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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.

Connect with Rikka Altland

LEGO TIE Fighter 2021 review: Near-flawless execution at a value-packed price

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LEGO’s latest lineup of Star Wars builds launched at the beginning of the month with four new creations headlined by the X-Wing we took a look at last week. And to go alongside the Rebel’s iconic starfighter, there’s also a reimagined version of the TIE Fighter, which we’ll be getting our hands on today to see how the newest version of the Imperial starfighter stacks up. Head below for a closer look and all of our thoughts on the new LEGO TIE Fighter.

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LEGO expands Ninjago City lineup with new 5,685-piece Gardens set

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After seeing LEGO debut its latest collection of kits to start off 2021, today we’re getting a closer look at yet another new creation. In celebration of Ninjago’s 10th anniversary, LEGO is launching a new addition to its City lineup with the new 5,685-piece Gardens set. As the largest Ninjago set to date, this one stands over 29-inches tall and comes packed with 19 minifigures. Head below for all of the details on the LEGO Ninjago City Gardens set.

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Arcade1Up debuts 7 new cabinets, including Pong, X-men, Battletoads, more

X-Men Arcade


Arcade1up is getting in on the CES fanfare today with the announcement of its latest collection of retro gaming releases. Including three entirely new form-factors of the brand’s popular at-home arcade machines, there are seven upcoming ways for retro gaming fans to bring home a piece of arcade history. Head below for a look at all of the new unveils, including Dragon’s Lair, X-Men, Pong, Battletoads, and more.

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TP-Link debuts first smart video doorbell, new motion dimmer switch, and more

Kasa Smart Video Doorbell and Chime
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Today, TP-Link is expanding its stable of Kasa smart home gear with a collection of new releases headlined by its very first video doorbell. Plus, there’s also a new motion-activated dimmer switch, Pan Tilt camera, and more on the way for Alexa and Assistant users to bring into their setups. Head below for a closer look at everything on the horizon from TP-Link.

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TCL debuts 8K Mini-LED TVs alongside first 85-inch model, new soundbars, more

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Today, TCL is expanding its stable of home theater gear with its latest lineup of mini-LED TVs. On top of the brand’s very first 85-inch display, TCL is also announcing new Dolby Atmos soundbars, its third-generation Mini-LED technology, and a new lineup of smart Roku 8K TVs. Head below for a closer look at all of TCL’s new home theater upgrades, including its latest Mini-LED TV.

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Hands-on with LEGO’s 2021 X-Wing Starfighter: What’s old is new again

LEGO 2021 deals Buy now

LEGO kicked off 2021 by launching a collection of new kits, including a handful of new Star Wars models. Today, we’re starting to go hands-on with the entire lineup of builds from a galaxy far, far away by taking a look at the latest version of the X-Wing. After receiving an all-new, more affordable design and some exclusive new minifigures, how will LEGO’s most recent attempt at the classic starfighter stack up? Head below for a closer look and all of our thoughts on the new LEGO 2021 X-Wing.

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OWC debuts first Thunderbolt 4 Dock for M1 Macs alongside new SSDs, more

OWC is starting off the year by launching its latest Mac peripherals, this time geared towards Apple’s latest M1 machines. Headlined by its very first Thunderbolt 4 dock, OWC has a stable of new hubs and accessories on the way for upgrading your workstation. Head below for a closer look at the new OWC Thunderbolt 4 Dock and everything else on the way.

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New Wave Toys launches limited-edition, fully-playable Asteroids Replicade

New Wave Toys has been a favorite here at 9to5 when it comes to retro arcade gaming, and today, the latest addition to its lineup of 1/6th scale cabinets is finally here. Bringing Asteroids to its collection of 12-inch arcade cabinets, the newest Replicade delivers plenty of vintage decals, an enhanced 3.5-inch display for vector graphics, and a fully-playable build. Head below for all of the details on the limited-edition release and how you can score one of the 3,500 Asteroids Replicade until for yourself.

