Walt Disney stands by a model of Disneyland circa 1954. According to the Los Angeles Times, ABC chairman Leonard Goldenson lent Walt Disney the money he needed to build Disneyland in return for a weekly television show produced by Disney and aired on ABC.
Earl Theisen—Getty Images
On July 17, 1955, Disneyland opened its gates for the first time to tens of thousands of people. The California park’s opening-day gala drew a crowd of 11,000 invited guests, as well as several thousand more who attempted to get in with counterfeit tickets.
Seventy years later, the “happiest place on Earth” still attracts fans of all ages, from young children to self-proclaimed “Disney adults.” About 17.3 million people walked through the turnstiles in 2023, compared to the estimated four million people who attended during Disneyland’s first full year.
Those in attendance on opening day were charged a whopping $1 entry fee, plus an additional 10 to 30 cents per ride. Even accounting for inflation, the $50 ticket in today’s dollars (which includes the entry fee plus around 10 rides) is just a portion of today’s cost of attendance, which ranges from $104 to $206 per person depending on the time of year.
An aerial view of Disneyland in Anaheim, California, circa 1955. Originally, the theme park occupied 160 acres and consisted of four lands: Adventureland, Fantasyland, Frontierland, and Tomorrowland.
Gene Lester—Archive Photos/Getty Images
Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck walk in front of Disneyland’s main castle on opening day on July 17, 1955. The costumes worn by the actors, as well as the land itself, went through a series of changes and updates over the course of Disneyland’s 70-year history.
Los Angeles Examiner—USC Libraries/Corbis/Getty Images
Special decorations for the theme park’s 70th anniversary adorn Sleeping Beauty Castle in the center of Disneyland. The theme of this year’s anniversary is “Celebrate Happy,” complete with a new theme song of the same name performed by the Jonas Brothers.
AaronP—Bauer-Griffin/GC Images/Getty Images
But Disneyland has expanded a lot since its grand opening: The 160 acres consisting of four lands (Adventureland, Fantasyland, Frontierland, and Tomorrowland) has since turned into about 550 acres made up of nine lands, the California Adventure theme park, a shopping strip, parking lots, and more. And another expansion is on its way.
In May of last year, the Anaheim City Council approved DisneylandForward, a proposal that allows Disney to expand the theme park onto Disney-owned land, which was previously only allowed to be used for parking lots and hotels. California Adventure will add two attractions to the Avengers Campus, a “Coco”-themed ride, and an Avatar destination, construction of which will begin next fall.
In celebration of the park’s 70th anniversary, Disneyland will also be unveiling an animatronic version of Walt Disney as part of the new show Walt Disney—A Magical Life. Additionally, the quintessential Disneyland ride It’s a Small World will add a final verse to its catchy tune, which was introduced to Disneyland in 1966.
A pair of nuns ride the “Tomorrowland” rocket at Disneyland in the 60s. Tomorrowland is one of the four original lands within the Disneyland theme park.
Bettmann—Getty Images
The Rose Bowl teams, Washington University and Wisconsin University, ride on Disneyland’s spinning tea cups in 1959.
Los Angeles Examiner—USC Libraries/Corbis/Getty Images
A sea of cars fills the parking lot for opening day at Disneyland in 1955. Disneyland recently received permission to extend the theme park onto land that was previously allowed to be used only for parking lots and hotels.
Los Angeles Examiner—USC Libraries/Corbis/Getty Images
Disneyland Marching Band performs while walking on Main Street in 1981. Disneyland’s Main Street was inspired by Walt Disney’s hometown of Marceline, Missouri.
Bob Riha, Jr.—Getty Images
A young boy in a Mickey Mouse hat stands among colorful balloons at Disneyland in 1962.
Tom Nebbia—Corbis/Getty Images
A costumed Mickey Mouse performer poses with a visitor as a woman takes their photo at Disneyland’s front entrance the summer of 1960.
Thomas J O’Halloran—U S News and World Report Magazine Photograph Collection/PhotoQuest/Getty Images
Walt Disney and California Gov. Goodwin Knight wave to passersby while riding on the Disneyland train on the park’s opening day. According to Walt Disney, “Disneyland will never be completed. It will continue to grow as long as there is imagination left in the world.”
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Yahoo CEO Jim Lanzone is leading a multi-phase turnaround of the iconic internet brand, beginning with a ground-up transformation of the company and its products. By rebuilding a team and reconnecting Yahoo to its core mission, Lanzone aims to revitalize the brand for a new generation, including a surprisingly large Gen Z audience.
When Jim Lanzone took the helm at Yahoo in 2021, he saw more than just a legacy internet brand battered by years of corporate missteps—he saw an opportunity. A serial turnaround specialist with stints at Ask Jeeves, CBS Interactive, and Tinder under his belt, Lanzone viewed Yahoo as the “white whale of turnarounds,” a company with deep roots, loyal users, and a product engine needing a serious overhaul.
“This is my third turnaround of a top 10 internet company,” Lanzone said in an exclusive conversation with Fortune at Cannes Lions. “We had to rebuild the team and the company from the ground up.”
Now three and a half years into what he calls a “multi-phase turnaround—fixing to rebuilding to innovating”—Lanzone is executing a transformation strategy that touches everything from product development to cultural renewal, all underpinned by a simple belief: a digital media brand is only as good as the products it delivers.
Product first, always
At the core of Lanzone’s philosophy is a laser focus on product quality.
“Everything for a major consumer internet company has to start with product,” he said.
Yahoo, which still boasts category leadership in properties like Yahoo Finance and Yahoo Fantasy, has refreshed every major product it offers.
“In the past nine months, every pixel on Yahoo is new,” Lanzone noted. “Every single product that we operate… is brand new.”
Only after fixing the user experience, he argues, can a company rekindle affection for the brand.
“You can’t do that until you actually fix the products first,” he said. “Especially at a consumer internet company where these are living, breathing products that people use every day.”
Yahoo poaching talent who wanted to ‘run towards the fire’
The transformation isn’t confined to user interfaces. Lanzone has overhauled Yahoo’s structure, recruiting top-tier talent from Silicon Valley—many of whom, like him, had no shortage of opportunities elsewhere.
“It surprised people how many great people wanted to run towards the fire here at Yahoo,” he said. “We brought in a great team and I think it got a lot of credibility pretty quickly.”
Among those who made the jump were chief marketing officer Josh Line, who joined from Paramount Global, and Rob Wilk, Yahoo’s chief revenue officer, who left Snap.
That credibility was essential to Yahoo’s second act under private equity firm Apollo Global Management, which bought Yahoo from Verizon for less than $5 billion in 2021—a cool 96% reduction from its peak valuation of $125 billion.
“The playbook here for them has been growth,” Lanzone said. “We’re building here—not just trying to extract value from the parts—but build one Yahoo into a sustainable, great company for the next 30 years.”
How Lanzone turns companies around
As a product veteran, Lanzone puts data at the center of every decision. “The first thing you look at is the data,” he explained. “Who’s using it, how often, what do they love about it? What do they hate about it?”
Despite the many pivots in Yahoo’s corporate story—including stints under Verizon and an attempt to become a media and entertainment conglomerate—the company’s loyal user base never wavered.
“What we realized pretty quickly was that in the places we were strongest, it was because they were using Yahoo for the same reason they were 30 years ago,” Lanzone said. “We were the trusted guide to the internet… to help them navigate the digital wilderness.”
The original Yahoo motto—“Always Under Construction”—has taken on renewed meaning. “We always have to be evolving,” he said, “but on behalf of our users—not for some corporate reason.”
A Gen Z surprise for a dot-com darling
Perhaps most surprising, even to Lanzone, is Yahoo’s traction with younger users. “People are surprised that we’re top 5 with Gen Z,” he said. “Half of our audience is Gen Z and millennials.”
At the heart of the transformation is a cultural reset—one rooted in Yahoo’s founding ethos but adapted for the modern age.
In a symbolic move, Yahoo co-founder Jerry Yang returned recently to speak at a company-wide All Hands meeting, reinforcing the company’s original mission: to guide people through the internet and help them accomplish their goals online.
“That was the mission in 1995,” Lanzone said. “It’s the mission now.”
To get there, Lanzone believes leadership must be aligned and inspired. “You have to bring in great people who share your passion for the project,” he said. “People who want to make Yahoo great again.”
Amazon Prime Day is usually a sprint — two hectic days of lightning deals, overflowing shopping carts, and enough browser tabs to crash a laptop. But this year, Amazon is treating it more like a marathon. Instead of wrapping things up after 48 hours, the retailer is giving Prime members two additional days to shop. We’re on day three now, yet the deals are just as good now as they were on day one.
Oura’s latest smart ring is still $50 off, the 2024 Kindle Paperwhite is holding steady at $124.99, and handy, budget-friendly gadgets like Anker’s Nano travel adapter and the Tile Slim are still available for their lowest prices to date. Plenty of high-end TVs and soundbars are discounted, too. And that’s just the tip of the proverbial, deal-laden iceberg.
To make things easier to navigate, we’ve organized all of our favorite Prime Day deals below based on category, so you can quickly find what you’re looking for. As always, we’ve only included gadgets that Verge staffers have reviewed or personally tested, so you can shop with confidence.
It’s no Switch 2 deal, but Woot is selling the last-gen Switch OLED for the lowest price we’ve seen yet. The console with blue and red neon Joy-Con is $249.99 at Woot, while the Mario Kart 8 Deluxe bundle that includes the game is $275.99 at the retailer, while supplies last. Note: these are international versions, which run just fine in the US, but they only have a 90-day Woot warranty instead of a 1-year manufacturer warranty.
Apple’s 2020 MacBook Air with the M1 chip has no business being a good value still in 2025. The laptop’s design is the most outdated thing about it, but its processor, along with 8GB RAM and 256GB of storage make it a good entry-level Mac, especially at Walmart’s discounted $599.99 price (was $649.99).
A solid soundbar that can automatically rotate itself to fire sound upwards for Dolby Atmos content seems like it’d be expensive, but Vizio’s 5.1.2. Elevate SE system is actually just $299 at Amazon ($200 off).
The GameSir G8 Plus is one versatile mobile gaming controller, and it’s down to its lowest price of $49.99 at Walmart (usually $79.99). This model can stretch to fit around phones and tablets as big as the iPad Mini. Alternatively, you can slot a Nintendo Switch into the grip, if you prefer its bulkier design to that of the Joy-Con. It can support the Switch 2 with a firmware update, but several folks on Reddit note that it touches the Joy-Con 2 pins as it squeezes to fit the console. Not sure how comfortable you are with that; it doesn’t seem to impact the usability of the console or its included controllers.
Keep mosquitos at bay with Thermacell’s rechargeable repeller, which costs $17.68 (half off) at Amazon for the version that lasts five hours per charge. It runs on cartridges, but a 12-hour one is included in the box.
It’s a good time to need new AirPods, because Apple’s AirPods Pro that come with a USB-C charging case are around $100 off for the first time at Amazon, Walmart, and Best Buy.
Genki’s small M.2 2230-sized enclosure called the SavePoint is $39.99 when you clip the on-page coupon at Amazon. You can use it as a speedy USB-C SSD with any device, but it shines when connected to a Steam Deck because it has two USB-C ports (one for data, the other for power passthrough to keep the handheld charged). Here’s how to use it to run Windows on your Steam Deck.
Hoto’s rechargeable screwdriver is a both a Verge-favorite and a reader-favorite, and it’s discounted for Prime Day. It’s $36.09 (originally $79.99) at Amazon for the 3.6V screwdriver, 25 steel bits, and a sleek carrying case to contain it all. There’s an on-page coupon to save an extra 10 percent, too.
The newer Echo Spot is an excellent smart alarm clock with decent sound for its size and no camera. It features Amazon’s smart voice assistant for voice control and is worthy of a spot on your nightstand. Read our review.
If you’ve ever wished you had a robot that could push a button for you, that’s precisely what the SwitchBot Bot does. It’s simple, smart, and works on anything with a button. Stick it on the device you want to turn on or off, and you’re set.
For the first time since Black Friday, a three-pack of Google’s shiny Nest WiFi Pro routers — all of which support Wi-Fi 6E — are down to $289.99 at Amazon. This kit typically sells for around $372. Read our review.
For $199.99, you can get a three-pack of TP-Link’s Deco XE75 routers at Amazon. Like Google’s Nest WiFi Pro, these tri-band routers support the 6GHz band. However, each XE75 sports a 2.5Gbps port (plus two other gigabit ethernet ports), while Google’s option tops out at 1Gbps and only has two gigabit ports per router.
Amazon Echo Show 5 (third-gen)
The newest 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.
TP-Link’s TP-WR1502X Wi-Fi 6 travel router is down to $34.99 ($15 off), its lowest price ever at Amazon. The portable router can run off a power bank and lets you create a private wireless network by connecting it to an Ethernet port in a hotel or conference room. You can also connect your phone with a USB-C cable and use its cellular connection. The router features a USB-A port for connecting an external hard drive, allowing anyone on your network to share files.
If you’re looking for a high-end router that supports ludicrously fast wired connections, as well as great wireless connections, Eero’s Max 7 is one of the best. You can purchase a single router at Amazon right now for $419.99 (it had previously not sold for less than $449.99). Alternatively, you can grab a three-pack at Amazon for $1,189.99 (was $1,699.99). This model offers tri-band support and features two 10Gbps Ethernet ports, as well as two 2.5Gbps ports, on each router.
Air quality is important, and it’s nice to have a reading that’s more local than what your phone gives you for your neighborhood. For a granular look at the air quality in your home, you can snag Amazon’s aptly titled Air Quality Monitor, which is currently matching its all-time low of $44.99 ($25 off) at Amazon for Prime Day. Read our review.
Meross Smart Wi-Fi Garage Door Opener
Meross makes a handy add-on that can transform a variety of garage door models into smart doors that you can open remotely. It works with Amazon Alexa, Apple Home, Google Home, and Samsung SmartThings.
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.
The battery-powered Google Nest Doorbell is down to $119 ($60 off) at Amazon, matching its lowest price to date, in the color of your choice. There are certain omissions you’ll encounter with the battery model versus the pricier option. For example, it lacks 4K video and 24/7 capture. If those don’t bother you, this is a solid option, especially in the design department. Read our review.
Prime members can snag Govee’s slick RGBIC floor lamp for a mere $59.99, which matches its previous low. This thin, futuristic lamp is ideal for corners, as it can splash colors onto your walls, syncing with your music, or with a color combo that sets the vibes in the room.
The cost of the Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium fluctuates nearly as much as the temperature each day, but it’s cheaper than ever during Prime Day. You can currently snag the smart thermostat, which includes a smart sensor and air quality monitor, for $209 (previously $249.99). Read our review.
Google’s fourth-gen Nest Learning Thermostat is one of the best we’ve tested, and it’s marked down to $218 ($61 off) at Amazon. It comes with a temperature sensor you can place in a room that you want to monitor, and it’ll use that reading to decide whether to turn your system on or off. The thermostat learns your HVAC usage patterns over time, so it can automatically heat and cool your home based on your typical schedule. Read our review.
The Nest Thermostat E is a pared down version of the fourth-gen model, with a monochrome screen, but without support for additional sensors or learning your heating/cooling routine. Still, it’s a solid smart thermostat that’s currently on sale for $85.49 ($43 off) at Amazon, its lowest price of the year. Read our review.
Ring Floodlight Cam Wired Pro
The Ring Floodlight Cam Wired Pro delivers high-quality video with adjustable, accurate radar-powered motion detection, 2,000 lumens of light, and a good digital zoom. It offers smart alerts for people or motion and works with Amazon Alexa, Samsung SmartThings, and Ring’s excellent app.
This is a great battery-powered buzzer with excellent video quality, a good head-to-toe view, and very speedy response times for a battery doorbell. It integrates well with Amazon Alexa and can record locally to a Ring Alarm Pro, but the battery only lasts about two months unless you turn on battery-saving features.
