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Rikka Altland

rikkaaltland

Rikka Altland is the Editor-in-Chief of 9to5Toys. Having joined the team at the beginning of 2017, over the past six years she has gone on to specialize in being a mainstay in the LEGO news and rumors scene while also reviewing the latest iPhone accessories, earbuds, and home networking gear. Contact it directly at rikka@9to5mac.com for tips and pitches.

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Review: LEGO extends Sailboat Adventure freebie promotion, but is the Ideas set worth it?

After first launching at the start of August as a gift with purchase, the recent LEGO Ideas Sailboat set promotion is now being extended through the end of the month. We’re now taking a hands-on look at the set to see what you’ll be getting, and whether it’s worth trying to pick up in the first place. Head below for a closer look at the LEGO set as well as all of the details on locking in the promotion.

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9to5Toys Daily: September 16, 2021 – 10.2-inch iPad hits $299, MagSafe Wallet $49, more

Listen to a recap of the best deals and news from 9to5Toys each day at noon. 9to5Toys Daily is available on iTunes and Apple PodcastsGoogle Play, or through our dedicated RSS feed. New episodes of 9to5Toys Daily are recorded every weekday. Subscribe to our podcast in iTunes/Apple Podcast or your favorite podcast player to guarantee new episodes are delivered as soon as they’re available.

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LEGO officially unveils new 350-piece Santa’s Sleigh set with four reindeer

After getting a first look at the beginning of September, the LEGO Group has now unveiled its latest festive holiday creation. Serving as a perfect add-on to this year’s Winter Village set, the upcoming LEGO Santa’s Sleigh arrives with nearly 350 pieces and four of the hard-to-come-by reindeer figures. Head below for all of the details.

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Review: GoPro HERO10 Black is finally here and packed with refinements

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Today, the new GoPro HERO10 Black is finally here. Having long been the gold standard of action cameras, the most recent model looks to iterate on its predecessors with an improved processor, 23MP sensor capable of recording 5.3K footage, a hydrophobic lens, and plenty of other enhancements. But do all of those features stack up to continue GoPro’s reign? Head below for all of the details in our hands-on review.

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9to5Toys Daily: September 15, 2021 – Save on iPad mini 2021, MagSafe Charger, more

Listen to a recap of the best deals and news from 9to5Toys each day at noon. 9to5Toys Daily is available on iTunes and Apple PodcastsGoogle Play, or through our dedicated RSS feed. New episodes of 9to5Toys Daily are recorded every weekday. Subscribe to our podcast in iTunes/Apple Podcast or your favorite podcast player to guarantee new episodes are delivered as soon as they’re available.

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Marshall brings active noise cancellation to true wireless earbuds lineup with Motif ANC

Marshall early Black Friday

Today, Marshall is expanding its collection of true wireless earbuds with two new models. Marking the very first time we’ve seen a pair of cord-free earbuds with active noise cancellation, the new Marshall Motif ANC arrives alongside a more affordable pair of release in the Minor III. Now available for pre-order, you can head below for more.

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Nomad launches new collection of signature Horween Leather iPhone 13 cases

After seeing a collection of other new iPhone 13 cases go up for sale earlier today, Nomad is now getting in on the action with the debut of a whole new series of accessories. Ranging from its latest Horween leather cases and covers to sportier offerings and more, you’ll want to head below for a closer look at the entire collection.

Before we head below the fold, the new Nomad iPhone 14 series cases have just been revealed for Apple’s latest.

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Spigen debuts new ArcHybrid Mag, its first MagSafe power bank [deal]

Pre-order/40% off

Amongst all of the other new iPhone 13 accessories launching today, Spigen is now getting in on the action with the debut of its very first MagSafe power bank. The upcoming ArcHybrid Mag arrives with a 5,000mAh capacity alongside 7.5W charging speeds and a stronger magnetic force than other models on the market. Seeing a notable launch discount, you can head below for all of the details on the first Spigen MagSafe power bank.

