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TL;DR: The DJI Mini 4K drone is available to purchase for $299 on Amazon.

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DJI is one of the biggest names in drones, with a strong reputation for creating incredible aerial shots. The DJI product range is the top choice of TikTokers, YouTubers, and filmmakers. That being said, we were surprised to see the DJI Mini 4K drone as one of the best-sellers in recent months. We knew these drones were popular, but surely not as popular as AirPods?

Then the real reason hit us like a drone to the head.

President Donald Trump has signed two executive orders aimed at helping the U.S. drone industry and shoring up protections against malicious drone activity. The measures don't actually order a full ban on Chinese-made drones (yet), but talk of a ban on DJI drones has been doing the rounds for a while now. That uncertainty is clearly causing an uptick in sales.

SEE ALSO: The DJI Power 2000 portable power station means business, and it’s great for DJI drone owners

The good news for anyone hoping to get ahead of a potential ban is that you can still find the DJI Mini 4K drone on Amazon, listed for $299 right now. This popular drone is being sold by Fly Image Tech at the time of writing. We generally don't recommend third-party sellers, but they have decent reviews and times are tough right now. We'll take what we can get at this point.

The DJI Mini 4K is full of helpful features for beginners and advanced users alike. It has a one-tap takeoff function and a helpful return to home feature. But perhaps most importantly for content creators is the three-axis gimbal and 4K quality, as well as advanced wind resistance and extended battery life. It's a step up from the DJI Neo Mini 4K that we think creators will appreciate.

Get the DJI Mini 4K drone for under $300 at Amazon.

Connections is the one of the most popular New York Times word games that's captured the public's attention. The game is all about finding the "common threads between words." And just like Wordle, Connections resets after midnight and each new set of words gets trickier and trickier—so we've served up some hints and tips to get you over the hurdle.

If you just want to be told today's puzzle, you can jump to the end of this article for today's Connections solution. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable What is Connections?

The NYT's latest daily word game has become a social media hit. The Times credits associate puzzle editor Wyna Liu with helping to create the new word game and bringing it to the publications' Games section. Connections can be played on both web browsers and mobile devices and require players to group four words that share something in common.

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Each puzzle features 16 words and each grouping of words is split into four categories. These sets could comprise of anything from book titles, software, country names, etc. Even though multiple words will seem like they fit together, there's only one correct answer.

If a player gets all four words in a set correct, those words are removed from the board. Guess wrong and it counts as a mistake—players get up to four mistakes until the game ends.

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Players can also rearrange and shuffle the board to make spotting connections easier. Additionally, each group is color-coded with yellow being the easiest, followed by green, blue, and purple. Like Wordle, you can share the results with your friends on social media.

SEE ALSO: NYT's The Mini crossword answers for August 4 Here's a hint for today's Connections categories

Want a hint about the categories without being told the categories? Then give these a try:

• Yellow: They share the same number

• Green: They all have separate pathways

• Blue: Found in The Big Apple

• Purple: They have openings

Featured Video For You Connections: How to play and how to win Here are today's Connections categories

Need a little extra help? Today's connections fall into the following categories:

• Yellow: Groups of ten

• Green: Places with lanes

• Blue: Landmarks in Downtown NYC

• Purple: Things with holes

Looking for Wordle today? Here's the answer to today's Wordle.

Ready for the answers? This is your last chance to turn back and solve today's puzzle before we reveal the solutions.

Drumroll, please!

The solution to today's Connections #794 is...

What is the answer to Connections today

• Groups of ten: BOWLING PINS, COMMANDMENTS, DECADE, FINGERS

• Places with lanes: BOWLING ALLEY, HIGHWAY, SUPERMARKET, SWIMMING POOL

• Landmarks in Downtown NYC: BOWLING GREEN, BROOKLYN BRIDGE, CITY HALL, WALL STREET

• Things with holes: BOWLING BALL, COLANDER, GOLF COURSE, SPONGE

Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be new Connections for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for August 4

Are you also playing NYT Strands?

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

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

If you're reading this, you're looking for a little help playing Strands, the New York Times' elevated word-search game.

Strands requires the player to perform a twist on the classic word search. Words can be made from linked letters — up, down, left, right, or diagonal, but words can also change direction, resulting in quirky shapes and patterns. Every single letter in the grid will be part of an answer. There's always a theme linking every solution, along with the "spangram," a special, word or phrase that sums up that day's theme, and spans the entire grid horizontally or vertically.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable

By providing an opaque hint and not providing the word list, Strands creates a brain-teasing game that takes a little longer to play than its other games, like Wordle and Connections.

If you're feeling stuck or just don't have 10 or more minutes to figure out today's puzzle, we've got all the NYT Strands hints for today's puzzle you need to progress at your preferrined pace.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for August 4 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for August 4 NYT Strands hint for today’s theme: Spitting image

The words are twin-related.

Today’s NYT Strands theme plainly explained

These words are ways to describe clones.

NYT Strands spangram hint: Is it vertical or horizontal?

Today's NYT Strands spangram is horizontal.

NYT Strands spangram answer today

Today's spangram is Copy That.

Featured Video For You Strands 101: How to win NYT’s latest word game NYT Strands word list for August 12

• Lookalike

• Duplicate

• Copy That

• Replica

• Facsimile

• Double

Looking for other daily online games? Mashable's Games page has more hints, and if you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now!

Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to today's Strands.

Oh hey there! If you're here, it must be time for Wordle. As always, we're serving up our daily hints and tips to help you figure out today's answer.

If you just want to be told today's word, you can jump to the bottom of this article for today's Wordle solution revealed. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable SEE ALSO: NYT Connections today: Hints and answers for August 4 Where did Wordle come from?

Originally created by engineer Josh Wardle as a gift for his partner, Wordle rapidly spread to become an international phenomenon, with thousands of people around the globe playing every day. Alternate Wordle versions created by fans also sprang up, including battle royale Squabble, music identification game Heardle, and variations like Dordle and Quordle that make you guess multiple words at once. 

Wordle eventually became so popular that it was purchased by the New York Times, and TikTok creators even livestream themselves playing.

What's the best Wordle starting word?

The best Wordle starting word is the one that speaks to you. But if you prefer to be strategic in your approach, we have a few ideas to help you pick a word that might help you find the solution faster. One tip is to select a word that includes at least two different vowels, plus some common consonants like S, T, R, or N.

What happened to the Wordle archive?

The entire archive of past Wordle puzzles was originally available for anyone to enjoy whenever they felt like it, but it was later taken down, with the website's creator stating it was done at the request of the New York Times. However, the New York Times then rolled out its own Wordle Archive, available only to NYT Games subscribers.

Is Wordle getting harder?

It might feel like Wordle is getting harder, but it actually isn't any more difficult than when it first began. You can turn on Wordle's Hard Mode if you're after more of a challenge, though.

SEE ALSO: NYT's The Mini crossword answers for August 4, 2025 Here's a subtle hint for today's Wordle answer:

A migrant.

Does today's Wordle answer have a double letter?

There are no recurring letters.

Today's Wordle is a 5-letter word that starts with...

Today's Wordle starts with the letter N.

SEE ALSO: Wordle-obsessed? These are the best word games to play IRL. The Wordle answer today is...

Get your last guesses in now, because it's your final chance to solve today's Wordle before we reveal the solution.

Drumroll please!

The solution to today's Wordle is...

NOMAD.

Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be a new Wordle for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.

Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for August 4

Reporting by Chance Townsend, Caitlin Welsh, Sam Haysom, Amanda Yeo, Shannon Connellan, Cecily Mauran, Mike Pearl, and Adam Rosenberg contributed to this article.

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

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to today's Wordle.

After giving a nonsensical press conference about crime levels in Washington D.C., Donald Trump has deployed the National Guard in the U.S. Capitol and placed it under federal control.

During her first episode guest hosting Jimmy Kimmel Live!, comedian and actor Nicole Byer responded directly to Trump's widely criticised actions by highlighting an important episode of recent history.

"I mean the man's got a point, D.C. can be a very, very dangerous place," Byer says in the clip above. "I remember on January 6, 2021, when someone told an angry mob to get their steps in by storming the Capitol, and that someone was the president."

Taylor Swift announced her upcoming 12th studio album on Tuesday and the vigilante sh*t has already begun among sleuthing fans.

The pop icon appeared in a clip from her partner Travis Kelce's New Heights podcast, revealing her latest era, The Life of a Showgirl, by pulling a blurred-out vinyl from a personalised suitcase. The post was scheduled for 12:12 a.m. on Aug. 12 for Swift's 12th album, to follow The Tortured Poets Department released in April 2024.

"So, I wanted to show you something," she says in the clip to Kelce and his co-host brother Jason Kelce. "This is my brand new album, The Life of a Showgirl."

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On Monday, Swift had posted an album tease on Instagram with a carousel of images from the artist's history-making Eras Tour with the caption, "Thinking about when she said 'See you next era…' ❤️‍🔥" In each image, Swift is wearing an orange-hued costume, now the brand palette for The Life of a Showgirl.

Essentially, you're about to see a lot of orange in your feed. The Empire State Building, Swift's social media pages, and Swift's website have pivoted to the album's branding of sparkling orange and greenish cyan, and fans can now preorder the vinyl, cassette, or CD versions.

Preorders ship before Oct. 13, but the website states this is not the release date for The Life of a Showgirl, which is yet to be announced.

Taylor Swift's website is all cyan and orange. Credit: Taylor Swift Taylor Swift's X page... Credit: X / Taylor Swift ...and Instagram... Credit: Instagram / Taylor Swift And TikTok. Credit: TikTok / Taylor Swift

Spotted by Billboard, Swift also launched a Spotify playlist named And, baby, that’s show business for you to accompany Tuesday's announcement. There's 22 songs on the playlist from Swift's previous albums like Red, 1989, and reputation, and the publisher notes they're all tracks produced by Max Martin and Shellback, possibly hinting at their involvement in The Life of a Showgirl.

As is the custom for Swifties with a new album release, the fans are in full sleuth mode. Some are drawing lines between what Swift said during the Eras Tour to invite Sabrina Carpenter onstage, and what Carpenter has posted on Instagram, to suggest she may feature on the album.

Taylor Swift and Sabrina Carpenter performed during night two of The Eras Tour on Oct. 26, 2024 in New Orleans. Credit: TAS2024 / Getty Images for TAS

It's time to red yarn wall it, people. No one Poirots like a Taylor Swift fan. A good starting point will likely be the full New Heights episode, which lands on Wednesday at 7pm ET.

