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How to watch the men's 110m hurdles final at Paris 2024 online for free

Mashable - Thu, 08/01/2024 - 00:00

TL;DR: Live stream the men's 110m hurdles final at Paris 2024 for free on BBC iPlayer. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

There are many incredible events to keep track of at Paris 2024, but if speed is your thing then you won't want to miss the athletics. The races see some of the fastest athletes from around the world compete for the chance of a gold medal.

With plenty of incredible races to follow, we recommend making a list of your Paris 2024 priorities — and on that list should be the men's 110m hurdles final. Expect names like three-time world champion Grant Holloway to make an appearance on the track as he hopes to turn his Tokyo 2020 silver into a gold.

If you want to watch the men's 110m hurdles final at Paris 2024 for free from anywhere in the world, keep on reading because we have all the information you need.

When is the men's 110m hurdles final at Paris 2024?

The men's 110m hurdles final at Paris 2024 takes place at 3:45 p.m. ET on Aug. 8. The event is hosted by the Stade de France.

How to watch the men's 110m hurdles final at Paris 2024 for free

The men's 110m hurdles final at Paris 2024 is available to live stream for free on BBC iPlayer.

BBC iPlayer is technically geo-restricted to the UK, but anyone who wants to watch can access this streaming platform with the use of a VPN. VPNs are tools that hide your real IP address (your digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the UK, meaning you can unblock free streaming sites like BBC iPlayer from anywhere in the world.

Unblock BBC iPlayer for free by following this simple process:

  1. Sign up for a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

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

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

  4. Visit BBC iPlayer

  5. Live stream the men's 110m hurdles final at Paris 2024 from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Year Subscription + 3 Months Free) $99.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming often charge a small fee, but most do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. If you take advantage of these offers, you can unblock free streaming services such as BBC iPlayer without spending any cash. This is obviously not a long-term solution, but it gives you time to stream the 110m hurdles final at Paris 2024 (plus all your favorite Olympics events) before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for BBC iPlayer?

ExpressVPN is the best service for streaming live sport on BBC iPlayer, for a number of reasons:

  • Servers in 105 countries including the UK

  • Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more

  • Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

  • Fast connection speeds free from throttling

  • Up to eight simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

Live stream the men's 110m hurdles final at Paris 2024 for free with ExpressVPN.

How to watch the women's 400m hurdles final at Paris 2024 online for free

Mashable - Thu, 08/01/2024 - 00:00

TL;DR: Live stream the women's 400m hurdles final at Paris 2024 for free on BBC iPlayer. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The hurdles is one of those events that reminds you just how fast and powerful these athletes are — truly elite. And the hurdles runners will be at their absolute peak at Paris 2024, with the most coveted medals in sport up for grabs.

There's a highly anticipated showdown in the women's 400m hurdles, as U.S. gold medallist Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone and Dutch world champion Femke Bol battle it out. Also keep an eye out for Jamaica’s Rushell Clayton and Team USA's Anna Cockrell, who are also contenders for a medal.

If you want to watch the women's 400m hurdles final at Paris 2024 for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is the women's 400m hurdles final at Paris 2024?

The women's 400m hurdles final at Paris 2024 takes place at 3:25 p.m. ET on Aug. 8. The event is hosted by the Stade de France.

How to watch the women's 400m hurdles final at Paris 2024 for free

The women's 400m hurdles final at Paris 2024 is available to live stream for free on BBC iPlayer.

BBC iPlayer is geo-blocked outside of the UK, but you can access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world by signing up to a VPN. A VPN can disguise your actual IP address (digital location) while connecting you to a secure server in the UK. This will help you unblock free streaming platforms such as BBC iPlayer, along with all the Paris 2024 action, no matter where you're located around the globe.

Unblock BBC iPlayer for free by following this simple process:

  1. Sign up for a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

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

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

  4. Visit BBC iPlayer

  5. Live stream the women's 400m hurdles final at Paris 2024 from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Year Subscription + 3 Months Free) $99.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but leading VPN services do tend to offer deals such as free trial periods or money-back guarantees. Take advantage of these offers to unblock BBC iPlayer, and it won't cost you anything in the long-run. The trial period will give you time to stream the women's 400m hurdles final at Paris 2024 (plus all the events that follow) before recovering any investment.

What is the best VPN for BBC iPlayer?

ExpressVPN is the best service for streaming live sport on BBC iPlayer, for a number of reasons:

  • Servers in 105 countries including the UK

  • Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more

  • Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

  • Fast connection speeds free from throttling

  • Up to eight simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95, which includes a bonus three months at no extra cost. That's an impressive 49% off for a limited time. For that price you'll also get a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

Live stream the women's 400m hurdles final at Paris 2024 for free with ExpressVPN.

How to watch the men's 200m final at Paris 2024 online for free

Mashable - Thu, 08/01/2024 - 00:00

TL;DR: Live stream the men's 200m final at Paris 2024 for free on BBC iPlayer. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

Of all the events scheduled at Paris 2024, it's hard to deny to appeal of a good old fashioned foot race. That's why the men's 200m final is a can't-miss event, particularly with self-styled U.S. superstar Noah Lyles among the athletes competing for gold.

Lyles won bronze at Tokyo 2020, but can he add the Paris 2024 200m gold medal to his collection?

If you want to watch the men's 200m final at Paris 2024 for free from anywhere around the globe, we have all the information you need.

When is the men's 200m final at Paris 2024?

