Technology

Auto parts giant exposed: 2.3 million customers at risk in massive data breach

Published

2 hours ago

July 18, 2024

Auto parts giant exposed: 2.3 million customers at risk in massive data breach

Advance Auto Parts, an auto parts retailer with stores throughout the U.S., has been affected by a data breach impacting over 2.3 million people.

The incident is reported to be related to other breaches, such as the recent one at Ticketmaster.

Advance Auto Parts has confirmed that cyberattackers managed to access information, including Social Security numbers, driver’s licenses and other government ID numbers.

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Advance Auto Parts store (Advance Auto Parts)

Breach confirmation and scope

On June 19, Advance Auto Parts confirmed that it had been impacted by a data breach, but it only puts current and former employees and job applicants at risk. Advance has now completed its internal investigation into the incident and has determined that it has impacted 2,316,591 people.

Timeline and details of the breach

“Our investigation determined that an unauthorized third party accessed or copied certain information maintained by Advance Auto Parts from April 14, 2024, to May 24, 2024,” states the notice sent by Advance Auto Parts to affected individuals. “We conducted a detailed review and analysis of the affected information to determine the types of information contained therein and to whom the information relates.”

Exposed information

The company has confirmed that the breach has exposed data, such as full names, Social Security numbers, driver’s licenses and government ID numbers, to hackers. This data is collected as part of Advance’s hiring process, so it seems only employee and applicant data has been leaked.

HOW TO REMOVE YOUR PRIVATE DATA FROM THE INTERNET

Potential hacker involvement

While Advance didn’t name the hacker responsible for the attack, a threat actor known as “Sp1d3r” began selling a massive 3TB database on June 5, 2024. This database allegedly contains 380 million Advance customer records, including orders, transaction details and other sensitive information. Although the number claimed by Sp1d3r is significantly lower than the 2.3 million figure reported by Advance, it’s possible that Sp1d3r was behind the attack.

Part of a larger attack

Hackers gained access to Advance Auto Parts’ data stored on Snowflake, a cloud storage service, for over a month starting in mid-April 2024. This incident reportedly was part of a larger attack targeting Snowflake accounts with stolen credentials. Other companies impacted by this campaign include Pure Storage, Ticketmaster and more.

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Exterior of Advance Auto Parts store (Advance Auto Parts)

HERE’S WHAT RUTHLESS HACKERS STOLE FROM 110 MILLION AT&T CUSTOMERS

What is Advance Auto Parts doing about the breach?

Advance Auto Parts says it promptly terminated the unauthorized access and took proactive measures to prevent future unauthorized access. The company also notified law enforcement and is collaborating with third-party cybersecurity experts to further harden its systems.

The impacted individuals have also been offered free credit monitoring and identity theft protection for 12 months. They can enroll by Oct. 1, 2024.

We contacted Advance Auto Parts for a comment on this story but did not hear back before our deadline.

A car motor (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

WORLD’S LARGEST STOLEN PASSWORD DATABASE UPLOADED TO CRIMINAL FORUM

7 proactive steps to take in the face of the Advance Auto Parts data breach

If you think you have been affected by the Advance Auto Parts data breach, follow these steps to protect yourself and your personal data.

1. Stay informed: Keep up to date with the latest news from Advance Auto Parts data breach and other reliable sources to know the status of the systems and services.

2. Monitor your accounts and transactions: You should check your online accounts and transactions regularly for any suspicious or unauthorized activity. If you notice anything unusual, report it to the service provider or the authorities as soon as possible. You should also review your credit reports and scores to see if there are any signs of identity theft or fraud.

3. Use identity theft protection: Identity theft protection companies can monitor personal information, like your home title, Social Security Number, phone number and email address, and alert you if it is being used to open an account. They can also assist you in freezing your bank and credit card accounts to prevent further unauthorized use by criminals. See my tips and best picks on how to protect yourself from identity theft.

4. Change your passwords: Although Advance Auto Parts says your personal details like phone number and email address haven’t been leaked, it’s still advisable to change your passwords. Consider using a password manager to generate and store complex passwords.

5. Vigilance against phishing: Be extra cautious of phishing attempts as cyberattacks often lead to an increase in phishing emails and calls trying to exploit the situation. The best way to protect yourself from clicking malicious links that install malware that may get access to your private information is to have strong antivirus protection installed on all your devices. This can also alert you of any phishing emails or ransomware scams. Get my picks for the best 2024 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.

6. Be wary of mailbox communications: Bad actors may also try to scam you through snail mail. The data leak gives them access to your address. They may impersonate people or brands you know and use themes that require urgent attention, such as missed deliveries, account suspensions and security alerts.

7. Invest in personal data removal services: While no service promises to remove all your data from the internet, having a removal service is great if you want to constantly monitor and automate the process of removing your information from hundreds of sites continuously over a longer period of time. Check out my top picks for data removal services here.

PHARMA GIANT’S DATA BREACH EXPOSES PATIENTS’ SENSITIVE INFORMATION

Kurt’s key takeaway

Hackers are launching campaigns that target big corporations. Recently, we saw a cyberattack that paralyzed CDK Global, and now, again in the automobile industry, Advance Auto Parts has been targeted. These companies need to fortify their systems so that they don’t get affected by such attacks. Also, the government needs to come up with required laws that should ban the retention of customers’ personal details, unless necessary.

How important is a company’s cybersecurity track record to you when deciding where to shop? Let us know in the comments below. Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.

Ask Kurt a question or let us know what stories you’d like us to cover.

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Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:

Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

Technology

The best last-minute Prime Day deals you can still grab

Published

2 hours ago

July 18, 2024

Press Room

The best last-minute Prime Day deals you can still grab

We won’t sugarcoat it: most Prime Day deals aren’t all that exciting. Amazon has a knack for running perpetual sales and advertising deep discounts, some of which aren’t all that different than what you might see throughout the rest of the year. The good news is that there are still plenty of gadgets worth shelling out for — that is, assuming you can grab them before Prime Day officially wraps at 12AM PT tonight.

Below, you’ll find the very best deals spotted by The Verge’s crack team of curators. There are smart home gadgets aplenty, gaming gear galore, and a whole lot more — including headphones, smartwatches, and a surplus of home theater equipment. We’re even seeing new low prices on some of the other fun favorites our staffers like, from D&D starter sets and espresso machines to a sublime edition of The Silmarillion. You can find all of that and more in our comprehensive Prime Day guide.

Don’t forget to sign up for a Prime subscription if you aren’t already a member. It’s a requirement to access Prime-specific deals. You can get a free 30-day trial if you’ve never signed up, which is more than enough time to shop the sale and take advantage of the membership’s deep bucket of benefits. Just watch out for that pesky autorenewal.

Prime Day deals spotlight

A marketing image of a blue Sonos Roam 2 speaker.

