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Theres an eerie mystery sound in the ocean. It could be a conversation.

Mashable - Tue, 11/26/2024 - 05:00

Both scientists and sailors alike have recorded unique, strange noises in the ocean for decades. They sound guttural, and alien.

The sound is dubbed the "bio-duck" — though it doesn't sound like a duck — and you can hear an example of a recording below. Researchers have now reanalyzed one of these mysterious recordings from 1982, documented in the Pacific Ocean's South Fiji Basin, and concluded that it's a conversation between different animal speakers.

"Maybe they were talking about dinner, maybe it was parents talking to children, or maybe they were simply commenting on that crazy ship that kept going back and forth towing that long string behind it," Ross Chapman, an underwater acoustics researcher from the University of Victoria and an author of the research, said in a statement.

At first, earlier listeners thought the deep sea sounds weren't natural. "They heard this sound, which is a low-frequency pulse of sound which is very regular. It almost sounds mechanical," Denise Risch, a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration marine biologist, previously noted. "So if you first hear it, you wouldn't necessarily think it's an animal, but it's very loud and very pervasive. You could hear it in the wintertime across the Southern Ocean."

Scientists recorded these unusually mechanical noises using an array of hydrophones, which detect underwater sounds, that they towed behind a vessel. The different hydrophones allowed the researchers to identify different speakers.

"We discovered that there were usually several different speakers at different places in the ocean, and all of them making these sounds," Chapman explained. "The most amazing thing was that when one speaker was talking, the others were quiet, as though they were listening. Then the first speaker would stop talking and listen to responses from others."

The stern of a ship towing a long array of underwater recording devices, called hydrophones. The hydrophones are in the water hundreds of yards behind the vessel. Credit: Ross Chapman

Earlier research concluded Minke whales, the smallest species of baleen whale, created these underwater sounds. Yet there was never any sighting of the whales coming up for air to confirm this.

It is clear, however, these unusual sounds are coming from animals. And it certainly wouldn't be surprising if it were whales. These intelligent, cultured marine mammals, for example, fill the ocean with song.

From yap to pookie, 2024s most viral internet slang defined

Mashable - Tue, 11/26/2024 - 05:00

Each year on the internet brings an entirely new vernacular.

Last year, ijbol and "serving cunt" rose to timeline prominence, and 2024 revitalized yap and pookie. If you haven't given your life over to TikTok and X / Twitter or have someone who has in your life, it can be hard to keep up with the breakneck speed of internet slang.

But fear not: Here are some key internet vocabulary words from the year defined.

If there was one thing that dominated culture in 2024, it was brat by Charli XCX. The hit album changed the word's meaning forever, with the pop star defining what it means to be a brat in a TikTok. "You're just like that girl who is a little messy and likes to party and maybe says some dumb things sometimes," she said. "[She's someone] who feels herself, but then, also, like, maybe has a breakdown, but kinda parties through it. It's very honest. It's very blunt. It's very volatile."

There's also a lot of lime green, cigarettes, and wrap-around sunglasses involved. Bonus points if your name is Julia.

Tweet may have been deleted Crashing out

Crashing out is an all-too-familiar example of African American Vernacular English (AAVE) slang getting appropriated as TikTok slang.

SEE ALSO: Why is the internet 'crashing out?'

According to KnowYourMeme, the term originated in Baton Rogue, Louisiana, and can be heard in music from local rappers like NBA YoungBoy. It refers to reckless behavior or losing self-control and became the phrase du jour on TikTok in late 2024.

Tweet may have been deleted Demure

Thanks to TikTokker Jools Lebron's viral "very mindful, very cutesy" video, demure will forever hold a new meaning. As defined by Dictionary.com, demure means "characterized by shyness or modesty; reserved," but it's come to mean anything from self-aware, sophisticated, and restrained to good and praiseworthy and, well, nothing. The word defined the end of summer 2024 on the internet and was added to many people's vocabularies. Dictionary.com even crowned it the Word of the Year.

Tweet may have been deleted Failmarriage

The internet enthusiasm around Challengers, specifically the marriage between tennis player Art (Mike Faist) and his coach Tashi (Zendaya), renewed interest in a word that's gained traction online in recent years: failmarriage. Think of the marriage between Shiv (Sarah Snook) and Tom (Matthew Macfadyen) in HBO's Succession. The word failmarriage means precisely what it sounds like — a marriage in free fall, but the couple chooses to stay together anyway.