The men's 200m final at Paris 2024 takes place at 2:30 p.m. ET on Aug. 8. The event is hosted by the Stade de France.

How to watch the men's 200m final at Paris 2024 for free

The men's 200m final at Paris 2024 is available to live stream for free on BBC iPlayer.

BBC iPlayer is geo-restricted to the UK, but you can access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world by signing up to a VPN. A VPN can obscure your actual IP address (digital location) while also connecting you to a secure server based in the UK. This will help you unblock free streaming sites such as BBC iPlayer — no matter where you're located around the world.

Unblock BBC iPlayer for free by following this simple process:

  1. Sign up for a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

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

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

  4. Visit BBC iPlayer

  5. Live stream the men's 200m final at Paris 2024 from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Year Subscription + 3 Months Free) $99.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but the top VPNs usually offer deals such as free trial periods or money-back guarantees. Take advantage of these offers to unblock BBC iPlayer, and without losing any cash in the long-run. This will give you time to stream the men's 200m final at Paris 2024 (plus any Paris 2024 events that follow) before recovering any upfront investment.

What is the best VPN for BBC iPlayer?

ExpressVPN is the best service for streaming live sport on BBC iPlayer, for a number of reasons:

  • Servers in 105 countries including the UK

  • Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more

  • Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

  • Fast connection speeds free from throttling

  • Up to eight simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 and includes an extra three months for free. That's an whopping 49% off for a limited time. For that price you'll also get a year of unlimited backup via the cloud and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

Live stream the men's 200m final at Paris 2024 for free with ExpressVPN.

The best massage guns for percussive therapy

Mashable - Thu, 08/01/2024 - 00:00

Have you ever skipped doing a proper warm down and stretch after a workout because you just didn't have the time? Hey, we all have.

That's just the reality of trying to stay fit in amongst the hustle and bustle of everyday life. When you're pushed for time, a warm down — never mind a proper massage — is the first thing to go. What you need are the tools to help you stay on top of both your body and your schedule.

Enter the massage gun. Turns out that those mesmerising skin ripples are more than just a weird flex. This form of portable muscle therapy began with professional athletes but has trickled down into the lives of your average gym-goer who doesn't have the time or money for foam rolling sessions on sore days. That means you, us, everyone.

If you have chronic shoulder, neck, or back pain, the ability to give yourself a deep-tissue massage at home can be life-changing. You'll find there's a range of models to hit the spot of your muscle recovery needs — from the basic to pro athlete level. Here's some useful information to get you started.

How do massage guns work?

Percussive therapy is the name of the game, and it's a more professional term for "your muscles like it rough." Athletes use deep-tissue massage for quick pain relief and faster recovery times. This is when a professional masseuse delivers forceful, rapid thumps to a specific area of the body to stimulate a specific set of muscles. The percussive therapy afforded by a massage gun lets individuals perform this same type of penetrative tissue attention on themselves without extra help, and these devices are said to provide hours worth of massage benefits in minutes.

What are the benefits of a massage gun?

Massage guns deliver short-duration pulses to enhance the blood flow, soften knots, and accelerate the repair of muscle fibres, all of which can lead to better-prepared warmups and quicker recovery times. Your mood might see a spike, too. The pressure point relief that massage provides has been linked to decreased levels of cortisol (the stress hormone), an increased production of endorphins (the feel-good chemical), and even a lower heart rate.

We should point out that percussive therapy isn't a fix-all. A massage gun can replace pricey massage appointments, but there's literally no substitute for the nutrients you get from a balanced diet, sleep, and getting proper hydration are still crucial to the muscle growth and recovery process.

Percussion massagers vs. vibration massagers — what's the difference?

Percussion massagers mimic the kneading hands of a masseuse, providing pressure that hammers below the top layers and work damaged muscle fibres. Perfect for heavy-duty workouts. Casual exercisers and chronic pain sufferers may prefer surface-level rumblings from a vibration massager, which gives speedy pulses but less "punch".

What features do massage guns offer?

Massage guns tend to offer some key features that appear in multiple models:

  • Battery life — Many people depend on their massage gun for a rushed cool down in the middle of a busy schedule, and charging after every use is a huge inconvenience. The best massage guns will get up to three hours of battery life while the weaker ones max out at around 40 minutes.

  • Massage heads The first thing you'll notice when buying a massage gun is that they usually come with a selection of heads, each designed to work specific muscle groups in a different way and get different results.

  • Noise — No one wants to sit at the gym (or at home with a sleeping baby) using a device that sounds like a pneumatic drill. It's impossible for massage guns to be completely silent, but check the reviews for sound levels.

  • Speeds — Look for a gun with different speeds, or revs per minute (RPM. But don't forget that higher speed doesn't always mean vigour. The amplitude (how deep the massage head will push into your body) relies on the amount of force behind each pulse, and heavier force on a slow RPM setting will feel more intense than a faster RPM setting with weaker force. 

Keep these points in mind when shopping around for a massage gun.

What is the best massage gun?

There is a lot to know about massage guns, and it's important to do your research before making a purchase. To make your job a little easier, we have tracked down six of the best guns to cover all muscular bases. We've tried to find something for everyone and every budget. You just need to scroll through the options and pick a favourite. Your muscles will thank you — well, they certainly won't complain as much.

These are the best massage guns in 2024.

The best dating apps and sites in August 2024

Mashable - Thu, 08/01/2024 - 00:00

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

Dating is a competitive game, and you should do everything you can to give yourself a chance of success. Looking your best and smelling fresh is a good place to start, but nothing shortens your odds of success like signing up to a dating site.

