**Tech Deals Galore: Best Buy’s ‘TechTober’ Sale Offers Unbeatable Prices**

While Amazon’s October Prime Day may have stolen the spotlight, Best Buy has quietly launched its own week-long sale, ‘TechTober,’ which is still live today. This means you can snag record-low prices on a wide range of tech products, including TVs, AirPods, laptops, headphones, tablets, and smart home devices. These deals are so good, they rival Black Friday prices, allowing you to score some genuine bargains before the November sale even begins.

**Standout Offers You Can’t Miss**

Some of the best deals this week have been found at Best Buy, with massive discounts on popular tech from brands like Apple, HP, Samsung, LG, Sony, and Dell. Here are a few standout offers you shouldn’t miss:

1. **Apple AirPods 4** – Now just $89.99 (originally $129.99), these are the cheapest AirPods you can buy. They feature a new design for all-day comfort, Apple’s H2 chip for personalized spatial audio and voice isolation, and a redesigned case with 30 hours of battery life and USB-C support for wireless charging.

2. **HP Chromebook Plus** – This versatile laptop is now only $399 (originally $629). With an Intel i3 processor, 8GB of RAM, and 256GB of storage, it’s a powerful and versatile entry-level option for general use, perfect for students and light productivity tasks.

3. **LG 48-inch B5 OLED TV** – This budget-friendly OLED TV is on sale for an incredible price of $649.99 (originally $1,299.99). It delivers an exceptional picture with brilliant colors and sharp contrast, along with excellent gaming features like four HDMI 2.1 ports and new AI tools.

**Time’s Running Out: Act Fast!**

Keep in mind that Best Buy’s TechTober sale ends tomorrow at midnight, so you’ll need to act fast to snag these amazing bargains. Don’t miss out on the chance to upgrade your tech collection at prices you won’t find again until Black Friday.

**Quick Links to Best Buy’s Top Weekend Sales**

To help you navigate Best Buy’s extensive sale, here are some quick links to the top categories:

– **Apple Deals**: Starting from just $64.99, you’ll find discounts on various Apple products, including iPhones, iPads, and AirPods.
– **Appliances**: Save up to 50% on major appliances, perfect for upgrading your home or replacing old ones.
– **Cheap TVs**: Find Fire TVs starting from just $59.99, offering excellent value for your money.
– **Gaming**: Save on consoles and games, with prices starting from $19.99.
– **Headphones**: Get top-brand headphones from Sony, JBL, and Beats starting from just $9.99.
– **iPhone 17**: Save up to $1,100 on the latest iPhone models with activation and trade-in.
– **Kitchen**: Stock up on coffee makers and air fryers starting from just $49.99.
– **Laptops**: Save up to $500 on various laptops, including Windows and Chromebook options.
– **Security Cameras**: Get $200 off Arlo, SimpliSafe, and Ring cameras.
– **Smartwatch**: Save up to $140 on Samsung, Garmin, and Apple smartwatches.
– **Tablets**: Find iPads and Fire tablets starting from just $129.
– **TVs**: Save up to $800 on QLED and 4K TVs.
– **Vacuums**: Get Shark vacuums starting from just $99.99.

**Best Buy’s Top 9 Weekend Deals**

1. **Echo Spot** – This smart alarm clock with a 2.83-inch touchscreen and 1.73-inch front-firing speaker is now just $49.99. With Alexa onboard, you can ask for the weather, play music, or set alarms.
2. **AirPods 4** – Apple’s cheapest AirPods are now just $89.99, featuring a new design, Apple’s H2 chip, and a redesigned case with 30 hours of battery life.
3. **LG B5 OLED TV** – This 48-inch TV delivers an exceptional picture with brilliant colors and sharp contrast. It’s now just $649.99, with a return to the record-low price.
4. **HP 14 Chromebook Plus** – This powerful and versatile Chromebook is now just $399, featuring an Intel i3 processor, 8GB of RAM, and 256GB of storage.
5. **Fire HD 10** – The best-selling Fire HD 10 tablet is now just $69.99, marking the lowest price ever. It features a large, bright 10-inch Full HD display, 3GB of RAM, and an octa-core processor.
6. **Sony WH-1000MX4** – These wireless headphones combine top-notch audio, excellent comfort, and effective noise cancellation for just $198.
7. **Apple AirTags** – Get a four-pack for just $64.99, an instant savings of $34.01 and just cents away from a record-low price.
8. **MacBook Air 13-inch (M4)** – The newest version of Apple’s popular laptop is now just $999, featuring a great-looking 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display and 16GB of RAM.
9. **Insignia 70-inch F50 Series 4K Fire TV** – This big-screen budget TV is now just $277.99, featuring 4K HD resolution, DTS Studio Sound, smart capabilities with the Fire OS, and a voice remote with hands-free Alexa.

