Deal An affordable foldable phone
If you're an Android user on the fence about getting a foldable phone, this deal could help you decide. The Motorola Razr Ultra was the most underrated phone of 2025, and I was impressed by its battery life, display, and design during testing. If you miss flip phones that slip easily into your pocket, then you'll appreciate this one.
During the Amazon Spring Sale, this trendy little flip phone is $500 off at Amazon. It's far more affordable than Samsung's Z Flip 7, too.
Opens in a new window Credit: Motorola Motorola Razr Ultra, Unlocked $799.99 at Amazon$1,299.99 Save $500 Get Deal SEE ALSO: Are foldable phones worth buying? As a tech editor, I say heck yes.
Hurry: The Nothing Ear (a) earbuds just hit a record-low price for Amazons Big Spring Sale
SAVE 46%: As of March 27, you can get the Nothing Ear (a) wireless earbuds for $58.99, down from $109, at Amazon. That's a 46% discount or a $50.01 price cut.
Nothing Ear (a) $58.99 at Amazon$109 Save $50.01 Get Deal at Amazon Get Deal at Nothing
If you want a pair of earbuds that stand out from the crowd without emptying your wallet, the Nothing Ear (a) should definitely be on your radar. For the Big Spring Sale, they've dropped to just $58.99, which is $50 off their usual $109 list price.
SEE ALSO: Amazon Big Spring Sale 2026: Live updates on the top dealsMashable's Tech Reporter, Alex Perry, recently rounded up the reviews for these buds, and the consensus is that they deliver way more than their price tag suggests. They offer an open-midrange sound and clarity that outperform those of standard, more expensive AirPods, and they have active noise cancellation strong enough to drown out loud household distractions. Plus, you'll get around five hours of battery life even with every single battery-draining feature turned on at once, like ANC and multipoint pairing.
As always, I checked the fine print, and there are a couple of things you should know. Perry noted that the biggest critique across the board is that the charging case lacks Qi wireless charging and relies strictly on USB-C. But skipping wireless charging is a fair trade-off for a case that's as small and pocketable as Apple's AirPods. Also, according to the Amazon listing, the voice-enabled ChatGPT feature will only work on a Nothing series phone. Still, grabbing earbuds with this level of sound quality for under $60 is a total steal.
The best Samsung deals to shop during Amazons Big Spring Sale — save on tablets, TVs, phones, watches, and gaming monitors
Amazon’s Big Spring Sale is here (March 25-31), and Samsung shoppers can enjoy an abundance of savings. A couple of standouts are live at Amazon — including not only discounted gaming deals, Amazon Echo deals, Dyson deals, and MacBook deals — but also hefty discounts on Samsung’s art-forward 2025 Frame Pro TV and a solid price cut on the new Galaxy Tab S10 FE+ tablet.
Now that we're in the thick of the sale, we rounded up all the best savings on Samsung devices including tablets, TVs, smartwatches, and more.
Best Amazon Big Spring Sale Samsung tablet deal Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 FE+ 13.1-inch 128GB WiFi Android Tablet $549.99 at Amazon$649.99 Save $100 Get Deal Why we like it
With its best-ever price on Amazon, confirmed with price tracker camelcamelcamel, Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 FE+ is available for $549.99, down from $649.99. That is a 15% discount and $100 in savings on a big-screen Android tablet that looks especially appealing for note-taking, streaming, and casual multitasking.
The Tab S10 FE+ gives you a 13.1-inch display, Exynos 1580 processor, IP68 water resistance, 90Hz refresh rate, and an included S Pen. Samsung also says it supports features like Circle to Search, Handwriting Assist, and Math Solver, which make it feel a little more versatile than a basic entertainment slate. Add in up to 21 hours of battery life, and this is the kind of early spring sale deal that makes you understand while it’s currently selling fast — so grab yours before stock runs out.
More Samsung tablet dealsSamsung Galaxy Tab A11+ 128GB WiFi — $209.99 $249.99 (save $40)
Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 FE 128GB WiFi (renewed) — $298.50 $499.99 (save $201.49)
Samsung Galaxy Tab Active 5 128GB WiFi — $409.98 $499.99 (save $90.01)
Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 FE 128GB WiFi — $499.99 $599.99 (save $100)
Samsung Galaxy Tab S11 256GB WiFi — $739.99 $859.99 (save $220)
$2,097.99 Save $500.00 Get Deal Why we like it
Samsung’s 65-inch The Frame Pro LS03FW is down to $1,597.99 at Amazon, which knocks 24% off its $2,097.99 list price and saves you $500.
That is a pretty appealing cut for a 2025 model, especially one built to double as décor. Samsung boasts that this set as a TV that transforms into a personal art gallery when it is not in use, with Art Mode, a matte display, customizable bezels, and a slim wall-friendly design. It also packs Mini LED lighting, Samsung’s NQ4 AI Gen3 processor, and support for VRR gaming up to 4K 144Hz, so it is not just about looks.
