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If you're reading this, you're looking for a little help playing Strands, the New York Times' elevated word-search game.
Strands requires the player to perform a twist on the classic word search. Words can be made from linked letters — up, down, left, right, or diagonal, but words can also change direction, resulting in quirky shapes and patterns. Every single letter in the grid will be part of an answer. There's always a theme linking every solution, along with the "spangram," a special, word or phrase that sums up that day's theme, and spans the entire grid horizontally or vertically.
SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on MashableBy providing an opaque hint and not providing the word list, Strands creates a brain-teasing game that takes a little longer to play than its other games, like Wordle and Connections.
If you're feeling stuck or just don't have 10 or more minutes to figure out today's puzzle, we've got all the NYT Strands hints for today's puzzle you need to progress at your preferred pace.
SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for December 25 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for December 25 NYT Strands hint for today’s theme: A visit from SantaThese words are stocking stuffers.
Today’s NYT Strands theme plainly explainedWords are small items gifted by Santa.
NYT Strands spangram hint: Is it vertical or horizontal?Today's NYT Strands spangram is vertical.
NYT Strands spangram answer todayToday's spangram is Stocking.
Featured Video For You Strands 101: How to win NYT’s latest word game NYT Strands word list for December 25Toys
Plushie
Orange
Socks
Scarf
Candy
Coal
Pens
Stocking
Looking for other daily online games? Mashable's Games page has more hints, and if you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now!
Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.
Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Strands.
Writer/director Halina Reijn and actor Harris Dickinson discuss the layers of Babygirl, an erotic thriller that subverts genre norms. Reijn delves into the film’s metaphorical death, and how sexuality wraps around deeper narratives. Dickinson shares insights on working with an intimacy coordinator and the importance of clarity in such scenes.
A24 will release the movie in theaters Dec. 25.
Best Buy is throwing eleventh-hour Christmas shoppers an easy Hail Mary.
The tech retailer has a handful of gift cards on sale for 15% off as one of its Bonus Deals of the Day for Dec. 24. Its selection covers services and establishments like DoorDash, Regal, and Dave & Buster's, with card amounts ranging in value from $15 to $100 — i.e., you've got options. (You'll pay $12.75 to $85, respectively.) Here's the list in full, sorted by category:
Food and diningDoorDash $100 gift card — $85 $100 (save $15)
Panera Bread $25 gift card — $21.25 $25 (save $3.75)
PF Chang's $25 gift card — $21.25 $25 (save $3.75)
PF Chang's $50 gift card — $42.50 $50 (save $7.50)
Zaxby’s $15 gift card — $12.75 $15 (save $2.25)
Zaxby’s $25 gift card — $21.25 $25 (save $3.75)
Dave & Buster's $25 gift card — $21.25 $25 (save $3.75)
Dave & Buster's $50 gift card — $42.50 $50 (save $7.50)
Regal $50 gift card — $42.50 $50 (save $7.50)
Carter's $25 gift card — $21.25 $25 (save $3.75)
Carter's $50 gift card — $42.50 $50 (save $7.50)
Fanatics $25 gift card — $21.25 $25 (save $3.75)
Fanatics $50 gift card — $42.50 $50 (save $7.50)
Fanatics $100 gift card — $85 $100 (save $15)
Jiffy Lube $50 gift card — $42.50 $50 (save $7.50)
All of the featured gift cards are available as digital vouchers that can be sent via email for long-distance gifting. The Panera and DoorDash ones were also available as physical gift cards, in case you still need something to wrap as a stocking stuffer or an entry in a white elephant exchange.
SEE ALSO: The very best digital gifts and subscriptions you can send via emailIf none of the options pique your interest (and you can afford to wait a little longer), check back tomorrow: Best Buy's main Deal of the Day for Dec. 25 will net you a free Best Buy e-gift card when you buy other gift cards to the Apple Store, Lululemon, and Macy's.
For more last-minute gifting inspiration, check out Mashable's guide to the best digital gifts.
SAVE $10.02: As of Dec. 24, Astro Bot for PlayStation 5 has hit an all-time low price at Amazon. It won Game of the Year at the 2024 Game Awards, so don't miss it while you can get it on sale (just $49.97, or $10.02 off the original price).
Opens in a new window Credit: Team Asobi 'Astro Bot' for PlayStation 5 $49.97 at AmazonIf you're at all interested in gaming, you've probably already heard quite a bit about Astro Bot. It won Game of the Year at the 2024 Game Awards, and for good reason — it's one of the best PlayStation 5 games so far, and up there with some of the greatest platformers of all time (yes, we're talking about that Italian plumber guy).
In other words, Astro Bot is an absolute must-play. Better yet, it's on sale at Amazon for an all-time low price — just $49.97, or $10.02 off. It's not the biggest discount, but the game just came out in September, so we'd say it's a pretty worthwhile deal all things considered.
