Harry Potter fiction or iPhone weaponry? The 'dormant cyber pathogen' at the heart of Apple vs. FBI
The battle over unlocking an iPhone tied to a terrorist attack takes a turn for the baffling.
Katie CollinsPrincipal Writer
Katie is a UK-based news reporter and features writer. Officially, she is CNET's European correspondent, covering tech policy and Big Tech in the EU and UK. Unofficially, she serves as CNET's Taylor Swift correspondent. You can also find her writing about tech for good, ethics and human rights, the climate crisis, robots, travel and digital culture. She was once described a "living synth" by London's Evening Standard for having a microchip injected into her hand.
The FBI vs. Apple latest: Harry Potter fan fiction confusion.
13/PeopleImages.com/Ocean/Corbis
Why should Apple unlock the much-disputed iPhone at the center of its battle with the FBI? It may hold a "dormant cyber pathogen," according to a court filing from the district attorney for California's San Bernardino County.
That certainly sounds scary, but what is a dormant cyber pathogen exactly?
iPhone forensics expert Jonathan Zdziarski, who knows a fair bit about computer science and information security, was just as baffled as the rest of us. The phrase doesn't exist in computer science, according to Zdziarski. So, he went in search of answers.
What he found was "what appears to be Harry Potter fiction," Zdziarski reported in a blog post on Thursday. His search led him to the profile of a fan-fiction fan who goes by the name of "Cyber Pathogen" and describes themselves as a Demigod from Gryffindor.
In the court filing, County District Attorney Michael Ramos says the dormant cyber pathogen might be a weapon that could trigger an attack on the San Bernardino County computer network.
It's just the latest twist in the ongoing battle between Apple and the FBI over an iPhone 5C used by one of the terrorists involved in a December massacre in San Bernardino, in which 14 people died and 20 others were wounded.
A court hearing to determine whether Apple should be forced to comply with the FBI's request is set for March 22 in federal court in Riverside, California.
Apple and the San Bernardino district attorney's office couldn't be reached for comment.
Katie is a UK-based news reporter and features writer. Officially, she is CNET's European correspondent, covering tech policy and Big Tech in the EU and UK. Unofficially, she serves as CNET's Taylor Swift correspondent. You can also find her writing about tech for good, ethics and human rights, the climate crisis, robots, travel and digital culture. She was once described a "living synth" by London's Evening Standard for having a microchip injected into her hand.See full bio
150+ Last Chance Prime Day Deals Under $50 That You Can Still Shop Before the Sale Ends Tonight
We're in the final hours of the sale which means you're running out of time to score these last-minute affordable finds.
Max McHoneContributor
Max is a freelance writer on CNET's commerce team with a passion for film, TV, gaming and all things pop culture. When he's not covering the latest tech, he can usually be found backpacking the world, training in martial arts or watching way too many movies at home.
Palash has been writing about technology (and entertainment) for over a decade. His focus has been on the evolution of computing, ranging from smartphones to PC builds and everything in between. You can reach him at lepalash(at)gmail(dot)com, or on Twitter @Whipalash.
ExpertisePersonal computers, smartphones, and gadgets in general.Credentials
Our expert deal-hunting staff showcases the best price drops and discounts from reputable sellers daily. If you make a purchase using our links, CNET may earn a commission.
The Amazon Prime Day sale ends in just a few hours, so it's time to start wrapping up your shopping. But before you check out, you'll want to take a look at our favorite finds under $50. While there are plenty of discounts on big-ticket items like TVs, laptops and other flagship gear, some of the most useful deals are sitting quietly under $50, where a few dollars gets you something you'll actually reach for.
I went through the sale and pulled together the affordable stuff worth your attention across a range of categories. Think Bluetooth speakers, power banks, charging gear, smart home items, kitchen tools and all sorts of everyday tech. None of it will dent your bank account, and most of it solves some small annoyance you've been putting up with.
