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Nina Raemont/ZDNETWhat's the deal?Ahead of Black Friday, the Heritage andHorizon Oura Ring is on sale on Amazon and on Oura's website for a limited time. The discount varies by ring finish and size, ranging from $50 to $200. It is a notably rare discount on a product that doesn't go on sale often. The deal comes after Oura launched its fourth-generation smart ring, the Oura Ring 4.ZDNET's key takeawaysThe Oura Ring is the most competitive smart ring on the market, starting at $249 (on sale) with a $6-per-month subscription.A phenomenal app experience, great health data visualization, sleep-tracking capabilities, and cross-platform integrations make this smart ring the one to beat.The monthly subscription is a grievance among wearers, and the battery life tends to wither over time.If you've heard of smart rings, chances are you've heard the words "Oura Ring" tossed around. It is, after all, the biggest player in the smart ring space and a near blueprint for today's rivals, whether that's the Samsung Galaxy Ring or the Ultrahuman Ring Air.The market for smart rings has ballooned ever since Oura debuted its first ring in 2015. There are many more options now, catering to various demographics like women, fitness junkies, and Android users.Also:Oura Ring 3 vs Oura Ring 4: I've tested both and this is the model you should buyWith all these hot, new choices, is the $300 Oura Ring (plus the $6 per month subscription) still worth it? I've tested the smart ring against its competitors for several months, and the answer is a resounding yes. The Oura Ring is still the smart ring most people should buy for its competitive and regularly improving features, app user experience, pristine sleep tracking data, and industry-leading integrations. Here's everything else you should know.A smart ring is only as good as its accompanying app. Unlike a smartwatch with a glowing screen you can toggle and view information on, a smart ring's usability relies on its app and only its app.The Oura Ring app is the best in the business, with the most well-rounded user experience out of every smart ring app I've tried. The app loads quickly 95% of the time and syncs your data from the ring in seconds. Taking your workout heart rate or recording a workout also doesn't take too long.Oura measures four core areas of wellness, as categorized by the tabs in the app: sleep, activity, resilience, and readiness. It's easy to see the underlying data that makes your scores what they are by tapping into each tab.Go into the sleep tab, and you'll see all the data contributors, like efficiency, time in bed, resting heart rate during sleep, latency, and the time you spent in each sleep stage. You can click on any of these data points to see a historical view of, say, your latency or average heart rate. This extensive level of data capture and illustration, including how every essential data point is easy to access and view from a daily or monthly glance, is my favorite part of Oura.Also: Oura Ring Gen 3 Horizon: Enhanced features, no more flat spotThis brings me to a nerdy but essential reason why I love Oura: it's great with health data visualization, which is vital for smart rings. The Oura Ring takes your sleep or activity data, stores it in an easy-to-find place, and provides you with useful recommendations for going about your day.Even though all those numbers are there in the app for you to learn more about, you don't need to interpret any of them to apply the data and tips to your lifestyle. Most data is paired with a short and sweet summary to help you easily digest the numbers. Screenshot/edit by Nina Raemont/ZDNETTake the Resilience tab, for example. You could check out the ebbs and flows of your resilience by keeping an eye on which quadrant of the resilience map you fall into every day. Or you could scroll down a smidge and read Oura's resilience insight, which offers up an accessible summary plus a recommendation or two on rest and activity. Nina Raemont/ZDNETSleep tracking is another Oura Ring selling point. Given the wearable's discreet form factor, you can go to bed every night with it around your finger and barely notice it (unlike a clunkier Apple Watch, which, from experience, is a pain to sleep with). Plus, the four to five days of battery life you get out of the Oura Ring means it will usually monitor your sleep for a few nights before you recharge.There are several helpful features that distinguish Oura from its competitors. What really sold me on it was how it helped me recover from an illness a few months ago. Before I got sick, I didn't take the ring's recommendations to heart. Right as I found myself getting ill, however, Oura notified me that my sleep, readiness, and body temperature data were all at alarming levels.As I spent a few days in bed with headaches, congestion, and a fever, I found Oura's data aligned with how I was feeling. The day I had a fever, the app noted my abnormal body temperature. I didn't have the energy to go to a doctor or consult a professional, but the app made recommendations that helped me recover or, at the very least, document my progress to recovery.For example, the app suggested I take it easy and concentrate on recovery when my body temperature rose. I turned off rest mode a few days later, but Oura continued to remind me to ease into activity and not push myself to support my recovery. Nina Raemont/ZDNETOura also stands out with its software longevity and feature relevance. In the past few months, Oura has debuted features forheart health,menstrual and menopausal tracking, and even a body clock graph. The ring also integrates with popular services likeStrava, Natural Cycles, and Apple and Android health apps. Given its long history in the space, Oura has far more integrations than its competitors.That said, there are some caveats with the Oura Ring. The first and most infamous one is the $6 monthly subscription fee to access the extensive data tracking in the app. We're seeing more subscription-free smart rings, like the Ultrahuman and Samsung, that entice users with one-time payments.Also: Study: Oura surpasses Apple Watch and Fitbit in sleep tracking accuracyOura claims the monthly subscription fee helps the company continue to upgrade and release new features regularly. While it's true that the smart ring company churns out new features like no other, it's a more challenging message to sell to consumers who could opt for a one-time purchase of the $400 Galaxy Ring and have all their health data openly accessible.Another issue I encountered while testing the ring is the chunkiness of the band. Compared to the Galaxy Ring, which has a thinner, inverted band that rarely scratches, the Oura Ring band juts out and is girthy around my finger, making it more prone to wear and tear.ZDNET's buying adviceStill, the Oura Ring is the best smart ring you can buy right now. It isn't without its flaws, but the sheer health data collection and visualization you have access to, its abundance of helpful features for anyone no matter their gender, age, or health status, and the user experience of the app and the smart ring itself make for a compelling wearable, even amid the bustling competition.By regularly wearing the Oura Ring, I learned more about my health. I learned that eating or drinking too late makes it harder for my heart rate to drop during sleep, that regularly exercising during the beginning of my menstrual cycle sets my energy levels up for success for the rest of the month, and that sleep is essential to my quality of life.I can't say as much about my Apple Watch, the Evie Ring, the Samsung Galaxy Ring, or the Ultrahuman Ring Air. If technology is supposed to improve our lives and help us better understand ourselves through data we could never collect on our own, the Oura Ring is one revolutionary wellness wearable.Oura Ring specsMaterialTitaniumWeight4 to 6 grams, depending on size and finishSizing6 to 13Sensors3-axis accelerometer, heart rate monitor, relative Sp02 sensor, ECG sensor, EDA sensorDurabilityWater-resistant up to 100 meters (more than 328 ft)PricingStarts at $299, plus $6 per month subscriptionPackage includesCharger and USB-C cableFeatured reviews When will this deal expire?Deals are subject to sell out or expire at any time, though ZDNET remains committed to finding, sharing, and updating the best product deals for you to score the best savings. Our team of experts regularly checks in on the deals we share to ensure they are still live and obtainable. We're sorry if you've missed out on this deal, but don't fret -- we're constantly finding new chances to save and sharing them with you atZDNET.com.

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If you're reading this, you probably already know thatMagSafetechnology is a pretty handy feature. You can use it to wirelessly charge your phone, attach a wallet to the back of your phone, use it as a combination phone stand and power bank, and more.To put it simply: MagSafe makes phone charging fun and far more convenient. But with plenty of accessories on the market, it can be hard to know what is and isn't worth your cash. That's why we've tested plenty options on the market, so you can find the most useful MagSafe accessories for your lifestyle.What are the best MagSafe accessories right now?Our picks for the best MagSafe accessories overall are Anker's 3-1 MagGo Wireless Qi2 Charger and Casely's Grippy Mount. Keep reading for more top MagSafe accessories, including battery packs, phone stands, car mounts, wallets, and more.The best MagSafe accessories of 2024 Show less View now at Casely Pros Strong magnetic hold Easy to use Cons A bit pricey Sometimes hard to remove off of surfaces Casely MagSafe Grippy Mount Best MagSafe accessory for taking photos and videos If you're a content creator or you just like to take photos and videos during solo outings, this MagSafe mount is a handy gadget to have in your MagSafe accessory repertoire. You can easily stick your phone to any clean, flat, and glossy surface and instantly create a mount for your iPhone. When I tested the Casely Grippy Mount, I was surprised by how strong the magnetic hold was, even when I stuck it to a cheap, over-the-door mirror. It's a nifty option for mounting your phone for streaming or for taking it out on solo endeavors to help shoot content hands-free.Customers on Casely's website said that they liked the Grippy Mount's strong magnetic grip and hold, plus the ability to use their phone hands-free for photo, video, or entertainment purposes.Casely Grippy Mount features: Available in several colors | Compatible with iPhone 12 & newer (requires MagSafe case) | Fastens phone to any clean, flat, glossy surface (like mirrors and windows) | Allows for easy hands-free photo and video shooting, plus browsing Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Amazon Pros Travel-friendly 3-in-1 charging Foldable design Stand feature Wall adapter included Cons A bit bulky Limited color options Pricey For iPhone only Anker MagGo 3-1 Wireless Charging Station Best 3-in-1 MagSafe wireless charger Anker's MagGo 3-1 Wireless Charging Station for iPhone is still a wireless charging dream almost 7 months after my initial purchase, and it's also ZDNET's pick for best wireless charger. This MagSafe charger features 15W charging, offers a stand component for my iPhone, charges all of my Apple devices at once, and folds up easily for quick transport and storage. It also comes with a wall adapter, which isn't always a guarantee.I first purchased this Anker charger after ZDNET's Sabrina Ortiz tested it last year. I was looking for a safe and functional 3-1 charger that would cut down the amount of cords I needed to pack while traveling. This is it. Unveiled at CES 2023, this 3-1 is truly worth your money if you own an Apple Watch and a pair of AirPods too and want a great charger for at home and on the go. Ortiz said that the charging speed on this charger is comparable to individual cords with respective wall adapters, even when charging simultaneously. "Whether I was charging one device or three, I noticed that the devices were charging at a comparable speed to when I normally had them plugged into their respective wall chargers," she wrote in her review.I can concur based on my personal use, too. This stand charges up all of my devices quickly, and I love how easy it is to pack up to take on a trip. Even though this Anker charger is on the pricier side, costing $110, it's worth it thanks to its function and duality. It also frequently goes on sale. Compared to other options on the market, I think this 3-in-1 pick offers immense value because it can be used at home or on the go with ease, especially if you can grab it on sale.Verified Amazon customers give this Anker charger a 4.6/5 stars and said they liked the compactness and convenience of this design as well as the easy to use setup, foldability, and magnetic strength. However, some customers said the simultaneous charging wasn't consistent.Author's Note: The Anker MagGo 3-1 charger in white is on sale for $82 (save $28) at Amazon upon the latest publication.Anker MagGo 3-1 Wireless Charging Station features: Compatability: iPhone (any with MagSafe), Wireless Earbuds, Apple Watch |Color:White or Black | Foldable | Easy for travel | Comes with wall adapter Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Belkin Pros Qi2 charging Minimal warming Kickstand to prop phone Fits snug on iPhone Several color options Strong magnetic grip Recently upgraded design Clear battery indicator lights Cons Fun colors only sold by Apple Not the sleekest option Belkin Boostcharge Pro Qi2 Magnetic Power Bank 5k Best MagSafe battery pack This Belkin battery pack is not only an upgraded version of a good original, but it's also ZDNET's pick for the best MagSafe battery pack right now.I really liked the first iteration of this battery pack, and I like the newly upgraded Qi2 version even more. This new model has the USB-C connector on the side instead of the bottom of the pack, making it easier to use your phone standing upright while the pack is charging. Instead of the charging indicator lights being on the side, they're now more visible, located on the back of the pack. This model is also a tad slimmer and lengthier than its predecessor, making it easier to transport.And while this Belkin pack is a true embodiment of a classic brick-style battery booster, there is still a place in my heart for it because it just works so well. Similarly to many options on our Best MagSafe battery pack list, it provides 5,000mAh of extra juice to your phone, which is a standard capacity for many MagSafe packs. Its design, though simple, fits snugly against my phone (no bumping onto the lip of my camera lens) and remains secure.Its secure grip and competitive battery speak for themselves. I took this pack to a Yankees game, to several late-night outings, to work, and even on errands, and I am impressed with the charging. You can expect between a 25-30% battery boost in about an hour to your phone.What's more is that it comes with a built-in stand that easily swings in and out -- no folding required -- and while I originally thought this would be useless, I rather enjoyed being able to prop my phone up whenever. Perhaps the best thing about this Belkin pack is that it comes in a few fun colors, a nice feature many competitors still haven't matched.Like the previous iteration, this pack is still not the slimmest design I've ever seen. But the newly upgraded design offers a more comfortable and sleek user experience that feels great in the hand and doesn't feel as boxy as the pack really is. Overall, I'm impressed with the new shape and think it was a much-needed facelift.Apple is the only retailer that sells the blue, green, pink, and sand color options right now (as well as black), which is a bit of a downside. On the flip side, Belkin only carries the black and white iterations as well as the 8k and 10k models. Regardless, Redditors who own this battery pack really like the intentional upgrades.Some Redditors saidthat this is a great pack to replace Apple's discontinued battery pack, too.Belkin Boostcharge Pro Qi2 Magnetic Power Bank 5K features: Capacity: 5,000mAh|Charging Port: USB-C |Power button: Yes | Available in a few colors (some Apple exclusive) Show Expert Take Show less Show less Telesin MagSafe Neck Mount Best MagSafe accessory for shooting video hands-free If you shoot video from your POV frequently, consider a MagSafe accessory that will amp up your functionality. This MagSafe neck mount from Telesin does just that. ZDNET's senior reviews editor Kerry Wan was able to try one out while covering the iPhone 16 launch in California a few weeks ago, and immediately purchased one."I recently got this POV MagSafe mount, and it's perfect for hands-free video shooting. Saw dozens of content creators at Apple Park using it a few weeks ago," he said.Verified Amazon customers said that they liked the easy and simple setup of the Telesin neck mount, and said that they enjoyed using it to shoot video from their POV, or to just keep using their phone hands-free. One customer said she even enjoys using this neck mount to use her phone while walking her dogs.Telesin MagSafe Neck Mount features: Portrait and Landscape compatible | Multi-functional shooting modes (landscape, portrait, overhead, and low angle, which allows you to play with a wide range of POV scenarios) | Extended pole for viewing while shooting | Enhanced Dual-Ear + Strap for added stability | Dual-sided phone grip Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Best Buy Pros RFID protection Large card capacity Doubles as stand Premium feel Strong magnetic hold Slim design Cons Expensive Limited color options Adds some weight to phone May be too bulky for some Journey Ezmo MagSafe Wallet and Stand Best MagSafe wallet Journey's Ezmo MagSafe wallet is the perfect balance of style and function, and it's ZDNET's current pick for best MagSafe wallet. With enough space to hold five cards, it indeed resembles a classic wallet and not just a cardholder. The Ezmo wallet also doubles as a phone stand, so you can watch your favorite entertainment on the go or keep your phone screen visible at your desk. The stand has adjustable viewing angles in both portrait and landscape modes.It's made of vegan leather and comes in four traditional color options (black, dark brown, navy blue, and dove gray). The Ezmo MagSafe wallet also features a protective lining with RFID technology to safeguard your cards' information while preventing them from becoming demagnetized.I tested the Ezmo wallet for several weeks in my everyday activities, including my commute from New Jersey to New York City. When evaluating MagSafe wallets, I always look for easy and seamless access to my NJ Transit card, which I need to grab and put away quickly. Thanks to the notch on the front of the Ezmo wallet, I can store my transit card in the front. It's easy to slide out, so I highly recommend choosing one with a front-notch option if you're looking for a commuter-friendly wallet.I also like how the Ezmo MagSafe wallet provides enough space for five cards and even folded cash. It's perfect for holding my debit card, work badge, and other incidentals like paper train tickets.The phone stand was nice, too. I enjoyed being able to prop my phone up while at the office. I even found myself using the back half of the wallet as a makeshift grip on the train, which added some extra stability. Although it's a pricier option, I think it's well worth the investment due to its multi-functionality and excellent quality, especially if you use your MagSafe wallet daily. The Ezmo wallet is also available in a tracking version -- the LOC8 MagSafe Finder Wallet and Stand -- if you're prone to losing things frequently.Current users on the Journey website said they liked the slim profile, smart design, larger card capacity, and sleek material -- so much so that the wallet has a 5/5-star rating online, with one customer noting that it "does it all really well."Journey Ezmo wallet and phone stand features:Multi-functional| RFID protection | Built-in lock to prevent card slippage |Dimensions: 66 mm x 102.5 mm x 12.5 mm |Card capacity: Up to 5 cards Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Moft Pros Slim Great for those needing small capacity options Great color options Fairly priced Cons Small capacity Hard to dislodge certain cards Moft Snap on Phone Stand and Wallet Best minimalist MagSafe card holder If you don't need a larger capacity to store your favorite cards, cash, or other incidentals, a card holder is probably a better bet. While Moft markets their Snap on Phone Stand and Wallet as a wallet, it's definitely more of a card holder. Based upon my own testing, I've only ever been able to squeeze two cards into this holder, and most of the time prefer to just use it for one important card (often my NJ Transit SmartLink card).The design of this holder is very sleek and minimalist, but it's available in a wide-range of color options and costs only $30. While there's for sure cheaper wallet options out there, this is really fairly priced considering the dual function you get with the stand and card holder combo, plus the quality material and construction. Most other wallet options are often upwards of $35, so Moft has competitively priced a great MagSafe accessory, in my opinion.I have used this card holder countless times, and it is my favorite option when I am traveling with only one card that I need accessible. I find it easy to remove and insert cards from this wallet, though occasionally, it can be tricky to quickly pull out two cards without a hassle, which isn't the biggest deal unless you're rushing to make the train in the morning like me. Regardless, I have gifted this three times since being able to test one for ZDNET, and think it's a great option to add to your MagSafe collection.Moft Snap on Phone Stand and Wallet features: Thin profile and design | Works in Floating, Portait, and Landscape modes | Compatible with other Moft accessories, like the MagSafe battery pack | Compatible with iPhone 12+ and MagSafe compatible phone cases Show Expert Take Show less Show less Pros Adjustable height Sturdy base Good use of the platform with the addition of MagSafe Cons MagSafe connector costs extra Twelve South HiRise Pro for MacBook Best MagSafe accessory for a tidy desk Jason Cipriani, a former ZDNET contributor, has been using the non-pro version of Twelve South's HiRise for MacBook for about a year with no complaints. It did exactly what it's designed to do: get his laptop off of my desk and at eye level while freeing up some desk space. Underneath his laptop, Cipriani placed a wireless charging station, making use of the free space.However, with the HiRise Pro, Twelve South built a MagSafe charging pad directly into the leather-covered base. That means you no longer need a separate charging station under your laptop. Instead, attach a MagSafe charger -- which isn't included with the HiRise Pro -- to the bottom of the base and route the power cable to a nearby outlet.Twelve South HiRise Pro for MacBook features:Leather-covered base with MagSafe | Puts your MacBook at eye level, or up to 6 inches off your desk | Holds your laptop in place Show Expert Take Show less What is the best MagSafe accessory? Our favorite MagSafe accessories off style, function, and added features like kickstands and more. Maybe you're looking for a battery pack to boost your phone or a handy place to store your metro card. We've got you covered with top-tested accessory picks from Casely, Belkin, Moft, and more.MagSafe accessoryPrice*TypeCasely MagSafe Grippy Mount $25Grippy mount for photo and video opportunities.Anker MagGo 3-1 Wireless Charging Station$1103-1 MagSafe Wireless charging dock. Belkin Boostcharge Pro Qi2 Magnetic Power Bank 5k$60Portable MagSafe battery pack with kickstand. Telesin MagSafe Neck Mount$28MagSafe neck mount designed for video shooting.Journey Ezmo MagSafe Wallet and Stand$70MagSafe wallet for card and cash storage.Moft Snap on Phone Stand and Wallet$30MagSafe card holder and stand combo.Twelve South HiRise Pro$100Laptop stand with MagSafe wireless charging.*MSRP at the time of publication Which MagSafe accessory is right for you? Any of the MagSafe accessories on this list are great picks -- it just depends on what you are looking for, the price you are willing to spend, and what devices you currently have.Choose this MagSafe accessory...If you want...Casely MagSafe Grippy Mount A MagSafe content creation tool. Anker MagGo 3-1 Wireless Charging StationA seamless way to charge your devices, without all the wires. Belkin Boostcharge Pro Qi2 Magnetic Power Bank 5kAn easy way to boost your phone on-the-go. Telesin MagSafe Neck MountA hands-free option to easily record video. Journey Ezmo MagSafe Wallet and StandMagSafe storage for cards and cash.Moft Snap on Phone Stand and WalletA minimalistic, MagSafe card holder option. Twelve South HiRise ProA desk optimizer that strategically places your laptop and phone in the right place for easy charging and an organized space. Factors to consider when choosing a MagSafe accessory: As someone who regularly tests MagSafe accessories and gear, these are the three most critical things to keep in mind while you shop, both to ensure you nab the best products and avoid spending your cash on useless junk.Compatibility: This is the most important factor to keep in mind. Make sure that your iPhone is compatible with the accessory you are looking to purchase and that you keep an eye out for other requirements (often hidden in the fine print), like needing a MagSafe phone case. If you're not an iPhone user, be sure to find options to make your device MagSafe compatible (it's easy), and again, watch for compatibility when checking out. Always read full product descriptions before you add to your cart, trust me.Price: Probably the most obvious thing to keep in mind is the cost. MagSafe accessories can be really handy and helpful, but only if they're within your budget or worth the long-term investment. Otherwise, they may be an unnecessary expense or something that winds up sitting in a drawer for several years before being tossed out. Try to keep a reasonable budget for yourself when shopping, and remember that the best products aren't always the most expensive items on the market, and it's always a good idea to check out sale events.Use case: This ties into the bullet above, but keeping your use case in mind while shopping for MagSafe gear is critical to avoid buying junk that you throw out or give away down the line. For something to be worth the money you spend on it, it has to bring added value and fix a current problem you're experiencing with your phone. If you only need a card holder to store your transit card, you don't necessarily need to splash out on a pricier wallet option that holds more cards and cash. Try to stay reasonable with yourself to avoid spending unnecessary cash and contributing to more tech waste. How did we choose these MagSafe accessories? ZDNET only recommends products we ourselves have used or researched extensively so we can speak to each product's value, function, and overall user experience. While rounding up this list of MagSafe accessories (of which, we've tested every product included), here's a few things we kept in mind to guide our selections accordingly.Functionality: From laptop stands to car mounts, there's a diversity of MagSafe use cases on this list. We considered user experience and overall functionality in each product we spotlighted. Keep in mind that we've gone hands-on with many other MagSafe accessories like wallets, chargers, and battery packs, and you can check out our full, in-depth best of lists if you're looking for a few more options.Price: Accessorizing your mobile device is a lot like customizing a purse or a bedroom. You have essential items like cases and chargers, as well as nonessential add-ons like grips, stands, mounts, and more. The beauty of accessorizing is you can take it as little or as far as you'd like and spend as little or as much as you're comfortable with. While most accessories remain under the $100 mark, there are several items like MagSafe charging stations that can easily push over that limit. We made sure to consider numerous types of accessories across varying price points and their overall value compared to what you'll pay. We think every item on this list is worth the money if it's the type of product you're looking for, but ultimately, the total cost spent on accessorizing with MagSafe is up to you.Best List picks:The accessory options included in this list are certainly not the only options available on the market and are definitely not the only MagSafe accessories that we've tried. Since ZDNET has already extensively tested many MagSafe accessories across several categories, including MagSafe wallets, battery packs, wireless chargers, and more, we considered the top-ranking picks selected for those lists to ensure congruency on our site and to maintain the authority in our picks. What is MagSafe? MagSafe was originally developed as a safety feature for MacBook charging cords, but it's now built into iPhone 12, 13, 14, 15, and 16 models for use with a range of accessories.The system uses a series of magnets around the iPhone's internal charging coil that sense other compatible devices and hold them securely. The magnets are specifically designed for the MagSafe system to protect your iPhone from damage. Which iPhone models have MagSafe? All current iPhone models, including the iPhone 14, iPhone 15, and newly released iPhone 16, feature MagSafe charging. Older iPhones, such as the iPhone 12 and 13 also feature MagSafe technology. Some charging cases for Apple's AirPods, such as the latest AirPods Pro, also have MagSafe built in. Is MagSafe the same as Qi? The two systems work on the same wireless charging principles, but the key difference is that Qi chargers don't use magnets for alignment. Qi chargers need a near-perfect alignment for optimal speeds. The MagSafe system eliminates the hassle of positioning and repositioning your devices on the charger by using magnets to properly align the charging puck and iPhone's internal charging coils, giving you consistent, fast charging every time. Is MagSafe charging better than cable charging? It's a personal preference. Both cable charging and wireless charging boost your phone effectively. But with a cable, you must ensure you're near an outlet or alternative power source when recharging your phone.With MagSafe, you can experience wire-free charging at home and even purchase abattery packfor power on the go. So, if you're a mobile a lot, we recommend a MagSafe battery pack to keep your iPhone charged while you travel. For certain situations or environments, a cable may be preferred. Why should I bother with MagSafe accessories? MagSafe capabilities can enhance your user experience and your iPhone's functionality. Besides creating simpler, more efficient wireless charging, MagSafe technology opens the door for various accessories such as wallets, car vent clips and mounts, fitness mounts, power banks, grips and key ring accessories, and more to widen the iPhone experience and make your life as efficient as possible. Are there alternative MagSafe accessories to consider?Yes, the market is flooded with MagSafe accessory options; by all means, the ones we've included aren't your only options. Check out a few other picks we'd recommend below.ZDNET Recommends

