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Megan Thee Stallion appeared on "The Tonight Show" and spoke about her newfound love of "Sex and the City" before rating the main characters.

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

We all have the best intentions when it comes to entertaining the kids — outdoor activities, board games, sports classes, wood whittling — but it doesn't always turn out that way. Screens are just too handy and easy. Not to mention parents are generally exhausted from the reality of the working week and, well, parenting.

Indeed, it's only a matter of time before you'll turn to technology to save the day. Nothing captures the attention of a child like a desktop, tablet, laptop, or mobile, and there's nothing you can do about it. It's time to just accept it. And let's be honest: Modern kids have never known a world without the Internet and screens.

The problem, of course, is that the internet is full of danger for kids, including explicit materials, bullying, and cyber criminals. Fortunately, there is a solution in the form of parental control software. If that sound a bit new and scary, here's a quick explainer and a selection of the best options to keep your kids safe.

What is parental control software?

In the most basic terms, it's a software that helps you to manage all the devices your kids use — as well as the way they use them. It's all about making sure the online world is a safe space for your kids to explore. Though you should chat with your littles ones about the importance of safety before you let them loose online or implement any software.

How does parental control software work?

Parental control software lets you keep tabs your child's phone, tablet, or computer via an app. You can monitor internet searches and browsing history, as well as block inappropriate apps (or block distracting apps during homework hours) or even limit device usage all together. It's less invasive than physically going through their phone or computer. And when kids know that their activity is being watched or managed, they're more likely to practice better cyber safety habits.

What's a safe amount of screen time for kids?

It's easy to get sucked into scaremongering over kids' screen time. It's not the end of the world if kids have more screens than parents would like, and parents should give themselves a break when it comes to relieving the stress of parenting with a little screen time. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) suggests very limited screen time for children under two years old, an hour a day between the ages of two and five, and two hours between the ages of five and eight. Beyond that it's important to talk to your child about responsible screen use. Problems associated with too much screen time include weight gain, sleep problems, and general inactivity.

What is geofencing?

Parental control software can also help keep tabs on your kid when they're not at home. Though most have GPS and some sort of basic "Where's my child?" function, only a select few software options offer geofencing, which is a big help for parents juggling the schedules of multiple children.

This location-based service lets you set up virtual boundaries around where a child should or shouldn't be, as well as a specific time that the child should be there. Let's say that your child goes straight from school to a sports practice three times a week. The geofencing feature will monitor their phone's location and will alert you if your child doesn't show up to the scheduled area on time. Teenagers may even enjoy not being bombarded with "Where are you?" texts. Geofencing can also be used to monitor web time when your child is in a designated location. For instance, some parents may disable games or social media during school.

What is the best parental control software?

There are plenty of parental control software options out there for you to consider, with something for every family. We have researched everything on offer and lined up a selection of the very best services, including software from big names like Kaspersky, Qustodio, and Norton. Basically, we've done all the hard work for you.

These are the best parental control software options for 2024.

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

File sharing has come a long way since LimeWire — but users of torrenting sites may still have security and privacy fears.

This is where a VPN can help.

What is a VPN?

VPNs encrypt data leaving your computer and make it impossible for others to see what you’re downloading. To the uninitiated, these virtual private networks assign a virtual IP address to obscure your real location from others, which is important when sharing snippets of files with other users of a torrenting client, especially if what you’re sharing is copyrighted material. (This is of course illegal and we do not condone it!)

Do you need a VPN for torrenting?

Torrenting is a great way to share big files (freeware apps, movies, books, etc.) that are in the public domain. This is because you download parts of them from a number of users instead of from a single place, so the demands are less on any one server and downloads are faster. But in return for accessing files from other people’s computers, you are expected to reciprocate. Without a VPN, this could leave you vulnerable to security scams, viruses, malware attacks, and even legal action if you’ve shared a copyrighted work (even a single song). 

Therefore, VPNs with extra security measures are in demand. Other important criteria for choosing a VPN include a clear privacy policy, un-throttled bandwidth, fast download speeds, and value for money.

What is the best VPN for torrenting?

Whether you’re looking for a VPN that’s extra secure with shared IP addresses, or simply the one that’s easiest to use, we’ve rounded up the best VPNs for torrenting so the only searching you have to do will be for content to share.

These are the best VPNs for torrenting in 2024.

