Category: Technology

  • Save Up to 66% on Nintendo Switch,  PS5, and Xbox Games (Including Some of My Favorites) for Prime Day

    Save Up to 66% on Nintendo Switch, PS5, and Xbox Games (Including Some of My Favorites) for Prime Day

    Our favorite Prime Day deals can help you save big on everything from OLED TVs to gaming headsets. But what good is all that gaming gear without awesome video games to play? Fortunately, no matter what video game console you own, including the PlayStation 5, Switch 2, and Xbox Series X, you can score huge savings on fantastic games. Trust me, I’ve been covering gaming for PCMag for more than a decade, and I’ve played just about everything out there, including each game on this list.

    Not a Prime Member?

    You can still shop and save during Big Deal Days, but to get the best prices, you must sign up for Prime. Don’t worry, though: You can grab a free 30-day trial during the sales event.


    A Tennis Game With Fighting Flair

    Mario Tennis Fever


    $49.99
    at Amazon

    $69.99
    Save $20.00


    Get Deal

    Mario Tennis Fever takes the fun of this elegant sport and amplifies it with wacky, fighting game-esque shenanigans. Equipping your character with different rackets lets you unleash special attacks, like trapping your foe in ink or burning them alive. This adds a chaotic new level of strategy to your rallies. I love Mario Tennis Fever; it’s one of my favorite game releases of the year. And you can buy it for $20 off.


    An Epic RPG That Prepares for the End

    Final Fantasy VII Rebirth


    $16.99
    at Amazon

    $69.99
    Save $53.00


    Get Deal

    The original Final Fantasy VII was so impactful that it took Square Enix three whole games to do a proper remake. Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is the middle chapter of the trilogy, taking Cloud and friends across the planet as they hunt for the villainous Sephiroth. Final Fantasy VII Revelation, the grand finale, arrives next April, so there’s still time to catch up. Get the RPG now, while it’s discounted by $53!


    Capcom’s New Big Hit

    Pragmata


    $39.99
    at Amazon

    $59.99
    Save $20.00


    Get Deal

    For decades, Capcom has gifted us iconic franchises like Mega Man, Resident Evil, and Street Fighter. So it’s great that the storied publisher can still release an awesome, original game. Pragmata is a sci-fi shooter with a unique twist: You aim at enemies with your gun while solving hacking puzzles to take them down. The $20 discount should make you more willing to take a chance on the new idea.


    The Next Evolution of Your Favorite Monsters

    Pokémon Legends: Z-A


    $39.99
    at Amazon

    $69.99
    Save $30.00


    Get Deal

    The next major Pokémon game, Winds and Waves, doesn’t arrive until 2027. But I would argue that Pokémon Legends: Z-A, an action-packed spin-off, does more to push this franchise into the future. Instead of turn-based battles, Z-A lets monsters fight in real time, making combat much more dynamic and reminiscent of the anime. And when you aren’t fighting, take in the lovely sights and sounds of the pseudo-French city locale. Pokémon Legends: Z-A is $30 off right now.


    Gotta Go Fast

    Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds


    $19.99
    at Amazon

    $59.99
    Save $40.00


    Get Deal

    I don’t know why Sonic the Hedgehog, famous for running fast, needs to be in a car for his racing game. But if you can get past that, Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is a very good Mario Kart alternative. Controlling Sonic and friends, you’ll race on tracks set in alternate worlds pulled from other Sega games or even other properties, such as SpongeBob SquarePants. Get in on the racing action now and save $40.

    Recommended by Our Editors


    EA Sports Madden NFL 27


    $42.99
    at Amazon

    $69.99
    Save $27.00


    Get Deal

    John Madden looms so large over the sport of football that Hollywood’s about to release an unhinged biopic about him starring Nic Cage. And a crucial element of that legend is the Madden football games, the only game in town for official simulated NFL action. Football season is already underway, so pick up Madden 27 for $27 off and create your own big moments.


    A Hive of Scum and Villainy

    Star Wars Outlaws forged its own path in Star Wars gaming by focusing more on thieves and scoundrels than folks who use lightsabers. Initially, I didn’t love the game’s focus on harsh stealth, even if it made sense in context. Fortunately, the game has received many updates that have greatly improved the experience. This is now an open-world Star Wars galaxy that’s worth your time and money. You can force-grab it for just $14.99—that’s a $55 savings!

    The Best Editor-Vetted Prime Day Deals

    *Deals are selected by our commerce team

    FAQ

    How Much Does a New Game Normally Cost?

    Video game prices have fluctuated greatly over the years, as the industry moved from expensive cartridges to relatively cheap discs. However, after settling around $50 at the beginning of the 2000s, prices for top-tier games have steadily increased to about $70, or even $80 in some recent cases. There are still exceptions, but when prices like these are the norm, deals are even more attractive

    This PlayStation/Xbox/Nintendo Switch Is on Sale for Cheap! Should I Get It?

