Feed aggregator

The ASUS ROG Cetra wireless gaming earbuds are just $80 today, and I think they are criminally underrated

Mashable - Tue, 04/08/2025 - 05:34

SAVE $20: As of April 8, ASUS ROG Cetra True Wireless Gaming Headphones are available for $79.99 at Amazon. That’s 20% off their regular $99.99 price.

Opens in a new window Credit: ASUS ASUS ROG Cetra True Wireless Gaming Headphones $79.99 at Amazon
$99.99 Save $20 Get Deal

A solid pair of gaming earbuds with real features for under $80? I think I just found the unicorn of wireless audio. ASUS ROG Cetra True Wireless Gaming Headphones are currently 20 percent off at Amazon, knocking the price down to $79.99 from the usual $99.99. For earbuds that look sleek, sound sharp, and somehow cater to both casual listeners and sweaty-thumbed gamers, this feels like a rare moment of capitalist kindness.

What I like most is that these earbuds aren’t trying too hard. They just do the thing. Gaming mode gives you low-latency audio so your Fortnite jump scares sync up with the chaos on screen. No audio delay to ruin your perfectly-timed shotgun blast. And the hybrid active noise cancelation actually works, so I can block out my neighbor’s dog (who has apparently discovered barking as a new lifestyle).

SEE ALSO: Apple announces WWDC 2025 dates

Then there’s the battery life. ASUS claims up to 27 hours total with the case, which is either a tech miracle or a subtle reminder that I need to stop binge-watching Twitch streams. The wireless charging case is also a win — I’ve reached the point where plugging things in feels like too much effort, and this setup respects that.

These earbuds are compatible with everything from the PlayStation 5 to your phone, so I don’t have to commit to one ecosystem. I can rage-quit a game on my Switch, pick up a call on my iPhone, then watch YouTube on my laptop without switching gear. That’s the kind of chaos I aspire to.

  • Price: $79.99 $99.99

  • Retailer: Amazon

  • Color Options: White, Black

  • Form Factor: In-ear

  • Connectivity: Bluetooth with low-latency gaming mode

  • Battery Life: Up to 27 hours with charging case

  • Charging: Supports wireless and USB-C charging

  • Noise Cancelation: Hybrid active noise cancelation (ANC)

  • Water Resistance: IPX4-rated (splash-resistant)

  • Compatibility: PC, Mac, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, mobile devices

And in case you’re wondering: yes, they’re also water-resistant. IPX4 won’t save you if you drop them in a lake, but it’ll handle a drizzle or some gym sweat without issue. Not that I’ve been to a gym in months, but it’s nice to pretend.

For $79.99, I don’t think you’ll find another pair of gaming earbuds this feature-packed. Unless you count the knockoff ones that sound like they were tuned inside a tin can. I say skip the drama and snag the ROG Cetras while they’re marked down.

Ready to upgrade? The Google Pixel 9 is on sale for $650 at Amazon.

Mashable - Tue, 04/08/2025 - 05:19

SAVE $200 : As of April 8, the Google Pixel 9 is on sale for $699.99 at Amazon. That's a 22% savings on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Google Google Pixel 9 $649.75 at Amazon
$799 Save $149.25 Get Deal

Amazon's Daily Deals is the perfect place for discounts and deals. You'll find lots of great bargains on anything from TVs to smartphones. But we really love this latest deal on the Google Pixel 9. It's a great all-rounder — just check out our review to see what we thought.

As of April 8, you can find this model at Amazon for 22% off, now just $699.99. This deal is for the 256GB option is available across all colorways.

This smartphone includes a 6.3-inch OLED display with vibrant colors as well as the latest Google Tensor chip for fast, non-laggy performance. It has dual rear cameras to take incredible pictures, both in bright and low light.

This model also features Gemini, Google's next-generation AI technology. It offers assistance with tools including advanced photo editing such as Magic Eraser and Face Unblur, enhanced voice recognition for dictation, and Google Assistant capabilities. It also uses real-time translation to allow for seamless language support in messaging or live conversations, and it even powers predictive text.

Head to Amazon to upgrade now.

