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2021 child tax credit and shared custody: What parents need to know

2021 child tax credit and shared custody: What parents need to know

There are a lot of questions about this year's advance child tax credit for divorced, separated and unwed parents who share custody. The IRS has specific rules that are different from prior years, including which households qualify and how the payments are disbursed upfront in monthly installments. Since the rollout of payments began, the IRS has issued guidelines for families who might be concerned about eligibility or about owing the tax agency money in 2022.

The IRS determined who would start receiving the advance credit this year based on the dependents you claimed on your 2020 tax return (or 2019, whichever is the latest return on file). So if any of your household circumstances have changed since then, including a shift in primary custody or marital status, the tax agency is encouraging parents to unenroll from the advance monthly payments. The key to doing that is the Child Tax Credit Update Portal, which we'll explain below. 

If you decide to unenroll in order to relieve a potential tax headache next spring, you'll still get your child tax credit money, though it won't be in 2021 -- you'll have to wait until you file your tax return in 2022. We've summarized the key things parents with shared custody need. For more, here's what to know about child tax credit problems like delays and what to do if you're missing a payment. This story was updated with new information. 

Can divorced, separated or unwed parents both get a payment for the same dependent?

With the first two stimulus checks during the pandemic, parents who weren't married but shared joint custody of a child could each receive a payment for the same dependent if they had been alternating years claiming the child on their taxes. With the American Rescue Plan in March, Congress closed off that loophole for the third stimulus checks. 

Can parents who share custody of a child take advantage of a similar loophole with the 2021 child tax credit? The short answer is no. Only one parent can get the credit for a shared dependent. If you're the one who claimed the child on your latest 2020 tax return, then you'll be the one receiving the advance payments this year. If you incorrectly collect payments for a child this year, you may have to repay part or all of the up to $3,600 credit next year.

What should parents do if they alternate yearly custody of a dependent?

Even if parents have an arrangement to alternate custody of their dependent, the IRS won't know who has primary custody until your 2021 tax return is filed next spring. Let's say, for example, that you and a coparent switch between claiming a child in odd-numbered and even-numbered years. If you start receiving the advance child tax credit payments this year even though you won't actually be claiming the child on your 2021 return, then you are technically not entitled to that money. 

If this kind of arrangement applies to you, or if you haven't yet determined which parent will be claiming the dependent for 2021, the best option is to unenroll from the monthly payment program. 

Do parents with shared custody have to unenroll from advance monthly payments?

Because collecting the 2021 advance payments when you're not eligible could result in your having to pay back a portion or all of the credit to the IRS next year, the IRS is recommending that parents with complicated or unknown custody situations unenroll. (Note that if you do end up wrongly collecting the credit for a dependent, you might be excused from repaying the excess amount if you qualify for repayment protection.) 

If you know that you will be claiming a dependent on your 2021 tax return but the other parent doesn't unenroll, the IRS says that their decision will not affect your ability to claim the child tax credit. In other words, the other parent who incorrectly collected the advance payments this year could end up having to repay the IRS next year, but you'll still be able to claim the full amount of the credit for your child when you file your tax return next year. 

Since monthly payments have already started, can parents still enroll? 

So far this year, there have been two advance monthly child tax credit payments (July 15 and Aug. 13), with a third one on the way Sept. 15. Even if you've already received the first few payments, you can opt out anytime in 2021 to stop receiving the remaining monthly advances, as long as you meet the cutoff date. Though it's too late to make changes before the September check, you have until Oct. 4 to opt out of the October, November and December payments. For more on unenrollment deadlines, see here. 

If both parents are choosing to unenroll, they need to log on to the Child Tax Credit Update Portal separately. Each parent will need to have an individual account to manage their payments. If you don't have an IRS account already, you can create one through ID.me, an identity-verification process. Once you go to the Manage Advance Payments option in the portal, you'll be able to opt out of future payments. 

If you made a mistake by unenrolling, the IRS hasn't made it possible yet to reenroll. Parents who opted out early but would like to start collecting the advance payments again should be able to opt back in through the portal in late September 2021.