**Don’t Miss Out on These Amazing Deals**

With Best Buy’s TechTober sale ending tomorrow, time is running out to snag these incredible bargains. Don’t miss out on the chance to upgrade your tech collection at prices you won’t find again until Black Friday. Happy shopping!

**Samsung’s Galaxy S26 CPU Strategy Unveiled: A Blend of Exynos and Snapdragon**

Samsung’s upcoming Galaxy S26 series, slated for 2026, is expected to continue the tech giant’s tradition of employing a mix of its own Exynos processors and Qualcomm’s Snapdragon chipsets, according to recent leaks. The strategy, which varies depending on the region, aims to balance cost savings and performance.

**The Expected CPU Lineup**

The standard Galaxy S26 and the S26 Plus are rumored to sport Samsung’s Exynos 2600 chipset, while the S26 Edge and the S26 Ultra are tipped to feature Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor. However, a twist in the tale is that the Snapdragon CPU might be used across all models sold in the US and China, a strategy Samsung has employed in the past.

**The Exynos vs Snapdragon Debate**

Samsung’s use of Exynos chips allows it to save on costs, but the performance of these chips has often been a topic of debate. While Exynos chips have improved over the years, they still lag behind their Snapdragon counterparts in certain aspects. This debate is set to continue with the Galaxy S26 series in 2026.

**The Galaxy S26 Series: A Recap**

The Galaxy S26 series is expected to include four models: the Galaxy S26 (renamed from the S26 to S26 Pro, likely a branding exercise), the S26 Plus, the S26 Edge, and the S26 Ultra. The S26 Pro will be the most affordable, while the S26 Ultra will pack the most power and features.

**The Galaxy S25’s All-Snapdragon Strategy**

Earlier this year, Samsung launched the Galaxy S25 series, which exclusively featured Snapdragon processors. This was reportedly due to production issues with the Exynos 2500 chipset, which eventually found its way into the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7.

**What’s Next for Samsung?**

Samsung is expected to stick to its usual launch schedule, unveiling the Galaxy S26 series sometime in January 2026. TechRadar will be on hand to bring you all the announcements as they happen.

**Stay Informed with TechRadar**

To stay updated with the latest tech news, reviews, and opinions, follow TechRadar on Google News, TikTok, and WhatsApp. You can also check out our renders of the Galaxy S26 phones and our guide to the best Samsung smartphones you can buy.

However, there’s a possibility that we might not see the next-gen Galaxy S26 Edge upgrade, so stay tuned for more updates.

**Chad Powers: The Unsung Heroes of Hulu’s Sports Comedy**

The new sports comedy series, *Chad Powers*, is soaring in popularity on Disney+ and Hulu, thanks in no small part to its leading man, Glen Powell, who portrays a washed-up sports star masquerading as a college football coach. However, the show’s success is not solely attributable to Powell’s performance; the supporting cast plays an equally crucial role in its comedic appeal.

Among the ensemble, two characters stand out: Tricia, the assertive chair of the college’s booster trust, played by Wynn Everett, and Danny, the team mascot and Russ’ mentor, portrayed by Frankie Rodriguez. Despite their seemingly unconventional roles in the world of college football, Tricia and Danny are integral to the show’s success.

