News

Come watch today’s July 2025 Nintendo Direct – 25 minutes of updates and reveals on Switch 2 games

Nintendo Direct July
Direct/Partner Showcase

Nintendo Direct goes live today with the first major Partner Showcase of the Switch 2 generation, and you can watch it down below. There have been rumors abound for months on end for upcoming Microsoft Xbox titles coming to the platform, plenty of Ubisoft games, and chances are we will get some updates on those here today. Release dates for already confirmed Switch 2 ports like Elden Ring and the FF VII remake seem likely and we have heard word of Metaphor: ReFantazio and Death Stranding: Director’s Cut ports as well. But enough with the speculation (for now), as the show is set to go live very soon!

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Summer Nintendo Direct is official, but not the one we hoped for – here are the games (not) expected to make an appearance

A red and white sign
Direct/Switch 2

Nintendo has finally gone official with long-awaited and much anticipated July Nintendo Direct. The livestream will mark the first proper Direct since Switch 2 launched, outside of the dedicated shows we have already got for the system’s two biggest launch titles, but we can’t help but be mildly skeptical/disappointed with what we know so far regarding tomorrow’s show – it is a Partner showcase after all. 

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Microsoft’s Smurface Edition Copilot+ PC with laser-etched Smurfs on the lid now up for grabs – very limited units

A laptop with cartoon characters on the back
Live!/$1,000

Microsoft has quietly released a very limited batch of its special Smurface Edition Surface Laptop Copilot+ PC on Amazon for $999.99 shipped. The brand has quietly rolled this out without much fanfare, and you might want to jump in and snag one before they sell out. The listing says “only 100 units” of these Smurface Edition notebooks are up for grabs, so be sure to grab one to be among the very limited number of folks to have one of these. Hit the jump for details.

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Nomad debuts new leather case for your AirPods 4 in three colors at $29

Nomad AirPods 4 leather case-new
All-new/$29

If you happened to pick up a new set of AirPods 4 during the particularly notable Prime Day deals we featured, or perhaps last holiday season, one of our favorite leather accessory makers just quietly launched a brand new case you might want to check out too. The Nomad Modern Leather Case was already available for AirPods Pro 2, but it is now up for grabs for your AirPods 4 case at $29. Get a closer look below. 

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Nintendo just officially announced the July Direct showcase

Nintendo Direct July
Direct!/Tomorrow

It’s now official, Nintendo Direct is going live again this week with the first major Switch 2 showcase since it released in June. This is, of course, outside of the dedicated Mario Kart 8 stream and the particularly exciting Donkey Kong Bananza Direct, but this week we are in for a more traditional Switch 2 Direct that is set to showcase plenty of upcoming titles and hopefully some major surprises too. 

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Best deals on back to school gear to save you a ton with prices from $4.50 or less

Best deals on back to school gear
Back to School/From $4.50

It is that time of year and that means we are highlighting some of our favorite gear that’s now on sale for back to school season. From MacBooks and laptops to smartwatches and smart charging solutions, dorm room essentials and the best way to get to class, you’ll find loads of notable deals to browse through live at Amazon right now alongside a long list of offers we have collected for you below to save you a ton before the next semester kicks into full gear down below. 

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Tested: UGREEN’s 6-port Nexode 500W is the ultimate USB-C desktop charging solution for power users [Deal]

A black rectangular device with many wires

We’ve tested a bunch of chargers here at 9to5Toys, and while there are plenty of good ones that we continue to recommend, most of them fall short somewhere or the other – be it when it comes to the number of devices it can charge or the overall output it can deliver simultaneously. There are only a handful of charging stations out there on the market that can do it all, and the UGREEN Nexode 500W 6-port charging station we’re checking out today is one of them. This particular charger has been sitting on my desk as my main charger, topping off everything from my iPhone, AirPods, MacBook Air, and even my other everyday essentials like mouse and DualSense controller. Hit the jump to learn more about it and see if you want to pick it up for your charging needs, too.

