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Riot Games added some new clauses to its Terms of Service that could put some players in hot water for unbecoming behavior that occurs “across the various places that touch their gaming experience.” Players can face penalties, suspensions and even “Riot-wide bans” if they are caught violating these new rules.

The new clauses first appeared on Riot’s Privacy Notice and TOS on Tuesday. Creators have until January 3, 2025 “to adjust their content to adhere to these rules,” according to Riot Games’ announcement.

The new “Off-Platform conduct” rule gives Riot Games the right to issue game penalties when hateful content is brought to their attention. The new clause says Riot Games won’t proactively search for social media for violations. Instead, players can report cases about an offending player’s conduct on a livestream in which one of its games serves as “the background of the content produced.” If Riot determines that the player violated its TOS, Riot could issue a penalty “as if that behavior occurred in-game,” according to the TOS.

The new TOS rules also focus on “stream sniping” in which streamers and players hijack or interrupt another stream’s online sessions. The penalty system for these infractions are still in the “early testing phases” using a limited number of English-speaking Valorant creators.

Repeat offenders of these and other infractrations could result in complete bans from all Riot Games accounts. The new TOS states that Riot can issue multiple penalties and bans for streamers and players who commit “a seriously egregious violation” or “problematic behavior.”

Riot Games has dedicated a lot of time recently to discussing and exploring ways to rein in offensive and ill behavior in its games. Valorant studio head and Riot Games Senior Vice President Anna Donlon acknowledged in May that Riot “absolutely needs to do better” to protect its players laying out new actions they planned to take such as implementing new penalties and increasing support for manual reviews of reports, according to Eurogamer.

Twitch has also taken steps to curb some of its users’ disturbing and damaging behavior. Last year, Twitch CEO Dan Clancy announced new terms for the streaming platform during the opening ceremony for TwitchCon in Las Vegas. The new rules established suspensions and bans for streamers who dox or swat other players and the ability for streamers and moderators to anonymously send warnings to chatters who commit bad behavior during sessions.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/riot-games-is-cracking-down-on-players-off-platform-conduct-173303058.html?src=rss

If you’ve had your eye on a new iPad, now’s the time to seriously consider that purchase. Black Friday Apple deals have arrived, and the 10th-gen iPad is down to its best price yet. Most models are on sale for $259, but a couple of colorways have an additional, clippable coupon that will bring the final price down to a record low of $250. Apple released the tablet back in 2022, but it's still our best budget iPad option for 2024.

The 10th-gen iPad is only slightly thicker and heavier than the iPad Air. It looks similar to the iPad Air, too — the tablet no longer has the Home button that its predecessor did, and it has a bigger screen with smaller bezels.

The device is powered by Apple's A14 Bionic chip, which was first seen on the iPhone 12 and is powerful enough that we could edit RAW photos in Lightroom when we tested the tablet. When we ran a test for battery life, we discovered that the model could play movies continuously for 11 hours and 45 minutes on a single charge. 

Unlike previous models with Lightning ports, this one comes with a USB-C port for charging. Apple moved its front-facing camera to its landscape edge, as well. The company gave it a larger display, measuring 10.9 inches, so it doesn't feel as cramped as previous models even with a lot of apps. While the iPad Air does have a better display overall with its lamination and anti-reflective coating, the 10th-gen iPad's isn't bad at all seeing as it costs significantly less, especially with this discount. 

Check out all of the latest Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals here.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/apple-ipad-black-friday-sales-are-here-get-the-10th-gen-tablet-at-a-record-low-price-130005376.html?src=rss

Whether you want a new streaming device to upgrade an aging TV or you want to outfit a new projector with one, Black Friday deals can make it so you spend less on that new set-top box or dongle. One of the best deals we’ve seen on streaming gear is on the latest Roku Ultra, which is on sale for $79, or $21 off its usual rate. That’s an all-time-low price on the 2024 version.

Roku unveiled the 2024 Ultra in September. It claims that the device is at least 30 percent faster than any of its other players. As such, apps should load quickly and moving around the user interface should feel zippy.

The previous version is our pick for the best set-top streaming box (we're currently testing the 2024 model). The Roku Ultra offers 4K streaming with HDR10+ and Dolby Vision, as well as Dolby Atmos audio. It supports Wi-Fi 6 connectivity and you can plug in an Ethernet cable as well.

This model comes with a second-gen Voice Remote Pro, which boasts backlit buttons and USB-C charging, though Roku says it should run for up to three months on a single charge. Other features include hands-free voice control and a lost remote finder function. Roku ditched the headphone jack for wired listening this time around, unfortunately, but you can still connect wireless headphones to the Roku Ultra via Bluetooth.

The Roku Channel offers more than 400 free, ad-supported streaming channels, along with on-demand shows and movies. The Roku Ultra is also compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit and AirPlay.

In addition to the latest Ultra, you can save on a number of other Roku devices for Black Friday. The most affordable of the bunch is the Roku Express HD, which is down to only $18, and the Roku Streambar SE is on sale for $69 — only $10 more than its record low.

In case you need a new flatscreen to actually plug your Roku devices into, there are a ton of Black Friday deals on TVs as well. Hisense models are up to $602 off and you can get a similar discount on the latest model of the 55-inch Frame TV from Samsung. The prices of some TCL and Sony Bravia TVs have also dropped by hundreds of dollars for Black Friday.

Check out all of the latest Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals here.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/amazon-black-friday-deals-discount-the-2024-roku-ultra-to-79-164512532.html?src=rss

Meta is said to be planning a fiber-optic subsea internet cable that will span the world and could cost north of $10 billion. The project, which was originally reported by subsea cable expert Sunil Tagare, could be formally announced early next year. However, sources linked to Meta told TechCrunch that the project is in the early stages.

Only a few contractors would be capable of building out that infrastructure and many are tied up with commitments to other customers. If the project does come to fruition, it’s likely to take several years before the cable is laid and switched on.

