Latest from Tom's Guide

5 new to Paramount+ movies I'd stream in August 2026 with 90% or higher on Rotten Tomatoes

alix.blackburn@futurenet.com (Alix Blackburn) — Wed, 12 Aug 2026 04:01:00 +0000

August is the last month of summer. Of course, it doesn’t really end until the middle of September, but these are the final few weeks I can embrace the sunshine before I go into full fall mode. Paramount+ is clearly getting into that mood with its lineup for the month, which includes plenty of movies perfect for watching on a colder evening with a warm drink. To me, there’s just no better feeling than that.

With plenty of new movies arriving on Paramount+ this month, finding something worth watching can be easier said than done. So, I’ve worked my way through the August 2026 lineup and selected seven movies that stand out from the crowd, each boasting a Rotten Tomatoes score of at least 90%. While a high score isn’t necessarily a guarantee that you’ll love a movie, it’s a good indication that critics were largely impressed.

Here are five of the best movies currently streaming on Paramount+ this August, with every pick earning a Rotten Tomatoes score of 90% or above.

The best movies to stream on Paramount Plus in August 2026

‘Dead Man Walking’ (1995)

“Dead Man Walking” is an Oscar-winning crime drama directed, written, and co-produced by Tim Robbins. Based on Sister Helen Prejean’s non-fiction book of the same name, the film stands as one of the most celebrated and balanced cinematic examinations of capital punishment and human redemption. Robbins avoids preachy melodrama, instead telling a restrained story that asks audiences to confront both the horror of violent crime and the complicated reality of the death penalty.

Sister Helen Prejean (Susan Sarandon) is a nun who agrees to visit Matthew Poncelet (Sean Penn), a convicted murderer awaiting execution on death row. Poncelet has been sentenced to death for killing a young couple and asks Sister Helen to help him appeal his sentence. As his execution date approaches, she becomes his spiritual adviser and begins visiting him in prison, while also meeting with his family and the relatives of his victims.

Rotten Tomatoes score: 97%
Watch "Dead Man Walking" on Paramount+ now

‘Escape From Alcatraz’ (1979)

Most people have probably heard of the classic “Escape From Alcatraz.” This neo-noir prison thriller is based on the true story of the famous 1962 escape from the supposedly inescapable federal penitentiary, and the film is widely regarded as one of the definitive movies in the prison escape genre. Adapted by Richard Tuggle from J. Campbell Bruce’s 1963 account, the screenplay maintains a near-documentary commitment to the real-life timeline and details of the escape.

Frank Morris (Clint Eastwood) is a convicted bank robber with a history of escaping prisons, and is transferred to Alcatraz, the notorious maximum-security prison on an isolated island in San Francisco Bay. After arriving, Morris begins studying the prison’s layout and security measures, eventually discovering a possible route out of his cell. He secretly recruits fellow inmates Clarence (Jack Thibeau) and John Anglin (Fred Ward) and Charley Butts (Larry Hankin) to help him put together an escape plan.

Rotten Tomatoes score: 97%
Watch "Escape From Alcatraz" on Paramount+ now

‘Gravity’ (2013)

If you were to ask me to name some of the best space movies ever made, “Gravity” would definitely be on my list. This sci-fi thriller was a huge critical and commercial success when it was released in 2013, earning ten Academy Award nominations and taking home seven wins, including Best Director. The movie was widely celebrated for its groundbreaking visual effects and sound design, with legendary director James Cameron even praising its technical achievements and describing it as the movie he had been waiting to see for years.

Dr. Ryan Stone (Sandra Bullock) is a medical engineer on her first space mission, working alongside veteran astronaut Matt Kowalski (George Clooney) during a routine spacewalk. Their mission goes catastrophically wrong when a cloud of high-speed debris destroys their shuttle, killing the rest of the crew and leaving Stone and Kowalski stranded in orbit. With their spacecraft destroyed and communications with Earth lost, the pair must find a way to reach a nearby space station before their oxygen runs out.

Rotten Tomatoes score: 96%
Watch "Gravity" on Paramount+ now

‘10 Cloverfield Lane’ (2016)

“10 Cloverfield Lane” is a critically acclaimed psychological thriller and sci-fi mystery directed by Dan Trachtenberg in his feature directorial debut. Produced by J.J. Abrams’ Bad Robot Productions, the film operates as a “spiritual successor” and blood relative to the 2008 hit “Cloverfield,” pivoting from found-footage chaos to locked-room psychological tension. Kept entirely under wraps during production, the film surprised the industry when its first trailer dropped just two months before its theatrical release.

After surviving a car crash, Michelle (Mary Elizabeth Winstead) wakes up inside an underground bunker with two men, Howard (John Goodman) and Emmett (John Gallagher Jr.). Howard claims that a catastrophic attack has made the outside world uninhabitable and insists that staying underground is their only chance of survival. As Michelle learns more about the bunker and the events outside, she begins to question Howard’s story and his increasingly disturbing behavior.

Rotten Tomatoes score: 91%
Watch "10 Cloverfield Lane" on Paramount+ now

‘Million Dollar Baby’ (2004)

We have another Clint Eastwood film to round off this list, and that’s “Million Dollar Baby.” This critically acclaimed sports drama was adapted by Paul Haggis and is widely regarded as one of the defining cinematic masterpieces of the 2000s. The film won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture. “Million Dollar Baby” probably isn’t the first movie that springs to mind when you’re deciding what to watch this weekend. It’s an undeniably heavy watch, and while that won’t be for everyone, there’s no denying that it’s a film that leaves a lasting impression.

Frankie Dunn (Clint Eastwood) is a veteran boxing trainer who reluctantly agrees to coach Maggie Fitzgerald (Hilary Swank), a determined waitress who dreams of becoming a professional boxer. Despite initially refusing to train her, Frankie is soon impressed by Maggie’s natural ability and dedication. With help from his longtime friend and gym assistant Eddie “Scrap-Iron” Dupris (Morgan Freeman), Frankie guides Maggie through a rapid rise in the boxing world, where she begins taking on increasingly difficult opponents.

Rotten Tomatoes score: 90%
Watch "Million Dollar Baby" on Paramount+ now

This viral couch was all over my TikTok, so I got it and put it to the test

lucy.scotting@futurenet.com (Lucy Scotting) — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 23:41:46 +0000

There's a plethora of supposedly 'cosy' couch brands on the market, which all claim to offer you the same thing — and that's a deep-seated, luxuriously plush lounge that won't entirely break the bank.

Enter Cozey — a Canadian brand that I’m happy to confirm lives up to its name — which has taken social media by storm. Launching in 2020 with a single modular sofa, the brand now offers a suite of home furnishings worth adding to your Pinterest board.

Arriving only a few months ago (April 2026) in Australia, the brand's range includes modular sectionals, sofas and sofa beds, each customisable in style, fabric and configuration. Cozey has also recently brought its dining tables, bed frames and washable rugs to the Aussie market, making it more of a one-stop shop for home upgrades.

A post shared by Katrina Martin (@katrinaa.martin)
A photo posted by on

After watching dozens (if not hundreds) of Cozey unboxing videos across Instagram and TikTok, I was immediately intrigued by the brand. Not only did the couches come packaged in smaller boxes, which I knew would be ideal for my narrow apartment doorway, but the setup seemed painless, too, with no tools needed. But much like most purchases I've been social media-influenced to make, I was worried this viral brand wouldn't live up to the hype, especially considering my ongoing couch dilemma.

I've spent the past few years teetering on the edge of whether or not to upgrade our couch. For anyone who's ever furnished their first apartment or home, you might be acutely aware of the 'sofa problem' — having to choose between your dream couch that's as beautiful as it is costly, or something wholly affordable (and presents itself as such when you sit down) to keep the roof over your head. In my case, I opted for the latter when my husband and I moved into our first apartment, and we've been riding the wave of our sad beige couch ever since.

(Image credit: Future / Lucy Scotting)

Instead of succumbing to the sagging sofa hole I've found myself in, I decided to bite the bullet and order the Cozey couch I'd been seeing everywhere online — the Ciello. It looked comfortable, luxe and most importantly, it was much less of an investment than I had expected. Better yet, the brand threw in some tidy extras — like fast shipping, pet-proof, stain-resistant fabrics and a 30-day free trial — making it even more enticing.

In true home reviewer fashion, I put it to the ultimate test and analysed my experience with Cozey into three distinct criteria: pricing, performance and value. Here's how my time with the Ciello has gone so far, from ordering to everyday lounging on one of Cozey's couches.

Total customisation for every home

Future / Lucy

Future / Lucy Scotting

After landing on Cozey's website, I was instantly overwhelmed. There were thousands of customisation options, starting with preferred style and fabric and ending with configuration.

Before delving deeper into Cozey's siren song, I ordered swatches for the Ciello, Neptune and Gaia couches. Choosing the fabric was difficult, as I'm wildly indecisive; however, you can order fabric swatches for free on Cozey's website. Most options are available across all couch styles — including the brand's Aquaforte water-resistant fabrics, boucle, chenille, velvet and leather. My main criteria was a pet-proof, stain-resistant fabric, which could keep up appearances while remaining easy-to-clean. And the corduroy ticked those boxes.

Next up was the style — and I was pretty set on one in particular. The Ciello, rather the Ciello's extra-large version, represented everything I wanted in my next couch — plush pillows, a classic deep-seated style and when combined with my chosen fabric, it was the dream millennial green centrepiece I craved for our living space.

Yay packages!Future / Lucy Scotting

Instructions and connectors for the Ciello XLFuture / Lucy Scotting

Sturdy zipsFuture / Lucy Scotting

Lots of cushion covers to pop onFuture / Lucy Scotting

Yet, before committing to the dream, there comes the question of pricing. Cozey's two-seater couches start from around AU$830 to AU$1,200, obviously depending on the style, fabric and configuration.

For the Ciello, its base two-seater sofa costs AU$1,160 (trust me on that one, I've spent the time browsing the endless listings on Cozey's website). This is around the same as most mid-range IKEA couches, but it would still be considered an investment worth thinking about carefully. For me, it was almost a no-brainer — we spend 95% of our time on our couch: eating, napping and binge-watching, so I was ready to take the plunge. That said, our final 4-seater chaise and ottoman configuration would be considered expensive, totalling AU$3,250 all up. But for total design customisation and flexible configuration, IMHO, it's worth every cent.

After ordering, my delivery was fast and seamless, but shipping times can vary based on your preferred style and configuration. At the time of writing, some styles had a three-week shipping wait, whereas others could be shipped within the week. It will really depend on stock availability (and some patience). Aside from that, if your couch arrives and you decide you don't like what you've chosen after all, you'll have 30 days to initiate a return. You'll need to email Cozey's support and keep hold of your boxes, though, so do keep that in mind.

Powerfully resistant

After a mountain of boxes were kindly delivered inside my apartment, it took little to no time at all to start the set-up process. To make the task even easier, Cozey numbers each box and keeps the cushion covers separate (and labelled), so you won't need much handholding. Inside each box, you'll likely find the base of the couch, an accompanying pillow and the connectors to keep the modules together. The only tools we needed were some brute strength and our bare hands to lock the couch components into place.

From start to finish, it took two of us about an hour to set up the 4-seater couch and storage ottoman. I struggled to slide the covers into place, as they're rather snug. Each base has a slim piece of Velcro underneath to keep them in place. Aside from that, the plump seat cushions were a bit of a squeeze to fit into their respective covers, but after the first two attempts, shoving down the insides became easy enough to do. And after our hard work was done, we flopped down and were greeted with the cosiest couch we've ever sat on.

Future / Lucy Scotting

Storage ottoman is deep and spaciousFuture / Lucy Scotting

Storage ottoman with built-in lidFuture / Lucy Scotting

It was supportive, but had plenty of sinkage for extended periods of sitting (or snoozing), and we could easily get up without feeling like we were completely sunk. The arms were sturdy, supportive, and the back pillows do a commendable job of complementing them.

The module bases were easy enough to lock into place using the connectors, especially under the chaise, and so far, the couch hasn't wiggled or moved out of place. The storage ottoman is plenty deep enough to fit all of our blankets and spare cushions. I also loved that if we really wanted to, we could arrange our couch into a king-sized bed for the ultimate movie night by slotting the ottoman in between the space, or we could extend the couch into a longer full 4-seater if we had guests over.

However, the real trial for the Ciello was yet to come, as it had to face two of its toughest opponents — my two furry, often muddy and couch-snuggle-loving Border Collies. Out of all the videos I'd seen online, people were raving about how easy Cozey couches are to clean, with some even pouring a glass of water on the couch and watching the fabric repel the liquid away. Knowing my dogs, there was always going to be an opportunity to test the effectiveness of Cozey's fabric, as they are never not covered in mud, dirt, crumbs and everything else in between.

Future / Lucy Scotting

Wiping stains off the CielloFuture / Lucy Scotting

Like magic!Future / Lucy Scotting

Sure enough, there were only a few fleeting moments before the inevitable happened and I was cleaning the couch. After some spot cleaning with water, I decided to test washing the removable cover as per the brand's instructions, and the cover was spick and span in no time. It's safe to say my couch cleaning woes are well and truly behind me now.

Is Cozey worth it?

(Image credit: Future / Lucy Scotting)

It's early days yet, but there's no denying that I really like Cozey, especially the Ciello XL. Granted, you could find a cheaper couch elsewhere, but if you are in a similar situation to me and want to upgrade your ageing sofa, Cozey is worth considering.

The customisation options are truly endless — there are thousands of configurations available — and there are plenty of great, stain-resistant fabric options too. I'm also pretty pleased at the fact that if my dogs or husband cause any mess, we can just as easily take off the cover and pop it in the washing machine.

I'll keep you posted on how the Cozey Ciello fares in the coming months, but for now, I'm glad that the hype didn't die down after the package landed on my doorstep.

Google Pixel 11 Pro XL benchmarks leak — and Tensor G6 is nearly 50% slower than Galaxy S26 Ultra

scott.younker@futurenet.com (Scott Younker) — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 19:39:54 +0000

Google is supposed to launch the new Pixel 11 series at a Made by Google event tomorrow evening. Unfortunately, the Pixel 11 Pro XL just popped up on Geekbench, revealing a phone that might not be able to keep up with the competition.

With the caveat that Geekbench listings can be faked, this doesn't look good.

We've seen one Geekbench listing for the Pixl 11 Pro XL, which reveals the new Tensor G6 chipset. The tested G6 has 7 cores with 16GB of RAM and appears to be running Android 17 out of the box.

If you're unfamiliar with Geekbench, the test utilizes several tests to see how a CPU in a phone handles certain tasks. Single-core refers to how one core (or "mini-brain") handles a single task, like, say, photo editing. Multicore refers to how all the cores handle multitasking, such as running several open apps at once or gaming.

Here's how the Pixel 11 Pro XL compares to the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra and the iPhone 17 Pro.

Pixel 11 Pro XL Geekbench Scores compared
	Single-Core Score	Multi-Core Score
Google Pixel 11 Pro XL	2,112	5,196
Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max	2,995	8,562
Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra	2,808	10,212

Here's another caveat, though: Geekbench changed to its 7.0 version recently, which updates the hardware that the test uses to compare. Across the board, scores are lower in version 7 compared to the ones in version 6. So there's not a ton of data yet.

We ran Geekbench 7 just today on the iPhone 17 Pro Max and Galaxy S26 Ultra to get the above scores.

In single-core, the Pixel 11 Pro XL is weaker by 29% (iPhone) and 39% (Galaxy), but not so much worse that it isn't similar to previous years.

However, multicore is where things get worrying. The Pixel is 39% slower than the iPhone 17 Pro 17 and 49% slower than the Galaxy S26 Ultra.

Notably, Pixel phones have tended to be slower than Apple and Samsung for years. However, Google is supposed to be catching up with new Tensor chips built on TSMC's more advanced 2nm process.

That process is supposed to bring a performance and efficiency boost. Last year's Tensor G5 was built on the TSMC 3nm process, the same platform used by chips like the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 and Apple's A19 Pro.

Tom's Guide will be on hand at the Made by Google event tomorrow and once we have the phones in hand, we'll run the Pixel 11 Pro XL through our own battery of tests. Hopefully, this lone test proves to be the outlier and not the standard.

Correction: An earlier version of this article claimed the wrong percentage performance difference between the Pixel 11 Pro XL and other phones. This has been corrected.

Nvidia RTX Spark Geekbench scores just leaked — should Apple be worried about the fastest Windows laptops on the planet?

scott.younker@futurenet.com (Scott Younker) — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 19:33:18 +0000

Nvidia's ARM-based gaming laptops powered by the RTX Spark is around the corner and appear to be ready to launch thanks to new Geekbench listings.

The new ARM-based CPUs were first revealed at Computex in May by CEO Jensen Huang. "Our focus is to reinvent the PC. Windows is of course improving, but the basic architecture of a PC has largely been the same now for about 40 years, and we want to reinvent it," Huang told Tom's Guide.

How that looks is starting with an Arm-based design over the conventional x86 architecture, but Nvidia does have experience in that realm. The company already makes Arm gaming chips that power the Nintendo Switch 2.

The RTX Spark platform is starting out on a range of Windows gaming laptops and mini PCs with a focus on gaming and agentic AIs. It should have fairly low power consumption.

Geekbench scores revealed

(Image credit: Future)

Two different Geekbench listings reveal results for the RTX Spark N1X processor in 20-core and 18-core configurations.

If we focus on the 20-core configuration, it returned surprising scores with a single-core of 2,593 and a multi-core score of 23,424. The multicore is fairly impressive, comparing favorably with Intel's i9-14900KS, which managed a score of 23,785 in the same test.

View the full results here, though I will note that the final production scores might differ.

If you're unfamiliar, Geekbench measures how well the processor handles everyday tasks by running a bunch of simulated workloads from processing numbers to crunching numbers.

Single-core is all about how fast the CPU handles one task at a time, like editing a photo. Multi-core kicks in for multitasking like running several apps or rendering by using all the chip's "cores."

Here's how those numbers compare to Apple's M5, the newer Qualcomm Snapdragon X2, and Intel's Panther Lake chips.

Geekbench Scores
	Single core	Multicore
Nvidia RTX Spark	2,593	23,424
Apple M5	4,288	17,926
Intel Core Ultra X9 388H	3,031	17,283
Qualcomm Snapdragon X2 Elite (18-core)	3,838	20,301

Surprisingly, the RTX Spark performs well against the M5 and Intel X9 in multicore. Moving up to the M5 Pro and Max gets you higher scores. The same goes for the higher-end Qualcomm Snapdragon X2 Extreme, which has recorded over 25,000.

Still, the RTX seems like it will compare favorably with most every chip on the market.

Where it seems to fail is in the single-core, where scores are significantly lower. It seems it might feel sluggish in those single tasks, but running multiple apps is where the RTX Spark might shine.

