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A Cold War-era spacecraft is heading home after a half-century adrift. 

Back in the 1970s, the Soviet Union had its sights set on Venus, sometimes known as Earth's evil twin. A thick atmosphere traps heat in a runaway greenhouse effect, making it the hottest planet in the solar system, despite being farther than Mercury from the sun. 

But the Venera mission, which launched from Kazakhstan on March 31, 1972, failed long before the Soviets could attempt to touch down on the hellscape. Something went wrong with an engine burn to put the vehicle on its Venutian trajectory, and the uncrewed spacecraft got stuck in space.

Some 53 years later, the lander is expected to finally make its descent, although not on its intended target. Researchers watching the capsule, dubbed Kosmos 482, believe it will fall back to Earth any day now. Exactly where and when are not clear, but the latest estimates suggest it could happen between May 9 and 11. 

"The uncertainty will be fairly significant right up to reentry," according to NASA. 

SEE ALSO: The most spectacular images of Venus ever captured NASA's Parker Solar Probe, which studies the sun, caught rare images of Venus' nightside during a brief encounter in February 2021. Credit: NASA / APL / NRL

Right now the mid-century relic is zooming over our heads in an oval-shaped Earth orbit, getting a bit slower with each lap. As it flies, it dips into the upper layers of the atmosphere. That drag has pulled the capsule ever lower. 

It seems gravity is winning this space race. 

The chances of it hitting people is "infinitesimally small," said Marcin Pilinski, a research scientist at the University of Colorado who is monitoring the spacecraft. Most likely it will end its journey plunging into an ocean, given that two-thirds of the planet is covered in water. 

Still, the object — about three feet wide and more than 1,000 pounds — poses "an unusual and noteworthy risk" compared to the typical assortment of satellite debris that rains down on Earth, according to the company Space Environment Technologies. There is a slight possibility it could re-enter over densely populated regions.

A rocket prepares to launch one of the Soviet Union's predecessor spacecraft to Venus, thought to be either the Venera 5 or 6 probes, in 1969. Credit: Sovfoto / Universal Images Group / Getty Images

Experts also think there's a chance it could withstand its fiery descent somewhat intact. The Soviet space agency, now known as Roscosmos under Russia, built the spacecraft to meet the demands of Venus. The toxic world's climate is hot enough to melt lead, and the atmospheric pressure is 75 times that of Earth. That means Kosmos 482 is armored like a submarine. 

Invisible forces around Earth — ripples and waves in the atmosphere, solar storms, and weather — make tracking this object's landing difficult. Sometimes the sun shoots out bursts of energy that can temporarily bloat Earth’s atmosphere, which can alter the speeds of orbiting objects flying through it. 

Despite its rugged exterior, Kosmos 482's best case scenario is likely becoming the host for a deep-sea reef. No one is going to go look for it, Jonathan McDowell, an astrophysicist who tracks spacecraft and debris in Earth's orbit, told Mashable.

"If it falls in the ocean, the debris will sink and never be found," he said. 

Though this capsule didn't make it to Venus, others did. One of them, Venera 8, launched just four days earlier and touched down on Venus on July 22, 1972. For 63 minutes, it beamed back data to Earth. Then it fried in the all-consuming heat.

The latest news from Google-land is all Gemini, Gemini, Gemini. And at Google I/O 2025, we expect more of the same.

A year after its last big event, Google is back with an even deeper dive into AI. So deep, in fact, that Android is being shuffled off into its own separate event.

A signal of something big? Maybe.

Ahead of I/O 2025, Google quietly dropped a developer preview of Gemini 2.5 Pro, its latest generative AI model. Translation: this year’s keynote isn’t just about flashy hardware or Android updates — it’s about code, algorithms, and the general direction of Google’s artificial intelligence goals.

Whether you're a developer, a die-hard Android fan, or just here for the spectacle, here’s what to expect from Google I/O 2025.

When is the Google I/O 2025 keynote?

The big keynote for Google I/O is scheduled for Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at 10 a.m. PT. Here’s when it will be happening around the globe:

• New York: 1 p.m.

• Chicago: 12 p.m.

• London: 6 p.m.

• Honolulu: 7 a.m.

• Dubai: 9 p.m.

• Paris: 7 p.m.

• Mumbai: 11:30 p.m.

What to expectAndroid 16

With less than two weeks to go before I/O 2025, the curtain is already being pulled back on Android 16. The headline here is a fresh evolution of Google's design language, shifting from Material 3 to the more vibrant and customizable Material Design 3 Expressive. While the redesign was expected to debut at I/O, Google, true to form, self-leaked the details in a now-deleted blog post.

But Android isn’t waiting for its moment in the spotlight. Thanks to Google's all-in push on Gemini, Android is stepping out a week early with the Android Show: I/O edition, airing on May 13. Hosted by Android Ecosystem President Sameer Samat, the show will have “so many things to share,” according to Google.

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As for what Android 16 will bring, the beta has already given us a sneak peek. Features like Auracast support hint at smoother Bluetooth switching, while visual tweaks, quality-of-life upgrades, and the introduction of “summarized notifications” suggest a more streamlined, user-friendly experience across the board.

Leaks suggest a Q2 launch, sometime around June.

WearOS

Wear OS fans, this one's (almost) for you.

While the I/O 2025 stage may be dominated by AI and Android, Google hasn’t completely forgotten about your wrist. Wear OS 5.1 quietly dropped in March, delivering some relatively minor improvements like better step tracking and revamped media controls.

But if you’re hoping for Wear OS 6 to make a surprise cameo during the keynote, don’t. If anything, the announcement of OS 6 will probably come in July, just like OS 4 and 5 did.

Android XR

Fourth time’s the charm — at least, that’s what Google hopes.

After the quiet burial of Google Glass, the slow fade of Daydream, and the DIY novelty of Cardboard, Google is once again diving headfirst into immersive tech with Android XR. Built from the ground up with Gemini AI in mind, this new operating system is aimed squarely at powering the next wave of AR and VR wearables.

Things may be different now with Google's collaboration with Samsung on Project Moohan — a pair of XR glasses using Google’s OS. Details are sparse, and it’s unclear whether Moohan will make a cameo at I/O 2025, but you can bet Android XR will get some stage time. Expect Google to name names when it comes to new partners and paint a picture of an XR ecosystem that might have staying power.

AI

Google is an AI company now, full stop. And I/O 2025 is shaping up to be less about what Google makes and more about how much smarter it can make everything.