**Tricia: A Southern Belle with a Steel Core**

Tricia, a headstrong southern belle, is a force to be reckoned with. Everett drew inspiration from the strong women in her life, particularly her mother, to create this larger-than-life character. “Tricia is a blend of about ten different women I grew up with in Atlanta, Georgia,” Everett shares. “My mother is very southern, and I’ve taken bits and pieces from all these iconic women to create Tricia.”

Everett’s character is not just a southern belle; she’s a powerful woman in a male-dominated world. As the chair of the college’s football team, Tricia wields significant influence. “I love that she has the power to fire people and that she’s not afraid to use it,” Everett says. “She’s all about getting the job done and winning that national championship.”

**Danny: The Unlikely Mentor**

Danny, the team mascot, is Russ’ unlikely confidante and the mastermind behind the Chad Powers disguise. Rodriguez describes the dynamic between Russ and Danny as an “odd couple” scenario. “They come from completely different worlds, but they need something from each other,” he explains. “Russ needs Danny’s help to keep up the Chad Powers facade, and Danny needs Russ to help him navigate the world of football.”

Danny’s role extends beyond the comedic timing he shares with Russ. He serves as a mentor to Russ, teaching him to slow down and think things through. In turn, Danny learns valuable lessons from Russ, such as being more open and expressive. Their unique bond is a significant aspect of the show and has plenty of room to grow in future seasons.

**The Heart of Chad Powers**

While Glen Powell’s character is the catalyst for the show’s premise, it’s the supporting cast, particularly Tricia and Danny, who bring depth and heart to *Chad Powers*. Their unique personalities and the dynamics they share with the other characters create a comedic and engaging viewing experience.

The first three episodes of *Chad Powers* are currently streaming on Hulu (US) and Disney+ (internationally), giving viewers a taste of the hilarious and heartwarming antics that this sports comedy has to offer. As the series continues, fans can look forward to further exploring the evolving relationships between these memorable characters.

In the meantime, viewers can also enjoy other entertaining content on TechRadar, such as updates on the release schedule for *One-Punch Man* season 3 and reviews of the latest movies like *Tron: Ares*. Stay tuned for more news, reviews, and unboxings in video form, and follow TechRadar on TikTok for regular updates.

**Spain vs Georgia: Live Stream, Team News, and How to Watch for Free**

The Spain vs Georgia live stream is set for Saturday, October 11, at 7.45pm BST / 2.45pm ET, with Spain aiming to maintain their perfect start in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. The match, taking place in Group E, promises an exciting clash between the favorites and a resilient underdog.

**Spain’s Form and Lineup**

Spain, under the guidance of Luis de la Fuente, has been nothing short of impressive in their qualifying campaign. After securing a comfortable 3-0 victory in Bulgaria and thrashing Turkey 6-0, they sit atop the table with a perfect record and a clean sheet. Their performance against Georgia in the Euro 2024 last 16, where they cruised to a victory, is a testament to their dominance.

The Spanish lineup is expected to feature Simón in goal, with Porro, Le Normand, Cubarsí, and Cucurella forming the defense. Merino, Zubimendi, and Pedri will likely control the midfield, while Oyarzabal, Torres, and Pino lead the attack.

**Georgia’s Form and Lineup**

Georgia, managed by Willy Sagnol, is set to battle Turkey for second place in the group. Despite losing to Turkey in their opening match, they bounced back with a convincing 3-0 win over Bulgaria. With players like PSG’s Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and in-form Villareal forward Georges Mikautadze, Georgia possesses the firepower to cause an upset.

The Georgian lineup is expected to feature Mamardashvili in goal, with Kakabadze, Goglichidze, Kashia, and Dvali in defense. Gocholeishvili, Kochorashvili, Mekvabishvili, and Kiteishvili will likely control the midfield, while Mikautadze and Kvaratskhelia lead the attack.

**How to Watch Spain vs Georgia for Free**

Spanish residents can watch the match for free on RTVE Play by creating a simple account. If you’re traveling abroad, using a VPN like NordVPN can help you access the stream as if you were in Spain.