A quick heads-up, though: Budget picks are usually the first to sell out, particularly the popular ones with thin stock. So if something below has been sitting on your wish list, grab it before the discount disappears and the price goes back up. And if you've got a little more room to spend, our main roundup of the top Prime Day deals covers everything else.
Best last-chance tech deals under $50
Anker Soundcore Select 4 Go
This palm-sized Bluetooth speaker is designed to go just about anywhere. It's got a rugged, waterproof design -- and even floats -- making it a great pick for pool parties and beach days. It boasts 20 hours of battery life and an integrated fabric loop for easy transport.
You don't have to spend a fortune to get some decent noise-canceling earbuds these days. These JBL buds feature 8mm drivers for rich, full sound and boast an impressive 40-hour battery life. They're also IP54 water- and dust-resistant, which means you can use them during workouts.
This ultraslim MagSafe power bank is just 8.6mm thick and weighs just 127 grams, but it still has a 5,000mAh battery. It supports 15W wireless charging or 20W fast charging via USB-C cable. Use the promo code ULPB580 at checkout to save.
The JBL Tune 510BT are lightweight Bluetooth headphones designed for everyday listening with up to 40 hours of battery life. They offer foldable earcups for easy storage and a built-in mic for taking calls on the go. With simple wireless pairing and broad compatibility, they’re an easy pick for casual music and podcasts.
If you always run out of storage like I do, this one is for you. The Samsung P9 Express microSD card is built for high-speed storage, offering up to 800MB/s transfers for fast file handling and gaming performance. With 256GB of capacity, it’s designed to expand storage. It focuses on quick load times and reliable performance for demanding data use.
The Anker Soundcore 2 features Bluetooth 5 connectivity, IPX7 waterproofing and Anker’s BassUp technology for deeper sound. With up to 24 hours of battery life, it’s designed to keep playing through long days away from a charger.
Sony WH-CH520: $33 (save $37). If you find over-ear headphones a little bulky, these on-ear Sony cans are a great alternative.
AirFly Pro 2 Bluetooth adapter: $47 (save $13). Ditch the wires and connect your wireless buds to hear your media on airplane screens, gym TVs, gaming consoles and more, for Prime members only.
UGreen Nexode Air 45W USB-C charger: $15 (save $10). A foldable, ultra-mini GaN block that still outputs 45 watts, which is enough for a MacBook Air, Neo, or iPad. This deal is exclusive to Prime members.
Treblab X3 Pro earbuds: $47 (save $13). These sport earbuds have secure earhooks, an IPX5 sweat-resistant rating and up to 192 hours of total battery life with the case. For Prime members only.
Cuktech CP12 magnetic power bank: $20 (save $10). This 10,000-mAh pack has a built-in cable and snaps onto the back of an iPhone, with 20-watt wired and 7.5-watt wireless charging. For Prime members only.
Treblab X4 earbuds: $30 (save $10). Treblab's earhook earbuds offer a secure fit for workouts and a huge 242-hour total battery life with the charging case. For Prime members only.
Cuktech CP25 power bank: $27 (save $3). A 20,000-mAh bank with 45-watt output that can charge a phone several times over, plus fast 40-watt recharging for itself.
Soundcore P20i earbuds: $19 (save $21). These budget Anker earbuds are more than half off, and they're a solid option if you want wireless sound without spending much. For Prime members only.
JBL Go 4 speaker: $38 (save $12).. This pocket-sized Bluetooth speaker is waterproof and dustproof with an IP67 rating, so you can take it just about anywhere.
Iniu SnapGo Air power bank: $46 (save $9). One of the slimmest Qi2 magnetic power banks around at 13.8mm, with 25-watt wireless charging and a built-in USB-C cable. For Prime members only.
Apple AirTag (2nd gen): $24 (save $5). Apple's latest tracker helps you keep tabs on your keys, bag or luggage through the Find My app, and it's now under $25.
This 3.5-quart air fryer is perfect for quick and easy weeknight dinners. It's big enough to cook for up to four people and has bake and dehydrate functions. Plus, the basket and crisper rack are both dishwasher-safe for an easy cleanup.
