Mashable

TL;DR: Live stream Gauff vs. Sabalenka in the Australian Open for free on 9Now. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The Australian Open is coming to an end, with all remaining players just a few sets away from victory.

At the semi-final stage, you expect close matches between the very best players. But it really doesn't get much better than Coco Gauff vs Aryna Sabalenka. This game feels like a final, and you can watch all the action without spending anything.

If you want to watch Gauff vs. Sabalenka in the Australian Open for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Gauff vs. Sabalenka?

Coco Gauff and Aryna Sabalenka will meet in the Australian Open semi-final on Jan. 25 (AEDT).

How to watch Gauff vs. Sabalenka for free

Every match from the 2024 Australian Open is available to stream for free on 9Now, including Gauff vs. Sabalenka. 9Now is geo-restricted to Australia, but anyone can gain access to this free streaming platform with a VPN.

VPNs can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in Australia, meaning you can connect to 9Now from anywhere in the world. Access 9Now from anywhere in the world by following these simple steps:

1. Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

3. Open up the app and connect to a server in Australia

4. Visit 9Now

5. Steam Gauff vs. Sabalenka for free

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Year Subscription + 3 Months Free) £82.82 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but leading VPNs do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can gain access to 9Now without actually spending anything. This is not a long-term solution, but it does give you time to watch the 2024 Australian Open before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for 9Now?

ExpressVPN is the best service for accessing 9Now, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 94 countries including Australia

• Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is always secure

• Fast connection speeds

• Up to five simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for £82.82 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

Stream Gauff vs. Sabalenka for free from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

There's no other non-existing product we've heard more rumors about than the Apple Car.

In 2016, following two years of vaporous reports, we heard that the fabled vehicle was being built in Germany, with a potential launch date in 2019 at the earliest. In 2017, all the signs pointed to the project being abandoned. In 2018, Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo said Apple plans to launch the Apple Car between 2023 and 2025. In 2019, Apple laid off 200 employees from its autonomous vehicle group, once again indicating that the mythical vehicle will not see the light of day any time soon. There were many more reports like these over the years, but the pattern was obvious: Apple probably is working on something, but it keeps being postponed into the indefinite future.

The latest report on the Apple Car, coming from Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, has both bad and good news for anyone wishing for a people mover with an Apple logo.

According to the report, Apple has once again grown serious about building the Apple Car, with project head Kevin Lynch, CEO Tim Cook, and Apple's board discussing it in a series of meetings. The outcome of those meetings was a strategy to build an electric vehicle with Level 2+ autonomy (roughly on par with Tesla's Autopilot right now), and launch it in 2028 at the earliest.

There are two main takeaways from the report. One is that the car doesn't sound all that futuristic; the report does say that the company hopes to upgrade it to Level 4 autonomy (nearly fully autonomous driving) sometime after launch, but other than that, it sounds like a pretty regular electric car. Earlier rumors suggested a fully autonomous vehicle that might not even have a steering wheel. As Gurman puts it, Apple hopes "to make the car stand out with a sleek design, safety systems and unique user interface."

SEE ALSO: In-store Apple Vision Pro demos: What to expect when you walk in

The other important tidbit is the launch date, which is four years in the future at the earliest. A lot can happen between now and then; for example, Apple rival Xiaomi recently launched an EV which might be in its second or third iteration by 2028. However, judging by this latest report, at least it seems that this time there will be no more delays: Either the car happens in 2028, or the company will scrap it altogether.

The report also mentions the potential price range for the Apple Car, and it's an eye-watering $100,000. Start saving now, maybe.

The Mini is a bite-sized version of The New York Times' revered daily crossword. While the crossword is a lengthier experience that requires both knowledge and patience to complete, The Mini is an entirely different vibe.

With only a handful of clues to answer, the daily puzzle doubles as a speed-running test for many who play it.

So, when a tricky clue disrupts a player's flow, it can be frustrating! If you find yourself stumped playing The Mini — much like with Wordle and Connections — we have you covered.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections today: See hints and answers for January 24 SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Here's the answer and hints for January 24

Here are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Wednesday, Jan. 24, 2024:

AcrossCoffee and Coca-Cola, on the pH scale

• The answer is acids.

Daybreak

• The answer is sunup.

Dwarf planet that's only about half the width of the United States

• The answer is pluto.

Bit of web traffic

• The answer is click.

___ crow flies (directly)

• The answer is asthe.

DownPet adoption org.

• The answer is ASPCA.

Selects from a large group

• The answer is culls.

Indigenous people of the Arctic

• The answer is Inuit.

Language in Amsterdam

• The answer is Dutch.

Thin rod on a bicycle wheel

• The answer is spoke.

Palworld instantly exploded in popularity upon its early access launch. Widely described as "Pokémon with guns," the video game reportedly sold 5 million copies in just three days and surpassed 1.5 million concurrent players on Steam, taking third place for most simultaneous players of all time.

Unfortunately, Palworld's meteoric rise has not come without controversy, and not all of it concerns the game's premise of Pokémon dupes wielding shotguns. Palworld's overwhelming success has been overshadowed by accusations of art theft and plagiarism, which have dominated the conversation about the game since its Jan. 18 release.

SEE ALSO: Viral fashion company Selkie is being slammed for using AI art What is Palworld?

Palworld is Pokémon with guns. That’s it. That’s the game.

Created by Japanese developer Pocket Pair, Palworld is an open world survival game in which players gather resources, build bases, manage their hunger, and fight off enemies — all common concerns of the genre.

However, one unique feature has catapulted Palworld to the internet's attention: Pals, the cute, unmistakably Pokémon-esque creatures the game allows you to recruit. Players can fight these not-Pokémon in order to weaken and catch them using "Pal Spheres," with over 100 of the creatures to collect. They can then be utilised for a myriad of useful purposes, such as mounts, in battle, and to help with various tasks.