At the center of it all is Gemini. With version 2.5 Pro already in developers’ hands, expect Google to go deep on performance gains, real-world integrations, and new ways Gemini is flexing across platforms. (As of this writing, Gemini 2.5 Pro tops AI leaderboards.)

Google is bringing AI to everything, so expect announcements on a bunch of AI-related features: cars, smartwatches, earbuds, even your toaster, probably. Context-aware assistants, predictive interfaces, and on-device models will dominate the demos. It's either thrilling or exhausting, depending on how many times you’ve heard the phrase "AI-first strategy."

We'll also probably get updates on Project Astra, Google's research prototype for a universal AI. Also on deck is a mobile version of NotebookLM, Google’s AI-powered research assistant.

In an age of truncated TV seasons or 10-hour-long movies that fail to understand the medium of television, Season 2 of Poker Face feels like a gift from the streaming gods.

Created by Rian Johnson and led by Natasha Lyonne, this charming mystery-of-the-week series takes its cues from old-school shows, primarily Columbo. Each episode is an exquisitely crafted mystery box that can stand on its own, with every episode following a similar pattern.

SEE ALSO: 'The Ghosts of Pensacola' from 'Poker Face' is a gloriously theatrical treat

First, we witness a new murder, where both victims and killers are played by a roster of spectacular guest stars. Then, "human lie detector" Charlie Cale (Lyonne) enters the scene, using her unique ability to unpick the killer's deception and crack the case. It's a tried-and-true formula that carries over from week to week, but don't think for a second that Poker Face is formulaic. As the show heads into its second season, co-showrunners Nora Zuckerman and Lilla Zuckerman keep finding new ways for Poker Face to play within the constraints it's set for itself, unlocking new delights in each new installment.

Poker Face Season 2 switches things up somewhat, with wonderful success. Cynthia Erivo and Natasha Lyonne in "Poker Face." Credit: Peacock

Poker Face is, by nature, a show where everything is in flux. As Season 2 opens, Charlie is on the run from crime boss Beatrix Hasp (Rhea Perlman), introduced in the Season 1 finale. That means she follows the road wherever it takes her, from apple orchards to funeral homes.

Within this flux, many elements remain the same: Almost every location is remote and rural, and every location is populated by murderers. The "why" for the murders changes from episode to episode. Often, the killer has a nasty yet non-deadly plan up their sleeve to deal with their victim, only to turn to murdering when their victim appears to get the upper hand. In most episodes, it's their following cover-up that unveils the true extent of their malice and desperation.

Charlie's involvement also remains a constant, with Lyonne continuing to play this ragtag detective to gravel-voiced perfection. Just like in Season 1, every episode reveals about halfway through that Charlie has some kind of personal connection to the victim. More than that, she's often been around for the events of the first half of the episode, just out of sight. Trying to pick up on her presence in those opening scenes remains one of Poker Face's greatest joys, along with guessing which guest stars are marked for death and which ones will be doing the killing.

However, in Season 2, Charlie isn't always trying to get justice for a murder victim as she did in Season 1. Several installments actually see her trying to prove someone's innocence. Often, the parties she's trying to protect are unexpected: an alligator, a child, even a pitching machine! This motley assortment is proof of Poker Face's constant inventiveness. Even a switch to bigger city settings in the latter half of the season presents an exciting challenge. How do Charlie's roaming charms translate to an urban environment? For that matter, how would Charlie staying put in one place impact Poker Face's freewheeling versatility?

The answers are all, unsurprisingly, great, and Poker Face doesn't lose an ounce of variety as it roars through Season 2. That variety extends from its central mysteries to its guest stars. Poker Face knows how to play to all of its guests' strengths and then some. Melanie Lynskey shows up as an unfulfilled woman repressing a darker interior, reminiscent of her turn as Shauna in Yellowjackets. Richard Kind and John Mulaney geek out about Stephen Sondheim in what feels like a callback to the Documentary Now! spoof of the Original Cast Album: Company documentary. And Cynthia Erivo gets to prove just how much of a chameleon she is in not one, not two, but five roles.

These constant change-ups, even within a set formula, cement Poker Face as one of current TV's most fun, most varied shows. That's the power of well-crafted, truly episodic television.

The first three episodes of Poker Face Season 2 are now streaming on Peacock, with a new episode airing every Thursday.

TL;DR: Stay in touch while you’re abroad with the aloSIM Traveler’s Mobile Data Plan, now just $24.97 for $50 worth of credit.

Opens in a new window Credit: aloSIM aloSIM Traveler's Mobile Data Plan: Pay $24.97 for $50 Credit $24.97
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Have major travel plans this summer? If you want to avoid hefty roaming charges, the aloSIM Traveler’s Mobile Data Plan can help. It’s a convenient way to stay connected while you’re away, and right now it’s just $24.97 for $50 worth of credit.

Ditch roaming charges for good with this handy eSIM

Traveling abroad isn’t cheap, but the aloSIM Traveler’s Mobile Data Plan makes at least one thing affordable. You can avoid expensive roaming charges and stay connected with this convenient downloadable SIM card that lets you join fast, local networks in over 170 countries.

The aloSIM works with both iOS and Android devices. You’ll have access to a reliable internet connection on a speedy 5G and LTE network. And you’ll also receive a free Hushed phone number with your data plan to make private voice calls.

This plan includes $50 worth of data for half the price, with a 12-month expiration date so you have a full year to use it. It’s available only to new customers and is easy to set up. After purchasing the voucher, select a data package and install the eSIM before you leave on your trip. Once you touch down, you can activate the package and start using the data.

The data packages are valid for the length of time stated at purchase. Though the data expires after that point, your lifetime eSIM never expires and can be transferred to new devices in the future. Need more data? It’s easy to add more as you go.

Stay connected affordably with the aloSIM Traveler’s Mobile Data Plan, now just $24.97 for $50 worth of credit.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

TL;DR: Work on your golf swing ahead of your next tee time and with the Phigolf Home Golf Game Simulator Sensor, now just $89.97 (reg. $199.99) through June 1.

Opens in a new window Credit: Phigolf Phigolf Home Golf Game Simulator Sensor & Generic Swing Stick Set (Open Box) $89.97
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The weather is warming up, which means you may want to warm up your golf skills before hitting the green. Phigolf Home Golf Simulator lets you work on your swing from the comfort of home, no matter what the weather is outside. And right now it’s on sale for $89.97, plus free shipping, until June 1.

