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TL;DR: The tax deadline is approaching — file your federal and state taxes with H&R Block Deluxe and State 2024 for $39.99. Maximize deductions and get expert-backed audit support.

Opens in a new window Credit: Retail King H&R Block Tax Software Deluxe + State 2024 for Windows/Mac [Online Code] $39.99
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Tax season is officially here, and the deadline will be here before you know it. Instead of scrambling at the last minute, H&R Block Deluxe + State 2024 helps you file quickly, maximize deductions, and stay confident in your return.

If you’re a homeowner, investor, or just want to make sure you’re getting the biggest refund possible, now’s the time to get started — get H&R software for Mac or Windows on sale for $39.99 (reg. $59).

This software guides you through over 350 deductions and credits, making sure you don’t leave money on the table. You can also import W-2s, 1099s, and past returns from TurboTax and Quicken, so you can skip the tedious data entry. Have income from investments, stock options, home sales, or retirement? The software simplifies everything, ensuring accuracy without the headache.

Mistakes can be costly, but H&R Block has your back with in-person audit support. If you ever need help, you’ll have access to tax professionals who can represent you. Plus, the real-time refund tracker updates as you go, so you always know where you stand.

With five free federal e-files and one included state program, this software gives you everything you need to file with confidence.

Tax season won’t wait — get H&R Block Tax Software Deluxe and State 2024 for Windows or Mac now for $39.99 and file before the deadline.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

TL;DR: You can get an Internxt 10TB cloud storage lifetime subscription for $244.99 (reg. $2,999) with code STORAGE30 at checkout for a limited time. 

Opens in a new window Credit: Internxt Internxt Cloud Storage Lifetime Subscription: 10TB Plan $244.99
$2,999.00 Save $2,754.01 with code STORAGE30 Get Deal

Are you doing a ‘low-buy year,’ like half the internet? Even if you're not, you’re probably looking for ways to save as much money as possible. Many people are canceling subscriptions, and the first one to go could be Dropbox or Google Drive. Instead, store your files with this lifetime cloud storage deal.

You’ll no longer be chained to $10+ monthly payments — just pay once and be set for life. Get 10TB of storage with Internxt for $244.99 with code STORAGE30 at checkout. That's 92% off. If you don’t need that much space, 2TB and 5TB plans are also available.

Cloud storage without fees

With Internxt, you may be paying more upfront, but your cloud storage plan will pay for itself in time, saving you money in the long run.

You also won’t have to worry about running out of storage space on your phone, computer, or tablet ever again with 10TB to go around. Here’s about how much that space can fit:

• 2 million photos

• 250 hours of 4K video

• 6.5 million documents

Another thing you won’t have to worry about is security. All of your Internxt files are end-to-end encrypted for your peace of mind.

Imagine never worrying about cloud storage again. That’s Internxt. Use code STORAGE30 at checkout to get this affordable cloud storage plan for $244.99 (reg. $2,999) for a limited time.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

A cult-centric popstar thriller that quickly falls apart, Mark Anthony Green’s debut feature, Opus, features hints of ideas about journalism and celebrity that never fully come to the fore. A tale of a music writer attending the listening party of a long-awaited return album from an ‘80s mega star who’s been in hiding for the past two decades, the film’s supposed eeriness is marred by dramatic disconnect. Even its basics are hard to follow, when tracking them should be the easiest thing in the world.

As a former GQ columnist, Green brings occasional insight to magazine newsroom politics. However, the rest of his story is visually and narratively malformed. The performances are mostly enjoyable, especially John Malkovich as the aforementioned returning glam rock idol, but they end up in service of a deeply confused movie that has little, if anything, to say.

What is Opus about?

An early scene in the film, a casual lunch date between novice music writer Ariel Ecton (Ayo Edebiri) and her long-time friend Kent (Young Mazino), establishes core tenets about the former’s character. She’s talented but withheld, never letting anyone close to her as she guards a persona she fears is unremarkable and middle-of-the-road. Unfortunately, neither Kent nor this entire emotional setup ends up factoring into the movie in the slightest, which quickly moves on to its tale of an icon’s surprise return after decades away.

The character dynamic that really matters is Ariel, a Black woman, being overshadowed and dismissed by her smiling, white male boss Stan (Murray Bartlett), especially when the two of them are among a select handful invited to visit the isolated ranch of the returning Moretti (Malkovich), a pop icon whose stature the film portrays in amusing ways. After his comeback album is announced in a YouTube video by his long-time publicist (Tony Hale), the singer’s history is neatly condensed for us in the form of a globe-spanning montage celebrating his return, made up of news stories and social media posts which heavily center his posters, famous bobbleheads and other valuable memorabilia. This makes his presence — and really, his absence — feel tactile. All of this set to his iconic ‘80s dance ballad, “Dina Simone,” a fictitious earworm sung by Malkovich himself. It’s not hard to see why he was once so beloved.