SEE ALSO: Gaming starter kit: All the gear you need to play like a real gamerIn Astro Bot, you'll guide the titular pint-sized robot of the same name through a collection of endlessly entertaining platforming levels, all with their own unique mechanics, to rescue other bots that are all based on classic PlayStation characters. It's adorable, nostalgic, and the epitome of fun. Whether you play games regularly or not, there's something here for literally anyone to love. So, don't miss out — pick up a copy while it's on sale for its lowest price ever while you still can and join in on the fun.
Looking to treat yourself this holiday? There's plenty of excellent discounts hanging around that are as good as or even better than Black Friday. Snag yourself one of these sweet deals on some of our favorite brands at Amazon on Dec. 24 — we've rounded up the best deals of the day to make shopping a breeze.
Don't see anything that sparks your interest? Check out some of the deals we featured on Friday, Dec. 20 and Monday, Dec. 23 that are still live — like this 4-pack of AirTags or our favorite Sony headphones, both down to their lowest prices ever.
Our top pick: Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE (128GB, WiFi) $280.09 at AmazonIdeal for casual tablet users, the Galaxy Tab S9 FE is a budget-friendly version of the Galaxy Tab S9. It features the same tough IP68 dust- and water-resistant rating as the S9, a slightly smaller battery capacity (8,000 vs. 8,400 mAh), and the same included S Pen. The battery will last you up to 18 hours on one charge and the Samsung Exynos 1380 processor can help you power through plenty of tasks — even some light gaming. The biggest differences between the S9 and S9 FE are the display and CPU, which likely won't make too much of a difference unless you're a hardcore tablet user. As of Dec. 24, the 128GB, WiFi version is on sale for just $280.09 instead of $449.99. That's 38% in savings and its lowest price on record.
Sony WH-CH720N noise-cancelling headphones Opens in a new window Credit: Sony Sony WH-CH720N noise-cancelling headphones $74.99 at AmazonA direct replacement for the Sony WH-CH710N headphones, which our friends at PCMag (also owned by Ziff Davis) said "offer solid audio performance and active noise cancellation," the WH-C720N are down to just $74.99 at Amazon as of Dec. 24. That's 50% in savings and the best price we've ever seen them. The new design is inspired by the fancier and more expensive WH-1000XM5s (which we're huge fans of). Compared to their predecessor, they've upgraded the sound and noise-cancellation, boosting sensitivity in the drivers and increasing the dynamic range, while keeping the same impressive 35-hour battery life with ANC. They may not be the fanciest headphones in Sony's lineup, but they're stylish, reliable, and most importantly, affordable.
Shark FlexStyle Opens in a new window Credit: Shark Shark FlexStyle $249.99 at AmazonThe Shark FlexStyle remains our favorite Dyson Airwrap dupe. In fact, we actually prefer it over Dyson's outrageously expensive hot air multistyler. This deal includes six attachments for all hair types, including the paddle brush, curl-defining diffuser, auto-wrap curlers, concentrator, and oval brush. If you're looking for the best damage-free drying and styling system on the market, the FlexStyle is the way to go — especially while it's on sale for $249.99 instead of $319.99. That's 22% in savings.
Amazon 40-inch 2-Series Fire TV Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon 40-inch 2-Series Fire TV $149.99 at AmazonIt's far from the fanciest TV on the market, but Amazon's 2-Series Fire TV is a fine choice if you're looking for a no-frills smart TV. And if you're on a budget, it's even better. The 40-inch model is on sale for just $149.99 as of Dec. 24, which is 40% off its usual cost and matches its lowest price on record. It may not support 4K resolution (check out the 4-Series or Omni Series for that feature), but it does offer all the smart capabilities from the Fire TV experience, hands-free control through on on-board Alexa, and support for HDR 10, HLG, and Dolby Digital Audio.
None of these deals catching your eye? Check out Amazon's daily deals for even more savings.
Dec. 24th, Shop Lenovo's Winter Clearance Sale for deals like 22% off the Yoga 9i 2-in-1 Intel Ultra 7 155H 16 GB RAM 1 TB SSD.
The best deals of the Lenovo Winter Clearance Sale The best productivity laptop deal Yoga 9i 2-in-1 Intel Ultra 7 155H 16 GB RAM 1 TB SSD $1,229.99 (Save $350) Get Deal The best budget deal Lenovo Chromebook Duet 3 Snapdragon 7c Gen 2 4GB RAM 64 GB eMMC Storage Laptop $239.99 ($160) Get Deal The best deal for gaming Yoga Pro 7 AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS 16 GB RAM 1 TB SSD $979.99 (Save $375) Get DealIt’s laptop buying season. Lenovo’s Winter Clearance Sale is offering discounts that cut up to 65% off list price on laptops. The sale includes some of our favorite Lenovo laptops like the Yoga 9i 2-in-1.
Whether you’re going for a tricked out productivity machine, a game-ready Yoga Pro with a dedicated graphics card, or you’re want to score a sweet deal on a budget Chromebook, the Lenovo Clearance Sale is packing options.
When a laptop fails it can mean a sudden expenditure that we did not see coming. Sales like Lenovo’s Clearance Sale bring deep discounts that help us get the computer we need for less.