    Absolutely! For all sorts of dumb economic reasons, video game consoles are now growing more expensive over time, not less. So if you see a deal on a PlayStation 5, Switch 2, or Xbox Series X/S, then hop on it, because chances are you won’t find it that cheap again. Plus, with console generations now lasting longer than usual, picking up a discounted system should keep you going for at least a few years.

    Can I Save Money by Buying Games Digitally?

    Buying a digital game means giving up certain rights you have with a physical purchase, such as reselling the game to a store to pocket some dollars. However, to compensate, some games are actually cheaper on digital storefronts than their physical counterparts. In addition, you can find deals on physical gift cards that give you cash to spend on digital games.

    About Our Expert

  • At $599 During Prime Day, the Google Pixel 10 Is Still Worth the Upgrade

    At $599 During Prime Day, the Google Pixel 10 Is Still Worth the Upgrade

    It’s time to save some cash on the things you were planning on buying anyway. Amazon Prime’s Big Deal Days are here, and if you were hoping for a big discount on your next flagship carry, last generation’s Google Pixel 10 remains a worthy buy at $200 off.

    Why should you listen to me? I’ve been writing about and testing smartphones for more than 15 years. I’ve seen the ebbs and flows of the mobile landscape, and the trends that stayed and those that faded. I know what a reliable smartphone looks and feels like. Google’s Pixel 10 is the real deal, with its Tensor G5 processor, compact chassis, and top-tier camera performance powered by Google’s imaging algorithms. Plus, Pixel hardware offers helpful features like Magic Eraser and Call Screening, which will hang up on spam calls for you before you hear the ringer. The Pixel 10 is backed by seven years of software updates and security support.

    It’s deals like this that make Amazon Prime’s Big Deal Days and our intensive coverage so valuable.

    Best Compact Android Flagship Deal

    Google Pixel 10

    6.3-inch OLED display, Google Tensor G5 CPU, 12GB RAM, 128GB-256GB


    $599.00
    at Amazon

    $799.00
    Save $200.00


    Get Deal

    As flagship phone prices keep rising, the Google Pixel 10 remains a worthy buy, even though it launched in late 2025. The Google-made Android smartphone’s $200 price drop (down to $599 from $799) makes the device even cheaper than 2026’s Pixel 10a, which is the mid-tier offering in the Pixel 10 lineup. But that Pixel 10a ships with Google’s Tensor G4, less RAM, and a camera system that can’t do as much as the regular Pixel 10.

    The Pixel 10 has plenty of pro-tier features. It’s the first of Google’s higher-end models to feature a dedicated 5x telephoto lens. It’s also the first to bring the magnetic Pixelsnap to the Pixel ecosystem, which means you can swap MagSafe accessories with iPhone-loving people in your life. Combined with the Tensor G5 chip—which didn’t even make it to the economical Pixel 10a—and seven years of guaranteed software and security updates, it’s a suitable buy if you’re willing to sport last year’s hardware.

    Recommended by Our Editors

    If you like this phone deal and want to save more, be sure to check out our complete Prime Day coverage, where you’ll discover deals upon deals.

    The Best Editor-Vetted Prime Day Deals

    *Deals are selected by our commerce team

    FAQ

    Is Google’s Pixel Actually Cheaper During Amazon Prime Day?

    Amazon’s $599 price is one of the lowest deals we’ve seen on the flagship since its debut in 2025, especially if you’re hoping to buy it unlocked. That comes to about a 25% discount.

    Which Pixel Should I Avoid?

    The Pixel 10a is a powerful little mid-tier device that pushed Google’s A-series forward in its own right, but it’s a downgrade at $699 for its dated Tensor G4 CPU and lack of a telephoto camera.

    What Month Is the Cheapest to Buy a Pixel?

    October is a good time to check on leftover stock, especially for the devices that were impressive at launch but have been on the shelf for a while. Plus, if you buy before the holidays, you’re likely to get the color and storage amount you desire.

    About Our Expert

  • For a Real Prime Day Deal, Get ESET’s Security Apps at 50% Off

    For a Real Prime Day Deal, Get ESET’s Security Apps at 50% Off

    During Amazon’s Prime Day Big Deals, you can pick up ESET Home Security Essential for half its usual price. With this security suite, you get ESET antivirus apps for Windows, macOS, and Android, as well as an unusual app for smart TVs. Those with the tech skills to appreciate them will find its network inspector, anti-theft system, and banking protection components delightful. And its Android security app is among the best. Getting it for half off makes this security suite even more tempting.

    Not a Prime Member?

    Anyone can shop and save during the Big Deal event, but to get the best deals, you need to sign up for Prime. Don’t worry about spending all your savings on membership. You can sign up for a free 30-day trial during the sales event and cancel when it’s over.

    Top Security for Tech-Savvy Users

    ESET Home Security Essential

    ESET Home Security Essential

    ESET Home Security Essential, 5 licenses, 1 year


    $35.00
    at Amazon

    $69.99
    Save $34.99


    Get Deal

    Even on an ordinary day, a five-license subscription for ESET Home Security Essential costs $69.99, less than almost all its competitors. Cut that already-low price in half, to $35, and you’ve got a serious Prime Day bargain. And this is no cheap protection. It gets top scores from the independent labs, and it includes expected security suite features, including antivirus, firewall, spam filter, and parental control. On top of the expected, it adds quite a few bonuses, among them webcam protection, anti-theft, and a network inspector. High quality, low price, what’s not to like?