UPDATE: Aug. 12, 2025, 12:48 p.m. UTC Added Billboard's keen-eyed spot of Taylor Swift's new Spotify playlist.

SAVE $150: As of Aug. 12, the 13-inch Apple iPad Air (M3, 256GB, WiFi) is on sale for $749 at Amazon. That's down from $899, saving you 17% on list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple 13‑inch Apple iPad Air (M3, 128 GB, WiFi) $749 at Amazon
$899 Save $150 Get Deal

If you’ve been torn between an iPad and a MacBook, the 13-inch M3-powered iPad Air might just settle the debate.

Amazon has the 256GB model for $749 — knocking $150 off the $899 list price. That’s the lowest we’ve seen since launch, and a compelling entry point for anyone who wants a large-screen iPad without going full Pro.

SEE ALSO: Apple’s 13-inch iPad Pro M4 is $200 off at Amazon, and it’s basically future-proof

This isn’t just a bigger iPad, it’s a productivity powerhouse from streaming to almost any digital creative endeavor. The M3 chip delivers fast, smooth performance from juggling apps, editing photos, or streaming in 4K to 3D design and modelling. The 13-inch Liquid Retina display offers plenty of real estate for multitasking, with P3 wide color, True Tone, and ultra-low reflectivity making everything from spreadsheets to Netflix pop.

• Price: $749 $899 (save $150)

• Retailer: Amazon

• Display: 13-inch Liquid Retina, 2732 × 2048 resolution

• Processor: Apple M3 chip (8-core CPU, 10-core GPU)

• Storage: 256GB

• Connectivity: WiFi 6E

• Battery Life: All-day

• Cameras: 12MP Wide (rear), 12MP Ultra Wide with Center Stage (front)

• Special Features: Apple Intelligence, Touch ID, Apple Pencil Pro + USB-C Pencil support, Magic Keyboard compatibility

Apple Intelligence is built in, meaning you’ll get AI-assisted writing, smart search, and advanced image editing right on your tablet. Pair it with the Magic Keyboard (this official model is 10% off at $287.09) and Apple Pencil Pro (which is also $30 off), and you’ve got a device that can handle both work deadlines and creative side projects.

With all-day battery life, WiFi 6E speeds, and a slim design, the 13-inch iPad Air fits right into your bag and your workflow. This $150 discount makes the jump to a bigger, better iPad easier to justify.

SAVE $150: As of Aug. 12, the 11‑inch Apple iPad Air (M3, 128 GB, WiFi) is on sale for $449 at Amazon. That's down from $599, saving you 25% on list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple 11‑inch Apple iPad Air (M3, 128 GB, WiFi) $449 at Amazon
$599 Save $150 Get Deal

If the iPad Pro is overkill for your needs (and your wallet), the new M3-powered iPad Air might be your perfect match.

Amazon has the 11-inch Apple iPad Air (M3, 128GB) for $449, slashing $150 off the usual $599 price. Not only is that a hefty 25% discount, but it’s also the lowest price we’ve seen on this model since launch.

SEE ALSO: Apple’s 13-inch iPad Pro M4 is $200 off at Amazon, and it’s basically future-proof

Powered by Apple’s solid M3 chip, the Air breezes through multitasking, creative workflows, and even graphics-heavy gaming. The 11-inch Liquid Retina display brings your content to life with rich colors, True Tone adjustments, and ultra-low reflectivity makes editing photos, watching movies, or scrolling through your TikTok feed easy.

• Price: $449 $599 (save $150)

• Retailer: Amazon

• Display: 11‑inch Liquid Retina, 2360 × 1640 resolution

• Processor: Apple M3 chip (8‑core CPU, 9‑core GPU)

• Storage: 128 GB

• Connectivity: WiFi 6E

• Battery Life: All-day

• Cameras: 12 MP front (Center Stage) and rear

• Special Features: Apple Intelligence, Touch ID, Apple Pencil Pro + USB-C Pencil support, Magic Keyboard compatible

It’s also ready for Apple Intelligence, so you can take advantage of AI-assisted writing, photo editing, and productivity tools right on your tablet. Pair it with the Apple Pencil Pro (which also has $30 crossed out on Amazon) or Magic Keyboard (here's a third party one for $69.99 with a one-site coupon) for a true laptop alternative that still slips easily into a backpack.

With all-day battery life, WiFi 6E speeds, and a sleek, lightweight build, the M3 iPad Air is built for both work and play if you want it. This is a rare $150 discount on one of the best tablet brand on the market, with bonus points and functionality if you're already in the Apple ecosystem.

SAVE $200: As of Aug. 12, the 13-inch Apple iPad Pro (M4, 256GB, WiFi) is on sale for $1,099 at Amazon. That's down from $1,299, saving you $200 on list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple 13-inch Apple iPad Pro (M4, 256GB, WiFi) $1,099 at Amazon
$1,299 Save $200 Get Deal

A top-tier iPad deal doesn’t come around too often, especially on the latest model.

Amazon has dropped the price of the new 13-inch Apple iPad Pro (M4) with 256GB of storage to $1,099, shaving $200 off its $1,299 list price. That’s a rare discount for a device this new, and given Apple’s track record, you probably won’t see much better until the holidays.