More Samsung TV dealsSamsung 55-Inch Class Crystal UHD U8000F 4K Smart TV (2025 Model) — $298 $347.99 (save $49.99)
Samsung 55-Inch Class The Frame LS03F 4K QLED Smart TV (2025 Model) — $897.99 $1197.99 (save $300)
Samsung phones
Samsung Galaxy A17 5G Smart Phone (128GB) — $179.99 $199.99 (save $20)
Samsung Galaxy S25 FE Cell Phone (2025, 256GB) — $656.97 $709.99 (save $53.02)
Samsung smartwatches
Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 (40mm) — $199.99 $249.99 (save $50)
Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic (2025) (46mm) — $369.99 $499.99 (save $130)
Samsung gaming monitors
Samsung 32-inch Odyssey QD-OLED G8 (G81SF), 4K, 240Hz, Gaming Monitor — $849 $1,299.99 (save $450.99)
Gemini will let you import ChatGPT, other chatbot conversations
Google is making it way easier for loyal OpenAI users to make the switch to Gemini.
This week, the company announced a suite of new "switching tools" that let users efficiently transfer entire chat logs and "memories" — or individual profile details like personal preferences, relationships, and historic context — directly into a new Gemini account. The goal is to skip the time needed to personalize a nascent chatbot assistant and get right into using a Gemini that knows you.
SEE ALSO: Jmail creators release Jeffrey Epstein’s calendar as JCal"Once you import these memories, Gemini will understand the same key facts you’ve shared with other apps, like your interests, your sibling’s name, or where you grew up. Instead of starting over from scratch, you can quickly get Gemini up to speed on what matters most to you," the company wrote in a March 26 blog post.
In addition, Gemini can now access and learn from the rest of your linked Google accounts, including Gmail and Photos, using Google's Personal Intelligence.
How to import your chatbot conversations to GeminiThe tools don't just involve simple data upload, although users are encouraged to upload entire chat logs via zip file, too. Instead, Gemini uses your existing chatbot's knowledge to its advantage, offering tailored prompts to gather "memory" that can then be fed back to Gemini. Here's how to use it:
Total Time- 5 min
- Google account
- Gemini app
Step 1: Go to "Settings" in the Gemini app.
Step 2: Select "New Import"
Step 3: Copy the provided prompt.
Step 4: Paste the prompt into your existing chatbot of choice.
Step 5: Copy the chatbot's summary of your preferences.
Step 6: Paste the summary in the Gemini Settings window, then select "+Add Memory"
Why users may be flocking to GeminiEarlier this month, TechCrunch reported that the standalone ChatGPT app had experienced 295 percent day-over-day increase in app uninstalls and a 13 percent decline in downloads, following news that the chatbot's parent company had brokered a deal with President Donald Trump's Department of War. The company swooped in amid an ongoing feud between Anthropic, makers of chatbot Claude, and the Pete Hegseth-led department over the use of generative AI tools for mass domestic surveillance and the potential creation of weapons.
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman quickly backtracked, saying that the company had moved too fast in an effort to "de-escalate" a tense situation. But users were still put off by the company's quick acquiescence in negotiating a contract with the administration. Meanwhile, downloads for the Claude app jumped.
I found all the wireless earbuds worth buying during Amazons Big Spring Sale. Save $50 on AirPods
If you were hoping Amazon's Big Spring Sale would bring some solid earbud deals, you're in luck. The event runs through March 31, and there are plenty of great tech discounts. These aren't the best wireless earbud deals we've ever seen, but if you need a new pair of buds, you can catch Apple AirPods, the new Sony LinkBuds Clip, and the trendy Nothing Ear (a) noise-cancellers on sale.
SEE ALSO: Amazon Big Spring Sale 2026: Live updates on the top dealsSo, while Amazon is busy pushing camping gear and cleaning supplies on its homepage, there are some genuinely great markdowns on premium audio gear hiding in the mix.
Here are the best wireless earbud deals to grab before the sale ends.
Best deal overall Sony WF-1000XM6 $298 at Amazon$329.99 Save $31.99 Get Deal at Amazon Why we like it
If you have the budget for a premium audio upgrade, the Sony WF-1000XM6 earbuds are my favorite overall pick right now. They just launched last month with a pretty hefty $329.99 price tag, so seeing them drop to $298 this early is a surprisingly fast discount.
When I tested these for my official review, I was legitimately distracted by how good the music sounded right out of the box. They're easily the most well-rounded and effective noise-cancelling earbuds released in the past year, effortlessly handling everything from shrieking guitar riffs to heavy bass without getting crunchy. Even my editor, Timothy Beck Werth, agreed the audio is "really darn good."
I do have to mention a minor hang-up, though: the touch controls aren't quite as seamless as you'd expect for the price. However, if you're looking for a comfortable fit for all-day wear and top-tier noise cancellation, these might just be the best earbuds of the year.
Check out our full review of the Sony WF-1000XM6 earbuds.
Best AirPods deal Apple AirPods Pro 3 $199 at Amazon$249 Save $50 See It at Amazon See It at Walmart Why we like it
The AirPods Pro 3 are still quite new, having only hit the market this past fall. The earbuds are undeniably the best Apple has released yet, featuring two times the noise cancellation power of the second-gen Pros, a well-rounded sound profile, eight hours of battery life per charge, a built-in heart rate monitor, and live translation features. In his review of the buds, Mashable contributor Adam Doud wrote, "Overall, the AirPods Pro 3 are a remarkable upgrade, even over the AirPods Pro 2, which were already very good."
Check out our full review of the Apple AirPods Pro 3.