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The ‘world’s first’ McDonald’s fries holder for your Switch 2 has arrived, and (I’m loving it) it’s ridiculous

A video game controller with a red and black box with french fries
GamiFries

We love our Switch 2 around here, and so do you. And we love us some Mario Kart World and Donkey Bananza, but I’m really loving this Switch 2 holder that also carries your McDonald’s fries. Actually, it’s totally ridiculous, and sort of brilliant…but mostly ridiculous and you can get the files to make your very own Switch 2 McDonald’s fries to mouth delivery system right now. 

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Velotric launches new Triker with SensorSwap tech, Apple Find My, and much more for a balanced and comfortable experience

A woman riding a tricycle with a small dog in the back
New ride!/$2,499

Velotric is launching a new commuting solution for seniors and riders who are looking for a more relaxing experience with its Triker, a three-wheeled e-bike that keeps comfort, safety, and reliability at the forefront of its design. On top of these key factors, the brand is also bringing smart capabilities to its performance, which we’ve been seeing more and more of lately with each new model that has been released over the last year. Below, you can learn all about what to expect on this new model alongside pricing information and pictures.

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Nintendo just launched Mario Paint for Switch Online with Switch 2 mouse mode support

Mario Paint Switch Online
Mario Paint!/Switch Online

While Switch 2 gamers await the next additions to the Game Cube library, Nintendo has just added a new title to the classic SNES library that’s perfect for the new mouse mode on your Switch 2 Joy-Con. Now available to play for all Switch Online members, Nintendo has now added the classic Super NES title Mario Paint to the collection. 

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Anker’s new 45W display-equipped 10K Nano Power Bank debuts with 15% launch deal, more

A white rectangular device with a black screen and a black and silver rectangle
15% off/Launch deal

A couple weeks ago we spotted Anker’s new display-equipped 7-in-1 Nano Charging Station with two retractable USB-C cables, and today we are highlighting the new 10K Anker Nano Power Bank. The expanded lineup of charging gear consists of both of the aforementioned pieces of kit alongside the new 5K MagSafe power bank and it is now available for purchase on Amazon…and with a launch deal direct from Anker. 

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Get another look at PlayStation’s first wireless FlexStrike fight stick controller in today’s new trailer

A video game controller on a blue background
FlexStrike/2026

Back in early June, during the last State of Play showcase, Sony officially unveiled the new PlayStation fight stick – “the first wireless fight stick designed by Sony Interactive Entertainment for PS5 and PC.” And now, we have more details including the official name and a new trailer as part of Sony’s official update announcement. Check it all out below. 

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Xbox announces playable Hollow Knight: Silksong and 20 other titles for gamescom 2025

A logo of a video game
Silksong/gamescom

The next big gaming event of the year (outside of that rumored Nintendo Switch 2 Direct that could pop up at anytime now), is gamescom. The annual gaming event is set to host most of the big players in the industry and we now have all of the official details from Microsoft – a playable demo for the long-awaited Hollow Knight: Silksong, hands-on with the new ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X, and a whole lot more. 

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You can buy a Switch 2 console online today from $449, but who knows how much longer this will last

Nintendo Switch 2 + Pokémon Legends- Z-A Nintendo Switch 2 Edition Bundle
Switch 2/From $449

Remember when it was actually difficult to get a Switch 2 at retail? It wasn’t all that long ago when folks were clamoring for a fresh new announcement that Walmart, or Best Buy, or Target would have a scheduled restock, but that is not the case anymore. Anyone looking to grab a new Switch 2 console can readily do so right now without getting off the couch or making their way to the local Best Buy when the doors open, or anything like that. 

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Metroid Prime 4: Beyond release date delayed? New details suggest announcement coming very soon

A video game poster of a robot
Prime 4/Switch 2

Reliable sources already said the next Nintendo Direct showcase was inbound this month, and now additional sources have confirmed as much. At this point, it seems as though a big-time summer Switch 2 Direct stream is all but imminent alongside, what many gamers are hoping for the most, the Metroid Prime 4 release date landing in 2025, and the rumored appearance of the new Animal Crossing game for Switch 2. 

