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TL;DR: Get lifetime access to Microsoft Visio Professional 2021 for Windows for £15.91 (reg. £199.22) through 12 January and streamline your project management with powerful diagramming tools.
Opens in a new window Credit: Retail King Microsoft Visio Professional 2021 for Windows £15.91 at the Mashable ShopManaging complex projects can be intimidating, but Microsoft Visio Professional 2021 makes it easier than ever. For project managers who need to visualise workflows, timelines, and organisational charts, Visio offers a suite of advanced diagramming tools that simplify the complicated.
Right now through 12 January, you can get lifetime access to Microsoft Visio Pro on sale for just £15.91 (reg. £199.22) at the Mashable Shop.
Visio provides a comprehensive library of templates and shapes, allowing you to create detailed, professional diagrams with ease. Whether you're mapping out a new process, designing an organisational structure, or planning project timelines, Visio's easy-to-use features ensure that your diagrams are not only accurate but also visually appealing.
One of the best features of Visio 2021 is its seamless integration with other Microsoft Office applications, making it simple to incorporate data from Excel, Word, and PowerPoint. This integration keeps your diagrams up-to-date and aligned with your project's data, enhancing communication and teamwork within your group.
Microsoft Visio's powerful tools enable you to streamline planning processes, spot potential issues before they arise, and present your project data in a clear, understandable format. Visualise your success and keep your projects on track.
Until 12 January, get lifetime access to Microsoft Visio Professional 2021 on sale for £15.91 (reg. £199.22).
StackSocial prices subject to change.
Connections: Sports Edition is a new version of the popular New York Times word game that seeks to test the knowledge of sports fans.
Like the original Connections, the game is all about finding the "common threads between words." And just like Wordle, Connections resets after midnight and each new set of words gets trickier and trickier—so we've served up some hints and tips to get you over the hurdle.
If you just want to be told today's puzzle, you can jump to the end of this article for the latest Connections solution. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.
SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable What is Connections Sports Edition?The NYT's latest daily word game has launched in association with The Athletic, the New York Times property that provides the publication's sports coverage. Connections can be played on both web browsers and mobile devices and require players to group four words that share something in common.
Tweet may have been deletedEach 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 deletedPlayers can also rearrange and shuffle the board to make spotting connections easier. Additionally, each group is color-coded with yellow being the easiest, followed by green, blue, and purple. Like Wordle, you can share the results with your friends on social media.
Here's a hint for today's Connections Sports Edition categoriesWant a hint about the categories without being told the categories? Then give these a try:
Yellow: Point or score increase
Green: Movies on the ice
Blue: NFL quarterbacks with record-breaking careers
Purple: Shortened versions of mascots in college football conference
Need a little extra help? Today's connections fall into the following categories:
Yellow: Increase a lead
Green: Hockey movies
Blue: Hall of Fame QBs
Purple: First 4 letters of SEC nicknames
Looking for Wordle today? Here's the answer to today's Wordle.
Ready for the answers? This is your last chance to turn back and solve today's puzzle before we reveal the solutions.
Drumroll, please!
The solution to today's Connections Sports Edition #99 is...
What is the answer to Connections Sports Edition todayIncrease a lead - BALLOON, EXTEND, GROW, SWELL
Hockey movies - GOON, MIRACLE, SLAP SHOT, THE MIGHTY DUCKS
Hall of Fame QBs - MANNING, MOON, TITTLE, UNITAS
First 4 letters of SEC nicknames - BULL, GAME, LONG, SOON
Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be new Connections for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.
Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.
If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.
Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Connections.
If you're reading this, you're looking for a little help playing Strands, the New York Times' elevated word-search game.
Strands requires the player to perform a twist on the classic word search. Words can be made from linked letters — up, down, left, right, or diagonal, but words can also change direction, resulting in quirky shapes and patterns. Every single letter in the grid will be part of an answer. There's always a theme linking every solution, along with the "spangram," a special, word or phrase that sums up that day's theme, and spans the entire grid horizontally or vertically.
SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on MashableBy providing an opaque hint and not providing the word list, Strands creates a brain-teasing game that takes a little longer to play than its other games, like Wordle and Connections.
If you're feeling stuck or just don't have 10 or more minutes to figure out today's puzzle, we've got all the NYT Strands hints for today's puzzle you need to progress at your preferred pace.
SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for December 31 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for December 31 NYT Strands hint for today’s theme: ResolutionsThese words describe the last part.
Today’s NYT Strands theme plainly explainedWords are how things ends.
NYT Strands spangram hint: Is it vertical or horizontal?Today's NYT Strands spangram is vertical.
NYT Strands spangram answer todayToday's spangram is ItsOver.
Featured Video For You Strands 101: How to win NYT’s latest word game NYT Strands word list for December 31Finale
Ending
Closure
Conclusion
Epilogue
Coda
ItsOver
Looking for other daily online games? Mashable's Games page has more hints, and 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 Strands.
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 deletedEach 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 deletedPlayers 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 December 31 Here's a hint for today's Connections categoriesWant a hint about the categories without being told the categories? Then give these a try:
Yellow: Rapid motion or speed
Green: Enjoyable activities or excitement
Blue: Pharses used to start a letter
Purple: Complete phrases related to "name"
Need a little extra help? Today's connections fall into the following categories:
Yellow: Move Quickly
Green: Fun Time
Blue: Words Before An Addressee
Purple: Name___
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 #571 is...
