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If the thought of ordering a drink at a crowded bar or making small talk with strangers at a party fills you with the incomprehensible urge to jump out the nearest window, you’re probably an introvert — and that’s totally OK! We see you. We are you.

There’s no shame in being more comfortable curled up with a good book than out on the town, but that doesn’t mean you have to resign yourself to a life of solitude, either. In fact, introverts make for amazing partners, lovers, and friends — once we get to know someone.

Where do introverts meet people to date?

This may come as a shock, but dating apps (and even some of the old-school dating sites that are still hanging around) are the place for introverts. On these platforms, you can show off who you really are without feeling the pressure to constantly be “on” like you might in a traditional social setting.

If you've ever brought a book to a restaurant, we see you. Credit: Ian Moore / Mashable SEE ALSO: Tired of casual dates? Try the best dating apps for serious relationships

Yes, it’s true that dating apps still get a bad rap as a last resort for the desperate, but for introverts, these nifty little tools provide a much-needed buffer that allows us to slowly and comfortably get to know potential partners. When you meet someone online, you can take the time to build the kind of deep, meaningful connections that often feel out of reach in today’s fast-paced, surface-level dating culture.

What dating apps do introverts use?

Even though we’re big fans of online dating, especially for our introverted readers, not all dating platforms are created equal. Tinder, for example, is pretty much the polar opposite of what introverts are looking for. Its hookup-centric interface and “swipe left” model are a recipe for disaster for shy singles who prefer to get to know their matches before jumping into bed. (If dating apps were places, Tinder would be the crowded sports bar.)

Instead, we’ve found dating apps like Hinge, OkCupid, and Match are much better suited for introverts. Unlike Tinder, these dating platforms encourage users to share a little bit more about themselves, from lengthy profile bios to lists of interests and deal-breakers.

So, to help you find your person — the one who’ll understand and appreciate you for who you truly are — we’ve rounded up the best dating sites for introverts just like you. (Including a few niche dating sites and some picks for hooking up because we all have needs. Just because you're introverted doesn't mean you can't have a little fun.)

It’s officially cuffing season, so if you’ve been craving a little romance, you're not alone. Unfortunately, waiting for a meet-cute by happenstance isn't always realistic (it's not impossible, but the actual chances are pretty low). This is especially true when your busy lifestyle involves late nights responding to emails (et al.), juggling clients and side hustles, and just generally trying to have it all as a modern-day professional with a demanding career.

So, how does one find the time to meet people IRL when happy hour is a far-fetched fantasy? Enter: The best dating apps for professionals.

Wait! Before you back out of this one, hear us out. Online dating doesn’t have to mean swiping left or right on Tinder before bed and hoping for the best. In today’s fast-paced world, where finding a healthy work-life balance is the epitome of success, dating apps can actually be a really useful tool for single professionals looking for love, or at the very least, a few decent dates.

SEE ALSO: The dating app glossary: The A to Z of terms you need to know

But not just any dating app will do. We’re talking about higher-tier dating apps curated for singles who value their time (what little they have) and take their careers as seriously as their romantic lives. These apps focus on quality over quantity, so you can be confident you’re connecting with potential partners who admire your ambition and drive.

If you’re ready to forego the awkward, almost-maybe-not relationships and immaturity that typically come with the mainstream dating app experience, we have some options for you.

What dating apps do successful people use?

If you want to cut right to the chase: Based on our testing, we think Match is the best dating app for professionals, but runner-ups Raya, Bumble, and The League are also worth downloading.

SEE ALSO: TikTok is obsessed with the 'power struggle stage' of relationships. But what is it?

To help you skip the swiping fatigue and find your perfect match, we've curated this guide to the best dating apps for professionals. And trust us, investing in a paid app is worth it — think of it as a personal filter for weeding out the time-wasters.

Net neutrality is dead once more. A U.S. Court of Appeals has killed the Federal Communications Commission's (FCC) attempt to reinstate open internet rules, finding that the government agency doesn't have the legal authority to do so.

In a 26-page opinion filed on Thursday, the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals determined that internet service providers (ISPs) offer an "information service" rather than a "telecommunications service" under the Communications Act of 1934. As such, they are not subject to the latter's stricter FCC regulation, meaning the agency has no power to bring back net neutrality laws.