**Watch Spain vs Georgia in the US, UK, Australia, and Canada**

– **US:** Soccer fans can watch the match on FOX Sports 2 with a Fubo subscription, which offers a 5-day free trial.
– **UK:** Prime Video’s new pay-per-view feature will give you access to the game for £2.49, with no additional subscription required.
– **Australia:** Stan Sport offers the match for $20 per month on top of a regular Stan subscription, which costs $12 a month.
– **Canada:** Both DAZN and Prime Video are showing the game. DAZN starts at CA$24.99 per month, while a Prime Video subscription costs CA$9.99 per month or CA$99 per year after a 30-day free trial.

**Mobile Access and Social Media**

Most broadcasters offer mobile apps or browser-based streaming services, allowing you to watch the match on your phone. You can also stay updated on UEFA World Cup qualifying through the official social media channels on YouTube (@UEFA) and Instagram (@UEFA_official).

**Group E Standings**

As of now, Spain tops the group with two wins and a +9 goal difference. Georgia follows with two wins and a +2 goal difference, while Turkey has two points after a win and a loss. Bulgaria is yet to pick up any points.

The Spain vs Georgia live stream promises an engaging encounter between a dominant force and a determined underdog. Don’t miss out on the action, and enjoy the match responsibly.

**Intel’s Fabulous Comeback: Gelsinger’s Vision Takes Center Stage**

In the heart of Arizona, Intel’s Fab 52 plant hummed with a new energy this month, as journalists from around the globe gathered for Intel’s annual Tech Tour. The ghost of Pat Gelsinger, Intel’s former CEO, seemed to hover over the scene, but this time, he was likely chuckling in triumph, not despair. Gelsinger, who was ousted by Intel’s board in late 2022, had placed a hefty bet on chip manufacturing through Intel Foundry, investing tens of billions of dollars. His strategy was initially panned, with critics pointing to massive losses and Intel’s missed opportunity in the AI revolution. However, a recent visit to the Arizona plant suggests that Gelsinger’s gamble might just pay off in a big way.

**Panther Lake: The Chip That Could Change Everything**

The first consumer chips to roll off the line at Fab 52 are the new Intel Core Ultra series 3, codenamed Panther Lake. These chips, designed for laptops and lighter-duty PCs, promise to be a game-changer. They’re backed by a slew of new technologies, like backside power delivery and an off-die interconnected GPU, that no one else in the market is using.

Backside power delivery allows power to be delivered from a layer below the transistors, granting more design freedom and potentially improving power efficiency and signal integrity. The new Intel Xe3 GPU architecture, meanwhile, supports multi-frame generation, which, when paired with Intel XeSS upscaling, could turn any thin-and-light ultrabook into a budget gaming laptop.

I had the chance to test a Panther Lake-powered laptop running Painkiller 3, and even without frame generation, the game cleared a 50 fps minimum at 1080p with XeSS set to Quality on the highest graphics settings. With frame generation, the average frame rate soared to around 140 fps, with no perceived latency. There’s no thin-and-light laptop on the market that can match this performance, especially not the MacBook Air, which Panther Lake is specifically targeting.

In terms of non-gaming performance, Intel Lunar Lake chips are already giving the MacBook Air a run for its money. While the MacBook Air still edges out in battery life, the gap is closing. Panther Lake, with its improved performance and energy efficiency, could further narrow this gap, making Windows laptops a more compelling alternative to Macs.

**Gelsinger’s Gamble: A Windfall for Intel?**

Much of Intel’s future rests on the success of its 18A processor fabrication node and the products produced on this node, including Panther Lake, Intel Nova Lake (Intel’s next-gen desktop processors), and Intel Clearwater Forest (Intel’s new Xeon 6+ datacenter chips). However, Intel’s success isn’t dependent on these chips outselling the competition. Instead, it hinges on whether these chips convince AMD, Nvidia, Qualcomm, and even Apple to manufacture their chips on Intel’s nodes rather than TSMC’s or Samsung’s.

