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Natasha Rothwell talks about her inspiration for creating the series 'How to Die Alone' and how she has always created spaces and characters where she feels represented.

"When will Apple tackle smell cancellation?" was all I could think of while testing the AirPods 4 on a flight from San Jose, Calif. to Atlanta. Unfortunately, I dealt with a flatulent neighbor who kept letting one rip.

Phew!

But while my nostrils were fighting for their life on a Boeing 737, my ears had a different experience: a blissful, quiet ride during an eight-hour trip from California to New York (with a malodorous connecting flight to Atlanta between the journey).

AirPods 4 Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

For the first time ever, the entry-level AirPods have active noise cancellation (ANC). Apple unveiled the new AirPods 4 on Sept. 9 at the "Glowtime" event where the Cupertino-based tech giant debuted the new line with two variants: one with ANC and one without ANC.

During my flight from San Jose to New York, with a (stinky) layover flight to Atlanta, I tested the new AirPods 4 with ANC. How did they fare with loud PA announcements, noisy chit-chat, and the biggest challenge of them all, plane engine noise? Let's find out.

AirPods 4 price and specs

As mentioned, you can choose between two AirPods 4 variants.

Holding the AirPods 4 with ANC Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

There's AirPods 4 without ANC, which costs $129.

And then you have AirPods 4 with ANC, which will set you back $179.

Both can do the following, thanks, in part, to the H2 chip:

• Personalized Spatial Audio (a personalized profile for the best customized listening experience)

• Siri interactions (nod your head "no," for example, to reject a phone call after Siri announcement)

• Voice Isolation (your voice sounds clearer on calls)

• Up to 5 hours of listening time (as claimed by Apple)

However, what sets the $179 AirPods 4 apart from the cheaper option is, of course, active noise cancellation.

They also feature Transparency Mode (lets you hear the environment around you), Conversation Awareness (detects when you're speaking and adjusts audio settings accordingly), and Adaptive Audio (auto adjusts between Transparency Mode and ANC depending on your environment).

The AirPods 4 with ANC can charge with an Apple Watch charger; plus, they have wireless Qi charging support. Finally, the ANC-capable AirPods 4's charging case has FindMy support as well as Precision Finding (which means your iPhone can direct you to your AirPods 4 by telling you how many feet you are from it.)

Opens in a new window Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable AirPods 4 with ANC $179.99 at Amazon
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The AirPods 4 are available for pre-order now and will start shipping on Sept. 20.

AirPods 4 design

I have a pair of AirPods Pro, and while I adore how they sound, they love to fall out of my ears. Not everyone has this issue, though. Just some of us. And for those who fall into that category, Apple has given us some acknowledgement.

AirPods 4 Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

The new AirPods 4, whether you purchase one with ANC or without, are designed to fit most people. Apple boasted that it analyzed the ears of many users. There are, indeed, "common" ear shapes, as well as canals that are more atypical and out-of-the-ordinary. I definitely fall into the latter category, so I thought, "If there's anyone who can test the AirPods 4's new 'one-size-fits-most' design, it's me!"

As it turned out, the AirPods 4 fit really, really well. When I popped them into my ears, I didn't feel the need to lodge them in tightly so they don't take a tumble (like my AirPods Pro). Wearing them on two planes, they remained snug. I even ran on the treadmill with them for an hour — they never fell out.

However, after wearing the AirPods 4 for nearly eight hours straight on a plane, I sensed some faint aching. To be clear, they're not painful whatsoever — just a mild discomfort. Where exactly? I had to look this up, but it’s called the "Crus of Helix," which is where the top part of the earbuds rests against my ear.

AirPods 4 Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

Fortunately, that subtle sensitivity, which only occured in my left ear, disappeared in a few minutes.

Again, this is likely just a "me" thing — I have an abnormal ear shape.

Signature look

The AirPods 4 still have a signature design language with longer stems (compared to the AirPods Pro lineup). In contrast to my AirPods Pro, the AirPods 4's earbuds appear to be slightly taller and wider.

AirPods 4 Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Msshable

The AirPods 4 also still sport that all-white trademark style, but I love a good dark blue or rich black body, so maybe one day — perhaps AirPods 5 — we'll see more color options for the popular earbuds.

Force sensor

The AirPods 4 also continue to feature the force sensor located on the stem. I used it to swap between ANC and Transparency Mode during my flights seamlessly.

AirPods 4 Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

When I heard the faint sound of a PA system, I'd press on the sensor to turn on Transparency Mode. When I wanted total immersion, I'd press the stem again to turn on ANC. (You can also swap between modes on your iPhone via the Control Center.)

Plus, you can double-press the stem to play the next track — and triple-press the stem to play a previous track (among other controls).