The problem with this tactic is that there are just so many dating sites out there to consider, each with a different set of features that will suit some people better than others. It's difficult to know which site is best for you, and you could easily spend hours researching all of the sites on offer without a definitive answer.

We know that you don't have time for all of that, so we've set out to make things a little easier for you.

What are the benefits of using dating apps?

By subscribing to a dating site, you're shortening your odds of finding a connection. It's as simple as that.

Dating sites and apps let you get your information out there to a massive network of like-minded individuals, and provide the opportunity to test out a potential relationship on an app before actually meeting in real life.

SEE ALSO: Best hookup apps and dating sites to find casual sex with no strings attached

Subscribing to dating apps and sites is also a way less intimidating way of meeting someone compared to a face-to-face situation. If you find the idea of meeting people slightly terrifying, these apps can help you face your fears from the comfort of your own home.

Is online dating worth the hassle?

Sentiments aside, we have some hard data to back our reasoning for Why Online Dating Is Worthwhile™: Statista predicted that the online dating audience will grow to 53.3 million by 2025, compared to 44.2 million users in 2020. A study from Stanford released in 2019 asserted that online dating is officially the most common way for couples to meet, rounding out at nearly 40 percent of couples having first met online.

This pre-pandemic prediction came before the COVID-era dating app sign-ups surge. Though people are eager to get back to doing as many things IRL as possible now, dating apps are still a great place to find someone, whether you want a relationship or are just looking to get nasty.

And yes, though there are algorithms that dictate what profiles pop up on your screen, we firmly believe that the stars aligning still comes into play. After all, the person who signs up on the app and is looking for love at exactly the same time you are is up to fate and the universe, proving that online dating romance is very much alive and well.

Because it's not 2007 anymore, the need for mobile-friendly online dating isn't just a millennial thing — people over 40 don't have time to sit around at their home desktops, either. Dating sites that are older than most members of Gen Z (like Match and eharmony) have been forced to give serious attention to their smartphone counterparts if they don't want to be outgrown.

However, that statistical promise still requires patience and a game plan, the game plan is choosing the dating app with features that best fit your lifestyle — and the lifestyle of the type of person you're looking for. Are you looking for an app strictly for sex or an app more serious than Tinder but less serious than eharmony? Or maybe, you'd just really love to find an app where queer women aren't relentlessly sexualized by creeps and pestered by unicorn hunters.

Should you use free dating apps?

The good news is that there are a lot of free dating sites and apps out there, and the likes of Tinder and Hinge are good examples of free apps with massive networks of users.

The bad news is that a lot of free apps simply don't cut it. You get what you pay for with dating sites and apps, and for the best experience with the greatest possibility of finding exactly what you're looking for, you are going to have to cough up the cash.

You can still find something worth your time with a free app, but if you're looking for compatibility tests, chat rooms, videos, and a greater level of control, we recommend upgrading. Paid sites provide access to premium features that give you the best chance of finding something special.

What is the best dating site?

We're sorry to break it to you like this, but there isn't a single dating site that is better than the rest. Instead, there are a lot of sites and apps with similar features and packages, and the best option for you really comes down to your own set of preferences.

To make the decision process a whole lot easier for everyone, we have lined up a selection of the most popular sites in the dating game, including leading sites like EliteSingles, Match, and Eharmony. All you need to do is pick a favourite from the bunch.

These are the best dating sites in 2024.

The best barbecues for a sizzling summer

Mashable - Wed, 07/31/2024 - 23:56

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

The British aren't good at many things. Queuing, complaining, and crying over football are certainly up there as national skills. But there's another great British skill that sometimes goes overlooked: The natural, God-given ability to get out the barbecue at the very first glimmer of sunshine.

Even if you're not an experienced grill-person, few people can deny the great taste of barbecued food. That goes for veggies too. Barbecuing isn't only for the carnivores these days. But getting that great taste means getting a great bit of BBQ kit.

Fortunately, there are lots of options out there — from charcoal to gas via hybrid models. That doesn’t make buying a barbecue any easier. Barbecues are a hot topic, and it’s easy to go cold if you get blindsided by jargon, features, and tasty-looking choices. That’s why we’re here to help. Indeed, before you part with any cash, here’s a quick guide to buying a BBQ — and a selection of the very best models.

Charcoal or gas BBQs — which is better?

This is the ultimate question. Well, when it comes to barbecuing at least. Charcoal barbecues are of course the classic version. They give that distinctive smoky, chargrilled taste. They also need fewer extras than gas barbecues which means they’re usually cheaper, too. But they can be tricky to light and take much longer to get to the right temperature. They're also much harder to clean.

Gas barbecues are easier and faster. They’re usually ready to cook on in 10 minutes or less and have easily-controllable temperature dials — not to mention other fancy features and mod cons. They do, however, lack that authentic barbecue taste, unless they have flavouriser bars. And the added convenience will hit you right in the wallet.

It all comes down to personal preference: It's taste vs. convenience. Or you could meet halfway and get a gas-charcoal hybrid. Whatever you choose, it's all tasty stuff.

How big is a barbecue?

You can file this one alongside “How long is a piece of string?” There’s no straight answer but charcoal barbecues tend to be much smaller. In fact, there are options that are extremely portable — meaning you can take them on camping trips or even to the park. Gas barbecues tend to be bigger bits of kits. They're more like an oven on wheels and tend to suit larger gardens. Ask yourself some storage-related questions. Where will you keep your barbecue? In the garden all year round, under a protective cover? Or will you wheel it in and out of the garage? Size up your outdoor space first.