Like its predecessor, the Sonos Roam 2 is a compact and travel-friendly Bluetooth speaker that easily syncs up with Sonos’ home audio ecosystem via Wi-Fi. While it looks much like the original, the Roam 2 has some small quality-of-life improvements, like a separate button for Bluetooth connections. Read our hands-on impressions.

A 10th-gen iPad in an Apple Magic Keyboard Folio.

Apple’s 10th-gen iPad is the spiritual successor to the older ninth-gen model. In exchange for its revised design, landscape-oriented webcam, USB-C port, larger 10.9-inch screen, and faster processor, it ditched the headphone jack and got more expensive. Read our review.

Apple’s second-generation AirPods Pro photographed on a reflective black surface.

The second-gen AirPods Pro improve upon Apple’s original pair with much better noise cancellation, sound quality, and onboard volume controls. The latest refresh also ships with a USB-C charging case, as opposed to Lightning. Read our hands-on impressions.

With improved comfort, refined sound, and even better active noise cancellation, Sony’s WH-1000XM5 offer a compelling mix of features for the price. Read our review.

Hoto’s electric screwdriver is perfect for making small to medium-sized repairs around the house. In addition to a USB-C port, the screwdriver comes with a case and 12 steel bits.

The AirFly Duo Bluetooth transmitter and receiver features an integrated 3.5mm cord and long-lasting battery life. It can also connect up to two sets of headphones, making it a great choice for listening to in-flight entertainment.

A hand holding the 2022 Kindle in front of red flowers.

Amazon’s new entry-level Kindle is essentially the budget-friendly six-inch version of the Kindle Paperwhite. It lacks waterproofing but otherwise is similar, with the same sharp display and USB-C support. Read our review.

The third-gen Echo Show 5 turned on while on a desk in front of the window during a rainy day.

The new Echo Show 5 is just as small as its predecessor but features updated mics and a speaker system that delivers double the bass and clearer sound quality.

The Beats Fit Pro earbuds have integrated wing tips that help keep them secure during runs and workouts. They also have excellent noise cancellation, and their sound has just the right amount of bass and kick to keep you motivated. Read our review.

Apple’s AirTags can help you find your lost items with its UWB technology. You’ll get the best compatibility with an iPhone, though Apple released an Android app to detect an AirTag’s location if one seems to be following you. Read our review.

A limited-edition version of Elgato’s Stream Deck MK. 2, featuring a seethrough purple design, matching USB cable, and downloadable icon pack to complete the retro look. The MK. 2 version of the standard Stream Deck features 15 programmable buttons along with a swappable faceplate and a detachable stand.

The L20 Ultra is a great all-around bot that can remove its mop pads to vacuum carpet and do the splits with its mops to better clean your baseboards. It has 7,000Pa suction, a bigger base station, and fewer advanced cleaning features than the newer X30 and X40 Ultra models, but it’s still an excellent robot vacuum.

Apple Watch Series 9 with Siri pulled up

The Apple Watch Series 9 features a brand-new S9 processor that enables offline Siri use, brighter displays, and the double tap gesture. It also has the second-gen ultra wideband chip for Precision Finding if you have an iPhone 15. Read our review.

The Horizon is the fully round version of the Oura Ring Gen 3, matching its specs and health / fitness tracking capabilities but without the flat edge. It comes with a one-month free trial, with a $5.99 subscription after that. Read our review of the standard Oura Ring.

A hand holding the silver Apple AirPods Max.

Apple’s AirPods Max feature exemplary build quality, sound phenomenal, and keep up with the best at noise cancellation. Read our review.

The LG C3 offers more processing power than its predecessor and several new picture modes. It continues to offer a 120Hz refresh rate and low input lag as well, along with support for Nvidia G-Sync and AMD FreeSync variable refresh rate tech.

The fifth-gen Echo Dot touts a temperature sensor, better sound, and faster response time than the prior model. It can also act as an extender for your Eero Wi-Fi system. Read our review.

The MacBook Air M3 is a jack-of-all-trades, with a balanced combination of performance and power efficiency. It also now supports dual displays with the lid closed, and the storage speed is noticeably faster. You don’t need to think about if this laptop will meet your needs — it just will. Read our review.

The Joseph Joseph Garlic Rocker is just a simple curved piece of metal with holes in it, but it’s one of the easiest and most effective ways to mince / crush garlic.

An Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max streaming stick with its remote sitting beside a bowl of popcorn in front of a TV.

Amazon’s highest-end streaming stick is faster than its predecessor with Wi-Fi 6E and double the storage. It also now displays widgets and artwork when idle while continuing to offer a terrific selection of streaming apps and Alexa integration.

An iPhone propped up horizontally by the kickstand of a Belkin MagSafe charger on a table with a prop skeleton sitting in a chair and looking at the phone.

Belkin’s BoostCharge Pro with MagSafe supports 15W fast wireless charging with MagSafe-compatible iPhones and has a lengthy 6.6-foot built-in cable. Its 15W charging speeds and little kickstand make the BoostCharge Pro with MagSafe the best all-purpose magnetic charging puck.

LifeStraw’s basic filter removes unwanted viruses, bacteria, and microplastics as you drink, giving you a safe way to hydrate no matter where you are.

Open screwdriver tool kit showing all the various bits and parts.

A 46-piece screwdriver kit that can help you repair practically any tech device out there.

The best Prime Day deals on headphones and earbuds

Sony’s flagship WF-1000XM5 noise-canceling earbuds improve upon the previous model with richer sound quality, slightly more powerful ANC, and vastly improved comfort thanks to their reduced size and weight. Read our review.

Apple’s third-gen AirPods have a new design and sound significantly better than their predecessors. They also add new features like head tracking for spatial audio. Read our review.

The Beats Studio Pro are down to $169.95 (a massive $180 off) at Amazon. The noise-canceling headphones may have a slightly outdated look (they look like many prior sets of Beats), but they’re an excellent value if you want flexibility across Android and iOS. Read our review.
The Beats Studio Buds are still a serviceable pair of noise-canceling earbuds even if they’re a few years old since they’re just $79.95 ($70 off) at Amazon. Just keep in mind that the newer Studio Buds Plus have a variety of improvements and an even more fun seethrough design for $129.95 ($40 off).

Google’s Pixel Buds Pro are the company’s first earbuds to include active noise cancellation. They also combine impressive sound, great battery life, and good comfort — all without the connection issues of earlier models. Read our review.

Google’s Pixel Buds A-Series are selling for their usual all-time low of $69 ($30 off) at Amazon. They’re a little long in the tooth for a midrange pair of wireless earbuds, but they remain a great low-cost option for Pixel phone owners. Read our review.
Amazon is selling the Echo Buds with Active Noise Cancellation with a wired charging case for $34.99 ($85 off) or a wireless charging case for $44.99 ($95 off). It’s hard to beat the value of these ANC buds, even if other models have better noise cancellation. Read our review.

