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New Amazon packaging turns cardboard into rockets, cat condos, box cars, more

Amazon packaging

It’s wonderful to see companies like Apple, Microsoft, and others ratcheting up the fight against climate change. Not only has Amazon pledged to be net zero by 2040, it’s tackling this challenge while also empowering consumers to have a little fun with it. The company now lists six different ways that Amazon packaging can be used to have some fun prior to recycling no-longer-used cardboard. This means that your next order could include packaging that’s easily crafted into a cat condo, rocket, box car, and the list goes on. Continue reading to learn more.


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Score four Wi-Fi smart switches for under $9 each, more in today’s Green Deals

Meross Direct (98% positive lifetime feedback) via Amazon is offering a 4-pack of its Wi-Fi Smart Switches for $34.59 shipped with the code LII5VX7Q and when you clip the on-page coupon. Down from its $45 going rate, today’s deal saves you around 23% and is among the best pricing that we’ve tracked. Each of these switches adds voice control to a room of your home, plus it can be tied into automations within the Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, or Samsung SmartThings apps. This can help save on energy bills because it makes it super simple to turn lights off when you leave the house. Rated 4.7/5 stars.

Head below for more deals on motion-sensing LED flood lights, and of course Electrek’s best EV buying and leasing deals.

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New cookbooks to pick up this summer to inspire you

With everyone cooking more meals at home now, there is an array of new cookbooks that just launched for the summer. With everything from easy dinner ideas to desserts and sides, there is a cookbook for everyone. We hope these new summer cookbooks can provide you with a little cooking inspiration and introduce you to your next go-to dish. Head below the jump to find all of our top picks and be sure to check out our guide to the best new reads to keep in your beach bag this summer.


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Xbox Series X game showcase: Halo Infinite, Forza, Avowed, much more

Xbox Series X showcase
Live Now!

The big-time, first-party Xbox Series X game showcase starts now with brand new Halo Infinite gameplay. After getting a closer look at Assassin’s Creed Valhalla and some other light gameplay demos on Series X back in May, Microsoft is now ready to open the flood gate on Halo Infinite. Today’s livestream event is expected to focus on major first-party titles like the upcoming Halo Infinite, but we are also expecting to see more Microsoft Studios titles in action and maybe even more about the Xbox Series S “Lockhart.” Head below for today’s Xbox Series X game showcase.
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Ubisoft will not raise PlayStation 5 + Xbox Series X games above $60 this fall

While some studios are raising the price of next-gen titles to $70, Ubisoft has committed to keeping games at $60 for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X this fall. Microsoft is hoping many developers will jump on its Smart Delivery platform, which offers gamers a way to enjoy next-gen gaming with titles they already own. Ubisoft’s announcement here is huge when it comes to gaming this fall, and we’ve got all of the details down below as to what this means for you.


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AnyBackup: safe local backup & 100W PD charging

In addition to the ability to automatically back up NOT ONLY your phone data BUT ALSO your social media data including music, photo, video, document from Facebook, Flickr, Instagram, Tumblr, iCloud, Google Drive, Google Photo TO LOCAL STORAGE such as Micro SD Card, USB Flash Drive, AnyBackup supports HIGH ENCRYPTION SECURITY to protect your backup data absolutely.

Keeping important photos and files locally backed up while also freeing up storage on your iPhone, Mac, or iPad is something that most device owners can agree is a struggle. AnyBackup is taking to Kickstarter to tackle that with support for USB hard drives and a microSD card slot, while also supplying power to your handset with its 100W USB-C PD passthrough port. Head below for all the details, including how to lock-in a launch pricing promotion, and more.

Get AnyBackup for $34 on preorder (Reg. $59) and head below for a closer look.


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Black Friday at Walmart takes on new form with Thanksgiving Day closure

Black Friday at Walmart

After years of Walmart and other retailers kicking off Black Friday festivities on Thanksgiving Day, the retail giant has officially announced that its stores will be closed on Thursday, November 27. This news comes alongside an announcement that it will give out employee bonuses of up to $300 as a thank you for working throughout the coronavirus pandemic. Walmart’s attempt to cut down on crowd sizes is not a huge shock and will arguably be welcomed by many, but a reduction of Black Friday shopping time will be a disappointment for some that really look forward to scoring in-person deals. Continue reading to learn more.