Can child tax credit money be seized to pay overdue child support?

According to the IRS, advance child tax credit payments cannot be offset if you or your spouse owe past-due child support. Nor can the advance payments be reduced for overdue taxes from previous years or other debts that you might owe. However, if you end up receiving a refund in 2022 after filing your 2021 tax return, any remaining child tax credit amounts included in your refund could be used to offset other debt. 

For more, see the IRS page here. 

Is the child tax credit fully refundable?

Before the changes this year with the American Rescue Plan, eligible families could claim a tax credit for their qualifying children when they filed their taxes. The credit would reduce the amount of taxes they owed. That payment rule, however, excluded lower-income families who didn't owe federal taxes and wouldn't benefit from a tax saving with the credit. 

This year, the credit is "fully refundable," so qualifying families can receive the full dollar amount even if they don't owe income taxes. When tax credits are considered refundable, that means that if the amount of the credit is larger than the tax you owe, you'll receive a refund for the difference.

About 36 million families across the US have started collecting advance payments for the enhanced credit.

Sarah Tew/CNET

What are the requirements for this year's child tax credit?

The 2021 child tax credit was temporarily expanded from $2,000 per child 16 years old and younger to $3,600 for children age 5 and younger and to $3,000 for children age 17 and younger. If you've got dependents between the ages of 18 and 24 who are enrolled in college full-time, you can receive $500 for each for them, though that money will come in tax season next year and won't be paid in advance. 

There are income limits and phase-out rules. If your adjusted gross income is $75,000 or less, single taxpayer parents will qualify for the full child tax credit amount, but that amount changes with incomes greater than $75,000. You can calculate your estimated total based on your family's income and ages of dependents using CNET's calculator. 

For more on the child tax credit, see our guide on 2021 babies and how to contact the IRS. 

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Microsoft says Android apps won't be available for Windows 11 on Oct. 5 launch

Microsoft says Android apps won't be available for Windows 11 on Oct. 5 launch

Microsoft's delaying one of the most highly anticipated features of its new Windows 11 software. The tech giant said it won't offer Android mobile phone apps on its new app store for PCs when its next iteration of Windows launches on Oct. 5 as a free upgrade for many users. Microsoft didn't give a date for when Android apps will be made available either. 

Instead, the software said it plans to offer the new feature, developed in partnership with Intel and Amazon, available in a "preview" test "over the coming months."

Read more:  Android apps and Windows 11: Here's what you should know

"We look forward to continuing our journey to bring Android apps to Windows 11," Microsoft said in its short statement on the matter Tuesday.

The move marks the first major setback for Microsoft's upcoming Windows 11 software, which is launching six years after Windows 10 hit store shelves. The new Android app support feature was an important selling point, alongside new visual looks, better organizational tools and improved gaming performance.

Read more:  Apple's always been the anti-Microsoft. Now Windows 11 is the anti-Apple

Microsoft announced its Android app support in June, saying people will be able to find search for and install Android apps from its Microsoft Store on Windows 11. The apps would be offered through a partnership with Amazon. Before Microsoft made its plans public, there had been a couple of ways to access Android apps on Windows 10, including if you had a Samsung Galaxy phone. But Microsoft's new way promises to make it easier.

"It's just seamless and smooth," Microsoft's Chief Product Officer Panos Panay said when announcing the new feature.

§

Windows 11  started its wide rollout on Oct. 5 -- the first major upgrade in six years. Windows 11 is available as a free download for existing Windows 10 users, but it's not yet available for every compatible Windows device. And every major new feature promised isn't available right now. (Microsoft announced this in an August blog post). 

We've already tested and published a full review of Windows 11 (it's familiar but fresh, with a Mac-like design). You can expect a few new multitasking features, and the Start menu is in a new place. However, it will not include one of the most anticipated updates: support for Android mobile apps in its new app store. Microsoft also didn't offer a date for when Android apps would be available either, other than saying that it would roll out in a "preview" test "over the coming months," according to the post.

