Friday, 30 September 2022

Power Rangers Astro Megazord Gets $166 Recreation of the Transforming Ship - CNET

September 30, 2022 , No comments :
Exclusive: Straight from Power Rangers In Space, the Astro Megazord includes the larger Megaship and the Megashuttle.

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NASA Looks Into Sending SpaceX Crew Dragon to Boost Hubble Telescope's Life - CNET

September 30, 2022 , No comments :
The telescope could get a boost, but the concept is only in an early study stage.

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'The White Lotus' Season 2 on HBO: Premiere Date and Everything to Know - CNET

September 30, 2022 , No comments :
Jennifer Coolidge is back for the second season, joined by new cast members like Aubrey Plaza, F. Murray Abraham and Meghann Fahy.

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Facebook and Instagram are officially NFT-positive in the U.S.

September 30, 2022 , No comments :
instagram logo

Facebook and Instagram have completed their NFT rollout across both apps for all users in the U.S.

On Thursday, Meta announced that all users in the U.S. can connect their digital wallets to Facebook and Instagram to share and cross-post their NFTs. This comes as one of the final steps of the official NFT rollout for the Meta-owned apps. Instagram announced a plan to introduce in-app NFTs in May and the same happened on Facebook in June.

Users in the other 100 countries where digital collectables are available can access the feature on Instagram, but not on Facebook just yet.

"Today we’re announcing everyone on Facebook and Instagram in the U.S. can now connect their wallets and share their digital collectibles," Meta announced in a post updated on Sept. 29. "This includes the ability for people to cross-post digital collectibles that they own across both Facebook and Instagram."

SEE ALSO: How to buy an NFT without getting scammed

This is one of the rare times in which it doesn't seem like Meta's new feature is a carbon copy of another app. Lately, each update Meta makes seems to be a transparent imitation of its competitors' features: like remixing on Reels; repost features; QR codes, and more. Other brands have, of course, worked NFTs into their business models — like Walmart, Nike, Coca-Cola, and Twitter — but this move doesn't seem like an exact copy of another social media app.

Good for you, Meta. I guess?



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McDonalds' New Happy-Meal-Inspired Box for Adults: Here's What You Get - CNET

September 30, 2022 , No comments :
The boxed meal, available on Monday, Oct. 3, comes with either a burger or nuggets. There are also wonky-looking figurines in the mix.

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Firefly Alpha Rocket Starts Up But Doesn't Get Off the Ground - CNET

September 30, 2022 , No comments :
Private space company Firefly Aerospace's second attempt at a test flight was aborted almost immediately.

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Thursday, 29 September 2022

National Coffee Day 2022: Dunkin', Starbucks, Panera Serve up Free Coffee and Other Deals - CNET

September 29, 2022 , No comments :
Satisfy your caffeine fix and get a great deal.

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Student Loan Debt Forgiveness Update: First Day to Apply Is Coming Up - CNET

September 29, 2022 , No comments :
The student debt application is opening soon, and eligible borrowers will be able to apply to cancel up to $20,000 in student debt.

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Where to get free coffee on National Coffee Day

September 29, 2022 , No comments :
illustrated coffee cups on blue background

The only thing better than coffee in the morning? Free coffee in the morning, or anytime in the day.

This Thursday, Sept. 29, is National Coffee Day, a very real holiday we all had marked on our calendars for months. (Be honest.) Well, anyway, there are some places offering free or reduced-price cups of joe on this most sacred of holidays. Here's what you need to know.

Caribou Coffee

Caribou is offering $3 medium drinks for the holiday.

Dunkin'

The massive chain is offering a free medium hot or iced coffee with any purchase for any Dunkin' loyalty members.

La Colombe

The premium coffee brand is offering an (almost) BOGO deal for online purchases now through October 1. Buy one bag of coffee, get another for half off.

Smoothie King

Smoothing King is offering a free smoothie with any coffee smoothie purchase.

Tim Hortons

Tim Hortons' U.S. locations are offering 25-cent coffees for the holiday. Now that's a pretty good deal, but you have to order through the app or website.

Krispy Kreme

The doughnut chain is offering a free coffee, no purchase necessary and no qualifiers. They probably know that once you smell their doughnuts you're going to buy something anyway.

Panera Bread

The national chain is offering a deal for those who need it most: parents and caregivers. Panera is offering a free coffee for any parent or caregiver on National Coffee Day.

Peet's

Peet's is offering a free drip coffee with any purchase for the holiday.

Wawa

The convenience chain close to my mid-Atlantic-raised heart is offering a free coffee for rewards members.