This is a pretty good indication of how the RTX Spark platform will handle CPU-heavy tasks. It doesn't tell us the whole picture, especially when it comes to gaming, but we do know the GPU will support DLSS 4.5.

RTX Spark laptops are supposed to arrive later this fall with Windows 11 out of the box. It should be compatible with most Windows games, and Nvidia is reportedly ensuring the chip will work with common anti-cheat and DRM software.

Nvidia has already confirmed that it will launch with laptops from Asus, MSI, Microsoft and more.

After 25 years, Google's iconic Search button is disappearing for some users — and this is the replacement

amanda.caswell@futurenet.com (Amanda Caswell) — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 19:13:26 +0000

If you tried to Google something recently and felt as if things looked a little different, it's not just your imagination.

Some users are seeing a redesigned Google homepage that removes the familiar Google Search button and replaces it with shortcuts for AI Mode, Create images, Ask about files and Brainstorm.

It’s only a test for now, but it’s hard to ignore what Google is putting in the Search button’s place. I've been writing about AI replacing the internet as we know it for the past several months.

For more than 25 years, Google’s homepage has barely changed. You type something into the search box, hit Google Search, and get a page of results. Now, Google appears to be experimenting with turning that same box into a chatbot window.

Google Search is starting to look a lot more like ChatGPT or Gemini

(Image credit: Google)

In the experimental layout, Google’s traditional search field is surrounded by tools that encourage you to do something other than type a keyword and look through links.

There’s AI Mode, which lets you ask longer questions and continue the conversation with follow-ups, you can ask about files or even create an image with Nano Banana. Interestingly, I’m Feeling Lucky is still there, but the old Google Search button is not.

Sure, you can still type a query, but the experience will be much different as Google is replacing classic search with AI Overviews and Summaries.

Google Search VP Robby Stein responded to people spotting the change and said the company isn't getting rid of traditional search.

"This is a small test on desktop to help people find new things they can do with Search. No impact to how the core search box works – just add your question and hit enter as usual," Stein said.

So, no, the Google Search button has not officially been killed off, but all signs seem to point that direction. If anything, the test still tells us quite a bit about where Google wants Search to go.

The end of Google Search as we know it

(Image credit: Shutterstock)

AI Mode has already pushed Google beyond the traditional search-results page by letting users ask complicated questions, follow up on answers and get information synthesized across multiple sources. Google has also been building more image, file and multimodal capabilities directly into Search.

Putting shortcuts to those tools on Google.com takes that strategy one step further. Google isn't just adding AI to Search anymore. It's experimenting with making AI the starting point.

We're being taught a new way to Google, which is ironic considering Google trained us how to search in the first place. But generative AI has changed everything, which is why Google's experimental homepage appears to be designed around the same behavior.

Keywords don't matter anymore, especially when you can search with an image or an uploaded file. The direction we are headed is a fundamentally different relationship with a search engine than we've ever seen.

Big consequences for the web

There is an obvious downside to all of this, particularly for websites that depend on Google traffic. The more Google answers a question inside its own interface, the less reason there is for someone to click through to another website.

That tension already exists with AI Overviews and AI Mode. A homepage that actively steers people toward AI responses rather than traditional search results could accelerate it.

It also puts Google into even more direct competition with ChatGPT and other AI assistants.

The Google homepage remains some of the most valuable real estate on the internet. If Google starts using it to promote image generation, document analysis, brainstorming and conversational AI, it is effectively turning google.com into a general-purpose AI interface.

And Google has one enormous advantage: billions of people already know exactly where to find it.

The takeaway

Google is very clear that removing the Search button is currently just a test, so I wouldn't declare the death of the Search button yet. But even if the Search button disappears tomorrow, the damage to the internet has already been done. The button was just a symbol at best.

The takeaway is what Google has decided is important enough to replace the Search button with: AI Mode. Image generation. File analysis. Brainstorming.

How to watch 'Reacher' season 4 online — stream the Alan Ritchson action series from anywhere

Jakob Barnes — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 19:00:00 +0000

"Reacher" season 4 will see Alan Ritchson return as the big man himself, and he's ready to take down more bad guys than ever before.

Here's how to watch "Reacher" season 4 from anywhere with a VPN.

'Reacher' S4 release date and streaming options

The first three episodes of "Reacher" season 4 will drop on Prime Video globally on Wednesday, August 12, 2026.
• Global — Prime Video
• Watch anywhere — try NordVPN 100% risk free

"Reacher" season 4 — based on the 13th Lee Child novel titled 'Gone Tomorrow' — will really double down into the spy thriller vibes, as Jack finds himself in the middle of a high-stakes political conspiracy after witnessing a woman commit suicide on the subway.

Set photos for "Reacher" season 4 also teased a new love interest for the main man, but just how much of a romantic life he will be able to lead remains to be seen, given there's a terror plot to stop. Across eight episodes, we'll see the titular hero handed his sternest test to date.

If you're ready to see the big man kick butt once more, read on and find out how to watch "Reacher" season 4 online from anywhere in the world.

Can I watch 'Reacher' season 4 for free?

As the global rollout for "Reacher" season 4 is on Prime Video, new users can get a 30-day free Prime trial. That means you can watch a good chunk of 'Reacher' season 4 for free before you have to start paying.

Remember, if you're not in your home country now, you'll need a VPN, we recommend NordVPN, to watch your regular stream from abroad.

Watch 'Reacher' season 4 from anywhere with a VPN

Traveling and blocked from your usual streaming services? A VPN, or virtual private network, lets your device appear to be back in your home country so you can securely use your existing subscriptions while abroad.

Tom’s Guide recommends NordVPN for streaming because it offers fast speeds, works across loads of devices and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

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Use NordVPN to unblock your usual streaming service and watch "Reacher" season 4 from anywhere in the world.View Deal

Using a VPN is incredibly simple.

1. Install the VPN of your choice. As we've said, NordVPN is our favorite.

2. Choose the location you wish to connect to in the VPN app. For instance, if you're outside the U.S. but want to watch the show as usual, you'd select a U.S. server from the list.

3. Sit back and enjoy. Head over to your streaming platform of choice (Prime Video in this case) and watch "Reacher" season 4.

How to watch 'Reacher' season 4 on Prime Video globally

"Reacher" season 4 is rolling out globally on Amazon Prime Video and that'll be the only place to watch the show.

Whether you're in the U.S, U.K., Australia, or even Canada, the first three episodes of the new season will drop on Prime from Wednesday, August 12.

You'll need to be a Prime Video customer to stream "Reacher" season 4. Prices are as follows in the U.S., U.K., Canada and Australia:

U.S. — $8.99/month
U.K. — £5.99/month
CAN — CA$9.99/month
AUS — AU$9.99/month

That is for the Prime Video access alone (no Prime delivery) and the basic packages, which will include adverts.

Those abroad can access their version of Prime Video using NordVPN (75% off).View Deal

'Reacher' season 4 trailer

'Reacher' season 4 — episode schedule

S4 Ep 1 (City of Brotherly Love) - August 12
S4 Ep 2 (Cage Fight) - August 12
S4 Ep 3 (One Small Step) - August 12
S4 Ep 4 (Karambits and Pieces) - August 19
S4 Ep 5 (Bridge) - August 26
S4 Ep 6 (Plum Out of Luck) - September 2
S4 Ep 7 (Vote for Sampson) - September 9
S4 Ep 8 (Cut) - September 16

'Reacher' season 4 cast

Alan Ritchson as Jack Reacher
Christopher Rodriguez-Marquette as Jacob Merrick (replacing Jay Baruchel)
Sydelle Noel as Tamara Green
Agnez Mo as Lila Hoth
Anggun as Amisha Hoth
Kevin Corrigan as Detective Shaun Docherty
Marc Blucas as John Samson
Kathleen Robertson as Elsbeth Samson
Kevin Weisman as Russell Plum
Dean Armstrong as Foster
Joel Labelle as Timur

More from Tom's Guide

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing

12 air purifier and dehumidifier deals to defeat allergies and dry air – up to 54% off

Will Salmon — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 18:00:00 +0000

Your home should be your refuge from the outside world, but it's all too easy for them to become contaminated, especially in the heat of summer. That's where devices like air purifiers and humidifiers come in handy.

Air purifiers do what the name suggests, by removing pollutants like pollen and dust for cleaner air. Dehumidifiers, on the other hand, remove excess moisture from the air to stop mold and mildew and ensure your home is the right temperature.

For this article I've rounded up 12 deals on some of the best air purifiers and dehumidifiers on Amazon right now. As always, deals don't last forever, so if there's anything that catches your eye here then make sure to move fast before these items sell out.

ubbo

Ubbo Dehumidifier for Home

DREO

DREO Hepa Air Purifier for Home

Levoit

Levoit Air Purifier

FreAire

Fre Aire Air Purifier for Large Rooms

KNKA

KNKA Air Purifier for Home Bedroom

YTE PRO

YTE Pro Air Dehumidifier

Midea

Midea Dehumidifier for Basement

Bufanli

Bufanli Dehumidifier for Basement

AEOCKY

Aeocky Dehumidifier

Waykar

Waykar Dehumidifier With Pump for Large Rooms

Levoit

Levoit Smart Air Purifier

Dyson

Dyson Hushjet Compact Air Purifier

9 stylish smartwatches that prove health tracking can actually look good — from $199 on Amazon

Will Salmon — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 16:30:00 +0000

If you want a watch that will help you stay in shape, monitor your health, and look great in the process, then you're probably in the market for a new smartwatch.

When it comes to these stylish wearables, three big brands rule the roost: Garmin, Samsung, and Apple are the home of premium smartwatches that are packed with great features.

For this article I've picked out nine of my favorites from the big three – all of which are available to buy right now on Amazon. And while some are more expensive than others, you can still score bargains, with the cheapest smartwatch here clocking in at under $200.

Garmin

Garmin Vívoactive 5 Smartwatch

Garmin

Garmin Lily 2 Active Smartwatch (Bone)

Garmin

Garmin Lily 2 Smartwatch

Garmin

Garmin Vívoactive 6 Smartwatch

Samsung

Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 (Graphite)

Samsung

Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 (Black)

Apple

Apple Watch Series 11 Smartwatch

Apple

Apple Watch SE 3 with Midnight Sports Band

Samsung

Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 (Titanium)

I read Mark Zuckerberg’s AI manifesto, so you don’t have to — here are the 5 biggest takeaways

Elton Jones — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 16:29:33 +0000

At this point, it feels like a monthly occurrence whenever a major tech CEO drops a 1000+ word essay about their thoughts on the present and future outlook of AI.

The names Sam Altman (OpenAI), Satya Nadella (Microsoft) and Dario Amodei (Anthropic) are among those individuals who’ve shared their insights into the trajectories of continued AI development, their impact on society, the long-term health/scientific benefits of advanced AI, etc. While some have found their opinions on the growth of AI and predictions for how they’ll make us better fascinating, others have found them to be full of fantastical promises that will never come to fruition.

Another individual whose name joins the list of “tech bros who’ve written lengthy papers about AI” is Mark Zuckerberg, the CEO and founder of Meta Platforms (better known as the guy who made Facebook).

He just dropped a 6,500-word AI manifesto titled “The Future is for Everyone: The Path to a Positive AI Future.” I got real comfortable in my office chair, pushed my glasses up to my nose and locked in as I read it to completion to find the five biggest takeaways you need to know.

Personal superintelligence for everyone

(Image credit: Shutterstock)

I’ll break it down for you guys and gals reading this right now via five easily comprehensible bullet points:

Everyone should have access to their own “personal superintelligence”: Zuckerberg doesn’t think AI should solely belong to governments, corporations or AI Labs— he feels it needs to belong to anyone and everyone. He wants to live in a world where the everyday person has a highly capable personal AI agent at the ready that comprehends their goals and works tirelessly to help them with tasks associated with their health, career, finances, relationships, and hobbies.
Invention over automation: Zuckerberg pushes back against the notion that AI’s continued evolution will result in more human jobs being eliminated. He is more of a huge proponent of AI improving our lives by helping humanity discover new life-saving drugs, find new ways to improve businesses and produce new creative ideas.
A single benevolent AI is not the right way forward: Zuckerberg isn’t in favor of the concept of a single small group perfecting and controlling one single aligned superintelligence. He believes the distribution of power, such as checks and balances between individuals, businesses and governments that rely on AI power, should be introduced to ensure more safety for AI usage. For example, if only one person had a superintelligent lawyer, they'd have an unfair advantage, but if everyone has one, justice becomes fairer and more achievable.
Meta is in the process of building the best personal superintelligence: Zuckerberg outlines several ways in which his company Meta is developing the sort of AI that will benefit humanity in the long run. Meta is focused on developing a capable personal agent that understands you, your goals, and everything you care about to help you improve across those key areas. The tech giant is also focused on building AI that promotes creativity with its tools, inspires business owners to embrace entrepreneurial ideas, improves teaching through personalized tutors & coaches with a PhD in every subject imaginable and pushes for scientific advances.
Pushing for America to compete with its AI rivals and Meta helping communities: Rather than slowing the development of AI data labs, Zuckerberg is a stern supporter of a world where America must build energy capacity and data centers faster in a bid to compete with China. He also points to Meta launching a “Future Is For Everyone Fund” that’s equipped to financially support the communities that house their data centers. “America's Workforce Academy” is also in place to train those communities’ skilled tradespeople to get access to free training and high-paying jobs in the areas where data centers have been built by Meta.

Final thoughts

Zuckerberg’s extensive essay supports the idea of everyone having easy access to their own personal superintelligent AI, with its presence being used to boost their personal empowerment through several avenues of their lives and a proper balance of power among the biggest entities using AI so that a foundation of safety is instituted.

His concept of AI companies working closely with governments on tighter security measures by sharing their progress before their AI agents are fully deployed sticks out as a movement I can get behind.

Amazon video doorbells are on sale from $35 — 7 Ring and Blink deals with up to 69% off

millie.daviswilliams@futurenet.com (Millie Davis-Williams) — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 16:11:33 +0000

We're between Amazon deals events right now, with Prime Day a few months behind us and Black Friday a few months ahead. But don't worry, you can still find deals if you know where to look. If you've been hankering for an upgrade for your video doorbell, I've found some discounts that are definitely worth checking out.

Right now Amazon is taking up to 69% off various smart devices, and the sale includes both Blink and Ring. If you're short on time, the best deal right now is the Blink Battery Doorbell 2K+ on sale for $47 (we rank it as the best video doorbell for shoppers on a budget.)

There are plenty more deals up for grabs, so keep scrolling to see them all. I also recommend checking out our Amazon promo codes coverage.

Quick Links

shop all Amazon device deals
Blink Video Doorbell: was $59 now $35
Blink Video Doorbell + Outdoor 4: was $139 now $43
Blink Battery Doorbell 2K+: was $79 now $47
Ring Battery Doorbell 2K: was $99 now $69
Ring Battery Doorbell 2K + Indoor Cam Plus: was $159 now $89
Ring Battery Doorbell 2K Plus: was $179 now $119
Ring Wired Doorbell 4K Pro: was $249 now $199

Blink Deals

Two years of battery life on three AA batteries is a genuinely impressive feat for a video doorbell, and that's before you factor in the HD video, night vision, and two-way audio through the app. Wired or wireless, setup takes minutes, and it works straight out of the box with Alexa.View Deal

Want to get a cheap headstart into a smart home security system? This deal gets you a Blink Video Doorbell and a Blink Outdoor 4 security camera for just $43. Sure, you can get sharper video and fancier features if you spend more, but if you just want an easy way to keep an eye on goings-on, this is a solid option.View Deal

The Blink Battery Doorbell 2K+ is our new winner for the best video doorbell on a budget. You get sharp 2K video and incredible battery life that lasts up to 22 months. Right now you can get it for 40% off — that means this deal is pretty much a no-brainer.View Deal

Ring Deals

The Ring Video Doorbell now comes in a slimmer shell, and new colorways — this one has a speckled gray finish. You also get upgraded Retinal 2K video, 6x zoom and two-way talk.View Deal

This is an affordable way to monitor both your porch and the inside of your home. You get a Ring Video Doorbell Retinal 2K video, 6x zoom and two-way talk — and a Ring Indoor Cam Plus with 2K video and super-easy setup.View Deal

The Battery Doorbell Plus has one major advantage over the basic model: Its battery is removable, so you don't have to take the entire doorbell off in order to recharge it. You're also getting 2K resolution, head-to-toe video and person and package detection — now for 33% off.View Deal

We checked this model out in our Ring Wired Doorbell 4K Pro (3rd Generation) review and gave it an excellent 4-star rating. As well as a stylish and slim design, it delivers sharp 4K video and improved night vision. View Deal

Shop more deals

11 best YETI deals on Amazon — shop coolers, tumblers and water bottles from $17

Olivia Halevy — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 15:46:37 +0000

Summer may be winding down, but there’s still time to make the most of it. Whether you’re soaking up the last weeks of vacation or getting ready for back-to-school, YETI has everything you need to stay prepared for whatever’s next.

There's nothing worse than lugging a bulky cooler to the beach or sipping on a lukewarm drink during the work or school day. That's why I'm investing in YETI. From water bottles and travel mugs to pitchers and coolers, YETI has everything you need to stay hydrated and keep your food and beverages ice cold on the go.

Even better? Amazon is currently knocking up to 30% off some of our favorite YETI products ever — and the deals start at just $17. Keep scrolling to check out my favorite YETI finds that are worth shopping for summer, back to school and beyond.