Alongside paparazzo Bianca (Melissa Chambers), influencer Emily (Stephanie Suganami), talk show host Clara (Juliette Lewis) and former music rival Bill (Mark Sivertsen), Ariel and Stan receive invites by courier, after which they’re flown out to a nondescript desert, then bussed 50 miles to Moretti’s sprawling, gated compound, home to a creativity-worshipping faith known as the Levelists. Part spa, part Jonestown, and part Michael Jackson’s Neverland Ranch, the dustbowl getaway is populated by acolytes of various ages all dressed in navy blue robes. This cult-like group serves at Moretti’s beck and call, with actors like Amber Midthunder and Tatanka Means handing the guests strict instructions on the weekend’s activities — a dinner, a massage, nothing too out of the ordinary — while younger, pre-teen members of the pseudo-religious fanhood engage in painting and other arts and crafts.

The arriving journos are also stripped of their electronics to “preserve the integrity of the experience,” one of several red flags that only Ariel seems attuned to. However, as members of their group go missing one by one, the film’s framing of these supposedly strange events doesn’t quite serve this Get Out-esque narrative, in which only Ariel sees through the Matrix-code of Moretti’s constructed reality.

The cult saga in Opus is visually malformed.

The biggest flaw in the film’s construction is the blurry boundary between what the camera sees and what Ariel notices. Instructed by Stan to take notes when she should be writing her own article, Ariel isn’t blinded by Moretti’s celebrity and jots down her observations on the surrounding sycophancy. However, what she finds off-putting is, more often than not, the result of mere quirks that the other guests aren’t necessarily wrong to dismiss, while any doubts about the group’s safety arise through information only the audience is given. And yet, despite this disconnect, we’re expected to invest in Ariel’s attempts to convince Stan and the others that something strange is afoot; we know that she’s right, but she has little reason to believe the things she’s saying, so it can’t help but feel like crying wolf.

There are certainly strange happenings in the movie’s margins, á la Ari Aster’s Midsommar, but rather than the film’s protagonist being slowly drawn into a mystery, or discerning oddities no one else sees, the cult’s more disconcerting behavior is visible only to the camera, and thus to the audience, but not Ariel. Sometimes it’s not even clear what, if anything, she actually sees even when faced with disturbing revelations (like the fate of a fellow guest), owing to off-kilter visual framing and editing that yanks us away from the action far too quickly. While rightly she notes the Levelists’ beliefs as out of the ordinary — they worship creativity above all else, and consider it divine — the premise as seen through her eyes is never quite unnerving.

The movie’s aesthetic shortcomings pile up the further it goes on. Each guest is chaperoned around the compound by a specific cult member, and when skirmishes arise between Ariel and her assigned Levelist, an entire fight scene unfolds off screen. Not long after, a chase scene on ATVs hops and skips around in time and space, as though the production had either failed to shoot enough footage for these moments, or they had to be somehow rescued in the edit, and this was the best possible outcome. It’s bizarre to watch, given how incomplete the movie feels, and how it obscures the one tenet that ought to be central to a story such as this: the controlled reveal of information. 

Opus has no bigger picture.

The flaws in the film’s moment-to-moment construction go hand-in-hand with its lack of a macro point of view. The film is, on its surface, akin to Mark Mylod’s The Menu, wherein people semi-related to the world of a renowned artist (Ralph Fiennes’ gourmet chef Julian Slowik) are drawn into an elaborate series of games or traps stemming from his warped worldview. While Opus pulls back its curtains in much the same way, what it reveals is shockingly empty.

Malkovich adds enigmatic layers to Moretti as best he can — the actor appears to have had fun in the role — but at no point does the character seem like he has any kind of coherent plan or outlook. When harm inevitably comes to the guests, it often seems random and coincidental, and when it’s time for Moretti to express his twisted reasoning, the result is a series of long, drawn-out monologues that barely connect to the events as they unfold on screen. All of this makes you ask: What is Opus even about?

There are, on occasion, hints of racial subtext — the professional dynamic between Ariel and Stan is realistic and familiar — but none of this extends to the larger premise, given the cult’s multiracial makeup. Moretti may be an esoteric figure, but even his late-era-Kanye musings on genius and celebrity feel distinctly ordinary. No real-world element in the film is ever magnified enough to function as satire, leaving Opus in a lukewarm middle ground, where ideas never evolve, and character drama seldom extends beyond what someone (usually Ariel) observes or experiences in-the-moment.

The real tragedy here is that the premise of Opus has potential. The world of celebrity worship is fertile ground for a tale of religious fervor, and Edebiri has the kind of frank, matter-of-fact timing that feels tailor-made for emphasizing the bizarre. However, the film’s scattered pieces never allow even its minor strengths to enter the spotlight for too long. The little that works ends up shackled by lousy, scattershot filmmaking that saps the movie of all tension, insight, and fun.

Opus was reviewed out of the 2025 Sundance Film Festival.

TL;DR: For $49.99, you can get an AdGuard VPN 5-year subscription and a lifetime ad blocker — and you won’t find a better deal anywhere else (reg. $439.99).

The internet is a mess these days. It seems like we’re more and more restricted on what kinds of content (or apps) we can access; everyone’s after our data, and there are more ads than videos. Looking to restore some order? We have a double-dose remedy: AdGuard’s VPN and ad blocker bundle.