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Score a $250 espresso machine for under $100, plus more National Coffee Day deals

September 29, 2022 , No comments :
Nespresso coffee maker on countertop beside mug

TL;DR: National Coffee Day is Sept. 29, which means major discounts on at-home coffee and espresso makers. We've compiled all of the best ones below, but here's a quick glance:

BEST BUDGET DEAL: The Keurig Limited Edition Jonathan Adler K-Mini adds color to your counter and is over half off — $44.99 $99.99 (save $55)

BEST ESPRESSO DEAL: Best Buy's deal on the KitchenAid Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine beats Amazon's all time low pricing on the same model — $249.99 $399.99 (save $150)

BEST K-CUP DEAL: Stock up on K-cups at with 35% off select pods from Cinnabon, McCafé, and more

When you think of National Coffee Day, your thumbs may impulsively begin the hunt for lists of deals at Dunkin' or Peet's.

While we're not one to discourage opting for a large with an extra shot of espresso over your usual order (as a treat), every coffee enthusiast deserves the option of a daily treat without leaving the house. From regular coffee makers to hardcore 19-bar espresso machines to combo appliances, National Coffee Day is ripe with sales from Keurig, KitchenAid, and more.

Our favorite deals include Nespresso's 25% discount on all Vertuo machines and Best Buy's whole Deal of the Day list being dedicated to the theme, but you can shop by category below:

Regular coffee makers

Combo coffee and espresso machines

Dedicated espresso machines

Milk frothers, coffee grinders, K-Cups, and more



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Today only: Grab a refurbished Kindle for just $30

September 29, 2022 , No comments :
kindle on a bag alongside a phone and sunglasses

Save $60: Grab a refurbished 10th generation Amazon Kindle for just $30 at Woot, for Sept. 29 only. The same Kindle brand new is $90 at Amazon, saving you a whopping 67% by buying used.

We are officially under two weeks away from the start of Amazon's Prime Early Access Sale, but this might be one of the best deals we'll see of the the early shopping season. The catch? It'll be over by the end of the day.

For Sept. 29 only, you can get a refurbished 10th generation Kindle for just $30 at Woot. This deal follows the announcement of several new Kindles, including the long-awaited 11th generation Kindle, which does offer some Paperwhite-esque features for $100, and the new Kindle Scribe, which'll run you $340.

SEE ALSO: Amazon's best Prime Early Access Sale deals so far include robot vacuums and nugget ice makers

At the end of the day, if you're simply looking for a standard e-reader with some nice back lighting, 4GB of storage that can hold thousands of books, a glare-free screen, and a battery that can hold a charge for weeks, there's no need to go for the latest and greatest releases. The 10th gen Kindle has you more than covered, and buying refurbished saves you a ton of cash — at the time of writing, opting for a brand new one will cost you $90.

For those skeptical about shopping refurbished, multiple versions of this Kindle are in "good" condition, which typically means there are minor cosmetic imperfections. In general, refurbished products can include customer returns, and previously defective products that've been repaired by professionals. If you're truly unhappy with the quality of Kindle you receive, it will come with an Amazon limited 90-day warranty.

black 10th generation kindle
Credit: Amazon
10th generation Amazon Kindle (opens in a new tab)
$30 at Woot
(opens in a new tab)


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Here's where you can buy the new Mineral Camo Special Edition Xbox Controller

September 29, 2022 , No comments :
a close-up of a woman with light pink nail polish holding the new Xbox Wireless Controller – Mineral Camo Special Edition

TL;DR: The new Xbox Wireless Controller – Mineral Camo Special Edition ($69.99) was available for purchase at Amazon, Best Buy, GameStop, and in the Microsoft Store as of Sept. 29.

Between the limited-edition God of War Ragnarök Dualsense, the premium DualSense Edge, and the budget-friendly Elite Series 2 Core, this fall is panning out to be huge for People Who Need A New Gaming Controller.

Xbox threw another hat in the ring this week with its debut of its new Mineral Camo Special Edition Controller, an ocean-toned wireless gamepad it said was inspired by "geode crystals." (Sure!) The controller is the fourth entry in its camo series after the Night Ops Camo, Arctic Camo, and Daystrike Camo versions, and it's up for grabs at Amazon, Best Buy, GameStop, and in the Microsoft Store for $69.99 as of Sept. 29. (That's only $10 more than the standard Robot White Xbox Wireless Controller that comes with Xbox Series consoles.)

SEE ALSO: Our favorite games of 2022 so far, from 'Elden Ring' to things not called 'Elden Ring'

Note that GameStop still has it listed as a preorder for some reason, but it's fully released at this point.