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Hands-on: Logitech launches ultra-lightweight G435 LIGHTSPEED Gaming Headset

Logitech G435 Headset

Today, Logitech is expanding its roster of LIGHTSPEED gaming accessories with its latest wireless headset. Arriving as its latest offering to date, the all-new Logitech G435 enters with all of the gaming prowess you’d expect from the brand alongside a cord-free design and pretty compelling price point. Head below as we take a hands-on look at the new Logitech G435 Headset.

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9to5Toys Daily: September 14, 2021 – Best Apple event day discounts

Listen to a recap of the best deals and news from 9to5Toys each day at noon. 9to5Toys Daily is available on iTunes and Apple PodcastsGoogle Play, or through our dedicated RSS feed. New episodes of 9to5Toys Daily are recorded every weekday. Subscribe to our podcast in iTunes/Apple Podcast or your favorite podcast player to guarantee new episodes are delivered as soon as they’re available.

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Apple’s latest movie sale has $10 Pixar flicks, $5 action films, and this week’s $1 rental

Save 50%/From $1

Apple is starting off another week with its latest movie sale, this time around discounting a wide array of movies courtesy of iTunes. Headlined by a series of fan-favorite Pixar films at $10 each, you’ll also find a collection of $5 action films up for grabs, too. Not to mention, there’s the latest $1 HD rental available through the end of the week. Head below for all of the details.

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LEGO showcases new 1,000-piece Fab 5 loft from ‘Queer Eye’

After seeing the LEGO Group journey to NYC for Jerry Seinfeld’s Apartment, the LEGO Group is now returning today with the launch of yet another famous abode. This time around, there’s less sitcom action and more lifestyle improvement, with the Fab 5 Loft from Queer Eye getting the LEGO treatment out of nearly 1,000 pieces. Head below for all of the details.

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Pokémon’s new Halloween collection is packed with apparel, plushes, collectibles, and more

Now that fall is here, the Pokémon Company is getting ready for halloween with a collection of spooky new merchandise. Ranging from collectibles of your character Pokémon decked out in costumes and other fitting attire to clothings, posters, and more, you’ll want to go check out all of our favorite new inclusions from the Pokémon Halloween collection down below.

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Tested: Enbrighten Outdoor Alexa/Assistant Lights deliver multicolor lighting effects to your patio

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You’re reading Tested with 9to5Toys, where we explore everyday tech essentials that make life a bit easier. Browse through our entire guide for all of the latest reviews, and sound off in the comments below if there’s something you’d like to see featured.

Fall has arrived, and if you’re looking to add some ambiance to the patio or outdoor space, these new Enbrighten Outdoor Smart Lights may very well be the perfect upgrade. Alongside Alexa and Assistant support, you’ll find multicolor illumination with various lighting effects and a weather-resistant design. But just how worthy of your smart home are they? That’s what our latest Tested with 9to5Toys looks to answer.

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Arcade1Up debuts five two-player CounterCades alongside latest Head-to-Head tables

Today, Arcade1Up is expanding its stable of retro gaming cabinets with 10 new two-player offerings. Delivering new ways to dive into classics like Mortal Kombat, NBA Jam, and even Pong, there’s a series of new CounterCade models launching this fall alongside some Head-to-Head releases. Now available for pre-order, you can head below for all of the details.

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9to5Toys Daily: September 13, 2021 – iPhone 12 Pro Max $299 off, AirPods Pro $180, more

Listen to a recap of the best deals and news from 9to5Toys each day at noon. 9to5Toys Daily is available on iTunes and Apple PodcastsGoogle Play, or through our dedicated RSS feed. New episodes of 9to5Toys Daily are recorded every weekday. Subscribe to our podcast in iTunes/Apple Podcast or your favorite podcast player to guarantee new episodes are delivered as soon as they’re available.