I think the Fire Stick is one of Amazons best products, and its back on sale for $30

Mashable - Tue, 04/08/2025 - 05:13

SAVE $20: As of April 8, the Amazon Fire Stick 4K is on sale at Amazon for $29.99. That's a 40% discount on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Fire Stick 4K $29.99 at Amazon
$49.99 Save $20.00 Get Deal

We're big fans of Amazon's Fire Stick here at Mashable. Big things come in small packages, as they say, and this nifty little device can turn nearly any TV into a smart TV for much less than buying something outright. It's a streaming device that plugs into your TV (or laptop) and lets you access platforms, including Prime Video, Netflix, Hulu, and more. It comes with a remote with Alexa built-in and is currently less than $30.

As of April 8, the newest model of the Fire Stick 4K is reduced by 40%, now priced at just $20.99.

And there's no complicated setup for this device. These handy remotes are so simple to use that anyone can do it. Just pop the device into your TV's HDMI port, and that's it. You'll have instant access to a range of streaming platforms as well as many live channels.

And with the Fire Stick 4K, you can enjoy incredible 4K Ultra HD visuals with advanced HDR formats like Dolby Vision and HDR10+. This model also boasts a much more powerful processor and enhanced Dolby Atmos support than its predecessor, ensuring a smoother performance and better quality sound.

This deal is only available for a limited time, so move fast so you don't miss out.

This impressive Shark Matrix Plus robot vacuum and mop is only $380 at Amazon right now

Mashable - Tue, 04/08/2025 - 05:06

SAVE $320: As of April 8, the Shark Matrix Plus 2-in-1 robot vacuum and mop is on sale for $379.99 at Amazon. This saves you 46% on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Shark Shark Matrix Plus 2-in-1 Robot $379.99 at Amazon
$699.99 Save $320 Get Deal

Anything that reduces your chore list is a plus in our book, so we're big fans of robot vacuums. With that being said, you need to check out this latest deal on this Shark Robot Vacuum and Mop Combo.

As of April 8, you can take home this impressive model for $320 less than usual, now $379.99.

This is a great vacuum because it doesn't just pick up dirt; it mops your floors, too. It uses Sonic Mopping to scrub hard floors 100 times per minute, and if you know it's about to encounter an extra deep stain, head to the app and initiate Matrix Mop to get 50% better stain cleaning in certain spots.

It is also equipped with an impressive precision matrix grid, meaning it takes multiple passes over dirt and debris to ensure it is all removed. And the smart features don't end there: the CleanEdge Detect system uses blasts of air and corner recognition to remove debris from edges and corners pulling the debris into the cleaning path. Plus, there's no need to manually map out the path for this vacuum because it uses 360-degree LiDAR vision to learn your space, detect obstacles, and pick up dirt.

Like all high-end vacuums worth shouting about, this machine self-empties, self-charges, and holds up to 60 days' worth of dirt, limiting your work even further. The base is bagless, so it is both useful and environmentally friendly as it eliminates the need for waste bags.

This is only a limited-time deal at Amazon, so act quickly so you don't miss out.

Tech C.E.O.s Spent Millions Courting Trump. It Has Yet to Pay Off.

NYT Technology - Tue, 04/08/2025 - 05:01
With inauguration donations and Mar-a-Lago visits, leaders of the biggest tech companies sought favor with the president in an attempt to steer regulation and tariffs, to little avail.

Nightly noise is no problem when youre wearing these specialized earbuds

Mashable - Tue, 04/08/2025 - 05:00

TL;DR: Sleep tight with a pair of SleepEEZ Noise-Blocking Wireless Earbuds on sale for $25.99 (reg. $34).

Between loud roommates, snoring partners, kids, and neighbors with no concept of a normal time to vacuum, it's a wonder anyone gets any sleep at all. If you want to shut out the noise when you're getting some shuteye, pop in a pair of SleepEEZ Mini Noise-Blocking Earbuds.

These comfortable nighttime earbuds block the noises that keep you awake and replace them with soothing white noise, ASMR, podcasts, audiobooks, music, and even guided meditation. They're also on sale for $25.99 (reg. $34). 

Sleep through the noise

These earbuds are designed to help you tune out the world and drift off. They're small and light, so they're comfortable no matter how you sleep, and they stay put all night.