A photo of Samsung’s purple Galaxy Buds 2 Pro.

Samsung’s excellent-sounding Galaxy Buds 2 Pro introduce support for 24-bit audio and have a lighter, smaller, more comfortable in-ear fit than the first Buds Pros. Read our review.

With dynamic, rich sound and the best noise cancellation available in true wireless earbuds, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds are a terrific pick if you want to listen to your music in peace. Read our review.

Bose’s latest flagship headphones are a replacement for the Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 that offer a more travel-friendly design, spatial audio, better call quality, excellent comfort, and some of the best noise cancellation around. Read our review.

The donut-shaped Sony LinkBuds are selling for $128 ($50 off) at Amazon, matching the best price we’ve seen on the open-style earbuds. Their unique design offers a comfy fit that allows outside noise in, helping keep you aware of your surroundings. Read our review.
If you don’t need a cutting-edge pair of headphones, it’s hard to deny how good Sony’s WH-1000XM4 still sound, especially when you can grab them at Amazon for $198 ($150 off). Plus, unlike the newer XM5 that has usurped them, the older XM4 fold down for more convenient storage and travel. Read our review.
~~Are you on a tighter budget but still want some noise-canceling headphones? Check out the Sony WH-CH720N, which are selling for $88 (about $61 off) at~~ ~~Amazon. They’re not as fancy as the pricier XM models, but they have up to 35 hours of battery life and weigh just 192 grams.~~

A photo of Sennheiser’s Momentum 4 Wireless headphones on a table.

With marathon 60-hour battery life and sublime comfort, the Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless also make good on the company’s reputation for detailed, expansive sound quality. Read our review.

The second-generation AirPods near their charging case on a white surface.

These AirPods are Apple’s second generation of true wireless earbuds and the cheapest model in the AirPods lineup. Though they’re from 2019, they remain a reliable pair of buds with solid sound quality. Read our review.

The best Prime Day deals on smart speakers and smart displays

A purple Echo Pop smart speaker on a table surrounded by Ring Pop candy.

The Echo Pop is Amazon’s newest Alexa-enabled smart speaker. It offers a unique semisphere form factor and can function as an Eero mesh Wi-Fi extender. Read our review.

A photo of the Sonos Era 100 speaker in a kitchen setting beside an iPad and toaster.

Sonos’ Era 100 smart speaker is a replacement for the older Sonos One, utilizing two tweeters (left and right) and one larger woofer. In addition to Wi-Fi, the Era 100 also supports Bluetooth audio and line-in playback via an optional 3.5mm to USB-C adapter. Read our review.

It can’t fully match the loudness and sheer power of the flagship Sonos Sub, but the more compact Sub Mini still kicks out plenty of boom that will make you feel the low-end bass from your couch. Read our review.

The JBL Authentics 300 is one of only a few smart speakers on the market with simultaneous Google Assistant and Alexa support. The ’70s-style speaker is heavy, but it produces impressive, powerful sound, especially at louder volumes. Read our review.

Amazon is selling its new Echo Spot for $44.99 ($35 off), exclusively for Prime members. The semicircular smart display supports customizable clock faces and Alexa, allowing you to set your alarm and pull up the weather with your voice.
The fourth-gen Echo is on sale at Amazon for $54.99 ($45 off). The Prime-exclusive deal takes $35 off the spherical smart speaker, which can be easily used to control smart home features via Alexa or double as a Wi-Fi extender for Eero mesh systems. Read our review.

Amazon’s new Echo Show 8 features spatial audio and room adaptation software for improved audio quality. It also displays a different homescreen on its eight-inch display based on whether you’re standing near it or farther away. Read our review.

The best Prime Day deals on tablets and e-readers

Amazon’s latest Kindle Paperwhite has a 6.8-inch E Ink display with adjustable color temperature for nighttime reading. It also boasts a fast processor, monthslong battery life, IPX8 waterproofing, and a USB-C port. Read our review.

A person holding an Amazon Kindle Scribe.

The Kindle Scribe is Amazon’s largest e-reader to date, with a crisp 10.2-inch display, terrific battery life, and a stylus for note-taking. Read our review.

Apple’s latest iPad Mini is on sale at Amazon starting at $379.99 ($120 off) in its base configuration with Wi-Fi and 64GB of storage. The Mini was redesigned back in 2021 with a USB-C port and A15 Bionic processor, and it remains the go-to option if you want a smaller tablet from Apple. Read our review.
Amazon’s latest Kindle Paperwhite Kids is selling for $149.99 ($20 off) at Amazon right now. The kid-friendly editions are often the low-key best value for a Kindle when they go on sale, especially since this incarnation of the 6.8-inch e-reader doesn’t have ads and includes a case and an extended warranty. Just keep the parental lock features turned off if you plan on using it. Read our review.

A Pixel Tablet mounted on its speaker dock showing a Weather Frog screensaver.

Google’s 11-inch Pixel Tablet uses the same Tensor G2 chip found in the Pixel 7 lineup. It also comes with a magnetic charging dock so you can use it as a de facto smart display. Read our review.

An Amazon Fire Max 11 tablet in its keyboard case on a wooden table.

Amazon’s highest-end tablet features an 11-inch LCD display with 2000 x 1200 resolution as well as options for an add-on keyboard and stylus. Read our review.

The best Prime Day deals on TVs and streaming devices

The LG C4 is similar to its predecessor, with support for Nvidia G-Sync and AMD FreeSync variable refresh rate tech. However, it now sports a max 144Hz refresh rate, a brighter panel, and overall better picture quality.

A photo of a man leaning over on a couch and using LG’s StanbyME Go briefcase TV.

LG’s StanbyME Go is a fun 27-inch panel nestled within a briefcase. The basic 1080p display doesn’t offer high-end specs, though it does come with a selection of preloaded games, versatile viewing options, and a wide selection of streaming apps. Read our review.

A Fire TV Omni and soundbar on a wood TV stand in a living room.

Amazon’s Fire TV Omni features built-in microphones for Alexa commands and low input lag. It also provides access to Netflix, Prime Video, Disney Plus, and most major streaming services. Only the 65-inch and 75-inch models support Dolby Vision, however. Read our review.

An image of Amazon’s Fire TV Omni QLED television on a wall with onscreen widgets for weather, sticky notes, music, and more.

Amazon’s Fire TV Omni QLED features built-in microphones for Alexa commands, low input lag, and support for two-way video calling with a compatible webcam. It also provides access to Netflix, Prime Video, Disney Plus, and most major streaming services.