Quick Links

shop all YETI deals on Amazon
YETI Yonder Water Bottle with Yonder Straw Cap (20 oz): was $22 now $17
YETI Rambler Tumbler w/MagSlider Lid (20 oz): was $35 now $28
YETI Rambler Straw Mug (42 oz): was $45 now $31
YETI Rambler Travel Mug with Stronghold Lid (30 oz): was $42 now $33
YETI Rambler Pitcher (64 oz): was $100 now $64
YETI Hopper Flip 12: was $250 now $200
YETI Hopper M Series: was $350 now $280

YETI Deals

While it lacks insulation, this Yonder water bottle is one of the best-looking drinkware options from Yeti in my opinion. Its transparent design and color-matched lid look super sleek and give you a clear view of how much of your favorite drink you have left. Plus, the straw cap means you can sip with ease.View Deal

There’s much to love about this upgraded Yeti Rambler travel bottle. Firstly, it comes with a 100% leakproof cap, and is easy to use with just a quick, 360-degree twist for a complete seal. The bottle is available in 12 and 16 ounces, is also compatible with any cup holder, and dishwasher safe to save you the hassle. View Deal

This deal gets you a set of two 4 oz Yeti Rambler Stackable Cups. These are a great choice of shot glass — whether you favor espresso or alcohol. They're billed as espresso machine friendly, and are dishwasher safe too.View Deal

The 20 oz Rambler Tumbler with a Magslider lid is now on sale. It'll keep your favorite drinks on lock while still being easy to access! No handle to get in the way here, if you prefer to grip the cup itself.View Deal

This is my personal favorite pick! The 42oz Rambler Straw Mug is on sale for a nice 30% discount. With its large handle and straw, it's one of the most comfortable Yeti mugs to drink from and it has the capacity to keep you hydrated all day.View Deal

YETI Travel Mug has a 30 oz capacity and a Stronghold lid to keep its contents safe and secure. It's also cup-holder friendly and has a handle at the side to make it easy to sip from.View Deal

This YETI pitcher is great for keeping punch, cocktails or even coffee at the perfect temperature for sharing with a group! Its lid also keeps its contents secure, and it's dishwasher safe.View Deal

Another must-have for short hikes or an everyday commute, this backpack lets you grab what you need in an instant, whether it’s your yoga mat, water bottle or tablet. It has internal and external pockets, as well as a hydration holder. It's also super durable and stands up on its own thanks to its sturdy base. View Deal

If you want something soft sided, this is a great deal. It's large enough to hold up to 12 cans plus ice. In addition, its durable material is waterproof, reinforced and comes with a handy grab handle for easy portability. View Deal

If you love adventure almost as much as you love beer, this convenient and secure backpack cooler is a must-have. The YETI Hopper can carry up to 36 cans of your favorite beverage while keeping your hands free — and most importantly, your drinks ice cold.View Deal

Named our best leakproof cooler, the YETI Hopper M Series is a fantastic cooler for keeping your stuff chilled, but that’s not all it does. The soft cooler stands out for its wide mouth and magnetized closing with buckles. This means it can withstand impacts without opening up.View Deal

OpenAI’s head of ethics just quit — here’s why ChatGPT users should pay attention

amanda.caswell@futurenet.com (Amanda Caswell) — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 15:18:32 +0000

OpenAI has lost another senior leader whose job involved thinking about the risks and consequences of increasingly powerful AI.

As reported by Financial Times, Chloé Bakalar, OpenAI’s head of ethics and reportedly its only dedicated ethicist, has left the company less than a year after joining. Her departure follows other significant changes among the people responsible for safety and alignment at the company behind ChatGPT.

Johannes Heidecke, who led OpenAI’s Safety Systems team, announced his departure in July. Josh Achiam, who previously led OpenAI’s Mission Alignment team before becoming chief futurist, has also reportedly left the company. OpenAI had already disbanded the Mission Alignment team earlier this year.

Any one of those changes could easily be written off as the normal churn of a fast-moving technology company. But when three leaders leave all within the matter of weeks, it raises a bigger question at a moment when OpenAI is building AI that can do complex work on its own: Who inside the company has the power to say a model has gone too far?

OpenAI has been changing how it handles safety

OpenAI has been reorganizing how safety works inside the company, moving some of that responsibility closer to the researchers and engineers actually developing its models rather than keeping safety work confined to separate teams.

There is an argument for doing it this way. A safety team brought in at the end of development can identify problems, but by then many of the decisions that shaped the model have already been made. Putting safety researchers alongside the people building the technology could allow potential problems to be identified much earlier.

But there is another side to that argument. An independent safety team can act as a counterweight to the people whose job is to make a model smarter, faster and more capable. As those responsibilities become intertwined, it becomes reasonable to ask who ultimately gets to push back when the safest decision conflicts with the desire to release a new product.

That question is becoming harder to dismiss because OpenAI’s models aren't just chatbots anymore, and we're already seeing what can happen when AI becomes too capable.

OpenAI recently provided an unusually concrete example of this problem with Astra, an unreleased model whose cybersecurity abilities became powerful enough to trigger additional precautions inside the company.

OpenAI said it could not rule out the possibility that Astra could reach its highest level of concern for cybersecurity capabilities. Rather than immediately releasing the model broadly, the company moved parts of its testing into more isolated environments and began considering stricter controls around who could access its most powerful capabilities.

Setting limits for AI

AI agents are continually designed to use software, browse websites, write and execute code and complete tasks with less human supervision. The more freedom we give these systems, the more important the decisions around their limits become.

That makes the people setting those limits even more important than ever. And, unfortunately, this isn't the first time OpenAI has lost prominent safety researchers.

Now several senior people associated with ethics, alignment and safety have left. This is all happening at the same time OpenAI is building systems capable of doing significantly more than answering questions in a ChatGPT window.

In 2024, co-founder and chief scientist Ilya Sutskever left the company after playing a central role in its Superalignment effort. Jan Leike, who co-led that team, resigned shortly afterward and publicly criticized OpenAI's approach to safety.

OpenAI subsequently dissolved the Superalignment team and distributed its work elsewhere in the company.

Of course, people leave companies for all kinds of reasons, and without evidence connecting their decisions, it would be unfair to suggest that everyone working on safety at OpenAI is heading for the exits because of some shared disagreement.

But the organizational trend is certainly notable. Superalignment disappeared as a standalone team, Mission Alignment was later disbanded and Safety Systems has been reorganized. Now several senior people associated with ethics, alignment and safety have left. This is all happening at the same time OpenAI is building systems capable of doing significantly more than answering questions in a ChatGPT window.

The takeaway for ChatGPT users

I don't think these departures are a reason to stop using ChatGPT or assume that OpenAI has suddenly stopped caring about safety.

Most of us will never see the internal debate that happens before a new ChatGPT model or AI agent reaches our phones and computers. We don't know which researchers argued for additional testing, which capabilities caused concern or how often a launch was changed because somebody inside the company raised a red flag.

We mostly see the result. So as AI becomes more capable, the question isn't simply whether companies such as OpenAI have a "safety team." It's whether the people responsible for identifying risks have enough independence and authority to slow things down when necessary.

OpenAI says bringing safety closer to model development can make that work more effective. That may prove true, but after losing several of the people who were specifically tasked with thinking about ethics, safety and alignment, it's reasonable to pay closer attention to who remains in the room when the next difficult decision has to be made.

After 10 years of Pixels, why is Google still making phones?

Mark Spoonauer — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 15:12:36 +0000

It’s kind of hard to believe that the Google Pixel 11 series is about to launch. Yes, it’s been 10 years since the introduction of the first Pixel phone, which was the first truly “made by Google” device. (Yes, there were Nexus phones before that, but that was through partners like HTC.)

The original Google Pixel had a 5-inch OLED display, 4GB of RAM and an 8MP camera running Android 7.1 Nougat. But it wasn’t about the specs. It was about making a device that was a differentiated flagship that could go toe-to-toe with the iPhone 7 and Galaxy S7. A true Apple rival that had Google-made hardware and software.

To do that, Google leaned heavily into computational photography before anyone else, elevating image quality via sophisticated processing as opposed to just hardware. And the first Pixel also paved the way for AI as a hallmark feature in phones, with Google Assistant being built directly into the OS.

But now that we’re a decade in, what does Google have to show for its efforts? A fairly low No. 10 in global market share, according to IDC. And with the Apple-Samsung duopoly still going strong in the U.S. and the likes of Xiaomi, Oppo and Vivo dominating in China, does it still make sense for the Pixel to exist?

With the Pixel 11, Pixel 11 Pro and Pixel 11 Pro Fold right around the corner, I asked three of the smartest mobile analysts why Google is still making phones, and what the company can do to stand out.

(Image credit: Tom's Guide)

Google is No. 4 in the US, so what’s the problem?

Pixel 10 (Image credit: Tom's Guide / John Velasco)

On the plus side, Google’s phone sales have been growing. In fact, according to IDC’s Nabile Popal, Google’s worldwide share has grown tenfold from 2016 to 2025. And it entered the top 10 globally for the first time in 2023. And by the end of 2025, its global annual shipments had grown 8x since a decade ago.

It’s even rosier if you look at just the US. Google’s share in the US grew 4x to 4.1% in 2025, from just 1% share in 2020.

Meanwhile, Google is a fairly solid No. 3 in the UK with 7.5% share and an even higher 11% in Japan, where it’s also No. 3.

Google Smartphone Shipment Rate and Rank (First Half of 2026)
	USA	Japan	UK
Brand Rank	#4	#3	#3
Shipment Share	4.4%	11%	7.5%

"Pixels are meant to showcase Android software capabilities rather than completely dethrone partner hardware ecosystems."
— Nabile Popal, IDC

The problem is that Google simply isn’t as aggressive as other phone makers when it comes to distribution.

"Google restricts its official hardware sales to roughly 22 countries,” said Popal. “In comparison, industry leaders like Apple and Samsung distribute across well over 120 global territories, mathematically capping Google's volume potential."

That restricted distribution likely isn’t about a lack of resources. We’re talking about a parent company with a market valuation of approximately $4.3 trillion. It’s much more likely a deliberate choice that’s more political in nature. After all, Google’s Android software powers Samsung, Xiaomi and all of the other biggest brands.

"Pixels are meant to showcase Android software capabilities rather than completely dethrone partner hardware ecosystems,” Popal said. “They want to showcase their abilities without alienating their top partners."

Why Pixels phones still exist: Winning the AI war

(Image credit: Tom's Guide / John Velasco)

After Google acquired Motorola Mobility in 2011, speculation grew that Google might favor its own hardware division over its partners. And rumors started to swirl for a time that Samsung might pivot from Android to its own Tizen as the OS of choice.

But while Samsung did show off a prototype Galaxy S4 running Tizen in 2014, it ultimately shelved any plans for ditching Android on phones and pivoted towards using the software on TVs.

So if that threat has passed, why is there still a need for Pixel phones? The short answer: AI.

“Google needs its devices division to act as a Gemini-first counterweight to Apple,” said Avi Greengart, founder and lead analyst for Techsponential. “Building your own hardware ensures that your OS remains in sync with component and form factor trends, and allows Google to release features to market on its timetable, not that of its partners.”

Even before ChatGPT was a household name, Google started to pioneer key AI features that would find their way to other Android phones (and in some cases copied by the iPhone). For example, the Pixel 6 in 2021 introduced Magic Eraser for removing unwanted objects from your phones. This would not have been possible without Google’s own Tensor chip.

Gemini Live (Image credit: Shutterstock)

The Pixel 7 gave us Photo Unblur and Direct My Call for navigating byzantine phone menus, and the Pixel 9 gave us Gemini Live for the first time for real-time continuous voice interaction.

In short, Google needs to demonstrate that it continues to be at the forefront of AI on phones, especially when its partners have other options. For example, the latest Galaxy S26 series and Fold 8 series supports both Gemini and Perplexity.

“I think Google has found the right formula from a hardware perspective and the value of Gemini is definitely strengthening the offering,” said Carolina Milanesi, president and principal analyst for Creative Strategies. “It is also about owning the core piece of the product portfolio that consumers will own going forward.”

How the Pixel 11 can stand out

(Image credit: Tom's Guide / John Velasco)

With the Made by Google event coming up on August 12th, Google is rumored to be launching four new Pixel phones: the Pixel 11, Pixel 11 Pro, Pixel 11 Pro XL and Pixel 11 Pro Fold.

That’s quite a robust lineup for a company that’s still seen as a fairly small player. But Google doesn’t need to beat Apple and Samsung to succeed.

“Pixel gives Google the opportunity to show its full vision for what an AI-native smartphone experience can be,” Greengart said.

Based on the rumors thus far, the Pixel 11 could very well be an AI powerhouse. It’s expected to be powered by a 2nm Tensor G6 chip that will speed up Night Sight processing for low-light photos and other on-device AI tasks. And Google is also likely to show off Gemini Proactive Assistance for proactively surfacing useful information, building on the potential of the previous Magic Cue feature.

As reported by Android Authority, Gemini will be able to use what’s on your screen, including your notifications and info from apps to show you suggestions. It will also be able to anticipate what you might need, such as a restaurant suggestion in a text thread with your friend.

"Pixel gives Google the opportunity to show its full vision for what an AI-native smartphone experience can be."
— Avi Greengart, Techsponential

In addition, the Pixel 11 Pro will apparently feature a new HiLight LED on the back of the phone that lights up in different color patterns when you’re interacting with Gemini when the phone is face down. It will also reportedly serve as an ambient call and notification indicator. But I fear this may come off as gimmicky, similar to the temperature sensor on previous Pixels.

Is Google pushing the envelope enough?

Pixel Fold (Image credit: Tom's Guide)

While it’s clear that the Pixel 11 series will offer meaningful upgrades, it doesn’t look like the actual hardware will be evolving that much. And if the rumors prove true, Google is going to be missing the boat on a widescreen, passport-style foldable phone like the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and iPhone Ultra.

Google’s first foldable did indeed have a wide display, but it abandoned that form factor.

“This is going to be the hardest sell this year because of the attention Samsung has gotten with the Z Fold 8 and Apple will have,” Milanesi said. “That market is still small though and even more so for Google, so as long as they go to that form factor next year they will be ok.”

Google’s biggest problem is that it seems stuck between trying to trumpet the idealized version of a pure AI-first Android phone and not trying to irk its partners. After 10 years, Pixel has not quite broken through with the masses, but that could very well be a calculated decision.

“Google has not marketed itself strongly enough to become a household name in phones like Apple or Samsung,” Popal said. “Its industry leading features are only known to niche tech savvy consumers, and if it is to succeed with the Pixel 11 it has to pump up its overall marketing and channel presence.”

The question is whether Google really wants to.

I wasn’t expecting to find this many Lululemon styles under $100 — here’s what I’m shopping

Olivia Halevy — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 14:43:24 +0000

Because online shopping is basically part of my job, I’m always creating imaginary budgets and loading up carts at my favorite retailers. I don’t always make it to checkout, but I recently put that habit to the test at Lululemon. I was shocked by just how many high-quality workout pieces I could find while still staying in budget.

The store recently restocked its 'We Made Too Much' section. If I had $100 to spend, I could easily buy a few Lulu styles and still have money leftover. For example, I'm loving the Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag for just $38 paired with the Organic Cotton Baby Tee for $34 (a total of $72). If there's one item I would spend my whole budget on, it would be the 2-in-1 Maxi Dress — and it's currently on sale for just $99.

If you're looking to stock up on affordable fitness pieces, take a look at the styles I would actually buy, all under $100.

Quick Links

shop Lululemon's 'We Made Too Much' section
Organic Cotton Baby Tee: was $48 now $34
Everywhere Belt Bag: from $38
Align Tank Top (Women's): was $68 now $49
Swiftly Tech Long-Sleeve Shirt 2.0: was $78 now $54
Align High-Rise Pant 28": was $98 now $59
BeCalm Mid-Rise Wide-Leg Pant: was $98 now $74
Quilty Pleasures Tote Bag Medium 12L: was $148 now $74
Define Cropped Nulu Jacket: was $128 now $99
2-in-1 Maxi Dress: was $148 now $99

Lululemon Deals

I'm absolutely loving this baby tee in the most beautiful yellow shade. This '90s-inspired top is made from soft, organic cotton jersey. It's perfect whether you're playing tennis, taking a walk or heading out to lunch. View Deal

I already own a few of these stylish and convenient belt bags — but this blue hue is stunning! The waterproof "everywhere" bag is suitable for all occasions, complete with zippered pockets and slip pocket for your smartphone. It can be worn around your waist or strapped across your shoulder. View Deal

This cute wristlet keeps all your small items in place while you're on the move. It comes with two zippered pouches and will have you ready to go in the flick of a wrist. View Deal

This super-soft, super-comfortable tank top has a built-in bra for light support during hikes, Pilates, and yoga classes. It’s soft and sweat-wicking and comes in several different colorways to suit every style. It’s also slightly cropped to allow you to move through different yoga poses. View Deal

As the temperature warms up, this is the perfect layer to have in your wardrobe. The swiftly tech tops have been a Lululemon staple for decades, and you can wear (and wash) them again and again without them going smelly or shrinking. View Deal

The shorts are on sale in several different colorways in 2.5-inch and 4-inch leg lengths. You’ll have to cycle through the colors available in your size to find the best price, but the shorts are between $39 and $59, which is a fantastic price considering you’d normally be paying $70 bucks!View Deal

On sale from $59, the popular Align leggings are a great buy. We love these due to their comfortable, sculpted fit, and extremely soft fabric. They also stretch with you and wick sweat while you're working out.View Deal

These pants are luxuriously comfortable, making them great for couch surfing, but have a chic and smart look that works on days out too. They're made with French terry and are soft to the touch. I need pants that do both, so I feel like these are a smart choice.View Deal

If you're in the market for a versatile tote that you can take to work, the gym or during your travels, this is the one for you. It's extremely lightweight and easy to carry, and it also features a 15-inch padded laptop sleeve. I'm obsessed with its quilted design, too. View Deal

Made from Lululemon’s famously buttery-soft Nulu fabric, this lightweight jacket is perfect for morning workouts in the summer. It pairs perfectly with high-rise leggings, biker shorts or trousers and comes with zippered pockets and thumbholes to stop sleeves riding up mid-workout.View Deal

Adding this dress (that's also a skirt!) to my cart ASAP. You can convert this luxuriously soft and stretchy strapless dress into a flowy maxi skirt by simply rolling down the bodice. Talk about versatility! The bodice is made from lightweight Nulu fabric and the skirt is a breathable, sweat-wicking silk blend. View Deal

What to watch tonight: 21 new movies and shows added to Netflix, Prime Video, Paramount+ and other streaming services (Aug. 11)

malcolm.mcmillan@futurenet.com (Malcolm McMillan) — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 14:31:56 +0000

When it comes to deciding what to watch, it can get overwhelming. Fast. There are so many streaming services out there. Even if you keep it to just the best streaming services, there are dozens of new shows and movies added every day.

Lucky for you, it's my job to know exactly what's out there. So I've compiled essentially a TV guide on what to watch tonight.

I've gone through everything from Netflix, Prime Video, Paramount+, etc. I've scoured the best free streaming services like Tubi. I've even added some movies you might have missed in theaters that are finally available to buy or rent to stream at home.

So let's dive into it. Here are all the new movies and shows (and live events) you can stream tonight (August 11), and where to watch them.

Top shows and movies to stream tonight

'The Invite' (2026) (PVOD)

Genre: Comedy-drama movie

What's it about? Olivia Wilde and Seth Rogen star as husband and wife, Angela and Joe. They've invited their neighbors, Pina (Penelope Cruz) and Hawk (Edward Norton), over for dinner and drinks. But the night suddenly takes a turn, and now much, much more than just a cocktail is on offer for this foursome.

Why you need to watch it: "The Invite" is a textbook comedy-drama. In my review, I praised it for its ability to make you laugh, cry and cry from laughing. The casting is impeccable. Plus, Wilde gets to show off as a director while still putting in an incredible performance as one of the movie's leads. This is my second-best movie of 2026 so far and you need to watch it if you haven't yet.