The best productivity laptop deal Opens in a new window Credit: Lenovo Yoga 9i 2-in-1 Intel Ultra 7 155H 16 GB RAM 1 TB SSD $1,229.99 at LenovoWe loved the Yoga 9i 2-in-1. With vivid OLED graphics and a pen, this touch screen laptop looks incredible, whether you're watching a show or editing graphics. Folding over, it fluidly transitions between being a tablet and a powerful productivity laptop. A one terabyte SSD ensures you've got the space for a library of content.
Right now the Yoga 9i 2-in-1 Intel Ultra 7 155H 16 GB RAM 1 TB SSD is on sale for $1,229.99 with the code WINTERYOGA. That's a price drop of 22% from its standard price of $1,579.99. It's also $220 less than its current price at Best Buy.
The best budget deal Opens in a new window Credit: Lenovo Lenovo Chromebook Duet 3 Snapdragon 7c Gen 2 4GB RAM 64 GB eMMC Storage Laptop $239.99 at LenovoIf you're after a lightweight, affordable laptop, then this Lenovo deal is not to be missed. With the form factor your expect from an iPad, this laptop bridges the laptop / tablet divide, including a tablet and keyboard which can be disconnected one from the other. The Duet 3 runs Chrome OS with 4 GB of Ram.
Get the Lenovo Chromebook Duet 3 Snapdragon 7c Gen 2 4GB RAM 64 GB eMMC Storage Laptop for $239.99 and save $160.
The best deal for gaming Opens in a new window Credit: Lenovo Yoga Pro 7 AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS 16 GB RAM 1 TB SSD $979.99 at LenovoThe Yoga Pro 7 trades out the OLED screen for a dedicated graphics drive and 90Hz screen. If you're looking for a powerful productivity laptop that will also rip up an online gaming session, this is the deal for you. This model features a 1TB SSD hard drive and a touch screen. Whether you're looking for a gaming / productivity crossover or a laptop to make your creative projects come alive, this is a good pick.
The Yoga Pro 7 AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS 16 GB RAM 1 TB SSD is currently 27% off, for a price of $979.99.
It's Christmas Eve, which means Santa Claus has started his annual journey around the world — and you can track his progress.
The North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD)'s Santa tracker is now live. It tracks the Jolly One's whereabouts as he crosses the globe delivering presents. NORAD Tracks Santa has been an annual Christmas tradition since 1955, when it first launched as a hotline for children to call and get updates on its status.
The hotline still exists, but you can also visit noradsanta.org and see Santa's progress in real-time.
Tweet may have been deleted SEE ALSO: Surprise them with these last-minute digital gift ideasThe website shows Santa and his reindeer flying over a 3D satellite map of the globe, complete with gifts delivered (over 1.7 billion and counting as of publication), Santa's ETA for the next major destination, and his most recent visit. You can also click into icons on the map and learn about various locations by switching to a 2D map along his route.
Santa started his journey in the North Pole and has made his way down to the South Pacific region, and next looks to be sweeping across Southeast Asia.
He still has a lot of ground to cover, so like every other year, Santa is in for a long night of travel. Make sure to have some sustenance ready in the form of milk and cookies and carrots for his reindeer when he gets close to your part of the world.
STREAM FOR AS LOW AS $1.99/MONTH: Several streaming services are as low as $1.99 per month including MGM+, Starz, and Paramount+ with Showtime as a Prime Video add on.
Best streaming deals Best overall deal Paramount+ with Showtime (Prime Video add on) $1.99/month (save $10.99) Get Deal Best annual streaming deal Starz annual plan $23.99 (save $46) Get Deal Best ad-free streaming deal MGM+ $1.99/month for 2 months (save $5/month) Get DealTis the season for streaming. Even if you're caught up on all the latest shows, you've missed some epic picks from long ago. With winter break in full swing, why not catch up? Since the sun sets by 5 p.m. there's plenty of time to get cozy with some great streaming options.
Coincidentally, this happens to be one of the best times of the year to score a deal on streaming services. We usually see prices dip well below normal on Black Friday, but there are some extra nice deals this holiday season, especially if you're an Amazon Prime member.
If you have plans to stay in this winter season, these are some great streaming options to sign up for while they're at a serious discount.
Best overall streaming deal Opens in a new window Credit: Paramount Paramount+ with Showtime $1.99 at AmazonAn Amazon Prime membership automatically comes with access to Prime Video which has thousands of streaming options. Sure, you could tune into the controversial new MrBeast show, or you could make the wise choice to sign up for Paramount+ with Showtime for just $1.99 per month for your first two months.
Paramount+ with Showtime is packed with streaming options — over 40,000 episodes and movies. Plus, it comes with access to Paramount+ originals like Landman, Lioness, the new Frasier, and Ru Paul Drag Race All Stars.
The Showtime addition means you can spend winter break watching Yellowjackets, Billions, or The Agency. And if you're into reality TV, Paramount+ includes classic CBS shows like Survivor and Big Brother.
Instead of paying the typical $12.99 per month for access to Paramount+ with Showtime, grab this deal and pay only $1.99 per month for your first two months.