Meta is said to be the part-owner of more than a dozen subsea networks but this would be the first one that it owns and operates entirely. Google has a few of its own, though Amazon and Microsoft don't have any dedicated cables and are part owners of others. Meta will reportedly be the sole user of its cable. The company and its services are said to account for about 10 percent of global fixed internet usage (and about 22 percent of mobile traffic).

At this point, Meta generates more revenue from international markets than it does in North America. The cable would give it greater ownership over its infrastructure in the aim of ensuring its services are as stable as possible, though ISPs and mobile providers will still of course be responsible for keeping users' devices connected. Meta has worked its own Wi-Fi and mobile internet projects, but it wound down the former in 2022.

It’s expected that the cable will run from the US east coast to South Africa then to India and the north coast of Australia before hitting the west coast. All told, the cable could be at least 25,000 miles or so long.

That supposedly safe route would avoid areas where there are said to be "major single points of failure," according to Tagare. Those include the Red Sea, the South China Sea, Egypt, Marseilles, the Straits of Malacca and Singapore. It would also steer clear of many geopolitical hotspots.

Two undersea cables were severed in the Baltic Sea over the couple of weeks. Investigators believe that a Chinese commercial trawler — possibly acting under the influence of Russian intelligence — cut the cables by dragging its anchor along the seabed.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/big-tech/meta-is-reportedly-planning-a-10-billion-globe-spanning-subsea-internet-cable-161613820.html?src=rss

Black Friday 2024 is finally here, but we wouldn't blame you if you thought it's been here for quite some time. Deals began in earnest at the start of November, and it's safe to say that the best Black Friday deals we saw launch about a week ago remain the best ones today.

If you don't want to bother to sift through the plethora of deals across Amazon, Walmart, Target and other retailers, allow Engadget to help. Below is a curated selection of the best Black Friday deals you can get this year. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or for others as you cross things off your gift list ahead of the holidays, we recommend jumping on these deals now before they sell out or before they disappear likely when Cyber Monday is over.

Disney+ Hulu bundle one-year subscription for $36 ($96 off): This Disney+ Black Friday deal gets you the ad-supported tiers of both Disney+ and Hulu (known as the Duo Basic bundle) for only $3 per month for one year. It's one of the best streaming deals of the seasons since it gives you the ability to catch up on all those classic Disney holiday movies, and the thousands of episodes of TV that Hulu has.

Apple AirPods Pro 2 for $154 ($96 off): The best AirPods you can get right now, these offer a secure, comfortable fit, good sound quality and ANC, plus excellent transparency mode. Thanks to a recent software update, the Pro 2 earbuds can be used as hearing aids if the user takes Apple's new hearing test and it discovers mild to moderate hearing loss.

Apple MacBook Air (M3, 13-inch) for $844 ($256 off): The latest MacBook Air is our top pick for the best laptop for most people, and this model has 16GB of RAM built in — double the previous base amount. If you're ok with getting an M2 processor, that 13-inch MacBook Air with 16GB of RAM is also on sale for $749.

Apple 10th-gen iPad for $250 ($100 off with coupon): The best iPad for those on a budget, this model has a modern design, good performance, a landscape-oriented front-facing camera and a solid battery life. It has also done away with the Lightning port in favor of a more modern USB-C port. Note that some color options are on sale for $279 and have an addition coupon that brings the final price down to $250. Also available (at $279) at Target.

PS5 Slim Digital for $374 ($75 off): If you've been unable to get your hands on a PS5 until now, you can get a decent discount for the holiday shopping season. It earned a score of 87 in our original review for its speedy 4K gaming, minimal load times and excellent DualSense controller. Also available at Walmart, Target and Sony.

Peacock one-year subscription for $20 (75 percent off): The Peacock Black Friday deal is back this year, bringing the price of one year of access to the ad-supported tier down to only $20. Note that the subscription will automatically renew at the regular rate after the first year, and the deal is only available to new subscribers who are not currently paying for Peacock Premium or Premium Plus.

Max 6-month subscription for $18 (70 percent off): This deal gives you access to the Ads tier for $3 per month for the first six months, coming out to a total of only $18 for that time period. New and returning Max subscribers can take advantage of this.

Anker 10K MagGo power bank for $54 ($36 off): This is one of our top picks for the best power banks you can buy today thanks to its versatile capacity, speedy Qi2 charging capabilities, clear screen that shows remaining battery power and its built-in kickstand. The black model has the steepest discount, while the rest are down to $60. Also available at Anker.

Anker 3-in-1 10K portable charger for $30 ($15 off): A top pick in our best power banks guide, this 10K brick has a built-in USB-C cable so you don't need to remember to bring one with you, plus it has an extra USB-C port for charging other devices. Also available at Anker.

Anker Soundcore Space A40 for $45 ($35): The Space A40 is the longtime top pick in our guide to the best budget earbuds, as it delivers the kind of robust feature set we expect from pairs that cost three times as much. Call quality isn't the best, and it won't auto-pause when you take out an earbud, but its warm sound, powerful ANC, eight-ish hours of battery life and comfy design all impress for the money. This deal ties the lowest price we've seen. Also available at Anker with a coupon.

DJI Osmo Mobile 6 gimbal for $89 ($40 off): The latest version of DJI's smartphone gimbal includes improved tracking and a new Quick Launch feature for iPhones that automatically launches the companion app in camera view so you can get to filming. Also available at B&H Photo.

Meta Quest 3s + $75 gift card for $300 ($75 off): A recent addition to our best VR headsets guide, the 3S is our favorite cheap virtual reality device. It's comfortable to wear for long sessions, has fast performance and excellent controllers, plus it has a vast library of games and programs to choose from. Also available at Target.

Bose QuietComfort headphones for $199 ($150 off): The latest version of Bose's iconic QC headphones, these cans have excellent ANC, a comfortable (if a bit dated) design, 24 hours of battery life and a quick-charge feature that will get you two hours of battery after just 15 minutes of them being plugged in. Also available at Bose.

Black Friday FAQs When is Black Friday 2024?

Black Friday 2024 lands on November 29 this year.

When do Black Friday deals start?