Tweet may have been deleted Glazing

Perhaps one of the more niche words used to gain traction online is glazing, which refers to overhyping something. According to KnowYourMeme, it first appeared on Discord in 2021 before becoming popular on Twitch in 2022. Still, it's only in the past couple of years that the term has migrated to TikTok, exposing it to a more widespread audience.

Tweet may have been deleted Pookie

Thanks to the Southern TikTok couple Campbell and Jett Puckett, the term of endearment came back in a significant way in 2024. Believe it or not, "You're looking amazing tonight, pookie" happened this year. While the term floated around on TikTok starting in 2020, Jett's endearing insistence on referring to his wife as "pookie" catapulted it into the mainstream.

While pookie is typically used as a vocative, like honey or sweetie, fandoms began using it to describe their faves. For example, these days, it's common to see someone online say, "Glen Powell is pookie." Language is constantly evolving online.

Tweet may have been deleted Yap

In 2024, you don't chitchat, gab, prattle, or blabber; you yap. Yapping refers to talking excessively or at length. Those who can't stop yapping are yappers. Those who are extremely online love to yap and self-identify as yappers. The verb initially referred to a small dog and then morphed into a verb describing the high-pitched bark of a dog, but by the 1800s, it already referred to humans talking.

Tweet may have been deleted

Robot Dreams review: A stunning, dialogue-free ode to loneliness

Mashable - Tue, 11/26/2024 - 05:00

In Pablo Berger's Robot Dreams, the real treasure is the mail-ordered friends we literally made along the way. With not an ounce of dialogue, the Spanish director simultaneously spins a tale of friendship and connection while making its abundantly clear how profound loneliness can be. Who knew a dog and robot BFF story could get so deep?

Based on Sara Varon's graphic novel, this Oscar-nominated film takes place over the course of about one year, beginning with a fleeting but lasting connection between an unlikely pair, separated through absolutely avoidable circumstances. A simply beautiful use of animation, music, and sound to explore isolation and interconnectedness, Robot Dreams will be one of the more impactful, touching films you see this year — all without saying a word.

Robot Dreams premiered at Cannes Film Festival last year, then hit the Toronto International Film Festival, all to critical acclaim. Now finally hitting U.S. theatres this summer, Robot Dreams is about to seize a whole new audience by the heart.

What is Robot Dreams about? Credit: NEON

Set in '80s Manhattan, Robot Dreams introduces you to Dog, who lives by himself in the East Village. In an attempt to assuage his loneliness, Dog impulse-buys a build-it-yourself buddy off the TV, the Amica 2000. To us, the name's Robot. In this reality, there are robots for cleaning, security, tutoring, and sports, but Robot appears specifically designed for friendship (they exist).

Technology-assisted friendship with robots has fascinated writers and filmmakers for decades, from Steven Spielberg's A.I. Artificial Intelligence to Alex Garland's Ex Machina, among countless others. Hell, even Mary Shelley's Frankenstein counts. But in Robot Dreams, a giddy summer of love between canine and robot is unique in itself, and impactful enough to make their frantic hope for reunion the only thing you'll care about for two hours.

Contrary to what it looks like in the trailers, Robot and Dog actually spend the majority of the film apart. What?! Through a series of unfortunate, saltwater-related events, Robot is stuck rusting at the beach for months, using their imagination as a means to escape inanimate coastal peril and deal with the fact that they're being treated like literal junk. The film functions as a series of vignettes in Dog and Robot's lives after their summer together, moving toward the film's deeply emotional, Bridges of Madison County-level climax.

Rather than offering an overt high-five to friendship, Robot Dreams is essentially a story of deep (and deeply relatable) loneliness in a city of millions, of being lifted up and left behind.

Robot Dreams is a portrait of loneliness like no other. Credit: NEON

At its core, Robot Dreams is a poignant exploration of the highs of feeling seen and included, as well as the lows of feeling forgotten or discarded. Dog's reflection in the TV screen is a constant reminder of his solo life, as are the happy couples he can't avoid seeing, whether through a neighbour's apartment window, on a ski vacation, or just trying to take a damn walk in Central Park.

Across the city, on a deserted Coney Island beach, the bright orange towel Robot was left on has become a sort of prison; Robot has nothing to do but embrace falling snowflakes, make friends with the coastal wildlife, and dream away the months. Jealousy and betrayal plague Robot's dreams, as their feelings of abandonment become increasingly painful. Meanwhile, Dog seeks out new opportunities for making friends, which adds to our empathy for poor ol' Robot, but this actually reflects the film's most realistic element: Life goes on.