Like last year's Daystrike Camo variant, the Mineral Camo controller features a dish-shaped hybrid D-pad, textured grips, and remappable buttons that you can use to create custom profiles for different games. A Share button sits between its View and Menu buttons, which will make it easy to capture screenshots and clips for your highlight reel. You'll find a 3.5mm audio jack on the bottom of the controller, in case you want to plug in a headset when you're playing Fortnite or Sea of Thieves with the crew.

If you need somewhere to store this bad boy when you're AFK, you can pick up a matching Razer Universal Quick Charging Stand for $49.99 on Amazon or the Razer website. (It was sold out in the Microsoft Store the last time we checked.)

the Xbox Wireless Controller – Mineral Camo Special Edition
Credit: Xbox
Xbox Wireless Controller – Mineral Camo Special Edition (opens in a new tab)
$69.99
(opens in a new tab)


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Today's best deals include an all-time low KitchenAid espresso machine, 4K TV, and brand-new Amazon Fire TV Cube

September 29, 2022 , No comments :
amazon fire tv cube, sony smart tv, and kitchen aid espresso maker against purple background

Here are the best deals of the day for Sept. 29:

September 29 is National Coffee Day, which can only mean one thing: coffee deals. If you're looking to whip up your own fancy coffee drinks at home to rival your local barista, you're in luck. Celebrate with major discounts on espresso machines, coffee makers, milk frothers, and more.

Coffee isn't the only thing on the ballot today, though. With the announcement of the Amazon Prime Early Access Sale, which will be kicking off the holiday shopping season early from Oct. 11 to 12, we're already seeing discounts on all sorts of products — including Amazon's own devices. Streaming, TV, toy, and gaming deals are also atop today's list. Save big on Sept. 29 with these top deals of the day.

Best coffee-related deal

kitchenaid espresso maker and milk frother in black
Credit: KitchenAid
Our pick: KitchenAid Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine and Automatic Milk Frother (opens in a new tab)
$249.99 at Amazon (save $150)
(opens in a new tab)

Why we like it

Get your espresso fix without ever leaving your home with this National Coffee Day deal on the KitchenAid Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine and Automatic Milk Frother. This espresso machine uses a 15-bar Italian pump to make one or two shots at a time. Plus, while you're waiting for the espresso shot to brew, there's a convenient cup warmer at the top of the machine. The milk frother is built-in and attaches directly to the side, so you can set up the perfect foamy topping without missing a beat. It's relatively slim for an espresso machine, too, so you can slip it seamlessly onto your countertop without rearranging your entire kitchen. At $249.99, you'll be snagging this powerful machine for its lowest price ever.

Best TV deal

sony 55-inch bravia smart tv with crystals on screen
Credit: Sony
Our pick: Sony 55-inch BRAVIA XR A80K 4K HDR OLED Google TV (2022) (opens in a new tab)
$1,298 at Amazon (save $501.99)
(opens in a new tab)

Why we like it

With exclusive features for the PlayStation 5, intelligent TV processing, XR OLED Contrast Pro technology, and hands-free Google assistant, the Sony Bravia XR A80K TV offers a supreme cinematic experience and seamless streaming. It analyzes every image to deliver the deepest contrasts and highest peak brightness, so you'll experience billions of accurate colors and exceptional details. The 55-inch model ($1,298) is plenty big for casual viewing purposes, but if you want to step it up, the 65-inch option is also on sale for $1,698 (save $601.99).

Best Amazon device deal

Amazon Fire TV Cube 4k device
Credit: Amazon
Our pick: Amazon Fire TV Cube 4K HDR Streaming Device (Pre-Order) (opens in a new tab)
$99 with code 4KCUBE (save $40)
(opens in a new tab)

Why we like it

It's only fitting that Amazon released a ton of new devices ahead of its Prime Early Access Sale event from Oct. 11 to 12. One of those devices is this updated third-gen Fire TV Cube, which doesn't disappoint. It boasts a speedy octa-core 2.0 GHz processor for a 20 percent power boost over the previous generation, plus a 4K upscaling feature, WiFi 6E support for silky-smooth streaming, and an "industry-first" HDMI input port for connecting it to compatible devices. It's set to debut on Oct. 25 and priced at $139.99, but you can save $40 with the code 4KCUBE when you pre-order it starting Sept. 29.

More coffee-related deals

More TV deals

More Amazon device deals

Gaming deals

Lego deals

Streaming and subscription deals



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Wednesday, 28 September 2022

Google Search Gets a TikTok Look by Spotlighting Short-Form Video - CNET

September 28, 2022 , No comments :
Google is trying to make search results richer and more useful.