We expect some Black Friday tech deals to start as early as November 1. Over the past few years, retailers have been kicking off the holiday shopping season earlier and earlier. This trend will continue in 2024, and you’ll likely find early Black Friday deals available online and in stores in the weeks before the actual shopping event.

When do Black Friday deals end?

Some Black Friday tech deals will end immediately on Saturday, November 30. But those will likely be few and far between. Along with starting deals earlier and earlier, retailers have also extended Black Friday deals past the day for a while now, too. In the tech space, we’ve seen many Black Friday deals in the past run through Cyber Monday.

Where are the best Black Friday deals?

There is no one place to buy all of the best Black Friday deals, but you can expect the big retailers like Amazon, Walmart and Target to have many of the same Black Friday deals available — both in the lead up and on the day itself. We also recommend checking direct-to-consumer sites like Apple, Samsung, Sonos and others to make sure you’re getting the best deal before you cross things off your list.

Does Apple have Black Friday deals?

You typically will not find cash discounts on Apple’s website for Black Friday, though it has offered various gift card bundles during Black Friday in recent years. You may be able to find local Apple store discounts on accessories, but Apple isn’t a retailer known for slashing prices on its products. However, you can find more traditional Apple Black Friday tech deals at other retailers like Amazon, Walmart, Target and Best Buy.

Check out all of the latest Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals here.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/the-13-best-black-friday-deals-worth-shopping-right-now-get-up-to-70-percent-off-today-163039852.html?src=rss

If you’re on the market for an action cam to up the quality of your social media posts (or you have a budding vlogger on your gift list), GoPro’s Black Friday deals might have just what you’re looking for. The GoPro Hero 13 Black bundle is $100 off for Black Friday, bringing it down to $350. You can grab the deal at Amazon and directly from GoPro. In addition to the action cam, the bundle includes The Handler grip, two Enduro batteries, two curved adhesive mounts, a 64GB SanDisk microSD card and a case to hold it all in.

We’ve tested the GoPro Hero13 Black before, and it’s quite the improvement over its predecessor, the Hero12 Black. Its maximum resolution of 5.3K at 120fps coupled with Hybrid Log Gamma (HLG) makes it a compelling choice for power users. It also runs longer in both hot and cold environments, even when 10-bit video mode is active. For those who want to capture more footage, the Hero13 Black is rated for 1.5 hours of 4K at 30fps.

The Hero13 Black is compatible with several GoPro add-ons like the Macro Lens Mod, Smart Motion Blur ND Filter 4-Pack and Anamorphic Lens Mod, all sold separately. The camera knows when you’ve attached one to it and automatically adjusts its settings to match. This function helps reduce the required setup time, allowing you to spend more time filming.

Check out all of the latest Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals here.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/black-friday-gopro-deals-bring-this-hero-13-black-bundle-down-to-350-144338690.html?src=rss

This time of year has a lot of merry and bright things to be excited about, but it can be stressful if you’re stumped on what to get your mom, dad, best friend, coworker or kids’ teacher as a holiday gift. Whether you enjoy or dread buying gifts for people, it’s safe to say we all want to give our loved ones things they will enjoy and appreciate. But there’s a lot of noise, junk and bad deals disguised as good deals to sift through as we get closer and closer to the holidays.

Allow us at Engadget to help you through it. Here, you’ll find all of our holiday gift guides collected in one place, so you can more easily find the best Christmas gifts you need this year. Are you looking for white elephant gift ideas? Are you struggling to come up with a good gift for the father figure in your life? Are you just looking for a good board game to pick up for your own family? We’ve got you covered with gift ideas for all of those scenarios and more. We'll update this post as more of our gift guides hit the internet, so check back for even more gift ideas throughout the season.

Table of contents

• Best white elephant gift ideas

• Best board game gifts

• Best gifts under $25

• Best gifts under $50

• Best gifts under $100

• Best tech gifts and gadgets

• Gifts our editors want

• Best self care gifts

• Best gifts for gamers

• Best retro gaming gifts

• Best gifts for coffee lovers

• Best gifts for tea lovers

• Best cooking gifts

• Best tech toys for kids

• Best gadgets for your pets

• Best travel gifts

• Best gifts for remote workers

• Best gifts for book lovers

• Best gifts for music lovers

• Best gifts for photographers

• Best gifts for runners

• Best gifts for cyclists

• Best outdoor gifts

• Best gifts for moms

• Best gifts for dads

Best white elephant gift ideas

According to legend, the King of Siam would give a white elephant to courtiers who had upset them. The recipient had no choice but to simply thank the king for such an opulent gift, knowing that they likely could not afford the upkeep for such an animal. It would inevitably lead them to financial ruin. This story is almost certainly untrue, but it has led to a modern holiday staple: the white elephant gift exchange. These gift ideas will not only get you a few chuckles, but will also make your recipient feel (slightly) burdened.

Read more: The best white elephant gift ideas

Best board game gifts

We could all use more time away from screens of all types and sizes, and board games are a fun way to do that and bond with friends and family. You can find plenty of unique sets out there now, from word puzzles to whodunnits to calming playthroughs that showcase the beauty of the little things in life. From games with giant monsters to those with haunted mansions, we’re sure at least one of our suggestions will be a hit with you and your loved ones.

Read more: The best board games to gift this season

Best gifts under $25

The most hyped tech is often also the most expensive: flagship smartphones, ultra-powerful gaming laptops, immersive VR headsets and the like. But it would be wrong to assume that those are the only pieces of technology worth gifting. You don’t have to drain your wallet to get someone a cool gadget that will both be useful and make their lives easier. We’ve collected our favorite pieces of tech under $25 that make great gifts and help you to stick to a budget.

Read more: The 12 best gifts under $25

Best gifts under $50

We wouldn’t blame you if you try to do all of your tech shopping around the holidays. That’s when you can typically get the best sales, both on relatively affordable gear and (more importantly) on big-ticket items. But it would be wrong to think that only the most expensive tech is worth gifting. Since we at Engadget test a plethora of gadgets every year, we know that there are some hidden (and not so hidden) tech gems at lower price ranges — you just have to know where to find them.