    Prime Day is a great time to invest in security for your devices, but that’s not all. For Prime Day offers of all kinds, be sure to visit our PCMag Deals Hub.

    The Best Editor-Vetted Prime Day Deals

    *Deals are selected by our commerce team

    About Our Expert

  • Score the Nikon Z6II at Its Lowest Price Ever, Plus All the Best Prime Day Camera Deals I’ve Found

    Score the Nikon Z6II at Its Lowest Price Ever, Plus All the Best Prime Day Camera Deals I’ve Found

    Are you ready to get a jump on your holiday shopping, or just give yourself a treat before Halloween begins? Amazon Prime’s Big Deal Days are here, and I’ve gone through the sales to highlight a few bargains on fantastic digital cameras for creators of all skill levels. And I know what I’m talking about, I’ve spent the last 15 years as PCMag’s camera expert and in that time have tested thousands of digital cameras, lenses, and accessories. I’ve picked out three great deals on gear worth buying, including the best price ever on Nikon’s do-it-all full-frame Z6II mirrorless camera, a solid deal on the YouTube darling DJI Osmo Pocket 3 vlogging camera, and a good price on the entry-level Sony a6400 mirrorless camera.

    Not a Prime Member?

    You can still shop and save during Big Deal Days, but if you want to score the best deals, you need to sign up for Prime. The good news is that you can grab a free 30-day trial during the sales event.

    The Best Prime Day Digital Camera Deals

    Best Full-Frame Mirrorless Digital Camera Deal

    Nikon Z6II with 24-70mm F4 Zoom Lens

    24.5MP full-frame camera with 5-axis stabilization, 14fps autofocus, and 4K video


    $1,896.95
    at Amazon

    $2,349.95
    Save $453.00


    Get Deal

    The Nikon Z6II is selling for its best-ever price during Amazon Prime’s Big Deal Days event. That’s good news for photographers, videographers, and content creators who want to step up to a full-frame camera, or finally make the move from an SLR to a mirrorless system. The Z6II comes with an excellent, compact Nikkor Z 24-70mm F4 lens, and the kit has been selling below its suggested retail price lately, costing around $2,149.95 in the weeks ahead of this sale. Needless to say, its $1,896.95 sale price is a great value, about $250 less than normal, and beats the previous lowest cost by $100. The Z6II earned a solid recommendation in our 2021 review, and while it’s a generation behind the latest Z6III, its image quality, 14fps autofocus, and 4K video engine deliver solid results even when compared against new cameras. One of my gripes from five years ago is addressed, too. At the time, the Z lens system was pretty new and not yet fully formed, but today there are plenty of lenses available from both Nikon and third parties.

    Best Vlogging Digital Camera Deal

    DJI Osmo Pocket 3 Vlog Bundle

    DJI Osmo Pocket 3 vlogging camera and Mic Mini wireless microphone


    $406.00
    at Amazon

    $532.00
    Save $126.00


    Get Deal

    In its time on the market, the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 has cemented itself as the affordable camera for YouTube and content creation. Its lens is stabilized on a gimbal, so footage is super smooth, even when you’re moving with the camera. It records at up to 4K60, and includes Log color support for experts. The Pocket 3 is the newest option from DJI that’s officially available in the US, and the clear value choice when compared with fresher competitors like Insta360 Luna Ultra ($769). You can get the Pocket 3 bundled with the DJI Mic Mini, a wireless mic that records clear, crisp sound, for $406 during Amazon’s sale, about $100 less than the bundle cost last week, and less than the typical $439 camera-only price. You’re saving money and getting a microphone during the sale, so if you have YouTube aspirations or want to step up your TikTok game, it’s an ideal time to upgrade from a smartphone. If you already have a wireless mic, you can get the Pocket for $395, though for the small difference, I think I’d prefer picking up an extra mic; it’s handy for interviews, and it’s always good to have a backup.

    Best Entry-Level Mirrorless Digital Camera Deal

    Sony a6400 With 16-50mm Zoom Lens

    24MP mirrorless camera with electronic viewfinder, 11fps autofocus, and 4K video


    $998.00
    at Amazon

    $1,199.99
    Save $201.99


    Get Deal

    Photographers who’ve started out with a smartphone and are ready to step up to an interchangeable lens camera should take a close look at the Sony a6400, available during the Big Deals Day sale for $998 with a 16-50mm zoom lens, about $200 less than its typical price. The a6400 is a fantastic camera for beginners, with a capable 24MP APS-C image sensor, outstanding tracking autofocus at up to 11fps for action, and 4K30 video recording. And despite including an electronic viewfinder, a tilting rear display, and a built-in flash, the a6400 is quite small, and is bundled with a correspondingly compact 16-50mm zoom lens. The a6400 a good pickup for anyone who wants try an interchangeable lens camera, and it gives beginners room to grow with manual controls and the largest number of add-on lenses available for any mirrorless camera system.