Berger uses Robot's titular dreams to explore more surreal sequences the further away rescue seems, including a gorgeous ode to The Wizard of Oz involving an army of tap-dancing daisies around our Tin Man. These unreal moments bleed into Dog's experience too — a dream of a ten-pin bowling session with a Slurpee-drinking snowman doesn't exactly spell reality, but the humiliation in this scene is very real for Dog.

Dog and Robot individually find moments of connection with others over the months, but more than anything, this animated film paints a portrait of loneliness more real than many live-action attempts. And it has a huge amount to do with sound.

With no dialogue, Robot Dreams proves words are overrated. An East Village scene in "Robot Dreams." Credit: NEON

The entirety of Robot Dreams is dialogue-free, making the film instantly universal in theme and approach despite its specifically New York setting. Alfonso de Vilallonga's jubilant, empathetic score, alongside superb foley effects, weaves the story's emotional highs and lows, making Robot Dreams function like a silent movie. It's the opposite kind of dialogue-free film as, say, A Quiet Place, where the need for silence is used to build terror, but it's as much of an experiment.

After five minutes of Robot Dreams, you'll honestly forget the characters don't speak; the visuals are enough to indicate dynamics between characters, the passing of time, and a scene's sense of urgency. Characters laugh, sound concerned, and express anger, all through sound.

It's music that proves the most effective emotional compass over the course of the film. De Vilallonga moves the characters through an upbeat jazz score for hijinks, funk for a fateful repair montage, and sentimental piano for the deeper moments. Needle drops don't come more moving than the film's use of Earth Wind and Fire's iconic song "September," which underscores much of Dog and Robot's friendship. The film also seamlessly weaves diegetic and non-diegetic sound, as the characters tune their radios or blast music from their cars. It all creates an intimate, specifically New York soundscape that contributes to the film's unsung supporting character: the city itself.

Robot Dreams is a heartfelt ode to New York City. Credit: NEON

An octopus bucket drummer busking in the First Avenue subway, a steel drum duet echoing through Central Park — the sounds of New York City form a welcome stage for the ins and outs of Robot Dreams. With cleverly detailed, bustling animations, New York City becomes a character itself.

It's the ultimate setting for a summer of friendship: rowing under Bow Bridge, inhaling hot dogs by Bethesda Fountain, using the binoculars on the Empire State Building, sitting beneath Williamsburg Bridge watching the city skyline. Robot's default optimism and overwhelming politeness clashes with the brashness of New York, pissing off punks of Alphabet City. Dog peruses the well-stocked shops of Chinatown, and Robot enjoys fireworks from a festooned Brooklyn rooftop. The sequences at Coney Island look good enough to eat. The tiny details tucked into each frame are dazzling — a baby penguin in an icebox at the beach made so much sense I squealed.

Being a Manhattan of the 1980s, the film's landscape notably includes the Twin Towers in the city skyline, which functions as an omnipresent nod to lost loved ones and the enduring power of connection. It's a sadly unexpected vision, one that recalls lost time as poignantly as any madeleine.

A magnificent ode to the power of unlikely friendship and all-too-real feelings of loss and lonesomeness, Robot Dreams will leaving a lasting impact without so much as a spoken sentence. Crank up "September," and get yourself to see this film now.

Robot Dreams is now streaming on Hulu.

Save $100 on the Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) this Black Friday

Mashable - Tue, 11/26/2024 - 04:58

SAVE $100: The Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) is down to $179 in the Amazon Black Friday sale. That’s 36% off its $279 list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) $179.00 at Amazon
$279.00 Save $100.00 Get Deal

Black Friday is the ultimate time to snag tech deals, and this one is a standout: The Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) is down to $179 at Amazon. That's a sweet $100 discount from its usual $279 price. This is your moment if you've been searching for an affordable yet powerful Apple Watch.

This sleek smartwatch combines all the essential features of an Apple Watch with a budget-friendly price tag. It runs on watchOS 11, delivering advanced metrics, seamless compatibility with your Apple devices, and smarter personalization. Apple Watch SE has you covered checking texts, taking calls, or tracking your workouts. It even offers Emergency SOS and Crash Detection, so safety is always within reach.

Fitness buffs will love the advanced workout metrics and three months of free Apple Fitness+. You'll also get notifications for irregular heart rhythms or unusual heart rates, making it a handy tool for monitoring your health. With 50-meter water resistance, the SE is perfect for swimmers or anyone who loves to accessorize with confidence, rain or shine.

