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    How I use VirtualBox to run any OS on my Mac – including Linux

    Jack Wallen / Elyse Betters Picaro / ZDNETI depend on virtual machines. With them, I can easily use and review any Linux distribution on the market. I can also deploy various services on my network. For example, I have an instance of InvoicePlane that runs as a virtual machine (and I use daily to bill clients). I’ve used virtual machines for all sorts of things, and they have made my life considerably better.One of the tools I use to run virtual machines is VirtualBox. This application makes it possible to run guest operating systems, such as Linux, MacOS, and Windows, which gives me endless flexibility. Also: Your old MacBook’s days are numbered, as Apple confirms end of supportVirtualBox is one of the easiest virtual machine managers I’ve ever used, and it’s also free. For a long time on MacOS, VirtualBox was limited to Intel-only devices. However, it’s now possible to use VirtualBox on your M1/M2/M3/M4 Macs. Initial support for Apple Silicon was introduced in late 2024, and it’s now usable and stable. This is a big change because running VirtualBox on MacOS devices has always been a tricky proposition. Some attempted to run VirtualBox with Rosetta 2, but that was a failed experiment. Now you don’t have to worry about such things, as there’s an installer available specific to M-series MacBooks and iMacs. Because of that, anyone with an Apple Silicon-powered Mac can enjoy virtual machine technology without the headache of complex software. Once you start using virtual machines, you’ll wonder how you managed without them. But how do you pull off this feat? It’s much easier than you think.How to download the right installerWhat you’ll need: The only things you’ll need are an Apple Silicon Mac device and an Internet connection. It’s also important that your Mac have plenty of available storage space for the virtual machines. Because MacBooks can contain limited space, chances are good that you’ll be able to run and save only a single virtual machine at a time. For instance, on my System76 Thelio desktop, I currently have 20 virtual machines at my disposal. Every so often, I have to delete some to make room for more. Because of this, you’ll want to pay close attention to storage space on your Mac. More

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    Best early Prime Day Nintendo Switch deals: My 17 favorite sales live now

    When is Amazon Prime Day 2025? Amazon will have their annual Prime Day sale from July 8 through the 11th. Other retailers like Best Buy and Walmart will be having competing sale events around the same time, which means you’ll be able to shop around for the very best discounts on all things Nintendo.Are Nintendo Switch/Switch 2 consoles, games, and accessories really cheaper on Prime Day? While Nintendo is notoriously stingy when it comes to any sort of markdown or sale, the best time to find the deepest discounts is during Black Friday and holiday shopping sale events as console bundles and popular game titles are more likely to go on sale. Games and third-party accessories like headsets and controllers will see decent sale prices during Prime Day, but your best bet to save on consoles is to go the refurbished route.How did we choose these Prime Day deals?Not all gaming sales are created equal, and not every retailer will offer markdowns on things like Nintendo Switch consoles or Nintendo Switch 2 bundles. But many will offer steep markdowns on accessories like controllers and headsets as well as a variety of game titles. So I chose the steepest discounts on the most popular and trusted names in console gaming and combed the Nintendo eShop for digital deals on popular games. More

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    The iPad I recommend to most users is only $299 right now

    Maria Diaz/ZDNETiPads have become essential for work, productivity, school, and even business development. With rising tech costs, unexpected sales may be an ideal time to jump on a deal, especially when it offers the latest and greatest updates. Also: Your iPad is getting 4 big upgrades for free. Here are the top features in iPadOS 26Now, you can get the new 11th Gen iPad More

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    T-Mobile will give you the Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus for free – how the deal works

    Kerry Wan/ZDNETNewer phones may be getting more compact, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t bigger options for your personal needs. The Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus would be a perfect contender if you need a bigger screen, a great camera system, and AI options.Also: You can use T-Mobile’s satellite service for free on any carrier now – here’s howT-Mobile is now running an offer where you can get your ludicrously capacious Galaxy S25 Plus for free More

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    Why I recommend this Samsung Galaxy Watch over competing Androids – especially at this price

    <!–> ZDNET’s key takeaways The 47mm Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra normally retails for $650 on Amazon, although it occasionally goes on sale. It’s a stylish-looking smartwatch with a slew of safety features and a long-lasting battery. However, it’s only available in a single size (47mm, to be exact), meaning it may not be a good […] More