AirPods 4 active noise cancellation

As mentioned at the outset, with the ANC-enabled AirPods 4, I flew from San Jose, Calif. to Atlanta before hopping on another NYC-bound flight.

AirPods 4 Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

I spent nearly eight hours with the AirPods 4 in my ears. As I hinted in my hands-on review, the AirPods 4 sounded like honey to my ears — and even more so when ANC was on. While I was at the airport, sounds of coo-ing babies, loud conversations, and rolling luggage were significantly reduced, allowing me to sink deeper into some of my favorite Apple Music playlists.

It was as if the AirPods 4 erased the cacophonous world around me, allowing me to sit in a quiet, empty void, with nothing but myself, my earbuds, and Sabrina Carpenter. "Me Espresso" already sounds darn good, but on the AirPods 4, it sounds immaculate.

Did I hear the airplane engine?

No headphones are going to completely get rid of engine noise. For example, when I compared the AirPods Max and Sony XM5s, two high-priced over-ear headphones, even they had some external noise leak through the devices. (But the AirPods Max did a better job at handling ANC.)

Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

However, the AirPods 4 did, in fact, significantly reduce the drone of the airplane engine. I noticed the ANC eliminated the high-pitched whine of the plane, creating a much more pleasant listening experience. However, it didn't completely get rid of the lower, rumbling sounds of the engine — it was still faintly noticeable.

It reduced it, yes, but it didn't eliminate it completely, which is, again, par for the course for ANC. Overall, the AirPods 4 did a great job at dampening the sound of the plane as it ripped through the air at more than 500 miles per hour.

ANC is a rarity in open-ear designs

People may underestimate how unusual it is to get ANC support in an open-ear design like the AirPods 4. As I mentioned in my hands-on, unlike the AirPods Pro 2, the AirPods 4 do not feature silicon tips. As such, it doesn't have a tight seal stuffed in your ears to support ANC technology in blocking external sounds.

Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

However, Apple boasted that it was able to accomplish this engineering challenge by using upgraded microphones (the same ones found on the AirPods Pro 2), the H2 processor, and cutting-edge computational audio.

AirPods 4 sound quality

You know what's funny? I tested the AirPods 4 on both the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra and the iPhone 15 Pro Max. On the former, songs like "Me Espresso" by Sabrina Carpenter and "BIRDS OF A FEATHER" by Billie Eilish sounded great, but there's a clear absence of multi-dimensional audio.

Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

On the iPhone 15 Pro Max, these songs sounded phenomenal. It's likely due to the AirPods 4's incredible Personalized Spatial Audio feature, which also comes with dynamic head tracking. It gave the music expansive, enveloping vibes that felt as if the music was twirling all around me.

Listening to "Me Espresso," the deep bass was steady and comforting while the higher notes felt light — almost as if I was floating. This song, with ANC in the mix, felt like I was sinking into a plush bean-bag chair where the world disappeared around me and I could immerse myself into a colorful, well-balanced soundscape.

Eilish's voice sounded haunting and ethereal on the AirPods 4. The earbuds perfectly captured the slow, pulsing, heartbeat-like rhythm.

AirPods 4 battery life

Apple says that the AirPods 4 are rated for up to five hours of battery life on a single charge (four hours with ANC), but what was battery life like during my own experience?

Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

To test it, on a Friday, I popped my AirPods 4 in at 1:30 p.m. when it was juiced up to 100%. I listened to music, with ANC on, throughout the whole experience, barely giving my AirPods 4 a break. At times, I spoke to my mom, dad, and fiancé. By around 6:42 p.m., it died.

That being said, Apple was nearly spot on with its four-to-five hour rating. The AirPods 4 lasted 5 hours and 12 minutes.

Of course, with the charging case, you'll be able to squeeze out more time. (Apple says up to 30 hours.)

AirPods 4 call quality

I called two people to test the AirPods 4's call quality.

Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

(After several people told me that I sound like I'm in a "hole" while using my Sony XM4's, I couldn't wait to test the AirPods 4 to see if it delivered a better experience.)

As it turned out, whether I spoke with my mom or partner, both reported that I sounded crisp and clear on the AirPods 4, thanks, in part, to the AirPods 4 Voice Isolation feature.

This perk is designed to enhance your voice and remove unwanted background voice — and it worked well as I walked through the busy streets of Manhattan.

AirPods 4 charging case

I am totally digging the AirPods 4 charging case. Apple condensed the size and made it significantly smaller and more compact. My AirPods Pro were already pretty portable, but the AirPods 4 takes up even less space, which is always welcome while traveling.

AirPods 4 Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

I would often stick the case inside the seatback pocket in front of me on the plane, but it's so tiny, it would often disappear into the abyss.