This Black Friday deal features the midnight aluminum case with a midnight sport band, designed to look good in any setting. Its 44mm Retina display ensures everything is sharp and easy to read, and the battery easily lasts through your busiest days.

At $179, this Black Friday deal is one of the best prices we've seen for the Apple Watch SE. It's a perfect gift or personal upgrade that won't destroy your Apple Pay wallet. Grab yours before this deal disappears. Your wrist (and wallet) will thank you.

Grab the Google Pixel Watch 2 for under $150 this Black Friday

Mashable - Tue, 11/26/2024 - 04:55

SAVE OVER $100: As of Nov. 26, the Google Pixel Watch 2 is discounted to $145 in the Amazon Black Friday sale. That's a 42% drop from its original $249.99 price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Google Google Pixel Watch 2 $145.00 at Amazon
$249.99 Save $104.99 Get Deal

Looking to upgrade your wrist tech, this Black Friday deal on the Google Pixel Watch 2 might be the perfect excuse. The popular Android smartwatch is down to just $145 at Amazon, saving you $105 off its usual $249.99 price tag. With this stylish yet functional wearable, you'll be stepping up your fitness tracking, stress management, and safety monitoring at a wallet-friendly price.

The Google Pixel Watch 2 combines sleek design with cutting-edge tech. Made from 100% recycled aluminum, it's lightweight and comfortable for all-day wear. It also features Fitbit's most advanced heart rate sensor, powered by Google AI, to deliver precise fitness data. Whether you're working out, tracking your sleep, or monitoring your blood oxygen levels, this watch has you covered.

But it's not just about fitness. The Pixel Watch 2 brings a range of safety features to your wrist. Emergency SOS and fall detection ensure you can get help when needed. At the same time, Safety Check lets you set a timer that alerts your contacts if you don't respond. Plus, the always-on display and improved 24-hour battery mean you'll always stay connected without constantly reaching for the charger.

The WiFi model is perfect for Android users and is available in a matte black aluminum case with an obsidian active band. This Black Friday deal is one of the best prices we've seen for this smartwatch, making it an excellent opportunity to snag premium tech for less.

At just $145, the Pixel Watch 2 is ready to make your life easier and your Black Friday holiday season more connected. Grab it while the deal lasts.

Score a pocket-sized thermal camera for under $180 this Black Friday

Mashable - Tue, 11/26/2024 - 04:52

SAVE $69: The P2 Thermal Camera for Android is down to $179.99 in the Amazon Black Friday sale. Usually priced at $249, this is the lowest price we've seen.

Opens in a new window Credit: P2 P2 Thermal Camera $179.99 at Amazon
$249.99 Save $70.00 Get Deal

If you've ever wished for superhero-like vision, this Black Friday deal might be the closest you'll get. The P2 Thermal Camera for Android is on sale for just $179.99 at Amazon — a $69 discount from its regular price of $249. And yes, this includes free returns, so you can test your infrared-detecting prowess without breaking the bank.

This compact gadget, weighing just 10 grams, is perfect for professionals and adventurers alike. Whether you're a home inspector on the hunt for energy leaks, an HVAC technician solving heating mysteries or a camper looking to spot wildlife in the dark, the P2 delivers. Its portability (it's the second-smallest thermal camera in the world) and keychain-ready design make it a must-have tool for anyone tackling temperature-based tasks.

Now, let's get nerdy for a second. The P2 boasts a super-sharp 512×384 IR resolution, which is a big upgrade from the standard 256×192, thanks to advanced algorithms like Razor X. It's so precise it can detect temperature changes as tiny as 0.04°C, making it your ultimate secret weapon against hidden hazards such as drafty windows to an overheating appliance. It's also great for wildlife trails and spotting hidden animals.

Plus, with a range spanning -4°F to a scorching 1,112°F, this thermal camera literally covers you. Need a closer look? Its 15x zoom lets you swipe through thermal readings like a pro. It even lets you DIY the color bar and temperature ranges for targeted measurements.

This Black Friday deal also includes an exclusive $20 coupon, bringing the final price to $179.99 — an even better steal. The question isn't if you'll use it — it's how many thermal problems you'll solve.