Gelsinger’s bet that Intel could manufacture chips as advanced as TSMC’s in the US cost him his job. However, touring Fab 52 was revelatory. The plant was already humming with production, and customers are already spending money to fab their chips on Intel 18A. The technology involved in etching the image of the processors is so advanced that it’s been compared to a person standing on the Moon with a laser pointer and hitting the tip of someone’s outstretched finger at sea level on Earth.

The key to making money during a gold rush is to be the one selling the shovels. Intel, with its 18A node, could be in a position to do just that. Nvidia, for instance, doesn’t make its own chips but relies on foundries like TSMC. With Intel’s 18A node, it could have a new, reliable, and US-based option for chip production.

**The AI Bubble and Intel’s Future**

The AI bubble will pop one day, but advanced semiconductors aren’t going to be in less demand after that. There will always be customers, from government agencies to big businesses, who need the fastest chips possible. The current AI bubble could serve as the on-ramp to sustainability that Intel Foundry needs right now.

Moreover, if Intel has indeed created the most advanced process node technology in the world, it will draw in business on its own. The question now is whether Apple, AMD, and Nvidia will take a chance on Intel 18A.

Given the geopolitical uncertainties surrounding TSMC and Samsung, it would be business malpractice not to hedge that risk by contracting with Intel as well. Both AMD and Apple are reportedly in talks with Intel about fabbing their chips on 18A. While it might be a bitter pill for them to swallow, given their rivalry with Intel, they will likely contract with Intel in the end.

**Gelsinger’s Legacy**

It’s not often that I sing the praises of wealthy industrialists, but Gelsinger deserves credit for his vision. Instead of spending billions on stock buybacks to please Wall Street, he invested in Intel Foundry, knowing that the return would only come after several years. His bet on Intel’s future could now pay massive dividends for the company.

I hope Gelsinger is enjoying himself, watching his critics being proven wrong. His gamble might just be Intel’s windfall, and the tech industry’s gain.

**Revolutionizing Mini PCs: Topfeel’s G1 and G1 Pro eGPU Docks**

Topfeel, a Chinese manufacturer renowned for its distinctive branding, has made a splash in the external graphics market with its latest offerings, the G1 and G1 Pro eGPU docks. Designed to supercharge the performance of compact mini PCs, these docks bring desktop-level graphics power to small-scale systems, transforming them into powerful, unified computing units.

Unlike typical eGPU enclosures, the G1 and G1 Pro don’t merely act as expansion boxes. They physically host both a GPU and a mini PC, integrating them into a single, streamlined setup. This innovative design allows the combined system to run as a self-contained unit, with the built-in power system supplying both the mini PC and the graphics card simultaneously.

Both docks leverage the OCulink (PCIe 4.0 x4) interface, ensuring full compatibility with standard desktop GPUs. This means users aren’t locked into proprietary connections, and even a modest mini PC can be transformed into a high-performance workstation capable of running top-tier graphics cards.

Crafted from durable aluminum alloy, the G1 and G1 Pro are available in sleek Moon Silver and Sky Gray finishes. The G1 features an open extension structure that exposes internal components for easy access, while the Pro model boasts a fully enclosed frame with mounting for two 120mm fans. This enhanced cooling system improves airflow and efficiency, making the G1 Pro resemble a compact desktop more than a peripheral.

Both models support up to two 2.5-inch SATA drives for storage expansion. The G1 Pro’s larger frame and advanced cooling system give it a more robust appearance, further blurring the line between external dock and desktop PC.

Topfeel’s competitive pricing strategy makes the G1 series an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers. The base G1 is priced around $82, with a version bundled with a 600W PSU available for $137. The G1 Pro is listed at roughly $109, or $165 when bundled with a PSU. Currently available for pre-order in China, both models have encountered website loading issues on the company’s official site.

For those seeking mobile workstations or business laptops, TechRadar has compiled lists of the best options available. Additionally, if you’re curious about the latest in mini PC technology, check out the 192GB RAM-packing system that’s making waves in the industry.

In conclusion, Topfeel’s G1 and G1 Pro eGPU docks offer an innovative solution for mini PC users looking to boost their systems’ graphics capabilities. With their unique design, full GPU compatibility, and competitive pricing, these docks are poised to make a significant impact on the external graphics market.

