It is Wednesday, my dudes, and what would the middle of the week be without your favorite mega-viral word puzzle? It’s certainly more satisfying when you work it out all by yourself, but sometimes you just get stuck on the daily Wordle — and that’s where we come in.

The answer to the June 29 Wordle can be found at the end of this article, with the spoiler clearly signposted, or you can make your way down in a more leisurely fashion for a few general tips, gentle hints, and strategies to help you every day.

Who made Wordle? Where did Wordle come from?

Wordle is a daily word game created by Josh Wardle, a Brooklyn-based software engineer who has developed something of a reputation as a crafter of interesting social experiments. Every day, the people of the internet are greeted with a fresh word puzzle that can only be solved — or not! — using a series of process-of-elimination clues.

Thousands of people around the globe now play this game each day, and fans have even created alternatives to Wordle inspired by the original format. This includes music identification game Heardle, Hollywood nerd faves Actorle and Framed, and variations like Dordle and Quordle that make you guess multiple words at once.

Not the day you’re after? You’ll find the Wordle answer for June 28 here.

What’s the best Wordle starting word?

We have some ideas to help you pick the perfect first move (or as close to perfect as you can get without just magically guessing the exact right word). Such tips include choosing a word with at least two different vowels in it, plus a few common consonants such as S, T, R, or N.

Is there a Wordle app for Android or iOS? Is Wordle free?

You might find “Wordle” results in an iOS App Store or Google Play Store search, but don’t mistake it for the real thing. Wordle, the original one Josh Wardle came up with and kindly delivered unto the internet in late 2021, currently only exists as a browser game that lives right here. If you’re playing it anywhere else, it’s — at best — a shameless knock-off that’s trying to capitalize on someone else’s success.

And, yes, it’s still free.

Is Wordle getting harder?

If you’ve been finding Wordle too easy, there is a Hard Mode you can enable to give yourself more of a challenge. But unless you activate this mode, we can assure you that Wordle isn’t getting harder. 

A subtle hint for the June 29 Wordle answer:

It’s an adjective, one often associated with teenagers.

Today’s Wordle is a 5-letter word that starts with…

…the letter G.

What’s the answer to Wordle on June 29?

Ready?

We’ll tell you today’s word now.

It’s…

GAWKY.

Don’t know the meaning of GAWKY? You’re about to learn it. “Gawky” means awkward, clumsy, ungraceful.

Reporting by Caitlin Welsh, Amanda Yeo and Adam Rosenberg contributed to this article.

Just when you thought you knew everything there was to know about the January 6 attempt to overturn the 2020 presidential election results, some new revelation comes along.

But this last-minute bombshell testimony from Cassidy Hutchinson, a former top aide to Trump’s chief of staff Mark Meadows, is unlike anything we’ve heard before.

And the former president is none too happy with what Hutchinson shared to the Select Committee and the public, if his posts on Truth Social throughout the televised hearing are any indication.

“I hardly know who this person, Cassidy Hutchinson, is, other than I heard very negative things about her (a total phony and “leaker”)…” posted Trump on his social media platform in his first of a dozen rants. “She is bad news!”

During Hutchinson’s testimony on Tuesday, we discovered that Trump apparently urged the Secret Service to remove the metal detectors from the area where he was giving his speech on the morning of Jan. 6. The attendees were, after all, his supporters, and Trump said they were “not here to hurt me,” Hutchinson testified. 

Trump’s response on Truth Social? Denial.

Trump ranted about Cassidy Hutchinson’s testimony in real-time.
Credit: Mashable Screenshot

“I didn’t want or request that we make room for people with guns to watch my speech. Who would ever want that?” he posted on his social network, which he only started using last month. “Not me! Besides, there were no guns found or brought into the Capitol Building…So where were all of these guns?”

However, Trump’s defense is incorrect. A number of his supporters were found to be carrying firearms while storming the Capitol that day and are being charged accordingly. Other Trump supporters were carrying knives, bats, and other weaponry that day too.

Hutchinson also testified that Trump had apparently thought he was going to be escorted to the Capitol building on Jan. 6, to join the rioters after his speech had finished. Once he got into the presidential limousine, he found that the Secret Service were refusing to let him go. Irate, Hutchinson said Trump then lunged for the limo’s steering wheel and scuffled with his security.

The former top White House aide also says she was privy to interesting tidbits that occurred prior to the events of Jan. 6. In December 2020, Trump became so enraged after finding out that then-Attorney General Bill Barr dismissed his election fraud claims that he threw his lunch at the wall, she testified. Hutchinson found a shattered plate and ketchup dripping down the wall in the White House dining room.

So Trump shared responses on Truth Social to those portions of Hutchinson’s testimony as well.

“Her Fake story that I tried to grab the steering wheel of the White House Limousine in order to steer it to the Capitol Building is ‘sick’ and fraudulent, very much like the Unselect Committee itself,” wrote Trump. “Wouldn’t even have been possible to do such a ridiculous thing.” 

“Her story of me throwing food is also false…and why would SHE have to clean it up, I hardly knew who she was?” he continued.

From there, Trump proceeded to demonstrate how he would never act out in a fit of rage by…acting out in a fit of rage.

The 45th president just kept posting his disapproval.
Credit: Mashable Screenshot

“Her body language is that of a total bull…. artist. Fantasy Land!” posted Trump.