The Apple iPad (10th Gen) is at its lowest-ever price in Amazons Black Friday sale

Mashable - Tue, 11/26/2024 - 04:47

SAVE $90: As of Nov. 26, the Apple iPad (10th Gen) is on sale for $259 in Amazon's Black Friday sale. That's a 26% discount on list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPad (10th Gen) $259.00 at Amazon
$349.00 Save $90.00 Get Deal

Long gone are the days when Black Friday was limited to just the last Friday of the month. Sales now spread far and wide and take up almost the whole of November. Whether you love or hate the retail madness, who can argue with more time to save money?

With deals across TVs, robot vacuums, and headphones, there's something for everyone to choose from. But one of the best deals we've seen is Amazon's latest discount on the Apple iPad (10th Gen). This model has been discounted before at Amazon, but never as low as this. As of Nov. 26, it is priced at $259 (saving you $90 on lit price).

The Apple iPad (10th Gen) boasts a sleek, modern design, perfect for work or entertainment on the go. It has a 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display and the A14 Bionic chip that delivers a super powerful performance for multitasking, whether you're browsing, gaming, or working.

The battery life is seriously impressive and will keep you going all day. And let's not forget the cameras, the 12MP Ultra Wide front camera is ideal for video calls — it keeps you centered during video calls, so you always look your best. The back camera is also 12MP and can shoot 4K video.

The Apple iPad (10th Gen) also supports the Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard Folio, so it's a versatile option for note-taking, sketching, and all your creative needs.

Head to Amazon to snag this Black Friday deal.

The Apple MacBook Air is heavily discounted in Walmarts Black Friday sale

Mashable - Tue, 11/26/2024 - 04:44

SAVE $100: As of Nov. 26, the Apple MacBook Air 13.3-inch is on sale for $599 in Walmart's Black Friday sale. That's a 14% saving on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple MacBook Air 13.3-Inch $599.00 at Walmart
$699.00 Save $100.00 Get Deal

Amazon's Black Friday event has officially kicked off, promising two whole weeks of impressive deals and discounts. Whether you've got your eye on a TV, Apple Watch, or tablet, you'll find something on your wishlist reduced at Amazon.

But the latest deal that has caught our eye is on the 2020 Apple MacBook Air. As of Nov. 26, the Apple MacBook Air 13.3 is reduced to $599 at Walmart, saving you $100 on list price. This deal is available in multiple colors, including gold, space gray, and silver.

This model is powered by the Apple M1 chip, meaning it delivers up to 3.5x faster performance than its predecessor. It boasts 8GB of memory, making sure things run smoothly even with the most demanding apps. The 13.3-inch Retina display offers sharp text and vibrant colors, and the battery life will keep you going for up to 18 hours.

Compatibility includes popular apps like Adobe Creative Cloud and Microsoft 365, plus the ability to run iPhone and iPad apps on macOS. It’s easy to set up, and integrates seamlessly with other Apple devices. This model also benefits from Apple Intelligence, a personal assistant system that helps with your productivity with privacy-focused features.

This is not the latest in the MacBook Air range. The 2024 MacBook Air comes in both 13- and 15-inch and runs on the new and improved M3 chip. Both are on sale at Amazon for Black Friday, if a newer model is on your wishlist.

But if the newest model isn't necessary, this deal is not one to miss. Head to the Walmart website before it sells out.

The Apple Pencil just got a huge discount in Amazons Black Friday sale

Mashable - Tue, 11/26/2024 - 04:38

SAVE $40: As of Nov. 26, the Apple Pencil (1st Gen) is on sale for $59 in Amazon's Black Friday sale. That's a 40% discount on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple Pencil (1st Gen) $59.00 at Amazon
$99.00 Save $40.00 Get Deal

Amazon's Black Friday sale has kicked off and the deals are aplenty. With discounts across everything from TVs to robot vacuums, you can find a deal on pretty much anything you need.

And if a new iPad stylus is on your wishlist, now is the time to buy. As of Nov. 26, the Apple Pencil (1st Gen) is on sale for just $59. Not only are you saving $40, but this is the lowest it has ever been priced at Amazon — who can argue with that?

The Apple Pencil (1st Gen) is a smart stylus that does more than just take notes. It offers precision, pressure, and tilt sensitivity. These allow you to create fine details, adjust line thickness, and add shading, just like using a regular pencil. There's also little to no noticeable lag, so it is perfect for drawing, sketching, shading, and any task that requires precision.

It works with various iPads, including the 6th to 10th generations (the 10th generation requires a USB-C to Apple Pencil Adapter). The package includes the Apple Pencil, a Lightning adapter, an extra tip, and a USB-C to Apple Pencil Adapter for charging and pairing.