Buy or rent "The Invite" from Amazon [PVOD] now

'Mourinho' (Netflix)

Genre: Sports docuseries

What it's about: José Mourinho wasn't always known as "The Special One." He started as a journeyman footballer. But everything changed in 2002 when he took over at Porto. In two years, he took them from a struggling side to champions of Europe. Since then, he's won at Chelsea, Inter Milan, Real Madrid, Manchester United and Roma. He may be egomaniacal, but there's no denying he's special.

Why you should watch it: Pretty much every football fan knows who Mourinho is. He's never been shy, and given the high-profile clubs he's won at, he's earned his time in the spotlight. That said, I'm very curious to see what Zlatan Ibrahimović has to say about his former manager in this docuseries.

Watch "Mourinho" on Netflix starting August 11

'Minions and Monsters' (2026) (PVOD)

Genre: Animated comedy movie

What's it about? Set before the events of "Minions," this third installment in the "Despicable Me" spin-off franchise takes us back to 1920s Hollywood. After millennia of searching for big bad bosses to work for, the Minions (Pierre Coffin) discover they're perfect for the world of silent film. However, everything turns to chaos when one of the Minions, James, unleashes a group of monsters on Los Angeles, possibly bringing about the apocalypse.

Why you need to watch it: In our review of "Minions and Monsters," I knocked it slightly for lacking the depth of its Pixar counterparts like "Toy Story 5." But you probably won't care. This animated adventure is undeniably funny, and you'll spend most of the 90 minutes laughing at the hijinks these yellow creatures get into.

Buy or rent "Minions and Monsters" from Amazon [PVOD] now

Your streaming guide: Tuesday, Aug 11

Here's everything coming to streaming today, broken down by streaming service:

NETFLIX

"Mourinho"
"Rory Scovel: Show Must Go On"
"What's Eating Dan?" season 1

PARAMOUNT+

"Dana White's Contender Series" season 10

HBO MAX

"The Salisbury Poisonings: A Spy Next Door" (CNN Films)
Seattle Mariners vs NY Yankees, 7 p.m. ET
Dunkman Qualifiers, 8 p.m. ET

HULU

"Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro"
2026 LoL KeSPA Cup

DISNEY+

"Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro"
2026 LoL KeSPA Cup

PEACOCK

"Marry Me" (2022)

STREAMING MOVIES TO BUY OR RENT (PVOD)

"The Boy from Below" (2026)
"Gail Daughtry and the Celebrity Sex Pass (2026)
"The Invite" (2026)
"Ip Man: Kung Fu Legend" (2026)
"Jackass: Best and Last" (2026)
"Minions and Monsters" (2026)
"Night Nurse" (2026)
"Our Hero, Balthazar (2026)
"Peter" (2026)
"Tom Clancy's Jack Ryan: Ghost War" (2026)
"Young Washington" (2026)

How you can watch the solar eclipse on August 12

Krishi Chowdhary — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 13:00:00 +0000

The world is set to witness a total solar eclipse on Wednesday, August 12, 2026. However, the extent of the eclipse you’ll be able to see depends on where you are. While Greenland, Iceland, and northern Spain will get to view a total solar eclipse, if you’re in the U.S., Canada, or the U.K., you will only be treated to a partial eclipse.

The U.K. will see the deepest partial eclipse of the three, with up to 93% of the Sun covered in places like Cardiff and Belfast. The U.S. and Canada, meanwhile, will only see a smaller bite taken out of the Sun, with the best views from northeastern areas such as Atlantic Canada.

And what about those outside of these regions? Or, even if you’re in any of these locations and are unsure about stepping out? Well, good news, you can view this upcoming solar eclipse online, too, and completely free from wherever you are!

Where to watch the solar eclipse in the U.S., Canada, and U.K.

(Image credit: BBC)

Around 26 U.S. states, particularly those in the Northeast, will be able to view the solar eclipse at different times. The deepest coverage is expected in Fairbanks, Alaska, with the maximum eclipse reaching 37% at around 8:27 a.m. AKDT.

Other northeastern states, such as Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island, will experience between 10% and 28% maximum eclipse in the afternoon, between 1:48 p.m. and 1:56 p.m. EDT.

City, State	Max. Eclipse	Max. Percent
Anchorage, AK	8:22:01 a.m. AKDT	27.9%
Augusta, ME	1:53:04 p.m. EDT	21.3%
Portland, ME	1:53:38 p.m. EDT	19.4%
Montpelier, VT	1:49:21 p.m. EDT	17.4%
Burlington, VT	1:48:02 p.m. EDT	16.9%
Concord, NH	1:52:49 p.m. EDT	16.9%
Juneau, AK	8:24:15 a.m. AKDT	16.7%
Manchester, NH	1:53:21 p.m. EDT	16.6%
Boston, MA	1:55:10 p.m. EDT	16.0%
Worcester, MA	1:54:18 p.m. EDT	14.8%
Providence, RI	1:55:43 p.m. EDT	14.6%
Springfield, MA	1:53:29 p.m. EDT	13.5%
Albany, NY	1:50:43 p.m. EDT	13.0%
Hartford, CT	1:54:02 p.m. EDT	12.9%
New Haven, CT	1:54:34 p.m. EDT	11.8%
Bridgeport, CT	1:54:26 p.m. EDT	11.2%

Canadians are more fortunate, as every province will see at least some part of the partial eclipse. However, Eastern Canada, especially Atlantic Canada and Newfoundland, will see the deepest coverage - between 53% and 61%.

City	Max. Eclipse	Max. Percent
St. John's	3:34:59 p.m. NDT	53.1%
Charlottetown	2:57:26 p.m. ADT	34.7%
Halifax	3:00:02 p.m. ADT	31.1%
Fredericton	2:53:52 p.m. ADT	28.9%
Montreal	1:45:38 p.m. EDT	18.4%
Ottawa	1:42:42 p.m. EDT	15.5%
Toronto	1:40:07 p.m. EDT	8.2%
Edmonton	10:38:36 a.m. MDT	6.5%
Winnipeg	12:02:22 p.m. CDT	5.3%
Regina	10:50:20 a.m. CST	3.2%
Calgary	10:36:57 a.m. MDT	2.1%

The U.K. will experience a noticeably deeper partial eclipse than North America, which begins shortly after 6 p.m. BST.

Southwestern England and Wales will see the deepest coverage, with Cardiff and the Isles of Scilly being the best U.K. locations to view the eclipse.

(Image credit: BBC)

Now, since the eclipse will happen close to sunset, the Sun is expected to be only 19 to 16 degrees above the horizon, depending on your location. Make sure you have an unobstructed view at this time to view the phenomenon.

Here are the places in the U.K. where you can see the eclipse.

City	Max. Eclipse	Max. Percent
Belfast	7:08:27 p.m. BST	93.0%
Gibraltar	8:39:27 p.m. CEST	93.0%
Cardiff	7:13:47 p.m. BST	92.2%
Birmingham	7:11:54 p.m. BST	91.7%
Glasgow	7:06:06 p.m. BST	91.3%
London	7:13:21 p.m. BST	91.3%
Manchester	7:10:11 p.m. BST	91.3%
Edinburgh	7:05:52 p.m. BST	90.6%

How to watch the solar eclipse online from anywhere

If you don't live in the path of the total or partial solar eclipse happening on August 12, you can still watch the event online on YouTube.

NASA will stream the solar eclipse on NASA+ and its official YouTube channel from Spain through an aircraft from 1:15 p.m. ET.
The European Space Agency will also host a live YouTube broadcast from the Observatorio Astrofísico de Javalambre in Spain. There will also be a dedicated telescope feed starting at 19:30 CEST, or 1:30 p.m. to 2:45 p.m. ET.
The Royal Museums Greenwich YouTube channel will also host a live broadcast from the Royal Observatory Greenwich in the U.K., which will experience about 90% of the maximum eclipse. It will start at 1:10 p.m. ET.

If you’re planning to see the eclipse offline, make sure that you use adequate protective gear while doing so. Ideally, look for ISO 12312-2-certified eclipse glasses, which can block 99.999% of visible light, including nearly all UV and infrared radiation. Regular sunglasses, even if they are dark, do not come close to this level of protection.

Adidas running shoe deals with up to 60% off — 15 end of summer deals worth buying before they disappear

millie.daviswilliams@futurenet.com (Millie Davis-Williams) — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 12:30:00 +0000

Amazon is slashing prices on running shoes right now, so there are huge opportunities to save big — just in time for the end of summer.

For example, right now you can pick up the Adidas Lite Racer Adapt 7.0 running shoes on sale from $39. They're an extremely affordable pair at 43% off — brand name running shoes don't get much cheaper than this — and they provide cushioning and a comfortable fit to see you through your summer runs.

Note: Prices vary based on the size and color you choose. To find the best deal for you, check out any different color options available in your size. For more deals, check out our Amazon promo codes coverage.

Quick Links

shop all Adidas deals at Amazon
Adidas Adilette Shower Slides: was $30 now from $21
Adidas Lite Racer Adapt 7.0 (Men's): was $70 now from $39
Adidas Duramo Speed 2 Running Shoe (Men's): was $90 now from $67
Adidas Terrex Anylander Rain.Rdy Hiking Shoes (Men’s): was $85 now from $67
Adidas Adistar 3 Shoes (Men’s): was $130 now from $84
Adidas Ultraboost 5X Running Shoes (Women's): was $180 now from $108

Adidas running shoe deals

Whether you're at the beach, gym or grabbing a coffee, these sandals do the job. The Adilette Shower Slides feature a contoured footbed that makes them comfy to walk in, and a hook-and-loop bandage upper dries quickly. Additionally, they complement everything perfectly.View Deal

This is about as budget-friendly a running shoe as you'll find with this Adidas sneaker on sale starting from $39. The Lite Racer Adapt 7.0 usually sells for $70, so this is a solid discount. If you're a hardcore runner, you might want something a little more expensive, but for casual runners, these will do the job.View Deal

These Adidas casual sneakers are inspired by the style of running shoes, but the Swift Run 1.0 mostly deserve a place in your wardrobe because of the awesome animal print. (They also come in four plain color schemes if you're not a fan.) Their soft and stretchy flexible upper makes them super comfortable.View Deal

These Adidas running shoes look super sleek in all-white. With Dreamstrike EVA midsole cushioning, they'll reduce impact on your feet to keep you running for longer without discomfort. View Deal

Another pair of budget-friendly Adidas running shoes, the Runblaze are meant to put comfort and durability first. They have a mesh upper to keep your feet cool, and reviewers on Amazon love their sleek design and affordability.View Deal

The Duramo SL 2 Running Shoes are designed to feel light and springy on every run, no matter how new or old you are to running. A range of colors are included in the sale, from Cloud White and Core Black to Blue and Quartz, so there’s a pair to match every style.View Deal

The Runfalcon 5 is an entry-level running shoe that offers a high level of comfort thanks to the Cloudfoam midsole. The Runfalcon 5 are a great budget option for occasional runners, and they look good for casual use as well.View Deal

You probably won't want to wear them for working out, but these Adidas platform sneakers stand above the rest in terms of style... literally. As well as looking cool, these shoes have a Cloudfoam cushioned midsole and a rubber outsole, meaning they're comfortable, grippy and durable.View Deal

These budget-friendly sneakers are perfect if you're turning over a new leaf and starting running this year. They're breathable, soft and stable underfoot, making them a great choice for trail runs and pavement too.View Deal

These Adidas sneakers have a super-cool geometric look, as well as a breathable mesh upper and super soft cushioning. The Lightblaze is the perfect mix of a running and casual shoe.View Deal

The Adidas Ultrarun 5 Running Shoes make longer runs feel easier on your feet. The Bounce 2.0 midsole cushions your heel and forefoot, while the OrthoLite sockliner keeps everything snug so nothing slips or rubs. It ain't bad when they have up to 25% off, too.View Deal

You can now save 26% on the Duramo Speed 2. These running shoes feature extremely lightweight cushioning, making it feel like you're running on clouds. The color match on the shoe's collar also makes it look fantastic.View Deal

Did you know Adidas made waterproof hiking shoes? These lace up mid-height cuff Terrex shoes will give you ankle support, as well as a gusseted tongue to keep the elements away from your feet. Excellent for all terrain and all elements.

Past the beautiful color scheme on this shoe, it boasts two main selling points: it’s made with at least 20% recyclable materials, and it’s a great distance running shoe. It’s equipped with a breathable mesh upper, a grippy and durable outsole, and a full-length cushioned midsole.View Deal

The popular Adidas Ultraboost 5X has seen a massive 40% discount, bringing its price to just over $100. The Ultraboost 5X is the lightest Ultraboost in years, and great for both running and lifestyle use.View Deal

Summer is almost over, but these 17 Asics running shoes are still on sale

millie.daviswilliams@futurenet.com (Millie Davis-Williams) — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 12:08:06 +0000

This summer's running shoe deals have been great. If you still haven't found your perfect pair, make sure to check out Amazon's Asics deals. Some of the most popular models are dropping in price, and you can get running shoes and casual sneakers for as low as $59.

Some of the most popular shoes right now are the Asics Gel-Nimbus 27 for $109. These are well-loved by Amazon shoppers, earning a 4.6-star rating based on over 2,000 reviews. As for us? We gave them an excellent 4-star rating in our Asics Gel-Nimbus 27 review.

Note: Prices can vary depending on the size and color you choose. Check out any different color options in your size to find the best deals.

Quick Links

shop all Asics deals on Amazon
Asics GT-1000 13 Running Shoes (Women's): was $109 now from $49
Asics Gel-Venture 10 (Women's): was $80 now from $54
Asics Versablast 4 Running Shoes (Women's): was $80 now $69
Asics Dynablast 5 (Men's): was $99 now $74
Asics Glideride Max (Men's): was $170 now $79
Asics Sonicblast (Men's): was $180 now $109
Asics Novablast 5 (Men's): was $160 now $129
Asics Superblast 2 (Women's): was $200 now $149
Asics Metaspeed Sky Tokyo Running Shoes (Unisex): was $269 now $250

Asics Shoes

This is one of the cheapest Asics running shoes around — this deal will be tough to beat, so don't hang around if it's available in your size. The GT-1000 13 shoe features a breathable mesh upper, underfoot cushioning, and Asics’ Gel technology to help absorb impact.View Deal

These shoes are excellent for runs, with a traction pattern designed to support you on outdoor terrain. They also feature Rearfoot GEL to absorb impact and super-soft AMPLIFOAM cushioning.View Deal

These Asics sneakers have a super-cool look with layered mesh and suede on the upper. There is a range of color options available, but the Asics logo makes them pop!View Deal

Packed with Amplifoam+ cushioning, the Asics Versablast 4 are built to be both soft and responsive — and are now a steal with this discount. The Cream/Hazy Lilac colorway is gorgeous, too.View Deal

Asics' Gel-Dedicate 9 are built to improve your tennis game! They feature a simple, streamlined design with plenty of stability and comfort on board. The synthetic leather overlays add extra style points.View Deal

At 53% off, the Asics Glideride are a steal. These come with GuideSole tech to help you save energy, keeping you going for longer. You also get FF Blast Max cushioning for a lightweight, soft feel.View Deal

The Asics Gel-Cumulus 27 often gets overlooked because of the popularity of the Novablast and Gel-Nimbus lines, but it's usually available for less than those shoes, and it's a comfortable, fairly lightweight daily trainer in its own right. We've tested the newer Gel-Cumulus 28 model, and it's not a major update on the 27, so this deal on the older shoe is much better value.View Deal

The Asics Noosa TRI 16 is guaranteed to bring a pop of life to your running outfits. The shoe features a curved sole to increase your efficiency while running and packs extra cushioning into the midsole to absorb impact.View Deal

The Fuji Lite 6 is a lightweight trail-running shoe that offers reliable grip and a speedy, responsive ride for your off-road runs. It's also on sale at Asics. For $99, it's a steal.View Deal

Suited for both fast runs and everyday training, the Asics Sonicblast are super lightweight and propulsive. There's an Astroplate mechanism to help you shoot forward, as well as FF Blast Max and FF Turbo cushioning for a bouncy feel underfoot.View Deal

An iconic design and reliable comfort, what more could you want from a pair of sneakers? It takes cues from some of Asics' best shoes, with Gel-Kayano-inspired panels on the upper and the same midsole tooling system as the Gel-Cumulus 17.View Deal

Our resident runner, Nick Harris-Fry, rated these a "comfortable cruiser" that helps "the miles fly by." You get superb cushioning, a smooth turnover, and a stable ride despite the high stack. Check out Nick's full Asics Gel-Nimbus 27 review for more details.View Deal

The excellent Gel Kayano 32 have been discounted to $124. These running shoes are designed to provide advanced stability and soft cushioning for neutral runners and overpronators alike. I love how they're lightweight yet provide excellent cushioning and support. In our Asics Gel-Kayano 32 review, we called the Editor's Choice shoe the most comfortable running shoes ever.View Deal

We voted the Asics Novablast 5 as the best running shoes you can buy right now. They quickly stood out for their balance of comfort, support and fun, making it a pair of shoes you will actually look forward to running in. They're lightweight, durable and have a soft, springy feel underfoot that helps absorb impact while keeping runs enjoyable.View Deal

In our Asics Superblast 2 review, we said they were one of the best shoes of the year they released. There are newer shoes on the market, but now, you can get them for 25% off. Our testers thought the Superblast 2 was amazing for long runs and found it to be lightweight and versatile.View Deal

This is one of the more expensive Asics models out there, so it's nice to see it discounted! These GTX trail running shoes are waterproof and dry faster thanks to their bonded upper. You also get FF Blast Plus cushioning to power through your trail runs.View Deal

Act fast and you'll score a saving on one of Asics' fastest running shoes. In our Asics Metaspeed Sky Tokyo review, we called it "a top option", as it offered a very lightweight and springy feel underfoot. It won't let you down, whether you're running long or short distances.View Deal

iOS 27 beta 5 is out: New app icons, Siri voices, improved search, and every new iPhone feature

tom.pritchard@futurenet.com (Tom Pritchard) — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 11:47:36 +0000

The official iOS 27 launch should be arriving at some point next month, just ahead of the Apple September event and the reveal of the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max. That doesn't necessarily mean that the software is ready just yet, and the release of iOS 27 developer beta 5 proves that Apple is still adding features and refining the software.

From new app icons and new Siri expressive voices to improved search, here's everything new in iOS 27 beta 5.

Updated app icons

(Image credit: Future)

Some of the Apple app icons have had new Liquid Glass designs, including Safari, Siri, Settings, the App Store, preview and Remote. Changes include brighter blues and more detailed compass arrows for Safari, while the Siri app looks more like the actual Siri bubble that opens when you speak to the AI.

App Store and Settings have had some extra translucency, Remote has some extra details, while Preview has an all-new look.

Apple has updated only a handful of app artwork throughout the iOS 27 beta, but it's certainly possible more tweaks could be on the way.