Blink built its Mini 2 camera to be a great, inexpensive indoor or outdoor camera. By default, it’s an indoor cam, with HD video, color night video, and two-way audio support. It’s a good deal on Amazon right now, too, where you can grab it for $19.99 ($20 off). If you need an outdoor cam, you can grab it with a weather-resistant power adapter for just $10 more (normally $49.98).
Thanks to Prime Day, Amazon’s slick Echo Pop smart speaker is down to $21.99 (nearly 50 percent off). It’s available in four colors (black, grey, purple, and teal), and select designs of the Kids version — which comes with parental controls and six months of Amazon Kids Plus— are also discounted to $21.99.
Amazon Echo Dot (fifth-gen)
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.
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.
TP-Link’s Kasa smart home brand makes several Matter-ready Wi-Fi plugs, and a two-pack of them is currently available for just $19.99 ($20 off) at Amazon. You can control the plugs from within the Kasa app, or by giving voice commands via Alexa, Siri, Google Assistant, or Samsung SmartThings.
If your smart home extends outside, TP-Link also has a two-outlet Tapo Matter outdoor smart plug, which has the same features as its indoor plugs and is on sale for $16.99 ($8 off) at Amazon and Best Buy. The outlets are housed in an IP65 weather-resistant housing, and a pair of removable caps prevent water from getting in when nothing is connected.
GE’s Cync Reveal HD Plus smart undercabinet light fixture is currently $30.37 ($10 off) at Amazon a 12-inch long light bar that can be screwed into the underside of a kitchen island or cabinet to provide illumination in hard-to-reach places. It supports Matter, and you can control it via your voice with Amazon’s Alexa, the Google Assistant, Samsung SmartThings, and Apple HomeKit.
Philips Hue Festavia string lights
These smart lights have beautiful colors, a nice selection of festive scenes, and an easy-to-use app. They are super reliable when paired with a Hue Bridge and also work over Bluetooth. They come in two lengths, work with all the major smart home platforms, and are Matter-compatible.
With top-notch vacuuming performance, an easy-to-use app, and built-in voice control, the S8 MaxV Ultra is a superb vacuum and good mop which is why it’s our top pick overall. It features Roborock’s best obstacle avoidance, innovative features like dirt detection, and a hands-free dock that makes it an expensive but excellent choice.
With a neat ability to remove and reattach its mop pads, the Dreame X40 solves the problem of vacuuming carpets (with 12,000Pa suction power) while also mopping hard floors. Its mops can also swing out and under low furniture, getting where most bots can’t reach.
Eufy’s Omni C20 is on sale for $379.99 during Prime Day, which beats its previous low by $20. The budget robot vacuum features built-in mops, and its cleaning station can store debris from the vacuum, as well as wash and dry the mop components to prevent them from smelling after doing some dirty work.
If you don’t need a robot vacuum that can sweep your baseboards or empty its own bin, the Eufy 11S Max is on sale at Amazon and Walmart for $139.99 ($140 off), which is one of its better prices to date. The entry-level robovac isn’t the smartest option available, but it’s at least aware enough not to bump into walls or tumble over stairs. The 11S Max offers good carpet and hard surface cleaning with relative quietness, too, and its 600ml bin is roomy enough to go through several cleanings before it needs to be dumped.
Robot vacuums are overrated. Black & Decker’s rechargeableFurbuster — now on sale at Amazon and Chewy for $79.99, its lowest price of the year — is a great handheld alternative that’s well-suited for picking up fur, dirt, and other unwanted debris, especially when you tack on the extra-long crevice tool or the included motorized pet brush.
Eufy X10 Pro Omni
The X10 is a great robovac with excellent AI-powered obstacle detection, powerful oscillating mops, a user-friendly app, and good mapping capabilities.
Our favorite budget-friendly robot vacuum offers high-end features, including room-specific cleaning, a capable mop, carpet boost, and smart navigation. It also features an auto-empty dock.
The Sonos Ace are the company’s first set of wireless headphones. They feature a premium, comfortable build and active noise cancellation, along with compatibility with Sonos Arc and other Sonos soundbars. Read our review.
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 review.
The latest pair of Beats earbuds are a no-brainer for athletes. They pack fantastic sound and thumping bass, along with active noise cancellation, IPX4 water resistance, and heart rate monitoring. Read our review.
Bose’s QuietComfort Headphones, which replace the QuietComfort 45, have adjustable noise cancellation and the ability to set custom modes. However, they lack immersive audio mode and the higher-quality Bluetooth found in the QuietComfort Ultra Headphones.
The Samsung Galaxy Buds FE are a decent-sounding pair of earbuds with ANC, and they’re down to a new low $52.24 ($47 off) at Amazon. The entry-level earbuds offer reliable performance and satisfactory sound — especially at this price — though they lack wireless charging, multipoint support, and some of the newer frills found on Samsung’s flagship earbuds. That said, they also come with a pair of silicone “wings” to help them stay firmly planted in place, which some considered a hallmark of prior models. Read our review.
If you’re an Apple user, there’s no better pair of starter buds than the open-style AirPods 4, which have fallen to a new low of $89 ($41 off) at Amazon and Walmart. The latest model sounds significantly better than the third-gen pair, particularly when it comes to voice calls. More importantly, they offer robust integration with the rest of the Apple ecosystem, letting you take advantage of audio sharing, automatic device switching, hands-free “Hey Siri” commands, Apple TV integration, and more. Read our review.
Sony WH-1000XM6
Sony’s latest pair of flagship headphones offer improved comfort, better noise cancellation, and the ability to charge while in use. They even fold down for travel, which can’t be said about the last-gen XM5. Read our review.
Samsung’s premium Galaxy Buds 3 Pro sport the same stem-based design and pinch gestures as the standard Galaxy Buds 3, only they deliver better sound, improved ANC, and an in-ear fit with silicone tips. Read our review.
Google’s Pixel Buds Pro 2 are on sale at Amazon for $160.55 ($69 off), which is their best price to date. They’re a pretty notable step up from the prior model — particularly if you use a Pixel phone — with a smaller build, an excellent transparency mode, and some of the best battery life you can get in a pair of noise-canceling earbuds. Read our review.
Sony’s newer WH-1000XM6 are our No. 1 pick for the best ANC headphones, but the prior model remains an excellent alternative at $248 ($150 off), their current price on Amazon. The WH-1000XM5 still offer top-tier noise cancellation and superb sound, along with a helpful transparency mode, multipoint Bluetooth support, and other handy features. The only real downside, aside from the plasticky build, is the fact that they don’t fold down like the XM4 and this year’s XM6. Read our review.
Sony WH-1000XM4
Sony’s last-last-gen ANC headphones still offer great sound, last up to 30 hours on a single charge, and provide a comfortable listening experience thanks to their plush ear pads. Read our review.
The Beats Studio Buds Plus offer better sound and noise cancellation than the original pair, and they now come in a unique translucent color option. Read our review.
Other than the Beats Studio Buds Plus above, there aren’t a ton of reputable pairs of wireless earbuds that rely on a see-through design. The newer WF-C710N do, however, and they’ve reached a new low price of $78 ($41 off) at Amazon for Prime Day. What’s more, the budget-minded earbuds also borrow some tricks from Sony’s pricier earbuds, including improved noise cancellation and battery life, an automatic pause feature, and touch buttons that allow you to control playback without whipping out your phone.
Sony’s Float headphones are currently down to $78 ($52 off) at Amazon, which is significantly less than their previous low of $108. The Float represent Sony’s take on open-ear headphones, and while we haven’t had a chance to test them (yet), they seem to offer similar features to their like-minded rivals, including IPX4 water resistance, USB-C charging, and generous ear hooks that are designed to keep them firmly in place while you run.
Nothing Ear (a)
Nothing’s Ear (a) earbuds have the same general design as the company’s previous earbuds — but you can get these in a snazzy yellow. They include ANC, more than decent sound quality, and other features like multipoint for just under $100. Read our impressions.
Shokz’ best bone conduction headphones yet, with more booming bass than its predecessor. Our reviewer Victoria Song praised their cozy fit as well as their USB-C charging (goodbye, proprietary charger!). Read our review.
The recently released Skullcandy Method 360 ANC are down to a new low of $75.99 ($50 off) at Amazon for Prime Day. They’re basically a pair of low-end Bose earbuds in disguise — hell, they even use licensed technology and audio tuning by Bose — which means they offer well-balanced sound, solid battery life, and a number of great features for the price. They also block noise more effectively than previous Skullcandy offerings and come in an array of fun colors, including a chic leopard print.
The CMF Buds Pro 2 are available starting at $47 ($22 off) from Amazon and Nothing, matching their best price to date. The inexpensive buds come loaded with features, including active noise cancellation, ChatGPT integration, and up to 6.5 hours of continuous playback with ANC enabled. They also come with a case that features a customizable smart dial, allowing you to adjust the volume, control noise cancellation, and mute your mic during meetings.
A Qi2 pad on the front and a party in the back, with three AC outlets and four USB ports. It can deliver up to 67W through a single USB-C port or divided between its two USB-C and two USB-A ports.
Anker’s jack-of-all-trades travel adapter packs enough ports to refill your devices during some downtime. It features one AC outlet, two USB-C ports (one tops out at 20W), and two USB-A ports. It’s not the fastest wall charger, but it’s a solid choice when you can find it at a discount.
Anker’s latest power bank sports three USB-C ports, plus one USB-A port. It tops out at 165W when charging two devices simultaneously, or 130W when charging three or four.
For a portable power bank that matches the design of Anker’s 20,000mAh 737 battery with its display but delivers a substantial amount of power (a combined 130W), there’s Ugreen’s Nexode model, which is currently on sale at Best Buy for just $54.14 ($35.85 off).
The Baseus 10,000mAh Picogo is one of the most powerful tiny power banks we’ve seen. It supports 45W output through its built-in USB-C cable, and has an extra USB-C port, plus a USB-A port. You can snag one for $24.69, down from its original $39.99 price at Amazon.
The Base One Max is Nomad’s premium charging hub, available for $104 ($45 off) at Nomad and Amazon. It’s primarily made from metal and glass, and has a 15-watt Qi2 magnetic charging pad, an Apple Watch charger, and a concave charging pad for earbuds. It doesn’t come with a power adapter, but Nomad’s 30-watt plug is on sale for $18 ($7 off).
Baseus Free2Pull Retractable USB-C Cable 100W
Baseus’ slick USB-C charger supports 100W passthrough and takes a puck-like form when not in use, with male connectors on either side that retract inward with a quick tug.
Why settle for a flimsy USB-C cable that can only charge a single gadget when you can opt for a braided one designed to charge two at once? Anker’s two-headed cable supports charging speeds of up to 140W split between two gadgets.
You can keep your iPhone and AirPods charged with Belkin’s MagSafe 2-in-1 wireless charging stand, which is down to $59.99 ($4o off) at Amazon, nearly matching its best price to date. While similar models from other brands are often cheaper, this one looks better than most, and it hasn’t sunk this low in price since mid-2023. Belkin’s option also includes a power adapter.
The Baseus PrimeTrip VR2 Max has been one of the most popular products for Verge readers recently. The 4-in-1 car charger can put out a combined 163W of power and features two retractable USB-C cables, plus two USB-A ports. It’s tough not to love, especially at its Amazon price of $29.99 ($20 off).
If all you need is a basic block charger, Anker’s 30W Nano Charger is now on sale at Amazon in a variety of fun colors starting at $12.29 (about $4 off) — a new low price. The collapsible, travel-friendly charger can deliver up to 30 watts of power via its single USB-C port, which makes it perfect for a variety of small electronics (including your phone).
Sharge Retractable 65
The Sharge Retractable 65 dons a classy unique shape and appearance for a 65W travel charger. It’s petite, transparent, and features a built-in retractable USB-C cable, plus a USB-C port to simultaneously charge laptops, phones, and other devices.
Twelve South’s 3-in-1 charging stand offers full 15W MagSafe iPhone charging and can simultaneously top up a set of AirPods while fast-charging a compatible Apple Watch. The charger includes a power supply (with travel adapters) to deliver enough juice over its five-foot / 1.5m USB cable.
The Apple Watch Series 10 has a larger, wide-angle OLED display with up to 30 percent more screen area. It’s thinner and lighter than its predecessors, yet it charges faster and features the same fitness and wellness features. Read our review.
The Amazfit Active 2 delivers outsized value for the price. It looks spiffy and has a wide array of health tracking features, plus built-in GPS and AI chatbots to provide extra context to your data. Read our review.
The entry-level Apple Watch Ultra 2 hasn’t sunk below $700 in a few months, but during Prime Day, you can snag it at Amazon and Best Buy for $649.99. This beats its previous low by $30. Read our review.
Google Pixel Watch 3
Google’s new Pixel Watch 3 is bigger and brighter than its predecessor. It also features more advanced running capabilities, offline Google Maps functionality, and deeper integration with other Google devices. Read our review.
If $249 is still too expensive, don’t write off the Pixel Watch 2. The cellular version is on sale at Amazon for $179.99 ($120 off). Its battery life isn’t as good as the Pixel Watch 3, and it’s missing a few features, but it’s otherwise a solid alternative if you’re trying to save a little cash. Read our review.
Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra
The Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra is targeted at more outdoorsy folks with dual-frequency GPS, a new multisport activity, an emergency siren, and increased durability. Read our review.
If you have your eyes set on a Samsung smartwatch, it’s a good time to grab the Galaxy Watch 7, which is matching its previous low of $246.99 ($136 off) at Amazon in the 44mm configuration with LTE. Read our review.
The non-LTE, 44mm Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 Bespoke Edition is down to $189.99 ($140 off) at Amazon, which is a steep price drop compared to its previous low of $279.99.
The Samsung Galaxy Ring is on sale at Amazon in multiple sizes for $299.99 ($100 off), which beats its previous low price by $50. It’s a solid, subscription-free first attempt at a smart ring from Samsung, with good hardware and long battery life. It’s Android-only, however, and it’s best paired with a Samsung phone. Read our review.
The Garmin Lily 2 has returned to its all-time low of $199.99 ($50 off) at Amazon. While Garmin makes plenty of trackers for enthusiast fitness folks, the Lily 2 is a more pared-back experience for casual users. I don’t say that condescendingly; The Verge’s Victoria Song praised its limitations during a vacation.
Fitbit Charge 6
The Fitbit Charge 6 features a haptic side button, an improved heart rate algorithm, turn-by-turn navigation with Google Maps, and the ability to broadcast your heart rate on certain Bluetooth gym equipment. Read our review.
The Fitbit Inspire 3 is a minimalist fitness band that delivers notifications and tracks your activity on a bright OLED screen. It lacks built-in GPS, contactless payments, and digital assistants, but offers a range of other excellent health and fitness tracking features. Read our impressions.
The Garmin Venu Sq 2 is a great replacement for a Fitbit smartwatch. Not only do they look similar, but the Venu Sq 2 has way more fitness features, long battery life, and no subscription.
Google’s Pixel 9 has a slightly larger 6.3-inch OLED display than its predecessor, along with a Tensor G4 processor, a bigger battery, 12GB of RAM, and a dual rear camera setup with a new 48-megapixel sensor for its ultrawide. Read our review.
The Pixel 9 Pro with 128GB of storage is down to $749 ($250 off) at Amazon, matching its lowest price to date. The 6.3-inch Android phone boasts a telephoto lens with up to 5x optical zoom and up to 30x digital zoom. The 256GB version is also on sale at Amazon for $100 more at $849. Read our review.
The larger Pixel 9 Pro XL with a 6.8-inch screen and 128GB of storage is available for $749 (originally $1,099) at Amazon for Prime Day. Aside from its larger screen and bigger battery, its specs are identical to the smaller option. Read our review.
