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How to watch Slovenia vs. Serbia online for free

Mashable - Thu, 06/20/2024 - 00:00

TL;DR: Watch Slovenia vs. Serbia in Euro 2024 for free on ITVX. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

Euro 2024 continues with more Group C action as central European rivals Slovenia and Serbia go head to head. It could be an action-packed matchup.

Neither team is a heavy favourite to win the tournament but both nations are eager to make an impact on the international stage and be seen as contenders going forward. And with England and Denmark also in their group, this could be the best chance for these sides to notch up three points and potentially advance to the knockout stage.

If you want to watch Slovenia vs. Serbia in Euro 2024, here's some helpful information on how to access all the action for free.

When is Slovenia vs. Serbia?

Slovenia vs. Serbia in Euro 2024 kicks off at 9 a.m. ET / 2 p.m. BST on June 20. This fixture takes place at the Munich Football Arena in Munich, Germany.

How to watch Slovenia vs. Serbia for free

Slovenia vs. Serbia in Euro 2024 is being broadcast by ITV, with live coverage on the broadcaster's free streaming platform ITVX.

ITVX is unfortunately geo-restricted for viewers outside the UK, but there are ways to get around these restrictions. All you need is a VPN. It's really quite simple. A VPN maintains your anonymity online by masking your IP address. To access the UK-based platform, it connects to a UK-based server, which tricks ITVX into thinking you're based in the UK. That will allow you to access the ITVX coverage wherever you are.

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. Stream Slovenia vs. Serbia in Euro 2024 from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Year Subscription + 3 Months Free) $99.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

It's true that the best VPNs for streaming aren't free — you have to pay a fee or subscription to use them — but you'll often find that they come with a sweetener offer, such as a free-trial period or a money-back guarantee. Use these deals to try the VPN at zero cost, which will be enough to take advantage and watch the Euro 2024 fixtures for free.

What is the best VPN for ITVX?

ExpressVPN is the best choice for streaming live sport on ITVX, for a number of reasons:

  • Servers in 105 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 free from throttling

  • Up to eight simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

There's a great deal on ExpressVPN right now, with a one-year subscription at the price of just $99.95. That includes an extra three months for free. Altogether that's 49% off — but for a limited time only. This plan is rounded off with a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a 30-day money-back guarantee, which is exactly what you want for Euro 2024 — just sign up and get your money back if you don't want to keep the VPN.

Stream Slovenia vs. Serbia in Euro 2024 for free with ExpressVPN.

How to watch Denmark vs. England online for free

Mashable - Thu, 06/20/2024 - 00:00

TL;DR: Watch Denmark vs. England in Euro 2024 for free on BBC iPlayer. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

To win Euro 2024, teams will need to show remarkable consistency throughout the tournament. That means there is no time to drop standards, even in the group stage games.

Looking to build some momentum after the first round of fixtures, England and Denmark meet next in Frankfurt. If you want to watch Denmark vs. England in Euro 2024 for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Denmark vs. England?

Denmark vs. England in Euro 2024 kicks off at 5 p.m. BST on June 20. This fixture takes place at the Deutsche Bank Park in Frankfurt, Germany.

How to watch Denmark vs. England for free

Denmark vs. England in Euro 2024 is being broadcast by the BBC, with free live streaming available on BBC iPlayer.

BBC iPlayer 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 bypass geo-restrictions to access BBC iPlayer from anywhere in the world.

Unblock BBC iPlayer 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 BBC iPlayer

  5. Stream Denmark vs. England in Euro 2024 from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Year Subscription + 3 Months Free) $99.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but they do tend to provide free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can gain access to BBC iPlayer without committing with your cash. This is not a long-term solution, but it gives you enough time to stream every Euro 2024 fixture for free.

What is the best VPN for BBC iPlayer?

ExpressVPN is the best choice for streaming live sport on BBC iPlayer, for a number of reasons:

  • Servers in 105 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 free from throttling

  • Up to eight simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 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 Denmark vs. England in Euro 2024 for free with ExpressVPN.

How to watch Argentina vs. Canada online for free

Mashable - Thu, 06/20/2024 - 00:00

TL;DR: Watch Argentina vs. Canada in the 2024 Copa America for free on Sportitalia. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

As the World Cup winners, expectations will be high for Argentina in the 2024 Copa America. It's not going to be easy to be successful in this competition. There are a lot of strong sides, and everyone will raise their performance levels against the world champions. But Argentina do have Lionel Messi, so anything is possible.

If you want to watch Argentina vs. Canada in the 2024 Copa America for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Argentina vs. Canada?

Argentina vs. Canada in the 2024 Copa America kicks off at 8 p.m. ET on June 20. This fixture takes place at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

How to watch Argentina vs. Canada for free

Argentina vs. Canada in the 2024 Copa America is available to live stream for free on Sportitalia.

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

Access free live streams of Copa America 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 Italy

  4. Visit Sportitalia

  5. Watch the 2024 Copa America for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Year Subscription + 3 Months Free) $99.95 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 free live streams without committing with your cash. This is obviously not a long-term solution, but it does give you time to watch the 2024 Copa America before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for Sportitalia?

ExpressVPN is the best choice for unblocking Sportitalia to stream live sport for free, for a number of reasons:

  • Servers in 105 countries including Italy

  • 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 free from throttling

  • Up to eight simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 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 Argentina vs. Canada in the 2024 Copa America for free with ExpressVPN.

NYT Connections today: See hints and answers for June 20

Mashable - Wed, 06/19/2024 - 22:25

Connections is the latest New York Times word game that's captured the public's attention. The game is all about finding the "common threads between words." And just like Wordle, Connections resets after midnight and each new set of words gets trickier and trickier—so we've served up some hints and tips to get you over the hurdle.

If you just want to be told today's puzzle, you can jump to the end of this article for June 20's Connections solution. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

What is Connections?

The NYT's latest daily word game has become a social media hit. The Times credits associate puzzle editor Wyna Liu with helping to create the new word game and bringing it to the publications' Games section. Connections can be played on both web browsers and mobile devices and require players to group four words that share something in common.

Tweet may have been deleted

Each puzzle features 16 words and each grouping of words is split into four categories. These sets could comprise of anything from book titles, software, country names, etc. Even though multiple words will seem like they fit together, there's only one correct answer. If a player gets all four words in a set correct, those words are removed from the board. Guess wrong and it counts as a mistake—players get up to four mistakes until the game ends.

Tweet may have been deleted

Players can also rearrange and shuffle the board to make spotting connections easier. Additionally, each group is color-coded with yellow being the easiest, followed by green, blue, and purple. Like Wordle, you can share the results with your friends on social media.

Here's a hint for today's Connections categories

Want a hit about the categories without being told the categories? Then give these a try:

  • Yellow: Carpenter's aids

  • Green: Out fishing

  • Blue: At the salon

  • Purple: Types of lightning

Featured Video For You Connections: How to play and how to win Here are today's Connections categories

Need a little extra help? Today's connections fall into the following categories:

  • Yellow: Bits of Hardware

  • Green: Fishing Gear

  • Blue: Hair Salon Fixtures

  • Purple: Lightning___

Looking for Wordle today? Here's the answer to today's Wordle.

Ready for the answers? This is your last chance to turn back and solve today's puzzle before we reveal the solutions.

Drumroll, please!

The solution to Connections #375 is...

What is the answer to Connections today
  • Bits of Hardware: NAIL, NUT, SCREW, WASHER

  • Fishing Gear: FLY, HOOK, LINE, SINKER

  • Hair Salon Fixtures CHAIR, DRYER, MIRROR, SINK

  • Lightning___: BOLT, BUG, ROD, STRIKE

Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be new Connections for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.