There's a lot to look forward to. But even if your device hasn't been prompted to update, you can still check to see if you meet the compatibility requirements. Heads up, (you'll need to be running Windows 10 first to do so -- here's how to download Windows 10 for free if you haven't yet). And just because you have a compatible Windows device doesn't mean you'll be able to run Windows 11 starting today. 

Microsoft said the launch will be "phased and measured," with new eligible devices getting the upgrade first and the rest getting offered the free upgrade sometime between October and mid-2022, depending on your hardware, age of device and other factors. You'll get a notification from Windows Update letting you know when Windows 11 is available to you, or you can check manually (here's more on how to download Windows 11 before your system asks you to). 

While you wait for Microsoft's new operating system to arrive, you can check to see if your computer will be able to automatically update to Windows 11 (you'll need to be running Windows 10 first to do so -- here's how to download Windows 10 for free if you haven't yet). But even if it isn't deemed compatible, there will be a way to manually download a version that is not supported by Microsoft. And here's how to set the default search engine, if you'd rather not use Bing.

You also don't have to upgrade to Windows 11 right away if you don't want to -- Microsoft will still support Windows 10 through October 2025. 

For more, check out the every big difference between Windows 10 and Windows 11 and what you'll need to do before you upgrade to Windows 11. 

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GoPro Omni VR rig could spark 360 content explosion

GoPro Omni VR rig could spark 360 content explosion

GoPro's 360-degree Omni camera rig looks like it could be just another 360 cage for use with GoPro cameras and maybe doesn't seem as elegant a solution as an all-in-one camera such as Nokia's Ozo. But, you know, looks can be deceiving.

At the Omni's core is proprietary hardware so all six of its cameras talk to each other and behave as one. Each camera connects to the Omni via the Hero port on the camera's back, with one of the six acting as a master control camera. Power up the master camera and all of the others start up and setting changes happen simultaneously across all the cameras, too.

More importantly, though, all of the cameras record at the same moment with the Omni, keeping each video stream synchronized. For those who've edited 360 video before, this means you don't need to rely on a clap once you've started all the cameras recording to match up video for stitching. Also, if for some reason one of the six isn't ready, the Omni lights up to let you know, and the recording won't start until the issue is fixed.

All video (or photos) are stored to the microSD card in each camera; there is no mass external storage solution available for the rig. You can power the Omni off of an external battery for up to three hours, though, or you can just run it off the camera batteries.

The Omni sync rig alone sells for $1,500 (£1,300, AU$2,300), so if you have six GoPro Hero4 cameras you can update their firmware and take advantage of the synching. However, for the Omni to really pay off, you'll want to use it with Kolor's Autopano Video Pro and Autopano Giga software (about $775, £600 or AU$1,015). This includes the Omni Importer software, which uses the Omni rig's sync data to give you a near real-time preview and calibrated stitching that's good enough for immediate use.

If you don't have the cameras and are willing and able to hand over $5,000 (£4,200, AU$7,500) for a complete out-of-the-box solution, GoPro has an Omni all-inclusive package that gets you:

• Kolor stitching software license
• GoPro Omni sync rig
• Six GoPro Hero4 Black cameras
• Six GoPro Hero4 batteries
• Six GoPro Mini USB cables
• Six GoPro lens covers
• Six 32GB microSD cards
• Six microSD USB card readers
• GoPro Smart Remote
• 7-Port USB hub
• Switronix Hypercore-98S battery
• Switronix GP-S V-mount battery
• Plate/clamp
• Switronix GP-LS battery charger
• PowerTap-to-DC 2.5 x 5.5mm cable
• Waterproof shipping case
• Plastic tweezers
• Microfiber bag
• 2.5mm hex key

GoPro Omni all-inclusive package.