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A virtual private network (VPN) allows you to hide your online activity from trackers by rerouting it through private servers. Think of your regular browsing as sending a message on a postcard and using a VPN like sending it in a sealed envelope — it’s more private and secure.

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StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: AdGuard Software Limited AdGuard VPN + Ad Blocker Family Security Suite $49.98
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Despite the enthusiasm of actors in Swiffer commercials, few people are smiling at the workout that is manually mopping their floors.

If you experience similar dread when faced with vacuuming, the best robot vacuum and mop combos will cross those two chores off of your list (three, if you count digging your old mop out of the closet as a chore in itself).

Are robot vacuums good at mopping?

I'm not saying you can expect a hybrid robot vacuum to scrub your kitchen grout with the same tenacity you would get with a toothbrush, but robot vacuums have gotten much better at mopping over the past few years.

Since 2020-ish, most robot vacuum companies have added at least one (several, in most cases) hybrid model to their lineup, with prices ranging from $200 to well over $1,000. You can generally expect the mopping technique to get a little more meticulous as price goes up, so the type of mess that your 2-in-1 model will need to conquer becomes a big deciding factor. Are you mostly concerned with wiping up spur-of-the-moment spills, or will you be a stickler about dried-on stains that call for more heavy-duty scrubbing?

SEE ALSO: As a Dyson stan, I wouldn't tell anyone to buy the Dyson 360 Vis Nav robot vacuum

Fortunately, both ends of the pricing spectrum provide way more bang for their buck in 2024 than they did in the early 2020s. The mere presence of a cloth and a water tank is far from good enough at this point — now, the best robot vacuums and mops are armed with more mechanics attempting to mimic the elbow grease that a human with a mop or Swiffer would provide, like pressurized and/or spinning mopping pads (rather than lackadaisical, stationary ones). Most modern 2-in-1 robot vacuums can also mop with real germ-fighting cleaning solution rather than just water — key in upping my own personal confidence in walking around barefoot.

SEE ALSO: Top 3 best robot vacuums from CES 2025, from coolest to most practical

But arguably, the most pivotal shift 2-in-1 robot vacuums saw in the past year isn't on the robot vacuums themselves but in their docks. Past automatically emptying the dust bin, the best robot mop combos also cross post-mopping maintenance off of your list by automatically washing and drying their own mopping pads, then refilling themselves with clean water from the dock. With one of these fancy self-cleaning stations, your robovac will be ready to mop again almost immediately — a clutch change from an older, more basic design that had us all choosing between manually washing a smelly mopping pad after each use, letting it mop with a dirty pad, or just avoiding the mopping feature altogether.

Not sure how fancy of a hybrid robot vacuum you even need at home? I've tested 15+ of the most popular robot vacuum and mop combos at a range of prices on my own floors at home, narrowing down your options to the top four robot vacuums that also wash your floors so far in 2025.

(Note that each vacuum's retail price is listed by default, but that I've also noted the most common sale price each vacuum frequently drops to in "The Good" section. And yes, robot vacuum deals are common all throughout the year — not just during a shopping holiday like Black Friday.)

UPDATE: Feb. 5, 2025, 5:00 a.m. EST New flagship robot vacuums from Roborock, Eufy, and more were announced at CES 2025 at the beginning of January. I'm in the process of getting my hands on them for at-home testing, and will update this guide accordingly.

The 10 minutes it takes to manually vacuum a 700-square-foot apartment probably isn't enough to send someone over the edge as far as chores are concerned. While the time-saving factor may be a moot point here, it doesn't completely diminish the appeal of using a robot vacuum in a tight space.

It's actually totally plausible that spaces with less square footage get dirty faster because virtually every spot is a high-traffic spot. With that logic, a robot vacuum is absolutely worth it in a small space.

SEE ALSO: As a Dyson stan, I wouldn't tell anyone to buy the Dyson 360 Vis Nav robot vacuum

However, it is crucial to not automatically assume that less floor to cover means that the cheapest vacuum you can find will suffice. Cramped furniture arrangements and quick changes between floor types actually call for a vac that's relatively good at navigating, or you'll risk coming home not to a clean home, but to a vacuum that got stuck in kitchen chair legs during the first five minutes of cleaning. Before getting into my specific robovac recommendations, let's chat about the specs to keep in mind to make this robot vacuum a smart purchase.

Do robot vacuums work in small apartments?

While some heavy-duty robot vacuums with large do-everything docks would probably be overkill in a small space, there are several compact, quiet robot vacuums on the market that make a lot of sense in a small space.

One way to downsize the space a robot vac takes up is to forgo the self-empty dock. While forgoing automatic emptying to save room on the floor may not be ideal, having to empty manually may be a little less damning in a small space, as the vacuum wouldn't be sucking up as much dirt on each run as it would in a big house. However, finding a super compact auto-empty dock nowadays isn't hard.