What are the important BBQ features?

It’s not only about gas and coal. There are lots of other features to consider. Here are some that might seal the deal for you:

  • Cooking space That’s right, cooking space is always at a premium. Space might come in the form of side tables, condiment holders, and even hooks for your tools. Anything that helps maximise your BBQ'ing area.

  • Burners On the subject of space, the number of actual burners (which you'll find included on gas barbecues) is crucial. Big family? Then four or even more burners might be necessary. Extra griddles and side burners are also a bonus.

  • Fat drip trays — Cleaning a barbecue can be a job in itself. That’s why fat drip trays are super useful. They can also reduce the amount of flare-up you get from the flames.

  • Hood — If a barbecue has a hood, it immediately levels-up your griddle game. This allows you to roast meant as well as grill. Especially good for cooking whole chickens.

Keep these things in mind when shopping for an upgrade.

What is the best barbecue?

We have researched everything on offer and highlighted a selection the very best models to suit you and your garden. We've considered price, size, cooking speed, fuel access, and much more, so you don't have to. Just pick a favourite.

These are the best barbecues for 2024.

How to unblock and watch U.S. Netflix

Mashable - Wed, 07/31/2024 - 23:25

Collecting all your favourite snacks and drinks, surrounding yourself with comfortable cushions and blankets, and then spending hours in front of a screen can be a truly therapeutic experience. Unfortunately, there is one big problem with this hobby: There is a limited amount of content out there to keep you entertained.

We're a greedy bunch, and regular streamers can easily get to a point where it feels like there's nothing left to watch. What are you supposed to do then? Don't panic, because there is a simple solution to this frustrating issue.

If you've reached this point of streaming shortage, you should consider investing in a VPN. It will likely unlock a lot of shows and movies on services to which you're already subscribed.

What is a VPN?

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

SEE ALSO: 30 best movies on Netflix to stream right now

The act of hiding your real IP address is what can trick leading streaming sites into thinking you are based in another country.

Do you need a VPN?

VPNs are used to provide protection for your sensitive information, which is obviously super important. This isn't the only reason VPNs are so popular though, because these tools can be also be used to watch content that is normally blocked in your location.

By hiding your real IP address and connecting you to a server in another country, you can watch all your favourite content from that location. For example, you could watch all the extra films and shows on American Netflix that are not usually accessible outside of the U.S. There is so much content out there that can be accessed with the help of a VPN.

Everyone is in need of something that can bypass geo-restrictions to access all of this blocked entertainment, and that something is a VPN. These services are keys to the online world, granting you access to more of the shows and films you love.

How to unblock U.S. Netflix

If you think accessing American Netflix is going to be difficult with a VPN, think again. It's actually a really simple process that absolutely everyone can understand:

  1. Sign up to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

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

  3. Open up the app and connect to a server in the U.S.

  4. Visit Netflix to watch movies and shows from the U.S. content library

If you're worried that this whole thing sounds a bit illegal, then maybe we can reassure you. It's currently legal to watch Netflix while using a VPN, although we should point out that Netflix states in its terms of service that it may restrict your account without compensation or notice if you are engaged in "improper" use. We're not entirely sure what that means, but consider yourself warned.

We should make it very clear that you still need to be subscribed to Netflix for this trick to work. A VPN is not going to grant access to the streaming site for free. A VPN provides access to more libraries from around the world, once you're subscribed.

Should you use free VPNs?

There are plenty of free versions and free trials of VPNs, so why would you ever consider paying for a service? As with most things in life, you get what you pay for with VPNs.

There is always a catch with free versions, and it's normally in the form of limited data usage. These plans will be just fine if you're just an occasional user, but if you're going to be streaming or downloading anything, this isn't going to work. Free trials are different as come with everything you get in a paid plan, but obviously they don't tend to last very long. Trials are great for testing out a service before committing, but this isn't a long-term solution.

To gain access to advanced security features without limitations on usage, you generally need to pay up. That being said, services like ProtonVPN offer an impressive set of features for free. However, you might have trouble streaming Netflix with this free version.

What is the best VPN for Netflix?

There are a lot of VPN services out there that can effectively unblock American Netflix, but which is the best? There are plenty of strong options for you to consider, but we wouldn't want you wasting your time checking everything out. To save you time, we've handpicked your best options. Each service has a different set of features that will suit some users better than others, and it's all about finding something that works for you.

ExpressVPN is at the top of this list because it combines essential features with impressive results, but it isn’t the only option available to you. We have lined up all the best VPNs for unblocking Netflix, with something for everyone on this list. We've highlighted the best deals on the likes of Surfshark, PureVPN, CyberGhost VPN, and NordVPN.

These are the best VPNs for Netflix in 2024.

'Squid Game' Season 2 release date announced as Netflix renews series for a final season

Mashable - Wed, 07/31/2024 - 22:04
"Squid Game" Season 2 will arrive on Netflix Dec. 26. The series has also been renewed for a third and final season in 2025.

Wordle today: Here's the answer hints for August 1

Mashable - Wed, 07/31/2024 - 22:00

Oh hey there! If you're here, it must be time for Wordle. As always, we're serving up our daily hints and tips to help you figure out today's answer.

If you just want to be told today's word, you can jump to the bottom of this article for August 1's Wordle solution revealed. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

Where did Wordle come from?