Best annual streaming deal Opens in a new window Credit: Starz Starz annual plan $23.99 at StarzThe price of annual streaming subscriptions feels like it has no limit these days. But if you're searching for an affordable option, an annual plan for Starz is on sale for just $23.99, down from the typical price of $69.99. That means you'll be paying just $2 per month, which is an unheard of price these days.
Starz gives you access to Hollywood hits like Jurassic World Dominion and John Wick Chapter 4. You'll also have access to Starz series like the wildly popular Outlander which gives you seven seasons of streaming.
Best ad-free streaming deal Opens in a new window Credit: MGM MGM+ $1.99 at MGMReady to get lost in what feels like every movie ever made? Welcome to MGM+. The streaming platform has endless options of movies you didn't get a change to see recently like Challengers and Blink Twice. But it also has an incredible selection of older movies you might have missed. Think classics like Fargo, The Birdcage, and Dirty Rotten Scoundrels. Series on MGM+ include From, War of the Worlds, and Gangs of London, to name a few.
Instead of paying the typical price of $6.99 per month, you can sign up to get your first two months of MGM+ for just $1.99/month. Overall, you'll be saving a nice $10.
More Prime Video ad-on dealsLifetime Movie Club — $1.99/month for two months $4.99/month (save $3/month)
PBS Documentaries — $1.99/month for two months $4.99/month (save $3/month)
BBC Select — $1.99/month for two months $5.99/month (save $4/month)
History Vault — $1.99/month for two months $5.99/month (save $4/month)
PBS Masterpiece — $1.99/month for two months $5.99/month (save $4/month)
Acorn TV — $1.99/month for two months $7.99/month (save $6/month)
The Great Courses Signature Edition — $1.99/month for two months $7.99/month (save $6/month)
Hallmark+ — $1.99/month for two months $7.99/month (save $6/month)
Elon Musk's AI company, xAI, raised another $6 billion in funding, TechCrunch reported via the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.
The filing reports that each investor, of nearly 100, had to give a minimum of $77,593. The investors were not named in the filing, but X wrote in a press release that key investors included "A16Z, Blackrock, Fidelity Management & Research Company, Kingdom Holdings, Lightspeed, MGX, Morgan Stanley, OIA, QIA, Sequoia Capital, Valor Equity Partners, and Vy Capital, amongst others."
SEE ALSO: xAI could release a standalone Grok app soon"xAI’s most powerful model yet, Grok 3, is currently training and we are now focused on launching innovative new consumer and enterprise products that will leverage the power of Grok, Colossus, and X to transform the way we live, work, and play," the press release stated. "The funds from this financing round will be used to further accelerate our advanced infrastructure, ship groundbreaking products that will be used by billions of people, and accelerate the research and development of future technologies enabling the company’s mission to understand the true nature of the universe."
Tech Crunch reported that this doubles xAI's total raised funds and brings it to $12 billion. According to CNBC, xAI was aiming for a $50 billion valuation in November. Forbes reported on Monday that the valuation has reached over $40 billion since the $6 billion funding bump.
Need a last-minute gift? Grab one of these can't-miss ideas:
Last-Minute Digital Gifts Best Digital Gift Deal The Last of Us Part 1 Digital Deluxe Edition $35 (Save $34.99) Get Deal Best Digital Subscription Gift Deal Rosetta Stone 12-Month Membership $99.99 (Save $99) Get Deal Best Family Digital Gift Deal Sackboy: A Big Adventure $24 (Save $35.99) Get DealSo you waited until the very last minute to finish your holiday shopping. Whether the gift-giving season ended up sneaking up on you or you just needed some extra time to shop, we've got your back with some great ideas that you can count on.
Amazon has you covered with some versatile last-minute digital gift ideas that you can send to anyone, anywhere in the world, anytime. With great games and subscriptions available at steep discounts, all you have to do is buy, email, and rest assured that your giftees have everything they need this year without even having to leave your home. Or couch, really. You could even do this in bed if you wanted to.
Whether you're buying for a hardcore gamer or you want to give something the whole family can enjoy, we've got a few picks to share below that you can count on for great last-minute gifting love this year. Just be sure and grab them while you still can, as they'll likely not be available for long.
Best digital gift deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Best Digital Gift Deal $35.00 at AmazonOne of the most cinematic story-based games you'll find on PC or anywhere else, The Last of Us Part 1 is a can't-miss game that'll please fans of story and action alike. This code offers the complete single-player story as well as the game's prequel chapter Left Behind, which explores the relationship between heroine Ellie and her best friend Riley before the events of the game occur. If you know someone who's into survival horror with gripping storytelling with a heavy dose of heartbreak, this is the perfect last-minute game gift. It's also just a great idea in general given that this is a steep discount.
Best digital subscription gift deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Best Digital Subscription Gift Deal $99.99 at AmazonKnow someone who can't wait to learn another language? Help them achieve their goal with a 12-month subscription to Rosetta Stone, which can help them learn any one of 25 different languages, including Spanish, French, German, Japanese, and more. It can be used across multiple devices, including phone, desktop, or tablet, so the learning doesn't have to stop. Each lesson is broken down into simple to digest parts, and can be enjoyed for as little a 10 minutes at a time. This gift makes it easy to learn a language on their own time, and it's available at a great price now, too.