What is the answer to Connections todayMove Quickly: BOLT, DART, DASH, FLY
Fun Time: BALL, BLAST, KICK, THRILL
Words Before An Addressee: ATTENTION, DEAR, FOR, TO
Name___: BRAND, DROP, GAME, NAMES
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 December 31Are 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.
Oh hey there! If you're here, it must be time for Wordle. As always, we're serving up our daily hints and tips to help you figure out today's answer.
If you just want to be told today's word, you can jump to the bottom of this article for today's Wordle solution revealed. 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 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections today: Hints and answers for December 31 Where did Wordle come from?Originally created by engineer Josh Wardle as a gift for his partner, Wordle rapidly spread to become an international phenomenon, with thousands of people around the globe playing every day. Alternate Wordle versions created by fans also sprang up, including battle royale Squabble, music identification game Heardle, and variations like Dordle and Quordle that make you guess multiple words at once.
Wordle eventually became so popular that it was purchased by the New York Times, and TikTok creators even livestream themselves playing.
What's the best Wordle starting word?The best Wordle starting word is the one that speaks to you. But if you prefer to be strategic in your approach, we have a few ideas to help you pick a word that might help you find the solution faster. One tip is to select a word that includes at least two different vowels, plus some common consonants like S, T, R, or N.
What happened to the Wordle archive?The entire archive of past Wordle puzzles was originally available for anyone to enjoy whenever they felt like it, but it was later taken down, with the website's creator stating it was done at the request of the New York Times. However, the New York Times then rolled out its own Wordle Archive, available only to NYT Games subscribers.
Is Wordle getting harder?It might feel like Wordle is getting harder, but it actually isn't any more difficult than when it first began. You can turn on Wordle's Hard Mode if you're after more of a challenge, though.
SEE ALSO: NYT's The Mini crossword answers for December 31 Here's a subtle hint for today's Wordle answer:A primate found in Madagascar.
Does today's Wordle answer have a double letter?There are no reoccurring letters.
Today's Wordle is a 5-letter word that starts with...Today's Wordle starts with the letter L.
SEE ALSO: Wordle-obsessed? These are the best word games to play IRL. The Wordle answer today is...Get your last guesses in now, because it's your final chance to solve today's Wordle before we reveal the solution.
Drumroll please!
The solution to today's Wordle is...
LEMUR.
Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be a new Wordle for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.
Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.
SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for December 31Reporting by Chance Townsend, Caitlin Welsh, Sam Haysom, Amanda Yeo, Shannon Connellan, Cecily Mauran, Mike Pearl, and Adam Rosenberg contributed to this article.
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 Wordle.
According to a letter from the U.S. Treasury Department to lawmakers revealed on Monday, Dec. 30, Chinese-backed hackers successfully infiltrated the department’s systems and stole government documents this month.
SEE ALSO: Hackers take over Google Chrome extensions in cyberattackThe breach, first reported by Reuters, highlights yet another instance of state-sponsored cyber espionage targeting U.S. government employees — just moments after AT&T and Verizon finally dealt with Salt Typhoon. In a statement to Senator Sherrod Brown, chair of the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs, the Treasury confirmed that the attack occurred in December.
In the letter, the department states that the breach was flagged by a third-party cybersecurity vendor, BeyondTrust, which discovered that the attackers had compromised a key used to secure a cloud-based service. That service was integral to providing remote technical support to end users within the department's offices.
"With access to the stolen key, the threat actor was able [to] override the service’s security, remotely access certain Treasury DO user workstations, and access certain unclassified documents maintained by those users," the letter reads.
The Treasury revealed it was alerted to the breach on Dec. 8 and is collaborating with the FBI and the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) to evaluate the scope of the incident. Reuters reports that the FBI has yet to respond to requests for comment, while CISA redirected inquiries back to the Treasury.
LG Electronics is unveiling something very exciting at the upcoming CES 2025 this January: the LG UltraGear GX9 series.
The new lineup includes the 45GX990A and 45GX950A, which are both 45-inch 21:9 gaming monitors with ultra-high 5K2K resolution. According to LG, the ratio offers a more immersive gaming experience with better compatibility and more screen real estate. But, since both products have Dual-Mode, you can customize your aspect ratio and picture size. The models have curved display panels, higher brightness, and a more comfortable experience with reduced eye strain.
Tweet may have been deletedWhat's more is the LG UltraGear OLED Bendable Gaming Monitor is the first 5K2K-resolution bendable OLED display — meaning it can go from completely flat to a 900R curvature in seconds, according to LG.
"The UltraGear GX9 series sets a new standard for OLED gaming monitors, combining groundbreaking display technology with smart features that expand and enhance the user experience," YS Lee, the vice president and head of the IT Business Unit, LG Media Entertainment Solution Company, said in a press release. "From the world’s first 5K2K OLED gaming monitors with second-generation Dual-Mode to smart gaming monitors with built-in webOS, the GX9 lineup pushes the boundaries to deliver maximum value and enjoyment for our customers."
We don't know much else about the new tech, but more info, like pricing and release dates, should be released in 2025.
It's been nearly a year since the Wicked press (and subsequent memes) began, but just a little over a month since it finally made its highly anticipated theatrical debut. And as of Dec. 31, it's already headed to the small screen. Consider this a late Christmas present.
Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande star as the green-skinned, magically gifted Elphaba and her pink-loving polar opposite bestie Glinda. The stage show's lyricist, Stephen Schwartz, and playwright Winnie Holzman joined forces on the screenplay, while Jon M. Chu directed (Crazy Rich Asians, In the Heights). It also stars Jonathan Bailey (Bridgerton), Academy Award-winner Michelle Yeoh (Everything Everywhere All at Once), and the Jeff Goldblum. There are also some very noteworthy cameos.
The film adaptation of the classic 2003 Broadway musical starring Idina Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth has already proven popular among audiences — bringing in $634 million worldwide and over $400 million domestically. We can only expect Wicked to soar even further with its small-screen debut.
Here's everything you need to know about how to watch Wicked at home this season.
What is Wicked: Part 1 about?Wicked is an adaptation of the Tony award-winning Broadway musical of the same name, which opened in 2003. The play itself is also an adaptation of Gregory Maguire's 1995 novel Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West, which is basically a prequel to L. Frank Baum's original novel The Wizard of Oz (as well as the iconic film from 1939). It tells the backstory of the green-skinned, misunderstood Elphaba, aka the Wicked Witch of the West, as well as the popular and privileged Glinda the Good. The two witches meet as students at Shiz University in the Land of Oz and embark on a journey from loathing to an unexpectedly deep friendship. Part one of the two-part Wicked saga ultimately questions, "Are people born wicked? Or do they have wickedness thrust upon them?"
Check out the full trailer for a more in-depth sneak peek:
Is Wicked worth watching?Wicked: Part 1 set a new record for the biggest opening for a movie based on a Broadway show ever, grossing $424 million domestically to date. It's not perfect, but it's been largely well received by audiences and critics alike, currently sitting at an 88 percent critic rating and 95 percent audience rating on Rotten Tomatoes. It's earned four Golden Globes nominations, including Best Motion Picture — Musical or Comedy, as well as acting nods for Erivo and Grande.
Mashable's film editor Kristy Puchko called it "wonky, but at times wonderful," noting that some of the cinematic choices by director Jon M. Chu drag it down. "Chu's decision to turn Act 1 into a teen musical is marred by his dingy color palette, the crowded cinematography of Shiz (thankfully, things open up in the Emerald City), and directing his leading lady to play the titular witch as chiefly woeful. A show heralded for its high-energy song numbers, stage spectacle, and smirking sense of humor, Wicked is malformed by these choices. Yet, some sections are sure to have audiences cheering," she writes.
Check out our full review of Wicked: Part 1.
How to watch Wicked at home Credit: Universal PicturesWhile it's still floating around in theaters, Wicked will make its at-home debut on major digital platforms (Prime Video, Apple TV+, etc.) on Dec. 31, 2024. The film will be exclusively available to buy or rent for $29.99 or $19.99, respectively. Plus, you'll get loads of bonus content to enjoy alongside the film itself — including a singalong version, deleted and extended scenes, feature commentary, and a 40-minute journey through Oz.
Keep in mind that with rentals, you'll only get 30 days to watch the film and just 48 hours to finish it once you start it. If you'd rather wait and stream Wicked instead, keep on scrolling for more information.
Here are some quick links to rent or purchase Wicked as of Dec. 31:
Prime Video — buy for $29.99, rent for $19.99
Apple TV+ — buy for $29.99, rent for $19.99
Fandango at Home — buy for $29.99, rent for $19.99
Microsoft — buy for $29.99, rent for $19.99
YouTube — buy for $29.99, rent for $19.99
As a Universal Pictures film, we know that Wicked will make its streaming debut on Peacock, the streaming service owned by NBCUniversal. The only question is when. While no official streaming date has been revealed yet, we can make an educated guess that it will follow a release schedule similar to previous Universal Pictures hits like Twisters and The Fall Guy. Both of these films had a three-month gap between their digital debut and streaming debut, which means Wicked will likely be available to stream around March 31st. Although, there are no guarantees.
Peacock raised its prices earlier this year, with subscriptions now starting at $7.99 per month with ads or $13.99 per month without ads. But luckily, we've found a few ways you can save some money — check out the best Peacock deals below.
The best Peacock streaming dealsBest long-term Peacock deal Opens in a new window Credit: Peacock Peacock Premium annual subscription $79.99 per year or $139.99 per year (save 17%) Get DealIf you commit to Peacock long-term and pay for a year upfront, it'll save you about 17% over a monthly subscription. An annual subscription goes for $79.99 per year with ads or $139.99 per year without, which is essentially 12 months of streaming for the price of 10. Comparatively, a monthly subscription will run you $7.99 per month ($95.88 per year) or $13.99 per month ($167.88 per year).
Best Peacock deal for Xfinity customers Opens in a new window Credit: Peacock / Xfinity Peacock Premium Free for select Xfinity customers Learn MoreSelect Xfinity customers can score a Peacock subscription for no extra cost. Here's a breakdown of who is eligible:
Xfinity Internet users on the Gigabit or Gigabit+ plans can get Peacock Premium (with ads) for two years (offer ends June 25, 2025) for free.
Xfinity Internet customers who are Diamond or Platinum Xfinity Rewards members can get Peacock Premium for free by redeeming a reward for it. Sign in at xfinity.com/rewards and choose Peacock as a reward. Then, wait for your email (it may take a few hours) with instructions on activating the offer.
NOW TV customers can also receive Peacock Premium as part of their service.
New customers with Xfinity Internet and an X1 TV Box, Flex streaming TV Box, or a Xumo Stream Box from Xfinity can get Peacock Premium for free for six months.