Also, you can give your Pals guns.

Palworld's survival elements already do a lot to separate it even from open world Pokémon game Scarlet and Violet. You can reportedly even eat your Pals, an option that is largely left unexplored in the world of Pokémon. But what has really captured gamers' attention is Palworld's enthusiastic inclusion of surprisingly realistic-looking firearms — weapons which you probably wouldn't expect if this were a Nintendo-sanctioned Pokémon game. 

To be clear, Palworld is not a Pokémon game, and has no affiliation with Nintendo. Pocket Pair has claimed that Palworld is more heavily inspired by 2015 survival game Ark: Survival Evolved than Pokémon, and that they in fact tried to distinguish it from the latter. Still, it's practically impossible not to see the similarities.

What is the controversy around Palworld?

Palworld already received mixed reactions when it was first revealed in 2021. Though some gamers were excited by the silliness of having such unexpectedly mature themes in a Pokémon-like game, others expressed disapproval for Palworld's combination of gun violence and ostensibly child-friendly imagery. Palworld's clear similarities to Pokémon and apparent themes of animal cruelty also made several gamers believe the trailer was a joke, or interpret it as an immature attempt to be edgy.

These concerns haven't dissipated now that players can explore Palworld for themselves. In fact, Palworld's early access release has brought such controversies back to the fore — alongside other issues.

Accusations of plagiarising Pokémon

Gamers have accused Pocket Pair of outright plagiarising from Pokémon, taking to social media to highlight the numerous parallels in their creatures' designs. Many of Palworld's Pals bear a striking resemblance to various Pokémon, sharing similar features, colouring, and builds. 

This would already be enough to make Pokémon fans start asking questions. Though Pocket Pair claims that it drew inspiration from roleplaying series Dragon Quest, viewing Pals and Pokémon side by side makes it seem reasonable to wonder whether Palworld was also influenced by its more famous pocket monster predecessors.

Tweet may have been deleted

Still, these similarities aren't necessarily nefarious on the face of it. What appears much more damning are Palworld's models.

Twitter/X user @byofrog directly compared Palworld's assets to those from Pokémon and concluded that many of the former's 3D mesh models had been taken from the latter and merely tweaked or edited. Various game developers have agreed with @byofrog's assessment upon viewing their comparisons, stating that the models are too much alike for it to be a coincidence.

"To 'accidentally' create a complex model mesh with so near-exact proportions is practically impossible," game designer Eric Covington wrote on Twitter/X. "To repeat that improbability throughout your roster… doesn’t pass the sniff test."

"I have no issue with them broadly copying pokemon's design vibe for parody reasons," posted concept artist RJ Palmer. "Its just when they are actually kitbashing their model rips that it gets kinda icky."

Nintendo is aware of the Palworld, but hasn't yet issued any official response. Mashable has reached out to Pocket Pair with questions about the art, and we will update this article if we receive a response.

Tweet may have been deleted Tweet may have been deleted Tweet may have been deleted Tweet may have been deleted Accusations of using AI art

Pocket Pair has further been accused of using AI to design their Pals, though the evidence to support this is largely circumstantial. 

Suspicions were raised not only due to the similarities between Pals and Pokémon, but also because of Pocket Pair CEO Takuro Mizobe's public appreciation of AI. Critics have resurfaced several old X/Twitter posts in which Mizobe apparently admired fake AI-generated Pokémon and expressed enthusiasm for the future development of games using generative AI technology.

Pocket Pair has also used AI in its games before, making it the main theme of its party game AI: Art Imposter. Released to early access in 2022, AI: Art Imposter is transparent about its use of AI, requiring players to generate images themselves. Even so, it demonstrates that the developer isn't adverse to using such technology in its games.

None of this is a smoking gun, and there's still more than enough room for doubt when it comes to Palworld's potential use of AI. While generative AI has been around for several years, it was significantly less common or widely used when Palworld's first trailer was revealed three years ago. 

Still, there's enough suspicion and speculation circulating to make many gamers feel uneasy. 

Credit: Pocket Pair Do not harass game developers

But wait, it gets worse. Unfortunately, some gamers have reportedly jumped from expressing valid criticism for Palworld to directly attacking its developers online. The situation even deteriorated enough that Mizobe took to X/Twitter to address it.

"Currently, we are receiving slanderous comments against our artists, and we are seeing tweets that appear to be death threats," Mizobe wrote, translated from Japanese via Google Translate. "I have received a variety of opinions regarding Palworld, but all productions related to Palworld are supervised by multiple people, including myself, and I am responsible for the production. I would appreciate it if you would refrain from slandering the artists involved in Palworld."

@byofrog, who has also been critical of Palworld for "[glorifying] animal abuse," asked people not to pile on the developers as well.

"I hope this is obvious to all of you but PLEASE don't harass the modeler from Palworld," they posted. "Even if they did steal assets, which is NOT a proven fact, it's not a crime to threaten someone over."

Remember, it's fine to discuss apparent art theft and call for it to be investigated. It isn't fine to attack and threaten people, regardless of whether you believe they're guilty of plagiarism.

Where can you play Palworld?

Palworld is currently available early access on PC via Steam, and will currently set you back $26.99. You can also pick up a preview on Xbox One and Series X/S for $29.99, or play it using an Xbox Game Pass subscription.

If you’re struggling to choose between the platforms, the Xbox version is reportedly missing several assets and features. This includes 32-player dedicated servers, as well as the ability to name your character.

It’s important to be aware that the Palworld is still in early access, meaning it hasn’t been finished yet. As always, you should only purchase an early access game if you’re happy to accept it as is, as there’s no guarantee it will improve or be updated at all. It’s a bit like getting married in that regard.