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ZDNET's key takeaways The Bose SoundLink Home speaker is a Bose exclusive, meaning you can only purchase it on Bose's website; it's on sale ahead of Black Friday for $199. The SoundLink Home offers a sleek design reminiscent of the 70s and bass that doesn't disappear at low volumes. This speaker isn't compatible with Bose's companion apps, lacks waterproofing, and has a shorter-than-average battery life. View now at Bose What's the deal?The Bose SoundLink Home portable Bluetooth speaker is Bose's latest speaker release and a Bose exclusive. it's stylish and sounds great, and it's on sale at Bose's website for $199 ahead of Black Friday.Bluetooth speakers are an easy way to bring your favorite tunes into any room in your home. They can also be companions while you spend a day on the beach, hike, or host a few friends.But I've been turned off by the popularity of rugged Bluetooth speakers; it's great that many speakers can withstand days at the beach, drops in the pool, and tumbles down the side of a mountain on a hike. My issue is that speakers don't have to look like they can survive the end times.Also:The 50+ best Black Friday deals live nowAs a result, I've explored speakers meant for home use, with my favorite being the Sonos Era 300. However, it's not easy to move from room to room. One speaker has answered my sound, style, and portability wishes, and it's the Bose SoundLink Home, the latest speaker in Bose's SoundLink lineup.The SoundLink Home is a simple Bluetooth speaker, so it lacks the features of a smart speaker, like compatibility with WiFi or voice assistants. As a result, its main selling points are sound and design.In the audio community, a running joke about Bose speakers is, "No highs, no lows, must be Bose." Sure, the highs are a bit sharp, and the mids are slightly hollow, but the bass on this relatively small speaker is insane.Also:Sonos' latest audio products transformed the way I watch movies at home - here's howThe SoundLink Home's penchant for low-tone sound compelled me to listen to lots of R&B and hip-hop, like Frank Ocean's Novacane, Omar Apollo's Kamikaze, and Kendrick Lamar's Money Trees. This speaker reproduces skipping and groovy basslines beautifully, and lower-pitched singing voices are received well.The bass is full and punchy, and the mid-low sounds are vivid and electric, even at low volumes. Most people prefer these tones to be at the forefront of their speakers' and headphones' sound profiles, so I can see a broad audience enjoying this speaker.Overall, the SoundLink Home's warm and mellow sound profile, clear-enough vocals and midrange instruments, and prominent bass response at low volumes make it more than suitable for at-home listening.In Bose's advertising campaign for the SoundLink Home, the models are donned in neutral, warm-toned, and loose-fitting clothing. Their model homes feature wood floors and panels, tile backsplashes, sheer curtains, and earth-toned, minimalistic furniture.Also:One of the most immersive speakers I've listened to is not made by Sony or JBL (and it's on sale)I'm an informed consumer, Bose. I know an ode to the 70s when I see one. Bose is targeting a specific audience: younger people with a 70s-influenced aesthetic who want a speaker that fits their style more than it offers future-forward software features. Jada Jones/ZDNETThe SoundLink Home sports a retro-inspired design with a metal frame and stand, while the rest of the speaker is mesh. If designs like the Beats Pill (2024), Apple HomePod, and Sonos Era 100 are just a tad too modern for your taste, the SoundLink Home offers the old-school style you may want.Although its metallic accents can complement more modern home designs, its rectangular form factor, and speaker impression placement make the SoundLink Home resemble an old 70s AM/FM radio.Also:Bose QuietComfort Ultra review: A rightful heir to the ANC throneThe SoundLink Home's most significant technological feature is its connectivity. It is equipped with Bluetooth 5.3, which offers stable and efficient connections. However, this speaker only provides nine hours of playtime before recharging, so it's not the most battery-friendly speaker.A USB-C port on the speaker's side allows for connection to other audio sources, like a laptop, and this speaker has microphones for taking and making phone calls. Jada Jones/ZDNETOn the flip side, the SoundLink Home isn't compatible with the Bose or Bose Connect apps, meaning you cannot access speaker controls through a companion app. Still, if you purchase two SoundLink Home speakers, you can manually pair them into Stereo Mode.Stereo Mode turns one speaker into a left audio channel and one into a right audio channel, creating a more spacious and more immersive soundstage. Playing some jazz or mellow tunes through two of these speakers while you have guests over during the holiday season will turn you into the host of the year.ZDNET's buying adviceThe Bose SoundLink Home is a wonderful home speaker that strays from the industry standard of angular, rugged, and bright-colored design elements. If you want a Bluetooth speaker that harkens back to the 1970s, the SoundLink Home is the one for you.However, most Bluetooth speakers on the market can offer at least 12 hours of battery life, and the SoundLink Home falls short with nine hours of playtime. It lacks any official water protection, and Bose suggests keeping this speaker away from water and moist environments. Still, its great sound and interesting design set it apart from mainstream options.If the SoundLink Home's retro design doesn't move you and you want a waterproof Bluetooth speaker with a longer battery life, consider the Beats Pill (2024). If you want a smart home speaker and portability isn't at the top of your priority list, consider the Sonos Era 300.When will this deal expire?While many sales events feature deals for a specific length of time, deals are on a limited-time basis, making them subject to expire anytime. ZDNET remains committed to finding, sharing, and updating the best offers to help you maximize your savings so you can feel as confident in your purchases as we feel in our recommendations. Our ZDNET team of experts constantly monitors the deals we feature to keep our stories up-to-date. If you missed out on this deal, don't worry -- we're always sourcing new savings opportunities atZDNET.com.Featured reviews

Westend61/Getty ImagesPreviously, I discussed how Google's decision to merge ChromeOS and Android marks a critical moment for the company. While this merger is a positive step forward, it raises an important question: Can Android truly evolve into a desktop-class operating system for touchscreen laptops? Google faces challenges and opportunities as it reimagines Android for larger devices and productivity-focused workflows.Android compatibility is already integrated into most Arm and x86 Chromebooks. However, the quality of this experience varies significantly among different devices and applications. Some Android apps run seamlessly on Chromebooks, providing smooth functionality that feels native to a laptop. In contrast, other apps suffer from performance issues or compatibility quirks, such as unoptimized scaling, touch input problems, or limited support for keyboard and trackpad use.Also:The best Black Friday deals live nowFor Android to succeed as a laptop operating system, Google must address these inconsistencies directly.The challenge: Android's history with larger screensSince its debut on tablets in 2010, Android has struggled to adapt to larger screens. Developers, incentivized by the massive smartphone market, often neglected tablets, leaving users with apps that felt like stretched-out versions of their phone counterparts. While Google has improved developer tools in recent years, the Play Store still has a limited selection of apps optimized for tablets or Chromebooks compared to Apple's robust iPad ecosystem.This issue is compounded by OEM customization, where manufacturers implement their own skins, pre-installed apps, and design tweaks on Android devices. Samsung's One UI, for instance, offers features and designs that deviate significantly from stock Android, creating inconsistent experiences across devices. While these modifications can add value, they also exacerbate fragmentation, which ZDNET's Adrian Kingsley-Hughes famously called Android's "Toxic Hellstew" a decade ago.Since then, Google has made strides to streamline updates and reduce fragmentation through initiatives like Project Treble, a framework designed to simplify Android's update process by separating the OS from OEM customizations. While Treble has improved the situation since its introduction seven years ago, it hasn't been a silver bullet -- OEMs still play a significant role in the update pipeline, and delays remain common. This inconsistency undermines user trust and complicates Google's efforts to unify Android across devices.What Google needs to do1. Refactor Android for larger screensHaving used Android devices extensively across form factors -- from phones to tablets to Chromebooks -- I've always found its interface serviceable, but never truly optimized for larger screens. While Android can do a lot, its current implementation falls short of competing with MacOS, Windows, or iPadOS when offering a cohesive, productivity-focused experience. The interface requires a major overhaul if Google is serious about Android as a desktop-class operating system.Also: How to run Android apps on LinuxWindow management: This is one of the first things that needs to change. On a laptop, users expect the ability to open multiple apps in resizable, draggable windows with an intuitive taskbar to keep everything organized. Android's split-screen functionality, while functional on phones and tablets, feels clunky and rigid on Chromebooks. It lacks the fluidity of MacOS or Windows, where multitasking is second nature.Navigation:Android's gestures are designed primarily for touchscreens, but a laptop requires more flexibility. A seamless experience across touch, trackpad, keyboard, and stylus inputs is critical, yet Android struggles to integrate these tools naturally. For instance, switching between apps with a trackpad often feels like a workaround rather than a built-in feature.Multi-display support:Plugging in an external monitor often reveals how unprepared Android is for multitasking on larger setups. Without proper scaling and flexible window arrangements, the experience feels more like a hack than a polished solution. In this area, Google could take notes from MacOS, which makes managing multiple displays feel effortless.Quick settings and notifications: These features, which have always been designed for mobile devices, need to be rethought entirely for laptops. Imagine an interface similar to MacOS's Control Center that offers quick access to essential settings without cluttering the screen. Android's current implementation is functional but doesn't feel tailored for a productivity environment.2. Redesign multitasking: Android's Achilles' heelMultitasking has always been one of Android's weakest points on larger screens. As someone who relies heavily on multitasking to juggle work apps, video calls, and research tools, I've found Android frustratingly rigid. The split-screen functionality locks you into fixed arrangements, making it difficult to work efficiently.Also: The best iPads: Expert tested and reviewedFor Android to thrive on laptops, it needs true flexibility in app arrangement. Imagine dragging and dropping app windows anywhere on the screen, resizing them freely to fit your workflow. Persistent app states are also critical -- users shouldn't have to reopen their apps and set up their workspace every time they reboot. Borrowing ideas from MacOS's Mission Control or Windows' Task View, Android could also introduce virtual desktops to help users separate workflows into dedicated spaces.3. Build a thriving app ecosystemOf course, none of this matters if Android apps don't evolve to match the demands of laptops and tablets. A robust app ecosystem is the backbone of any operating system, and while Android has a massive library of apps, they're overwhelmingly optimized for phones. These apps often feel like scaled-up versions of their mobile counterparts on larger screens.Google has the tools to fix this. Enhancing developer resources like Jetpack Compose and Android Studio could make creating adaptive apps easier and more intuitive. Developers need ready-made templates and better simulation tools to test their apps across a variety of screen sizes and input methods.Also:The best Android tablets: Expert tested and reviewedBut tools alone won't solve the problem. Google must incentivize developers with real rewards -- monetary grants, reduced Play Store fees, or even special promotional features for apps that meet optimization standards. Imagine a Play Store badge for "Best on Tablets" apps prominently displayed to attract downloads. Additionally, Google could provide developers with detailed performance metrics, offering insights into how their apps perform on Chromebooks and tablets and helping them identify areas for improvement.4. Improve performance: The non-negotiable foundationPerformance is another area where Android needs to improve. Running Android apps on Chromebooks often feels inconsistent -- some apps run flawlessly, while others struggle with lag or compatibility issues. For a laptop experience, this simply isn't acceptable.One solution is to ensure native app support for both ARM and x86 architectures, eliminating the need for emulation. Native performance guarantees smoother multitasking, faster load times, and a more reliable experience overall. Additionally, Google must introduce laptop-specific APIs that take advantage of hardware features like styluses, high-precision trackpads, and multi-touch displays. Hardware acceleration, especially for windowed apps, would further enhance responsiveness and make Android a more viable competitor to MacOS and Windows.5. Leverage Gemini AI: The future of productivityThe functional areas mentioned above are opportunities for Google to catch up to MacOS, iPadOS, and Windows. However, one area where Android could surpass its competitors is in artificial intelligence, particularly with Google's Gemini AI, which has significant potential. Although Gemini is still a relatively new technology, it is clear how it could turn Android laptops into powerful productivity tools.Also: What is Gemini? Everything you should know about Google's new AI modelImagine smart multitasking assistance that learns your habits and suggests app pairings for split-screen setups. For example, if you regularly take notes during video calls, Gemini could automatically open your preferred video conferencing app alongside your note-taking app. Context-aware workflows could adapt settings or recommend apps based on your current task, such as suggesting photo editing tools when you're importing images.Gemini's AI could also revolutionize content creation by adding features like auto-summarization in Google Docs, intelligent formatting suggestions, or real-time collaboration tools. For users who prefer hands-free interaction, AI-driven gestures and voice commands could make navigating apps or presenting slides more intuitive.Perhaps most exciting is Gemini's potential for system optimization. By monitoring resource usage, it could recommend ways to improve battery life, allocate processing power more effectively, or even predict performance bottlenecks before they occur.Why now is the time for Google to actAs Apple and Microsoft refine their ecosystems, Google risks falling further behind. The merger of ChromeOS and Android represents a chance to rethink Android's role in the computing landscape. By addressing its long-standing challenges -- including fragmentation and app ecosystem gaps -- Google could position Android as a true alternative to MacOS, iPadOS, and Windows.Also: The best laptops: Expert tested and reviewedThe future of hybrid computing depends on how well Google tackles these challenges. Will Android rise to meet the demands of modern laptops, or will it remain confined to the sidelines of innovation? Google's next steps could redefine the industry -- or cement its place as a mobile-first platform struggling to scale.Google

This one-hour course helps teachers learn gen AI basics. Here's how to access it.