We wouldn't go as far as to say that football can solve all of life's problems, but it can help with pretty much everything life throws at you. Feeling down? Watch a live game. Nervous? Catch up on last night's action. Bored? Watch highlights from your favourite match.

Whatever your problem, football is the solution.

Fortunately for all football fans out there, the Premier League is back, which means there is something to watch almost every weekend. But what if you didn't have access to all of these games? We know this is an absolutely terrifying thought, but it's important to face your fears.

There are two scenarios that would cause you to lose access to the Premier League. The first is that you're travelling in a location without broadcasting rights. The second is that you're based in the UK, and you aren't subscribed to a service with access to the Premier League. Even if you are subscribed to these channels, there is no guarantee that they will be showing the fixture you absolutely need to watch. This is all very scary stuff, but please remain calm.

There really isn't any need to panic, because there is one effective solution to both of these issues. You can use a VPN to watch the Premier League this season.

What is a VPN?

VPNs are security tools that provide protection for your information by creating a private network that hides your real IP address. Your online activity is untraceable and secure, because all of your online traffic passes through an encrypted tunnel. Nobody can see into the tunnel, and everything inside the tunnel is protected against online threats like hackers, viruses, and malware.

This act of hiding your real IP address is what tricks streaming sites into thinking you are based in another country.

Do you need a VPN to watch the Premier League?

All broadcasting services have digital borders, meaning not all countries can show Premier League fixtures. However, with the help of a VPN, you can hide your real IP address and location, which means you can trick leading streaming services into thinking you’re based somewhere with those precious broadcasting rights. It's all about bypassing online restrictions to watch more content from all over the world.

If you're abroad with a VPN, you can make your subscription think you're back home by connecting to a server based in the UK. If you're in the UK without access to these services, you can watch the best sport streaming sites from all over the world by securely connecting to a server in that location and bypassing geo-restrictions.

What is the best VPN for watching the Premier League?

Once you have established that you're going to need a VPN to watch the Premier League, the tricky process of picking a service begins. Deciding that you need a VPN is actually the easy part. There are absolutely loads of VPNs out there, so it can be a difficult task to pick the right option for you. This is where we can save you a lot of time and hassle.

We have checked out everything out there and assessed how well these services unblock streaming sites. We've also taken into consideration things like connection speed, server network, and number of simultaneous connections. Basically, we've done all of the hard work and lined up a selection of the best VPNs for watching the Premier League.

It's worth taking some time to properly consider everything in this list, because we have tried to track down something to suit everyone and every budget. Take your pick from the likes of ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark. You just need to pick a favourite and start streaming.

These are the best VPNs for watching the Premier League in 2024.

Stephen Colbert joked about rapper Eminem's appearance alongside Barack Obama at a rally for VP Kamala Harris in Michigan.

SAVE $69.27: As of Oct. 24, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 is on sale at Amazon for $260.72 on Amazon. That's a 21% saving on list price, and the lowest it's ever been on Amazon.

Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 $260.72 at Amazon
$329.99 Save $69.27 Get Deal

If a smartwatch upgrade is on your wishlist, you'll be browsing the internet for deals on the classics: Garmin, Apple, and Samsung. Price and release dates can have a big impact when shopping, so we think you'll love this deal on the latest Galaxy watch, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 7. Take a look at what we thought when we compared it to the Apple Watch Series 9.

Only released this summer, the watch has already seen several discounts but is currently reduced to its lowest-ever price at Amazon. As of Oct. 24, you can snag this smartwatch for $260.72. This is for the 44mm option with Bluetooth connectivity and in Silver. However, there are discounted options across all variations.

So what's so special about this model? Design-wise it is still very similar to its predecessor, but this version benefits more from Galaxy-AI. This includes starting your day with a personalized Energy Score, a stat based on what you did yesterday, how you slept, and how much activity you've done.

SEE ALSO: Score Samsung Galaxy Watches up to 43% off at Amazon

It includes all the usual data such as sleep monitoring, fitness levels, and heart rate tracking, but at a much more advanced level. With sleep tracking, the watch can signal whether you may be suffering from sleep apnea. While you sleep, the watch tracks your breathing patterns and oxygen levels, using AI to identify issues that may indicate episodes of sleep apnea.

Galaxy AI improves fitness tracking too, using your previous workout data to give you an idea of how you are progressing. Whether you're running, cycling, swimming, or doing other activities, the Galaxy Watch 7 will give you great stats and insights.

