Author: sparta

Suggested Cyber Monday Running Offers: Timepieces, Earphones, and Additional Items from a Runner and Technology Evaluator

I’ve logged more miles in 2025 than ever, relying on these devices to maintain my focus and prevent injuries.

One reason I enjoy running is that it doesn’t require a hefty investment. You purchase a few quality items and make them endure. I’ve used one pair of Brooks running shoes for over 700 miles in 2025, my shirts stem from races I participated in years ago, and my Nordstrom Rack sock packs have lasted a decade.

That said, covering that many miles becomes simpler with the right technology and tools to assist you! I frequently assess fitness watches from Garmin, Google, COROS, and others, and I’ve dedicated Black Friday to scouting the finest deals on wearable tech, including this guide on Garmin Cyber Monday watch discounts.

Whether you’re shopping for yourself or for the runner in your life, these are the Cyber Monday deals on running technology and other running stocking stuffer offers that I either intend to purchase or would consider buying if I didn’t already have them.

Cyber Monday running watch discounts

Garmin Forerunner 165: $199 ($50 off) at Best Buy
Garmin Forerunner 265: $299 ($150 off) at Best Buy
COROS PACE Pro: $299 ($50 off) at Amazon
Google Pixel Watch 4 45mm LTE: $399 ($100 off) at Best Buy
Garmin Forerunner 965: $449 ($150 off) at Amazon

All of my top six running watch selections have Cyber Monday promotions, and that’s just the beginning. Personally, I use and adore my Garmin Forerunner 970 for its impressive 15-day battery life and remarkable insights into my body’s cardiovascular and biomechanical load. However, even at a record-low discount of $100, it remains $649, too pricey for a spur-of-the-moment purchase.

The Forerunner 165 is my initial recommendation for most novice or intermediate runners, and it’s the most affordable Garmin watch I’d still suggest buying; the Forerunner 55 or Venu Sq 2 (both $149 today) are outdated in critical aspects. It provides essential data to enhance your running efficiency and boost your VO2 Max without being overwhelming.

If you’re open to spending a bit more, the Forerunner 265 is a long-time favorite of mine, refining the 165 experience with slightly improved battery life, enhanced dual-frequency GPS that accurately pinpoints your location in urban or woodland settings, and crucial Garmin data screens like training load and training readiness that clarify whether you’re putting in enough effort to progress.

Moving up the scale, the Forerunner 965 boasts an impressive 23 days of battery life and enhances the 265 with important features such as topographic maps for hiking, real-time stamina warnings alerting you when you’re nearing your limits, and a Hill score evaluating your elevation training needs.

There are alternative running watch brands besides Garmin! I’m particularly fond of COROS watches as an alternative, offering comparable training insights at lower prices. The COROS PACE Pro, for instance, provides a 20-day battery life, training load, personalized workout plans, and topographic maps, all for just $299 ($50 off).

If you’re after a genuine smartwatch equipped with excellent fitness features, my personal recommendation is the Pixel Watch 4, which excelled in my fitness evaluation with remarkable GPS and solid heart rate accuracy, plus surprisingly good battery life for both GPS and music streaming to headphones. You even receive the new Fitbit Personal Health Coach, which leverages Gemini technology to guide you through your running objectives and create a flexible training regimen, whether for a 5K or a marathon.

Other Cyber Monday running tech I’d purchase

Shokz OpenFit 2: $119.95 at Amazon
COROS HRM: $79.00 at Amazon (with potential 25% off)
Polar H10: $89.21 at Amazon
Ray-Ban Meta (Gen 1) smart glasses: $262.99 at Amazon

While much of running tech is a luxury rather than a necessity, the only devices I require to maintain my pace are a running watch and workout earbuds. For the latter, I’ve been using and loving the Shokz OpenFit 2 series throughout 2025, and I absolutely enjoy their lightweight, open-ear design, rich sound quality, and convenient button shortcuts. It’s a fantastic deal currently, although if you’re willing to invest a bit more, the Shokz OpenFit 2+ is even superior with Dolby Audio quality.

The other “essential” tool for many runners is a heart rate chest strap or armband, synced to their watch. All wrist-based optical sensors may face inaccuracies, particularly in colder conditions, so a chest strap like the Polar H10 or Garmin HRM 200 is a great upgrade for the runner in your life who already owns a running watch. The H10 is recognized as the gold standard, while Garmin’s model is just as accurate and slightly lower in price.