Alexander Sikov/Getty ImagesScholar Gary Marcus has become a kind of Poet Laureate on the shortcomings of artificial intelligence(AI), chronicling in numerous books and articles how the technology often comes up short and is less impressive than the average individual believes.When, five years ago, Marcus wrote about the technical shortcomings of AI, in Rebooting AI, with co-author Ernest Davis, his critique was still somewhat theoretical, pointing to potential dangers of the technology.In the years since, ChatGPT has taken the world by storm. That situation leaves Marcus with a real-world canvas upon which to reflect on the actual, present danger of AI.His latest work, Taming Silicon Valley,published last month by MIT Press, catalogs those real-world effects. The book should be required reading for anyone whose life will be touched in any small part by AI, which is pretty much everyone today. As always, Marcus writes in a strong voice that moves through the material in a breezy, commanding style, backed by a solid command of science and technology. The payoff is often blunt, with Marcus predicting worse is to come from each anecdotal example he cites.Also: Kirk and Spock reunite: AI gives us the Star Trek farewell we always wantedAs he's knee-deep in the Twitterverse (Xverse), Marcus makes the most of other voices, quoting scholars and concerned individuals who have themselves written about the dangers at length.The first 50 pages of the book are a story of mishaps with AI, especially generative AIs, and the risks and harms they may -- and, in some cases, already do -- bring. This is familiar territory for anyone who followsMarcus's Substack or his X feed, but it's useful to have the context in one place.The danger has nothing to do with super-intelligent AI, or "artificial general intelligence". Marcus has long been a skeptic of present-day machine learning and deep learning achieving super-human capabilities. He pokes fun at notions that such an intelligence will annihilate humanity in one fell swoop.Also:The best AI for coding in 2024 (and what not to use)"In the field, there is a lot of talk of p(doom), a mathematical notation, tongue-slightly-in-cheek, for the probability of machines annihilating all people," writes Marcus in Taming Silicon Valley. "Personally, I doubt that we will see AI cause literal extinction."Instead, Marcus is concerned with the quotidian dangers of what not-so-smart machines are already doing to society via ChatGPT and other similar programs.Marcus takes us on a tour of the 12 worst present dangers of AI. These dangers include large language models (LLMs) functioning as machines to mass-produce information, such as the dilemma of "scammy AI-generated book rewrites [that] are flooding Amazon," according to a Wired magazine article he cites.More serious are deep-fake voices pretending to be kidnapped individuals, which is something that has already taken place multiple times. "We can expect it to happen a lot more," he predicts of the extortionist scams.Marcus spends many pages discussing intellectual property theft in the form of copyrighted works appropriated by OpenAI and others for training LLMs, without obtaining consent. As is often the case, Marcus can give a greater weight to the matter than one might initially think."The whole thing has been called the Great Data Heist -- a land grab for intellectual property that will (unless stopped by government intervention or citizen action) lead to a huge transfer of wealth -- from almost all of us -- to a tiny number of companies," he writes.Also:Google's Gems are a gentle introduction to AI prompt engineeringThe middle third of the book moves beyond discussing harms to a critique of Silicon Valley's predatory practices and how giant tech firms hoodwink the public and lawmakers by weaving mythology around their inventions to make them seem simultaneously important and utterly benign.The broken promises of OpenAI receive a deserved skewering from Marcus. They include the company no longer being a non-profit, and no longer being "open" in any meaningful sense, instead hiding all of their code from public scrutiny.But the problem is more than a single bad actor: Silicon Valley is rife with misdirection and disingenuousness.Among several rhetorical tricks, Marcus highlights companies such as Microsoft, OpenAI, and Alphabet's Google claiming they're too busy contemplating Doomsday scenarios to bother with the kinds of present dangers he outlines."Big Tech wants to distract us from all that, by saying -- without any real accountability -- that they are working on keeping future AI safe (hint: they don't really have a solution to that, either), even as they do far too little about present risk," he writes."Too cynical? Dozens of tech leaders signed a letter in May 2023 warning that AI could pose a risk of extinction, yet not one of those leaders appears to have slowed down one bit."The result of this approach by big tech has been the co-opting of government, known by policy types as "regulatory capture"."A tiny number of people and companies are having an enormous, largely unseen influence," writes Marcus. "It is not a coincidence that in the end, for all the talk we have seen of governing AI in the United States, mostly we have voluntary guidelines, and almost nothing with real teeth."Given the demonstrable dangers and the self-serving maneuvers of Big Tech, what can be done?In the final third, Marcus reflects on how to tackle the present dangers and the tech culture of misrepresentation and selfishness. He is an outsider to the policy world, even though he has testified before US Congress as an expert.As such, he doesn't provide a blueprint for what should happen, but he does an intelligent job of offering suggestions that make obvious good sense -- for the most part.For example, copyright law should be updated for the age of LLMs."The point now should be to update those laws," he writes, "to prevent people from being ripped off in a new way, namely, by the chronic (near) regurgitators known as large language models. We need to update our laws."Also:The data suggests gen AI boosts software productivity - for these developersThere also needs to be new statutes to protect privacy in the face of the "surveillance capitalism" that uses sensors to suck up everyone's data."As of this writing, no federal law guarantees that Amazon's Echo device won't snoop in your bedroom, nor that your car manufacturer won't sell your location data to anyone who asks," observes Marcus.The biggest gaping hole in the regulatory world is Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act of 1996 passed by the US Congress. Section 230 frees online services, including Meta's Facebook and X, of any responsibility for content, including brutal, disparaging, violent content. It also frees the users of those services to bully their fellow users while hiding behind the excuse that it's only one person's opinion."Newspapers can be sued for lies; why should social media be exempt?" Marcus rightly observes. "Section 230 needs to be repealed (or rewritten), assigning responsibility for anything that circulates widely." Amen to that.Also:6 ways to write better ChatGPT prompts - and get the results you want fasterMarcus also explores broad preventative measures as first principles, including transparency, such as not only demanding open-source code but in many cases forcing companies to disclose how LLMs and the like are being used."Have large language models been used, for example, to make job decisions, and done so in a biased way? We just don't know" because of the lack of transparency, traceability, and accountability, observes Marcus.Amidst all the possible ways Marcus explores for reckoning with risk, his book makes its strongest case in arguing for a regulatory agency for AI -- both domestic and international -- to handle the complexity of the task.Making laws is too slow a procedure, ultimately, to address present harms, writes Marcus. "Litigation can take a decade or more," as he observed in testimony before the US Senate in 2023. An agency can also be "more nimble" than lawmakers, he observes.Also:Google's new AI course will teach you to write more effective prompts - in 5 stepsAlthough there is little appetite for an AI agency, he writes, "the alternative is worse: that without a new agency for AI (or perhaps more broadly for digital technology in general), the United States will forever be playing catchup, trying to manage AI and the digital world with infrastructure that long predates the modern world."In arguing for an AI agency, Marcus faces two challenges. One is demonstrating substantial harm. It's one thing to show risks, as Marcus does in the first 50 pages; however, all those risks have to add up to sufficient harm to rally both public opinion and the urgency of lawmakers.The modern history of regulation shows that rules and agencies have been created only after great harm has been demonstrated. The Securities Act of 1933, which brought strict requirements to what public companies can and cannot do to protect the investing public, followed the stock market crash of 1929, which erased whole fortunes and wrecked the global economy. It was a moment of such unprecedented disaster that it galvanized regulatory efforts. The International Atomic Energy Agency was created to regulate nuclear fission only after the atomic bomb that killed 200,000 people in Hiroshima and Nagasaki, Japan. On a smaller scale, the US Food and Drug Administration emerged in the early twentieth century after journalists and progressive activists shed light on the massive harms of tainted substances.Also:Think AI can solve all your business problems? Apple's new study shows otherwiseIn other words, governments have rarely acted to promote regulation in advance of the demonstration of substantial harm.Do Marcus's first 50 pages make a convincing case? It's not clear. Given how many individuals use ChatGPT and the like, any notion of harm has to compete with the mass appeal of the tools. Every harm identified by Marcus might be excused away by the enthusiastic user of ChatGPT, Perplexity, or Google Gemini as merely the price to be paid for getting a new tool.I emailed Marcus to ask, "Is there enough harm demonstrated in the first 50 pages of the book to justify the measures proposed in the last 60 pages of the book?"In reply, Marcus noted "someone did actually commit suicide in what seems to be LLM-related circumstances," referring to an incident in April of 2023 where a man in his thirties committed suicide after six weeks of interacting with a chatbot.Also:Google survey says more than 75% of developers rely on AI. But there's a catchMarcus noted that beyond an actual incident, "we already are facing many negative consequences of generative AI, ranging from misinformation to covert racism to nonconsensual deepfake porn to harm to the environments; these are all growing fast." "We already are facing many negative consequences of generative AI," argues Marcus. Gary MarcusMarcus's reply reasserts the question of how much harm is too much before society says, enough, and establishes controls.In fact, the best reason for an AI agency may be that there is unlikely to be societal agreement about harm. For some, such as Marcus, any harm is too great, while others want first and foremost to nurture the incipient technology without imposing too many restrictions.An AI agency could reconcile that deep divide by rigorously logging and following up on reported harms, and exploring theoretical harms, to move beyond conjecture to a comprehensive sense of the dangers posed to society.The second big challenge to Marcus's call for an AI agency is how to define what it should oversee. Most agencies have a mandate based on at least rough outlines of what is in their purview.Also:Agile development can unlock the power of generative AI - here's howThe US Securities and Exchange Commission, for example, regulates the transaction of "securities", which may include equities, such as common stock of a publicly listed company, or debt instruments, such as bonds. The SEC does not regulate other tradable instruments, such as derivatives contracts, which are left to another agency, the Commodities Futures Trading Commission.The problem with the term "artificial intelligence" is that it has never been a real term. Marcus and other scholars use the term as a shorthand. But, in reality, AI has no precise meaning. AI is a grab-bag, a catch-all for any kind of computer science work that one feels like designating as AI.The late AI scholar Marvin Minsky of MIT coined the term "suitcase words" to mean expressions that could represent whatever anyone wanted them to include. AI is a suitcase word. It can include LLMs but, with the increasing marketing of any software as AI, all sorts of code could be labeled as "AI" whether or not it has anything in common with LLMs.That situation presents a problem for regulators: where to draw the line for their regulatory authority.Also:Could AI make data science obsolete?Should regulators regulate only things that use a certain technological component linked to machine-learning forms of AI, such as stochastic gradient descent, which is used to train most LLMs?Or should they regulate all things that have a certain observed effect, such as appropriating copyrighted material or producing output in natural language? Or should they broaden their bailiwick to anything and everything that claims to be AI?I asked Marcus in an email, "How will regulators know what is in their bailiwick?"Marcus's view is that experts will sort out the definitional questions: "Obviously we need experts, same as we do e.g. for FDA or regulating airplanes."Marcus continued: "Somehow we manage to navigate these definitional questions relatively well for 'food' 'drug', etc." True, except those things are real things, for which definitions can, ultimately be found; AI is not.Marcus urged me not to "overthink" the matter: "Each regulation is going to have a scope relevant to the regulation, e.g. the bill [California Governor Gavin] Newsom just signed on training and transparency is solely about models that are trained," noted Marcus. "A regulation that is about employment discrimination should be about any algorithm, trained or hard-coded, that is used to make employment decisions, etc."Also:Your dream programming job demands this language, every site agreesThat approach is true of individual measures, but it doesn't solve the question of the mandate for an AI agency. Any agency that comes into being will have to have a mandate just like the FDA. That's going to prove tricky while the term AI is a murky one, filled with hype.That situation, however, shouldn't deter society from the project of an AI agency. Marcus's main argument is still the strongest one: law-making simply can't keep pace with the proliferation of AI, however one defines the technology. An oversight body, staffed with experts in the field, armed with regulatory powers, needs to be vigilant on a daily basis. With the imminent change of power in Washington, D.C. as Donald J. Trump becomes the US President in January, I asked Marcus how he views the odds of such an agency taking shape.He is not optimistic:America absolutely needs an AI agency - both to encourage and leverage innovation, but also to mitigate the risks of AI, such as misinformation, discrimination, cybercrime, damage to environment, and the widespread theft of intellectual property. I fear that the Trump administration will ignore many of these risks, letting them escalate, and leaving society to bear them. I very much hope that I am wrong.Artificial Intelligence

Your boss has read about the power of generative AI and wants you to stop dithering about potential risks and start delivering results. Good luck.

The Segway Max G2 is a great, eco-friendly way to run errands, joyride through the park, or commute to work or class this fall. What's more, Best Buy is offering it for $600 off.

If there's one mobile trend in the past decade that I'll proudly stand by, it's the fact that cheap phones are getting good. Really good. In today's market, buying a phone that costs a fraction of the latest flagship iPhone or Samsung Galaxy doesn't mean settling for a noticeably inferior experience. Instead, manufacturers have begun to bring core features such as wireless charging, 5G, and high-performance processors downmarket, making the more accessible tier of handsets just as worthy of your consideration.Also: The best phones of 2024 What is the best cheap phone right now? My pick for the best cheap phone overall goes to the CMF Phone 1. Available for around $200, the CMF Phone 1 is the embodiment of a great-value handset, with a large 6.67-inch AMOLED display that gets plenty bright, a beefy 5,000mAh battery, clean yet highly-customizable software, and unique features that give it character. For a more premium experience that won't break the bank, consider the OnePlus 12R, which beats out the likes of theGoogle Pixel 8ain terms of display quality, brightness, battery life, performance, and charging. Considering many people shopping in the low-to-mid-range market value such features the most, the OnePlus 12R is the better option of the two mid-rangers.For more cheap phone recommendations, look to our tested selections below.Best cheap phones of 2024 Show less Pros Very affordable, starting at $239 Bright and large AMOLED display Customizable backplate design Long-lasting battery with efficient processor Cons Lack of Verizon bands makes it unusable for some No NFC means no tap-to-pay function Middling camera system CMF Phone 1 by Nothing Best cheap phone overall The best cheap phone you can buy today is the CMF Phone 1. Starting at $239, the Phone 1 has several features going for it that put it above devices that cost hundreds of dollars more, such as the ability to manually replace the back cover, screw in accessories (including a kickstand, wallet slot, and more), and insert a MicroSD card for expanded storage.Review:CMF Phone 1You would think that a $200 phone would settle on essential specs like display quality, battery life, and software, but those exact three aspects score high marks for the Phone 1. The 2,000-nit display gets bright enough to use comfortably outdoors, the 5,000mAh battery will hold up for most users, and Nothing's interpretation of Android is thoughtful, short on bloatware, and full of unique widgets.Of course, you'll have to settle with something when you're paying around $200 for a phone. In the case of the Phone 1, that comes in the form of a Dimensity 7300 5G processor that's just good enough for browsing and social media but less so for extended gaming, a camera system that's not as capable in low light environments, and a lack of network band support that makes the phone unusable if you're on Verizon.CMF Phone 1 by Nothing tech specs: Display size:6.67 inches |Display type:AMOLED |Resolution:2780 x 1264 |Refresh rate:120Hz |Battery life:5,500mAh|RAM:Up to 16GB |Storage:Up to 256GB |Rear camera:50MP Sony IMX890 main, 8MP ultra-wide, 2MP macro |Front camera:16MP |Processor:Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 Show Expert Take Show less Show less Pros Large battery with the fastest charging on the market Big, bright, beautiful AMOLED display Snappy Qualcomm processor with up to 16GB RAM $399 with trade-in Cons No wireless charging support Limited to three years of software updates Curved-edged design may not be for all OnePlus 12R Best cheap phone under $500 While the Google Pixel A-series has always been the budget king, the OnePlus 12R tips the scales this year, and in a big way. OnePlus launched the device alongside the flagship OnePlus 12 in February, ultimately making the mid-range phone look more attractive due to its feature parity with the more expensive model. Features like an LTPO 4.0 display that could ramp up to 4,500 nits of brightness, a 5,500mAh battery (which is even larger than the OnePlus 12's 5,000mAh), and 80W SuperVOOC charging made the OnePlus 12R look like a steal at $499.Review: OnePlus 12RHow did OnePlus get the price so low? Using an older processor, the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, was one way, but it turned out to be just as competent for most mobile use cases, as ZDNET's Matthew Miller discovered when he reviewed the phone. "I used the review device for a month and could easily see myself daily driving it since it performs flawlessly, has an IP64 dust/water resistance rating, and has an exceptionally bright display," Miller noted.While the 50MP camera system doesn't capture photos in low-light environments like the latest iPhone Pro or Samsung Galaxy Ultra model, it does a commendable job in most other conditions. But what the OnePlus 12R lacks in camera quality, it makes up for the fastest charging speed in the North American market, being able to charge from 0% to 100% within 40 minutes. Several Best Buy customers have commended the OnePlus for its lifestyle-changing charging speed.OnePlus 12R tech specs: Display size: 6.78 inches | Display type: AMOLED | Resolution: 2780 x 1264 | Refresh rate: 120Hz | Battery life:5,500mAh| RAM: Up to 16GB | Storage: Up to 256GB | Rear camera: 50MP Sony IMX890 main, 8MP ultra-wide, 2MP macro | Front camera: 16MP | Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 Show Expert Take Show less Show less Pros Compact OLED display with 120Hz Seven years of software updates Exceptional cameras with useful AI tools Cons 18W charging is relatively slow Maxes out at 256GB internal storage Google Pixel 8a Best cheap camera phone The Google Pixel 8a can easily be the best cheap phone overall, but that would depend on your list of priority features. The Pixel is for you if you place camera quality, software updates, and security above the display, performance, and battery life.The latest model features a handy 6.1-inch, 120Hz OLED display that, to be fair, works great for media consumption and scrolling through the web. However, because it's smaller, you're dealt with the usual benefits and drawbacks, including better one-handed usage and limited viewing angles. Fortunately, most people buy Pixel phones for the clean software experience, abundant Google AI features, including Magic Editor and Photo Unblur, and excellent camera quality.Read the review:Google Pixel 8aYou'll get all that with the Pixel 8a, which is excellent for a phone that costs half the price of Google's flagship model. ZDNET's Prakhar Khanna says the camera system, which includes a 64MP shooter, is solid, capturing "sharp and vibrant" photos while "handling high-contrast and low-light scenes better than other devices." Amazon users mostly agree with Khanna, with one customer citing, "I chose (the Pixel 8a) because of the camera, and it did not disappoint."Secretly, the best feature of the Pixel 8a is Google's commitment to seven years of operating system upgrades, Pixel Feature Drops, and security patches. This means the phone will stay feature-relevant until at least 2031, which is unheard of in the mid-range market and a key selling point for those who value it.Google Pixel 8a tech specs:Display size: 6.1 inches | Display type: OLED with HDR support | Resolution: 1080 x 2400 | Refresh rate: 120Hz | Battery life:4,500mAh| RAM: 8GB | Storage: Up to 256GB | Rear camera: 64MP main, 13MP ultra-wide | Front camera: 13MP | Processor: Titan M2 security Show Expert Take Show less Show less Pros Price is very reasonable A 'jack of all trades, master of none' smartphone Reliable 5,000mAh battery Up to five years of software and security updates Cons Low-band 5G support UI can be sluggish at times Cameras are not as capable as Pixel 8a Samsung Galaxy A35 5G Best cheap Samsung phone There are three key reasons to buy the Galaxy A35 5G over any other sub-$400 phone: For the price, you get a fantastic 6.6-inch AMOLED display that ramps up to 120Hz refresh rate, a triple-camera setup that includes a 50MP main sensor, and a beefy 5,000mAh battery.Read the review:Samsung Galaxy A35 5GSamsung knows what features people value the most, and even if you have preferences beyond that list, my time testing the Galaxy A35 5G has left me with enough confidence that it will meet your mobile needs. Coming from the older A34 5G, the latest model features a glass backing, a more performant Exynos chipset, and an improved camera system. Reddit users agree that the battery life on the A35 5G has been one of its bright spots, too.The A-series smartphones also benefit from Samsung's five-year commitment to software and security updates, a significant advantage compared to competing phones by Motorola and OnePlus. If you're currently using a Samsung phone and don't see yourself moving away from the ecosystem, the A35 5G is the best "cheap phone" option for you.Samsung Galaxy A35 5G tech specs:Display size: 6.6 inches | Display type: Super AMOLED | Resolution: 1080p | Refresh rate: 120Hz | Battery:5,000mAh| RAM: 6GB | Storage: Up to 1TB with microSD | Rear camera: 50MP, 8MP ultra-wide, 5MP macro | Front camera: 13MP | Processor: Exynos 1380 octa-core Show Expert Take Show less Show less Pros 120Hz display for a relatively low price 5,000mAh battery with 30W charging Useful Motorola gestures Cons Only gets one year of operating system support Camera system takes a hit in low-light environments Motorola Moto G Power 5G Best cheap Motorola phone If you're on a tighter budget, say under $300, consider the Motorola Moto G Power 5G. It's quite the mouthful, but the excessive branding is warranted because the phone gives you a lot. There is a lot of battery life, performance, and unique features that existing Motorola users will be familiar with and happy to see.Read the review: Motorola Moto G Power 5G"Motorola's user interface is one of my favorites, with a fairly stock, Pixel-esque look and feel that is boosted by the brand's handy gestures and system enhancements," ZDNET's Matthew Miller said in his review. The gestures in question include "twist" to launch the camera, "chop" to toggle the flashlight and picking up the phone to silence the ringer. This year's model also features a new vegan leather back panel that gives the Moto more class than your typical plastic-built budget phone.Ultimately, the Moto G Power 5G is praised for its battery life. Its 5,000mAh battery and relatively power-efficient MediaTek Dimensity 7020 processor should keep the phone running for more than a full day. As a bonus, you can consider the additional features, including the 3.5mm headphone jack.Motorola Moto G Power 5G tech specs:Display size: 6.7 inches | Display type: IPS LCD | Resolution: 1080p | Refresh rate: 120Hz | Battery:5,000mAh| RAM:8GB | Storage: Up to 1TB with microSD | Rear camera:50MP main | Front camera:16MP | Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 7020 Show Expert Take Show less Show less Pros Affordably priced and available unlocked Large 6.5-inch display with all-day battery life Extensive software support Cons Plastic build is not for all Limited to 128GB storage size MediaTek processor is just decent for performance Samsung Galaxy A15 5G Best cheap phone under $200 The flashiest smartphone features tend to exist only on flagships. Still, many will find appeal in Samsung's humble Galaxy A15 5G, which boasts 5G connectivity, a massive 5,000mAh battery, and the lowest price on this list at $199. That's a compelling package at a time when consumers arecutting down on spending.Also:The best cheap 5G phones ZDNET's testedDon't let the lower cost fool you; the Galaxy A15 5G has all the specs you'd want for a feasible mobile companion, from the relatively sizable 6.5-inch 90Hz AMOLED display -- a rarity in this price range -- to the expandable storage (up to 1TB) to Samsung's four-year commitment to security patches. This year's model also gets a notable 5MP ultra-wide camera, an upgrade from last year's 2MP macro lens.As of this writing, I've been testing the Galaxy A15 5G model for over a week, and while the phone won't feel like a million dollars, it's surprisingly sturdy to hold. The 90Hz display especially looked great for app browsing and navigating around. One Best Buy customer review puts it best, "(Galaxy A15 5G) is a $200 phone... It's not gonna blow you away, but for the price, it packs a punch."Samsung Galaxy A15 5G tech specs:Display size:6.5 inches |Display type:LCD |Resolution:1080p |Refresh rate:90Hz |Battery:5,000mAh|RAM:4GB |Storage:Up to 1TB with microSD |Rear camera:50MP main, 5MP ultra-wide, 2MP macro |Front camera:13MP |Processor:MediaTek Dimensity 6400+ Show Expert Take Show less What is the best cheap phone? Currently, the CMF Phone 1 is the best cheap phone on the market, thanks to its larger and bright display, unique hardware, and long-lasting battery. Here's how it stacks up against the competition.Best cheap phonePriceDisplay size, typeBattery and charging speedCMF Phone 1$2396.67 inches, AMOLED5,000mAh with 33W chargingOnePlus 12R$4996.78 inches, AMOLED5,500mAh with 80W chargingGoogle Pixel 8a$4996.1 inches, OLED4,500mAh with 18W chargingSamsung Galaxy A35 5G$4496.6 inches, AMOLED5,000mah with 25W chargingMotorola Moto G Power 5G$2996.7 inches, LCD5,000mah with 30W chargingSamsung Galaxy A15 5G$1996.5 inches, LCD5,000mah with 25W charging Which cheap 5G phone is right for you? To help you decide which phone is right for you, I've highlighted the key buying reasons for each below.Buy this best cheap phone...If you need...CMF Phone 1The best cheap phone right now, with a starting price of $239. The CMF Phone 1 features a customizable back cover, a large and bright display, and surprisingly clean software.OnePlus 12RThe best phone for less than $500. The OnePlus has the best-looking display in the mid-range market, the fastest charging speed, and performs like phones of much higher prices.Google Pixel 8aThe best camera phone for less than $500. You should also buy the Pixel 8a if you want a phone that can last you for as long as possible. Just know that it's smaller than most handsets.Samsung Galaxy A35 5GA cheap 5G Samsung phone. The Galaxy A35 gives you most of the essential features, with an AMOLED display that's great for media consumption and mobile gaming.Motorola Moto G Power 5GA cheap phone for less than $300. The Moto G Power 5G will last you a good day or two before needing to charge, and it looks relatively stylish with its vegan-leather backing.Samsung Galaxy A15 5GA cheap phone for less than $200. If you're on an even tighter budget, the Galaxy A15 5G is a formidable pickup; arguably the best in its price range. Factors to consider when buying a cheap phone When shopping for a new cheap phone, here are the factors that you should consider:Budget: The definition of "budget" and "cheap" will vary from person to person, but the way I perceive it is what product gives you the best bang for your buck. All the phones listed in this guide have been tested by ZDNET's team of mobile experts and offer more value than their price points suggest.Memory and storage:As is the case with any phone of any price, you should keep in mind how much memory and storage you'll need. Many budget handsets come with as low as 64GB of base storage -- the iPhone SE (2022) included. If you frequently take pictures and videos, play games, or download content for offline use, consider a phone with at least 128GB of storage or MicroSD card support.Battery life: Beyond a good screen, you'll want a phone that can last. Ideally, you'll want a phone that can withstand at least one full day of usage and can charge fast. How we tested these cheap 5G phones ZDNET's review team spends upwards of a year testing the ins and outs of every major phone release, evaluating the day-to-day performance, camera quality, battery life and endurance, and special features. Here's a breakdown of every factor we consider before we make recommendations:Design and ergonomics:How good a phone looks and feels plays a big role in many users' buying journeys, so we consider these aspects heavily when testing.Performance:Several factors affect a phone's performance, including LTE/5G signal, battery life, and background tasks. Therefore, we typically begin our evaluations with a fully charged handset, with all background tasks closed, and with as stable of a mobile connection as possible.Camera quality:ZDNET tests phone cameras by capturing hundreds of photos and videos of various subjects and in various lighting conditions. We also compare the output to that of older models.Battery life and charging:It's also important for us to evaluate how long phones last under light, moderate, and heavy usage, how long they take to recharge, and how they do it (wired, wireless, or both).Special features:These features distinguish tested devices from a bustling smartphone market and hopefully bring added value to users, not the opposite.Pricing and availability:Beyond budget considerations, we also note if a phone is available in the US or only internationally.For a more extensive breakdown, check out our comprehensivephone testing methodology page. Should you buy a used cheap phone? I typically wouldn't advise buying a used cheap phone unless you're using it as a secondary device. That's because used phones, depending on the condition you buy them, are more susceptible to damage, won't support any warranties, and may potentially be reported as stolen or lost, rendering the device useless after you've purchased it.Instead, it's always ideal to buy a new phone and adjust your buying journey based on your budget and desired features. Should you buy a used flagship phone or a new cheap phone? I've been asked this question several times, and my answer is always this:You should buy an older flagship phone if...You want a phone with a premium and durable build qualityCamera performance is another priorityDisplay quality matters to youYou should buy a new cheap phone if...You want a phone with a year or two more of software updatesYou plan on buying insurance for your phone Other cheap phones we tested:Whether you're looking to upgrade or get your first smartphone, Apple, Samsung, and OnePlus have great choices that ZDNET's tested and recommends.ZDNET Recommends