Pixel 9 Pro Fold (256GB)
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold features a 6.3-inch outer screen and an eight-inch inner screen once it’s unfolded — both of which are larger than the original Pixel Fold. The new foldable also lies flat when opened, sports IPX8 weather resistance, and offers a thinner design than the last-gen model. Read our review.
The OnePlus 13R is a pared-down version of the company’s flagship phone, and it offers excellent battery life and a great screen for the price. Read our review.
The Galaxy S25 Edge offers a big screen without all the heft of a typical big phone. Battery life is just okay, and the phone lacks a telephoto camera, but otherwise, it’s a remarkable device.Read our review.
The Galaxy S25 Ultra is still one of the best phones you can buy, even if its “Ultra”-ness is a little diminished. Two telephotos, a built-in stylus, and a big screen are the main attractions. Read our review.
If you want a great all-around phone that doesn’t cost too much, Samsung’s Galaxy S25 with 128GB of storage is down to just $584.99 (originally $799) at Amazon. There are also discounts available on the 256GB version, which is currently selling for $644.99. This beats the previous low by about $40. Read our review.
If you prefer bigger phones that won’t break the bank, the Galaxy S25 Plus is a good option that’s discounted during Prime Day. The 256GB model is going for $699.99 (originally $999) at Amazon, while the 512GB version is down to $804.99 ($315 off). Both discounts are $50 lower than the ones we’ve previously seen. Read our review.
Samsung makes great cheap phones, in case you didn’t know. The Galaxy A36 5G — which features a 6.7-inch OLED screen, water resistance, and six years of software updates — is available with 128GB of storage at Amazon for $299.99 ($100 off), which is a nice lil’ discount that beats its previous low of $334.
Samsung Galaxy A35 5G
The Galaxy A35 5G comes with a good 6.6-inch OLED panel, a robust IP67 dust and water resistance rating, and a strong software update policy for its class.
Another budget-friendly phone worth considering if you’re trying to spend as little as possible on an unlocked device is the 2024 Moto G Power 5G, which currently comes with 128GB of storage for $161.99 ($38 less than the previous low) at Amazon.
2024 Moto Razr
The standard Moto Razr features a 6.9-inch inner screen, accompanied by a larger 3.6-inch cover screen. Wired charging tops out at 30W, compared to the Razr Plus’ 45W, although it features 15W wireless charging, up from 5W on the previous model. Read our review.
One of the best cartoons ever made is Batman: The Animated Series. It dominated TVs and store shelves in the ‘90s, and now you can own all 109 episodes (but not the great Mask of the Phantasm film) across 12 discs in this Batman: The Animated Series Blu-ray collection for just $29.99 (usually $50).
Robert Egger’s revamped version of Nosferatu is available on 4K Blu-ray for $15.99 (about $24 off) at Amazon. The title is dripping with style, and it effectively brings together elements from the original 1922 film and Bram Stoker’s Dracula novel to great effect. Read our review.
The Wild Robot on 4K Blu-ray is a steal at $13.99 over at Amazon. The gorgeously-animated film is a bit of a tear-jerker. An all-star cast voices the characters, including Pedro Pascal, Stephanie Hsu, Mark Hamill, Matt Berry, Lupita Nyong’o, Ving Rhames, and more.
The Wire is one of the few HBO gems from its cable-only era that’s still considered must-watch TV. Thankfully, you can — and should — pick up the complete series on Blu-ray while it’s down to $49.99 ($51 off) at Amazon, which is about $30 less than its usual price. Just note that this collection is in 16:9 aspect ratio, while the show initially aired in 4:3.
BBC’s Orphan Black put the inimitable Tatiana Maslany on the map. She plays multiple roles with ease in this multi-season sci-fi show that’s about clones and cons. The Blu-ray set is available now at Amazon for $22.99 ($42 off), which marks its lowest price to date.
Furiosa: Mad Max Saga is available on 4K Blu-ray at Amazon right now for $12.99 ($21 off). The prequel to Mad Max: Fury Road is no less explosive as it dives into Furiosa’s backstory. It stars Anya Taylor-Joy and Chris Hemsworth. Read our review.
Parasite, the Best Picture winner at the 2020 Academy Awards, is now available for just $9.99 on 4K Blu-ray at Amazon. The Bong Joon Ho-directed film highlights economic class struggles in a two-hour whirlwind that delivers intimacy, humor, and terror in almost equal parts.
Many 4K Blu-rays, CDs, LPs, Blu-rays, and DVDs are eligible for a buy two get one free deal at Amazon. The items eligible for this promotion can change each day (and even within the same day), so it’s smart to check back often.
The MacBook Air is Apple’s budget-friendly laptop from 2020. It comes outfitted with the company’s M1 chip, which offers terrific performance, even if it’s not as fast as Apple’s newer models. It also sports all-day battery life, Touch ID, and MagSafe charging. Read our review.
If it’s a gorgeous 2-in-1 Windows laptop that you’re after, Samsung’s 16-inch Galaxy Book 5 Pro 360 might tick a lot of boxes for you. It has a 2,880 x 1,800 OLED touchscreen with a 120Hz refresh rate (with an S-Pen included). It also features an Intel Core 7 Ultra 256V processor, 16GB of RAM, and a 1TB SSD. Right now, it’s down to $1,399.99 at Amazon, which is $200 less than usual.
LG’s compact 14-inch Gram with an Intel Core Ultra 7 255H processor, 32GB of RAM, and a 1TB SSD is going for $1,284.99 at Amazon — $215 less than its previous low. LG’s Gram laptops are known for being lightweight, yet they also feature long battery life and a fantastic keyboard / trackpad combo.
For gamers, Asus has discounted select models from its 2025 ROG Strix G16 lineup for the first time — including an RTX 5060-equipped laptop, which currently runs $1,274.99 ($225 off) at Amazon. If you want something even more powerful, Amazon is also selling one with an RTX 5070 Ti for $1,999.99 (was $2,400).
The latest version of Apple’s all-in-one desktop computer features an M4 chip and support for Apple Intelligence. Unlike its predecessor, the base model now offers 16GB RAM by default, along with a new 12-megapixel webcam. Read our review.
Microsoft’s latest Surface Pro is smaller, with a new design and updated keyboard. It’s powered by Qualcomm’s Arm64 Snapdragon X Plus chip. Read our review.
The seventh-gen iPad Mini comes with Apple’s A17 Pro chip and support for Apple Intelligence. It’s also compatible with the Apple Pencil Pro and offers faster Wi-Fi and USB-C speeds. Read our review.
The new 11-inch iPad Air comes with Apple’s M3 chip and GPU upgrades. It’s available in dark gray, blue, purple, and a “starlight” cream shade. Read our review.
If you’d prefer the larger 13-inch iPad Air with the M3 chip, there are deals for you, too. The 256GB / Wi-Fi model is currently available at Amazon for $779.99 ($120 off), beating the previous lowest price by $20.
Samsung’s Galaxy Tab S6 Lite, which allows you to better balance fun with productivity, is now available at Amazon starting at $189.99 ($135 off) in its 64GB configuration. It boasts a 10.1-inch screen, expandable storage via microSD, and includes an S-Pen for drawing or taking notes. It originally sold for $329.99, but it’s sometimes available for around $210.
Samsung Galaxy Tab A9 Plus
Samsung Galaxy Tab A9 Plus with 64GB of storage is $139.99 (originally $219.99), beating its previous best price of $149. Despite its low price, the Tab A9 Plus retains a high-end look, and its 11-inch screen makes it a great option for watching movies and TV shows.
Google’s 11-inch Pixel Tablet uses the same Tensor G2 chip found in the Pixel 7 lineup. It also features a crisp LCD display and a four-speaker sound array. Read our review.
If you’re looking for an Android tablet that delivers high-end entertainment and gaming experiences, consider the Galaxy Tab S10 FE, which is available at Amazon with 128GB storage for a new low of $429.99 ($70 off). This 10.9-inch tablet boasts a 90Hz refresh rate screen, and its Exynos 1580 should be able to handle a large number of games. It also includes an S-Pen, along with a two-year manufacturer’s warranty. Notably, it’s IP68 rated, so it should be able to handle the elements like a champ.
Amazon makes a bunch of different tablets, which are nearly all discounted right now. If you’re looking for an affordable 10-inch tablet for watching movies and TV shows on, the latest Fire HD 10 tablet is a great, cheap candidate. It’s on sale at Amazon right now with lockscreen ads and 32GB of storage starting at $69.99 (originally $139.99).
Boox Palma 2
The Boox Palma 2 is a 6.3-inch smartphone-sized e-reader that’s highly portable. It also runs on Android and comes with the Google Play Store built-in, allowing you to download apps for other digital bookstores, newspapers, note-taking apps, and more. Read our review.
Amazon’s Kindle Kids is identical to the standard Kindle — meaning it packs a 300ppi display and support for USB-C charging — but comes with a case, an extended two-year warranty, and six months of Amazon Kids Plus.
Amazon’s entry-level Kindle from 2024 is considerably better than bargain ebook readers used to be. It features longer battery life, a brighter screen, deeper contrast, and other gen-to-gen improvements. And thanks to Prime Day, you can snag it at Amazon in one of two colors with ads and three months of Kindle Unlimited for $84.99 ($25 off), which is the lowest price we’ve seen on the entry-level e-reader.
Amazon’s latest Kindle Scribe has been available at Amazon with 16GB of storage starting at $259.99 ($140 off) since before Prime Day started, but it’s still a solid deal if you’re looking for a large e-reader that doubles as a smart notebook. Its previous low was $299.99, and it originally sold for $399.99. Read our review.
Kobo Elipsa 2E
The Kobo Elipsa 2E is an ad-free 10.3-inch e-reader you can write on with the included stylus. It offers a whole host of useful features, like the ability to convert handwriting to typed text and a great selection of pen types.
The Kindle Colorsoft Signature Edition is Amazon’s first e-reader with a color display. It also boasts 32GB of storage, waterproofing, and support for wireless charging. Read our review.
Amazon’s latest Paperwhite features a larger seven-inch display and noticeably faster performance. It also boasts longer battery life than the previous model, retains IPX8 waterproofing, and includes a USB-C port. Read our review.
Google’s excellent TV Streamer 4K is its best attempt at a streaming device yet, offering built-in ethernet along with smart home compatibility with Matter and Thread. Read our review.
Amazon’s latest 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 Alexa integration.
The most affordable 48-inch OLED TV we’ve seen during Prime Day isn’t available at Amazon — it’s at Walmart, where you can pick up LG’s B4 OLED for just $549.99 ($250 off). However, at Amazon, Sony’s 48-inch A90K is down to $998 ($400 off), beating its previous low by hundreds of dollars.
Nebula’s Capsule 3 is a battery-powered 1080p projector that’s currently $539.99 ($210 off) at Amazon. It runs Google TV, so you can access popular streaming services without plugging in a separate device, and it has an HDMI port if you want to hook up a game console or a Blu-ray player. Its battery lasts up to two and a half hours depending on your brightness settings, and it can create a 120-inch screen. Its 300 lumen brightness means it’s susceptible to getting washed out by light pollution, but it’s a great choice for backyard movie nights.
LG B4 series OLED TV
LG’s B4 might be one of the cheapest OLED TVs available, but it still offers plenty of bang for your buck — including four HDMI 2.1 ports, speedy performance, and five years’ worth of webOS updates.
TCL’s Mini LED QLED TV is a great value, particularly for those who want a fast frame rate and a bright picture. It offers a 144Hz refresh rate, features two HDMI 2.1 ports, and supports Google TV’s robust software.
Samsung’s 65-inch Frame Pro is down to $1,897.99 ($50 off) at Amazon, which is a relatively small discount given the TV’s previous low. However, it initially sold for around $2,199.99. The step-up model boasts an impressive Mini LED panel, along with a jump from 120Hz to 144Hz. The biggest upgrade, however, is arguably the wireless connect box, which wirelessly streams any and all HDMI video inputs straight to the TV.
If you’re setting up a home theater, JMGO’s N1S Ultra is an excellent 4K projector that’s now available for an all-time low at Amazon and JMGO’s online storefront, where you can grab it for $1,499 ($1,000 off). The workhorse of a laser projector can create a 300-inch screen, and its 2,800-lumen bulb is bright enough to use in a room with some light pollution. It can also automatically adjust the picture to appear even, even if it’s pointed at your wall at a slight angle.
Samsung The Frame TV (2024)
Samsung’s art-inspired 4K TV uses an anti-glare matte QLED display, which can showcase artwork and photos with canvas-like quality when idle.
Looking for an affordable TV with Roku software to make it easy to access streaming apps? The company’s own 55-inch 4K smart TV is down to just $249.99 at Amazon right now. It’s never sold for less than $299.99 before, so these are some solid savings on a relatively budget-friendly set.
Onn Google TV 4K Pro
The newer Onn Google TV 4K Pro is a great streaming device that supports Dolby Atmos, Dolby Vision, and HDR. It also functions as a smart speaker, meaning you can use it to play music, dim the lights, or carry out a host of hands-free voice commands.
iFFALCON’s slim-bezeled mural TV takes after Samsung’s Frame TV, but costs significantly less. The TCL sub-brand’s TV sports an art mode and several high-end features, including a 144Hz refresh rate for gaming.
Alienware is a major player when it comes to OLED monitors. This 27-inch 360Hz model hits the sweet spot in terms of screen resolution, features, and — most importantly — price.
Asus’ ZenScreen Portable USB Monitor (MB169CK) — which is down to an all-time low of $85.49 (about $35 off) at Amazon — makes it easy to create a dual-screen setup alongside your laptop, whether you’re traveling or simply short on space. The 16-inch HD display connects to your computer and draws power with a single USB-C cable. It also comes with a kickstand, allowing you to position it horizontally or vertically at a comfortable angle.
This ultrawide (21:9) QHD OLED gaming monitor has a 165Hz refresh rate, a fast response time, and a slick design. It’s tough to get more OLED for your money than with this model when it’s discounted.
At Costco, the Sonos Arc includes a $60 gift card from either Apple or SiriusXM, as well as a $79 wall mount voucher and a 30 percent off coupon for Sonos accessories.
Vizio’s Elevate SE is a budget-friendly alternative to its high-end Elevate soundbar. It still features many of the same highlights, though, including booming sound quality and rotating speakers that provide the verticality required for Dolby Atmos content.
LG S80TR 5.1.3 soundbar with wireless satellites and subwoofer
Normally available between $700 and $800, this sound system’s price has plummeted during Prime Day 2025. The soundbar features forward- and upward-firing drivers for Dolby Atmos, and includes two wireless satellite rear speakers and a wireless subwoofer.
One of the best-looking Bluetooth speakers around is the second-gen Bose SoundLink Flex, which is on sale for an all-time low of $99 ($50 off) at Amazon for Prime Day. It’s a long-lasting, rugged (IP67) option, in case you’re sifting through which you might buy for your future outdoor escapades. It can stand on its own, too, or you can sling it onto a strong carabiner using its built-in loop.
UE Miniroll
Ultimate Ears’ latest disc-shaped Bluetooth speaker is small and affordable, with a built-in strap for attaching it to your belongings. It also charges via USB-C and features an IP67 rating against dust and water, along with up to 12 hours of battery life.
The last-gen JBL Go 3 may not be quite as powerful as larger models in JBL’s current lineup, but it remains a great pool-ready Bluetooth speaker that can fit in your pocket.
If you’ve ever wanted a Bluetooth speaker that looks like a guitar amp, Marshall’s Acton III is one of the best. It’s got tactile switches and knobs out the wazoo, letting you fine-tune the bass and treble, along with the option to plug in a 3.5mm source or use Bluetooth for playback.
The WiiM Mini makes it easy to wirelessly stream music from your phone, a streaming service, or other local storage to existing speakers you already have. It supports AirPlay 2 and a variety of streaming services.