“A Total Phony!!!” he said in another Truth Social post.

The 45th president also denied saying that his vice president, Mike Pence, “deserved” to be hanged for not helping Trump overturn the 2020 presidential elections which he lost to the current president Joe Biden.

Trump proceeded to call the hearing a “Kangaroo Court!” because there was no “cross-examination of the witness.” It’s important to note that this is not a trial. Also Trump and the Republican Party have refused to take part in the hearings.

All-in-all, if you wondered what Trump’s behavior would’ve been like on Twitter during these hearings if he wasn’t banned, Trump is showing you right on Truth Social: pejoratives and trash talk with some classic Trump-isms peppered in. But being that its on his own social media platform, he’s now monetizing it as well…at least while he can.

A federal criminal investigation is currently threatening the merger deal between Trump’s social media business and Digital World Acquisition Corp. (DWAC), a publicly-listed shell company. The merger would essentially fast-track Trump’s business into becoming a publicly traded company. DWAC’s shares have plummeted based on the news.

Between the Jan. 6 Select Committee and this investigation, expect more angry tweets…err…”truths” from Trump in the near future.

UPDATE: Jun. 28, 2022, 5:15 p.m. EDT This story has been updated to include the latest sale prices and availability on sex toys.

• The We-Vibe Touch is the perfect compact vibe for solo time or partner play — $69 $99 (save $99)

• The Satisfyer Pro 2 is one of the best clit stimulators out there, with a budget-friendly price that just got even friendlier— $29.95 $69.95 (save $40 with code SUMMER)

• The Fleshlight Go Stamina Training Unit Lady Pack is an enticing offer from one of the best masturbation sleeve brands in the biz — $69.95 $81.85 (save $11.90)

We’re not saying that treating yourself to some new sex toys will almost certainly improve your life, but we’re also not not saying that. Spending some money on upping your solo sesh game or adding a little spice with a partner is well worth the investment. Though we do believe in springing for well-made toys since you’ll be putting them in, on, and around your genitals, that doesn’t necessarily mean you have to drop a ton of cash. Every week, we’ll be rounding up the best deals directly from manufacturers and online sex shops alike, so you can find a toy you’ll love, at prices you’ll love (almost) as much. Check out our finds from this week below.

Vibrator deals

Why we like it

We-Vibe is a popular brand for a reason, and the Touch is one of their best selling toys. Its compact shape and rumbly vibrations make it a great addition for solo time or partner play. It’s also rechargeable and waterproof; plus it has eight different vibration settings, so you’ll never be bored or overwhelmed.

More vibrator deals:

• Lovehoney Jessica Rabbit rabbit vibrator — $19.99 $39.99 (save $20)

• Pleasure Works Pirouette Waterproof Vibrator — $22.99 $27.99 (save $5)

• Satisfyer Magic Bunny Vibrator — $34.95 $79.99 (save $45.04 with code SUMMER)

• Adam & Eve Intimate Curves Rechargeable Wand — $38.47 $69.95 (save $31.48 with code AESAVE45)

• We-Vibe Touch — $69 $99 (save $99)

• Original Magic Wand — $69.95 $99.99 (save $30.04 with code SUMMER)

• Fifty Shades Darker Desire G-Spot vibrator — $40 $99.99 (save $59.99)

• Lelo Smart Wand — $74.99 $149.99 (save $75)

• MysteryVibe Crescendo — $183 $229 (save $46)

Clitoral stimulator and suction toy deals

Why we like it

Read more from Mashable about the Satisfyer Pro 2.

We’ll be honest — clit stimulators are not everyone’s cup of tea. But if you want to try some fun suction sensations without hurting your bank account, the Satisfyer Pro 2 is a great budget option that’s sale price makes it even more enticing. It has 11 different settings, whisper-quiet modes, vibration-free settings, and it’s waterproof, only adding to its allure.

More clitoral stimulator and suction toy deals:

• Womanizer The One — $5 $10 (save $5 with code SUMMER)

• Satisfyer Pro 2 — $29.95 $69.95 (save $40 with code SUMMER)

• Womanizer Starlet — $51.99 $79.99 (save $28)

• Better Love Tap Dancer — $69.99 $175.99 (save $106)

• Lelo Sona Cruise — $90.99 $137.99 (save $47)

• Womanizer Classic — $90.99 $129.99 (save $39)

• We-Vibe Tango and Satisfyer Pro 2 bundle — $96.99 $148.99 (save $52)

• Lelo Sona Cruise 2 — $109.99 $139 (save $29.01)

• Womanizer Premium — $149 $189 (save $40)

Dildo deals

Why we like it

When it comes down to it, everyone will have their own preferences when it comes to dildos (or any sex toys, for that matter), but here’s why this one is worth a second look. The silicone material gives the dildo some flex, so you can find those just-right angles (which can feel even better thanks to its approachable size). The circular base doubles as a suction cup too, making this dildo easy to hold, fit into a harness, or stick on to the non-porous surface of your choosing.