Still, all this may not matter if Nintendo does decide to pursue legal action against Pocket Pair, which could potentially force Palworld to shut down entirely. 

Netflix has gone and done it: the streaming company is axing its cheapest ad-free subscription plan.

The tier, which costs $11.99 a month, will soon be unavailable to users in Canada and the UK within the second quarter of the year. Company executives informed shareholders of the decision in its earnings report dated January 23.

SEE ALSO: Netflix signs deal with WWE to exclusively stream live weekly 'Raw'

Subscribers will be left with the platform's other ad-free plan, which is priced at $15.49/month. The company's Premium tier is priced at $22.99/month. Others can opt for an ad-supported subscription at $6.99/month.

Following Canada and the UK, the plan will likely be retired in other places: "We’re looking to retire our Basic plan in some of our ads countries, starting with Canada and the UK in Q2 and taking it from there," reads the report.

Netflix's plans to phase out its basic plan has been in the works for a while now. New viewers in Canada were unable to sign up for the Basic plan as of June 2023, with the same being applied to the US and UK by July.

The company's co-CEO Greg Peters told investors in a video interview that Netflix's ad-supported tier is at 23 million monthly active users. During the final quarter of 2023, Netflix also added 13.1 million subscribers, elevating their subscription numbers to 247 million globally.

This content originally appeared on Mashable for a US audience and has been adapted for the UK audience.

Dating as a senior isn't easy, but it's not nearly as tough as you think. Dating at any age is tricky — and being over 60 in the dating world could actually have its perks. There's a reason why post-retirement age could be the happiest time of your life.

Yes, there may be fewer potential partners in the dating pool, but if you think about it, that just makes everything less overwhelming. And now that online dating is hot and heavy for the over 60 crowd, it's easier than ever to track down that special someone.

It's totally normal to feel hesitant about making the jump to online dating, but there really isn't anything to fear.

How do you start dating again as a senior?

The first step to start dating after a break is simply acknowledging that you're ready. At this point, you can decide how and where you want to try to meet people. Dating apps have been around for decades, which means they are totally normal and shouldn't be a last resort.

You'll also want to be direct with what you're hoping to achieve. A serious relationship? Casual hookup? Friendship that might led to more? Whatever it is, be upfront because you don't want to fall for someone who isn't looking for the same thing. Honesty is the best policy when it comes to dating.

Should older adults use dating sites?

Finding the best dating site is intimidating at any age. That age group does have a few more options, which may be another reason that you're feeling unsure about online dating if you're a baby boomer.

However, youth has a disadvantage you may not have considered: Many people in their 20s and 30s just aren't ready to settle down yet. Developing a crush on someone is more likely to end up in an awkward "situation-ship" rather than a serious relationship. Dating over 60 means you're at an age when you know what you want and you're not afraid to put it all out there. This is the "no bullshitting" age of dating.

SEE ALSO: The best dating sites and apps for women

As you get older, you realise what's important to you and what you're truly looking for. Doesn't finding love with that mindset sound a hell of a lot easier? EliteSingle's senior dating blog notes that most older individuals realise that life is just too short to play games, and that older people take dating much more seriously than they did 40 years ago. And while it may be a little weird that this person isn't your first love, you can take solace in the fact that it could be lasting love.

Does all this seriousness mean that the excitement from meeting someone new is gone when dating as a senior? Absolutely not. An advice post for seniors on Zoosk says to "be prepared to return to your inner teenager," because the firsts are just as exciting. You'll get butterflies, wait for them call and do a happy dance when they do, and first kisses will be just as tingly.

Should you use free dating apps?

There are a lot of free dating sites and apps out there, and the likes of Tinder and Hinge are good examples of free apps with massive networks of users. The bad news is that a lot of free apps simply don't cut it. You get what you pay for with dating sites and apps, and for the best experience with the greatest possibility of finding exactly what you're looking for, you are going to have to cough up the cash.

You can still find something worth your time with a free app, but if you're looking for compatibility tests, chat rooms, videos, and a greater level of control, we recommend upgrading. Paid sites provide access to premium features that give you the best chance of finding something special.

What is the best dating site for seniors?

We scoured the internet to find the best dating sites for single seniors. Some websites are for all ages with a senior option, and some sites are specifically for people over 50. And we'll just tell you now: All of the sites have free memberships, but to get the real in-depth features to find real connections with other mature singles, you'll want to have a paid account.

We've noted those price differences, as well as the differences in sign up, navigation simplicity, and the overall relationship tone of the site to help you choose the best one to fit you. Take your pick from this strong selection of dating sites for seniors, including popular services like SilverSingles, Match, and eharmony.

These are the best dating sites for seniors in 2024.

This content originally appeared on Mashable for a US audience and has been adapted for the UK audience.

Dating can be tricky. Sometimes you want to make the first move, but you don't want to appear too eager. But if you play it too cool, you risk getting ignored all together. The whole process can be frustrating and intimidating, especially if you don't know how to start. If you're lost, we recommend trying online dating.

There are a lot of great sites out there that can help you find someone special. The only really issue is that with all of the options, it can sometimes feel like there's too much choice. Throw in busy lives and daily responsibilities, and the thought of combing through loads of profiles sounds like the last thing you want to do. 

We get it, we really do.

Is online dating difficult?

One aspect of online dating dynamics poses a challenge for both men and women, but from different angles: If it's a lady you're pursuing, chances are she's received more than a few unsolicited messages already. For women, maneuvering around creeps is often more work than it's worth.

For men, the responsibility to not be one of those guys can add a heightened intimidation factor.

What do you need to know before signing up to a dating site?