Is this not the Connections game you were looking for? Here are the hints and answers to yesterday's Connections.

'Wordle' today: Here's the answer hints for June 20

Mashable - Wed, 06/19/2024 - 22:22

Oh hey there! If you're here, it must be time for Wordle. As always, we're serving up our daily hints and tips to help you figure out today's answer.

If you just want to be told today's word, you can jump to the bottom of this article for June 20's Wordle solution revealed. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

Where did Wordle come from?

Originally created by engineer Josh Wardle as a gift for his partner, Wordle rapidly spread to become an international phenomenon, with thousands of people around the globe playing every day. Alternate Wordle versions created by fans also sprang up, including battle royale Squabble, music identification game Heardle, and variations like Dordle and Quordle that make you guess multiple words at once

Wordle eventually became so popular that it was purchased by the New York Times, and TikTok creators even livestream themselves playing.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Wordle.

What's the best Wordle starting word?

The best Wordle starting word is the one that speaks to you. But if you prefer to be strategic in your approach, we have a few ideas to help you pick a word that might help you find the solution faster. One tip is to select a word that includes at least two different vowels, plus some common consonants like S, T, R, or N.

What happened to the Wordle archive?

The entire archive of past Wordle puzzles used to be available for anyone to enjoy whenever they felt like it. Unfortunately, it has since been taken down, with the website's creator stating it was done at the request of the New York Times.

Is Wordle getting harder?

It might feel like Wordle is getting harder, but it actually isn't any more difficult than when it first began. You can turn on Wordle's Hard Mode if you're after more of a challenge, though.

Here's a subtle hint for today's Wordle answer:

A whiff of something.

Does today's Wordle answer have a double letter?

There are no letters that appear twice.

Today's Wordle is a 5-letter word that starts with...

Today's Wordle starts with the letter S.

SEE ALSO: Wordle-obsessed? These are the best word games to play IRL. The Wordle answer today is...

Get your last guesses in now, because it's your final chance to solve today's Wordle before we reveal the solution.

Drumroll please!

The solution to Wordle #1097 is...

SCENT.

Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be a new Wordle for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.

Reporting by Caitlin Welsh, Sam Haysom, Amanda Yeo, Shannon Connellan, Cecily Mauran, Mike Pearl, and Adam Rosenberg contributed to this article.

Ilya Sutskever, OpenAI Co-Founder Who Helped Oust Sam Altman, Starts His Own Company

NYT Technology - Wed, 06/19/2024 - 15:00
Ilya Sutskever’s new start-up, Safe Superintelligence, aims to build A.I. technologies that are smarter than a human but not dangerous.

EU chat control law would allow scans of encrypted messages

Mashable - Wed, 06/19/2024 - 12:35

Kids' online safety is a big issue in the U.S. and elsewhere. As of now, legislators push laws that seemingly make children safer online, but may actually lead to identity theft (like with age-verification bills) and block LGBTQ and other content (like with the Kids Online Safety Act).

Over in the EU, a law is seeking to undermine end-to-end encryption in an attempt to stop CSAM (child sex abuse material). As The Verge reported, the chat control law proposes to scan messages, including ones that are encrypted. End-to-end encryption means that no one, including governments and the messaging platform, can read your messages. They are scrambled so only the sender and receiver can read them.

SEE ALSO: Apple and Meta may face official EU charges for failing to allow marketplace competition

Last November, the European Parliament's Civil Liberties committee voted to exclude mass scanning of encrypted messages, proposals that were in previous versions of the chat control law, which was first introduced in 2022.

It seems, however, that the changes have only been in language only. The most recent chat control law would implement an "upload moderation" system of mass scanning of messages, including ones with links, photos, and videos. The proposed law states that end-to-end encryption is necessary for protecting rights, but it goes on to state that "it is crucial that services employing end-to-end encryption do not inadvertently become secure zones where child sexual abuse material can be shared or disseminated without possible consequences," The Verge pointed out.

This is contradictory, as scanning technology would subvert such encryption. Because of this, digital rights activists and organizations have released statements opposing chat control. The Center for Democracy and Technology, the Internet Freedom Foundation, Mozilla, and others signed a joint statement calling on the EU Council to "reject all scanning proposals that are inconsistent with the principle of end-to-end encryption."

President of encrypted messaging app Signal, Meredith Whittaker, also released a statement rejecting chat control and stated that language like "upload moderation" is "the same old surveillance with new branding." On Mastodon, Whittaker said Signal will pull out of the EU if the bill passes.

Tweet may have been deleted

Dozens of members of the European Parliament have signed an open letter against the law as well, stating that it would weaken cybersecurity and act as a "blueprint for authoritarian states."

According to Patrick Breyer, a member of the European Parliament, the EU Council will vote on this law on Thursday.

Score $220 off a DJI Air 3 drone at Amazon

Mashable - Wed, 06/19/2024 - 12:15

GET $220 OFF: As of June 19, a DJI Air 3 (DJI RC-N2) drone is available at Amazon for $879, down from $1,099. That's $220 off the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: DJI Our pick: DJI Air 3 (DJI RC-N2) drone $879.00 at Amazon
$1,099.00 Save $220.00 Get Deal

Whether you're a videographer, hobbyist, real estate agent, or just someone who loves a good challenge, the drone you choose can make or break your experience (and the content you create). But with drone prices often costing thousands of dollars, it’s hard to find something that’s affordable and feature-rich. But sometimes Amazon gifts us with a discount that's too good to pass up — and that's exactly what's happening with the DJI Air 3 drone right now.

As of June 19, you can score a DJI Air 3 (DJI RC-N2) drone for just $879 at Amazon. That’s a 20% discount of $220 off the listing price. It’s also the lowest price we’ve seen this model go for yet.

SEE ALSO: The best drones for beginners

This model may not be as popular as the DJI Mini 3 or DJI Mavic Pro, but it’s a pretty solid option for newbies and experienced pilots. Thanks to its omnidirectional obstacle-sensing feature, even first-time flyers can zoom through trees and buildings without having to worry too much about collisions (though it’s bound to happen occasionally).

The dual cameras also make it easy to take professional-grade shots, while the 46-minute flight time gives you plenty of time in the air to get the footage you need.

If you’re looking for an immersive and more hands-on experience, the DJI Goggles Integra and DJI Goggles 2 are available as optional add-ons.

Logitech's A30 wireless gaming headset has a 27-hour battery and 26% price drop

Mashable - Wed, 06/19/2024 - 12:12

SAVE 26%: The Logitech G Astro A30 Lightspeed gaming headset is on sale for $170.94 at Amazon, down from the list price of $229.99. That's a savings of $59.05.

Opens in a new window Credit: Logitech Logitech G Astro A30 Lightspeed wireless gaming headset $170.94 at Amazon
$229.99 Save $59.05 Get Deal

It's one thing to use old headphones when listening to a podcast or taking the dog on a neighborhood walk, but it's another thing when it leads to a game gone awry. If your gaming headset is in need of an upgrade, today's deal at Amazon will get you back on your A-game.

As of June 19, the Logitech G Astro A30 Lightspeed gaming headset is just $170.94 at Amazon, marked down from the usual price of $229.99. That's a 26% discount or a savings of $59.05. This sale price comes within $1 of the lowest price we've ever seen at Amazon, and it beats the price you'll find at the Logitech online store.