Read more: The best gifts under $50 that make great stocking stuffers

Best gifts under $100

If someone on your gift list this year is a big techie, you may want to get them something from Apple, Google, Samsung or another big brand. But once you look at the price tags of their most popular devices, you may get discouraged. Thankfully, you don’t have to spend hundreds of dollars to get a tech gift for someone that has all the cachet of a brand they know and love. These are some of the best gifts you can get from Apple, Samsung, Sony and other big tech companies that come in at $100 or less.

Read more: The best tech gifts under $100 from Apple, Samsung, Google and others

Best tech gifts and gadgets

Trying to find the right gift for an unabashed gadget lover during the holidays can be difficult, especially if you don’t keep up with tech industry news yourself. Fortunately, you’re reading Engadget.com, a site entirely staffed by people who spend all day figuring out what new stuff is and isn’t actually good. So allow us to help. We’ve rounded up some of our favorite gadgets and gear that just might satisfy the avid geek in your life.

Read more: The best tech gifts and gadgets

Gifts our editors want

We at Engadget spend a lot of time thinking about the best tech gifts for anyone and everyone in your life. But during that process, we often can’t help but think about the things we’d like to receive as gifts. Here, we’ve compiled a list of gadgets on our staffers’ wishlists with the hope that it may inspire you to splurge a bit on yourself this year.

Read more: The best tech gifts on our editors' wishlists for the holiday season

Best self care gifts

There are plenty of things you could get for someone that not only shows how much you care about them, but also remind them that it’s worthwhile to take time for themselves. And while there’s nothing wrong with an aromatherapy candle, it’s more fun to go beyond the obvious choices and look at what tech products could help your loved ones feel their best. Our picks include things like styling gadgets and grooming devices, but also less techy options like a hair turban and face masks.

Read more: The best self care gifts

Best gifts for gamers

This year may not go down as one of the best years in gaming like 2023 did, but that doesn’t mean there weren’t a lot of great new releases. Between titles like Astro Bot and Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth, there were plenty of games to keep even the most dedicated of gamers busy in 2024. And if you’re shopping for one, especially as a non-gamer, it can be tricky to navigate what’s worth buying. We've got you covered with these recommendations.

Read more: The best gifts for gamers

Best retro gaming gifts

A million new video games seem to come out every week, but for some of us, nothing beats the classics. If you know someone who is way into retro gaming but don’t feel like hunting through eBay and local shops for gear to add to their collection, we’re here to help. We’ve rounded up a few of our favorite gift ideas for the nostalgic gamer in your life, from video upscalers for old consoles to retro-themed books and artwork.

Read more: The best retro gaming gifts for the holidays

Best gifts for coffee lovers

When it comes to making a great cup at home, coffee nerds are constantly learning and love to try new things. Whether the person you’re shopping for is a newly indoctrinated pour over lover or obsessive over every brewing parameter, we’ve compiled a list of the best gear for coffee geeks that you can get this holiday season.

Read more: The best gifts for coffee lovers

Best gifts for tea lovers

Forget coffee — for billions of people around the world, a freshly steeped cup of tea is the best part of waking up. But with so many varieties and methods of preparation out there, it can be difficult to find the right gift for the tea lover in your life. So to help you out, we’ve put together a list of our favorite products, from kettles to samplers.

Read more: The best gifts to buy tea lovers

Best cooking gifts

There are few things more rewarding than making good food for your friends and family. But after a while, it’s easy to get bored with the same tried and true recipes. And what better way to inject some fun into your favorite home chef’s routine than with a brand-new kitchen gadget? To help you find the right gift for the cook in your life, we’ve put together a list of our favorite kitchen gadgets across a wide range of prices and categories.

Read more: The best cooking gifts

Best tech toys for kids

We’re all having a bit of a budget crunch this year, but the good news is that when it’s time to bestow presents on the young ones (or young at heart), you don’t have to break the bank. Our list of our favorite tech, science and design toys is stacked with items under $100, with plenty of reuse packed in so the fun can extend far beyond the holiday season.

Read more: The best tech toys for kids

Best gadgets for your pets

In Engadget’s Slack rooms, our pets are high on the list of stuff we chat about — just behind work-adjacent tech stuff, insane current events, video games and food. We’ve bought plenty of high- and low-tech stuff to keep our furry friends fed, occupied, safe and happy and we’ve put together the best of what we tried here. Perhaps you’re shopping for your own very good boy or girl, or maybe you have a dutiful pet parent on your list — either way, the gadgets gathered here will make great gifts, according to the enthusiastic tail wags (or aloof meows) of our own fur babies.

Read more: The best gadgets for your pets

Best travel gifts

Since the dawn of humanity, we have traveled. We’ve come a long way from on-foot journeys laden with animal hide satchels. But the goal of good travel gear is the same: Get you and your necessities to a destination in the highest level of comfort available. If you know someone who is always catching a flight, rides the train to work or is bravely embarking on a cruise, some new tech may just help them out.

Read more: The best travel gifts

Best gifts for remote workers

There's a pretty good chance you know at least one person who works remotely in some fashion. While the WFH life has its perks — nobody likes a long commute — it comes with its own set of challenges, from lacking pro-level equipment to dealing with household disturbances. If you’re looking to give a gift to someone who spends much of their time in their home office, we’ve rounded up a few techy gift ideas that should make their days a little more delightful, or at least easier to manage.

Read more: The 19 best gift ideas for the remote worker in your life

Best gifts for book lovers

There are few things better in life than getting lost in a good book — as any book lover will tell you. We have a few heavy readers on staff at Engadget and we all have opinions on the gadgets and subscriptions we think make the experience of reading even better. We've got gift ideas for those who prefer e-reading, as well as for the print-faithful — and of course, some book recommendations, too.