Black Friday2024 is gearing up to be one of the most competitive shopping events yet, as top retailers and carriers go head-to-head with unbeatable phone deals. Whether you're diving into holiday shopping or making up for missing last month's Prime Day, fantastic offers from Samsung, Google, Motorola, and Apple are already hitting the shelves. Also: The best Black Friday deals live nowThe phone deals below will save you a significant amount of money on some of the best handsets we've tested and recommend at ZDNET. For example, carriers like Verizon and T-Mobile are offering "On Us" promotions that can get you the latest iPhone, Samsung, or Google Pixel for free with a qualifying trade-in. You'll also find links to the retailer with the best offer for various phones below, whether that's Best Buy, Amazon, or AT&T. Keep an eye out, as we'll be continuously updating the list with new deals leading up to Black Friday. Shop deals at AmazonOur favorite smartphone deals for Black Friday 2024Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra: $1,000 (save $420 at Samsung): Thebest phonewe've tested so far, the Galaxy S24 Ultra packs the best specs across key categories, including display, performance, battery life, and camera. It also has a built-in S-Pen for precision inputs.Samsung Galaxy S24 FE: $475 (save $175 at Amazon): If you want to buy an unlocked Samsung phone, check out this deal on one of the best mid-rangers we've tested.Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6: $1,200 (save $700 at Samsung): If you opt for one of the special edition colors (Crafted Black or White), the Korean giant will discount a total of $700 with no trade-in required.iPhone 16 On Us: $25/month (save up to $3,200 at T-Mobile): The uncarrier will sell you four iPhone 16 models for free when you trade in eligible devices, start 4 new lines at $25 per line, and agree to 24 months of bill credits.Apple iPhone 16: $0.00/month (save $830 at Verizon): The carrier will credit you the cost of Apple's base-model iPhone when you open a new line and are under an Unlimited Ultimate plan.Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max: $70.55/month (save $1,200 at Boost): Boost Mobile will cover the cost of the latest iPhone 16 model when you sign up for an eligible wireless plan and 36-month financing.Google Pixel 9: $700 (save $100 at Amazon): Possibly the best Android phone for most people in 2024, the comfortably sized, very capable Pixel 9 is selling at close to its all-time low price.Google Pixel Fold: $1,120 (save $680 at Walmart): The brand's firstfoldable phonehas a compact 5.8-inch display on the outside and an expansive 7.6-inch screen on the inside.OnePlus Open: $1,500 (save $200 at Amazon): One of thebest foldable phoneswe've tested is selling at a $200 discount ahead of Black Friday. Motorola Razr+ 2024 Renewed: $675 (save $315 at Amazon): The best flip phone you can buy right now is more than $300 off and comes with 256GB of storage. Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G 2024: $250 (save $250 at Motorola): For a budget phone with stylus support, consider Motorola's G Stylus model, which comes with 256GB of storage. Jason Hiner/ZDNET Current price: $1,000Original price: $1,419While the year hasn't ended yet, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra remains ZDNET's top pick for best phone of 2024. The big selling point with the Ultra model is its maximalist approach to being a smartphone, giving you all the features you could need, including a built-in S Pen stylus, upwards of 1TB of storage, and a quad-camera system. For a limited time, you can pick up the 512GB of storage variant for the same price as the 256GB.Review: Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra View now at Samsung Adam Breeden/ZDNET Current price: $700Original price: $800The Google Pixel 9 is the phone I recommend to most people in 2024. It doesn't have the flashiest features, like a dedicated telephoto lens or LTPO display, but it's a well-rounded package that holds up against phones that cost hundreds of dollars more. With seven years of software support, Google AI features, and a very capable camera system, you've got one of the safest, best-value phones on sale ahead of Black Friday.Review: Google Pixel 9 View now at Best Buy Max Buondonno/ZDNET Current price: $800Original price: $1,100One of the best flip phones on the market, you can buy Samsung's latest foldable for $300off ahead of Black Friday. For the money, you get a compact handset with dual cameras, dual screens, and up to seven years of software features, operating system, and security updates. The new Z Flip 6 model is also Samsung's most durable one yet.Review: Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 View now at Amazon Jason Hiner/ZDNET Current price: $65 a monthOriginal price: $999Carrier deals are almost always too good to be true, but if you meet all the right requirements and are willing to exchange loyalty for a discounted iPhone, things may just work out. Case in point, this Boost Mobile deal will cover the cost of the latest iPhone 16 Pro, with the requirement being to enroll in the brand's wireless plan ($65 a month over 36 months). If you were already considering switching carrier plans or starting a new one, this deal is worth considering.Review: Apple iPhone 16 Pro View now at Amazon Kerry Wan/ZDNET Current price: $350Original price: $700The Motorola Razr (2023) is one of the more accessible foldable phones on the market, and this early Black Friday deal makes it even more so. While the outer display is not as large as the flagship flip phones, its inner display is the same size as Razr's more expensive sibling, Razr Plus. Right now, you can buy the Razr at a $350 mark-down.Review: Motorola Razr (2023) View now at Motorola Best Black Friday Samsung phone deals Kerry Wan/ZDNETSamsung Galaxy S24 Ultra: $1,000 (save $420 at Samsung): Thebest phonewe've tested so far, the Galaxy S24 Ultra packs the best specs across key categories, including display, performance, battery life, and camera. It also has a built-in S-Pen for precision inputs.Samsung Galaxy S24: $700 (save $100 at Samsung): The base model of the Galaxy S24 series has also been discounted by $100. It's a more compact option if you're not a fan of big phones.Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6: $1,200 (save $700 at Samsung): If you opt for one of the special edition colors (Crafted Black or White), the Korean giant will discount a total of $700 with no trade-in required.Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6: $800 (save $300 at Amazon): For a flagship foldable that won't break the bank, consider Samsung's latest Z Flip 6, which is selling for a record-low price, so long as you opt for the green color.Samsung Galaxy A35 5G: $300 (save $100 at Amazon): One of thebest budget phoneson the market, with a 120Hz display and triple camera setup.Samsung Galaxy S24 FE: $475 (save $175 at Amazon): If you want to buy an unlocked Samsung phone, check out this deal on one of the best mid-rangers we've tested.Best Black Friday iPhone deals Kerry Wan/ZDNETApple iPhone 16 Pro Max: $71/month (save $1,200 at Boost): Apple's most competent iPhone model features a 6.9-inch display and the best battery life among the iPhone 16 line.Apple iPhone 16: $0/month (save $830 at Verizon): The carrier will credit you the cost of Apple's base-model iPhone when you open a new line and are under an Unlimited Ultimate plan.Apple iPhone 16 Pro: $65/month (save $1,000 at Boost): Want a Pro iPhone that's actually comfortable to hold and use? Consider the smaller iPhone 16 Pro.Apple iPhone 16 Plus: $65/month (save $930 at Boost): Apple also offers the standard iPhone 16 in a Plus size, with a 6.7-inch display. Apple iPhone 16 On Us: $25/month (save up to $3,200 at T-Mobile): The uncarrier will sell you four iPhone 16 models for free when you trade in eligible devices, start 4 new lines at $25 per line, and agree to 24 months of bill credits.Best Black Friday Motorola phone deals Kerry Wan/ZDNETMotorola Razr+ 2024 Renewed: $675 (save $315 at Amazon): The best flip phone you can buy right now is more than $300 off and comes with 256GB of storage. Motorola Razr+ 2023: $550 (save $450 at Amazon): Anotherfoldable phonecontender, the higher-end Razr+ model is also discounted and is arguably a better flip phone than Samsung's Galaxy Z Flip thanks to a more customizable and functional outer screen.Motorola Razr 2024: $600 (save $100 at Best Buy): It's not as big of a discount, but if you want a Motorola Razr with more future-proofed specs, consider the 2024 model.Motorola Razr 2023: $350 (save $350 at Motorola): The most affordablefoldable phoneon the market right now just got cheaper, with the 2023 Motorola Razr marked even lower at $350.Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G 2024: $250 (save $250 at Motorola): For a budget phone with stylus support, consider Motorola's G Stylus model, which comes with 256GB of storage. Motorola Moto G Power 2024: $200 (save $100 at Best Buy): Motorola's G Power line doesn't have the flashiest features, but its large battery and efficient processor make it a fantastic pick-up for kids, students, elders, or a secondary device.Best Black Friday Google Pixel deals Kerry Wan/ZDNETGoogle Pixel 9: $700 (save $100 at Amazon): Possibly thebest Android phonefor most people in 2024, the comfortably sized, very capable Pixel 9 is selling at close to its all-time low price.Google Pixel Fold: $1,120 (save $680 at Walmart): The brand's firstfoldable phonehas a compact 5.8-inch display on the outside and an expansive 7.6-inch screen on the inside.Google Pixel 9 Pro: $0.00/month (save $999 at T-Mobile): When you trade in an eligible device, are on a Go5G Plus or Go5G Next plan, and agree to a 24-month installment plan.Google Pixel 9 Pro XL: $5.55/month (save $1,200 at Verizon): When you trade in an eligible device, are on an eligible Unlimited plan, and agree to a 36-month installment plan.Google Pixel 7a: $330 (save $170 at Amazon): One of thebest budget phoneson the market, with Google AI features and a 90Hz display.Google Pixel 7 Pro: $430 (save $570 at Amazon): The older flagship is still relevant in 2024, with a large display, a reliable camera system, and 256GB of storage.Google Pixel 8: $500 (save $200 at Amazon): Coming with 128GB of storage, the year-old Pixel 8 is still a fantastic mid-range option if you value camera quality above all else.Best Black Friday OnePlus deals Kerry Wan/ZDNETOnePlus Open: $1,500 (save $200 at Amazon): One of the best foldable phones we've tested is selling at a $200 discount for the 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage variant.OnePlus 12R with Nord Buds 3 Pro: $499 (save $80 at OnePlus): A fantastic mid-range phone with fast charging and an ultra-smooth display, the 12R is currently being bundled with a pair of Nord Buds 3 Pro for free.FAQsWhen is Black Friday?Black Friday takes place on Friday, Nov. 29, 2024. However, expect retailers to begin early discounts and sales weeks before.When is Cyber Monday?Cyber Monday is happening on Monday, Dec. 2, 2024, following Black Friday.Are phone deals really better on Black Friday?Yes, phones, including recent iPhone models, are often cheaper on Black Friday, matching (if not beating) the level of discount you'd find during any other major shopping event. This is partly because Black Friday happens months after most manufacturers like Samsung, OnePlus, Google, and Apple have launched new devices. With the amount of time that has passed, you'll often see the more recent phones discounted by a good amount at this time. iPhones are cheaper during this time because carriers like Verizon, T-Mobile, and AT&T offer competitive trade-in and sign-on promotions. As long as you read the fine print about the qualifications, most of these deals will cover the retail cost of the new iPhone. You'll just have to agree to a long-term installment plan that ranges between 24 months to 36 months.Which retailer will have the best smartphone deals?While Amazon has traditionally been the most competitive with its Black Friday smartphone deals, other retailers like Best Buy, Walmart, and Target have caught up in recent years. In fact, we're seeing top offers available across a variety of stores versus just one, which is a good thing for the retail landscape.That said, I'd highly advise scanning the catalogs of the manufacturers themselves, such as Samsung, Motorola, Google, and Apple. Beyond discounts to the retail cost, manufacturers often bundle free wireless earbuds, chargers, and other accessories with your purchase. Since you're purchasing directly from the manufacturer, you'll also have a direct line with their customer support, should any problems with the product arise.What's the difference between Black Friday and Cyber Monday?While Black Friday's online presence has risen exponentially over the past decade, Cyber Monday was the original "online only" commerce event. Still, you'll find deals in-store and online for both occasions. In some cases, retailers will list new deals during Cyber Monday, especially for products or inventory that didn't sell as much during Black Friday a few days earlier.How did we choose these Black Friday deals?ZDNET chooses Black Friday deals based on the percentage of discount compared to the original price ($5 off a $20 item is just as good as $250 off a $1,000 item), how significant the discount is compared to pricing history, and whether our experts have tested and recommended the product.We also look at deals from a wider scope, considering better alternatives, unique use cases, stock, and existing customer reviews on websites like Amazon, Best Buy, and Reddit. The best deals will save you a decent amount of money while giving you a truly worthwhile product.Where can you shop the best Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals?There's no beating in-person shopping that begins on the eve of Black Friday, and retailers such as Amazon, Best Buy, Target, and Walmart have made it a point to reward those who do. However, you can still find similar discounts online -- and with a higher chance of securing a product before it's snatched by someone else.Besides big-box retailers, most carriers and e-commerce brands will also host some form of Black Friday and Cyber Monday promotion; simply visit your preferred destinations and see what's available. It won't hurt to try.What are the best Black Friday 2024 deals?ZDNET's experts have been searching through Black Friday sales live now to find the best discounts by category. These are the best Black Friday deals so far, by category:You can also find the best Black Friday deals by price:And the best Black Friday deals by retailer:Top holiday deals

Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and other holiday sales will begin soon (seriously, Black Friday is about two weeks away). And even though Black Friday historically kicks off the holiday shopping season, it's certainly not the only time you can save.As early Black Friday sales kick off, you can already find plenty of shoppable savings on top tech from headphones to TVs to tablets and beyond across major retailers like Amazon, Walmart, Best Buy, Target, and more.Our team of deal-hunting experts at ZDNET have been rounding up the best early Black Friday deals you can shop ahead of the post-Thanksgiving sale, so you can get a jump start on your holiday shopping. We'll continue to update this list before and during the holiday shopping season.Shop deals at AmazonOur favorite early Black Friday 2024 dealsApple Watch Series 10: $349 (save $50 at Walmart): Apple's newestWatch Series 10is already seeing savings in several colors at Walmart. Get one for $349 (save $50) starting Nov. 11 for Walmart+ members during Walmart's early Black Friday event, while supplies last.Samsung T5 EVO Portable 4TB SSD: $218 (save $203 at Amazon): You can't go wrong with practical buys ahead of the holidays, like this portable SSD to store all those pictures you'll be taking. This one from Samsung is apopular dealamong ZDNET readers.Nomad iPhone cases and accessories: Save up to 30% off on iPhone 15 cases.Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 40mm: $169 (save $131 at Amazon): Do you need a new smartwatch? Samsung's Galaxy Watch 6 is already discounted by 47%, and it includes some great features, like sleep tracking.Torras MiniMag 5,000mAh MagSafe Battery Pack: $42 (save $11 at Amazon):ZDNET's favoritethinMagSafe batterypack is on sale for 21% off, plus an extra 5%. This battery is lightweight, powerful, and perfect for topping off your phone's battery on the go.Apple AirTag 4-Pack: $73 (save $26 at Amazon):AirTagsare great for tracking keys, luggage, wallets, and more. Grab this four-pack for nearly 20% off.Anker Nano Power Bank with USB-C: $20 (save $10 at Amazon): Thislipstick-sized battery boosterplugs right into the bottom of your phone for quick, portable charging. Plus, it comes in several fun colors and makes a perfect stocking stuffer.MacBook Air M2 256GB: $799 (save $200 at Amazon): Apple's M2 model of the popularMacBook Airis 25% off, a significant savings for Apple.Apple iPad 10th Gen: $299 (save $50 at Amazon): Snag $50 savings on the most up-to-datebase model iPadahead of the holiday season.Apple Watch SE: $189 (save $60 at Amazon): The best deal on theApple Watch SEis available at Amazon for $60 off.Black Friday deals under $50: AirTags, Fire TV Sticks, and more Maria Diaz/ZDNETRocketbook Core Reusable Smart Notebook: $24 (save $13 at Amazon): The Rocketbook notebook is a great budget buy for those looking to maximize their note-taking while still keeping the environment happy. Plus, it's aZDNET-testedpick.TP-Link Wi-Fi Extender: $15 (save $20 at Amazon): Extend the range of your Wi-Fi by up to 1,200 square feet and connect up to 30 devices.Renpho Smart Scale: $20 (save $15 at Amazon): Connect this smart scale with popular health and fitness apps like Samsung Health, MyFitnessPal, Fitbit, and Apple Health to track your body fat percentage, muscle mass, visceral fat, water weight, metabolic age, and more.Apple AirTag: $20 (save $9at Best Buy): The popular item tracker can be placed in a wallet, backpack, or car to give you peace of mind. It's also our tested top pick for thebest Bluetooth tracker.Roku LE Streaming Player: $20 (save $5 at Walmart): Roku LE lets you stream free, live, and premium TV, as well as connect to your subscribed apps like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and others.USX TV Wall Mount: $23 (save $17 at Walmart): This wall mount fits TV sizes 23-55 inches and can move in full motion to find the perfect angle for your TV.Black Friday TV deals: Samsung, Sony, and more Jason Hiner/ZDNETAmazon Fire TV 50-inch 4-Series 4K: $300 (save $150 with Amazon): You can't go wrong with snagging a Fire TV on sale, and this one is discounted by $150.Amazon Fire TV 32-inch 2-Series HD: $100 (save $90 with Amazon): If you're on a budget, this 32-inch Fire TV for just $100 is a great buy for a dorm, apartment, or bedroom.LG 65-inch Class C4 Series Evo 4K: $1,499 (save $1,200 at Best Buy): The high color accuracy, perfect contrast, and wide viewing angles of this OLED display TV come with a staggering price drop.TCL 65-inch Class Q5 Series 4K TV: $380 (save $170 at Best Buy): One of the best budget TVs features 4K video resolution, a decent QLED panel that gets bright and colorful, and Fire TV software.Sony 65-inch Class Bravia 8 OLED Smart Google TV: $1,699 (save $300 at Best Buy): This impressive high-end TV features individual control over 8 million self-illuminating pixels, delivering pure blacks, vibrant colors, and deep contrast for an unparalleled viewing experience.Black Friday Apple deals: Apple Watches, MacBooks, and more Kerry Wan/ZDNETApple Watch Series 10: $349 (save $50 at Walmart): Apple's newestWatch Series 10is already seeing savings in several colors at Walmart.Apple Watch Series 9: $349 (save $50 at Best Buy): Last year'sWatch Series 9is available for $50 off right now at Best Buy. Grab the 41mm GPS model with the sport loop in Light Pink.Apple Watch Series 9:$359 (save $70 at Best Buy): The larger 45mm face Watch Series 9 is $100 off at Best Buy right now.Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen): $189 (save $61 at Walmart): One of the best deals on theWatch SE (2nd Gen), which is still the latest base model available, is at Walmart, where it's currently $61 off in most iterations.MacBook Air M2 256GB: $749 (save $250 at Amazon): Apple's M2 model of the popularMacBook Airis almost $200 off, and while this isn't the best price we've seen, it's still a significant wound.Apple iPad 10th Gen: $299 (save $50 at Amazon): Save $50 on the most up-to-datebase model iPadahead of the holiday season.Apple iPad Air M2: $784 (save $65 at Amazon): Our reviewer called theiPad Air M2"the iPad most people should buy" -- and it's almost 10% off right now. Snag the 256GB Wi-Fi+ Cellular model in four different colors.Apple AirTag 4-Pack: $70 (save $29 at Amazon): You can't go wrong with a practical buy this holiday season, andAirTagsare great for tracking keys, luggage, wallets, and more. Grab this four-pack for nearly 20% off.Black Friday tablet deals: iPads, Fire tablets, and more Adam Breeden/ZDNETSamsung Galaxy Tab A9+: $170 (save $50 at Amazon): This 11-inch, 64GB Android tablet features a large screen, quad speakers, and a slim, durable design, which makes it perfect for kids.Amazon Fire Max 11 Tablet: $140 (save $90 at Amazon): Amazon's newestFire Max 11 tabletis perfect for streaming, gaming, and more, and right now it's available for 39% off.Apple iPad Air M2: $784 (save $65 at Amazon): Our reviewer called theiPad Air M2"the iPad most people should buy" -- and it's almost 10% off right now. Snag the 256GB Wi-Fi+ Cellular model in four different colors.Samsung Galaxy Tab A7: $140 (save $90 at Walmart): This Samsung tablet has a 10.4-inch screen, a 10-hour battery life, 32GB of storage, and a quad-speaker system with Dolby Atmos sound.Apple iPad (9th generation): $258 (save $71 at Walmart): Although not the most recent model, this iPad has a 10.2-inch Retina display, a powerful A13 Bionic chip, and an Ultra Wide front camera with Center Stage.Black Friday laptop deals: MacBooks, gaming laptops, and more Cliff Joseph/ZDNETMacBook Air M3 15-inch: $1,099 (save $200 at Amazon): TheMacBook Air M3model packs a powerful chip into Apple's seamless design, making this laptop great for school, work, or personal use. Plus, it's over $200 off.MacBook Air M2 256GB: $749 (save $250 at Amazon): Apple's M2 model of the popularMacBook Airis almost $200 off, and while this isn't the best price we've seen, it's still a significant wound.Lenovo Flex 3 15.6-inch Touch-Screen Chromebook Laptop: $329 (save $150 at Best Buy): This versatile 2-in-1 laptop has a 15.6-inch FHD touchscreen display, an Intel Pentium Silver N6000 processor, 8GB RAM, and 64GB of eMMC storage.Acer 14-inch Chromebook Spin 714 Intel Evo Laptop: $530 (save $170 at Best Buy): Acer's high-performance 2-in-1 laptop features a WUXGA touchscreen display, an Intel Core i5-1335U processor, 8GB of RAM, and a 256GB SSD, all contained within a durable and stylish steel gray chassis. Take advantage of this great deal while it lasts.Black Friday smartphone and accessory deals: iPhone, Samsung, and more Kerry Wan/ZDNETAnker MagGo 3-1 Wireless Charger: $82 (save $28 with coupon at Amazon): Anker's MagGo multi-charger is portable and foldable for easy on-the-go use. Plus, it's aZDNET favorite.Anker Nano Power Bank with USB-C: $20 (save $10 at Amazon): Thislipstick-sized battery boosterplugs right into the bottom of your phone for quick, portable charging. Plus, it comes in several fun colors and makes a perfect stocking stuffer.Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra: $1,169 (save $251 at Amazon): Thebest phonewe've tested so far, the Galaxy S24 Ultra packs the best specs across key categories, including display, performance, battery life, and camera. It also has a built-in S-Pen for precision inputs.Apple iPhone 16: $0.00/month (save $830 at Verizon): The carrier will credit you the cost of Apple's base-model iPhone when you open a new line and are under an Unlimited Ultimate plan.Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max: $71/month (save $1,200 at Boost): Boost Mobile will cover the cost of the latest iPhone 16 model when you sign up for an eligible wireless plan and 36-month financing.Motorola Razr+ 2024: $1,000 (save $300 on Bose at Motorola): The best flip phone you can buy right now comes with 256GB of storage. While it's not discounted, you can get a free pair of Bose QuietComfort II earbuds with purchase, a $300 value.Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6: $803 (save $297 at Amazon): A refined foldable with 256GB of storage ideal for small-phone enthusiasts, content creators, and Samsung fans.Google Pixel 8: $499 (save $220 at Amazon): Coming with 128GB of storage, the year-old Pixel 8 is still a fantastic mid-range option if you value camera quality above all else. Google Pixel Fold: $1,350 (save $450 at Amazon): The brand's firstfoldable phonehas a compact 5.8-inch display on the outside and an expansive 7.6-inch screen on the inside.Black Friday headphone and speaker deals: Beats, Apple, Sony, and more Nina Raemont/ZDNETBeats Solo 4Headphones: $130 (save $70 at Amazon): The fourth generation ofBeats' most popular headphones debutedwith redesigned audio components, fresh colorways, and lengthy battery life, making them one of our favorite headphones of 2024.Apple AirPods Pro 2Earbuds + 3 free months Apple Music and Apple Fitness+: $190 (save $60 at Best Buy): We've dubbed these earbudsthe best AirPods you can buy, thanks to their seamless integration with Apple devices and hearing health features.Sony WH-1000XM5Headphones + 4 free months SiriusXM and 3 free months Youtube Premium: $330 (save $70 at Best Buy): Sony's premium over-ear headphones areamong our favorite noise-canceling headphones. They sport a low-profile design, all-day comfort, and Sony's signature sound.Shokz OpenRun ProHeadphones: $160 (save $20 at Amazon): Bone conduction headphones are fabulous for outdoor enthusiasts, and these earbuds offer immense comfort, sweat and water resistance, and lengthy battery life.Beats Studio ProHeadphones + 3 free months Apple Music and Apple Fitness+ (trade-in discount available): $250 (save $100 at Best Buy):Beats' premium headphonesdeliver effective noise cancellation, plenty of style, and impressive battery life.Sony WF-1000XM5Earbuds + 3 free months YouTube Premium: $249 (save $50 at Best Buy): These Sony earbuds offer plenty of future-forward software features and effective noise cancellation, which is whythey're one of our favorite earbuds.Bose Ultra OpenEarbuds: $249 (save $50 at Bose): The Bose Ultra Open offer vibrant sound, a nondescript and stylish design, and an open-ear design for environmental awareness, making themone of our picksfor the best earbuds of the year.Nothing Ear OpenEarbuds: $149 (save $40 at Amazon): These open-ear earbuds areone of our favoritesdue to their unique and stylish design, all-day comfort, and crystal-clear sound.Sony WH-CH720NHeadphones + 4 free months SiriusXM and 3 free months Youtube Premium: $90 (save $60 at Best Buy): If the XM5 over-ear headphones are too expensive,these affordable Sony headphonesshare some of the same internal audio components.Sennheiser Momentum 4Headphones: $250 (save $130 at Amazon): We love these flagship Sennheiser headphones for their simple design, incredible sound, and marathon battery life.Sennheiser AccentumHeadphones: $130 (save $20 at Amazon): If the Sennheiser Momentum headphones are too expensive, the Accentum headphones offer a similar audio experience for less money.Black Friday home and wellness deals: Robot vacuums, air purifiers, and more Maria Diaz/ZDNETJackery Explorer 1000 V2 Portable Powerstation: $459 (save $340 with coupon at Amazon): Always be prepared with a backup battery-boosting option for emergencies. Thisportable power stationoption from Jackery is on sale for over $300 off.Kasa Smart Plug Mini 15A: $19 (save $11 at Amazon): Snag a pack of smart plugs just in time for winter holidays and turn your holiday lights on and off with ease.Bluetti EB3A Portable Power Station: $198 (save $69 at Amazon): Never lose a way to charge your phone or favorite devices with Bluetti's portable power station.DeWalt 20V Max Cordless Drill Kit: $99 (save $80 at Amazon): This DeWalt drill kit is a great gift for Dad, a new homeowner, or perfect for keeping on hand for here and there tasks.Roborock Q7 Max+ Robot Vacuum and Mop: $360 (save $510 at Amazon): ZDNET's robot vacuum reviewer Maria Diaz calls this "one of thebest midrange Roborock robot vacuums" for a reason. Right now you can save nearly $500.Roborock Qrevo S Robot Vacuum and Mop: $550 (save $250 with coupon at Amazon): Right now you can save $250 on the Roborock Qrevo S vacuum and mop combo thanks to a sneaky on-page coupon.Dreame L20 Ultra Robot Vacuum and Mop: $720 (save $680 at Amazon): Dreame's L20 combo robot vacuum and mop is self-emptying, self-refilling, and features AI obstacle avoidance.Roborock Q5 Pro+ Robot Vacuum and Mop: $330 (save $370 at Amazon): This robot vacuum and mop combo uses smart navigation, features a duo roller brush, and has 5,500 Pa of suction.Ecovacs Deebot T30S Robot Vacuum and Mop: $850 (save $350 at Amazon): This combo robot vac and mop is an all-in-one cleaning hub with 11,000 Pa of suction. Enjoy hot water-washing, self emptying, and more.Shark AV753 ION Robot Vacuum: $150 (save $80 at Amazon): If you're looking for a budget robot vacuum pick, this option for Shark is a great starter to test the robot vacuum waters.Black Friday FAQs Tharon Green/ZDNETWhen is Black Friday?This year, Black Friday falls on Nov. 29, which is exactly one day after Thanksgiving 2024.When is Cyber Monday?Cyber Monday is always on the first Monday following Thanksgiving. This year, it falls on Dec. 2, 2024.Are deals really better on Black Friday?Black Friday certainly brings seasonal savings and, of course, some artificial deals you need to be aware of. But for the most part, it is a good time to score savings on a majority of products across tons of categories, from tech to home, to name a few. Perhaps the best part about Black Friday is the enormous amount of sales occurring at nearly every major retailer, both in-store and online, giving you the best opportunity to find savings at basically everywhere you like to shop.What's the difference between Black Friday and Cyber Monday?Semantics, mostly. Black Friday traditionally refers to the day of savings that follows Thanksgiving, which at one point was an in-stores only event. Over the years, Black Friday sales have expanded and lengthened to include online retailers, hence "Cyber Week" and "Cyber Monday." Cyber Monday refers to the Monday following Thanksgiving weekend, and originally referred to online savings on lots of products. These days, both Black Friday and Cyber Monday offer similar savings in-store and online.How did we choose these Black Friday deals?ZDNET only writes about deals we want to buy -- devices and products we desire, need, or would recommend. Our experts looked for deals that were at least 20% off (or are hardly ever on sale), using established price comparison tools and trackers to determine whether the deal is actually on sale and how frequently it drops.We also looked over customer reviews to find out what matters to real people who already own and use the deals we're recommending. Our recommendations may also be based on our own testing -- in addition to extensive research and comparison shopping. The goal is to deliver the most accurate advice to help you shop smarter.Where can you shop the best Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals?You'll be able to shop Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals at nearly every major retailer, including Amazon, Walmart, Target, Best Buy, and more. Plus, you'll likely be able to grab savings even earlier thanks to staggering sales throughout the month of November, too. Top holiday deals

The holidays are just around a week-long corner. Therefore,Black Friday and its sweet deals are closer than you think. Now that cable TV is out and streaming is in, many people are subscribing to multiple platforms, and buying the devices that host them, like Rokus, Firesticks, and Chromecasts -- all of which can get pricey quickly. Since many streaming platforms have raised their fees in the past few years, finding a good deal for the content you love is essential.Also: The best Black Friday deals available nowLuckily, Black Friday and the entire month leading up to it is the perfect time to hunt for some holiday streaming deals, either for your own home or to gift. (You, too, could go to Roku City, and at a cheaper price than usual.) Our deal-hunting experts at ZDNET have rounded up the best streaming deals ahead of Black Friday so far.Our favorite streaming deals for Black Friday 2024Roku Streaming Stick 4K: $34 (save $16 at Amazon): This streaming option is compact but has a lot of capabilities. It would be perfect for a dorm room or smaller space.Roku Ultra: $80 (save $20 on Amazon): The Roku Ultra offers a more complete streaming experience. It even has a remote finder option.Roku Streambar SE: $76 (save $24 on Amazon): This product combines a soundbar and a streaming device. This would work great in a large living room or bedroom.Amazon Fire TV Stick: $33 (save $27 on Amazon): If you don't like Roku, Amazon offers a great streaming alternative. This one is compact, and great for a smaller space.Roku Premiere: $18 (save $22 at Walmart): This Roku streams in 4K and would be a great gift for a loved one.Roku Express: $19 (save $10 at Walmart): The Roku Express is perfect for first-time users, and it is a great deal for this price.Disney+, Hulu, and Max Bundle: $17-30 a month (save $15 a month): Having multiple streaming services subscriptions can be an expensive venture. Luckily, there is a bundle of Disney+, Hulu, and Max that will save you money every month.Onn. Google TV: $15 (save $4 at Walmart): This Onn streaming stick is a great way to watch TV on more of a budget.Google Chromecast 3rd Gen: $44 (save $6 at Walmart): Google has its own version of a streaming box, making this is a good gift for Google fans. Artie Beaty/ZDNET Current price: $34Original price: $50I have had one Roku for 5 years without any issues. I highly recommend these for those who do not want to deal with the high maintenance of cable and need something convenient for a dorm room or small apartment. However, beware of how easily Roku remotes can disappear from where you put it down. View now at Amazon Maria Diaz/ZDNET Current price: $33Original price: $60Amazon also has its own version of a Roku streaming stick. While it is a tiny bit pricier, it still is just as great as a Roku. The compact form factor is plug-and-play and preloaded with apps like Prime Video and Netflix. There is also a marketplace to customize what streaming apps you want on the device. View now at Amazon Disney+/ZDNET Current price: $16 or $30/monthOriginal price: $30 or $45/monthHaving multiple subscriptions adds up. Streaming services gatekeep content, so your favorite movie may be on a different platform than your current show. This can cause a huge dent in your pocket. With this bundle, you can save up to $15 a month by purchasing these three services in one package. There are two options: the less expensive ad-supported option or the pricier ad-free option. Both are at a way more discounted rate. View now at Disney+ Current price: $44Original price: $50Are you a Google fan looking to purchase a streaming device? Well, this one may be perfect for you. Just like the other devices, it hosts tons of streaming services and apps. Not to mention, a great gift. View now at Walmart Artie Beaty/ZDNET Current price: $76Original price: $100The Roku Streambar SE offers a streaming device and soundbar in one. Amazon ratings it at 4.4 stars out of 5, and reviewers love it. The soundbar will help improve your TV audio while also giving you access to your favorite platformsa great combination. View now at Amazon FAQsWhat is the best streaming service?This is up to the individual. However, many people say Netflix is because of its staying power in the industry and its original content. In terms of live TV streaming services, we named YouTube TV as our tested top pick.What streaming service has the most content?Amazon Prime Video has the most options, as there is an option to rent movies or shows that aren't included in the subscription.What is the best streaming device?Lots of publications have Roku devices as their top pick. Rightfully so, as it has a simple user interface and aesthetically pleasing backgrounds -- and, of course, the iconic Roku City. However, Amazon Fire Sticks and Google Chrome Casts are also good alternatives.What is the cheapest streaming service?Peacock is widely regarded for its high quality for a lower price. It has a great variety of content at only $8 a month (with ads).When is Black Friday?Black Friday takes place on Friday, Nov. 29, or the day after US Thanksgiving.When is Cyber Monday?Cyber Monday takes place on Monday, Dec. 2, or the Monday after Black Friday and US Thanksgiving.Are streaming deals really better on Black Friday?Yes and no. Certain deals, like the Hulu bundle, usually stay live year-round. However, as Black Friday and Cyber Monday get closer, companies are more likely to drop the prices of these services and devices. Amazon and other retailers have consistent sales on streaming devices, but they drop the price more for sales events. Keep a watchful eye as the dates get closer.What's the difference between Black Friday and Cyber Monday?The only technical difference between the two is that Black Friday takes place at in-person stores. Think old-fashioned Black Friday sales at the mall, when people used to be more serious about sales. Now, there is an online solution with Cyber Monday, where sales move to online as well as in-store locations. Many stores still honor the Black Friday tradition, but many retailers have moved their focus to online sales. It all depends on the retailer.How did we choose these Black Friday deals?At ZDNET, we only believe in recommending products and services that we would also purchase. I am someone who always uses a streaming device and services, so I know how pricey the experience can be. That is why it is essential that we recommend things that are a good enough quality to leave you with a satisfactory experience.We here at ZDNET also test lots of the devices we recommend. And if we haven't, we are committed to thoroughly researching the products to ensure their quality. At the end of the day, we want what's best for the reader.Where can you shop the best Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals?Retailers like Amazon, Walmart, Best Buy, Target, and more offer the best deals for Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Sales will be in-store and in-person, but there will also be lots more online.What are the best Black Friday 2024 deals?ZDNET's experts have been searching through Black Friday sales live now to find the best discounts by category. These are the best Black Friday deals so far, by category:You can also find the best Black Friday deals by price:And the best Black Friday deals by retailer:Top holiday deals

It seems like just yesterday that the Galaxy Z Flip 5 was unveiled, but it's been more than a year already. This phone, released by Samsung in July 2023, continues to turn heads with its 3.4-inch external display and a refined build that screams style. The Galaxy Z Flip 6is out now, but the Flip 5 remains a cutting-edge device, and you canbuy it for $999 brand new.That is still a pricey device, so you will want to protect your investment. We've researched and tested the best Galaxy Z Flip 5 cases, looking for durable options that can protect your device without taking from its gorgeous style. Here's what we found.What's the best Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 case right now?With consideration of price, durability, and style, we named Samsung's own Z Flip 5 clear gadget caseas the best Galaxy Z Flip 5 case overall. Read on for the rest of our picks.Best Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 cases Show less View now at Samsung Pros Clear case shows the natural color of phone Multi-functional grip for hands-free video- and photo-capturing Portable Cons Clear case could show dust and dirt Samsung Z Flip 5 Clear Gadget Case Best clear Z Flip 5 case Samsung Z Flip 5 Clear Gadget Case features: Comes in clear | Made with bio-based content and eco-conscious materialSamsung made its own clear case, which provides a simple yet effective design to accompany its newest phone. The case is transparent with a key ring-like attachment that resembles the popular PopSockets of the mid-2010s. This button functions as a grip or holder for the phone as you travel with it, but it can also be flipped back to support the phone's weight as it stands, like a kickstand. The kickstand will surely come in handy for hands-free video- and photo-capturing. Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Samsung Pros Smooth feel with eco-leather Hinge protection through flap Neutral colors that go with everything Cons Pricey Samsung Z Flip 5 Flap Eco-Leather Case Best leather Z Flip 5 case with a luxury feel Samsung Z Flip 5 Flap Eco-Leather Case features: Comes in cream, black, and etoupe | Made with eco-leather and plasticThis leather case from Samsung offers a subtle yet sleek design and comes in three gorgeously neutral colors: cream, black, and etoupe. Despite its luxury aesthetic, the case doesn't sacrifice style or security, with interior soft lining for an additional layer of protection and a flap that prevents damage to the Z Flip 5's hinge. At $90, this eco-leather case emanates subtle luxury,all while protecting your Z Flip 5. Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Casetify Pros Lightweight Withstands drops of up to five feet Variety in customization Cons Expensive Clear/black case could show dust and dirt Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 Casetify Impact Case Best decorative Z Flip 5 phone case for drop protection Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 Casetify Impact Case features: Comes in clear/black and haze purple | Made from 65% recycled materialCasetify's Flip 5 case protects your phone from drops of up to five feet with 1X Military Standard Protection, its proprietary EcoShock technology, and a raised bezel to curb screen scratches or breaks. The cases come in a clear and black hybrid and haze purple, and you can customize your own case by adding personal prints, designs, names, and monograms. Casetify cases are also made from 65% recycled material, if you're in the market for an eco-conscious case brand. Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Amazon Pros Budget-friendly Comes in six different colors Anti-scratch and shockproof Cons Matte casing could hide the color of the phone itself Sleek feel could make it too slippery Caredoctor Shockproof Protective Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 Case Best Z Flip 5 budget-friendly phone case Caredoctor Shockproof Protective Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 Case features: Comes in black, blue, pink, green, purple, and white | Made with polycarbonateCaredoctor's shockproof protective case is made with polycarbonate and comes in six different colors, including a pastel blue, a forest green, and a baby pink. At 1.5mm, the case is anti-fingerprint, anti-stain, and anti-scratch. The Casedoctor case also offers a 0.3mm raised screen edge and a 0.5mm raised camera edge to provide an extra layer of protection around the parts of your phone that matter most. If you're looking for a basic, thin case that will protect your Z Flip 5 at a low cost, this one will work great. Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Zagg Pros Up to 10 feet of drop protection Lightweight feel Protected hinge design Cons Expensive Only comes in black Zagg Bridgetown Z Flip 5 Case Best drop protection Z Flip 5 case Zagg Bridgetown Z Flip 5 Case features: Comes in black | Made with grapheneThis case doesn't defy gravity, per se, but it does protect your phone from the major consequences of it. Out of all the Z Flip 5 cases on this list, Zagg's Bridgetown case supplies the highest drop protection of up to 10 feet. That's because Zagg strengthens its case with graphene, "one of the strongest, man-made materials on earth," the product description says. The Bridgetown also specifically protects the foldable hinge through a hinge cover. This is a lightweight and durable phone case that comes in black and is a little expensive, but, given the level of drop protection, it's worth it. Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Amazon Pros 360-degree fall protection Handy finger ring for easy carrying Military-grade protective cover Cons Key ring and material could hinder seamless pocketability Leather casing doesn't offer TPU-level durability Baili Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 Leather Case Best Z Flip 5 multi-functional case Baili Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 Leather Case features: Comes in black, grey, pink, purple, and green | Made with polycarbonateBaili's Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 leather cases come in 10 different colors that range from neutrals to pastels. The Z Flip 5 is already a pocketable, portable phone, but with an attached finger ring on this leather case you can free up even more hand real estate by carrying your phone on your finger.The case has an HD mirror finish for yellowing- and deformation-protection, a military grade protective cover, and a camera screen protector to keep your new phone's lens scratch-free. Baili also came out with other , one that is more bare-bones and basic and another that offers a funkier wave design. At $31, this case is a middle-of-the-road option for a protective, handy, and stylish phone carrier. Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Amazon Pros Affordable Secure grip through silicone case Cons Bare bones design Less color variety Caseology Nano Pop Silicone Z Flip 5 Case Best affordable and neutral Z Flip 5 case Caseology Nano Pop Silicone Z Flip 5 Case features: Comes in black sesame and blueberry navy | Made with polycarbonate, thermoplastic polyurethaneCaseology's silicone Z Flip 5 case provides protection and coverage with case materials designed to prevent scratches. What the case lacks in design and color variety -- the two Z Flip 5 cases come in a neutral black and a blue with yellow outlining -- it makes up for in a smooth and secure feel. Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Amazon Pros Convenient for cards and cash Fun colors and style Budget-friendly, two-in-one option Cons Might not offer the best phone protection out of all the options Haotp P Z Flip 5 Case Best wallet Z Flip 5 case Haotp Z Flip 5 Case features: Comes in black, green, khaki, navy blue, red, rose gold | Made with faux leatherIf you're looking for a phone case that keeps all your important cards and cash together in one place, this Z Flip 5 wallet case from Haotip does the trick and the flip. The case is made with shockproof and anti-scratch faux leather, includes raised bezels around the screen and camera, and comes in six eye-catching colors. Show Expert Take Show less What are the best Z Flip 5 cases? These are the best Galaxy Z Flip 5 cases and their respective prices.CasePriceSamsung Clear Gadget Case$50Samsung Eco-Leather Flap Case$90Casetify Impact Case$65Caredoctor Shockproof Protective Case$10Zagg Bridgetown Z Flip 5 case$60Baili Leather Case$11Caseology Nano Pop Silicone Case$30HAOTP Wallet Case$12 Which is the right Z Flip 5 case for you? Choose this case...If...Samsung Clear Gadget CaseYou want a protective case with a finger ring that functions as a grip and a kickstand for hands-free video- and photo-capturing.Samsung Eco-Leather Flap CaseYou want a subtly luxurious, protective leather case made from eco-conscious materials.Casetify Impact CaseYou want a stylish and protective case that offers a luxury feel for a higher price point.Zagg Bridgetown CaseYou want a black phone case with mega drop protection.Caredoctor Shockproof Protective CaseYou're looking for a budget-friendly protective case.Baili Leather CaseYou want a stylish and portable case with a handy finger ring.Caseology Nano Pop Silicone CaseYou're looking for a protective black case for an affordable price.HAOTP Wallet CaseYou're looking for a two-in-one phone case to store your money and cards and protect your phone for an affordable price. Factors to consider when choosing a Galaxy Z Flip 5 case If you're looking to buy a Galaxy Z Flip 5 phone case, you should consider the following:Price:A good phone case shouldn't break the bank. While you will have to spend some money for a phone case that fully protects your Z Flip 5, you shouldn't drop your whole paycheck on one.Durability:A well-made case should keep your phone protected from the elements and any minor drops.Design:Consider customization variety, color, style, portability, and functionality. How we chose these Z Flip 5 phone cases We researched the available Z Flip 5 phone cases, and compiled a list of the best phone cases based on price, durability, and design, as well as brand reputation and our experiencetesting other cases from those companies. When is Samsung releasing the Galaxy Z Flip 6? Samsung released the Galaxy Z Flip 6 on July 24, 2024, alongside the much bigger Galaxy Z Fold 6. The new Z Flip 6 features thinner bezels and flatter edges than the Z Flip 5, and feels a lot lighter. It also has a bigger battery, a faster chip, and a vapor chamber for cooling. Do you need a phone case? After spending $999 on a Z Flip 5, you might not want to pay the extra money for a phone case. While a protective phone case might be a hefty expense up front, a well-made phone case will secure your Z Flip 5 from scratches or cracks and keep it in tip-top shape for the long run. Think of it this way: a protective phone case prevents the high expense of getting your Z Flip 5's broken screen repaired, a service that can often cost over $100. Are the Z Flip 4 and Z Flip 5 cases the same? No, the Flip 5 has a larger display size and a different shape, so the case sizes will be different. If you're upgrading from your Z Flip 4 to a Z Flip 5, you will need a different case. Are there Z Flip 5 alternative cases to consider? The above Z Flip 5 cases are the best on the market in terms of price, style, and durability, but if you're looking for more options, here are some noteworthy alternatives to consider. ZDNET Recommends