SEE ALSO: Where Trump's FCC chair nominee Brendan Carr stands on net neutrality

"As Congress has said, the Internet has 'flourished, to the benefit of all Americans, with a minimum of government regulation,'" wrote Circuit Judge Richard Allen Griffin, quoting 47 U.S.C. § 230(a)(4). 

Net neutrality rules prevent ISPs from controlling how users access the internet, prohibiting tactics such as throttling internet speeds, blocking legal websites, or charging more for access to certain ones. Opponents claim that net neutrality would reduce innovation and investment in broadband technologies. Advocates argue that net neutrality provides everyone with equal access to the internet, regardless of their position in life.

"[O]pen access to essential networks is an age-old proposition," former FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler wrote in 2023. "The issue… is whether those that run the most powerful and pervasive platform in the history of the planet will be accountable for behaving in a 'just and reasonable' manner… [and] why such an important pathway on which so many Americans rely should be without a public interest requirement and appropriate oversight."

The FCC cannot reintroduce net neutrality laws, court rules

The classification of ISPs may seem like a matter of nitpicking and semantics. However, this dispute over definitions has been vital to the battle for net neutrality, as telecommunications carriers are subject to heavier regulatory oversight under the Communications Act. For example, while telecommunications carriers are required to charge their customers just, reasonable, and nondiscriminatory rates, information services aren't beholden to such rules.

Yet despite the difference in how each is treated, the distinction between information and telecommunications services is frequently unclear. 

As defined by the Communications Act, an information service is "the offering of a capability for generating, acquiring, storing, transforming, processing, retrieving, utilizing, or making available information via telecommunications, and includes electronic publishing." Meanwhile, a telecommunications service is "the offering of telecommunications for a fee directly to the public, or to such classes of users as to be effectively available directly to the public, regardless of the facilities used."

In Griffin's estimation, "an 'information service' manipulates data, while a 'telecommunications service' does not." 

The FCC argued that third parties which create their own content are information services, such as Netflix, Amazon, and Google. In comparison, it considered ISPs which connect such third parties with users to be telecommunications services, like Verizon, T-Mobile, and AT&T.

Unfortunately, the court disagreed. Employing a broad definition of the term "capability," Griffin reasoned that because ISPs "provide a user with the 'capability' to, at minimum, 'retrieve' third-party content," they are to be considered information services.

"[A] provider need not itself generate, process, retrieve, or otherwise manipulate information in order to provide an 'information service,'" wrote Griffin (emphasis original). "Instead, a provider need only offer the 'capability' of manipulating information… to offer an 'information service'."

Thursday's finding relied upon a landmark Supreme Court decision from last year which weakened the power of government agencies. Previously, courts deferred to such agencies' reasonable interpretations of ambiguous laws. Now courts no longer have to follow this principle.

The partisan history of net neutrality in the U.S.

Whether the FCC has regarded ISPs as providing information services or telecommunication services has significantly fluctuated depending upon which political party is in power. (The FCC is directed by five commissioners who are appointed by the president, confirmed by the Senate, and serve five-year terms.)

Under Democratic President Barack Obama in 2015, the FCC determined that ISPs are telecommunication carriers and thus fall under its jurisdiction. This allowed the agency to introduce net neutrality laws. The FCC subsequently reversed this determination during Republican President Donald Trump's term, considering ISPs information services and thus lifting net neutrality requirements.

Last April, the FCC attempted to bring back net neutrality under Democratic President Joe Biden. This effort was blocked after industry groups obtained an injunction against the order. Now it seems that this attempt to revive net neutrality will die in court.

Theoretically, the FCC could appeal Thursday’s finding to the Supreme Court. Even so, it’s unlikely the agency will take this step considering Trump resumes office in a few weeks.

“Consumers across the country have told us again and again that they want an internet that is fast, open, and fair,” FCC Chair Jessica Rosenworcel said in a statement following the court's decision. "With this decision it is clear that Congress now needs to heed their call, take up the charge for net neutrality, and put open internet principles in federal law.”