Best family digital gift deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Best Family Digital Gift Deal $24.00 at AmazonSackboy is one of PlayStation's most beloved mascots, and his biggest adventure yet is available on PC. You can get it for a great price right now, even if you waited until the last minute. Sackboy: A Big Adventure is a family-appropriate game that anyone can jump in on, and it should please the entire brood. It's a breezy little platformer that even little hands can help with. And who doesn't love that little smiling face?
Early on Christmas Eve in 2024, a NASA craft swooped at blazing speed through the sun's atmosphere.
The Parker Solar Probe, equipped with a robust heat shield, made the closest-ever approach to our dynamic star, coming some 3.8 million miles (6.1 million kilometers) from the stellar surface. That's seven times closer than any other probe. The mission is designed to fly into the sun's corona, or outer atmosphere, which spawns many of the powerful solar storms and weather that impact Earth.
To understand our star's behavior, a craft had to go where no craft had gone before.
"It's really exciting," Nour Raouafi, an astrophysicist at the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory and project scientist for the mission, told Mashable. "The sun is like a laboratory to us."
Though the lab announced the craft made the historic flyby on Christmas Eve, the probe will be in position to send a beacon tone to Earth on Dec. 27, which will confirm its safety.
SEE ALSO: NASA scientist viewed first Voyager images. What he saw gave him chills.To make this record-breaking pass, the nearly 10-foot-long probe has made 22 orbits around the sun, allowing it to swoop ever deeper into the corona. And while doing so, the spacecraft has been continually picking up speed. When you repeatedly swing by such a massive and gravitationally powerful object — the sun is a sphere of hot gas 333,000 times as massive as our planet — you accrue lots of speed. Out in space, there's nothing to stop this motion.
On this close flyby, the probe reached some 430,000 miles per hour (692,000 kilometers per hour).
"It's the fastest human-made object ever.""That's like going from Philadelphia to Washington, D.C. in one second," marveled Raouafi. "It's fascinating. It's the fastest human-made object ever."
Tweet may have been deletedThe spacecraft can survive such an extreme plunge into the corona because it's fitted with a robust heat shield designed to withstand intense solar radiation. The shield itself, which is eight feet (2.4 meters) in diameter and 4.5 inches (nearly 12 centimeters) thick, heats up to some 2,500 degrees Fahrenheit, but just a couple of feet behind the shield, the environs are surprisingly pleasant. The instruments operate at round room temperature.
Why Parker Solar Probe swooped into the sunIn 2022, the probe flew into "one of the most powerful coronal mass ejections (CMEs) ever recorded," NASA explained. A CME is the eruption of a mass of super hot gas (plasma) into space.
Raouafi hopes it happens again. (The sun is in an active state, so the odds are about as good as they get.)
When the sun unleashes an explosion of energy and particles, the corona accelerates these particles. Such solar storms have huge implications for our energy grids and communications systems on Earth, as well as for astronauts in space — particularly as NASA prepares to return astronauts to the moon, and eventually, beyond.
"That's why we want to fly through regions where these particles are accelerated," Raouafi said. "We want to understand how the acceleration is done."
The Parker Solar Probe's instruments. Credit: Johns Hopkins APL / NASA The green lines show the Parker Solar Probe's trajectory around the sun since 2018. The green dot shows its position as of Dec. 23, 2024. Credit: Johns Hopkins APLThe Parker solar probe's researchers expect the spacecraft, fitted with instruments to measure and image the solar wind (a constant stream of charged particles emanating from the corona), will enable us to better forecast when and where a potent CME or solar flare may hit.
For example, when a CME erupts from the sun's surface, it must travel over 92 million miles to reach Earth. Along the way, this hot gas will "pile up" the solar wind ahead of it.
"That will affect its arrival time to Earth," Raouafi explained. Knowledge about these space dynamics is critical: A good space weather forecast would allow power utilities to temporarily shut off power to avoid conducting a power surge from a CME, and potentially blowing out power to millions.
Infamously, in 1989, a potent solar flare-associated CME knocked out power to millions in Québec, Canada. The CME hit Earth's magnetic field on March 12 of that year, and then, wrote NASA astronomer Sten Odenwald, "Just after 2:44 a.m. on March 13, the currents found a weakness in the electrical power grid of Quebec. In less than two minutes, the entire Quebec power grid lost power. During the 12-hour blackout that followed, millions of people suddenly found themselves in dark office buildings and underground pedestrian tunnels, and in stalled elevators." The same solar event fried a $10 million transformer at Salem Nuclear Power Plant in New Jersey.
"Hopefully we'll see something that surprises us quite a bit."Following this Christmas Eve journey through the corona, the probe has two more planned passes in March and June 2025 that will bring it a similar distance to the sun. This is true exploration into uncharted territory, a place where scientists seek the unexpected.
"Hopefully we'll see something that surprises us quite a bit," Raouafi said.
If you like playing daily word games like Wordle, then Hurdle is a great game to add to your routine.