Another deals event is right around the corner, and it's a big one. That's right: Black Friday is next week. If you're considering buying a new pair of AirPods for yourself or the Apple fan in your life, this could be a convenient time to make a purchase -- but don't do it without looking through the deals on these earbuds and headphones first.Also: The best Black Friday deals available nowWhether you're the type of person to know exactly what you'll be buying for every loved one this holiday, or whether you're going to shop around and let inspiration (and deals) come to you organically, you can get ahead of the holiday shopping hubbub by perusing early deals right now. We've reviewed every pair of AirPods on this list, and our deal-hunting experts will help you cut through the noise to find the best option for you to buy or gift.Shop at AmazonOur favorite early Black Friday AirPods dealsAirPods Pro 2: $190 (save $60 at Amazon): These are our favorite AirPods out of the entire lineup. Plus, they just got a new feature that turns them into hearing aids.AirPods 4: $120 (save $10 at Amazon): This isn't the best deal on the new AirPods Apple released earlier this fall, but it's still $10 cheaper than the original price. Wait until Black Friday for a possibly more substantial deal.AirPods 3: $94 (save $75 at Walmart): These earbuds come with six hours of battery life in the buds themselves and 30 hours within the case.AirPods Max: $459 (save $90 at Amazon): Apple released a new AirPods model, so select colors from the older generation are cheaper right now, like the sky blue AirPods Max that's $90 off the original price.AirPods (Second Generation): $89 (save $40 at Walmart): These AirPods are the most basic available. If you prefer a no-frills listening experience, this Walmart deal isn't bad. Jason Hiner/ZDNET Current price: $190Original price: $250The AirPods Pro 2 are our favorite Apple AirPods for a reason -- three reasons, actually. They fit most ear sizes, are great for all-day wear, and boast the best noise-canceling out of the Apple earbuds lineup. You're getting six hours of battery life out of these buds, enough to power you through a workout or two or nearly the whole day at the office. Plus, Apple updated the AirPods Pro 2 recently to include a hearing aid feature that turns these buds into helpful hearing devices -- a game-changing development that will give those who are hard of hearing an affordable sound amplifier. Pretty cool, right? View now at Amazon Jada Jones/ZDNET Current price: $169Original price: $179This discount is small, at only $10 off -- however, it's rare to get a discount on a brand-new Apple product at all. These are the newest Apple AirPods that come with an H2 chip (the same chip in the AirPods Pro 2), active noise cancellation, and spatial audio. Given how new the earbuds are, it's unsurprising that the discount is not substantial. Perhaps as we get closer to Black Friday there will be a more impressive price cut. View now at Amazon Jason Hiner/ZDNET Current price: $459Original price: $549Apple released an upgraded AirPods Max in September with a USB-C port replacing the brand's signature Lighting port. The new lineup includes more colors, that new port, and not much else. What that means for you, though, is that you can buy the older version of the AirPods Max with many of the same features as the new headphones but at a cheaper price. For example, the sky blue AirPods Max is $90 off. Not bad at all. View now at Amazon Best AirPods alternatives to shop ahead of Black FridayBeats Studio Buds: $100 (save $50 at Amazon): Want that Apple ecosystem compatibility without AirPods prices? These Beats Studio Buds offer seamless Apple connectivity for a fraction of the price.Beats Studio Buds+: $130 (save $40 at Amazon): The Beats Studio Buds+ are a step up from the Studio Buds with active noise cancellation and 12 more hours of listening time. The silver color is heavily discounted right now.Sony WF-1000XM5: $228 (save $72 at Amazon): These are some of the most impressive earbuds you can buy with vivid sound, good noise cancellation, and all of those Sony special touches.Soundcore A40 noise-canceling earbuds: $59 (save $20 at Amazon): Customers on Amazon call these earbuds "spectacular" with great sound for an affordable price.Beats Solo 4: $130 (save $70 at Amazon): With up to 50 hours of battery life and comfortable ear pads, you could listen to music with these on for literal days.FAQsWhen is Black Friday?Black Friday takes place on Nov. 29 this year.When is Cyber Monday?Cyber Monday takes place on Dec. 2 this year, and you can find deals across the web on everything from household appliances to high-tech devices.Are AirPods deals really better on Black Friday?I've seen the price of AirPods drop by some $10 or $20 less than their usual discount price during events like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, or Prime Day. Brands like Apple usually have a discount price they use during non-holiday events. For example, I've seen the price of the AirPods Pro 2 be around that $200 price range, even though its full price is $250. On a deals event day, the price dips to around $180 or less.How did we choose these Black Friday deals?ZDNET only writes about deals we think are actually worth your while. I know the price of every AirPods model and what they regularly discount for. So when I'm evaluating deals, I'm considering all of this before including a product in a roundup or writing a spotlight on the deal.We also looked over customer reviews to find out what matters to real people who already own and use the deals we're recommending. Our recommendations may also be based on our own testing -- in addition to extensive research and comparison shopping. The goal is to deliver the most accurate advice to help you shop smarter.Where can you shop the best Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals?Write your own unique description. Sentiment would be that you can still shop in person but you can find deals online through most major retailers like: Amazon, Walmart, Best Buy, Target, etc.)What are the best Black Friday 2024 deals?ZDNET's experts have been searching through Black Friday sales live now to find the best discounts by category. These are the best Black Friday deals so far, by category:You can also find the best Black Friday deals by price:Black Friday deals under $25Black Friday deals under $100And the best Black Friday deals by retailer:Black Friday Amazon dealsBlack Friday Best Buy dealsBlack Friday Walmart dealsBlack Friday Apple dealsBlack Friday Samsung dealsTop holiday deals

Portable power stations are incredibly versatile and useful tools for a variety of situations, making them a must-have for anyone who enjoys outdoor activities or needs backup power at home. These compact devices allow you to charge multiple electronics simultaneously, from smartphones and laptops to appliances, ensuring you stay connected and powered up wherever you are or whatever is happening. Whether you're camping in the wilderness, hosting a backyard barbecue, or facing a sudden and unexpected power outage, a portable power station provides a reliable source of energy that enhances convenience and peace of mind.Also: The best Black Friday deals live nowHowever, the downside to these handy devices is their price tag, which can often be quite steep. Investing in a quality portable power station can feel like a significant financial commitment, especially when you're looking for one with decent capacity and features. This is why taking advantage ofBlack Friday -- now only two weeks away -- is such a savvy move. During this shopping extravaganza, which is slowly but surely creeping up on us, you can find substantial discounts on portable power stations, allowing you to secure a high-quality unit at a fraction of the regular price. By planning ahead and shopping smartly on Black Friday, you can enjoy the benefits of a portable power station without breaking the bank.And I'm here to help you do just that. After reviewing well over 100 power stations this year alone, and having close contact with the big names, I've been able to find you the very best deals live ahead of Black Friday.Shop deals at AmazonOur favorite early portable power station deals for Black Friday 2024Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 Portable Power Station: $459 (save $340 at Amazon + $60 off on-page coupon): This unit features 1,500W AC output and 3000W surge peak, and can handle multiple appliances, including AC units, fridges, and electric pots. It also features PD fast USB-C charging which gives you rapid charging speed without power adaptors.EcoFlow Delta 2 Max with 4 x 100W solar panels: $1,299 (save 1,000 at Amazon): The perfect whole-home solution that an harvest 400W of power when the sun is shining.Bluetti AC200L: $999 (save $1,000 on Amazon): This is a fantastic power station, boasting 2,400W output, as well as supporting expansion with diverse battery packs, fora maximum capacity of 8192Wh.EcoFlow River 3: $159 (save $100 at Amazon): Equipped with 6 outlets, this power station that's small enough to fit on your nightstand can charge 6 devices at once with an AC output of 300W (600W surge).Bluetti Power Station AC300&B300K Expansion Battery: $1,699 (save $1,300 at Amazon): This is a powerhouse, with the inverter offering an array of AC and USB ports for outputting that power, while the B300K brings 3,072Wh of power (and you can daisy chain up to four B300K units!).EcoFlow Delta 3 Pro: $2,959 (save $740 at Amazon): The EcoFlow Delta Pro 3 supports both 120V and 240V voltages and has a 4,000W output (6,000W with X-Boost, scalable up to 12,000W), allowing this unit to power nearly every home appliance out there, even massive 3-ton AC units or 1 HP water pumps.Jackery 1000 Plus Solar Generator Kit: $1,399 (save $700 at Amazon): With a massive 1,264Wh capacity, this unit supports up to three add-on battery packs at a time, expanding from 1.25kWh to a huge 5kWh. This powerhouse is the ideal solution for off-grid living, road trips, photography, and a variety of outdoor activities.EcoFlow River 3 with 45W solar panel: $199 (save $140 at Amazon): A great portable solution, perfect for throwing into a backpack or vehicle.Bluetti EB3A: $198 (save $71 at Amazon): This portable power station has it all -- a 600W AC inverter, 268Wh LiFePO4 battery pack, and 9 outlets, enough to keep your devices powered while you are out and about off-grid or during a power outage. EcoFlow Delta Pro Ultra Maria Diaz/ZDNET Current price: $4,649Original price: $6,299The EcoFlow Pro Ultra is a whole house generator that features triple inverters and a battery. Each inverter supports 120V & 240V and has an massive 7,200W output, allowing you to run almost any heavy household appliance, even a 3-ton central air conditioner. Multiply that by three and the inverters can handle an incredible 21.6kW AC output. View now at Amazon Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNET The AC180, as is the case for all Bluetti units I've tested recently, absolutely excels in this area as well. Its display is bright and clear, complemented by just three backlit buttons, striking the perfect balance between simplicity and functionality. View now at Amazon Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNET Current price: $459Original price: $699This power station is aimed at those drone pilots who are away from a power outlet for extended periods. Along with the usual AC and USB ports, this power station also has SDC ports designed specifically for fast-charging DJI drone batteries with each port being used to charge one battery at a time. View now at Amazon Jackery Current price: $2,599Original price: $4,999Featuring 4,085.6 Wh capacity, this is a portable power station that is capable of powering heavy load devices of up to 3,000W, which means that heavy loads such as air conditioners are not off the list. Perfect for RVs, this unit is more than capable of more meeting all your power needs for outdoor exploration or home use. Additionally, it is whisper quiet, producing only 30dB when in operation. View now at Amazon Jackery Current price: $3,499Original price: $4,999The Solar Generator 5000 Plus includes several standout features that put it head and shoulders over the competition. First, the 5kWh capacity is enough to run a home for a day, and with every Battery Pack 5000 Plus you add, you add an extra day of running, up to a colossal 60kWh.The unit also supports 120V and 240V voltage output, so it can handle everyday devices like lights and laptops, along with heavy-duty equipment such as dryers, water pumps, and ovens. It can also be used to recharge electric vehicles.The 0ms response time in UPS mode is also useful for situations where you want the unit to start immediately when the power dips, making it perfect for powering sensitive devices such as routers, backup devices, and medical devices such as CPAP.And, to top all that off, it's whisper quiet, running at only 30 dB, so the unit won't disturb anyone's slumber. View now at Amazon EcoFlow Current price: $1,099 (with Amazon Prime)Original price: $1,899With a huge 2,400W output (3,600W surge) and 2,026Wh of power, this single unit can power up to 15 devices simultaneously. Throw in the 160W solar panel and you have a perfect system for keeping the lights on when the power goes out. View now at Amazon EcoFlow Current price: $2,999Original price: $3,199This is the perfect system to choose as a home backup system or if you want to harvest power using solar and use that to power your home. The system can output a whopping 3,500W of power, enough for the heaviest of workloads. But at 90 pounds, this is not something you're going to want to be taking in and out of a car. View now at Amazon Jackery Current price: $700Original price: $1,299The perfect portable off-grid solution in the form of a power station with 1,070Wh of power capacity and hefty 1,500W power output (3,000W surge), this is a power station that can handle most home appliances with ease. If you're looking for a backup system that done't consume a whole room and cost the earth, this is a great starting point.The panel can charge the unit in about 6 hours. View now at Amazon Jackery Current price: $89Original price: $129While Jackery's most compact offering yet may resemble a power bank, it's truly a solar generator, built to the rigorous standards of its larger counterparts. The Explorer 100 Plus can even be recharged using solar panels like theSolarSaga 100.Want to buy kit that includes the solar panel? No problem,Jackery has you covered. View now at Amazon Best Black Friday portable power station solar panel dealsBluetti 200W solar panel: $350 (save $150 at Amazon with coupon): This 200W solar panel is 200W solar panel is built to survive bumps and scratches, and is IP65 rated to shrug off water splashes.Jackery Solar Saga 100W: $210 (save $64 at Amazon with coupon): This is the perfect solar panel for smaller portable power station. It folds away, has a kickstand for easy setup, and the IP65 water-resistant rating means that it is protected against water splashes.Jackery SolarSaga 200W: $474 (save $225 at Amazon): This is the perfect solar panel for larger portable power station. Same as it's smaller counterpart, this one It folds away, has a kickstand for easy setup, and is IP65 rated.FAQsWhen is Black Friday?Black Friday is set to dazzle shoppers on Nov. 29, 2024. This exciting day of shopping follows Thanksgiving in the US and kicks off the holiday shopping season with a bang, offering major deals and discounts across a wide array of products.When is Cyber Monday?Cyber Monday is the first Monday following Thanksgiving, and this year it falls on Dec. 2, 2024. This shopping event follows Black Friday and is known for offering fantastic online deals, making it one of the busiest days for e-commerce.Are portable power station deals really better on Black Friday?In a word, yes. But as always, vigilance is needed to keep retailers and manufacturers honest. Taking ten bucks off the price of something costing several hundred dollars is not the sort of deal that would make the cut here, so you can always be guaranteed that we'll help you identify the best deals.What's the difference between Black Friday and Cyber Monday?Black Friday and Cyber Monday are two of the biggest shopping events of the year, but they cater to different shopping preferences and experiences. Black Friday, which occurs the day after Thanksgiving, is traditionally known for its in-store sales and literal doorbuster deals. Cyber Monday takes place the following Monday and is all about online shopping.Dating back to 2005, Cyber Monday was historically a day when retailers took advantage of people being back at work and having access to the internet, allowing them to do some sneaky shopping while they were supposed to be working.How did we choose these Black Friday deals?Over the past year, I've handled and reviewed dozens of power stations, ranging from small handheld units to large, wheeled systems that can power a home for days. I have a solid understanding of what's available, what's worth it, and what constitutes a fair price.I've also examined customer reviews to understand what matters to real users of the power stations I'm recommending. My personal experiences, whether positive or negative, may not reflect the broader consensus, so it's important to consider the opinions of others.Where can you shop the best Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals?Historically, I've found that the best power station deals are found on Amazon, but I do keep an eye on the likes of Walmart and Best Buy, as well as the manufacturers themselves.What are the best Black Friday deals?ZDNET's experts have been searching through Black Friday sales live now to find the best discounts by category. These are the best Black Friday deals so far, by category:You can also find the best Black Friday deals by price:And the best Black Friday deals by retailer:Top holiday deals

In today's digital age, the need for ample computer storage has never been more critical. With the increasing reliance on digital files, from high-resolution photos and videos to extensive libraries of music and software applications, many individuals and businesses find themselves running out of space on their devices. Cloud storage solutions offer some relief, but that often come with ongoing subscription fees and limited access without an internet connection. This is why I believe that investing in physical storage options, such as external hard drivesor SSDs, has become essential for managing and safeguarding valuable data.Also: The best Black Friday deals live nowHowever, the high cost of computer storage can be a significant barrier for many consumers. External drives, especially those with larger capacities and faster speeds, can be quite pricey. This is where Black Friday-- now only two weeks away! -- and the following Cyber Monday come into play. Retailers typically offer deep discounts on electronics, including storage solutions, making it an ideal time to purchase. By taking advantage of Black Friday deals, shoppers can secure the additional storage they need at a fraction of the regular price, ensuring they have enough space for their digital lives without breaking the bank.Below, I've rounded up some of the best storage and SSD deals you can find ahead of Black Friday sales.Shop deals at AmazonOur favorite early storage and SSD deals for Black Friday 2024Samsung 990 EVO Plus SSD 2TB: $135 (save $45 at Amazon): The 990 EVO Plus is built using the latest NAND memory, boosting sequential read/write speeds up to 7,250/6,300MB/s.SamData 16GB USB flash drives 5-pack: $13 (save $4 at Amazon): Cheap and cheerful yet reliable flash drives for convenient data storage.Crucial T705 1TB PCIe SSD: $119 (save $127 at Amazon): The T705 installs easily in your M.2 slot, and its copper-clad label is designed to effectively transfer heat from the drive, allowing it to hit sequential reads/writes of up to 13,600/10,200MB/s.Ugreen NASync DXP4800 Plus 4-Bay Desktop NAS: $630 (save $70 at Amazon): The perfect storage box for heavy home users of small offices. Samsung Current price: $169Original price: $285Here you get a super-fast external SSD that's almost twice as fast as the T5 thanks to it's embedded with PCIe NVME technology, and it has been built to resist water, dust, and drops. The drive is compatible with PC, Mac, Android devices, gaming consoles and more View now at Amazon Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNET Current price: $212Original price: $250The USB-C interface supportsApple iPhone 15 and later, allowing ProRes 4K 60fps video to be recorded direct to the external drive, making it more portable and freeing up mobile phone memory space. View now at Amazon Transcend Current price: $177Original price: $209This is a 2TB external SSD that makes use of 3D NAND flash memory to offer transfer speeds up to 2,000MB/s. And the whole thing in encased in a tough silicone case to protect it from bumps and drops. View now at Amazon Crucial Current price: $128Original price: $178Take a high performance external SSD capable of read and write speeds up to 1,050MB/s and high sustained performance writes up to 975MB/s, and encase that in a shell capable that is IP55 rated for water and dust resistance and offers drop-proof durability up to 7.5 feet/2 meters, and you have a go-anywhere data storage platform. It is also iPhone 15/16 Pro ready, capable of having ProRes video directly recorded to the drive. View now at Amazon Ugreen Current price: $360Original price: $400The two SATA bays support up to 24TB each, and you can also install two additional compact M.2 NVMe SSD drives up to 4TB each (for SSD caching additional fast storage). With all slots used, the maximum capacity is a vast 56TB. View now at Amazon FAQsWhen is Black Friday?Black Friday takes place on Nov. 29, 2024 this year. This day of big sales follows Thanksgiving and kicks off the holiday shopping season with a bang, offering big deals and discounts across a wide array of products.When is Cyber Monday?Cyber Monday is the first Monday following Thanksgiving, and this year, it falls on Dec. 2, 2024. This shopping event follows Black Friday and is known for offering great online deals, making it one of the busiest days for e-commerce.Are storage and SSD deals really better on Black Friday?In a word, yes. But as always, vigilance is needed to keep retailers and manufacturers honest. Taking ten bucks off the price of something costing several hundred dollars is not the sort of deal that would make the cut here, so you can always be guaranteed to find the best deals here. What's the difference between Black Friday and Cyber Monday?Black Friday and Cyber Monday are two of the biggest shopping events of the year, but they cater to different shopping preferences and experiences. Black Friday, which occurs the day after Thanksgiving, is traditionally known for its in-store sales and literal doorbuster deals. Cyber Monday takes place the following Monday and is all about online shopping.Dating back to 2005, it was historically a day when retailers took advantage of people being back at work and having access to the internet, allowing them to do some sneaky shopping while they were supposed to be working.How did we choose these Black Friday deals?Over the past year, I've handled and reviewed lots of different storage devices, from tiny SSDs you can slip into a pocket to massive NAS units with terabytes of storage. I have a solid understanding of what's available, what's worth it, and what constitutes a fair price.I've also examined customer reviews to understand what matters to real users of the storage devices I'm recommending. My personal experiences-whether positive or negative-may not reflect the broader consensus, so it's important to consider the opinions of others.Where can you shop the best Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals?Historically, I've found the best deals to be on Amazon, Walmart, and Best Buy.What are the best Black Friday deals?ZDNET's experts have been searching through Black Friday sales live now to find the best discounts by category. These are the best Black Friday deals so far, by category:You can also find the best Black Friday deals by price:And the best Black Friday deals by retailer:Top holiday deals