TL;DR: Through 12 January, Mashable readers can sign up for a lifetime pass to Curiosity Stream and watch documentaries for life for just £129.34 (reg. £323.41) — a one-time payment for a world of knowledge.

Opens in a new window Credit: Curiosity Stream Curiosity Stream Standard Plan: Lifetime Subscription £129.34 at the Mashable Shop
£323.41 Save £194.07 Get Deal

Looking for something new to watch that’s more enriching than the usual bingeworthy dramas or reality series? Curiosity Stream offers a platform filled with engaging, educational content that goes beyond typical streaming services.

Whether you're passionate about history, science, or exploring unique niche topics, this service gives you access to an extensive collection of documentaries and docuseries. And the best part? Mashable readers can get lifetime access for only £129.34 (reg. £323.41) when they sign up before 12 January at the Mashable Shop.

If you’re a documentary lover, there’s no need to settle for the limited selection on mainstream platforms. Curiosity Stream gives you access to a broader range of thought-provoking documentaries and docuseries, from true crime and history to deep-sea explorations and beyond. It even boasts Emmy-winning content.

The platform’s user-friendly interface makes it easy to find exactly what you’re looking for. You can filter by topic or collection, or even search by narrator, including well-known names like Sir David Attenborough and Morgan Freeman.

New content is added regularly so, with a lifetime subscription, you won’t be stuck watching the same movies over and over. You’ll have access to an ever-growing library of fascinating documentaries and educational content that you can stream on multiple devices — online or offline.

Don’t miss out on the chance to enjoy a lifetime subscription to Curiosity Stream Standard Plan for a one-time payment of £129.34 (reg. £323.41) through 12 January.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

TL;DR: Find a wide range of free online courses from Harvard University on edX.

edX is a super popular platform that hosts a wide range of free online courses from some of the top educational institutions in the world, including Harvard University. With edX, you could become a student of Harvard University without spending anything.

Harvard University offers free online courses on topics like Python programming, AI, cybersecurity, and much more. We have checked out everything on offer and lined up a standout selection of online courses to get you started.

These are the best free online courses from Harvard University this month:

• American Government: Constitutional Foundations

• Ancient Masterpieces of World Literature

• Applications of TinyML

• Building Personal Resilience: Managing Anxiety and Mental Health

• Calculus Applied

• Cell Biology: Mitochondria

• Child Protection: Children's Rights in Theory and Practice

• CitiesX: The Past, Present and Future of Urban Life

• CS50's Computer Science for Business Professionals

• CS50's Computer Science for Lawyers

• CS50's Introduction to Artificial Intelligence with Python

• CS50's Introduction to Computer Science

• CS50's Introduction to Cybersecurity

• CS50's Introduction to Game Development

• CS50's Introduction to Programming with Python

• CS50's Introduction to Programming with R

• CS50's Introduction to Programming with Scratch

• CS50's Understanding Technology

• CS50's Web Programming with Python and JavaScript

• Data Science: Capstone

• Data Science: Inference and Modelling

• Data Science: Machine Learning

• Data Science: Probability

• Data Science: Productivity Tools

• Data Science: R Basics

• Data Science: Visualization

• Deploying TinyML

• Early Childhood Development: Global Strategies for Implementation

• Electrochemistry

• Energy and Thermodynamics

• Entrepreneurship in Emerging Economies

• Exercising Leadership: Foundational Principles

• Fat Chance: Probability from the Ground Up

• Fundamentals of Neuroscience Part 1

• Fundamentals of TinyML

• High-Dimensional Data Analysis

• Human Anatomy: Musculoskeletal Cases

• Humanitarian Response to Conflict and Disaster

• Improving Your Business Through a Culture of Health

• Introduction to Data Science with Python

• Introduction to Digital Humanities

• Introduction to Probability

• Islam Through Its Scriptures

• Justice

• Justice Today: Money, Markets, and Morals

• Leadership: Creating Public Value

• Leaders of Learning

• Machine Learning and AI with Python

• Managing Happiness

• Masterpieces of World Literature

• MLOps for Scaling TinyML

• Modern Masterpieces of World Literature

• PredictionX: Lost Without Longitude

• Principles of Biochemistry

• Pyramids of Giza: Ancient Egyptian Art and Archaeology

• Remote Work Revolution for Everyone

• Rhetoric: The Art of Persuasive Writing and Public Speaking

• Shakespeare's Life and Work

• Statistics and R

• Super-Earths and Life

• Technology Entrepreneurship: Lab to Market

• The Architectural Imagination

• The Path to Happiness: What Chinese Philosophy Teaches us about the Good Life

• Using Python for Research

Where's the catch? The catch is that these free courses don't include a certificate of completion or graded assignments and exams. But you can still enroll at any time and start learning at your own pace.