More dildo deals:

• Adam & Eve Cool Curve Jelly Dildo — $13.72 $24.95 (save $11.23 with code AESAVE45)

• Adam & Eve Twisted Love Glass Dildo — $21.97 $39.95 (save $17.98 with code AESAVE45)

• Colours 5-inch Silicone Realistic Dildo — $21.97 $39.95 (save $17.98 with code AESAVE45)

• Blush Impressions N5 Vibrating Dildo with Suction Cup — $39.99 $69.99 (save $30)

• Kingcock Strap-on Harness with 8-inch Dildo — $49.47 $89.95 (save $40.48 with code AESAVE45)

• Tracey Cox Supersex Strapless Strap-On vibrator — $49.99 $99.99 (save $50)

• Tracey Cox Supersex Strap-on Pegging Kit — $54.99 $109.99 (save $55)

• Njoy Pure Wand — $102 $120 (save $18 with code VIBING)

Deals on sex toys for penises

Why we like it

When it comes to sex toys specifically for people with penises, Fleshlight might just be the most recognizable name out there, and for good reason — they’re masters at the masturbation sleeve. Fleshlight’s sleeves have made our favorites list before, and this bundle comes with a compact version of one of the brand’s most popular sleeves, the Stamina Training Unit, as well as lube and cleaner.

More deals on sex toys for penises:

• Ass-Gasm Penis Ring Plug — $12.62 $22.95 (save $10.33 with code AESAVE45)

• Super Head Honcho Masturbator — $16.47 $29.95 (save $13.48 with code AESAVE45)

• Satisfyer Men Vibration Masturbator — $49.95 $84.99 (save $35.04)

• Fleshlight Destroya — $62.99 $69.99 (save $7)

• Buy 2 Fleshlight sleeves, get one free — $99.90 $149.85 (save $49.95)

• MysteryVibe Tenuto 2 — $212 $249 (save $37)

Anal toy deals

Why we like it

From a glance alone, this Bump pick looks like a pretty good plug — it’s not too big, not too small, has a nice tapered edge and a wide end for keeping things where you want them, and is silicone-smooth so it slides right in without friction. Once you realize it has 10 different vibration modes and can be submerged safely in water, well, you may just feel like you’ve won the butt plug lotto.

More anal toy deals:

• Lovehoney Butt Tingler — $12.49 $24.99 (save $12.50)

• Kink Trainer Kit — $27.47 $49.95 (save $22.48 with code AESAVE45)

• Bump Rechargeable Anal Vibe — $27.47 $49.95 (save $22.48 with code AESAVE45)

• Satisfyer Lolli Plug — $27.99 $39.99 (save $12)

• Sono No. 78 Anal Stimulator — $27.99 $59.99 (save $32)

• Njoy Pure Plug (small) — $59.49 $69.99 (save $10.50 with code VIBING)

• B-vibe Texture Plug — $53.99 $90 (save $36.01)

Even more sex toy deals:

• Sex! Card Game — $7.46 $12.99 (save $5.53 with code SUMMER)

• Temptasia Harness Strap-on Briefs — $16.99 $29.99 (save $13)

• Liberator Bon Bon Sex Toy Mount — $85.80 $110 (save $24.20)

Explore related content:

• What to look for when buying a sex toy

• Where to buy sex toys online (even at Target)

• The best budget-friendly sex toys under $50

Amazon Prime Day is just around the corner — 48 hours of deals on deals are coming your way starting July 12.

But before you start panicking about missing out on all the good gets, we have a pro tip for you: Organize your “wishlist.” And do it before Prime Day, because having all of your ducks in a row ahead of Amazon’s annual sale bonanza is going to save you time, money, and your precious sanity.

If it’s news to you that Amazon even offers such a feature, here’s how it works:

Basically, every product page on the retail giant’s website has a little “add to list” button right around where the “add to cart” button is located (very convenient placement). Click on that, and you can add said product to your personal Amazon wishlist, or any other list that you’ve created for yourself on your profile.

Do this with every gadget, gizmo, and knick-knack you think would make a worthy addition to your collection of goods, or shop for upcoming birthdays, bridal showers, or even the winter holidays. What you’ll end up with is an organized, definitive page of all that you desire. View it all at a glance, or even rank each item based on how much you want it.

Your Amazon wishlist is one of the most useful tools that you have at your disposal come Prime Day.

Then, and here’s the important part, be sure to check back on your list when Prime Day kicks into high gear — you’ll be able to see which products have gone on sale and snatch them up before they’re gone.

WARNING: Only add the necessities to your wishlist or risk critical failure and end up with mass shipments of shit you don’t need, never needed, and will never need. (Did you *have* to get that life-size cardboard cutout of Danny DeVito? No. No you didn’t. But now he’s standing there in the corner of your living room. And he’s watching you.)

But that’s not where the perks of “wishlisting” cap out. In fact, if you download Amazon’s mobile companion app, you’ll be granted the added benefit of “wishlist alerts.”

These alerts can aid in notifying you when an item on your wishlist becomes a “lighting deal,” as well as when a sold-out item on your wishlist goes back in stock.

This isn’t a notification setting that’s turned on by default, so you’ll have to go in and check it off yourself. All you have to do is open up the Amazon app, go into your settings, then to your notifications, and click on “your watched and waitlisted deals.”

It’s this one.
Credit: Screenshot

Voilà — now you’ll never miss a deal for something you actually want. Your Amazon wishlist is one of the most useful tools that you have at your disposal to ensure a successful Prime Day experience.

Also, keep a watchful eye out for our Prime Day coverage, where we’ll be highlighting all the best deals that you can get your hands on.