Neighbor's having a party? These sleep earbuds cut out about 20 decibels of noise, which is enough to take the edge off snoring or traffic. They also play soothing sounds, whether you prefer white noise, ASMR, or your own music. You can even set a timer so they turn off automatically.

They connect easily via Bluetooth, and you can take calls with them, too. The touch controls are simple to use. And with the included different-sized ear tips, you can find the right fit.

Plus, the charging case gives you extra hours of playtime, and they're even a little water-resistant, which really comes in handy during the hot season. 

Get a pair of SleepEEZ Mini Noise-Blocking Wireless Earbuds while they're on sale for $25.99. 

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: HyperGear SleepEEZ Mini Noise-Blocking True Wireless Earbuds for Sleeping $25.99
$34.99 Save $9.00 Get Deal

Let this 24,000mAh power bank be your laptops lifeline, now for $35 off

Mashable - Tue, 04/08/2025 - 05:00

TL;DR: Stop hunting down electrical outlets midday with help from the Power Brick 24000mAh AC Laptop Power Bank, now $114.99 (reg. $149) for a limited time.

Small portable chargers are great, but they typically don't have that much juice. If you're looking for a charging solution that can fully power up your laptop, smartphone, and more, check out the Power Brick 24000mAh AC Laptop Power Bank. It's on sale now for $114.99 (reg. $149). 

Enjoy full-power laptop charging and more with this power brick

The dreaded low battery notification always seems to happen when you're right in the middle of something. Instead of letting a dead battery derail your momentum, make sure you can power up anywhere with the Power Brick 24,000mAh AC Laptop Power Bank.

With a powerful 24,000mAh battery, this power bank can fully recharge your laptop on the go. And it's universally compatible and ready to charge four devices simultaneously. 

This power bank features a built-in AC outlet that delivers up to 100W, making it perfect for laptops and gaming consoles. It also includes three additional fast-charging ports, a 65W USB-C, and two high-power USB-A outlets for tablets, smartphones, laptops, and other gadgets. 

An LED battery indicator lets you know how much juice you have left on the Power Brick. And once it's out of juice, you can use pass-through USB charging and still charge your devices while it powers back up. 

This power bank can tag along on your next trip, too, as it meets airline safety regulations. It's also great to have on hand in an emergency thanks to its built-in flashlight. 

Keep all your devices charged up anywhere with the Power Brick 24000mAh AC Laptop Power Bank, now just $114.99 (reg. $149).

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: HyperGear Power Brick 24000mAh AC Laptop Power Bank $114.99
$149 Save $34.01 Get Deal

Turn nosebleed seats into a front-row view with this telescope, now $23

Mashable - Tue, 04/08/2025 - 05:00

TL;DR: Get a good view from anywhere with this high definition monocular telescope, now $22.97, 58% off, through April 27.

The weather is warming up. If you want a reason to get outside more, this high definition monocular telescope can help. This portable, compact gadget lets you see the world in a whole new way, and right now, it's on sale for $22.97 (reg. $54). 

This portable telescope makes sure you always have a good view

Want front-row seats but have a nosebleeds budget? That's no problem with the high definition monocular telescope — it lets you get up close and personal from anywhere.

Say goodbye to blurry zoomed-in concert pics. Whether you're on a hike or your favorite singer's concert, you can connect your telescope to your smartphone to take photos and videos of your magnified view. 

This telescope delivers 50x60 magnification, which lets you see someone's face from 1,000 meters away or read text on a building up to 3,000 meters away with this telescope.

It weighs under 14 ounces, and it's compact enough to bring along anywhere. And you don't have to be too careful thanks to the high-quality construction, which features BAK4 prism glass and fully coated optics. 

Unlike many telescopes, this high definition monocular telescope works for all users, even those with glasses, thanks to the convenient swing-up eyepiece. 

Make sure you can get a good look from anywhere with this high definition monocular telescope, now only $22.97 through April 27.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Mesay High Definition Monocular Telescope $22.97
$54.99 Save $32.02 Get Deal

Upgrade your cars entertainment system for just $75

Mashable - Tue, 04/08/2025 - 05:00

TL;DR: Bring your old car's entertainment system into 2025 with the PlayAIBox Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Wireless Adapter, now $74.97 (reg. $129) through April 27.