Lori Grunin/CNET

That's no small amount, but not outrageous for professional use, and considerably less than other solutions. In our demo with GoPro, both the rig and software looked easy enough to learn and use that I could see this being the go-to solution for things like travel or real estate. Situations where you need better results than consumer options, but don't want the headaches of putting a 360-degree setup together on your own.

And that's just producing the video or photos, too. GoPro also has a free VR player with Oculus support including Adobe Premiere to Oculus direct previewing. There are Premiere plug-ins available for adjusting the horizon, adding 2D elements to spherical content and creating 2D movies out of 360-degree video, so you can basically use your 360 clips as a virtual camera to pan and tilt through a scene.

GoPro made the whole process of capturing, editing, viewing and sharing 360-degree content look pretty seamless with the Omni rig and Kolor software in our demo with the company, as any good demo should. We won't know for sure of any true operating issues until we test one ourselves.

Omni starts shipping on August 17.

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Samsung's Second-Quarter Profit Up 12% on Strong Chip Sales

Samsung's Second-Quarter Profit Up 12% on Strong Chip Sales

Samsung notched its best second-quarter profit since 2018, on strong sales of chips amid a cooling smartphone market.

The Korea-based company said Wednesday that its operating profit for the three-month period ended June 30 came in at 14.1 trillion won ($10.8 billion), an increase of 12% compared with the same time period last year. The company also posted record second-quarter revenue of 77.2 trillion won ($59.1 billion), an increase of more than 21%.

Earnings in the company's mobile business declined compared with the first quarter due to the rising costs of components, but revenue increased 31% year over year on strong sales of flagship models such as the Galaxy S22 series and the Galaxy Tab S8 series.

Samsung said it expects the smartphone market to hold steady or show single-digit growth in the second half of the year. The company also said it plans to expand flagship sales with a line of new foldables, which the company is expected to unveil at its next Unpacked event, next month.

Smartphones are feeling the heat of economic downturn fears, with demand shrinking in the second quarter. Smartphone vendors shipped 270 million handsets in the second quarter, a 9% decline over the first quarter.

"Economic headwinds, sluggish demand, and inventory pileup have resulted in vendors rapidly reassessing their portfolio strategies for the rest of 2022," Canalys Research Analyst Runar Bjørhovde said in a report earlier this month. "The oversupplied mid-range is an exposed segment for vendors to focus on adjusting new launches, as budget-constrained consumers shift their device purchases toward the lower end."

Samsung is best known as a phone and TV maker, but it also sells more memory chips than any other company on the planet. In the second quarter, Samsung benefited from continued strong demand for server memory while demand for consumer products weakened, resulting in memory shipments coming in below guidance. Still, sales in Samsung memory units rose 18% year over year.

However, Samsung cautioned that demand for consumer products and PCs will remain weak.

"For PC, there is a possibility that the slump in demand may expand to enterprise segments," Samsung said in a statement. "Nevertheless, there are also chances of consumer demand getting stimulated during the year-end promotional season."

Samsung's strong quarter came while chipmakers face a glut, as demand for smartphones and PCs declines. Prices for DRAM chips, commonly used in PCs, was expected to decline about 5% in the second quarter, according to market researcher TrendForce, with another 10% decline forecast for the third quarter.

Prices for NAND Flash memory, widely used in portable consumer devices like digital cameras, cell phones and USB flash drives, was expected to decline about 5% this quarter, with as much as a 10% decline in the third quarter, TrendForce predicted.

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The Trick to Finding Free Wi-Fi Anywhere in the World

The Trick to Finding Free Wi-Fi Anywhere in the World

This story is part of Home Tips, CNET's collection of practical advice for getting the most out of your home, inside and out.

Our lifestyles have become more and more dependent on having a good internet connection, from learning online and working from home to watching our favorite shows and movies on streaming services.

So, what happens when you're out and about, away from your home Wi-Fi? Or what if your home internet isn't that speedy in the first place?

In this guide, we'll give you a quick rundown on how to quickly get online using a hotspot, and how to find free Wi-Fi anywhere in the world. (You can also learn how to tell if your Wi-Fi is slow due to internet throttling, and how to speed up your Wi-Fi.) 