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Amazon Alexa: 5 Hidden Features You've Gotta Try on Your Echo - CNET

September 28, 2022 , No comments :
You know Alexa can play music and give you the weather, but how about finding your phone or guarding your home?

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M&M's Debuts Purple Candy, Its First New Color in 10 Years - CNET

September 28, 2022 , No comments :
"I'm just gonna be me," the new female peanut M&M declares in a promo video.

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Hidden Perks of Amazon Prime Make It Much More Than a Delivery Service - CNET

September 28, 2022 , No comments :
Amazon's subscription service provides a bevy of benefits beyond expedited shipping.

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Shark's best-selling self emptier is 50% off, plus more robot vacuum deals this week

September 28, 2022 , No comments :
Roomba j7+ on auto empty dock

UPDATE: Sep. 28, 2022, 12:30 p.m. EDT This story has been updated to include the best deals on robot vacuums from iRobot, Shark, Roborock, and more.

We've compiled the best deals on robot vacuums from brands like iRobot, Shark, and Ecovacs. Here are the ones to grab as of Sept. 28:

  • BEST BUDGET DEAL: The Shark AI RV2002 is the rare reliable LiDAR-equipped model that's under $200 — $169 $249 (save $80)

  • BEST SELF-EMPTYING DEAL: This Shark best seller is half off as part of Amazon's Early Access Prime Sale— $299.99 $599.99 (save $300)

  • BEST ROBOT VACUUM/MOP DEAL: The Yeedi Vac Station offers zone cleaning, automatic emptying, and mopping at a wicked value — $349.98 $499.98 (save $150)

Only three things are certain in life: Death, taxes, and a few days each month when you need to vacuum but just don't have time. Whether you detest the chore or get a little bummed when you can't have that satisfying dance with your Dyson, a robot vacuum is a lifesaver. Shop models on sale below.

Robot vacuums under $200

Shark robot vacuum and smartphone with purple screen and Shark logo
Credit: Shark
Our pick: Shark AI RV 2002 (opens in a new tab)
$169 at Walmart (save $80)
(opens in a new tab)

Why we like it

You'd be hard-pressed to find a LiDAR-equipped robot vacuum for less than $200, and even more hard-pressed to find one that can actually find the rooms it maps. On sale for $169, Shark's model hits the mark, and administers 30% more effective carpet cleaning than its predecessor (according to Shark).

More robot vacuums under $200

Robot vacuums under $500

Shark IQ RV1001AE XL robot vacuum and self-emptying dock
Credit: Shark
Our pick: Shark IQ RV1001AE XL (opens in a new tab)
$299.99 at Amazon (save $300)
(opens in a new tab)

Why we like it

With a bagless self-emptying base, the Shark IQ RV1001AE XL will let you completely forget about vacuuming for up to 45 days. You'll also get a self-cleaning brushroll, full home mapping, and voice control via Alexa or Google Assistant. And BTW, this 50% off deal brings this best-selling Shark vac back to all time low pricing. Thanks, Prime Early Access Sale.

More robot vacuums under $500

Robot vacuums under $800

Roborock Q5+ robot vacuum and self-empty dock
Credit: Roborock
Our pick: Roborock Q5+ (opens in a new tab)
$599.99 at Amazon (save $100)
(opens in a new tab)

Why we like it

In June 2022, Roborock debuted a mid-range self-emptier (compared to its other self-emptiers, which start at $949.88.) In just a few months, the Q5+ has already racked up nearly $3,000 five-star reviews for its nimble navigation, floor coverage, and hearty suction. It doesn't mop like the S7+, but it does use LiDAR to map.

More robot vacuums under $800

Robot vacuum and mop hybrids and dedicated robot mops

Yeedi vaccum and self empty station
Credit: Yeedi
Our pick: Yeedi Vac Station (opens in a new tab)
$349.98 at Amazon (save $150)
(opens in a new tab)

Why we like it:

Yeedi isn't a name with brand recognition like iRobot or Shark, but with this kind of bang for your buck, it should be. The Vac Station gets you zone cleaning and virtual boundaries, automatic emptying, and mopping for under $350.

More hybrids and robot mops on sale

Are robot vacuums worth it?

The control of an upright vacuum comes with its own type of satisfaction. But if you're not one to classify cleaning as cathartic, a robot vacuum could erase that huge, agonizing task from of your chore list. (And did we mention the joy of having "first day clean" floors all the time?)