The latest Hisense 4K TVs boast excellent value for image quality and Google Play, giving you access to a wide selection of streaming apps. They also support Dolby Vision, HDR, and HDR10 Plus.

TCL’s midrange Q7 is a 4K LED TV with a native 120Hz refresh, VRR, and two HDMI 2.1 ports for modern consoles like the Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5. One of its other two HDMI ports also offers eARC support for soundbars.

A photo of Amazon’s Fire TV Cube on a TV stand.

The hybrid Echo and Fire TV is faster than its predecessor with extensive hands-free voice control capabilities, support for Wi-Fi 6E, and excellent performance. Read our review.

Roku’s Streaming Stick 4K maintains its simple interface that puts your apps front and center and adds support for Dolby Vision HDR. Read our review.

Amazon’s own Fire TV Soundbar is a 2.0-channel speaker that stretches 24 inches long. It’s got support for Dolby Audio, DTS, and Bluetooth and connects to a compatible TV via an HDMI port with eARC or ARC.

Vizio’s M-Series Dolby Atmos soundbar comes complete with a subwoofer and wired rear surround speakers — all for less than $500.

The best Prime Day deals on phones

Unlike years past, the Galaxy S24 Plus gets the same QHD resolution as the Ultra model. Otherwise, it offers a very similar experience to the base model, only it’s noticeably bigger at 6.7 inches. That makes it roomy enough for a bigger 4,900mAh battery with 45W fast charging, too. Read our review.

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra showing a blue and yellow homescreen, on a blue and yellow background with green translucent rectangles.

The Galaxy S24 Ultra is the first in the series to use a titanium frame. It also includes an integrated S Pen and upgraded camera suite, along with the biggest display in the S24 line. Read our review.

Google’s latest midranger touts a whopping seven years of software support and a number of small upgrades, including Google’s speedy Tensor G3 processor, a 120Hz display, and plenty of new AI features. Read our review.

Google Pixel 7A standing upright on a table showing home screen.

The Pixel 7A includes several features that are hard to find for around $500, including wireless charging and an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance. It’s a generation behind the current 8A, but it will be supported with software updates for years to come. Read our review.

The Samsung A35 5G is $299.99 ($100 off) at Amazon. It’s got surprisingly good specs for a budget-friendly phone, including IP67 water and dust resistance usually reserved for much pricier handsets. Read our buying guide.
Samsung’s Galaxy S23 FE is $449.99 ($150 off) at Amazon, which is a good deal for the colorful midrange phone (though it was $50 cheaper last holiday season). The S23 FE is one of Samsung’s rehashed “FE” models, meaning it has the processor of the older S22 flagship but at a lower price. Read our review.

A photo of Google’s Pixel Fold smartphone.

The Pixel Fold, Google’s first foray into the world of foldable phones, features an outer 5.8-inch display and a 7.6-inch tablet-like inner screen. Read our review.

The best Prime Day deals on laptops and computer accessories

A photo of Apple’s M3-powered MacBook Air laptop.

The 15-inch MacBook Air is also equipped with Apple’s M3 chip. It features a larger display and better speaker array than the 13-inch MacBook Air M3.

This last-gen gaming laptop is a great amalgamation of parts: 165Hz display, an Intel Core i7-13650HX processor, Nvidia RTX 4060 graphics card, 16GB of DDR5 RAM, and a 1TB PCIe Gen4 SSD for all those 50GB-plus game installations. It’s rare to find a midrange gaming laptop like this for anywhere near $1,000.

A Nuphy Air75 V2 keyboard with black, gray, red and yellow keys on a desktop.

Nuphy’s latest version of its Air mechanical keyboard is outstanding. This one omits a numpad but still includes arrow keys and a full row of function keys that double as media keys. It comes in black, gray, and white, with a few different switch options, and it’s both wired and wireless. It also supports both Windows and macOS.

The Epomaker TH80 Pro is a well-equipped wireless mechanical keyboard. It’s customizable and feels good to type on while also being relatively affordable.

If you need a basic, no-frills way to elevate your laptop to eye level, then this Nulaxy laptop stand is likely to get the job done. It’s on sale for just $13.86 ($8 off) when you click the on-page coupon at Amazon.
The Ugreen USB 3.0 Switcher, which allows you to share four USB ports across two computers, is down to $33.11 (about $13 off) with a coupon at Amazon. It’s particularly handy if you work from home and want to use the same accessories for work and personal computers.

A side view of the Corsair Xeneon Flex OLED gaming monitor, showing a still photo of 2018 God of War on PC.

Corsair’s Xeneon Flex does as its name promises, allowing you to bend and flex it from a flat 45-inch gaming monitor with 250Hz refresh rate to a curved 45-inch gaming monitor with 250Hz refresh rate. Seeing it in action is uncanny, but the flex-able OLED with a 3440 x 1440 resolution is quite unique.

The Link features a 0.5-inch Sony sensor mounted on a gimbal that can follow you around the room. It typically runs for $299.99, and it comes with numerous features that take advantage of the gimbal’s flexibility. Read our review.

This 8-in-1 USB-C hub delivers plenty of connectivity, including ethernet, a 4K / 60Hz-capable HDMI port, microSD / SD card readers, USB-C, and USB-A. It can also power your laptop with up to 85W of power.

Logitech’s Litra Glow is on sale for $45.11 (about $15 off) at Amazon. The compact streaming light has controllable brightness and a simple foot for mounting atop a laptop or monitor.
If you need a larger light for streaming or videoconferencing, Elgato’s Key Light is $122.99 ($37 off) at Amazon for Prime members. The bright 2,800-lumen LED panel comes with an adjustable height desk mount and connects to Elgato’s software on your computer or phone via Wi-Fi, allowing you to control its brightness and color temperature.
Sometimes you just need a high-quality extension cord with a low profile, three outlets, two USB-A ports, and a USB-C port. This five-foot cord from Tessan does all that and is currently just $15.19 (nearly $8 off) at Amazon. While it’s not the most powerful extension cord, it’s handy for road trips and bridging the gap in rooms where you don’t have enough outlets.

The MK. 2 version of the standard Stream Deck comes with 15 programmable buttons, a swappable faceplate, and a detachable stand.

Keychron’s C3 Pro may lack switch options and rely on a USB-C-to-A cable for connectivity, but the entry-level mechanical keyboard offers dead-simple programming and an enjoyable typing experience for less than $30.

The G Pro X Superlight 2 is Logitech’s lightest and most advanced mouse to date. It features a 32,000 DPI Hero 2 sensor and 4kHz polling rate as well as support for USB-C charging and Logitech’s Powerplay mouse mat. Read our hands-on impressions.

These cables from Ugreen are six feet each and support charging speeds of up to 100W, making them a suitable fit for tablets, some laptops, phones, and other portable gear.

