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Top 20 Black Friday Gadget Deals

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Prepare your shopping list and shop like a pro on the upcoming Black Friday sale. We’ve collected fantastic deals on laptops, tablets, smartphones, smart speakers, and streaming sticks for a worry-free shopping experience. Make sure to bag serious bargains by referring to the top Black Friday gadget deals and buying guides

Laptop and Chromebooks 

1. ASUS – ROG Strix G15 Advantage Edition 15.6″ QHD Gaming Laptop – $600 off

ASUS - ROG Strix G15 gaming laptop

Get this 15.6-inch gaming laptop at $600 lower than the original price of $1,699. This gaming laptop allows you to game like a pro with double-up AMD firepower. ASUS – ROG Strix G15 Advantage Edition has a substantial 16GB memory that enables a smooth gaming experience, efficient photo and video editing applications, and multiple programs and browser tabs all at once. 

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2. Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5i -30% off

Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5i

If you’re looking for a cheap yet powerful 2-in-1 laptop, go for the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5i. With a 13-inch FHD touchscreen, this Lenovo Chromebook lets you browse online, stream movies, listen to music, or video chat with friends. You should get a digital pen to maximize the benefits of the hybrid design. 

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3. Google Pixelbook Go – 15% off

Google Pixelbook Go

Pixelbook Go is a lightweight Chromebook laptop suitable for people on the go. It lets you stay unplugged for up to 12 hours, so you don’t worry about carrying a charger every time. Aside from weighing less than 2 pounds, it is only 13 millimeters thin with an easy-to-grip design making it easier to move around. 

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Amazon Devices 

4. Echo Dot (3rd Gen) – $20 off 

Echo Dot 3rd Gen

Amazon Echo Dot 3rd Gem is available at a discounted price of $19.99. This compact smart speaker has better speaker quality than Echo Dot Gen 2. Pair it with a second Echo Dot to achieve stereo sound. 

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5. Echo Show 5 (2nd Gen) – $20 off 

Echo Show 5 2nd Gen

Avail big discount on the newer version of Echo Show 5. Add Alexa to your bedside with a routine that turns compatible lights on gradually. Or wake up to daily news updates, weather forecasts, and your favorite music. 

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6. Echo (4th Gen) – $40 off 

Amazon Echo 4th Gen

Create a smart home hub with Amazon’s Echo 4th Gen with a built-in hub, voice control compatible lights, sensors, and locks. It is made affordable at only $59.99 on Amazon.

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7. Fire TV Stick 4K – $12 off 

Fire TV Stick 4K

Here’s another best-selling gadget from Amazon, The Fire TV Stick 4K is perfect for 4K, Dolby Vision, and Dolby Atmos. You can also access streaming services, including Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and Apple TV+. In addition, Alexa’s voice control makes it easy to use.

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8. Blink camera and Echo Show bundle – save $184!

Blink camera and Echo Show bundle

This affordable bundle pairs three Blink Outdoor cameras with the Echo Show 5 (2nd gen). The set will enable you to set up a security system at home. Enjoy big saving with this bundle costing only $334.

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Apple Watches 

9. Apple Watch Series 5 – save $290

Apple Watch Series 5

The 40mm Apple Watch Series 5 with GPS and cellular has a stainless steel case with a matching Milanese Loop. The best feature of this smartwatch is that you don’t have to raise your wrist or tap to see the time or essential information. With the Always-On Retina display, your watch face is always visible.

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10. Apple Watch Nike Series 5 – save $120

Apple Watch Nike Series 5

Here’s the Nike edition of the Apple Watch Series 5 with the 40mm version with cellular connectivity. With this Apple Watch and Nike collaboration, you can track your workouts and listen to Audio Guided Runs with the Nike Run Club app.

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Smartphones 

11. OnePlus 9 Pro – $170 off 

OnePlus 9 Pro

The OnePlus 9 5G smartphone is just $449 right now. Enjoy a Hasselblad camera, beautiful design, and 120 Hz display for less. Upgrade to the OnePlus 9 5G smartphone for better pictures and a more responsive screen. Likewise, the powerful Snapdragon 888 CPU and next-gen RAM keep you efficient.

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12. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 – 33% off 

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3

Samsung’s big folding phone has ultimate versatility and a huge internal display. Get the 256GB model at a discounted price of $1199.99 on Amazon.

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Tablets 

13. Kindle Oasis – save $75

Kindle Oasis

The Kindle Oasis is Amazon’s best e-reader with illumination, waterproofing, and a slim, premium design. It’s now down to $174.99.