Find the best free online courses from Harvard University with edX.

Opens in a new window Credit: Harvard University Harvard University Courses Free at edX Get Deal

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

More than a third of U.S. states have now introduced restrictions for online adult content, with Florida, South Carolina, and Tennessee the latest to enforce age verification laws. That means millions of users are now unable to access Pornhub.

That's frustrating for those who simply want to visit their favorite site at an entirely appropriate moment. Fortunately, there is something simple that can be done to bypass these frustrating restrictions.

If you want to unblock sites like Pornhub for free from anywhere in the world, we have the information you need.

How to unblock Pornhub for free

VPNs can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to secure server in another location. This straightforward process bypasses geo-restrictions so you can access sites like Pornhub from anywhere in the world.

Unblock Pornhub by following these 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 Pornhub

4. Access Pornhub 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 unblocking porn sites are not free, but most do offer free-trial peiods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can unblock porn sites like Pornhub without actually spending anything. This is obviously not a long-term solution, but it does give you the opportunity to temporarily retain access to Pornhub before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for Pornhub?

ExpressVPN is the top choice for unblocking porn sites like Pornhub, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries

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

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is always secure

• 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 Pornhub for free with ExpressVPN.

TL;DR: Stream extended highlights of the 2025 Dakar Rally for free on SBS On Demand. Access this free streaming service from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

There are a lot of tough sports and competitions out there. There is no definitive toughest event, but the Dakar Rally has got to be in the conversation. And the 2025 route is particularly difficult, with a 48-hour chrono, a traditional marathon stage, and a three-day adventure in the Empty Quarter.

If you want to watch the 2025 Dakar Rally for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

What is the Dakar Rally?

The Dakar Rally is an annual off-road endurance event organised by the Amaury Sport Organisation. The race features tough terrain and off-road endurance, where the field must traverse sand, rocks, gravel, and tarmac.

When is the 2025 Dakar Rally?

The 2025 Dakar Rally is the 47th edition of the event, and the sixth time Saudi Arabia has hosted the event. This year's Dakar Rally will take place from Jan. 3 to Jan. 17.

How to watch the 2025 Dakar Rally for free

Daily extended highlights from the 2025 Dakar Rally are available to watch for free on SBS On Demand.

SBS On Demand is geo-restricted to Australia, but anyone can access this free streaming platform with a VPN. These tools can hide your real digital location and connect you to a secure server in Australia, meaning you can connect to SBS On Demand from anywhere in the world.

Access SBS On Demand from anywhere in the world 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 SBS On Demand

5. Steam the 2025 Dakar Rally for free

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

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but leading VPNs tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By taking advantage these offers, you can gain access to SBS On Demand without committing with your cash. This is obviously not a long-term solution, but it does give you time to watch the 2025 Dakar Rally without actually spending anything.

You can use this same process to watch the Australian Open (on 9Now) for free. It's a sneaky trick, but it works.

What is the best VPN for SBS On Demand?

ExpressVPN is the best service for unblocking SBS On Demand, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 94 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 always secure

• Fast connection speeds

• Up to five 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.

Watch the 2025 Dakar Rally for free with ExpressVPN.

TL;DR: Live stream Djokovic vs. Opelka in the 2025 Brisbane International for free on 9Now. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The Australian Open is just around the corner, so the Brisbane International is the perfect opportunity for some of the best players in the world to build momentum. One of those players is Novak Djokovic, facing off against Opelka at the quarter-final stage of the competition.

If you want to watch Djokovic vs. Opelka in the 2025 Brisbane International for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

How to watch Djokovic vs. Opelka for free

The 2025 Brisbane International is available to live stream for free on 9Now, including Djokovic vs. Opelka.