SEE ALSO: iPhones, Macs, and iPads will get GPT-5 via Apple Intelligence. Here’s when it happens.

Powered by Apple’s blazing-fast M4 chip, this iPad Pro is built to handle everything from 4K video editing to running next-gen AI features via Apple Intelligence. The Ultra Retina XDR display is nothing short of gorgeous, with true-to-life colors, extreme contrast, and buttery-smooth ProMotion refresh rates that make everything feel instantly responsive. 13-inch might sound huge, but for creatives and a cheeky streaming binge in bed, it's a fantastic bit of real estate (slaps iPad Pro box).

• Price: $1,099 $1,299 (save $200)

• Retailer: Amazon

• Display: 13-inch Ultra Retina XDR, 2752 x 2064 resolution

• Processor: Apple M4 chip (up to 10-core CPU, 10-core GPU)

• Storage: 256GB

• Connectivity: WiFi 6E

• Battery Life: All-day

• Cameras: 12MP Wide (rear), 12MP Ultra Wide (front)

• Special Features: Apple Pencil Pro compatibility, LiDAR scanner, Face ID, ProMotion, P3 wide color

You can look forward to sketching with Apple Pencil Pro (which is also has $30 crossed out on Amazon), multitasking in Stage Manager, or gaming with console-level visuals. M4 iPad Pro is designed to keep up without breaking a sweat, I even used to sculpt 3D models for 3D printing a year back, and that was an older generation iPad Pro. Its all-day battery life and ultra-thin build mean you can carry it anywhere without compromise too.

And it’s not just a productivity machine; the 12MP cameras, LiDAR scanner, and four-speaker audio system make it a creative powerhouse, whether you’re shooting 4K ProRes video or diving into AR experiences. Apple make some of the best tablets on the market today and have been doing so for over 15 years now, so grabbing a discount on their current flagship iPad is always a wise choice.

Another day, another Donald Trump press conference that made little to no sense.

During Monday night's episode of Late Night, Seth Meyers broke down the president’s recent conference on crime in Washington D.C., during which Trump reeled off some stats that were proven wrong in real-time by CNN.

"We've had presidents who've lied before, but we've never had a president who was this easy to fact check," says Meyers. "But who are you going to believe? The stat nerds at CNN, or the guy who says we can lower drug prices by 1500 percent?"

Trump then proceeded to hold up a random chart that he introduced by saying, "These are different cities throughout the world...red is...OK?"

"Is this his new catchphrase now? He's just going to hold up a chart and say 'OK'?" asks Meyers. "He's like a lazy magician who doesn't make you take a card, he just holds one up and acts like that's what it was gonna be. 'You kids like magic? Watch this. Jack of Diamonds...OK?'"

SAVE $50: As of Aug. 12, the Apple iPad 11-inch is on sale for $299 at Amazon — save $50 for a limited time.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPad 11-Inch $299 at Amazon
$349 Save $50 Get Deal

Good news if you're looking to pick up an iPad at a heavily reduced rate — Amazon has been dropping the price of a wide range of models over the last few weeks, and it's showing no signs of slowing down.

As of Aug. 8, the Apple iPad with A16 chip is on sale for $299. That knocks $50 off the list price, and is only $20 off the record-low price for this model.

SEE ALSO: Apple AirPods Pro 2 are still $80 off at Amazon — get them before the price jumps back up

The latest Apple iPad 11-inch debuted in March 2025, upgrading to the A16 chip. It's the most affordable tablet in Apple's line-up, even with the storage upgrade. It's a solid all-rounder for work and play. You can even stream on the vivid 11-inch retina display and take notes with the help of an Apple Pencil or Magic Keyboard Folio.

Score the Apple iPad 11-inch for $299 at Amazon right now.

Both Beats' and Sony's portable speakers have impressive features. Credit: Alex Bracetti / Mashable SpecsBeats Pill

• Retail Price: $149

• Dimensions: ‎2.8 x 8.6 x 2.8 inches

• Weight: 2.1 pounds

• Battery Life: 24 hours per charge; 10-minute quick charge = 2 hours of playback

• Audio Components: 1 woofer, 1 tweeter

• Frequency Response: Not available

• IP Rating: IP67 dust and water resistant

• Special Features: Automatic switching, Amplify and Stereo modes, Find My Device support (iOS/Android), lossless audio via wired connection, multipoint technology, portable charging, Tone Volume, speakerphone, voice assistance (Siri/Google Assistant)

• Available Colors: Blush pink, champagne gold, dark gray, light gray, navy blue, matte black, statement red

Sony ULT Field 3

• Retail Price: $199

• Dimensions: 3.11 x 10.08 x 5.24 inches

• Weight: 2.69 pounds

• Battery Life: 24 hours per charge; 10-minute quick charge = 2 hours of playback

• Audio Components: 1 woofer, 2 passive radiators, 1 tweeter

• Frequency Response: 20 Hz - 20,000 Hz

• IP Rating: IP67 dust and water resistant

• Special Features: 7-band EQ, Google Fast Pair, multipoint technology, Party Connect mode for pairing up to 100 speakers, portable charging, Sound Field Optimization, Stereo Mode for 2-speaker pairing, speakerphone, ULT mode for more bass

• Available Colors: Black, forest gray, and off white

Equally engaging sound performance that caters to different crowds

Beats’ portable speaker leans more toward audiophile territory, whereas Sony’s speaker targets casual listeners with an affinity for punchy sound.