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14. New Kindle Paperwhite – save $35

New Kindle Paperwhite

The latest Kindle Paperwhite model was only released a few months ago and now offers its first discount. This is an excellent e-reader gadget with illumination and a larger 6.8 display. It’s currently only $104.99.

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15. Amazon Fire HD 10 – $75 off 

Amazon Fire HD 10

Apple’s biggest and best tablet was refreshed in 2021, and the Fire HD 10 is an excellent choice for watching TV and movies. This massive 50% reduction makes it a great Black Friday option, down to just $74.99.

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TVs 

16. Samsung QN90A – $450 off 

Samsung QN90A

The latest Samsung QLED technology offers this smart TV a stunning 4K HDR delivery. There’s even Alexa built into this 2021 model. Discounts across all sizes, with the 55in at $1,347.99 – a 25% discount.

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17. Samsung – 75″ Class TU690T Series LED 4K UHD Smart TV – $270 off

Samsung crystal UHD

The Samsung 75″ Class TU690T Series elevates your content at a great price with 4K UHD upscaling and more. The Samsung 75″ Class TU690T Series 4K UHD smart TV upscales everything you watch to 4K resolution. Moreover, this HDR TV displays various colors and intricate details.

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Noise-Canceling Headphones 

18. 1MORE Colorbuds 2 Noise-Canceling Wireless Earbuds – $20 off

1MORE colorbuds 2

The Colorbuds 2 are newer and heavier than their predecessors, but they’re still great. The second-generation pair has better microphones than the original version. Thanks to this discount, they’re cheaper as well.

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19. Sony WH-1000XM4 -29% off 

Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones

There’s a healthy 29% saving on these award-winning headphones on Amazon. They offer industry-leading noise cancellation and exceptional performance – they are the best headphones to be seen in the market.

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20. Bose QC 45 – $50 off 

Bose QC 45

The latest QuietComfort headphones from Bose, the QC 45, have a discount bringing them down to their lowest price on Amazon – now priced at $279.

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Make the most of holiday shopping by using the top Black Friday gadget deals as your reference. Stay tuned for more features on deals and discounts happening this year. Happy shopping! 

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Technology

8 Popular Mobile Payment Systems

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credit card terminal

Offering customers multiple payment solutions is another way to make them choose you over your competitors. Since the world has started this online shift to everything, people prefer convenience via mobile phones. Mobile payment solutions make shopping and paying effortless. If you’re wondering what online payment systems you can offer, we’ve listed the top mobile payment options in this article. 

What is a Mobile Payment Solution?

mta metrocards

A mobile payment solution is a payment system people use on their mobile phones. They use smartphones or other cellular phones to pay for products or services. It’s a more convenient, efficient, and faster payment solution since you no longer have to bring cash or change customers’ payments. This type of payment option also means customers pay directly to your account, allowing you to transfer the funds to your bank if the app permits. 

These mobile phones will require the corresponding app or software to enable mobile payment solutions. Some are also done via SMS, depending on the network. Some apps also require users to connect their credit or debit card so people can use the app to pay, and the funds are deducted from the credit card. These apps are called “peer-to-peer” mobile payment apps. 

What are the 5 Types of Mobile Payment Systems?

mobile payment system

Business owners can choose from five payment options. While each solution is unique, all alternatives offer a convenient way of transferring money from end to end. 

1. SMS payments

SMS payments refer to payments made through your local cellular network to another. This means a user transfers money by sending it through another person’s number. In most cases, this is only used locally since most can’t transfer from one mobile number to an international mobile number.

2. Mobile wallet

This is another common form of mobile payment. To make a mobile payment, apps like Samsung Pay, Apple Pay, or Google Pay must be installed on portable gadgets like tablets, smartphones, smartwatches, or computers. Most of these apps are linked to credit cards, debit cards, or bank accounts.

3. Mobile peer-to-peer

A mobile peer-to-peer payment system is another efficient solution if you cater to global customers. Some examples are PayPal, CashApp, and Venmo, and most of these accept all business retailers, big or small. 

4. Mobile eCommerce

Mobile eCommerce is also the most commonly used online payment system. This is when a user makes a transaction online from a browser or a seller’s app or webpage and completes the transaction by inputting their credit card details. Users who pay from a mobile wallet or accelerated checkout systems like Shop Pay are also under the umbrella of mobile eCommerce. 