9Now is geo-restricted to Australia, but anyone can access this free streaming platform with a VPN. These handy tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in Australia, meaning you can unblock 9Now from anywhere in the world.

Access free live streams of the 2025 Brisbane International 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 9Now

5. Watch the 2025 Brisbane International 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 leading services do tend to offer incentive deals such as free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these deals, you can access free live streams of Djokovic vs. Opelka without actually spending anything. This isn't a long-term solution, but it gives you enough time to watch the Brisbane International and Australian Open (also on 9Now for free) before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for 9Now?

ExpressVPN is the best service for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live tennis on 9Now, 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 always secure

• Fast connection speeds

• 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 Djokovic vs. Opelka in the 2025 Brisbane International for free from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

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 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.

Here's a hint for today's Connections Sports Edition categories

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

• Yellow: Hit by pitch

• Green: Colors you might see in a car race

• Blue: Won four basketball championships together

• Purple: Athletes that share a first name

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

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

• Yellow: Hit batter with a pitch

• Green: Flags in NASCAR

• Blue: Members of Warriors dynasty

• Purple: Steve ______

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 #102 is...

What is the answer to Connections Sports Edition today

• Hit a batter with a pitch - BEAN, DRILL, HIT, PLUNK

• Flags in NASCAR - CHECKERED, RED, WHITE, YELLOW

• Members of Warriors dynasty- CURRY, GREEN, KERR, THOMPSON

• Steve _______ - CARLTON, MCNAIR, PREFONTAINE, YZERMAN

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 Mashable

By 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 January 3 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for January 3 NYT Strands hint for today’s theme: On auto

These words are outer pieces of a car.

Today’s NYT Strands theme plainly explained

Words are parts of an automobile.

NYT Strands spangram hint: Is it vertical or horizontal?

Today's NYT Strands spangram is horizontal.

NYT Strands spangram answer today

Today's spangram is CarBody.

Featured Video For You Strands 101: How to win NYT’s latest word game NYT Strands word list for January 3

• Hood

• Mirror

• Trunk

• Windshield

• Door

• Bumper

• Grille

• Car Body

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.

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 January 3 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 January 3, 2025 Here's a subtle hint for today's Wordle answer:

Opposite of expensive.

Does today's Wordle answer have a double letter?

There are no reoccurring letters.

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

Today's Wordle starts with the letter C.

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

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

Drumroll please!

The solution to today's Wordle is...

CHEAP.

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 January 3

Reporting 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.

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.

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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.

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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 January 3 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: Below the ankle

• Green: A Washington

• Blue: Mario's favorites

• Purple: Same first 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 foot

• Green: One dollar

• Blue: Kinds of mushrooms

• Purple: Pot ___

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 #573 is...

What is the answer to Connections today

• Parts of a foot: ARCH, BALL, HEEL, SOLE

• One dollar: BUCK, CLAM, SINGLE, SMACKER

• Kinds of mushrooms: BUTTON, MOREL, OYSTER, TRUMPET

• Pot ___: BELLY, HOLE, LUCK, STICKER

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 January 3

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.

Turo, which investigators say was used to acquire the vehicles involved in the attack in New Orleans and explosion in Las Vegas, was emerging as an alternative car-rental service.

Apple has agreed to pay $95 million in a class-action settlement alleging that private Siri conversations were inadvertently recorded and listened to by third-party contractors.

If U.S. District Judge Jeffrey White approves the proposed settlement, filed on Tuesday in Oakland, CA, federal court, users impacted will receive up to $20 per Apple device with Siri, such as the iPhone and Apple Watch.

SEE ALSO: New evidence claims Google, Microsoft, Meta, and Amazon could be listening to you on your devices

The lawsuit centers around customer complaints that Siri was unintentionally activated and a 2019 report from a whistleblower via The Guardian that Apple contractors heard voice recordings while testing for quality control. This included "confidential medical information, drug deals, and recordings of couples having sex," according to the investigation. Siri is only supposed to activate upon hearing the wake word "hey Siri," but there were reported instances of Siri being triggered by other things — such as the sound of a zipper, an Apple Watch being raised in a certain way, and hearing a voice.