UPDATE: Jun. 28, 2022, 4:25 p.m. EDT This story was originally published in 2021. It has been updated with new information regarding Prime Day 2022.

Check out our favorite early Prime Day Apple deals at Amazon as of June 28:

• BEST MACBOOK DEAL: The 2021 MacBook Pro (M1 Pro, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) is a powerhouse laptop for creatives — $2,299 $2,499 (save $200)

• BEST IPAD DEAL: The 2021 11″ iPad Pro (WiFi, 128GB) is the best tablet for artists and back at its lowest price ever — $699 $799 (save $100)

• BEST APPLE WATCH DEAL: The Apple Watch Series 7 (41mm, GPS) comes with the latest fitness features at a nice markdown — $329 $399 (save $70)

• BEST AIRPODS DEAL: The AirPods Max are statement over-the-ear headphones with impressive noise cancellation — $429.99 $549 (save $119.01 with coupon automatically applied at checkout)

You don’t have to be a diehard Apple fan to know that deals from the brand don’t come around all that often. While it’s still possible to find some Apple sales throughout the year, your best bet for scoring the biggest savings is striking when the shopping holiday iron is hot.

Amazon Prime Day doesn’t officially start until July 12, but the sales on iPads, Apple Watches, MacBooks, and more have already started. Check out our top picks below and don’t forget to check out more early Prime Day deals before July 12.

Mac and MacBook deals

Why we like it

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

This is not an everyday laptop, so it doesn’t come at an everyday price. But for people who want to multitask while editing photos or videos, room-filling speakers, a battery life that’s built to last, and the workflow that only a 16-inch Liquid Retina XDR display can provide, the latest MacBook Pro is the way to go.

More Mac and MacBook deals

2021 MacBook Pro

• 16-inch MacBook Pro (M1 Pro, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) — $2,299 $2,499 (save $200)

• 16-inch MacBook Pro (M1 Pro, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD) — $2,499 $2,699 (save $200)

2020 MacBook Pro, 13-inch

• MacBook Pro (M1, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD) — $1,099.99 $1,299 (save $199.01)

2020 MacBook Air, 13-inch

• MacBook Air (M1, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD) — $1,179 $1,249 (save $70)

More Macs

• 2020 Mac Mini (M1, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD) — $849 $899 (save $50)

• 2020 21.5-inch iMac (Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD) — $837.99 $1,099 (save $261.01)

iPad deals

Why we like it

While the casual tablet user might not need an iPad Pro, artists and creative will appreciate the processing power that this iPad’s M1 chip provides. Factor in the Liquid Retina XDR display and the 128GB of built-in storage, and the record-low markdown on this iPad somehow gets even better.

More iPad deals

iPad

• 2021 iPad (WiFi, 64GB) — $309 $329 (save $20)

• 2021 iPad (WiFi, 256GB) — $429 $479 (save $50)

iPad Mini

• 2021 iPad Mini (WiFi, 64GB) — $459.98 $499 (save $39.02)

iPad Air

• 2022 iPad Air (WiFi, 64GB) — $559 $599 (save $40)

• 2022 iPad Air (WiFi, 256GB) — $679 $749 (save $70)

iPad Pro

• 2021 11″ iPad Pro (WiFi, 128GB) — $699 $799 (save $100)

• 2021 11″ iPad Pro (WiFi, 256GB) — $849 $899 (save $50)

Apple Watch deals

Why we like it

Is it the most exciting Apple Watch deal we’ve ever seen? No, but it’s always nice when the latest Apple Watch, with its blood oxygen and ECG sensors, support of bike workouts, and ample screen space takes a $70 price cut. (It often sits at only $50 or even $30 off.)

More Apple Watch deals

Series 7

• Apple Watch Series 7 (41mm, GPS) — $329 $399 (save $70)

• Apple Watch Series 7 (45mm, GPS) — $359 $429 (save $70)

• Apple Watch Series 7 (41mm, GPS + cellular) — $429 $499 (save $70)

• Apple Watch Series 7 (41mm, GPS + cellular) in gold stainless steel — $599 $699 (save $100)

• Apple Watch Series 7 (45mm, GPS + cellular) — $436 $529 (save $93)

SE

• Apple Watch SE (40mm, GPS) — $229 $279 (save $50)

• Apple Watch SE (40mm, GPS + cellular) — $279.99 $329 (save $49.01 with coupon automatically applied at checkout)

• Apple Watch SE (44mm, GPS) — $259.99 $309 (save $49.01)

• Apple Watch SE (44mm, GPS + cellular) — $309.99 $359 (save $49.01)

Series 3

• Apple Watch Series 3 (42mm, GPS) — $199 $229 at Amazon (save $30)

AirPods deals

Why we like it

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

Are the only over-the-ear AirPods ridiculously expensive? Yes. But do they offer excellent audio quality and good battery life in a stylish package? Also yes. And they’re back down to their Black Friday price, which happens to be their all-time low price, in every color but pink and green.

More AirPods deals

• AirPods (second gen) — $119.98 $159 (save $39.02)

• AirPods (third gen) — $169 $179 (save $10)

• AirPods Pro — $199.98 $249 (save $49.02)

• AirPods Max— $429.99 $549 (save $119.01 with coupon automatically applied at checkout)

Other Apple accessories deals

Why we like it

If you’re not so much a fan of the AirPods Max but still want a pair of headphones with great noise cancellation, the Beats Studio 3’s have got you covered. With 22 hours of battery life, a W1 chip for easy pairing, and a much smaller price tag than the AirPods, you won’t feel like you’re sacrificing much by opting for an AirPods alternative.