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Current Apple Deals for Black Friday: AirPods, MacBook, iPad, iPhone, Apple Watch, and More [Update #2]

# Black Friday Apple Offers 2023: Unmissable Discounts

As Black Friday draws near, Apple fans are set to enjoy an array of the year’s most appealing deals. This year, a number of promotions have already become available, but the largest savings are anticipated to reach their peak on Thanksgiving Day. Here’s an all-encompassing summary of the finest Black Friday Apple offers currently accessible.

## AirPods Offers

This year’s AirPods price reductions are remarkable, with substantial cuts. Prominent deals consist of:

– **AirPods 4**: Now on sale for **$69**.
– **AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)**: Available for **$100**.
– **AirPods Pro 3**: Reduced to an unprecedented low.

These offers present a fantastic chance for anyone looking to enhance their audio enjoyment.

## MacBook Offers

Apple’s MacBook range is also witnessing considerable price slashes. The M4 MacBook Air and M5 MacBook Pro stand out:

– **M4 MacBook Air**:
– 13-inch, 16GB/256GB: **$749** (Regular $999)
– 13-inch, 16GB/512GB: **$949** (Regular $1,199)
– 15-inch, 16GB/256GB: **$949** (Regular $1,199)

– **M5 MacBook Pro**: Now **$250 off**, with prices reaching new lows.

These reductions render the MacBook Air and Pro models more attainable than ever, appealing to both students and professionals.

## Mac Mini and Extras

The M4 Mac mini starts at an outstanding **$479**, making it one of the top deals of the season. Moreover, a range of accessories are being sold at discounted rates, increasing the overall value for Apple users.

## iPad Pro Discounts

The M5 iPad Pro models are also highlighted in this year’s Black Friday promotions:

– **11-inch M5 iPad Pro**:
– 256GB: **$899** (Regular $999)
– 512GB: **$1,099** (Regular $1,199)

– **13-inch M5 iPad Pro**:
– 256GB: **$1,199** (Regular $1,299)

These deals offer an excellent chance for those aiming to invest in a high-performance tablet.

## iPhone Offers

Apple’s newest iPhones are also included in the Black Friday promotions, featuring significant markdowns:

– **iPhone 16 Pro Max**:
– 256GB: **$869** (Original $1,199)
– 512GB: **$958** (Original $1,399)

– **iPhone 15 Pro**:
– 128GB: **$598** (Original $999)

These offers make moving up to the latest iPhone models more economical.

## Conclusion

This year’s Black Friday Apple offers are among the best we’ve encountered, showcasing substantial discounts across numerous products. From AirPods to MacBooks and iPhones, there are ample chances to save. Be sure to capitalize on these promotions while they remain available, as they are likely to be highly sought after by shoppers.

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Apple Introduces Official Black Friday Shopping Event for 2025

### Apple’s Black Friday Shopping Event 2023: Essential Information

Apple’s yearly Black Friday Shopping Event has commenced, giving customers the opportunity to earn as much as $250 in gift cards when purchasing select eligible items. This event takes place from Friday, November 28, to Monday, December 1, offering plenty of chances for shoppers to benefit from these promotions.

#### Gift Card Deals by Product Category

Here’s a comprehensive overview of the gift card deals available throughout this event:

– **iPhone**: Buy an iPhone 16 or iPhone 16e and get an Apple Gift Card valued at up to $75.
– **iPad**: Acquire an iPad Air, iPad (A16), or iPad mini to earn an Apple Gift Card worth up to $100.
– **Mac**: Purchase a MacBook Pro (featuring M4 Pro or M4 Max chip), MacBook Air, iMac, or Mac mini to receive a gift card of up to $250.
– **Apple Watch**: Obtain a $50 Apple Gift Card when you buy an Apple Watch Series 11 or Apple Watch SE 3.
– **AirPods**: Acquire AirPods Max, AirPods Pro 3, or AirPods 4 to earn a gift card of up to $75.
– **TV & Home**: Buy a HomePod or Apple TV 4K for a gift card of up to $50.
– **Beats**: Purchase Beats Studio Pro, Powerbeats Pro 2, Beats Solo 4, Beats Studio Buds +, or Beats Pill to receive a gift card of up to $50.
– **Accessories**: Buy a Magic Keyboard for iPad Air, Magic Keyboard Folio for iPad (A16), or Apple Pencil Pro to earn a $25 gift card.