With Bluetooth connectivity, the Logitech gaming headset is compatible with your favorite consoles including PlayStation, Xbox, and the Nintendo Switch. Thanks to the wireless design, you can forget about adding more cords to your gaming setup and instead have the freedom of movement. The Logitech gaming headset can also connect to your PC or mobile device with iOS or Android. In Logitech's G mobile app, you can customize your listening experience to get the sound balance just right.

SEE ALSO: The best gaming laptops of 2024 for every budget

The lightweight design uses 40 mm drivers for high-quality sound that can last for over 27 hours of gaming before needing a re-charge. The gaming headset has a built-in mic and a detachable boom mic, so you get to decide which mode works best for your style. It also comes with its own carrying case, so you can safely pack the headset away and take it with to a friend's house or on summer vacation. Lastly, we're fans of the boxy design, which calls to mind Marshall headphones and features swappable skins.

If your current gaming setup lacks a quality headset, today's deal at Amazon proves a great time to upgrade. At nearly the lowest price we've ever seen, the Logitech G Astro A30 Lightspeed gaming headset is a great addition to any summer gaming plans.

Get Anker's new portable power bank with a built-in USB-C cable for 20% off

Mashable - Wed, 06/19/2024 - 12:06

SAVE $9: As of June 19, get the Anker 3-in-1 Power Bank at Amazon for $35.99 when you clip the on-page 20% off coupon. That's $9 off its normal price of $45.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Anker 3-in-1 Power Bank $35.99 at Amazon
$44.99 Save $9.00 Get Deal

When you're deciding what to take with you when traveling, convenience is one of the most important factors. That's why power banks are clutch travel accessories — you never know when you might need some emergency juice for your phone or another device. Get a new power bank that can charge multiple devices and has a built-in USB-C cable on sale now.

As of June 19, get the Anker 3-in-1 Power Bank for just $35.99 when you clip the on-page coupon for 20% off. That's $9 off its normal price of $44.99. This coupon matches a previous sale price on this new product, so you're getting a great deal here. The discount will automatically be applied at checkout. Right now the coupon is available for all five colors: Black, Violet, Blue, Pink, and White.

SEE ALSO: Amazon deal of the day: Get both the Roomba i3+ EVO and Braava Jet M6 for under $500

You can use this 30W fast-charging power bank as a wall charger with its fold-up AC plug, plug it into a USB-C device to charge it up, or use it as a way to bank additional juice for on-the-go emergencies. It has a digital readout that shows you how much capacity it has left after each charge, too. Plus, it comes in fun colors!

This Mashable-tested charger is reliable and works well despite its somewhat chunky profile. It's great not to have to carry around a separate USB-C cable, too. If you routinely need extra power when out and about, you can't go wrong with this find, on sale for just $35.99 right ow.

Amazon deal of the day: Get both the Roomba i3+ EVO and Braava Jet M6 for under $500

Mashable - Wed, 06/19/2024 - 11:57
Amazon deals of the day at a glance: OUR TOP PICK Roomba i3+ EVO and Braava Jet M6 Bundle $498.99 at Amazon (save $400.01) Get Deal BEST SPEAKER DEAL Soundcore Boom 2 $99.99 at Amazon (save $30) Get Deal BEST SSD DEAL Samsung T7 Shield (1TB) $99.99 at Amazon (save $70) Get Deal

With Walmart on day three of its members-only savings event, we were expecting a week full of massive deals and healthy competition from Amazon. Instead, it's been a slow burn. That doesn't mean we didn't find impressive savings, though. We can always count on Amazon to quench our thirst for deals.

We've rounded up a few of the best deals we could find at Amazon on June 19. Here are our top picks. And don't forget to check out our picks from June 17 and June 18 as well — many of those are still live.

Our top pick Opens in a new window Credit: iRobot Roomba i3+ EVO and Braava Jet M6 Bundle $498.99 at Amazon
$899.00 Save $400.01 Get Deal

If you're on a budget, but want to be off the hook from manually cleaning your floors, this bundle of the Roomba i3+ EVO and Braava Jet M6 is one helluva deal. The i3+ EVO is our top pick for a budget Roomba, thanks to its self-emptying abilities, smart mapping, and more powerful suction power over the cheaper 600 series. Set it and forget it, and it'll pick up dirt and debris then dispose of it into its base. The Braava Jet M6 then picks up where the vacuum leaves off, giving your floors a freshly mopped shine. A value of $899 together, you can grab both for only $498.99 as of June 19 — that's 44% in savings.

Opens in a new window Credit: Soundcore Soundcore Boom 2 $99.99 at Amazon
$129.99 Save $30.00 Get Deal

"A fantastic option for nighttime pool parties," according to our friends at PCMag (which is owned by Mashable's publisher, Ziff Davis), the Soundcore Boom 2 delivers a big bass sound in a floating waterproof body. Plus, it features some fun LED lighting and a 24-hour battery life. PCMag gave it an "Excellent" rating and noted that it "offers a good blend of power and personality." As of June 19, you can snag it on sale for just $99.99 — that's 23% in savings and its lowest price on record.

Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung T7 Shield (1TB) $99.99 at Amazon
$169.99 Save $70.00 Get Deal

Samsung's T7 Shield offers a portable and secure solid-state drive with a whole lot of ruggedness. As our friends at PCMag (which is owned by Mashable's publisher, Ziff Davis) noted in their review, "If you ever take your laptop on the road or into the great outdoors, whether for business or pleasure, you'll appreciate having a drive like the T7 Shield to keep your data safe." It's not packed with bells and whistles like most, but if a rugged design and no nonsense functionality are your priorities, then it'll suit you just fine. The 1TB option is usually $169.99, but Amazon has it on sale for $99.99 as of June 19.

None of these deals catching your eye? Check out Amazon's daily deals for even more savings.

'Queenie's powerful ending reminds us that feeling uncomfortable is crucial

Mashable - Wed, 06/19/2024 - 11:32

In 2019, Candice Carty-Williams' hugely popular debut novel, Queenie, had readers trying to grapple with the complex heroine, the novel's titular protagonist. Some were perplexed, some enamoured, some deeply uncomfortable. Now, with Channel 4 and Hulu's TV adaptation, Queenie Jenkins is reaching new audiences wanting to unpack her, in all her glorious messiness.

Queenie tells the story of a 25-year-old Black British Jamaican woman from south London trying to navigate a quarter-life crisis. Like many women, Queenie (Dionne Brown) finds her twenties challenging. She’s estranged from her mother, working in an unsatisfying journalism job where she’s unable to tell the stories she wants about her community, and has just suffered a miscarriage. To make matters worse, her long-term boyfriend Tom (Jon Pointing) requests a break, so she moves out of their shared home into a less-than-ideal flat share. Here, Queenie searches for solace in alcohol and casual hookups that ultimately leave her feeling disempowered.

SEE ALSO: Candice Carty-Williams and 'Queenie' cast on bringing the novel to TV

Queenie’s story tackles themes of self-worth, domestic abuse, childhood trauma, and misogyny. Both the book and the series encourage empathy towards these experiences, a request for reflection that can become uncomfortable for viewers. But it's the series finale that proves how valuable such representation can be.  