College students with a verifiable student email can snag a Peacock Premium subscription for just $1.99 per month for an entire year. Just prove your student status through SheerID and you'll receive a unique promo code to secure the discount. The discount code can only be used once, so don't go sharing it with all of your friends!
Best Peacock deal for first responders Opens in a new window Credit: Peacock Peacock Premium for First Responders $1.99 per month Watch NowFirst responders can also score Peacock Premium for just $1.99 per month, so long as they can verify their first responder status via SheerID. Sign up using the unique promo code you receive and the price will drop down to $1.99 per month. First responders who continue to meet verification qualifications can renew the deal annually. You'll just have to go through the process each time to receive a new promo code and secure the discount year after year. Learn more about eligibility terms and requirements.
Best for Instacart users Opens in a new window Credit: Instacart / Peacock Peacock Premium annual subscription Free for Instacart+ subscribers (save $79.99/year) Watch NowPeacock and Instacart partnered up last year to offer paid Instacart+ members a free Peacock Premium subscription. That's a $79.99 per year value for zero dollars. An Instacart+ account costs you $99.99 per year and includes free grocery delivery on orders over $35, lower fees, and credit back on eligible pickup orders, among other perks. Plus, the best part is that you get a two-week free trial to test things out. Definitely grab this freebie if you haven't yet. Better yet, wait until Wicked's official streaming date is revealed and time your trial so you can watch for free.
Best for JetBlue members Opens in a new window Credit: Peacock / JetBlue Peacock Premium Free for one year for Mosaic status members Watch NowThrough July 2025, JetBlue TrueBlue members can earn 1,000 free TrueBlue points when they sign up for Peacock. If you have Mosaic status, you can get your first year of Peacock Premium for free (a $79.99 value). Read more about eligibility and terms over on Peacock's special offer page.
If you're a pet owner, then you know what it's like to be in an awkward situation. After all, our animals don't always abide by rules or social graces. That’s exactly the predicament X user @barelyalex found themselves in when their cat had an unfortunate accident on an airplane.
On Dec. 29, they posted a thread about the ordeal that has since racked up hundreds of thousands of likes and impressions. The first viral post read: "Put a finger down if ur kitten pooped in his carrier on the plane bc he got scared of a rough landing & the crew was so angry about the smell that they kicked u off ur next flight and left u in a random city for 12 hrs and now ur rationing cat litter & food in a family bathroom."
Tweet may have been deletedAfter the initial post took off online, they posted a much more detailed account on the incident. Tagging Southwest Airlines in the post, the user claimed that her kitten had pooped in his carrier after getting scared during a rough landing. Since they had a quick connecting flight, they rushed to clean up the mess in the airplane bathroom but chose to throw all the mess away in a trash bin over concerns paper towels wouldn't flush.
That might've been the key mistake because, apparently, the smell really lingered.
According to @barelyalex, they informed the flight attendants about the issue, only to realize they would be re-boarding the same plane for the next leg of their trip. They claimed the new flight crew was much less understanding, going so far as to shut down the bathroom due to the smell. Ultimately, the crew allegedly removed @barelyalex and their kitten from the connecting flight.
You can see the full post in detail.
Tweet may have been deleted@barelyalex noted that Southwest Airlines provided a $200 travel voucher for a future flight, and they were eventually rebooked on a much later flight with an additional connection. Despite the ordeal, they made it to their final destination without any other major accidents — albeit many hours later.
Tweet may have been deletedMashable reached out to both @barelyalex and Southwest Airlines for further details but have not yet received a response.
Choosing the best laptop is a largely subjective decision that comes down to your primary use cases, your preferred operating system, and your budget. In other words, there's no such thing as a universally best laptop.
This is an annoying fact of life for both laptop shoppers and those of us doling out "best laptop" recommendations, since we can't make custom judgment calls for everyone in need of a new machine. (I would love to, but I've got a thing after this.) However, I can confidently point you in the right direction of some standouts that I and other members of the Mashable team have vetted and approved.
Our top picksAs of Dec. 2024, Mashable's top laptop overall is the Microsoft Surface Laptop 7, a sophisticated Copilot+ PC with incredible performance, an unrivaled battery life of nearly 23 hours, and some fun AI features if you're into that sort of thing.
For card-carrying members of Team Apple, we think the best MacBook for most people is the 15-inch M3 MacBook Air, a sleek, peppy notebook with a scrumptious keyboard and closed-lid support for two external displays. After new testing, we now recommend the 16-inch, M4 Pro-powered MacBook Pro as the best laptop for photo and video editing — it's stupid fast, beautifully made, long lasting, and configurable with a stunning nano-texture display.
SEE ALSO: I've tested over 59 laptops: This is the best Windows laptop of 2024For those on a budget, the best cheap laptop we've tested is the Microsoft Surface Laptop Go 3, which has a premium, ultra-portable design and an excellent keyboard. If you're trying to spend less than $500, look into the HP Chromebook Plus 15.6-inch: With a large, colorful display, cool everyday performance, and some useful AI features, it's the best Chromebook we've tried.
Among gaming laptops, the Alienware m16 R2 leads the pack. It's a super snappy mid-ranger that's capable of being toned down for everyday use when you're done playing Cyberpunk 2077.
The best laptops we've used also include several hybrid devices. Our 2-in-1 frontrunner is the Lenovo Yoga 9i (Gen 9), a solid performer with a gorgeous 2.8K OLED display and a rotating soundbar. Creative professionals may be better served by the Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio 2, a sturdy convertible with a decent battery life and a pull-forward design that can turn it into an easel, while heavy multitaskers should look further into the latest Asus Zenbook Duo. It features two OLED displays, performs well for its price point, and includes free accessories like a stylus and a detachable keyboard.
