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It’s a good time to shop for portable projectors, with the Nebula Capsule 3 GTV projector down to its lowest price and now the more powerful Anker Nebula Mars 3 Air going for $419.99 (originally $599.99), also its lowest price, according to price-tracking tools. Both of these projectors are portable, but the Nebula Mars 3 Air is more suitable for outdoor use.

Nebula Mars 3 Air GTV Projector

Brightness: 400 lumens, Native Resolution: 1080p, Max Resolution: 3840 by 2160.

$419.99
at Amazon

$599.99
Save $180.00

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$419.99
at Amazon

$599.99
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The Nebula Mars 3 Air came out last August to an “average” review from PCMag due to its auto-focus feature (keystone) being finicky and the image being darker when watching 1080p SDR input content. However, it’s still a great portable projector for the right person.

This projector has 1080p resolution and supports 4K HDR input, and like the Nebula Capsule 3, it has a built-in Google TV with the Netflix app, which not a lot of other portable projectors offer. Google TV is also my favorite smart TV OS for projectors since you can cast your smartphone using the Chromecast feature.

Since you’ll likely be using it outdoors, brightness is important because you can only control the light outdoors to a certain degree. The 400 ANSI lumens doubles the brightness of what the Nebula Capsule 3 offers. The screen size ranges from 30 inches up to 150 inches. If you plug it in with the AC power, you get a boost in brightness, which is always appreciated. Otherwise, you can expect a battery life of 2.5 hours in Eco mode and 1 hour at full power. This projector also doubles as a Bluetooth speaker and lasts 8 hours when just playing music.

If you’re looking for a portable projector that you can easily carry around the home or want to use it outdoors, consider the Nebula Mars 3 Air. At its current price, it’s a good bang for your buck and better than the Nebula Capsule 3 if you plan to use it outdoors.

This week, I’m taking a look at a brain-rot creator Cookie King, whose constant output of brain-rot videos is shaping the internal lives of millions of kids under 15. I’m also taking a look at what people think ChatGPT would be like if it were a person, introducing the clueless to Beabadoobee, and dunking on “millennial burger joints.”

Meet Cookie King, the brain behind the brain rot

I think of brain-rot internet memes as springing fully formed from the collective unconscious of the internet like Athena sprang from the head of Zeus, but the culture vultures at KnowYourMeme tracked down the actual person who is probably most responsible for brain-rot.

Demir Basceri, known as Cookie King to his millions of followers, has probably done more to create and define the brain-rot aesthetic than anyone else. Cookie pioneered ironically applying garish transitions, effects, and filters from video editing software Capcut on all-but-meaningless footage. He started off making “fan edits” of The Walking Dead like this one—

—then matured into making videos like this:

Then he started making videos that combine unrelated memes in ways that defy meaning. Check out this video:

Here’s Cookie King’s explanation of it: “On Instagram, there was a new meme. It was about Chopped Chin and Property in Egypt, and people were doing battles between them. I was like, ‘Wait, what if I just combined them together with the Johnnie Walker thing and the Friggin’ Packet Yo?’ I just thought, ‘I’m gonna combine them all.”

Cookie King says he’s been posting videos since he was seven, first on YouTube and then everywhere else, and the key to his brain-rot supremacy is his work ethic: Dude says he spent his senior year of high school spamming “20, 30, 40, 50 videos a day.” Eventually, some of them caught on, like the currently popular memes Eye of Rah and making “99% accurate” copies of existing videos. He seems to not think at all about what he puts out—brain-rot is a pure expression of his internal life, and it resonates with his audience of millions of “raised in the digital world” followers.

So what’s going on with all this shit?

In the 1920s, partly in response to the mechanized mass slaughter of World War I, avant-garde artists created Dadaism, a movement that aimed to replace meaning in Art with chaos and nonsense. The Dadaist movement didn’t really catch on—it was elitist, self-conscious, and bogged down by a central contradiction: The Dadaist said they didn’t care about meaning in art, but they sure liked publishing manifestos explaining what their work meant. Maybe brain-rot is actual Dadaism—chaos blotting out reason entirely. Unlike Dada art, there really is no discernible ideas or thoughts behind brain-rot: It’s actually nonsense. Brain-rotters are just spamming 50 videos a day without trying to comment on the horrifying alienation of modernity or whatever, even if that’s the message I’m taking from it. I don’t think this is a good thing, but it’s the thing that’s happening.

“How I imagine ChatGPT:” Young women personifying AI

Speaking of the unspeakable horror of the modern world, young people, especially young women, have been asking and answering a fascinating question this week: If large language model artificial intelligence program ChatGPT was a person, what would they look like? The initial post came from TikToker @mymetaldiary. According to them, ChatGPT is a brown-haired, handsome young white dude wearing glasses, as you can see in this video:

While many commenters replied with a variation of “nailed it,” others reported their own head-canon visions of ChatGPT-as-a-person. These responses run the gamut from “an old lady like mother nature,” to “a mafia boss,” or “a golden retriever.”