Apple users claimed private conversations were recorded and then shared with third-party advertisers. They would then see ads for products mentioned in certain conversations and even a surgical treatment after discussing it with their doctor. Apple subsequently issued a formal apology and said it would no longer save voice recordings.

SEE ALSO: 'LLM Siri' aims to rival ChatGPT — but don’t expect it until iOS 19

The lawsuit spans the time period from Sept. 17, 2014, to Dec. 31, 2024. In order for Apple users to claim their part of the settlement, they must submit a claim for up to five Apple devices with Siri (iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, MacBook, iMac, HomePod, iPod touch, or Apple TV) and swear under oath that they inadvertently activated Siri "during a conversation intended to be confidential or private," said the settlement proposal.

Apple isn't the only company in trouble for privacy violations incurred by voice assistants. Google is in the midst of a similar class-action lawsuit regarding Google Assistant being triggered without its wake words.

Joel Kaplan, who was a former senior adviser to George W. Bush, replaces Nick Clegg, who was a former deputy prime minister of Britain, as Meta’s head of policy.

If you're interested in the latest gaming, monitors, or gaming monitors, you probably have your eyes peeled for the releases we'll see at CES, the nations biggest spectacle of gadgets.

Every year we get a whole host of sleek, sometimes translucent, sometimes curved, always new gaming monitors in January. This year, we're on the lookout for a few futuristic gaming monitors from LG and Samsung — and more previews are sure to drop soon.

LG's bendable gaming monitors

LG Electronics is set to present its new UltraGear GX9 series at CES 2025, with a lineup that includes two 45-inch 21:9 gaming monitors, the 45GX990A and 45GX950A, boasting ultra-high 5K2K resolution for immersive gameplay. With these monitors, we should expect enhanced screen real estate and better compatibility — plus customizable options through Dual-Mode, allowing users to adjust aspect ratios and picture sizes. And it's curved, which, LG says, can reduce eye strain and make gaming more comfortable.

SEE ALSO: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5000: Details, launch date rumors as CES 2025 looms

The new UltraGear OLED Bendable Gaming Monitor is the first of its kind to feature a bendable 5K2K-resolution OLED display. LG says you can transition it from a flat screen to a 900R curvature in seconds. YS Lee, the VP and head of LG Media Entertainment’s IT Business Unit, said in a press release ahead of CES 2025 that "the GX9 lineup pushes the boundaries to deliver maximum value and enjoyment for our customers."

Samsung takes on AI and OLED gaming

Samsung announced its new Odyssey OLED G81SF and Odyssey OLED G60SF, both of which are 27-inch 4K monitors. The Odyssey OLED G81SF has a maximum refresh rate of 240Hz, an impressive response time of 0.03ms, and a display free of glare. According to Samsung, "The Odyssey OLED G8 (G81SF model) is the first 27” 4K (3,840 x 2,160) OLED gaming monitor in the world."

In comparison, the Odyssey OLED G60SF is the "first-ever OLED screen with a 500Hz refresh rate," Samsung says. The company will also be showcasing the Odyssey 3D G90XF gaming monitor at CES, a customizable 3D experience that doesn't require the user to wear 3D glasses.

And while the Smart Monitor M90SF isn't specifically made for gaming, it does feature some industry-first on-device AI features that "analyzes input signals to determine the type of content being viewed... and automatically adjust the display settings for the best visual experience." For gamers, it'll be able to fine-turn the picture settings and make the experience more immersive — but it's also being billed as a great video and productivity tool.

After nearly two decades of fighting, the battle over regulations that treat broadband providers like utilities came to an end on Thursday.

We geeks are a passionate bunch. We'll happily spend hours dissecting the latest superhero movie or Star Wars series, but ask us to decode dating signals, and we're lost. Our love language might be quoting obscure anime, and our idea of a perfect date might involve tabletop games and cosplay, but finding someone who gets that? That's a challenge.

For nerdy women, dating means sifting through profiles of guys who think "gamer girl" is a personality (or creeps chasing their Manic Pixie Dream Elf-girl fantasy). For men, it's the struggle to express your love for all things nerdy without scaring off potential partners or, worse, being labeled "that guy."