What happens at the end of Queenie? Llewella Gideon and Dionne Brown. Credit: Lionsgate / Latoya Okuneye

Towards the end of the show, we see Queenie's unresolved childhood trauma catch up with her — as well as recent events since her breakup. In a short span of time, she discovers that Guy (Joseph Ollman), one of the men she was hooking up with, was also dating her friend, Cassandra (Elisha Applebaum). She's confronted in the street by the wife of Adi (Mim Shaikh), a local man from Brixon who had been vocal about his crush on Queenie and whom she hooked up with in the back of his car. Her co-worker Ted (Tom Forbes), who she hooked up with in the office toilets, also turns out to be married with a child on the way. When Ted's wife suspects his affair (of which there seems to have been a few), he reports Queenie to HR for inappropriate advances, resulting in her suspension. The final blow comes when Queenie has a breakdown, after which she finally decides to tell her ex about her miscarriage — only to find out he has moved on with someone else.

In the final episode, Queenie has transitioned to a new space, physically, professionally, and personally. She's going to therapy, living in a new apartment, and she posted a video online interviewing her grandmother Veronica (Llewella Gideon) about making a home in the UK, beginning a new series exploring underrepresented voices in the Black community. By the finale, Queenie has realised her self-worth to the point that she can forgive Cassandra, acknowledging how "men made [them] both move mad", but not welcome her back into her life. Queenie is able to agree with her boss, Gina (Sally Phillips), that she deserves better than her current job and quits, emphasising how Queenie is exorcising negativity from her life.

Why Queenie's strength lies in its relatability and discomfort Queenie's grandmother tells her, “You’re not strong because you’re tough or because you don’t feel pain. You’re strong because you’re not afraid to say that you are delicate.” Credit: Lionsgate / Latoya Okuneye

For much of the series, Queenie’s default move is to tell everyone she’s fine. But in British culture, "I'm fine" has many meanings. It can mean I’m OK, I’m not OK, or my life is falling apart but I’m still going to stick to tradition, be stoic, and keep silent until I reach breaking point — which is what it means for Queenie. 

In several ways, Queenie actively undercuts the emotional repression deeply ingrained in British society. British people’s emotional restraint is often attached to the stereotype that England is a strong and brave nation, in which emotions have no place. A 2007 study by the Social Issues Research Centre (SIRC) revealed that fewer than 20 percent of Brits claimed to have “let it all out” in the past 24 hours, even though 72 percent believed that bottling emotions up is bad for your health. The burden of repressed emotion remains ingrained in Britain’s history. This stoicism is reflected in popular phrases like the World War II motivational message “keep calm and carry on” and how we must “muddle through” in times of adversity as echoed by  Queen Elizabeth II during the coronavirus pandemic as she told the nation “that the attributes of self-discipline, of quiet good-humoured resolve and of fellow-feeling still characterise this country,” even in times of grief and difficulties.

Featured Video For You Candice Carty-Williams and the cast of 'Queenie' on bringing the novel to TV

If you’re Gen Z or a Millennial, you're often encouraged to address your trauma in therapy. A 2023 survey from the American Enterprise Institute found that 27 percent of Gen Z adults had gone to therapy in their teenage years in comparison to 4 percent of Boomers, 10 percent of Generation X and 20 percent of millennials. However, as Queenie's story illustrates, mental health issues are still considered very taboo not only in British culture but also in Caribbean and African households. This is compounded by the societal expectation for Black women to be "strong Black women" — a stereotype that is often reinforced in the "strong Black friend" trope in pop culture. Emigrants and their descendants also face pressure to be reserved, which we see when Queenie’s family reiterates that therapy is not for them. A 2015 poll by mental health charity Mind found that a quarter of 18 to 34 year olds feel that showing their emotions is a sign of weakness. This highlights a disconnect in society that has created a barrier where individuals can voice their opinions but not feel comfortable enough to admit that they may need professional help.

The show directly addresses the stereotype of Black people avoiding therapy, depicting the older generation learning from the younger. Despite a vow of generational silence being embedded in Queenie’s family, they are ultimately the ones who help her move forward. In the final episode, Queenie's grandmother tells her, “You’re not strong because you’re tough or because you don’t feel pain. You’re strong because you’re not afraid to say that you are delicate.” The message is: vulnerability takes strength. There are clear parallels between Queenie and her mother Sylvie (Ayesha Antoine), as her grandfather Wilfred (Joseph Marcell) reveals that Sylvie also used to claim she was fine despite enduring domestic abuse, illustrating a generational cycle of trauma. It’s what makes Queenie's final conversation with Wilfred in the finale so impactful as she deviates from her usual response to admit, "It’s been hard but good."

Joseph Marcell and Llewella Gideon in "Queenie". Credit: Lionsgate / Latoya Okuneye

Queenie’s strength lies in its lack of positive but relatable representation. During therapy, Queenie experiences a panic attack while telling her therapist, “I can’t not be a strong Black woman, Janet. OK? I can’t walk into any place and not be a Black woman.” We’ve seen on TV and in reality that there always feels the need to tone down Black women’s experiences, whether it’s their mistakes or their ability to feel weakness. However, Queenie shatters that social requirement and rebuilds her life from rock bottom.

In recent years, there has been a rise of Black women being allowed to be a mess on screen, including characters like Zendaya's Rue in Euphoria managing drug addiction and Kerry Washington's Paige Alexander in UnPrisoned, who realises having an absent father through childhood can produce unhealthy behaviours as an adult. But unlike Rue or Paige, Queenie hides no part of herself. 

Queenie unabashedly displays the darkest, most unfiltered sides of her being, which hits so close to home that it forces us to reckon with the problems around us — and for some of us, within ourselves. Queenie's raw sense of vulnerability is realistically portrayed, as unresolved trauma has the ability to affect decision-making, something many of us experience but are hesitant to admit.

Why we earn the ending of Queenie Dionne Brown and Bellah. Credit: Lionsgate / Latoya Okuneye

At the end of the series, Queenie's journey culminates in a cathartic moment when she gives her mother the space to apologise. “I’m sorry if anything I ever did made you feel like you weren’t enough. The world does that already. I should have put you first,” Sylvie says in the finale. Sylvie's reflection on how the world perceives Black women is significant. Many people of colour grow up in predominantly white communities, leading to feelings of insecurity and isolation, as well as a fractious relationship with their identity.

The show doesn’t hide the fact that Queenie's struggle with her identity is rooted in her mother's abandonment and constant instruction to make herself smaller. Sylvie tells Queenie to become invisible to her stepfather, she's instructed to toe the line at work, and her ex, Tom, tells her she’s "too much." It's what makes the show's final scene so powerful, in which we see Queenie and Sylvie expressing love for each other — and Queenie finally being able to say, “I love me too.” These lines in the series emphasise the importance of extracting yourself from spaces that don't value you. It's a defining moment when Queenie finally acknowledges she's worthy of love and that all that's happened to her isn't all on her.

The journey towards the ending also answers a big question about why Queenie dated certain men. We learn that her decision to date white men was never to do with the fact that she didn’t like Black men, but it stemmed from the fact that Black men had historically traumatised her. In Queenie, interracial relationships become somewhat of a cautionary tale that it could be argued some people need to hear. It makes Queenie’s journey towards Frank (Samuel Adewunmi) even more poignant as he sets out to break the cycle for her. Frank openly reassures her: “I need you to know I’m never ever even nearly gonna treat you like the way that guy treated your mum. Just know that.” These scenes are a reminder that women can simultaneously not have all the answers and experience love; we just need time and patience to work on ourselves first.

Queenie is a realistic representation of a young woman just trying to figure things out. She makes viewers question how different from her we really are. Yes, she is a mess and can be annoying, but she’s also smart, funny, and all the things in between, and isn't that something we can all be? Queenie stresses the importance of portraying Black women in their complete complexity, including their messy sides. The series reminds us that we need more characters like her, whom we are forced to look at with nuance and connect on a deeper level — even if that comes with discomfort.