New Siri AI expressive voices

(Image credit: Future)

Siri AI's expressive voices have been expanded yet again. This time Apple has customisable Pace and Expressivity to all seven American voices and the four British voices.

Just remember that this feature is only available for iPhones with at least 12GB of RAM, which is so far the iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max and iPhone Air. The iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max and iPhone Ultra should be added to this list.

Liquid Glass slider

(Image credit: Future)

The Liquid Glass slider is very helpful, but if you ever looked at it and went "that isn't transparent enough for my liking," then you're in luck. The clearest option on the slider is now even clearer than it was before, which should make it a little easier to see details behind your on-screen bubbles.

Create a Pass outside the U.S.

(Image credit: Future)

Apple Wallet's Create a Pass feature is no longer exclusive to the U.S. and is available in other regions. To find it simply open Apple Wallet, tap the + icon at the top of the screen and select Create a Pass. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.

Wallet, along with Photos and Music, also has a new splash screen telling you exactly what's changed in iOS 27.

Search

(Image credit: Future)

The Search and Ask features are getting new animations in iOS 27 beta 5, and the suggestions bar will show up immediately rather than a few seconds behind the bar itself. Apple's also letting users decide whether the search feature should include App results, and if so whether they want to see four or eight at a time.

Last update time

(Image credit: Future)

If you've ever wondered when your last iOS update was, the iOS 27 beta now tells you exactly when it happened. Head to the Software Update section of the General menu in the Settings app, and tap the More Details link at the bottom of the on-screen message

iOS 27 beta 5: Other updates

(Image credit: Future)

Contacts with a company name attached will now display that company in your contacts list — making it easier to keep tabs of all the different Daves and Debbies you might have in your phone.

Control Center has stopped showing cellular information if you're connected to Wi-Fi, and the battery section of the Settings app will warn you if a poor cell connection is causing excessive battery drain — which I'm surprised Apple hadn't thought about sooner.

Mail now includes a toggle for the Personalize Smart Replies feature. This is switched off by default, and can be toggled on in the Settings app's Mail section. Finally, Alarms and Timers now have a slightly thicker font in the Clock app — which is definitely welcome.

Thinkware U3000 Pro review: A worthy dash cam with useful anti-theft features, but rivals offer more value

Matt Ng — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 11:39:44 +0000

U3000 Pro : Specs

Field of view 147°, rear 156°
Resolution front 4K, rear 2K
GPS Yes
Voice control No
Display None
Dimensions 2.75 x 4.04 x 2.19 in

Car prices are trending upwards and aren’t getting any cheaper. With that in mind, any additional security measure can make a huge amount of difference to your peace of mind when you’re away from your vehicle — whether you're leaving it overnight in your driveway or parked on unfamiliar roads.

That’s Thinkware’s… well, thinking behind its latest flagship dash cam, the U3000 Pro. It’s a 4K dash cam with plenty of modular extras, which includes the optional 2K rear camera I’m testing as part of this review. This premium model sports front and rear radar parking modes, GPS, driver assistance aids, and real-time safety alerts while you’re on the road.

But does the U3000 Pro do enough to stand out from its 4K rivals? Plenty of dash cam makers offer ultra HD and parking security features, after all. Let’s dive in and look at how well it does and how it performs to its touted benefits.

Thinkware U3000 Pro review: Price & availability

The U3000 Pro carries a hefty price tag of $549.99 for the dual-channel version and $500 for the front cam alone when you buy direct from Thinkware. It’s a pricey investment, particularly when the market is heavily saturated with 4K dash cams, even with off-the-road monitoring.

On the flipside, there are plenty of bundled accessories, such as the CPL polarising filter and both 12V and OBD II cables. You just need to remember to select this option if you don’t want the hassle of a professional install with the hardwire version.

Dash cams like the U3000 Pro are a sizeable investment, and I’d argue that basic items needed to ensure they work out of the box need to be included, namely microSD cards. Color my surprise, then, to find that the U3000 Pro does include a microSD card.

Most dash cams I’ve tested don’t bother including a card in their retail versions, so it’s refreshing to see one here. Still, those looking for more basic packages might be put off by the price, particularly as you really only need one power cable.

Thinkware U3000 Pro review: Design

(Image credit: Future)

The U3000 Pro employs a wedge-shaped design, with a main body that sticks directly onto the top of your windshield, widening to house the main 4K camera. This has an adjustable lens, and though it doesn’t offer a great deal of movement, it should do fine for most vehicles.

I put the unit partially behind my rear-view mirror, where I could still see and access the buttons. Importantly, the unit is designed to sit discreetly on your windshield, and since it lacks a display, it’s accessible without obscuring your view or being too much of a distraction.

The rear camera involves a simple tube design with an adhesive. You can also adjust the lens, but the range of motion also isn’t huge.

The main camera lacks the chunkiness of a Garmin or Nextbase, but the unit feels like a decent quality product, with smooth plastic and seams that are uniform. There are four buttons in the center of the wedge: for saving recordings, powering on/off, activating the Wi-Fi, and muting the microphone. These could have been lit for better user friendliness. I struggled to locate the REC button while night driving, even with its added notch. Illuminating it would have led to less fumbling around.

Thinkware U3000 Pro review: Features

(Image credit: Future)

Feature-wise, the dual-channel U3000 Pro carries front and rear radar detection, which you can set to up to 5 meters. Once it detects motion within this detection range, it’ll record and save a 20-second clip. Handy for catching and would-be car snoopers.

Plus, the usual onboard G-sensor will detect impacts while driving or parked, wherein it’ll automatically save and protect footage taken directly before and 20 seconds after the collision.

Thinkware is also known for tagging on its driver aid systems, and the U3000 Pro is no different. It includes a front vehicle departure warning, letting you know it’s clear to proceed ahead should you get distracted. Plus, there’s a forward collision warning that goes off if you’re traveling too close to the vehicle in front.

I also appreciate the included CPL polarising filter, which attaches to the front lens to reduce glare and reflections from the dash. These can often mean the difference between capturing those all-important details and getting a heavy dose of JJ Abrams-esque lens flare on your footage.

Finally, a welcome bonus is the addition of a heat-blocking film, which sticks between your windshield and mount, designed to deflect heat from sunlight away from your cam, helping ensure it runs cooler and therefore more reliably. That’s a neat inclusion I haven't seen before in a dash cam package.

Thinkware U3000 Pro review: Setup

(Image credit: Future)

Setup was pretty standard with the U3000 Pro. The unit comes with a thin slide mount on an adhesive, making sliding the main camera unit in fairly painless. I got sent an OBD II cable with my review sample, but you’ll need to remember that the hardwire option requires a professional install meant for more permanent setups. The U3000 Pro also uses its own power adapter rather than the standard USB-C cable, so if you’re upgrading your camera setup, you’ll need to replumb the included wiring.

Fitting the wires was a little more complicated, as both sets of power and rear camera cables were on the girthy and stiff side, necessitating some extra force to install behind the trims. Both units don’t intrude too much on their respective windshields, though.

There’s also no display to worry about, which can be a pain when you’re fiddling with settings and aligning the camera for the optimal road angle, but I prefer it that way. I have to look at the road while glancing at two screens in my Skoda EV, so having one less to get distracted by is a bonus.

Thinkware U3000 Pro review: Software

(Image credit: Future)

The Thinkware app is a little on the basic side, but it works, with a clean, no-frills design. Handily, there’s no need to manually connect the Wi-Fi — your app and dash cam unit will talk to each other on that front. I’ve sometimes found connecting other dash cams’ Wi-Fi a real pain, particularly when your car’s infotainment system is fighting to do the same, so Thinkware has nailed the convenience here.

Once you’re in, you can adjust a host of features, like the Driver Assistance Systems, including traffic light change, forward collision warning, and front vehicle departure warning.

You can also set the battery cut-off voltage, which is handy if you’re running a 12V power connection and want to help protect the battery from draining. Downloading high-res videos also takes around 30 seconds per clip, thanks to its 5 GHz Wi-Fi allowing for speedy connections.

Thinkware U3000 Pro review: Video & audio quality

The U3000 PRO features Sony’s STARVIS 2 top-tier sensors — IMX678 in the front and IMX675 in the rear. These are the best in the business, but they aren’t perfect on their own.

Footage shines during the day, with images looking sharp, saturated, and colour-accurate. There’s a hint of digital noise in finer detail textures like tarmac and trees — to be super nitpicky, the Viofo A329S is still the gold standard here, offering a level of smoothness and clarity that’s unmatched.

But really, the U3000 PRO delivers enough daytime detail that lets you pick up vehicle tags in either direction of traffic flow. The CPL filter does a decent job of seeing off lens flare, though it won’t eliminate reflections and can make dusk footage a touch darker.

Night-time motion blur has always been an issue with these Sony sensors. The HDR mostly does a good job of not overflaring plates directly in front of you, but it can be much trickier to pick out detail in the peripheries of the lens.

While I can say the U3000 PRO does a similar job to most high-end dash cams, other manufacturers such as Viofo and Vantrue have upped their HDR modes and included image enhancement features specifically to enhance the detail on vehicle tags.

Now, there's an option to enable 60fps recording at 2K, which would provide more frames to weed out full plates, but sadly, there’s no way to activate it automatically for night recording while still having 4K and HDR running during the day. Grain also picks up after hours, which is a usual finding for most dash cams at night. The rear camera behaves in much the same way, just expect a greater level of noise and reduced detail, in keeping with the 2K sensor.

Additionally, I found the G-sensor quite sensitive on the default setting — it’ll get upset and activate with fairly inoffensive road bumps, so I had to turn it down in the settings.

(Image credit: Future)

The security feature is a handy one. When you return to your car, you get voice notifications on how many events it has detected. That gives you more motivation to manually check over your footage — imagine someone keying your car and you not noticing at first. The flipside is that you may tend to ignore this count, particularly if you’re used to busy car parks and roadsides.

Those motion detection videos are useful too — I never caught anyone snooping around my car, just people passing by. And though there’s a reduced frame rate of 2fps in these videos to save power, there’s still enough detail on freeze frames to discern faces and car details. If you park in your driveway, think of it as an extra security camera for your home.

Audio quality is as good as you can expect, without any digital interference or buzzing. There’s no tinniness that you can often find with cheaper dash cam microphones, and its warning chimes have firm but inoffensive notes, as opposed to the screechy or coarse chime clangs that go through you with cheaper models.

Thinkware U3000 Pro review: Verdict

(Image credit: Future)

The U3000 Pro is a fully comprehensive package with enough extras to protect your car on and off the road. Image quality is reliably solid with sufficient clarity, though better performers, such as the Viofo A329S, offer better nighttime clarity.

If you’re looking for a dependable dash cam with 24/7 security, the U3000 Pro fits the bill. And, if you’re after real-time event notifications, the Nextbase IQ might be a better fit.

Thinkware is a premium dash cam brand, so this package is expensive, though there’s a great selection of accessories, like the polarising filter and memory card. If you’re upgrading or simply want a dash cam to protect yourself while driving, better deals are out there, particularly if you’re fond of having a display to review footage or tweak settings on the go quickly. But if you’re looking to buy a complete dash cam solution outright for the first time, this is a good option.

3 new to Prime Video thriller movies to watch this week — including an iconic Quentin Tarantino crime epic (August 11-17)

rory.mellon@futurenet.com (Rory Mellon) — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 11:26:32 +0000

Whenever Prime Video confirms its slate for a new month, the first thing I look for is the latest thriller movies. The genre is persistently popular on the platform, and I’m personally a huge fan of thrillers. Fortunately, Prime Video’s August 2026 slate isn’t letting us down in this regard.

I’ve combed through the latest additions to the streaming service, and found a trio of thrillers worthy of your watchlist. There’s a ‘90s flavor to my picks this week, with two of the best genre efforts of the decade, including a crime epic often cited as Quentin Tarantino’s greatest ever film. But if you’re craving something new, Prime Video offers a thriller from 2026, too.

These are the 3 new-to-Prime Video thrillers you need to watch this week if you need streaming picks that will have you gripping your sofa and shocked by unexpected twists.

3 best new to Prime Video thriller movies this week

‘Pulp Fiction’ (1994)

“Pulp Fiction” is a movie that needs no introduction. Quentin Tarantino’s second feature made him a Hollywood rockstar, and any self-respecting list of the best movies of the 1990s is going to include it somewhere near the top (if not ranked No. 1). Widely considered Tarantino’s magnum opus, the near bulletproof reputation of this 1994 crime epic remains intact to this very day. Just calling it iconic feels like underselling this classic.

If you somehow don’t know the general gist of this masterpiece, Pulp Fiction” collects multiple interconnected chapters that eventually crossover to form a full picture. Each vignette is intriguing enough to anchor an entire movie, but is just part of the glorious puzzle that is “Pulp Fiction”. The film tells the tales of a hitman duo, Vincent Vega (John Travolta) and Jules Winnfield (Samuel L. Jackson), crime boss Marsellus Wallace (Ving Rhames), his actress wife, Mia (Uma Thurman), and drowning-in-debt boxer Butch Coolidge (Bruce Willis).

Watch "Pulp Fiction" on Prime Video now

‘The Gates’ (2026)

In February, “Dawson’s Creek” star James Van Der Beek tragically passed away, making “The Gates” his final movie appearance. Released posthumously, it’s a tense little thriller that also stars Mason Gooding (known for his work in the new “Scream” trilogy), Algee Smith and Keith Powers. The reviews were middling, but Van Der Beek’s performance was much praised, and the central premise of this thriller is intriguing enough to warrant a watch.

“The Gate” sees a trio of college friends (Gooding, Smith and Powers) enjoying a carefree road trip when they make what proves to be a potentially fatal mistake by taking a shortcut through a remote gated community. Here they witness a murder, and become trapped within the community's walls. Over the course of a very long night, they are hunted by the residents who plan to blame them for the crime. Leading the hunting party is Jacob (Van Der Beek), a sinister man of faith.

Watch "The Gates" on Prime Video now

‘The Usual Suspects’ (1995)

In a recent Tom’s Guide poll to find the best twist in movie history, “The Usual Suspects” ranked second with an impressive 20% of the vote (“The Sixth Sense” won the gold). It’s a testament to the enduring popularity of this twisting crime thriller’s shocking final reveal. Naturally, I’m not going to spoil anything here, but if you’ve managed to avoid having the twist ruined, go watch “The Usual Suspects” on Prime Video right now.

This thriller hangs on a single question: Who is Keyser Söze? After a job gone wrong at the San Pedro Harbor, a timid small-time crook, Roger “Verbal” Kint (Kevin Spacey), is taken into police custody for interrogation. Through a series of flashbacks, he explains how the ill-fated heist came to be and, more importantly, how he made contact with the enigmatic crimelord, Keyser Söze. The police hope to identify Söze using Verbal’s testimony, but the elusive criminal mastermind has a plan up his sleeve to escape the police’s enclosing net.

Watch "The Usual Suspects" on Prime Video now

Patagonia just restocked its sale section — 13 deals I'd buy starting at $28

Olivia Halevy — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 11:00:00 +0000

Patagonia is one of our favorite outdoor brands here at Tom's Guide. Not only is the apparel built for year-round adventure, it's also stylish and versatile enough for everyday wear.

Sure, the brand can be a bit pricey — but savvy shoppers know the real secret is Patagonia’s Web Specials section, which is packed with heavily discounted styles. Even better news? Patagonia just restocked this section and the deals seem too good to be true.

You can grab tons of discounted styles from last season, as well as end of summer must-haves starting at just $28. From fleeces and hoodies to t-shirts and joggers, some of Patagonia's best-selling styles are now up to 50% off. Below, I've rounded up my favorite deals from the brand's sale.

Quick Links

shop Patagonia's deals
shop Patagonia deals at REI
Patagonia Glorya Tank Top (Women's): was $59 now $28
Patagonia Capilene Cool Daily Hoody (Women's): was $69 now $40
Patagonia Unity Fitz Uprisal Hoody (Men's): was $89 now $43
Patagonia Houdini Half-Zip (Women’s): was $139 now $68
Patagonia Houdini Jacket (Men's): was $119 now $82
Patagonia Windsweep Jacket (Men's): was $199 now $118

Patagonia Deals

This Patagonia tank is the perfect pick for warmer days. The lightweight piece is ideal for layering. It also has performance benefits so you can wear it while working out, getting your steps in or traveling.View Deal

This versatile technical top is designed for climbing, running or just hanging out. It’s quick drying, has stretch for mobility and even has odor control for long-lasting freshness. It's a classic look that'll go with a whole range of outfits and will keep you stylish and comfortable no matter where your next outdoor adventure takes you.View Deal

One of the cheaper Patagonia sweatshirts, but still a great addition to your wardrobe. This Fitz Roy Icon Uprisal Sweatshirt has the perfect oversized fit and medium weight. View Deal

Take on the trails with a comfortable pair of hiking pants, now 50% off! Lots of reviewers on Patagonia love these for their super comfortable fit and stretchy fabric.View Deal

This Houdini variant is super lightweight and packable, but skips the hood and full-length zipper in favor of a half-zip design. The highly packable half-zip is rain and wind resistant, allowing you to take it with you anytime, anywhere. View Deal

This long-sleeved crewneck will keep you warm in cold conditions and is styled to layer over your favorite tech tee or under a jacket. View Deal

This little jacket probably weighs less than your smartphone and folds up super-small so you can stash it in a pocket, or your backpack when you’re on the go. It’s on sale right now in several different colorways, with plenty of sizes still in stock. View Deal

The Patagonia Daily Snap-T Fleece Pullover is perfect for layering when the weather turns crisp. The pullover style makes it easy to throw on, and the relaxed fit means it works just as well with leggings as it does with jeans. View Deal

Better than the competition! This Better Sweater Fleece Vest is awesome because it's super warm, doesn't restrict your movement and is also very durable. Reviewers on Patagonia love this vest's comfortable fit and easy layering potential — one shopper wrote "Used this as a base layer while traveling, spending 6-8 hours outdoors per day in below freezing temperatures. Kept me warm and comfortable."View Deal

The Patagonia Retro Pile Half Snap Pullover is almost as iconic as the Synchilla fleece — but the Retro Pile Half Snap is made from 100% recycled Synchilla fabric too! Snag this discount of 50% off. View Deal

If you're in the market for a lightweight jacket that can keep up with the elements, look no further than the Windsweep Jacket. It's made of 100% organic cotton ripstop treated with a durable water repellent (DWR). It's also packable so you can easily bring it along with you on all your adventures. View Deal

Save 30% on the 7.3-ounce Patagonia Nano Puff Vest, which features an internal zippered chest pocket that doubles as a stuffsack. When it's time to layer up, this windproof, water-resistant vest won't weigh you down. Note: The men’s version of this vest is also on sale for $138 in a variety of colors.View Deal

Durable, water repellent and cozy, the Patagonia Nano Puff is the ultimate jacket. It can also pack up small when you're done wearing it. Save on our favorite Patagonia jacket right now by shopping from Patagonia directly.View Deal

I made 7 viral snacks TikTok swears will help you sleep and measured the results with my fitness tracker — this is the one that got me a sleep score over 90

ruth.jones@futurenet.com (Ruth Jones) — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 10:30:00 +0000

Everyone wants to sleep better but few want to acknowledge that good sleep is a matter of consistency and healthy habits. Wouldn't it be easier if sleep came in a cup? Say, some kind of sleepy girl mocktail?