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LEGO unveils the modular Batman: Arkham Asylum set with 16 minifigures and tons of detail

A toy building with legos
New set/Preorder!

After the exciting news this morning about LEGO’s unveiling of the new Game Boy set that is now open for preorder, the LEGO Group has also shined a light on its latest DC collaboration in the form of the upcoming 76300 Batman: Arkham Asylum set – and it’s open for preorder too! This new modular set is the biggest variation of Gotham City’s iconic institution to date – plus it comes packed with tons of minifigures of the Caped Crusader, his allies, and plenty of villains to stage countless scenes and stories of your own creation. Head below to learn more about what you can expect and browse through all the collected photos.

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Review: Lectric’s XP4 750 Folding Utility e-bike raises the bar on America’s favorite ride

A blue bike parked in the grass

America’s best-selling e-bike has taken a step further in its evolution, all while maintaining its accessibility to the everyday rider. Lectric’s new XP4 750 Folding Utility e-bike is quite the step up for the XP series, coming well-rounded and stocked with a solid array of features for a quality, high-performing experience. With the new descendant models, the king of the proverbial e-mobility hill has given the XP4 e-bikes more power, further traveling range, an even smoother ride, and a bunch of safety upgrades that are quite impressive for its affordable pricing. Whether you’re in the market for a cruiser, a commuter, or in need of a cargo-carrying alternative, Lectric has offered quite the support for it all with this new model. You can learn more about the XP4 750’s capabilities and my hands-on impression below.

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Amazon just unleashed a new less pricey 16GB Kindle Colorsoft model alongside a Kids Edition bundle

Image showing renders of Amazon's new Colorsoft kindle.
New!/$250

Following last year’s launch of its first Kindle with a color screen, Amazon is now expanding the lineup with two new additions – a 16GB version of the Colorsoft and a kid-focused model called the Kindle Colorsoft Kids. The Colorsoft Kids is essentially a bundle that includes the new 16GB Colorsoft, a special cover, and one year of its Amazon Kids Plus subscription. The new 16GB Kindle Colorsoft is available for $249.99 shipped, while the Kids bundle costs $269.99. Hit the jump for a closer look and more details.

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Assassin’s Creed: Shadows Switch 2 release all but imminent as Ubisoft seemingly confirms as much

Assassin’s Creed Shadows for Nintendo Switch 2
AC x Switch 2/AC: Shadows

Back in April before the Switch 2 set sales records a few months later, we reported on an Assassin’s Creed: Shadows Switch 2 PEGI rating. While that rating was taken down thereafter, recent hints from the Ubisoft boss suggests the latest ninja-meets-samurai adventure’s release on the next-generation Nintendo hardware is all but imminent now. 

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Nomad intros new white/silver model hybrid Universal Cable for Apple Watch, now available

A smart watch charging on a tablet

One common thread we have seen this year among Apple gear accessory makers is the hybrid charging device. Combining wall chargers with MagSafe stands and power cords with USB-C cables, one such example of this is the Nomad Universal Cable for Apple Watch that brings together a traditional USB-C lead with an integrated Apple Watch charger, and it has just introduced a new white colorway

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New official Nintendo Switch 2 bundle packages in Pokémon Legends: Z-A at a discount, pre-orders now live

Nintendo Switch 2 + Pokémon Legends- Z-A Nintendo Switch 2 Edition Bundle
Pre-orders live/Revealed

Update: Pre-orders for the new official Pokémon Switch 2 console bundle are now live:

This morning we were graced with some new details and gameplay for Pokémon Legends: Z-A as part of the Pokémon Presents showcase ahead of release, but immediately following that, Nintendo stole the show with the reveal of the official Pokémon Switch 2 console bundle. 