But whether robot vacuums are worth it or not comes with a caveat: It can't be just any robot vacuum. A cheap robot vac that doesn't do the job right — scattering dust, bumping into walls, getting stuck on area rugs — might actually create more work for you.

What to consider when buying a robot vacuum

  • Suction power: A vacuum is the one purchase that you hope sucks a lot. Suction power is typically measured in Pascals (Pa), with most current vacs ranging between 1,500 Pa and 3,000 Pa. Stronger sucking will be needed to pick up heavier pieces of debris (be sure to set a no-go zone around Legos) and to pull matted-down pet hair from rugs.

  • Floor type: Carpeting and high pile rugs will probably require stronger suction than hard floors, as well as special features like an extra-wide or self-cleaning brush roll to prevent hair from wrapping and clogging. Folks in homes with multiple floor types might consider a bigger, sturdier robot vacuum that can hurl itself and its wheels over mats, rugs, and transitions from carpet to hard floors.

  • Automatic emptying: Because robot vacuums are typically under four inches tall, their onboard dust bins are also small — which means they frequently require emptying. (Dustbins fill up particularly quickly in homes with pets.) A self-emptying vacuum takes that job out of your hands, emptying itself into a larger dustbin in its charging dock. These larger bins can typically hold weeks of dirt without needing to be cleaned or dumped out.

  • Home layout: Every robot vacuum is equipped with sensors and drop detection. But if your home has lots of rooms, lots of turns, or lots of close-together furniture, you'll have fewer navigation issues with an advanced model that uses intelligent mapping to remember exactly how your home is laid out, including labeling of specific rooms, mental notes of staircases, and ability to deploy zone cleaning.

  • Low-profile furniture: No one should have to be scared about what's accumulated under their couch over the past year. A robot vacuum measuring three inches or less in height should be able to scoot under most low-hanging couches and beds.

  • Battery life and square footage: One of the main complaints people have about their robot vacuum is that it craps out in the middle of the floor. Larger spaces require more time to clean, and it all depends on how annoyed you'll be if it only finishes a few rooms at a time. Average run times for the list below range between 90 and 200 minutes, which translate to about 500 and 2,800 square feet covered on one charge.

  • App control: WiFi-enabled robot vacuums can be synced with a smartphone app to control scheduling, manual start, cleaning settings, as well as telling your vac to make its rounds when you're not home. Low-end models that don't connect to WiFi will usually come with a separate remote. If you're used to asking Alexa or Google to turn off the lights or tell you the weather, a model with voice integration will blend in nicely.



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Amazon Reveals All-New Fire Devices video - CNET

September 28, 2022 , No comments :
At an Amazon event, the company shows off all new Fire TV devices, including the Fire TV Cube, Remote Pro and Fire TV Omni QLED.

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Tuesday, 27 September 2022

You Might Be Able to Outrun the World's Fastest Two-Legged Robot... for Now - CNET

September 27, 2022 , No comments :
Cassie the robot isn't ready for the Olympics just yet, but it might outpace you very soon.

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See What Happens When AI Turns 'Simpsons' Characters Into Real People - CNET

September 27, 2022 , No comments :
D'oh! Mild-mannered Homer suddenly looks like the Hulk of Springfield.

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'Girls Who Code' book series temporarily banned in Pennsylvania school district

September 27, 2022 , No comments :
Three covers of books for the

A school district in Pennsylvania temporarily banned the Girls Who Code book series, according to a report by nonprofit Pen America.

In an extensive index of banned books compiled by the organisation, four titles from GWC (a national non-profit organization working to close the gender gap in tech) were amongst those that have "restricted or diminished for either limited or indefinite periods of time" in Pennsylvania's Central York district.

The Girls Who Code books — The Friendship Code, Team BFF: Race to the Finish!, Lights, Music, Code!, and Spotlight on Coding Club! — trace a group of girls who belong to a coding club at their school. All four titles were reportedly banned within classrooms in the school district.

SEE ALSO: Where you can read banned books for free

The authors of the series, Stacia Deutsch, Michelle Schusterman, and Jo Whittemore, condemned the ban, alongside Girls Who Code founder Reshma Saujani and CEO Dr. Tarika Barrett.

"To say that I find this unsettling would be an understatement," wrote Barrett in a statement posted on LinkedIn. "At my organization, we always say that 'you can’t be what you can't see,' and that's what our books have stood for. We work, every day, to empower young people who haven't imagined themselves in STEM to use coding to help themselves and their communities, to do good."