The best Prime Day deals on smart home tech

Google’s Matter-compatible Nest Thermostat is a simple thermostat with a minimalist, mirrored-finish screen. It doesn’t automatically adjust to your habits, but it’s easy to install, controllable with your phone, and compatible with most HVAC systems. It also supports the new Matter standard, unlike the Nest Learning Thermostat. Read our review.

The Amazon Smart Thermostat mounted to a wall.

Developed in partnership with Resideo, the Amazon Smart Thermostat allows you to control the temperature of your home through Alexa voice controls and remotely via an app. Read our review.

Philips Hue’s Bluetooth-enabled 800-lumen smart bulbs feature simple functionality and allow for a broad range of colors, giving you a quick means of controlling your lighting.

White device labeled Meross with black and red wires coming out

A handy add-on that can transform a variety of garage door models into smart devices that will work with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Samsung SmartThings.

Ring’s Wired Doorbell Pro (formerly known as the Video Doorbell Pro 2) is selling for $149.99 ($70 off) at Amazon for Prime subscribers. This model may be a few years old, but it has excellent 1536 x 1536-resolution square video with HDR to show your whole porch. If your house has the wiring, it remains one of the fastest-responding video doorbells you can get. Read our review.
Amazon is selling its newer Ring Battery Doorbell Plus for $99.99 ($50 off) for Prime members. This is our top pick for battery-powered video doorbells thanks to its speedy response time and square head-to-toe view (1536 x 1536 resolution), which can also be found on the Pro models. Read our buying guide.
Amazon’s Smart Air Quality Monitor is down to $46.99 ($23 off) at Amazon for Prime subscribers. The compact monitor can give you voice alerts when air quality is low and trigger Alexa Routines to turn on a compatible purifier, dehumidifier, or fan. Read our review.
The Withings Body Smart scale offers a unique approach to weigh-ins, allowing you to focus less on the number and more on how you’re trending with gentle emoji. It’s available at Amazon for $75.95 ($24 off) in either black or white. Read our review.

The 1080p Blink Mini 2 adds weather resistance to the affordable security camera, so you can use it both indoors and out, while continuing to offer a ball-and-socket mount for easy mounting to a wall. It has the option of local storage with a Sync Module or cloud storage and features like person detection for $3 a month. Read our review.

Amazon’s apt-titled Smart Plug doesn’t require a hub and lets you add Alexa functionality to any outlet, allowing you to control a range of devices with just your voice.

Kasa’s smart plugs are a solid, inexpensive option that can monitor your energy usage and are compatible with both Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.

Nanoleaf Matter bulb and light strip on a table

Nanoleaf’s Matter Essentials bulbs work with every smart home platform as long as you have a Matter controller and Thread border router. They’re bright, cheap, and have great colors, but they don’t support Apple’s Adaptive Lighting. Read our review.

A four-pack of Matter-compatible Kasa smart plugs is $35.94 ($34 off) at Amazon after clicking the on-page coupon. Since these are certified for use with Matter, they are interoperable with Apple Home, Alexa, and Google Home ecosystems, allowing you to control various non-smart appliances around your house with whichever compatible app you choose.
Amazon is selling the Google Nest Wifi Pro mesh router as a single unit for $149.98 ($50 off), a two-pack for $219.98 ($80 off), or a three-pack for $284.99 ($115 off). They’re easy to set up with the Google Home app and include support for Wi-Fi 6E — which is still great unless you want to be at the cutting edge with Wi-Fi 7. Read our review.
The Level Lock Plus is selling for $250.04 (about $79 off) at Amazon. Its simple, unbranded styling makes it one of the best-looking smart locks you can buy, and it is very simple to install. Read our review.

The customizable Govee M1 Matter-compatible LED strip light is 6.56-feet long and can display millions of colors and shades of white. You can also use it to create light patterns that sync with music. Read our review.

Govee’s latest TV immersion backlight utilizes a fisheye camera that tracks the colors across your screen to mimic them on its rear-mounted LED strip and side light towers. It’s compatible with 55- to 65-inch TVs. Read our review of the 2021 model.

Designed to mimic an actual skylight, Nanoleaf’s smart ceiling lights offer tunable LEDs as well as hundreds of lighting scenes — including AI-generated dynamic effects.

The best Prime Day deals on robot vacuums

The Yeedi Vac 2 Pro has high-end features — an oscillating mop, big bin, mapping, keep-out zones — for a low price. Its navigation can be spotty and its suction power is a lowish 3,000Pa, but you can get it for under $200, which is a real bargain. Read our review.

The Q5 Pro has a big 770ml bin, 5,500Pa of suction power, and can be paired with an auto-empty dock, making it a great budget option when it’s on sale. It also mops with a removable mopping pad with a small built-in water tank. It has dual rubber brushes, lidar mapping, and keep-out zones, and the app is very good.

Roborock’s Q Revo robot vacuum sitting on a hardwood floor with its charging dock.

This is a great bot with a multifunction dock that can auto-empty its bin, fill its water tank, and clean and dry its oscillating mops. There’s no AI-powered obstacle avoidance or heated mop drying, but it has a compact dock and works with the excellent Roborock app. It can also lift its mops over carpet and has a rubber brush that’s less prone to tangling.

The Combo j9 Plus is the first Roomba that can refill its own mop tank and empty its own bin. With a redesigned dock that doubles as a table, increased suction power, and a new SmartScrub feature that moves back and forth to mop more effectively, it’s the best Roomba available.

The best Prime Day deals on smartwatches and fitness trackers

The rugged Apple Watch Ultra 2 comes in one size: 49mm. It offers the brightest display of any wearable in Apple’s lineup, along with better battery life and improved performance. It sports Apple’s new S9 processor, too, allowing you to take advantage of Apple’s new double tap feature. Read our review.

Woman holding a purse while modeling the Stripes watchface on the Apple Watch SE (2022)

The latest SE borrows a few features from the Series 8, including the same chipset and Crash Detection feature, but it’s an otherwise subtle upgrade from the last-gen SE. Read our review.

The new Google Pixel Watch 2 now achieves a reliable 24 hours on a single charge with the always-on display enabled. It sports a new processor, multipath health sensor, Wear OS 4, and new safety features — all around a substantial update. Read our review.

Polar’s H10 heart rate monitor chest strap is a great smartwatch alternative that’s actually more accurate and works for anyone with tattoos on their wrists. It’s selling for $84.95 (about $15 off) at Amazon.
The Amazfit Band 7 is on sale for $41.99 ($8 off) at Amazon. It’s not a huge discount, but these inexpensive fitness bands are a rare breed these days. The Band 7 is comfortable on the wrist and offers two weeks of battery on a single charge (with an always-on OLED display). Read our review.