Bass is the driving force behind every Sony audio product, and it doesn’t disappoint on the ULT Field 3. This speaker pumps out crisp, robust lows right out of the box. Sony’s ULT Mode increases bass levels for more emphatic delivery. The feature can be overly aggressive on certain recordings, so if you value mids and highs, then keep it turned off. Playing around with the custom seven-band EQ will balance out sound. You just need to be proficient in frequency adjustment to utilize the tool properly. This is where Sony’s well-engineered presets could have come in handy (they work wonders on the company’s wireless headphones). As an alternative, you’re given Sound Field Optimization technology that automatically tweaks sound based on the noises around the speaker. I found it useful in rowdy environments. The midrange was clearer, and percussion had more oomph. 

SEE ALSO: What is DSEE? My favorite feature to enhance the sound on my Sony headphones

There was a time when Beats was primarily defined by its excessive bass response. Well, eight years of improved engineering accomplish a lot. The second-gen Pill is a massive audio upgrade over its predecessor. It employs a brand-new tweeter design and remade woofer system that dishes out a fine mix of impactful bass, refined treble, and stabilized mids. Highs are given some attention for full frequency response. Two listening modes are selectable — Amplify and Stereo — each requiring two Pill speakers for use. Amplify doubles audio output by having the speakers play the same sound, and Stereo splits audio into separate left and right channels, which is more immersive. Lossless audio debuts on the Pill and sounds exceptional. It only works in USB-C mode, meaning the speaker must be tethered to a computer or mobile device to hear more clarity and depth when indulging in hi-res music streaming services (e.g., Apple Music, Tidal). 

The Pill and ULT Field 3 have a speakerphone for hands-free voice calling. Each model comes in handy when you need to jump on last-minute conference calls from your hotel room. Beats’ and Sony’s mic arrays demonstrate quality vocal capture, but they pick up a substantial amount of ambient noise that causes muffle. We really like the Pill’s Tone Volume setting that adjusts volume and sound effects for clearer output.

Winner: Tie

Stylish and outdoor-ready handheld speakers

Beats’ exquisite design pedigree is on full display. The Pill maintains signature details like the rounded speaker grille and trademark capsule frame. Controls are placed at the top, and the B logo is now relegated to the front. A trio of bold colorways — black, gold, and red — are sold across all major online retailers. Beats recently launched its blush pink and navy blue versions that are exclusive to Target and Walmart, respectively. Collectors may want to seek out the limited-edition Kim Kardashian collaborations in dark gray and light gray. There is a built-in lanyard loop on the side for convenient portability. However, you’ll feel safer carrying the speaker in hand because dropping it will dent the metal grille. That’s what happened with my model. It’s worth noting that despite the speaker being small, it feels heavier than it looks.

The Beats Pill comes in an array of attractive colors. Credit: Alex Bracetti / Mashable The Sony ULT Field 3's design and included shoulder strap make it ultra-portable. Credit: Alex Bracetti / Mashable

The ULT Field 3 is one of Sony’s more attractive portable speakers. It is notably larger in size, but it feels similar in weight to the Pill. The bundled shoulder strap makes it less cumbersome to lug around. Exposing the Sony logo to light reveals a cool, bright purple shimmer. All three colorways (black, forest gray, white) look nice. The hard woven fabric wrapped around the drivers is durable, along with the rubberized coverings that protect the charging port and strap inputs on top. My unit experienced zero damage when dropped on hard surfaces.

IP67 certification means that each speaker is dust-, rust-, shock-, and waterproof. 

Winner: Sony ULT Field 3

Identical battery life, distinctively different feature sets

Each speaker gets you up to 24 hours of continuous playback when fully charged. High volume and special features decrease battery life by about two to five hours. These numbers held up during testing. The ULT Field 3 entertained crowds for nearly 10 hours over a weekend and had close to 50 percent battery left in the tank. Sony’s Battery Care function works well for preserving the battery long term by limiting the maximum charge to 90 percent. Meanwhile, the Pill retained 45 percent battery in the same time frame. Quick charging is the same: 10 minutes plugged into a USB-C cord nets you two hours of listening time. Don’t forget about the Pill and ULT Field 3 power banks to recharge devices.

Beats and Sony equipped their speakers with many popular features (e.g., multipoint technology, speakerphone). They also provided exclusive perks that distinguish each model. 

No one (publicly) knows what processor is inside the Pill. We think it’s a new version of Beats’ proprietary chipset that was introduced on the Studio Buds and optimizes performance on iOS/macOS and Android devices. You’ll gain automatic switching, Find My Device support, and Siri voice assistance. Prime sound features include the aforementioned Amplify and Stereo modes, lossless audio, and Tone Volume. Only two Pill speakers can be paired at the same time.

Many of Sony’s upscaled sound features were previously discussed: EQ, Party Mode, Sound Field Optimization, and ULT Mode. Stereo mode allows for dual-speaker connectivity, and Party Mode pairs up to 100 speakers simultaneously. 

Winner: Beats Pill

Setup and ease of use

Getting these speakers set up is a breeze. Turn on the Pill or ULT Field 3 to enable pairing mode and select the product from the Available Devices list in the Bluetooth settings of your media device. Apple users with an iPhone or iPad can instantly connect the Pill via one-tap pairing, while Android users have Google Fast Pair to do the same with either speaker. The ULT Field 3 is compatible with Apple devices as well. 