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Nintendo just revealed the all-new Switch 2 + Pokémon Legends: Z-A console bundle, pre-order today

A box of nintendo switch game console
New Switch 2/Pokémon

Hot on the heels of today’s summer Pokémon Presents showcase, the very first new Switch 2 console bundle has been revealed. The official Nintendo of Europe X account just debuted a new  Pokémon Legends: Z-A Switch 2 bundle that will launch the same day as the new game on October 16, but we also now know it is coming to the U.S. as well. More details below. 

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Twelve South launches new PowerBug – a wall charger with a Qi2 MagSafe pad and a bonus USB-C port

A phone on a counter
All-new/PowerBug

Following the debut of its PowerCord, today Twelve South is introducing another all-new charging device known as PowerBug. Effectively combining a wall adapter with 15W Qi2 power, the new all-in-one Twelve South device launches today in two colors to deliver a “MagSafe charger that floats with you.” It is now available for purchase at Amazon and directly from Twelve South.

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Summer Pokémon Presents goes live today – Nearly 30 mins of Switch 2 updates, reveals, more

pokemon-presents-summer
Pokémon/Presents

Today’s Pokémon Presents show is set to go live very soon with nearly a half hour of updates from across the Pokéverse. As we detailed yesterday, today’s show will be the longest in years if data pulled over the last couple days rings true and we could be in for more than just your usual string of updates on already existing Pokémon experiences. Come tune in to today’s show with us below.

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Lenovo’s Legion Go 2 leaks with OLED panel: Here’s how it stacks up against the upcoming Xbox gaming handheld

Image showing a render of Lenovo's Legion Go 2 handheld.

Lenovo first announced its Legion Go 2 PC gaming handheld back in January at CES, and we now have our first look at the device. A video shared on YouTube showcases the handheld in action, highlighting its OLED display, detachable controllers, and more. This is the first time we’re seeing this upcoming gaming handheld in its flesh outside the renders, so hit the jump for a closer look and some more details.

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The longest Pokémon Presents showcase in years goes live tomorrow – Generation 10 teaser? Classic Switch 2 remake/NSO release?

A cartoon characters in a city
Tomorrow/Pokémon Presents

The next Pokémon Presents showcase is set to go live tomorrow morning, and it’s going to be a long one. Outside of some new Pokémon TCG drops and the May announcement for the official fall Pokémon Legends: Z-A Switch 2 release date, things have been relatively quiet on the pocket monster front as of late…but all of that is about to change tomorrow when The Pokémon Company hosts the longest Pokémon Presents showcase in years. 

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All of the new games expected to appear in the next Nintendo Switch 2 Direct

A red rectangular sign with white text
Switch 2 Direct

Rumors are abound of a July Nintendo Switch 2 Direct showcase, as we reported previously. This also comes along with predictions and rumors from reliable sources, both old and new, of which games might make an appearance. There are loads of major third-party titles that haven’t been made official yet, not to mention some big-time titles that still need an official release date, and what would the first major Direct showcase after the Switch 2 be without a huge drop from Nintendo’s development teams?

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Here are the biggest Nintendo Switch 2 games still set for release this summer and beyond [Updated]

Switch 2 summer game release schedule
Releases/Switch 2

The new Donkey Kong Bananza just released to rave reviews, with game of the year already being thrown around, and terms like Switch 2’s killer app. And as fun as Mario Kart World has been – it’s going to need a ton of updates to reach the heights of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe for me, we would have to agree. But it’s only going to be a matter of time before you make it to the center of the earth to get your wish granted in Bananza, so let’s take look at the best Switch 2 games releasing this summer and beyond. 