The internet is plagued with tales of nasty messages and creepy opening lines from men. Avoiding the creep factor with someone you just matched with shouldn't be hard — simply don't be pushy about sexting, getting their number, or meeting up, and definitely don't harass someone about not wanting to hang out. As for devising an opener that will grow into a nice conversation, the harmless intent to be funny or flattering can go south quickly. Choosing the right dating app can make all the difference for men who are a little rusty or generally shy about messaging first.

SEE ALSO: The best dating sites and apps for women

For men who need a point in the right direction when it comes to conversation starters, dating sites with user profiles more extensive than a rushed Tinder bio could make a world of difference. The ability to see someone's hobbies, favourite movies, career goals, or even political views before even talking to them opens up a wealth of clever ice breakers.

Tinder can be the right app for some singles, but if you find yourself constantly deleting it and re-downloading Tinder every other month despite the fact that you hate the app, a different site might make better use of your time. What is it that's not working about your current dating site of choice? Is it too entrenched in hookup culture? Is it not focused on hookups enough? Do you find yourself getting intentions mixed up with people who aren't looking for the same thing? Each dating site serves a different purpose, and things are a lot easier when you're mingling with people who want what you want.

What is the best dating site for men?

After going through many dating sites and apps, we have narrowed down the best options for single men looking for something casual or a long-term relationship. You can rest assured that these sites offer the best potential for finding a great match.

We looked at a number of factors that make a dating app worth using, including visibility, popularity with singles, ease of use, lifestyle, and success rate with matches to find the ones that matter to single men the most. Whether you're looking for a casual fling or a committed relationship, we have a dating site for you and the matches you want. 

These are the best dating sites for men in 2024.

This content originally appeared on Mashable for a US audience and has been adapted for the UK audience.

The online world isn't always the friendliest of places for women, particularly when it comes to trolling and misogyny on social media. From Twitter reply guys, to other forms of online harassment, to straight up cyberstalking, letting women exist in peace seems to be a hard concept to grasp.

When it comes to dating apps specifically — where others often assume that a dating app profile means that one is willfully subjecting themselves to creepy comments — the chance of women enduring such unsettling experiences feels doubled. The onslaught of men grasping at straws for attention with messages saying "think they saw you somewhere" or requesting nudes in their opening line is an online dating specialty.

Is it easier to shoot your shot by simply using a hot selfie on your Instagram story as bait for your crush? That's a classic tactic that'll never die. But unless you and said crush are already in some sort of flirtationship and already follow each other on social media, finding love, a hookup, or someone to grab a drink with could happen a lot faster with the right dating app (as opposed to waiting to meet someone at work or agreeing to a blind date).

SEE ALSO: The best dating sites to help you find a connection

This means not deleting and re-downloading Tinder after every breakup or every time you ghost (or get ghosted by) your current entanglement. Tinder can truly be a great place to meet genuine people who are open to getting serious, to find a reliable friend with benefits, or to get a good-old-fashioned confidence boost from a mutual right swipe. But if you're frustrated with horny users disguising themselves as relationship seekers or relationship seekers who can't handle it when you say you're just looking for a hookup, opting for a dating site more finely-tuned to what you're looking for means you'll spend less time dealing with people who aren't looking for the same thing. 

Maybe you can't stand starting every conversation from scratch. Maybe your biggest fear is ending up on a date with someone who doesn't care about cats. Instead of a lazy bio, dating apps that delve into someone's hobbies, favourite movies, career goals, or political views before even talking to them opens up a wealth of clever ice breakers, and ensures that you aren't going into things blindly. 

What are dating apps doing to make dating safer?

Meeting someone from the internet in person for the first time is nerve-wracking for anyone. But for women, it can dredge up the same fear that occurs when walking alone past a big group of men. 

Match Group is making strides toward a safer dating experience: Tinder was the first to unveil new features coming out of its partnership with Noonlight, a safety app that tracks the location of users and notifies authorities if there are concerns. Before heading out on a date, Tinder users can log info about where they're going and who they're meeting, as well as hit a panic button to alert authorities if there's an emergency.

Match Group plans to roll out the same features for its other apps, like Hinge and OkCupid, later. In March 2021, Tinder announced plans to let users run a background check on their matches.

Should you use free dating apps?

There are plenty of free dating sites and apps out there, and the likes of Tinder and Hinge are popular options with massive networks of users. You can easily enter the online dating game without spending anything, but you get what you pay for with dating sites and apps.

For the best experience with the greatest possibility of finding exactly what you're looking for, you are probably going to need to cough up some cash. The best dating sites don't come cheap, and whilst you can still find a hookup with a free app, you should upgrade is you're looking for compatibility tests, chat rooms, videos, and a greater level of control.

What are the best dating sites for women?

Whether you're looking for a fun time or your next long-term relationship, we have picked out a wide range of apps and sites for different types of daters. So whatever you're looking for, we have you covered with this guide.

We have done the tough stuff, looked at all the facts and figures, and worked out which sites are the best options for every single type of woman out there. We have narrowed it down to the best sites, and reviewed the likes of eharmony, Match, Lumen, and AdultFriendFinder for your consideration.

These are the best dating sites for women in 2024.

Online retailer eBay has made the decision to lay off 1,000 employees, an estimated 9 percent of the company's workforce.

In a note sent to employees, Jamie Iannone, President and CEO of eBay, shared the news, writing about the decision in an effort "to better position eBay for long-term, sustainable growth." Iannone wrote that the layoffs are the "most significant and toughest of these decisions."

SEE ALSO: YouTube to cut 100 workers as tech layoffs continue

"These are not actions we take lightly — and we recognize the impact they will have on all eBayers," said Iannone. "We have to say goodbye to people who have made so many important contributions to the eBay community and culture, and this isn’t easy." He added that while the company is "making progress" against its strategy, their headcount and expenses "have outpaced" the growth of its business.

The layoffs come despite the company reporting a profit of $1.3 billion last quarter. In November, Iannone described the profits as "another quarter of solid results."