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LEGO set to release Luke Rebel Pilot or AT-AT Driver helmets in 2022, but one won’t make the cut

Following our report last week on the upcoming LEGO buildable Mandalorian helmet, 9to5Toys can now report that the lineup will be receiving yet another new iconic character come next spring. Joining the 2022 LEGO Star Wars lineup, it’s looking quite likely that LEGO fans will be able to assemble a brick-built version of Luke Skywalker’s Rebel Pilot helmet. Head below for all of the details on the upcoming release and everything we know so far.

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Best 2021 LEGO kits to buy before they disappear forever: Star Wars, Marvel, more

The dust is now beginning to settle on the 2021 LEGO lineup. And while we can expect a few more unveils over the final months of the year, 2021 coming to a close also means a collection of older sets are going to retire. From must-have kits that won’t be on store shelves much longer to smaller sets and everything in-between, you’ll want to head below for all of the LEGO builds set to retire in 2021.

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Prepare for the holiday season and sign-up for 9to5Toys’ new personalized email newsletters

Sign-up now!

The holiday shopping season is right around the corner, and now 9to5Toys is making it easier than ever to stay up to date on some of our latest and greatest coverage. Ranging from the best deals in our most popular product categories to news and reviews, we’ve got you covered with several new email newsletters. Sending only the most notable coverage to your inbox every day, you’ll want to head below for all of the details.

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Sony’s A7000 Sound Bar with Dolby Atmos and HDMI 2.1 goes up for pre-order, more

Today, Sony’s latest series of home theater upgrades have now gone up for pre-order, delivering several new sound bars, speakers, and subwoofers. The flagship A7000 Sound Bar delivers notable features like Dolby Atmos and HDMI 2.1 support, which is then supplemented with companion subwoofers and rear speakers. Head below for all of the details and to lock in your orders.

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9to5Toys Daily: September 10, 2021 – Apple MagSafe Charger $30, Nike 40% sale, more

Listen to a recap of the best deals and news from 9to5Toys each day at noon. 9to5Toys Daily is available on iTunes and Apple PodcastsGoogle Play, or through our dedicated RSS feed. New episodes of 9to5Toys Daily are recorded every weekday. Subscribe to our podcast in iTunes/Apple Podcast or your favorite podcast player to guarantee new episodes are delivered as soon as they’re available.

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LEGO debuts new 1,400-piece Santa’s Visit as this year’s annual Winter Village set

After seeing the brick-built version of Santa’s Sleigh join the holiday lineup, today we get a first look at yet another festive creation. Entering as this year’s Winter Village set, the upcoming LEGO Santa’s Visit set arrives with all the charm you’d expect. Stacking up at over 1,400 pieces, the wintry build features halls decked with Christmas decor alongside a snow-covered roof and Santa himself. Head below for all of the details.

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9to5Toys Daily: September 9, 2021 – M1 iPad Pro $99 off, Anker Gold Box from $8, more

Listen to a recap of the best deals and news from 9to5Toys each day at noon. 9to5Toys Daily is available on iTunes and Apple PodcastsGoogle Play, or through our dedicated RSS feed. New episodes of 9to5Toys Daily are recorded every weekday. Subscribe to our podcast in iTunes/Apple Podcast or your favorite podcast player to guarantee new episodes are delivered as soon as they’re available.

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LEGO’s new 2,000-piece Question Block recreates iconic Super Mario 64 levels

After getting a teaser yesterday, the LEGO Group has now fully unvieled the next set in its ongoing collaboration with Nintendo. Delivering a massive recreation of the iconic Question Block from Mario, the over 2,000-piece build arrives with micro-scale recreations of levels from Super Mario 64. Head below for all of the details on the all-new LEGO Mario Question Block.

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LEGO plans to expand buildable Star Wars helmet with the Mandalorian next year

If the news that the Razer Crest would be the latest Microfighter wasn’t enough LEGO Mandalorian action for you, a new report indicates that there will be even more to assemble come next year. As only the third LEGO Star Wars 2022 rumor so far, we can now report that there will be a LEGO Mandalorian helmet joining the lineup come next year. Head below for all of the details.