More AirPods dealsApple AirPods 4 — $99.99 $129 (save $29.01)
Apple AirPods 4 (with ANC) — $149 $179 (save $30)
$39.99 Save $20.01 Get Deal at Amazon Why we like it
If you just need a reliable pair of everyday earbuds and refuse to drop a ton of cash, the Anker Soundcore P20i are my favorite budget pick. They're usually priced around $39.99, which is already a steal, but dropping to $19.98 for the Big Spring Sale makes them an immediate add-to-cart.
Even at this rock-bottom price, you still get 10mm drivers that deliver surprisingly punchy bass, plus 10 hours of battery life on a single charge (and 30 hours total with the case). They also hook up to the Soundcore app so you can mess around with 22 different EQ presets and use the "Find My Earbuds" feature if you lose one in the couch cushions.
Just keep in mind that for 20 bucks, you aren't getting active noise cancellation or multipoint pairing — but for commutes, podcasts, or just keeping a backup pair in your gym bag, they easily punch above their weight class.
Even more Amazon Big Spring Sale earbuds dealsCMF Buds 2a — $24.65 $39 (save $14.35)
JBL Vibe Beam — $29.94 $49.95 (save $20.01)
Sony WF-C510 — $44.95 $69.99 (save $25.04)
Nothing Ear (a) — $58.99 $109 (save $50.01)
OnePlus Buds 4 — $79.99 $129.99 (save $50)
Sony WF-C710N — $88 $129.99 (save $41.99)
Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE — $128.21 $149.99 (save $21.78)
Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 — $169 $229 (save $60)
Technics EAH-AZ100 — $247.99 $299.99 (save $52)
Sony WF-1000XM6 — $298 $329.99 (save $31.99)
$229.99 Save $31.99 Get Deal at Amazon Why we like it
When it comes to open earbuds, it seems more and more options are coming out by the day. While the Bose Ultra Open earbuds are one of the most popular options, Sony's latest release, the Sony LinkBuds Clip, is worth a closer look. Like the Bose buds, they have a clip design built for maximizing comfort. Also like the Bose buds, they have excellent sound quality.
Mashable contributor Simon Cohen wrote in his review of the buds, "With the possible exception of Bose’s Ultra Open Earbuds ($299), the LinkBuds Clip are the best [open earbuds] I’ve heard." On sale, they're also over $100 cheaper than the Bose buds, so second-best in sound quality hardly feels like settling here.
Check out Mashable's full review of the Sony LinkBuds Clip.
More open earbuds dealsSoundcore V20i — $26.99 $49.99 (save $23)
Soundcore C50i — $39.98 $69.99 (save $30.01)
Shokz OpenMove — $54.94 $79.95 (save $25.01)
Baseus Bowie MC1 Pro — $47.49 $89.99 (save $42.50)
EarFun Clip — $48.98 $69.99 (save $21.01)
Shokz OpenRun — $89.94 $129.95 (save $40.01)
Shokz OpenComm2 — $134.95 $159.95 (save $25)
Shokz OpenSwim Pro — $139.95 $179.95 (save $40)
Shokz OpenRun Pro — $159.95 $179.95 (save $20)
Stick vacuums deals in Amazons Spring Sale: Shark is dunking on Dyson so far
Take it from someone who tests multiple robot vacuums each month: Not even the best robot vacuum AI features are immune to screwing up. If you're inclined to just do the job yourself — or if the concept of a robot vacuum with a camera sketches you out — at least make the chore enjoyable with a good stick vacuum. You have serious options to choose from at Amazon's Big Spring Sale.
SEE ALSO: Robot vacuums vs. stick vacuums: Shopping advice from someone who has bothOur favorite cordless vacuum deals so far are all vacuums that someone at Mashable has tested at home and loved. I'll admit that any list of top stick vacuums feels weird without multiple Dyson mentions — Amazon typically isn't a reliable spot to find good deals on Dyson vacuums (even though Amazon's deals on other Dyson products can be quite good.) Most worthwhile Dyson deals simply tend to pop up Dyson.com or Walmart, like the Dyson V12 Detect Slim on sale for $479.99. Maybe it's delusional, but I'm still optimistic about the possibility of Dyson dropping a discount on the new Dyson PencilVac Fluffycones.
Below, I'm tracking the best cordless stick vacuum deals at Amazon's spring sale, including deals on cordless wet and dry vacuums. If you're interested, Mashable's live tracking all of the best Amazon spring deals across all categories through the end of the sale on March 31.
Best Amazon cordless stick vacuum deal Shark PowerDetect Pet Plus Clean & Empty IP3253 $399.99 at Amazon$599.99 Save $200 See It at Amazon Why we like it
There are actually two great Shark stick vacuum deals live at Amazon: The $249 Shark Clean & Empty model is probably the most affordable self-emptying stick vacuum you'll find this season. The other, which I'm highlighting here, is probably the most powerful self-emptying stick vacuum you'll find. $399.99 for that title is more than reasonable.
Though I'm constantly recommending the lightweight Dyson V12 Detect Slim for dust and pet hair on hard floors, the Shark PowerDetect is easily the beastliest vacuum I've tested on carpet — you can literally feel the vigorous double brushroll system digging into the floor. The Clean & Empty Sharks automatically empty the dustbin every time they're hung on the dock to charge, so you won't have to deal with emptying the larger dock dustbin for at least 45 days (it's much longer in my experience). Past the mega convenience, an always-empty dustbin provides visible proof of just how much gunk the PowerDetect has sucked up in the area you're currently sweeping.