Originally created by engineer Josh Wardle as a gift for his partner, Wordle rapidly spread to become an international phenomenon, with thousands of people around the globe playing every day. Alternate Wordle versions created by fans also sprang up, including battle royale Squabble, music identification game Heardle, and variations like Dordle and Quordle that make you guess multiple words at once

Wordle eventually became so popular that it was purchased by the New York Times, and TikTok creators even livestream themselves playing.

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

What's the best Wordle starting word?

The best Wordle starting word is the one that speaks to you. But if you prefer to be strategic in your approach, we have a few ideas to help you pick a word that might help you find the solution faster. One tip is to select a word that includes at least two different vowels, plus some common consonants like S, T, R, or N.

What happened to the Wordle archive?

The entire archive of past Wordle puzzles used to be available for anyone to enjoy whenever they felt like it. Unfortunately, it has since been taken down, with the website's creator stating it was done at the request of the New York Times.

Is Wordle getting harder?

It might feel like Wordle is getting harder, but it actually isn't any more difficult than when it first began. You can turn on Wordle's Hard Mode if you're after more of a challenge, though.

SEE ALSO: NYT's The Mini crossword answers for July 31 Here's a subtle hint for today's Wordle answer:

An old teacher's way to write on a board.

Does today's Wordle answer have a double letter?

There are no reoccurring letters.

Today's Wordle is a 5-letter word that starts with...

Today's Wordle starts with the letter C.

SEE ALSO: Wordle-obsessed? These are the best word games to play IRL. The Wordle answer today is...

Get your last guesses in now, because it's your final chance to solve today's Wordle before we reveal the solution.

Drumroll please!

The solution to today's Wordle is...

CHALK.

Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be a new Wordle 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.

Reporting by Caitlin Welsh, Sam Haysom, Amanda Yeo, Shannon Connellan, Cecily Mauran, Mike Pearl, and Adam Rosenberg contributed to this article.

NYT Connections today: See hints and answers for August 1

Mashable - Wed, 07/31/2024 - 21:00

Connections is the latest New York Times word game that's captured the public's attention. The game is all about finding the "common threads between words." And just like Wordle, Connections resets after midnight and each new set of words gets trickier and trickier—so we've served up some hints and tips to get you over the hurdle.

If you just want to be told today's puzzle, you can jump to the end of this article for August 1's Connections solution. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

What is Connections?

The NYT's latest daily word game has become a social media hit. The Times credits associate puzzle editor Wyna Liu with helping to create the new word game and bringing it to the publications' Games section. Connections can be played on both web browsers and mobile devices and require players to group four words that share something in common.

Tweet may have been deleted

Each puzzle features 16 words and each grouping of words is split into four categories. These sets could comprise of anything from book titles, software, country names, etc. Even though multiple words will seem like they fit together, there's only one correct answer. If a player gets all four words in a set correct, those words are removed from the board. Guess wrong and it counts as a mistake—players get up to four mistakes until the game ends.

Tweet may have been deleted

Players can also rearrange and shuffle the board to make spotting connections easier. Additionally, each group is color-coded with yellow being the easiest, followed by green, blue, and purple. Like Wordle, you can share the results with your friends on social media.

SEE ALSO: NYT's The Mini crossword answers for August 1 Here's a hint for today's Connections categories

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

  • Yellow: Boost a product

  • Green: Launch something far away

  • Blue: Book genres

  • Purple: Types of socks

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

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

  • Yellow: Promote

  • Green: Throw

  • Blue: Bookstore Sections

  • Purple: ___Socks

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 #417 is...

What is the answer to Connections today
  • Promote: HYPE, MARKET, PITCH, SELL

  • Throw: CAST, CHUCK, FLING, HURL

  • Bookstore Sections: FICTION, HUMOR, ROMANCE, TRAVEL

  • ___Socks: ANKLE, CREW, SWEAT, TUBE

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.

Is this not the Connections game you were looking for? Here are the hints and answers to yesterday's Connections.

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

Friend is the new AI companion that social media believes is beyond parody

Mashable - Wed, 07/31/2024 - 17:17

A good AI wearable is hard to come by these days. And as tech startups like HumaneAI and Rabbit R1 attempt to reinvent the wheel with minimalist versions of our smartphones, an upcoming device called Friend just wants to be there for you instead, if its ad is to be believed.

Friend, a wearable orb-like AI companion you wear around your neck was created by Avi Schifmann, most known for a website he built in 2020 to help track the spread of Covid-19. According to Schifmann's interview with outlets The Verge and WIRED, Friend is merely that, a friend. Its purpose isn’t to handle tasks or improve productivity but to provide a supportive presence, offering advice and encouragement when needed.

SEE ALSO: Rabbit R1 review: I can't believe this bunny took my money

Schiffmann, who has been working on this idea for years, unveiled the project on Tuesday. And the social media responses were not kind. To be fair though, the reveal trailer is pretty.

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One X user even claims — in the form of a rap(!?) — that Friend was his idea.

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It also doesn't help that, after raising $2.5 million in funds, the founder then spent $1.8 million of it on the domain name for his company's product.

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Thus, what we're left with and what was shown in the reveal trailer is essentially a Bluetooth device strapped to your neck that is always listening. This is so it can send you texts on your phone. Per the site's FAQ page, "your friend is always listening and forming their own internal thoughts. We have given your friend free will for when they decide to reach out to you."

Understandably, that might sound a bit creepy. The site reassures would-be buyers that nothing is tracked, recorded, or written down. They promise all data is "end-to-end encrypted" and deletable through the Friend app — which, FYI, is only available for iOS. Oh, and if you break your Friend, you'll need to start over with a new one.