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Razer refreshes popular gaming mouse with added RGB and more for new Basilisk V3

Today, Razer is out with its latest battlestation upgrade, delivering its signature Chroma RGB lighting to a new peripheral. Arriving with 11 programmable buttons, the new Razer Basilisk V3 refreshes one of the brand’s most popular mice with added RGB, an adjustable scroll wheel, and a side-mounted DPI adjuster. Not to mention, it comes with a more affordable price tag than its predecessor. Head below for all of the details.

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LEGO teases upcoming Nintendo Super Mario set with Question Block build

Update: All of the details have now been announced. Get the full scoop right here.

Today, the LEGO Group is teasing its latest collaboration with Nintendo. Delivering a mysterious showcase of what may very well be the next Super Mario creation, or just a clue as to what we can expect, you’ll want to head below for all of the details about the upcoming set.

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9to5Toys Daily: September 8, 2021 – Anker sale starts at $13, Magic Keyboard $111, more

Listen to a recap of the best deals and news from 9to5Toys each day at noon. 9to5Toys Daily is available on iTunes and Apple PodcastsGoogle Play, or through our dedicated RSS feed. New episodes of 9to5Toys Daily are recorded every weekday. Subscribe to our podcast in iTunes/Apple Podcast or your favorite podcast player to guarantee new episodes are delivered as soon as they’re available.

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Tested: Hisense HS218 Soundbar delivers a value-packed home theater upgrade

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You’re reading Tested with 9to5Toys, where we explore everyday tech essentials that make life a bit easier. Browse through our entire guide for all of the latest reviews, and sound off in the comments below if there’s something you’d like to see featured.

Even with the picture quality of new TVs getting better and better, the internal speakers on even the latest releases are just no match for a dedicated system. I’ve recently been testing out the newer Hisense HS218 Soundbar, which arrives with an affordable price tag attached. But does it actually make a difference for movie night? That’s what our latest Tested with 9to5Toys looks to answer.

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LEGO strikes a chord with new 1,100-piece Ideas Fender Stratocaster guitar

Today, we’re getting a first look at the latest LEGO Ideas creation, this time with some rock and roll emphasis. Stacking up to nearly 1,100 pieces, the upcoming LEGO Ideas Fender Stratocaster delivers a brick-built version of the iconic guitar that stands over 14 inches tall and pairs with a bundled amp. Launching this fall, you can head below for all of the details.

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9to5Toys Daily: September 7, 2021 – Save $100 on M1 iPad Pro, iPhone 12, more

Listen to a recap of the best deals and news from 9to5Toys each day at noon. 9to5Toys Daily is available on iTunes and Apple PodcastsGoogle Play, or through our dedicated RSS feed. New episodes of 9to5Toys Daily are recorded every weekday. Subscribe to our podcast in iTunes/Apple Podcast or your favorite podcast player to guarantee new episodes are delivered as soon as they’re available.

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LEGO Razor Crest Microfighter slated to join Star Wars lineup in early 2022

LEGO Razor Crest

After our report on the first LEGO Star Wars 2022 set last week, 9to5Toys has now confirmed that yet another new creation slated to launch at the start of next year. As one of the year’s upcoming microfighters, fans of The Mandalorian will soon be able to assemble a miniature version of the bounty hunter’s iconic ship. Head below for all of the details on the LEGO Razor Crest Microfighter.

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LEGO Santa’s Sleigh launching ahead of the holiday season with four reindeer in tow

Update: The LEGO Group has now officially announced the Santa’s Sleigh set, which will arrive on October 1 for $35.99.

After seeing the new Advent Calendars go up for sale at the start of the month, we’re now getting a first look at yet another festive creation. Slated to launch ahead of the holiday season, the upcoming Santa’s Sleigh will be delivering on all of the holly jolly Christmas action you’d expect with Old Saint Nicholas himself alongside four reindeer and a pretty detailed version of his iconic ride. Head below for all of the details on the upcoming LEGO Santa’s Sleigh set.