After spending countless hours reviewing laptops across popular brands, we've decided to recommend these models because they're well-made, powerful enough for their respective use cases, and priced fairly (or easy to find on sale). At the very least, we think they can be useful archetypes within different categories of computers. Don't start from square one if you don't have to, you know?
What's on deckWe're currently testing a bunch of laptops, including the Dell XPS 13, a Lunar Lake PC with a tandem OLED display; the HP Omnibook Ultra Flip, a 2-in-1 Lunar Lake model with a 3K OLED display; the Asus Chromebook Plus CX34, a cheap Chromebook; and the latest Framework Laptop 13, a modular laptop. (The previous-gen Framework Laptop 13 used to be featured in this guide as Mashable's favorite repairable laptop.) I'll update this story once we've finished testing them.
Relatedly, several members of the Mashable team will attend the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in January, where a slew of new and updated laptops will likely debut. We'll be keeping a close eye out for possible top pick contenders and replacements that are worthy of testing.
What we've tested lately (and didn't love)We recently tried the HP Omen 17, a 17-inch gaming laptop priced at $1,799. It's a strapping machine with a plastic chassis that keeps it remarkably cool while playing Triple-A games, but its lousy speakers, unsatisfying keyboard, and cheap-feeling build disappointed our reviewer. It also underperformed in our graphics benchmark compared to Alienware's m16 R2. (Both of our testing units had the same RTX 4070 GPU.)
The Omen 17 is still a decent pick if you're looking for a minimalist big-screener, but the m16 R2 is a more well-rounded machine and retains its "best gaming laptop" title for the time being.
Read on for Mashable's in-depth guide to the best laptops of 2024. FYI: We've listed the pricing and specs of our testing units, which may not apply to each laptop's base model.
Telecom giants AT&T and Verizon have assured the public that their networks are secure following a string of cyberattacks attributed to a China-linked hacking group known as Salt Typhoon.
SEE ALSO: Was your phone targeted by China's Salt Typhoon hack? Your provider might not tell you."We have found no activity by nation-state actors in our networks at this time," in a statement provided Monday, an AT&T spokesperson told multiple outlets.
The Dallas-based company also noted that while Salt Typhoon’s operations are still being investigated, it has found "relatively few instances" where an individual’s information was compromised. AT&T is working closely with authorities and reaching out to affected individuals.
This is the first time AT&T and Verizon have publicly acknowledged being affected by Salt Typhoon. For most customers, there’s little reason to worry. Verizon told TechCrunch that the hacking group behind the breach had targeted "a small number of high-profile customers in government." Still, the full scope of the breach remains unclear.
On Friday, the White House confirmed that AT&T and Verizon were among nine companies breached by the hacker group, though U.S. officials have declined to name the ninth affected company. However, Anne Neuberger, the deputy national security advisor for cyber and emerging technologies, told reporters that the unnamed company had access to over 100,000 routers.
SAVE UP TO 30%: Lego sets at Best Buy are discounted by up to 30% including sets for plant-lovers and aspiring astronomers.
Best Lego deals at Best Buy Best Lego deal for plant-lovers Lego Succulents Building Kit $39.99 (save $10) Get Deal Best Lego deal for young kids Lego Duplo Disney Mickey and Friends Camping Adventure $34.99 (save $15) Get Deal Best Lego deal for older kids Lego Technic Planet Earth and Moon in Orbit $59.99 (save $15) Get DealLooking for an activity of wholesome fun to pass the chilly winter hours? Legos are always a great option. From toddlers to adults, Lego sets are a fun project that doesn't take up much room. As a benefit to parents, sitting the kids down with a Lego set is one of the quieter activities around, but be sure the kids don't leave any pieces on the floor because no one needs that in 2025.
Not only are Lego sets fun to build, they can make for great display pieces on a bookshelf or a dresser in the kids' room.
Lego sets tend to lean on the more expensive side which is why it's exciting to see price drop across a category like we see today at Best Buy. Dozens of Lego sets are on sale for up to 30% off which includes sets young kids, teens, and even adults would love to assemble. Here are some of our favorites.
Best Lego deal for plant-lovers Opens in a new window Credit: Lego Lego Succulents Building Kit $39.99 at Best BuyFor much of the U.S., gardening through the dead of winter isn't an option. Sure, growing herbs and plants indoors is a great alterative but why not opt for something that's always in season like the Lego Succulents Building Set. Thanks to today's deal at Best Buy, you can save $10 on the set and pay just $39.99 for a cheerful set of nine different succulents.
Designed for Lego builders ages 18 and up, each of the nine succulents comes with its own buildable pot which means you can arrange them all together or scatter them throughout your home for a pop of color.
Best Lego deal for young kids Opens in a new window Credit: Lego Lego Duplo Disney Mickey and Friends Camping Adventure $34.99 at Best BuyFor the young kids who can't wait to play with Legos, the Duplo Disney Mickey and Friends Camping Adventure kit is designed for kids aged two and up. With Daisy Duck and her nephews, the set includes four duck figurines, a camper van, tent, canoe, and campfire.
With 37 pieces in total including a buildable waterfall and wobbly bridge, the set is a perfect introduction to Legos while working on motor skills.