How to watch: Queenie is now streaming on All4 in the UK and Hulu in the U.S.

Get ahead of wildfire smoke season: Save 20% on smart Coway Airmega air purifiers

Mashable - Wed, 06/19/2024 - 11:23

GET $91 OFF: As of June 19, you can get a Coway Airmega 400(G) smart air purifier at Amazon for just $359, down from $450.07. That's a 20% discount of $91.07.

Opens in a new window Credit: Conway Our pick: Coway Airmega 400(G) Smart Air Purifier $359.00 at Amazon
$450.07 Save $91.07 Get Deal

Wildfire season isn't approaching — it's already here. And if you live in an area prone to wildfires (or just wildfire smoke), you might want to take action to protect your home and family before the smoke starts rolling in.

In May, the National Preparedness Level for fire activity was increased to 2, with some areas in the Southwest already reaching Preparedness Level 3. According to a June 1 report, the total acreage burned in the U.S. so far this year is 183% higher than the 10-year average. Northern California has already seen multiple wildfires in what experts are calling an “unusually early start” to the state’s wildfire season.

SEE ALSO: How to protect your pets from wildfire smoke

One way to safeguard your home is by investing in a smart air purifier with a true-HEPA air filter. (If you live in California, you’ll want to make sure it’s on the California Air Resources Board CARB-Certified Air Cleaning Devices.)

As of June 19, the Coway Airmega 400(G) smart air purifier is on sale for $359 at Amazon, down from $450.07. That’s a 20% discount of $91.07 off the listing price — a pretty good deal given this model’s advanced features and customer reviews.

The Coway Airmega 400 can purify the air in spaces up to 1,560 square feet, making it great for large living rooms, open-concept spaces, apartments, and small homes. Its three-stage filtration system, including a pre-filter, deodorization filter, and true HEPA filter, effectively captures 99.999% of tiny 0.01-micron particles like pollen and other allergens. Plus, the smart mode automatically adjusts the fan speed to optimize air quality based on your indoor environment.

Coway Airmega purifiers consistently win awards and are popular among shoppers and reviewers alike. However, they aren't the only air purifiers on sale right now.

Best air purifier deals:

Everywhere you can get 'Elden Ring' on sale ahead of Friday's 'Shadow of the Erdtree' DLC launch

Mashable - Wed, 06/19/2024 - 11:05

UP TO $11.14 OFF: As of June 19, get Elden Ring on sale ahead of the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC launch this Friday. Get it at Amazon for PlayStation 5 for $49.94, or at Walmart for Xbox for $48.85. It's also on sale at multiple other retailers.

'Elden Ring' Deals Best "Elden Ring" PS5 Deal "Elden Ring" $49.94 at Amazon (Save $10.05) Get Deal Best "Elden Ring" Xbox Deal "Elden Ring" $48.85 at Walmart (Save $11.14) Get Deal

Arise, ye Tarnished, and make sure you're ready for the Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree DLC when it debuts this Friday. The first expansion for the massively popular Soulslike is arriving with an extensive set of new content to explore in just days, and if you haven't yet played through the original game, you've got scant time yet to be ready for the experience.

If you've not yet taken your maiden voyage to the Lands Between with 2022's hit game, now's a good time to go ahead and pick it up so you can at least get started before the DLC hits all platforms. You can do that and save some cash right now, as Elden Ring is currently on sale for both Xbox and PlayStation at multiple retailers.

Right now, you can get Elden Ring for the lowest prices we've found at Amazon and Walmart. As of June 19, get Elden Ring on sale at Amazon for PlayStation 5 for $49.94, or at Walmart for Xbox for $48.85. It's also on sale at multiple other retailers. There aren't any current PC deals available across retailers like Steam, so it looks like console players are getting the best of this deal for the moment, but if you're a console player looking to dive in, these prices are still worth taking advantage of.

SEE ALSO: Get $50 off the Stealth 700 Gen 2 MAX gaming headset at Amazon

Elden Ring is a challenge in and of itself that's been the fantasy game of choice for gamers since its debut. Part of the FromSoftware "Souls" series, it's known for its brutal difficulty, imaginative worldbuilding, disturbing creatures, and nuanced combat. It might not be for everyone, but for those who embrace it and its darkness, it makes for an immersive good time with some of the finest in-game lore you'll find in a Western action-adventure game.

Shadow of the Erdtree is the game's first expansion, and it will take players on a lengthy quest with hours of additional content. It's currently up for preorder and will arrive on all platforms Friday.

More Elden Ring deals

The ultimate guide to having sex at a festival 

Mashable - Wed, 06/19/2024 - 11:01

Festival season is officially upon us. Glastonbury is right around the corner. And as we head into the height of summer, there will be a festival pretty much every other day. 

If you’re a festival ticket holder this year, there are probably a few things you’re planning on doing: having a few drinks, eating some great food, seeing some of your favourite bands, trying not to think about the fact you’ll be sleeping on the ground for a weekend. And, of course, having sex

According to research from sex toy company Lovehoney, 39 percent of Brits have had sex at a festival. This figure grows among younger people, too. Over half (55 percent) of those aged 18 to 34 have had sex at a festival at some point. Yet, festival sex is a complete pain in the arse. Or the genitals. Or wherever else you plan on having sex. In fact, only 12 percent of those surveyed said that festival sex was great and 12 percent saying it was ‘just okay’. So, what's going wrong?

Yes, festival sex is fun, and it’s practically a rite of passage, but it’s a complete nightmare to facilitate. You’re not sure when you’re going to get a proper, hot shower (even if you’ve paid for the bougie pamper pass upgrades), you’ve often drank so much you’re not sure if you really should have sex but you’re still horny, and the only place you have to bring someone back to is a tiny pop-up two-man tent tightly packed with all your belongings, and possibly your mate having a snooze. 

SEE ALSO: The essential guide to mirror sex

It’s inevitably going to happen though. So, we spoke to the experts as well as those who love shagging at festivals to see how to do it best. 

Prepare for festival sex before you head off

The first part of preparing for sex comes before the festival even happens. Ask yourself, are you probably going to have sex at this festival? Are you single? Bringing your partner with you? Have you had sex at a festival before? Consider whether you’re likely to have sex and if your answer is even a "maybe," you should take it as a "yeah, probably" and prepare thoroughly. 

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Before heading to the festival, make sure you take an STI test so you know where you stand sexual health-wise. While purchasing a tent and stocking up on supplies might be at the forefront of your pre-festival checklist, it's essential to prioritise getting an STI test, especially if it’s likely you’ll be doing it with a new sexual partner and even if you plan on using a condom. 

Pippa Murphy, sex expert at condom provider condoms.co.uk says this will "not only safeguard your future partners but also provide you with peace of mind, allowing you to fully enjoy the moment while being intimate."

"Although some festivals, like Glastonbury, distribute free condoms, buying and bringing your own is wise to ensure you're prepared."

And speaking of condoms, you’ll need to bring plenty of those — or whatever your preferred barrier contraception method is — even if you have a consistent sexual partner. "Although some festivals, like Glastonbury, distribute free condoms, buying and bringing your own is wise to ensure you're prepared," Murphy says. 

"This is especially crucial if you have a latex allergy and need a non-latex alternative. Even if you or your regular partner are using other forms of contraception, I’d still recommend that you bring condoms as naturally having sex in a small tent can make for a messy job — and it’s always in the most awkward of times where you realise you forgot to bring anything that can help clean up the mess."