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GAP, Old Navy, and Banana Republic’s new Deal Shop: Our top picks from $5

Who doesn’t love a good deal? GAP, Old Navy, and Banana Republic have made it easy to find the best sales with the new Deal Shop. This new shop has all of the biggest markdowns across the family of brands with prices from just $5. There are a ton of options for summer weather, including t-shirts, shorts, swimwear, jeans, and more. Plus, all orders of $50 or more receive free delivery, and if there is a discount code, it’s noted below each item. Head below the jump to find all of our top picks and be sure to check out our guide to the best women’s running shorts under $30.


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The Kobalt 80V Electric Leaf Blower is $198, more in today’s Green Deals

Lowe’s offers the Kobalt 80V Cordless Electric Leaf Blower for $197.90. Regularly $229, today’s deal is the second-best offer we’ve tracked to date. Forget about the gas and oil routine this time around and go for Kobalt’s 80V electric blower. Features 75-minutes of runtime on a single charge, giving you plenty of opportunities to tackle unruly leaves and more. Rated 4.5/5 stars.

Head below for more deals on Sun Joe electric chainsaws, and of course Electrek’s best EV buying and leasing deals.

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Hasbro unveils new Smuggler’s Run Millennium Falcon + more Star Wars figures

Smugglers Run Millennium Falcon
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With San Diego Comic-Con originally having been scheduled for this week ahead of its shift toward an online showcase, Hasbro is debuting a series of new collectibles for Star Wars fans. Headlined by a lineup of retro-inspired figures and vehicles from its Vintage Collection, upcoming releases include a Smuggler’s Run Millennium Falcon alongside iconic characters from The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi, and 501st Legion Arc troopers. Head below for a look at all of the new releases and to find out when you can add them to your collection.


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Yakuza Like a Dragon will release in November with Xbox Smart Delivery, more

Today, SEGA dropped a new trailer for its upcoming North American release of Yakuza Like a Dragon. The next mainline release on the long-running Yakuza series dropped in Japan earlier this year, but we now have a better idea of when to expect it stateside along with some fresh new gameplay footage, details on the next-generation upgrades, and much more today. Head below for a closer look.
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Herman Miller Embody Gaming Chair arrives with Logitech seal of approval

Herman Miller embody

After first being teased back in February, just before the COVID-19 outbreak, Herman Miller announced that it would be partnering with Logitech G on a new batch of gaming furniture. At that point, it was anyone’s guess as to what this new product would be. Well, today we know. Herman Miller and Logitech have partnered to bring the former’s popular Embody Desk Chair to market with a complete redesign focused on the needs of gamers. Of course, Herman Miller is well-known as an iconic furniture manufacturer, but also a brand with a legacy of ergonomic and comfortable desk chairs. The new Embody Gaming Chair looks to capitalize on all the knowledge of both brands with this announcement. Hit the jump for full details, pricing, and availability.


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LG’s latest monitor is built for high-end gaming with 4K 144Hz G-SYNC, more

LG is hitting it hard with its latest gaming monitor, designed for high-end rigs with a 4K panel that can reach 144Hz G-SYNC or FreeSync Premium Pro. Most computers struggle to hit 1440p 144Hz, so LG is really reaching for the top here. This Nano IPS display offers “the most precise color reproduction possible” and is even VESA DisplayHDR 600 certified. Should this moni4k 144hztor become the centerpiece of your gaming setup? Keep reading to find out more


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New Mint Tiny House has premium build that’s 41 feet long, sleeps 8, more

Mint Tiny House

With minimalism becoming increasingly more popular these days, it’s no wonder why tiny homes are being considered by many. As demand increases, the market tries to satisfy custom requests that customers may have. The latest from Canada-based Mint Tiny House Company goes above and beyond typical adventures with enough room to sleep eight alongside a high-end appearance that can be found both inside and out. Unlike the new Airstream Basecamp 20, this tiny home is truly massive and will need to be towed by a sizable truck. A fact that also rings true for the slightly-smaller, 38-foot Magnolia tiny house that was recently built. Continue reading to learn more.