    Recommended by Our Editors

    I hope that I helped you find a good deal on a camera that satisfies your creative impulses and makes sense for your wallet. If you’re looking for more tech bargains, make sure you check out our index of the best Prime Day deals.

    The Best Editor-Vetted Prime Day Deals

    *Deals are selected by our commerce team

    FAQ

    Is the the Nikon Z6II a Good Deal at $1,896.95?

    Yes, it’s the best price yet for the bundle, and a significant discount versus buying the camera and lens separately. The Z6II has sold for $1,546.95 recently, and the 24-70mm F4 costs $1,046.95 on its own. The bundle and sale represent a $700 discount!

    Should I Get a6400 or Z6II?

    The Sony a6400 and Nikon Z6II are both mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras, but they appeal to different audiences. The a6400 is an ideal camera for beginners: It’s affordable, compact, and gives you room to grow as you learn more about photography. The Z6II costs more to start, but its full-frame sensor and larger body design make it a better choice for enthusiasts, and it’s a fine choice to use as a backup body for professionals.

    Is This Deal Likely to Get Better Before Prime Day Ends?

    I don’t expect any of these deals to get better before the end of Big Deal Days. The Z6II and Pocket 3 are at rock-bottom prices. The a6400 might drop more before the holidays; it sold for $50 less than the current deal a few times over the past year.

    What’s Missing at This Price?

    Each deal comes with some compromises. The a6400 doesn’t include the weather protection or in-body stabilization available in more advanced entries in the line like the Sony a6700. The Z6II doesn’t use Nikon’s latest autofocus, nor does it support full-width 4K60 video, both available in the newer Z6III. The Pocket 3 can’t match the premium entry in this space, the Insta360 Luna Ultra, a $769 vlogging cam that has both wide-angle and telephoto lenses, plus support for 4K120 slow-motion capture.

    Do Digital Cameras Go on Sale During Prime Day?

    Yes, digital cameras often go on sale during Amazon events and during the holiday shopping season. Typically, we see the best prices on models that are a little older, which is the case here.

    Who Has the Best Deals on Digital Cameras?

    Name-brand digital cameras cost about the same at every retailer. This is because most camera companies use Minimum Advertised Pricing (MAP), which requires authorized resellers to sell at a price the manufacturer sets. This helps mom-and-pop photo shops compete with Amazon and other big resellers, so if the deal you’re looking at is out of stock at Amazon, there’s a good chance you can get the same price from another retailer.

    Are Digital Cameras Actually Cheaper on Prime Day?

    Yes. Cameras are often available at a good discount during Amazon sales.

    About Our Expert

  • Google’s AI Phone Calls May Soon Chat to Your Mom for You

    Google’s AI Phone Calls May Soon Chat to Your Mom for You

    Google’s Gemini-powered Call for Me feature debuted on Pixel phones last month, letting you instruct its AI to handle calls to local businesses and other errands. Weeks after launch, the first signs of an expansion are appearing, which may bring the tool to update your family and friends.

    As spotted by Android Authority, early versions of Android software now reference Call for Me conversations outside business tasks and toward more personal requests. The options were spotted in the Gemini Calling section, though it’s unclear whether each will make it into a final Android release.

    The examples suggest using its AI assistant to ring your mom to “tell her I will be 15 minutes late,” or to call John to “ask if he is coming for dinner.” The instructions sit alongside other, more typical examples of the feature, such as a call to a restaurant to make a booking and a query to find a dentist appointment.

    Google’s marketing and support pages were all tailored around how Call for Me could help with everyday errands, but there’s no reason it couldn’t be expanded to help you communicate with everyday people. It’s unclear whether the feature can use your contacts, but the use of phrases like “John” and “Mom” suggests that it is Google’s eventual aim.

    However, it doesn’t look like Call for Me will be able to tackle a full conversation. The examples given lean toward announcements to friends and family, which may prove helpful when you need a quick update, such as when you’re driving or too busy to wait for someone to pick up the phone.

    An exact release date remains unclear, and we won’t officially know these tools are coming until we hear directly from Google.

    Recommended by Our Editors

    Call for Me launched in late September with strict rules around who could use it. You need to be over 18 and based in the US; even then, only select users can interact with the tools. You also need a Pixel 11, Pixel 11 Pro, Pixel 11 Pro XL, or Pixel 11 Pro Fold, though it may eventually come to other devices.

    Another big restriction is that you need a Google AI subscription, which costs $4.99 per month with AI Plus access.

    About Our Expert

  • Hackers: We Stole Data From 3,615 Trump Mobile Customers

    Hackers: We Stole Data From 3,615 Trump Mobile Customers

    A new hacking group claims to have stolen data on over 3,000 Trump Mobile customers by infecting an employee at a related company with malware. 

    Straight Arrow News first reported on the alleged hack, for which a group called BYOD has claimed responsibility. Last week, the gang’s site on the dark web published a file claiming to contain the personal data of 3,615 customers. “Trump Mobile was informed they had been breached, they then replied with ‘We have no team to handle this’ and that anyone who hacks them [is] a terrorist,” BYOD alleged on their website. 