#### How to Redeem Your Gift Card

The gift cards you receive can be used for future purchases at the Apple Store, within the App Store, or for Apple services such as Apple Music, Apple TV, or Apple One.

#### Considerations for Shoppers

Although Apple’s offers are appealing, shoppers should be aware that they might find better cash savings by buying Apple products from other retailers. Stores like Amazon and Best Buy are recognized for offering competitive pricing on Apple products, often exceeding the worth of the gift cards provided by Apple.

#### Conclusion

For those looking to make the most of Apple’s Black Friday Shopping Event, it’s wise to compare the advantages of the gift cards against possible savings from other retailers. To stay updated on the latest information and the best deals, consider bookmarking specific deal guides and monitoring various retailers for the best offers during this holiday season.

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Sean Connery’s Distinctive Sci-Fi Western from the ’80s: An Intriguing Film Journey

sci-fi films that everyone should experience at least once, “Outland” took a timeless Western narrative and launched it into the outer realms of space. Set on Io, one of Jupiter’s moons, Connery portrays Marshal William T. O’Neil, tasked with maintaining order at a mining outpost. Unbeknownst to him, a significant amount of corruption permeates this locality, leading him to embark on a quest to uphold justice, no matter how distant from Earth he may find himself.

If that plot seems recognizable, it’s due to Hyams adapting the storyline from the 1952 legendary Western, “High Noon.” Connery assumed the role in a futuristic context akin to Gary Cooper’s Marshal Will Kane, trading the untamed frontier for the ominous void. This element is what distinguished “Outland” from other science fiction features of its era. Connery wasn’t pursuing a chest-bursting extraterrestrial, nor hunting a raspy-voiced sorcerer wielding a light saber. O’Neil was merely an individual making do in the vast emptiness of space, which garnered the film much acclaim.

Outland’s tribute to High Noon received varied responses from reviewers

Top Android Tablets Still Available After Black Friday: 3 Offers to Grab Fast

Check out these three unbeatable Black Friday tablet offers that you definitely don’t want to overlook.

(Image credit: Andrew Myrick / Android Central)

We find ourselves in that peculiar in-between period of Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales, but if you’re eager to snag an amazing tablet bargain, the terminology doesn’t hold much weight. A multitude of the finest Android tablets we’ve tried are still available at discounted prices following last night’s key event, and I’m highlighting three of my top selections below.

To begin with, when you’re on the hunt for your budget-friendly lounging partner, it’s crucial to consider two simple questions: what will be your primary use for the tablet, and what budget are you working with? Do you need a vibrant and expansive display for binge-watching films and shows, or simply something basic and economical for travel? Every Android tablet is unique, so let’s explore my top Black Friday tablet offers for this season.

Three prime tablet offers online as we approach Cyber Monday

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OnePlus Pad 3

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Google to Launch Annotation Functionality for Gemini’s Images

The organization might even broaden this to incorporate resubmission options along with those annotations.

(Image credit: Andrew Myrick / Android Central)

Essential information

  • Google is reportedly developing an “annotation” functionality for images that Gemini generates for users.
  • There are speculations that this will enable users to inscribe or sketch elements on the image prior to downloading, while another suggests that a “resubmission” feature could enhance this capability.
  • Recently, Google introduced Nano Banana Pro, a model that advances its text clarity with improved image precision and additional features.

Notice

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Black Friday Deals on AirPods: Price Cuts on AirPods Pro 3, $69 AirPods 4, and More Promotions

### Unmatched Black Friday Offers on AirPods

This Black Friday, AirPods are standing out as among the top offers around. It’s uncommon to find substantial discounts on Apple’s newest items, making this year especially significant for buyers. Discounts are being monitored on the recently launched AirPods Pro 3, AirPods 4, AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), AirPods Max, and more.

#### AirPods Pro 3: A Revolutionary Option

The AirPods Pro 3 are celebrated as the “best in-ear active noise cancellation” earbuds globally. They provide an extraordinary audio experience, featuring twice the ANC performance of their earlier models and including built-in heart-rate sensors. Currently, you can acquire them for an amazing price of $170 in Like New condition via Amazon’s official Resale store. This offer comes with Amazon’s 30-day return policy, assuring confidence regarding the product’s condition and performance.

#### AirPods 4: Unrivaled Offer

The AirPods 4 are also experiencing considerable discounts, with prices falling to as low as $69. This is an exceptional deal, as current-generation Apple devices seldom receive such drastic price cuts. Additionally, Amazon is including AirPods 4 with two years of AppleCare+ for only $88, a major reduction from the typical price of $158. For those who prefer noise cancellation, the AirPods 4 with ANC can be purchased for $100, presenting fantastic value compared to the standard model.