Five women stand around a laptop in an office smiling.
Dr. Tarika Barrett, CEO of Girls Who Code, with college students. Credit: Girls Who Code

"Banning our books, and any of the 1,651 titles that have been banned so far this year, is a blow to any efforts to build a diverse, more equitable world," added Barrett. "It sends a clear message to our students: you don’t belong here. Your representation doesn’t matter. Your knowledge doesn’t matter. Stick to the status quo. Don’t rock the boat."

Business Insider reports the Girls Who Code books were banned over a 10-month period, from November 2020 to September 2021. However, the Central York School District denies the series had been banned, telling Newsweek that the books "remained in circulation" in their libraries during this time. A spokesperson told the publisher the series had been part of a "Diversity Resource List, along with approximately 200 other resources, that was removed from the Central York School District in November of 2020," but that it was reinstated by the school district's Board of Directors the same month.

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How the vast world of 'Shadow and Bone' improves the books

Saujani wrote on Twitter on Sept. 24, "I woke up this morning to a news alert that our @GirlsWhoCode middle-grade book series was banned by some school districts as part of the Mom[s] for Liberty effort to ban books. To be honest, I am so angry I cannot breathe."

Moms for Liberty, as Sajuani referenced, is a conservative nonprofit group founded in Florida, who have launched a series of powerful efforts to ban certain books and learning resources across America. They are one force in the growing pushback against a set of books in the country.

The Central York school district came under scrutiny last year for its attempted and continuous bans of hundreds of books, documentaries, and articles within its classrooms. Amongst these banned titles was a documentary film about writer James Baldwin, children's books like Brad Meltzer's I Am Rosa Parks, and other resources told from the perspective of people of color and LGBTQ people. A group of students and parents successfully got the ban reversed.

This is line with Pen America's research, which found that 41 percent of banned books in America have LGBTQ themes, protagonists, or supporting characters. 40 percent have central characters that are people of color. Meanwhile, 21 percent directly deal with issues of race and racism; 10 percent are founded upon themes of activism and human rights.

The organization, which sits at "the intersection of literature and human rights", wrote that "it is the books that have long fought for a place on the shelf that are being targeted" in 2022.

Both the movement to ban books and the fight to preserve literature and freedom of expression are on the rise in America. From July 2021 to June 2022, bans took place in 138 school districts in 32 states. The statistics just get worse, illustrating the crucial need to preserve both literature and academic spaces.

But luckily, some are still fighting. In fact, here's where to read banned books for free.



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The M2 MacBook Air is $150 off, plus more of the best Apple deals as of Sept. 27

September 27, 2022 , No comments :
a person uses the attached keyboard on their ipad

UPDATE: Sep. 27, 2022, 12:30 p.m. EDT We've updated this post with the best deals from across the Apple universe.

  • BEST MAC DEAL: The 16-inch MacBook Pro (M1 Pro, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) is a powerhouse laptop built for creatives 99 cents away from a record-low price — $2,099.99 $2,499 at Amazon (save $399.01 with on-page coupon)

  • BEST IPAD DEAL: The 2021 iPad (WiFi, 64GB) is the best iPad for most people — $299 $329 at Amazon (save $20)

  • BEST IPHONE DEAL: The iPhone 13 Mini (64GB) at Verizon is a mini phone with plenty of storage space and a battery life worth bragging about — $0 on a new line with select 5G unlimited plans $599.99 (save up to $600)

  • BEST APPLE WATCH DEAL: The Apple Watch Series 7 (45mm, GPS + cellular) is at its lowest price ever — $400 $529 at Amazon (save $129)

  • BEST ACCESSORIES DEAL: The AirPods Max are the stylish and functional over-the-ear headphones that most Apple users are sure to love, back at their record low price — $429 $549 at Amazon (save $120)

You could really kill some time trying to dissect the iron grasp Apple has on the general population, but when it comes down to it, their products look good, work well, and stay cutting-edge — of course people like them. Whether you mark your time in Apple events or you just want solid tech no matter the brand, Apple's got you covered. Sure, they're a little notorious for their higher prices, but we've rounded up the best deals on iPads, AirPods, MacBooks, and more to help you out. Check them out below.

Mac and MacBook deals

space gray m1 pro macbook pro
Credit: Apple
Our pick: 2021 MacBook Pro (M1 Pro, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) (opens in a new tab)
$2,099.99 at Amazon (save $399.01 with on-page coupon)
(opens in a new tab)

Why we like it

Check out Mashable's official review of the 2021 MacBook Pro.

This is not an everyday laptop, so it doesn't come at an everyday price — but it is only 99 cents away from the lowest price we've ever seen it. For multitaskers who want room-filling speakers, a battery life that's built to last, and the workflow that only a 16-inch Liquid Retina XDR display can provide, the 2021 MacBook Pro is the way to go.