Typically priced at $149, the more capable WiiM Pro streaming device has also received a discount at Amazon, where you can currently grab it for $119.20 (about $30 off). It has the same DAC as the aforementioned Mini above, but it sports a couple of features you won’t find on the cheaper version, including Chromecast Audio, ethernet support, and RCA audio inputs. Read our WiiM deep dive.
Bose’s SoundLink Max has returned to its all-time low of around $299 ($100 off) at Amazon, Best Buy, and Target. The powerful Bluetooth speaker offers robust, room-filling sound along with a 3.5-millimeter aux input for lossless listening. It’s rated IP67 for dust and water resistance, too, and offers up to 20 hours of battery life on a single charge, rendering it an excellent pick for any occasion. Read our review.
Sonos has discounted the price of its Roam 2 smart speaker to $143 at Amazon (it typically runs between $140 and $180 when discounted). Like all Sonos speakers, it can be paired to your larger Sonos family of speakers via Wi-Fi, or you can use it as a standalone Bluetooth speaker indoors or outside.
Sonos Era 100
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.
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.
Sony’s SRS-XB100 is now around $33 (about $28 off) at Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart, marking a new low price. Roughly the size of a Coke can, the tiny Bluetooth speaker delivers surprisingly clear sound with a good amount of bass. It’s also fairly rugged, with IP67 dust and water resistance, and doubles as a speakerphone, making it just as useful for calls as it is for playing your favorite tunes. Read our review.
Ubisoft’s latest Assassin’s Creed game, Assassin’s Creed Shadows, has been given a small but welcome price cut. Thanks to Prime Day, you can pick up the open-world game set in Feudal Japan for $47.49 (originally $69.99) at Amazon. Read our review.
Star Wars Outlaws
Star Wars Outlaws is an original open-world adventure set in the vast universe of the iconic film series. It stars Kay Vess, a protagonist looking to steal from criminal overlords to gain her freedom. A new expansion featuring Lando Calrissian recently launched, alongside an update that improves stealth and some of the game’s most glaring issues. Read our review.
Princess Zelda’s first solo adventure as a playable character tasks her with saving her people, including Link, who have been taken away through mysterious rifts. Read our review.
Bloober Team knocked it out of the park with its remake of Silent Hill 2 on the PS5. If you scoffed at its original $69.99 price tag, you can currently pick it up for $39.99 ($30 off) at Amazon and Best Buy. Read our review.
There are few games out there with more heart and soul (and pure silliness) than Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii. The latest game in the long-running Yakuza-turned-Like a Dragon franchise is on sale for the PS5 for $39.99 ($20 off) at Best Buy and Amazon.
One of the best-looking Switch 2 games is Splatoon 3, which recently got an update that makes the game run (and look) better on Nintendo’s new console. If you’ve always wanted to give this one a try, you can pick up a digital or physical copy for $39.99 ($20 off) at Best Buy and Walmart. Read about the Switch 2 update.
Not enough people are still talking about Pikmin 4, the latest entry in Nintendo’s chill (yet often chaotic) exploration game. You navigate through environments, collect and command Pikmin with different elemental abilities and weaknesses, and try to save fellow space cadets from strange happenings. All the while, you’re trying to find Captain Olimar, the protagonist of the original Pikmin game. The Switch title is matching its all-time low of $39.99 ($20 off) right now at Best Buy. Read our review.
Split Fiction
Split Fiction is an excellent, cooperative sci-fi game in which two players must traverse completely different worlds simultaneously, while relying on new powers to help them progress through each stage. Read our review.
If you bought a Meta Quest 2, you’re a prime candidate for the Quest 3S. It’s a faster, more comfortable VR headset that runs the same chipset as the pricier Quest 3. While its screen resolution hasn’t improved, nearly everything else about the hardware has. Read our review.
If you read our review of the Windows-flavored Lenovo Legion Go S, we made it clear that its high $729.99 price was one of its biggest flaws. It has other issues, such as the current state of gaming on a Windows handheld and its underpowered Ryzen Z2 Go processor, but the 32GB RAM / 1TB storage model is worth considering at its discounted price of $499.99 ($230 off) at Best Buy. That’s a huge discount.
The microSD cards used in the Steam Deck, ROG Ally, and the original Nintendo Switch are becoming more and more affordable. For instance, Samsung’s Sonic-emblazoned Pro Plus 512GB microSD card is on sale for $28.49 (about $15 off) at Amazon. If you’d prefer a 1TB version so you won’t have to upgrade any time soon, that’s down to $69.99 (this model has never been cheaper than $89.99).
Nex Playground
What if the dream of Microsoft’s Kinect lived on? It does in the Nex Playground, an all-in-one, motion-controlled console filled with kid-friendly games. Exhaust and entertain your little ones. You’re welcome.
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.
Amazon’s Luna Controller is on sale for $39.99 ($30 off) at Amazon, which matches its best price to date. Although it was built primarily for Amazon’s cloud-gaming service, the gamepad offers support for both Bluetooth and USB-C connectivity, rendering it compatible with Android phones, Apple products, Fire TV devices, and PCs. It also integrates with Alexa, allowing you to issue voice commands directly through the controller when paired with a Fire TV device.
PC add-on deals
Insta360 Link 2
The Insta360 Link 2 offers the same auto-swiveling design as its predecessor, but it’s smaller and offers a slate of new features, including group tracking and no-follow zones.
Satechi’s Mac Mini M4 Stand and Hub makes Apple’s smallest computer even more capable, and it’s currently available from Amazon and Satechi for an all-time low of $79.99 ($40 off). The hub fits perfectly beneath the computer, outfitting it with three USB-A 3.2 ports, a USB-A 2.0 port, an SD card reader, and an NVMe SSD slot in exchange for occupying one Thunderbolt 3 port.
Mount-It!’s Single Monitor Arm lets you move your display’s position to the perfect spot to avoid neck strain, and it’s $22.13 ($4 off), its lowest price ever, at Amazon. The arm allows you to adjust your monitor’s height within a 16-inch range, and rotate and swivel it 180 degrees. The arm needs to be clamped onto your desk, so make sure it doesn’t have a tapered edge or raised lip.
If you like to record music at home, Focusrite’s fourth-gen Scarlett Solo is $119.99 ($30 off) at Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart. The two-input interface features XLR and quarter-inch inputs, allowing you to record up to two tracks simultaneously. The interface connects to your computer and receives power via a single USB-C cable, so it’s also well suited for remote recording.
Elgato Prompter
A teleprompter is a luxury. They help you make it look effortless to look at your camera as you read from a script or a chat log. Elgato’s option includes a small screen and a mirror, the latter of which allows you to see what you need to look at without breaking eye contact with viewers.
It’s now easier than ever to plug your DSLR or mirrorless camera into your PC to use as a high-end webcam. Just grab Elgato’s Cam Link 4K, which is down to $79.99 ($20 off) at Amazon for Prime Day. The device converts the HDMI signal coming out of your camera into USB for your PC to process.
Opal’sTapole is an ultra-thin 4K webcam that clips onto the top of your laptop’s screen, and it performed better than the camera built into a MacBook Air when we tested it. The camera is attached to its USB-C cable, so you’ll never lose it, and clips on tightly enough that it won’t get detached if your laptop moves. The webcam is currently on sale for $99 ($30 off) at Amazon, its lowest price ever.
Backing up your computer is important, and Samsung’s T7 is a portable SSD that’s smaller and faster than an external hard drive. The USB-C drive is compatible with Windows and MacOS, and can read and write data at around 1,000Mbps. The 1TB model is currently around $75.99 ($54 off) at Amazon, and Best Buy.
You may not be able to take full advantage of a PCIe 5.0 SSD, but having extra speed for future upgrades isn’t a bad idea. If that’s appealing to you, the current Amazon deal on Samsung’s 9100 Pro 4TB M.2 SSD caught our eye. It’s available for $384.99, down from its typical price of $449.99. If you’d prefer something cheaper, you can grab a 2TB version for $189.99, which is $40 lower than the prior low.
Samsung 990 Pro NVMe SSD (with heatsink)
Samsung’s ultrafast 990 Pro is a PCIe 4.0 M.2 NVMe SSD that can reach sequential read speeds of 7,450MB/s and write speeds of 6,900MB/s. It’s more than capable for high-end PC builds, and its preinstalled heatsink means it’s easily installable into a PlayStation 5. Its heatsink even has a bit of RGB lighting for some extra pop (if you’re able to see it).
Have a Steam Deck, an Asus ROG Ally, or a similar handheld PC that can accept an M.2 2230-sized SSD? WD Black’s 1TB SN770M is discounted to $84.99 at Amazon, down slightly from its previous low of $89.99. Installation procedures vary in steps and complexity depending on the handheld you own.
If you’re running a home server, OWC’s ThunderBay 4 is at an all-time low price of $319.99 ($80 off) at Amazon. The four-drive enclosure can hold 2.5- or 3.5-inch hard drives or SSDs, which you need to supply, with a maximum capacity of 80TB. You can transfer data to and from the drives at up to 1,529MB/s, and use its second Thunderbolt 4 port to daisy-chain another Thunderbolt device, like a multi-port hub, to your computer.
One of Logitech’s best Switch 2-ready webcams just received a Prime Day discount. The Brio 500 1080p webcam is currently available at Amazon for $75.99 ($54 off), which is a new low price.
Nuphy Air75 V2 mechanical keyboard
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 Keychron V1 is one of the best entry-level wired mechanical keyboards available. It has hot-swappable switches, full remappability with VIA, great build quality, RGB backlighting, and double-shot PBT keycaps for under $100.
Azul is a game in which you arrange patterned tiles in order to create the most beautiful tapestry possible. Arranging tiles in a strategic sequence will help you build your score while limiting your opponents’ ability to grow theirs.
Ticket to Ride is another classic board game that’s down to $24.99 (about $25 off) at Amazon. That’s one of the better prices we’ve seen on the cutthroat card game, which challenges you to build the longest locomotive route across classic America before your other tycoon opponents.
The 6th Edition of Catan is currently on sale at Amazon for the first time ever, where you can grab it for $41.99 ($8 off). If you’ve never played before, Catan has you strategically collect and trade resources with fellow players while you figure out how to build out your civilization to take over the board. The latest edition has updated artwork to commemorate the game’s 13th anniversary.
You can gauge how well you know your friends and family by playing Codenames, which is on sale at Amazon right now for $14.99 ($10 off), its best price of the year. You only get to say one word associated with multiple tiles on the board, and your teammates have to figure out which ones you’re talking about. If you’re too vague, your teammates may guess incorrectly, giving the other side an edge.
Dungeons & Dragons 2024 Player’s Handbook
The latest Dungeons & Dragons Player‘s Handbook teaches you about 12 core classes, 48 subclasses, and helps you construct your story with 16 backgrounds and 75 feats. With a bit of help, you’ll be DMing your own original campaigns in no time.
Happy Salmon is on sale for just $9.49 (about $4 off) at Amazon. It’s one of the best icebreakers at social gatherings, for both adults and parents alike, and it takes just minutes to learn and play this card game. Up to eight players can get in on the action, which gets you out of your seats and has you doing fun stuff like giving each other high-fives and “fish bumps.”
Lego deals
Lego Star Wars Imperial Star Destroyer
Lego’s brick-ified replica of an Imperial Star Destroyer is an excellent 1,555-piece throwback to Star Wars: A New Hope, one that comes with seven minifigs, plenty of interior detail, and a convenient handle for carrying it around the room.
Lego’s tribute to Disney’s 100th year in the movie business is an 811-piece kit shaped like a vintage-style film camera. Minifigs depicting Disney’s early animated stars — including Mickey, Minnie, Bambi, Dumbo, and Walt Disney himself — are also included.
The Lego Lamborghini Huracán Tecnica set is an impressive replica of the luxury sports car, complete with a moving V10 Engine, functional steering, and doors that open and close. The 806-piece kit is currently down to $34.99 ($15 off), an all-time low, at Amazon.
Lego’s Boutique Hotel — a resort-themed, 3,066-piece kit — is down to $159.99 ($70 off) at Amazon, which is the best price we’ve seen. The kit was released to celebrate 15 years of Lego Modular Buildings and features many elements from prior kits, as well as five main sections and seven minifigs.
Lego’s Harry Potter Hogwarts Express Train Set is a detailed recreation of an iconic setting from the series, and it’s on sale for $85.59 (about $44 off) at Amazon and Target. The Hogwarts Express can be rolled on and off the tracks, and characters can be positioned inside the train car or around the station. It’s not technically a Prime Day deal, but is the wannabe wizard in your family going to care? Probably not.
Lego’s Animal Crossing Fly with Dodo Airlines set is one of the few Lego sets receiving a Prime Day discount at Amazon, where you can currently pick it up for an all-time low of $32.29 (about $6 off). The kid-friendly, 292-piece playset is a nice little homage to Animal Crossing New Horizons, especially if your kiddo or someone you know has a soft spot for planes… or extinct, flightless birds.
Lego NASA Apollo Lunar Roving Vehicle – LRV
Who doesn’t love space? Lego’s 1,913-piece version of the Apollo Lunar Lander includes brick-ified versions of sensors, tools, and a battery pack with heating and cooling elements. It also comes with a miniature plaque displaying statistics about NASA’s actual LRV, which serves as a nice complement to the completed kit.
Furbo’s rotating 1080p gadget can fling treats on command and automatically track your pet as they roam around your home, allowing you to keep a closer eye on your pet via a mobile app when you’re away.
Thermacell’s E90 mosquito repeller is down to $31.81 (about $18 off) at Amazon right now, beating its previous low by $6 or so. It’s similar to the rechargeable E55 — asummer favorite of ours — only the upgraded model provides up to nine hours of continuous protection when used with the included repellent cartridge, as opposed to five. Needless to say, it’s a great pick for the dog days of summer.
It’s not often enough that Elgato’s composite / S-Video-to-USB converter — which is perfect for making digital copies of your VHS tapes — goes on sale. But thanks to Prime Day, it’s down to $69.99 (originally $99.99) at Amazon. It’s still expensive, but the company’s simple software makes it stand out as a great option for people who aren’t particularly tech-savvy.
The Insta360 X5 is a waterproof 360-degree action camera that can record 8K video at up to 30 frames per second, and it $519.99 ($30 off) on Amazon. It uses an AI chip to improve its low-light performance and apply noise reduction and other image processing. It can run up to three hours on a single charge. It’s an investment, but we tested it and were impressed. Read our review.
Slice Auto-Retractable Box Cutter
Slice’s retractable, finger-friendly ceramic blade is great for tearing through packing tape and cutting plastic wrapping. The comfy tool also features a sturdy, reinforced nylon handle and a hooked design that makes it easy to stow when not in use.
Looking to spruce up your workspace? Yamazaki’s Desk Organizer is available at Amazon for $30.60 (about $12 off), which is one of the better prices we’ve seen in recent months. The handsome, steel accessory is equipped with a small bin and an elevated wooden platform, ensuring your keys, wallet, and whatever else it is you need are always within reach.
If you’re an avid concert goer who’d like to retain your hearing later in life — and who wouldn’t? — Loop’s ultra-comfortable Experience 2 earpugs are on sale at Amazon for an all-time low of $26.95 ($8 off). The stylish earplugs won’t reduce noise as effectively as a custom set; however, they do carry a noise reduction rating of 12dB, which is totally adequate for that occasional Turnstile set.
ChomChom Roller Pet Hair Remover
The ChomChom is a reusable roller that works great for removing unwanted pet hair from furniture, allowing you to skip lint rollers, vacuuming, and other cleaning tools in a pinch.
Bird Buddy’s charming, camera-equipped feeder identifies and snaps shots of each bird that stops by, supplementing its 5-megapixel stills with insightful facts via an app.
The pocketable HoverAir X1 keeps things simple, with a 2.7K at 30fps max resolution and six preset flight modes for easy, hands-free shooting. It lacks GPS and obstacle avoidance, but it launches in seconds and is easy to use.