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Tested: Anker PowerExtend brings juice to your desk with multiple ports/outlets

Anker PowerExtend
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Editor’s note: Tested with 9to5Toys is a new series focused on everyday accessories and essentials to take your setup to the next level. Have a product you’d like to see us review? Sound off in the comment section below!  

Anker recently introduced a new line of power accessories including a batch of surge protectors designed to bring expansive connectivity to your setup. Headlining is the PowerExtend USB-C Power Strip that packs up to 45W Power Delivery along with multiple USB-A and C ports and a trio of outlets. It’s on the pricier side of things at $70, especially when compared to Anker’s other power strip offerings, but there’s no denying that this is a one-stop solution for adding ample power to your setup. Full-on surge protection is another level of functionality that makes this power strip stand out from the rest of Anker’s power strip lineup. Hit the jump for a deeper look in the latest Tested with 9to5Toys.


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Best new women’s perfume for this summer: Marc Jacobs, Givenchy, more

As we just covered the best men’s cologne for summer, we’re now rounding up the top women’s scents. There are an array of new perfume for women with top brands from Marc Jacobs, Givenchy, Tom Ford, and more. Inside this guide, you will find fresh, fruity, beach-ready, scents for summer. Be sure to head below the jump to find all of our top picks.


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Microsoft now offers 70+ new Xbox game demos you can play from home for FREE

FREE

As part of the ongoing Summer Game Fest that brought us yesterday’s Nintendo Direct mini, there’s a whole lot of new Xbox One game demos to play. Microsoft is offering over 70 new game demos for players to get their hands on for free over the next week or so in order to simulate some of the experiences normally had at E3 and other physical events. Games will begin to go live starting today and continue to do so through July 27, 2020. Head below for all the details.
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Get 12 retrofit LED lights for $80 (Reg. $100), more in today’s Green Deals

Torchstar via Amazon offers a 12-pack of its 12W 6-inch Recessed LED Lights for $80.29 shipped when the on-page coupon is clipped. Regularly around $100, today’s deal is $5 less than our previous mention. Ditch your old recessed lights and go LED with this bundle from Torchstar. You’ll be able to cut down on energy usage (up to 87%) and count on its impressive 35,000-hour lifespan. These retrofit lights are designed for 5- or 6-inch housings. Simply screw in the socket and secure the light in place. Rated 4.7/5 stars.

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Nikon debuts new Z5 full-frame mirrorless camera with a more affordable price

Nikon Z5 Pre-order

Nikon today is showcasing its latest mirrorless camera. As the latest release in its popular collection of Z cameras, the new Z5 debuts with a more affordable price point than those that came before and is geared towards budding photographers and content creators. Despite making some compromises in the form of a more budget-friendly casing, new additions like dust and moisture resistance, dual memory card slots, and more will surely make it stand out at its price. Head below for all the deals on the Nikon Z5, including availability details and more.


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Monument Valley devs unveil Alba Wildlife Adventure for console, iOS, and PC

Alba Wildlife Adventure

Ustwo Games is best known for its masterful Monument Valley puzzler series, but it is now ready to unveil its latest project, Alba Wildlife Adventure. Set for release on just about all platforms, the new single-player, narrative-driven experience is expected to launch later this year with a strong focus on nature preservation and what sounds like an exploration of a beautiful island. Head below for more details and a look at the debut teaser trailer.
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Wyze Cam to test ‘pay what you want’ for upcoming AI person detection feature

Wyze Cam Pan on desk

It was July of last year when Wyze announced it would bring free person detection to its suite of budget-focused smart home cameras. But then, earlier this year, Apple purchased the low-power AI startup, Xnor.ai, which was behind Wyze’s on-device person detection.

Wyze told its customers that it would roll out an in-house person detection service, and it would remain free — but after finishing up the feature, Wyze has found that it’ll cost them more than they initially thought. On the bright side, Wyze plans to test a “pay what you want” program allowing customers to pay $0 or however much they think person detection is worth, but there are a few caveats.