**SodaStream Terra: Your Eco-Friendly, Money-Saving Sparkling Water Solution**

Are you someone who loves hosting gatherings or perhaps you’re the primary shopper for your family’s sparkling water needs? If so, it might be time to consider investing in a SodaStream. With the ongoing Amazon Prime Big Deal Days in Australia, there’s no better time to snag a fantastic deal on the SodaStream Terra.

The SodaStream Terra, while not the newest model, is still a top-notch machine for adding some fizz to your water. And here’s the best part: you can currently grab the Misty Blue variant for just AU$79, a whopping 34% off, exclusively for Prime members on Amazon. But if the Terra isn’t quite what you’re looking for, don’t worry. We’re keeping a close eye on the Prime Big Deal Days and have rounded up over 135 excellent deals for you to explore.

The SodaStream Terra is more than just a sparkling water maker; it’s a tool for reducing plastic waste. Think about it – how many bottles of soda or sparkling water do you go through in a month? With a SodaStream, you can cut down on that waste and save money in the long run by making your own fizzy drinks at home. Plus, with the included 40ml bottle of Bubly flavouring, you can start experimenting with different tastes right away.

The Terra might not be the most feature-packed model, but it’s incredibly user-friendly and gets the job done. With a simple touch of a button, you can transform plain tap water into sparkling water. It’s significantly cheaper than other high-end options like the Breville InFizz Fusion, and while the InFizz can carbonate a wider range of liquids, the Terra is more than capable for most uses.

Each SodaStream Terra comes with a 60L gas canister, which can be easily swapped out at various stores nationwide when it runs out. And the best part? There’s a vast array of flavourings available now, from classic colas and tonics to kombucha, ginger ale, and various fruit-based syrups. Your home drinks menu will never be boring again!

SodaStream has been a trusted name in sparkling water makers for over 50 years, so you know you’re getting a reliable product. If you’re looking for more budget-friendly deals, check out our curated list of Amazon deals under AU$100. Or, if you’re more of a coffee person, we’ve got you covered with the best coffee machine deals during the Prime Big Deal Days. And for those summer days, you can even snag 43% off the Ninja Slushi, exclusively for Prime members.

So why not make a change for your wallet and the environment? Invest in a SodaStream Terra today and enjoy sparkling water at home, your way.

**Tired of TikTok-style videos flooding your YouTube feed? Here’s how to reclaim your sanity.**

YouTube’s recent push of Shorts into everyone’s feed, whether we asked for it or not, has left many users frustrated. The official toggle to turn them off completely has been axed, but all hope is not lost. Here are several methods to shrink, mute, or even eliminate YouTube Shorts using built-in controls and trusty extensions.

**TL;DR:**
– Train YouTube’s algorithm using “Show Fewer Shorts” and “Not Interested” options.
– Android users can downgrade to pre-Shorts app versions.
– Third-party browser extensions offer backup solutions.

**Method 1: Train YouTube’s Algorithm (All Platforms)**

This method won’t eliminate Shorts entirely, but it’ll teach YouTube that you’re not interested. Here’s how:

*On Mobile (iPhone/Android):*
1. Open the YouTube app and scroll to the Shorts section on your Home feed.
2. Tap the three-dot menu at the top of the Shorts grid.
3. Select “Show fewer Shorts” to reduce their number.
4. For individual Shorts videos, tap the three dots on the video thumbnail and select “Not Interested” to further tailor your feed.

*On Desktop:*
1. Navigate to YouTube in your browser.
2. Find the Shorts section on your homepage.
3. Mark individual Shorts as “Not Interested” using their three-dot menus.
4. After a while, click the three-dot menu, and YouTube will now give you a “Show Fewer Shorts” option. Click that when it appears.

**Reality check:** The Shorts section often reappears within minutes. You’ll need to repeat this process regularly, think of it as ongoing algorithm training rather than a one-time fix.