Road trip season is right around the corner. Is your car's entertainment system ready? 

If you want to be able to watch streaming services like YouTube, Netflix, and Disney+ on your car's display without having to spend the big bucks on a fancy new car, the PlayAIBox Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Wireless Adapter is the next best thing. And right now, it's on sale for $74.97 (reg. $129) through April 27. 

Upgrade your ride with the PlayAIBox

Drive safer and stay entertained with the PlayAIBox. There are no cords to be annoyed with, so you can enjoy wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto for hands-free calls, navigation, music, and voice assistance, all seamlessly connected to your smartphone.

The PlayAIBox has a built-in Google Play store so that you can add apps like Netflix, YouTube, or Disney+ right to the device. And its Allwinner A133 chip lets you enjoy multiple apps at once without lag. 

Can't find the content you're looking for? You can also mirror your smartphone screen for serious versatility or store media on external SD cards up to 128GB. (Just make sure you're always adhering to local laws regarding video playback.)

This device is compatible with 98% of car models from 2016 on, so there's a high probability it can work for your vehicle. It may not work with cars that already have built-in wireless CarPlay/Android Auto Support (as well as select BMW, Tesla, Mazda, and Nissan models). 

Give your car an upgrade with the PlayAIBox Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Wireless Adapter, now just $74.97 (reg. $129) through April 27. 

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: RochasDivineMart PlayAIBox Apple CarPlay & Android Auto Wireless Adapter with Streaming Service Support $74.97
$129.99 Save $55.02 Get Deal

Why are read receipts so triggering?

Mashable - Tue, 04/08/2025 - 05:00

The day after I turned my read receipts on, a guy I had gone on a couple of dates with texted me. "I don’t know if it was intentional, but your read receipts are on all of a sudden." His text wasn’t accusatory, but the change had certainly struck a chord. He seemed to imply that if I had turned them on, it must be a mistake. Surely no one would willingly admit to leaving people unanswered for hours on end. 

Poll a group of friends and you’ll realize: Most people hate read receipts. And yet they shape a surprising amount of our digital behavior. In a 2017 study in the Journal of Media, Cognition, and Communication, nearly half of the respondents said that read receipts made them feel either ignored (34.7 percent) or anxious while waiting for a reply (13.9 percent). Only 11.9 percent said they didn’t care. While dating, those feelings are dialed up. Participants said they were far more aware of read receipts in conversations with a romantic interest than with family, friends, or workers.

SEE ALSO: What do we owe our online dating matches?

In today’s hyperconnected world, it’s already easy to assume someone sees a message within minutes. But without a read receipt, there’s plausible deniability — we can tell ourselves they just haven’t checked their phone yet. (And let’s be honest: people have been rationalizing delayed responses since the days of love letters.) The second those tiny words — Read at 3:42 PM — appear, that illusion is shattered. It’s why some people swear by them as a tool for clear communication while others see them as a fuel for anxiety. 

Read receipts have been around for a while: Apple introduced them to iMessage in 2011, and Instagram followed in 2013 with a little “seen” tag at the bottom of DMs. 

How do people feel about read receipts?

Opinions have been divided ever since. Some people leave them on as a gesture of transparency. Others immediately started gaming the system: iPhone users figured out how to hold down a text thread to preview a message without marking it read. Snapchat users half-swiped — dragging a chat halfway across the screen to peek at the message without opening it. 

Yet in recent years, our expectations around response time have escalated. “We are such an instant gratification culture with social media,” says Christina Scott, professor of social psychology and relationship researcher at Whittier College. Six years ago, waiting a day to respond was normal. But then the pandemic hit. We went from checking our phones periodically to having them become a permanent extension of our hands. Now, a work meeting is no longer a valid excuse for silence. A three-hour delay can feel unbearable. “Response time — especially for kids and young adults and people dating — is everything,” says Dr. Don Grant, media psychologist and national advisor of healthy device management at Newport Healthcare. “It's a game. People determine how they rank and what their importance is to others on how quickly people respond.” 