SEE ALSO: Roomba models, explained: The guide to deciding which Roomba to buy in 2025

If your small apartment has hard floors, a robot vacuum and mop combo is a genius way to downsize chores supplies. This'll save you not only the time it takes to mop manually but also the breath it takes to curse your Swiffer for hogging your scarce closet space. Smart mapping and zone-within-rooms labeling that comes with it are a crucial feature if your home has multiple floor types, despite the fact that your home may not have many specific rooms to select on a map in the first place.

Not sure which robot vacuum would be worth it in your small space? I've hands-on tested a ton of options in my own apartments over the years and have handpicked the three best robot vacuums for apartments, studios, and other one-story homes at the start of 2025. (While each vacuum's retail price is listed by default, I've also noted the most common sale price in "The Good" sections. And yes, robot vacuum deals can be found throughout the year — not just during a shopping holiday like Black Friday.)

SAVE $200: As of Feb. 5, the Apple Studio Display is on sale for $1,999.99 at Amazon. That's a 13% saving on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple Studio Display $1,999.99 at Amazon
$2,299.99 Save $300.00 Get Deal

If your work setup needs a refresh and you're a MacBook user, you'll love this latest deal on the Apple Studio Display. As of Feb. 5, this impressive monitor is reduced by $200 at Amazon, now priced at $1,999.99. The Apple product has never been priced lower than this, and this is its first discount in 2025.

The screen boasts a 27-inch 5K Retina display with 600 nits of brightness, P3 wide color, and support for a billion colors — so everything looks really high quality and vibrant. It’s got a 12MP Ultra Wide camera with Center Stage, meaning your video calls stay focused on you, even if you move around.

SEE ALSO: Score $70 off the 10th Gen Apple iPad at Best Buy

The three-mic system is seriously impressive, ensuring your voice comes through loud and clear, and the six-speaker sound system with Spatial Audio delivers an immersive listening experience. Perfect for long calls or meetings, or watching movies and TV.

Connectivity-wise, you get one Thunderbolt 3 port and three USB-C ports, plus 96W of power delivery to keep your MacBook charged. And for added comfort, there’s an optional stand that lets you adjust both tilt and height.

This is a limited-time deal, so head to Amazon if you want to add the Apple Studio Display to your setup for less.

SAVE $30: As of Feb. 5, Beats Flex wireless earbuds are available at Amazon for $39 (regularly $69.95). That’s a 44% discount on Bluetooth earbuds featuring Apple’s W1 chip, 12-hour battery life, and tangle-free magnetic design.

Opens in a new window Credit: Beats Beats Studio Buds+ $39.00 at Amazon
$69.95 Save $30.95 Shop Now

Finding reliable wireless earbuds that don’t break the bank can be challenging, but today’s deal makes it easy. Right now, Beats Flex wireless earbuds are just $39 at Amazon ($30 off their regular $69.95 price). Fancy solid audio, seamless Bluetooth connectivity, and all-day comfort without spending a fortune? These are the best budget-friendly earbuds you can buy.

The Beats Flex is powered by Apple’s W1 chip. This means fewer dropouts, more extended range, and easy pairing across any device that supports Bluetooth. They also support audio sharing, so you can stream music or movies with a friend using AirPods or Beats.

SEE ALSO: Beats Studio Buds+ are $50 off at Amazon — upgrade your earbuds for less

Battery life is another highlight. Beats Flex offers up to 12 hours of listening time on a single charge, making them perfect for commutes, workouts, or long study sessions. When you need a quick boost, Fast Fuel charging delivers 1.5 hours of playback with just a 10-minute charge via USB-C.

Comfort and convenience set the Beats Flex apart. The flexible neckband design is lightweight and tangle-free. At the same time, the magnetic earbuds automatically pause your music when clipped together and resume playback when separated. This simple but smart feature prevents unnecessary battery drain. It makes them easy to wear around your neck when not in use.

Call quality is another win. The built-in microphone features wind noise reduction, ensuring clear conversations even in noisy environments. On-device controls let you adjust volume, take calls, and activate voice assistants without reaching for your phone.

At just $39, the Beats Flex wireless earbuds are an unbeatable deal for casual listeners, students, and anyone looking for affordable wireless audio. With this 44% discount, a better time to grab a pair is never better.

SAVE $50: As of Feb. 5, Beats Studio Buds+ are available at Amazon for $119.99 (regularly $169.95). That’s a $50 discount on these true wireless earbuds that feature Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), Transparency Mode, spatial audio, and up to 36 hours of battery life.

Opens in a new window Credit: Beats Beats Studio Buds+ $119.95 at Amazon
$169.95 Save $50.00 Shop Now

Beats Studio Buds+ is shedding the brand tax, so now’s the time to grab them. Right now, Amazon is offering these premium wireless noise-canceling earbuds for just $119.99 — $50 off their usual price of $169.95. Whether you’re an Apple or Android user, these earbuds are designed for seamless connectivity and powerful sound performance.

Beats Studio Buds+ are built to deliver deep, immersive audio with a custom acoustic platform that ensures a rich, balanced sound profile. They also feature spatial audio support, making them ideal for movies, music, and gaming. If you want complete focus, switch on Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) to block out background distractions. Need to hear your surroundings? Transparency Mode lets in ambient sound, keeping you aware of what’s happening around you.