Enter the rise of the TikTok sleep hack. Social media is cluttered with foods and drinks said to be as sleep-inducing as a tranquilizer dart. And as someone who loves a shortcut and often gets snack-y before bed, I'm the perfect target for a TikTok sleep trend.

Armed with my Withings ScanWatch 2 and seven popular sleep recipes, I spent a week experimenting with everything from lettuce water to bedtime brownies.

I also asked Laura Perez, Registered Dietician and Clinical Nutrition Lead at Simple Online Pharmacy, to weigh in on the supposed benefits. Did any of them work? The proof is in my sleep scores...

I tested the internet’s favorite bedtime snacks and drinks — here’s what they did for my sleep

Night one: Baby carrots

(Image credit: Future)

Carrots are a healthy choice for an evening snack, but for TikTok scientists it's all about the carotenoids.

These pigments, responsible for the distinctive orange of carrots, is turned into vitamin A in your body. This helps regulate your circadian rhythm, which keeps the sleep-wake cycle running smoothly.

"They also contain fibre, which can help keep you satisfied overnight," adds Perez. "And they’re unlikely to cause the blood sugar spikes that some sugary snacks can."

How to prepare baby carrots

This viral trend insists on seven baby carrots before bed. Not five, not six. Precisely seven. However, a bit of research shows that baby carrots are typically just regular carrots, shaved down and rounded.

With this in mind, I opted for the equivalent amount of regular carrot. I scrubbed them and sliced them into sticks, for easy snacking, and kept the nutrient-rich skin on.

About an hour before bed, I tucked into my snack.

Verdict: Did baby carrots improve my sleep?

Sleep score: 66

My Withings sleep tracker awarded my a score of 66 for this night. That's slightly below average for me, but my scores often dip on a Saturday, when I'm more likely to let my routine slip.

"There’s no strong evidence that carrots themselves make people sleepy," says Perez, "but choosing a light, balanced snack before bed may be more comfortable than eating something very rich or heavy late in the evening."

My carrot sticks were enjoyable but not moreish, so I went to bed feeling comfortable rather than full.

Verdict: Not the sleep bullet TikTok suggested but a nutritious alternative to a pre-bed cookie.

I had a restless night and it took a while to drop off, although that's likely because I was later getting to bed than usual (Image credit: Withings)

Night two: Kiwis

(Image credit: Future)

“Kiwis are probably one of the better-supported foods when it comes to sleep," explains Perez. "Some small-scale studies have suggested they may help improve sleep quality."

Research from 2023 concluded that eating two kiwifruits one hour before bed over the course of four weeks could improve sleep and recovery time.

"[This is] possibly because they naturally contain antioxidants and serotonin, which are involved in regulating the sleep-wake cycle," says Perez.

How to prepare kiwis for sleep

Simple version: eat two kiwis.

But I thought I'd have some fun with it, and turned to JessHallCooks on TikTok.

Use a sharp knife to slice the kiwis into rounds, roughly half a centimeter thick (you can peel the kiwis first, or tub them in kitchen towel to remove some of the skin).
Melt three to four squares of dark chocolate (dark chocolate is rich in magnesium).
Pat the kiwi slices dry and dip into the melted chocolate.
Sprinkle with sea salt and leave to set in the fridge (roughly 30 minutes).

To prepare the kiwis, I rubbed them down in a kitchen towel to remove furFuture

After slicing, I patted the kiwis with kitchen towel to remove moisture and help them keep longerFuture

You only need a thin coating of chocolateFuture

They set quickly, making them easy to prep for bedtimeFuture

I look suspicious, but this was an excellent snackFuture

Verdict: Did kiwis improve my sleep?

Sleep score: 79

First of all, this is delicious.

However, two kiwis dipped in chocolate left me feeling bloated before bed. I did however, manage to score 79. So maybe kiwis do have some benefits, if I can get a good score even with an uncomfortably full stomach.

In the interest of fairness, and because I'd bought six kiwis, I tried it again a week later. This time, I missed out the chocolate (and the skin). A much lighter snack, I went to bed more comfortable and my sleep score rocketed up to 91.

"I wouldn’t describe them as a miracle cure, but they’re certainly a nutritious fruit," explains Perez. "There’s no harm in including them as part of a balanced diet if you enjoy them.”

Verdict: Delicious and possibly dream-inducing

My first test with the kiwis went well, although I was in bed before 11 p.m. and laid awake for at least 30 minutes.Withings

Test two went much better, with plenty of deep sleep leaving me energized the next dayWithings

Night three: Banana peel tea

(Image credit: Future)

Perez notes that bananas are a good source of vitamin B6, potassium and magnesium, which are important to muscle and nerve function. She adds that magnesium and vitamin B6 have also been linked to sleep regulation.

That explains the bananas. But why are we boiling the peels?

According to DebyUrsell, boiling delivers three times the dose of magnesium, supercharging the sleep powers. Banana peels also contain tryptophan, an amino acid used by the body to make serotonin and melatonin.

How to prepare banana peel tea

There are many, many different recipes for making banana peel tea online. I chose one by SacredLotus, as it has over 3 million views and 50,000+ likes. That many people can't be wrong, right?

Peel a ripe banana and chop the peel. Put the banana aside.
Place the banana peel in a pan of boiling water and leave to simmer for 10-15 minutes.
Strain the banana water into a mug and enjoy.

Verdict: Did banana peel tea improve my sleep?

Sleep score: 72

At first, I was pleasantly surprised. Sweet, subtle and easy to sip on. For all my skepticism, this seemed like it was going to be a success.

Halfway through, things changed. It became cloying and musty. Even worse, bits of banana had slipped through the strainer, giving the drink unwanted texture.

I went to bed bloated and trying not to gag every time I remembered the taste.

Prep was easy and took secondsFuture

After 10 minutes of brewing, a strong banana aroma filled the kitchenFuture

Before it all went wrong — at this point, I had high hopesFuture

My sleep score was an okay 72 but with some caveats. First, I was bone tired after two days in the office and would have expected to sleep better (I scored 88 the week before.)

Second, I got out of bed twice. Why? My banana tea was followed by two glasses of water, to get the taste out of my mouth. I woke up needing the toilet.

"There isn’t good-quality evidence that boiling banana peels into a drink will improve sleep," says Perez. "Incorporating foods like pumpkin seeds, almonds and leafy green vegetables into your diet daily will likely be more effective than going to the effort of boiling banana skins!"

Verdict: Disgusting — do not try

Notice those two big gray spikes? That's me getting out of bed (Image credit: Withings)

Night four: Lettuce water

(Image credit: Future)

Lettuce contains an ingredient known as lactucarium, which is reported to have a sedative effect. Small scale studies found consuming dried, powdered lettuce leaves and seed extracts could improve sleep... in mice.

“Lettuce water has become very popular on social media, but the evidence behind it is extremely limited," adds Perez.

However, seeing as we boil all kinds of leaves and call it tea, perhaps the leap to lettuce water isn't so strange.

How to prepare lettuce water for sleep

There's no consensus over exactly how to make lettuce water, although romaine appears to be the lettuce of choice. With that in mind, I put a handful of leaves in a mug, added boiling water and left it for five minutes.

I then removed the leaves, held my nose and prepared to drink.

Verdict: Did lettuce water improve my sleep?

Sleep score: 65

Following banana tea, I had very, very low expectations for lettuce water. But it was... fine. I've been searching the thesaurus for an interesting way to describe it but there's nothing to say except: 'water with a hint of lettuce'.

(Image credit: Future)

However, it had no discernible impact on my sleep. I got a fairly lousy score of 65, spending only 6 hours, 22 minutes asleep. (And only 49 minutes of that in deep sleep.)

I doubt lettuce water is to blame but it does mean unless I'm craving a mug of lettuce-y goodness, I won't be reaching for this again. I'll stick with a chamomile, thanks.

Verdict: You're better off with a glass of water

This is a disappointing score for a week night, but I did wake up naturally before my alarm and felt refreshed (Image credit: Withings)

Night five: Sleepy Girl Mocktail

(Image credit: Future)

The Sleepy Girl Mocktail has been blowing up FYPs for a while now as a magic sleep elixir. It combines tart cherry juice with magnesium and sparkling water.

"Tart cherry juice has attracted interest because it naturally contains small amounts of melatonin, and there is some research suggesting melatonin itself may support sleep in certain people," explains Perez.

Magnesium has also been linked to better sleep, with some studies finding magnesium deficiency negatively impacts the sleep-wake function. Hence the addition of magnesium powder.

As for the sparkling water, that's just for taste.

How to make a Sleepy Girl Mocktail

As with all TikTok trends, there are various recipes for the Sleepy Girl Mocktail floating around. However, the basic recipe contains just three components:

Pour a liberal swig of tart cherry juice.
Add a serving of magnesium (check the packet for the correct amount).
Top with sparkling water (or probiotic soda), to taste.

Verdict: Did the Sleepy Girl Mocktail improve my sleep?

Sleep score: 95

I'd been looking forward to trying this one and as it has the most scientific backing, I gave it the toughest test. I had a late(ish) night on Thurday and was expecting to miss out on sleep. Could a Sleepy Girl Mocktail help me reclaim some rest?

Well, no. At least according to my sleep tracker, which recorded a dismal score of 36. I slept for just five hours, with only 30 minutes spent in deep sleep.

(Image credit: Future)

Despite this, I felt surprisingly well rested the next day. Something I hadn't expected from my sub-40 score. A second test on a regular work day had better results, with my overall sleep score leaping to 95.

From this (fairly limited) evidence, I'd theorize that the Sleepy Girl Mocktail might have some benefits. But it can't compare to good sleep hygiene.

Perez agrees that the Sleepy Girl Mocktail isn't a magic bullet. "It may be better to try to incorporate foods rich in melatonin (or tryptophan, which is an amino acid our bodies turn into melatonin) into your daily food intake, rather than relying on tart cherry juice."

She recommends pistachios and walnuts, dairy, turkey, eggs and soy food.

Verdict: Delightful, and you might start snoozing better

This is pretty disastrous but I was expecting a bad night's sleep and after I drifted off, I experienced no interruptionsWithings

Round two had much stronger resultsWithings

Night six: Golden milk

(Image credit: Future)

Golden Milk, sometimes known as moon milk, is a bedtime drink made primarily from milk and turmeric.

"Turmeric has recognized anti-inflammatory properties," explains Perez, although she notes there's no strong link that it improves sleep. She adds that milk is also a source of tryptophan.

Many versions of golden milk use adaptogens; natural ingredients that are often recommended for stress reduction (although further research is needed).

However, as Perez explains, the biggest benefit of golden milk might be its soothing feel. “Golden milk can be a comforting bedtime drink," she says. "A warm drink may help people unwind as part of their evening routine."

How to make Golden milk for sleep

Again, Golden Milk recipes vary a lot. I went for this recipe by Quincylk, which has over 3.9 million views.

Stir 1 tsp of ground turmeric, ground cinnamon and ground ginger into 2 cups of almond milk. Add a pinch of black pepper and heat on low for 3 to 5 minutes.
Add 2 tbsps of honey or maple syrup. Serve immediately.

I made a few adaptations. Primarily, switching almond milk for oat milk and halving the recipe. I also added a drop of Reishi mushroom extract, as adaptogens are a popular add-on to Golden Milk.

(Image credit: Future)

Verdict: Did golden milk improve my sleep?

Sleep Score: 78

If you've been looking for a way to add more turmeric to your diet, this is the most pleasant turmeric drink I've had yet. It's warming and soothing, without the 'dirt' taste that plagues many turmeric teas.

My sleep score of 78 also suggests this was a winner. Particularly as I'd had two coffees and two glasses of wine that day, which is not a great sleep combo. However, relaxing with a cup of Golden Milk in the evening did help me wind-down before bed.

Verdict: A soothing bedtime drink

Not a great score overall but my Saturday nights are typically the lowest scoring of the week and I woke up naturally before my alarm (Image credit: Withings)

Night seven: Sleepy time brownies

(Image credit: Future)

Yep, this whole thing has been an excuse to eat brownies before bed. And after forcing myself to drink banana peel water, I think I deserved it.

These brownies contain eggs and milk (for tryptophan), bananas (vitamin B6), cocoa powder (magnesium), and seed or nut butters (healthy fats). However, each amount is in limited doses.

But as a lower-sugar alternative to dessert, they might be a better evening pick for those with a sweet tooth.

How to make sleepy time brownies

This is a relatively simple recipe from HappyHomeNutrition; I knocked them up in about 30 minutes on a Sunday morning, while trying to do three other things at the same time. To make sleepy brownies, you need:

1.5 cups of oat flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
2 ripe bananas, mashed
1/3 cup raw honey
1/2 cup dairy milk (or unsweetened alternative)
2 tbsp sunflower seed butter (or alternative)
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract

Future

In a bowl, mix together the dry ingredients; oat flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, salt and cinnamon.
In another bowl, mic the wet ingredients; bananas, honey, milk, seed butter, eggs and vanilla extract.
Add the wet ingredients to the dry and mix until combined.
Pour the mixture into a greased 8x8 baking pan.
Bake at 350°F (180°C) for 18-22 minutes.

Verdict: Did brownies improve my sleep?

Sleep score: 68

Nothing is ever going to beat a plain old brownie — but these were pretty good. My sleep score of 68 isn't bad for a Sunday night, either, although it did take me a while to fall asleep.

That might be because even a healthier brownie is still a brownie. "If a brownie is genuinely lower in sugar and higher in fibre or protein, it may have less impact on blood sugar than a standard brownie, but it’s still a dessert," explains Perez.

"I wouldn’t encourage people to think of any brownie as a sleep aid. If you enjoy one occasionally, that’s absolutely fine, but it shouldn’t be seen as something that improves sleep.”

Verdict: Easy to make and healthier than most brownies, but you won't see a sleep score improvement

I was in bed well before 11 p.m., but it took until nearly 12 a.m. for me to fall asleep (Image credit: Withings)

Do any of these viral sleep hacks actually work?

“It’s completely understandable why people are looking for simple, natural ways to improve their sleep, and social media has made these food trends incredibly popular," says Perez. "The important thing to remember is that no single food or drink is going to cure persistent sleep problems on its own."

As much as I'd love to say drinking lettuce leaf will cure your 3 a.m. wake ups, I didn't see any real results from any hacks. In fact, my sleep scores were down across the board during my test. Probably because I was wasting my wind-down time boiling banana peels.

So trending drinks are no replacement for good sleep hygiene. But there's a nugget of an idea buried in many hacks.

(Image credit: Future)

Next time I'm hungry before bed, I'll reach for kiwis and carrots. And when the weather turns cool, I'll happily swap hot cocoa for a Golden Milk latte.

"Rather than focusing on finding one 'magic' sleep food, it's worth looking at the broader picture — both overall nutrition and daily routine," explains Perez. "Some foods do have promising evidence behind them, including kiwi fruit, oily fish like salmon and sardines, and dairy products, which are a useful source of tryptophan, the amino acid the body uses to produce melatonin."

"In practice, eating regular balanced meals throughout the day, limiting caffeine in the afternoon, and avoiding large meals or alcohol close to bedtime are all likely to have a far greater impact on sleep than any single food or nutrient alone."

And if you've boiled yourself up some banana skins, give them to your tomato plants and grab yourself a cup of chamomile tea.

Make your own pre-bed sleepy snacks

Whole Foods

Organic Baby Carrots

Amazon

Organic Banana Bunch

Zespri

Green Kiwis

Taylor Farms

Hearts of Romaine Lettuce

Lindt

90% Cocoa Dark Chocolate

SunButter

Sunflower Seed Butter

R.W. Knudsen

Organic Just Tart Cherry Juice

Organic Spice Resource

Turmeric Powder

Naturals

Organic Cocoa Powder

Host Defense

Reishi Extract

Nutricost

Magnesium Glycinate Powder

U.S. Wellness Naturals

Chamomile Flowers Herbal Tea

August is the best month to prune lavender — but avoid making this one mistake

camilla.sharman@futurenet.com (Camilla Sharman) — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 10:24:58 +0000

Lavender is one of my favorite plants that rewards me with delicate flowers and an enticing scent. But apart from my own enjoyment, this perennial shrub is a haven for wildlife and loved by pollinators. It’s a win-win specimen to grow in any yard.

And now that we are moving into late summer, August is the perfect month to prune lavender. But there is one thing you need to know before you get out your pruning shears to ensure your lavender continues to flourish next year.

Adam Kirtland, a gardener who shares his insight on Instagram @viewfromthepottingbench, explains how you should prune lavender and the common pruning mistake you need to avoid.

A post shared by Adam Kirtland 🌱 Garden Tips, Tricks and Ideas (@viewfromthepottingbench)
A photo posted by on

How to prune your lavender for a healthy plant

(Image credit: Shutterstock)

“By now your lavender is probably leggy and has lost some of its color, but spending a bit of time now will give you an amazing plant next year,” explains Kirtland.

And he suggests following the ‘888 rule’, which refers to pruning your lavender on the 8th day of the 8th month, and by 8 inches. But don’t worry, although August 8 has passed, you’ve still got time to prune your lavender.

“You’ll know that your lavender is ready to prune when it’s brown and crispy, but if yours has still got color then you can absolutely wait,” he explains.

So, how do you prune lavender and what do you need to avoid?

Kirtlands explains that the aim is to cut above the brown and woody growth. He demonstrates by showing the brown part on a plant with a green section above, which is where you need to snip.

“If you cut too low, you’ll enter the woody base, and it won’t regrow. If you cut it too high, then it’ll stay leggy. This rule keeps it neat, bushy and blooming,” he says

What’s more, he reminds gardeners to use a sharp pair of pruning shears and to cut into the green growth, not the woody base. “You can either cut off individual blooms or do what I do and grab a bunch and snip all the way through. Work your way around the whole bush, and the aim is to have a nice round mound,” he explains.

These high-quality, Swiss-made pruners have a hardened steel blade capable of cutting 0.8 inches of material. The smooth, red handle is ergonomically designed to provide comfort while cutting. These pruners are ideal for medium-sized hands.View Deal

(Image credit: Shutterstock)

By pruning your lavender at the right time, in the right place and at the right length, he says you’ll be encouraging your lavender to “live longer, bloom harder and look less like it’s given up on life.”

But that’s not all; once you’ve pruned your lavender, Kirtland suggests it makes perfect cutting material, or can be placed in a dark place and dried for later use in gifts and even baking. It really is a plant that keeps on giving.