Bring the golf course to you with this at-home simulator

Want to impress at your first tee time of the year? Phigolf Home Golf Simulator is a Kickstarter-funded invention that lets you play virtual rounds of golf at home, helping you improve by providing feedback on swings, chips, drives, and putts.

Wondering how it works? Just attach Phigolf’s Smart Motion Sensor to your golf club or a swing trainer. After that, your swing data goes right to Phigolf’s companion app, where you can check out real-time trajectory projections as you play.

You’ll receive feedback as you go, learning more about your golf swing tempo, club path, face angle, head speed, and shot distance. And if you’re looking to really improve your game, Phigolf offers training programs that provide extra guidance.

Aside from elevating your golf game in your pajamas, Phigolf also lets you virtually play a round on world-famous golf courses. It’s packed with 38,000 different, realistic simulations of golf courses around the world, which have been measured using GPS mapping trusted by Bushnell, GolfNow, and Yamaha. You can feel like you’re really there, with no expensive plane ticket required.

You’ll get a 55% discount thanks to this Phigolf Home Golf Simulator being an open-box model. That means while it has been verified to be in new condition, it won’t arrive in a branded box, and you’ll secure a low price.

Get your own Phigolf Home Golf Game Simulator Sensor for only $89.97 (reg. $199.99) now through June 1.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

TL;DR: Simplify spring cleaning with the iRobot Roomba j8+, on sale now for $249.99 (reg. $599).

Opens in a new window Credit: iRobot iRobot Roomba j8+ (8550) Self-Emptying Robot Vacuum (Open Box) $249.98
$599 Save $349.02 Get Deal

Got a lengthy spring cleaning checklist? If you need to call in some backup, the iRobot Roomba j8+ is up for the task. This powerful, WiFi-connected robot vacuum tackles dirt and grime with minimal effort on your part, so you can focus on tasks that robots can’t do yet. Right now, it’s on sale for $249.99 (reg. $599).

Streamline your cleaning routine with this powerful robot vacuum

Want to take vacuuming off your to-do list? Let the iRobot Roomba j8+ take over. This WiFi-connected vacuum is equipped with the advanced iRobot OS. From avoiding objects to cleaning at set times to learning your home’s exact layout with smart mapping technology, the iRobot Roomba j8+ offers a cleaning routine personalized to your space. If you want to make any changes, you can control it through the companion app.

You can sit back and relax while your iRobot Roomba j8+ cleans up your floors with its premium three-stage cleaning process. Its power-lifting suction tackles dirt, dust, and debris. And thanks to the Clean Base Automatic Dirt Disposal, which holds up to 60 days of dirt, you don’t have to empty it often.

A high-capacity battery allows the iRobot Roomba to run for up to two hours on a full charge, so you won’t need to worry about constant recharging.

This iRobot Roomba j8+ is available at a major discount thanks to its open-box status, which means it was likely excess inventory that has been verified to be in new condition and put in clean packaging.

Simplify your cleaning routine with the iRobot Roomba j8+, now just $249.99 (reg. $599).

StackSocial prices subject to change.

TL;DR: Beef up your internet security with the Deeper Connect Mini Decentralized VPN and Firewall Hardware, now just $179.99 through June 1.

Opens in a new window Credit: Deeper Connect Deeper Connect Mini Decentralized VPN & Firewall Hardware $179.99
$229 Save $49.01 Get Deal

Want to browse the web in peace? If you want to protect your online activities from hackers, trackers, and other types of surveillance, the Deeper Connect Mini Decentralized VPN and Firewall Hardware can help. And right now, you can secure your internet for just $179.99 for life, 21% off the usual price, through June 1.

Pay once and enjoy a lifetime of internet security

The Deeper Connect Mini Decentralized VPN and Firewall Hardware is the world’s first and only decentralized VPN and firewall hardware. And while most VPNs require you to use servers and pay monthly subscription costs, with Deeper Connect Mini, you pay once and enjoy a lifetime of serverless protected web activity.

You might not think about them when it comes to internet safety, but the Deeper Connect Mini protects more than just your computers and smartphones — it also secures your Internet of Things (IoT) devices. A 7-layer, enterprise-grade firewall defends against unauthorized access, cyberattacks, and other threats.

Even though all this technology sounds high-level, setting up the Deeper Connect Mini is simple. There are no tech skills required; you plug it in, and your privacy stays under your control, right on your own devices.

Aside from shielding your family online, the Deeper Connect Mini also offers the added perk of ad blocking. Once up and running, you’ll enjoy the web without any advertisements. There are also parental control options for families, which prevent the kids from seeing unsafe content on their devices.

The Deeper Connect Mini not only eliminates monthly subscription fees, but it can also make you passive income while you use it. By sharing some of your unused internet bandwidth with a decentralized network, you can earn money while keeping your connection secure.

Secure your online activities for life with the Deeper Connect Mini Decentralized VPN and Firewall Hardware, now only $179.99 through June 1.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Looking for something great to watch at home? Streaming subscribers are spoiled for choice between Hulu, Netflix, Max, Disney+, Apple TV+, Prime Video, Shudder, Paramount+, Peacock, and more. And that's before you even look at the vast libraries of movies and television programs within each one!

Don't be overwhelmed or waste an hour scrolling through your services to determine what to watch. We've got your back, whatever your mood. Mashable offers watch guides for all of the above, broken down by genre: comedy, thriller, horror, documentary, and animation, among others. But if you're seeking something brand-new (or just new to streaming), we've got you covered there, too.

Mashable's entertainment team has scoured the streaming services to highlight the most buzzed-about releases of this week and ranked them from worst to best — or least worth your time to most watchable. Whether you're craving charming tales of first love, wise-ass murder mysteries, heartwarming comedies fit for Mother's Day, grim combat, or horror that's hilarious and bloody wild, we've got something just for you.

Here's what's new on streaming, from worst to best.

9. Love Hurts

Hot off Oscar wins, Everything Everywhere All At Once's Ke Huy Quan and West Side Story's Ariana DeBose teamed up for the action comedy Love Hurts. Based on their combined charisma, it should have been an absolute hoot. But it stunk.

SEE ALSO: 'Love Hurts' review: Proof the Oscar curse is thriving?

Quan stars as a hitman who left his life of career-focused homicide behind for a job in real estate. That is, until a former colleague (DeBose) returns to his life, bringing with her loads of trouble and a slew of assassins, eager to take them both down. Also, it's Valentine's Day. As I wrote in my review of this overstuffed and undercooked offering, "Love Hurts delivers bursts of thrills and fun, it is overall a mind-numbing miss." — Entertainment Editor Kristy Puchko

Starring: Ke Huy Quan, Ariana DeBose, Daniel Wu, Mustafa Shakir, Lio Tipton, Cam Gigandet, Marshawn Lynch, and Sean Astin

How to watch: Love Hurts debuts on Peacock on May 9.

8. The Devil's Plan: Death Room

2023 saw Netflix go hard on South Korean reality competition shows, following the staggering success of fictional hit Squid Game. We got both sides of the coin, from Physical: 100, a grueling physical challenge show, to The Devil's Plan, an extremely difficult problem-solving game show run by a masked host in a compound. In the latter, intelligent contestants — including SEVENTEEN's Seungkwan, actors Lee Si-won and Ha Seok-jin, and YouTubers Kwaktube and ORBIT — formed alliances and made math problems look like a walk in the park. Now, a second season is here, subtitled Death Room, with another stacked cast including actors Justin H. Min (The Umbrella Academy) and Yoon So-hui, Super Junior's Kyuhyun, and singer Chuu. — Shannon Connellan, UK Editor

Starring: Justin H. Min, Yoon So-hui, Kyuhyun, Chuu, Lee Se-dol, Kang Ji-yeong, 7high, Jeong Hyun-gyu

How to watch: The first four episodes of The Devil’s Plan: Death Room are now streaming on Netflix, with new episodes dropping weekly.

7. Warfare

After conjuring up a nightmarish vision of a possible future conflict with last year's Civil War, director Alex Garland's latest film, Warfare, takes viewers back to the frontlines of a very real, not-so-distant fight — the Iraq War, circa 2006. It's both a tribute to the bravery shown in the face of battle by a group of young Navy SEALs and a brutal slog that immerses audiences into the gritty reality of war, viscera and all. Co-written and co-directed by Alex Garland and Ray Mendoza, an Iraq War veteran, Warfare follows a group of Navy SEALs played by a compelling cast.

War is hell, and if you had any other such notions, Warfare should help set the record straight. But is that all there is? Maybe I missed some meaning behind the nerve-shattering brutality. Warfare might be so honest as to work as an anti-recruitment film, combatting the polished ads the armed forces like to run during sports broadcasts. While it's admirable Mendoza and Garland stitch together this agonizing portrait of the perils of war, its demands on young soldiers, and the merciless reality of combat, I was unsure how to feel about it. It doesn't deliver the rah-rah patriotic highs nor does it critique the Iraq War that led them to that day. After the film ends, there's behind-the-scenes footage of Mendoza and Garland with many of the veterans who survived the ordeal, revisiting their past in a recreated set hundreds of miles away from where they almost met their end. Maybe there can be healing in revisiting the not-too-distant past for these vets, but Warfare doesn't offer the same catharsis for civilian viewers.* — Monica Castillo, Contributing Writer

Starring: D'Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai, Will Poulter, Cosmo Jarvis, Kit Connor, Finn Bennett, Joseph Quinn, Charles Melton, Noah Centineo, and Michael Gandolfini

How to watch: Warfare is now available for rent or purchase on Prime Video.

6. Nonnas

Craving something heartwarming? Then you'll want a heaping helping of Nonnas.

Directed by Stephen Chbosky (The Perks of Being a Wallflower), this comedy stars Vince Vaughn as an Italian American man whose love of his dearly departed grandmother inspires him to open a restaurant with her homemade recipes. Of course, he'll need some help. So he brings in the nonnas — "real-life Italian grandmothers!"

Big personalities collide in the kitchen, leading to sparks — and a fire! But this movie, hitting just in time for Mother's Day, seems sure to serve those feel-good vibes with plenty of heart and flavor. And for bonus smiles, know that is was inspired by a true story. — K.P.

Starring: Vince Vaughn, Lorraine Bracco, Talia Shire, Brenda Vaccaro, Joe Manganiello, Linda Cardellini, and Susan Sarandon

How to watch: Nonnas debuts on Netflix on May 9.

5. A Nice Indian Boy

When I saw A Nice Indian Boy at BFI London Film Festival, I cried every time Jonathan Groff cries in this film — reader, he cries a lot. Roshan Sethi's sweet and heartfelt romantic comedy stars Karan Soni as Naveen Gavaskar, an introverted doctor navigating his Indian family's traditional expectations about marriage. Naveen is not out to his parents, so when he falls hard for photographer Jay Kurundkar (Groff), a white man adopted and raised by Indian parents, there's a few things he faces talking to them about.

"An incisive expression of family and culture that neither apologizes nor over-explains itself, Roshan Sethi's A Nice Indian Boy is a riotous, moving queer romantic comedy with a wildly unique premise," writes Siddhant Adlakha in his review for Mashable. "While it resembles many modern third-culture stories — specifically, tales of disconnect between first-generation South Asians in the West and their immigrant parents — it widens its scope in surprising ways that reflect and refract both personal and cinematic identity." — S.C.

Starring: Karan Soni, Jonathan Groff, Sunita Mani, Zarna Garg, and Harish Patel

How to watch: A Nice Indian Boy is now available for rent or purchase on Prime Video.

4. Forever

Judy Blume's coming-of-age classic Forever... gets a sweet adaptation in this Netflix series. Showrunner Mara Brock Akil (Girlfriends) has reimagined Blume's story of young love, this time setting it in 2018 Los Angeles, with Black teens Keisha (Lovie Simone) and Justin (Michael Cooper Jr.) as romantic leads. Together, the pair will go through all the "firsts" of first love, all while juggling the pressures of college applications, family expectations, and intimacy in the digital age.

SEE ALSO: 'Forever' review: Netflix series strays from Judy Blume classic, but that's a good thing

Many of these new elements mean that Forever feels very different from Blume's original novel, but the core questions of first love and first sexual experiences remain. (For book fans, yes, Ralph is still very much in the picture.) As I wrote in my review, "Blume's novel is already a key lens through which young adults can unpack their own adolescent experiences. Thanks to some thoughtful adaptation choices, Brock Akil's series may be able to serve a similar purpose, as well as introduce Blume's work to a new generation." — Belen Edwards, Entertainment Reporter

Starring: Lovie Simone, Michael Cooper Jr., Xosha Roquemore, Marvin Lawrence Winans III, Wood Harris, Barry Shabaka Henley, Niles Fitch, Paigion Walker, and E’myri Crutchfield

How to watch: Forever is now streaming on Netflix.

3. Heart Eyes

You might know Josh Ruben as the masterful improv comedian often seen on Dropout's variety of shows, including Game Changer. But he's also been building an impressive reputation as a horror filmmaker, delivering such funny yet frightening movies as Scare Me, Werewolves Within, and now Heart Eyes.

Ruben helms Heart Eyes, a Valentine's Day-themed slasher that follows two work rivals (Totally Killer's Olivia Holt and Scream VI's Mason Gooding) who begin to spark an attraction — just as a serial killer crashes their sort-of date. Set over the course of one very raucous holiday, Heart Eyes has a frantic pacing, festive vibes, and a fierce sense of humor, made all the more dazzling by Holt and Gooding's chemistry. But if you're looking for gore, Ruben's got you there, offering kills that are as bloody as they are bonkers. — K.P.

Starring: Olivia Holt, Mason Gooding, Gigi Zumbado, Michaela Watkins, Devon Sawa, Yoson An, and Jordana Brewster

How to watch: Heart Eyes debuts on Netflix globally on May 8.

2. Poker Face, Season 2

In the mood for some detective work? Then you're in luck, because Rian Johnson and Natasha Lyonne's mystery-of-the-week series Poker Face returns with a vengeance for Season 2, promising new murders and a stunning new array of guest stars. (Cynthia Erivo! John Mulaney! Steve Buscemi!)

SEE ALSO: 'Poker Face' Season 2 review: Rian Johnson and Natasha Lyonne's murder mystery is a gift for TV lovers everywhere

"Human lie detector" Charlie Cale's (Lyonne) adventures remain as charming as ever, with every episode serving as a well-crafted puzzle box that can just as easily stand alone as it can be binge-watched. As I wrote in my review, "In an age of truncated TV seasons or 10-hour-long movies that fail to understand the medium of television, Season 2 of Poker Face feels like a gift from the streaming gods." — B.E.

Starring: Natasha Lyonne, John Mulaney, Ego Nwodim, Sam Richardson, Giancarlo Esposito, Katie Holmes, Gaby Hoffmann, Kumail Nanjiani, Sherry Cola, Kevin Corrigan, Ben Marshall, Kathrine Narducci, Cynthia Erivo, BJ Novak, and Margo Martindale

How to watch: The first three episodes of Poker Face Season 2 are now streaming on Peacock, with a new episode airing every Thursday.

1. The Ugly Stepsister

If you loved The Substance, don't overlook The Ugly Stepsister.

This gnarly body-horror movie reimagines Cinderella by focusing on the fairytale heroine's much-maligned stepsister Elvira (Lea Myren). Writer/director Emilie Blichfeldt delivers not only a deeply empathetic tale of a young girl grappling with a princely crush, sibling rivalry, and crippling societal pressures to conform to cruel beauty standards, but also the grisly scenes to back up its social critique.

SEE ALSO: 'The Ugly Stepsister' review: What if 'Wicked' and 'The Substance' had a grubby baby?

In my rave review for Mashable out of Sundance, I cheered, "The Ugly Stepsister is a deranged and dizzying achievement, folding in a classic story with a bitingly modern satire and bold body horror. Blichfeldt weaves these elements together to make a film that feels both of this moment but aesthetically nostalgic... And yet, her journey, as gross and grim as it is, is threaded with a ribbon of exhilaration, rebellion, and even defiant joy. Simply put, The Ugly Stepsister is savagely brutal and yet strangely beautiful."  — K.P.

Starring: Lea Myren, Thea Sofie Loch Næss, Ane Dahl Torp, and Flo Fagerli

How to watch: The Ugly Stepsister debuts on Shudder on May 9.

SAVE OVER $90: As of May 8, the Mac Mini 2024 (M4 Chip, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD Storage) is on sale for $506.28 at Amazon.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Mac Mini 2024 (M4 Chip, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD Storage) $506.26 at Amazon
$599 Save $92.74 Get Deal

The Apple M4 chip is finally coming down in price, meaning deals on MacBooks and Mac Minis. Rejoice, lovers of all things Apple.

As of May 8, the Mac Mini 2024 (M4 Chip, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD Storage) is on sale for $506.28 at Amazon. This deal saves you over $90 on list price.

SEE ALSO: Best MacBooks of 2025: Which MacBook should you buy?

The 2024 Mac Mini boasts the M4 chip and heaps of power. Apple claims that its M4 chip is up to 13 times faster than its fastest silicone Mini model.

This model offers 16GB of RAM to support its 10-core CPU and 10-core GPU, and holds a 256GB SSD that's ready to stock with movies, games, and much more. And if the built-in SSD isn't enough for you, the three thunderbolt ports let you expand the memory with an external SSD. It also has two USB-C ports, a headphone jack, HDMI, and an ethernet port.

Pick up the Mac Mini 2024 for over $90 off at Amazon.

The best last-minute Mother's Day deals at a glance: The Bouqs Co. Save 30% on select bouquets with code BOUQSDAY Shop Now Cinemark Theatres gift card $42.50 (save $7.50) Shop Now MasterClass (1-year subscription) $60 (save $60) Get Deal Lego Icons Flower Bouquet Building Set $47.99 (save $12) Get Deal Ninja Creami $199.99 (save $30) Get Deal Amazon Kindle Scribe (16GB) $324.99 (save $75) Get Deal

With Mother's Day scheduled for this Sunday, May 11, there are plenty of good sales worth shopping this week. You might not be able to buy Mom the one thing she truly deserves — the world, duh — but you can definitely find a good deal on a gift that shows your appreciation for her.

Below, we've rounded up a list of the best Mother's Day sales, including some deals on flowers and last-minute gifts that should still arrive on time if you hustle. (Amazon's same- and next-day delivery options will be the most forgiving.) Be sure to check shipping times before you hit "purchase."

Mother's Day flower deals

At the time of writing, all online flower delivery services we checked still had slots available for Mother's Day (or the Saturday prior), though you may have to splash out on expedited shipping:

• 1-800-Flowers.com — save up to 40% on select bouquets

• The Bouqs Co. — save 30% on select bouquets with code BOUQSDAY

• FTD — save 10% on all bouquets

• FromYouFlowers.com — save 20% on select bouquets with code 1127

• Urban Stems — save up to 30% on select bouquets

Amazon — shop last-minute deals and gift ideas

The retail giant has thrown together a dedicated Mother's Day storefront featuring myriad gift ideas for different kinds of moms, unique finds from small business, and deals under various price points (including discounted gift cards). You can filter its options by delivery day to make sure your order arrives by Sunday at the latest. There are also flowers available for next-day delivery.

Here are some of the best last-minute Mother's Day deals we spotted on Amazon:

• Cricut EasyPress Mini — $39 $69 (save $30)

• Spafinder gift card — $40 $50 (save $10)

• Cinemark Theatres gift card — $42.50 $50 (save $7.50)

• Ulta Beauty egift card — $42.50 $50 (save $7.50 with on-page coupon)

• Lego Icons Flower Bouquet Building Set — $47.99 $59.99 (save $12)

• Beats Studio Pro — $169.95 $349.95 (save $180)

• Amazon Kindle Scribe (16GB) — $324.99 $399.99 (save $75)

• Breville Barista Express — $549.95 $699.95 (save $150)

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Mother's Day Shop Shop Now Bird Buddy — save up to 40% on smart bird feeders and bundles

Bird Buddy's award-winning solar-powered smart bird feeders have built-in species recognition to help you get to know your backyard friends a little better. The company also makes a hummingbird feeder in addition to its two standard (seed) feeders, in case Mom lives somewhere warm. Prices start at $199.

Opens in a new window Credit: Bird Buddy Bird Buddy Mother's Day sale Shop Now Bose — save up to 25% on select headphones, earbuds, and speakers

Bose's QuietComfort Ultra headphones and earbuds are Mashable's top picks for noise cancellation, combining great ANC with long battery lives and super comfy designs. The brand's Mother's Day sale knocks $30 and $50 off their sticker prices, respectively. Its biggest discount is going to the standard Bose QuietComfort headphones (now just $249, or $100 off), which scrap some of their Ultra counterparts' features and audio modes. Prices start at $99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Bose Bose Mother's Day sale Shop Now Dreame — save up to 56% on select robot vacuums

Giving Mom a robot vacuum is like giving her a permanently shorter to-do list — love that for her. Dreame has discounted several models in its Amazon storefront through May 11, including the X50 Ultra ($340 off), the X40 Ultra ($600 off), the L20 Ultra ($400 off with on-page coupon), and the L10s Ultra ($500 off). They're all self-emptying models that can also mop. Prices start at $159.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Dreame Dreame Mother's Day sale Shop Now Garmin — save up to $150 on select smartwatches

Garmin smartwatches range from rugged wearables equipped with workout presets (see: the Venu 3) to elegant timepieces with leather bands and metallic accents (i.e., the Lily 2). Most of the models it has on sale for Mother's Day come with a built-in heart rate monitor, health and wellness features, and a blood oxygen sensor — something that you won't find on modern Apple Watches. Two golfing devices are also discounted as part of the event.

Opens in a new window Credit: Garmin Garmin Mother's Day sale Shop Now MasterClass — save 50% on subscriptions

One of our favorite digital gifts, a MasterClass subscription unlocks a huge catalog of online courses taught by celebrities and industry leaders. (For example, Miss Magnolia herself, Joanna Gaines, leads a class about home design.) Annual plans usually cost $120 to $240, depending on the tier, but they're all half off through May 11.

Opens in a new window Credit: MasterClass MasterClass Mother's Day sale Shop Now Ninja — save up to 25% on select kitchen appliances and cookware

Red alert: Ninja's jam-packed Mother's Day sale includes deals on the mega-popular Creami frozen treat maker ($30 off) and a bundle that pairs the upgraded Creami Deluxe with a waffle maker — homemade ice cream sandwiches, anyone? Other Mother's Day deals on Ninja kitchen appliances and cookware start at $129.99. Plus, you can take an extra 10% off any spare accessories using the coupon code SPECIAL10.

Opens in a new window Credit: Ninja Ninja Mother's Day sale Shop Now Solawave — save up to 35% on red light therapy kits

Kits bundling Solawave's red light therapy devices with serums, creams, or face masks start at just $99 during its Mother's Day sale. We're huge fans of the original Solawave wand, which our reviewer called "way more convenient and budget-friendly" than other light therapy devices, and "a great tool that has definitely changed my skin for the better."

Opens in a new window Credit: SolaWave Solawave Mother's Day sale Shop Now T3 — save up to $100 on select hair tools

T3's Aire 360 multi-styler and Aire IQ hair dryer are some of our favorite dupes for Dyson's pricey Airwrap and Supersonic Nural, respectively. Its Mother's Day sale drops their prices by up to 25%, starting at $249.99. (Meanwhile, neither Dyson hair tool is on sale right now.)

Opens in a new window Credit: T3 T3 Mother's Day sale Shop Now

Save $350: As of May 8, the Eufy X10 Pro Omni robot vacuum is on sale for $549.99 at Amazon. That's a saving of $350 on list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Eufy Eufy X10 Pro Omni Robot Vacuum $549.99 at Amazon
$899.99 Save $350 Get Deal

You know what's better than a deal on a top-quality robot vacuum? A record-low price on a top-quality robot vacuum, that's what.

As of May 8, the Eufy X10 Pro Omni Robot Vacuum is on sale for its lowest-ever price at Amazon. Get this popular model for $549.99 at Amazon, saving $350 on list price.

SEE ALSO: Best robot vacuums for apartments, tested in my apartment

Standout features of the Eufy X10 Pro Omni Robot Vacuum include self-emptying functionality, AI obstacle detection, carpet detection, and voice reminders. And this model also mops your floors, as well as self-cleans and refills. You don't need to do a thing.

For a full overview, check out what we thought it our review.

Pick up the Eufy X10 Pro Omni Robot Vacuum for under $550 on Amazon.

Samsung is being unusually open about its next major device launch.

Yesterday, the company sent invites to members of the media for its next Samsung Unpacked event, which is taking place on Monday, May 12 at 8 p.m. ET. With the tagline "Beyond slim" featured on the invite, it was quite clear that we're going to see the company's previously teased, super-slim Galaxy S25 Edge phone.

In a press release, Samsung put an end to speculation (not that there was much to speculate about, given how thoroughly leaked this phone has been). Yes, we'll see the new Galaxy S25 Edge on Monday.

According to Samsung, it's "both a powerful AI companion and an engineering marvel, merging flagship-level performance with superior portability."

The company stopped short of sharing actual specs, but did say that the phone will come with a 200-megapixel main camera. There's also a (surprise!) heavy emphasis on AI, which will be helping users capture, edit, and share that perfect photo, as well as offer info about the world around you through the camera lens.

As for that slim design, Samsung says that "every curve, contour and component reflects a breakthrough in precise engineering to create a premium experience worthy of the S series name."

SEE ALSO: Breaking: Samsung's next Unpacked stream is set for May 12

I've actually seen the phone in the flesh (though Samsung did not allow touching), as the company brought it to this year's Mobile World Congress in Barcelona. It's...eh, pretty thin, but don't expect miracles, and that camera bump is pretty hefty, too.

To watch the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge reveal stream on Monday, tune into Samsung's YouTube channel.

For 50 years, Judy Blume's Forever... has served as a rite of passage for young readers everywhere thanks to its honest, stigma-less approach to mature subject matters like sex and birth control. Now this long-celebrated tale of first love comes to the screen in Netflix's Forever, created by Mara Brock Akil (Girlfriends).

For devotees of Blume's novel, this take on Forever might not feel familiar at first. Yes, the bones of its central romance are the same, but Brock Akil transfers Blume's narrative to 2018, examining how phones and the internet can complicate a first relationship. She also reimagines the novel's leads as Black teens and conjures up rich new interior struggles for both. What follows is a sweet, heart-wrenching account of young love, one that significantly diverges from Blume's original novel but is still very much a companion piece to it.

SEE ALSO: Summer TV preview: All the TV shows you need to know, and where to stream them How is Netflix's Forever different from Judy Blume's book? Lovie Simone and Xosha Roquemore in "Forever." Credit: Elizabeth Morris / Netflix

While Forever... introduced us to Katherine and Michael, two white high school seniors living in Westfield, New Jersey, Forever's leads are Keisha (Lovie Simone) and Justin (Michael Cooper Jr.), two Black high school juniors in Los Angeles. Former kindergarten classmates, the two now attend different schools, and both have dreams of athletic greatness. Keisha's a track star hoping for a full ride to Howard University, while Justin's striving for basketball glory at any Division I school that will take him.

When the pair reconnect at a New Year's Eve party, sparks fly — literally. Fireworks accompany their first kiss, while Justin's first touch of Keisha's wrist is scored by a blooming orchestral sound cue. It's the perfect amount of dramatic flair for teen romance, where every touch or every text back can feel like a life or death situation.

SEE ALSO: 'Judy Blume Forever' review: A literary icon gets a triumphant, timely tribute

And texts back certainly are a concern for both Keisha and Justin, especially as their early flirtations fly over cutesy text messages and giggly video calls. But whenever either of them mess up — and trust me, the two make several mistakes before they get together in earnest — the block button becomes their biggest weapon.

The fear of blocking and losing that digital connection is just one of the many ways in which Brock Akil brings Blume's story into the 21st century. Another factor? An oral sex tape between Keisha and her ex Christian (Xavier Mills) that's been circulating, prompting waves of slut shaming — both digital and in-person — so bad that Keisha has had to change schools. It's a pertinent update to depictions of bullying that permeate Blume's work, and a reminder of the new challenges that come with intimacy in the digital age.

Netflix's Forever examines sex and intimacy, but not quite as much as Judy Blume did. Michael Cooper Jr. and Niles Fitch in "Forever." Credit: Elizabeth Morris / Netflix

Intimacy is another key aspect of Forever. After all, it would be impossible to adapt Forever... — a novel about all the "firsts" of first love — without it. Keisha and Justin are each other's firsts, prompting a sex scene that's both tender and sweetly grounded in nervousness.

For the most part, Forever remains frank about sex. Keisha and Justin discuss what they're comfortable with and often ask for consent before going any further. In one of the show's funniest scenes, Justin's father, Eric (Wood Harris), demands his son practice putting condoms on a cucumber while he watches. (And yes, like the novel's Michael, Justin nicknames his penis Ralph.)

SEE ALSO: How 'Judy Blume Forever' uses animation to illustrate taboo topics

Still, there's a sense that the series is holding back from the taboo subjects that made Forever... such a hit, not to mention so controversial it frequently winds up on banned book lists. There's very little sexual exploration in the lead-up to Keisha and Justin's first time, nor does the series discuss birth control beyond condoms. (In the novel, Katherine takes birth control pills.) Without some of these elements, which are important for young adult audiences to understand and see represented on screen and in literature, Forever occasionally stops resembling Forever... and instead becomes a regular teen drama.

Forever offers up two wonderful romantic leads in Keisha and Justin. Lovie Simone and Michael Cooper Jr. in "Forever." Credit: Elizabeth Morris / Netflix

But what Forever lacks in Blume's approach to sex, it makes up for in character depth. Keisha and Justin are two fully fleshed-out romantic leads, to the point that while I love to see them together, I'd just as easily watch the two of them apart.

And that's a good thing, because Brock Akil has given Keisha and Justin major roadblocks to overcome in addition to their relationship. Keisha continues to deal with the blowback from her sex tape, even if she hasn't told her single mother, Shelly (Xosha Roquemore), about it yet. The worry builds up in her over the series, compounded by the fact that star athlete Christian wants her back, to an unknowing Shelly's delight. Keisha's family's financial woes accrue too, coming into stark light when contrasted with Justin's affluent family. (Seriously, one comment about sensor lights speaks volumes.) Yet despite all these anxieties, Keisha remains headstrong and knows her worth, qualities a nicely confident Simone contrasts with Cooper Jr.'s more anxious turn as Justin. (The two young leads are dynamite together.)

Unlike Keisha, who's dead set on her future, Justin isn't quite sure what he wants from life. Basketball at an elite university is his parents' dream, one that's led him to a predominantly white high school where he feels like an outsider. But what's a dream he can call his own? As college anxieties grow, and as Justin tries to manage his ADHD, could his relationship with Keisha be a distraction, or the key to him learning how to communicate and ask for what he wants?

With these major expansions from Blume's original novel, Forever proves its ability to carefully recontextualize Blume's story, unpacking issues of race and class in addition to sex. Keisha and Justin may be very different from Michael and Katherine, yet their love still has firm roots in the original romance. As Blume puts it on her own website, Forever... came to be when her daughter Randy "asked for a story about two nice kids who have sex without either of them having to die." And, spoiler alert, that's exactly what happens in Netflix's Forever as well!

Yes, Blume's novel is already a key lens through which young adults can unpack their own adolescent experiences. Thanks to some thoughtful adaptation choices, Brock Akil's series may be able to serve a similar purpose, as well as introduce Blume's work to a new generation.

Forever is now streaming on Netflix.

SAVE OVER $200: As of May 8, the Apple MacBook Pro (M4 Chip, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD Storage) is on sale for $1,573.34 at Amazon. This deal saves you 13% on list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple MacBook Pro (M4 Chip, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD Storage) $1,573.34 at Amazon
$1,799 Save $225.66 Get Deal

The Apple M4 chip is coming down in price all over the place, with deals on the MacBook, Mac Mini, and MacBook Pro.

As of May 8, the Apple MacBook Pro (M4 Chip, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD Storage) is on sale for $1,573.34 at Amazon. This deal saves you 13% on list price. It's not quite the lowest-ever price we've seen on this model, but we're very close to that point. So if you've been waiting for the right moment to drop a significant amount of cash on one of these beasts, this could be it.

SEE ALSO: Best MacBooks of 2025: Which MacBook should you buy?

The 14-inch MacBook Pro with M4 chip offers spectacular performance in a machine that's more than ready for Apple Intelligence. Users get all-day battery life and a stunning Liquid Retina XDR display with up to 1600 nits peak brightness. It's seriously impressive in almost every way.

In our review, Kimberly Gedeon said the "M4 MacBook Pro wows with endurance-defying battery life and stellar performance, allowing Apple to reclaim its throne." High prasie indeed.

Pick up the Apple MacBook Pro for under $1,600 at Amazon.

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, May 8, 2025:

AcrossAdjective that rhymes with "sheesh" or "pitch," depending on who you ask

• The answer is Niche.

Colossal ___, marine animal filmed in its natural habitat for the first time in 2025

• The answer is Squid.

Like some caterpillars

• The answer is Furry.

Some spouses

• The answer is Wives.

Bill's time-traveling partner of film

• The answer is Ted.

DownLetters meaning "Don't click this in public!"

• The answer is NSFW.

"You can take this job and shove it!"

• The answer is IQuit.

Feature of a winding road

• The answer is Curve.

Added to the payroll

• The answer is Hired.

Dreyer's ice cream, on the East Coast

• The answer is Edys.

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.

Sam Altman, OpenAI’s chief executive, said he hired Instacart’s Fidji Simo to join in a new role as chief executive of applications.

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.

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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.

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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: Watchers at sporting events

• Green: Midwestern players

• Blue: Dallas athletes

• Purple: TV/movie athletes

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: People in the stands

• Green: A Wisconsin athlete

• Blue: Cowboy QBs

• Purple: Fictional basketball players

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 #226 is...

What is the answer to Connections Sports Edition today

• People in the stands - CROWD, FANS, SPECTATORS, SUPPORTERS

• A Wisconsin athlete - BADGER, BREWER, BUCK, PACKER

• Cowboy QBs - AIKMAN, PRESCOTT, ROMO, STAUBACH

• Fictional basketball players- AIRBUD, CHITWOOD, MOON, SHUTTLESWORTH

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.

TL;DR: Online safety for the whole family is easy with this lifetime AdGuard Family Plan, now just £11.98 (reg. £127.48) with code FAMPLAN through June 1.

Opens in a new window Credit: AdGuard AdGuard Family Plan: Lifetime Subscription £11.98
£127.48 Save £115.50 with code FAMPLAN Get Deal

The internet isn’t just cluttered with ads; there are also trackers and other hidden threats. AdGuard keeps you safe online by blocking intrusive ads, stopping trackers, and safeguarding your privacy across all your devices.

Right now, you can grab lifetime protection for the whole crew with the AdGuard Family Plan. Cover up to nine devices for only £11.98 (reg. £127.48) with code FAMPLAN now through June 1.

Enjoy a safer and smoother browsing experience

The internet should be fun, not frustrating. AdGuard tackles the most annoying parts of online life, like pop-ups, autoplay videos, and banner ads, so that you can enjoy your time browsing, streaming, and scrolling again.

Aside from blocking ads, AdGuard also protects your privacy. Your information will stay safe from trackers and activity analyzers, and you'll be shielded from malware and phishing websites that you or your family members could fall victim to. 

Moms and dads will love AdGuard's parental control feature, which keeps your kids safe from inappropriate content online.

This Family Plan lets you protect up to nine devices with AdGuard, so you can make sure everyone's devices stay safe. And it works with Android and iOS operating systems alike, so it can be used on tablets, smartphones, and laptops. 

Secure your own AdGuard Family Plan for life for just £11.98 with code FAMPLAN now through June 1. 

StackSocial prices subject to change.

FREE COLD FOAM: Cold Foam Days at Starbucks take place from May 7 through May 11. Rewards members in the U.S. or Canada can add cold foam to a cold beverage for free. 

Opens in a new window Credit: Starbucks Free Starbucks Cold Foam on Cold Foam Days Learn More

Starbucks has a legion of dedicated fans out there who probably love and hate their relationship with the store in equal measure. Sure, grabbing your favorite drink from Starbucks every single day is the treat you absolutely deserve, but those costs are surely adding up.

That's why it's so key to get everything you can out of Starbucks, including making the most out of free giveaways. On the rare occasion that Starbucks is actually giving away something for free, you should be first in line.

SEE ALSO: Testing the Ninja Slushi by making a frozen version of every drink I can think of

Cold Foam Days are back at Starbucks. From May 7 through May 11, Starbucks Rewards members in the U.S. or Canada can add cold foam to a cold beverage for free. You can redeem the offer by ordering your favorite cold beverage in the Starbucks app and applying the coupon or by letting your barista know you’d like to apply the offer when ordering in person.

If you’re not a Starbucks Rewards member but want to take part in Cold Foam Days, you'll need to sign up by downloading the Starbucks app and creating an account.

We should point out that there is a limit of 50 redemptions per member. That seems like a lot for even the most devoted Starbucks fan, but we're sure there are people out there that could test the limits.

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

Bread after it's heated.

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

TOAST

Hurdle Word 2 hint

A group of eight.

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

OCTET

Hurdle Word 3 hint

An open box.

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

CRATE

Hurdle Word 4 hint

A demand.

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

ORDER

Final Hurdle hint

Part of a feather.

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

QUILL

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