The Amazfit GTR 4 is a platform-agnostic smartwatch that delivers a lot of bang for your buck. It has dual-band GPS, is Alexa-compatible, and has 14 days of battery life. Read our review.

The best Prime Day Bluetooth speaker deals

Bose’s SoundLink Flex offers pristine, detailed sound quality with a surprising amount of bass for its size — all in a rugged design that you can take anywhere.

Sony’s adorable SRS-XB100 speaker offers USB-C charging, a built-in strap, and great sound for the price, rendering it a terrific travel speaker or home office companion. Read our review.

~~It’s hard to beat the JBL Clip 4 in handiness and affordability, especially since the travel-friendly lock-shaped Bluetooth speaker is going for $48.30 ($31 off) at~~ ~~Amazon. The compact, water-resistant speaker sounds good for its size, and its built-in carabiner allows it to clip to all kinds of bags and straps.~~ ~~Read our buying guide~~.
The Tribit StormBox Micro 2 is a low-key fave of some of us here at The Verge, offering a 10W Bluetooth speaker that can get quite loud and easily attach to a bike’s handlebars or a hiking backpack. It’s currently available for $42.99 ($27 off) at Amazon after clicking the on-page coupon.

Perfect for the pool or beach, the JBL Go 3 may not be quite as powerful as larger models in the JBL lineup but remains an excellent choice for a Bluetooth speaker that can fit in your pocket.

Two Wonderboom 3 speakers in pink and blue.

The rugged Wonderboom 3 packs plenty of punch for its size, allowing you to dish out 360-degree sound for up to 14 hours with or without stereo pairing. It also floats, rendering it a potential pool party mainstay.

Sony’s ULT Field 7 measures over 20 inches wide, with integrated handles and up to 30 hours of battery life for taking the party everywhere. It features a seven-band EQ and, of course, RGB lighting.

The monstrous ULT Tower 10 has lights that sync to your music, an included wireless microphone for karaoke, omnidirectional sound, and 34 different zones of LED lighting.

The best Prime Day deals on games and gaming accessories

A bundle of an Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max with a standard Xbox Wireless Controller and one-month membership to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. It’s a starter pack for Xbox Cloud Gaming, allowing you to play over 300 titles via the cloud, sans Xbox console. The feature is now natively compatible with select Fire TV Sticks.

The InZone H3 is the wired (3.5mm / USB-A) model in Sony’s latest lineup of gaming headsets, which are compatible with both PlayStation and PC. You can customize the sound profile of InZone headsets with the InZone companion app and Sony’s Spatial Sound Personalizer.

The H9 is at the top end of Sony’s InZone gaming headsets. It features active noise cancellation, compatibility with both PCs and the PlayStation 5, and can simultaneously connect to two devices (one over 2.4GHz wireless and one over Bluetooth).

The HyperX Cloud III Wireless is a 2.4GHz wireless headset for PC, PlayStation, and the Nintendo Switch that sports 120 hours of battery life, large 53mm drivers, USB-C charging, and a detachable boom mic with a built-in pop filter. It also continues the Cloud’s legacy of relatively low weight and excellent comfort.

The Nova Pro Wireless aims to be the one headset to rule them all. It features multiple ways to connect wirelessly, active noise cancellation, great sound quality, and swappable batteries. Read our review.

The Quest 3 is a mixed reality and virtual reality headset. In addition to more processing power and RAM than the Quest 2, the headset sports new cameras and higher-resolution adjustable lenses. Read our review.

A screenshot of Cloud Strife in Final Fantasy VII Rebirth.

The middle game in a three-part trilogy, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth continues the reimagining of the classic PS1 RPG with modern visuals, an expansive open world, new gameplay elements, and even better character development than the original. Read our review.

A screenshot of Demon’s Souls (2020) on the PlayStation 5.

A remake of the 2009 game Demon’s Souls by FromSoftware, rebuilt from the ground up by Bluepoint Games.

Sony and Naughty Dog gave The Last of Us a fresh coat of paint to make it look, sound, and play more like The Last of Us Part II, complete with a welcome graphical makeover. Read our review.

A new Western Digital Xbox expansion card plugged into an Xbox Series S console

Western Digital’s storage expansion cards for Xbox Series X / S consoles are speedy, plug-and-play cards that match the performance of the consoles’ onboard SSDs. They offer a slightly lower-cost alternative to Seagate’s expansion cards, which were the only game in town for years.

A Seagate 1TB Expansion Card plugged into the back of an Xbox Series X console.

Proprietary SSD expansion for the Xbox Series X / S consoles. The plug-and-play drives are designed to be as fast as the Xbox internal SSD and are sold in 512GB, 1TB, and 2TB configurations.

This Lexar Play microSD card offers lots of extra storage for a Nintendo Switch or Steam Deck at a good price point.

Amazon is offering the 2TB version of Western Digital’s WD_Black SN850X NVMe SSD for $132.99 ($58 off) ~~and the~~ ~~4TB version~~ ~~for $246.99 ($453 off)~~. These internal drives are very speedy, with 7,300MBps read speeds / 6,600MBps write speeds, making them a good fit for gaming PCs or a PlayStation 5 (with an added heatsink).
Samsung’s 512GB Pro Plus microSD card is down to $39.99 (about $15 off) at Amazon and can add a ton of storage to a Steam Deck, Asus ROG Ally, or Nintendo Switch.
~~Prime members can get an absolutely massive 1.5TB SanDisk Ultra microSD card for $83.59 (about $66 off) at~~ ~~Amazon. That fits, like what,~~ seven Call of Duties?
Armored Core VI Fires of Rubicon is selling for $39.99 ($20 off) at Amazon. Last year’s Action Game of the Year is a return to form for FromSoftware, one that resurrects its long-dormant mech combat game with the right mix of nostalgia and Dark Souls-like difficulty.
Final Fantasy XVI is currently matching its all-time low of $28.49 ($31 off) at Amazon. It’s the most grimdark of Final Fantasy games, telling a very cutthroat, Game of Thrones-like story. But the PS5 exclusive also features adorable chocobos. Read our review.
The incredibly charming Super Mario RPG remake for the Nintendo Switch is down to $39.99 ($20 off) at Amazon. The quirky classic is a turn-based RPG originally made by Squaresoft (long before its merger with Enix), offering a unique journey around the Mushroom Kingdom. Read our review.

Screenshot from God of War Ragnarök featuring Kratos gently touching the face of his teenage son, Atreus

While Ragnarök’s third-person action gameplay feels similar to its predecessor, its story is far more ambitious. As Kratos wishes to bury his past, he’s trying to convince his young son, Atreus, not to follow a tempting path at discovering his godhood and defying prophecy. Read our review.

The Backbone One can connect to Android phones and iPhones as far back as the 6S, depending on the model. It’s a fully featured controller complete with dual analog sticks, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and its own software for capturing screenshots and connecting to game streaming services.