This is a limited-time deal on Amazon, so if you're interested, don't waste any time.

The Daily Mini Crossword is one of the many popular daily word games available on Mashable. Powered by Arkadium, the mini crossword offers a speed round of puzzle fun with clues that are sure to challenge experienced crossword enthusiasts.

But there's no need to let the challenge get in the way of your enjoyment! If moments are turning to minutes after getting stuck on a clue, find the answers you need to progress right here.

And when you're done, check out the many other word games you can play on Mashable, including a full-size crossword.

Also, if you get stuck on any other daily word games, such as Wordle, Connections, or Strands — we have you covered.

SEE ALSO: Hurdle hints and answers for October 24 SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable

Here are the clues and answers to Daily Mini Crossword for Thursday, October 24, 2024:

AcrossKind of lamp

• The answer is Lava.

Crossed ones fingers

• The answer is Hoped.

Oscar or Tony

• The answer is Award.

Leafy flavor enhancers

• The answer is herbs.

NYU's Tisch School of the ____

• The answer is Arts.

DownLet down

• The answer is Lower.

Separated

• The answer is Apart.

Not adjectives or nouns

• The answer is Die Hard.

Throws in the mix

• The answer is Adds.

Laughing sound

• The answer is Haha.

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Featured Video For You The Wordle Strategy used by the New York Times' Head of Games

Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.

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

SAVE $89.99: As of Oct. 24, the Ultenic U10 Ultra Cordless Stick Vacuum Cleaner is on sale for $99 with the on-site coupon —down from its typical price of $189.99. That's a saving of $90 on list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Ultenic / Mashable Composite Ultenic U10 Ultra Cordless Stick Vacuum Cleaner $99.99 at Amazon
$189.99 Save $90.00 Get Deal

If you've been looking to upgrade your cleaning game, this deal on the Ultenic U10 Ultra Cordless Stick Vacuum is worth a look. Usually priced at $189.99, the Ultenic U10 Ultra is down to just $99 thanks to the on-site $40 coupon. That's over 47% off the list price, the best price we've seen on this model. This sleek, lightweight vacuum packs a punch with a 450W motor and 30,000Pa of suction power. It is perfect for tackling everything from pet hair to deep-cleaning hardwood floors and carpets.

Plus, it easily converts from a stick vacuum to a handheld, so no corner or crevice is out of reach. It's got everything you'd expect from a premium vacuum: up to 40 minutes of run time on low mode, a 1-liter dustbin capacity, and an anti-tangle brush that's a lifesaver for pet owners. No more stopping to pull hair out of the brush roll.

SEE ALSO: I've tested over 20 robot vacuums and these are the best for every budget in 2024

With features like the HEPA filtration system, which traps 99.99% of dust and allergens, this vacuum not only cleans your floors but also helps improve air quality in your home. The GreenEyE technology — a green light that highlights dust on floors — ensures you won't miss a speck of dirt, even in those dark corners. And with its self-standing design, you can park it anywhere without needing to mount it on the wall.

This deal is a great chance to add a powerful, versatile vacuum to your cleaning arsenal without breaking the bank. At $99, the Ultenic U10 Ultra Cordless Stick Vacuum Cleaner is a solid pick for anyone tired of dragging around heavy, corded models. Snag this deal while it lasts, and get ready to say goodbye to dirt, dust, and pet hair for good.

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 hint

Very clear, distinct.

SEE ALSO: Mini crossword answers for October 24 Hurdle Word 1 answer

VIVID

Hurdle Word 2 hint

A service for online transactions.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for October 24 Hurdle Word 2 Answer

PAYPAL

Hurdle Word 3 hint

A mistake, often used for political errors.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections today: Hints and answers for October 24 Hurdle Word 3 answer

GAFFE

Hurdle Word 4 hint

A diplomatic representative

SEE ALSO: NYT Strands hints, answers for October 24 Hurdle Word 4 answer

ENVOY

Final Hurdle hint

If you miss par by one stroke in golf.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Games available on Mashable Hurdle Word 5 answer

BOGEY

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Apple's iOS 18.1, which will become widely available in a few days, brings a timid list of Apple Intelligence features, with arguably some of the coolest ones missing.

But Apple's iOS 18.2 is the real deal, and it just became available as a developer beta.

How do you install the iOS 18.2 developer beta?