More cordless stick vacuum deals at AmazonTineco A20 — $119.90 $159.99 (save $40.09)
Black+Decker Powerseries 20V Max — $119.99 $149.99 (save $30)
Shark Pet IX141 — $149 $299.99 (save $150.99)
Levoit LVAC-200 — $149.94 $199.99 (save $50.05)
Bissell Cleanview XR Pet — $149.97 $229.99 (save $79.03)
Dreame Z30 — $199.98 $469.99 (save $270.01)
Bissell PowerClean FurGuard — $199.99 $299.99 (save $100)
Shark Clean & Empty BU3521 — $249 $399.99 (save $150.99)
Shark Stratos IZ862H — $299.99 $499.99 (save $200)
Roborock H60 Hub with auto-empty dock — $329.99 $599.99 (save $270)
Tineco Pure One Station 5 with auto-empty dock — $299 $459 (save $160)
Miele Duoflex — $498.99 $699 (save $200.01)
Dyson V15 Detect Plus — $599.99 $849.99 (save $250)
Mova M10 — $199 $349 (save $150)
Tineco iFloor 5 Breeze — $179.99 $299.99 (save $120)
Dreame H12 Pro — $199.99 $309.99 (save $270.01)
Narwal S20 Pro — $299.99 $499.99 (save $200)
Dreame Aero Pro — $359.99 $449.99 (save $90)
Tineco Floor One S7 Stretch — $399 $649 (save $250)
Narwal S30 Pro — $399.99 $549.99 (save $150)
Roborock F25 Ace Combo (stick vacuum + cordless mop) — $459.99 $749.99 (save $290)
Roborock F25 Ultra Steam — $499.99 $799.99 (save $300)
Tineco Floor One Switch S6 — $479 $799 (save $320)
Amazon is clearing out last-gen tech in the Big Spring Sale: Apples M4 MacBook Air hits best-ever price
Got spring cleaning on your mind? So does Amazon: The retail giant is putting last-gen tech on sale at deep discounts during the Big Spring Sale (March 25 to 31), its main seasonal savings event, to clear out its remaining inventory.
Older versions of some of our favorite gadgets are currently on sale there for record-low prices (or close to them). The zippy M4 MacBook Air? Up to $150 cheaper than the iterative M5 version Apple announced this month. The superb Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds? Only $248. Previous-generation Echo devices? Grab the 2022 Echo Dot smart speaker for 20% off. Finally, the first-gen AirTags have literally never been cheaper, and this could be your last chance to grab them now that the AirTag 2 has been released.
SEE ALSO: Amazon Big Spring Sale 2026: Live updates on Apple, Samsung, DJI, Kindle dealsWe'll be updating this list of past-gen tech deals with more offers as Amazon's Big Spring Sale continues, so check back soon. In the meantime, this is your opportunity to clean up with last-chance deals on last-gen gadgets.
Amazon Echo dealsAmazon Echo Dot — $39.99 $49.99 (save $10)
Garmin vívoactive 5 — $174.28 $299.99 (save $125.71)
Google Pixel Watch 3 (WiFi, 45mm) — $179.99 $299.99 (save $120)
Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 (Bluetooth, 40mm) — $187.59 $249.99 (save $62.40)
Garmin Venu 3S — $357.99 $449.99 (save $92)
Apple Watch Ultra 2 (GPS + Cellular, 49mm) — $499 $799 (save $300)
Sony WF-1000XM5 Earbuds — $248 $329.99 (save $101.99)
Sony WH-1000XM5 Headphones — $298 $399.99 (save $101.99)
Apple AirPods Max (1st Gen, USB-C) — $449.99 $549 (save $99.01)
Amazon Kindle Scribe (16GB) — $249.99 $399.99 (save $150)
Apple iPad Air, 11-inch (M3, WiFi + Cellular, 256GB) — $649.99 $849 (save $199.01)
Apple iPad Air, 11-inch (M3, WIFi, 1TB) — $979 $1,099 (save $120)
Apple iPad Pro, 13-Inch (M4, WiFi, 256GB) — $1,099.99 $1,299 (save $199.01)
Apple MacBook Air, 13-inch (M4, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) — $949 $1,199 (save $250)
Apple MacBook Air, 15-inch (M4, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) — $1,099 $1,299 (save $200)
Apple MacBook Air, 15-inch (M4, 24GB RAM, 512GB SSD) — $1,299 $1,599 (save $300)
Apple MacBook Pro, 14-inch (M4 Pro, 24GB RAM, 512GB SSD) — $1,799 $1,999 (save $200)
Asus ROG Strix G18 (AMD Ryzen 9 8940HX, Nvidia GeForce RTX 5050, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD) — $1,394.99 $1,699.99 (save $305) + free Crimson Desert code
Apple AirTags (1st Gen, 4-pack) — $59.99 $99 (save $39.01)
Eufy X10 Pro Omni Robot Vacuum and Mop Combo — $429.99 $699.99 (save $270)
Amazon 50-inch Fire TV Omni QLED Series 4K TV — $379.99 $469.99 (save $90)
Keep checking back for more Amazon Spring Sale deals on past-gen products. We're still holding out hope that the Sony XM5 headphones will get a more notable price drop. The Mashable shopping team is working overtime to cover this shopping event, so don't miss out!