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Tested: This SUPCASE 5-card MagSafe wallet with metal lock cover doubles up as versatile phone stand [Deal]

A hand holding a device

MagSafe wallets are a great alternative to traditional wallets, especially if you prefer to travel light with just a couple of cards and little to no cash. I personally love the convenience – they let me leave my regular wallet behind and carry one less item every time I step out. Having said that, I’m yet to find the one that checks all the right boxes for me. Most MagSafe wallets I’ve tried either don’t have enough space and barely fit one or two cards, or they don’t feel sturdy enough to keep my cards securely in place. The one we’re checking out here from SUPCASE seem to get a lot of things right while also adding some notable extras. Let’s dive in and see what it’s like to use one of these every day.

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LEGO reveals new picturesque Ideas Italian Riviera set ahead of its August release + GWP

A toy building blocks on a table
New Set!/Ciao!

LEGO has been busy with its summer reveals, and today we’re getting the veil lifted off the upcoming 21359 Italian Riviera set that will be joining the Ideas theme this August. The LEGO Group is bringing a gorgeous new way to enjoy an Italian summer without shelling out the money to head there in person – and what’s more, there’s even an included GWP set accompanying it for Insiders for a limited window once it launches. Head below to learn more about this new build and check out the photos we have collected showing off its idyllic atmosphere.

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Nintendo Switch 2 up for purchase today at Best Buy when stores open, here are the details

how to buy Nintendo Switch 2 launch
Today!/Switch 2

Nintendo Switch 2 is available for purchase at Best Buy stores across the country today. After catching a quick restock at Walmart last night online, the next chance to score a console will be when the doors open at your local Best Buy. While you might want to go call ahead of time just in case, most of them open up at 10 a.m. and there’s no telling how many units will be available. 

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Hands-on with Donkey Kong Bananza [Video]

A man smiling and holding a video game
Hands-on

Last week, I was lucky enough to get an extended hands-on look at the new Donkey Kong Bananza, and if you are a fan of Donkey Kong, even in the slightest, you will have a blast with this game. To sum it up in one sentence, picture the classic DK energy and quirkiness you love, and combine it with a stress relief smash room and even some RPG-type leveling up, and you have the perfect DK game. Here is what you need to know.

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Nintendo officially announces who is playing Zelda and Link in the upcoming live-action Zelda movie, here’s a look

Legend of Zelda movie
Cast/Zelda movie

Nintendo’s Today! app has delivered some notable reveals since it was first introduced earlier this year. One of which was the official confirmation of the upcoming live-action Zelda movie, right before it delayed the official release date to May 7, 2027. Fast-forward to today, and Nintendo has revealed who it is casting to play the titular character and the Hero of Light. 

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UGREEN debuts ‘world’s first Qi2.2-certified’ 25W power bank, the only one that can keep up with Apple’s updated MagSafe charger speeds

Image showing UGREEN's Qi2.2 25W power bank.

Apple’s updated MagSafe charger, introduced alongside the iPhone 16 lineup last year, is currently the only magnetic wireless charger capable of delivering up to 25W of power. That’s about to change, though, as UGREEN has announced the world’s first Qi2.2-certified power bank. According to the brand, its new MagFlow magnetic power bank will also support up to 25W wireless charging – putting it in direct competition with Apple’s latest MagSafe offering. The new charger is expected to launch later this year, and you can find more details about it below.

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Anker launches new display-equipped 7-in-1 Nano Charging Station with two retractable USB-C cables

New Anker display-equipped 7-in-1 Nano Charging Station lands stateside with two retractable cables

Earlier this spring a brand new Anker Nano Charging Station with an onboard display similar to the Anker Prime lineup that has been popular among 9to5Toys readers quickly appeared over in Japan. Fast forward to this week, and the new Anker Nano Charging Station (7-in-1, 100W) is now up for sale on Amazon here in the U.S. complete with a pair of retractable USB-C cables, additional USB-C charging ports, and three AC outlets around back. Scope it out down below. 