Read more: The best gifts for book lovers

Best gifts for music lovers

Everyone needs a hobby, and chances are there’s at least one person on your holiday shopping list who fancies themselves a musician. Whether they’re a casual synth noodler, a guitar virtuoso or a singer-songwriter we’ve got recommendations covering a range of price points. Some of these even make a great gift for music lovers who have been considering making the jump to music maker.

Read more: The 16 best gifts for music lovers

Best gifts for photographers

Whether that special person on your gift list is a photographer or content creator, a camera or accessory is always highly appreciated. And with technology in areas like autofocus and video quality constantly improving, it’s a great time to own a new camera. However, it can be confusing to sort through the latest models or find the best memory cards, backpacks, tripods and more. Fortunately, we’ve done the research and selected the best cameras at a wide range of prices, along with accessories that will help your loved one get the most out of their gear.

Read more: The best gifts for photographers and videographers

Best gifts for runners

Whether or not you understand your loved one’s desire to wake up before sunrise and get in a 5K is irrelevant when it comes to gifting. Athletes, especially runners, are pretty easy to shop for since they can never have too many of the essentials like socks, gloves, foam rollers, trackers and more. There are plenty of things you can get them that will make their runs more enjoyable, or help them recover more efficiently so they can best yesterday’s time today.

Read more: The best gifts for runners

Best gifts for cyclists

Other than a bike, helmet and a few emergency maintenance essentials, there aren’t many things a person needs to enjoy a bike ride outside. But having the right accessories can go a long way towards making the experience more fun, more safe and, ultimately, more rewarding. Our list of recommendations cover the gamut of things you can give to the cyclist in your life, from must-have safety accessories like bike lights, to more techie gadgets like bike computers.

Read more: The best gifts for cyclists

Best outdoor gifts

The great outdoors can be enjoyed all year round, so we’ve compiled a list of the best gifts for the backyard lounger, patio napper or woodland hiker on your list this holiday season. We even offer help with items to improve your tailgate or next beach trip. With everything from grilling gadgets to drinkware and hammocks to splash-proof speakers, there’s something for everyone – no matter how long or how often they venture outside.

Read more: The best outdoor gifts

Best gifts for moms

We don’t speak for all moms, but a brief and unscientific survey has confirmed one gift most moms will love across the board: Time. Unspoken for, unstructured, zero-obligation time. While we couldn’t find extra hours on sale anywhere online, we did find some gadgets and gizmos that help save time and others that make precious down time more enjoyable.

Read more: The 13 best gifts for moms

Best gifts for dads

Many Dads aren’t known for being forthright about what exactly they want for the holidays. (No, “peace and quiet” is not an acceptable answer in this case.) If you’re shopping for a father who likes gadgets but you aren’t sure what to get, let us help jog your brain with these gift ideas.

Read more: The 15 best gifts for dads

Check out the rest of our gift ideas here.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/the-best-christmas-gifts-that-cover-everyone-on-your-2024-holiday-list-170018838.html?src=rss

Black Friday deals have come for Blink security devices, including the new-this-year Blink Mini 2. You can snag a two pack of the updated, wired security cameras for only $35, which is half off and $5 less than you'd usually pay for just one of them. That’s a record low — and cheap enough to qualify as a stocking stuffer. There are a bunch of other Blink devices on sale right now as well, including the Blink Video Doorbell, which is also half off and down to $30.

The compact security camera has color night vision capabilities thanks to its built-in LED spotlight. It supports person detection, although you’ll need a Blink Subscription for that. They start at $3 monthly or $30 annually for one device. (And you get a 30-day trial to see if it’s worth it.)

The camera supports 1080p HD live view and has a wider field of view than its predecessor (143 degrees diagonally vs. 110 in the original). It also has a low-light image sensor. The Blink Mini 2 works with Alexa and supports two-way audio.

The plug-in camera works indoors and out, but you’ll need a $10 weather-resistant power adapter to use it outside. However, it does include mounting screws in the box, along with a 13-ft indoor power adapter and a stand for each camera. You can order the camera in black or white.

Blink is just one of the many brands discounted as part of Amazon's Black Friday deals. Check out sales like the 2024 Kindle Paperwhite, available for $130, down from $160 or the newest Echo Spot, down to $45 from $80. 

 Check out all of the latest Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals here.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/black-friday-blink-mini-2-camera-deals-discount-a-two-pack-by-50-percent-140009569.html?src=rss

If someone on your gift list this year is a big techie, you may want to get them something from Apple, Google, Samsung or another big brand. But once you look at the price tags of their most popular devices, you may get discouraged. Thankfully, you don’t have to spend hundreds of dollars to get a tech gift for someone that has all the cachet of a brand they know and love. These are some of the best gifts you can get from Apple, Samsung, Sony and other big tech companies that come in at $100 or less. Remember: you can often find alternatives that are just as good (and sometimes better) than these, but for the people in your life for which brand names really do matter, these gifts will speak to them.

Check out the rest of our gift ideas here.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/computing/accessories/the-best-tech-gifts-under-100-from-apple-samsung-google-and-others-130038600.html?src=rss

If you’re looking for a gift for the aspiring vlogger in your life, or you want to try your hand at making more content for social media, this Black Friday deal may have just what you’re looking for. The DJI Osmo Mobile 6 smartphone gimbal has dropped to only $89; that’s a 36 percent discount and an all-time-low price on the camera-stabilizing device.

For the uninitiated, this product keeps a steady lock on smartphones so as to provide smooth camera and video footage. The Osmo Mobile 6 is a step up from its predecessors in nearly every way. It features a newly-designed handle that’s more comfortable to hold and a larger clamp to accommodate all of those modern giant phones. The clamp can also wrap itself around smaller phones in bulky cases. 

This model boasts a built-in extension rod, so it doubles as a selfie stick. It also features the company’s ActiveTrack software. This allows for increased stability over longer distances and will actually track subjects as they turn, spin or move. Another new feature is Quick Launch for iPhone models. This automatically forces the phone into the camera view when the gimbal is unfolded.

There’s a built-in status panel to check battery levels, a timelapse feature, gestural controls and a whole lot more. It’s a nifty little gadget. On the downside, this is a lot of money for a smartphone clamp, even at $89. This is for people who prioritize top-tier footage.