First, the bad news: Even for a dev beta, which requires users to register as developers, this release is incredibly limited. It will not show up as an option for users who don't have an AI-capable device (I, for example, am not seeing it on my iPhone 12 Pro, but I did get the iPadOS equivalent on the iPad mini 7). Furthermore, none of the new AI features are available in Europe and China.

SEE ALSO: Apple iPad mini 7 review: Beefed up and ready for AI

If you are registered as developer, and you tick all the boxes (device language and Siri language must be set to English, and you must be in the U.S., the UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, or South Africa), and you have an iPhone 15 Pro, or an iPhone 16 or iPhone 16 Pro, you'll be able to download and test the update.

What do you get in iOS 18.2 developer beta?

Apple's release notes for the iOS 18.2 and iPadOS 18.2 developer betas are available on Apple's website, but they don't list all the new features. And there's quite a few in this release, so here's an overview (focusing on Apple Intelligence).

• Genmoji are here — the AI-powered custom emoji are now craftable. Users running iOS 18.1 will see them, but they won't be able to create them. To create a Genmoji, just type in a query such as "cat scientist" and the AI will concoct a cute image for you. Then, you can adjust the character further by refining your query. Or you can just pick up a photo of someone from your Photos library and create a Genmoji that looks like them.

• Image Playground — similar to Genmoji, but a little more elaborate. Again, you can create an image based on a text description or a person from your Photos library, and refine it until you get exactly the result you want.

Image Playground and related features are finally here. Credit: Apple

• Image Wand — this is essentially Image Playground integrated into the Notes app. Draw a sketch, or select a phrase, and the Image Wand will create an image right there in your note.

• Siri plays nice with ChatGPT — if you opt-in, Siri can now hand over your queries to ChatGPT. This works without an OpenAI account, and Apple says your data is not stored anywhere.

• Writing Tools — this is already available in 18.1, but 18.2 expands it further, with the ability to refine certain aspects of the text further.

Need to add a simple illustration to your note? Image Wand is here to help. Credit: Apple

• Visual Intelligence — this feature only works on iPhone 16. Fire up your camera and point it to something, and the AI will fetch some relevant data (such as opening hours for a coffee shop).

All in all, this is a pretty big deal. The Apple Intelligence features you get in iOS 18.1 are nice but are just the tip of the iceberg, and a small part of what Apple promised for the release. With iOS 18.2, we get a glimpse into the more advanced AI features which will be rolling out to all users later this year. If you want to give the iOS 18.2 dev beta a try, know that this is an early release and as such prone to bugs; always back up your device before you install beta software.

SAVE $69: As of Oct. 24, new and eligible returning subscribers can snag Hulu (With Ads) + Live TV for $59.99 per month for the first three months. After that, the subscription auto-renews at $82.99 per month. This deal ends on Nov. 19.

Opens in a new window Credit: Hulu Hulu + Live TV (3-Month Subscription) $179.97 at Hulu
$248.97 Save $69.00 Get Deal

Who says you need to break the bank to get the best TV package?

Hulu is making it easy to ditch those cable bills with a limited-time deal that drops the price of Hulu (With Ads) + Live TV down to just $59.99 per month for the first three months. That's a $23 saving per month compared to the usual $82.99 per month price. And they're throwing in Disney+ and ESPN+ for good measure — because who doesn't want a side of Marvel or live sports with their reality TV fix?

Sure, there are plenty of streaming services, but Hulu + Live TV gives you access to over 95 live channels, from ABC to ESPN, without the hassle of hardware or hidden fees. Plus, with unlimited DVR, you can record all the live TV you want — perfect for those nights when you're torn between catching the game live or binging another episode of Only Murders in the Building. No sneaky contracts here either — just a month-to-month subscription that you can cancel anytime if you feel like testing the waters elsewhere. But let's be real, with this lineup, why would you want to?

You've got until Nov. 19 to jump on this offer, so don't sleep on it. After three months, the plan auto-renews at $82.99 per month, which is still less than many traditional cable bills. But heads up — if you decide to switch plans after cashing in on this deal, you'll lose that sweet discount.

Ready to see what all the hype is about? Sign up for this Hulu + Live TV deal and start streaming without the headaches. And if you decide it's not for you, cancel online — no awkward phone calls needed.

Connections: Sports Edition is a new version of the popular New York Times word game that seeks to test the knowledge of sports fans.