5. Mobile POS (Point of sale)

This payment type refers to paying for products or services using your credit card by swiping it on a terminal or chip reader. You can also use your mobile phone by tapping it on the terminal via QR codes. 

Benefits of Mobile Payments

money

Most businesses accept mobile payments nowadays due to their security and convenience. While paying cash offers a more secure transaction since you only have to hand the cash to the cashier, online app payments are equipped with robust security measures. On top of that, here are some benefits of mobile payment solutions:

  • Security: Mobile payments require authentication to proceed. This can be done via passcodes, OTPs, fingerprints, or facial recognition. 
  • Speed: Mobile payments can be made in the blink of an eye, making mobile checkout or online shopping easier.
  • Convenience: Customers prefer mobile payments because they no longer have to bring cash or find the nearest ATM to withdraw. All they need is connectivity and their portable gadgets. 
  • Popular: Your business shouldn’t lag behind competitors. It’s no surprise that more and more brands are expanding their online payment systems. Mobile payments are beneficial, especially if your audience is younger. 

8 Top Mobile Payment Systems

person looking at a smartphone

Here are the eight best mobile payment systems you can look into. 

1. Apple Pay

Apple Pay would be appropriate for Apple devices. You can make contactless payments when you make in-app purchases. Apple Pay uses a unique account number, and customers get a security code for every transaction. 

2. Google Pay

Android users can also pay via Google Pay. You can pay via NFC in-store, online, or within apps. Google Pay integrates with most Google apps, letting users enjoy loyalty card management, ticket storage, and money transfers. 

3. Samsung Pay

Samsung Pay is suitable for both NFC transfers and magnetic stripe terminals. This payment mode is also secured with tokenization, biometrics, and Samsung Knox. 

4. PayPal

PayPal is another online payment system that allows peer-to-peer money transfers. It’s easy to send, receive, and manage transactions with PayPal. PayPal also links with credit cards and bank accounts and is mainly linked to various eCommerce websites. 

5. Venmo

Owned by PayPal, Venmo is another mobile payment system for peer-to-peer transfers. It works similarly to PayPal and lets users buy, sell, and hold cryptocurrencies. 

6. Zelle

If you’re from the U.S., Zelle is the app for sending money between bank accounts. This platform is integrated into most U.S. mobile banking apps. It lets you send money instantly using a mobile phone number or email.

7. Square Cash

Also known as the Cash App, Square lets you send and receive money and even invest in stocks and Bitcoin. 

8. Alipay

This mobile payment system is for online payments, financial services, and in-store purchases. Alipay is also widely used in China. Users link their credit, debit, and bank accounts to make payments through NFC, QR codes, or in-app purchases. 

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Tech Layoff from the Top Tech Companies in 2024

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laptop

While tech companies exhibited their hiring spree during the pandemic to meet online demand, this year leans toward workforce reduction. Most tech juggernauts are looking at AI initiatives for some work processes. This begs the question—are tech experts’ skills in danger of being replaced by faster and more cost-efficient AI tools and platforms? Even the tech tycoon Google continues to lay off thousands of employees. And while tech experts and professionals enjoy Google’s office amenities, these tech layoffs make them ponder: How long will this enjoyment last? Here are some of the top tech company layoffs in 2024. 

1. Dell

Dell logo

Dell Technologies, a computer manufacturer, has laid off about 12,500 employees, constituting 10 percent of the company’s workforce. The company claims it’s part of a “sales and marketing reorganization” that will center on AI services. But this isn’t the first time the company has had a significant layoff. They also cut off about 6,000 workers last February 2023. This restructuring intends to streamline operations and processes, boosting efficiency. This way, the brand can evolve and adapt to a changing and growing market. 

Research Chief Analyst Dave Vellante said, “It’s unlikely the number is that high because that would typically trigger an SEC filing.”

2. Intel

Intel

Intel embarked on a cost-saving plan, a good move for the company in 2025. However, this will mean job losses for 15 percent of its workforce. Laying off about 15,000 employees will save the company $10 billion in 2025. While it’s the estimated number, it may go up to 19,000 out of Intel’s 125,000 employees. The company representatives said it would restructure to stop “non-essential work.” Although the company hit product milestones in Q2 this year, they are still down in the mouth over the loss of $1.6 billion by the end of Q2. 

Representatives said they will “reduce layers, eliminate overlapping areas of responsibility, stop non-essential work.”