    There are signs that the breach is real. Three people in the leaked file confirmed to PCMag that they had interacted with Trump Mobile in the past. We were able to reach out to them because the leaked file contained their name, phone number, email address, and physical address. One customer was also surprised that the leaked file accurately showed they had canceled their Trump Mobile service for the “30 Day Unlimited Talk Text Data” plan. 

    BYOD site

    (Credit: BYOD)

    BYOD told PCMag that they “ratted a Liberty Mobile employee,” a Florida-based MVNO known to power Trump Mobile. Ratting refers to installing a Remote Access Trojan on the target’s device, creating a way for a hacker to remotely hijack their computer. 

    The infection gave the cybercrime gang “no permissions except to look up prepaid numbers, so we pivoted to subdomains, which Trump Mobile was exposed, and decided to exfil that,” BYOD said in an email. “We only stole 3,615 customers due to the fact that’s all they have using their MVNO (different from the prepaid phone orders, these are people using the carrier),” BYOD added. The group also says it has “live access to the dashboard,” apparently TrumpMobile.com.

    The gang says the stolen data shows “people who are currently or were previously using the MVNO as their cellular network.” But one affected customer told us she never successfully signed up for Trump Mobile or for a preorder for the long-delayed Trump-branded phone, even though her information appears to be in the file. 

    “They wouldn’t sell me the phone because my email was already in their system,” the customer said, who added that Trump Mobile’s customer service “sucked.” Still, she did give the company her email address and phone number, which would explain how her information ended up in BYOD’s leaked file. A Trump Mobile customer support rep also called her using the same number.

    Recommended by Our Editors

    So far, neither Trump Mobile nor Liberty Mobile has responded to a request for comment. But it’s not the first time Trump Mobile has faced a security issue. In May, two YouTubers sounded the alarm about an exploitable software flaw on TrumpMobile.com that could be used to leak customer information, including names, phone numbers, and physical addresses. Trump Mobile later fixed the issue, saying it found no evidence its systems were ever compromised. 

    Still, there’s some speculation that BYOD —which has only been active for a week— may have stolen the data using the same exploit. Last month, another hacking group, Endzone, claimed to have stolen data from 4,000 Trump Mobile users.

    In response, a rep for BYOD said: “No, we have no affiliation; a member from our group just knows a few people behind Endzone, so there could’ve been a hiccup regarding Trump Mobile & Eteam, although we have published both first… However, we wish them the best, of course.”

    About Our Expert

  • How to Watch the Chicago White Sox vs. Cleveland Guardians Division Series Game 2 (Even for Free)

    How to Watch the Chicago White Sox vs. Cleveland Guardians Division Series Game 2 (Even for Free)

    As summer comes to a close and the air turns crisp, you know what’s coming: the MLB Playoffs. The NFL season is already underway, and if you’re also a baseball lover, this next month is essential viewing. The MLB has been through a number of changes in recent years. From the universal DH and the pitch clock to video replay and an automated strike zone, baseball may look very different if you haven’t been paying attention.

    This week, all Division Series matchups continue with the White Sox vs. Guardians, Braves vs. Dodgers, Yankees vs. Rays, and Padres vs. Brewers. American League games continue tonight, while National League matchups will pick up tomorrow. Don’t want to miss a minute of the action? Here’s how you can watch live.


    What Time Is the White Sox vs. Guardians Game 2?

    Today’s game between the Chicago White Sox and Cleveland Guardians will take place on Monday, October 5 at 5 p.m. ET.


    What Time Is the Yankees vs. Rays Game 2?

    Today’s game between the New York Yankees and Tampa Bay Rays will take place on Monday, October 5 at 8:00 p.m. ET.


    What Time Is the Braves vs. Dodgers Game 3?

    Tomorrow’s game between the Atlanta Braves and Los Angeles Dodgers will take place on Tuesday, October 6 at 6 p.m. ET.


    What Time Is the Padres vs. Brewers Game 3?

    Tomorrow’s game between the San Diego Padres and Milwaukee Brewers will take place on Tuesday, October 6 at 9:30 p.m. ET.


    How to Watch the MLB Division Series Games

    American League Division Series games will be broadcast on TBS, while National League games will be on Fox and FS1. You can also watch them with a live TV or sports streaming subscription from DirecTV, Fox One, Fubo, HBO Max, Hulu, Sling, Sportsnet+ (if you’re in Canada), or YouTube TV.


    How to Watch the Games For Free

    If you don’t want to subscribe to any of the above platforms, you may be able to sign up for a few free trials to gain access to this weekend’s games. Fox One and Hulu offer three-day trials, DirecTV and Fubo offer five days, and YouTube TV gives you 10 days for free.