Like the original Connections, 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 October 21's Connections solution. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable SEE ALSO: Hurdle hints and answers for October 24 What is Connections Sports Edition?

The NYT's latest daily word game has launched in association with The Athletic, the New York Times property that provides the publication's sports coverage. 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.

SEE ALSO: NYT's The Mini crossword answers for October 24 Here's a hint for today's Connections Sports Edition categories

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

• Yellow: Mile-high athletics

• Green: Not for fair-weather fans

• Blue: Elite racing

• Purple: Gridiron locations

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

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

• Yellow - Denver sports teams

• Green - Weather-themed teams

• Blue - F1 teams

• Purple - NFL Stadiums

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 today's Connections Sports Edition #25 is...

What is the answer to Connections Sports Edition today

• Denver sports teams: AVALANCHE, NUGGETS, RAPIDS, ROCKIES

• Weather-themed teams: HURRICANES, LIGHTNING STORM, THUNDER

• F1 Teams: ASTON MARTIN, FERRARI, MCLAREN, MERCEDES

• NFL Stadiums: FORD, LAMBEAU, LUMEN, SOLDIER

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.

Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.

SEE ALSO: Mini crossword answers for October 24

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 Connections.

A plan to revive U.S. chip manufacturing rests partly on a company that is firing workers and delaying factories, even as the government pushes for the opposite.

Intel was for decades Silicon Valley’s dominant chip company. But missed opportunities and poor execution left it on the sidelines in tech’s latest gold rush.

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

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

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

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable

Here are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Thursday, October 24, 2024:

AcrossHorse's foot

• The answer is Hoof.

More than enough

• The answer is Ample.

Like movies listed on Rotten Tomatoes

• The answer is Rated.

Recoiled (from)

• The answer is Shied.

What you can make dance by putting a little boogie in it, in an old joke

• The answer is Hanky.

SEE ALSO: Hurdle hints and answers for October 24 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for October 24 DownLike some criticism and winter weather

• The answer is Harsh.

Nebraska's largest city

• The answer is Omaha.

Agree to receive promotional emails, say

• The answer is OptIn.

On ___ (super stylish, in 2010s slang)

• The answer is Fleek.

Swirl, as water

• The answer is Eddy.

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Featured Video For You The Wordle Strategy used by the New York Times' Head of Games

Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.

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

A couple of months ago, a camera company emailed me about testing their new action camera. I was halfway through my reply when a simple fact occurred to me: In a world with GoPro, why would I use literally any other action camera? A few weeks later, I was testing the new GoPro Hero 13 Black action camera while jet skiing on the Hudson River here in New York City.

For my GoPro Hero 13 Black review, I tested the camera by sea and land, though unfortunately not by air. My skydiving dreams will have to wait for the Hero 14, I guess. After spending a month with GoPro's new flagship action camera, I'm ready to render a verdict: This camera seems too good to be true.

And while I did discover both pros and cons in my testing, there's a reason GoPro is the king of the action camera mountain. And that's a pretty cool mountain.

Is the new GoPro Hero 13 Black worth it? Getting up close with the Hero 13. Credit: Thom Wyatt / Mashable

I love spoilers, so let's get right to it: The new GoPro absolutely justifies its $399.99 price tag. It shoots professional-quality video footage underwater, on the trail, and in the snow. For creators and pro videographers, the new lens mods, accessories, and ND filters give you even more powerful tools for capturing "I can't believe I just shot that" footage. GoPro has also answered users' GPS prayers and brought back geotagging.

That doesn't mean it's the right camera for everyone. If you're a casual user and already have the Hero 12 Black, I probably wouldn't upgrade. (However, you should definitely check out the just-released $199.99 Hero 4K, the company's smallest-ever 4K camera.) Lastly, if you shoot most of your footage indoors rather than outdoors — or if you primarily shoot for TikTok and social media — you have to consider the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 gimbal camera. I reviewed the Pocket 3 last year, and since then it's become ubiquitous at gatherings of influencers and tech events.

Tripod not included. Credit: Thom Wyatt / Mashable The newest camera from GoPro. Credit: Thom Wyatt / Mashable Just the facts: The new GoPro by the numbers

Before we get into my first-hand experience and videos, let's cover the basics.