I don’t picture anything physical when I think of ChatGPT, but the AI’s unfailing politeness and literally endless patience suggest a human personality. I think of ChatGPT as someone I regret having started a conversation with at a party. They seem like someone I don’t know who is trying to get me to like them, and I can’t figure out why. ChatGPT is a combination of boring and desperate, like someone searching for the most non-offensive thing to say at all time. It’s someone I don’t trust, even though I have no reason not to trust them.

Famous people you’ve never heard of: Who is Beabadoobee?

If you’ve been hearing people talking about (or reading people posting about) “Beabadoobee” lately, here’s a look at the person behind the unique name: Beabadoobee is a 24-year-old singer/songwriter who was born in the Philippines. Her parents named her “Beatrice Kristi Ilejay Laus.” At three, her family moved to London. When she was 17, she taught herself to play guitar, started writing songs, and began calling herself Beabadoobee. It was a joke at first, but it stuck. Her music might have been called “twee” a generation ago; it’s wistful and soft and influenced by artists like Elliott Smith and Mazzy Star. It sounds like this:

She released her first single in 2017, and has been growing in popularity since, helped along by many, many uses of her songs on TikTok videos. As of 2025, there are three full-length Beabadoobee albums and six EPs, all released on indie labels. In a nutshell: Beabadoobee is a cult-popular singer favored by young women who make their own clothing.

What does SYBAU stand for?

The acronym SYBAU isn’t exactly new—it was first defined on urban dictionary in 2008—but it’s growing in popularity in the comment section of TikTok and Instagram lately. It means “shut your bitch ass up.” (Rude.)

What does “snatched” mean?

According to young-people slang, “snatched” means very attractive and/or flawlessly styled. Example: “That new dress has you looking snatched.”

(For more definitions of slang words, check out “‘Mewing,’ ‘Sigma,’ and Other Gen Z and Gen Alpha Slang You Might Need Help Decoding.“)

Viral video of the week: dunking on millennial burger joints

Tim Marcin over at our sister site Mashable noticed a hilarious new trend on TikTok: Generations Z and A are mocking millennial burger joints, pointing out the cliches and tropes of a kind of restaurant you’ve probably eaten at dozens of times, especially if you’ve spent any time in a “medium-sized city just outside of a major metropolitan area,” but never thought about.

This week’s viral video from Tiktoker @user2521208780374 lays it out:

Here are some of the hallmarks of a millennial burger joint:

• Founded by “two friends with a dream”

• Burgers cost $19

• Metal barstools

• Reclaimed wood table

• Truffle fries

• Menu written on a chalkboard

• Garlic aioli

• Brioche bun

• Special sauce described with mild swear like “kick ass” or “bitchin'”

• Local “craft” beers, always IPAs.

Some millennial burger joints really strive to be different by serving food on something other than plates, usually slabs of wood, a phenomenon covered in detail on Reddit’s “We Want Plates” board.

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I’m Lifehacker’s resident marathon runner and senior finance writer. And now, I’m merging my two worlds. Running is often touted as one of the most accessible sports—just lace up and go, right? But as many runners discover, what starts as a “free” activity can quickly transform into a significant investment. Last week I broke down what it looks like to invest in proper running gear. And now, I’m turning my eye to the world of races.

You might think you’ll never get into races. I was like you, once: a casual runner who scoffed at the idea of paying money to run. Then you get coerced into running a 5k for charity or something. Then you feel the high of crossing the finish line. You realize how intoxicating it to push yourself to longer distances, to have strangers cheering your name, to simply set your sights on a goal and work toward it. Now, six marathons later (and so many smaller distances along the way), I understand how people budget races into both their finances and fitness.

Of course, once you enter the world of racing, costs can add up quickly and vary dramatically depending on your approach to the sport. So let’s take a look at the financial commitment involved in running organized races.

The casual runner

For those who participate in a handful of local races each year, running remains relatively affordable. As a minimalist runner who does sign up for a marathon a year (and some shorter races leading up to the main event), I fall in this category.

Typical annual expenses:

• 3-5 local 5K/10K races: $25-50 each ($75-250 total)

• One half-marathon: $75-120

• Basic running shoes: $80-120 (replaced annually)

• No-frills running clothes (see more here): $100-200

• Optional race photos: $20-40 per event

Total annual cost: $330-730

Casual runners can keep costs down by focusing on community races organized by local running clubs, which often have lower entry fees than commercial events. Early bird registration can also save 15-30% off standard entry fees. Many casual runners also use free training plans available online rather than paying for coaching.

The dedicated road racer

Runners who focus on performance and participate in multiple races throughout the year face a more substantial financial commitment. Keep in mind, a lot of these are upfront costs for investing in gear that will last years. For instance, you probably won’t be buying a new smartwatch annually.