    Unlock Your Streaming Service’s Full Catalog

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    Unlock Your Streaming Service’s Full Catalog


    2026 MLB Playoffs Game Schedule

    MLB’s expanded postseason means more teams on the playoff schedule. Things started off with the best-of-three Wild Card Series, where the Braves, Padres, White Sox, and Yankees advanced. Now, the best-of-five Division Series starts October 3. The Cleveland Guardians, Tampa Bay Rays, Los Angeles Dodgers, and Milwaukee Brewers will meet them.

    After this round, the Championship Series extends to seven games to determine the best team in each league, who then advance to a best-of-seven World Series. Who will make it all the way?

    Chicago White Sox vs. Cleveland Guardians – CWS lead 1-0:

    • Game 2 on October 5 @ 5:00 p.m. ET – TBS/HBO Max

    • Game 3 on October 7 @ 4:00 p.m. ET – TBS/HBO Max

    • Game 4 on October 8 @ 5:00 p.m. ET – TBS/HBO Max

    • Game 5 on October 10 @ 5:00 p.m. ET – TBS/HBO Max

    Atlanta Braves vs. Los Angeles Dodgers – Series tied 1-1:

    • Game 3 on October 6 @ 6:00 p.m. ET – FS1/Fox One

    • Game 4 on October 7 @ 6:00 p.m. ET – FS1/Fox One

    • Game 5 on October 9 @ 8:00 p.m. ET – Fox/Fox One

    New York Yankees vs. Tampa Bay Rays – TBR lead 1-0:

    • Game 2 on October 5 @ 8:00 p.m. ET – TBS/HBO Max

    • Game 3 on October 7 @ 8:00 p.m. ET – TBS/HBO Max

    • Game 4 on October 8 @ 8:00 p.m. ET – TBS/HBO Max

    • Game 5 on October 10 @ 8:00 p.m. ET – TBS/HBO Max

    San Diego Padres vs. Milwaukee Brewers – MIL lead 2-0:

    • Game 3 on October 6 @ 9:30 p.m. ET – FS1/Fox One

    • Game 4 on October 7 @ 10:00 p.m. ET – FS1/Fox One

    • Game 5 on October 9 @ 4:30 p.m. ET – FS1/Fox One

    2026 MLB postseason brackets

    (Credit: MLB)


    How to Stream the 2026 MLB Playoffs

    This year’s MLB postseason is stretched across multiple networks and streaming services. All Wild Card Series games for the American League and National League were broadcast on NBC, NBCSN, and Peacock. Additional rounds will be on other networks. ALDS and ALCS games are on TBS/TruTV and HBO Max, while NLDS and NLCS games are on Fox/FS1. For the World Series, all games will be broadcast on Fox and the Fox One streaming service.

    Recommended by Our Editors

    • DirecTV: DirecTV’s MySports base pack costs $45 per month for the first six months to see every game on Fox, FS1, NBC, and TBS/TruTV.

    • Fox One: Fox’s own streaming app lets you watch the NLDS, NLCS, and World Series on Fox and FS1 for $20 per month.

    • Fubo: Fubo’s Sports plan costs $45.99 for the first month to watch the Wild Card Series, NLDS, NLCS, and World Series on Fox, FS1, and NBC/NBCSN.

    • HBO Max: If you pay for the $18.49-per-month HBO Max Standard, you’ll be able to watch the ALDS and ALCS games on TBS/TruTV.

    • Hulu: For $90 per month, you can watch every game on Fox, FS1, NBC, TBS, and TruTV.

    • Peacock: Instead of a live TV service, you’d need to pay $10.99 per month for Peacock Premium to see the Wild Card Series games.

    • Sling: The $60.99-per-month Sling Orange & Blue bundle will let you watch the ALDS and ALCS on TBS/TruTV and the NLDS and NLCS on FS1. Day Passes are also available for Sling Orange, allowing you to watch games on TBS for up to seven days.

    • Sportsnet+ (Canada only): The $30-per-month Standard tier lets you watch every postseason game.

    • YouTube TV: Though the standard plan for YouTube TV costs $83 per month, you can actually now pay for the cheaper $65 Sports package to see all games on Fox, FS1, NBC/NBCSN, and TBS/TruTV.

    Can I Watch Postseason Games on MLB.TV?

    Are you already an MLB.TV subscriber? You can watch the Division Series, Championship Series, and World Series games through MLB’s own streaming service—but there’s a catch. To watch on MLB.TV, you’ll first need to authenticate through a participating pay TV provider. It’s such a sticking point that it makes the entire question moot. If you already have a TV provider, then you wouldn’t need to use a streaming service. If you don’t already have an MLB.TV subscription, don’t pay for one now.

    How can I listen to the 2026 postseason?

    You can also listen to the games via ESPN Radio.


    Which Teams Are In the Playoffs?

    Since MLB expanded its postseason picture in 2022, a total of 12 teams make the playoffs each year. That includes six teams per league, including the three division winners and three Wild Card teams.