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Samsung Galaxy Book S is ‘first device’ to adopt hybrid Intel Lakefield CPU

Samsung Galaxy Book S Order Now!

With the move to Apple Silicon now being official, most would agree that this puts an enormous amount of pressure on Intel to remain relevant. Thankfully, a new Samsung Galaxy Book S is here, and it’s the “first device to offer the Intel Core processor with Intel Hybrid Technology.” Samsung touts this adoption as paving the way for a full-blown Windows 10 experience that can also deliver long-lasting battery life. It also boasts a weight of just 950 grams and measures 11.8mm at its thickest point. Continue reading to learn more.


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Best hiking shoes for men under $60: Chaco, Teva, KEEN, more

hiking sandals for summer
Under $60

Hiking is a great way to get outside, especially after quarantine. However, you will want to make sure you have the correct footwear to start your journey. That’s why today we’re rounding up the top hiking sandals for men. However, hiking sandals can be pricey, so we’re sharing our top picks for under $60. Plus, we’ve found options from retailers like KEEN, Chaco, Teva, and more. Head below to find out more. (Also be sure to check out our guide to the best men’s cologne for summer.)


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Add wireless smartphone charging to your Model 3 for $28, more in today’s Green Deals

TapTes Direct via Amazon offers its Model 3 Wireless Qi Charger for $27.99 shipped when promo code KYDZWSMA is applied during checkout. As a comparison, it typically sells for around $40. Today’s deal is a 20% price drop from our previous mention. At $32, this is a much less-pricier alternative to similar … products on the market today. You’ll receive a wireless charger designed for two phones that will fit perfectly in your Model 3’s dash. Supports up to 10W charging on each side. I love having a wireless charger in my Model 3, it makes it so much easier to power up devices without fumbling around for a cable. Rated 4.4/5 stars.

Head below for more deals on smart plugs, and of course Electrek’s best EV buying and leasing deals.

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LEGO gives fans a first look at its upcoming playable Ideas piano set

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After giving Nintendo fans an authentic recreation of the NES last week, today LEGO is offering a first look at another one of its upcoming creations. Entering as the most recent Ideas set inspired by a fan-made model, the new playable piano looks to be just around the corner. Head below for everything we know so far about the unique LEGO Ideas piano.


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Everything from today’s Nintendo Direct presentation: Shin Megami Tensei, more

As part of the ongoing E3 replacement Summer Games Fest, we were graced with a mini Nintendo Direct presentation this morning. While we didn’t get to see any more of the upcoming Zelda Breath of the Wild sequel, today’s partner event focused on some third-party releases as well as ATLUS’ upcoming Shin Megami Tensei titles for Switch. Head below for a closer look at today’s mini Direct and everything that got announced.
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Anker’s Nebula Astro portable projector arrives with a small footprint [Deal]

Anker nebula astro

Anker is rolling out a new portable projector today as it expands the Nebula lineup with a fresh portable offering. Unlike the brand’s previous releases, the Nebula Astro arrives with a smaller footprint made to, quite literally, look like an eye. There’s a lot to like here, including support for various streaming services and up to 2.5 hours of battery life, making it a suitable option for traveling and life on the go. Anker is even throwing in a launch day deal that sweetens the price even further. Hit the jump for all of today’s news and details on Anker’s latest announcement.


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Best gaming computers to build or buy for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020

Flight Simulator difficulty

Microsoft’s Flight Simulator 2020 comes out next month, and it’s going to be awesome. I’m stoked to play it. Many think this gorgeous game needs high-end specs to run, and while PC games always prefer expensive hardware, due to extra processing power, you won’t need a $3,000 desktop to enjoy Flight Simulator 2020. Head below for a list of the Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 minimum, recommended, and ideal specs, along with the best custom-built and pre-built computers to run the game.


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Lockly Vision Review: A versatile smart lock and video doorbell in one [Video]

Lockly vision installed on outside of door.
Watch now!