Check out all of the latest Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals here.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/the-dji-osmo-mobile-6-gimbal-is-down-to-the-lowest-price-weve-seen-for-black-friday-161257632.html?src=rss

Black Friday is finally here, even though the deals have been flowing for nearly a month at this point. Many of the best deals are ones we saw earlier this month, but that doesn’t make them any less enticing now. For instance, the M2 MacBook Air is available on Amazon for just $749. The regular price is $1,000, so this is a discount of 25 percent. This version even boasts 16GB of RAM, and it's just one of many Apple Black Friday deals available this year.

This model easily made our list of the best MacBooks, even with the presence of the newer M3 MacBook Air. Here are the takeaways. This laptop, obviously, includes Apple’s proprietary M2 8-core CPU, which is more than fast enough for basic tasks and fine for even many advanced tasks, like music-making. We called it "Apple's near-perfect Mac" in our official review.

This is not the bare-bones standard model, as it comes with 16GB of RAM. Most versions ship with 8GB of RAM. The multitasking bona-fides are strong with this one. The M2 MacBook Air also ships with a 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display with 500 nits of brightness and support for the P3 wide color gamut.

It’s thin and light. It’s a MacBook Air. This thing weighs around 2.7 pounds. The battery life is solid, at around 18 hours of use per charge. The four-speaker sound system can get surprisingly loud, so headphones are not a requirement when watching random YouTube videos or listening to music.

So what’s the downside? There isn’t one. Not really. This isn’t the M3 MacBook Air, so those looking for the latest and greatest model may be let down. The model does only ship with a 256GB solid state drive, but it’s easy enough to plug in an external.

Check out all of the latest Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals here.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/the-apple-m2-macbook-air-with-16gb-of-ram-is-25-percent-off-for-black-friday-161500550.html?src=rss

Black Friday deals are popping up all over the place and there are some good offers on charging gear. An Anker 3-in-1 foldable magnetic charger, which is primarily designed for Apple devices, has dropped to a record low price. Both the white and black models of the MagGo 3-in-1 are available for $82.49, which is a 25 percent discount.

This charger features on our list of the best Apple Watch accessories. It can simultaneously charge your smartwatch, MagSafe-compatible iPhone and, if you have a wireless charging case, AirPods. It's handy when power outlets are at a premium or you want to keep your nightstand or desk as clutter-free as possible.

The MagGo is compact — it's similar in size to Apple's Magic Mouse and weighs 6.9 oz. Anker says it can charge an Apple Watch Series 9 from zero to 47 percent capacity in 30 minutes. The charger comes with a 40W USB-C adapter and a five-foot cable.

You can snap up the MagGo as part of a broader sale on Anker devices. There's another good deal on one of the best power banks around. A 3-in-1 model with a 10,000mAh capacity (enough to fully charge an iPhone 15 nearly twice over) has dropped to $30, but only for Prime members. That's a $9 discount. The charger has a built-in AC plug and USB-C cable.

Check out all of the latest Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals here.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/anker-black-friday-deals-include-this-3-in-1-foldable-magnetic-charger-at-a-record-low-price-155939150.html?src=rss

Let’s cut to the chase. The chaos of Black Friday sales is here, and for the last week, we’ve been detangling the best deals on some of the best tech. We’ve got guides for specific categories, like cameras, Apple gear, gaming and more, but we’ve also pulled together 50(ish) of the best discounts right here.

After so many years of BF sales, mileage varies, but here are some of my cherry-picked highlights:

• AirPods Pro 2 are at $154, an all-time low price

• Disney+ Hulu bundle one-year subscription is $36 (that’s $96 off, but it’s the ad-supported flavor)

• Elden Ring for PS5 for $20 (a heady 67 percent off)

• The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom for $30 ($40 off)

• Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer for $280 ($70 off)

• Dyson V15 Detect Absolute cordless vacuum for $550 ($200 off)

I already own four of those picks, so I’m regretting this Friday morning.

— Mat Smith

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The biggest tech stories you missed

• Canada’s Competition Bureau sues to break up Google’s ad business

• The best instant cameras for 2024

• The best MacBook accessories for 2024

Tencent’s new game looks like a blatant Horizon ripoff Big robot dinosaurs and a very familiar art style. Tencent

A post-apocalyptic world of humans in primitive-style garb battling giant dinosaur-like robots: We’ve definitely seen this before. This isn’t another Horizon game from Guerrilla. Oh, no, no. This is an initial look at a game called Polaris Quest from a Tencent subsidiary. I mean, sure, we had Dinobots in the ’80s, but this looks bafflingly close to Aloy’s adventures. One image shows a trio of human characters using bows and spears to tackle a mammoth-style machine. Even the game’s logo font looks like Horizon.

Continue reading.

CRKD’s Nitro Deck+ keeps its best features and adds typical stick layout Extra buttons and firmware tweaks add to the upgrade. Engadget

CRKD’s Nitro Deck turned my OLED Switch into an OLED Switch Lite, in a way. It added chunkier grips to both sides of the screen, a more logical USB-C charging passthrough and substantial triggers. It felt like a proper controller. The Nitro Deck+ is largely the same premise: a handheld deck for your Switch slate, no detachable Joy-Cons (and thus no drift) programmable buttons and — I hate to write this — a better hand feel.

Continue reading.

How to watch the 2024 Black Friday NFL game The Las Vegas Raiders going up against the Kansas City Chiefs.

The Chiefs (10-1) host the Raiders (2-9) in a game the home team is unsurprisingly the favorite to win. But last holiday season, the two teams faced off at Christmas, and the Raiders dealt a win in a shocking upset — so anything could happen. The game kicks off at 3PM ET on Amazon Prime Video and locally on KSHB-TV 41 if you want to be retro about it / don’t want to pay Amazon. You can tune into pregame coverage from 1:30PM ET.