• The Hero 13 features a 1/1.9-inch CMOS sensor

• Shoots in 5.3K (up to 30 frames per second), 4K (up to 120 fps), and 1080p (up to 240 fps)

• HyperSmooth 6.0 video stabilization

• 2.27-inch rear touchscreen display and 1.4-inch front display

• Weighs 154 grams and measures 71.8 x 50.8 x 33.6 millimeters

• Waterproof up to 33 feet

• Shoots HLG HDR video in 10-bit color

• Shoots slow-motion video in 5.3K at 120 fps

• Takes 27.13MP photographs (5568 x 4872 pixels)

The Hero 13 features the same sensor and processor as the 12. The new camera has a range of improved accessories, including new lens mods, ND filters, creator accessories, and a magnetic latch mount (don't worry — it's more secure than it sounds). By itself, the camera is priced at a very reasonable $399.99, but the price goes up if you want all the goodies.

How good is the video quality? See for yourself...

With last year's Hero 12, GoPro unveiled big improvements to its HyperSmooth motion stabilization, which gets incremental improvements this year. When I showed my raw footage to a professional video editor, he assumed I was using a gimbal. Even while bouncing up and down on a very choppy river, the footage is insanely smooth, and Horizon Lock adds even more magic to your videography.

In fact, the motion stabilization might be too good. According to a GoPro representative I spoke with, mountain bikers who tested the camera complained that their footage looked too smooth.

The color clarity on the new camera is also better compared to the Hero 12. The 12 offered HDR video, but the 13 introduces HLG HDR (that's "hybrid log gamma" and "high dynamic range," respectively.) A GoPro representative showed me side-by-side video on an HDR screen, and the Hero 13's footage clearly had brighter colors, clearer whites, and more detail in shadows. Shading in individual clouds was noticeably improved, for instance. Add in the ND filters (which help with overexposure), and you can capture even more lifelike video in any conditions.

Of course, you'll need an HDR monitor to fully appreciate the difference. Pro users will certainly appreciate improved color clarity, lens mods, and ND filters. However, these improvements may be wasted on others.

In this first test video, you can watch me struggling to control a jet ski during a GoPro event. (You might expect the jet ski company would give us a lesson before turning us loose on one of the busiest waterways in the country, but alas...) I used the standard lens and the ultra-wide lens for this video, and I chose to edit it down to a 16:9 video, though I could easily have edited a vertical video from the same raw footage.

In terms of audio, GoPro isolates whoops and yells over the sound of engines and wind. Indeed, you can hear all my dorky "Whoa!" noises.

I took these next videos using an ND filter on a particularly sunny day in Red Hook, Brooklyn. Notice the color clarity and depth, even in extremely bright sunlight.

What are the biggest downsides?

I do have some issues to report, including one big one.

Overheating has been a continual problem for GoPro, a necessary evil when cramming so much hardware into a 2.8-inch camera. When uploading my first clips to the GoPro Quik app over WiFi, the camera warned me that it was overheating, which didn't bode well. Early users also report overheating and battery problems when shooting in 4K. Pro users will definitely want to invest in extra batteries, which aren't backward compatible with older models.

When shooting HLG HDR 4K video at 30 frames per second in direct sunlight (with motion stabilization and GPS enabled), the camera overheated and powered off after only 20 minutes (20 minutes and four seconds, to be exact). I recorded the GoPro's temperature at 146.5 degrees Fahrenheit. To be fair, I was purposefully trying to max out the camera.

A GoPro representative provided this statement to Mashable about overheating: "If using the camera to record in a static use-case, it’s not unexpected to hit thermal limits if you’ve left HyperSmooth and GPS on. We recommend turning those off as they provide no value for static use-case captures. Additionally, the biggest factors that can trigger thermal limits for Hero 13 are shooting in HDR at specific framerates (60+ FPS when stationary), along with using 10-bit color and changing the bitrate to high. For a static recording at 4K30 with HyperSmooth and GPS off, we’d expect longer than 20 minutes of runtime."

If you're shooting in the water or at high speeds, lower temperatures and airflow will also help solve this problem. I had no problems when filming on a bike or jet ski. If you don't care about GPS at all, the Mashable-approved Hero 12 is only $299, although it can struggle with overheating, too.

That GoPro is so hot right now. Literally, it's burning me. Credit: Timothy Beck Werth / Mashable

The touch controls have a slight learning curve. Because the screen is so small, it's easy to accidentally swipe into the wrong setting. Honestly, the controls aren't that complicated, but if you're trying to master them while simultaneously driving a jet ski for the first time, they're a small pain point. (Learn from my mistake; practice the touch controls.)