This single-serve blender is perfect for fast, easy and nutritious breakfasts that you can take on the go. It has enough power to handle ice or frozen ingredients, yet the rechargeable base is small enough to take with you. Plus, it blends everything right in the same 18-ounce cup you drink out of, so there's minimal cleanup.
The Fullstar Pro Chopper is a simple all-in-one kitchen gadget that speeds up prep work for vegetables, fruit and more. It includes interchangeable blades for chopping and spiralizing, plus a built-in container to catch everything as you go. It’s a compact tool designed to cut down on time spent slicing and dicing during everyday cooking.
Hamilton Beach Portable 6 Quart Set & Forget slow cooker
This Hamilton Beach slow cooker is built for hands-off meals with its programmable settings and built-in temperature probe. The “Set & Forget” function lets you cook everything from roasts to soups without constant monitoring, and the lid lock makes it easier to transport dishes. A removable crock and lid are also dishwasher-safe for easier cleanup.
This is my favorite pan ever. It's fully nonstick, even when cooking eggs. It's coated in ceramic and PFAS-free. Plus, the handle can withstand heat up to 302°F.
Forget the coffee shop every morning when you can get this coffee and espresso maker for under $100. It's made with a slim design so it will fit in small spaces as well. It's a simple one-touch button and your drink will be made for you.
Dash My Mug ice cream maker: $28 (save $16). Make single-serving ice cream, gelato, frozen yogurt or sorbet right in the mug, with no big machine to store or clean. For Prime members only.
Best last-chance home deals under $50
Arlo 2K Video Doorbell (2nd Gen)
This is our pick for the best video doorbell of 2026. It makes it easy to keep an eye on who's coming and going. The doorbell features detailed 2K video, plus night vision and a wide 180-degree field of view. It's also wireless, which makes it easy to set up.
This device has a touchscreen and displays a variety of custom-designed clock faces so you can select your favorite. It's Alexa-enabled, which means you can use your voice to set alarms, access the weather, play music tracks and much more. This Echo Spot is also equipped with privacy controls, including a mic-off button, the ability to view and delete your voice recordings and more. Plus, it comes in three colors.
These simple outlet adapters let you turn any regular appliance into a smart device you can power on and off from anywhere with your phone or hands-free with voice control. They work with Google Home, Amazon Alexa and more. These plugs allow you to set custom timers and schedules for some serious convenience. Each smart plug has a single outlet with a maximum 1,800-watt output.
These cooling sheets are perfect for the summer. The sheets are made of bamboo and rayon and are very breathable, so you won't feel stuffy at night. They come in tons of colors but price varies by color, so be sure to double check before purchasing.
The Beckham Hotel Collection pillows are filled with a soft down-alternative material that provides plush support whether you sleep on your back, side or stomach. Plus, they're designed to stay cool and comfortable throughout the night, making them a popular pick for year-round use.
This lightweight upright vacuum is a solid choice for smaller spaces that don't need a big bulky machine. A compact and bagless design makes it easy to maneuver while still providing enough suction to tackle dirt, dust and everyday messes on carpets and hard floors. It's also simple to empty and store, making it a convenient budget-friendly cleaning upgrade.
Amazon Echo Glow: $20 (save $10). With millions of color possibilities, this smart night light is the ultimate nightstand companion for Prime members only.
Meross smart garage opener: $41 (save $9). Open, close and monitor your garage door from anywhere. Clip the on-page coupon to get your discount for Prime members only.
Amazon Smart Plug: $24 (save $26). Get a two-pack of plugs that convert a regular wall outlet into one you can control with Alexa. This deal is for Prime members only.
Blink Outdoor 4: $24 (save $46). This tiny camera offers up to two years of battery life, plus advanced features like two-way talk and person detection. This deal is for Prime members only.
Ring sensors: $45 (save $25). Secure more outdoor areas with two outside door sensors. This deal is for Prime members only. This deal is for Prime members only.