The reusable ChomChom cat and dog hair remover is on sale for $17.43 ($11 off) at Amazon, which is $2 shy of its all-time low price. The pet hair remover is easy to use and does a great job of scooping up pet hair from furniture well, which is why so many of us on The Verge staff are big fans.
JisuLife’s folding USB fan, a mainstay of our gift guides, is on sale at Amazon in select colors starting at just $12.74 (about $13 off the MSRP). The fan’s rechargeable battery will keep you cool for hours, whether you’re holding it or propping it up on a table, and it features a built-in 2,000mAh power bank in case you need a quick way to juice your phone or another electronic device.
Bissell Little Green portable carpet cleaner
Look, a carpet cleaner is not a very Verge-y gadget. But we’ve all got carpets and / or upholstery to keep clean, right? Luckily, Bissell’s relatively compact cleaner does a great job of restoring fabrics to their original sheen with just a little elbow grease.
This battery has the juice, so to speak, and quite a lot of it. Its main role is to be available to jumpstart a car battery (12V/1000A), but it has USB ports, too, making it handy for charging other devices you bring in the car.
The Twelve South AirFly Pro 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.
Hatch Restore 2 was one of our favorite sleep gadgets, and now you can pick up the third-gen model at Amazon for an all-time low of $139.99 ($30 off). The Restore 3 is quite similar to the TikTok-famous model we reviewed in 2023 in that it still functions as a smart alarm clock / sunrise lamp, except the latest version features an updated design and adds several new buttons that make it easier to operate.
Speaking of sleep devices, the Yogasleep Travel Mini Portable Sound Machine is now on sale at Amazon for $23.79 ($6 off), which is just $3 shy of its best price to date. The rechargeable, travel-ready device offers six noise profiles, from ambient nature sounds to serene pink noise, as well as a built-in night light for navigating your hotel or next Airbnb.
Xreal One smart glasses
The Xreal One aren’t the most affordable augmented-reality glasses available, but they are some of the best for displaying movies and games on the go. You can connect them via USB-C to your smartphone, tablet, or handheld gaming PC.
The latest Tile Mate helps you keep track of your personal belongings from up to 350 feet away, which is 100 feet wider than its predecessor’s range. It’s also platform-agnostic, and can send SOS alerts if you pay for the $14.99 monthly Life360 Gold subscription.
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.
One of our gift guide mainstays, the six-quart Instant Pot Duo Plus, is discounted to $69.99 ($70 off) at Amazon and Target right now, matching its lowest price to date. The stainless steel multicooker is an excellent set-it-and-forget-it device in many ways, as it allows you to steam, sauté, pressure cook, slow cook, and engage in a variety of simple culinary endeavors without having to pony up for a host of kitchen appliances.
If you’re looking for a more “innovative” way to eat cereal, the CrunchCup is on sale at Amazon for an all-time low of $18.95 ($6 off). The absurd, two-cup contraption takes some getting used to, but once you get it down, it’s a handy way to consume breakfast on the go. Just pick your cereal wisely — not everything Kellogg’s makes is spout-friendly.
Aura Carver Mat digital picture frame
The Aura Carver is a lovely, 10.1-inch display that allows you to showcase photos uploaded via the web or a mobile app for Android and iOS. It’s easy to set up, crisp, and keeps unwanted pillarboxing to a minimum.
Glocuscent’s rechargeable book light hangs around your neck to illuminate whatever you’re reading, while offering adjustable brightness and warmth settings.
Hoto makes some of the slickest electric tools around, but Fanttik’s are a close second. The E1 Max Precision Electric Screwdriver — available at Amazon for $39.39 ($36 off) with promo code 10E1MAXCD for Prime Day — is a great example of why that’s the case. It’s not going to get you a ton of torque, but it features an attractive design, a 350mAh rechargeable battery, and 50 magnetic steel bits that are ideal for tackling small electronics.
You can grab a 24-ounce Owala FreeSip Water Bottle at Amazon in select colors starting at $25.49 ($4 off), which is the best price we’ve seen this year. The Verge favorite can keep beverages cold for up to 24 hours thanks to its vacuum-insulated design, and its unique lid allows you to drink either through a built-in straw or using a wide-mouth opening for bigger gulps.
Energizer’s TacR-1000 LED Tactical Flashlight is on sale for $25.43 ($14 off) at Amazon. The rechargeable flashlight can cast a beam that reaches hundreds of feet away at its highest setting and features a strobe setting if you need to get someone’s attention in an emergency. If you forget to charge it, the flashlight can run on AA batteries.
Breville Barista Express
Breville’s Barista Express certainly isn’t the cheapest option out there, but it’s elegant, straightforward, and relatively easy to maintain.
If you’re still gearing up for the summer grilling season, BioLite’s versatile FirePit Plus is currently available from Amazon for around $224.96 ($175 off), its best price of the year. The portable fire pit is an efficient little gadget thanks to its clever design and battery-powered fan, which helps keep smoke at bay regardless of your fuel source.
Amazon is currently selling the Logitech Blue Yeti starting at $90.24 (about $50 off). Although newer microphones may be more visually and functionally appealing, the Yeti remains a classic plug-and-play USB option that reliably captures great audio.
USB outlets are a seemingly small home upgrade that makes charging your devices more convenient. Leviton’s GUAC1-W is a dual-outlet receptacle with a USB-A and USB-C port built into it, and it’s on sale for $32.99 ($21 off) at Amazon. Charging devices without having to plug in a power adapter is especially helpful in the kitchen and other shared spaces.
Fanttik X9 Pro Portable Tire Inflator
Whether you primarily drive a car, motorcycle, or a bicycle, the one thing in common with all three modes of transport is the need for well-inflated tired. This rechargeable 150psi inflator might just save you from a flat (or from being dangerously close to one) when you least expect it.
Coway’s surprisingly efficient Airmega AP-1512HH Mighty is compact enough to fit in any corner of your home and offers a three-stage filtration system, including a true HEPA filter.
The AeroPress has made a name among enthusiasts for its great brewing ability and extreme portability. Its simple, hands-on operation can make your morning coffee ritual more fun and engaging than a traditional drip-style maker.
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 magnetic case and 25 steel bits.
Ben Askren, a former MMA champion and Olympic athlete, recorded a video for his 800,000 Instagram followers on Wednesday revealing he lost 50 pounds after contracting severe pneumonia, which resulted in him undergoing a double lung transplant. Jake Paul, who fought and beat Askren in a 2021 pay-per-view boxing match, offered to help pay for Askren’s medical bills because UFC CEO Dana White, and insurance companies, were not “stepping in.”
Ben Askren, a former pro mixed martial arts (MMA) fighter who also represented United States wrestling at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, is awake and talking after surviving one of the most grueling battles of his life—not in the octagon, but in a hospital bed.
Askren, 40, revealed in an Instagram post on Wednesday that he lost 50 pounds in just 45 days after contracting severe pneumonia, which ultimately led to a double lung transplant.
“I actually just read through my wife’s journal because I don’t remember anything between April 28th and July 2,” Askren said. “I only died four times, where the ticker stopped for about 20 seconds. Not ideal.”
Askren added that while learning to use everything again and regain strength, he recorded his weight on Tuesday and learned he was 147 pounds. “I haven’t been 147 pounds since I was 15 years old,” he said.
In the video above, Askren fights through tears, saying what was most impactful to him “was the love I felt from everybody. It was almost like I got to be at my own funeral.”
“The outpouring of love from the wrestling community was just amazing. It felt so good,” he said. “I feel motivated to keep giving back. I love you guys and appreciate you guys.”
Askren retired from MMA in 2019 after competing in the UFC, Bellator, and ONE Championships. He remained undefeated in both Bellator and ONE, where he was also the longest-reigning champion in each organization’s history. Askren remained active in the combat-sports community, including a brief stint where he tried professional boxing—losing to Jake Paul by first round technical knock-out (TKO) in 2021.
Askren was admitted to a Wisconsin hospital in May with a severe case of pneumonia. But according to his wife, Amy, who detailed the ordeal on Facebook, the illness got so bad he was eventually put on a ventilator and, eventually, added to the list for a lung transplant.
“It still doesn’t feel real that he was walking around completely healthy just 5 weeks ago,” Amy wrote in a Facebook post on June 30. “So much can change so quickly.”
Pneumonia, especially if it’s complicated by other factors like underlying infections or immune suppression, can cause irreversible damage to lung tissue. In Askren’s case, the infection was so severe that both lungs failed, necessitating a double lung transplant. The surgery involves removing both affected lungs and replacing them with healthy donor organs, a process that also comes with its own risks and requires lifelong immunosuppression to prevent rejection of the new tissue.
According to Sports Illustrated, Askren’s double-lung transplant cost an estimated $2 million, which wasn’t going to be covered by his health insurance, so his wife Amy turned to crowdfunding to encourage donations from friends, family, and fans. Notably, Jake Paul said he would help cover Askren’s medical bills, while also slamming UFC CEO Dana White and the medical-insurance industry at large for not offering to help.
“None of these people, like Dana [White] or anyone, are stepping in. So I feel like I have to do something,” Paul said at a press conference.
Save the date: Tesla has announced it will hold an annual shareholders meeting on Nov. 6. The announcement comes just one day after a pointed letter from investors to the board enthusiastically recommended the independent directors set a date—publicly.
Better late than never. Tesla announced on Thursday it will hold an annual shareholders meeting on Nov. 6. The announcement comes some 24 hours after a letter from more than two dozen investors in the $952 billion electric-vehicle maker pressed the board on when it would next go mano a mano with its shareholders.
The last annual shareholders meeting was a high-stakes event that saw investors approve CEO Elon Musk’s controversial pay package a second time and green-light a move from Delaware to Texas. Under Texas law, Tesla is required to hold an annual meeting within 13 months of the last one, which was held on June 13, 2024. Tesla notified investors about the meeting and set a July 31 deadline for shareholders to submit proposals.
Harvard professor of law and economics John Coates told FortuneTexas law provides that companies like Tesla are to hold annual meetings, and that any shareholder can demand one in court if one has not been held within 13 months.
“It’s not a crime, however, to fail to have one, and there is no particular penalty for waiting until a shareholder demands one,” he said. Calling Tesla’s delay “illegal” would be misleading, he explained.
However, it’s “certainly not normal to not hold a meeting within 13 months,” said Coates. “Usually it’s small and under-resourced or distressed companies that fail to do so,” he said.
Meanwhile, Tesla has yet to file a proxy statement—which informs shareholders of the meeting agenda and items to be voted on—that would likely answer swirling questions about Musk’s controversial compensation. To refresh: His pay package was structured as a moonshot mega grant initially valued at $2.6 billion before soaring along with shareholders’ fortunes as high as $56 billion. It was to be the highest compensation ever awarded to the CEO of a publicly traded company. However, an investor challenged it in court, and Delaware Chancery Court Judge Kathaleen St. J. McCormick rescinded ittwice—even after Tesla investors approved it a second time last year.
As it stands, it’s unclear how the Tesla board will proceed with paying Musk, a prerogative for keeping him engaged at Tesla amid his other competing interests and companies, board chair Robyn Denholm has said. Tesla has faced serious pressure from investors over Musk’s work with President Donald Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and later Musk’s bitter bust-up with Trump. That followed with Musk announcing he would create a third political party, the “America Party.” The announcement led to a selloff in Tesla shares, which led to $15 billion being wiped from Musk’s net worth.
Following the announcement of the meeting date, a few of Tesla’s investors were underwhelmed.
In a statement, New York City Comptroller Brad Lander said the announcement was a “welcome, if belated, recognition that the rule of law applies to everyone—even the world’s richest man and his company.
“The basic corporate governance rules are not optional; they are fundamental protections for shareholders and public markets,” said Lander.
Lehigh County Controller Mark Pinsley, a member of the Lehigh County Pension Board, which voted last May to halt any new investments in Tesla in the county’s actively managed funds, said Musk’s political ambitions have turned Tesla, a once transformative company, into a cultural fault line.
“It’s time he stepped aside,” Pinsley told Fortune. “His growing entanglement in politics, including his flirtation with launching a new political party, makes Tesla a proxy for ideological battles rather than a company focused on serving its workers or customers.”
Pinsley said Tesla “benefits enormously” from simply being part of the S&P 500, meaning index funds are compelled to keep investing in the stock. It creates artificial demand that is largely unrelated to fundamentals such as revenue, innovation, or governance, he said.
“I understand the long-term promise of autonomous taxis,” said Pinsley. “However, we’re still years away from them generating significant revenue, so the [price-to-earnings ratio] remains way out of whack with the underlying fundamentals.”
Plus, Tesla has become a lightning rod, he said, more divisive than visionary, which is a shame for a company that once held real promise to shape society, Pinsley added.
“Tesla isn’t riding on innovation right now, it’s riding on inertia,” he said. “Its place in the S&P 500 keeps demand for its stock artificially high, regardless of performance.”
If you’re trying to choose between WordPress and Laravel for your next website, you’re not the only one.
Both platforms are popular, but they serve very different purposes. WordPress is beginner-friendly and great for getting a site online quickly. On the other hand, Laravel offers more customization and control, but only if you’re comfortable writing code.
Having worked with both platforms, I’ve found that the right choice really depends on your project and how comfortable you are with code.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the key differences between WordPress and Laravel to help you figure out which one fits your needs best.
WordPress vs. Laravel: A Brief Overview
Choosing between WordPress and Laravel is one of the first decisions you’ll need to make when building a website. You can use both platforms to create websites, but they are designed for different tasks.
I’ve put together this simple table that compares the key features of WordPress and Laravel side by side.
Feature
WordPress
Laravel
🎯 Main Use
Blogs, websites for everyone
Custom web apps, complex websites
⚙️ Technology
Content management system
Web application framework
🤹 Ease of Use
Very easy, good for beginners
Harder to learn, for developers
🔧 Customization
Themes, plugins
Code it yourself
🔒 Security
Needs optimization
Strong foundation that requires secure coding
📈 Scalability
Needs optimization
Out of the box
👥 Community
Huge, lots of help for all users
Small, developer-focused
👤 Best For
Building websites quickly
Coding custom sites
Next, I’ll walk you through each of these points in more detail to help you decide which platform is the right choice for your project.
Note: This comparison is between Laravel and self-hosted WordPress.org (not WordPress.com). See our guide on the differences between self-hosted WordPress.org and WordPress.com for more information.
How I Compared WordPress vs. Laravel
To give you a real-world comparison of WordPress and Laravel, I drew on my experience using both platforms for actual website projects.
I focused on the key areas that matter most when building a website with either platform:
📋 Everyday Tasks: I compared how both platforms handle things like setting up pages, managing content, and adding features.
⚙️ Customization & Features: I looked at what each platform is designed for, how easy it is to customize, and how they handle security and performance.
🎯 Best Use Cases: I considered different types of websites and which platform fits best for each.
⏱️ Time and Effort: I factored in the learning curve, development time, and ongoing maintenance needs, including things like keeping your site updated and running smoothly.
📈 Growth Potential: I looked at how well each platform supports websites as they grow and become more complex.
I’ll use this approach to walk you through the key differences and help you choose the right platform for your site.
Why Trust WPBeginner?
I know that picking the right platform for your website is an important decision. You need information you can rely on to help you choose well.
That’s why I put together this comparison of WordPress and Laravel to provide clear, useful advice.
While WordPress is the main platform for our projects, we always test and look into other web technologies, like Laravel. This helps us understand different tools so we can give you the best advice for your website needs.
WordPress vs. Laravel: Why Choosing the Right Platform Matters
Choosing the right platform to build your website is a big decision. Selecting the wrong one can lead to unexpected costs, technical limitations, and frustration as your site grows, which is why it’s crucial to choose correctly from the start.
Ultimately, the best choice comes down to your budget, technical comfort level, and what you want your website to do in the long run.
Now, let’s take a look at both WordPress and Laravel.
What Is WordPress?