By the way, at one point, I did manage to misplace my AirPods. But luckily for me, I was able to use FindMy. The earbuds emitted some beeps, allowing me to find them with ease.

As mentioned, the AirPods 4's charging case supports Qi charging. You can use your Apple Watch's charging cable to charge it, too.

Keep in mind, though, that to pair your AirPods 4 with your device, you'll need to double tap the indicator light until it turns white. In other words, there's no more back button. There's a hidden functionality within the LED indicator that lets you initiate paring mode. To launch a reset, you'll need to double tap three times.

Plus, for what it's worth, the AirPods 4 charging case is now dust, sweat, and water resistant with an IP54 rating. So it can tolerate some splashes of water and dust, but you may want to keep it away from the pool and sand.

AirPods 4 Siri interactions

Available on iOS 18 for iPhone, as well as iPadOS 18, macOS Sequoia, and watchOS 11 (if you're pairing the AirPods 4 with a supported iPad, MacBook, or Apple Watch, respectively), the new earbuds have a new perk called Siri Interactions.

AirPods 4 Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

How does it work? Siri will ask you questions that will require your confirmation, and you can "reply" without even uttering a sound by shaking your head yes or no.

You can use Siri Interactions to accept and reject calls, and dismiss or answer messages/notifications.

Are AirPods 4 worth it?

Absolutely. I love them so much, they have replaced my AirPods Pro as my new daily driver earbuds. Again, fit was one of my concerns with my AirPods Pro, but now, I don't have that issue with the new one-size-fits-most design on the AirPods 4.

The active noise cancellation is elite, allowing me to immerse myself into the honeyed soundwaves that emanate from the AirPods 4. The AirPods 4 are, without a doubt, the best in-ear earbuds I've ever tested in a long while. They're definitely getting a place in our best headphones for noise cancellation list.

Apple has a handle on ANC, but if it can drop a lil' somethin' somethin' for smell cancellation, my traveling survival kit will be complete.

Opens in a new window Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable AirPods 4 $179.99
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If you like playing daily word games like Wordle, then Hurdle is a great game to add to your routine.

There are five rounds to the game. The first round sees you trying to guess the word, with correct, misplaced, and incorrect letters shown in each guess. If you guess the correct answer, it'll take you to the next hurdle, providing the answer to the last hurdle as your first guess. This can give you several clues or none, depending on the words. For the final hurdle, every correct answer from previous hurdles is shown, with correct and misplaced letters clearly shown.

An important note is that the number of times a letter is highlighted from previous guesses does necessarily indicate the number of times that letter appears in the final hurdle.

If you find yourself stuck at any step of today's Hurdle, don't worry! We have you covered.

SEE ALSO: Hurdle: Everything you need to know to find the answers Hurdle Word 1 hint

Horse noise.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections today: See hints and answers for September 16 Hurdle Word 1 answer

NEIGH

Hurdle Word 2 hint

Not to be confused for an alpaca.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Here's the answer hints for September 16 Hurdle Word 2 Answer

LLAMA

Hurdle Word 3 hint

Binding.

SEE ALSO: NYT Strands hints, answers for September 16 Hurdle Word 3 answer

TYING

Hurdle Word 4 hint

Not a smile, not a sneer.

SEE ALSO: NYT's The Mini crossword answers for September 16 Hurdle Word 4 answer

SMIRK

Final Hurdle hint

The USA has this many states.

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

FIFTY

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

'Shōgun' star Hiroyuki Sanada made history with his Emmys win on Sunday, becoming the first Japanese actor to win the Emmy for Best Lead Actor in a Drama Series.

"Baby Reindeer" creator Richard Gadd gave a powerful speech at the 76th Emmy Awards. Watch.

"Schitt's Creek" star Catherine O'Hara ripped up her Emmys envelope presenting Outstanding Comedy Series and it was perfect. Watch.

Steve Martin, Martin Short and Selena Gomez roasted each other at the 2024 Emmys while presenting Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series.

"Schitt's Creek" stars Dan and Eugene Levy opened the 76th Emmy Awards with one of the best Emmys monologues ever. Watch.

Anna Sawai, star of FX's 'Shōgun', made history at the 76th Emmy Awards as the first Asian performer to win Best Lead Actress in a Drama Series.

John Oliver paid tribute to his late dog during "Last Week Tonight"s Emmy win for Scripted Variety Series.

Apple's iPhone 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max have the same starting price as last year's models, but replacing the battery on this phone is costlier than before.

According to Apple's iPhone Repair and Service page (first noticed by MacRumors), getting the battery replaced on the iPhone 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max costs $119. The same type of repair costs $99 for the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus, just as it was on last year's iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro models.