SEE ALSO: Why some people on dating apps just want to be 'pen pals'

Grant recalls a recent session with a client who had texted a woman after a first date. “She didn’t respond to him till the next day. He was losing his mind,” he says. Her eventual response was positive — she would love to see him again — but he had spent the past 24 hours unraveling, thinking he had been ghosted. “Now, he says he doesn’t trust her,” says Grant. It raised questions like Why would she wait? What was the problem? “That's hard because so early on, it's not really socially acceptable to ask those questions,” he adds.  

Scott says that the problem arises when we attribute the behavior to a person’s character, instead of their situation (like being in a meeting or getting distracted by another task.) “We can start blaming the other person, like they're not a good person, they didn't take this seriously, which can be triggering for us,” says Scott. “Or we can flip it back on ourselves: they don't think I'm important enough, there's something wrong with me, and it triggers our own anxiety.” 

For people with anxiety, it can feel like a “tsunami of emotions”, says Scott, but anyone can be affected depending on context. If your last relationship ended due to poor communication, you may be hypersensitive to delays in a new one. “But this person that you’re just starting a conversation with doesn't know that you’re bringing in this emotional baggage,” she adds. 

"I want people to know I’m ignoring them on purpose. You can know I absolutely did see it but, yeah, I’m choosing to not respond."

Jordan, a 30-year-old bartender in New York, has experienced this from the other side. “I be getting cussed out,” he showed me as he swiped through a long chain of messages from a woman he was seeing, each one more accusatory than the last. The intensity pushed him away.  

The emotional toll of being left on read

It’s hard to stay calm when so much of our sense of self worth is tied to our digital interactions. We don’t just want to be acknowledged — we want to be prioritized. And when someone reads our message and doesn’t respond, it can feel like they’re subtly saying we don’t matter that much. That sting of perceived rejection? It hits the same dopamine and self-esteem circuits that social media was built to manipulate.

Some people know this, and lean in — weaponizing read receipts as a subtle power move to appear less interested or more in demand. “I love read receipts,” says Alice,* a single woman based in Colorado. “I want people to know I’m ignoring them on purpose. You can know I absolutely did see it but, yeah, I’m choosing to not respond.” That kind of deliberate ambiguity can make the other person chase harder, tipping the scale of who cares more.

If you’re playing that game, be careful: “We teach people how to treat us. And they teach us how to treat them,” says Grant. In other words, if you set the tone, you can’t be surprised when it’s mirrored back.

"We have collectively decided that when someone texts or messages us, it is a 911 emergency that needs to be responded to right away."

While all of this emotional upheaval is understandable, it also misses a larger truth: This is the first time in history where we’re expected to be reachable by everyone at all times — no matter our relationship. “We have collectively decided that when someone texts or messages us, it is a 911 emergency that needs to be responded to right away,” says Grant. “And usually it's not.” Sometimes, people just don’t have the bandwidth for yet another conversation. (Yes, even if they’re clearly online. Scrolling doesn’t require the same energy as engaging with someone.) 

Why do we expect an immediate reply to our texts?

“Whenever we communicate with anyone, we are selecting when it's convenient for us,” Grant adds. It’s still acceptable to pick up a call and say, “Can I call you back?”, but for some reason, that boundary hasn’t carried over to texting. While dating, we often get wrapped up in our own timeline, without considering that the other person’s headspace might not match our own. What if they’re anxious, overwhelmed, or just having a bad day? Do we really want to deal with someone’s worst moods so early on? 

Yet a new connection might assume that if you’ve read a message, you owe them a reply. It can start to feel like emotional labor you never signed up for.  For some, leaving read receipts on is a way to push back against that pressure — to say: Yes, I saw it. And I’ll respond when I’m ready. But early on, it can be hard to tell whether someone is setting boundaries or establishing control.

As we navigate the modern dating world, read receipts aren’t going anywhere. Managing our reactions to them might be the only way to stay sane. “Take a break, put your phone down, go have lunch with someone, go try to find validation somewhere else and come back,” says Scott. “Odds are they'll write back to you in a little while. It may just not be as fast as you wanted them to.” 