More Apple accessories deals

• Beats Solo3 Wireless On-Ear Headphones — $151.49 $199.95 (save $48.46)

• 2021 Apple TV 4K (32GB) — $168.98 $179 (save $10.02)

• Powerbeats Pro Totally Wireless Earphones — $199.95 $249.95 at Amazon (save $50)

• Beats Studio3 Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones — $209.51 $349.95 at Amazon (save $140.44)

UPDATE: Jun. 28, 2022, 3:25 p.m. EDT We’ve updated this post with the best deals from across the Apple universe ahead of Prime Day.

• BEST MAC DEAL: The 16-inch MacBook Pro (M1 Pro, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) is a powerhouse laptop built for creatives — $2,299 $2,499 at Amazon (save $200)

• BEST IPAD DEAL: The 2020 iPad Air (WiFi, 64GB) is a high-functioning tablet that doesn’t show its age — $469 $599 at Walmart (save $130)

• BEST IPHONE DEAL: The iPhone 13 Mini (64GB) at Verizon is a mini phone with plenty of storage space and a battery life worth bragging about — $0 with an eligible trade-in select unlimited plan $699.99 (save up to $700)

• BEST APPLE WATCH DEAL: The Apple Watch Series 7 (41mm, GPS) gives you the best bang for your buck— $329 $399 at Amazon (save $70)

• BEST ACCESSORIES DEAL: The AirPods Max might just be some of the most stylish over-the-ear headphones out there, and they’re back at their lowest price ever— $429.99 $549 at Amazon (save $119.01)

You could really kill some time trying to dissect the iron grasp Apple has on the general population, but when it comes down to it, its products look good, work well, and stay cutting-edge — of course people like them. Whether your favorite day of the year is its annual September reveal event or you just want a solid computer no matter the brand, Apple’s got you covered. Sure, it is a little notorious for its higher prices, but we’ve rounded up the best deals on iPads, AirPods, and more to help you out. Check them out below.

Mac and MacBook deals

Why we like it

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

This is not an everyday laptop, so it doesn’t come at an everyday price. But for people who want to multitask while editing photos or videos, room-filling speakers, a battery life that’s built to last, and the workflow that only a 16-inch Liquid Retina XDR display can provide, the latest MacBook Pro is the way to go. As of the time of writing, it’s on sale at both Amazon and Best Buy and only $50 shy of the lowest price we’ve ever seen it.

More Mac and MacBook deals

2021 MacBook Pro

• 16-inch MacBook Pro (M1 Pro, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) — $2,299 $2,499 at Amazon (save $200)

• 16-inch MacBook Pro (M1 Pro, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) — $2,299 $2,499 at Best Buy (save $200)

• 16-inch MacBook Pro (M1 Pro, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD) — $2,499 $2,699 at Amazon (save $200)

• 16-inch MacBook Pro (M1 Pro, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD) — $2,499 $2,699 at Best Buy (save $200)

2020 MacBook Pro, 13-inch

• MacBook Pro (M1, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD) — $1,099.99 $1,299 at Amazon (save $199.01)

2020 MacBook Air, 13-inch

• MacBook Air (M1, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD) — $1,179 $1,249 at Amazon (save $70)

More Macs

• 2020 Mac Mini (M1, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD) — $849 $899 at Amazon (save $50)

• 2020 21.5-inch iMac (Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD) — $837.99 $1,099 at Amazon (save $261.01)

Refurbished Macs and MacBooks

• Refurbished 2017 13-inch MacBook Air (Intel Core i5, 128GB) — $289.97 at Walmart

• Pre-owned 2015 13-inch MacBook Air (Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM, 128GB SSD) — $429.99 $484.99 at Best Buy (save $55)

iPad deals

Why we like it

Though it’s not quite the $200 markdown we saw on this iPad a couple of weeks ago, the sale on this 2020 iPad Air is still worth your attention. No, it doesn’t have the M1 chip of its newer counterpart, but its A14 Bionic chip can still handle photo editing and games without a problem. Plus with the new iPadOS 16 update, we doubt you’ll be able to tell this iPad is two years old.

More iPad deals

iPad

• 2021 iPad (WiFi, 64GB) — $309 $329 at Amazon (save $20)

• 2021 iPad (WiFi, 64GB) — $309 $329 at Walmart (save $20)

• 2021 iPad (WiFi, 256GB) — $429 $479 at Amazon (save $50)

• 2021 iPad (WiFi, 256GB) — $429 $479 at Walmart (save $50)

iPad Mini

• 2021 iPad Mini (WiFi, 64GB) — $409 $499 at Walmart (save $90)

• 2021 iPad Mini (WiFi, 256GB) — $523.02 $649 at Amazon (save $125.98)

• 2021 iPad Mini (WiFi, 256GB) — $549 $649 at Walmart (save $100)

iPad Air

• 2020 iPad Air (WiFi, 64GB) — $469 $599 at Walmart (save $130)

• 2020 iPad Air (WiFi, 64GB) — $549.99 $599 at Best Buy (save $50)