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20+ fitness tracker deals to shop in the Amazon Big Spring Sale — Garmin, Apple, and Google on sale
We're officially halfway through Amazon's Big Spring Sale (which wraps up on March 31), and the discounts are holding strong. We've seen tons of deals on Apple products, robot vacuums, and speakers, but high-end fitness trackers are quietly getting some of the best price drops of the entire event.
SEE ALSO: Amazon Big Spring Sale 2026: Live updates on the top dealsBecause we test wearables year-round, we know a good deal when we see one. Right now, the Google Pixel Watch 4 (it's also a Mashable Selects winner), is down to $289.99 (14% off). If you're an iPhone user, the Apple Watch Series 11 is sitting at $299 (25% off) — which is totally worth jumping on just for the battery life upgrade alone. And if you just want a budget-friendly, no-frills tracker, the Fitbit Inspire 3 is even more affordable right now at $69.95 (30% off)
Whether you prefer Garmin, Google, or an Apple Watch, now's the time to get one because we probably won't see discounts like this again until Prime Day.
Here are all the best fitness tracker deals you can shop at Amazon throughout the Big Spring Sale 2026.
Best budget pick Fitbit Inspire 3 $69.95 at Amazon$99.95 Save $30 Get Deal at Amazon Get Deal at Walmart Get Deal at Best Buy Why we like it
Read Mashable's full review of the Fitbit Inspire 3.
If you just want a reliable, no-frills tracker that won't cost more than your gym membership, the Fitbit Inspire 3 is our favorite budget pick. It's normally priced right around $100, but for the Big Spring Sale, it's down to a very affordable $69.95.
In our review, Mashable's Sam Stone calls it the "budget-friendly fitness tracker of our dreams." It sits easily on the wrist and automatically categorizes your activities (so it knows if you're out for a bike ride or a run) without you having to manually mess with the settings.
Because we actually test these things, we do have to mention a couple of minor quirks. Stone says that the heart rate monitor can occasionally get a little inaccurate if your wrist gets super sweaty during an intense workout. Also, the battery life is closer to six or seven days rather than the advertised 10. But considering it fully charges in under two hours, that's barely an inconvenience — and as Stone points out, it "sure beats the Apple Watch's battery life."
More Fitbit dealsFitbit Google Ace LTE Kids — $99.95 $179.95 (save $80)
Fitbit Charge 6 — $119.95 $159.95 (save $40)
Fitbit Versa 4 — $149.95 $199.95 (save $50)
Fitbit Sense 2 — $199.95 $249.95 (save $50)
$349.99 Save $60 Get Deal at Amazon Get Deal at Walmart Why we like it
Read Mashable's full review of the Google Pixel Watch 4.
If you aren't already rocking last year's model, the Google Pixel Watch 4 is an easy recommendation — especially while it's $60 off for the Big Spring Sale.
Mashable’s Senior Culture Reporter, Christianna Silva, says that while it looks similar to the previous version from afar, the new domed design "gives the smartwatch more depth and makes it feel more spacious and modern." One of the coolest upgrades is the new serviceable design. If you're handy with a tiny screwdriver, you can "open up the watch, and fix what you need to fix — including replacing the display and battery — all without breaking your warranty." It also features a custom haptics engine that’s 15 percent stronger and a much crisper speaker for when you're chatting with Gemini.
More Google dealsGoogle Pixel Watch 3 (WiFi, 45mm) — $179.99 $299.99 (save $120)
Google Pixel Watch 4 (WiFi, 41mm) — $289.99 $349.99 (save $60)
Google Pixel Watch 4 (WiFi, 45mm) — $339.99 $399.99 (save $60)
$399 Save $100 Get Deal at Amazon Why we like it
Read Mashable's full review of the Apple Watch Series 11.
If you're looking for a solid Apple Watch deal, this $100 price drop on the Series 11 makes it a pretty stellar value. It's been chilling at this price for a while now, and while the Big Spring Sale hasn't dropped it any lower, $299 for the newest Apple Watch ain't bad. In our review, Mashable's Senior Editor, Stan Schroeder, says the Series 11 has a significantly longer battery life compared to its predecessor. "When I got my unit, I charged it to 100 percent and started wearing it at about 4 p.m. I wore it during the night (my sleep score was 81, which sounds a lot better than it felt), and the next day at 4 p.m. it was still at 38 percent," he writes. "That day, I charged it to full power late in the evening, and I only had to charge it again two days later."
It also has a tougher design with Ion-X glass that's twice as resistant to scratches, and a Sleep Score and hypertension notifications for flagging high blood pressure.
More Apple Watch dealsApple Watch SE 3 (GPS, 40mm) — $219 $249 (save $30)
Apple Watch SE 3 (GPS, 44mm) — $249 $279 (save $30)
Apple Watch SE 3 (GPS + Cellular, 40mm) — $289 $299 (save $10)
Apple Watch SE 3 (GPS + Cellular, 44mm) — $299 $329 (save $30)
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) — $329 $429 (save $100)
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS + Cellular, 42mm) — $399 $499 (save $100)
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS + Cellular, 46mm) — $429 $529 (save $100)
$195.97 Save $21.69 Get Deal at Amazon Get Deal at Best Buy Get Deal at Walmart Why we like it
Read Mashable's full review of the Garmin vívoactive 5.