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Satechi debuts lineup of backlit aluminum keyboards alongside new iPad stand [Deal]

Satechi backlit keyboards
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Today, Satechi is expanding its collection of Apple accessories with a refreshed multi-angle iPad stand and four backlight keyboards. Sporting the brand’s signature aluminum designs, the new desktop peripherals look to expand your Apple workstation. Head below for a closer look at the new unveils and how to take advantage of a launch discount.

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Arcade1Up’s Countercade brings Galaga to the game room at $100 (Save 33%)

Reg. $150/$100

Walmart currently offers the Arcade1Up Galaga Countercade for $99.97 shipped. Usually fetching $150, which is what you’ll pay for other Countercade models right now, today’s offer is good for a 33% discount, marks one of the first price cuts on this particular cabinet, and is a new all-time low. Bringing all of the retro action of an arcade cabinet to a smaller form-factor, this Countercade is a great option for game rooms without a lot of space. Centered around a color 8-inch display, Arcade1Up brings full-sized arcade controls to the cabinet alongside Galaga and Galaga ’88, and all of the vintage artwork you’d expect. Rated 4.6/5 stars and you can get a closer look in our launch coverage. Head below for more.

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CASETiFY launches new Disney collaboration with Mickey Mouse iPhone 12 cases, more

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Today, CASETiFY announced its most recent collaboration for a new series of iPhone cases and Apple accessories. This time around, there’s a new collection of iPhone 12 Pro covers decked out in Mickey Mouse iconography thanks to the brand’s first ever partnership with Disney. Head below for a closer look at all of the upcoming limited-edition CASETiFY Disney iPhone accessories and details on scoring it for yourself. 

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Samsung debuts 2021 TV lineup with refreshed Frame, first Mini-LED models, more

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Today, Samsung is refreshing its lineup of smart HDTVs alongside introducing a collection of entirely new models. Slimming down its popular Frame TV series, Samsung is also introducing its very first MicroLED TVs alongside some other additions to its lineup. Head below for a closer look at all of the new unveils in Samsung’s 2021 TV lineup.

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Wrap your 12.9-inch iPad Pro in Twelve South’s BookBook Vol 2 folio at $68 (Reg. $80)

Reg. $80/$68

Amazon offers the Twelve South BookBook Vol 2 Case for the latest 12.9-inch iPad Pro at $67.99 shipped. Usually fetching $80, today’s offer is good for a 15% price cut, marks only the second time on sale, and matches the all-time low. Designed for Apple’s latest iPad Pro, its BookBook Vol 2 provides a full-grain genuine leather book form-factor that stylishly protects the tablet. On top of room for just the iPad, you’ll also find storage space for other accessories, as well as Apple’s Magic Keyboard. Reviews are still coming in on this new release, but so far it carries a 5/5 star rating.

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Dell refreshes UltraSharp lineup with 40-inch Curved 5K Thunderbolt 3 monitor, more

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Today, Dell is refreshing its lineup of UltraSharp monitors alongside the debut of a new series of Collaboration displays. Delivering a series of firsts for Dell, its new collection of monitors arrives with pop-up cameras, dedicated Microsoft Teams buttons, reduced blue light-emitting panels, and more. Head below for a closer look at all of the new displays, including the flagship Dell UltraSharp 40-inch Curved 5K monitor.

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LEGO’s latest Ideas review includes 25 builds from LOTR, Avatar, Among Us, more

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Today, LEGO is showcasing the final 25 fan-made creations that have a shot at becoming official builds from its 2020 campaign deadline. Packed with plenty of potential eye-catching models, highlights of the most recent LEGO Ideas winter review include a build right out of The Hobbit, as well as Among Us, Avatar, and a Roman warship. Head below for a closer look at the contenders for the next LEGO Ideas kit.