3. Qualcomm

Qualcomm

Qualcomm, a company that manufactures software, semiconductors, and other services that pertain to wireless technology, plans to lay off 1,258 employees by December of this year. These employees will mostly be in their Santa Clar and San Diego branches. The company will cut off positions like analysts, software developers, engineers, legal, finance, and human resources. Qualcomm had a 23 percent drop in revenue and a 52 percent drop in net income during Q2 this year.

Palkhiwala said, “Until we see sustained signs of improving fundamentals, our operating framework does not assume an immediate recovery.”

4. Jam City

Jam City logo

Jam City is a video game developer and publisher also in for the 2024 tech layoffs. The company has reported to cut 85 employees. And while this number isn’t as shocking as the others on this list, it constitutes 10 percent of their workforce. This is also the second time the game developer laid off its employees, with its first in 2022, letting go of 17 percent of its workforce. Jam City is the genius behind games such as Disney Emoji Blitz, Jurassic World Alive, and DC Heroes and Villains. Some gaming analysts predict an upward trend for this niche in 2024. 

However, Jam City CEO said, “While we have seen moderate improvements in some areas, the overall upward trend has not materialised as expected.”

5. Microsoft 

Microsoft logo

Microsoft also swooped another round of layoffs in multiple departments from various locations. Although the company didn’t disclose the exact number of layoffs, these employees included roles in program and product management. The company confirms this is part of the “regular organizational adjustments” to focus on strategic growth areas. This isn’t the first time the tech company has done a significant layoff. They also cut off around 2,000 employees in January 2024, particularly in the gaming departments, HoloLens, and Azure Cloud divisions.

A Microsoft representative stated, Organizational and workforce adjustments are a necessary and regular part of managing our business.” 

6. EBay

eBay logo

The online shopping brand eBay is also joining the layoffs this year. EBay is cutting off around a thousand employees, accounting for nine percent of its full-time workforce. Jamie Iannone, eBay CEO, announced these changes, stating that the brand is prioritizing more sustainable long-term growth. He said that the number of employees and expenses outpaced the company’s growth. He also noted that employees were encouraged to work from home, so they have the needed space during this challenging period.

CEO and President Jamie Iannone said, “We have to say goodbye to people who have made so many important contributions to the eBay community and culture, and this isn’t easy.”

7. Twitch

twitch logo

Another popular live-streaming platform, Twitch, joins the tech layoffs bandwagon. Amazon’s Twitch cuts 35 percent of its employees, resulting in hundreds of employees scrambling to find job replacements. Twitch CEO Dan Clancy announced that it would have to cut off over 500 people across all departments and claims this is for sustainability in business operations. Although Twitch earns from multiple revenues, such as ads and subscriptions, it’s reported that the company is still unprofitable for nine years. 

Clancy stated, “Unfortunately, we still have work to do to rightsize our company, and I regret having to share that we are taking the painful step of reducing our headcount by just over 500 people across Twitch.” 

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10 Best Gaming PCs for Every Gamer

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If you’re an avid gamer, setting up or buying a gaming PC will make games more enjoyable. Whether you play esports professionally or not, getting the right equipment suitable for your preference is critical to seamless gaming. If you’re unsure where to start, we’ve made a list of the top 10 best gaming PCs you must check out. 

1. Corsair One i500

cpu

The Corsair One i500 leans more on the higher-end spectrum, with a sleek wooden front panel and stylish fabric side panels. The Corsair One i500 is a high-end gaming PC with power and an elegant, compact design. It features an Intel Core i9-14900K, Nvidia RTX 4090, 32GB DDR5 RAM, and a 2TB NVMe SSD. Its custom AIO liquid cooling keeps things calm and quiet. With an 850W 80 Plus Platinum power supply, RGB lighting, VR readiness, and plenty of connectivity options, it’s perfect for gamers and pros alike. Upgrading RAM and SSD is easy, though CPU and GPU upgrades are trickier.

2. HP Victus 15L

Looking for a budget-friendly gaming PC with impressive specs like an Intel Core i7-13700, Nvidia RTX 3060, up to 32GB DDR4 RAM, and a 1TB NVMe SSD + 2TB HDD combo? Running Windows 11 Home, the HP Victus 15L has a 500W power supply and efficient cooling. Its compact, sleek design fits easily into any setup. With customizable configurations, VR readiness, and easy upgrades, it’s a great choice for gamers seeking good performance without breaking the bank. It runs quietly and has customizable RGB lighting for that stylish touch.