28-year-old Ella* says festival sex is her "favourite kind of sex" and recommends stocking up on the morning after pill before-hand if possible, too. "I try to just to hand and oral sex at festivals as there’s less chance of STI or pregnancy mis-haps, but I’m also realistic and know that, after a few pints, I’m gonna want a full-on fuck," she says. So, she brings along some emergency contraception just in case. 

"Condoms just rip sometimes, man. Or they fall off or you forget to put them on when you’re being stupid. The last thing you want is to be in the middle of a field thinking 'oh my god' when you’ve had an accident, so I bring a morning-after pill with me." Ella adds that condoms also reduce "mess" during sex for the receiver, so they’re a win-win. 

"The last thing you want is to be in the middle of a field thinking 'oh my god' when you’ve had an accident, so I bring a morning-after pill with me."

For those in the queer community, it’s also worth taking Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) with you to festivals. As Murphy notes, sometimes drunk festival go-ers skip past the important pre-sex conversations where STI status would be disclosed, and sometimes condoms get forgotten in the heat of the moment. If there’s any chance you could ever be at risk of contracting HIV, PrEP reduces your chance of transmission down by 99 percent and it is available for free on the NHS. Though, keep in mind that it doesn’t protect against any other STIs, and you should still get tested after every new partner even if you’re on PrEP. 

While we don’t recommend having any unprotected sex at a festival, these measures will have your back if accidents happen. Keep in mind that LARCs (Long Acting Reversible Contraceptives) like the implant, pill, injection or coil do not protect from STIs and a condom should be worn with new sexual partners. You can get the morning after pill from Superdrug, Boots, and most pharmacies both in-person and online.  

Consider post-sex packing too

You know how, after sex, there can be a bit of… mess? On you and on the bed? Now imagine that in a small tent with limited access to good showers! Yeah, you’re going to need to pack some items for after sex as well.

It might be worth upgrading your ticket to one that includes warm shower access if you’re a top festival shagger. But whether you have access to post-sex clean-downs or not, Murphy says wet wipes, hand sanitiser, and a towel are worth packing to keep things clean. 

Yeah, you’re going to need to pack some items for after sex as well.

"It’s important to practise hygienic sex to prevent an infection. If you’re camping, you should take hand sanitiser to keep your hands and fingernails clean for foreplay, and general skin-to-skin contact," Murphy advises. 

You should also pack fragrance-free wet wipes that are ideal for cleaning yourself pre- and post-sex (along with extra underwear which you can never have too much of whilst at a festival). The "fragrance free" part of the wipes is important, particularly for people with vaginas, as some fragrances and chemicals can alter the pH balance of the vagina and result in conditions like thrush, UTIs, or BV.  

SEE ALSO: What do intimate washes do to our vaginas?

Another good wet wipe festival hack: take them, or your own toilet paper, with you to the toilet at festivals (either find flushable fragrance free wipes, or keep hold of non-flushable wipes and dispose of them afterwards). As a woman, it's essential to bring toilet paper and vagina-safe wet wipes with you when going to the toilets to have a wee. Women are at a higher risk of developing UTIs at festivals due to the "shaking clean method" often employed when they discover a lack of toilet paper. To prevent this, using vagina-safe wet wipes and toilet paper is the most effective approach, as both offer a more thorough cleaning. This reduces the likelihood of infections and helps maintain overall genital hygiene.

"Changing your underwear regularly can help maintain good hygiene and prevent discomfort from sweat and dirt, especially if you don’t have access to any showers," Murphy says, so bring loads of clean pants. 

"I’d also recommend bringing a small, lightweight towel or blanket to lay on during sex. This provides a barrier between you and the potentially dirty ground, ensuring a cleaner and more comfortable experience so you can stay within the moment," she adds. 

What to do if you’re on the pill at a festival

If you take the contraceptive pill, set an alarm so you don’t forget to take your contraception at the same time each day. Festivals often involve packed schedules, late nights, and numerous distractions. Amid the excitement, it can be easy to forget about taking your contraception, especially if you’re drinking alcohol or taking other substances as this can impair your memory and decision-making skills.

"Setting a reminder or alarm will ensure you don't miss a dose as even one lapse in your routine can lead to an unintended pregnancy. Also, knowing that you have a reminder set can alleviate anxiety about forgetting to take your contraception. This peace of mind allows you to fully enjoy the festival experience without unnecessary worry," Murphy says. 

SEE ALSO: How to have sex on your period

If you are on the pill and happen to forget, Murphy says to take it as soon as you remember. And if you miss two days, check the instructions included in your pill packet and follow their suggestion. 

Remember that if you lose your contraception during the course of the festival, a lot of festivals now have contraception tents set up where you can access condoms and the morning after pill. Some also have HIV and other STI testing spaces, which are worth using if you ever have any concerns. 

What to consider before having sex at a festival

Before getting intimate at a festival, there are several factors to consider to ensure a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable experience for both you and your partner — especially if one or both of you are high or drunk, which tends to happen a lot at festivals. 

Murphy says there are four factors, in particular, that need looking out for: 

Consent

Intoxication can impair a person's ability to give informed and enthusiastic consent. Ensure that both you and your partner are sober enough to provide clear and ongoing consent throughout the encounter. If it’s not an enthusiastic ‘yes!’, it’s a no.

"If your partner is intoxicated, prioritise their welfare over your sexual frustration and wait until they’re sober enough to give clear consent," says Murphy. Maybe you can meet up another time when your heads are more clear. You can read Mashable’s guide to drunk sex and whether it’s ever okay here

SEE ALSO: How to have sober sex Communication

Alcohol or drug use can affect a person's ability to communicate effectively, which is essential for discussing boundaries, preferences, and any concerns. "These should be discussed when you’re sober enough to have a conversation about all of the above," Murphy says. 

Safety

Intoxication can increase the likelihood of engaging in risky behaviours or making poor decisions, such as not using protection or engaging in unsafe sexual practices. Keep everything you need for safe sex in an easy-to-grab bag in your tent or on your person with items like protection and lube to make it easier to access everything you need. 

Where to have sex at a festival and how to navigate it if you feel awkward

One word we’d never use to describe festival sex: discreet. If you’re someone who prefers privacy for sex, festivals can make that tricky. You might have to just accept that your tent is going to wobble and people might hear you (it’s all part of the festival vibes, really!) but if you do want discretion, there’s some things you can try. 

Murphy says "Having sex at a festival can be an exciting and unique experience, however, if you’re walked in on or spotted having sex, it can turn an adrenaline-pumping experience into an awkward one. With this in mind, the best place to have sex is somewhere that offers privacy, comfort and safety — which is likely to be your tent." 

So, make sure your tent is pitched flat and is prevented from shaking too much. "Uneven ground can cause your tent to wobble more easily which may cause unwanted attention. To prevent this further, I’d also recommend placing heavy objects inside the corners of your tent to weigh it down to reduce the shaking even more," Murphy recommends.

22-year-old Tammy* is a frequent festival goer and self-confessed "top festival shagger", and she recommends bringing a portable speaker along for sex, too. "Portable speakers are a must at festivals anyway for getting ready vibes and campsite parties, but they’re also good to have in your tent or just outside of it during sex to drown out any sex noises," she tells Mashable.  

SEE ALSO: Get a portable Bose Soundlink speaker for only $99, plus more of the best Bose deals

"You can also shag during the daytime or when one of the main acts you don’t care about are on as there won’t be that many people in the camp site," she adds. 

Murphy recommends looking for "chill out zones" where sex can be more private, too. "Some festivals even provide designated areas for relaxation and intimacy. These spaces are typically more secluded and can offer a more comfortable environment for sex." If your festival isn’t providing these, you might find some areas that make for a natural chill-out zone after some exploring.  