Ouch. That's a 20 percent increase. Credit: Apple SEE ALSO: Don't get iPhone 16 Pro Max — here's why iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus are better buys

This, of course, is for out-of-warranty battery replacement; if your phone is covered by warranty and its battery fails, Apple will replace it for free. The exact terms are as follows, per Apple's own page: "Your product is eligible for a battery replacement at no additional cost if you have AppleCare+ and your product's battery holds less than 80 percent of its original capacity."

We still haven't seen a teardown of the iPhone 16 Pro models, so we don't know what its internals look like. Apple did say that it reorganized the phone's insides and added larger batteries to its Pro models, which may be why the battery replacement has gotten pricier.

TL;DR: Get a refurbished 13.3-inch 2018 Apple MacBook Pro (i5 2.3GHz, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD) on sale for $399.99 (reg. $999).

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple 2018 Apple MacBook Pro (i5 2.3GHz, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD) $399.99
$999.00 Save $599.01 Refurbished Get Deal

Why overpay when you can enjoy premium features at a fraction of the price?

This refurbished, 13.3-inch 2018 Apple MacBook Pro (i5 2.3GHz, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD) offers all the high-end specs you want — like the sleek Touch Bar, 512GB of storage, and a Retina display — for just $399.99. That's 59% off the regular price of $999.

The Touch Bar gives you shortcuts and tools right above your keyboard for faster navigation and productivity. It’s perfect for professionals and students who want to streamline their workflow.

Plus, the Intel Core i5 processor and 8GB of RAM give you the smooth performance you need, no matter what apps you’re running. With 512GB of SSD storage, you’ve got plenty of space for files, photos, and projects, and it keeps everything running fast and efficiently.

And because it’s refurbished, you get all these top-tier features at a fraction of the price. Each unit is tested, so you’re getting the same quality as a brand-new device without the new price tag, especially this particular computer, which received an "A" refurbished rating, which means you probably won't even be able to tell it's used.

Whether you’re a student, a professional, or just looking for a reliable laptop that doesn’t break the bank, this refurbished 2018 13.3-inch MacBook Pro with a Touch Bar delivers serious value — on sale for $399.99.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

TL;DR: Get lifetime access to Afirstsoft PDF Editor for $49.99 — AI extraction, interactive tools, and 20GB of secure storage included.

If you’re tired of spending hours digging through lengthy PDFs just to find a small piece of information, Afirstsoft is here to make your life easier. Its AI-powered extraction feature allows you to pull out the key information from any PDF document in seconds, no manual scanning needed.

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One of the major highlights of Afirstsoft is the interactive PDF "chat". This revolutionary tool lets you ask your document questions and instantly receive answers. Imagine working on a detailed report or a dense research paper — instead of going through hundreds of pages to find specific data, you can simply ask the document. The AI will quickly locate the information and present it to you, transforming the way you interact with your PDFs.

With 20GB of secure, cloud-based storage, you can store all your critical PDFs in one place, accessible whenever you need them. This is ideal for keeping your work organized, especially when dealing with important documents that you need to reference frequently.

Afirstsoft offers lifetime access to these premium features for a one-time payment. No need to worry about ongoing subscription fees or renewal dates.

For anyone who regularly works with PDFs and values efficiency, AI integration, and secure storage, take advantage of this great deal on a lifetime subscription to Afirstsoft AI PDF Editor for $49.99.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Afirstsoft Afirstsoft AI PDF Editor: Lifetime Subscription $49.99
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TL;DR: Get 4K night-vision binoculars for sharp views and the ability to capture footage, day or night, on sale for just $99.99 (reg. $169).

Opens in a new window Credit: Mesay 4K Night Vision Digital Binoculars with 8x Digital Zoom $99.99
$169.99 Save $70.00 Get Deal

Whether you’re out for a night hike, observing wildlife, or just enjoying a stargazing session, 4K Night Vision Digital Binoculars are the perfect tool for seeing what the dark usually hides.

Forget grainy, hard-to-make-out images — this gear gives you crisp 4K visuals no matter the lighting conditions. Get 4K night vision binoculars on sale for just $99.99. That's 41% off the regular price of $169.99.

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Designed to be tough, these binoculars can handle the rugged outdoors, so you don’t have to worry about bumps or the occasional drop. The ergonomic design means they’re easy to carry and hold, whether you’re birdwatching in broad daylight or catching a glimpse of the stars after sunset.

If you’ve ever felt limited by what you could see after dark, these 4K Night Vision Digital Binoculars with 8x Digital Zoom unlock a whole new world of possibilities for $99.99 (reg. $169).

StackSocial prices subject to change.