WordPress is the most popular content management system (CMS) in the world. Because it is open-source, it’s free to use and easy to customize with themes and plugins.
It’s designed to be user-friendly, allowing people of all skill levels to build and manage a website without needing to know how to code. It’s supported by a large global community that creates themes and plugins, and helps other users solve problems.
What Is Laravel?
Laravel is not a website builder like WordPress. Instead, it’s a PHP framework that gives developers a toolbox for building custom web applications from the ground up.
Like WordPress, Laravel is open-source and free, but it’s built for professional developers. You’ll need strong coding skills to use it, which gives you the power to create complex, highly customized websites and applications.
Ease of Use: Beginner-Friendly vs. Developer-Focused
When it comes to ease of use, WordPress and Laravel are built for completely different people.
WordPress is famous for its beginner-friendly approach that lets anyone build a site without code. In contrast, Laravel is a powerful tool designed for developers who are comfortable with a more technical setup.
WordPress Ease of Use: Setting Up a Basic Site
While there is a small learning curve, WordPress is designed to be easy to pick up, even for absolute beginners. You can follow our guide on how to learn WordPress for free in a week.
Getting started is quick and simple. Most web hosts offer one-click WordPress installation, so getting started is quick and simple. Hosts like Bluehost and Hostinger include this by default.
After WordPress is installed, you can log in to your dashboard. From here, you can create content using the built-in block editor, which lets you arrange your page using visual building blocks for text, images, and more.
To make building your site even easier, you can use a drag-and-drop page builder plugin. I recommend SeedProd because it lets you create completely custom layouts without any code. It even comes with an AI website builder that can generate a unique site for you in minutes.
💡 Don’t have time to build a website? Our expert team can build a custom WordPress site for you at an affordable price. See our Website Design Services for more details!
Laravel Ease of Use: Setting Up a Basic Application
Setting up a Laravel project involves a more technical process. To get started, you’ll need to install Composer, which is a tool that manages the PHP packages your project depends on.
Once Composer is installed, you can use the command line to create a new Laravel project. This is a big shift from WordPress, where most hosting providers handle installation through a graphical control panel.
You’ll also need a local development environment like XAMPP or MAMP to run your Laravel project on your computer.
While you can add a CMS to Laravel using tools like October CMS, it still requires technical knowledge to manage.
🏅 Winner for User-Friendliness: WordPress
I recommend WordPress for non-programmers. It’s made for people of all skill levels, especially those who want to build and manage websites without coding.
Laravel, on the other hand, is made for developers. It’s powerful and gives you a lot of control for building complex web apps, but it is difficult to learn and requires coding knowledge.
Making It Your Own: Customization in WordPress vs. Laravel
Now, let’s look at how WordPress and Laravel handle customization.
WordPress: The Theme & Plugin Powerhouse
One of the biggest advantages of WordPress is how easy it is to customize your website’s design and features, even if you’ve never written a line of code. This is all thanks to its huge ecosystem of themes and plugins.
Plugins are like apps for your website that add new functionality. For example, with plugins you can add a contact form, launch a full online store, build a membership community, or improve your website’s SEO.
With tens of thousands of free and premium options, there is a plugin for almost anything you can imagine. To see what’s possible, you can check out our expert pick of the must-have WordPress plugins we recommend for all business websites.
Alternatively, you can always hire a developer to add custom code to your WordPress site.
The main difference is that WordPress is a complete system designed for content, which you can then extend. For projects with highly complex or unusual requirements that need to be built from scratch, Laravel can sometimes be a more direct starting point.
Laravel: The Code-Savvy Customizer
Laravel takes a more technical approach to customization. It’s a framework, which means it provides a toolbox for developers to build a custom website or web application from scratch.
This gives you full control over every aspect of your project, but you’ll need to be comfortable with coding in PHP, HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to use it effectively. Unlike WordPress, where you start with a pre-built system, Laravel starts you with a clean slate.
This makes it ideal for complex projects with unique requirements. For instance, if you were building a custom booking system, a SaaS (Software as a Service) application, or an internal business tool, Laravel provides the flexibility to build every feature exactly as you need it.
The trade-off is that you have to build many features that WordPress provides by default, like a content editor or user management system. This is why Laravel projects almost always require hiring a developer and take more time to build.
In short, here are the main points about customizing with Laravel:
✅ It offers unlimited flexibility because you can custom code everything.
✅ It’s ideal for building web applications with unique and complex features.
❗ You must have development expertise or hire a developer to use it.
🏅 Winner for Customization Options: WordPress (for most people)
If you want to customize your website without writing code, WordPress is the clear winner. Its library of themes and plugins lets you personalize your site easily, no technical knowledge required.
Laravel is better suited for developers who need full control and want to build highly customized applications.
For example, if you’re creating a blog or business website, WordPress will likely meet your needs. But if you’re building a web app with unique features, Laravel gives you the tools to go beyond what themes and plugins can offer.
Content Management: WordPress vs. Laravel
If your website is focused on content—like blog posts, news, or tutorials—then having a strong content management system (CMS) is essential.
A good CMS saves you time, reduces errors, and makes it easier to manage your content. Let’s look at how WordPress and Laravel compare when it comes to content management.
WordPress: Excels at Content Management
WordPress was built for content management. It started as a blogging platform, and today it’s a full CMS that makes it easy to create, organize, and manage all kinds of digital content.
It comes with powerful built-in tools to keep everything in order. You can sort your posts with categories and tags, manage all your files in the media library, and even create different content structures using custom post types.
You can assign different roles like Author, Editor, and Administrator, giving each person the right level of access to create and manage content.
And if you need more advanced management tools, you can use plugins to add features like an editorial calendar, custom approval workflows, or content restriction for membership sites.
Laravel: The Flexible Framework (But Not a CMS)
Laravel is not a content management system. Instead, it’s a framework designed for building web applications. That means it doesn’t include built-in tools for managing content like WordPress does.
If you want to manage content with Laravel, there are two common approaches:
Build your own CMS: If you’re comfortable with PHP and Laravel, you can build a custom CMS from scratch. This gives you full control over your content structure and features, but it requires significant development time.
Use a Laravel-based CMS: Some tools, like October CMS and Statamic, are built on Laravel. These platforms add content management features on top of Laravel but still require some technical knowledge to use effectively.
Here’s what the content editor looks like in October CMS:
As you can see, Laravel doesn’t offer the out-of-the-box content tools that come standard with WordPress.
🏅 Winner for Content Management Features: WordPress
If you need a complete, beginner-friendly CMS, then WordPress is the better option. It’s great for bloggers, businesses, and anyone who wants to manage content without writing code.
Laravel, on the other hand, gives developers full control. You can build a custom content system from the ground up, but it takes time and technical skill.
For example, if you’re building a site with very specific content workflows, you might choose Laravel to match your exact requirements. But for most websites, WordPress is a faster and more practical choice.
eCommerce: WordPress vs. Laravel
Selling products or services online? Then you’ll want to look at how each platform handles eCommerce. The right setup can make managing your store much easier.
WordPress: The eCommerce Powerhouse
One of the biggest strengths of WordPress is its flexibility for selling online. You can use it to build anything from a simple donation button to a massive online marketplace.
If you want to build a full online store, you can follow our complete guide on how to start an online store. The most popular way to do this is with a free plugin like WooCommerce, which adds all the features you need, like product pages, a shopping cart, and payment gateways.
But WordPress isn’t just for large stores. You can also:
This flexibility makes WordPress a powerful choice that can grow with your business, no matter how you plan to sell online.
Laravel: The Custom eCommerce Builder
Laravel doesn’t come with built-in eCommerce features. But because it’s a flexible framework, developers can use it to build a fully custom eCommerce solution tailored to specific needs.
This lets you design features that may not be possible with WordPress. However, it requires advanced development skills and more time to set up and maintain.
Laravel is better suited for large businesses that need specialized functionality and have the technical resources to support a custom platform.
🏅 Winner for eCommerce Capabilities: WordPress (for most people)
For most small to medium-sized stores, WordPress with a plugin like WooCommerce is the easiest and most affordable choice. If you need a standard online store, this approach is plug-and-play and gives you everything you need to start selling without hiring a developer.
Laravel is a better fit when you need a large, custom eCommerce system. It is the best choice if you are building a bespoke platform with unique inventory, shipping, or recommendation features and have the budget for custom development.
SEO: WordPress vs. Laravel – Getting Found Online
If you want people to discover your website through search engines, then you need to think about search engine optimization (SEO). Your choice of platform can make a big difference in how easy that is to do.
WordPress: The SEO-Friendly CMS
WordPress is well-known for being SEO-friendly right out of the box. It supports key features like SEO-friendly URLs, categories and tags for organizing content, and alt text for images—all built into the platform.
WordPress makes SEO easy, especially with plugins like All in One SEO (AIOSEO). These tools help you add meta tags, create sitemaps, and optimize your content, all without needing to code.
With tools like this, you can follow most SEO best practices without needing to write any code.
If you’re serious about SEO, I recommend pairing your plugin with a fast-loading theme and a caching plugin to boost your site’s speed—a key ranking factor.
Laravel: The SEO Toolkit for Developers
Laravel doesn’t offer built-in SEO tools. Instead, it gives developers full control to add SEO features through code.
While you can build everything from the ground up, developers can also use pre-built Laravel SEO packages to handle tasks like creating sitemaps or managing metadata.
Popular Laravel SEO packages include ‘artesaos/seotools’, which can help handle meta tags, Open Graph, and more.
However, this still requires manual setup and coding knowledge to implement.
This flexibility is useful if you’re building a custom web application and need specific SEO structures. However, it’s a lot more technical and time-consuming.
If you’re not familiar with coding, then managing SEO in Laravel can be a real challenge.
🏅 Winner for SEO: WordPress
For most websites, WordPress is the easier and more beginner-friendly option for SEO. Its built-in features and powerful plugins make it simple to improve your search rankings without technical skills.
Laravel is best for developers working on advanced projects with very specific SEO needs. But you’ll need to be comfortable coding and managing those features manually.
Speed Matters: Performance in WordPress vs. Laravel
Website speed is important because a slow-loading website can frustrate visitors and negatively impact your search engine rankings.
Let’s take a closer look at how WordPress and Laravel compare when it comes to performance.
WordPress: Performance Requires Optimization
WordPress makes it easy to build a site, but that convenience can lead to slower load times if you’re not careful.
It’s important to know that the core WordPress software is actually very fast. But performance can slow down if you use a poorly coded theme, install too many or poorly coded plugins, or upload large, unoptimized images.
This is why it’s important to optimize your WordPress website to keep it running fast.
To boost WordPress performance, you can use caching plugins like WP Rocket, optimize your images, choose a lightweight theme, and select a quality hosting provider.
Laravel is built for speed because it starts as a lean, lightweight foundation. Developers only add the specific code and features needed for the project, so there’s no extra bloat to slow the site down.
That said, performance still depends on how well the code is written. A poorly optimized Laravel project can run into the same issues as any other framework.
But when set up properly, Laravel offers a strong foundation for high-performance websites and applications.
🏅 Winner for Performance: Laravel
If speed and performance are top concerns, especially for custom applications or high-traffic projects, then Laravel is the better fit. It’s well-suited for advanced performance needs and offers more precise control.
Still, WordPress can deliver excellent performance too. With the right hosting and optimization strategies, it can support fast load times even during high-traffic events. It just requires more setup and ongoing maintenance.
Growing Your Site: WordPress vs. Laravel Scalability
Scalability is your website’s ability to handle growth in traffic without slowing down.
Both WordPress and Laravel are excellent for this, but they use very different approaches.
WordPress: Scaling with the Right Infrastructure
WordPress can be scaled to handle massive amounts of traffic. In fact, many high-traffic websites, including major news outlets and enterprise companies, run on WordPress.
However, the scalability of a WordPress site depends less on the core software and more on its hosting environment and setup. To handle growth, you will need to invest in better infrastructure.
This usually involves:
Upgrading Your Hosting: Moving from a basic shared hosting plan to a more powerful VPS or a high-performance managed WordPress hosting provider is the most important step.
Using a CDN: A Content Delivery Network (CDN) helps distribute your website’s files across servers worldwide, reducing the load on your main server and speeding up load times for visitors.
Laravel is designed for scalability from the ground up. Because it’s a framework, developers have complete control over the application’s architecture, allowing them to build systems specifically for high-traffic and complex tasks.
It comes with built-in features that make scaling easier for developers. These include support for distributed caching systems, background job queues to handle intensive tasks, and a structure that works well with modern, scalable server setups like load balancers.
This level of control is powerful, but it requires significant technical expertise. Scaling a Laravel application is not about clicking a few buttons. Instead, it requires careful architectural planning and server management by a skilled development team.
🏅 Winner for Scalability: WordPress for Most Websites, Laravel for Custom Applications
For most businesses, blogs, and online stores, WordPress is the more practical choice for scaling. You can easily handle growth by upgrading your hosting plan and using optimization tools without needing to rebuild your site’s foundation.
Laravel is the winner for custom web applications (like a SaaS platform) where complex scalability needs are known from the start. It offers a more robust foundation for developers who need to design a highly specific, scalable architecture from scratch.
Safeguarding Your Site: WordPress vs. Laravel Security
Both WordPress and Laravel can be very secure, but you’ll approach security differently depending on which one you choose.
Let’s take a look.
WordPress Security: A Shared Responsibility
WordPress itself is secure, but its popularity makes it a common target for hackers. The real risks often come from outdated plugins or poorly coded themes.
Because you can add so many different plugins, your site has a larger ‘attack surface,’ meaning more potential entry points for hackers if things aren’t kept up-to-date.
The good news is that regular updates and careful plugin choices can go a long way in keeping your site safe.
To stay secure, I always recommend you use reputable plugins from trusted sources, keep everything updated, and follow best practices like strong passwords and two-factor authentication.
Beyond your own efforts, your web host plays a huge role in keeping your site secure. Choosing a quality managed WordPress hosting provider adds a powerful layer of protection, as they often include security features like firewalls, malware scanning, and automatic updates.
For extra security, I recommend using a security plugin. We currently use Cloudflare on WPBeginner, and we’ve also had success with Sucuri. Cloudflare is ideal for larger sites, while Sucuri offers solid protection for all types of websites.
Laravel Security: Built-in Protection and Encryption
Laravel includes built-in security features like CSRF protection and input validation that make it easier to build secure apps without needing extra tools.
It also uses encryption by default for sensitive data. For example, Laravel hashes passwords using bcrypt, helping keep login credentials secure even if the database is compromised. WordPress has also used password hashing for a long time and added support for bcrypt in version 6.8.
Laravel also encrypts cookies and sessions, which helps protect user data and prevent session hijacking.
That said, Laravel security depends heavily on the developer. Misconfigurations or insecure code can still create vulnerabilities. That’s why following secure coding practices and conducting regular security audits are essential.
🏅 Winner for Security: Laravel
Laravel provides a stronger security foundation out of the box, especially for developers who want built-in tools. But both platforms can be secure when used properly.
WordPress requires more ongoing maintenance, like updating plugins and using security tools, but it’s very secure when you follow best practices.
When you run into an issue or want to add new features, having a strong support community and plenty of resources is a huge advantage.
This is a key area where WordPress and Laravel are very different, and it can make a big impact on your final choice.
WordPress: A Thriving Community
WordPress powers over 43% of all websites on the internet, and this enormous market share supports a global community of users, developers, and designers.
Whether you need help troubleshooting an issue, selecting a plugin, or learning a new feature, there’s likely someone who has already encountered the same problem and shared the solution online.
In addition to community forums, you’ll find official resources like Learn WordPress and Make WordPress, which offer structured courses, lessons, and documentation to help users at all levels.
At WPBeginner, we also offer a wide range of free resources, including step-by-step tutorials, a newsletter, video guides, a helpful Facebook group, and more.
And because of WordPress’s popularity, the theme and plugin marketplace is massive, giving you endless customization options without writing any code.