As for when to have sex, it’s probably best to have it sooner rather than later. Of course, you can have sex whenever you like but considering the lack of cleaning facilities and the general grubbiness of festivals, you might want to shag early into the festival. 

Murphy says, "As the festival goes on, your tent is more likely to get dirtier as you head in and out of it, or if you only have wet wipes to clean yourself. Secondly, whilst festivals are fun, they’re also physically demanding so you may lose your libido and energy for sex as the days go on," she says.   

Remember that festivals are all about the fun and spontaneous atmosphere, and you’re better off embracing this than trying to have "perfect" sex (impossible at the best of times, let alone at festivals). If you take the unique setting and awkward moments into your stride and find ways to laugh together, the pressure will diffuse and you’ll have a much more relaxed time. 

This article was first published in 2023 and republished in 2024.

How to watch West Indies vs. England online for free

Mashable - Wed, 06/19/2024 - 10:42

TL;DR: Watch West Indies vs. England in the 2024 Men's T20 World Cup for free on Disney+ Hotstar. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

It’s West Indies and England up next in the 2024 Men’s T20 World Cup and it’s not one to miss. The group 2 teams will go head to head in the second match of the Super Eights.

West Indies last played Afghanistan, winning by an impressive 104 runs. Can the co-host nation keep their winning streak?

If you want to tune into the West Indies vs. England in the 2024 Men's T20 World Cup for free from anywhere in the world, keep reading because we have all the information you need.

When is West Indies vs. England ?

West Indies vs. England in the 2024 Men's T20 World Cup starts at 8:30 p.m. ET on June 19 / 1:30 a.m. BST on June 20. This fixture takes place at the Daren Sammy National Cricket Stadium in Gros Islet, St Lucia.

How to watch West Indies vs. England for free

Cricket fans in India can watch the 2024 Men’s T20 Cricket World Cup for free on the Disney+ Hotstar app, including next game between West Indies and England.

For fans elsewhere in the world, to access this free content (which is geo-restricted to India), you'll need a VPN. VPNs are powerful tools that can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in India, meaning you can watch West Indies vs. England, and more T20 fixtures from anywhere in the world.

Access free T20 Cricket World Cup live streams 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 India

  4. Download the Disney+ Hotstar mobile app

  5. Watch West Indies vs. England in the 2024 T20 Cricket World Cup for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Year Subscription + 3 Months Free) $99.95 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 free live streams without committing with your cash. This is obviously not a long-term solution, but it does give you time to watch T20 cricket matches for free.

What is the best VPN for Disney+ Hotstar?

ExpressVPN is the best service for accessing live sport on Disney+ Hotstar, for a number of reasons:

  • Servers in 105 countries including India

  • 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 eight simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 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 West Indies vs. England in the 2024 T20 World Cup for free with ExpressVPN.

How to watch South Africa vs. United States online for free

Mashable - Wed, 06/19/2024 - 10:42

TL;DR: Watch South Africa vs. United States in the 2024 Men's T20 World Cup for free on Disney+ Hotstar. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

We’re now into the second stage of the 2024 Men’s T20 World Cup and it’s been a great tournament so far. This year sees the debut of the new Super 8s format where the eight qualifying teams will be divided into two groups of four. Each team will play the others in their group once, and the top two teams from each of these groups progress to the semi-finals.

The first up in group two is South Africa and the United States.

If you want to watch South Africa vs. United States in the 2024 Men's T20 World Cup for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is South Africa vs. United States?

South Africa vs. United States in the 2024 Men's T20 World Cup starts at 10:30 a.m. ET / 3:30 p.m. BST on June 19. This fixture takes place at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in North Sound, Antigua.

How to watch South Africa vs. United States for free

Smartphone users in India can watch the 2024 Men’s T20 Cricket World Cup for free on Disney+ Hotstar, including the latest fixture between South Africa and the United States.

While this free content is technically geo-restricted to India, anyone from around the world can access this free live stream by using a VPN. VPNs can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in India, meaning you can access this free content on the Disney+ Hotstar app from anywhere in the world.

Access free T20 Cricket World Cup live streams 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 India

  4. Download the Disney+ Hotstar mobile app

  5. Watch South Africa vs. United States in the 2024 T20 Cricket World Cup for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Year Subscription + 3 Months Free) $99.95 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 free live streams without committing with your cash. This is obviously not a long-term solution, but it does give you time to watch select games before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for Disney+ Hotstar?

ExpressVPN is the best service for accessing live sport on Disney+ Hotstar, for a number of reasons:

  • Servers in 105 countries including India

  • 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 eight simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 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 South Africa vs. United States in the 2024 T20 World Cup for free with ExpressVPN.

Need a new TV? You can save $170 on this 50-inch Amazon Fire TV.

Mashable - Wed, 06/19/2024 - 10:38

SAVE 38%: The Amazon Fire TV 50-inch 4-Series 4K UHD is just $279.99 for Prime members with code PRIME50. That's a $170 discount off the normal price of $449.99. Non-Prime members can also get the TV on sale for $329.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Fire TV 50-inch 4-Series 4K UHD $279.99 at Amazon
$449.99 Save $170.00 Prime members use code PRIME50 at checkout Get Deal

Many of us have settled for convenience when we should be demanding quality. If you've been streaming your favorite shows on a tiny smartphone screen or watching summer Hollywood hits on a subpar tablet, it's time for an upgrade. Thanks to today's deal at Amazon, your shows could look better than ever for a fraction of the price.

As of June 19, the Amazon Fire TV 50-inch 4-Series 4K UHD is on sale for Prime members for just $279.99, down from the usual price of $449.99. That's a 38% discount or a savings of $170. To score this sale price, enter promo code PRIME50 at checkout. This sale price for Prime members is the lowest price we've ever seen for this TV. If you're not an Amazon Prime member, you can still cash in on the sale price of $329.99. That's a savings of $120.

If you're not an Amazon Prime member, you can grab a yearly membership for $139 or you can start a free 30-day trial to see if Prime is right for you. With Amazon Prime Day coming up in July, it's the perfect time to sign up.

SEE ALSO: The best time to buy a TV: A guide to the times of year that you'll find the best TV deals

If you're not looking for a giant 65- or 70-inch TV, the Amazon Fire TV 50-inch 4-Series is a great mid-size option, especially given its lower price point. The TV uses 4K Ultra HD to offer great picture quality when watching your favorite shows and movies.

It also comes with a Fire TV Alexa voice remote, which means you can ask Alexa to pick up on the episode you last paused. If you're tuned in while getting ready in the morning, you can also ask Alexa what the weather will be like to plan your wardrobe accordingly.

You'll find three HDMI ports, one USB-C port, and an ethernet port on the Fire TV for easy connection to all essentials. Plus, Amazon is tossing in a free 6-month subscription to MGM+ so you'll have plenty to stream on your new TV this summer.

Instead of watching your summer favorites on a tiny smartphone screen, upgrade to the 50-inch Fire TV 4-Series, on sale for Prime members for just $279.99. Say goodbye to squinting through subtitles from here on out.

4 things you need to know about Juneteenth, the federal holiday

Mashable - Wed, 06/19/2024 - 10:14

Just days before its 156th anniversary in 2021, President Joe Biden signed a bill making Juneteenth, which marks the true end of slavery, an official federal holiday.

On July Fourth, the nation will celebrate its independence that began in 1776. Across the country, Americans, many with no ancestral connection to early colonists, will watch firework displays, march in parades, and proudly wear red, white, and blue star-spangled outfits.