We've been banging on about VPNs for years, and now the world has opened its eyes to how great these services are for boosting online security and bypassing geo-restrictions.

It's about time.

What is a VPN?

Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) provide important protection for your data and identity when you're online by creating a private network that hides your real IP address. This means that all of your activity is untraceable and secure. You can think about VPNs as encrypted tunnels through which all of your online traffic passes through. Nobody can see into the tunnel, and everything inside the tunnel is protected against online threats like viruses, hackers, and malware.

Do you need a VPN when working from home?

More and more businesses are making the transition from a traditional office setting to a remote workforce. A VPN is absolutely essential for working remotely because it provides an organisaton with an encrypted connection for securely accessing internal company networks.

VPNs can also be used to watch shows on Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, and more of the most popular streaming sites. The need for online entertainment has grown recently, and more people are now turning towards VPNs to unlock blocked or restricted content.

The message is: VPNs are vital for both work and play at home.

What should you consider before investing in a VPN?

The first thing you're likely to notice when you begin the hunt for a VPN is just how many services there are to consider. Yes, it's good to have options, but it's easy to get bogged down by all the choice. That's why it's important to focus on some key factors when making your decision:

• Customer support — if you encounter any problems, it's good to know that you can rely on support agents with the technical knowledge to help.

• Fast connection speeds — the best VPNs offer servers in countries all around the world, ensuring that you get a fast and reliable connection for when you need it most.

• Kill switch — this technology makes sure your sensitive data is not exposed, even if your connection drops unexpectedly.

• Multi-logins — some accounts let you connect multiple devices simultaneously, which is great for protecting an entire household under the same subscription.

• Reliable encryption — the most important thing to consider is how well a service protects your connection, so your data and identity remain hidden from prying eyes.

If you take all of these features into consideration, and find something that ticks most of the boxes, you should be in a good position. Don't panic if things still aren't clear though, because we have already considered these points in detail. We're nice like that.

What is the best VPN for working from home?

We have lined up some of your best options for working and playing at home, with top providers like ExpressVPN and NordVPN making the cut. There is something for everyone and every budget in this list. All you have to do is pick your favourite.

These are the best VPNs for working from home in 2024.

We know why you're here, and that's to access more content from around the world with the help of a VPN. You can use these popular services to binge-watch all of the movies and shows you want, even if they're not usually available in your location. Once you've connected to a VPN, you'll be able to override streaming geo-restrictions and unblock everything on offer.

You've already got a lot of options when it comes to streaming, with the likes of Netflix, Prime Video, and Disney+ pumping out masses of great entertainment at the moment, but sometimes these sites can be cruel. We've all been in the same situation: you sign up to a service to watch a particular show, only to realise that it's not available in your location.

This is when a VPN can help.

What is a VPN?

Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) are valuable tools for improving your online security. They help you to stay safe and anonymous online by shielding your personal data from the prying eyes of authorities and hackers.

These clever services work by hiding your IP address and rerouting your internet traffic through an encrypted VPN tunnel. This secures your bank transactions, protects your digital identity, and lets you work safely on public WiFi networks. This process also means that you can trick leading streaming sites into thinking you are based in another country, meaning you can watch all the extra content that is normally locked to that location.

What should you consider when subscribing to a VPN?

There are plenty of things that you should consider when it comes to streaming with a VPN, and we have highlighted a selection of the most important things to think about before subscribing:

• Bandwidth — There are some VPNs out there that place monthly caps on network bandwidth, meaning you can only download a certain amount of data. You should avoid these services, unless you're on a free trial. If you're paying for a VPN, you should be able to download and upload as much as you want.

• Connection speed — A VPN is going to produce a drop in your connection speed, but you shouldn't accept anything that results in painful buffering. If you're going to be streaming with a VPN, you obviously don't want anything that will impact your connection speed to the point that you can't watch a film or show without frustration.

• Encryption — There are different levels of encryption, and whilst it's important to take note of the grade provided by your VPN, the best options will all offer powerful protection for your data. You are likely to come across terms like "military-grade" and "enterprise-grade," which just means that you can rely on it to do its job.

• Number of connections — The best VPNs let you connect an unlimited number of devices with the same account. At the very least, you should opt for a service that offers multiple simultaneous connections. This means you can stream securely on all your devices.

• Privacy policy — It's worth paying special attention to the data-handling, storage, and usage practices of the VPN you are planning on using. These practices should be laid out in a privacy policy, and if they aren't clear, it's best to avoid. Most VPNs require access to your IP address, online transactions, and browsing history, plus your personal details when you sign up. If privacy is the objective, it's absolutely essential that your VPN is not going to store these details. If it does, the whole thing is kind of pointless.