Laravel: A Developer’s Hub
Laravel has a smaller but highly focused community made up of developers and technical users. It emphasizes clean code, reusable packages, and advanced development practices.
Although the Laravel ecosystem is more niche, it’s very active and supportive. I’ve found the official documentation to be excellent, and there are plenty of places to ask questions or share solutions.
Unlike WordPress, Laravel doesn’t offer a marketplace of themes and plugins. It’s designed for building things from scratch, so you’ll be writing more code, but you’ll also have full control over the final product.
Fortunately, Laravel developers are in high demand, and finding skilled professionals is generally not difficult.
🏅 Winner for Community and Resources: WordPress
While both platforms have strong communities, WordPress has a much larger and more beginner-friendly ecosystem. Here’s why:
The WordPress community welcomes users at every skill level. There are countless forums, tutorials, and support groups where you can find quick help.
Most common issues already have documented solutions you can find with a simple web search.
Its huge marketplace makes it easy to add new features or design updates with minimal effort.
Laravel offers an excellent support network for developers, but if you’re not comfortable with code, WordPress is the more accessible and community-rich option.
Related: For a deeper dive into WordPress market share and trends, check out our detailed WordPress Market Share Report.
Cost Comparison: WordPress vs. Laravel
I know from experience that budget is a major factor when choosing a platform. While both WordPress and Laravel are open-source (meaning the software itself is free), there are other costs to consider.
WordPress: Budgeting for Your Site
WordPress is usually more affordable at the start. With free themes, plugins, and budget-friendly hosting (as low as a few dollars per month), you can launch a site cheaply. Just remember that premium themes, plugins, or hiring a developer will add to the cost.
Here’s what you’ll need to budget for:
A domain name (like wpbeginner.com) costs around $10-15 per year, but you may be able to get the first year for free.
Web hosting (where your website files and database are stored) costs $2-25 per month. I recommend Bluehost for beginners because they have affordable plans and great support.
You can choose a free theme or purchase a premium theme for $30-200 to get more design options and features.
You can also use free plugins, though premium plugins can add powerful features. I recommend checking out our list of the must-have WordPress plugins.
If you need custom work, then you will need to hire a developer or designer. This can be the biggest expense, though most WordPress websites won’t need it.
Laravel projects typically cost more because they require custom development. You’ll likely need to hire a developer or a team, which makes sense for larger or more complex projects.
Here’s a breakdown of the typical costs you can expect with Laravel:
Domain name: Around $10–15 per year, just like with WordPress.
Web hosting: Typically $15–100+ per month. Laravel apps often require more robust infrastructure, such as cloud hosting or a VPS for better performance.
Developer fees: This is usually the largest cost. If you’re building something custom, hiring a Laravel developer is essential, and rates can vary widely depending on the complexity of your project.
All in all, Laravel gives you complete freedom to build exactly what you need, but that flexibility comes with a bigger investment in both time and money.
For example, you might launch a simple WordPress site for under $100, but a custom Laravel project could easily start in the thousands depending on its features.
🏅 Winner for Affordability: WordPress (for most people)
For most people, especially beginners and small businesses, WordPress is the more cost-effective option. You can launch a full-featured website without hiring a developer, and many themes and plugins are available for free.
Laravel is best suited for complex projects with unique functionality, where you have the budget to invest in custom development. It’s a powerful solution, but not the cheapest one.
The Verdict: Choosing Between WordPress vs Laravel
So, which platform is right for you? It all depends on what you need from your website.
Use WordPress if you want to build a website quickly, manage content easily, and benefit from thousands of ready-made themes and plugins. It’s perfect for blogs, business sites, portfolios, and online stores without breaking the bank.
Use Laravel if you’re a developer (or working with one) building a custom web application with unique features, advanced functionality, or a need for serious scalability and control. Laravel is more powerful under the hood, but it requires coding expertise to unlock its full potential.
To help you decide, here’s a simple breakdown of who each platform is best suited for:
WordPress
Laravel
Typical Users
Bloggers, small business owners, content creators, non-developers
Developers, startups, enterprises building custom apps
Primary Use Cases
Blogs, business websites, portfolios, eCommerce stores (with plugins)
Custom web apps, SaaS platforms, internal tools, complex eCommerce
Before choosing a platform, consider your goals, technical skills, and budget.
If you want to build something quickly and easily, WordPress is likely the way to go. But if you need full control and are building something more advanced, Laravel might be a better fit.
I hope this guide helped you get a clearer picture of whether WordPress or Laravel is right for your next project. Ready to build your site? If you’re leaning toward WordPress, check out our guide on how to start a website step-by-step.
☝ Pro Tip: Are you overwhelmed by building a professional website? Let our expert WordPress designers create a stunning site for you, easily and affordably. See our Stress-Free WordPress Design Services page for details and pricing.
Frequently Asked Questions About WordPress vs. Laravel
Now that you’ve read our comparison of WordPress vs. Laravel, you might still have some questions. Here are some quick answers to frequently asked questions.
Is WordPress or Laravel easier to use for beginners?
For someone just starting out with website building, WordPress is easier to learn and use. It is designed with user-friendliness in mind, even if you have no coding experience. You can get a website up and running quickly, often with just a few clicks.
Laravel, on the other hand, has a steeper learning curve. It’s a framework built for developers, so it assumes you have coding knowledge or are willing to learn.
Do I need to know coding to use WordPress or Laravel?
With WordPress, you can build and manage a website without writing any code at all. You can use themes to control the design and plugins to add features, all without needing to write code. If you want to make very advanced customizations, then some coding knowledge can be helpful.
Laravel is different. To use Laravel effectively, you need coding skills, specifically in PHP. Building a website or web application with Laravel involves writing code to create features, customize functionality, and manage your site.
Which is better for SEO: WordPress or Laravel?
Both WordPress and Laravel can be excellent for SEO, but they approach it in different ways. WordPress is naturally quite SEO-friendly right out of the box, and you can use plugins like All in One SEO to optimize your site for search.
Laravel gives developers more direct, technical control over SEO. With Laravel, you can fine-tune every aspect of your website’s code and structure for optimal SEO performance. But this isn’t a one-click solution because it takes a lot of coding.
Is WordPress or Laravel more secure?
Both WordPress and Laravel can be secure platforms, but security needs to be approached differently for each. WordPress is actively maintained for security, and you need to keep it updated. You also need to use security best practices and plugins for the best protection.
Laravel is more secure from a technical standpoint. It has many security features by default and encourages secure coding practices. However, just like any platform, Laravel’s security still depends on developers writing secure code and properly configuring their applications.
When should I choose WordPress over Laravel?
I recommend WordPress for most websites. It’s easy to set up and manage, especially if you’re not a coder. It’s ideal for blogs, small business websites, portfolios, and online stores. It lets you get a website online quickly and cost-effectively.
When should I choose Laravel over WordPress?
In most cases, it’s best to choose Laravel when you need to build a custom web application or a website with very specific and complex features. You will need development expertise or a development team, but you can build something truly unique from the ground up.
Amazon’s big sale has arrived and these are the best Prime Day Kindle deals on the site. Currently, Amazon makes four models of its ereader: the basic Kindle, the writing-enabled Scribe, the colorized Colorsoft and the premium Paperwhite, which also comes in an even fancier Signature edition. There are a couple of kids models too, but those are simply bundles that include a cover, a longer warranty and a trial subscription to Kindle Kids+. Right now, nearly every model is on sale thanks to Prime Day. You can even save on a subscription to Kindle Unlimited, the program that gives you access to a large library of selected ebooks.
Best Prime Day deals on Kindle ereaders
Amazon Kindle for $85 ($25 off with Prime): The base model Kindle is our recommendation for the best budget ereader. Even when it’s not on sale, it’s the most affordable e-book device from a major manufacturer. It’s compact and durable making it easy to carry. It doesn’t have warm LEDs and it’s not waterproof but it’s the most affordable way to access Amazon’s vast e-book ecosystem.
Kindle case (fabric) for $24 (25 percent off with Prime): If you want to protect your new ereader, you can grab this case while it's 25 percent off. Note that only the blue and pink versions are $24, the black and matcha versions are $2 more expensive.
Kindle Colorsoft for $180 ($100 off with Prime): Amazon didn’t introduce color to its ereader lineup until early this year — long after Kobo and Boox. The list price of $280 makes it more expensive than other color display ereaders, but this discount helps with that. We appreciate the fast page turns, pinch to zoom feature and auto-adjusting warm front light.
Kindle Paperwhite for $125 ($35 off with Prime): The Paperwhite is an elevated version of the Kindle, with a larger, seven-inch, flush-front screen and an adjustable warm front light. A faster processor gives it quicker page turns than its predecessor and the device itself is waterproof.
Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition for $150 ($50 off with Prime): The Signature Edition adds few more premium features to the Kindle Paperwhite with wireless charging, an auto-adjusting front light and more storage (32GB). We gave it an 85 in our review praising the premium build, remarkably clear text and fast page turns. We just wish the power button wasn’t on the bottom.
Kindle Kids for $95 ($35 off with Prime): The Kindle Kids edition is the same hardware as the standard Kindle, but you get a few added perks that are fitting for younger users. To start, a case comes standard. The warranty is extended to two years. And the purchase price includes a six month subscription to Amazon Kids+ for thousands of kid-friendly ebooks and more.
Kindle Paperwhite Kids for $130 ($50 off with Prime): Again, the kids version is the same as the Paperwhite but with a cover, extended warranty and access to Amazon Kids+ for six months. Just remember to cancel at the end of the trial or keep it and pay $6 per month.
Best Prime Day deals on non-Kindle ereaders
Boox Palma 2 for $270 ($30 off): This smartphone-shaped device is a delight. It’s built on Android and can run just about any app you can download from the Play Store — just don’t expect it to play video or graphics-intensive games. This is an E Ink screen, after all. But it’s perfect for reading books and running simple apps in a more eye-friendly format.
Kobo Libra Color for $210 ($40 off): Our favorite ereader with buttons has a premium, waterproof build that’s very comfortable to hold. The touch controls and buttons are responsive and deeply customizable. The color display brings more life to book covers and graphic novels, and it’s even stylus-enabled if you want to scribble on your books. This is the lowest price in a few months, but note that it dropped to $200 in January.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/the-best-prime-day-kindle-deals-and-ereader-sales-080957865.html?src=rss
Whether you're working from home, streaming on Twitch or just catching up with friends and family on Zoom, a good webcam can make a huge difference. Built-in laptop cameras still leave a lot to be desired — most struggle with low light, color accuracy and sharpness — which is why upgrading to one of the best webcams in 2025 is a smart move if you want to look your best on screen.
This year’s top webcams go far beyond just boosting video quality. Many include features like AI-powered auto-framing, background blur, built-in microphones with noise reduction and 4K resolution for crystal-clear clarity. Whether you're after professional presentation, content creation tools or just something simple and reliable for everyday calls, we’ve rounded up the best options to suit every setup and budget.
While some newer computers have 1080p webcams, most built-in cameras have a resolution of 720p, so you’ll want to look for an external webcam that has a higher resolution. FHD webcams will give you better video quality; ideally, you’re looking for something that can handle 1080p at 60fps or 30fps. If you’re considering a cheap 720p webcam, make sure to get one that supports at least 30fps (most will) or, even better, 60fps. However, if your primary concern is better picture quality during video calls, 1080p is the way to go.
Some webcams can shoot in 4K, but that’s overkill for most people. Not to mention most video conferencing services like Zoom, Google Meet and Skype don’t even support 4K video. When it comes to streaming, Twitch maxes out at 1080p video, but YouTube added 4K live streaming back in 2016. Ultimately, with 4K webcam shots having such limited use, most people can get by with a solid 1080p camera.
Field of view (FOV) controls how much can fit in the frame when you’re recording. Most webcams I tested had a default field of view of around 78 degrees, which captured me and enough of my background to prove that I really need to organize my home office. On cheaper webcams you’ll usually see narrower fields of view (around 60 degrees), and those aren’t necessarily bad. They won’t show as much of your background, but that also means you won’t be able to squeeze as many friends or family members into frame when you’re having Zoom birthday parties. On the flip side, more expensive webcams may let you adjust the field of view to be even wider than average, and some even offer features like digital zoom.
Autofocus and other “auto” features
Webcams with autofocus will keep the image quality sharp without much work on your part. You should be able to move around, step back and forth, and remain in focus the whole time. Some standalone webcam models let you manually adjust focus, too, if you have specific needs. Devices with fixed focus are less convenient, but they tend to be more affordable.
In the same vein is auto framing, a feature that some high-end webcams now offer. Similarly to Apple’s Center Stage feature, the camera automatically adjusts to keep you in the center of the frame even as you move around. This used to be a feature only available on the most premium webcams, but now you can find it on sub-$200 devices.
You’ll also see other “auto” features listed in webcam specs, most notably auto light correction. This will adjust the camera’s settings to make up for a dimly lit room. If you don’t have bright lights, or often take calls in places where you can’t control the lighting, this feature will be valuable. Alternatively, you might consider using your mirrorless camera as a high-quality webcam solution, taking all of the benefits and features with you (albeit in a cumbersome package).
Microphones
Most webcams have built-in microphones that, depending on your setup, might end up being closer to you than your computer’s own mics. Check to see if the model you’re considering has mono or stereo mics, as the latter is better. Some even use noise-reduction technology to keep your voice loud and clear. While audiophiles and streamers will want to invest in a standalone microphone, most others can get by using a webcam’s built-in mic.
Design
There aren’t a ton of fascinating breakthroughs when it comes to external webcam design. Most are round or rectangular devices that clip onto a monitor or your laptop screen. Some have the ability to swivel or screw onto a tripod stand and others can simply sit on your desk beside your computer. But unless you really like having people stare up your nose, the latter isn’t ideal. We recommend clipping your webcam to your monitor and ensuring that it’s at or slightly above eye level.
A few webcams go above and beyond by adding hardware extras like built-in lights and lens covers, too. The former can help you stand out in a dark room, while the latter makes it so hackers can’t view you through your webcam without your knowledge.
Price
Most external webcams that are just good enough to be a step up from your computer’s built-in camera cost between $60 and $150. If the webcam has the same resolution as the internal one on your laptop, you should look out for other specs like auto light correction, a wider field of view or an extra-long connecting cable that can provide a step-up in quality or ease of use.
Spending $150 or more means you might get advanced features that tend to be present in a pro webcam like 4K resolution, vertical and horizontal recording options, stereo mics, customizable video settings and more. But unless you’re spending hours on video calls each day or streaming multiple times each week, you can settle on a budget webcam and safely skip most of those high-end options.
How we test webcams
We primarily test webcams by putting them through as much real-world use as possible. We examine their design, how flexible they are and how easy they are to reposition, and make note of how heavy they are and if that affects their ability to stay put while sitting on top of a screen. We use each webcam for at least a week straight as our primary camera for all video chats, and we make sure to use the device in different lighting environments to test low-light performance. We also use any built-in microphones as our primary audio inputs on video calls as well. Finally, although most of these webcams are plug-and-play, we test out any proprietary software that’s intended to work with each webcam, tweaking things like field of view, video resolution and effects, and using any special features like Show Mode on Logitech webcams.
Others webcams we tested
Logitech C920s Pro HD
Our previous top pick, the Logitech C920s Pro HD webcam remains a solid option for those with less than $100 to spend and really only need a basic 1080p camera to upgrade their setup, or something affordable to make them look better on those inevitable Zoom calls. It has a 78-degree field of view, decent microphones and handy privacy shutter built in. The Brio 500 took the top spot away from this model thanks to its advanced light correction, auto-framing and Show Mode.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/computing/accessories/best-webcams-123047068.html?src=rss
Mid-career college graduates with one of 19 majors typically earn at least $100,000 a year, per a New York Fed analysis.