Connectivity holds up well on these two speakers. The Pill seamlessly pairs to Apple devices that are registered to your iCloud account and plays nicely with Android, especially when using multipoint to pair to two media devices at the same time. There is no connection scramble or lag. On the opposite end, the ULT Field 3 operates exceptionally well on all operating systems. Multipoint is spot-on. Its biggest strength might be range; streaming quality remains smooth within a 45-foot range before dropout occurs. 

Both speakers grant user-friendly functionality. Their respective control panels differ in presentation, with Beats’ buttons being indented and Sony’s buttons protruding. Expect solid tactility that ensures intended commands are being met with every single/multi-press or long-hold gesture. You can enable call management, listening modes, playback, volume, and voice assistance (Google Assistant/Siri), all of which function well on these two competitors. The ULT Field 3 has on-screen controls through the Sound Connect app to manage playback and turn off the device. iPhone and iPad users can enable/disable functions through iOS widgets or the product’s dedicated settings page.

Our winner: Tie

Beats Pill vs. Sony ULT Field 3: The final verdict

You can’t go wrong purchasing either speaker, but we can acknowledge that their comparable performance in key areas (e.g., battery life, call quality, portable charging) makes choosing very difficult.

The Beats Pill appeals more to Apple users with its excellent iOS/macOS integration. Android users get great use out of the speaker as well. Sound is vastly improved from the original, and the addition of lossless audio over USB-C enhances fidelity on Apple Music tracks. There’s no denying that Beats has the more attractive design, even if certain components are fragile (*cough* the metal grille cough). Playtimes are also noteworthy. 

The ULT Field 3’s versatile soundstage complements all music genres and is customizable in various ways to equalize frequencies or raise bass levels. Sony’s powerful audio architecture allows the speaker to fill most environments with loud, energetic sound. Special features like the DJ Control mixer give spin masters and producers some creative control over mixes. The bundled strap and sturdier aesthetics are also much appreciated for travel.

In the end, it all comes down to preference, and both are outstanding speakers.

Shop Beats Pill and Sony ULT Field 3 Beats Pill $99.95 at Amazon Shop Now Sony ULT Field 3 $134.95 at Amazon Shop Now

TL;DR: For $14.97 (with code SAVE5), Plantum turns your iPhone or iPad into a pocket plant expert that identifies 33,000+ species in seconds and gives you care tips for life.

Ever look at a random plant while you’re out and about and think, Wow, you’re gorgeous, but who are you? With Plantum, you’ll never have to wonder again. This AI-powered plant identifier can recognize over 33,000 species with 98 percent accuracy in just three seconds — faster than you can Google “green leafy plant with pointy thingies.”

Plus, through September 7, you can get lifetime access to all of Plantum’s features for just $14.97 (MSRP: $59.99). But you have to use code SAVE5 at checkout.

Whether you’re nurturing a greenhouse full of tropicals or just trying to keep that one stubborn ficus alive, Plantum has your back. It’s not just about names — the app can diagnose plant health issues, offer soil and watering recommendations, and even send you reminders so your plants never suffer from the old familiar, “oops, I forgot.” There’s also a built-in light meter to help you figure out if your window ledge is a sunny paradise or a leafy graveyard.

And if you think this tool comes with monthly fees that add up faster than your pothos grows new leaves, you’d be so wrong. For iOS users on version 16 or later, it’s the easiest (and cheapest) way to become the go-to plant expert in your circle for life with this one-time payment.

Get lifetime access to Plantum while it’s just $14.97 (MSRP: $59.99) with code SAVE5 through September 7.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Plantum Plantum - AI Plant Identifier Premium Plan: Lifetime Subscription (For iOS Only) $14.97
$59.99 Save $45.02 Get Deal

TL;DR: The Clicks Keyboard Phone Case adds a physical keyboard to compatible iPhones, and now it’s only $99 (reg. $139).

In the old days, phones weren’t just a screen. When smartphones were still new, some of them even had their own keyboard you could text on instead of using the touchscreen. It was incredible. Your fingers could glide across the keys instead of henpecking across a screen. As smartphones grew increasingly streamlined, cool and useful features like the tactile keyboard disappeared.

But now they’re back.

The Clicks Keyboard Phone for iPhones adds a full QWERTY-style keyboard to the bottom of your phone. Right now, they’re on sale for $99 (reg. $139).

Add a keyboard to your iPhone

By moving the keyboard off the display, Clicks frees up to 50 percent more usable screen space for whatever you are doing, whether that’s watching videos, working in documents, or messaging. The physical keys are backlit for easier typing in dim light, and the layout supports iOS shortcuts, including dedicated buttons for voice-to-text and Siri. “Clicks Mode” lets you assign custom actions to keys so you can launch apps, send preset messages, or call contacts instantly.

This iPhone keyboard is shaped for comfort, with sculpted keys that make it easier to type quickly and accurately without looking down. The case itself has brushed metal side buttons, a microfiber lining, and a sturdy enclosure that protects the phone while still feeling slim in your hand.