If you want to get your hands on one, you'll have to wait. Pre-orders are starting at $99.99 and according to the site, will tentatively ship in Q1 of next year. Maybe during that time, you can make actual friends.

How The Times’s Apple Reporter Covers the Company

NYT Technology - Wed, 07/31/2024 - 17:00
Since 2022, Tripp Mickle has covered news surrounding one of the biggest technology companies in Silicon Valley.

iPhone 16 Pro may come in Titanium Bronze

Mashable - Wed, 07/31/2024 - 16:31

A new leak out of China claims that the premium version of the iPhone 16 will come in a new bronze color.

The information was shared on the Chinese social network Weibo by a user called "Fixed focus digital." According to the original post (at least, as translated into English by Google), the new color is "particularly like bronze" and "the frame looks like titanium."

SEE ALSO: New iPhone 16 leak reveals 5 vibrant colors and camera redesign

According to MacRumors, this is potentially contradictory with a previous Weibo leak, which came courtesy of user "OvO Baby Sauce OvO" earlier in July. That leak claimed that the new color for the iPhone 16 Pro was called "Rose," which would certainly not be "bronze-like," if accurate. However, as MacRumors pointed out, there's a possibility (however slight) that the two leaks are correct — and perhaps the devices were just seen by different people under different lighting.

This leak came only a day after another Weibo leak about iPhone 16 colors, which was a good deal more substantial. That post included a photo of five entry-level iPhone 16 models, showcasing five potential colors. As always, it is expected that Apple will tell us more about the iPhone 16 sometime in September.

South Korean sharpshooter Kim Yeji is the internet's latest Olympic crush

Mashable - Wed, 07/31/2024 - 16:26

It's hard to tell if the internet is in love with South Korean sharpshooter Kim Yeji or if everyone wants to be South Korean sharpshooter Kim Yeji.

The Olympian took home silver in the women's 10-meter air pistol event at the 2024 Paris Olympics, and she did it without breaking a sweat — or a smile. It's one of the coolest things I've ever seen in my life. With a short, severe bob, glasses that I'm sure are made for the event, a gun in her hand, and an elephant plushie on her hip, she looks like an assassin. The 31-year-old wears what GQ calls a "cyborgian uniform" that has "captured the nerdiest/most online spectators’ hearts."

According to Korean news outlet Insight, she has a 5-year-old daughter and carried the small elephant-shaped stuffed animal off her waistband as a good luck charm.

In response, we got fancams and trending videos on Twitter. We had to face questions like, "Why does the U.S. even have a second amendment when we can't win sharpshooting competitions at the Olympics, and countries with far more reasonable gun laws and far fewer deaths are so much better with guns?"

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While Kim won silver, her 19-year-old teammate Oh Ye-Jin took home gold — and despite Kim's stone-cold vibe on the stage, she was elated to celebrate Oh.

"She is like my youngest sibling, and I always want to care for her and always be there for her. So, when she won the gold medal, I was extra happy," Kim told the Associated Press. "I do not view her as my rival. This is a big stage, the Olympics, and we won the gold and silver. When we won these medals, we were so proud we are Koreans. I thought it did not matter who won the gold."

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I'm ready for the movie — or video game.

A neuroscientist explains what was wrong with the Google Gemini Olympics ad

Mashable - Wed, 07/31/2024 - 16:25

Artificial intelligence can do remarkable things, but a general consensus seems to have emerged about one thing it can't, or perhaps shouldn't, do: Compose a child's admiring letter to her sports hero.

Google learned this lesson the hard way. "Dear Sidney," the company's new ad for its AI-powered chatbot, Gemini, in which a dad asks Gemini to write a note to Olympic hurdler Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone on his daughter's behalf, has been widely criticized. People have wanted to "scream." They are "grossed out." They've described the ad as "disgusting."

Dr. James R. Doty, a Stanford University neuroscientist who studies how people set intentions and achieve their goals, felt less outrage and more concern for the commercial's troubling premise.

"This is a very personal narrative that comes, if you will, from [a person's] heart and soul," Doty told Mashable. "Somehow switching it to have an AI do it for you…it destroys the whole understanding of what it is to write a letter to a hero."

SEE ALSO: Iconic moments from the 2024 Olympics: Our running list

Doty, author of the new book Mind Magic: The Neuroscience of Manifestation and How It Changes Everything, said that using generative AI to compose such a message isn't just a missed opportunity for authentic human expression.

In addition, the author is skipping a crucial part of their own intention- and goal-setting process, given that our heroes often prompt us to consider the kind of life we want for ourselves.

Doty said that effective goal-setting should begin with deep reflection about your values, connecting those to the goal you want to achieve, understanding how that aim can be of service to others, and then setting intentions that, along with hard work, help you ultimately manifest the aspiration.

So for the young girl in Google's ad — or any child who sees a reflection of their own ambition and dedication to a sport — taking the time to contemplate and articulate why they adore their hero, and want to break their record, can be a pivotal part of goal-setting. Of course, doing this with a parent, like the dad in the commercial, would create a unique bonding moment, too.

Doty noted that an AI chatbot given this writing task might just gather the information it thinks is relevant, such as the hero's records, awards, and accolades. That résumé roundup might reduce time spent on research for the letter writer.

But Doty argued that the results could also omit achievements that aren't so quantifiable — such as an athlete's positive contributions to their own community or their sexual or gender identity — which help make them a hero in so many people's eyes.