Read more: Best Internet Providers of 2022

What is a hotspot?

A hotspot is a central location or device that offers wireless access to the internet, and any network device can connect provided it has the right access. Depending on your mobile provider and plan, you may be able to use your smartphone as a hotspot. 

There are two different types of hotspots: public and private. 

In the above scenario where you've paid your mobile provider for the ability to create a hotspot with your smartphone, the smartphone is the physical device that creates wireless access for other Wi-Fi-enabled devices, like laptops, desktop computers and streaming devices. This is an example of a private hotspot. 

A public hotspot is usually created by a business to provide internet service when visitors, customers and clients are on site. Many free, public Wi-Fi connections are hotspots. But for the sake of accuracy, it is important to note a difference between standard Wi-Fi and a hotspot.

Read more: Best Internet Speed Tests of 2022

A hotspot is a central location or device that offers wireless access to the internet.

Brad Wagner/Telstra

What's the difference between Wi-Fi and a hotspot?

Whereas hotspots are a physical location or device, Wi-Fi is a wireless technology that devices can use to send information to each other. If you have Wi-Fi at home, it's because you have a Wi-Fi router quarterbacking all of your wireless gadgets, and an internet service provider that's connecting that router to the internet. 

So long as you set a strong password, a private Wi-Fi network like that is going to be more secure than a public hotspot because you control who and what connects to it. Public hotspots, on the other hand, are open to anyone within range, which is why it's a good idea to use a VPN or some other security measure if you need to do anything sensitive, like shopping or sending money.

How to find free Wi-Fi or free public hotspots

While this probably won't be possible at home (unless you happen to live really close to someone who has an unsecured network), there are usually lots of options for finding free Wi-Fi or public hotspots in businesses like coffee shops, libraries, hotels, restaurants, fitness centers and more. 

If you're about to head out for the day in search of free internet, here are some helpful apps to try:

Apps like these will display a map of your area with a list of free public Wi-Fi or hotspots available. Most will also let you track login requirements and hotspot reviews, too.

Some locations, like libraries, are generally a given for free public Wi-Fi, but if you're not using a Wi-Fi finder app, it's a good idea to call first to make sure. 

How to set up and use free Wi-Fi

Make sure the device you plan to use is Wi-Fi capable. If it is, be sure Wi-Fi is turned on. 

Once you've arrived at the location where you'll use public Wi-Fi or hotspot, open a browser and then either open up your computer's network settings or click on the Wi-Fi icon on your screen. Next, select the public Wi-Fi connection you intend to use. If the connection is public, you will now be connected, but watch for an opt-in site to pop up in your browser. Some businesses require you to agree to their terms of service or provide an email address before they'll let you use their free Wi-Fi. 

Some businesses provide a login and password to their customers and offer a secured network. If the connection you intend to use shows up as secured, look around for the login and password posted in the business, or ask someone for help. And yes, if you're somewhere like a coffee shop, it'd be polite to buy a pastry or a cup of joe while you're at it.

If you've set your computer to automatically connect to available networks, then next time you visit that business, your computer will automatically join their network. 

This hotspot device from HTC uses an incoming 5G connection to provide Wi-Fi internet access for nearby wireless devices.

Andrew Hoyle/CNET

How to set up and use a private hotspot

They aren't free, but if you need an internet connection at home and have a good cellular signal, a paid hotspot can be one place to turn. For example, maybe you live in a rural area with limited ISP options, or maybe the internet plans in your area are all beyond your budget.

Depending on your mobile provider and the plan you pay for, you might already have personal hotspot capabilities. If not, speak with your provider to determine how much they'll charge you for that option. Be prepared to pay more if you're seeking unlimited data. 

After you've considered pricing, you'll need to decide between using your smartphone as a hotspot or purchasing a dedicated Wi-Fi hotspot device. 

Check your phone's settings for hotspot capabilities.

Screenshots by Ry Crist/CNET

Should I use my smartphone, or a separate hotspot device?