SEE ALSO: The best dating apps for introverts who prefer books to bars Is there a dating site for nerds?

"For folks looking for a partner that shares their same nerdy interests and passions, the best thing to do is to join a platform with a robust algorithm like eharmony, and include your specific interests in your profile," Kiana Reeves, Somatic Sex Educator, Intimacy Coach, and Chief Education Officer at Foria, tells Mashable. "You can also opt for a platform more frequented by young people, like Bumble, Tinder, and Hinge, and make sure your bio and photos indicate your interests and values — this will help you more easily sift through and attract potential matches who are interested in the same things."

You might notice we no longer recommend geek-specific sites like Soul Geek, Gamer Dating, and Dating for Muggles). Sadly, these platforms haven't kept up with the times and are feeling a bit... well, dated. (You can get the full scoop in our 'How we tested' section below.) So, which apps and dating sites are worth trying? We've got you covered.

The top dating apps for geeks and nerds Instead of niche dating apps, try mainstream apps with in-depth profiles or matching algorithms. Credit: Ian Moore / Mashable

We compared the internet's top dating sites, trendy swiping apps, and geek-specific platforms to pinpoint the ones where you can proudly fly your nerd flag. With the best dating sites for geeks, you might just find that special someone who shares your obscure passions. We're talking about someone who'll happily debate the merits of Pokémon Emerald vs. Scarlet/Violet or create the perfect couples cosplay for the next Comic-Con. The best part? These platforms are all easily accessible via the App Store and Google Play Store.

Just remember this: Even if a potential match doesn't share your specific hobby or interest, they could still be the right partner for you. Don't fall for this common geek relationship fallacy. The most important thing is that they respect your nerdy obsessions, and you respect theirs.

SEE ALSO: The dating app glossary: The A to Z of terms you need to know

Here are the best dating apps for nerds, geeks, and anyone else who isn't afraid to be their unfiltered self:

The Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle embraces her inner Martha Stewart in the trailer for her upcoming Netflix lifestyle series With Love, Meghan. It's the latest project to come from her and Prince Harry's streaming deal with Netflix; other releases include 2022 docuseries Harry and Meghan and 2024 docuseries Polo.

SEE ALSO: 2025 TV preview: All the TV shows you need to know, and where to stream them

With Love, Meghan's trailer sees the Duchess of Sussex sharing her "little tips and tricks" about everything from cooking for friends to buying and arranging flowers. You can also expect several high-profile guest appearances, including Mindy Kaling, Prince Harry himself, and perhaps most importantly, the royals' dear beagle, named Guy.

With Love, Meghan premieres Jan. 15 on Netflix.

GET $100.99 OFF: Jan. 2, get the iRobot Roomba Vac Essential Q0120 for $149 and save $101 or 40%.

Opens in a new window Credit: iRobot iRobot Roomba Vac Essential Q0120 $149.00 at Amazon
$249.99 Save $100.99 Get Deal

If a cleaner home is at the top of your list of New Years Resolutions then this iRobot Roomba Robot Vacuum sale is not to be missed. Vacuuming invites procrastination the same way that carpets invite dust accumulation. This robot vacuum is the antidote.

The iRobot Roomba Essential Vac is an advanced robot vacuum system. Get it for $149 and save 40%, or $101.

SEE ALSO: The best robot vacuums in 2024

Delegate vacuuming to your robot assistant and find that your floors are sparkling clean. The Roomba uses smart detection to avoid antique chairs, flower pots, and sleeping pets. It has a three stage cleaning system that can adapt to different surfaces like rugs and hardwood.

Self charging, the Roomba returns to its pen to station to top up the battery when it gets low. Three power levels allow you to tell it whether to prioritize power or a quiet, unobtrusive cleaning job.

Take advantage of this iRobot Roomba Essential Vac deal and get the vacuum for $149 for a savings of $101 or 40%.

A low profile means this vacuum doesn't just stick to wide open floors. It will also slip under beds and couches to dispense with those pesky dust bunnies that hide in the shadows.

While the Essential Vac makes vacuuming automatic, it also gives you the controls you need to supervise. Use the iRobot Home App to dictate how your robot vacuum navigates cleaning your home.