Lockly has been in the business of smart locks for a while. I’ve been using the Secure Pro for the last year and love it. But with the popularity of video doorbells growing, Lockly saw an opportunity to combine two powerful technologies into one device. The $399.99 Lockly Vision takes the versatile lock tech from the Secure Pro and combines it with the functionality of a video doorbell. Head below to watch the video and see it in action.
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Flurry of Xbox news shows Kinect games + some current consoles the door, more

Xbox news

With a Series X showcase scheduled for next week and a rumored Lockhart console on the way, it already felt like like there was an abundance of of Xbox news to digest. This just scratches the surface (pun intended) though, with a wide-ranging list of new details having emerged over the last few days. Not only will Xbox Game Pass Ultimate soon bundle xCloud, we’ve also learned that Xbox Series X will not support Kinect games. On top of that, Microsoft has discontinued some current-generation consoles ahead of Xbox Series X. Continue reading to learn more.


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Score Apple’s prev-gen. iPad Pro and Magic Keyboard bundles at up to $530 off

$530 off

B&H is currently taking up to $530 off select previous-generation 12.9-inch iPad Pro and Magic Keyboard bundles headlined by the 256GB Wi-Fi + Cellular configuration for $1,229 shipped. Originally you’d pay $1,299 for Apple’s cellular iPad Pro, with the bundled keyboard case adding another $349 into the mix. Today’s discount is as much as $419 in savings and marks the second-best we’ve seen on the pair. Apple’s cellular iPad Pro delivers a 12.9-inch display alongside Face ID, Apple Pencil support, and a USB-C port. Bundled with the Magic Keyboard, you’ll upgrade the iPad with a trackpad, floating hinge, and backlit keys. Dive into our iPad Pro review here and then see what the Magic Keyboard brings into the mix. Head below for more.


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Tested: Satechi wireless AirPods charger wins with an ultra-portable design

satechi airpods charger
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Editor’s note: Tested with 9to5Toys is a new series focused on everyday accessories and essentials to take your setup to the next level. Have a product you’d like to see us review? Sound off in the comment section below!  

A few months back, Satechi introduced its USB-C wireless charging dock for AirPods. After a few weeks of use, it’s time to offer up some thoughts on this unique add-on for Apple’s latest truly wireless earbuds. This $30 charger offers the benefit of USB-C connectivity, which can be leveraged alongside a wide range of devices, including MacBooks and iPad Pro. In theory, it’s a great idea. In practice? Head below to find out in the latest episode of Tested with 9to5Toys.


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Backcountry’s new biking line partners with Specialized, prices starting at $5

Backcountry just launched a new collection called “Specialized” designed for bike riders. Throughout the line, you will find apparel, saddles, tires, helmets, shoes, and accessories made just for biking. The Specialized brand has been making biking apparel and gear since 1974. Whether you’re hitting the mountains, streets, or riding your bike to work, this line has everything you need. Prices start at just $5 for accessories and go up to $425 for select biking shoes. Head below the jump to find all of our top picks, and be sure to check out our guide to the best women’s running shorts under $30.


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Score Kobalt’s 80V electric string trimmer and blower combo kit for $159, more in today’s Green Deals

Lowe’s is offering the Kobalt 2-piece 80V Electric String Trimmer and Blower Combo Kit at $159. As a comparison, it originally sold for $300 but trends around $200. This is the best price we’ve tracked to date. This bundle includes everything you need to tidy up outdoor spaces this summer. Both sport a cordless design and it ships with a 80V battery for power, along with a wall charger. Best of all? No gas or oil to deal with. Rated 4.5/5 stars.

Head below for more deals on electric go karts, and of course Electrek’s best EV buying and leasing deals.

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Get a closer look at the PlayStation 5 controller in today’s gameplay stream

DualSense PlayStation 5 Controller

Today we are getting another good look at the PlayStation 5 controller. The new DualSense gamepad is helping to usher in the next generation of gaming with a series of technological advancements over the DualShock 4 predecessor, along with a two-tone color scheme to match the futuristic design of PlayStation 5. Today’s presentation should be the first time we really get to see the controller in action after Sony unveiled it months before the actual console. Head below for more details and to watch today’s PlayStation 5 controller presentation.
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Blackmagic’s new URSA Mini Pro shoots 12K RAW that can be…edited on a laptop?