There are five rounds to the game. The first round sees you trying to guess the word, with correct, misplaced, and incorrect letters shown in each guess. If you guess the correct answer, it'll take you to the next hurdle, providing the answer to the last hurdle as your first guess. This can give you several clues or none, depending on the words. For the final hurdle, every correct answer from previous hurdles is shown, with correct and misplaced letters clearly shown.
An important note is that the number of times a letter is highlighted from previous guesses does necessarily indicate the number of times that letter appears in the final hurdle.
If you find yourself stuck at any step of today's Hurdle, don't worry! We have you covered.
SEE ALSO: Hurdle: Everything you need to know to find the answers Hurdle Word 1 hintTo become less clear.
SEE ALSO: Mini crossword answers for December 24 Hurdle Word 1 answerCLOUD
Hurdle Word 2 hintCoffee with espresso.
SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for December 24 Hurdle Word 2 AnswerLATTE
Hurdle Word 3 hintA long, narrow boat.
SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for December 24 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for December 24, 2024 Hurdle Word 3 answerKAYAK
Hurdle Word 4 hintA royal cap.
SEE ALSO: NYT Strands hints, answers for December 24 Hurdle Word 4 answerCROWN
Final Hurdle hintThe edges of a loaf of bread.
SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Games available on Mashable Hurdle Word 5 answerCRUST
If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.
Online dating as a gay man has its share of horror stories. It's also a rite of passage dating back to the Craigslist m4m era. It's a high-risk, high-reward activity.
For members of the LGBTQ+ community, online dating presents a unique set of challenges, which can sour the experience. Ghosting and catfishing are still common, but you might also find people asking unnecessary questions about your past, straight guys who shouldn't be in your feed, and even some not-so-subtle fetishization. Not exactly the butterflies-in-your-stomach feeling we're all after, right?
Yet, despite the BS, the best gay dating apps have helped millions of men make meaningful connections.
SEE ALSO: The major dating apps are collapsing into each otherAccording to the Pew Research Center, about one-quarter of LGBTQ+ adults say they met their match through online dating. The problem? Not all dating apps are created equal, especially for LGBTQ+ users.
What is the best gay dating app right now?We can't talk about the gay dating scene in the 21st century without talking about Grindr, the undisputed king of gay dating mobile apps. However, there are a lot of other options, especially if you want to make a genuine connection.
"Grindr is a tried and true app that many queer men gravitate toward to find partners or for relationships that require lesser commitment, so it’s easy to point to it as the #1 app," Michelle Herzog, LMFT, AASECT-certified sex therapist, tells Mashable. "However, like Tinder, it’s gained a reputation as a hookup app — but that doesn’t mean there still aren’t men looking for long-term commitments, either." Lately, Grindr users have been complaining about a buggier app experience and free features going behind paywalls. So, even if you don't quit Grindr for good, it might be time to test other gay dating apps.
SEE ALSO: Pornhub will block Florida to ring in the new yearThe most popular dating apps have a lot to offer, and that's where you'll find the most queer users. Keeping Tinder on the back burner isn't just a straight people thing (especially for guys in less-populated areas where apps like Scruff offer slim pickings). Plus, mainstream apps deserve credit for trying to create a more inclusive atmosphere. OkCupid gets kudos for embracing change and making inclusivity a core part of its compatibility scoring. You can also try niche gay dating sites if you tend to like a certain type of man, but in general, the more popular apps offer the greatest chance of success — it's a numbers game.
Whether you're looking for something serious, a hookup, something that stays strictly online, or an altogether different definition of connection, there's an ideal queer dating app out there for you. So, here's a breakdown of the best dating apps for gay men to help you find your perfect match.
TL;DR: Secure 1TB of lifetime cloud storage with Koofr for $109.97 — the no-nonsense last-minute gift or essential new year upgrade.
Opens in a new window Credit: Koofr Koofr Cloud Storage: Lifetime Subscription (1TB) $119.97If you're looking for a practical, last-minute gift or a smart way to kick off your New Year organizational dreams with secure and streamlined digital storage, this offer could be the one. Koofr Cloud Storage gives you lifetime access to 1TB of storage for just $119.97 — with no recurring fees, no tracking, and versatility.
Koofr is the Swiss Army knife of cloud storage. Whether you’re storing precious photos, HD videos, or work documents, this service provides 1TB of lifetime storage, allowing you to save up to 250,000 12MP photos, 500 hours of HD video, or 6.5 million PDFs. Koofr doesn’t just store your files, it enhances your file management experience.
With the Koofr Duplicate Finder, you’ll never waste precious space on redundant files. You can also link your Dropbox, Google Drive, OneDrive, or Amazon accounts to access all your cloud files from one convenient platform. Add advanced features like customizable file sharing, WebDAV support, and zero tracking, and you’ve got a cloud storage solution that’s equal parts practical and private.
Unlike many cloud storage services that quietly track your every move, Koofr prioritizes your privacy. They don’t monitor your activity, and your data is protected with end-to-end encryption, whether at rest or in transit. Rest easy knowing your files are secure, private, and accessible only to you.