Ring Spotlight Cam (2nd gen) review: Better battery life, sharper 2K video

mike.prospero@futurenet.com (Mike Prospero) — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 10:00:00 +0000

There was a time when the prospect of 2K resolution in a security camera would move it to the top of our rankings. Now, it’s the bare minimum, given that many of the best home security cameras record in 4K.

Ring’s newest outdoor camera, the Ring Spotlight Cam (2nd gen) updates its design and sports a new, higher resolution 2K camera that not only delivers a crisper image, but also lets you zoom in closer (somewhat) to view details. It also has improved low-light performance, brighter spotlights, and can accommodate a larger battery than its predecessor.

So is this the best home security camera for those in the Ring ecosystem looking for a spotlight? Yes, but as I found out while testing the Ring Spotlight Cam, there are a few caveats.

Price and availability

The second-generation Spotlight Cam was released on June 3, 2026 for $169. It’s available as either a battery-powered or plug-in model, with solar and wired versions coming soon. Like other Ring cameras, this one also comes in white and black.

Ring launched its second-gen Floodlight Cam ($199) too, which also has a Retinal 2K camera; this model only comes in a wired version for now, but it has two 2000-lumen floods.

What I liked

Design

(Image credit: Future)

Ring Spotlight Cam (2nd gen) specs

Resolution: 2K
Size: 4.84 in x 3.15 in x 3.27 in
Field of view: 140° Horizontal, 85° Vertical
Spotlights: 550 lumens
Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi 4 (2.4GHz)
Operating temperature: -4°F to 122°F (-20°C to 50°C)
Weather resistance: IP65

The 2nd-gen Spotlight Cam looks similar to the first, but that’s not a bad thing. It’s more or less a cylinder, the face of which has a black cutout running the length for the camera, IR sensors, and microphone. Flanking this are two LED light strips.

The bottom of the camera twists off to reveal the battery compartment. The camera ships with one battery, but there’s a compartment for a second. An extra battery costs $50. Each compartment is spring-loaded, and each battery has a metal tab to lock it in place. It’s a neat mechanism, but feels a little over-designed. A single screw secures the battery compartment cover; it’s a traditional Philips head, though.

(Image credit: Future)

The rear has two slots to attach the included mounting bracket; below that is a small recess with a USB-C port, which you can use to either recharge the camera, or connect a solar panel.

In all, it’s a sensible-looking camera. It’s perhaps not as sleek as Google’s Nest outdoor camera, but not as ungainly as other devices from, say TP-Link or Eufy, which have multiple, bulbous lenses protruding from their cameras.

Good — but not great — video

The Spotlight Cam’s daytime video was colorful and detailed enough so that I could make out some features of individuals (such as me) walking across my lawn from a distance of about 20 feet away. However, if my face was in shadow — like on a bright day — it was very hard to make out some facial features.

While the Spotlight Cam can record detailed video, it’s not as good as that of Ring’s Floodlight Cam. For example, in a sample video of my backyard and house, I could make out individual roof shingles in the Floodlight cam’s video; in the Spotlight cam’s video, the roof was an undistinguished gray.

Initially, I had both cameras set up near my garage, and about equidistant from my router (a Netgear Orbi). The Floodlight Cam did receive a marginally better signal — rssi -50, as opposed to -59 for the Spotlight Cam (numbers closer to 0 are better).

Ring sent me a second Spotlight Cam to test, but I saw similar results. I also moved the Spotlight Cam much closer to my house (and the router) to see if that would have an effect, but while the video was fine, it wasn’t as crisp as I thought it would be.

The Spotlight Cam only shoots infrared video at night, which to be fair, was of generally good quality, but was lacking the detail you’d get from color night vision. Then again, you can also program the Spotlight Cam to turn on its lights when it detects movement, which illuminates the scene. In my testing, it was able to add color back to objects as far away as 15 feet.

AI descriptions are neat, but not perfect

(Image credit: Future)

If you’re willing to pay up, Ring’s AI does have some pretty neat tricks. For starters, it provides detailed descriptions of any movement it sees. For example, I would get notifications such as “a child riding a bike in the driveway”,“a squirrel hopping across the yard,” or “a raccoon walking across the grass.”

Sometimes, it would miscategorize things to hilarious effect. Once, for example, it thought my dog was a goat wandering around my patio, and misidentified my cat as a bobcat. He's big, but not that big.

And, you can also use natural language search to look for specific events. I could just type in “raccoon,” for instance, and every video of a trash panda would appear. What’s more, this isn’t limited to Ring’s newer cameras; it works across all its devices.

However, this feature doesn’t come cheap, as you’ll see in the next section.

What I didn’t

You need a subscription

Like all of Ring’s cameras, the Spotlight Cam requires a subscription if you want to use most of its features, including the most basic, saving video. Ring’s subscriptions start at $5 a month for a single camera, and $10/month for unlimited cameras at one location. With that, you get, among other things, 180 days of video history, which is the most generous among security camera companies. However, there are plenty of equally capable security cameras that don’t require a subscription to save video.

If you want all the fun AI features — such as being able to see descriptions like “child riding a bike in the yard” or “raccoon walking on the driveway” you’ll need to drop $20 per month on Ring’s premium plan. That’s a lot to ask.

To be fair, it’s the same amount that Google charges for its AI features on Nest cams, but there are plenty of other AI-enabled security cameras that charge less.

MicroUSB and Wi-Fi 4? In 2026?

Confoundingly, the batteries still use a micro USB connector, rather than the newer USB-C. This is a small annoyance, to be sure — you can easily recharge the batteries using the USB-C port on the camera itself, and Ring also ships a USB to microUSB cable with the device.

It's also a bit surprising that the Spotlight Cam is still using Wi-Fi 4, and can only operate on the slower 2.4GHz band. The 4K Spotlight Cam Pro uses Wi-Fi 6 and both the 2.4 and 5GHz bands.

How the Spotlight Cam (2nd gen) compares to Ring's outdoor cameras

With the launch of the Spotlight Cam (2nd gen), Ring now has 11 outdoor cameras from which you can choose — including some that have the same name — though I suspect the older models will be slowly discontinued.

Even I, as someone who reviews these things for a living, was a bit confused, so here’s a cheat sheet. I’ve included the list price, though you can often find the older models at a significant discount. To keep things simple, I’ve only listed the spotlight cameras.

	Price	Resolution	FOV	Power
Spotlight Cam Plus	$149	1080p	140° Horizontal, 78° Vertical	Battery, plugin, solar, wired
Spotlight Cam (2nd gen)	$169	2K	140° Horizontal, 85° Vertical	Battery, plugin, solar, wired
Spotlight Cam Pro (1st gen)	$199	2K	140° Horizontal, 80° Vertical	Battery, plugin, solar, wired
Spotlight Cam Pro (newest model)	$249	4K	140° Horizontal, 85° Vertical	Plugin, wired, PoE

Bottom line

(Image credit: Future)

There aren’t a lot of outdoor security cameras with spotlights as powerful as Ring’s; most other companies either have much smaller lights, or much bigger floodlight cameras. The Wyze Battery Cam Pro is one of the few exceptions. It too has a 2K camera and supports local storage, but has a smaller field of view, a less powerful spotlight, and only one battery compartment.

The Ring Spotlight Cam (2nd gen) is a clear upgrade over the previous model, in that it offers a higher resolution camera and a wider field of view. But it’s not a huge upgrade over the first-gen Spotlight Cam Pro, which has a 2K camera, dual-band Wi-Fi, 3D motion detection (the newer Spotlight Cam only has customizable motion detection), and two-way talk with audio+.

However, the newer camera has better low-light performance, brighter spotlights, and can use the higher-capacity quick-release battery, so you can go longer between recharges — unless you buy the solar panel.

Ring often offers discounts on both models, especially during holidays and other events. It’s only a matter of time before the 1st gen Spotlight Cam Pro is discontinued, so it might be worth seeing which is on sale for the lower price before you buy.

Netflix top 10 shows — here’s the 3 you need to binge-watch this week (August 11-17)

alix.blackburn@futurenet.com (Alix Blackburn) — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 09:31:11 +0000

It’s a new week, which means Netflix’s top 10 refreshes based on what everyone was gravitating towards over the weekend, and that usually means newer releases. This is what makes the trending list so useful, because if you missed something new dropping on the service, it’s most likely to show up in the popular section. So, if you’re looking for something to watch this week, the trending list is a great place to start.

But just because there’s a top 10 doesn’t always make it easy to decide what to watch, especially since these rankings can often include a few duds. That’s why I’ve picked out three shows currently in Netflix’s top 10 that are actually worth watching. This week, that includes the new season of a hit romantic drama, an intriguing comedy-drama that originally aired on Fox, and a British series based on a shocking true story. If you want to see what else is trending, you’ll find the full Netflix top 10 below.

Note: This list is based on the Netflix U.S. top 10 shows as of Tuesday, August 11, 2026.

Best shows in the Netflix top 10

‘My Life with the Walter Boys’

We’re in the era of seriously messy love triangles. That’s not to say they’ve never been prominent in TV before, because you could argue “The Vampire Diaries” really kicked things off, but the past couple of years have been packed with messy romantic drama. “My Life with the Walter Boys” is certainly one of them, with the ending of season 2 only fueling its central love triangle. Now that season 3 is streaming, things have somehow gotten even messier (and more frustrating). But hey, if you’re looking for a series where you can pick a side, “My Life with the Walter Boys” is perfect.

Season 3 picks up after Jackie (Nikki Rodriguez) and Cole (Noah LaLonde) confess their feelings for each other, only for Alex (Ashby Gentry) to overhear them before George is rushed to hospital. As the Walter family deals with the aftermath, Jackie focuses on developing a community space in Silver Falls while trying to work out where she belongs. Alex joins a new rodeo team, while Cole discovers a new opportunity behind the wheel after a race car driver spots his potential. Jackie’s childhood friend also arrives from New York, bringing a connection to the life she left behind.

Stream "My Life with the Walter Boys" season 3 on Netflix

‘Best Medicine’

Sometimes, the best medicine for sadness is a comedy, and what better show to watch than… “Best Medicine.” This medical comedy-drama originally premiered on Fox and serves as the official American adaptation of the long-running British hit “Doc Martin.” It takes the beloved ITV format created by Dominic Minghella and updates its iconic Cornish fishing village setting to a quirky coastal town on America’s East Coast. With its eccentric characters and plenty of laughs, it’s the perfect show for anyone looking for something uplifting to watch this week.

Dr. Martin Best (Josh Charles) is a brilliant surgeon who leaves his career in Boston and moves to the coastal town of Port Wenn, Maine, where he spent summers as a child. Taking over as the town’s general practitioner, Martin quickly finds himself treating an unusual collection of local patients. His blunt manner and dislike of unnecessary conversation frequently put him at odds with the people around him. Meanwhile, Martin’s assistant Elaine Denton (Cree Cicchino) helps him navigate his new practice as he deals with a growing fear of blood.

Stream "Best Medicine" on Netflix

‘The Bombing of Pan Am 103’

Those who prefer to watch a series based on a true story will want to check out “The Bombing of Pan Am 103,” a British drama focusing on the aftermath of Britain’s deadliest terrorist attack at the time in 1988. The series follows the joint Scottish-American criminal investigation as detectives and FBI agents work to identify those responsible, while the case develops into an international legal battle. Written by Jonathan Lee and Scottish screenwriter Gillian Roger Park, the series follows the investigation and its impact on those connected to the case across multiple decades.

On December 21, 1988, Pan Am Flight 103 exploded over Lockerbie, Scotland, killing all 259 people aboard and 11 people on the ground. In the aftermath, Scottish detective Ed McCusker (Connor Swindells) and his colleagues begin a huge investigation to determine how the bombing happened and identify those responsible. They soon join forces with FBI agents Dick Marquise (Patrick J. Adams), Tom Thurman (Eddie Marsan) and Kathryn Turman (Merritt Wever), taking the investigation across Scotland, America and Malta as they follow new evidence and potential suspects.

Stream "The Bombing of Pan Am 103" on Netflix

Netflix top 10 shows right now

1. "My Life with the Walter Boys" (2023)
2. "The Idaho Murders: College Nightmare" (2026)
3. "Best Medicine" (2026)
4. "The Bombing of Pan Am 103" (2025)
5. "Let's Marry Harry" (2026)
6. "Ransom Canyon" (2025)
7. "I Will Find You" (2026)
8. "The Hawk" (2026)
9. "Alone Australia" (2023)
10. "Our Sticky Love" (2026)

This is the dorm room TV I'd buy if I were heading back to college this semester — and it’s on sale for $279

michael.desjardin@futurenet.com (Michael Desjardin) — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 09:30:00 +0000

In college, two things were especially important to me: being thrifty with my spending and curating a living space that reflected my personality.

Back then, I dragged a bulky, 50-pound CRT TV from one dorm room to another. I didn’t care that it wasn’t a very good TV; it was cheap, so it allowed me to spend money on… other stuff.

But if I was entering the college scene in 2026, I’d have way more cheap TVs to pick from — and cooler-looking ones, at that. The Hisense Déco S5 TV is a prime example of a set that college-me would’ve sprung for. It features an Art Deco-inspired design and looks like nothing else on the market. Right now, the 43-inch Hisense Deco TV is just $279 at Amazon. Here's why I wish I could send it back in time to the younger version of myself.

This small-sized, Art Deco-inspired QLED is the perfect pick for people who want a unique TV for an ultra-low price. It's got built-in Fire TV streaming software, three HDMI inputs and an ATSC tuner. Install it in the corner of your most stylish room.View Deal

The world of TVs is full of gray-and-black-colored rectangles. The Deco TV is different.

This TV trades the straight lines and glowering demeanor of a standard-looking TV for a bubbly, cherubic design. It's also white, which doesn't seem like a significant detail until you realize just how breezy the light-colored chassis looks compared to the black-box style of boring ol' TVs.

The Deco TV's design will fashionably stand out in a room with contrasting décor, like warm wood tones and vintage furniture. But it'll also fit right into a colorful, neon-lit dorm room.

(Image credit: Hisense)

Its performance won't be as impressive as what you'll find on higher-end TVs, but for the price, the Deco TV comes with some features that are nice to have in your back pocket. Quantum-dot color isn't exactly standard at the sub-$300 price point, for instance, so I appreciate that the Deco TV leverages a QLED display.

It supports Dolby Vision (one of the most popular HDR formats), but I suspect that the Deco TV's HDR performance isn't very impressive, given the modest nature of its hardware. Nevertheless, I appreciate Dolby Vision's inclusion.

Another perk is the Deco TV's built-in, Fire TV streaming software. Amazon's smart platform isn't my preferred pick for streaming movies and shows, but it'll get the job done if you'd prefer not to clutter up your dorm or studio apartment with a dedicated streaming device.

If you're heading to college and you're hoping to find a cheap, reliable TV, you may as well choose one that'll turn heads and spark conversation. At just $279, you'll have plenty of cash leftover for responsible school supplies intended for educational purposes.

How to watch Made by Google 2026 — Pixel 11, Pixel Watch 5, Pixel Tag and more

tom.pritchard@futurenet.com (Tom Pritchard) — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 09:16:39 +0000

Made by Google is happening later this week, and with it comes the reveal of the next generation of Pixel devices. This includes the four-device Pixel 11 series, the Pixel Watch 5 and maybe even a Pixel tag Bluetooth tracker if the rumors are to be believed.

Last year's event was a confusing muddle of phone reveals and talk show elements, hosted by Jimmy Fallon. While we'd hoped that this year's event was a little more traditional, it seems that Trevor Noah has been brought in for hosting duties, alongside appearances by multiple celebrities.

But there's only one way to hear the biggest announcements of the night as they happen, and that's to tune in live. Here's how you can watch Made by Google 2026 and see everything unfold.

How to watch Made by Google 2026

With this being a Google event, it's no surprise that the entire show is being livestreamed on YouTube by the official Made By Google account. The event itself begins on August 12 at 6 p.m. ET / 3 p.m. PT / 11 p.m. BST, and will take place in New York.

You can watch the whole thing on YouTube itself, or watch it via the livestream embedded below.

The livestream also features a notification alert, which will ping you when the event is about to begin — which means you won't accidentally forget and miss out on all the reveals.

What to expect at Made by Google 2026

(Image credit: Google)

The biggest news at Made by Google will be the Pixel 11 series, which includes four separate phones. There's the standard Pixel 11, the more powerful Pixel 11 Pro and its larger sibling Pixel 11 Pro XL, plus the Pixel 11 Pro Fold.

The rumors and leaks we've seen so far don't suggest any outlandish changes this year, and we should expect the usual slew of upgrades that typically come with a Google phone. Better cameras, improved chips and more exclusive AI software. We can expect base storage to go up to 256GB on all models, though this will likely see the price rise as well.

The biggest upgrade we've heard about is the new Pixel Glow, or HiLight feature, which adds an RGB LED to the back of your phone that's supposed to act as a notification alert of sorts.

We're also expecting to see a brand new Pixel Watch 5, which is expected to add extra RAM and storage, even if the design isn't set to change all that much. It's likely that there will be a bunch of extra health features added as well.

We know a lot less about the Pixel Tag, but design leaks promise an oval-shaped tracker that will connect with Google's Find Hub and help you track down bags, keys and whatever else you may need to keep tabs on.

Google Pixel 11 pre-order deals

(Image credit: Evan Blass)

The new Pixels haven't even been announced yet, but Google is already trying to entice you into pre-ordering one. A new landing page on the official Google Store is advertising an exclusive pre-order offer for people who subscribe to email alerts ahead of the Made by Google event.

The offer is only available for new subscribers, and the small print says that each promotional code will be "valid for the redemption of one discounted Pixel 11 series phone per eligible account." That sounds like Google will be offering money off the cost of purchasing one of the new phones, assuming you sign up and get a valid code first, but it doesn't specify how much you'll be able to save.

It's also worth noting that this deal will only be available "while supplies last" and redemption will happen on a first-come, first-served basis. The final expiry date will be just before midnight on September 1, after which nobody will be getting a discount.

ChatGPT can do more for you than ever — and I use these 5 prompts to take everyday tasks off my plate

Elton Jones — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 09:00:00 +0000

ChatGPT definitely gets top billing for me whenever I need a chatbot that handles my research, productivity and planning needs.

And over time, I’ve been treated to new and improved versions of the chatbot’s models that boost its intelligence and sense of reasoning. The initial preview and rollout of the improved ChatGPT models (GPT-5.6 Sol and GPT-5.6 Luna) has pushed OpenAI’s chatbot to an even more impressive level when it comes to generating stronger responses. Alongside those model enhancements, ChatGPT has become so much better at remembering context from previous conversations, handling more complex topics, carrying outs multi-step tasks, fulfilling everyday tasks via Plugins and conducting more objectives with its Voice feature.