A hotspot device will be considered a separate device on your mobile plan with its own, separate data limit. The downside is the extra cost, but the upside is that you won't have to worry about your smartphone usage eating up your hotspot data. Another positive: If you set a strong password, using a hotspot device to get online is just as secure as any ISP-provided Wi-Fi connection, and it'll often provide greater range of coverage, too. We're also seeing a growing number of full-fledged Wi-Fi routers and mesh routers that are designed to get their incoming signal over a cellular connection, such as LTE or 5G.

Both smartphone hotspots and dedicated hotspot devices can be used anywhere, though using a smartphone hotspot in public places may be more convenient, especially if you're just trying to get your laptop online for a few minutes. 

What Wi-Fi options does my internet provider offer?

In 2020, the Federal Communications Commission created the Keep Americans Connected initiative to help people keep their broadband and telephone connectivity during the pandemic. Additionally, providers like Comcast extended free public Wi-Fi to anyone (customers and noncustomers) during 2020. Many providers have extended benefits like that into 2022 -- if you're struggling, it's worth checking with the providers in your area to see what your options are. 

Whatever avenue you take, the bottom line is that you've probably got more ways of getting online than you might realize. Hopefully this guide helps you find and take advantage of them -- in the meantime, here's some further reading you might also find helpful:

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The Best Cat Toys, According to Our Favorite Felines

The Best Cat Toys, According to Our Favorite Felines

Finding the best cat toys really depends on what kind of cat you have. And that means you need to start thinking like a cat when shopping. As any cat owner knows, cats have their own personality with strong likes and dislikes -- and they aren't afraid to let you know about them. Which can make finding the right toy a bit of a challenge. After all, no matter how much time or thought you put into it, you cat may end up ignoring the new toy altogether, so be sure to hang on to the receipt. 

So how do you find the best cat toys to entertain your feline overlord? We turned to the experts for help: our cats. CNET happens to have a lot of cat lovers on our team, and we surveyed them to find out which toys their cats find utterly fascinating. Here we present a list of the winners. These toys have all been pounced on, swatted at and chased by our favorite felines. From lasers to feather dancers to catnip toys and more, these are our cats' most beloved toys. And if you have a dog too, be sure to check out our list of the best dog toys.

Walmart

This cat toy sits prominently in the middle of my living room, and I can't bear to move it because my cats love it so much.

The fact that they can push the ball around the track from any position -- on their belly, upside down and the favored jump attack -- keeps them entertained for hours. My favorite part is the scratching section in the middle. My cats have a tree and numerous scratching posts throughout the house, but this toy is the favorite. The inserts are really cheap, and you get months out of the current one before it gives out. As a bonus, you can sprinkle catnip on the cardboard scratcher to give them a good time, and encourage them to return to keep scratching there and not on your couch.

-- Taylor Leamey, health and wellness writer 

Daniel Golson

So many cat trees are just plain ugly. They're usually bulky, covered in carpet and generally don't go well with any other decor. But Catit's Vesper line of cat furniture is fantastic. The pieces have a modern wood design with high-quality rope scratching posts, carpet pads and hanging ball toys. They come in multiple colors, sizes and configurations, and my cats are absolutely obsessed with them. I am too, as the trees look great in my apartment. They're super durable too, having handled years of abuse from my two cats with minimal wear and tear.

-- Daniel Golson, senior social media editor 

Emma Wolgast

GoCat Da Bird Teaser Wand is the only toy that can keep my 14-pound panther-of-a-cat entertained nonstop. This is the longest feather wand toy I have ever come across, and the lightweight poll feature makes it look like a real bird is flying around.

It's easy to play with due to the length (I can just sit on the couch and wave it around for hours), as well as super nonintrusive to store since it is a super lightweight, thin wand. There are also a ton of different attachments you can get for the end of the toy which means you really only buy the wand once and then replace the toy as needed.

It's one of the most basic toys I have come across but truly one of the most efficient, and I recommend it to new and old cat parents alike.