Continue reading.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/general/the-morning-after-the-best-black-friday-deals-of-2024-121544704.html?src=rss

Black Friday deals are in full swing on Apple products, with sales on everything from the 2024 iPad Pro (down to $899 from $999) to the Apple Watch Series 10 ($329, down from $399). However, one of the best discounts we’re seeing is on the Beats Solo 4 wireless headphones, which are a whopping 50 percent off and down to $100. That’s a record low, and the discount applies to all color options.

The Beats Solo 4 headphones came out in April and received a 79 in our review. They're a solid item, especially for 50 percent off, and offer features like over 50 hours of battery life. They also have solid sound quality and clarity, especially with Spatial Audio and Dolby Atmos. However, they aren't the most comfortable of headphones on the market (especially for big heads) and don't have automatic pausing. 

The overall sale includes the Beats Pill, a portable bluetooth speaker, that's also down to $100, from $150 — a 33 percent discount. The Pill can wirelessly connect to your Android or Apple device or to a laptop through a USB-C cable. It also holds 24 hours of battery and can charge your phone and other devices through that USB-C cable. Plus, it has an IP67 dust and water resistance rating so it's shouldn't have issues if you use it outside. 

Check out all of the latest Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals here.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/beats-solo-4-headphones-are-100-off-on-amazon-for-black-friday-150722832.html?src=rss

If you’ve been curious to try Meta's Smart Glasses but their $329 price has put you off from buying a pair, now is a great time to take the plunge; Amazon has discounted a handful of the Wayfarer models by 20 percent and is offering a $90 promotional credit until November 30. Combining the two deals together, it’s possible to buy the glasses for just over $173.

Included in the sale are the Matte Black and Shiny Caramel models, which feature transition lenses. You can save a bit of money by going for a pair with polarized lenses, but if you want to use your new smart glasses indoors, your best bet is to spend a bit more for one of the two colorways mentioned above.

Engadget Senior Editor Karissa Bell reviewed the Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses in 2023, awarding them a score of 85 at the time. Compared to Meta’s original Ray-Ban Stories glasses, she found the newer wearable was a more polished product. Not only does the new device feature a slimmer frame and charging case, but Meta also managed to improve audio and camera quality. Additionally, the option to livestream to either Instagram or Facebook makes the Meta smart glasses feel genuinely more useful.

Earlier this year, the company released a substantial software update that greatly improved the capabilities of the wearable’s Meta AI. For instance, Meta added a feature that allows users to look at something in their surroundings and ask the software to send a reminder about it. The company also made the AI more conversational. Considering Meta AI was one of the weaker features of the smart glasses when they first arrived in 2023, the update makes it easier to recommend the wearable. As long as you feel like you’ll get enough use out of the Meta Smart Glasses to justify their price, it’s hard to imagine finding a pair for less than they’re on sale for right now.

Check out all of the latest Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals here.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/wearables/metas-ray-ban-smart-glasses-are-20-percent-off-for-black-friday-110053946.html?src=rss

Instant cameras have become a popular category for one simple reason: they’re fun. You can whip one out at a party or event and take a snap, then a couple of minutes later you have a real, physical, instant photo that everyone can touch, feel and enjoy instead of staring at a screen. It’s also a lot cooler than a smartphone shot thanks to the retro, nostalgic vibes of analog photography.

Given the large number of camera brands on the market, choosing one can be tricky. That’s why we’ve put together this buying guide that will help you choose the best instant camera for you based on factors like price, instant film size, photo quality and more.

What to consider before buying an instant camera

The main factor for most people is the size of the film in the film pack. Fujifilm’s Fuji Instax alone offers three formats: Mini, Square and Wide, with film sizes of 3.4 x 2.1 inches, 3.4 x 2.8 inches and 3.4 x 4.3 inches. The corresponding image sizes are 2.44 x 1.81 inches, 2.44 x 2.44 inches and 2.44 x 3.9 inches.

Leica’s Sofort 2 and Lomography models also uses Fujifilm’s Mini format, while Polaroid’s smaller Go format is 2.64 x 2.13 inches (1.81 x 1.83-inch image) and its i-Type size is 3.46 x 4.21 inches, with a square image size of 3.11 x 3.11 inches.

When most people think of retro polaroid cameras, they think of a square image size. That’s why Instagram, which used to have a Polaroid-like app icon, only supported square images for years. If that’s what you want, then the Fuji Instax Square or either of Polaroid’s formats are best. However, if you want as large an image as possible, Fujifilm’s Instax wide is the way to go.

As for prices, Fujifilm’s Instax films are generally around $1 per shot for square or wide color film and $.60 - $.75 for mini color film. Those prices go up a bit if you choose custom models with colorful or patterned borders, and down if you buy in bulk. i-Type Polaroid film is a bit more at about $1.50 per shot or $1.00 per shot for Go color film.

Image quality isn’t really the point with instant cameras of course, as they’re always going to be fuzzy compared to high-quality digital photos. However, some models (notably Fujifilm and Polaroid models) are a bit better than others.

Also, most instant cameras don’t feature an SD card slot, and therefore don’t require a microSD card (or similar), especially since photos are able to be printed instantly.

And in terms of pricing, cameras with larger instant film are generally more expensive. It also increases if you add hybrid features like USB-C connectivity, rechargeable batteries, smartphone sharing, the ability to print out photos and more, along with niceties like a selfie mirror or viewfinder. The best, most feature-laden cameras can cost upwards of $200 and basic versions can be well under $100.

Best instant cameras for 2024

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/cameras/best-instant-camera-120034778.html?src=rss

When it comes to getting the most out of your MacBook, the right accessories can make a world of difference. Whether you're a creative looking to boost your video-editing workflow, a professional needing extra storage space or simply someone who wants to protect their device, there are tons of options to enhance your experience with this powerful Apple product. Accessories like USB hubs expand your MacBook’s ports, making it easier to connect everything from external drives to monitors, which can be super important while working in macOS where smooth integration is key.