While it's since been replaced with the newer vívoactive 6 (which is not on sale right now), the Garmin vívoactive 5 is still a really solid pick. It's a perfect all-rounder for someone who wants a fitness tracker with plenty of smartwatch features.
In our review, Mashable's Lois Mackenzie says it "feels like it closes the gap between fitness tracker and stylish smartwatch much better than the 4," adding that it reminded her of the Venu 3. It can track everything from long runs and rides to stress, sleep, and body battery, and adds high-end recovery metrics like Training Readiness — though Mackenzie did point out it lacks an altimeter for tracking elevation on trail runs. It has a bright and responsive AMOLED display, and gets up to 11 days of battery power (Apple could literally never).
I personally gifted this watch to my boyfriend (he loves it) after snagging an epic Black Friday discount, but it's now even cheaper. At $174.28, it's over 40% off and is down to the lowest price we've ever seen.
More Garmin fitness tracker dealsGarmin Forerunner 165 — $199.99 $249.99 (save $50)
Garmin Venu 3S — $357.99 $449.99 (save $92)
Garmin Forerunner 265 — $344.95 $449.99 (save $100)
Garmin Forerunner 570 — $497.49 $549.99 (save $52.50)
Garmin Forerunner 965 — $499.99 $599.99 (save $100)
Garmin Venu 4 (45mm) — $510 $599.99 (save $89.99)
Nothing CMF Watch 3 Pro — $69 $99 (save $30)
Suunoto Run Sports Watch — $179 $199 (save $20)
Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 (Bluetooth, 40mm) — $199.99 $249.99 (save $50)
Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic (Bluetooth, 46mm) — $369.99 $499.99 (save $130)
How to watch Austria vs. Ghana online for free
TL;DR: Live stream Austria vs. Ghana in a 2026 International Friendly for free on ORF. Access this free streaming site from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.
There are an incredible number of top International Friendlies taking place this week. We're being spoilt with Brazil vs. France, Colombia vs. Croatia, and a string of other high-profile contests. Austria vs. Ghana is not the biggest game on the schedule, but we're still making time to watch this interesting matchup.
Ghana will be looking to the likes of Thomas Partey, Jordan Ayew, and Antoine Semenyo to deliver big performances in this contest. Austria will rely on experienced heads like David Alaba and Marko Arnautovic.
If you want to watch Austria vs. Ghana in a 2026 International Friendly for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.
When is Austria vs. Ghana?Austria vs. Ghana kicks off at 1 p.m. ET on March 27. This fixture takes place at the Ernst-Happel-Stadion.
How to watch Austria vs. Ghana for freeAustria vs. Ghana is available to live stream for free on ORF.
ORF is geo-restricted to Austria, but anyone can access this free streaming service with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in Austria, meaning you can access free live streams on ORF from anywhere in the world.
Lve stream Austria vs. Ghana for free by following these simple steps:
Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)
Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)
Open up the app and connect to a server in Austria
Visit ORF
Stream Austria vs. Ghana for free from anywhere in the world
The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but most do offer free-trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can watch Austria vs. Ghana without actually spending anything. This clearly isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to stream select games before recovering your investment.
If you want to retain permanent access to free streaming sites from around the world, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for streaming live sport is on sale for a limited time.
What is the best VPN for ORF?ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport on ORF, for a number of reasons:
Servers in 105 countries including Austria
Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more
Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure
Fast connection speeds free from throttling
Up to eight 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 a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.99 (with money-back guarantee).
Live stream Austria vs. Ghana for free with ExpressVPN.
PS5, PS5 Pro price hikes announced as Sony blames economic pressures
If you spent $500 on a PlayStation 5 at launch in 2020, you can take some solace in knowing that's the cheapest one of those things will ever get.
Sony announced on the PlayStation Blog that PS5 consoles are getting price increases in basically every major global market, including the U.S., effective April 2. In the blog post, Sony vaguely blamed current economic conditions for the price hikes, which any eagle-eyed reader will recognize as Sony most likely pointing the finger at both Donald Trump's tariff policies and the global AI arms race that's driving up prices for all electronics.
SEE ALSO: The Nintendo Switch 2 upgrade for 'Super Mario Bros. Wonder' has a little bit for everyoneThe new prices in USD are as follows:
Base PS5: $649.99
PS5 Digital Edition: $599.99
PS5 Pro: $899.99
This price hike, combined with another PlayStation price hike that took place last August, means these devices all cost anywhere from $150 to $200 more than they did at launch. The PlayStation Portal device also got a price jump to $249.99 as part of this announcement. Separately, Xbox consoles also increased in price last year. So far, the Nintendo Switch 2 has been unaffected by this, but that console has only been on the market for a little less than a year. It would not be a shock to see Nintendo join in on this trend at some point.
It's definitely worth noting that this is far from normal in the world of video game hardware. For my entire life, the price of consoles has gone down over time, not up. Companies usually release cheaper hardware revisions as a console's lifespan goes on, so more and more people can get in on the fun. Thanks to tariffs and AI, however, that seems to no longer be the case.
The best Kindle deals in the Amazon Big Spring Sale — Kindle Colorsoft, Paperwhite, and Scribe
I read a lot and it's not just because I love it — which I obviously do — but it's also my job. I feel like the luckiest girl in the world that every day, I get to research and test e-readers. After years of testing, I'll confidently tell you that Amazon's Kindles are the best e-readers. My beloved Paperwhite is a true companion. It comes with me to the gym so I can read on the ellipitical. It's always in my beach bag in the summer. And you know I'm already loading up my Paperwhite's library for my upcoming trip to Greece.