• 2022 iPad Air (WiFi, 64GB) — $559 $599 at Amazon (save $40)

• 2022 iPad Air (WiFi, 256GB) — $679 $749 at Amazon (save $100)

iPad Pro

• 2021 11″ iPad Pro (WiFi, 128GB) — $699 $799 at Amazon (save $100

• 2021 11″ iPad Pro (WiFi, 256GB) — $849 $899 at Amazon (save $50)

iPhone deals

Why we like it

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

Like most phone deals on this list, having a decent trade-in is essential to scoring the most bang for your buck. So why the iPhone 13 Mini? Well, you likely won’t need a brand new phone to get the price tag as close to $0 as possible, you’re not trading-in for an outdated model, and you get at least 128GB of storage, nice battery life, and cinematic mode without the huge price tag. You can also grab this deal at AT&T.

More iPhone deals

• iPhone 12 Mini (64GB) at AT&T — $315 on an installment and unlimited plan with no trade-in required (save $315)

• iPhone 12 (64GB) at AT&T — $15/month on an installment and unlimited plan with no trade-in required (save up to $190)

• iPhone 13 Mini (128GB) at AT&T — $0 with an eligible trade-in on an unlimited plan $699.99 (save up to $700)

• iPhone 13 (128GB) at AT&T — $199.99 with an installment plan and eligible trade-in on an unlimited plan $799.99 (save up to $700)

• iPhone 13 Pro (128GB) at AT&T — $299.99 with an installment plan and eligible trade-in on an unlimited plan $999.99 (save up to $700)

• iPhone 12 Mini (64GB) at Verizon — $299.99 with an eligible trade-in on an unlimited plan $599.99 (save up to $300)

• iPhone 13 Mini (64GB) at Verizon — $0 with an eligible trade-in on an unlimited plan $699.99 (save up to $700)

• iPhone 13 (128GB) at Verizon — $0 with an eligible trade-in on an unlimited plan $799.99 (save up to $800)

• iPhone 13 Pro (128GB) at Verizon — $199.99 with an eligible trade-in on an unlimited plan $999.99 (save up to $800)

Apple Watch deals

Why we like it

Is it the most exciting Apple Watch deal we’ve ever seen? No, but it’s always nice when the latest Apple Watch, with its blood oxygen and ECG sensors, support of bike workouts, and ample screen space takes a $70 price cut. (It often sits at only $50 or even $30 off.)

More Apple Watch deals

Series 7

• Apple Watch Series 7 (41mm, GPS) — $329 $399 at Amazon (save $70)

• Apple Watch Series 7 (45mm, GPS) — $359 $429 at Amazon (save $70)

• Apple Watch Series 7 (41mm, GPS + cellular) — $429 $499 at Amazon (save $70)

• Apple Watch Series 7 (45mm, GPS + cellular) — $436 $529 at Amazon (save $93)

SE

• Apple Watch SE (40mm, GPS) — $229 $279 at Amazon (save $50)

• Apple Watch SE (44mm, GPS) — $259.99 $309 at Amazon (save $49.01)

• Apple Watch SE (44mm, GPS) — $279 $309 at Walmart (save $30)

Series 3

• Apple Watch Series 3 (38mm, GPS) — $169 $199 at Walmart (save $30)

• Apple Watch Series 3 (42mm, GPS) — $199 $229 at Amazon (save $30)

• Apple Watch Series 3 (42mm, GPS) — $199 $229 at Walmart (save $30)

Refurbished

• Refurbished Apple Watch Series 6 (40mm, GPS + Cellular) — $244 $299 at Amazon (save $55)

• Renewed Apple Watch Series 5 (44mm, GPS) — $229 $415 at Amazon (save $186)

Apple accessories deals

Why we like it

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

Are the only over-the-ear AirPods ridiculously expensive? Yes. But do they offer excellent audio quality and good battery life in a stylish package? Also yes. And they’re back down to their Black Friday price, which happens to be their all-time low price, in every color but pink and green.

More Apple accessories deals

• AirPods (third gen) — $169 $179 at Amazon (save $10)

• AirPods Pro — $195.15 $249 at Amazon (save $53.85)

• AirPods Pro — $199.98 $249 at Walmart (save $49.02)

• AirPods Max— $429.99 $549 at Amazon (save $119.01)

• Beats Solo3 Wireless On-Ear Headphones — $151.49 $199.95 at Amazon (save $48.46)

• Powerbeats Pro Totally Wireless Earphones — $199.95 $249.95 at Amazon (save $50)

• Beats Studio3 Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones — $209.51 $349.95 at Amazon (save $140.44)

Explore related content:

• 8 monitors to take your MacBook Pro to the next level

• MacBooks aren’t the only great laptops — and this list proves it

• Best headphones for iPhone owners: Think outside the (AirPods) box

Robot vacuum deals have always been a pillar of Prime Day. Oddly, though, many of the best deals on robot vacuums ahead of Prime Day aren’t from Amazon. Thanks to competing summer sales from Best Buy and Walmart, you have a handful of options to find the model that best suits your budget.