Blink video doorbell: $20 (save $30). This compact video doorbell offers head-to-toe HD video, so you can see clearly who is at your door. This deal is for Prime members only.
Amazon Echo Dot (5th gen): $30 (save $20). The latest Echo Dot is a compact smart speaker that plays music, answers questions and controls your smart home with Alexa. For Prime members only.
Blink Mini 2K+ camera: $18 (save $22). This indoor security camera livestreams 2K video to the Blink app and has two-way audio so you can check in on pets or family. For Prime members only.
Mosquitoes can ruin your barbecue or beach day as easily as a thunderstorm, so grab this electric repeller while it's 20% off. It's DEET-free, has a 20-foot range and a 12-hour battery life.
This 24-ounce water bottle is a must-have for any serious adventure. It has a built-in microfilter that helps protect against 99.9% of bacteria, parasites, sand, dirt and more. Plus, the double-wall insulation keeps your water cold for hours.
This portable backpack cooler makes it easy to keep snacks, drinks and more cold on your hikes or beach days. It can hold up to 28 cans, and the insulation keeps things cold for up to 12 hours. Plus, it's leakproof and has some extra pockets to hold your wallet, phone and other essentials.
Coleman sleep pad: $46 (save $24). This inflatable camping mattress has a built-in pillow and compression straps for easy transport. For Prime members only.
EDX camping chair: $42 (save $18). This oversized folding chair has a padded back for serious comfort and supports up to 500 pounds.
Add some Zen to your shelf with this tranquil bonsai tree building kit. It's an 878-piece set made of sustainable, plant-based plastic, with interchangeable leaves and cherry blossoms so you can match your mood or the season. The kit includes a base, a planter and the tree, and it stands at around 7 inches tall when completed.
Are Crocs the most stylish shoes on the market? Debatable. Are they seriously comfortable? Undeniably. They're perfect for lake days or lounging around on the back patio, and right now you can grab yourself a pair in stylish cobblestone tan for 50% off. Most sizes are on sale right now, and there are tons of other colors that you can pick up for just $5 more.
With a peak current of 1,500 amps, this portable jump starter has enough juice to start gas engines up to 6 liters and diesel engines up to 4 liters. Plus, it's got other helpful safety features, like a 400-lumen LED flashlight and USB ports to charge your phone.
No more messing around with the round brush and blow dryer. This tool can help you get the perfect blowout in half the time. The device supports 360-degree airflow that lifts hair to add volume, while the titanium finish protects hair for even heat distribution. Plus, it works on all hair types.
This electric toothbrush has four different modes so you can get the exact clean you want. It also comes with eight replacement heads so you'll be set for a while. Finally, you also get a travel case to take it on the go.
This portable neck fan can keep you cool anywhere. Plus, it's hands-free. It has five different speeds that you can adjust depending on how hot it is. It's also rechargeable. It has 78 air outlets around the neck, so you'll get a complete cool-down.
Catan board game: $30 (save $25). Trade, build, settle and compete against your friends in this fan-favorite tabletop strategy game. For Prime members only.
Lifepro massage gun: $42 ($18). Soothe those achy muscles for less with this nifty massager. It has five speeds and eight massage heads. Prime members only.
Hoto electric screwdriver: $40 (save $10). This rechargeable cordless screwdriver has three torque settings, an LED light and 12 metal bits for furniture and electrical repairs. Prime members only.
Wyze Smart Scale X: $31 (save $9). This Bluetooth bathroom scale tracks weight, BMI, body fat and heart rate, and syncs to popular health apps. Prime members only.
Gift Cards: Up to 20% off. From Roblox to Domino's, there are plenty of savings to be had on popular gift cards.
Cosori/Amazon/Soundcore/UGreen/CNET
When is this year's Prime Day sale?
While Prime Day typically takes place in July, Amazon has kicked off things a little early in 2026. This year's sale started June 23, and will end today, June 26. There are tons of deals in all the categories so that you can save big.