More Mac and MacBook deals

2022 MacBook Air

2021 MacBook Pro

2020 MacBook Pro

2020 MacBook Air

More Macs

iPad deals

space gray ipad
Credit: Amazon
Our pick: 2021 iPad (WiFi, 64GB) (opens in a new tab)
$299 at Amazon (save $20)
(opens in a new tab)

Why we like it

The Apple iPad is the hands down best tablet for most people, with a decent amount of storage space, an aptly powered A13 chip, and 10.2 inches of a Liquid Retina display. The specs aren't so over the top that you're paying for it in its price, but not so basic friendly that you're paying for it in its functionality. Whether you're a person streaming your shows, a student taking notes, or a professional trying not to lug their laptop everywhere, the iPad has got you covered.

More iPad deals

iPad

iPad Air

iPad Pro

iPhone deals

starlight iphone 13 mini
Credit: Apple
Our pick: iPhone 13 Mini at Verizon (opens in a new tab)
$0 on select 5G unlimited plans (save $700)
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Why we like it

Check out Mashable's official review of the iPhone 13 Mini.

The iPhone 14 is officially here, but the iPhone 13 is by no means outdated. While you'll find its new MSRP is $100 cheaper on Apple's website, or you can snag a new 13 mini for free if you open a new line at Verizon on an unlimited plan.

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Apple Watch deals

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Our pick: Apple Watch Series 7 (45mm, GPS + cellular) (opens in a new tab)
$400 at Amazon (save $129)
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Why we like it

The Series 8 is officially here and the Series 7 is off Apple's website, which means it's time to score on deals of the most feature-heavy Series 7 watches out there. Case in point — the 45mm Series 7 with cellular capability is down to its lowest price ever, offering a wide array of health sensors and the ability to call and text from anywhere on one of Apple's largest watch faces.

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Apple accessories deals

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Our pick: AirPods Max (opens in a new tab)
$429 at Amazon (save $120)
(opens in a new tab)

Why we like it

Check out Mashable's official review of the AirPods Max.

Are the only over-the-ear AirPods ridiculously expensive? Yes. But do they offer excellent audio quality, active noise cancellation, and 20 hours of battery life all in one stylish package? Also yes. The best part is that these headphones are back at their record low price in silver.

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The best carry-on luggage for every traveler

September 27, 2022 , No comments :
arlo skye the frame carry on suitcase on bed opened up with clothes packed

Whether you’re crossing state lines or international borders, having the best carry-on luggage can help you enjoy your trip fully. After all, no one wants to pay to check any more baggage than they have to. The trick is to find a carry-on that is big enough to carry your belongings, without being so big it won’t fit in the overhead compartment or exceed TSA requirements for carry-on bag size. Keep in mind though, that different airlines may have their own requirements for what is considered carry-on luggage and what will fit in their planes. Generally speaking, the smaller the plane, the smaller the overhead bins — and the smaller your luggage will have to be. 

While quality luggage can be expensive, a carry-on you can depend on is more than worth the investment. When comparing different carry-ons, consider not only size and maneuverability but other features like interior pockets, TSA-approved locks, and built-in portable chargers to help you stay powered while on the move. Oh, and don’t forget to choose something attractive, too — you want a bag that’s easy to spot, so you don’t lose it or get it accidentally mixed up with another traveler!

What makes a carry-on bag? 

Technically speaking, any bag that you “carry on” to an airplane is considered a carry-on bag. Most airlines allow travelers to bring one piece of carry-on luggage or “hand baggage” that can fit in the overhead bin onto a flight. In addition, you may also be able to bring a “personal item” such as a smaller purse, computer bag, diaper bag, or small backpack onto the plane in addition to your carry-on luggage.

What’s the maximum size for a carry-on bag?

Each airline has its own restrictions for how large your carry-on luggage can be, and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) doesn’t regulate a set size and weight either. This can make it complex and confusing for travelers to know if their carry-on bag is “legal” or not. Most airlines allow carry-on luggage that according to the FAA must not be larger than 45 linear inches (length + width + height). 

To avoid the hassle (and cost) of having to check your bag, make sure your carry-on doesn't exceed this size at full capacity, especially if it is an expandable model. No matter what, you should always check with your airline for their latest guidelines on carry-on size. And believe it or not, some airlines even have different carry-on size restrictions depending on whether you’re flying economy, business, or first class.

Most domestic carriers in the U.S. allow carry-on luggage with maximum size ranging from 45 linear inches to 51 linear inches. The only airline to have a set carry-on weight limit is Hawaiian airlines (25 lbs).