The company has requested all U.S. employees to work from home today, January 24th, in order to "provide some space and privacy" for the employees being told their roles are being eliminated. Alongside the job cuts, eBay also announced that they are scaling back on outside contractors.

eBay previously cut 500 workers in February 2023.

So far, 2024 has seen a number of layoffs across tech firms, including Amazon, Wayfair, Duolingo, YouTube, and Google. According to layoffs.fyi, a website tracking job cuts in the tech sector, over 13,000 workers have been laid off within the first few weeks of this year.

Lately, users have noticed an influx of AI-generated summaries of product reviews on Amazon. Can they be trusted?

Amazon products often have hundreds and thousands of reviews, and it can be tedious and time-consuming to sift through all this feedback. But shopping on Amazon for a laptop stand, for example, often requires sifting through many options on the site that vary drastically in quality, a workload more appropriate for investing in a car than for buying a quotidian household item. Last August, Amazon announced a solution to review fatigue: an AI-generated summary that succinctly highlights the pros and cons from customers.

SEE ALSO: 5 ways AI changed the internet in 2023

Theoretically, the feature is a useful tool that helps consumers quickly decide what products to buy. But the appearance of these summaries underscores the pitfalls of relying on generative AI: inaccuracy and misleading information.

A quick search on Amazon surfaced several issues. An AI-generated summary of reviews for the Manduka GRP Adapt Hot Yoga Mat, referred to a different yoga mat by a competitor brand, calling it the "Alo Warrior Yoga Mat." Amazon has since resolved this specific issue after Mashable brought it to their attention. But fixing individual inaccuracies in the outputs of a large language model is a bit like whac-a-mole, because not even the engineers fully understand the models' behaviors.

The AI-generated summary mistakenly calls the Manduka yoga mat the "Alo Warrior Yoga Mat," which is a different product and brand. Credit: Amazon

And therein lies the problem with relying too heavily on generative AI. Training AI to behave autonomously also means models can "act out" in unintended or baffling ways.

In a few other minor examples, the AI review summary for something called Musher's Secret referred to the product vaguely as "pet supplies" and said that it keeps "the psa pads warm." Being an ointment that protects dog's paws from icy pavements, that's probably meant to be "paw pads" unless "psa pads" are something we don't know about. In terms of AI common sense, it would seem the model "learns" to write things like "psa pads" in place of "paw pads" from the idiosyncrasies of real users, which would arguably lend the AI's outputs a certain authenticity. But is that what users should want?

The Musher's Secret review summary calls the product "the pet supplies" and writes "psa" instead of presumably "paw." Credit: Amazon

For a TheraGun mini massage gun, the review summary puts the word "app" in all caps, so it reads "they mention that the APP provides useful information about the battery and how long it lasts." It's reasonable to assume, the summary is talking about the accompanying app, but what if instead it was referring to a technical feature called "APP?"

Writing "app" in all caps is a minor issue but could be confusing for customers. Credit: Amazon

Granted, these are minor errors that don't impact the essence of the summary. Plus, human reviews contain typos all the time and that doesn't necessarily destroy their credibility. But perhaps the bar should be higher for a non-human intelligence that hasn't earned our trust yet. So any inaccuracy or nonsensical gibberish feels like an immediate red flag.

Still worse: if inaccuracies and hallucinations go unnoticed, these summaries — presented as more or less authoritative — could damage the reputations of products. A Bloomberg report discovered that the product review summaries exaggerate the negative aspects of reviews, which mislead consumers. The AI-generated summary of Penn tennis balls with a 4.7-star rating highlighted odor as a negative. But of the 4,300 ratings, "only seven reviews mention an odor." Not only does this mislead customers, it might create problems for merchants.

Plus, the reviews didn't specify the type of odor, but don't all fresh tennis balls have that pungent rubbery smell that some people even enjoy? References to things like the smell of tennis balls seem less like the inclusion of legitimate complaints, and more like the intrusive voices of Karen-style reviewers who disproportionately give products negative reviews due to something unreasonable like packaging being hard to open.

This use of the technology also raises questions about what should and shouldn't have AI-generated review highlights. For quality control and to ensure products don't have AI-generated summaries of scammy reviews, Amazon only uses Verified Purchase reviews, and focuses on products that have "a minimum number of reviews," and only in situations in which "customers share the same opinion," said spokesperson Maria Boschetti.

Currently, Amazon does not have review highlights for books, which seems like a good thing. But it does have review highlights for medicine like Advil ibuprofen, which may not rise to the level of a potential danger, but does suggest a certain lack of caution in the rollout of this feature. Amazon says it plans to expand into more categories, so caution does not seem to be on the menu at the moment.

While it wasn't hard to find flawed examples, customers are already finding the feature useful. A Mashable employee looking for an inexpensive tripod was able to decide by comparing the summaries of different product reviews, and picked one that had no negative feedback, compared to others that had slightly more mixed sentiments.

"Our analysis has found that review highlights are helping customers find the products they want and are leading to increased sales for sellers," said Boschetti. "We care a lot about accuracy, and we will continually improve the review highlights experience over time."

And let's be honest, most people can't or don't want to spend the time parsing through reviews when a simple summary will suffice — as long as it's accurate.

So should you trust these review summaries? A better question might be, are these summaries more convenient for users than the previous system? One could — very cautiously — argue that the answer to that question is "trust, but verify, by understanding the technology's flaws and weaknesses."

Wondering how to check the CPU temperature on your computer? Even some of the best laptops are guilty of running hot — and an overworked or failing CPU could be an issue.

Learning how to check CPU temperature on your computer is a great way to prevent minor issues before they become major problems.

A CPU that’s too hot can cause damage to your other computer components, slow down your entire system, or shut your computer off entirely. There several programs that can check your computer’s CPU temperature, but Core Temp is one of the easiest to use.