What is on sale for Prime Day?
The real answer is just about everything. We saw more than 100,000 deals, which covered items from the latest Apple earbuds to everyday essentials like coffee pods. Some of the absolute best deals are on top tech and big-ticket items, like TVs and laptops, plus tons of smaller appliances like air fryers, Bluetooth speakers and much more, were also on sale.
Do I need a Prime membership to shop the sale?
A Prime membership is certainly not required to take advantage of these deals, and thousands of offers are available to everyone. However, we do expect to see some special offers and steeper discounts that are exclusive to Prime members. The membership also comes with a ton of other perks, so if you've been thinking about signing up, now's a great time to do so.
Max is a freelance writer on CNET's commerce team with a passion for film, TV, gaming and all things pop culture. When he's not covering the latest tech, he can usually be found backpacking the world, training in martial arts or watching way too many movies at home.See full bio
PALASH VOLVOIKAR
Writer
Palash has been writing about technology (and entertainment) for over a decade. His focus has been on the evolution of computing, ranging from smartphones to PC builds and everything in between. You can reach him at lepalash(at)gmail(dot)com, or on Twitter @Whipalash.See full bio
150+ Last Chance Prime Day Deals Under $50 That You Can Still Shop Before the Sale Ends Tonight
We're in the final hours of the sale which means you're running out of time to score these last-minute affordable finds.
Max McHoneContributor
Max is a freelance writer on CNET's commerce team with a passion for film, TV, gaming and all things pop culture. When he's not covering the latest tech, he can usually be found backpacking the world, training in martial arts or watching way too many movies at home.
Palash has been writing about technology (and entertainment) for over a decade. His focus has been on the evolution of computing, ranging from smartphones to PC builds and everything in between. You can reach him at lepalash(at)gmail(dot)com, or on Twitter @Whipalash.
ExpertisePersonal computers, smartphones, and gadgets in general.Credentials
Our expert deal-hunting staff showcases the best price drops and discounts from reputable sellers daily. If you make a purchase using our links, CNET may earn a commission.
The Amazon Prime Day sale ends in just a few hours, so it's time to start wrapping up your shopping. But before you check out, you'll want to take a look at our favorite finds under $50. While there are plenty of discounts on big-ticket items like TVs, laptops and other flagship gear, some of the most useful deals are sitting quietly under $50, where a few dollars gets you something you'll actually reach for.
I went through the sale and pulled together the affordable stuff worth your attention across a range of categories. Think Bluetooth speakers, power banks, charging gear, smart home items, kitchen tools and all sorts of everyday tech. None of it will dent your bank account, and most of it solves some small annoyance you've been putting up with.
A quick heads-up, though: Budget picks are usually the first to sell out, particularly the popular ones with thin stock. So if something below has been sitting on your wish list, grab it before the discount disappears and the price goes back up. And if you've got a little more room to spend, our main roundup of the top Prime Day deals covers everything else.
Best last-chance tech deals under $50
Anker Soundcore Select 4 Go
This palm-sized Bluetooth speaker is designed to go just about anywhere. It's got a rugged, waterproof design -- and even floats -- making it a great pick for pool parties and beach days. It boasts 20 hours of battery life and an integrated fabric loop for easy transport.
You don't have to spend a fortune to get some decent noise-canceling earbuds these days. These JBL buds feature 8mm drivers for rich, full sound and boast an impressive 40-hour battery life. They're also IP54 water- and dust-resistant, which means you can use them during workouts.
This ultraslim MagSafe power bank is just 8.6mm thick and weighs just 127 grams, but it still has a 5,000mAh battery. It supports 15W wireless charging or 20W fast charging via USB-C cable. Use the promo code ULPB580 at checkout to save.
The JBL Tune 510BT are lightweight Bluetooth headphones designed for everyday listening with up to 40 hours of battery life. They offer foldable earcups for easy storage and a built-in mic for taking calls on the go. With simple wireless pairing and broad compatibility, they’re an easy pick for casual music and podcasts.