**Method 2: Third-Party Reinforcements**

When YouTube fights back, these tools fight harder. Here are some options:

*Google Chrome:*
– Shorts Block: Remove YouTube Shorts

*Android Apps:*
– Block Scroll

*Safari:*
– Shorts Blocker for YouTube (Mac App Store)

**Fair warning:** Google actively works to break these tools. Reviews are “somewhat positive,” which translates to “they work until they don’t.”

**Troubleshooting Common Issues**
– Shorts keep coming back: Keep marking them as “Not Interested” for several days.
– Extension stopped working: Check for updates or try an alternative. Google regularly patches these workarounds.
– Can’t find “Show Fewer Shorts”: Update your YouTube app—this option was added in recent versions.
– Android downgrade failed: Some phones prevent app downgrades. Try enabling “Install unknown apps” in developer settings.

**Pro Tips for a Cleaner Feed**
– Clear your YouTube watch and search history to reset algorithm preferences.
– Subscribe to more long-form creators to dilute Shorts recommendations.
– Use YouTube’s “Don’t recommend channel” option on Shorts-heavy creators.
– Consider YouTube Premium—it doesn’t remove Shorts but gives you more control over your experience.
– Create separate YouTube accounts: one for Shorts, one for regular videos.

**Frequently Asked Questions**
– Will YouTube bring back the official Shorts toggle? Unlikely. Shorts drive engagement and ad revenue—Google has no incentive to make them easier to avoid.
– Do these methods work on YouTube TV or smart TVs? Limited options there. Try the “Not Interested” feedback when available, but TV interfaces offer fewer customization options.
– Can I block Shorts in YouTube Music? YouTube Music has minimal Shorts integration. Focus your efforts on the main YouTube app.
– Will using these methods affect my regular video recommendations? Minimally. You’re specifically targeting Shorts, not your overall viewing preferences.
– Are third-party YouTube apps better for avoiding Shorts? Apps like NewPipe (Android) don’t show Shorts, but you’ll lose features like comments and subscriptions sync.

**Wrap Up**

You won’t erase Shorts, but you can push them to the margins. Train the algorithm with “Show Fewer Shorts” and “Not Interested” on mobile and desktop. Keep extensions as a backup. Clean house with history resets, subscribe to more long-form content, don’t recommend Shorts-heavy channels, and split accounts if needed. On TVs, options are limited—use “Not Interested” when available.

The fastest way to take back your feed is to start by training the algorithm, escalate to an Android rollback if you want zero Shorts, and keep extensions ready for when native options wobble. Clear your history, curate your subscriptions, and separate accounts to keep things clean. If YouTube changes the rules tomorrow, you’ve still got a plan—and your attention span will thank you.

Which method worked best for you? Did you go full nuclear with the app downgrade, or are you playing the long game with “Not Interested” clicks? Share your Shorts survival story in the comments below.

**Rephrased Blog Content:**

Are you tired of your browser being overrun by spammy notifications? You’re not alone, and Google is finally stepping in to address this issue. Chrome is about to become a lot quieter, thanks to a new feature that automatically mutes websites you’ve been ignoring. Here’s what you need to know.

**How It Works**

Starting now, Chrome (both on Android and desktop) will keep track of your interactions with websites. If you’ve been ignoring a particular site—no clicks, no activity, just endless pop-up notifications—Chrome will start revoking its permission to bother you. This isn’t about eliminating all notifications; useful ones like news alerts or calendar reminders will still come through. Instead, it’s a significant step towards reducing the noise from sites treating your browser like a free-for-all megaphone.

**The Data Behind the Decision**

Google’s own data paints a clear picture. Less than 1% of all browser notifications receive any response from users. That means the other 99% are just digital clutter. By tightening the notification tap, Google hopes to encourage spammy sites to either clean up their act or risk losing notification privileges entirely. This move could finally push the worst offenders to rethink their notification strategies.

**User Control and Exceptions**

This new “auto-revocation” feature isn’t a one-way street. Chrome will let you know when it’s about to mute a site, and you can undo it if you want that site’s notifications back. If you’re the type who enjoys being pinged by every site you’ve ever visited, there’s an option to turn off the auto-mute entirely.