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Check out all of LEGO’s new 2021 sets: Star Wars, Technic, Creator, much more

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We’re now officially into 2021, and LEGO is officially launching a new collection of creations to kick off the year. With hundreds of new builds spanning everything from Star Wars and Disney to Technic, Creator, BrickHeadz, and more, there are plenty of new sets now available for purchase. Head below for the full scoop on all of the new LEGO sets available in 2021 so far.

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LEGO Mos Eisley Cantina review: Ending 2020 with LEGO’s largest Star Wars set of the year

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Today, we’re taking a look at the largest LEGO Star Wars creation of the year, and one of its most accurate models to date. Bringing one of the most iconic locations from A New Hope into a nearly 3,200-piece set, the new Mos Eisley Cantina packs 21 minifigures and plenty of authentic details into an eye-catching creation. But is this collectible creation worth the steep price tag? Head below for all of our thoughts and a closer look at the LEGO Mos Eisley Cantina in our latest hands-on review. 

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This Raspberry Pi 4 4GB starter kit includes all the essentials at $80 (Save 20%)

Save 20%/$80

The LABISTS official Amazon storefront is currently offering its Raspberry Pi 4 4GB Starter Kit for $79.97 shipped when clipping the on-page coupon. Saving you 20% from the going rate, today’s offer is $5 under the previous price cut and a new all-time low. If getting more familiar with coding is on your New Year’s resolution list, or you just want a new project to tinker with, this starter kit is worth a look. Alongside the Raspberry Pi 4 itself, this kit includes everything you’ll need to get started including a case, power supply, microSD card, and more. Over 1,000 customers have left a 4.6/5 star rating.

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Best LEGO sets of 2020: Check out our favorite Star Wars, Ideas, and other builds

best LEGO kits 2020
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Another year is just about in the books, and before we dive into all of the action from what LEGO has in store throughout 2021, we’re taking a retrospective look at what this year already delivered. Ranging from some of the most massive creations of all time to the latest licensed kits and collectible builds, you’ll want to head below for our top ten LEGO sets of 2020.

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Write-off Week: Save money on tax-deductible business expenses before the year ends

Write-Off Week
WFH buys/Shop now

Now that the holidays are in the rear view mirror, we’re continuing with one of our annual traditions here at 9to5Toys, Write-Off Week. With the year just about over, time is running out make some last-minute purchases for you to deduct from 2020’s taxes. So whether you just started working from home for the first time or are looking to renovate an aging setup, now is a great time to lock in some new, tax deductible gear to write off in April. Head below the hold for all of our favorite Write-off Week deals.

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Hands-on: LEGO’s limited-edition Christmas X-Wing blends Star Wars with festive cheer

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Throughout December, we’ve been counting down to Christmas with LEGO’s Advent Calendars. And now that the big day is finally upon us, we’re culminating our coverage with a look at yet another festive creation. And this time, it’s a limited-edition version of one of the most iconic vehicles from a galaxy far, far away. The LEGO Christmas X-Wing brings some Santa stylings into a fan-favorite starfighter from the Star Wars universe with exclusive figures and plenty of holiday charm. Head below for a closer look.

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[Update: Day 24] Countdown to the holidays with LEGO’s 2020 Advent Calendars

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Each year as December descends, we begin the annual tradition of diving into the latest LEGO Advent Calendars, and 2020 is certainly no different. With 24 days of creations on tap, we’ll be going through everything day after day to showcase what’s new as we inch closer to the big day toward the end of the month. This year, we’re taking a look at what the LEGO Star Wars and City sets have to offer in particular. So whether you’re following along at home or just checking out the builds, be sure to head below the fold to see how the 2020 LEGO Advent Calendars stack up. 