#### AirPods Max: High-End Audio for Less

For those in search of over-ear headphones, the AirPods Max are also discounted, with price cuts approaching $150 off the usual price. Currently available for $429, this offer marks one of the best seen in the last year, making it a prime opportunity for prospective buyers.

#### Other Offers on Beats Products

Besides AirPods, many deals are available on Beats products, which come in a variety of styles and fits to suit different tastes. Discounts have also been applied to the Powerbeats Pro 2, which feature a built-in heart rate sensor for fitness tracking.

### Conclusion

This Black Friday presents a rare chance for shoppers to buy AirPods and Beats products at unprecedented prices. Whether you’re looking for the latest advancements with the AirPods Pro 3 or in need of an affordable choice with the AirPods 4, there are offers available that accommodate a diverse range of preferences and requirements.

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Apple TV Provides Black Friday Savings: Subscribe for $5.99/month (Half Price)

### Apple TV Black Friday Offer: Avail It for Only $5.99/Month

Apple TV is presenting a captivating Black Friday offer, enabling both new and returning subscribers to enjoy the streaming service for only $5.99 per month for a period of up to six months. This deal is valid until Monday, December 1, and signifies a reduction of over 50% from the standard subscription fee of $12.99 per month.

#### Subscription Information

To seize this temporary offer, interested individuals may subscribe directly via the Apple TV website. The subscription can be canceled at any point; however, if not terminated, it will renew automatically at the regular rate following the six-month promotional duration. Importantly, this offer is not available to users already qualified for three free months of Apple TV or those whose subscriptions are charged through third-party services.

#### New Arrivals on Apple TV

For those who might not be up to date with Apple TV’s content, there is plenty of new material to check out. The platform is currently showcasing **Pluribus**, a sci-fi thriller by the creator of *Breaking Bad*, which has turned into the service’s most significant drama release to date.

Moreover, audiences can indulge in the mystery thriller **Down Cemetery Road**, starring Emma Thompson, alongside fresh seasons of well-liked shows such as **Slow Horses** and **The Morning Show**. Apple TV has also been incorporating several high-profile films, with **F1 The Movie** set to debut on December 12.

#### Final Thoughts

With the festive season nearing, this is a perfect opportunity to think about subscribing to Apple TV, particularly at the current promotional price. The platform features a wide array of beloved shows and films, including popular titles like *Ted Lasso* and *Severance*. For those interested, the subscription can also be combined with Apple One for extra savings.

For additional details and to subscribe, visit the

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Apple Evaluates Intel for the Advancement of Future M-Series Processors, As Per Report

Apple presently collaborates solely with TSMC for the fabrication of its M-series processors, which drive various devices such as the iPhone, iPad, and Mac. Nevertheless, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has suggested that this might soon change, with Intel likely being added as a new supplier.

### Intel Could Begin Manufacturing Apple’s M-Series Chips in 2027

According to Kuo, Apple is exploring the idea of diversifying its supply chain by incorporating Intel as a partner starting in 2027. This transition could represent a major shift in Apple’s chip production strategy, which has predominantly depended on TSMC.

Kuo’s analysis indicates that Intel is anticipated to start supplying Apple’s entry-level M processor by 2027. Apple has previously entered into a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) with Intel and has acquired the advanced-node 18AP process design kit (PDK). Significant simulation and research initiatives are reportedly proceeding as expected, with Apple awaiting Intel’s rollout of PDK 1.0/1.1, scheduled for the first quarter of 2026. The timeframe for Intel to commence shipping the low-end M processor, likely the M5, is estimated for the second or third quarter of 2027, depending on the development progress following the arrival of the new PDK.

Kuo clarifies that the “low-end M processor” refers to the standard M-class chip, without including the more advanced M5 Pro, M5 Max, or M5 Ultra variations. TSMC is projected to continue manufacturing these premium chips, in addition to the high-volume iPhone-class chips like the A19 and A19 Pro.

Kuo considers this prospective partnership with Intel advantageous for Apple for two main reasons:

1. **Support for ‘Made in USA’ Policy**: Collaborating with Intel could reflect Apple’s commitment to U.S. manufacturing efforts, especially given the policies of the Trump administration.