Josh Reynolds/For The Washington Post via Getty Images
The New York Fed analyzed the mid-career wages of college graduates with a bachelor's degree.
Graduates aged 35 to 45 in 19 areas of study had a median wage of at least $100,000 a year.
Ten of those 19 college majors were related to engineering.
When undergraduate college students choose their majors, there can be several factors that go into their decisions.
But if maximizing one's future earnings is high on their priority list, some areas of study have a better track record than others.
A New York Fed analysis of 2023 American Community Survey data found that college graduates who majored in one of 19 areas of study had a median mid-career wage of at least $100,000 a year. The New York Fed defined mid-career as people between the ages of 35 and 45. The analysis of 73 majors and groups of study only included people with a bachelor's degree — no additional graduate school education — and used what's noted as people's first major.
One general area of study accounted for 10 of the 19 spots: engineering.
Aerospace engineering majors had the top median mid-career wage of $125,000, per the analysis. Three other engineering fields followed behind — computer, chemical, and electrical.
Jaison Abel, the head of microeconomics at the New York Fed, told Business Insider that engineering is a great example of the type of college major that has the quantitative skills businesses tend to want.
"There is a bit of a premium on the demand side, and also these are relatively challenging majors to get through," Abel said. "When you've got quite a bit of demand for the skills and not as much supply of the types of people who are coming in, that's going to make wages overall go up and be high."
Computer science, economics, and finance were the three non-engineering majors with the highest mid-career median wages. Across all the majors analyzed, the median mid-career wage was $83,000 a year.
While the prospect of high mid-career earnings is likely attractive to many students, this appeal hinges on actually landing a job in their field of study — a feat that has become increasingly difficult for some college graduates.
A New York Fed analysis of unemployment data showed 5.8% of recent college graduates in the labor force between the ages of 22 and 27 were unemployed in March, up from 3.9% in October 2022. Absent the pandemic-related spike and its recovery over the next year, that's the highest rate since 2013.
Student loans and the cost of college may affect how a degree is valued
As college tuition rates have risen in recent decades, many Americans have taken on a considerable amount of student debt. In 2024 dollars, the average price for tuition and fees at private nonprofit, four-year schools has increased 30% from the 2004-05 academic year to $43,350 for the 2024-25 academic year. Public, four-year in-state schools are much cheaper, but their average cost has also climbed during that timeframe. Housing and food expenses make the cost of school even higher.
The average American consumer with student loans had a debt balance of about $35,000 as of the third quarter of last year, per Experian data. That's a decline from the average in the third quarter of 2023.
Not all job openings require someone to have a particular level of education. However, sometimes a college degree is preferred for a job seeker. Automaker Stellantis said in a previous statement that "most non-bargaining unit positions (salaried) require an associate's or bachelor's degree," but also noted that "for some positions, a degree might be a preferred qualification which would open those up to people who can demonstrate proficiency in other ways."
College graduates who majored in early childhood education had the lowest median mid-career wage, at $49,000 a year. Other types of education majors had relatively low mid-career median wages, such as secondary education.
The race to redefine customer experience (CX) is accelerating. As customer expectations continue to rise, businesses are under increasing pressure to deliver faster, smarter, and more personalized interactions. According to Salesforce1, 80% of customers say the experience a company provides is just as important as its products, while 73% demand better personalization.
Forrester’s 2024 US Customer Experience Index2 revealed that only 3% of companies are truly “customer-obsessed,” yet those that are reap substantial financial rewards, including 41% faster revenue growth and 49% faster profit growth.
So, how can businesses meet evolving customer demands and enhance CX? Agentic AI enables companies to create seamless, autonomous customer interactions that not only improve response times but also tailor experiences to individual preferences. From data-driven personalization to the rise of hybrid AI systems, agentic AI is reshaping how brands engage with their customers.
As Jeff Bezos, founder and former CEO of Amazon, said:
“The transformative potential of AI is unmatched. AI is an enabling layer that can be used to improve everything. It will be in everything.”
In this blog post, we delve into how agentic AI technology is driving customer satisfaction and giving companies the competitive edge they need to thrive.
Agentic AI is transforming customer service
Agentic AI refers to intelligent systems capable of autonomously carrying out tasks and making decisions without direct human intervention. In customer service, agentic AI is transforming how businesses interact with their customers by providing fast, personalized, and seamless experiences. According to Gartner3, by 2029, agentic AI will autonomously resolve 80% of common customer service issues without human intervention, leading to a 30% reduction in operational costs.
By utilizing advanced machine learning (ML) models and natural language processing (NLP), agentic AI systems can:
Understand customer queries,
Predict their needs, and
Respond in real-time, improving response times.
Figure 1: Benefits of Agentic AI Systems for Customer Service. Image source: OneReach.ai
With agentic AI-driven solutions, organizations can not only automate routine tasks but also personalize every interaction, tailoring responses based on individual customer preferences and behaviors. For example, AI can analyze past interactions, purchase histories, and browsing patterns to offer relevant recommendations or solutions. This level of personalization was once the domain of human agents but is now scalable across millions of customer touchpoints.
Furthermore, businesses are increasingly integrating hybrid AI systems — combining cloud-based and on-premises agentic AI solutions — to enhance security, control data, and improve the accuracy of decision-making.
This shift from traditional, reactive customer service models to proactive, AI-powered systems is reshaping the landscape of customer service, allowing companies to deliver exceptional and consistent experiences across all channels. As a result, agentic AI not only accelerates operational efficiency but also fosters deeper customer relationships.
“Just like lean manufacturing helped industrial companies grow by increasing value and reducing waste, AI can do the same for knowledge work. For us, AI is already driving significant savings in the customer service segment. We spend about $4 billion annually on support from Xbox and Azure. It is improving front-end deflection rates and enhancing agent efficiency, leading to happier customers and lower costs.”
— said Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft.
Real-world impact: how leading brands are using agentic AI
Data-driven personalization
Agentic AI is changing how brands personalize their customer experiences. For example, companies like Sephora4 and Starbucks use AI to analyze customer data — such as purchase history, browsing behavior, and preferences — to deliver hyper-personalized recommendations and marketing. Starbucks, in turn, employs its AI-driven system, Deep Brew5, to customize offers and optimize store operations. Similarly, Netflix leverages AI and machine learning6 to personalize content recommendations, thumbnails, and even promotional trailers based on individual viewing habits and preferences. With AI-based tailored experiences, brands can build deeper loyalty and make every interaction feel uniquely relevant to the customer.
Improving response time
Agentic AI also plays a vital role in improving operational efficiency through real-time responsiveness. Financial institutions like JPMorgan Chase use AI to monitor transactions instantly7, enabling faster fraud detection and resolution. In the retail sector, Walmart uses AI to track inventory in real time8, ensuring products are available when and where customers need them. Such Agentic AI systems allow companies to respond to issues proactively, leading to faster resolutions and higher customer satisfaction.
AI and human collaboration
Rather than replacing human agents, agentic AI is enhancing their capabilities. H&M, for instance, combines AI-powered chatbots with human customer service agents9 to streamline support across digital platforms. The AI handles routine questions — like order tracking and return policies — while complex or sensitive issues are seamlessly escalated to human staff. Commonwealth Bank of Australia10 follows a similar model, using AI to resolve routine banking questions, freeing up human agents to focus on complex customer needs.
“AI allows us to deliver better experiences to more customers at a faster rate, and we’re already seeing significant benefits in a variety of use cases.”
— said Matt Comyn, CBA CEO.
Beyond efficiency: ethical considerations and the future of human-AI collaboration
As agentic AI becomes more deeply embedded in customer service strategies, it’s no longer just about speed and scale — it’s also about responsibility. Ethical concerns, particularly around data privacy and transparency, are taking center stage. Customers are sharing vast amounts of personal information, often without fully realizing it. This makes it critical for businesses to use AI responsibly:
collecting data transparently,
safeguarding it diligently, and
clearly informing users how it’s being used.
It’s still important to maintain the option for customers to speak with a human when needed, especially in sensitive or high-stakes situations.
As Marco Iansiti, Harvard Business School professor and co-instructor of the online course AI Essentials for Business with HBS Professor Karim Lakhani, says:
“We need to go back and think about that a little bit because it’s becoming very fundamental to a whole new generation of leaders across both small and large firms. The extent to which, as these firms drive this immense scale, scope, and learning, there are all kinds of really important ethical considerations that need to be part of the management, the leadership philosophy from the get-go.”
Figure 2: Responsible AI in Customer Service. Image source: OneReach.ai
Looking ahead, the future of AI-based customer service lies not in replacing human agents but in empowering them. AI agents can take on the repetitive, routine inquiries, freeing up human representatives to focus on more complex, emotional, or strategic interactions. This hybrid model enhances productivity and also helps reduce burnout among support staff.
However, as Agentic AI continues to evolve, businesses must be intentional about how they scale its use, ensuring that automation is balanced with empathy, and innovation with integrity.Ethical guidelines are crucial in this process, as seen in documents like UNESCO’s Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence (2021)11, the United Nations’ Principles for the Ethical Use of Artificial Intelligence (2022)12, and the Council of Europe Framework Convention on Artificial Intelligence (2024)13. These reports emphasize the need for transparency, fairness, and accountability in AI systems, urging businesses to prioritize responsible AI use while safeguarding customer privacy and rights.
By adhering to such ethical frameworks, companies can not only optimize customer experience but also foster long-term trust and loyalty in an increasingly automated world.
The road ahead: embracing AI for a better customer experience
At the Konsulteer (a global analyst firm focused on Data, AI, and Enterprise Applications) webinar, “Agentic AI in 2025: Adoption Trends, Challenges, & Opportunities,” it was highlighted that customer service and support is the top initial use case for agentic AI, with 78% of companies considering it for pilot projects.
As agentic AI reshapes customer service, its ability to enhance response times, deliver hyper-personalized experiences, and elevate satisfaction is transforming industries, and its role in crafting dynamic, tailored customer experiences will only grow.
A new version of Mazda's popular CX-5 SUV is on the way. Earlier today, the Japanese automaker revealed details about the third-generation CX-5, which goes on sale in Europe later this year before coming here in 2026.
The current CX-5, first introduced in 2017, marked Mazda's move upmarket, with a renewed focus on elegant interiors and keen handling without luxury automaker prices. Mazda remains committed to its core principle of "Jinba Ittai"—the horse and rider being at one—and the cars remain popular with enthusiasts, but it's fair to say that the available powertrains often leave something to be desired in terms of fuel efficiency.
At one time, Mazda readied a new diesel engine to try to improve its fleet average, although that option disappeared within a couple of years due to minimal demand. And for a while, we were teased with the clever "Skyactiv-X" compression ignition engine, which promised diesel-like efficiency on regular pump gasoline. It seems the odds of that one actually going on sale in the US are now remote, though.
Google's Veo 3 videos have propagated across the Internet since the model's debut in May, blurring the line between truth and fiction. Now, it's getting even easier to create these AI videos. The Gemini app is gaining photo-to-video generation, allowing you to upload a photo and turn it into a video. You don't have to pay anything extra for these Veo 3 videos, but the feature is only available to subscribers of Google's Pro and Ultra AI plans.
When Veo 3 launched, it could conjure up a video based only on your description, complete with speech, music, and background audio. This has made Google's new AI videos staggeringly realistic—it's actually getting hard to identify AI videos at a glance. Using a reference photo makes it easier to get the look you want without tediously describing every aspect. This was an option in Google's Flow AI tool for filmmakers, but now it's in the Gemini app and web interface.
To create a video from a photo, you have to select "Video" from the Gemini toolbar. Once this feature is available, you can then add your image and prompt, including audio and dialogue. Generating the video takes several minutes—this process takes a lot of computation, which is why video output is still quite limited.
Greetings, Arsians! We love games here at the Ars Orbiting HQ, and I'm not just talking the latest AAA blockbusters—we love all kinds of games, from modern to ancient and all points in between.
With that in mind, we're trying something different for the next few months to see how it goes: We've partnered with the folks at GOG.com to create a store page featuring a hand-curated list of some of our favorites from GOG's catalog. At the end of every month, we'll rotate a couple of titles off the list and add a few new ones; altogether, we have a list of about 50 games to set in front of you.
(Please forgive the messy affiliate link—it points to https://www.gog.com/en/partner/ArsTechnica if you'd prefer to go there directly, but arriving on GOG's site via that affiliate link gives Ars a small portion of revenue for anything you buy during your session once you're there. This helps us out quite a bit!)
In recent years, illicit drugs in the US have been cut with some high-profile and dangerous adulterants, such as the powerful veterinary sedative xylazine (aka tranq) and the yet more powerful veterinary sedative medetomidine. But last year, a new adulterant hit the streets. Unlike its predecessors, it didn't show up here and there and gain ground gradually; it seemed to show up everywhere at once and quickly overtook the market. Even more oddly, it's not a type of chemical one might expect in illicit drugs. It's not another sedative. In fact, it has no known psychoactive effects at all.
The chemical is bis(2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4-piperidyl) sebacate, also called BTMPS, which is in a group of chemicals called hindered amine light stabilizers. BTMPS is usually added to plastics, coatings, and adhesives to protect them from weathering and UV radiation.
Researchers don't know why it's being added to illicit drugs—or what it does once it's there. BTMPS has never been tested in humans before given that it's never been intended for use in humans.
James McCully was in the lab extracting tiny structures called mitochondria from cells when researchers on his team rushed in. They’d been operating on a pig heart and couldn’t get it pumping normally again.
McCully studies heart damage prevention at Boston Children’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School and was keenly interested in mitochondria. These power-producing organelles are particularly important for organs like the heart that have high energy needs. McCully had been wondering whether transplanting healthy mitochondria into injured hearts might help restore their function.
The pig’s heart was graying rapidly, so McCully decided to try it. He loaded a syringe with the extracted mitochondria and injected them directly into the heart. Before his eyes, it began beating normally, returning to its rosy hue.
Six weeks after he terminated the nomination of Jared Isaacman to become NASA administrator, President Trump moved on Wednesday evening to install a new temporary leader for the space agency.
The newly named interim administrator, Sean Duffy, already has a full portfolio: He is serving as the secretary of transportation, a Cabinet-level position that oversees 55,000 employees at 13 agencies, including the Federal Aviation Administration.
"Sean is doing a TREMENDOUS job in handling our Country's Transportation Affairs, including creating a state-of-the-art Air Traffic Control systems, while at the same time rebuilding our roads and bridges, making them efficient, and beautiful, again," Trump wrote on his social media network Wednesday evening. "He will be a fantastic leader of the ever more important Space Agency, even if only for a short period of time."
On Monday, sheet music platform Soundslice says it developed a new feature after discovering that ChatGPT was incorrectly telling users the service could import ASCII tablature—a text-based guitar notation format the company had never supported. The incident reportedly marks what might be the first case of a business building functionality in direct response to an AI model's confabulation.
Typically, Soundslice digitizes sheet music from photos or PDFs and syncs the notation with audio or video recordings, allowing musicians to see the music scroll by as they hear it played. The platform also includes tools for slowing down playback and practicing difficult passages.
Adrian Holovaty, co-founder of Soundslice, wrote in a blog post that the recent feature development process began as a complete mystery. A few months ago, Holovaty began noticing unusual activity in the company's error logs. Instead of typical sheet music uploads, users were submitting screenshots of ChatGPT conversations containing ASCII tablature—simple text representations of guitar music that look like strings with numbers indicating fret positions.
After Cloudflare started testing new features that would allow websites to block AI crawlers or require payment for scraping, the tech company immediately faced questions over the logistics of the plan.
In particular, website owners and SEO experts wanted to know how Cloudflare planned to block Google's bot from scraping sites to fuel AI overviews without risking blocking the same bot from crawling for valuable search engine placements.
Last week, a travel blogger raised questions about the blocking and so-called pay-per-crawl features and pushed Cloudflare CEO Matthew Prince to respond on X (formerly Twitter):
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