Best Lego deal for older kids Opens in a new window Credit: Lego Lego Technic Planet Earth and Moon in Orbit $59.99 at Best BuyFor older kids who are interested in astronomy or more complex building sets, the Lego Technic Planet Earth and Moon in Orbit is a great option that's part of Best Buy's Lego sale. The set usually sells for a steep $74.99 but it's on sale today for $59.99 which means you'll be getting a 20% discount.
The set replicates a model of planet Earth with the moon in orbit, helping kids get a better understanding of how out solar system works. The crankshaft allows kids (or adults) to create full moon rotations around Earth. Lego also included printed months and moon phases throughout the year on the set to show the interaction of the sun, moon, and Earth through all seasons.
More Lego deals at Best BuyLego Friends Farm Animal Vet Clinic Pretend Play — $20.99 $29.99 (save $9)
Lego Minecraft The Turtle Beach House — $21.59 $26.99 (save $5.40)
Lego Animal Crossing Kapp’n’s Island Boat Tour — $23.99 $29.99 (save $6)
Lego Disney Encanto Isabela’s Flowerpot — $27.99 $39.99 (save $12)
Lego Creator 3-in-1 Space Astronaut Toy Set — $43.99 $54.99 (save $11)
Lego Icons Wildflower Bouquet — $47.99 $59.99 (save $12)
Lego Star Wars Tantive IV Starship Vehicle Model — $63.99 $79.99 (save $16)
TLDR: On Dec. 30th, Best Buy is running Logitech deals on popular gaming mice like the Logitech G203 Lightsync, keyboards, and more.
The best Logitech Best Buy deals The best Logitech mouse deal Logitech G203 Lightsync $19.99 (Save $20) Get Deal The best Logitech keyboard deal Logitech Pro X TKL Lightspeed $142.99 (Save $57) Get Deal The best Logitech bundle deal MK270 Full-size Wireless Membrane Keyboard and Mouse Bundle $19.99 (Save $8) Get DealWhether you're clicking into online tournaments and need gear that will give you an edge, or you're a WFH champion that needs a replacement for your tired laptop keyboard, Logitech accessories improve your computer experience. Logitech might lead our list of the best gaming mice you can buy — taking both the budget and overall slots — but the brand doesn't just do gaming.
Shop the Best Buy sale and get great deals like 50% off on our favorite budget gaming mouse, the Logitech G203 Lightsync, keyboards, and more. Whether you're looking for high end performance tech or a budget keyboard and mouse bundle, this sale has you covered.
The best Logitech mouse deal Opens in a new window Credit: Logitech Logitech G203 Lightsync $19.99 at Best BuyThe Logitech G203 Lightsync is our favorite budget gaming mouse. Wired, with a precision sensor and appealing RGB lighting, its both accurate and comfortable. It has an 8,000 DPI sensor.
Bring it to a FPS tournament, or click your way through the workday — either way, at 50% off, this deal is a great buy. Get the G203 Lightsync for $19.99 and save $20.
The best Logitech keyboard deal Opens in a new window Credit: Logitech Logitech Pro X TKL Lightspeed $142.99 at Best BuyA good keyboard can do more. The Logitech Pro X TKL Lightspeed looks as premium as it feels. This keyboard's mechanical keys feel great and glow with customizable (and syncable) RGB lighting. It connects via Bluetooth and USB.
Get the Logitech Pro X TKL Lightspeed now for $142.99 and save $57.
The best Logitech bundle deal Opens in a new window Credit: Logitech MK270 Full-size Wireless Membrane Keyboard and Mouse Bundle $19.99 at Best BuySometimes we need a computer accessory refresh. If you're looking for a new mouse and keyboard that you can nab on the cheap, don't pass up this Logitech bundle deal. It's not flashy, but the MK270 Full-size Wireless Membrane Keyboard and Mouse Bundle offers solid value. Connecting to you computer via Bluetooth, this full-size keyboard includes ten keys, volume controls, and more.
The MK270 mouse and keyboard bundle is on sale for only $19.99. Get it now and save $8.
More Logitech deals at Best BuyLogitech G502 X Plus Lightspeed Wireless Gaming Mouse — $122.99 $159.99 (save $37)
Logitech G305 Lightspeed Wireless Gaming Mouse — $30.99 $49.99 (save $19)
Logitech Driving Force Shifter — $47.99 $59.99 (save $12)
Logitech C920s Pro 1080 Webcam — $59.99 $69.99 (save $10)
SAVE 31%: As of Dec. 30, you can score up to 31% off select Ninja appliances at Amazon.
Best Ninja deals as of Dec. 30: Best deal overall Ninja Digital Air Fry Countertop Oven (SP101) $186 (save $33.99) Get Deal Best runner-up deal Ninja CREAMi Deluxe $229.99 (save $20) Get Deal Best griddle deal Ninja Griddle and Indoor Grill (GR101) $95.95 (save $44.04) Get DealCooking isn’t for everyone, but even those who loathe the kitchen can’t deny the convenience of a Ninja appliance. From top-notch blenders to versatile air fryers, the company’s product lineup has a little bit of something for everyone, and right now, you can find a wide selection of Ninja products on sale at Amazon.
SEE ALSO: 10 best kitchen gadgets for #soupseasonHere are the best Ninja deals we could find this week:
Best deal overall Opens in a new window Credit: Ninja Ninja Digital Air Fry Countertop Oven (SP101) $186.00 at AmazonThe Ninja Digital Air Fry Countertop Oven (SP101) is ideal for whipping up family-sized meals in minutes. Its eight-in-one design lets you air fry, roast, broil, bake, toast, dehydrate, and more, all in one compact, countertop-friendly package.