SEE ALSO: The Beats Pill is now only $99.99 — save 33% on this powerful Bluetooth speaker

Battery life is another standout feature. The Beats Studio Buds+ offer up to 36 hours of total listening time with the charging case, meaning fewer interruptions for charging. The USB-C fast charging capability ensures that even a short charge gives you hours of playback.

Comfort is key with any earbuds, and the Beats Studio Buds+ come with four sizes of silicone ear tips to ensure a secure and comfortable fit. This creates an optimal acoustic seal, reducing sound leakage and enhancing audio quality.

Beats upgraded the phone call microphones with 3x larger voice-targeting mics, improving clarity and reducing background noise. Your calls will sound crisp and clear even on the windiest walks or the noisiest offices.

With one-touch pairing and native compatibility for Apple and Android devices, these earbuds seamlessly integrate into any ecosystem. They’re IPX4-rated, making them sweat- and water-resistant, perfect for workouts and outdoor adventures.

At $119.99, the Beats Studio Buds+ offers high-end features at a mid-range price. With this limited-time Amazon deal, now is the perfect chance to upgrade your audio experience.

2024 was a tough year for Sonos. The company completely revamped its mobile app, but instead of making it better, Sonos messed it up in a myriad of ways. Now it's scrambling to earn the trust of its user base once again.

The way to do that, it appears, is through a new product category. According to The Verge, Sonos is planning to launch a streaming box, with a price tag between $200 and $400.

The product, codenamed Pinewood, is going to be Android-based. It's going to look like most such devices — The Verge, who has seen images of the product, says it's a "flattened black square and slightly thicker than a deck of trading cards."

SEE ALSO: Sonos Ace headphones review: Hands-on with the first headphones from the audio giant

The Pinewood streamer will reportedly offer content from various streaming platforms, including Netflix, Max, and Disney+, with a unified user experience and universal search to find content across various accounts. It will come with a physical remote control unit with integrated voice control. This is tough to achieve — accessing all these various streaming platforms under one UI — but if Sonos could pull it off, it could be a big incentive to buy the product.

But the Pinewood streamer will come with other interesting options. Thanks to HDMI passthrough functionality, you'll be able to plug other devices, including gaming consoles and 4K Blu-ray players into it. And of course, the streamer will be able to send TV audio, lag-free, to its soundbars and speakers. User should also be able to configure surround sound by using the Sonos speakers they have in their household.

Featured Video For You In Memoriam: The tech that died in 2024

It won't be easy to pull this off. Part of the controversy surrounding Sonos' new app is the fact that it broke integration between various Sonos products, which has always been one of the company's strengths. The new Pinewood streamer sounds like something that aims to become a core component of a user's home audio and video ecosystem, and this will require everything to go extremely smoothly.

There's also some strong competition in the streaming box arena, including devices such as Apple TV, Nvidia Shield TV, Roku's Streaming Stick, Google's TV Streamer, and Amazon's Fire TV stick (all of which cost way less than $200). Sonos reportedly doesn't plan any other new hardware soon, so the Pinewood streamer might turn out to be its most important product of 2025.

FREE 40-INCH TV: As of Feb. 5, the Samsung 85-inch DU7200 Series Crystal UHD 4K Smart TV is on sale for $799.99 at Best Buy (regularly $1,099.99). Not only do you save $300, but you’ll also get a Samsung 40-inch 5 Series Full HD Smart TV ($249.99 value) and a three-month Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription ($50 value) for free.

Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung 85-inch DU7200 $799.99 at Best Buy
$1,099.99 Save $300.00 Shop Now

If you’re looking for a massive 85-inch 4K TV, this impressive Best Buy deal will help you kit out the rest of your home. Right now, you can get Samsung 85-inch DU7200 Crystal UHD 4K Smart TV for just $799.99, which is $300 off its usual price. But here’s the epic bit: you’ll also get a free Samsung 40-inch TV and a three-month Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription included.

Samsung’s DU7200 Series packs stunning 4K visuals, an ultra-fast Crystal Processor, and HDR support, ensuring everything from movies to sports to gaming looks its best. This 85-inch display delivers an immersive home theater experience at a budget-friendly price. It even smashes gaming.

SEE ALSO: Where to preorder Samsung's new Galaxy S25, S25+, and S25 Ultra smartphones

Tizen OS powers this Smart TV, giving you access to your favorite streaming apps, such as Netflix, Disney+, YouTube, and Prime Video. With Samsung’s Universal Guide, you can easily browse content across apps, making it even easier to find something to watch.

The included Samsung 40-inch 5 Series Full HD Smart TV is the perfect bonus addition for a bedroom, guest room, or office. It features full HD resolution, smart streaming apps, and Samsung’s reliable picture quality. It's a solid secondary TV that's completely free with your purchase.

On top of that, you’ll also score a three-month subscription to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, worth $50. This means you’ll have access to hundreds of games across console, PC, and the cloud, including AAA blockbusters and day-one releases. If you’re a gamer, this adds even more value to an already fantastic deal.