3. Acer Predator Orion 7000

cpu

The Acer Predator Orion 7000 is a high-end gaming PC that packs a serious punch with specs like a 13th Gen Intel Core i9, Nvidia RTX 4090, and up to 64GB DDR5 RAM. It offers loads of storage with a 2TB NVMe SSD and 2TB HDD, all running on Windows 11 Home. Its advanced cooling system, upgradeable design, and customizable RGB lighting make it a gamer’sgamer’s dream. Plus, with excellent connectivity options and DTS Ultra audio, it’s perfect for immersive gaming sessions and virtual reality. Its futuristic design makes it pop in any setup!

4. Alienware Aurora R16

This top-notch gaming PC pairs powerful specs with a sleek, modern design. It features a 13th Gen Intel Core i9-13900KF, Nvidia RTX 4090, up to 64GB DDR5 RAM, and up to 4TB NVMe SSD storage. Running Windows 11 Home with a 1350W Platinum PSU, it delivers outstanding gaming performance. Its advanced cooling, tool-less upgradeable design, customizable RGB lighting, and versatile connectivity make it a gamer’sgamer’s dream. With VR readiness and superior audio, it’s perfect for serious gamers.

5. iBuyPower Y60

cpu

Nothing beats a favorite among gamers for its top-notch performance and sleek design. The iBuyPower Y60 gaming PC boasts an Intel Core i9-13900K or AMD Ryzen 9 7950X, Nvidia RTX 4090 or AMD Radeon RX 7900 XTX, and up to 64GB DDR5 RAM. With up to 2TB NVMe SSD + 2TB HDD storage, it runs Windows 11 Home on a 750W to 1000W PSU. Featuring advanced cooling, customizable RGB lighting, VR readiness, and premium build quality, it’s perfect for serious gaming and easy upgrades.

6. MSI Infinite RS 13th

The MSI Infinite RS 13th is a beastly gaming PC packed with up to a 13th Gen Intel Core i9-13900K and Nvidia GeForce RTX 4090, paired with up to 64GB DDR5 RAM. It offers tons of storage with a 2TB NVMe SSD and 4TB HDD, running Windows 11 Home on a 1000W 80 Plus Gold PSU. With advanced cooling, customizable RGB lighting, and easy tool-less upgrades, it’s perfect for high-performance gaming. It’s VR-ready, boasts great sound with Nahimic 3D, and has a stylish design with a glass side panel.

7. Maingear MG-1 Silver

cpu

This is a solid mid-range gaming PC that offers strong build quality and professional assembly. It features an Intel Core i5-13400F CPU, PNY GeForce RTX 4060 GPU, and 16GB of RAM, delivering exemplary performance for its price. This compact system includes customizable RGB lighting and a magnetic front panel. It’s a great choice with 512GB NVMe SSD storage, efficient cooling, and quiet operation. While it could use better dust protection and a faster SSD, it’s neatly built and bloatware-free. The Shroud Edition adds cool faceplates for an extra $100.

8. Alienware Aurora Ryzen Edition R14

The Alienware Aurora Ryzen Edition R14 is a high-performance gaming PC featuring an AMD Ryzen 9 5900X processor and Nvidia GeForce RTX 3080 Ti GPU. It boasts 32GB of DDR4-3466 RAM and a 1TB SSD, ensuring smooth multitasking and fast storage. The sleek, mid-tower design includes options for liquid cooling and various power supplies. With Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, and running Windows 11 Pro, it offers a modern user experience. While it performs well and looks great, it’s pricey and can get noisy under load.

9. CyberPowerPC Gamer Xtreme VR

cpu

Look no further if you want a powerful, sleek gaming PC, perfect for gamers. The CyberPowerPC Gamer Xtreme VR features an Intel Core i7-13700F or i9-13900KF CPU, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 Ti or 4070 GPU, 16GB DDR5 RAM, and a 1TB NVMe SSD. Running Windows 11 Home, it offers Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0, and multiple USB ports. It delivers high performance and cool operation with optimized airflow, customizable RGB lighting, and VR readiness. Ideal for modern gaming and VR, it’s a top choice without breaking the bank.

10. Asus ROG Strix GA35

The Asus ROG Strix GA35 is a powerhouse gaming PC perfect for demanding tasks. It features an AMD Ryzen 9 7950X or Ryzen 7 7800X3D processor and top-tier NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090 or 4080 graphics. With 32GB DDR5 RAM (expandable to 64GB) and a 1TB NVMe SSD, it offers fast performance and ample storage. The custom liquid cooling ensures efficient heat management, while the sleek design boasts customizable RGB lighting. With Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, and easy upgrade options,  it’s a top choice for serious gamers and professionals.

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