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Here’s our first look at the upcoming 550-piece LEGO Mini Disney Castle

Update: We’ve now received an official look at the new LEGO Mini Disney Castle, which will be launching on October 1 with a $34.99 price tag.

With the 50th anniversary of Disney World around the corner in October, it looks like the LEGO Group will be looking to honor the celebration with a new set fitting for the occasion. Stacking up to over 550 pieces, the upcoming LEGO Mini Disney Castle will assemble a miniature version of the iconic landmark complete with a hard to find Mickey Mouse minifigure. Head below for all of the details.

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Tested: GravaStar Venus Bluetooth speaker pairs unique mecha vibes with solid sound

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You’re reading Tested with 9to5Toys, where we explore everyday tech essentials that make life a bit easier. Browse through our entire guide for all of the latest reviews, and sound off in the comments below if there’s something you’d like to see featured.

GravaStar might not be the most well-known speaker brand out there, but it’s certainly one of the more unique. After seeing a photo of its recent Venus speaker online, I knew I had to try one out for myself, which leads us to our latest Tested with 9to5Toys review. Packed with a futuristic, mecha-inspired design, we’re taking a closer look to see just how eye-catchingly unique the GravaStar Venus Speaker is.

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LEGO Star Wars Battle Packs slated to return in 2022 with new Hoth army builder

After taking a hiatus through 2021, next year will be seeing the grand return of the fan-favorite LEGO Star Wars Battle Packs. Arriving with an emphasis on The Empire Strikes Back, a new Hoth army builder set will be joining the lineup come 2022. With an assortment of four Imperial minifigures and some other builds, head below for everything we know so far about the upcoming set.

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9to5Toys Daily: September 3, 2021 – Best Apple Labor Day weekend deals

Listen to a recap of the best deals and news from 9to5Toys each day at noon. 9to5Toys Daily is available on iTunes and Apple PodcastsGoogle Play, or through our dedicated RSS feed. New episodes of 9to5Toys Daily are recorded every weekday. Subscribe to our podcast in iTunes/Apple Podcast or your favorite podcast player to guarantee new episodes are delivered as soon as they’re available.

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Hands-on: Anker’s MagSafe 5K Power Bank now comes in four new delightful colors

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After launching the popular accessories at the beginning of the year, Anker recently refreshed its MagSafe 5K Power Bank with some additional colors. Arriving in four new styles at the end of last month, we’re now taking a hands-on look at the updated colorways. Complete with all of the MagSafe charging features that have made these a go-to already, head below for a closer look at what the new styles bring into play.

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LEGO launches limited-edition blue Creator Expert Fiat 500; here’s how to buy it in the US

After first reporting on the new alternative color schemes of sets at the start of last month, the LEGO Group is now rolling out the first of these refreshed sets. Entering as a limited-edition release, the new Creator Expert Fiat 500 now comes in a baby blue coat of paint with all of the same retro stylings as before. Head below for all of the details and how you can score one of the blue LEGO Fiat 500 for yourself.

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9to5Toys Daily: September 2, 2021 – Save $99 on AirPods Max, MacBook Air $149 off, more

Listen to a recap of the best deals and news from 9to5Toys each day at noon. 9to5Toys Daily is available on iTunes and Apple PodcastsGoogle Play, or through our dedicated RSS feed. New episodes of 9to5Toys Daily are recorded every weekday. Subscribe to our podcast in iTunes/Apple Podcast or your favorite podcast player to guarantee new episodes are delivered as soon as they’re available.

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Hands-on: Moment’s iPhone camera lenses deliver a spectacular photography experience

Earlier this summer I picked up a set of Moment’s iPhone lenses alongside Nomad’s new companion MagSafe case. As cool as they were for taking photos around the house, I’ve been waiting for just the right opportunity to properly test out the iPhoneography upgrades. Last weekend I took a quick trip to the coast of Harpswell, Maine, and it was the perfect chance to put them to the test. Delivering a notable upgrade to my stock iPhone 12 Pro cameras, you can head below for a closer look at just what Moment’s lenses bring to the table.

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