Considering the 85-inch DU7200 alone usually retails for $1,099.99, getting it for $799.99 with two extra bonuses is an absolute steal. If you’ve been waiting for a big-screen upgrade, this is the perfect time to pull the trigger.

Nearly any robot vacuum can sufficiently clear tile or hardwood floors of the hair and crumbs blowing across them like tumbleweeds. But for a robot vacuum to work on carpet, suction power and time spent cleaning need to be boosted to uproot the debris embedded in any pile height.

Do robot vacuums really work on carpet?

Yes, several robot vacuum cleaners do a pretty phenomenal job on carpets and rugs. In fact, the best robot vacuum brands have been mastering the art for several years, particularly honing in on pet hair pickup and deep cleaning of plush carpet.

For homes with varying floor types and a notable amount of foot traffic, buying the cheapest robot vacuum will likely create more hassle. Every time that bot gets stuck on a rug corner or welcomes you home to pet hair still visibly clinging to the living room carpet, you'll be tempted to do the job yourself — but rest assured that that's not an inevitable experience with every robovac.

SEE ALSO: As a Dyson stan, I wouldn't tell anyone to buy the Dyson 360 Vis Nav robot vacuum

The best robot vacuums for carpet have powerful suction, of course, aided by brush roll systems designed to dig into low- and high-pile carpet to pinch hair and large chunks while simultaneously inhaling fine debris that a weaker robot vac would pass right over. The most common way to measure suction power is in Pascals (though top contenders like iRobot and Shark just have to be different by not adhering to that method). When suction power in Pascals (Pa) is advertised, look for at least 6,000 Pa, and under no circumstances entertain anything lower than 5,000 Pa. For reference, robot vacuums at the premium end of the spectrum clock between 10,000 and 22,000 Pa.

Our top picks use automatic suction adjustment to customize cleaning based on floor type, leading to stronger cyclonic force on soft floors without you having to specifically request so. All of my top picks also come with a self-emptying dock (or at least offer the option) to mitigate the frequency of trips you'd personally have to make to the trash can — which, ideally, would be a lot if the robovac is deep cleaning the amount of gunk from your carpets that it should be.

What about robot vacuums on different floor types?

If a robot vacuum has mastered carpet — the hardest floor type to tackle — these models definitely won't struggle to sweep up debris from hard floors like hardwood, tile, and laminate. Speaking of hard floors, if you're already eyeing a robot vacuum with market-leading suction power, chances are that that model is also one of the most advanced at mopping. Typically, the super powerful premium robot vacuums are also outfitted with pressurized mopping pads that wash and dry themselves, plus sensors that alert them to stop mopping on carpet. Unless it's a bumbling artifact from 2018, most robot vacuums transition smoothly between floor types. (Though almost every robot vacuum slips up on a bath mat from time to time, the ones that are better at navigating will at least make it out without getting stuck in place.)

Not sure which robot vacuum would work best on your carpets or rugs? I test and compare a ton of top robot vacs as they come out in my own home, narrowing down the best options and refreshing my recommendations as necessary. For this list, I kept an extra close eye on performance on a variety of carpet pile lengths, rugs, and bath mats, pet hair and debris pick up, transitions between floor types, automatic suction settings, and more. Here are my three favorites of 2025:

Long-distance relationships can be rough, but they are create an opportunity for some clever and thoughtful gift giving. Until teleportation is a thing, fill the void with these nifty gifts that can make you feel more connected, keep that spark alive, or simply help your S.O. feel less alone. With Valentine's Day coming up, this is an especially opportune time to let your long-distance loved ones know you're thinking of them with a gift. While some of these gifts are clearly for couples, others aren't limited to a romantic long-distance relationship. Living far away from family members or friends and not seeing them often can be just as hard. Many of these gifts would make just as sweet a gift for your BFF or your family.

The Mini is a bite-sized version of The New York Times' revered daily crossword. While the crossword is a lengthier experience that requires both knowledge and patience to complete, The Mini is an entirely different vibe.

With only a handful of clues to answer, the daily puzzle doubles as a speed-running test for many who play it.

So, when a tricky clue disrupts a player's flow, it can be frustrating! If you find yourself stumped playing The Mini — much like with Wordle and Connections — we have you covered.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable

Here are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Wednesday, February 5, 2025:

AcrossFacebook's parent company

• The answer is Meta.

Full-length skirts ... and a morning hour read backward

• The answer is Maxis.

Written with pen

• The answer is InInk.

N.B.A. team that nearly renamed itself the Swamp Dragons in the 1990s

• The answer is Nets.

"___ a Wonderful Life"

• The answer is Its.

DownFrench modernist painter … and a morning hour read backward

• The answer is Manet.

What lighted signs mark in theaters

• The answer is Exits.

Altoids containers

• The answer is Tins.

Pose a question

• The answer is Ask.

Short skirt

• The answer is Mini.

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

Featured Video For You The Wordle Strategy used by the New York Times' Head of Games

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

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

Google has quietly deleted its pledge not to use AI for weapons or surveillance, a promise that had been in place since 2018.