    • American League Division Winners: Tampa Bay Rays (1), Cleveland Guardians (2), Houston Astros (3)

    • American League Wild Card: New York Yankees (4), Boston Red Sox (5), Chicago White Sox (6)

    • National League Division Winners: Milwaukee Brewers (1), Los Angeles Dodgers (2), Atlanta Braves (3)

    • National League Wild Card: Chicago Cubs (4), Philadelphia Phillies (5), San Diego Padres (6)


    Upgrade Your Streaming Experience

    If you decide to watch the MLB postseason, there’s still time to get a big-screen television for viewing this beautiful game. Pro tip: Turn on your TV’s motion-smoothing option for the best picture while watching sports. Just remember to turn it off before watching other TV shows and movies to avoid the awful “soap opera” effect.

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  • How to Watch the Liberty vs. Dream,  Aces vs. Valkyries WNBA Semifinals Games Live, Even for Free

    How to Watch the Liberty vs. Dream, Aces vs. Valkyries WNBA Semifinals Games Live, Even for Free

    The NBA playoffs ended in June with the New York Knicks winning the championship for the first time in more than 50 years. Now it’s time for the WNBA to make history as the Las Vegas Aces continue their active postseason appearance streak. The Minnesota Lynx, meanwhile, had the chance to become the winningest team in league history, but they were eliminated by the New York Liberty.

    If you’re fresh off the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup, Caitlin Clark’s Indiana Fever have been eliminated, but there are still plenty of faces you’ll recognize from the US Women’s Basketball Team. Here’s what you need to know before tuning in.


    2026 WNBA Playoffs Game Schedule

    The WNBA playoffs run from September 27 to October 31. While every matchup in the NBA is a best-of-7 series, the WNBA holds a best-of-3 series in the first round, a best-of-5 series in the semifinals, and a best-of-7 series—for just the second year—in the finals, giving teams a lot less room to maneuver and recover. One bad night could mean the end of everything for your favorite team.

    The first round will continue through October 2, with the New York Liberty, Atlanta Dream, and Las Vegas Aces advancing. Only one more team can make it to the semifinals, which begin on October 4. The WBNA Finals start on October 17.

    New York Liberty vs. Atlanta Dream – ATL leads 1-0

    • Game 2: Wednesday, October 7 @ 7:30 p.m. ET – ESPN

    • Game 3: Friday, October 9 @ 7:30 p.m. ET – ESPN 2

    • Game 4: Sunday, October 11 @ TBD – ABC

    • Game 5: Wednesday, October 14 @ TBD – ESPN

    Las Vegas Aces vs. Golden State Valkyries – GSV leads 1-0

    • Game 2: Wednesday, October 7 @ 9:30 p.m. ET – NBCSN/Peacock

    • Game 3: Friday, October 9 @ 9:30 p.m. ET – NBCSN/Peacock

    • Game 4: Sunday, October 11 @ TBD – NBC/Peacock

    • Game 5: Wednesday, October 14 @ TBD – NBCSN/Peacock

    WNBA Finals

    • Game 1: Saturday, October 17 @ 3:30 p.m. ET – NBCSN/Peacock

    • Game 2: Monday, October 19 @ 8:00 p.m. ET – USA/Peacock

    • Game 3: Thursday, October 22 @ 8:00 p.m. ET – USA/Peacock

    • Game 4: Saturday, October 24 @ 3:30 p.m. ET – NBC/Peacock

    • Game 5: Monday, October 26 @ 8:00 p.m. ET – USA/Peacock

    • Game 6: Thursday, October 29 @ 8:00 p.m. ET – USA/Peacock

    • Game 7: Saturday, October 31 @ 8:00 p.m. ET – USA/Peacock


    How to Watch the Golden State Valkyrie vs. Dallas Wings Playoff Game

    This year’s playoff schedule is tricky. It will be split across multiple networks and streaming services, even within the same series. ABC, ESPN, Prime Video, and USA carried the first round. ABC, NBC, NBCSN, Peacock, and ESPN will have the semifinals. NBC, USA, and Peacock will be options for the Finals. This means a single cable subscription or Live TV streamer might not be enough to watch everything.

    • DirecTV: DirecTV’s MySports base pack costs $45 per month for the first six months and offers ABC, ESPN, NBC, and USA.

    • Fubo: Fubo’s Sports plan costs $45.99 for the first month to watch games broadcast on ABC, ESPN, NBC, and NBCSN.

    • Hulu: For $90 per month, Hulu + Live TV lets you watch games on ABC, ESPN, NBC, and USA.

    • Peacock: Instead of a live TV service, you’d need to pay $10.99 per month for Peacock Premium to see the Wild Card Series games.

    • Prime Video: Prime’s $14.99 monthly or $139 annual cost grants subscribers access to the three first-round games on Amazon’s platform.

    • Sling: Sling’s $45.99-per-month Sling Orange plan will let you watch games on ESPN. Day Passes are also available for up to seven days. You’ll need the Orange $ Blue bundle for $60.99 to also watch games on USA.

    • YouTube TV: Though the standard plan for YouTube TV costs $83 per month, you can actually now pay for the cheaper $65 Sports package to see all games on ABC, ESPN, NBC, NBCSN, and USA.


    How to Watch New York Liberty vs. Atlanta Dream For Free

    If you don’t have a streaming subscription, you may be able to catch some of the action without spending a dime by signing up for a free video streaming trial. Here are your options:

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    Which Teams Are In the Playoffs?