But also — trust your intuition. If something feels off with someone’s communication, it probably is. “Remember: you're just getting to know this person,” says Scott. “Manage your expectations and don't let anything that they do shake the foundation of who you know you are.” If someone consistently makes you feel small, you don’t need a timestamp to know it’s time to move on.

*Name changed for anonymity 

Act fast to get a Lenovo laptop for $80 while supplies last

Mashable - Tue, 04/08/2025 - 05:00

TL;DR: Bring home this Lenovo 300E 11.6" Touchscreen Chromebook for just $79.99 (reg. $284). 

Looking for a laptop that's actually affordable? How about one that's less than $100? Right now, you can get a Lenovo touchscreen Chromebook for just $79.99 — over $200 off the usual price — while supplies last. 

This truly affordable laptop offers plenty of perks

Don't be deceived by this super low price; this Lenovo Chromebook is still packed with power and ready to help you tackle work or play. 

An Intel N3450 Quad-Core Processor proves great speed for daily use, while the 4GB of RAM allows you to run multiple programs at once. 32GB of storage is available to save important data right on your device. 

Want to sit back and relax? Enjoy your content in crisp detail with a 1366x768 resolution while the built-in Intel UHD Graphics 500 ensures smooth image and video processing. And you can access all your usual apps thanks to the Chrome operating system.

If you're wondering how you're securing such a great deal, it's because this model comes with a grade B refurbished rating. That means you may see light scuffing on the bevel or case or light scratches or dents on the body, but otherwise, this device will arrive as good as new. 

Act fast to snag this Lenovo 300E 11.6" Touchscreen Chromebook for just $79.99 (reg. $284). 

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Lenovo Lenovo 300E 11.6" Touchscreen Chromebook (2018) 4GB RAM 32GB Storage (Refurbished) $79.99
$284.99 Save $205 Get Deal

NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for April 8

Mashable - Tue, 04/08/2025 - 04:54

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 the latest 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 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.

This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed.

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.

This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed.

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 Sports Edition categories

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

  • Yellow: In the ballpark

  • Green: Pigskin plans

  • Blue: They wanna go fast

  • Purple: Same second word.

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: Places at a baseball field

  • Green: Football plays

  • Blue: Active F1 Drivers

  • Purple: ____ runner

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 #197 is...

What is the answer to Connections Sports Edition today
  • Places at a baseball field - BULLPEN, DUGOUT, MOUND, WARNING TRACK

  • Football plays - FLEA FLICKER, HAIL MARY, STATUE OF LIBERTY, TUSH PUSH

  • Active F1 drivers - GASLY, HAMILTON, NORRIS, STROLL

  • ____ runner - FRONT, GHOST, LONG-DISTANCE, PINCH

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.

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.

NYT Mini crossword answers, hints for April 8, 2025

Mashable - Tue, 04/08/2025 - 04:47

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 Tuesday, April 8, 2025:

AcrossOnly rock that humans regularly eat
  • The answer is Salt.

Ten-legged sea creature
  • The answer is Crab.

Ones who might be "cheesed off" (annoyed) or "chuffed to bits" (happy)
  • The answer is Brits.

Right-E?
  • The answer is East.

Fencing sword
  • The answer is Epee.

DownThrow in the trash
  • The answer is Scrap.

Come up
  • The answer is Arise.

Caffè ___ (espresso drink)
  • The answer is Latte.

Cable channel that airs March Madness games
  • The answer is TBS.

Busy buzzer
  • The answer is Bee.

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.

The Last of Us star Bella Ramsey raps a glorious recap of Season 1

Mashable - Tue, 04/08/2025 - 03:59

With The Last of Us Season 2 only a few days away, it's time for a recap of what happened in the first season. And what better way to do it than via a rap from Bella Ramsey herself, who joins Jimmy Fallon on The Tonight Show in the clip above.

"There's a girl named Ellie, she's a lot of fun / She's got a lot of knives, and even worse, puns," raps Ramsey, jumping through Season 1's key events in less than a minute.

"We meet Bill and Frank, their love was awesome," raps Fallon.

"Didn't think I could cry over Ron Swanson," responds Ramsey.