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KFC teams up with Cooler Master to officially showcase upcoming KFConsole

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Over the summer, we teased that KFC was cooking up a console of its own to take on Sony and Microsoft. Half expecting it to be a joke, KFC is back to close out the year today with the full unveil of its fittingly named KFConsole. Featuring 4K 240Hz gaming, the KFConsole delivers a unique form factor with a design that leverages the console’s heat to keep your chicken warm while gaming. Head below for a closer look.

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JINS launches new Pokémon-inspired prescription glasses collection

Pokémon glasses
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Today, The Pokémon Company is launching its latest collaboration, this time in partnership with eyewear brand JINS for a lineup of glasses inspired by the Kanto region and beyond. With unique styles packed with charm from fan favorites like Pikachu, Eevee, and Mew, the latest JINS lineup is aimed at all of the Pokémon trainers looking to grab some new prescription glasses. Head below for a closer look.

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Hands-on: Synology’s new 5-bay DS1520+ shines as one of its most versatile NAS yet

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Synology has long been one of our favorites in the NAS game, and today we’re taking a look at one of its latest releases. Whether you’re thinking about securing your data in the new year or want to build out a capable Plex server, the new DS1520+ delivers high-end performance at a reasonable price point bolstered by five hard drive bays and four Gigabit Ethernet ports. Head below for all of the details as we review Synology’s DS1520+ NAS and put it to the test.

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LEGO gives rejected Ideas projects a second chance with new BrickLink Designer Program

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Since launching back in 2008, the LEGO Ideas platform has given fans a way to turn their own creations into official kits. And while we typically see a handful of kits released from the theme each year, LEGO is making some new progress today to provide an additional avenue for creators to turn fan-made builds into official kits. Relaunching its partnership with BrickLink, the upcoming LEGO Designer Program is giving rejected Ideas projects a second chance. Head below for all of the details.

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Fan-made 5,000-piece LEGO Razer Crest gives us a look at what to expect from a UCS model

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Each month, we highlight our favorite fan-made LEGO creations from its Ideas platform, but today, we spotted a model that might be one of the most eye-catching builds of the year. With the second season of The Mandalorian coming to an end tomorrow, builder Jerac has shared an impressive recreation of the bounty hunter’s iconic vehicle. Giving us an idea of what to expect from a future UCS-style version, be sure to head below for a closer look at this fan-made LEGO Razor Crest model.

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Microsoft unveils pair of limited-edition Mandalorian Xbox controllers

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With the second season of The Mandalorian coming to a close, Microsoft is getting in on the hype by showcasing a pair of new limited-edition gamepads inspired by the series. With two eye-catching designs inspired by the popular Disney+ series, you’ll want to head below for a closer look at the unique gamepads and for all of the details on adding the Mandalorian Xbox controllers to your collection.

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LEGO announces its 150th BrickHeadz figure is on the way following fan vote

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Today, LEGO is announcing yet another new creation to look forward to in the near future. But unlike all of the 2021 unveils we’ve seen recently, today’s news is centered around the results of LEGO’s most recent fan vote to decide what the 150th BrickHeadz figure should be. But now the votes are all tallied, and LEGO is ready with an answer. Head below for all of the details and to see whether the new figure will be based on Star Wars, Minecraft, Jaws, or Lilo & Stitch.

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Plugable debuts Thunderbolt 3 Dock for Mac with 100W passthrough charging [Deal]

Plugable 100W Thunderbolt 3 Dock Launch savings/Buy now

After seeing the launch of its 14-in-1 Thunderbolt 3 dock back in November, Plugable is looking to close out the year with the debut of yet another new Mac and PC accessory. This time around, there are some upgraded specs like 100W passthrough charging alongside the ability to drive two 4K 60Hz monitors and more. Head below for a closer look at the Plugable 100W Thunderbolt 3 Dock and all the details on locking in a launch discount on the new release.