• BEST BUDGET DEAL: The Wyze Robot Vacuum is the rare ultra-affordable pick that can be sent to specific rooms — $165 $329 (save $164)

• BEST SELF-EMPTYING DEAL: The Shark IQ RV1002AE cleans competently, self-empties, and offers zone cleaning — $299.99 $599.99 (save $300)

• BEST ROBOT VACUUM/MOP DEAL: The Roborock S6 Pure can sweep and scrub specific rooms for less than $400 — $359.99 $599.99 (save $240)

Robot vacuums under $200

Why we like it

Roombas generally don’t have the ability to map and clean specific rooms until around the $500 price point. That’s what makes the Wyze vacuum so impressive. Its LiDAR tower emits 2,016 laser pointers every second to generate a floor plan of your home. On the app, you can edit walls or re-label areas, or create a schedule.

More robot vacuums under $200

• ionvac Smart Clean 2000 — $97 $179.88 (save $82.88)

• Eufy 11S — $139.99 $229.99 (save $90)

• Ecovacs G30 Edge — $199.99 $339.99 (save $140)

Robot vacuums under $500

Why we like it

Shark’s largest self-emptying dock can hold 45 days of dust bin refuse before you’ll need to deal with it.  The vacuum itself maps out your home, then follows that map with methodical row-by-row sweeping. In the Shark app, you can select specific rooms to clean.

More robot vacuums under $500

• iRobot Roomba i1 — $229 $399.99 (save $170.99)

• Dreamtech D9 — $239.99 $299.99 (save $60)

• Shark AI AV2001 — $249.99 $429.99 (save $180)

• iRobot Roomba i3 Evo — $299 $349.99 (save $50.99)

• Shark AI AC22501S — $395.66 $549.99 (save $154.44)

• Dreametech L10 Pro — $389.99 $489.99 (save $100)

• iRobot Roomba i4+ — $489 $649.99 (save $160.99)

• Shark IQ AV1010AE XL — $393.50 $599.99 (save $206.49)

• Eufy RoboVac X8 — $379.99 $599.99 (save $220)

• Neato Robotics D9 — $499 $699.99 (save $200.99)

Robot vacuums under $800

Why we like it

Amazon’s 30% discount on Samsung’s Jet Bot+ is a gem of a find compared to the full price listed on Samsung’s own website. The Jet Bot+ uses LiDAR to map your home and cleans by identifying the type of surface and amount of dust it’s dealing with. The compact Clean Station holds up to a month’s worth of debris.

More robot vacuums under $800:

• iRobot Roomba j7+ — $689.01 $799.99 (save $110.98)

Robot vacuum and mop hybrids and dedicated robot mops

Why we like it:

Opting for a vacuum with LiDAR mapping is a smart move if you have a complicated floor plan. The Roborock S5 Max helps avoid a “bumper car” situation by remembering the layout of each floor of your home and steering clear of the virtual boundaries you set. It also brings mopping to the table, which the cheaper S4 Max does not.

More hybrids and robot mops on sale

• Roborock E4 — $219.99 $379.99 (save $160)

• Roborock E5 — $239.99 $359.99 (save $120)

• Shark AI VacMop — $349.99 $479.99 (save $130)

• Ecovacs T8 Aivi — $499.99 $799.99 (save $300)

• Ecovacs N8 Pro+ — $449.99 $599.99 (save $150)

Are robot vacuums worth it?

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

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

What to consider when buying a robot vacuum

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Last Friday, the U.S. Supreme Court overturned longstanding precedent Roe v. Wade, allowing individual states to ban abortions. It was a devastating decision that many Americans had feared.

“Most people who seek access to abortion care are already parents, so they’re worried about how to take care of their families and how to ensure that they have what they need to afford for their own self determination,” Planned Parenthood CEO Alexis McGill Johnson said in an interview on Late Night with Seth Meyers.

Speaking to Late Night writers Amber Ruffin, Jenny Hagel, and Ally Hord, Johnson discussed the impact of the Supreme Court’s ruling, noting that up to 36 million people could be affected by Roe v. Wade being struck down. Johnson also explained how this ruling could have a dangerous impact beyond reproductive rights.

“It is really about control over our own bodies,” said Johnson. “When you look at the way the law, the opinions are written, there are also kind of indications that there are other opportunities to go after things like marriage equality, like interracial marriage, like access to contraception, all of which has enjoyed federal protections as well — constitutional protections.”

Johnson also listed several ways people can help in the wake of Roe v. Wade being overturned, from supporting local Planned Parenthood and independent clinics, to donating to Keep Our Clinics and the National Network of Abortion Funds, to sharing your own stories under the hashtags #BansOffOurBodies and #WhateverTheReason.

“We are here because we have stigmatised a very normal procedure,” said Johnson. “One that one in four women in their life will have… And the fact that we have stigmatised, the fact that we don’t talk about [abortions], means that people can make policies that codify our inequality. And if we want to stay free, we have to talk about our freedom and we have to ensure that people understand what is critically important here.”

Sure, stick vacuums can clean the heck out of your floors and robot vacuum cleaners can do all the dirty work for you without having to get up from the couch. But sometimes, you need a tool that can easily reach awkward spots (like in your car), quickly clean up messy spills, and bust the dust in no time. Enter, handheld vacuum cleaners.

Handheld vacuums are a great buy because they’re some of the most convenient cleaning devices you can own. These tiny workhorses are lightweight and compact, meaning they’re easy to store, and you can quickly grab one when your pet knocks over some Cheerios or you need to scurryfunge (i.e., quickly clean when a friend or an in-law is on their way over — eek) and make countertops, curtains, window sills, and shelves presentable in, like, minutes.