Clicks works with MagSafe chargers and accessories, and the USB-C port supports charging and data transfer, including wired CarPlay, without removing the case. Installation is simple thanks to the one-piece design, and at 2.47 ounces, it adds very little weight.

For anyone who misses the speed and precision of a physical keyboard, Clicks is a familiar way to type, navigate, and control an iPhone while keeping your screen clear.

Right now, it’s only $99 to get a Clicks Keyboard Phone Case.

StackSocial prices subject to change

Opens in a new window Credit: Clicks Clicks Keyboard Phone Case $99
$139 Save $40 Get Deal

TL;DR: For $149.97, you can stream 4,000+ documentaries on MagellanTV for life — ad-free, with new releases every week.

Some streaming services are all about the latest big-budget show or the same recycled movies you’ve already seen. MagellanTV is different. This streaming service is built for the endlessly curious — the people who want to learn, explore, and be inspired every time they press play.

With over 4,000 documentaries covering history, nature, science, space, true crime, and more, it’s the kind of library you could get lost in for years. And the best part? New content drops every single week, so there’s always something fresh to discover. Plus, lifetime access is on sale for just $149.97 (MSRP: $999) for a limited time.

From deep dives into the mysteries of the cosmos to gripping accounts of historical turning points, MagellanTV takes you places you didn’t even know you wanted to go. Everything streams completely ad-free, so you’re never interrupted mid-thought by an unrelated commercial. Just pure, uninterrupted storytelling, wherever you are — on your phone during a commute, on your tablet in bed, or cast straight to the big screen for a living room documentary binge.

Normally, getting a library this vast would mean signing up for yet another monthly subscription, but with this promotion, you pay once and keep it forever. No renewals, no hidden fees, just a lifetime pass to some of the best documentary filmmaking in the world.

Get a lifetime of MagellanTV documentaries for just $149.97 (MSRP: $999).

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: MagellanTV MagellanTV Documentary Streaming Service: Lifetime Subscription $149.97
$999 Save $849.03 Get Deal

TL;DR: Skip the studio bills — SpeakBreez AI turns your scripts into pro-quality voiceovers in seconds, with 800+ voices, 120+ languages, higher character limits, and lifetime access for $349 (MSRP: $2,200).

You’ve got the words—now you just need the voice. Whether you’re a YouTuber, e-learning instructor, marketer, or audiobook creator, SpeakBreez AI Voiceover Generator is your fast track to professional audio without the recurring invoices.

This isn’t your run-of-the-mill text-to-speech tool. SpeakBreez serves up 800+ ultra-realistic voices in 120+ languages, powered by machine learning that nails human pacing, intonation, and emotion. The result? Audio so natural your audience won’t believe it came from AI.

Instead of paying per project or juggling multiple subscriptions, you’ll have lifetime access to a platform that’s faster, cheaper, and more versatile than the competition. Need a podcast ad in English and a video narration in Spanish? Easy. Want the same script in three different tones—serious, upbeat, and dramatic? Done in seconds.

And here’s where it gets even better: SpeakBreez offers higher monthly character limits than any other tool in its class. That means longer scripts, more content, and fewer “you’ve hit your limit” alerts. Pair that with lightning-fast rendering speeds, and you’ve got a setup that’s ready whenever creativity strikes.

From explainer videos to global marketing campaigns, from internal training modules to audiobook production—SpeakBreez helps you create audio that’s polished, professional, and ready to publish without the wait (or the budget blowout).

Get lifetime access to SpeakBreez while it’s on sale for $349 (MSRP: $2,200).

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: SpeakBreez SpeakBreez AI Voiceover Generator: Lifetime Subscription (Ultimate Plan) $349
$2,200 Save $1,851 Get Deal

SAVE $30: As of Aug. 12, Apple AirPods 4 are on sale for $99 at Amazon. That's a saving of 23% on list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple AirPods 4 $99 at Amazon
$129 Save $30 Get Deal

AirPods deals are always a favorite here at Mashable, so there's no way we're skipping the latest deal on the Apple AirPods 4. As of Aug. 12, Apple AirPods 4 are on sale for under $100, now just $99 for a limited time. That's a saving of $30 on list price. This price is for the earbuds without active noise cancellation. If you want that feature, they'll cost you $148.99 right now.

These are a stellar choice, powered by Apple's H2 chip for an amazing immersive listening experience. Personalized Spatial Audio and dynamic head tracking make it feel like the sound is moving all around you, creating a theater-like listening experience. And the microphone audio is top notch, too. It uses advanced computational audio to reduce background noise while isolating and clarifying the sound of your voice. Perfect for phone calls or voice notes while out and about and in loud environments.

SEE ALSO: Apple AirPods Pro 2 are still $80 off at Amazon — get them before the price jumps back up

The non-ANC model also has an enviable battery life, promising up to 30 hours listening time with the case, and five hours with just a single charge.

You also get all the signature Apple touches, instant pairing with your iPhone or iPad, “Hey Siri” support, and an in-ear sensor that automatically plays and pauses audio. And of course, a wireless charging case that works with Apple Watch chargers, USB-C cables, or Qi-certified pads.

Get this AirPods deal at Amazon.

SAVE $80: As of Aug. 12, Apple AirPods Pro 2 are on sale for $169 at Amazon. That's a 32% discount on list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple AirPods Pro 2 $169 at Amazon
$249 Save $80 Get Deal

AirPods discounts are something we can't ignore — and this latest deal on the Apple AirPods Pro 2 has definitely got our attention. As of Aug. 12, these earbuds are reduced by $80, now just $169.