If I've convinced you to jump on the Kindle train, that's perfect timing, as Amazon's Big Spring Sale is underway. Running March 25 through 31, the retailer dropped prices on its e-readers. The deals are a bit of a mixed bag. Some devices, like the Kindle Colorsoft and the Kindle Colorsoft Kids, are marked down to their lowest prices ever. Meanwhile, the rest of the line-up is on sale, but I've seen better deals.
That being said, if you want a Kindle for all your warm weather reading adventures, now is the time to buy. I've rounded up and explained the best Kindle deals of the moment so you can make an informed purchase.
Best Kindle Deals Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Kindle Colorsoft $169.99 at Amazon$249.99 Save $80 Get Deal
Usually, the Kindle Colorsoft is way too expensive for my liking, but once it goes on sale, all is forgiven. During Amazon's Big Spring Sale, the Kindle Colorsoft is marked down in a big way. Right now, grab the Kindle Colorsoft for just $169.99. That saves you $80 off its $249.99 list price.
The big draw of the Kindle Colorsoft is its color displays. The e-reader has a color resolution of 150 ppi and a black and white resolution of 300 ppi. Even with the addition of color to the Kindle Colorsoft, it remains a speedy device. Plus, it comes with no ads. Temper your expectations around color with the Colorsoft: the hues tend to be more muted than what you get on a TV or tablet. The Kindle Colorsoft is waterproof, so you can take it to the pool or beach. If you're looking for a color e-reader, this is a deal to shop during Amazon's Big Spring Sale.
More Kindle dealsKindle devices
Amazon Kindle — $99.99 $109.99 (save $10)
Amazon Kindle Paperwhite — $134.99 $159.99 (save $25)
Amazon Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition — $159.99 $199.99 (save $40)
Amazon Kindle Scribe (previous generation) — $249.99 $399.99 (save $150)
Kids Kindles
Kindle Kids — $109.99 $129.99 (save $20)
Kindle Kids Paperwhite — $154.99 $179.99 (save $25)
Amazon Kindle Colorsoft Kids — $189.99 $269.99 (save $80)
Kindle Bundles
Amazon Essentials Bundle — $132.97 $161.97 (save $29)
Amazon Kindle Paperwhite Bundle — $166.97 $216.97 (save $50)
Amazon Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition Bundle — $206.97 $281.97 (save $75)
Castfishing is the latest scam, and its scarily like sextortion
When my partner, actor and writer Tom Ward-Thomas, applied for the Amazon series The Power, he was asked to send in an audition tape, commonly referred to as a "self-tape." The role called for a character to strip and perform a humiliating dance. The nudity was implied, not shown — yet the "production" wanted him to strip down for the audition.
"I did the tape, head and shoulders only, and removed my top. They loved the tape but now wanted a full-body shot and told me, 'Feel free to go all the way.' I said I was happy to go down to underwear, not naked," Ward-Thomas recalls. "I never heard from them again."
SEE ALSO: How to avoid getting scammed online in 2026More recently, in Dec. 2025, Ward-Thomas was contacted directly, not via his agent, with another opportunity, in exchange for an "audition" requiring a 30-second clip involving full frontal nudity, which he spotted as a scam.
"I wasn't sure from the beginning whether it was above water, but when he was insisting on a naked self-tape, I realised it was not above board."
The rise of this practice, which we're coining "castfishing," has become a plague on the industry. Mashable spoke to actors and other experts about these scammers and who they're exploiting.
What is the 'castfishing' scam?Castfishing is the offer of a big break in exchange for a nude video.
An anonymous former actor who left the industry told Mashable they've experienced more than one scam casting call with characters in sexual situations. In one experience they described, the character had a bloodthirsty and insatiable lust and spent most of the film luring others into having sex.
"The 'self-tape' was expecting my own interpretation…and was without lines. Nudity was fine to be included! The production notes at the bottom of the treatment said 'no acting experience necessary,'" they say.
While catfishing — pretending to be someone else online — isn't new, what's different here is the entry point, says Anna Rowe, founder of romance fraud education site Catch the Catfish and fraud centre and think tank LoveSaid.
"Instead of romance or flirtation, offenders are exploiting ambition, authority, and the power imbalance in the creative industries. They're grooming victims under the guise of professionalism, using industry language, fake opportunities and implied expectations to normalise increasingly inappropriate requests," says Rowe.
By the time nudity is introduced, Rowe went on, the victim doesn't feel like they're being exploited, but evaluated.
"That's what makes this so dangerous," she says. "It removes the internal alarm system people usually have with sextortion, because it doesn't feel like a sexual interaction. It feels like a career opportunity, which can be rare."
Exploitative practices encouraging nudity predate the rise of the self-tape, with one Redditor sharing their own experience of a sham in-person audition requiring full nudity on tape.
The arts have long been plagued by abuses of power, with scandals continuing to make headlines. The multiple allegations of abuse from Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein, which catapulted the #MeToo movement in 2017, are just a handful of examples.
But now that self-tapes are more common, so is castfishing.
Self-tapes are the new norm in HollywoodThere was a shift towards self-tapes that happened just before COVID, and it became a massive trend afterwards, actor and agent Lydia Piechowiak told Mashable.