• Server network — The best VPNs provide access to thousands of geographically diverse servers, which means you should always be able to find a stable and speedy connection for streaming. If you want to unlock content from a particular location, you should make sure a VPN has servers in that country.

There are absolutely loads of things to consider when subscribing to a VPN, and we wouldn't expect you to remember everything. The most important things to keep in mind when searching for a streaming-friendly VPN are connection speed and server network. The rest is a bonus.

Should you use free VPNs?

The good news is that there are plenty of free versions of popular VPNs, plus free trials of VPNs with full access to everything you get with a premium plan. Alternatively, you can pay for a VPN. So which option is best for you and your lifestyle?

As with most things in life, you get what you pay for with VPNs. There tends to always be a catch with free versions, and it's normally in the form of limited data usage. If you're just an occasional user, these plans will work fine. But if you're going to be streaming or downloading, this isn't going to work. Free trials are a little bit different: they 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.

What we're saying is that the best option for streaming securely and accessing the online world without restrictions is with a paid subscription to a VPN. To gain access to advanced security features without limitations on usage, you need to pay up. The best VPNs are generally the most expensive, but there are plenty of cheap plans out there, especially if you're willing to commit to a lengthy contract.

What is the best VPN for streaming?

A VPN is the safest, fastest, and most reliable way to gain access to your favourite shows, movies, sporting events, and videos. This does not mean that every VPN is great for streaming however, and some services are better suited to the job than others.

Finding a VPN for streaming is not a simple task, and that's why we've helped you out by lining up a selection of your best options. We know that everyone has a different set of priorities when it comes to connection speed, security, and customer support, and that's why this line-up offers a bit of everything.

We checked out everything on offer, and ExpressVPN, NordVPN, CyberGhost VPN, Surfshark, and more have made the cut. It's really down to you to decide on your favourite option, and we recommend taking your time and carefully considering everything on offer.

These are the best streaming VPNs in 2024.

How can you best protect your identity and data when you're navigating the online world? The simple answer is with a virtual private network, or VPN. That's the easy part covered, but how do you select a VPN that works for you and your lifestyle? That's a trickier question.

We know the decision process can be tough, so we've tried to help you out. Based on customer reviews, we have compared the best VPNs to help you find something that ticks all of your boxes. But first, we should talk about what these services actually offer, and why you should consider signing up.

What is a VPN?

A VPN is a connection method used to add security and privacy to private and public networks. VPNs are becoming increasingly popular as cybersecurity becomes a priority. A VPN improves online privacy because the user's IP address is replaced with one from the VPN provider. Those subscribed to a VPN can obtain an IP address from any gateway location the VPN service provides.

If this all sounds a little complicated, try thinking about a VPN as an encrypted tunnel through which all of your online traffic passes through. Nobody can see into the tunnel, and everything inside the tunnel is protected against online threats like viruses, hackers, and malware

Do you need a VPN?

Without a VPN you are basically cruising the online world naked, baring all to the world. A VPN keeps you covered up by hiding/changing your IP address, hiding your location, and encrypting your data transfers

VPNs are primarily designed to provide online security, but that's not all. Millions of people use these services to stream more content from around the world. By hiding your IP address and connecting you to a server in another location, you can trick leading streaming services into thinking that you are based in a different country. This means you can bypass content restrictions to watch all extra shows and movies from global libraries.

So the two key benefits to using a VPN are cybersecurity and streaming.

Should you use free VPNs?

The final question that's important to consider is whether you need to pay for a VPN. The answer really depends on your priorities. A free VPN is generally going to lack the most advanced features. A paid VPN will tend to offer faster connection speeds, servers in more locations, and better customer support (but not always). If anonymity is top of your list of priorities however, then a free VPN may be the better option as a free VPN provider won’t usually ask you to sign up to use its service.

It's important to carefully research the wide selection of free and paid VPNs before making any decision. Whether you need to pay for a service or go with the free option comes down to what you need from your VPN. Data limits are another stumbling block when it comes to a free service, so if this doesn’t bother you, go right ahead. If you do however need more data, more locations, and more servers from your VPN, then a paid service is the solution.

It's also worth noting that pretty much all of the best VPNs offer money-back guarantees, so if you're sneaky, you can work this system and use these services for a limited amount of time without fully committing with your cash. We don't recommend this tactic, but you can use the best VPNs for free if you cancel your subscription before the guarantee period comes to an end.

What is the best free VPN?

Before making your selection, you should think carefully about what you want from a VPN and which aspect of the service you want to prioritise. Once you've given that some thought, we recommend checking out the options we have lined up, including popular services like NordVPN, CyberGhost VPN, and ExpressVPN.