From sturdy cases to keep your MacBook safe on the go, to stands that improve ergonomics and help with airflow, the range of MacBook accessories is as diverse as MacBook users themselves. External storage options, for instance, are great for archiving large files, especially if you’re working with high-resolution media, while screen protectors and keyboard covers add an extra layer of durability. No matter your needs, there's a whole world of accessories out there to help you get more done with your MacBook.

Best MacBook accessories for 2024

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/computing/accessories/best-macbook-accessories-150014737.html?src=rss

Canada's antitrust watchdog is suing Google to force the breakup of the company’s ad tech unit. In a statement published Thursday, during the US Thanksgiving holiday, the Competition Bureau said a “thorough” investigation had found that Google had abused its dominant position in programmatic web advertising to “maintain and entrench its market power.”

Specifically, the watchdog has accused Google of giving its own tools preferential access to online ad inventory. The Competition Bureau alleges the company also took a financial hit on some transactions in an effort to disadvantage rival platforms, and that it even went so far as dictating the terms by which its own customers could do business with competing ad tech companies.

Among other remedies, the Competition Bureau is seeking to force Google to sell two of its ad tech tools. The agency also wants the company to pay a penalty for its behavior.

Google did not immediately respond to Engadget’s request for comment. In a statement it shared with Reuters, Google said the complaint "ignores the intense competition where ad buyers and sellers have plenty of choice.” The tech giant added it is looking forward to arguing its case in court. “Our advertising technology tools help websites and apps fund their content, and enable businesses of all sizes to effectively reach new customers,” Dan Taylor, vice-president of Global Ads at Google, said separately.

“The Competition Bureau conducted an extensive investigation that found that Google has abused its dominant position in online advertising in Canada by engaging in conduct that locks market participants into using its own ad tech tools, excluding competitors, and distorting the competitive process,” said Matthew Boswell, Canada’s Commissioner of Competition. 

“Google's conduct has prevented rivals from being able to compete on the merits of what they have to offer, to the detriment of Canadian advertisers, publishers and consumers. We are taking our case to the Tribunal to stop this conduct and its harmful effects in Canada.”

The case comes as Google attempts to fend off a separate attempt by the US Department of Justice to break up the company’s ad business. The two sides made their closing arguments in that case on Monday, and a decision could be announced as early as next week.

Update 11/29, 4:30am ET: Dan Taylor, VP of Global Ads at Google, said “Our advertising technology tools help websites and apps fund their content, and enable businesses of all sizes to effectively reach new customers. Google remains committed to creating value for our publisher and advertiser partners in this highly competitive sector. The CCB’s complaint ignores the intense competition where ad buyers and sellers have plenty of choice and we look forward to making our case in court.”

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/big-tech/canadas-competition-bureau-sues-to-break-up-googles-ad-business-030032969.html?src=rss

Amazon won’t need to pay the European Union €250 million ($263 million) in back taxes. On Wednesday, the bloc’s executive branch said it was closing three separate state aid investigations, including one involving Amazon. The decision ends one of the company’s longest-running legal sagas.

In 2017, the European Commission found that, from 2006 to 2014, Amazon had used an operating company in Luxembourg to pay substantially less tax to the European Union. The shell company had no offices or staff, and was, according to the Commission, used solely by Amazon to lower its tax bill. By the Commission’s estimate, the e-commerce giant avoided taxation on three quarters of all the profit it made from online sales in the EU during that period.

In 2021, however, Amazon won an appeal against the ruling. Although the company changed its tax structure following the investigation, it argued at the time that the Commission’s decision was full of "methodological errors.” It also said the payments were legal per international tax principles, an argument Europe’s second-highest court agreed with after finding Amazon’s structure didn’t confer it an advantage over other companies. Subsequently, the court ordered the Commission’s decision annulled.

With this week’s announcement, the Commission said it was “taking into account the guidance of the EU Courts” in closing the case against Amazon. Amazon did not immediately respond to Engadget’s comment request.

While the end of its case against Amazon is a setback for the European Commission, earlier this year the body won a decisive victory against Apple. In September, Europe’s highest court ordered the tech giant to pay back a €13 billion ($14.4 billion) tax break from Ireland that was found to be illegal in 2016.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/big-tech/european-commission-ends-state-aid-case-against-amazon-with-no-tax-payout-004438602.html?src=rss

When it comes to keeping your iPad safe and functional, a protective case can be a real lifesaver. Whether you're looking to shield your device from everyday bumps and scratches or need something a bit more rugged, there are options for every budget. Some cases go beyond protection and add extra functionality, like built-in keyboards that turn your iPad into a productivity powerhouse, ideal for work or note-taking on the go.

From slim, stylish folio cases to tough covers with soft microfiber linings, there’s a wide variety of choices to suit your style and needs. No matter what you're after, the perfect iPad case is out there waiting to keep your device safe and make it even more versatile.

Best iPad cases

iPad case FAQs Should you keep your iPad in case?

It’s almost always a good idea to keep your iPad in a case so it’s protected against hazards and accidents. The best iPads are expensive — even the most affordable model will set you back nearly $300 — so you’ll want to safeguard your gear as much as possible.

What is the difference between an iPad case and an iPad cover?

All iPad covers are cases, but not all iPad cases are covers — yes, it’s a bit confusing, but allow us to explain. Most iPad covers are cases that surround the back of your tablet and have a flap that covers the screen, so it provides protection for the body as well as its display. Plenty of iPad cases also have screen covers, but you don’t have to get one with that feature. Instead, you could just get a case that hugs the back of the tablet and nothing else. Those accessories will be marginally thinner and lighter than their cover-toting counterparts, and give your iPad a more svelte profile.

How often should I charge my iPad?

How often you charge your iPad will depend on how often you use it. Most iPads will last at least a regular work day with frequent usage, which is one of the reasons why many have opted to use their iPads as laptop replacements. But with heavy usage, like constant video streaming or gaming, will come more rapid battery drain. A good rule of thumb is to charge your iPad when you go to sleep each night, that way you’ll have a topped-up device waiting for you in the morning.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/computing/accessories/best-ipad-cases-to-protect-your-tablet-130033533.html?src=rss