-- Emma Wolgast, paid social analyst

Courtney Johnston

Remy's a unique boy -- he had his eyes removed when he was a kitten to fight off an infection. Finding him toys was a little challenging, since I thought they needed to make noise to get his attention. I didn't have high hopes when my sister bought him this slightly ridiculous stuffed pickle, but it was love at first bite. It's filled with catnip and must have the good stuff, because he refuses any catnip toy except this one.

He always has to be lying near it, and will pounce if you try to take it. His favorite game is pretending to be asleep, then attacking his sisters if they dare to touch it.

-- Courtney Johnston, editor

Elena Avis

This puzzle box is the best! I put treats in it on days when I'm going to the office so my girls have something to do while I'm gone. It gives them mental stimulation as they reach, dig, hunt and push the box around, and they get rewarded with a treat when they get one out. The cardboard is super sturdy (both of my cats can stand on it at the same time) and it's held up for the past three years. There's also an even bigger Mega version that you can pick up for $35. 

-- Elena Avis, associate program manager

Best cat toys FAQs

Do cats really need toys?

Cats spend a lot of time sleeping and entertaining themselves, so it's easy to assume that toys are a luxury, not a necessity. However, just like people, cats need exercise and mental stimulation. A bored cat is an unhappy cat, and that can result in unwanted behaviors, such as overvocalization, clawing and biting. Toys give cats an outlet for their prey-driven behaviors and can provide comfort if they're feeling anxious or stressed.

What kind of toys do cats like best?

Each cat has their own unique preferences and energy level, so you'll want to try out various types of toys to find out which your kitty likes. Indoor cats in particular need toys that give them mental stimulation and an outlet for scratching. Low-energy cats might prefer a soft toy filled with catnip, while high-energy cats enjoy dancers and teasers that allow them to mimic catching prey.

Is catnip bad for cats?

Many cats are drawn to the smell of catnip and react to it, from lazily rolling around and meowing to going totally nutso berserk. But fortunately, because it's an herb, catnip is considered to be safe and nonaddictive. 

However, keep in mind that it doesn't take much to let your kitty unwind. If cats ingest too much catnip, whether fresh or dried, they can experience digestive issues. If you're worried about that, it's best to stick with catnip toys that are durable and not likely to break apart. 

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DJI Osmo Mobile 3 gimbal bundle is just $85 right now (Update: Expired)

DJI Osmo Mobile 3 gimbal bundle is just $85 right now (Update: Expired)

Recently, while shooting B-roll video footage for a product review, I learned just how valuable a smartphone gimbal can be. It not only helps keep the camera steady, but also allows for much more variety in your shots.

DJI's popular Osmo Mobile 3 originally sold for $119 and now runs $99. However, for a limited time, and while supplies last, Adorama has the Osmo Mobile 3 Travel Bundle for $85. In addition to the gimbal, you get a shoulder bag, tripod, USB-C power adapter and microfiber cleaning cloth. (Note: This was Adorama's Deal of the Day... yesterday. Not sure how much longer it'll be available.)

Anyone with video aspirations (TikTok, moviemaking or other) would welcome a tool like this. The Osmo Mobile 3 is a folding, travel-friendly smartphone stabilizer designed to help you capture rock-steady footage. See the similar GoPro Karma Grip in the video below if you're not clear on the concept.)

You'll want to read Josh Goldman's Osmo Mobile 3 preview to learn more. He loved all aspects of the design, from the compact (when folded) frame to the weight to the 15-hour battery life.

As you'll see in that story, the gimbal originally sold for $119 without any accessories. As for the newer DJI OM4 (the "Osmo Mobile" branding is gone), which relies on a magnetic mount rather than a clamp, it's $149.

At $85, this is priced close to many an off-brand gimbal, ones likely to have a greater learning curve and less support. Given the choice, I'd pick DJI every time.

Your thoughts?

Originally published last year. Updated to reflect new sale price and availability. Removed expired bonus deal.

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