There's no need to add another subscription fee to the pile. Koofr’s lifetime plan is a one-time investment that could potentially save you hundreds of dollars over time. And with advanced features like file collaboration, versioning, and seamless integration with external platforms, Koofr combines convenience with long-term value.
Get lifetime access to 1TB of Koofr Cloud Storage for just $119.97.
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TL;DR: The GoCable Ultimate 8-in-1 Charger combines fast 100W charging, universal compatibility, and handy tools like a bottle opener and safe-proof cutter — all in one portable device for just $24.99 (reg. $44).
Opens in a new window Credit: Muttant Design Lab GoCable Ultimate 8-in-1 Charger $24.99 at Mashable ShopTired of tangled cables and dead devices? Meet the GoCable Ultimate 8-in-1 EDC Charger—a sleek, compact gadget that combines fast 100W charging with universal compatibility, real-time LED power monitoring, and other handy tools like a built-in bottle opener.
Whether you're powering up your phone, laptop, or drone, this versatile tool has you covered.
GoCable is a multitasking powerhouse designed for modern life. Ideal for travelers, creators, and adventurers, it features ultra-fast charging, tangle-free magnetic cable management, and universal connectors for all your devices.
Plus, the bottle opener and hidden cutter make it a true everyday carry essential. Compact enough to fit on a keyring, GoCable ensures you’re never caught off-guard, regardless of whether you’re tackling tech emergencies or enjoying a well-deserved drink.
Here are the eight features you can expect from the GoCable:100W ultra-fast charging.
Universal compatibility: includes type-C to type-C and Apple Lightning connectors for all devices.
LED power display: Monitor your charging status in real time.
Magnetic cable wrap: Keep cables neat and secure.
Bottle opener
Safe-proof cutter: Easily open packages without worrying about accidental cuts.
Carabiner clip: Attach it to your bag, belt, or keys for easy access.
Data transfer capability: Quickly transfer files between devices on the go.
By investing in GoCable, you're investing in convenience, efficiency, and peace of mind for years to come. Whether you're a frequent traveler, a digital nomad, or simply someone who wants to simplify their life, GoCable is an ideal solution.
Grab your GoCable for $24.99 today and discover the future of portable power.
StackSocial prices subject to change.
TL;DR: Enjoy the potential of the grade-A refurbished iPad Pro (256GB, WiFi + cellular) with top-tier performance, stunning visuals, and massive storage for $699.99 (reg. $1,099).
Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Refurbished iPad Pro (256GB, WiFi + cellular) $699.99If you’ve been dreaming of upgrading your tech setup, consider this your sign.
The grade-A refurbished iPad Pro (256GB, WiFi + cellular) packs incredible power and a stunning Liquid Retina display all for $699.99 (reg. $1,099). Whether you’re creating, working, or gaming, this iPad Pro offers premium performance without the premium price.
The 12.9-inch iPad Pro is the go-to device for professionals, creatives, and tech enthusiasts alike. Its A12Z Bionic chip with Neural Engine provides unmatched multitasking power, while the Liquid Retina display delivers vivid, lifelike visuals. Plus, 256GB of storage and WiFi + Cellular connectivity keep you productive and connected wherever you go.
The iPad Pro’s 12MP Wide camera, 10MP Ultra-Wide camera, and LiDAR Scanner aren’t just great for taking pictures — they redefine what you can do with a tablet. You can capture ultra-detailed photos, record in 4K, and experiment with AR tools for everything from interior design mockups to interactive learning experiences.
The 7MP TrueDepth front camera ensures your video calls and selfies look sharp, whether you’re attending virtual meetings or connecting with family across the globe.
This Grade-A refurbished model arrives in near-mint condition, ensuring a premium experience for less. Whether you’re editing high-resolution videos, enjoying AR experiences with the LiDAR Scanner, or making crisp video calls, this iPad Pro can support your efforts.
Order today and start the new year with a device that keeps up with your ambition. Get the grade-A refurbished iPad Pro for just $699.99 (reg. $1,099).
StackSocial prices subject to change.
TL;DR: Design logos, create stunning visuals, and craft engaging content with a lifetime subscription to AI Magicx for just $69.99.
Opens in a new window Credit: AI Magicx AI Magicx: Lifetime Subscription (Rune Plan) $69.99 at Mashable ShopDo you need a memorable logo but don’t have the time — or the skills — to design one? AI Magicx’s Rune Plan was made to make your life easier. This powerful AI-powered platform turns your ideas into professional-grade designs, compelling content, and more, all in minutes.
For just $69.99, you’ll unlock a lifetime subscription to a creative toolbox that’s perfect for entrepreneurs, small business owners, and anyone ready to elevate their brand or creative flow.
AI Magicx is an innovative platform powered by cutting-edge artificial intelligence. Whether you’re starting a business, brainstorming content, or crafting a brand identity, AI Magicx simplifies every step. From unique logo design to interactive chatbots, it’s kind of like having a full creative team at your fingertips without the hefty price tag.
With AI Magicx, creating something extraordinary is as simple as entering a few prompts. Need a logo? Provide your vision, and the AI Logo Designer will generate a gallery of stunning options in seconds.