Sure, a child might hope to be their sport's next GOAT, but the prospect of becoming an athlete role model to children could be just as important to them.

"For it to resonate authentically, it has to be your narrative, not AI's narrative, which it has created out of a million pieces of information about that athlete," Doty said.

He added that many AI products, particularly those that cater to social media content, are pitched to users as tools to help them get more likes or engagement.

While Gemini is marketed as a chatbot that helps users "supercharge" their ideas, it might still aim to create likable content, which could steer an author of any age away from heartfelt reflection, or undermine confidence in their own vision and voice.

Importantly, Doty said that goal-setting works best when you're dreaming big in a calm, relaxed state, and able to imagine future achievements in a state of mind driven by love, not fear. In other words, it's much harder to accomplish goals formed by a desire for external validation or material goods because of the attendant anxiety and disappointment. But AI wouldn't necessarily know that.

Despite his criticism, Doty is no opponent of generative AI; he co-founded a mental health app that uses the technology, and he believes it can support human creativity and expression without substituting for it.

"If it writes something that's not you, or how you deeply feel, then it's not you, and it's a lie," Doty said.

Meta Says It Will Continue Spending, as Growth Surges

NYT Technology - Wed, 07/31/2024 - 16:24
The company has been investing in artificial intelligence technologies, as well as building the immersive world of the metaverse.

Nintendo's Play Together sale is slashing up to 84% off popular multiplayer Switch games

Mashable - Wed, 07/31/2024 - 14:40

SAVE UP TO 84%: Select multiplayer games for the Nintendo Switch are on sale in the My Nintendo Store through Aug. 11 as part of its Play Together Sale.

Our top picks at a glance: For real Olympics heads 'Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020' $23.99 at the My Nintendo Store (save $36) Get Deal For platformer fans 'Super Monkey Ball Banana Rumble' $37.49 at the My Nintendo Store (save $12.50) Get Deal For cutthroat competitors 'Nintendo Switch Sports' $27.99 at the My Nintendo Store (save $12) Get Deal For horror buffs 'Dead by Daylight $11.99 at the My Nintendo Store (save $18) Get Deal For cozy gamers 'Fae Farm' $41.99 at the My Nintendo Store (save $18) Get Deal

Do the Olympics have you in the mood for some friendly competition? The My Nintendo Store is running a massive sale on multiplayer games so you can duke it out with pals from the comfort of your couch (or cardboard bed).

Live now through Sunday, Aug. 11, or the day the Paris Games wrap up, Nintendo's Play Together Sale takes up to 84% off popular co-op titles and DLCs for its Switch console. (Note that it's advertising "savings of up to 50%," but we spotted a handful of discounts that are even higher.) The lineup runs the gamut across many genres, but goes particularly heavy on sporty stuff; think Nintendo Switch Sports and Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 — the final entry in the "Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games" series, apparently.

Prices start at just $3.24, and most deals were matched at Best Buy and Target when we last checked. Scroll down for our hand-picked list of the highlights.

Opens in a new window Credit: Nintendo 'Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020' $23.99 at My Nintendo Store
$59.99 Save $36.00 Get Deal Why we like it:

The International Olympics Committee is reportedly dumping Mario & Sonic for NFTs and esports, but we're not ready to move on just yet. Its final collab with Nintendo and Sega is set at the 2020 Summer Games and features over 30 events, including karate, gymnastics, archery, and equestrian jumping. This appears to be one of its biggest discounts ever, at least compared to its historical pricing on Amazon.

Opens in a new window Credit: Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio / Sega 'Super Monkey Ball Banana Rumble' $37.49 at My Nintendo Store
$49.99 Save $12.50 Get Deal Why we like it:

According to our sister site, IGN, this all-new arcade platformer is "a brilliant return to form with the best stages and controls the [Super Monkey Ball] series has seen in over 20 years." It launched just over a month ago, and it's already on sale for 25% off.

Opens in a new window Credit: Nintendo 'Nintendo Switch Sports' $27.99 at My Nintendo Store
$39.99 Save $12.00 Get Deal Why we like it:

Read Mashable's full review of Nintendo Switch Sports.

The Wii version was eons better, but Switch Sports makes a fun, goofy party game for up to four in-person players. A recent free update added basketball to its roster, joining football, volleyball, badminton, bowling, and golf.

Opens in a new window Credit: Behaviour Interactive 'Dead by Daylight' $11.99
$29.99 Save $18.00 Get Deal Why we like it:

Equal parts sweaty and silly, DBD is a cult-favorite asymmetrical survival game that's a real "who's who" of horror. (Chucky! Alan Wake! Nicolas Cage!) A new limited-time 2v8 Mode lowers the learning curve for killers and ups the chaos factor for survivors.

Opens in a new window Credit: Phoenix Labs 'Fae Farm' $41.99 at My Nintendo Store
$59.99 Save $18.00 Get Deal Why we like it:

This magical farming sim from last fall is a cozy gamer must-play. It just got its second major update with new characters, regions, outfits, potions, and more, and it's completely free for Team Switch (not PC).