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8Bitdo’s Switch 2-compatible Pro 3 wireless controller with swappable magnetic buttons, Hall effect triggers, more up for pre-order

Image showing 8Bitdo's Pro 3 wireless controllers.
Pre-order!/$70

8Bitdo has just unleashed its new Pro 3 wireless controller, now up for pre-order on Amazon. This is the successor to the popular Pro 2 model from 2021, offering broader compatibility with a wide range of platforms, including the Switch 2, Valve’s Steam Deck and other SteamOS-based handhelds, PC, iOS, and more. You can pre-order and reserve your unit now for $69.99 shipped, and be among the first to get your hands on it when it officially launches on August 12, 2025. The listing is also covered by Amazon’s Pre-order Price Guarantee, which means you’ll pay the lowest price offered between now and the release date. The Pro 3 brings several improvements over the existing model, so be sure to hit the jump for a closer look at the gamepad along with its features.

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Xbox Ally X and Ally prices leaked: Here’s how much Microsoft’s upcoming handhelds may cost

A video game controller and a game controller

Just a little over a month after the official announcement, we now have an idea of how much the upcoming Xbox-branded ROG Ally handheld consoles may cost. As highlighted in a new report, it appears as though Google Search pulled some results from ASUS’ website and listed the Xbox Ally X and Ally at €899 and €599, respectively. You are looking at the European prices, though they give us a good understanding of how much they could cost in the U.S. market as well. Hit the jump for more details.

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Reliable source says big summer Nintendo Switch 2 Direct showcase could go live this month

Next Nintendo Switch 2 Direct summer
Direct?/Switch 2

It’s going to be a relatively big week for Nintendo and Switch owners as Donkey Kong Bananza is set to hit store shelves on Thursday. It, perhaps outside of Mario Kart World, has been among the most highly-anticipated Switch 2 releases thus far, but the exclusive Switch 2 game lineup is still relatively thin and fans seem to be clamoring for more. But worry not – a reliable Nintendo leaker has recently divulged that the next Nintendo Direct showcase is likely to go live this month. 

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Best Buy officially announces Switch 2 restock this week for Donkey Kong Bananza launch

A video game console and a box
Restock/Bananza

The next big-time Switch 2 exclusive release is landing later this week, and if you’re yet to grab a console, we are are also getting  Best Buy console restock. Donkey Kong Bananza is set for release on July 17 – the same day Best Buy has officially confirmed it will have Nintendo Switch 2 consoles in stock once again. 

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Last day for the giant Walmart Prime Day sale: Apple, LEGO, toys, kitchen, school supplies, more

Walmart Prime Day Deals last day
Last Day/Walmart

Amazon’s massive Prime Day sale (mostly) ended early Saturday morning, but Walmart is still going strong through today with its 2025 competitor sale. Featuring thousands of deals, Walmart has some of the most notable discounts of all the major retailers this year. So good in fact that it prompted Amazon to drop the prices ever lower on select gear – the best price ever on AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods Max, for example – and you still have time to jump in as it enters the final 24 hours today. 

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Heads up! You can now score 50% off Walmart+ memberships ahead of its massive summer sale

Walmart+ memberships
50% off/$49/yr.

Walmart is now once again offering Walmart+ memberships at $49 – that’s 50% off the usual annual fee. While this deal cannot be used to extend an existing annual subscription, it is landing just in time to kick off the retailer’s massive summer sale that is set to go live on Monday with early access for members. Details below. 

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Prime Day deals hub – Last Day: New price drops on Apple and Samsung, YETI, Anker monitors, more

A cardboard box with fireworks

The final 24 hours of the massive Amazon Prime Day sale is now in full swing. We have already uncovered some fresh new price drops and most of the best deals are still alive and well – everything awaits you down below. From the best prices ever on some of Apple’s latest and most popular releases, to the brand new Samsung foldables and massive price drops across the Google pixel ecosystem, we also have deals on all of the storage and tech accessories you could ever need, loads of top-tier e-bike offers, and some of the lowest prices to date on the biggest smart home gear in the game, plus a whole lot more. Head below for our updated Prime Day deals hub. 

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