But what should you look for in a handheld vacuum? First things first, they need to be lightweight (under four pounds is best) unless you want an arm workout every time you clean. Even though you’ll probably be using them for quick cleanups, battery life is one of the most important things to consider in a cordless vacuum, especially if you want to clean large spaces (a car, for example) in one go. Look for models that can run up to 10 to 20 minutes per charge. Some handheld vacs also come with useful attachments and tools, such as a crevice tool to get into nooks and crannies, or a soft brush for targeting dust.

What is the best handheld vacuum for pet hair?

Although your dog, cat, or hamster may seem cute and cuddly, they’re really a carrier of billions of annoying little hairs. The second you invite your new pet into your life, every surface, including yourself, is bound to be covered in pet hair. And, like some kind of sick joke, it seems their pet hair never goes away, unless you have a good vacuum. 

Traditional vacuums like stick vacuums and robot vacuums may seem like a good idea when tackling pet hair, but, for those hard to reach places like the dark crevices in between your couch cushions, a handheld vacuum is the way to go. Handheld vacuums are typically cordless, cost way less money, and have free range of your cleaning space. They can also double as your lint roller so you can get all those pesky little pet hairs off every piece of clothing you have.

When looking for a handheld vacuum for pet hair, here’s what to consider:

• Suction power: Although handheld vacuums are small, you shouldn’t have to sacrifice any suction power. A handheld vacuum without good suction power shouldn’t even be consider a vacuum. Considering how difficult pet hair can be to clean, strong suction power is a must.

• Attachments: You’re going to want a handheld vacuum that comes with a variety of attachments for different purposes. Most handheld vacuums come with attachments made for specific fabrics or oddly shaped spaces. Look for a handheld vacuum with a special pet hair tool or a motorized brush to snag stubborn pet hair off your sofa.

• Weight: The whole point of a handheld vacuum is portability. Can you easily lift it up? Does it fit comfortably in your hand?

• Battery: Unless you go with a corded option, handheld vacuums are designed to be portable and cordless so their battery life may be abysmal. You might find yourself constantly needing to recharge. Look for a good handheld vacuum for pet hair with a powerful battery life to avoid half-done clean up jobs.

If you want to read more about the best handheld vacuums for pet hair, check out our roundup. Some of our top picks include the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Lithium Ion Cordless Hand Vacuum, the BLACK+DECKER Furbuster Handheld Vacuum, and the Shark WV201 Wandvac Handheld Vacuum.

The Bissell cordless hand vacuum is a very powerful pick made with pet hair in mind. You can take it with you for all your pet hair clean up needs. If you’re looking for a handheld vacuum with long attachments for all kinds of nooks and crannies, the BLACK+DECKER furbuster handheld vacuum is a great option. It even has a pet hair-lifting bristles. And, another great option is the Shark WV201 handheld vacuum. It’s sleek design and charging dock makes it the perfect handheld vacuum for at home pet hair clean up.

What is the best handheld vacuum for your car?

It doesn’t take much to dirty a car. On the worst days, you can see the history of your week just by looking at the floor. With one quick glance you can see: some spilled coffee from Starbucks yesterday morning on the console, that one loose fry from your lunch on Tuesday hidden under the passenger seat, and the muddy paw prints from the dog walk on Sunday coating the trunk.

It’s not easy keeping a car clean. Dirt, dust, and crumbs truly get everywhere. That’s why if you really want to keep your car clean, you’ll need a good vacuum cleaner. But, traditional vacuums won’t cut it, you’ll need something with reach and something that’s lightweight so it can fit in your car. We recommend a handheld vacuum for on the go cleaning.

Similar to hand held vacuums for pet hair clean up, here are some things to keep in mind when shopping for a handheld vacuum for your car:

• Suction power: Cars can be the biggest build up of gunk and grime. You’re going to want a handheld vacuum with some serious kick to it to keep your car spotless.

• Weight and size: If you’re looking to clean on the go, a good handheld vacuum should be portable and light. But, it should also feel comfortable and sturdy in your hand. You want it to be easy to store and easy to use.

• Capacity: Considering the size of your car, you’re going to want a handheld vacuum with lots of space for all the dust and debris your car can hold. And, let’s be honest, you’re probably going to forget to empty your handheld vacuum every time you use it. Why not give yourself some leeway?

• Attachments: Does it have a crevice tool for those hard to reach places?

• Battery: If you want you handheld vacuum to be a purely car vacuum cleaner, your’re going to want it to be cordless and easy to charge.

If you want to read more about the best car vacuums, check out our roundup. Some of our top picks include the Black + Decker 20V Max Flex Handheld Vacuum with Pet Hair Brush, the Dirt Devil Scorpion Handheld Vacuum Cleaner, and the Shark WV201 WANDVAC.

The Black + Decker handheld vacuum has a pivoting nozzle, strong suction power, and a three stage filtration system to prevent dust from getting out. If you’e looking for a small but powerful vacuum with a great price point, the Dirt Devil handheld vacuum is just what you need. And, the Shark WV201 handheld vacuum is a great pick for getting in tight places like under car seats or center consoles.

Here are our top seven picks for the best handheld vacuum cleaners: