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Apple TV+ looks to create the next Ted Lasso with its sports comedy Stick, replacing soccer with golf and Jason Sudeikis with Owen Wilson.
Even with these differences, there are times when it seems like Stick was engineered in a lab to be as close to Ted Lasso as possible. Both shows center on a coach figure who's great at dishing out life lessons yet has a lot of learning to do himself. Both shows also focus on mental health and grief, emphasizing the importance of community in getting through tough times. (In that way, Stick also feels like Shrinking.)
SEE ALSO: The 33 best Apple TV+ shows, rankedIf that weren't enough, Stick, created by Jason Keller, features its own take on some of Ted Lasso's most well-known moments. A high-stakes golf wager between rivals recalls Ted's darts game against Rupert Mannion, while advice about forgetting your last golf swing, be it good or bad, echoes Ted's "be a goldfish" philosophy. Yet as shameless as some of these comparisons are, it's nearly impossible to resist Stick's charms, and that starts with Wilson's lead performance.
What's Stick about? Peter Dager and Owen Wilson in "Stick." Credit: Apple TV+Wilson plays Pryce "Stick" Cahill, a former pro golfer whose viral tantrum at a key tournament cost him his career. Now an employee at an Indiana golf center, Pryce is just inches from rock bottom. It doesn't help that he's squatting in the house he and his ex-wife, Amber-Linn (Judy Greer), used to live in — the same house she's currently trying to sell. Yet instead of being a caricature of a bitter has-been, Pryce maintains a cheery, affable disposition, one that comes in handy when he and his curmudgeonly caddy, Mitts (Marc Maron), run the occasional hustle for some spare cash.
Despite the inevitable comparisons to Sudeikis' performance as Ted Lasso, Wilson manages to make the role of "sweet Apple TV+ coach" his own. Pryce's open eagerness and history of failure make people perceive him as a bumbling idiot, and he knows it (and often takes advantage of it). That undercurrent of wiliness runs throughout Wilson's performance, turning Pryce into a savvy schemer in addition to a supportive mentor figure to an up-and-coming golfer.
SEE ALSO: Summer TV preview: All the TV shows you need to know, and where to stream themThat golfer is Santi Wheeler (Peter Dager), a 17-year-old prodigy whose complicated history with the sport is tied to his absentee father. He's a wizard on the golf course, but he needs formal training. Thankfully, Pryce is ready to throw his every resource (not that he has many left) behind him. Tying his future to Santi's is a huge risk, but this move could be exactly what the otherwise aimless Pryce needs to truly get back on his feet.
Like Ted Lasso, Stick boasts a charming ensemble. Lilli Kay, Mariana Treviño, Judy Greer, and Marc Maron in "Stick." Credit: Apple TV+Pryce and Santi set out across the U.S. to get him into amateur tournaments, but they're not going it alone. Along for the ride are Mitts and Santi's mother, Elena (Mariana Treviño), as well as Zero (Lilli Kay), a nomad who strikes up a fierce friendship — and maybe something more? — with Santi.
This quintet makes for a charming ensemble: Treviño's Elena is equal parts sweet and fiery in her support of Santi, while Maron's gruffness as Mitts serves as a nice counterpoint. Dager and Kay make the budding romance between Santi and Zero absolutely adorable, all while grounding it in the traumas that have molded their individual character's trust issues.
SEE ALSO: How 'Ted Lasso' fumbled Nate's redemption arc, big timeAt the center of it all is the pairing of Pryce and Santi, whose partnership quickly grows beyond golf. Santi's father is AWOL, while Pryce lost his son at a young age. As Stick gestures toward their growing surrogate father-son relationship, Wilson and Dager's vulnerability proves a strong starting point for the show's exploration of grief. But Stick also pokes fun at the generational differences between Pryce and Santi, providing some lighter fare amidst heavier subject matter.
Unfortunately, not all of that generational comedy lands, especially when it comes to a "Who's on First?"-style riff on Zero's she/they pronouns. Too often, these gags rely on low-hanging Gen Z vs. Gen X fruit. Frankly, the show's comedy and conflict are at their best when its characters are needling each other over specific traits — like Pryce's unfortunate love of gambling, or Elena's pampering of her three little dogs — as opposed to broader generational stereotypes.
Stick commits one cardinal casting sin. Judy Greer in "Stick." Credit: Apple TV+But that isn't Stick's worst sin. Instead, that award goes to the show's criminal underuse of Judy Greer, who's given the thankless role of Pryce's ex. Sidelined for much of the season, Amber-Linn only seems to exist to remind Pryce of his shortcomings, or to lift him up when he's doing something right. That does a disservice to Greer, whose comedic talents are on full display in shows like Arrested Development and Archer, yet who has often been relegated to wife or mother roles. (See: Ant-Man, Jurassic World, Tomorrowland.) In a series where the rest of the ensemble is allowed to let loose, why not give Greer the same chance? Still, there's always hope for Season 2, right?
Despite Stick's crimes against Greer, the series is an otherwise heartwarming take on found family that managed to make me, a golf hater, actually care about the sport. But just like Ted Lasso was never primarily a soccer show, Stick isn't primarily a golf show. As Mitts so candidly puts it to Pryce, his mentorship of Santi is "not about golf. It's about all the shit you never dealt with."
That's certainly not new ground for Stick to tread (again, the shadow of Ted Lasso looms large). But for the most part, the show is thoughtful in its exploration of grief and mental health, with golf — where all your mistakes can compound — acting as a solid metaphor for how Pryce, Santi, and their friends move through troubling times.
As familiar as these beats are, there's no denying they make a solid base for any feel-good comedy. And with Wilson capably leading such a likable ensemble, Stick feels pretty darn good.
It's not easy being a parent, and tech hasn't really made it any easier. A clear example: Deciding whether or not your child needs their own phone.
While most experts suggest keeping kids offline and away from screens as much as possible, that's not always an option, with children increasingly using phones and tablets in school environments. Your child may be young and only need a quick way to communicate while out of the house, or you may have a teen looking for a bit more device freedom. There are phones with no internet access, or those with highly monitored wireless data. Parents can be hands-on, or even let AI monitor the device for them.
Many caregivers, shopping for a phone that won't further endanger their child, face an intimidating marketplace dominated by the interests of Big Tech and social media algorithms. Parental controls aren't a perfect solution to the threat of an unfettered internet — and the risks it poses to youth mental health — either.
But there are also companies trying to reduce harm, including those designing tech for kids explicitly, and for a wide range of ages and needs. Digital well-being and early childhood experts are trying to foster a better relationship between tech and young people. Big names in phones, like Apple, are also providing more options for parents seeking to monitor their kids' device use. In 2023, for example, Apple debuted Assistive Access mode, an iPhone setting that simplifies the phone's interface and reduces the number of features on screen. Designed for users with cognitive disabilities, it's also a good option for younger users.
There's no single solution — but there are plenty of options to gauge what works best for your kids and family. Here's a slice of what's out there:
Bark Phone Credit: BarkThe buzzy device among TikTok's parenting community, the Bark phone is a sleek Samsung model pre-loaded with the company's built-in monitoring tool. The AI-enabled app, a highly-rated parental control option among reviewers, scans texts, images, emails, web browsers, and apps and flags potentially sensitive, explicit, or harmful content to supervising parents.
Kids can't delete text messages without permission or change parental control settings. Parents can approve and deny contacts, monitor screen time and content browsing, and even set remote alarms or require location check-ins.
Parents have to choose between several Bark subscriptions plans to use the Bark phone — plans that include internet access or mobile data are placed on the T-Mobile network. Starter subscriptions include basic contacts screening, content monitoring, and GPS tracking, and the phone remains talk and text only. Advanced plans allow more customizable settings, including controlling specific apps and web browsers, screen time controls, and the ability to block entire categories of content.
Features:
Built-in monitoring tools using the Bark app
Can use Bark subscription on other devices, including tablets
Location tracking
Ability to lock down app marketplaces
Talk and text only option
Cost:
$240 per device, with the option of a 2-year, $10 per month leasing plan
Monthly Bark subscription, ranging from $29 to $79
The Gabb phone was designed as a screen alternative for kids, with guardrails on social media and web browsing built around the company's in-house products and pre-selected app options. Running on the latest Android OS, kids can use basic apps like the camera, notes, and maps, all designed by Gabb, or download ones like Kindle, DuoLingo, or even mobile banking apps, with guardian permission. Parents can monitor their communications and contacts using a set of simplified parental controls — Gabb phones use smart filtration to automatically block "high-risk" content, including in texts and video calls.
Gabb also makes other kid-safe tech, including "smart" watches and apps like Gabb Music, Gabb Messenger, and Gabb Guard, a spam call blocking software.
Features:
No social media or internet browsing apps
Location tracking
Limited app options
Built-in music streaming platform
Unlimited talk and text
Cost:
$199.99 for the Gabb 4 Pro
Monthly phone plan, ranging from $24.99 to $34.99
Rather than a single model, Pinwheel offers a selection of phone manufacturer models (like Samsung, Google Pixel, and Motorola) all equipped with the company's "parent management system."
Parents make an account on the company's Caregiver Portal, which gives them access to a suite of parental control options built into the parent management system. Parents can approve contacts and customize communication preferences for each, including allowing image sharing. During set hours, such as the school day, Pinwheel phones can be limited to talk and text only. And parents can enable access to the app store or review app ratings at any time.
Notably, Pinwheel phones can also be added to any mobile or family plan at no additional cost — parents will still need to pay a monthly fee for access to the Caregiver Portal. Parents can alternatively subscribe to a Pinwheel Wireless plan.
Features:
No social media apps
Customizable image sharing
Screen time controls that adjusts access to phone features throughout the day
Can be added to any existing family plan
Cost:
A range of device costs, with the lowest starting at $119
Monthly subscription plan, starting at $17.99 for portal access only or $29.99 for Pinwheel Wireless
The Troomi phone is a kid-safe version of a Samsung Galaxy A16, built without open browsers and with safe-listing options that fully lock down a device from outside contact.
Like Bark, Troomi's AI-powered monitoring system scans the device for explicit content, bullying, and inappropriate interactions. Kids can't download social media apps or what the company deems as "harmful" games. Parents can monitor texts, get alerts about their child's activity, and filter out harmful language and content, as well as approve contacts, websites, and already verified apps.
In addition to an app usage dashboard for parents, Troomi has also designed what they call a "mental health dashboard," built from interactions with their optional AI "mental health coach" — the chatbot provides 24/7 emotional well-being support and can be monitored by parents. The company also provides digital wellness programs for parents and kids through the Troomi Parent Academy.
Features:
No social media apps
Location tracking
Anti-bullying monitoring and other parental controls
Kid-safe web browser
Optional "Kid-Safe" AI Chatbot
Cost:
Normally $199.95, or $99.97 with promotion
Monthly subscription plan, ranging from $19.95 to $29.95
The Aqua Phone, actually a Google Pixel 9, was designed by online monitoring software company Cyber Dive as the "first Pixel-based phone for kids that provides complete visibility into online activities." Rather than the traditional method of limiting access to apps and the internet, the phone is designed with an "instant replay" feature that lets parents view their child's entire screen and activity throughout the day, including on social media apps like TikTok and even Snapchat.
The Aqua Phone uses an internal operating system that harnesses Google Family Link parental controls or can work alongside third-party monitoring apps. It also has a nude image prevention system that blocks and then locks down the phone if explicit images are flagged or even taken on the device.
Features:
Full access to app stores and internet, just like a regular phone
Compatibility with third-party parental control apps
"Instant replay" device monitoring
Add to existing phone plan
Cost:
$999 for device, with one-time payment promotion
Another option for families may be to skip the "smart" part of smartphones completely, and opt for a device that may not be built for kids explicitly, but still greatly limits their access to the world of apps and internet. Enter the "dumb phone," or a device that operates like the phones of yore with simple talk and text, and no extra features.
Dumb phones come in a range of styles, including retro flip phones, tiny nanophones, and more futuristic designs like the cubist Light Phone. And despite the stereotype of being phone-addicted and algorithm-dependent, many teens are joining the anti-smartphone movement as more and more seek out ways to digitally detox.
TL;DR: Simplify your charging setup with this Apple 15W MagSafe Charger, now for only $27.99 (reg. $39).
Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple 15W MagSafe Charger (1st Gen) 1M USB-C (Open Box) $27.99It’s not too late to spring-clean your nightstand. If you’re sick of the eyesore of messy charging cords, it’s time to make the switch to wireless charging.
Right now, you can grab an open-box Apple 15W MagSafe Charger for just $27.99 (reg. $39).
Curious what this MagSafe Charger can power up?Charging doesn’t get much easier than the MagSafe Charger. If you have an iPhone 12 or newer, it snaps perfectly onto your device and charges up to 15W. If you have an older iPhone, don’t worry. It works with all iPhones 8 or newer. It’s also compatible with Qi and Qi2, and can power up your AirPods if they have a wireless case.
A one-meter USB-C cable offers convenient connectivity, and if you want to experience all that the MagSafe Charger has to offer, you can pair it with a 20W USB-C Power Adapter (not included). Thanks to its portable design, the MagSafe Charger is easy to bring along anywhere you need to power up.
You’re getting a 28% discount thanks to this charger’s open-box status. That means it was likely excess inventory from store shelves, but it will be verified to be in new condition and placed in clean packaging.
Enjoy easy charging anywhere with this Apple 15W MagSafe Charger, now for only $27.99 (reg. $39).
StackSocial prices subject to change.
TL;DR: Sellful is your all-in-one business toolkit — build websites, run marketing, and handle HR forever for just $349.97 (reg. $1,497) with a lifetime subscription to its ERP Agency Plan.
Opens in a new window Credit: Sellful Sellful - White Label Website Builder & Software: ERP Agency Plan (Lifetime) $349.97Make 2025 the year you finally start that side hustle. Though it sounds daunting, if you have Sellful in your corner, you already have a star employee on your team.
Sellful is an AI-powered white-label website builder and software that serves as a one-stop shop for getting a business going. You can now score a lifetime subscription to its ERP Agency Plan for just $349.97 (reg. $1,497) through July 20.
Design, promote, and grow with Sellful’s lifetime planYou supply the idea, and Sellful can help make it happen. Whether you’re starting from scratch or improving an existing business, Sellful acts like an all-in-one digital employee. It can be your web developer, helping make your site, landing pages, funnels, and more.
What good is a website without a product to sell? Sellful also supports e-commerce, helping you sell physical or digital products directly from your site. And if you need to find customers, let it handle the marketing by creating an AI-generated newsletter, social media posts, and even an interactive chatbot.
Once your site is up and running, you might need to expand your team. Sellful can even help you recruit new employees, and even manage payroll and time-off requests. It also includes a built-in scheduler to manage appointments and bookings directly from your site.
An ERP Agency Plan gives you access to 100GB of file storage and 50,000 free email sends. If you need to add more, packs of 10,000 are available for just $10 a month.
It’s time to take your business to the next level with a lifetime subscription to Sellful, now $349.97 (reg. $1,497) through July 20.
StackSocial prices subject to change.
TL;DR: Avoid expensive roaming charges with this deal on the aloSIM Traveler’s Mobile Data Plan, now only $24.97 for $50 in credit.
Traveling is expensive enough without getting slammed with roaming charges when you get back. If you’re heading abroad this summer, be proactive and snag this deal on the aloSIM Traveler’s Mobile Data Plan. It’s a downloadable eSIM that connects you to local networks in more than 170 countries, and right now, you can get $50 of credit for just $24.97.
Don’t pay extra to use your phone overseasaloSIM Traveler’s Mobile Data Plan makes traveling abroad a little more affordable, making it easier to stay online while you’re abroad. Just connect to local networks via an eSIM card that can be downloaded on both iOS and Android devices. You’ll get access to a reliable internet connection on a 5G and LTE network, with zero ridiculous roaming charges.
This plan is available to new customers and provides $50 worth of data for $24.97. You have 12 months to use it after purchasing the voucher, and it’s simple to set up. Just pick a data package and install the eSIM before your trip. Then you’ll be able to activate the package when you land and start using the data right away.
The eSIM never expires, but your data package is only valid for the length of time stated when you purchase — so if you grab a seven-day package, that’s the length of time you have to use it up. Need more data? It’s easy to add more as you go, with packages as low as $4.50.
Aside from connecting affordably, this aloSIM deal includes a free Hushed phone number with your data plan that allows you to make private voice calls.
Enjoy data for half off with this aloSIM Traveler’s Mobile Data Plan, now only $24.97 for $50 in credit.
StackSocial prices subject to change.
Opens in a new window Credit: aloSIM aloSIM Traveler's Mobile Data Plan: Pay $24.97 for $50 Credit $24.97TL;DR: Grill indoors with a Ninja Foodi Smart XL Pro on sale for $139.99 (reg. $249.99).
Getting a full grill setup going isn’t always convenient, especially if you live in an apartment or just don’t feel like dragging out a bulky outdoor grill for dinner. The Ninja Foodi Smart XL Pro gives you a much easier way to get that same high-heat sear indoors, and it does a lot more than just grill. This countertop cooker combines seven cooking functions into one compact machine, letting you grill, griddle, air crisp, roast, bake, broil, and dehydrate right from your kitchen counter. It’s also on sale for $139.99 (reg. $249.99).
Grilling just became apartment-friendlyThe Ninja Foodi’s 500-degree grill grate is independently powered, so you get edge-to-edge heat for consistent searing. You can cook with the hood open for a more traditional grilling experience or close it to activate cyclonic air cooking. It also comes with the Foodi Smart Thermometer, which helps you hit the exact doneness you want without the guesswork. Whether you’re cooking steak, salmon, or pancakes on the 12-inch griddle, the Ninja gives you flexibility, control, and speed in one tidy setup.
Even with its compact footprint, it’s got enough space to cook for the whole family. The grill can handle up to six steaks or multiple servings of just about anything. And when you’re done cooking, the nonstick grate and griddle plate go straight into the dishwasher for easy cleanup.
Since this version is refurbished, you’re getting the same performance at a lower price. It’s rated Grade A, which means it arrives in near-mint condition with minimal or no visible wear.
Enjoy a summer barbecue minus the sunburn.
Get a Ninja® Foodi™ Smart XL Pro while they’re on sale for $139.99.
StackSocial prices subject to change
Opens in a new window Credit: Ninja Ninja® Foodi™ Smart XL Pro 7-in-1 Grill/Griddle Combo (Refurbished) $139.99SAVE $340: As of June 4, the Roborock Qrevo S robot vacuum is on sale for $459.98 at Amazon. That's a 43% discount on the list price.
Opens in a new window Credit: roborock Roborock Qrevo S Robot Vacuum and Mop $459.98 at AmazonIf you want a robot vacuum that does a bit of everything, we've found your perfect match in the Roborock Qrevo S robot vacuum. A vacuum that self empties and a mop that self fills, this really is a robot vacuum with all the frills.
As of June 4, you can save $340 on this vacuum, now down to $459.98. It comes in both black and white, and both colors are at the same discounted price.
SEE ALSO: The 3 best Shark robot vacuums beat Roomba competitorsWith both vacuuming and mopping functions, this robot vacuum really is an amazing addition to your home. A large five-liter water tank can support up to 4,305 square feet of mopping, while the self-emptying bin allows for hands-free cleaning for up to seven weeks, so no daily emptying is required. It boasts a 7,000Pa suction power and a multi-directional floating brush to make sure carpets, tiles, and hardwood floors are all deeply cleaned. Dual spinning mops rotate at 200 RPM, so spills and dried dirt that are really stuck into your floors are no problem.
And you don't need to manually guide the vacuum around your house, this model is equipped with PreciSense LiDAR Navigation and 3D Mapping to help it detect and avoid obstacles by itself.
This deal is stamped as limited-time only, so head to Amazon now.
SAVE $250: As of June 4, the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra is on sale for $399.94 at Amazon. That's a saving of 38% on list price.
Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra $399.94 at AmazonIf a smartwatch upgrade is something you're considering, you're probably looking at the classics: Garmin, Apple, and Samsung. Price can always be a big sway in a purchase of that size, so why not check out this whopper of a deal on the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra?
This smartwatch is a great option for fitness enthusiasts across all activities, specifically those who enjoy endurance sports. It has built-in fitness tracking tools like heart rate monitoring, blood oxygen measurements, and dual-frequency GPS for tracking accuracy, as well as advanced sleep tracking.
SEE ALSO: The Garmin Forerunner 265 is still at its best price at Amazon with $100 offThe advanced Galaxy AI lets you challenge and compete with yourself by analysing and comparing your different performances and peak levels. It also tracks physical readiness so you know when you should rest and when you can kick things up a notch.
The watch design boasts a bright AMOLED display with vibrant colors and brightness, and is controlled both by a touchscreen and physical buttons. A 60-hour battery will keep you going for a couple of days without needing a charge, and the 10ATM water-resistance classification allows you to enjoy both pool and ocean swimming.
But the best part is the price. As of June 4, you can get the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra for $399.94, saving you $250 on list price.
Sold? Head to Amazon to secure this low price.
SAVE $30: As of June 4, the Samsung Galaxy FE Buds are on sale for $64.99 at Amazon. That's a 35% saving on the list price.
Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung Galaxy Buds FE $64.99 at AmazonNeed a new pair of earbuds? Say less, we've found you a great deal at Amazon. As of June 4, you can upgrade to the Samsung Galaxy FE for just $64.99, saving you $35 on list price. They seriously impressed in our review, too.
The new wing-tip design ensures a secure, comfortable fit. This also aids Active Noise Cancellation, which helps you focus on the sounds you want to hear and blocks out what you don't.
SEE ALSO: Get the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra for its lowest-ever price at AmazonThe earbuds are easily paired with other Galaxy devices and also feature Auto Switch, automatically transitioning between your Galaxy devices. They are also designed with user-friendly tap controls that make it easy to skip songs and adjust the volume without having to pick up your phone. The built-in voice assistant also gives you hands-free controls, letting you make calls, check the weather, and even order coffee just by speaking commands into your earbuds.
But our favorite feature is the SmartThings Find. This helps you track down your buds when you can't find them by showing their last known location on a map. Additionally, Lost Mode can display a message to anyone who finds them, increasing your chances of getting them back.
Scoop up this deal on Amazon.
The Nintendo Switch has dominated the conversation around handheld gaming consoles for several years now thanks to its innovative hybrid design, relatively accessible price point, and monumental, still-growing lineup of games. It's now one of the bestselling consoles of all time, and a new iteration is launching on June 5 — but it's not the only handheld worth buying these days.
After dozens of hours of hands-on testing, our favorite handheld consoles include the glitzy Nintendo Switch OLED, the AI-enhanced MSI Claw 8 AI+, the slick Valve Steam Deck, and the delightfully nostalgic Analogue Pocket, among a few other options. These are unmistakably different systems in terms of their overall designs, features, and/or use cases, but they all excel at making great games playable on a portable level and offer solid specs for the money.
Here's a more intensive breakdown of each console to help you figure out which one's best for you — whether you're hunting for a portable PC setup, sitting on a pile of old Game Boy cartridges, or just desperate to play the latest and greatest games on the best system available.
And don't worry, a review for the Nintendo Switch 2 is on the way.
SEE ALSO: Nintendo raises Switch 2 sales forecast to 20 million unitsSAVE $300: As of June 4, the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is on sale for $999.99 at Amazon. That's a saving of 23% on list price, and its lowest-ever price at Amazon.
Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra $999.99 at AmazonThe Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra was announced at the beginning of this year, with sales kicking off around February. Despite its recent release, we've already seen several great discounts on the latest in the range. And as of June 4, this popular smartphone is down to under $1,000, it's lowest-ever price.
Reduced by 23%, the Galaxy S5 Ultra is now priced at just $999.99, an incredible discount for such a new release. This deal is specific to the 256GB option and the titanium silverblue, titanium whitesilver, and titanium gray colors.
SEE ALSO: Samsung's next foldable will be an UltraWith this upgrade, you'll get an impressive 6.9-inch QHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, 200MP wide-angle camera, a 50MP ultra-wide, and 10MP telephoto lens, and not to mention the super-fast Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy processor.
The 5,000 mAh battery will keep you going all day, even if you're streaming, working, gaming, or simply browsing.
Find this special smartphone deal at Amazon — get it before it sells out.
The best tech deals right now, hand-picked by Mashable's team of expertsRoku Ultra 4K Ultimate Streaming Player (2024 Release) — $79.99 (List Price $99.99)
Beats Pill Bluetooth Speaker — $99.95 (List Price $149.95)
Roborock Qrevo Master Robot Vacuum and Mop — $899.99 (List Price $1599.99)
Apple AirTag (4-Pack) — $74.99 (List Price $99.00)
DualSense Edge Wireless Controller — $169.00 (List Price $199.99)
SAVE ALMOST $200: The new M4 Apple MacBook Air (13-inch, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD) is on sale for $799.84 at Amazon. That's its lowest-ever price.
Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple MacBook Air, 13-inch (M4, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD) $799.84 at AmazonWe have made a lot of noise over recent weeks about the stunning deals on the new M4 MacBook Air. We were truly shocked to see this model drop to $849 in May, but this incredible discount just got a whole lot better. We're really not sure what to say at this point, because we would never have believed that the new M4 Apple MacBook Air would drop to below $800, but here we are.
The new M4 Apple MacBook Air (13-inch, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD) is on sale for $799.84 at Amazon. That's its lowest-ever price according to the price tracker camelcamelcamel. We think this laptop is "a really good deal" at full price, so needless to say, we think this deal is absolutely worth jumping on.
SEE ALSO: Score a 15-inch MacBook Air M4 for a record-low price of under $1,000The M4 Air is incredibly lightweight but still offers plenty of punch. The M4 chip brings a lot of power to the table, even providing enough juice to be considered one of our top picks for the best laptops for video editing. What's clear is that the M4 MacBook Air is a great all-rounder laptop — out of all the available MacBooks on the market, we found the M4 Air to be the best MacBook for most people.
Stop what you're doing and get the new M4 Apple MacBook Air for its record-low price at Amazon.
Monster Train 2 has pulled into the station, and I'm thrilled to be climbing aboard for the ride. Developed by San Francisco-based indie studio Shiny Shoe, this video game follows their incredibly popular and highly addictive roguelike deckbuilder released in 2020, which had players defend a train headed to reignite the extinguished heart of Hell.
The sequel has you boarding a hellish locomotive once more, defending the Pyre on top from waves of enemies across the vehicle's three vertical levels. However, rather than barreling down to the deepest circles of Hell, Monster Train 2 has you ascending toward Heaven. And rather than battling angelic armies, you're fighting alongside them to take on a new enemy: the otherworldly Titans.
SEE ALSO: 'Monster Train' sequel announced, with surprise demo out nowI've played around 40 hours of Monster Train 2 on PC so far, and fully expect that number to increase at a socially unacceptable rate. As a fan of the original game, I was curious as to how Shiny Shoe would tackle its follow-up. The answer? Significant quality of life improvements, a fresh collection of varied clans, and new mechanics offering more gameplay possibilities.
Monster Train 2 is everything players loved about Monster Train, but dialled up to 11.
Monster Train 2 pulls up with new clans, features, and quality of life changesLike Monster Train, Monster Train 2 engages players in runs of turn-based battles, playing cards to place units and cast spells across the train's three floors. Cards deplete the renewable resource Ember, which replenishes at the start of every turn. Each run begins by choosing to base your deck on any combination of two clans, which are card sets that share themes and mechanics.
Between battles, players gradually accumulate more cards to strengthen their deck for the next fight, choosing between two train tracks with different shops and events. Combined with empowering artifacts and card upgrades players also gather along the journey, Monster Train 2 offers practically endless combinations that mean no two runs are the same.
Credit: Shiny ShoeRather than simply returning to Monster Train's familiar original clans, Monster Train 2 introduces five new ones: the angelic Banished, draconic Pyreborn, magical Luna Coven, mushroom-based Underlegion, and madly scientific Lazarus League. Not all are available at the outset, but are gradually unlocked as you play through runs and fulfil easily met criteria. Each clan has mechanics specific to them, which players can combine to discover powerful synergies.
It's deeply satisfying to find fresh strategies, exploring and experimenting with how these mechanics interact to stack up damage and efficiently dispatch your enemies. It's also deeply satisfying to simply find one great strategy and stick to it, repeatedly demolishing your enemies like a bulldozer aggressively reversing through a condemned building.
Personally, I love the Underlegion and their aptly named Funguy units. The clan's spawn mechanic causes stacks of these mushrooms to pile on top of each other, creating a single gigantic unit. Arm it with equipment from the Lazarus League for an extra boost, and you can end up with an extremely powerful and functionally immortal large mushroom son.
Credit: Amanda Yeo / MashableMonster Train 2's changes also go far beyond new clans to play. The changes are immediately apparent from your first run, which starts with a new deployment phase during which you place your units before enemies arrive.
The aforementioned equipment card types are a fun addition, typically played on your units to give them a boost such as additional attack power or multistrike. Room cards are another fresh element, applying an effect across an entire floor — one of my favourites spawns a new Funguy whenever a unit dies. You can even unlock different Pyres with various effects; one may give units a random upgrade while another could let you restore your units' health once per battle, adding a new variant to consider when choosing your loadout at the start of a run.
All of these additions add new strategy considerations and deckbuilding possibilities to Monster Train 2 without being overwhelming, enriching the original's already excellent gameplay. It's different enough to make the sequel worth picking up, while still offering the same engaging experience that hooked fans the first time around.
Credit: Shiny ShoeMonster Train 2 further adds quality of life changes, the most significant of which is the ability to restart a battle. Previously, savvy players of the original Monster Train had to exit to the game's main menu if they wanted to start a botched battle again. Now, Shiny Shoe has turned this loophole into a much appreciated feature, adding a dedicated in-menu option to restart a fight if things aren't going your way.
On top of this, Monster Train 2 has also added a button allowing you to only restart your turn, so you don't need to redo an entire battle if you accidentally equipped the wrong unit. It does take a tiny bit longer to load than I'd like, but it's still worlds better than having to start a battle all over again.
Monster Train 2 is derailed by plot Credit: Amanda Yeo / MashableThough Monster Train 2 has many upgrades, sadly not all of its new additions are enhancements.
Player's mileage may vary regarding the tie-ins to other popular indie games such as Cult of the Lamb, Balatro, and Inscryption. Characters from these games can show up in events throughout a run, which are fun Easter eggs for those familiar with these titles, but they do make the world of Monster Train 2 feel less coherent.
This leads into Monster Train 2's most glaring issue, which is the game's new attempt to focus on worldbuilding and plot. Unfortunately, it merely serves as an irritating distraction. Short, dull cutscenes in between runs slow the pace, utilising static card art to illustrate empty, exposition-filled conversations between the various clan leaders. The writing for these paper puppet scenes is sadly uninspiring, relying heavily on shallow cliché and contrived scenes in an attempt to conjure the thinnest illusion of substance. Fortunately, these segments are at least fairly infrequent and brief.
Monster Train's appeal has never been in its story. The scant plot merely served as transparent scaffolding to justify the gameplay, as actually thinking about it for more than two seconds would open up a plethora of issues. Despite this, Monster Train 2 insists on attempting to dive deeper into its shallow lore, unfortunately cracking its head against the pool floor. The game would be much better served if it forewent these plot elements altogether and focused on what it excels at: engaging gameplay.
Monster Train 2 is a delightful return for fans of the originalThe plot and writing do Monster Train 2 a disappointing disservice. Still, at least one cutscene sets the stage for a thrilling moment servicing fans of the original Monster Train.
Beware: Spoilers below.
Credit: Amanda Yeo / MashableOnce you've reached certain requirements, a cutscene depicts the glorious return of the original clans from Monster Train, adding almost all cards from the first game to Monster Train 2. We're talking the demonic Hellhorned, plantlike Awoken, spellcasting Stygian Guard, gluttonous Umbra, and undying Melting Remnant. The gang's all here (which is also the name of the Steam achievement for unlocking them).
Well, almost the entire gang is here. The Wurmkin from Monster Train's Last Divinity DLC haven't shown up, though there's always the possibility that they'll make a fashionably late entrance in future content.
Nonetheless, it was undoubtedly exciting to see these familiar clans once more. Though I'm still working on unlocking everything, the clans appear to play exactly as they did in Monster Train, with exactly the same champions, cards, and mechanics. This opens up an enormous wealth of combinations and strategies to play with, bolstering Monster Train 2's already vast options. For example, the Luna Coven can boost the Stygian Guard's spell power, while stacking armour and attack power from the Banished works well with the rage-fuelled Hellhorned.
It's a fantastic inclusion for fans of the original, and allows those less familiar with the franchise to try out Monster Train's clans and mechanics as well.
Credit: Shiny ShoeMonster Train 2 is an engaging game for fans and newcomers alike, with plenty to dive into for everyone. Just like its predecessor, it’s easy to boot up a quick game — and also easy to lose hours playing just one more run. Overall, it's a fun, engaging game that's well worth picking up. Just consider skipping past the cutscenes.
Monster Train 2 is available now on Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, and PC.
Samsung is upping its foldables game.
In a somewhat vague press release on Wednesday, the company announced the "next chapter of Ultra," which apparently means the Samsung Galaxy S Ultra is going foldable. Or is Samsung Galaxy Z Fold going Ultra? We're not sure.
SEE ALSO: Samsung issues urgent warning to activate Galaxy anti-theft featuresAccording to the company, its customers demand "an Ultra-experience that goes beyond a simple list of upgraded features in a smaller and more portable form factor." The press release goes on to describe a foldable phone with a "powerful camera," and (of course) "seamless AI integration," without delving into details.
This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed.So, what do we really know? Well, Samsung is launching a foldable Galaxy Ultra phone this summer, probably in July. Judging by the teaser video, it's going to be a large, vertically foldable device, so think a successor to Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6. It's unclear whether the Ultra moniker simply means it will be a more powerful Galaxy Z Fold, or will the phone differ from Samsung's foldable flagship in other ways.
Thanks to rumors, we do know a little bit about Samsung's upcoming foldable, though. One recent report claimed that it will be extremely thin, at just 8.2 millimeters folded. We've also heard that it will have a 200-megapixel main camera, a new under-display camera, and a 4,400mAh battery.
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 MashableHere are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Wednesday, June 4, 2025:
AcrossNickname that drops "-uel"The answer is Sam.
The answer is Bone.
The answer is Foggy.
The answer is Eagle.
The answer is Dryer.
The answer is Soggy.
The answer is Angle.
The answer is Meyer.
The answer is Boar.
The answer is Fed.
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 GamesAre 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.
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 categoriesWant a hint about the categories without being told the categories? Then give these a try:
Yellow: Types of players on the ice
Green: Teams from way up north
Blue: Ways to score in hockey
Purple: Championship winners
Need a little extra help? Today's connections fall into the following categories:
Yellow: Hockey Positions
Green: Canadian NHL Teams
Blue: Types of Hockey Goals
Purple: Last Four Stanley Cup Winners
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 #254 is...
What is the answer to Connections Sports Edition todayHockey Positions - CENTER, DEFENSEMAN, GOALTENDER, WINGER
Canadian NHL Teams - CALGARY, EDMONTON, MONTREAL, OTTAWA
Types of Hockey Goals - EMPTY NET, EVEN STRENGTH, POWER PLAY, SHORT-HANDED
Last Four Stanley Cup Winners - COLORADO, FLORIDA, TAMPA BAY, VEGAS
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: Change the way you take notes forever with a lifetime subscription to My Notes AI Pro Plan, now just $39.99 (reg. $299).
It’s 2025, and now there’s no need to take your own notes — there’s an app for that. AI can now do it for you with My Notes AI, your very own note-taking assistant. And right now you can employ it forever with a lifetime subscription to their Pro Plan for just $39.99 (reg. $299)
Outsource your note-taking to AIWhether you’re in school and taking notes during lectures or you’re always jotting down action items from work meetings, My Notes AI can transcribe it all and then provide you with a summary without ever having to write a word. You don’t even have to be physically present — it also works with Zoom, Google Meet, or Teams meetings, or you can upload an audio file.
You’ll never again waste time trying to decipher what you wrote. My Notes AI can take all your notes and turn transcriptions into helpful summaries. It even breaks it down into specific action items, so you know exactly what you’re responsible for afterward.
Need to share your notes with someone? Exporting the transcriptions is easy, and you can use My Notes AI’s organizational tools to save them by topic, date, or project, for easy access later.
My Notes AI has a user-friendly interface, and you can use it on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac. This lifetime subscription provides everything mentioned above, but if you need more, you can also unlock premium features such as unlimited transcription, meeting recordings, instant AI summaries, and extra organizational tools.
Let AI take your notes with a lifetime subscription to My Notes AI Pro Plan, now just $39.99 (reg. $299).
StackSocial prices subject to change.
Opens in a new window Credit: My Notes AI My Notes AI Pro Plan: Lifetime Subscription - AI Note Transcriber & Summarizer $39.99TL;DR: A wide range of online courses from Harvard University are available to take for free on edX.
Not many people know this, but you can take a wide range of online courses from some of the top educational institutions in the world for absolutely nothing. Yep, you can become a student of somewhere like Harvard University without spending anything stepping foot outside.
Harvard University is offering free online courses on popular topics like AI, cybersecurity, game development, personal development, law, and so much more. We have checked out everything on offer and lined up a standout selection of online courses to get you started.
These are the best free online courses from Harvard University this month:
Building Personal Resilience: Managing Anxiety and Mental Health
Early Childhood Development: Global Strategies for Implementation
Structure and Function of Argument: Introduction to Critical Thinking
The Path to Happiness: What Chinese Philosophy Teaches us about the Good Life
U.S. Political Institutions: Congress, Presidency, Courts, and Bureaucracy
The catch with these free courses is that they don't include certificate of completion or graded assignments and exams. But you can still enroll at any time and start learning at your own pace.
Find the best free online courses from Harvard University with edX.
Opens in a new window Credit: Harvard University Harvard University Courses Free at edX Learn MoreTL;DR: Live stream Zverev vs. Djokovic in the 2025 French Open for free on 9Now, France TV, or Servus TV. Access these free streaming platforms from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.
The 2025 French Open quarter finals are all huge games, but Zverev vs. Djokovic does stand out above the rest. It's the third seed against sixth, but it's much more than that: it's a question of whether or not Djokovic can still do it on the biggest stage.
If you want to watch Zverev vs. Djokovic in the 2025 French Open for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.
How to watch Zverev vs. Djokovic for freeZverev vs. Djokovic in the 2025 French Open is available to live stream for free on a number of platforms:
These services are geo-restricted, but anyone can access these free streaming platforms with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in another country, meaning you can stream the 2025 French Open for free from anywhere in the world.
Live stream the 2025 French Open for free by following these simple steps:
Sign up for a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)
Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)
Open up the app and connect to a server in Australia, Austria, or France
Watch the 2025 French Open for free from anywhere in the world
The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but they do tend to offer pretty generous money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can watch Roland-Garros without committing with your cash. This is obviously not a long-term strategy, but it gives you enough time to live stream Zverev vs. Djokovic (plus the rest of the 2025 French Open) before recovering your investment.
If you want to retain permanent access to free streaming services from around the world, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for streaming live sport is on sale for a limited time.
What is the best VPN for sport?ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport, for a number of reasons:
Servers in 105 countries
Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more
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Fast connection speeds
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 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month subscription for just $12.95 (including money-back guarantee).
Live stream Zverev vs. Djokovic in the 2025 French Open for free with ExpressVPN.
TL;DR: Live stream Sinner vs. Bublik in the 2025 French Open for free on 9Now, France TV, or Servus TV. Access these free streaming platforms from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.
The 2025 French Open quarter finals continue with Sinner taking on Bublik. The top seed will need to be at his best against Alexander Bublik. Nobody expected Bublik to make it this far, but he has already beaten a number of top players to reach this stage.
If you want to watch Sinner vs. Bublik in the 2025 French Open for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.
How to watch Sinner vs. Bublik for freeSinner vs. Bublik in the 2025 French Open is available to live stream for free on a number of platforms:
These services are geo-restricted, but anyone can access these free streaming platforms with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in another country, meaning you can stream the 2025 French Open for free from anywhere in the world.
Live stream the 2025 French Open for free by following these simple steps:
Sign up for a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)
Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)
Open up the app and connect to a server in Australia, Austria, or France
Watch the 2025 French Open for free from anywhere in the world
The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but they do tend to offer pretty generous money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can watch Roland-Garros without committing with your cash. This is obviously not a long-term strategy, but it gives you enough time to live stream Sinner vs. Bublik (plus the rest of the 2025 French Open) before recovering your investment.
If you want to retain permanent access to free streaming services from around the world, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for streaming live sport is on sale for a limited time.
What is the best VPN for sport?ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport, for a number of reasons:
Servers in 105 countries
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
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 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month subscription for just $12.95 (including money-back guarantee).
Live stream Sinner vs. Bublik in the 2025 French Open for free with ExpressVPN.
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