More Play Together Sale deals:

Anker’s 3-in-1 mag charger is back down to $88, its lowest ever price

Mashable - Wed, 07/31/2024 - 14:29

SAVE 20%: As of July 31, you can get the Anker MagGo 3-in-1 Charging Station for just $87.99, down from its usual price of $109.99. That's a discount of $22 and the lowest price we've seen.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Anker MagGo 3-in-1 Charging Station $87.99 at Amazon
$109.99 Save $22.00 Get Deal

If you have multiple Apple products, you probably know the unique frustration of dealing with the different cables you need to keep everything charged. Before the move to USB-C for newer iPhones, you might need a Lightning charger, a USB-C cable, and a MagSafe Apple Watch cable for some configurations. While that's been streamlined somewhat, it's still much more convenient when you don't have to use multiple chargers to juice everything back up. Thanks to a deal at Amazon, you can bring home a super handy 3-in-1 MagSafe-compatible charger that's now returned to its lowest price ever.

Anker has been hosting some great charger deals at Amazon this July. And as of July 31, you can get the Anker MagGo 3-in-1 Charging Station for just $87.99 at Amazon. That's $22 off its normal price of $109.99 and a 20% discount. That's the lowest price we've seen this charger go for, back down again for you to snag.

This MFW-certified MagSafe charger is compact and foldable, and weighs just 6.9 ounces, so you can place it just about anywhere. It can charge your iPhone, AirPods, and Apple Watch all at once, so you don't have to fiddle about with multiple cables and find a place for each device. Its 15W ultra-fast wireless charging capabilities and MagSafe mean you won't be waiting long. It can boost your Apple Watch Series 9 back up to 47 percent power in just 30 minutes.

All you need to worry about is a single charger to power the stand, and it comes with a 40W charger as well as a 5-foot USB-C to USB-C cable if you happen to need one. Place it on your nightstand and let everything charge back up overnight while you sleep. From now on, you don't have to worry about getting caught with dead AirPods on your commute since they won't be dwindling at a 5 percent charge.

Simone Biles shades former teammate MyKayla Skinner in Instagram caption

Mashable - Wed, 07/31/2024 - 13:58

Simone Biles didn't forget the haters in the immediate aftermath of Team USA women's gymnastics winning the gold at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

The gymnastics GOAT posted an Instagram celebrating with victory with a particular caption. Under a pic of the squad celebrating, Biles wrote: "Lack of talent, lazy, olympic champions."

This was a direct shot at Biles' former Team USA teammate MyKayla Skinner.

View this post on Instagram

Skinner criticized the squad after its selection.

"Besides Simone, I feel like the talent and depth isn't what it used to be." Skinner said in a YouTube video published earlier this month that was later deleted.

She added: "I just notice like, I mean, obviously a lot of girls don't work as hard. The girls just don't have the work ethic.”

Notably, however, Skinner also brought up SafeSport, an independent body created to curb abuse, and how coaches can't be as tough as they used to be. Keep in mind, Biles has championed a complete overhaul and shift in priorities for U.S. gymnastics amid horrific, long-running abuse in the sport.

"It's hard too because of SafeSport. Like, coaches can't get on athletes," Skinner said. "They have to be really careful what they say. Which, in some ways is really good, but at the same time, to get to where you need to be in gymnastics you do have to be, I feel like, a little aggressive and a little intense."

While Skinner later walked the comments back, Biles clearly did not forget what she said. Folks were pretty pleased to see Biles throw such specific shade.

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Even current and former teammates like Suni Lee, Jordan Chiles, and McKayla Maroney commented on Biles shade.

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There's something quite satisfying about Biles — the best to ever do it — to not forget to be just a little petty after triumphing once again.

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And to put a perfect little bow on the whole sequence, Biles posted Wednesday on X: "oop I’ve been blocked."

Android users, beware! Text message stealing malware is targeting smartphones to gain access to users' data

Mashable - Wed, 07/31/2024 - 13:51

A new malware campaign has just been outed and it's targeting Android devices in the sneakiest of ways.

According to a new report from ZLabs researchers at the mobile security company Zimperium, there's a massive SMS stealer campaign spreading across the globe that's gaining access to Android users' devices and stealing their sensitive information before sending it to bad actors for financial gain.

How are they doing this? By tricking users with fake app download pages or through Telegram bots that provide false promises of free Android apps.

A massive SMS stealer campaign

The hackers' initial encounter with a potential victim begins mostly in one of two ways.

Some victims were served with a fake app advertisement on a malicious webpage. Users who are tricked by the ads are taken to a page that mimics a legitimate Android app download link. The software, of course, isn't the advertised app. Instead, It's malware that prompts users to inadvertently give it permission to read their SMS messages.

Another way the SMS stealer campaign is targeting victims is through Telegram bots. Zimerium researchers say it discovered "roughly 2,600 Telegram bots" that lured victims into believing they were being offered pirated Android apps for free. Victims would be asked for their phone number in return for the app. However, the downloads they actually receive are "unique malicious applications disguised as legitimate APKs."

Once these bad actors gain access to the device, they're able to use the victim's personal data for financial gain. The text message access of this malware campaign is especially heinous. It potentially provides these malicious actors with OTPs, or one-time passwords, that are often required by banks and other financial institutions to verify a user's access.

Zimperium researchers say that they have been tracking this SMS stealer campaign for nearly two and a half years. Over that time period, researchers say they have seen "over 107,000 malware samples" connected to the campaign, showing how the bad actors behind this malicious software have been constantly updating their campaign so it stays effective.

And it seems like these hackers have found success.

Researchers claim that the SMS stealer campaign has claimed victims in 113 countries. The majority of the victims appear to be in India and Russia. However, there are also a significant number of victims in Brazil, Mexico, the United States, Ukraine, and Spain.

Android users should be aware of this malicious campaign and beware of any download links promising free app downloads. 

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