Typical annual expenses:

• Races of varying distances: $100-1,000

• One or two major marathons: $150-350 each

• Premium running shoes: $130-180 (two to three pairs annually)

• Technical running apparel: $300-500

• GPS watch: $200-500 (amortized over two to three years)

• Race photos/videos: $100-200

• Training plan or app subscription: $100-300

Total annual cost: $580-1,630

These runners often join running clubs ($40-150 annually) for the social aspects and training benefits. They might also invest in regular sports massages ($70-120 per session) or recovery tools like foam rollers, massage guns, and compression gear ($150-300).

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The destination racer

Those who combine their love of running with travel face the highest costs.

Typical annual expenses:

• Two to three local races: $100-200

• Two to three major destination races: $150-350 each

• Travel costs (flights, accommodations, food): $1,000-3,000+ per destination race

• Premium running gear (technical clothing, shoes, watches): $300-500

• Race insurance: $50-100 per major race

Total annual cost: $1,600-4,100+

The World Marathon Majors (Boston, New York, Chicago, London, Berlin, and Tokyo) are particularly expensive, with entry fees up to $350—not to mention extremely competitive qualification standards or lottery systems to sign up in the first place. International races may also require additional expenses like travel insurance and vaccinations.

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The trail/ultra runner

Now I’m speaking outside of personal experience, but I am manifesting a future in ultra distances for myself. Fun fact: “Ultra marathon” refers to any distance longer than a marathon. A 30-miler and an 100-miler would both be called ultras. Neat!

Naturally, ultra runners and trail enthusiasts face unique cost considerations for specialized gear requirements and remote race locations.

Typical annual expenses:

• Three to five trail races: $50-100 each

• One to two ultra marathons: $150-500 each

• Trail-specific shoes: $130-180 (2-3 pairs annually)

• Specialized gear (hydration vest, headlamp, trekking poles): $300-600

• Weather-appropriate apparel: $400-800

• Navigation tools: $100-300

• Required safety equipment: $200-500

Total annual cost: $1,630-3,980

Ultra events often have higher entry fees due to their length and the support required from the organizers. Many require specific safety equipment like emergency blankets, whistles, and first aid supplies. Remote race locations can also increase travel costs significantly.

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Look out for hidden costs

Regardless of runner type, several hidden costs can impact your budget:

• Race day parking: $10-30 per event

• Post-race celebration meals: $20-50 per event

• Physiotherapy or sports medicine appointments: $80-150 per session

• Cross-training (gym membership, yoga classes): $300-1,000 annually

• Nutritional supplements and race-day fuel: $100-500 annually

• Race cancellation or postponement fees

Cost-saving strategies

Like I mentioned above, I’m a marathon runner who refuses to spend more than $1,000 a year on my hobby. Here’s how I save on costs I can’t avoid altogether:

• Volunteer at races: Many events offer free future entries to volunteers.

• Register early: Take advantage of early bird pricing.

• Seek out package deals: Some race series offer discounted entries when you sign up for multiple events.

• Shop end-of-season sales: Stock up on gear when prices drop.

• Consider virtual races: These typically have lower entry fees and no travel costs.

While racing costs can add up, I still find the most valuable aspects of running—the endorphin rush, sense of achievement, and community connection—are more than worth it. When you consider the costs associated with your preferred style of running, you can make informed decisions about which races and experiences are worth the investment for you.

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Bowers & Wilkins is known to make high-end audio products like headphones and speakers. You might see their speakers on luxury cars or expensive monitors. The Pi6 earbuds are their “budget” earbuds, but are still expensive, normally going for $249. However, you can get them right now for $168.08, the lowest price they’ve ever been according to price-tracking tools.

Bowers & Wilkins Pi6 Wireless Earbuds

AptX Adaptive, 12mm Drivers, Bespoke Active Noise Cancelling, 3 Built-in Mics, 15-Min Quick Charging

$249.00
at Amazon

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$249.00
at Amazon

The Pi6 are a step down from the more premium Pi8 wireless earbuds, both of which came out in 2024. Despite this being the product where cuts were made to make it a “budget” option, the audio quality stayed premium. I’ve had these earbuds for almost a year and consider them one of the best sounding earbuds I own. You’ll get support for SBC, AAC, aptX Adaptive, and aptX Classic codecs, which explains the great audio. The soundstage is detailed, and it has Bowers & Wilkins’ usual crisp sound signature. The fit is comfortable and light. Despite not having hooks, I felt like I could take them on a run without issues.

However, the Pi6 aren’t perfect. They lack Spatial Audio, a find-my-headphones feature, and the app can be buggy. Although I may sound picky, these are basic features other earbuds at this price point have. But at the discounted price of $168, I’m willing to look past those issues. The drivers are 12mm and provide a decent ANC. You can expect about eight hours of battery life and another 24 hours with the case. You’ll get Bluetooth 5.4 and an IP54 rating for water resistance (you shouldn’t submerge them underwater). The earbuds also have three microphones so people can hear you clearly.

If you’re looking for good quality audio with hi-res playback and good ANC and battery life, the Pi6 earbuds offer great value for your money at their current price.