How to measure carry-on luggage

Knowing the dimensions of your carry-on bag is one thing, but knowing how airlines will measure your bag is key to ensuring a smooth trip. For starters, the airline will measure your luggage from the contact point with the ground to the highest point — this means that both handles and wheels are included in the measurement.

To measure your carry-on at home, follow these steps: 

  1. Height: To measure the height of your luggage, measure from the contact point with the ground to the highest point of the bag.

  2. Width: Lay your carry-on on its side and measure from the ground to the top point. Don’t forget to include straps, handles, and side pockets.

  3. Depth: Lay your carry-on on its front or back and repeat the ground to top point measurement to find the depth.

  4. Total: Add these three measurements together to find the total linear inches of your carry-on — most airlines have a maximum of 45 to 51 linear inches. If your carry-on luggage exceeds any airline maximum or 45 to 51 linear inches, you may have to check it.

SEE ALSO: The best travel backpacks to keep you hands-free from point A to point B

What should I look for in a carry-on bag? 

With so many carry-on bags available on the market, it can be hard to know what to look for to ensure you’re getting the best carry-on luggage. Here are some features that make packing and traveling a more pleasant experience. 

Size Plus Weight

Arguably, the most important considerations when it comes to choosing the best carry-on luggage for your needs are the size and weight. As discussed, you want a bag that meets the FAA guidelines of being less than 45 linear inches. But you also need a bag that’s large enough to hold all your gear for at least a couple of days. It’s a balancing act between the two sides. Additionally, you want a carry-on that is lightweight, so you don’t tire yourself out wheeling it through the airport or carrying it between destinations. Look for bags that weigh no more than 7.5 pounds.

Expandability

Carry-on luggage that is expandable offers you just that little bit of extra storage capacity so nothing gets left behind. However, if you’re going to carry on your luggage in its expanded format, be sure to measure it to see if it meets airline specifications. The expandable feature is really ideal for when you’re using your carry-on as a weekend or overnight bag for non-air travel. 

Spinner wheels

Most carry-on luggage comes with wheels, and in this case, more really is more. Bags with four wheels instead of two — also called spinner luggage — are easier to navigate in tight spaces because the wheels turn 360 degrees. They’re also more ergonomic than two-wheeled rolling luggage because you can push ‘em, pull ‘em, wheel ‘em at your side, and they turn in any direction.

Laundry bag/compartment

A carry-on bag that includes a laundry bag or compartment makes it easy to keep your clean and dirty (or wet and dry) clothes separated. Some bags also feature a dedicated shoe compartment, while others have a tri-fold garment bag to help keep your suit or fancy dress wrinkle-free. 

Smart luggage 

Smart luggage includes features such as built-in chargers and USB ports for helping you stay powered up while away from home. Smart carry-on luggage may also have a built-in scale or TSA lock, as well as the ability to share its location via GPS or cellular — so you never have to worry about losing your bag again.

SEE ALSO: The 10 best travel tech gadgets for your next adventure in 2022

Squared corners

Carry-on luggage with squared corners may not look as stylish as their rounded-corner counterparts, but they allow you to fit just a little bit more into your bag — and make it easier to pack, to boot. 

TSA lock

While it’s understandable that you want to keep your belongings secure, TSA officers must be able to inspect your baggage and its contents should the need arise. However, there are carry-ons with locks that are TSA-approved — which means they can be opened using a universal "master" key that only TSA agents have access to so that they don’t have to cut the locks off your bag. 

What are the benefits of hardside and softside bags?

The advantage of hardside luggage is pretty obvious — it helps to keep the items inside the bag safe from damage. This includes an accidental drop. Hardside luggage is also able to withstand the elements a bit better than softside bags. The advantage of softside luggage is that it is a bit more forgiving in terms of being able to stuff more things inside — and to stuff them in the overhead compartment. They’re also better for packing irregularly-shaped items. Soft-sided bags also tend to have more external pockets than hardside luggage, perfect for quick access to smaller items.

Remember, even if your bag meets the required dimensions and weight limit of the airline you’re flying with, you could still be asked to check or gate check your bag. This usually happens if the flight is full or it is an older, smaller plane. Additionally, not every plane has overhead storage compartments that are large enough to accommodate full-sized carry-on luggage at all. The good news is, if your bag needs to be checked for one of these reasons, you shouldn’t be charged a fee for checking it. No matter what type of carry-on luggage you’re looking for, we’ve got an option for you. Check out our list of the best carry-on luggage below to find your next bag — and bon voyage!



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