The competition is also catching up to GoPro in some respects. The new DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro is $50 cheaper but features a four-hour battery and a 40MP camera (GoPro maxes out at 27MP). The Insta360 Ace Pro has a Lecia lens (Lecia!), a flip-up screen, a 48MP camera, and an impressive HDR mode, though GoPro wins out on battery life with a superior 1900mAh Enduro battery.

A photo I grabbed with the Burst photo mode. Credit: Timothy Beck Werth / Mashable

Still, GoPro offers users benefits beyond the specs. Because it's the standard action camera, you can join a passionate community of GoPro users, and GoPro Reddit is very active. If GoPro itself can't troubleshoot problems for you, there's a good chance your fellow customers can and will.

The return of GPS and new telemetry 'stickers'

Last year, GoPro dropped GPS geotagging because it was a drain on battery life, but this feature is back in the Hero 13, and without sacrificing any battery life. (However, I can't say the same about overheating.) GoPro has also introduced video overlays called "stickers" that can visualize stats like altitude, speed, and G-forces on your footage. So, if you've enabled GPS, you can show off your GPS and telemetry data in creative ways using the Quik app.

These video overlays are pretty frickin' cool. If you want your viewers to truly appreciate your daredevil stunts, then you can easily add a gravity meter or speedometer to your video. (Stickers include a speedometer, terrain, path, speed chart, altitude, G-force, and a GoPro logo.)

New video overlay 'stickers' use GPS and telemetry data. Credit: Screenshot: GoPro Choose video overlays of speedometers, altimeters, terrain maps, and G-forces. Credit: Screenshot: GoPro How are the new lens mods and ND filters?

The good news is that if you don't know what the "ND" in ND filters stands for, then you can probably just skip this entire section. Neutral-density filters reduce the light passing through the lens. In bright conditions, this can be a godsend, and the only thing between you and overexposed images. The add-on pack comes with four ND filters of different strengths. When you attach them, the camera will automatically recommend whether you need a higher or lower filter, which is pretty nifty.

The lens mod and ND filters are sold separately. Credit: Thom Wyatt / Mashable Some add-on accessories and mounts. Credit: Thom Wyatt / Mashable

The ultra-wide lens mod is also very cool, giving you a 177-degree field of view that captures more of the horizon and action. If you like to attach your GoPro to your helmet or chest, it's perfect for POV shots (and I mean true POV shots, not TikTok POV shots). Then there's the macro lens mod, which lets you pull off tilt-shift effects and focus on details just inches away from the camera. Finally, the yet-to-be-released anamorphic lens makes it possible to capture lens flares and cinematic-style video.

Once again, these are really cool accessories, but not something the average user absolutely needs to have.

Don't be intimidated, the Hero 13 isn't just for professionals

The Hero 13 has two control settings: easy and pro. I spent most of my time in the easy settings. When I handed the camera to a director friend, he wasted no time in toggling over to pro so he could play with frames per second, ISO settings, and white balance. But you can do all the essentials in easy mode.

The Hero 12 introduced a new vertical video mode for apps like TikTok and Instagram Reels. While you can still shoot in a widescreen mode (and attach the ultra-eide for epic POV shots), I did most of my filming in the 1:1 full-frame setting. Then, you can easily edit this footage into your desired aspect ratio. So, if you want to make one version of your video for YouTube and another for TikTok, it's very easy to do so.

Once you've had a chance to practice, the small touchscreen gets easier to operate. You can switch from video, to timelapse, to photo mode with the flick of a finger (or use voice controls). There's also a quick-record mode if you need to start filming ASAP.

The rear touchscreen display. Credit: Thom Wyatt / Mashable The bottom line: GoPro's still king of the action cameras

So, once more, if you need a new action cam, I think the Hero 13 is definitely worth it. Just be warned that overheating can be a problem in direct sunlight and low-airflow environments.

Earlier, I said what's the point of buying any other action camera. Perhaps I was being hasty, as the competition is catching up. However, on balance, there's a reason GoPro is synonymous with action cameras. You don't need to be a pro user to use and love the Hero 13, although I can't recommend instantly upgrading unless you need the latest features. If you can live without GPS, the Hero 12 is often on sale.