There is something for everyone and every budget in this list. All of these VPNs offer free trials or money-back guarantees, but we've also highlighted the cost of subscribing in case you're tempted to upgrade.

These are the best free VPNs in 2024.

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

We love a good party as much as anyone, but the logistics of trying to get to know someone in a packed basement over thumping tunes while everyone is doing shots in the corner are a bit challenging. It's not exactly the prime environment for romance.

Dating apps are the saving grace of university students everywhere. Whether you’re serious about finding someone, or just looking for a quick hookup, you may just need the right app.

After all, everyone’s doing it. 

Why should you consider using dating sites?

Yes, you can still find love in the real world, because meeting in bars, clubs, parks, and other romantic locations still happens every day. By subscribing to a dating site, you're simply shortening your odds of finding someone special.

Dating sites and apps let you put your information out there to a massive network of potential dates. Plus, you can save a lot of time, energy, and cash by testing out a potential relationship on an app before meeting in real life.

Do you need to pay for the best dating apps?

The good news is that are absolutely loads of free dating sites and apps out there, and the likes of Tinder and Hinge are seriously popular options with students. Most of the biggest and best dating sites also have free versions with limitations on certain features. So you can easily enter the online dating game without spending anything.

As with most things in life, you get what you pay for with dating sites and apps. For the best experience with the greatest possibility of finding exactly what you're looking for, the best option is probably not a free app. We're sorry to break it to you, but the best dating sites don't come cheap. Of course you can still find a date with a free app, but if you're looking for compatibility tests, chat rooms, videos, and a greater level of control, we recommend upgrading.

What should you consider before using a dating app?

It probably seems obvious, but the first rule of online dating is to just be yourself. It's all too easy to pretend to be someone you're not online, but that kind of catfishing game won't garner you a true connection. By being yourself and presenting yourself accurately and honestly, you open yourself up to the possibility of a great relationship with someone who likes you just the way you are. And isn't that the whole point of dating?

Don't be afraid to make the first move. Forget all those outdated rules that say a man is supposed to make the first move or that a woman can't pay on a first date. Instead, focus on finding an equal partner who helps support your goals, wants to see you succeed, and has dreams of their own.

SEE ALSO: The best dating sites and apps for women

Get a bit more creative with your messaging than the standard "Hey." If you're looking to connect with someone on campus, then open up the conversation with a question about them and a little bit about yourself. Messaging someone is more discussion group than lecture hall — it's about passing the conversation back and forth. 

Once you decide to meet up — which is the entire point, after all — stay open. We often come up with an idea for how someone will be after meeting them online, and it's rare that your expectations sync up with reality. Allow yourself to really get to know this person for who they are rather than who you thought they would be before you make up your mind.

That said, it's crucial that you're honest. If you really don't feel a connection, then do the right thing and tell them. A good line to use is something like, "I've really enjoyed meeting you but I think there are probably better people out there for both of us." Not only will they appreciate your direct approach, but it will alleviate that post-date awkwardness of wondering where you stand. Ghosting sucks for everyone. Just be up front and save each of you a lot of discomfort.

On the other hand, what if you really do like them after finally meeting in person? Then what? Set up your next date while you're still hanging out. That old rule about waiting three days to call? It's dead. RIP outdated dating rules. Make plans to do something low-key, and for the first few dates make sure the plans are to meet in a public place. The benefits of making a date to do an activity cannot be overstated. It provides you with ample conversation starters and gives you an opportunity to get a little competitive and joke around. Some playful teasing goes a long way. And remember: It's all about having fun.

What is the best dating app for university students?

At this point there are dating apps for every niche you can think of, whether you're into gaming, geek culture, or focusing on your career — there are people seeking the same things you are. As a university student, you have specific needs and probably don't want to wade through all the older people trying to get married. You need dating apps that are specifically good for uni-aged people.

To help you find the perfect dating app, we’ve tracked down the best options for whatever kind of university experience you want, including leading sites like eharmony, Match, and AdultFriendFinder.

These are the best dating apps for students in 2024.

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

Dating as a senior isn't easy, but it's not nearly as tough as you think. Dating at any age is tricky — and being over 60 in the dating world could actually have its perks. There's a reason why post-retirement age could be the happiest time of your life.

Yes, there may be fewer potential partners in the dating pool, but if you think about it, that just makes everything less overwhelming. And now that online dating is hot and heavy for the over 60 crowd, it's easier than ever to track down that special someone.

It's totally normal to feel hesitant about making the jump to online dating, but there really isn't anything to fear.

How do you start dating again as a senior?

The first step to start dating after a break is simply acknowledging that you're ready. At this point, you can decide how and where you want to try to meet people. Dating apps have been around for decades, which means they are totally normal and shouldn't be a last resort.