First spotted by Bloomberg, Google has updated its AI Principles to remove an entire section on artificial intelligence applications it pledged not to pursue. Significantly, Google's policy had previously stated that it would not design nor deploy AI technology for use in weapons, or in surveillance technology which violates "internationally accepted norms."

Now it seems that such use cases might not be entirely off the table.

SEE ALSO: Google Maps will rename Gulf of Mexico to America following Trump's order

"There’s a global competition taking place for AI leadership within an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape," read Google's blog post on Tuesday. "We believe democracies should lead in AI development, guided by core values like freedom, equality, and respect for human rights. And we believe that companies, governments, and organizations sharing these values should work together to create AI that protects people, promotes global growth, and supports national security."

While Google's post did concern its AI Principles update, it did not explicitly mention the deletion of its prohibition on AI weapons or surveillance. 

When reached for comment, a Google spokesperson directed Mashable back to the blog post.

"[W]e're updating the principles for a number of reasons, including the massive changes in AI technology over the years and the ubiquity of the technology, the development of AI principles and frameworks by global governing bodies, and the evolving geopolitical landscape," said the spokesperson.

Google's AI Principles listing the "Applications we will not pursue" as of Jan. 30. Credit: Screenshot: Mashable / Google

Google first published its AI Principles in 2018, following significant employee protests against its work with the U.S. Department of Defense. (The company had already infamously removed "don't be evil" from its Code of Conduct that same year.) Project Maven aimed to use AI to improve weapon targeting systems, interpreting video information to increase military drones' accuracy. 

In an open letter that April, thousands of employees expressed a belief that "Google should not be in the business of war," and requested that the company "draft, publicize and enforce a clear policy stating that neither Google nor its contractors will ever build warfare technology."

The company's AI Principles were the result, with Google ultimately not renewing its contract with the Pentagon in 2019. However, it looks as though the tech giant's attitude toward AI weapons technology may now be changing.

Google's new attitude toward AI weapons could be an effort to keep up with competitors. Last January, OpenAI amended its own policy to remove a ban on "activity that has high risk of physical harm," including "weapons development" and "military and warfare." In a statement to Mashable at the time, an OpenAI spokesperson clarified that this change was to provide clarity concerning "national security use cases."

"It was not clear whether these beneficial use cases would have been allowed under 'military' in our previous policies," said the spokesperson.

Opening up the possibility of weaponised AI isn't the only change Google made to its AI Principles. As of Jan. 30, Google's policy listed seven core objectives for AI applications: "be socially beneficial," "avoid creating or reinforcing unfair bias," "be built and tested for safety," "be accountable to people," "incorporate privacy design principles," "uphold high standards of scientific excellence," and "be made available for uses that accord with these principles."

Now Google's revised policy has consolidated this list to just three principles, merely stating that its approach to AI is grounded in "bold innovation," "responsible development and deployment," and "collaborative process, together." The company does specify that this includes adhering to "widely accepted principles of international law and human rights." Still, any mention of weapons or surveillance is now conspicuously absent.

TL;DR: Live stream Sri Lanka vs. Australia for free on 7Plus. Access this free streaming site from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

Australia secured a victory in the first Test match against Sri Lanka. It's only a two-Test tour, so this next matchup really matters. Sri Lanka need to win to level the series before the tour moves on to the ODIs.

If you want to watch Sri Lanka vs. Australia (2nd Test) for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Sri Lanka vs. Australia (2nd Test)?

The 2nd Test between Sri Lanka and Australia takes place from Feb. 6 to Feb. 10. This Test match takes place at the Galle International Stadium.

The full schedule for Australia's tour of Sri Lanka is as follows:

• Sri Lanka vs. Australia (1st Test) — Jan. 29 to Feb. 2

• Sri Lanka vs. Australia (2nd Test) — Feb. 6-10

• Sri Lanka vs. Australia (1st ODI) — Feb. 12

• Sri Lanka vs. Australia (2nd ODI) — Feb. 14

The good news for fans is that every ball of this tour is available to live stream for free.

How to watch Sri Lanka vs. Australia for free

Sri Lanka vs. Australia (2nd Test) is available to live stream for free on 7Plus.

7Plus is geo-restricted to Australia, but anyone can access this free streaming platform with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in Australia, meaning you can access free live streams of Sri Lanka vs. Australia from anywhere in the world.

Access free live streams of Sri Lanka vs. Australia by following these simple steps:

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

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

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

4. Visit 7Plus

5. Stream Sri Lanka vs. Australia for free 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 most do offer free-trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can watch Sri Lanka vs. Australia (2nd Test) without committing with your cash. This clearly isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to live stream this Test series before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for 7Plus?

ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live cricket on 7Plus, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries including Australia

• 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 Sri Lanka vs. Australia (2nd Test) for free with ExpressVPN.

FREE LEGO: On Feb. 9, build a Lego Valentine's Day Heart at participating stores and take it home with you. Find participating stores here.

Opens in a new window Credit: Lego Lego: Free Valentine's Day Heart Learn More

We're always on the lookout for deals that represent great value for money. We search high and low for special offers and limited-time discounts, scouring the online world for anything that could save you cash. But sometimes, we find something that doesn't require any research. The value is there for all to see.