2. **Supply Chain Diversification**: While TSMC will remain an essential partner for advanced nodes, having Intel as a secondary source could improve Apple’s supply chain management and mitigate risks related to over-dependence on a single supplier.

The possibility of Apple working with Intel to produce M-series chips prompts inquiries about the future of Apple’s silicon strategy and its ramifications for the technology sector.

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Top 5 Motives to Purchase Flip Phones such as Motorola Razr and Galaxy Z Flip this Black Friday

The Motorola Razr and Galaxy Z Flip are exciting devices, and many are currently discounted for Black Friday!

Incredibly, flip phones have made a comeback. Over the past few years, models like the Galaxy Z Flip and Motorola Razr have become more prevalent amidst a sea of flat devices. However, despite their millions of annual sales, a considerable number of individuals remain skeptical about foldable phones or question the necessity of flip phones.

I have utilized Motorola Razr (and a few Galaxy Z Flip) devices in recent years, and while I’m frequently approached by people who find them cool, I’ve also encountered some reluctance. Much of this hesitance revolves around durability, while others are simply let down that it’s not an iPhone.

So, why should you think about choosing a flip phone as your next smartphone? Beyond the fact that they typically cost less than larger foldable models, here are my primary reasons to purchase a flip phone during Black Friday.

Black Friday flip phone offers

Motorola Razr Ultra 2025: was $1,299.99 now $884.99 at Amazon
The Motorola Razr Ultra 2025 is one of the top flip phones on the market and also one of the priciest. Luckily, you can currently save over $400, which is truly a bargain for such an impressive device.

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7: was $1,099.99 now $899.99 at Amazon
Samsung’s finest flip phone to date isn’t exactly inexpensive at more than $1000, but this $200 Black Friday discount makes it more budget-friendly than most standard flagship smartphones.

Motorola Razr 2024: was $699.99 now $384.99 at Amazon
Flip phones are more affordable than ever, and with this Black Friday offer on the Motorola Razr 2024, you can snag a great device for just under $400. It’s an extraordinary discount of over $300, so make sure to grab it before it’s gone!

Portability

One feature of flip phones that immediately drew me in was their portability. Larger foldables like the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Pixel 10 Pro Fold maintain a standard smartphone dimension and unfold into something resembling a small tablet. In contrast, a flip phone begins at a conventional smartphone size and contracts to about half that when closed.

Android Central’s Jerry Hildenbrand appreciates this characteristic of his Razr 2024, and Nick Sutrich’s spouse also enjoys how the Razr Plus 2024 fits easily into any purse or pocket. Motorola and Samsung have also embraced this with accessories like ring stand cases for the Galaxy Z Flip or crossbody cases/straps for the Motorola Razr.

The only drawback is that folding it in half effectively doubles the phone’s thickness, meaning it may stick out more from your pocket. Fortunately, devices like the Galaxy Z Flip 7 are tackling this with noticeably slimmer designs.

Cover display

For me, the cover display is arguably my favorite feature of using a flip phone such as the fantastic Razr Ultra 2025. For many devices, this serves as a superb means to check notifications, reply to messages, and quickly view updates without needing to open your phone and be distracted by the full screen.

These displays become even more useful with larger cover screens on newer models. On the Motorola Razr series, you can use your apps on the cover screen without opening the device. Simply select the apps you want to access on the cover screen, arrange them as you wish, and you’re set.

The setup process is a bit more involved on the Galaxy Z Flip 7, but you can still use your apps on the cover screen.

While scaling isn’t always ideal, I believe this provides an excellent way to use apps more discreetly than if they occupied your entire main screen, which is beneficial for privacy in public settings.

Camera capabilities

This connects with why I appreciate the cover screen, but there’s much more you can accomplish with a flip phone camera compared to a traditional smartphone. Taking high-quality selfies with the primary camera is effortless because you can utilize the cover screen as a viewfinder. Additionally, if you’re photographing someone else, you can display a preview on the cover screen so they can see themselves before you take the shot. Many enjoy this feature (I know I do).

The design of the flip phone allows you to forgo the tripod for group shots. Just place the phone down and adjust the hinge with the camera and cover screen viewfinder activated. This simplifies the process of capturing hands-free photos and videos, making it perfect for TikTok creations too!

Finally, both Motorola and Samsung flip phones feature an Auto Camcorder function that converts your phone into a mini camcorder. Fold the device at a 90-degree angle, and the camera interface changes, allowing you to hold it like a camcorder and record smoother video.

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