The AirPods Pro 2 are the perfect choice if you're looking for earbuds that give you great noise cancellation and personalized audio. They have fantastic sound quality with amazing features such as a scientifically validated hearing test and clinical-grade hearing protection, both to protect and give insight into improving your ear health.

SEE ALSO: My favorite iPad is $150 off at Amazon — get the Apple iPad (10th Gen) for under $350

Different sound modes will allow you to remain aware of your surroundings or block it all out. Choose Active Noise Cancellation to block out background noise completely, while Adaptive Audio and Transparency modes deliver a blend of background sounds, keeping you safe and aware while you're listening out of the house. The Conversation Awareness function also adjusts playback for nearby interactions, and the H2 chip provides a strong, immersive sound for both music and calls.

These also come with four pairs of silicone tips (XS, S, M, L) to fit a wide range of ear shapes. These tips create an acoustic seal to help keep out noise and secure the AirPods in place.

Get this great AirPods deal from Amazon now.

SAVE $150: As of Aug. 12, the Apple iPad (10th Gen) is on sale for $349 at Amazon. That's a 30% saving on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPad (10th Gen) $349 at Amazon
$499 Save $150 Get Deal

The release of newer iPads has meant that the faithful 10th Gen iPad has been discontinued. While you can still find models at some retailers, it is no longer listed on the Apple website.

Newer is sometimes good, but the iPad (10th Gen) holds a special place in my heart. It may now be "outdated," but this is still my favorite iPad. And we're in luck, because Amazon still has some in stock, and better yet, it's on sale right now.

SEE ALSO: The best Apple deals to shop this week feature plenty of impressive back to school savings

As of Aug. 12, you can find the iPad (10th Gen) reduced to $349 from $499, saving you $150 on the list price. All colors except yellow have sold out, so don't hang around too long. It's also specific to just the WiFi-only, 256GB option.

The Apple iPad (10th Gen) boasts a sleek, modern design, perfect for work or entertainment on the go. It has a 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display and the A14 Bionic chip that delivers super powerful performance for multitasking, whether you're browsing, gaming, or working.

I've been using this model for over a year, and the battery life still never fails to impress. If you're someone on the go a lot, this is the model for you.

And the cameras are impressive, too. The 12MP Ultra Wide front camera is ideal for video calls and keeps you centered, so you always look your best. The back camera is also 12MP and can shoot in 4K video.

Get this iPad deal from Amazon before it sells out.

Reddit will reportedly block the Internet Archive's Wayback Machine from saving users' posts. The social media platform states that the measure is intended to stop AI companies from scraping archived comments to train their algorithms. Or at least, prevent them from doing so without paying up.

SEE ALSO: Paid subreddits reportedly on hold as Reddit focuses on search

As reported by The Verge, Reddit is preventing the Wayback Machine from archiving users' post detail pages, comments, and profiles. The Reddit homepage is still fair game, meaning that the titles of the top posts each day will still be preserved, but anything beyond that will no longer be indexed in the Internet Archive's digital library.

Reddit framed the decision as an effort to protect its users, stating that AI companies were violating its policies by scraping data from the Wayback Machine. 

"Until [the Internet Archive is] able to defend their site and comply with platform policies (e.g., respecting user privacy re. deleting removed content) we're limiting some of their access to Reddit data to protect redditors," Reddit spokesperson Tim Rathschmidt told The Verge.

Yet despite such assertions, Reddit has demonstrated that it's happy to hand over users' data to AI companies provided that they pay up. In 2024, Reddit barred search engines such as Microsoft Bing and DuckDuckGo from crawling its platform. However, a $60 million deal between Reddit and Google enabled the tech giant to continue training its AI algorithms on redditors' data, as well as surface their posts in Search. Reddit made a similar $60 million deal with ChatGPT creator OpenAI as well.

"Without these agreements, we don’t have any say or knowledge of how our data is displayed and what it’s used for, which has put us in a position now of blocking folks who haven’t been willing to come to terms with how we’d like our data to be used or not used," Reddit CEO Steve Huffman told The Verge last August.

Ironically, Reddit users themselves have little say in how the company uses their public posts, as it doesn't allow them to opt out of having such data sold or used to train AI algorithms. The only remedy for redditors to prevent such use is to simply stop posting to the platform altogether, though that still doesn't address posts they've previously made.

Though concern for users' privacy may be a factor, Reddit's decision to block the Wayback Machine appears to be more obviously motivated by money. While AI companies were apparently scraping Reddit posts for free, cutting off such access will enable the social media platform to instead licence such data for a significant fee.

"The Reddit corpus of data is really valuable," Huffman told the New York Times in 2023. "But we don't need to give all of that value to some of the largest companies in the world for free."

Reddit has been fighting to reduce its financial losses in recent years, resulting in widely unpopular changes such as charging developers for access to its application programming interface (API), removing the ability to opt out of ad personalisation, and the planned introduction of paid subreddits. Unfortunately, there's still a long way to go before Reddit claws itself out of the red. The self-professed "heart of the internet" reported a whopping net loss of $484.3 million last year — more than five times its $90.8 million net loss in 2023.