PM Images/Getty ImagesUpdate: As of October 1, 2024, Microsoft has made it more difficult to bypass these compatibility checks, but there are workarounds for most modern PCs. Some older devices, especially those built using AMD processors, might be out of luck, however. I've updated the instructions in this post to account for the changes.On October 14, 2025, Microsoft will stop delivering security updates to your Windows 10 PC unless you're willing to pay an exorbitant price to join the Extended Security Updates program.Also: Microsoft will start charging for Windows 10 updates next year. Here's how muchIf you try to upgrade to Windows 11 on a PCthat's more than a few years old, you'll be told -- in no uncertain terms -- that your old PC doesn't qualify because its CPU isn't on the official list of compatible processors. Microsoft has made it abundantly clear that it will not revise those requirements. You will also hit roadblocks if your PC doesn't have a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0.That might be the official policy, but -- as with everything Windows-related -- it pays to read the fine print.Those pesky restrictions prevent you from automatically upgrading to Windows 11 using Windows Update or the Windows 11 Installation Assistant. Yet there are fully supported workarounds for most PCs that are capable of running Windows 10, as I document inZDNET's Windows 11 FAQ.Also: You can still upgrade old PCs to Windows 11, even if Microsoft says no: Readers prove itOf course, everything in this article requires that you be signed in as an administrator on the PC you want to upgrade.Which option should you choose?Please don't skip over this section.To take advantage of the workaround described in option 1 below, your computer must meet all the other requirements for Windows 11.It must be configured to start up using UEFI, not a legacy BIOS configuration.Secure Boot must be supported, although it does not need to be enabled. (But seriously, folks, you should enable it.)A TPM must be enabled; version 1.2 is OK, but a system without any TPM or with the TPM disabled will fail.To check these details on a PC you're considering upgrading, run the System Information utility, Msinfo32.exe, and look at the System Summary page. Pay special attention to the BIOS Mode value. If it says "Legacy," you'll need to reconfigure your system to UEFI mode (and convert your system disk from MBR to GPT partitioning) before you can install Windows 11 as a normal upgrade.To see whether your PC has a TPM enabled, run the Trusted Platform Module Management tool, Tpm.msc. If your computer includes a TPM and it's turned on, this app will display information about it. If there's no TPM, or if the TPM is disabled in firmware settings, you'll see a message that says "Compatible TPM cannot be found."Also: Your Windows 10 PC can't be upgraded? You have 5 options before support ends in 2025If you're unable (or unwilling) to change from Legacy BIOS to UEFI, or if you have an older PC that doesn't have a TPM option at all, you'll need to use an undocumented hack that allows you to bypass the compatibility checks and complete the upgrade. See option 2 at the end of this post for details on how to use the free Rufus utility to perform this upgrade.Note that a new set of restrictions, introduced as part of the Windows 11, version 24H2 update, require a CPU that supports specific instructions -- SSE4.2 and PopCnt. Most PCs with Intel CPUs that are from 2009 or later will meet this standard. AMD CPUs from 2013 or later should also meet these requirements. For details, see"Microsoft blocked your Windows 11 upgrade? This trusty tool can (probably) fix that."If you plan to perform a clean installation of Windows 11, you can boot from installation media and run Windows Setup. That option skips the CPU compatibility check completely (but still requires a TPM and Secure Boot support). After the installation completes, you'll need to reinstall all your apps, restore your data files, and tweak settings to personalize your system preferences.Want to avoid all that hassle? Choose the option that's appropriate for your hardware.Option 1: Use this simple registry editBypass CPU checks and accept any TPM version with this registry edit. This process requires four steps. 1. Change one key in the Windows registry You need to make one small change to the Windows registry, as documented in thisMicrosoft support document. This change tells the Windows 11 Setup program to skip the check for compatible CPUs and to allow installation on a PC with an older TPM (version 1.2). The usual warnings apply when working with the registry; I recommend you make a complete backup before proceeding.Open Registry Editor (Regedit.exe) and navigate to the following key:HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\Setup\MoSetupIf the MoSetup key, doesn't exist, you need to create it. Right-click the node for HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\Setup in the left-hand navigation pane, then choose New > Key. Name it MoSetup and press Enter.Also: Wiping your Windows laptop? Here's the simplest way to erase all personal dataSelect the MoSetup key and then right-click in any empty space in the pane on the right. Choose the option to create a new DWORD value. (Don't choose the QWORD option!)Replace the default name for that key by typing the text AllowUpgradesWithUnsupportedTPMOrCPU and then press Enter. Then double-click the new value and change the "Value data" box to 1. The result should look like this: Use this registry tweak to override the Windows 11 CPU compatibility check. You must have a TPM (any version) and Secure Boot must be enabled. Screenshot by Ed Bott/ZDNETClick OK to save your change, and then restart your PC. 2. Download the Windows 11 ISO On the PC you want to upgrade, go to the Windows 11 Download page (aka.ms/DownloadWindows11) and choose the option at the bottom of the page, "Download Windows 11 Disk Image (ISO) for x64 devices." Save the ISO file in your Downloads folder.Note that this is a big file. Depending on the speed of your internet connection, the download could take a while. 3. Mount the ISO file in File Explorer After the download completes, open File Explorer and double-click the ISO file you downloaded in the previous step. Doing so mounts the file as a virtual DVD drive in its own folder, with its own drive letter. 4. Run Windows Setup In File Explorer, find the Setup.exe file and double-click it to begin the upgrade. You'll see a stern warning about compatibility issues, but you can safely click Accept to move past it. (For details on what that warning message really means, see "Is Microsoft really going to cut off security updates for your 'unsupported' Windows 11 PC?") After you click OK on that dialog box, your upgrade should proceed without any serious issues.Also:The best Windows laptop you can buyYou'll have three options: You can keep your apps, settings, and files (Full Upgrade); keep your data files but start fresh with apps and settings (Keep Data Only); or start completely fresh (Clean Install). Option 2: Use the free Rufus utilityOn older PCs without a TPM and on PCs that don't support Secure Boot, you'll need to use an undocumented hack to bypass the compatibility checker. You can do this manually by replacing the Appraiserres.dll file (in the Sources subfolder on the Windows 11 installer drive) with a zero-byte version and then making a series of registry edits. But it's simpler to use the free, open-source Rufus utility to make a USB drive that includes this file.Important note:In early October 2024, Microsoft made some changes to its compatibility checking tools. Those changes prevent Rufus version 4.5 or earlier from working properly. Make sure you have version 4.6 or later, which incorporates the necessary changes. For details of how the new version works, see "Microsoft blocked your Windows 11 upgrade? This just-released tool can get the job done."In addition, be aware that using Rufus will not allow you to bypass the new CPU restrictions that require SSE4.2 and PopCnt instruction support.Also: Why Windows 11 requires a TPM - and how to get around thatTo get started, you'll need to download the Windows 11 ISO and supply a USB flash drive of at least 16 GB in size. You will reformat this drive as part of the process, so back up any data on that drive first.Download Rufus from the developer's site and run the app. (The version of Rufus availablefrom the Microsoft Storewill not work for this task.) Choose the USB drive and then choose the "Disk or ISO image" option.Click the Select button, choose the Windows 11 ISO you downloaded earlier, and then click Start.In the Windows User Experience dialog, select the first checkbox to remove hardware requirements, as shown in the screenshot below.Click OK to begin creating the drive. Be sure to choose the top checkbox here to bypass the compatibility check for the Windows 11 upgrade. Screenshot by Ed Bott/ZDNETAfter Rufus successfully creates your installer, open that USB drive in File Explorer, and double-click Setup.As is the case with the other option, you'll see a warning about compatibility issues. It's a scare tactic. (For details on what that warning message really means, see"Is Microsoft really going to cut off security updates for your 'unsupported' Windows 11 PC?") After you click Accept on that dialog box, your upgrade should proceed without any serious issues.Also:Microsoft blocked your Windows 11 upgrade? This trusty tool can (probably) fix thatMy ZDNET colleague Lance Whitney has more details on the other options available with Rufus in "How to install Windows 11 the way you want (and bypass Microsoft's restrictions)." If you've tried this upgrade, I want to hear about your experience. If it worked, please share the details. If you run into snags, send me an email so we can figure out what's going wrong. Be sure to include details -- the make and model of your PC and screenshots of any error messages. I've set up a special inbox just for this feedback: Win11Upgrade [at] realworldwindows.com.This article was originally published on April 9, 2022, but has been updated multiple times since then. It was last updated on November 18, 2024.Windows

Yuichiro Chino/Getty ImagesI have been a DigitalOcean customer for years. When I first encountered the company back in 2016, it provided a very easy-to-spin-up Linux server with a variety of distros as options. It differentiated itself from web hosting providers by offering infrastructure -- rather than software -- as a service. Dillon Erb, DigitalOcean VP Image: Dillon ErbMost web hosting providers give you a control panel to navigate the web hosting experience for your site. You have no control over the virtual machine. What DigitalOcean does is give you a virtual bare-metal server, letting you do whatever the heck you want. This appealed to me greatly. Also: I've tested a lot of AI tools for work. These 4 actually help me get more done every dayDigitalOcean was essentially Amazon Web Services (AWS) but with a much more understandable pricing structure. When I first started running servers on it, it was substantially more expensive than AWS for the kind of work I was doing. DigitalOcean has since expanded its service offerings to provide a wide variety of infrastructure capabilities, all in the cloud.Beyond bare-metal virtual Linux servers, I haven't used its additional capabilities, but I still appreciate the ability to quickly and easily spin up and down a Linux machine for any purpose, and at a very reasonable price. I do this to test out systems, run some low-traffic servers, and generally as a part of my extended infrastructure. With the big push into artificial intelligence (Al), it makes sense that DigitalOcean is beginning to provide infrastructure for Al operations as well. That's what we'll be exploring today with Dillon Erb, the company's vice president of AI advocacy and partnerships. Let's dig in. ZDNET: Could you provide a brief overview of your role at DigitalOcean?Dillon Erb:I was the co-founder and CEO of the first dedicated GPU cloud computing company called Paperspace. In July of 2023, Paperspace was acquired by DigitalOcean to bring AI tooling and GPU infrastructure to a whole new audience of hobbyists, developers, and businesses alike.Also: How to use AI for research the right way - responsibly and effectivelyCurrently I am the VP of AI Strategy where I am working on both exciting product offerings as well as key ecosystem partnerships to ensure that DigitalOcean can continue to be the go-to cloud for developers. ZDNET: What are the most exciting AI projects you are currently working on at DigitalOcean?DE: Expanding our GPU cloud to a much larger scale in support of rapid onboarding for a new generation of software developers creating the future of artificial intelligence. Deep integration of AI tooling across the full DigitalOcean Platform to enable a streamlined AI-native cloud computing platform. Bringing the full power of GPU compute and LLMs to our existing customer base to enable them to consistently deliver more value to their customers. ZDNET: What historical factors have contributed to the dominance of large enterprises in AI development?DE: The cost of GPUs is the most talked about reason for why AI has been difficult for smaller teams and developers to build competitive AI products. The cost of pretraining a large language model (LLM) can be astronomical, requiring thousands, if not hundreds of thousands, of GPUs. Also: Sticker shock: Are enterprises growing disillusioned with AI?However, there has also been a tooling gap which has made it hard for developers to utilize GPUs even when they have access to them. At Paperspace, we built a full end-to-end platform for training and deploying AI models.Our focus on simplicity, developer experience, and cost transparency continues here at DigitalOcean where we are expanding our product offering substantially and building deep integrations with the entire DigitalOcean product suite. ZDNET: Can you discuss the challenges startups face when trying to enter the AI space?DE: Access to resources, talent and capital are common challenges startups face when entering into the AI arena. Also: Building complex gen AI models? This data platform wants to be your one-stop shopCurrently, AI developers spend too much of their time (up to 75%) with the "tooling" they need to build applications. Unless they have the technology to spend less time tooling, these companies won't be able to scale their AI applications. To add to technical challenges, nearly every AI startup is reliant on NVIDIA GPU compute to train and run their AI models, especially at scale. Developing a good relationship with hardware suppliers or cloud providers like Paperspace can help startups, but the cost of purchasing or renting these machines quickly becomes the largest expense any smaller company will run into. Additionally, there is currently a battle to hire and keep AI talent. We've seen recently how companies like OpenAI are trying to poach talent from other heavy hitters like Google, which makes the process for attracting talent at smaller companies much more difficult. ZDNET: What are some specific barriers that prevent smaller businesses from accessing advanced AI technologies?DE: Currently, GPU offerings, which are crucial for the development of AI/ML applications, are widely only affordable to large companies. While everyone has been trying to adopt AI offerings or make their current AI offerings more competitive, the demand for NVIDIA 100 GPUs has risen. Also: Organizations face mounting pressure to accelerate AI plans, despite lack of ROIThese data center GPUs have improved significantly with each subsequent, semi-annual release of a new GPU microarchitecture. These new GPUs are accelerators that significantly reduce training periods and model inference response times. In turn, they can run large-scale AI model training for any company that needs it. However, the cost of these GPU offerings can be out of reach for many, making it a barrier to entry for smaller players looking to leverage AI. Now that the initial waves of the Deep Learning revolution have kicked off, we are starting to see the increased capitalization and retention of technologies by successful ventures. The most notable of these is OpenAI, who has achieved their huge market share through the conversion of their GPT 3.5 model into the immensely successful ChatGPT API and web applications. Also: Employees are hiding their AI use from their managers. Here's whyAs more companies seek to emulate the success of companies like OpenAI, we may see more and more advanced technologies in Deep Learning not being released to the open-source community. This could affect startups if the gap between commercial and research model efficacy becomes insurmountable. As the technologies get better, it may only be possible to achieve state of the art results of certain models like LLMs with truly massive resource allocations. ZDNET: How does DigitalOcean aim to level the playing field for startups and smaller businesses in AI development?DE: Creating a level playing field in AI development is something that we, early on, recognized would be critical to the growth of the industry as a whole. While the top researchers in any field can justify large expenses, new startups seeking to capitalize on emerging technologies rarely have these luxuries. Also: Want a programming job in 2024? Learning any language helps, but only one is essentialIn AI, this effect feels even more apparent. Training a Deep Learning model is almost always extremely expensive. This is a result of the combined function of resource costs for the hardware itself, data collection, and employees. In order to ameliorate this issue facing the industry's newest players, we aim to achieve several goals for our users: Creating an easy-to-use environment, introducing an inherent replicability across our products, and providing access at as low costs as possible. By creating the simple interface, startups don't have to burn time or money training themselves on our platform. They simply need to plug in their code and go! This lends itself well to the replicability of work on DigitalOcean: it's easy to share and experiment with code across all our products. Together, these combine to assist with the final goal of reducing costs. At the end of the day, providing the most affordable experience with all of the functionality they require is the best way to meet startups needs. ZDNET: How important is it for AI development to be inclusive of smaller players, and what are the potential consequences if it is not?DE: The truth of the matter is that developing AI is incredibly resource-intensive. The steady, practically exponential rate of increase for size and complexity of Deep Learning datasets and models means that smaller players could be unable to attain the required capital to keep up with the bigger players like FAANG companies [Facebook/Meta, Apple, Amazon, Netflix, Google/Alphabet]. Also: Gen AI as a software quality tool? Skepticism is fading as more organizations implement itFurthermore, the vast majority of NVIDIA GPUs are being sold to hyperscalers like AWS or Google Cloud Platform. This makes it much more difficult for smaller companies to get access to these machines at affordable pricing due to the realities of the GPU supply chain. Effectively, these practices reduce the number of diverse research projects that can potentially get funding, and startups may find themselves hindered from pursuing their work due to simple low machine availability. In the long run, this could cause stagnation or even introduce dangerous biases into the development of AI in the future. At DigitalOcean, we believe a rising tide raises all ships, and that by supporting independent developers, startups, and small startups, we support the industry as a whole. By providing affordable access with minimal overhead, our GPU Machines offer opportunities for greater democratization of AI development on the cloud. Through this, we aim to give smaller companies the opportunity to use the powerful machines they need to continue pushing the AI revolution forward. ZDNET: What are the main misconceptions about AI development for startups and small businesses?DE: The priority should always be split evenly on optimizing infrastructure as well as software development. At the end of the day, Deep Learning technologies are entirely reliant on the power of the machines on which they are trained or used for inference. Also: Why data is the Achilles Heel of AI (and every other business plan)It's common to meet people with fantastic ideas, but a misconception about how much work needs to be put into either of these areas. Startups can compensate for this with broad hiring practices to ensure that you do not end up stonewalled by the lack of development in a certain direction. ZDNET: How can smaller companies overcome the knowledge gap in AI technology and development?DE: Hiring young entrepreneurs and enthusiasts making open-source technology popular is a great way to stay up on the knowledge you need to succeed. Of course, hiring PhD level senior developers and machine learning engineers will always give the greatest boost, but the young entrepreneurs popularizing these technologies are scrappy operators on the bleeding edge. In the realms of popular technologies like Stable Diffusion and Llama LLM, we can see this in real time today. There are a plethora of different open source projects like ComfyUI or LangChain that are taking the world by storm. It's through the use of both senior level, experienced engineers and newer developers of these entrepreneurial minded, but open source projects that I think startups can guarantee their future. ZDNET: What advice would you give to entrepreneurs looking to integrate AI into their business models?DE: Consider open-source options first. There are so many new businesses out there that are essentially repackaging an existing, popular open-source resource, especially LLMs. That means it is relatively simple to implement for ourselves with a little practice. Any entrepreneur should learn the basic Python requirements needed to run basic LLMs, at the very least. Also: Businesses must reinvent themselves in the age of agentic AIZDNET: What future advancements in AI do you foresee that will particularly benefit startups and growing digital businesses?DE: The cost of LLMs (especially for inference) is declining rapidly. Furthermore, the tooling and ecosystem of open-source model development is expanding rapidly. Combined, these are making AI accessible to startups of all scales, regardless of budget. ZDNET: Any final thoughts or recommendations for startups looking to embark on their AI journey?DE: The emergence of LLMs like GPT signaled a major leap in AI capabilities. These models didn't just enhance existing applications; they opened doors to new possibilities, reshaping the landscape of AI development and its potential. The scientists have built something that the engineers now can run with. AI is having an "API" moment and this time the entire development process has been upended. There are still big open questions [like], "How does one deal with non-deterministic APIs? What types of programming languages should we use to talk to this new intelligence? Do we use behavior-driven development, test-driven development, or AI-driven development?" And more. Also: Open source fights back: 'We won't get patent-trolled again'The opportunity, however, is massive, and a whole new wave of category-defining startups will be created. What do you think? What do you think? Did Dillon's discussion give you any ideas about how to move forward with your AI projects? Let us know in the comments below. You can follow my day-to-day project updates on social media. Be sure to subscribe to my weekly update newsletter, and follow me on Twitter/X at @DavidGewirtz, on Facebook at Facebook.com/DavidGewirtz, on Instagram at Instagram.com/DavidGewirtz, and on YouTube at YouTube.com/DavidGewirtzTV.Featured