How to check CPU tempStep 1: Download the Core Temp program. Credit: Sarah Chaney

Head to the Core Temp website and click on the blue Download link at the top of the page. Open the .exe file once it’s finished downloading. 

Step 2: Follow the on-screen instructions to install Core Temp.

Once you’ve opened the downloaded .exe file, your computer might ask if you want to allow the app to make changes to your device; choose “Yes” for this prompt. 

The Core Temp Setup Wizard will pop up, and you’ll need to select “Next” on the following three screens, pausing only to change your download location if you’d like.

Step 3: Uncheck boxes to avoid installing unnecessary bloatware. 

On the screen with checkboxes, none of the boxes need to be checked. Most people will definitely want to uncheck the box for “Build your kingdom with Goodgame Empire,” but unchecking the other two pre-checked boxes will be personal preference.

Credit: Sarah Chaney

You can leave the box checked for “Create a desktop shortcut” if you want quick access to the program, or leave “Install additional language packs” if your native language isn’t English.

Select “Next” when you’ve unchecked all the options you don’t want, click “Install” on the next screen to finalize installation, and select “Next” one more time. On the final screen, clicking “Finish” will launch the Core Temp program and a Readme.txt file with instructions on how to use the program.

Step 4: Check out your computer’s CPU temperatures.

In the Core Temp program, you’ll see your CPU’s current temperatures below the “Processor #0: Temperature Readings” heading. Depending on your processor, you might see a temperature reading for each of your processor’s cores or just the first core.

Credit: Sarah Chaney

The first column displays your core’s current temperature, but you’ll want to leave the program open for a while and pay closer attention to the “Max” column. This column shows you the highest temperature your CPU core reached since opening the Core Temp program. 

What’s a normal CPU temperature?

A normal CPU temperature can vary based on your specific processor. In the Core Temp program, you can see your CPU’s “Tj. Max,” or Temperature Junction Maximum.” The “Tj. Max” number you see is the highest temperature that’s safe for your processor, so if you’re consistently seeing higher temperatures than that number, it’s time to diagnose a problem.

Generally, your CPU’s temperature should be between 40 to 50 degrees Celsius (104 to 122 degrees Fahrenheit) or lower with no active tasks; between 50 to 65 degrees (122 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit) when performing idle work (e.g., checking emails or shopping online); and between 65 to 80 degrees Celsius (149 to 176 degrees Fahrenheit) while running performance-intensive programs (e.g., gaming).

Are you watching True Detective: Night Country and have a lot of questions? You're in good, obsessive company if you're scanning for clues like we are.

In the depths of this cold, cold winter, Mashable has been spending "the long night" yarn-walling it, speaking to the folks behind the HBO show, and watching the series frame by frame so you don't miss a spiral, polar bear, John Carpenter reference, or confirmed fan theory.

In the fourth season of the HBO series, this time helmed by showrunner Issa López, police Chief Liz Danvers (Jodie Foster) and state trooper Evangeline Navarro (Kali Reis) have one hell of a chilling investigation on their hands — and every week, we're digging into it too.

SEE ALSO: 'True Detective: Night Country' review: A can't-miss mystery with ghostly bite

Make sure to bookmark this page so you don't miss a single True Detective: Night Country story from Mashable.

Everything to know about True Detective: Night Country — before you watch

'True Detective: Night Country' trailer teases Jodie Foster and Kali Reis hunting a serial killer

'True Detective: Night Country' review: A can't-miss mystery with ghostly bite

'True Detective: Night Country': Is the long night a real thing?

A warning about 'True Detective' Season 4, episode 2: Trust us

Everything to know about how True Detective: Night Country was made

How 'True Detective: Night Country' brought the corpsicle to life

How 'True Detective: Night Country' pulled off its most WTF moment

Every True Detective: Night Country clue, tracked

'True Detective: Night Country': What's deal with the spirals?

'True Detective: Night Country's writer/director could be a clue to its mystery

'True Detective: Night Country': Is Travis the father of Rust Cohle?

'True Detective: Night Country': What's with the polar bears?

'True Detective' Season 4: Burning questions explored

How the Dyatlov Pass incident ties to 'True Detective: Night Country'

What to watch while you're waiting for more True Detective: Night Country

Watching 'True Detective: Night Country'? Chase it with this 'X-Files' episode.

Could 'True Detective: Night Country's tribute to 'The Thing' be a clue for the rest of the season?

How to watch True Detective: Night Country

True Detective airs Sunday nights on HBO/Max at 9 p.m ET/PT.

TL;DR: Through Jan. 28, get the 2024 Premium Learn to Code Certification Bundle for only $49.99 (reg. $1,500).

Whether you’re looking to start a career in coding or just want to learn for fun, the 2024 Premium Learn to Code Certification Bundle is great for beginners and experienced users alike. With 15 courses and 213 hours of content, this collection of lessons teaches you the basics of coding, game development, ChatGPT, and more while allowing you to learn at your own pace. And for a limited time, it's on sale for $49.99.

Lessons are taught by leading industry experts, like Jose Salvatierra (founder of Teclado and a software engineer), and give you the essential tools to get started in web development. Technology is evolving faster than ever, and you can better keep up with the competition by learning a new skill set. Create your own software, design a video game, or utilize OpenAI technologies— the creative opportunities are plentiful. 