If you always run out of storage like I do, this one is for you. The Samsung P9 Express microSD card is built for high-speed storage, offering up to 800MB/s transfers for fast file handling and gaming performance. With 256GB of capacity, it’s designed to expand storage. It focuses on quick load times and reliable performance for demanding data use.
The Anker Soundcore 2 features Bluetooth 5 connectivity, IPX7 waterproofing and Anker’s BassUp technology for deeper sound. With up to 24 hours of battery life, it’s designed to keep playing through long days away from a charger.
Sony WH-CH520: $33 (save $37). If you find over-ear headphones a little bulky, these on-ear Sony cans are a great alternative.
AirFly Pro 2 Bluetooth adapter: $47 (save $13). Ditch the wires and connect your wireless buds to hear your media on airplane screens, gym TVs, gaming consoles and more, for Prime members only.
UGreen Nexode Air 45W USB-C charger: $15 (save $10). A foldable, ultra-mini GaN block that still outputs 45 watts, which is enough for a MacBook Air, Neo, or iPad. This deal is exclusive to Prime members.
Treblab X3 Pro earbuds: $47 (save $13). These sport earbuds have secure earhooks, an IPX5 sweat-resistant rating and up to 192 hours of total battery life with the case. For Prime members only.
Cuktech CP12 magnetic power bank: $20 (save $10). This 10,000-mAh pack has a built-in cable and snaps onto the back of an iPhone, with 20-watt wired and 7.5-watt wireless charging. For Prime members only.
Treblab X4 earbuds: $30 (save $10). Treblab's earhook earbuds offer a secure fit for workouts and a huge 242-hour total battery life with the charging case. For Prime members only.
Cuktech CP25 power bank: $27 (save $3). A 20,000-mAh bank with 45-watt output that can charge a phone several times over, plus fast 40-watt recharging for itself.
Soundcore P20i earbuds: $19 (save $21). These budget Anker earbuds are more than half off, and they're a solid option if you want wireless sound without spending much. For Prime members only.
JBL Go 4 speaker: $38 (save $12).. This pocket-sized Bluetooth speaker is waterproof and dustproof with an IP67 rating, so you can take it just about anywhere.
Iniu SnapGo Air power bank: $46 (save $9). One of the slimmest Qi2 magnetic power banks around at 13.8mm, with 25-watt wireless charging and a built-in USB-C cable. For Prime members only.
Apple AirTag (2nd gen): $24 (save $5). Apple's latest tracker helps you keep tabs on your keys, bag or luggage through the Find My app, and it's now under $25.
This 3.5-quart air fryer is perfect for quick and easy weeknight dinners. It's big enough to cook for up to four people and has bake and dehydrate functions. Plus, the basket and crisper rack are both dishwasher-safe for an easy cleanup.
This single-serve blender is perfect for fast, easy and nutritious breakfasts that you can take on the go. It has enough power to handle ice or frozen ingredients, yet the rechargeable base is small enough to take with you. Plus, it blends everything right in the same 18-ounce cup you drink out of, so there's minimal cleanup.
The Fullstar Pro Chopper is a simple all-in-one kitchen gadget that speeds up prep work for vegetables, fruit and more. It includes interchangeable blades for chopping and spiralizing, plus a built-in container to catch everything as you go. It’s a compact tool designed to cut down on time spent slicing and dicing during everyday cooking.
Hamilton Beach Portable 6 Quart Set & Forget slow cooker
This Hamilton Beach slow cooker is built for hands-off meals with its programmable settings and built-in temperature probe. The “Set & Forget” function lets you cook everything from roasts to soups without constant monitoring, and the lid lock makes it easier to transport dishes. A removable crock and lid are also dishwasher-safe for easier cleanup.
This is my favorite pan ever. It's fully nonstick, even when cooking eggs. It's coated in ceramic and PFAS-free. Plus, the handle can withstand heat up to 302°F.