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New LEGO 2021 sets on the horizon: Ideas Vintage Car, Pet BrickHeadz, much more

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With 2021 just around the corner, LEGO builders are already eagerly anticipating the new creations, and today, there’s a new collection on kits on the way. While we’ve already gotten many of the more popular LEGO kits covered, details on what to expect from some of LEGO’s in-house themes have now arrived. With a series of new BrickHeadz figures, as well as Ideas promotions and more slated to launch in the new year, we’re diving into yet another batch of upcoming creations. Head below for all of the details.

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LEGO expands Art collection with official look at upcoming Mickey Mouse mosaic

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After getting a first look back in November, LEGO is now officially detailing its upcoming Disney Art set. The upcoming 2,600-piece creation expands LEGO’s lineup of brick-built mosaics with two of the most iconic characters in all of animation history. Giving you the choice to build either Mickey or Minnie Mouse, the latest pieces of LEGO home decor will be arriving next month. Head below for a closer look at the latest LEGO 2021 set.

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Synology debuts new AMD-powered 8-bay DS1821+ NAS with 2.3GB/s speeds

Synology DS1821+ NAS
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Today, Synology is out with the latest expansion to its lineup of NAS with a new high-end model geared towards home networking enthusiasts and small business owners. The new Synology DS1821+ NAS debuts with an 8-bay design and as one of the brand’s first releases to be powered by an AMD Ryzen processor. Head below for a closer look at performance, features, and more.

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Meross debuts new smart garage door remote with HomeKit, Alexa, and Assistant

Meross Collie
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Meross is expanding its stable of smart home accessories today with its latest garage door opener remote. Armed with support for Siri, Alexa, and Assistant, Meross Collie enters with a refreshed design, improved Wi-Fi connectivity, and other new features. Head below for all of the details and a closer look at how the latest from Meross stands out from the competition.

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Mario Kart Live review: Nintendo delivers a gaming-changing AR experience for Switch

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The 35th anniversary of Super Mario brought plenty of new ways to enjoy the Nintendo action from a battle-royale style title to an official collaboration with LEGO. But one of the releases from earlier this fall that was overlooked by the limited-edition release of Mario All-Stars fell to Mario Kart Live. The remote-controlled car brought the wildly-popular racing game into the real world with an augmented reality experience to tie everything together. And today, we’re taking a hands-on look at what to expect from Nintendo’s latest out of the box idea, so head below for a closer look at everything in our Mario Kart Live review.

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LEGO collaborates with Monster Jam for new Grave Digger and Max-D Technic kits

LEGO Technic Monster Jam
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Today, we’re getting another look at the latest LEGO creations due out in 2021 with a pair of Technic sets. In collaboration with Monster Jam, fans will be able to assemble either the iconic Grave Digger or Max-D monster trucks complete with pull-back features and plenty of authentic details. Head below for a closer look at the two new LEGO Technic Monster Jam sets.

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LEGO showcases upcoming 2021 catalog with Star Wars, Creator, and other new kits

LEGO Catalog 2021

With the new year on the horizon, we’re getting more and more of a complete picture of what to expect from LEGO once 2021 rolls around. Today, we’re getting another official look at what to expect, thanks to the very first LEGO catalog that’s been released. Head below for a closer look at the new creations in the first LEGO catalog for 2021.

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9to5Toys Gift Guide: Blair’s next-level smart home upgrades

Smart home tech has proven to be a great way to refresh your space with some ambient lighting or provide a more immersive home theater experience. Today, we’re rounding up some of our favorite accessories that would make great gifts this holiday season. Perfect for the people on your list who already pick up the latest and greatest tech for themselves, these next-level smart home upgrades are sure to excite once unwrapped at the end of the month. Head below for all of our top picks in this year’s smart home gift guide.

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LEGO brings the Jeep Wrangler to its Technic garage with upcoming 665-piece set

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Today, LEGO is taking the wraps off its latest creation, giving us a better picture of what to expect from the upcoming 2021 wave of kits. Bringing the iconic Jeep Wrangler into LEGO form for the very first time, the new Technic model arrives as just the latest set to debut ahead of the new lineup of kits next year. Stacking up to over 660 pieces, you’ll find a working winch alongside other authentic details. Head below for all of the details on the upcoming LEGO Technic Jeep Wrangler.