People are panic buying iPhones ahead of possible price hikes, report claims

Mashable - Tue, 04/08/2025 - 03:58

People are rushing to Apple stores to buy iPhones ahead of possible price hikes, a new report claims.

According to Bloomberg, Apple retail stores across the U.S. have registered increased shopping activity over the weekend, with shoppers "panic-buying" iPhones.

"Almost every customer asked me if prices were going to go up soon," one Apple employee told Bloomberg.

The shoppers are worried about iPhone prices increasing due to the wide-ranging set of tariffs that the Trump administration recently imposed on China and many other countries. In one calculation, the iPhone 16 could go up from $799 to $1,142, and the most expensive model could cost as much as $2,300. The iPhone is mostly produced in China, which was hit with a 54 percent tariff.

These calculations could be way off. Trump could make some sort of trade deal with China, and even if the tariffs remain as they are, it's unclear how much of the price increase Apple would pass on to customers. Still, the sheer prospect of iPhones getting pricier is pushing some buyers to pull the trigger earlier rather than later.

SEE ALSO: Apple planning massive redesign for iPhone 19 Pro, reports say

The buying frenzy could help Apple's second quarter bottom line; the company is due to reveal its quarterly results on May 1. Following the tariffs news, Apple stock plummeted to about $182 at writing time, down from a high of just over $260 in December 2024.

The ultimate on-sale photo editing bundle for creatives

Mashable - Tue, 04/08/2025 - 00:00

TL;DR: The Luminar Neo Lifetime Bundle is the perfect gift for photo lovers — $89.99 gets them editing magic for life.

The Luminar Neo Lifetime Bundle is on sale for $89.99 for a limited time.

With its innovative AI-powered photo-editing tools and plenty of add-ons, it’s everything they need to transform everyday photos into stunning works of art — no complicated learning curve required.

Luminar Neo makes photo editing effortless. The AI-powered tools allow users to replace skies, enhance lighting, and even retouch skin with ease. Got an unwanted object in the frame? The Erase tool handles it in one click. Tools like Relightᴬᴵ give them full control of lighting, while Skyᴬᴵ replaces dull skies with breathtaking ones instantly. Structureᴬᴵ and Supercontrast provide even more precision, bringing out details and tone like never before. It’s perfect for beginners and pros alike, offering both simplicity and depth.

What sets this bundle apart are its extras. Extensions like Magic Lightᴬᴵ add glowing effects, while HDR Merge creates stunning detail in high-contrast scenes. LUTs and high-resolution skies make consistent edits across entire collections simple. Plus, the included Creative Photo Editing Techniques course, led by Albert Dros, helps users master every tool in their arsenal.

Packed with powerful features and inspiring tools, it’s the perfect way to spark their next masterpiece and brighten the holiday season.

At $89.99 for a lifetime subscription, the Luminar Neo Bundle is an ideal gift for photographers, hobbyists, or anyone ready to explore their creative side.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Luminar Neo The Award-Winning Luminar Neo Lifetime Bundle $89.99
$752 Save $662.01 Get Deal

Hurdle hints and answers for April 8, 2025

Mashable - Tue, 04/08/2025 - 00:00

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

To entertain or delight.

SEE ALSO: Apple’s new M3 MacBook Air is $300 off at Amazon. And yes, I’m tempted. Hurdle Word 1 answer

AMUSE

Hurdle Word 2 hint

Gracefulness.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for April 8, 2025 Hurdle Word 2 Answer

POISE

Hurdle Word 3 hint

Wooden seats in a park.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for April 8 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for April 8, 2025 Hurdle Word 3 answer

BENCH

Hurdle Word 4 hint

To erase from memory.

SEE ALSO: NYT Strands hints, answers for April 8 Hurdle Word 4 answer

UNSEE

Final Hurdle hint

A small island.

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

ISLET

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

How to watch Bayern Munich vs. Inter Milan online for free

Mashable - Tue, 04/08/2025 - 00:00

TL;DR: Live stream Bayern Munich vs. Inter Milan in the Champions League for free on Virgin Media Player. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

There are so many interesting matchups in the quarter finals of the Champions League, including Bayern Munich vs. Inter Milan. The Bundesliga leaders will be looking to gain an advantage in the first leg at home, spurred on by the likes of Harry Kane and Michael Olise.