Want to engage your audience? Use the AI Chatbot feature to interact with customers seamlessly. And if you’re in the market for professional-grade articles or interesting visuals, AI Magicx’s tools have you covered.
The platform combines usability with vast possibilities, helping you create without requiring expert skills. On the back end of things, you can build engaging, interactive bots to enhance user experience and refine your code with developer-focused AI tools.
Don't miss the chance to save big on a lifetime of AI Magicx's Rune Plan while it's still available for just $69.99.
StackSocial prices subject to change.
Let's be real: PC gaming offers the best possible experience for gamers. High-end gaming computers pack more graphical and processing power than any home console, and they offer a level of freedom in terms of customization and game choice that you’re just not going to find anywhere else. But when it comes down to it, do you want your gaming sessions tied to your desk?
While desktops deliver elite performance, the best gaming laptops fit into the modern lifestyle more smoothly. It’s so convenient to take your gaming rig with you on the go – whether that’s to a friend’s place, or just to another room. Plus, there’s a gaming laptop to fit every type of player. Whether you're looking for a powerhouse that supports eye-popping visuals, a lightweight notebook to fit snugly in your backpack, or hoping to find a gaming laptop on a budget, we promise there's a machine for you.
SEE ALSO: Gaming starter kit: All the gear you need to play like a real gamer Where should you buy a gaming laptop?You can find great gaming laptops at pretty much any big-name retailer nowadays. Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, Target, GameStop, B&H, and others all have large selections of gaming laptops.
However, there is often a benefit to shopping directly with gaming laptop brands — their sites often offer a lot more customization, letting you pick out the exact specs you want. At bigger retailers, most off-the-shelf gaming laptops are already pre-specced (often by sketchy third-party sellers if you shop at Amazon), making it harder to find the right configuration and price.
Testing the Razer Blade 14 gaming laptop for this guide. Credit: Dylan Haas / Mashable What's the best cheap gaming laptop, and is it worth it?When it comes to gaming laptops, it's totally fine to not immediately spring for the top-of-the-line, $3,000-plus powerhouse. Plenty of gaming laptops fall below the $1,000 mark and are well worth the money. But, we would advise you against going too cheap. You really do get what you pay for, and if you settle for that bottom-of-the-barrel machine, you're not going to be able to run the games you want to play anyway.
However, if you're looking to keep a tight budget and don't mind playing via cloud streaming, the Acer Chromebook 516 GE is a great option (more details on that laptop below). And if you're looking to spend even less, the Lenovo Gaming Chromebook 16 is another solid cloud gaming laptop, which you can read about in our guide to the best laptops under $500.
What are the best gaming laptops?Finding the best laptop for your needs and budget can be tricky. They may be easier to parse than their desktop counterparts, but gaming laptops still require a fair bit of careful spec scrutinization. These are no consoles — you can’t just pick the latest generation system off the shelf and get playing. Choosing between the many graphics cards, processors, storage sizes, and screen types can be a real head-scratcher. And that’s where we come in.
Mashable Shopping experts have tested and reviewed a lot of gaming laptops over the years. Read on to find our recommendations for the best gaming laptops of 2024.
When you're on the hunt for the best laptop under $500, you need to be careful.
In the highly competitive laptop market, you get what you pay for. That means it can be very dangerous to buy a "cheap" laptop. Choose wrongly, and you'll be stuck with a slow, outdated computer that causes more problems than it solves. Mashable regularly tests the best affordable laptops overall, but if $500 is your upper limit, then you're going to be priced out of some popular budget laptops. But even then, we still highly recommend a handful of computers that will fit nicely into your budget.
Not all of the laptops we tested made our final cut, like the Samsung Chromebook 4. Credit: Timothy Beck Werth / Mashable A quick guide to laptop pricingYou can buy a cheap Chromebook for as little as $100, while our favorite gaming laptop will set you back over $3,000. And in our guide to the best laptops in general, you'll find machines that span a wide spectrum of prices. With $500 to spend, you'll be priced out of Ultrabooks, MacBooks, and most gaming laptops.
Typically, laptops fall into one of the following categories:
Chromebooks ($100-$650): These computers have minimal storage and are designed to run mostly web applications. They're light, portable, and very affordable. Cloud-based gaming Chromebooks also offer an alternative to gaming laptops.
Budget laptops ($250-$750): Even the best budget laptops won't have the most impressive specs, but they should have enough RAM and storage for everyday use at school or work.
MacBooks ($850-$3,500): The cheapest MacBook worth buying (the M2 MacBook Air) will set you back $850 when it's on sale, while a fully specced-out MacBook Pro can cost as much as $3,500.
Ultrabooks ($1,000-$3,500): These high-end laptops have enough processing power to handle tasks like photo and video editing. They typically have a sleek and modern aesthetic, too. MacBooks also fall into this category.
Below, we've put together a detailed guide to the best budget laptops for under $500, including Chromebook picks. The right laptop will vary depending on your needs, but the Acer Aspire 5 is our overall top pick for our money. Check out all the contenders below.
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