Forget the coffee shop every morning when you can get this coffee and espresso maker for under $100. It's made with a slim design so it will fit in small spaces as well. It's a simple one-touch button and your drink will be made for you.
Dash My Mug ice cream maker: $28 (save $16). Make single-serving ice cream, gelato, frozen yogurt or sorbet right in the mug, with no big machine to store or clean. For Prime members only.
Best last-chance home deals under $50
Arlo 2K Video Doorbell (2nd Gen)
This is our pick for the best video doorbell of 2026. It makes it easy to keep an eye on who's coming and going. The doorbell features detailed 2K video, plus night vision and a wide 180-degree field of view. It's also wireless, which makes it easy to set up.
This device has a touchscreen and displays a variety of custom-designed clock faces so you can select your favorite. It's Alexa-enabled, which means you can use your voice to set alarms, access the weather, play music tracks and much more. This Echo Spot is also equipped with privacy controls, including a mic-off button, the ability to view and delete your voice recordings and more. Plus, it comes in three colors.
These simple outlet adapters let you turn any regular appliance into a smart device you can power on and off from anywhere with your phone or hands-free with voice control. They work with Google Home, Amazon Alexa and more. These plugs allow you to set custom timers and schedules for some serious convenience. Each smart plug has a single outlet with a maximum 1,800-watt output.
These cooling sheets are perfect for the summer. The sheets are made of bamboo and rayon and are very breathable, so you won't feel stuffy at night. They come in tons of colors but price varies by color, so be sure to double check before purchasing.
The Beckham Hotel Collection pillows are filled with a soft down-alternative material that provides plush support whether you sleep on your back, side or stomach. Plus, they're designed to stay cool and comfortable throughout the night, making them a popular pick for year-round use.
This lightweight upright vacuum is a solid choice for smaller spaces that don't need a big bulky machine. A compact and bagless design makes it easy to maneuver while still providing enough suction to tackle dirt, dust and everyday messes on carpets and hard floors. It's also simple to empty and store, making it a convenient budget-friendly cleaning upgrade.
Amazon Echo Glow: $20 (save $10). With millions of color possibilities, this smart night light is the ultimate nightstand companion for Prime members only.
Meross smart garage opener: $41 (save $9). Open, close and monitor your garage door from anywhere. Clip the on-page coupon to get your discount for Prime members only.
Amazon Smart Plug: $24 (save $26). Get a two-pack of plugs that convert a regular wall outlet into one you can control with Alexa. This deal is for Prime members only.
Blink Outdoor 4: $24 (save $46). This tiny camera offers up to two years of battery life, plus advanced features like two-way talk and person detection. This deal is for Prime members only.
Ring sensors: $45 (save $25). Secure more outdoor areas with two outside door sensors. This deal is for Prime members only. This deal is for Prime members only.
Blink video doorbell: $20 (save $30). This compact video doorbell offers head-to-toe HD video, so you can see clearly who is at your door. This deal is for Prime members only.
Amazon Echo Dot (5th gen): $30 (save $20). The latest Echo Dot is a compact smart speaker that plays music, answers questions and controls your smart home with Alexa. For Prime members only.
Blink Mini 2K+ camera: $18 (save $22). This indoor security camera livestreams 2K video to the Blink app and has two-way audio so you can check in on pets or family. For Prime members only.
Mosquitoes can ruin your barbecue or beach day as easily as a thunderstorm, so grab this electric repeller while it's 20% off. It's DEET-free, has a 20-foot range and a 12-hour battery life.
This 24-ounce water bottle is a must-have for any serious adventure. It has a built-in microfilter that helps protect against 99.9% of bacteria, parasites, sand, dirt and more. Plus, the double-wall insulation keeps your water cold for hours.
This portable backpack cooler makes it easy to keep snacks, drinks and more cold on your hikes or beach days. It can hold up to 28 cans, and the insulation keeps things cold for up to 12 hours. Plus, it's leakproof and has some extra pockets to hold your wallet, phone and other essentials.