This little kitchen appliance can outcook full-sized ovens with a 60% faster cooking time and a 60-second preheat. It also comes with an air fryer basket, a sheet pan, a wire rack, and a removable crumb tray, so you can make everything from frozen appetizers and vegetables to baked goods and roasted meals.
Best runner-up deal Opens in a new window Credit: Ninja Ninja CREAMi Deluxe $229.99 at AmazonThe Ninja CREAMi has gained tons of traction over the past year as a healthy, easy-to-use ice cream maker that churns out delicious, creamy treats with just the touch of a button. Now, you can buy the Ninja CREAMi Deluxe — an extra large version that makes up to two 24-ounce servings for $229.99 at Amazon.
According to Mashable shopping reporter Samantha Mangino, the Ninja CREAMi is a meal planner’s dream appliance for making on-the-go snacks and desserts. (Check out her full review of the Ninja CREAMi.)
The Ninja CREAMi Deluxe has eleven one-touch pre-programmed settings (ice cream, lite ice cream, sorbet, gelato, milkshake, slushi, Italian ice, frozen drink, Creamiccino, frozen yogurt, and mix-in) and a dual processing feature that lets you use the same base to make two separate mix-in flavors.
Best griddle deal Opens in a new window Credit: Ninja Ninja Griddle and Indoor Grill (GR101) $95.95 at AmazonIf you miss grilling out but aren’t ready to brave the cold, the Ninja Griddle and Indoor Grill (GR101) offers a safe, indoor alternative for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
With a 14-inch edge-to-edge cooking surface, you can make everything from fajitas to pancakes for the whole family. It’s also low-smoke, meaning there’ll be less splatter and little to no smoke, so you don't have to worry about setting off fire alarms while cooking inside.
The interchangeable grill and griddle plates make it easy to switch between char-grilled proteins and fluffier breakfast foods. Plus, everything’s dishwasher safe, including the mesh lid.
We're in the home stretch of 2024, which seems like a great time to treat yourself to some tech goodies. Popular brands like Fitbit, Roku, and Roborock are offering some pretty heavy discounts at Amazon as of Dec. 30. So, toss your guilt out the door and snag yourself something special with that holiday cash.
Here are our top picks for the best Amazon deals of the day. Don't see anything that lights you up? Check back tomorrow for brand-new selections.
Our top pick: Fitbit Versa 4 Opens in a new window Credit: Fitbit Fitbit Versa 4 $149.95 at AmazonWe haven't had a chance to review the Fitbit Versa 4, but we did love its predecessor, the Versa 3. Not to mention, our friends at PCMag (also owned by Ziff Davis) called it "an excellent fitness-focused smartwatch with welcome design improvements over the last generation." It lacks widespread app access and ECG and stress sensors, but it makes up for it with its huge selection of built-in fitness features, notable design and usability upgrades, and responsive touch screen. It's usually $199.95, but it's on sale at Amazon as of Dec. 30 for just $149.95.
Amazon 43-inch 4-Series Fire TV Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon 43-inch 4-Series Fire TV $209.99 at AmazonAmazon's 4-Series Fire TV is its introductory 4K TV — a step up from the 2-Series base model. It's not as fancy as the Omni series, but it's a solid pick for most people. It's equipped with 4K Ultra HD entertainment with HDR 10, on-board Alexa, and four HDMI inputs for connectivity. And if you're already using a Fire TV Stick, it'll have your custom-arranged apps waiting for you when you login to your Amazon account. The 43-inch model is regularly $369.99, but as of Dec. 30, Prime members can score it for only $209.99 with the code FIRE43. That's 43% in savings and $20 cheaper than it was on Black Friday. A newer model recently replaced this one, but it'll cost you another $70.
Roku TV Wireless Soundbar + Wireless Bass Opens in a new window Credit: Roku Roku Wireless Soundbar and Wireless Bass $139.98 at AmazonRoku's wireless soundbar pairs seamlessly with Roku TVs without any cables to "drastically improve the sound," as our friends at PCMag (also owned by Ziff Davis) put it. It's not overly packed with features and lacks spatial audio, but for the price, it's pretty solid. Plus, as of Dec. 30, it's bundled with the Roku Wireless Subwoofer for only $139.98. Together with the soundbar, the subwoofer can add depth and dimension to your music and movies. It's easy to setup and can slide into most spaces for an extra bass kick. Snag the set up at Amazon and save 50% for a limited time. That's the biggest discount on record.
Blueair 311i+ Max air purifier Opens in a new window Credit: Blueair Blueair 311i+ Max air purifier $179.99 at AmazonWinter should give you a break from allergies, but being holed up indoors can bring about air quality issues you didn't realize were a problem. Do yourself a favor and snag an air purifier to breathe easier this season. The Blueair 311i+ Max can remove at least 99.97 percent of tiny airborne particles to improve the air in spaces up to 1,116 square feet. Its intuitive display features a five-color AQI and simple two-button design to control fan speed and brightness. Plus, it's equipped with Alexa and pairs with the Blueair smart air purifier app for scheduling, monitoring, and more. It's usually $299.99, but as of Dec. 30, you can snag it for just $179.99 at Amazon. That's 40% in savings.