This bundle includes the following comprehensive courses:

• Learn to Code with Python 3

• C++ for Absolute Beginners 2024

• ChatGPT Series: OpenAI Fundamentals 2024

• MySQL & SQL for Beginners

• The Complete Python Course: Learn Python by Doing in 2024

• Google Assistant Automation IoT Development

• Computer Vision & Deep Learning with OpenCV and Python: Build 15 Projects

• JavaScript Complete Guide with Practical JavaScript Projects

• Web Development with Vuex (2024)

• Flutter & Dart: Complete Flutter Dart Programming Course

• Java Programming for Complete Beginners

• Salesforce Platform App Builder Certification Training

• ChatGPT for Salesforce Development

• 2024 Complete Ruby on Rails 6 Bootcamp

• Game Development and Coding for Kids

Through January 28 at 11:59 p.m. PT, get the 2024 Premium Learn to Code Certification Bundle on sale for just $49.99 (originally $1,500), with no coupon needed.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Joseph Delgadillo The 2024 Premium Learn to Code Certification Bundle $49.99 in the Mashable Shop Get Deal

TL;DR: As of January 24, save $20 on a lifetime subscription to Tykr Stock Screener's premium plan with the code STOCK and get it for just $119.99.

While it's initially intimidating to wager your hard-earned cash on stocks, investing is also one of the only ways you can grow your money. But it's understandably a scary venture for newbies, especially those not well-versed in the stock market just yet.

If that's the case for you, Tykr is a tool that can help you navigate the complexities of the stock market. And through January 28, you can grab a lifetime subscription to its premium plan for an extra $20 off with the coupon code STOCK.

Tykr is a stock screener developed to hold your hand in the chaotic world of investment. It provides educational tools to teach you what you need to know about investing, giving you the proper support to make informed investment decisions.

With Tykr, you can find investment opportunities in a matter of seconds. It supports over 30,000 U.S. and international stocks, exposing you to a broad spectrum of options to diversify your investment portfolio. But instead of just providing a mere list, it organizes stocks in various categories to guide you in identifying their financial strength. You'll know when a stock is considered a potential buy, something to watch, or is overpriced. The higher its assigned score is, the safer an investment vehicle it's supposed to be.

It's not sorcery. Tykr uses open-source calculations to analyze each stock, allowing you to have a look at how computations are made. Of course, you'll also get risk management lessons along the way so you can work on minimizing your losses as you grow your portfolio.

Normally retailing for $900, you can grab a lifetime subscription to Tykr's premium plan for an extra $20 off when you use the code STOCK and order through January 28 at 11:59 p.m. PT. 

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Tykr Tykr Stock Screener: Premium Plan Lifetime Subscription $119.99 at the Mashable Shop Get Deal

TL;DR: As of January 24, get Microsoft Visio 2021 Professional for only $29.99 — that's 88% off.

Whether you need to draft a flowchart or create a floor plan, creating a clean, legible visual representation of complex data can be tough, especially if you're using software that isn't designed for it. Microsoft Visio is the tool for the job if you need to craft a visual representation of data, whether it's a chart, diagram, seating chart, or even mapping the furniture layout of a room. 

Typically, access to Microsoft Visio 2021 Professional would cost $249, but you can get it for just $29.99. 

It's off the chart

Ditch the MS Word graph insert and use an app that's actually designed to make your data look good. Use Visio for everything from crafting flowcharts, org charts, diagrams, and more. You can access premade templates or take advantage of starter diagrams and stencils to craft your own. 

Make sure to take a look at the huge library of shapes available in Visio's online content ecosystem. There are a quarter million of them, so there's plenty of room to insert visuals as needed, but you don't have to do everything manually. Visio supports automatic org chart generation using data from Excel, Exchange, or Microsoft Entra ID. 

This is a one-time purchase, but there are a few things to keep in mind with it. A Microsoft 365 subscription isn't included, but you do need one or a standalone subscription to SharePoint. Check out the other requirements for using this software, but they may already be covered if you're shopping for apps to use in the office. 

One app for all your data visuals

Use one app to create eye-catching visuals for all your data. 

Get Microsoft Visio 2021 Professional for Windows for just $29.99 (reg. $249). 

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: SmartTrainingLab Microsoft Visio 2021 Professional for Windows $29.99 at the Mashable Shop Get Deal

TL;DR: Through January 28, get this refurbished iPad Air with accessories for only $349.99 — you'll save 14% on the usual refurbished price.

When it comes to buying gadgets, it doesn't always stop at purchasing the device itself. There's usually an extra stretch on your wallet for accessories and peripherals, including a screen protector and a case. Before you know it, you've added a couple more dollars to your total, which isn't ideal, especially when trying to keep your finances in check.

This makes this deal on a refurbished iPad Air all the more enticing. Apart from a new-to-you device that's already a fraction of the price of a brand-new unit, it also comes with a bunch of accessories, saving you from the extra shopping hassle and added expense. Through January 28, you can grab the set for $349.99.

The refurbished iPad Air in this bundle may be a 3rd-gen 2019 model, but it boasts a litany of nifty features, including a 10.5-inch screen with a 2224 x 1668 touch-sensitive Retina display that makes surfing, streaming, and gaming sharper and an Apple A12 Bionic processor and 3GB of RAM that make even the most graphic-intensive games smooth to run. It also packs 64GB of internal storage for storing all your essential files, media, and favorite apps.

This iPad also has a dual camera for snapping high-quality photos, and its battery can last up to ten hours on a single charge. Rounding out the bundle are accessories, including a snap-on case, pre-installed tempered glass, and a charger.

It's worth noting that this iPad has a grade B refurbished rating, meaning it may have light scuffing or dents here and there. But despite the minute cosmetic marks, you'll be getting your hands on a 2019 iPad Air with high-tech features for less than what you'd pay if you opt to buy brand-new.