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LEGO gets festive with new Ice Skating Rink set, here’s how to score it for FREE

Learn more/FREE

With the holidays around the corner, LEGO is back to start the month here with its latest winter-themed creation. Stacking up to over 300 pieces, the new Ice Skating Rink brings some festive charm to your LEGO city complete with two minifigures and a working mechanism to actually let them skate. Head below for a closer look at the new LEGO Ice Skating Rink kit and to learn how it can be added to your collection for entirely free.

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LEGO’s Collectible minifigure Series 21 arrives with an Aztec warrior, centaur, more

LEGO minifigure series 21

Today, LEGO is taking the wraps off its latest roster of collectible minifigures with 12 new characters. As one of its most diverse selections yet, this time around, fans will be able to expand their collections with everything from a centaur archer to beekeeper, Aztec warrior, violinist, and more. Head below the fold for more details and a closer look at all 12 of the new releases in the LEGO Collectible minifigure series 21 set.

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LEGO expands Modular Building collection with new 2,900-piece Police Station

LEGO Police Station
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Today, LEGO is unveiling the latest expansion to its collection of modular Creator Expert buildings with what will likely be the very last creation showcased in 2020. Stacking up to over 2,900 pieces, the new LEGO Police Station pairs a New York City-style headquarters with donut shop and more to expect your brick-built city. Head below for a closer look at the new LEGO modular Creator Expert building and for all the details.

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LEGO’s upcoming 2021 botanical collection includes a bonsai tree and flower bouquet

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Today, we’re getting another look at what to expect from the LEGO 2021 lineup with a pair of new Creator Expert sets that stand out from anything we’ve seen from the existing brick-built catalog. Assembling two botanical creations, the new kits bring a buildable flower bouquet and bonsai to your collection. Head below for a closer look at the new LEGO Creator Expert 2021 lineup.

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A first look at the new LEGO Star Wars 2021 sets: X-Wing, Tie Fighter, more

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Today, LEGO is giving us an official first look at the upcoming 2021 lineup of Star Wars kits ahead of launching in January. With four new creations on the way on top of the previous-unveiled Mandalorion kit, builders will be able to assemble various models from the Original Trilogy including an X-Wing, Tie Fighter, and more. Head below for a closer look at all of the upcoming 2021 LEGO Star Wars sets. 

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Save up to $200/From $250

Save up to $200 on CarPlay and Android Auto receivers from $250

Best Buy is discounting a selection of CarPlay and Android Auto receivers headlined by the Pioneer 6.8-inch model with Alexa for $499.98 shipped. Down from its $600 going rate, today’s offer is good for a $100 discount, marks one of the first price cuts we’ve seen, and is a new all-time low. Featuring a 6.8-inch touchscreen display, Pioneer’s CarPlay and Android Auto receiver makes keeping an eye on directions, music playback, and more a breeze while commuting. This model even comes equipped with Alexa functionality for summoning the voice assistant while on-the-road. Rated 4.2/5 stars. Head below for more from $250.

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Save up to 33% on Yale HomeKit, Z-Wave, and Zigbee smart locks, more from $100

Save up to 33%/From $100

Amazon currently offers the Yale Assure Lever HomeKit Smart Lock for $239.99 shipped. Down from its usual $299 going rate, today’s offer saves you 20%, beats our previous mention by $9, and comes within $2 of the all-time low. This version of Yale Assure smart lock stands out from other options on the market with an integrated handle set. On top of being able to leverage your phone to unlock the front door, there’s also a built-in touchscreen, the ability to summon Siri, Alexa, and Assistant for voice commands, and automatic unlocking features. Rated 4.2/5 stars from 365 customers. Head below for more.

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