The best Prime Day deals on charging accessories

Anker’s newest 3-in-1 charging station adds Qi2, the MagSafe-derived magnetic charging standard based on MagSafe that delivers 15W speeds to compatible iPhones. It also has a magnetic holder that can charge your Apple Watch and a roomy base that can also charge AirPods and other wireless earbuds.

An iPhone 14, Apple Watch, and AirPods Pro all charging on a white portable Qi2 charger. The Apple Watch puck flips up from underneath.

Anker’s Qi2-certified MagGo Wireless Charging Station unfolds to wirelessly charge a MagSafe-compatible iPhone, an Apple Watch, and a pair of AirPods all at the same time.

Belkin’s triple charging stand achieves 15W MagSafe wireless iPhone charging speeds and keeps your phone and Apple Watch elevated for easy reading.

Anker’s 621 Magnetic Battery (MagGo) holding up an iPhone with its kickstand on a desk.

Anker’s magnetic power bank touts wireless Qi charging, a folding kickstand, and a convenient USB-C port for wired charging.

Belkin’s BoostCharge Pro power bank features a set of LED indicator lights and can deliver up to 20W of power via USB-C. Its biggest draw, however, is that it can do so while fast-charging the latest Apple Watch models.

Anker 521 portable power station sitting on counter

Anker’s 521 Portable Power Station offers a 256Wh battery with up to 300W of typical throughput and up to 600W peak. It has two AC ports, two USB-A ports, and a 60W USB-C Power Delivery port, and you can recharge it using a car port or an optional solar panel if traditional sources aren’t available.

With 27,650mAh of capacity, Anker’s 250W Prime Power Bank can charge smaller devices like smartphones and cameras multiple times over; it even has enough capacity and speed to satiate laptops and tablets.

Anker’s 65W charging station features two AC outlets, a pair of USB-C ports, and a single USB-A port. It also features a clever cable management system built into the base.

Anker’s 150W 747 GaNPrime USB four-port charger is selling for $59.99 ($50 off) at Amazon, exclusive for Prime members. It’s got three USB-C ports and one USB-A, and 150W is enough to charge even larger laptops or fast-charge multiple smaller devices at once.

This Anker magnetic charging puck has a five-foot USB-C cable and wirelessly charges an iPhone at up to 7.5W.

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The best Prime Day deals on Verge favorites

The Victrola Stream Onyx may be a cheaper alternative to the higher-end Stream Carbon, but it still features a metal platter and the ability to stream records straight to a Sonos system.

Thermacell’s long-lasting repeller uses replaceable cartridges and a built-in battery to create a 20-foot bug-free zone that’s fit for any BBQ or outdoor shindig.

The ultimate book for a J.R.R. Tolkien nerd. This clothbound hardcover version of The Silmarillion contains Tolkien’s illustrations throughout its nearly 450 pages of high-fantasy and Middle-earth lore.

The D&D Essentials Kit, which is aimed at those new to Dungeons & Dragons, is on sale for $14.99 ($10 off) at Amazon, which is one of its better prices to date. It includes a rule book, 11 dice, blank character sheets, a poster map, and even a few cards to represent magic items.
~~Amazon~~ is selling the Lego Star Wars Luke Skywalker’s X-Wing for $34.99 ($15 off). It’s one of the most iconic crafts in all of Star Wars, and this small 474-piece Lego set is being retired, so get it while you can.
Samsung’s Galaxy SmartTag2 is on sale for $19.99 ($10 off) at Amazon. The ultra wideband location tracker works with the Galaxy Find network, making it a great option for those who own Samsung devices. It also sports a user-replaceable battery that lasts up to 700 days, along with a beefier IP67 rating than its predecessor.
Catan is selling for $37.49 (around $12 off) at Amazon. The iconic tabletop game of trading and building is one of those games that can easily consume many game nights if it really clicks with your family or friend group. Just try not to argue over sheep too much.

Elago’s charming Apple Watch stands are made of silicone and styled after vintage tech. Mount your Apple Watch charger in it, and it will resemble an old Macintosh Plus computer while charging.

The Polaroid Go is the smallest, most affordable option in Polaroid’s instant camera lineup. It doesn’t offer as much creative control as the Now Plus, but it’s more portable and produces charming retro-style photos at half the price.

The Glocusent book light is a favorite among resident Verge bookworms, and it’s selling for $17.99 ($15 off) at Amazon. The neck-worn light easily illuminates what you’re reading without you having to clamp anything to your book.

Furbo’s rotating 1080p gadget can fling treats on command and automatically track your dog as they roam around your home, allowing you to keep a closer eye on your pet via a mobile app when you’re away.

Automatic cat litter box with multiple sensors to keep things neat and odor-free.

The DJI Mini 3 is on sale at Amazon with a DJI RC controller for $429.99 ($120 off) when you apply the on-page coupon, matching its all-time low. DJI’s last-gen Mini is great for beginners, offering 4K video and great stabilization. Plus, unlike some models, it doesn’t require a permit to take to the skies.
The Solo Stove Bonfire + Stand 2.0 is selling for $241.49 ($103 off) at Amazon. The Bonfire 2.0 makes a great backyard addition for outdoor gatherings, and it also travels well if you want to light up some marshmallows at the beach.
If you’re looking for a basic charger for your car, the iOttie Easy One Touch Wireless 2 is on sale for $39.85 ($10 off) at Amazon. It can wirelessly deliver up to 7.5W of power to iPhones and up to 10W of power to Android phones, and it firmly attaches to most car vents.

Breville’s Barista Express certainly isn’t the cheapest option out there, but it’s elegant, straightforward, and relatively easy to maintain.

The Xgimi MoGo 2 Pro is a portable smart projector and Bluetooth speaker that delivers surprisingly good picture and sound quality for its size. Read our review.

Love Letter, a tabletop card game that’s a mainstay in our gift guides, is on sale for just $10.99 ($4 off) at Amazon. This game is the perfect ice breaker at parties, as it’s simple to pick up and play and it gets people casually competing with a fun card-counting mechanic.
The 14-ounce Yeti Rambler can keep your hot drinks hot and your cold drinks cold for hours on end, and it’s currently just $19.50 ($10.50 off) at Amazon. It’s the humble, logical alternative to those pricey Ember mugs many of us love so much.

Hand holding a nasal aspirator in front of a colorful background of childrens’ toys and books.

The Grownsy snot sucker comes with three interchangeable soft tips for a good fit and provides three levels of suction. Your kid might still hate it, but at least one of you will have an easier time with it.

The Theragun Mini is a small, ultra-portable massage device that’s quiet and effective at providing relief for muscle pain and melting away tension.

The six-quart Instant Pot makes it quick and easy to prepare a variety of foods, ranging from rice and ribs to yogurt and assorted soups.