"Technology has expanded opportunity, but it's also expanded opportunity for bad actors," says actor Jona Xiao, who at 12 years old first experienced a scam audition, looking for monetary gain.
The rise of self-taping democratized access, she says. Actors don't have to live in LA or New York to audition anymore, and that's powerful. But, "it's also created new vulnerabilities. It's easier than ever for someone to create a fake breakdown [summary of the project and roles], request tapes, or present themselves as legitimate without in-person accountability."
Equity, the leading British performing arts trade union, recognised a spike in complaints when surveying about self-tapes in 2020. Actors found their time exploited, auditioning and never knowing if it was watched, needing to develop their own filming skills, and often needing a scene partner. Despite this, the self-tape boom has continued, both for good and bad.
An industry standard to prevent the exploitation of actors' time and otherwise has been established, thanks to multiple organisations representing or working with actors, but the standard must be upheld.
In 2023, a group of UK actors came together to publish their own self-tape best-practice document, hoping to regulate a practice they called "the main route to work." Speaking to Variety, the group stated, "If we're going to have self-tapes, they need to be done in a way that's transparent, regulated and fair."
It's easier than ever for someone to create a fake breakdown, request tapes, or present themselves as legitimate without in-person accountability. - Actor Jona Xiao"Often they'll [casting directors] say, if it's a scene requiring you to be topless, 'please don't film this topless' or will say, 'please don't submit actors [who] are not comfortable with this,'" says Piechowiak from her experience as an agent.
However, unrepresented actors may not have this level of protection, or actors may be contacted directly.
Real-life audition scandalsJoey Gugliemelli, better known as Sherry Pie, a would-be contestant on the twelfth season of RuPaul's Drag Race, made headlines in 2020 after five young actors came forward with accusations that Gugliemelli had exploited them while posing as a casting director via e-mail.
Gugliemelli reportedly encouraged actors to remove clothing on camera, even going as far as to encourage one man to masturbate on camera, according to BuzzFeed News. The scheme was apparently in-depth and pitted actors against each other, encouraging them to strip while insinuating that other auditioners were doing the same thing.
VH1 swiftly disqualified Sherry Pie from Drag Race after the accusations came to light, and she was mostly edited out of the season. Despite admitting to inappropriate behavior, she's still performing drag as of this year.
Another public example of castfishing is former Doctor Who actor Noel Clarke, who was accused of recording nude auditions and showing them to others in 2021, as reported by The Guardian. Clarke later lost a libel case against The Guardian, with the Court finding allegations of sexual misconduct "substantially true."
"We have, anecdotally, received several of these types of cases over the last few years," says a representative for the Revenge Porn Helpline, which supports UK adults who have been affected by intimate image abuse.
The representative told Mashable these have mainly been fake modeling opportunities, which entailed contacting women and asking for fully-clothed and nude images to "create a portfolio." Once the extorters receive this content, they blackmail the women to not share it or request more intimate content. In some circumstances, the representative says, the extorter will block the woman, leaving her concerned about what might happen. "The purpose of this is unknown," the representative says.
"Abusers are excellent at manipulating not just their victims, but also people and institutions that should be enforcing the safety rules. Once a predator finds an environment where he or she can get away with minor infractions, the misconduct usually escalates," says Mick Grewal, a lawyer with expertise in cases of sexual abuse. He represented over 100 survivors of Larry Nassar in a $500 million settlement case against Michigan State University.
How to spot castfishing or other scams"Your instincts are usually right. Trust yourself," recommends Grewal.
"If you believe a crime has been committed, you can contact law enforcement. A lawyer can help you navigate the justice system and discuss civil remedies like restraining orders and injunctions, invasion of privacy claims, and seeking accountability through compensation for economic and non-economic damages," Grewal continues.
Equity's self-tape guidelines (and SAG-AFTRA's in the U.S.) prohibit nudity in self-tapes, Equity's TV official Natalie Barker told Mashable. But legitimate casting processes may continue to ask for nudity. In 2022, intimacy director and actor Katrina Stelk wrote that the guidelines are a good step, but that casting directors may not be aware of them.
Multiple UK-based sources Mashable spoke to confirmed that another Equity guideline, a three-day window for self-tape return, is often not followed, even via an agent. This again represents an abuse of power by influential decision makers in the industry.
Outside of this, it can be down to the directors to ensure actors are protected.
"Because the context is so different in a self-tape, you have to provide constructive guidance to facilitate an actor [to do] the work," says Ellie Heydon, actor and director of BBC's Outrageous.
"If we're sending off a scene, even with a kiss in, I'll usually write an accompanying note that says don't worry about the physical intimacy, or rub that bit out, and then you're not leaving it up to the actor to then interpret it," Heydon says.
Without enforcement and proper regulation, there is still a long way to go. "The industry hasn't eliminated exploitation. It's just evolved," says Xiao on bad actors focusing on self-tape auditions.
"We would always advise members to consult our casting vetting guidelines and do due diligence — make sure it's a reputable production company/casting director; ensure nudity is required for the role; that if they do decide to send a video or images containing nudity, they do so via a secure data transfer service and that there is an explicit safeguarding policy around how the data will be kept confidential and deleted," says Barker.
However, until we see more regulation, especially in the age of AI, it'll take time to ensure protection against fake casting calls — and maybe even longer before it's enforced.