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The DJI Power 1000 power station in action. Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNETWhat's the deal?There's currently a $340 coupon on Amazon for the DJI Power 1000 power station.ZDNET's key takeawaysThe DJI Power 1000 power station is available on Amazon for $799 on Amazon.It's a powerful, premium quality power station that's built to satisfy the needs of professional drone pilots.Unfortunately, there's no storage compartment for the SDC accessory cables, nor is there a built-in 12V car adapter port.I've tested dozens of power stations over the past year, but there was one that really piqued my interest from the moment I first heard about it. DJI, a leader in bothdronesandaction cameras, has used its expertise in battery technology to enter the competitive world of portable power stations. And the company made a dramatic entrance into this market with its first offering -- the Power 1000.Also:The best drones you can buy: Expert testedFor the past week, I've been testing the Power 1000, the bigger of the two power stations released by DJI earlier this month. It's one of -- if not the first -- power station on the market that is specifically designed to meet the needs of professional drone pilots.DJI Power 1000 tech specsBattery Capacity: 1024WhCell Chemistry: LFP (lithium ferrophosphate)Cycle Life: Maintains over 70% capacity after 4000 cycles.Ports:2x AC Output, 2x USB-C, 2x USB-A, SDC, SDC Lite, AC InputAC Output:AC 100-120 V, 50/60Hz, max continuous output: 2200W, AC 220-240 V, 50/60Hz, max continuous output: 2200W, max output: 2400W (total)AC Output (Bypass Mode):AC 100-120 V, 12 A, 1440 W, AC 220-240 V, 10 A, 2200WUSB-A Output:5V, 3A, 9V, 2A, 12V, 2A, Max output power per channel: 24WUSBC Output:5V, 5A, 9V, 5A, 12V, 5A, 15V, 5A, 20V, 5A, 28V, 5A (EPR), Max output power per channel: 140WSDC and SDC Lite Output:SDC: 9-27 V, max current: 10A, max output power: 240W, SDC Lite: 9-27V, max current: 10A, max output power: 240WNet Weight: Approx. 13 kgDimensions: 448 225 230 mm Note: The product featured in this review was tested with UK sockets.I've tested numerous power stations in the 1,000Wh range, and the size and weight of the Power 1000 align with my expectations. However, one aspect that stood out immediately to me was its solid construction: The outer shell is tough, effectively resisting knocks and bumps without flexing or bowing, which is what a power station like this something that's been built to take out and about -- really needs. Also: This handheld power bank is powerful enough to jump-start your carThe "ammo crate" style handles facilitate easy movement, whether with one hand or two, and they are smooth and comfortable to grip, which is definitely an advantage since this unit is a significantly weighty bit of kit. The Power 1000 is built tough. Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNETThe interface of the Power 1000 is refreshingly simple, featuring just a few buttons and switches along with an LCD. It avoids the confusion of tiny, difficult-to-identify "mystery meat" buttons or the need to rely on an app for essential functions.I particularly appreciate the lack of app dependency for controlling the power station, although connecting the unit to a computer for firmware updates can be somewhat cumbersome.The LED display seems to be a quality, custom part -- a welcome deviation from the lower-quality panels I've seen used by many other power station manufacturers. It remains clear even in bright sunlight, offering an uncluttered view that makes it easy to quickly take in all the important information on display.The ports are sensible: you have two AC outlets, two USB-C ports supporting 24W output, and a pair of USB-C ports that can deliver a full 240W. A sensible selection of ports. Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNETI appreciate the solid port covers on the AC inlet and the DC ports of the Power 1000. They're robust and don't seem likely to rip or fall off easily, unlike some others I've seen. However, it's a bit surprising that DJI chose to cover these ports while leaving the AC sockets and USB ports exposed. Ideally, all ports would have covers to provide some level of protection from dirt and moisture, enhancing the unit's durability and functionality in inclement environments.Also: The best portable power stations of 2024: Expert testedI carried out my usual barrage of tests on the Power 1000, which included verifying the unit's battery capacity and charge times, checking if the ports deliver their rated power, and testing how the AC outlets handle being overloaded. The Power 1000 passed all tests successfully. Port covers on the Power 1000 are robust. Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNETCharge times for the Power 1000 are around 70 to 75 minutes in fast-charge mode and about 130 minutes in standard mode. While the fast-charge option is convenient if you're in a hurry, using standard mode is generally recommended. This slower charging pace puts less stress on the batteries, potentially extending their lifespan.And under severe overloading, the unit simply shuts off without any adverse effects, which is a reassuring safety feature.In use, the Power 1000 is quiet, with the cooling fan only kicking in when needed, and even then not being all that noticeable, which is handy when using the power station indoors. Overloading the Power 1000 with a kettle. Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNETThe unit also supports solar charging, but this requires a separate solar power adapter module, and as I was not sent one for testing, I can't comment on this. However, I do like this idea of not having to pay for the solar charging module if you won't ever need solar charging, as this keeps the price down.Also: I found the most powerful robot vacuum on the market, and it's cheaper than you'd thinkThe SDC ports on the Power 1000, designed specifically for fast-charging DJI drone batteries, are indeed a thoughtful and useful addition for drone pilots. Each port can be used to charge one battery at a time, which works efficiently if you consistently recharge your batteries immediately after use, rather than waiting until you have a pile of them.However, to charge your drone batteries you will need bespoke cables, which are sold separately, adding to the cost. There are cables for the Air 3, Mavic 3, Matrice 30, and Inspire 3 drones. My workaround for cable storage! Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNETIt's also slightly inconvenient that there is no storage space for these cables on the unit. As a workaround, I've taken to tying them around the handles of the Power 1000, which, while effective, isn't the most elegant solution. This is one aspect that could be improved for better user convenience.There are also cables to transform the SDC ports to a 12 V car adapter outlet and XT60 port.ZDNET's buying adviceI was impressed with the DJI Power 1000. It has all the features you'd expect from a general mid-sized unit, but with the added functionality that it's been built with drone pilots in mind.The 1000Wh capacity is about the limit of what you want to lug about, and it has enough ports to distribute this power in a sensible way. I've seen power stations absolutely festooned with ports, but two AC, USB-A, and USB-C ports, along with the SBC and SBC Lite ports, is a sensible loadout.The Power 1000 is priced at $959, which aligns with similar units on the market. And for now, you can get $400 on Amazon simply by clicking on the coupon.Featured reviews

Roborock introduced me to the wondrous world of robot vacuums almost six years ago when few companies offered 2-in-1 robot vacuum mops. I'd just had my second baby and was looking for a way to check some chores off my list without breaking my back or taking away my already-divided attention from my very little ones. So I spent a couple hundred dollars on a Roborock E2 during a Black Friday sale.Since then, I've had another kid, moved states, lived in several houses, gotten a dog, and even became a robot vacuum tester-- all with that Roborock in tow. But also since then, robot vacuum and mop combinations have boomed, taking what started as a dripping microfiber pad dragged along your floors behind the vacuum and transforming into self-washing rotating mop pads, self-washing mop rollers, and self-emptying robots.This large offering of products has flooded the robot vacuum market, making it harder for buyers to choose the right one. With many discounts available as we approach the holiday season, I'm rounding out the best Roborock deals so you, like me, can have your own Roborock become part of your family for years to come.Shop deals at AmazonOur favorite early Roborock deals for Black Friday 2024Roborock Q7 Max+ robot vacuum and mop: $360 (save $510 at Amazon): In addition to a Q7 robot vacuum and mop, the Max model includes a self-emptying dock that you don't have to worry about for up to seven weeks.Roborock S8 Pro Ultra robot vacuum and mop: $1,100 (save $500 at Best Buy): This is a great time to save on what's typically a splurge robot vacuum and mop by purchasing the Roborock S8 Pro Ultra at $1,100.Roborock S8+ robot vacuum and mop: $620 (save $380 at Amazon): The Roborock S8+ features 6,000Pa of suction power, a self-emptying dustbin, and the company's Sonic Mop system.Roborock Flexi Pro wet/dry vacuum mop: $380 (save $120 at Roborock): I've tested and loved the "lite" version of this Roborock wet/dry vacuum and mop. The larger Flexi Pro features a larger battery and smart mobile app integrations.Roborock Qrevo Plus robot vacuum and mop: $650 (save $280 at Roborock): This is the perfect midrange robot vacuum and mop for hands-free floor cleaning -- especially at $650. (It's also our pick for the best midrange Roborock.) Roborock/ZDNET Current price: $360Original price: $870For a limited time, you can snag the Roborock Q7 Max+ at a discount for $360. As a vacuum mop combo, this machine features 4,200Pa suction power and 300g mopping pressures, promising a smooth and efficient clean. With its self-empty dock, you can have hands-free vacuuming for up to seven weeks. Thanks to Roborock's PreciSense LiDAR Navigation, you can rest assured that this robot vacuum will clean where it's supposed to and when it's supposed to. View now at Us.roborock Beth Mauder/ZDNET Current price: $360Original price: $450The Roborock Q5 Max+ robot vacuum is perfect for anyone looking for a self-emptying unit that can go up to seven weeks between emptying.Also:The best Roborock vacuums of 2024: Expert tested and reviewed View now at Amazon Maria Diaz/ZDNET Current price: $300Original price: $400The Roborock Flexi Lite is a great wet/dry cordless vacuum and mop that can tackle both wet and dry messes. It may sound too good to be true, but I assure you it's real. Thanks to a self-propelled system, the Flexi Lite is easy to push around your floors and can pick up spilled milk, crumbs, pet hair, juice, and anything else that fits its nozzle.Review: Forget Dyson: I tested Roborock's wet-dry hand vacuum and it left my floors spotless View now at Us.roborock Sabrina Ortiz/ZDNET Current price: $1,100Original price: $1,600One of the best two-in-one machines on the market, the Roborock S8 Max Ultra is now $1,100. It's a pretty penny, but the simplicity and efficiency make this robot worth the money. You could fill the clean water tank, empty the dirty water tank, and set a schedule to tackle your home without having to do anything for a couple of days. Even then, all I had to do was refill and empty the tanks. Having freshly vacuumed and mopped floors daily is a big win. View now at Amazon FAQsWhen is Black Friday?Black Friday is a big shopping event that happens each year on the day after Thanksgiving. This year, Black Friday is on Nov. 29.Since Thanksgiving is always on a Thursday, many people are off through the weekend, so retailers have capitalized on this day, the last national holiday before Christmas. This makes Black Friday a great chance to finish checking off your holiday shopping list.When is Cyber Monday?Cyber Monday happens on the Monday following the Thanksgiving holiday. This year, Cyber Monday is on Dec. 2.Are Roborock deals really better on Black Friday?Robot vacuums are cheaper during big shopping events like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Amazon Prime Day. The fact that Black Friday is one of the last major shopping events of the year results in some retailers giving big discounts on the current product stock in preparation for new devices launching in the new year.What's the difference between Black Friday and Cyber Monday?Though there are now many online deals, Black Friday has been historically a mostly in-person shopping event where people visit a brick-and-mortar store. With most big box stores featuring an online store, Black Friday online shopping has become as common as Amazon Prime Day shopping. Cyber Monday began and remains an online shopping event for online stores to capitalize on customers who may have missed a Black Friday deal and can shop from home or work on Monday.How did we choose these Black Friday deals?As a robot vacuum tester at ZDNET, I've become familiar with these devices' unique features and tested various models in every price range. This experience has made me realize that the robot vacuum market is saturated with competition. It also helps me discern which robot vacuums are worth their retail price and when a discount is a good deal.I check robot vacuum deals often, always choosing the ones that deliver the most features for the least money. Using our expertise and different tools to track deals, we can determine when a deal is worth it and ensure we only cover those. This list of deals will be updated as new deals appear and others sell out.Where can you shop the best Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals?While retailers hold store-specific shopping events throughout the year, like Amazon with Prime Day, you can expect Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals to appear everywhere. This includes your local businesses and big box stores. Black Friday is a huge shopping event, both in-person and online, with stores like Walmart, Best Buy, Amazon, Target, Costco, and more offering eye-popping discounts on different products.Top holiday deals

As we wait for Black Friday and Cyber Monday to roll around, deals on different devices are already appearing everywhere. Robot vacuums are just one category seeing major pricing discounts in preparation for the year's biggest shopping event. ZDNET is gathering the best and most legitimate deals available right now, so you don't have to worry about wading through the madness that is deal hunting.I test different types of robot vacuums daily and have grown exceedingly familiar with each brand's strengths and weaknesses, as well as their price fluctuations. As a result, I've realized that this is the best time to buy that robot vacuum you've had your eye on all year or as a holiday gift for that family member who's always wanted one. Here are my picks for the best early Black Friday robot vacuum deals.Shop deals at AmazonOur favorite early robot vacuum deals for Black Friday 2024iRobot Roomba Vac Essential robot vacuum: $225 (save $25 at Amazon): This Roomba is ZDNET's pick for thebest budget-friendly iRobot vacuumavailable.iRobot Roomba j7+ robot vacuum: $356 (save $444 at Amazon): This discount ona self-emptying Roombapowered by RobotOS is a deal you can't miss. You can also get theRoomba Combo j7+variation,with a fully retractable mop pad, at 18% off for $899.Roborock Q7 Max+ robot vacuum and mop: $360 (save $510 at Amazon): Besides a Q7 robot vacuum and mop, the Max model includes a self-emptying dock that you don't have to worry about for up to seven weeks.Dreame X30 Ultra robot vacuum and mop: $1,000 (save $400 at Amazon): The Dreame X30 Ultrawas ZDNET's top pick for thebest 2-in-1 robot vacuum and mop, dethroned only by its successor,the X40 Ultra.Yeedi M12 Pro+ robot vacuum and mop: $570 (save $430 at Amazon): Have you ever heard the phrase "high-end features for a mid-range price?"This hands-free robot vacuum and mopdoes all the work for you, with flagship features like an extending mop pad to reach corners and under cabinets and 11,000Pa of suction.iRobot Roomba Essential Combo robot vacuum and mop: $160 (save $115 at Amazon): This essential robot vacuum is an entry-level Roomba that combines powerful suction with mopping action.Ecovacs Deebot X2 Combo complete robot vacuum and mop: $1,110 (save $590 at Amazon): I rely on theDeebot X2 Combo Complete robot vacuum and mop, especially because of its side-mounted cordless vacuum that empties automatically.Roborock S8 Pro Ultra robot vacuum and mop: $1,100 (save $400 at Amazon): The all-in-one S8 Pro Ultra features 6,000Pa of suction power, a self-emptying dustbin, and self-washing mop pads.OKP Life K2 robot vacuum: $90 (save $110 at Amazon): One of ourfavorite inexpensive options, the OKP Life K2 is a great entry-level, no-frills robot vacuumespecially for the price.Dreame X40 Ultra robot vacuum and mop: $1,400 (save $500 at Amazon): This ismy favorite robot vacuum and mop combinationthat I've tested, with excellent obstacle avoidance and strong suction. Beth Mauder/ZDNET Current price: $350Original price: $650The Eufy X8 Pro twin-turbine robot vacuum is perfect for pet owners. With 4,000Pa of suction power, this robot vacuum includes a self-empty station and smooth navigation to leave beautiful carpet lines behind. View now at Amazon Current price: $994Original price: $1,399The flagship Roomba j9+ features powerful suction and a self-emptying dustbin, perfect for pet owners. This combo option also has a retractable mop pad that stores itself on top of the robot when not in use, ensuring your carpets stay dry and your hard floors stay mopped. View now at Amazon Maria Diaz/ZDNET Current price: $850Original price: $1,200The Deebot T30S combo is fairly new but lives up to the hype that only a three-in-one robot vacuum could garner. This has become my go-to upstairs robot vacuum and mop because it functions as a cleaning hub, made complete by the self-emptying cordless vacuum that charges right on the robot's charging station. View now at Amazon Roborock/ZDNET Current price: $380Original price: $870You can snag the Roborock Q7 Max+ for a limited time for $380. As a vacuum mop combo, this machine features 4,200Pa suction power and 300g mopping pressures, promising a smooth and efficient clean. With its self-empty dock, you can have hands-free vacuuming for up to seven weeks. Thanks to Roborock's PreciSense LiDAR Navigation, you can rest assured that this robot vacuum will clean where it's supposed to and when it's supposed to. View now at Amazon Current price: $394Original price: $530If you're like me and love the idea of your floors being cleaned by someone orsomethingelse, you can't go wrong with this deal. The Roomba j5 is a robot vacuum that intelligently maps and navigates your home, avoiding obstacles like cords and pet waste.Also:Roomba Combo J7+ review: A 2-in-1 robot vacuum done (almost) right View now at Amazon Best early Black Friday iRobot robot vacuum dealsiRobot Roomba Combo i3+ robot vacuum and mop: $330 (save $100 at Amazon): This is a perfect midrange, self-emptying robot vacuum for homes with different floor types, including with pet residents.iRobot Roomba j7+ robot vacuum: $356 (save $444 at Amazon): This discount ona self-emptying Roombapowered by RobotOS is a deal you can't miss. You can also get theRoomba Combo j7+variation,with a fully retractable mop pad, at 18% off for $899.iRobot Roomba Vac 2 Essential robot vacuum: $350 (save $50 at Amazon): This is an introductory offer on iRobot's brand new entry-level robot vacuum, featuring the AutoEmpty dock, for self-emptying.iRobot Roomba Combo j5 robot vacuum and mop: $393 (save $137 at Amazon): The Roomba Combo j5 is built for everyday vacuuming with occasional mopping.iRobot Roomba Vac Essential robot vacuum: $225 (save $25 at Amazon): This Roomba is ZDNET's pick for thebest budget-friendly iRobot vacuumavailable.Best early Black Friday Roborock robot vacuum dealsRoborock S8 Pro Ultra robot vacuum and mop: $1,100 (save $500 at Amazon): The all-in-one S8 Pro Ultra features 6,000Pa of suction power, a self-emptying dustbin, and self-washing mop pads.Roborock Q7 Max robot vacuum and mop: $200 (save $400): At over 63% off, this is one of the best discounts you'll find on a Roborock through Black Friday.Roborock S8+ robot vacuum and mop: $620 (save $380 at Amazon): The Roborock S8+ features 6,000Pa of suction power, a self-emptying dustbin, and the company's Sonic Mop system.Roborock Flexi Lite wet/dry vacuum and mop: $300 (save $100 at Amazon): This outstanding wet/dry vacuum and mop lets you tackle wet and dry messes in one fell swoop.FAQsWhen is Black Friday?Black Friday is a big shopping event that occurs each year on the day after Thanksgiving. This year, it falls on Nov. 29.Since Thanksgiving is always on a Thursday, many people are off through the weekend, so retailers have capitalized on this day, the last national holiday before Christmas. This makes Black Friday a great chance to finish checking off your holiday shopping list.When is Cyber Monday?Cyber Monday happens on the Monday following the Thanksgiving holiday. This year, Cyber Monday falls on Dec. 2.Are robot vacuum deals really better on Black Friday?Robot vacuums are cheaper during big shopping events like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Amazon Prime Day. The fact that Black Friday is one of the last major shopping events of the year results in some retailers giving big discounts on the current product stock in preparation for new devices launching in the new year.What's the difference between Black Friday and Cyber Monday?Though there are many online deals, Black Friday has been historically a mostly in-person shopping event where people visit a brick-and-mortar store. With most big box stores featuring an online store, Black Friday online shopping has become as common as Amazon Prime Day shopping. Cyber Monday began and remains an online shopping event for online stores to capitalize on customers who may have missed a Black Friday deal and can shop from home or work on Monday.How did we choose these Black Friday deals?As a robot vacuum tester at ZDNET, I've become familiar with these devices' unique features and tested different models in every price range. This experience has made me realize that the robot vacuum market is saturated with competition. It also helps me discern which robot vacuums are worth their retail price and when a discount is a good deal.I check robot vacuum deals often, always choosing the ones that deliver the most features for the least money. Using our expertise and different tools to track deals, we can determine when a deal is worth it and ensure we only cover those. This list of deals will be updated as new deals appear and others sell out.Where can you shop the best Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals?While retailers hold store-specific shopping events throughout the year, like Amazon with Prime Day, you can expect Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals to appear everywhere. This includes your local businesses and big box stores. Black Friday is a huge shopping event, both in-person and online, with stores like Walmart, Best Buy, Amazon, Target, Costco, and more offering eye-popping discounts on different products.Top holiday deals

ZDNET's key takeaways Amazon's base model Kindle retails for $110 and promises quicker page-turning, a brighter display, and a fun matcha green colorway (alongside the classic black). The e-reader is more reactive and vivid, and reading anything on the lightweight, portable device is convenient. This model has the shortest battery life out of the entire lineup, but it's still six weeks long. more buying choices Kindles aren't like other tablets or smart devices; their sole purpose is to be as close to analog as possible for a tablet -- delivering distraction-free reading with a battery life that lasts weeks and a screen that's easy to view no matter the environment.That means Kindle customers and devotees aren't expecting cutting-edge technology in a new release. They just want a great device with important but minimal finishing touches that improve upon the previous generation.This is especially true for the base model Kindle, the most affordable and least feature-rich model in the new Kindle lineup that includes an updated Paperwhite, Scribe, and a brand-new entrant, the Colorsoft (Kindle's first-ever full-color model). The base model doesn't have an adjustable warm light like the Paperwhite, drawing capabilities like the Scribe, nor vivid color like the Colorsoft. What the 2024 Kindle does have, however, is beautiful and effective simplicity.I spent some time reading and playing around with the new base model Kindle, and I highly recommend it if you're in the market for your first e-reader or if you're upgrading from a Kindle you purchased more than two years ago. Amazon released the previous base model Kindle in 2022. The 2024 version keeps most of the specs of the base model, with a few exceptions. These include different exterior colors (Matcha and Black), a brighter front light, a higher contrast ratio, and a faster page-turn rate.Also: This E Ink reader that nearly replaced my Android phone is at an all-time low priceThe Matcha colorway is lovely and fun, and is much more vibrant than the Navy or Black options from the 2022 lineup. One of my favorite parts about the base model is its pocketability and portability, thanks to its compact size.The size of the display is the same six inches -- an amenable display size for on-the-go reading. The 1072 x 1448 screen resolution, the 5.56 oz. weight, and the six-week battery life haven't changed either.I spent the weekend absorbed in some e-books (most notably, the newest Emily Henry novel) that I rented from my library. On one busy Saturday, I stashed the Kindle in my dress pocket to read on the subway in between errands. My friend and I had been walking around the city that day, and I had kept the e-reader in my pocket, where I barely noticed it throughout our journey.On a lazy Sunday morning, I lounged in bed, lying on my side, reading the Kindle with one hand, something I can never do with a physical novel because of how uncomfortable it is to hold ambidextrously. Nina Raemont/ZDNETWhile I was reading, I noticed that the page-turning and book-loading speeds were significantly quicker than on my Kindle Oasis or Kindle Paperwhite from 2022. I tested my old Paperwhite and my new Kindle and found that the new Kindle turned pages a smidgen quicker than the Paperwhite.As far as battery life is concerned, I can't confirm that this e-reader lasts the advertised six weeks because I've only tested the Kindle for a week. Still, six weeks is a long time between charges, and I haven't had any dramatic dips in battery life so far.As somebody who enjoys growing her physical book collection but also enjoys sampling various novels and nonfiction books from the library, a Kindle is a great device for reading and renting books you may never pick up and buy but are still interested in. I can fit this portable device into my pocket or work bag and read on the bus, before or after work, or while waiting at doctor appointments.Because reading is its only functionality, the Kindle offers a truly distraction-free interface that makes knocking out reading assignments for high school or college students less intrusive than a laptop or a tablet.I'm not using a Kindle to replace physical books. Instead, I use a Kindle to expand the types and genres of books I'd never plan on owning in the first place. An e-reader (with the help of a library card) allows you to widen the scope of literature that you read and sample different authors and stories that you'd never fit within your bookbag, suitcase, or bookcase.ZDNET's buying adviceIf you haven't purchased an e-reader before or are contemplating buying one for a loved one over the holidays, I'd without a doubt recommend this Kindle. It has all the features you'd need in a respectable e-reader, like a vivid display, reactive and quick speeds, great battery life, and a lovely color, all for a good price.Because a lot of the specs are unchanged, upgrading from the 2022 base model to the2024 base modelisn't the most reasonable thing to do, unless you aren't pleased with your 2022 Kindle's color, page-turn rate, or display brightness, and are willing to spend $110 to change that. If you want one more inch of display, different e-reader colors, an adjustable warm light for reading in different environments, and double the battery life, you may want to upgrade to the Paperwhite, which is $50 more, but I can read just fine with the base model, I love the pastel-y mint of the Matcha colorway and the compact display, and I can certainly charge my Kindle once every six weeks, so spending $50 more seems silly.This article was originally published on October 29, 2024, and was updated on November 14, 2024.Featured reviews