Blackmagic is well-known around here for its (relatively) budget-friendly cinema cameras. While RED charges upward of $55,000 for some camera bodies, Blackmagic has models that are much more affordable for those wanting to shoot with something higher-end than a DSLR but aren’t quite ready for cinema-level gear. Well, the latest from Blackmagic, the URSA Mini Pro, offers something that, really, nobody else can even begin to claim: 12K 60FPS recording. That’s right, the URSA Mini Pro records 12K footage — and it can even be edited on a laptop.


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New Airstream Basecamp 20 beckons campers with spacious floor plan, more

Airstream Basecamp 20

Airstream has taken the wraps off its latest camper, and it’s a beauty. The 2021 Airstream Basecamp 20 sets out to level up road trips and camping with a more spacious design that boasts separate spaces for eating and sleeping. This provides a taste of the comforts found in the recently debuted Magnolia tiny house, but with a lower price and easier-to-tow form factor. While nowhere near as affordable as the Polydrop Trailer, the Airstream brand has a great track record with reputable trailers that have been rolling off the line for around 100 years now. Continue reading to learn more.


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Leica M10-R arrives with massive 40MP sensor, available soon

Leica is out with a new camera this morning that’s designed to focus on landscape photography. Of course, there’s the classic retro design that we’ve come to know and love from the iconic brand. The price tag matches what we’ve seen from the brand historically at nearly $8,300. This full-frame camera delivers a 40MP sensor, which is ideal for capturing outdoor scenes and city photography. It’s also a big upgrade from the 24MP M10-P, which retails for almost $9,000. We have full details on today’s announcement along with availability, and more all down below.


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Best women’s running shorts under $30: Lululemon lookalikes, Nike, more

under $30

Beat the heat this summer with running shorts for women that are comfortable, affordable, and stylish. All of the top activewear brands for women have debuted short options that are great for running. Most are sweat-wicking, have built-in undergarments, and have secret pockets for your keys or cards. That’s why today we are rounding up the best running shorts for women under $30. Head below the jump to find all of our top picks and be sure to check out our guide to the best men’s golf polos that are under $50.


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Get four solar outdoor lights for $22, more in today’s Green Deals

NeloodonyDirect-US via Amazon offers a 4-pack of 28 LED Solar Outdoor Lights for $22.19 Prime shipped when code FDZCTOEP is applied during checkout. That’s down from the usual $35 or more price tag. This 4-pack of solar outdoor lights will illuminate your space without having to lean on batteries. You’ll be able to count on up to 8-hours of battery life with a single charge. It’s also IP65 waterproof, so it can withstand the life outside. Rated 4.4/5 stars.

Head below for more deals on smart dimmer switches, and of course Electrek’s best EV buying and leasing deals.

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CASETiFY launches new collection of NASA iPhone Cases and Apple accessories

NASA iPhone Cases
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Today, CASETiFY is launching its latest collection of iPhone cases and other Apple accessories in partnership with NASA. Across the collection, you’ll find plenty of imagery inspired by the space agency, including iconic logos, blueprints, and more. Alongside cases for the latest handsets, there’s also leather Apple Watch bands, and much more on the way. Head below for a closer look at the new NASA accessories and all the details for how to score them for yourself.


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PlayStation Black Friday 2019 PS Plus 50% off/$32

PlayStation Plus memberships now 50% off: 1-yr. at $32 + free digital delivery

CDKeys is now offering 1-year PlayStation Plus memberships for $29.99 $31.79 with free digital delivery. Regularly $60 at Amazon and elsewhere, today’s deal is 50% off the going rate, on par with the best prices we have tracked and a perfect opportunity to jump in. However, you can also use this deal to extend your existing subscription at a discount, no matter how many months might be left on it still. And you certainly don’t want to get stuck paying full price because you left until the last minute and just need to get online with freinds. Head below for more details.
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