You'll also want to be direct with what you're hoping to achieve. A serious relationship? Casual hookup? Friendship that might led to more? Whatever it is, be upfront because you don't want to fall for someone who isn't looking for the same thing. Honesty is the best policy when it comes to dating.

Should older adults use dating sites?

Finding the best dating site is intimidating at any age. That age group does have a few more options, which may be another reason that you're feeling unsure about online dating if you're a baby boomer.

However, youth has a disadvantage you may not have considered: Many people in their 20s and 30s just aren't ready to settle down yet. Developing a crush on someone is more likely to end up in an awkward "situation-ship" rather than a serious relationship. Dating over 60 means you're at an age when you know what you want and you're not afraid to put it all out there. This is the "no bullshitting" age of dating.

SEE ALSO: The best dating sites and apps for women

As you get older, you realise what's important to you and what you're truly looking for. Doesn't finding love with that mindset sound a hell of a lot easier? EliteSingle's senior dating blog notes that most older individuals realise that life is just too short to play games, and that older people take dating much more seriously than they did 40 years ago. And while it may be a little weird that this person isn't your first love, you can take solace in the fact that it could be lasting love.

Does all this seriousness mean that the excitement from meeting someone new is gone when dating as a senior? Absolutely not. An advice post for seniors on Zoosk says to "be prepared to return to your inner teenager," because the firsts are just as exciting. You'll get butterflies, wait for them call and do a happy dance when they do, and first kisses will be just as tingly.

Should you use free dating apps?

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 for seniors?

We scoured the internet to find the best dating sites for single seniors. Some websites are for all ages with a senior option, and some sites are specifically for people over 50. And we'll just tell you now: All of the sites have free memberships, but to get the real in-depth features to find real connections with other mature singles, you'll want to have a paid account.

We've noted those price differences, as well as the differences in sign up, navigation simplicity, and the overall relationship tone of the site to help you choose the best one to fit you. Take your pick from this strong selection of dating sites for seniors, including popular services like Match and eharmony.

These are the best dating sites for seniors in 2024.

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

Dating can be tricky. Sometimes you want to make the first move, but you don't want to appear too eager. But if you play it too cool, you risk getting ignored all together. The whole process can be frustrating and intimidating, especially if you don't know how to start. If you're lost, we recommend trying online dating.

There are a lot of great sites out there that can help you find someone special. The only really issue is that with all of the options, it can sometimes feel like there's too much choice. Throw in busy lives and daily responsibilities, and the thought of combing through loads of profiles sounds like the last thing you want to do. 

We get it, we really do.

Is online dating difficult?

One aspect of online dating dynamics poses a challenge for both men and women, but from different angles: If it's a lady you're pursuing, chances are she's received more than a few unsolicited messages already. For women, maneuvering around creeps is often more work than it's worth.

For men, the responsibility to not be one of those guys can add a heightened intimidation factor.

What do you need to know before signing up to a dating site?

The internet is plagued with tales of nasty messages and creepy opening lines from men. Avoiding the creep factor with someone you just matched with shouldn't be hard — simply don't be pushy about sexting, getting their number, or meeting up, and definitely don't harass someone about not wanting to hang out. As for devising an opener that will grow into a nice conversation, the harmless intent to be funny or flattering can go south quickly. Choosing the right dating app can make all the difference for men who are a little rusty or generally shy about messaging first.

SEE ALSO: The best dating sites and apps for women

For men who need a point in the right direction when it comes to conversation starters, dating sites with user profiles more extensive than a rushed Tinder bio could make a world of difference. The ability to see someone's hobbies, favourite movies, career goals, or even political views before even talking to them opens up a wealth of clever ice breakers.

Tinder can be the right app for some singles, but if you find yourself constantly deleting it and re-downloading Tinder every other month despite the fact that you hate the app, a different site might make better use of your time. What is it that's not working about your current dating site of choice? Is it too entrenched in hookup culture? Is it not focused on hookups enough? Do you find yourself getting intentions mixed up with people who aren't looking for the same thing? Each dating site serves a different purpose, and things are a lot easier when you're mingling with people who want what you want.

What is the best dating site for men?

After going through many dating sites and apps, we have narrowed down the best options for single men looking for something casual or a long-term relationship. You can rest assured that these sites offer the best potential for finding a great match.

We looked at a number of factors that make a dating app worth using, including visibility, popularity with singles, ease of use, lifestyle, and success rate with matches to find the ones that matter to single men the most. Whether you're looking for a casual fling or a committed relationship, we have a dating site for you and the matches you want. 

These are the best dating sites for men in 2024.