Coleman sleep pad: $46 (save $24). This inflatable camping mattress has a built-in pillow and compression straps for easy transport. For Prime members only.
EDX camping chair: $42 (save $18). This oversized folding chair has a padded back for serious comfort and supports up to 500 pounds.
Add some Zen to your shelf with this tranquil bonsai tree building kit. It's an 878-piece set made of sustainable, plant-based plastic, with interchangeable leaves and cherry blossoms so you can match your mood or the season. The kit includes a base, a planter and the tree, and it stands at around 7 inches tall when completed.
Are Crocs the most stylish shoes on the market? Debatable. Are they seriously comfortable? Undeniably. They're perfect for lake days or lounging around on the back patio, and right now you can grab yourself a pair in stylish cobblestone tan for 50% off. Most sizes are on sale right now, and there are tons of other colors that you can pick up for just $5 more.
With a peak current of 1,500 amps, this portable jump starter has enough juice to start gas engines up to 6 liters and diesel engines up to 4 liters. Plus, it's got other helpful safety features, like a 400-lumen LED flashlight and USB ports to charge your phone.
No more messing around with the round brush and blow dryer. This tool can help you get the perfect blowout in half the time. The device supports 360-degree airflow that lifts hair to add volume, while the titanium finish protects hair for even heat distribution. Plus, it works on all hair types.
This electric toothbrush has four different modes so you can get the exact clean you want. It also comes with eight replacement heads so you'll be set for a while. Finally, you also get a travel case to take it on the go.
This portable neck fan can keep you cool anywhere. Plus, it's hands-free. It has five different speeds that you can adjust depending on how hot it is. It's also rechargeable. It has 78 air outlets around the neck, so you'll get a complete cool-down.
Catan board game: $30 (save $25). Trade, build, settle and compete against your friends in this fan-favorite tabletop strategy game. For Prime members only.
Lifepro massage gun: $42 ($18). Soothe those achy muscles for less with this nifty massager. It has five speeds and eight massage heads. Prime members only.
Hoto electric screwdriver: $40 (save $10). This rechargeable cordless screwdriver has three torque settings, an LED light and 12 metal bits for furniture and electrical repairs. Prime members only.
Wyze Smart Scale X: $31 (save $9). This Bluetooth bathroom scale tracks weight, BMI, body fat and heart rate, and syncs to popular health apps. Prime members only.
Gift Cards: Up to 20% off. From Roblox to Domino's, there are plenty of savings to be had on popular gift cards.
Cosori/Amazon/Soundcore/UGreen/CNET
When is this year's Prime Day sale?
While Prime Day typically takes place in July, Amazon has kicked off things a little early in 2026. This year's sale started June 23, and will end today, June 26. There are tons of deals in all the categories so that you can save big.
What is on sale for Prime Day?
The real answer is just about everything. We saw more than 100,000 deals, which covered items from the latest Apple earbuds to everyday essentials like coffee pods. Some of the absolute best deals are on top tech and big-ticket items, like TVs and laptops, plus tons of smaller appliances like air fryers, Bluetooth speakers and much more, were also on sale.
Do I need a Prime membership to shop the sale?
A Prime membership is certainly not required to take advantage of these deals, and thousands of offers are available to everyone. However, we do expect to see some special offers and steeper discounts that are exclusive to Prime members. The membership also comes with a ton of other perks, so if you've been thinking about signing up, now's a great time to do so.
Max is a freelance writer on CNET's commerce team with a passion for film, TV, gaming and all things pop culture. When he's not covering the latest tech, he can usually be found backpacking the world, training in martial arts or watching way too many movies at home.See full bio
PALASH VOLVOIKAR
Writer
Palash has been writing about technology (and entertainment) for over a decade. His focus has been on the evolution of computing, ranging from smartphones to PC builds and everything in between. You can reach him at lepalash(at)gmail(dot)com, or on Twitter @Whipalash.See full bio
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