**Building on Existing Safety Measures**

This move builds on Chrome’s previous Safety Check tools, which already removed camera and location access from abandoned websites. Now, it’s tackling your notification sanity too. And if you’re worried about missing out on genuinely useful alerts, don’t be. Web apps you’ve installed won’t get silenced, unless you ignore them too.

**No Impact on User Engagement**

Google’s tests showed that this fix won’t dent actual user engagement. During trials, clicks on notifications barely changed, because people weren’t clicking those pop-ups anyway. So, say goodbye to the Times Square-like chaos in your browser and hello to a quieter, more library-like experience—unless, of course, you prefer the noise.

**AI-Powered Scams: Stay Ahead with These Top Five Threats and Prevention Tips**

Online scams, a persistent issue, have seen a surge in recent years. According to a Pew Research Center study from July 2025, 73% of U.S. adults have fallen victim to such schemes. The rise of AI has given birth to new, sophisticated scams, with 76% of the population expressing concern about them in a February 2025 Statista survey. To protect yourself, familiarize yourself with the most prevalent AI scams and learn how to guard against them.

**1. Voice-Cloned Grandparent Emergency Scams**

Scammers are exploiting AI to mimic individuals’ voices, targeting family members, particularly grandparents, to extract money. This scam, though not new, has evolved significantly with advancements in technology.

*Case Study:* Scammers might use social media to obtain audio recordings of a grandchild, then use AI to clone their voice. The scammer calls the grandparent, claiming an emergency and requesting financial assistance.

*Prevention Tip:* Always verify the identity of the caller if they claim to be a family member in need. Try contacting them directly or reach out to other family members to confirm their story.

**2. Spear Phishing of Executives and Officials**

Spear phishing, targeting specific individuals with tailored information, is now easier than ever, thanks to social media. AI further simplifies this process by automating research and providing data for scams.

*Case Study:* Cisco highlights a convincing spear phishing scenario where a scammer impersonates a CEO, asking a low-level employee to purchase gift cards and send the codes.

*Prevention Tip:* Always check the full email address of senders, especially when they’re asking you to click links or perform unusual tasks.

**3. AI-Enhanced Social Engineering and Phishing**

Experienced scammers use AI bots to scrape personal data from social media, crafting convincing, personalized emails to trick recipients into revealing sensitive information or installing malware.

*Case Study:* An AI bot might find mid-level employees at a finance company on LinkedIn, identify their colleagues, and send a personalized email with a malicious link.

*Prevention Tip:* Set your social media profiles to private to limit AI’s access to your data, as recommended by NPR.

**4. Fake Customer Support Numbers on Google’s AI Overview**

Scammers manipulate Google’s AI overview, using generative engine optimization (GEO) to display fake customer support numbers for legitimate companies, tricking users into sharing sensitive information.

*Case Study:* A user searches for a company’s customer support number, sees a convincing 1-800 number in the AI overview, and provides their credit card information to a scammer posing as a representative.

*Prevention Tip:* Never call a number displayed in the AI overview. Always verify the official number on the company’s website.

**5. Deepfake Videos, Images, and Voice Fraud**

AI’s advanced capabilities allow scammers to create convincing deepfakes, causing significant financial losses. Deepfakes can persuade people to make poor decisions, such as investing in cryptocurrencies based on fake endorsements from prominent figures.

*Case Study:* In 2024, New York Attorney General Leticia James warned investors about deepfake attacks involving cryptocurrency promotions.

*Prevention Tip:* MIT Media Lab suggests asking yourself questions like: Are the facial movements natural? Does the person’s blinking seem unnatural? Is there an unnatural glare or lack of glare on glasses? Do the person’s facial hair and other features look real?

**Staying Safe in the Age of AI Scams**

With AI-powered fraud on the rise, vigilance is crucial. Scams are becoming more sophisticated, as seen in voice cloning, automated spear phishing, deepfakes, and fake customer support numbers. By staying informed and following the prevention tips outlined above, you can protect yourself and your finances from these evolving threats.