It’s gotten to the point where ChatGPT has evolved to the point where it’s not just good for answering your most basic questions — it can complete all sorts of objectives from users who give it the proper delegation and steps.

With ChatGPT’s most recent updates in mind, I’ve grown accustomed to putting it through its paces by tapping into these five prompts to make it work more efficiently. And I’m always satisfied with the results that come from my daily interactions with it.

Taking advantage of ChatGPT’s latest evolved state

(Image credit: Shutterstock)

The following five prompts I’ve gotten used to sharing with ChatGPT to make my everyday tasks easier to deal with are as follows:

Plan my day: Here’s everything I need to get done today: [list]. Organize it into the most efficient schedule possible. Prioritize what matters most, group similar tasks together, estimate how long each will take, and build in realistic breaks. If anything can be delegated, automated, batched, or eliminated, flag it.
Research something for me: I need to make a decision about [topic]. Research the most important information I need to know, compare the available options, identify the key trade-offs, and give me a clear recommendation. Don’t just summarize—do the legwork and tell me what you would choose and why.
Turn a messy task into a checklist: I need to accomplish [goal], but I don’t want to figure out all the steps myself. Break this into a complete, step-by-step checklist in the correct order. Include anything I might overlook, tell me what I can prepare in advance, and mark which steps you can help me complete.
Compare my options: I’m deciding between [option A], [option B], and [option C]. Do the comparison for me. Evaluate them based on [budget/time/quality/convenience/etc.], identify the biggest pros and cons of each, point out anything I’m overlooking, and recommend the best option for my situation.
Make a plan for me: I want to [goal] by [date]. Build the entire plan for me. Work backward from the deadline, divide it into manageable milestones, tell me exactly what I should do each week/day, and identify anything I should do now to make the rest easier.

(Image credit: Shutterstock)

The final prompt has done a lot of great work for me on an everyday basis — from basic goals like trying to increase my weekly record of walking steps to bigger ones such as finding my first apartment in New York, ChatGPT has excelled at laying out the proper steps I need to take to see them to successful completion.

When I needed it to map out my plan for achieving my goal of building a gaming PC by January 2027, it put me on the right path with an easy-to-follow roadmap. It also listed the best target configuration for my future gaming PC, a master plan for me to stick to for the next six months, detailed phases for the proceeding days/weeks/months, the biggest strategic decision I should make and my ideal timeline.

This final statement from ChatGPT put me in the right mindset to accomplish my latest gaming-related goal: The smartest version of this project is therefore not "find the best PC today." It's "position yourself to buy the best PC for your money in November. The custom (albeit expensive) gaming PC configuration the chatbot put in front of me is as follows:

CPU: High-end AMD X3D chip (an AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D)
GPU: RTX 5090-class or best-value successor/alternative
Motherboard: Quality AM5 board with Wi-Fi (an AMD X870E)
RAM: 32GB minimum; 64GB preferred (a DDR5 6000 CL30)
Storage: 2TB NVMe minimum; 4TB ideal (a Gen 5 NVMe)
PSU: 1000W–1200W quality Gold/Platinum (a 1200W 80+ Platinum PSU)
Cooling: High-end air cooler or 360mm AIO
Case: High-airflow ATX case
OS: Windows 11
Monitor: 4K 240Hz OLED if budget allows (an ASUS ROG Swift OLED PG32UCDM Gen3)

The takeaway

ChatGPT has come in a bunch of evolved forms that respond with more thoughtful answers and the capacity to tackle intricate requests with multiple steps. The five prompts I’ve made a permanent part of my reusable prompt library are tailor-made for the chatbot’s most improved models to date. Transforming the chatbot into an assistant and a critical agent that can help me do deep research, create step-by-step plans, plan my day and more has become an integral part of my life.

I've been running with the Adidas Kaphiros sunglasses — here are two things I love and three that I don't

sam.hopes@futurenet.com (Sam Hopes) — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 08:30:00 +0000

I run often, but I wouldn't class myself as "a runner," so I write this hands-on with the Adidas Kaphiros sports glasses with some trepidation. I don't want to anger the Adidas lovers among us, but I've got some likes and dislikes when it comes to testing the Kaphiros this summer.

The Kaphiros is a rimless sport shade that is lightweight and offers unobstructed views, as I can attest. And if you're looking for the best running apparel to finish off the summer, the sports glasses are a strong contender for several reasons. However, there were a few issues I had when wearing the glasses, and no, it wasn't down to sizing.

If you're interested, find out what I liked and disliked below, plus whether or not I think they're worth the $154 price tag.

What I liked

They sit well

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For those who don't know me, I have a notoriously small head. Sunglasses aren't the easiest running apparel for me to wear at the best of times, but when I'm running, I find sunglasses extremely difficult to wear. Either they don't fit, or they limit my view and distract me, so I always end up whipping them off and going for the "squint and hope for the best" option instead.

The Kaphiros are designed for fluid movement and agility. I had no problems running in the glasses, though they did bounce up and down (to begin with) on my nose, which seemed to rectify itself the sweatier I got. Perhaps I had unlocked some sort of hidden suction feature?

They're flexible without feeling cheap (they're not cheap), with adjustable nose pads, rubber grips and temples for a personalized fit; the result is a secure, lightweight pair of sports glasses that actually allow me to focus on the road ahead. And that's because, unlike traditional lower borders found on frames, the Kaphiros eliminates this in favor of downward sight, which means you can check your terrain and your sports watch.

They offer brilliant protection and uninterrupted vision

As I mentioned, they're rimless, which gives you an unobstructed, expanded field of vision. When running, situational awareness is key; whether you're on the roads or the trails, blind spots are dangerous. The Adidas Kaphiros feel expansive, and I could see my route along the coast really clearly. This was on tricky terrain, which I followed up with a woodland effort and a regular road route, all of which went without issue.

The sunglasses use PowerVizn technology for the lens tints and mirror coatings, which helps enhance contrast and regulate light transmission. I loved wearing them in the bright sunlight, and I felt like they were properly protecting my eyes, especially as they use a wraparound design and block out a lot of intrusive light.

The lenses also feature HD optics with dual-sided hydrophobic and oleophobic coatings. If you, like me, haven't heard those terms before, it helps make the glasses repel water, sweat and dirt or smudging. They're also built to be durable, but only time will tell on this one.

What I didn't like

They pick up smear marks

The Adidas Kaphiros uses a specialized ventilation system with integrated holes along the temples to help increase airflow along the inner lens and prevent fogging. I can't really speak on this one yet, but I will update this hands-on a little further down the line.

I mentioned above that the dual-sided coatings should eliminate smudges and marks, but even with the lightest of touches, my sunglasses were absolutely covered in fingerprints and dirt. Given the design and color of the glasses, it's extremely noticeable and not easy to rub off, either.

I experienced some bounce and slide

This is a bit of a cheat, as they did eventually settle on my face, but initially I found that even with the snug and comfortable fit, the glasses bounced up and down on my nose. Now, is this down to it being a men's model, or would this happen anyway?

The Kaphiros sunglasses feature fully adjustable temple and nose pads, and the rubber grip interior should ideally prevent the frame from bouncing or sliding. I'm a pretty sweaty person when I exercise, and although the glasses did stop bouncing during the runs, they continued to slip here and there, the sweatier I got.

The temple design isn't built for hair

Lastly, let's talk briefly about the temples (the arms of the sunglasses). They have a slightly rugged design, which enhances grip and helps them to sit snugly over your ears. Great, I hear you say, although if you have hair on your head, adjusting your glasses or taking them off just isn't fun.

For those of you with short (or no) hair, this won't be a problem, but for anyone else, it's quite annoying. In fact, it actually hurts. It's a small but fair gripe, I think.

Verdict

I went for these glasses because, in my view, they're unisex, if you get your sizing right. The temples need a little work for anyone with hair, and they pick up a little too much grease on the lenses for my liking, but that said, I love the design, and the quality of the Kaphiros is brilliant, especially if you want to see clearly when running along uneven terrain. Plus, they look very, very good.

Are they worth $154? Annoyingly, I'm just not sure. I plan to update this hands-on once I've spent some time with them during the winter months, but if you want a pair of sports glasses to throw on during a sunny run, you can't go far wrong. It's just whether or not that price tag is scary for you.

Follow Tom's Guide fitness on Instagram for more workouts, routines, tips, and tricks.

I stumbled on a dark fantasy hidden gem streaming free on Tubi. I may never sleep again

Nicole Pyles — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 08:00:00 +0000

I've always been a fan of obscure films. Some movies happen upon me like a dream, and the 1989 British dark fantasy flick "Paperhouse" was one of those rare finds. I stumbled across it late one night back when flipping around channels was still a thing — one of the true casualties of the streaming age, where these hidden cinematic gems are so much harder to come by organic discovery.

The moment I tuned in, I was completely entranced by the eerie concept of a young girl’s drawings coming to life. It tap-dances right on the boundary between childhood imagination and psychological horror, pulling you into a world that feels as fragile as it is deeply disturbing.

From its slow creep factor to the hauntingly isolated quality of the young girl's dreams, "Paperhouse" is a forgotten classic. If you're looking to unearth a hidden gem, this is one film you’ll definitely want to add to your watchlist. And fortunately for you, it's streaming completely free on Tubi.

What is 'Paperhouse' about?

"Paperhouse" begins when young Anna (Charlotte Burke) collapses at school and is diagnosed with glandular fever. Confined to bed with a high fever, her real world bleeds into a surreal dreamscape where whatever she draws on paper instantly manifests inside her sleep.

It starts when she sketches a crude, lopsided house in a barren field, only to find herself standing right in front of it during her next dream, complete with its misshapen fence and crooked windows. Seeking a companion in this eerie solitude, she draws a boy named Marc inside one of the upper windows.

When she visits Marc in her dreams, however, she discovers he is bedridden and unable to walk, trapped inside the dwelling. Anna's frantic attempts to alter her drawings and help him backfire, twisting her lonely fantasy world into a far weirder and more frightening nightmare.

(Image credit: Alamy)

"Paperhouse" plays out like a genuine fever dream. The storyline of Anna's sketches coming to life — and all the psychological chaos that ensues — pulls you right in. Director Bernard Rose constructs a bizarre setting that evokes a looming, atmospheric dreamworld echoing Anna's inner torment at home, fueled by an absent father and a volatile relationship with her mother. Her growing guilt over being unable to save the boy in her dream becomes a poignant metaphor for her complete lack of control over her own real-world circumstances.

The unsettling creep factor should come as no surprise, given it was helmed by the same director who gave us "Candyman". Rose understands how to make a dream feel as deeply uncanny as a real nightmare. Much like our own actual dreams, the world Anna creates looks almost real on the surface, but something is fundamentally amiss just beneath the exterior. Don't expect the visceral slasher gore of "Candyman" here; "Paperhouse" tones down the visceral shock in favor of atmospheric dread, standing strong as a fantastic dark fantasy horror movie in its own right.

If you are making the rounds looking for a scary movie to watch and want to trade classic jump scares for psychological mood, don't miss this one. It has flown under the radar for decades, never receiving the mainstream hype of other '80s horror staples. Track it down on your favorite free streaming platform and dive in.

Stream "Paperhouse" free on Tubi

OpenClaw is available on iPhone and Android — these are the things I would set up first

Christoph Schwaiger — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 07:30:00 +0000

The always-on AI agent OpenClaw now has an official companion app for iOS and Android, making it easier than ever to stay connected when you’re away from your computer.

One of OpenClaw’s biggest strengths has always been its integration with messaging platforms like Discord, Slack, and Telegram. However, the official mobile apps provide a more direct route, letting you chat with your agent without passing the conversation through a third-party messaging service.

The app also has several phone-specific features. You can dictate prompts, record voice notes, send photos, and grant your agent access to your contacts, calendar, and location. Android users can even forward phone notifications to their agent.

Before diving in, there is one crucial detail to keep in mind: the mobile app does not run your OpenClaw gateway on its own. Instead, it pairs with a gateway running on another device, such as your computer or a server which needs to stay powered on and reachable.

If you’re completely new to OpenClaw, you’ll want to set up your agent on a desktop or server first. Once that's ready, here's how to get the OpenClaw companion app running on your smartphone.

1. Download the app

Download the correct app for iPhone or Android, depending on what phone you’re using.

2. Open the app

Once it’s installed, tap on the app to open it.

3. Connect your agent

Next, you’ll want to pair your phone with your AI agent, Follow the on-screen instructions and confirm your credentials. The easiest way to do this is to scan a QR code generated by your agent. It helps if you also have your gateway token handy.

In case you’ve forgotten your secret token, open your OpenClaw CLI and type openclaw dashboard --no-open.

4. Confirm access permissions

After you’ve successfully paired your phone and OpenClaw agent, you’ll be shown a screen to determine the access levels. The more permissions you approve, the more tasks your agent will be able to complete, but consider what you’re comfortable sharing and what you’d rather keep private.

Tap allow to approve the relevant access permissions.

5. Start chatting

If you’ve set everything up correctly, the OpenClaw app will display a confirmation message. Tap on go to chat to get started.

If your messages receive a response, the basic setup is complete. The next steps are where the mobile app becomes more interesting.

6. Using your camera and microphone

A considerable advantage of having your phone connected to your AI agent is you can spontaneously whip it out of your pocket and send your agent a quick voice note or picture. That way you’ll never have to worry about forgetting your killer business idea that pop in your head when you’re on the go.

To send a voice note, click on the microphone button. To add a picture, click on the plus sign.

The iPhone app also includes an experimental voice-wake feature, which is supposed to let OpenClaw respond to a chosen wake phrase. Unfortunately, I could not get this to work during my testing.

7. Sync your calendar and contacts

You can also ask your AI agent questions related to your phone’s calendar and contacts. To do this, click on OpenClaw’s settings and tap on permissions.

Then scroll down to the privacy and access tab, open the dropdown menu and tap on allow for the features you want to give your agent access to.

OpenClaw’s mobile calendar capability reads calendar information available on the phone rather than separately signing into your Google or Microsoft account.

Android users also have their own perks. You can enable notification forwarding to have your phone give live updates to your AI agent of what’s happening on your phone.

OLED isn’t always the best laptop screen — here’s when the cheaper IPS model is the smarter buy

Max Slater-Robins — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 07:00:00 +0000

In the past few years, OLED displays have become one of the easiest laptop upgrades to get excited about.

The reasons are obvious: Deep blacks and superb contrast can make everything from Netflix to games look better, and many of the best laptops offer OLED for good reason.

But I wouldn’t automatically tick the OLED box when configuring a new laptop.

For those of us who spend our days in Chrome, or in documents, spreadsheets, emails, and Zoom calls, a good IPS screen can already look excellent while costing less and using less power.

In fact, saving on that pricey OLED upgrade can actually leave more of your budget for memory, storage, or other upgrades you’ll feel every day.

The new Dell XPS 13 is here to help you beat the RAMageddon blues. This model has a 13.4-inch InfinityEdge 2.5K touch display, an Intel Core Series 3 "Wildcat Lake" CPU, 8GB of RAM, and 512GB of SSD storage. It's wrapped in an aluminum design that's just 0.5 inches thick and 2.2 pounds.View Deal

OLED is still worth paying for — if you’ll actually benefit from it

(Image credit: Tom's Guide)

None of this is to say OLED isn’t worth having. If your primary laptop use is gaming, watching movies, or editing photos and video, the improvement in contrast and black levels can be immediately obvious. After all, there’s a reason OLED machines such as the Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 feature so prominently in our best gaming laptops guide.

For the power users among us, paying a little extra makes sense, and the same goes for anyone who ranks display quality high on their personal list of priorities.

But if your laptop is going to spend most of its life displaying browser tabs and documents, OLED’s biggest strengths are far less important, and this is where the trade-offs start to look more interesting.

Battery life matters far more than perfect blacks

(Image credit: Tom's Guide)

Away from the power socket, OLED's downsides can become a little clearer: higher-res panels demand more power than their cheaper LCD counterparts, and the difference between laptop configurations can be substantial.

Take the Dell XPS 14, a fantastic laptop by all accounts. In our testing, the OLED model lasted 12 hours and 23 minutes in a web-browsing battery test, while the lower-res LED version managed a frankly ridiculous 20 hours and 41 minutes.

It's worth saying that those weren’t otherwise identical laptops. The OLED configuration also used a more powerful processor, so the screen alone can’t take credit for the entire gap.

For buyers, though, that distinction only matters up to a point.

You’re choosing between complete laptop configurations, and if the cheaper display option gives you several more hours away from the charger, that can be far more useful than deeper blacks.

A good IPS screen is already good enough for most people

(Image credit: Tom's Guide)

There's a misconception that plumping for IPS in 2026 means getting a dull, low-resolution display.

In reality, plenty of modern LCD panels offer high resolutions, 120Hz refresh rates, strong brightness, and good color reproduction – more than enough for everyday work and entertainment.

The Dell XPS 13 is a fantastic example: Its non-OLED display still impressed in our testing, reaching 394 nits of brightness and covering 112.6% of the sRGB color gamut.

The Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3i goes a step further with a 120Hz IPS touchscreen, showing how features once associated with more expensive laptops are filtering down the range.

There is an important caveat, though: IPS alone isn’t a guarantee of quality. Cheap panels can still be dim and washed out, or even unpleasantly reflective.

It's always worth looking beyond the display tech itself and checking brightness, resolution, refresh rate, and color performance when choosing your next workhorse.

For $699, the Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3i 15 (2026) offers a bright 15-inch touchscreen and solid battery life for work or school. Skip this laptop at its full $1,299 MSRP, though.View Deal

In 2026, I’d spend the OLED money on RAM or storage instead

(Image credit: Future)

With higher memory and storage prices pushing up the cost of better-specced laptops, many laptop buyers need to make some careful calculations.

If skipping OLED lets you move from 16GB to 32GB of RAM, or from a 512GB SSD to 1TB, I’d almost always take the extra capacity instead.

That’s especially true for memory. RAM is soldered on many modern laptops, so choosing too little at checkout can leave you stuck with it for the life of the machine. You are also very likely to feel a lack of RAM in everyday usage.

Storage is easier to work around with cloud services and external drives, but extra memory can make a real difference to multitasking and how well a laptop holds up over several years.

Unless you work in a field that needs an OLED display, I’d usually prioritize enough RAM and enough storage, alongside strong battery life, before paying extra for OLED.

Buy a better laptop, not a better screen

OLED has become a useful shorthand for a premium laptop, which can make the cheaper display option feel like the one you’re supposed to upgrade away from. I think that’s the wrong way to approach it.

A laptop configuration should reflect what you’ll actually notice over several years of use. If a brighter, richer screen genuinely improves that experience, then OLED is an easy choice.

If your priorities are getting the strongest overall specification for your budget, choosing IPS can be the more considered upgrade path, even if it looks less impressive on the product page.

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