Roborock S8 Pro Ultra Opens in a new window Credit: Roborock Robrock S8 Pro Ultra robot vacuum and mop $899.99 at AmazonWith self-washing and self-drying mopping pads, above-average suction power, reactive 3D obstacle avoidance, floor type customization, and liftable brushes and mopping pads that adapt to different tasks, the Roborock S8 Pro Ultra is packed with features. However, when former Mashable intern Stacia Datskovska tested it out, she found that even its many perks didn't justify it's outrageous $1,599.99 price tag. Fortunately, as of Dec. 30, its price has plummeted to only $899.99, making it a much more justifiable purchase. That 44% price drop brings it down to the budget-friendly range where its features beat the competition.
None of these deals catching your eye? Check out Amazon's daily deals for even more savings.
SAVE UP TO $160: As of Dec. 30, Best Buy's Ring in the New Year Sale features a 50-inch, 55-inch, and 65-inch Hisense QLED TVs that are just about at Black Friday pricing — all at least 30% off and all below $350.
If you didn't buy a TV on Black Friday, my next advice would typically be to wait until early February (the week of the big football game, specifically) to buy one — that's another one of the best times of year to buy a TV.
That is, unless you happen to come across some deals that are basically still at their Black Friday pricing before it even hits the new year. That's the story with a few Hisense QLEDs during Best Buy's Ring in the New Year Sale, where a handful of sizes are as low as $10 away from what they were during Black Friday and Cyber Monday. If you're a football person, why not snag a new QLED now and bask in the brightness for all of the playoffs rather than just one game on Feb. 9?
Opens in a new window Credit: Hisense Hisense 55-inch QD5 QLED 4K TV $229.99 at Best BuyHisense's QD5 line is already really affordable in the realm of QLEDs when they're at full price. For example, a 55-inch QLED for $399.99 is already quite digestible in itself — there's no way you would have seen a price point like that on a QLED five years ago. Best Buy has then gone ahead and shaved over 40% off of that, putting this TV up for grabs for just $10 more than its $219.99 Black Friday price. If the idea of QLED was felt daunting in the past, this should change your mind.
Compared to regular LED TVs, QLEDs put a layer of quantum dots on top of the traditional LED panel to pump out more vibrant colors that have the capacity to get much brighter than TVs without quantum dots. This bold brightness is key for watching sports and gaming, especially in the daytime.
More Hisense QLEDs on sale:
Hisense 50-inch QD5 QLED 4K TV — $259.99 $379.99 (save $120)
Hisense 65-inch QD5 QLED 4K TV — $339.99 $499.99 (save $160)
If you're replacing an old TV, you can recycle it at Best Buy.
Maybe you didn't get the Apple Watch you wanted under the tree this year, or maybe being just two days away from Jan. 2025 has you a little extra aware of the fitness goals you set — either way, it's worth knowing the Apple Watch Series 10 is back down to its lowest price ever.
Amazon, Walmart, and Best Buy are offering the same markdown on both sizes of the watch, with the lattermost retailer being your best option for colorway availability. As of Dec. 30, the prices break down so that the 42mm Apple Watch Series 10 is on sale for $329, down $70 from its $399 MSRP, and the 46mm Apple Watch Series 10 is $359, $70 down from the $429 MSRP. These are also the prices we saw these watches at during Black Friday season.
SEE ALSO: New iPhone 17 Pro rumor suggests changes are coming for the Dynamic IslandCompared to the Series 9, the Series 10 doesn't have any standout upgrades, but it makes several small improvements. Mashable Senior Editor Stan Schroeder wrote in his review of the Series 10 that its probably not worth buying the new watch for Series 9 owners, but if "you own any of the [other] previous versions, the Series 10 will feel a lot fresher...And if you've never owned an Apple Watch and want to dive in now, the Series 10 is a good place to start."
For instance, the 18-hour battery life from Apple Watches prior returns, but the latest iteration offers faster charging, promising zero to 80% in 30 minutes (Schroeder saw it go from 0 to 80% in 40 minutes, and 20 and 80% in 25). The display is one millimeter larger than past iterations, which Schroeder said made for a slightly more comfortable experience even if the display size didn't immediately feel bigger unless comparing the watches side by side. He did say, however, that the weight does drop nearly a third from the Series 9 to 10, and that difference was definitely noticeable. The wide-angle OLED display also helped improve visibility from the side.
SEE ALSO: Apple pulls iPhone SE and iPhone 14 from stores in the EUBeyond battery and design, the watch comes packed with the same features as predecessors, along with a new depth app and water temperature sensor. The watch also supports audio playback, but we're betting more people will appreciate the better voice isolation for taking calls. And if you're wondering, no, this watch doesn't have the blood-oxygen sensor either due to a lawsuit against Apple.
Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple Watch Series 10 (42mm, GPS) $329.00 at AmazonOpens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple Watch Series 10 (42mm, GPS) $329.00 at Best Buy
You could have some interesting new emoji come 2025.
Unicode, the company that designs and approves emoji, released a look at nine new emoji that could be approved in 2025. Among the designs: a distorted face, a "fight cloud," a Bigfoot-esque creature, an apple core, a ballet dancer, an orca, a trombone, a landslide, and a treasure chest.
Here's a look at the potential designs, posted to X by the emoji-focused publication Emojipedia.
Tweet may have been deletedThe BBC reported that the proposed new emoji would be up for approval in September 2025 — and that there could be many more emoji added for an approval vote between now and then.
A number of new emoji were approved in 2024, including a harp, a leafless tree, a shovel, and a flag for the tiny island of Sark.
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