The best deals on Lego sets you might have been eyeing

An assortment of tiny potted plants all built from Lego.

Cactus might be hard to kill, but you can be the most negligent plant parent with this 758-piece Lego set featuring a collection of nine buildable tropical, arid, and carnivorous plants. Each one comes in a small terracotta-colored pot, and with varying levels of building difficulty, kids can help build, too.

~~Lego Ideas Tree House for $174.99 (normally $249.99)~~ Building a Lego set is more than half the fun of the toy. With 3,036 pieces, the fan-designed Lego Ideas Tree House will keep you busy for several hours. The tree is elaborately detailed, and the set includes either green foliage for the summer or yellow and brown leaves for the fall.
Lego Icons Bonsai Tree for $39.99 (normally $49.99) Do you know what’s more satisfying than diligently trimming and caring for a living Bonsai tree that could potentially still die? Building this 878-piece alternative that never needs watering or any of your attention once you’re done. It will be green forever, or at least until you upgrade it with (included) buildable pink blossoms for the spring.
Lego Classic Large Creative Brick Box for $33.12 (normally $59.99) Although themed sets now dominate Lego’s lineup, the building toy is still about letting your imagination run wild. There’s an assortment of 790 colorful pieces inside this Lego Creative Brick Box you can use to build anything you want. Get creative with a rocket ship, or get practical and build yourself a Lego smartphone stand for your desk.

A fully assembled Lego Bonsai Tree set resting on a table.

A bonsai tree you never have to trim after you build it from its 878 pieces. It can be decorated with green leaves or pink cherry blossoms.

Lego Jurassic World Dinosaur Fossils: T. rex Skull for $31.99 (normally $39.99) Scratch your paleontological itch without having to get your hands dirty or work in a desert. This 577-piece buildable T.rex skull with a jaw bone that opens and closes is small enough to display on a shelf and includes a display stand with a brick-built fossilized T.rex footprint.
Lego Speed Champions Lamborghini Countach for $15.99 (normally $19.99) An icon of ’70s automotive design, the Lamborghini Countach can make the leap from the wall of your childhood bedroom to the desk in your grown-up office with this 262-piece set. It even comes with a minifigure driver and mechanic so you’ll never need to pop the hood yourself.
Lego Technic Lamborghini Huracán Tecnica for $39.99 (normally $49.99) Looking for a Lego Lambo with a more challenging build? If you manage to get all 806 pieces of this Lamborghini Huracán Tecnica assembled, you’ll be left with a detailed model featuring working doors and steering, plus a tiny V10 engine with pistons that move up and down.
Lego Icons Wildflower Bouquet for $47.99 (normally $59.99) If filling your home with vibrant flowers also leaves you reaching for your allergy meds, Lego’s 939-piece alternative is completely free of pollen. It comes with eight buildable species of wildflowers, including lavender, Welsh poppies, cornflowers, lupins, larkspur, cow parsley, and leatherleaf ferns.

Update, July 17th: Adjusted prices and removed several expired deals.

Technology

Yes, there are some good Prime Day deals on laptops.

Published

9 hours ago

July 17, 2024

Press Room

Yes, there are some good Prime Day deals on laptops.

Searching for a good laptop deal on Amazon, even on Prime Day, can feel overwhelming, especially with all the styles, hardware options, brands, and display resolutions — how do you know you’re getting a good deal on any of it?

Below, we’ve rounded up the best deals we could find on clamshell laptops, convertibles, MacBooks, Chromebooks, and even some elusive sub-$1,000 gaming laptops. When choosing the best laptop deals, we considered everything from its hardware and port options to the year some options were actually released.

There are some good options from major brands like Acer, Apple, and HP, and we found some great deals on monitors, keyboards, and mice, too.

Technology

Vacation goal: Take family pictures that don’t suck

Published

9 hours ago

July 17, 2024

Press Room

Vacation goal: Take family pictures that don’t suck

We’ve all had that moment. You open up your phone’s gallery to swipe through the family pictures you shot on your beach vacation, at the lake or on some random day with the kids.

Womp womp, they’re blurry, everyone looks caught off guard, and there’s a random guy and his dog in the background of the one good option. You poor thing. I can help.

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Use your phone’s timer

Both iPhones and Android have built-in photo timers. Using a timer, you don’t have to ask some random stranger to take a photo, which could lead to something worse. My friend handed her phone to someone to take a picture of her and her daughter, and the guy ran away with her phone.

A man uses his Apple iPhone to take a photograph in Santa Fe, New Mexico. (Robert Alexander/Getty Images)

For your iPhone:

Open your Camera app and tap the arrow at the top. Scroll to the right in the menu, tap the clock icon, and pick the 10-second delay.
After the countdown, your phone will automatically snap a 10-photo burst. Go to the photo and tap Select in the bottom right to choose the keepers.

On Android:

Head to your phone’s camera app, select Timer and turn it on.
Select your delay interval (two, five or 10 seconds), then it’s time to shine!

Stability, people

Tripods are one pro secret to getting amazing shots. No more balancing your phone on something and hoping it stays. You don’t need to be anything close to a pro to use this secret yourself.

CHARGING AND TRAVEL: 5 MALWARE MISTAKES MOST PEOPLE MAKE

Get better smiles

“Say cheese” is the classic photo prompt, but it can result in fake-looking smiles. Your best bet is to make a joke about eight seconds into that 10-second timer to get everyone to smile. I like this one: “I love to go Komando!”

Otherwise, try a word that ends with an -uh sound, like “yoga.” It always works best to pick a word to make your people laugh or smile.

An iPhone is seen on a small tripod. (Jaap Arriens/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

Clean up your pics

At a family barbecue? You might not want that beer bottle or red plastic cup spoiling your pic.

Facetune (iOS, Android) is the big app everyone’s using these days — so much so that when people think a pic is edited, they accuse it of being “Facetuned,” not “Photoshopped!”

If you’re on a Mac, a touch-up tool is built right into the Photos app.

Open the pic, then select Edit > Retouch. Adjust the brush size > click and drag the brush over the object you want to erase.

AI EXPERT: CHATGPT PROMPTS YOU’LL WISH YOU KNEW SOONER

On a PC, you can use the new Generative Erase tool in the Windows Photos app. It uses AI to remove something you don’t like in a pic (a rando in the background) and fill it in with something you want (the sunset).

Open a pic in Photos, then click the editing icon on the far left. Select Erase, “paint” whatever you want to get rid of, and then click Erase again.

One final word of advice: Genuine smiles and real moments always make the best photos. Encourage your family to relax. That means no more yelling “Hold still and smile,” OK?

In this photo illustration, a Facetune logo is displayed on a smartphone. (Photo Illustration by Igor Golovniov/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)

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