As current Americans, we share pride in our country’s history and emulate the joy and sense of freedom felt by early colonists. But, on that jubilant day, enslaved Black people could not celebrate freedom. Slavery didn’t officially end until the signing of The Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863. And in Texas, it didn’t end until the announcement reached Galveston on June 19, 1865.

Black people in Texas were bound to plantations and lived for 900 more days as slaves compared to those who got the news on time. For many, “Juneteenth” signifies the true emancipation day from slavery. It is also called “Freedom Day” — the day all slaves were granted their freedom. It was a day for celebration.

As celebrations online and off commence, here are four things you should know about this important day in American history.

1. It’s a relatively new federal holiday, but was recognized in 49 states before that.

Prior to its federal recognition, which means federal employees get a paid day off, D.C. and every state but one already commemorated Juneteenth in some way. Not all of those states gave a paid day off. The paid federal holiday could encourage more private employers — and states — to follow suit.

At least 28 states and the District of Columbia legally observe Juneteenth, which has its own red, white, and blue flag, as a paid holiday. Juneteenth has been a paid state holiday in Texas since 1980.

In 2020, corporations like Best Buy, Nike, and Target took the lead in making Juneteenth a paid holiday for their employees, and a growing list of other companies are following their lead. The governmental and corporate change came after a summer of protesting police violence against Black people.

The fight for a national holiday gained momentum as many more people agreed that Juneteenth deserved its proper place in American history.

Juneteenth activist, Opal Lee from Houston, Texas was one of the strongest voices pushing the measure forward. At 89 years old, Lee walked 2.5 miles in a variety of states — to symbolize the more than two and a half years it took for news of emancipation to reach Galveston — over about four months, starting in Fort Worth, Texas and ending in Washington, D.C. in January 2017 to encourage lawmakers to make Juneteenth a national holiday.

She also netted 1.6 million signatures on a Change.org petition to move the needle. Other advocate groups formed for the same purpose. This includes the Juneteenth Foundation, which hosts an annual Freedom Festival and aims "to celebrate the excellence of Black culture and freedom."

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It took over 15 years to establish Martin Luther King Jr. Day as the eleventh federal holiday and close to another 15 years for all states to embrace it, so many were concerned gaining a twelfth federal holiday would take some time. The journey to make Juneteenth an official national holiday has come to an end, but for some, the designation is long overdue.

2. It’s the longest running emancipation celebration for African Americans.

Juneteenth was created by former slaves and passed down to each new generation. In 1872, Rev. Jack Yates, a Baptist minister and former slave, led an initiative to buy 10 acres of land in Houston to create a designated area for Juneteenth celebrations. Called Emancipation Park, Black people gathered there to commemorate Freedom Day as the segregated city prevented them from using public parks.

Through migration, people began to celebrate the holiday in many states outside of Texas. On June 19, Black communities celebrate with many of the same traditions as those marking the Fourth of July.

Candice Foster, from Omaha, Nebraska, says at least three generations in her family have celebrated Juneteenth. “My neighborhood gets together and we have block parties, parades, and we have a Black history museum that we visit,” the insurance specialist says.

"Juneteenth is like a Black family reunion."

Melorra Green, a native of Memphis, Tennessee, works to support San Francisco's annual celebration in her role as the co-executive director of the African American Art & Culture Complex. She says the holiday reminds her of family.

“Juneteenth is like a Black family reunion. I remember in Memphis it was the one time you could see multiple families come together to play, laugh, and, sometimes, cry,” she says.

3. Food is a big part of the celebration.

Families gather on Juneteenth to celebrate with parades and block parties, but also with food. For Juneteenth celebrations, Black people revisit their stories of resilience during barbecues featuring red food and drinks, which represent perseverance.

This includes red hot link sausages, watermelon, red velvet cake, and red-tinted hibiscus tea. Some also believe that red is associated with West African food and religious traditions that traveled with slaves across the Atlantic Ocean.

4. It took 155 years and a social justice movement to gain national attention.

Sadly, many people in the country had never heard of Juneteenth until recent years. In the midst of a pandemic and the fights for racial justice after the murder of George Floyd, the Juneteenth celebration of 2020 gained national attention.

“We should acknowledge Juneteenth as American history, not just Black history.”

Although it was celebrated in the South and throughout the Midwest continuously, Freedom Day went mostly unrecognized nationally until former President Trump was harshly criticized for scheduling a rally on the same day in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where an entire Black town was wiped out by a racial massacre in 1921. This series of events encouraged more people to learn about the history of slavery and its continual impact on the lives of all Americans.

“We should acknowledge Juneteenth as American history, not just Black history,” says Cammie Jones, executive director of community engagement and diversity, equity, and inclusion at Barnard College. But, the Texas native goes on to say that recognizing the day is not enough.

SEE ALSO: How whitewashed is TikTok? Let Kahlil Greene break it down for you.

“The holiday has become a point in the year where people are acknowledging in some capacity what has happened in our country. But, I hope it doesn’t stop or start on Juneteenth. It should continue. We should continue to figure out what liberation can look like. It shouldn’t stop or start at this day,” she says.

What can we still learn from Juneteenth?

Jones also suggests using Juneteenth as a starting point to learn more about systemic racism, and how you can play a role in ending it.

“Slavery is over and you may not still see people picking cotton in a field, but there are definitely forms of systemic oppression that are still around to this day in our society, and it is up to each of us to look into our communities," she says. "We need to do research and ask: What are forms of systemic racism? How can I be an ally, and not to take up space, but to provide resources and opportunities?”

The emergence of Juneteenth into the national conversation allows us to learn more about a tradition that has come out of struggle. We can better understand ourselves in the context of history, and we can share in the joy of other Americans and honor their traditions.

Similar to July Fourth, many Black people view Juneteenth as their Independence Day. There may not always be fireworks on June 19, but there will be a celebration.

Yolande Clark-Jackson is a writer and educator based in South Florida. You can follow her on Twitter @YClarkjackson and find more of her work at yolandeclarkjackson.com.

This story has been updated to reflect the expanding number of states that legally observe Juneteenth. It was first published in 2021 and updated in 2024.

Pornhub to block Indiana and Kentucky next month over age verification laws

Mashable - Wed, 06/19/2024 - 09:53

Pornhub will block Indiana and Kentucky next month, the latest in a growing list of blocked states thanks to age-verification laws.

SEE ALSO: Texas says goodbye to Pornhub — and hello to the top 10 VPNs

In recent years, age-verification laws have been popping up across the U.S. They typically require visitors to websites with over one-third of adult content to show proof of age (such as ID) when attempting to view this content. As experts told Mashable last year, age-verification laws won't work — VPNs are an easy work-around, for one, and requiring users to upload their IDs leaves them vulnerable to identity theft.

Still, more and more states are enacting these laws. Pornhub and its parent company Aylo's (formerly MindGeek) response has been to block these states from accessing the website at all.

Pornhub first blocked Utah last year, and has since has blocked Texas, North Carolina, Montana, Arkansas, Mississippi, and Virginia due to these laws. Louisiana has also passed an age-verification law, but as of publication Pornhub is still accessible there.

Now, Aylo will block Indiana and Kentucky in July, according to adult trade publication AVN. The laws that spurred these bans are Indiana's SB 17 and Kentucky's HB 278.

Florida could be the next state that faces a Pornhub ban; its age-verification law, HB 3, goes into effect January 2025.

If you happen to be in one of these states, Mashable has instructions on how to unblock Pornhub using a VPN.

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