Formerly $409, you can grab this 2019 refurbished iPad Air bundle on sale for $349.99 until January 28 at 11:59 p.m. PT.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple 2019 refurbished iPad Air bundle $349.99 at the Mashable Shop Get Deal

UPDATE: Jan. 23, 2024, 5:00 a.m. EST We're currently overhauling this guide to the best cheap laptops and will update it with additional picks in the coming months. (Mashable staff is in the process of hands-on testing the HP Chromebook 14 Plus x360, the HP Chromebook Plus 15, and the Acer Chromebook 516GE.) Check back soon for new reviews and to find out what makes our list.

So, you fancy buying one of the best laptops around, but don’t want to empty your wallet in the process? Take some crucial advice: Don't let big brands with multi-million-dollar marketing campaigns fool you into thinking you have to pay upwards of $1,000 to get a quality device. The average user who needs a machine for everyday tasks probably won't notice a difference between one of the best budget laptops and a fancy ultrabook. We're talking about the best budget laptop options that are both high-tech and responsive, helping you write, browse the internet, store files, and more.

SEE ALSO: The best laptops you can buy in 2024 for work, school, and gaming

There’s a whole world of laptops to be had for cheap. Elsewhere, we've rounded up the best laptops for students and the top gaming laptops for any budget, but we wanted to gather all of our favorite budget laptops into one place.

Keep reading for our guide to the best budget laptops that are worth buying.

Note: All listed specs and prices apply to each model's base configuration unless noted otherwise.

Tesla is preparing to build a new electric car model in 2025, and it might be a banger.

According to Reuters, which cites four people familiar with the matter, Tesla has told suppliers it wants to start production of a new electric vehicle in June next yet.

SEE ALSO: Tesla wouldn't put a solar roof on Model Y so this owner did it himself

The new car, codenamed Redwood, will be a compact crossover, some of the sources told Reuters. If true, this would likely make this new model an affordable, popular option among buyers. Tesla's mid-sized SUV, the Model Y, is currently the company's best-selling car.

According to the report, Tesla is looking to produce 10,000 units of this new model per week.

Tesla recently started selling a new model, the Cybertruck, after several years of delays. But that car is an unusually designed, pricy, massive pick-up, which will certainly never reach the volume of Tesla's most popular models. The company also recently started selling a refreshed variant of its Model 3 compact sedan, and reports claim that a refreshed version of Model Y is due to arrive this year.

Tesla CEO Elon Musk said in May that the company is working on two new models, though details were absent, save for a silhouette of one of the new cars. He did say that “both the design of the products and the manufacturing techniques are head and shoulders above anything else that is present in the industry.”

Musk previously mentioned a new model with a starting price of about $25,000; the company also plans to build a robotaxi, which is a car specifically designed to haul passengers autonomously.

TL;DR: Stream Tottenham Hotspur vs. Manchester City in the FA Cup for free on ITVX. Access this free streaming service from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The FA Cup is a special competition, and you can watch some of the biggest games from the fourth round of the competition without spending anything. BBC iPlayer and ITVX are offering free live streaming of the FA Cup this season, which is great news for fans who really don't fancy travelling to the game.

If you want to watch Tottenham Hotspur vs. Manchester City for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Tottenham Hotspur vs. Manchester City in the FA Cup?

Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City will kick off at 8 p.m. GMT on Jan. 26 at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

How to watch Tottenham Hotspur vs. Manchester City for free

You can watch the FA Cup fixture between Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City live on ITV1, with coverage starting from 7:30 p.m. GMT on Jan. 26. You can also live stream this fixture for free on ITVX.

ITVX is geo-restricted to the UK, but anyone can access this free streaming platform with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the UK, meaning you can connect to ITVX from anywhere in the world.

Unblock ITVX by following these simple steps:

1. Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

3. Open up the app and connect to a server in the UK

4. Visit ITVX

5. Steam Tottenham Hotspur vs. Manchester City for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Year Subscription + 3 Months Free) £82.82 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but leading VPNs tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By capitalising on these offers, you can gain access to ITVX without committing with your cash. This is obviously not a long-term solution, but it gives you time to stream Tottenham Hotspur vs. Manchester City for free.

What is the best VPN for ITVX?

ExpressVPN is the best service for unblocking ITVX, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 94 countries including the UK

• Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

• Fast connection speeds

• Up to five simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for £82.82 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

Watch Tottenham Hotspur vs. Manchester City for free with ExpressVPN.

TL;DR: The 2024 Dutch Darts Masters is available to stream for free on ITVX. Access this free streaming service from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

After securing a win at the Bahrain Darts Masters, Luke Littler will be looking to do it all over again at the second event of the World Series of Darts: the Dutch Darts Masters. It's not going to be easy, because the best of the best are taking part in this popular tournament.

If you want to watch the 2024 Dutch Darts Masters for free from anywhere in the world, we've got all the information you need.

When is the 2024 Dutch Darts Masters?

The 2024 Dutch Darts Masters will take place from Jan. 27 to Jan. 27. The tournament will be held at Maaspoort Den Bosch.

How to watch the 2024 Dutch Darts Masters for free

Fans can watch the 2024 Dutch Darts Masters on ITV3 and ITV4, with free live streaming available on ITVX.

ITVX is geo-restricted to the UK, but anyone can access this free streaming platform with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the UK, meaning you can connect to ITVX from anywhere in the world.

Unblock ITVX to stream the 2024 Dutch Darts Masters by following these simple steps:

1. Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

3. Open up the app and connect to a server in the UK

4. Visit ITVX

5. Steam the 2024 Dutch Darts Masters for free

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Year Subscription + 3 Months Free) £82.82 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but leading VPNs do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By taking advantage of these offers, you can gain access to ITVX without committing with your cash. This is not a long-term solution, but it gives you plenty of time to stream the 2024 Dutch Darts Masters before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for ITVX?

ExpressVPN is the best service for unblocking ITVX, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 94 countries including the UK

• Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

• Fast connection speeds

• Up to five simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for £82.82 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

Stream the 2024 Dutch Darts Masters for free from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.