Lego is offering something for nothing ahead of Valentine's Day. On Feb. 9, you can build a Lego Valentine's Day Heart and take it home with you for free. A limited quantity will be available from 12-2 p.m. at participating stores.

SEE ALSO: Grab this Lego Bouquet of Roses ahead of Valentine's Day for 20% off

This special event is intended for participants aged 6+ years, and the Lego Valentine's Day Heart model will be available on a first come first serve basis while supplies last. Participants are also limited to one build each, so you can't stock up.

What makes this free giveaway particularly interesting is that the Valentine's Day Heart model cannot be purchased. So by taking part, you're getting your hands on something pretty special.

Celebrate Valentine's Day by building and taking home a Lego Valentine's Day Heart for free.

TL;DR: A wide range of ChatGPT courses are available to take for free on Udemy.

Udemy is arguably the best place to find online courses covering popular topics.

Udemy hosts an absolutely massive range of online courses covering everything from Python programming to Microsoft Excel. And better yet, some of these online courses are available to take for free, including some highly-rated lessons on ChatGPT.

SEE ALSO: DeepSeek just taught the AI industry 5 hard lessons

We've checked out everything on offer from Udemy and lined up a selection of standout ChatGPT courses to get you started. These are the best online ChatGPT courses you can take for free this month on Udemy:

• AI For Beginners: Learn The Basics of ChatGPT

• AI Prompt Engineering Chatgpt

• Become an AI Accelerated Engineer Using ChatGPT

• Become an AI-Powered Engineer: ChatGPT, Github Copilot

• ChatGPT 101: The Complete Beginner's Guide and Masterclass

• ChatGPT for Developers

• ChatGPT in 30 Minutes: New Prompt Engineering and AI Skills

• ChatGPT Made Easy: AI Essentials for Beginners

• ChatGPT, Midjourney, Firefly, Bard, DALL-E, AI Crash Course

• ChatGPT Prompt Engineering

• ChatGPT Quick Guide: Prompt Engineering, Plugins, and More

• ChatGPT Security: Privacy Risks and Data Protection Basics

• Introduction to ChatGPT for Beginners

• Mastering ChatGPT 4.0: From Setup to Advanced Interactions

• Microsoft Excel: Excel for Beginners with ChatGPT

• Midjourney and ChatGPT: Unleash AI for Unique Image Generation

• Personalized Coaching with ChatGPT and Generative AI

• Practical Introduction to ChatGPT

• Prompt Engineering Principles: ChatGPT and DALL-E

• Self-Guided Learning with ChatGPT

• Smart ChatGPT Productivity Hacks for Business Professionals

• The Introduction into ChatGPT Content Creation for Beginners

So where's the catch? These free online courses do not offer certificates of completion or direct instructor messaging, but that's the only downside. You still get unrestricted access to all the video content, so you can start learning at your own pace.

Find the best free ChatGPT courses on Udemy.

Opens in a new window Credit: Udemy AI Courses Free at Udemy Get Deal

TL;DR: Unblock Redtube from anywhere in the world with a VPN. The best service for unblocking porn sites is ExpressVPN.

Online restrictions and blockades can be a pain. We totally understand that are usually good reasons for these rules, but sometimes, your access to your favorite sites will be restricted and it will feel unfair.

Fortunately, it is possible to bypass online restrictions with a quick and easy hack. And this method even works for unblocking porn sites.

If you're looking for the best way to unblock porn sites like Redtube for free from anywhere in the world, we have the information you need.

How to unblock Redtube for free

VPNs can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in another location. This simple process bypasses geo-restrictions to secure access to porn sites like Redtube from anywhere in the world. This might sound complicated, but you can unblock your favorite porn sites in just a few simple steps:

1. Sign up for a 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 a location that supports access to Redtube

4. Visit Redtube

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 unblocking porn sites are not free, but most do offer free trials or money-back guarantees. By taking advantage of these offers, you can unblock porn sites and then recover your investment at a later date. This obviously isn't a long-term solution, but it works well if you're traveling or temporarily away from home.

What is the best VPN for porn?

ExpressVPN is the top choice when it comes to unblocking porn sites like Redtube, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries

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

• Strict no-logging policy

• Fast streaming 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.

Unblock Redtube for free with ExpressVPN.

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

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

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable What is Connections?

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

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 February 5 Here's a hint for today's Connections categories

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

• Yellow: Work benefits and earnings

• Green: A clue or a sign

• Blue: Actions in a card game

• Purple: Meanings of a common name

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: Parts of a Compensation Package

• Green: Indication

• Blue: Things to do with A Deck of Cards

• Purple: What "Bill" Might Refer To

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 #605 is...

What is the answer to Connections today

• Parts of a Compensation Package: BONUS, INSURANCE, SALARY, VACATION

• Indication: FLAG, GIVEAWAY, SIGN, TELL

• Things to do with A Deck of Cards: CUT, DEAL, FAN, SHUFFLE

• What "Bill" Might Refer To: BANKNOTE, BEAK, INVOICE, WILLIAM

Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be new Connections for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for February 5

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

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

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