If you want to watch Bayern Munich vs. Inter Milan in the Champions League from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Bayern Munich vs. Inter Milan?

Bayern Munich vs. Inter Milan in the Champions League kicks off at 8 p.m. BST on April 8. This fixture takes place at the Allianz Arena.

How to watch Bayern Munich vs. Inter Milan for free

Bayern Munich vs. Inter Milan is available to live stream for free on Virgin Media Player.

Virgin Media Player is geo-restricted to Ireland, 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 Ireland, meaning you can unblock Virgin Media Player to stream the Champions League for free from anywhere in the world.

Live stream Bayern Munich vs. Inter Milan for free 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 Ireland

  4. Visit Virgin Media Player

  5. Watch Bayern Munich vs. Inter Milan for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (2-Year Subscription + 4 Months Free) $139 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but most do offer free-trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can access free live streams of the Champions League without actually spending anything. This obviously isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to stream Bayern Munich vs. Inter Milan (plus more Champions League fixtures) before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for Virgin Media Player?

ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport on Virgin Media Player, for a number of reasons:

  • Servers in 105 countries including Ireland

  • 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 two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $139 and includes an extra four months for free — 61% off for a limited time. This plan includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

Live stream Bayern Munich vs. Inter Milan in the Champions League for free with ExpressVPN.

How to watch Arsenal vs. Real Madrid online for free

Mashable - Tue, 04/08/2025 - 00:00

TL;DR: Watch Arsenal vs. Real Madrid in the Champions League for free with a 30-day trial of Prime Video. Access this free live stream from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The Champions League quarter finals are here, with a number of tasty mastups whetting the appetities of fans around the world. At this late stage of the competition, you expect every game to be big, but Arsenal vs. Real Madrid is probably the pick of the round. It's going to be a really interesting battle between two talented sides.

If you want to watch Arsenal vs. Real Madrid in the Champions League for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Arsenal vs. Real Madrid?

Arsenal vs. Real Madrid in the Champions League starts at 8 p.m. BST on April 8. This fixture takes place at the Emirates Stadium.

How to watch Arsenal vs. Real Madrid for free

Arsenal vs. Real Madrid is available to live stream on Prime Video in the UK, but you don't need to be subscribed to Amazon Prime to watch this fixture. Instead, you can watch Arsenal vs. Real Madrid (plus more Champions League fixtures) for free with a 30-day trial of Amazon Prime.

Fans from outside the UK will need to use a VPN to watch the Champions League for free on Prime Video. This process is straightforward:

  1. Sign up for a 30-day Amazon Prime trial (if you're not already a member)

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

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

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

  5. Watch Arsenal vs. Real Madrid for free from anywhere in the world on Prime Video

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (2-Year Subscription + 4 Months Free) $139 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but most do offer free-trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can watch Arsenal vs. Real Madrid on Prime Video without committing with your cash. This isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to stream select Champions League fixtures before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for Prime Video?

ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport on Prime Video, 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 two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $139 and includes an extra four months for free — 61% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

Live stream Arsenal vs. Real Madrid in the Champions League for free with ExpressVPN.

NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for April 8, 2025

Mashable - Mon, 04/07/2025 - 22:00

Connections is the one of the most popular New York Times word games 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 today'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 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.

This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed.

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.

This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed.

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 April 8 Here's a hint for today's Connections categories

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

  • Yellow: To puncture

  • Green: Heard on a walkie talkie

  • Blue: Seen in the Bible

  • Purple: Spelled differently than their pronunciation

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: Prick

  • Green: Radio lingo

  • Blue: Old Testament books

  • Purple: Words pronounced "Sh" without an "Sh"

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 #665 is...

What is the answer to Connections today
  • Prick: JAB, PIERCE, POKE, STICK

  • Radio lingo: COPY, NEGATIVE, OVER, ROGER

  • Old Testament books: DANIEL, JOB, JUDGES, NUMBERS

  • Words pronounced "Sh" without an "Sh:" SEAN, SIOBHAN, SUGAR, SURE

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.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for April 8

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

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.

Pages

Subscribe to Page Integrity, Inc. aggregator