The GoPro Hero 13 Black action camera is priced at $399.99 at Amazon and GoPro. If you buy the camera at GoPro, you can sometimes score discounts or bonus offers, such as a free SD card and an extra Enduro battery.

GoPro Hero 13 Black $349.99 at Amazon
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TL;DR: Live stream Los Angeles Rams vs. Minnesota Vikings for free with a 30-day trial of Prime Video. Access this free live stream from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

Thursday Night Football is back with a massive matchup between the Los Angeles Rams and Minnesota Vikings. The Rams have struggled this season, and will need to be at their absolute best to take anything from the impressive Vikings.

If you want to watch the Los Angeles Rams vs. Minnesota Vikings for free from anywhere in the world, here's all the information you need.

When is Rams vs. Vikings?

Los Angeles Rams vs. Minnesota Vikings takes place at 8:15 p.m. ET on Oct. 24. This fixture will be played at the SoFi Stadium.

How to watch Rams vs. Vikings for free

Los Angeles Rams vs. Minnesota Vikings is available to live stream on Prime Video in the U.S., but anyone can watch this game for free with a 30-day trial of Amazon Prime (not to mention other Thursday Night Football fixtures).

Fans from outside the U.S. will need to use a VPN to watch the NFL for free on Prime Video. This process is straightforward:

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5. Watch Los Angeles Rams vs. Minnesota Vikings for free from anywhere in the world on Prime Video

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The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but top VPN providers do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these deals, you can gain access to free live streams of the NFL without actually spending anything. It's a short-term fix, but it will give you enough time to watch select NFL fixtures before claiming back your investment.

What is the best VPN for the NFL?

ExpressVPN is the best service for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream the NFL, for a number of reasons:

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A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is currently available for $99.95 — 49% off list price. This deal includes an extra three months at no extra cost, an entire year of unlimited cloud backup, and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

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The rise of the MCU turned post-credits scenes from a rare occurrence to an expectation, not just for superhero movies but for major action tentpoles as well. However, while Venom is a Marvel character, Venom: The Last Dance is not part of the MCU. So, will it play by MCU expectations?

Tom Hardy reprises the roles of journalist/human host Eddie Brock and troublemaker/alien symbiote Venom in the third entry into this slippery and often silly franchise. Written and directed by Venom: Let There Be Carnage scribe Kelly Marcel, Venom: The Last Dance follows this calamitous odd couple as they evade the authorities — including surly soldier Rex Strickland (Chiwetel Ejiofor) and traumatized scientist Dr. Teddy Payne (Juno Temple), not to mention an ancient evil known as Knull (played by Let There Be Carnage director Andy Serkis).

SEE ALSO: 'Venom: The Last Dance' review: Half a great, stupid movie

Over the course of this road trip comedy meets sci-fi drama, Marcel weaves plenty of threads (perhaps too many?), and leaves several dangling at movie's end. So, should you stay through the credits to see if there's answers to be found there?

SEE ALSO: The epic 'Venom: Let There Be Carnage's mid-credit scene, explained

Yes. Without spoilers, you'll want to stay seated as the credits roll. Not only will you get to witness a gleefully absurd montage of Venom variants exploding alongside the names of cast and crew, but also you'll get a mid-credits scene that teases where these movies could go next. Plus, after that whole shebang, there's a post-credits scene that has its own secrets. So hang in there, and while you're at it, marvel at the army of talented artists and technicians required to make a movie as utterly bonkers as Venom: The Last Dance.

Venom: The Last Dance opens exclusively in theaters Oct. 25.

TL;DR: Grab this refurbished HP EliteBook for $319.97 until October 27 while supplies last, and enjoy high performance for work or school.

Opens in a new window Credit: HP Refurbished HP EliteBook 840 G5 (Core i5-835U, 16GM RAM, 256GB SSD) $319.97
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If it's time to upgrade your laptop, but you're not willing to drop the equivalent of rent, there's a refurbished option HP option that could be a great pick for you.

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Don't miss the chance to upgrade your work setup with this refurbished HP EliteBook 840 G5, available now for $319.97 through October 27.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

TL;DR: Through Oct. 27, automate job applications for life with a LazyApply Basic subscription on sale for $59.97.

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Take the headache out of job applications and score this lifetime subscription to LazyApply Job Application Basic on sale for $59.97 until October 27 at 11:59 p.m. PT.

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