    Unlike other sports leagues, the WNBA doesn’t care about conferences. Out of 15 teams, eight squads make it to the playoffs, regardless of where they come from. This year, there are an even four teams from the Eastern Conference and four from the Western Conference. Here they are, listed in order of seeding:

    1. Minnesota Lynx

    2. Golden State Valkyries

    3. Las Vegas Aces

    4. Atlanta Dream

    5. Indiana Fever

    6. Washington Mystics

    7. Dallas Wings

    8. New York Liberty


    Upgrade Your Streaming Experience

    If you decide to watch the WNBA Playoffs, there’s still time to get a big-screen television for viewing this beautiful game. Pro tip: Turn on your TV’s motion-smoothing option for the best picture while watching sports. Just remember to turn it off before watching other TV shows and movies to avoid the awful “soap opera” effect.

    About Our Expert

  • Your Next MacBook Pro May Be Much Lighter, Even With Its New Touch Screen

    Your Next MacBook Pro May Be Much Lighter, Even With Its New Touch Screen

    The MacBook Pro may be Apple’s most capable laptop, but you have to accept a heavier and bulkier design in exchange for that extra power. However, a new leak suggests Apple is looking to slim down its machine for its next release.

    An upcoming revamp for the MacBook Pro may make its devices “significantly lighter,” according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman in his latest Power On newsletter. The reporter quotes sources familiar with Apple’s plans, who say a new design will make the MacBook Pro much easier to carry.

    The sources claim Apple has reengineered the device to enable a lighter design, shrinking its size and rearranging internal components to achieve the reduction. The sources didn’t specify an exact weight, but Apple’s current MacBook Pro weighs 4.8 pounds, the MacBook Air weighs 3.3 pounds, and the MacBook Neo is its lightest option at 2.7 pounds. 

    Other rumored features include the first touch-screen MacBook display, plus a switch to OLED screen tech to offer better contrast, mimicking a move Apple previously made with its top-end iPads. This appears to be an overhaul of what the MacBook Pro can do to compete with increased competition, including Apple’s own expansion into cheaper alternatives with its MacBook Neo.

    The sources say to expect the new MacBook Pro by the end of November. If true, it would likely launch alongside the long-rumored 2026 iPad mini.

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    A previous report from Gurman said to expect an Apple event on Oct. 13, likely set to unveil a smart home hub with a display, alongside a new Apple TV and HomePod mini. It may be that Apple announces its new MacBook Pro and iPad mini at the same time, or it may reveal them separately at a later date.

    Apple’s new CEO, John Ternus, is also said to be paying closer attention to the design process and getting more involved than Tim Cook did. Ternus was previously involved in design through his role as head of hardware engineering, so this may be an extension of those responsibilities to ensure he’s involved in some of Apple’s biggest decisions.

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  • OpenAI CEO Says the ‘World Should Accept Some Bad Things’ from AI

    OpenAI CEO Says the ‘World Should Accept Some Bad Things’ from AI

    The CEO of OpenAI, Sam Altman, believes that risks associated with AI are outweighed by its benefits.

    In a recent interview with Politico’s Decoded series, Altman said, “We believe that the world should accept some bad things happening for the benefits of this technology and people having the agency.”

    “I wouldn’t take a trade of saying, ‘We’ll make sure there’s no major hacks, there’s no misuse of this technology, there’s zero scams, there’s zero all the other bad things that will happen,’” said Altman. He also believes people will do “orders of magnitude more good stuff than bad stuff.”

    Altman’s latest comments come as OpenAI models have been involved in multiple security incidents in which its agentic tools have overreached, hacking other companies and even government websites.

    The interview discussed the key differences between OpenAI’s policy on regulation compared with its biggest competitor, Anthropic. The two companies have aligned more closely than before over recent weeks, as Altman and Anthropic’s CEO, Dario Amodei, have argued for greater regulation to help limit risks.

    However, Altman used the interview to note that OpenAI continues to have a “lighter-touch regulatory stance,” suggesting this policy would continue.

    He said, “I disagree, but I understand the perspective of people who are like, ‘This technology is going to get so powerful, and it’s so dangerous, that a single lab in San Francisco should have it and make sure nothing bad happens, and kind of figure out how to dole out the benefits.’”

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    Altman also said that he doesn’t see any potential for a “serious loss of control to AI.” OpenAI recently slowed development on its most advanced tech, including scrapping its GPT-6.1 Astra release after finding it was less reliable than previous iterations and was more prone to misalignment.

    Last week, US President Donald Trump announced plans for government bodies to rename artificial intelligence to Super Intelligence. The move also saw it ask companies such as OpenAI, Anthropic, Meta, Google, and others to sign what Trump called a “morally binding” agreement to ensure each is building AI “safely and in a way that builds trust with customers and the public.”

    Disclosure: Ziff Davis, PCMag’s parent company, filed a lawsuit against OpenAI in April 2025, alleging it infringed Ziff Davis copyrights in training and operating its AI systems.

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