This is not the latest model in the Apple Pencil range, with the Pencil 2 and Pencil Pro both succeeding it. For a more advanced stylus, we recommend the Pro which boasts haptic feedback and magnetic charging.

Apple AirPods Pro 2 just got their biggest-ever discount at Amazon

Mashable - Tue, 11/26/2024 - 04:29

SAVE $95: As of Nov. 26, the Apple AirPods Pro 2 are on sale for $153.99 in the Amazon Black Friday sale. That's a 38% discount on list price, and the lowest they've ever been on Amazon.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple AirPods Pro 2 $153.99 at Amazon
$249.00 Save $95.01 Get Deal

A new pair of AirPods doesn't need to cost you a fortune, especially with early Black Friday deals already kicking off. And Apple products are at the forefront of the discounts this year, with incredible prices from Walmart, Best Buy, and Amazon. Like this latest deal on the AirPods Pro 2.

As of Nov. 26, you can find them on sale for just £123.99 at Amazon. A discount of $95 and the lowest they have ever been priced.

The AirPods Pro 2 offer fantastic quality with amazing features such as a scientifically validated hearing test and clinical-grade hearing protection, both to protect and give insight on improving your ear health. Different sound modes will allow you to remain aware of your surroundings, or block it all out. Choose Active Noise Cancellation to block out background noise completely, while Adaptive Audio and Transparency modes deliver a blend of background sounds.

The Conversation Awareness function also adjusts playback for nearby interactions, and the H2 chip provides a strong, immersive sound for both music and calls.

They boast an IP54 rating, so are robust against sweat, water, and dust. Touch controls and Siri make use and managing your music super easy, while the case includes Precision Finding, a built-in speaker, and multiple charging options. For battery life, enjoy up to six hours of listening per charge, rising to 30 hours with the charging case.

Head to Amazon for this great deal before it runs out.

Huawei Targets Apple with Advanced Chip Innovation in China

NYT Technology - Tue, 11/26/2024 - 04:02

Last year, a chip breakthrough put Huawei on top of the Chinese smartphone market. Now it is rolling out its newest phone, the Mate 70 series.

MrBeast unveils teaser for controversial Beast Games series

Mashable - Tue, 11/26/2024 - 04:01

MrBeast's upcoming Prime Video show Beast Games, which was mired in controversy after contestants accused production of creating unsafe filming conditions, has its first teaser.

The 48-second clip – which has comments turned off – has the feel of one of the YouTuber's typical videos, only even bigger: There are 1000 participants this time, clips that include giant monster trucks and people jumping from helicopters, and a prize pot of $5 million.

Beast Games is streaming on Prime Video from Dec. 19.

NYTs The Mini crossword answers, hints for November 26, 2024

Mashable - Tue, 11/26/2024 - 03:49

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

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

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

Here are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Tuesday, November 26, 2024:

AcrossJoint that can be "flicked"

The answer is Wrist.

Official state sport of South Dakota, Texas and Wyoming

The answer is Rodeo.

Phone pop-up

The answer is Alert.

First thing you typically get at a buffet

The answer is Plate.

Poetry event

The answer is Slam.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for November 26 DownSandwich alternative

The answer is Wrap.

Toilet paper units

The answer is Rolls.

Best-case

The answer is Ideal.

Big name in mattresses

The answer is Serta.

Ancestral emblem

The answer is Totem.

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

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

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

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

NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for November 26

Mashable - Tue, 11/26/2024 - 03:45

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.

SEE ALSO: NYT's The Mini crossword answers for November 26 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 - Tony Hawk knows all about these
Green - Northern competitors
Blue - Have yet to reach the mountaintop
Purple - Also known as

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 - Parts of a skateboard
Green - Canadian teams
Blue - Teams to never win an NBA title
Purple - Famous NFL player 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 #64 is...

What is the answer to Connections Sports Edition today

Parts of a skateboard: DECK, GRIP, TRUCK, WHEELS
Canadian teams: CANUCKS, JETS, RAPTORS, WHITECAPS
Teams to never win an NBA title: CLIPPERS, GRIZZLIES, JAZZ, MAGIC
Famous NFL player nicknames: BUS, MEGATRON, REFRIGERATOR, SWEETNESS

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.

Margrethe Vestager, the World’s Top Tech Cop, Is Making Her Exit

NYT Technology - Tue, 11/26/2024 - 00:00

Margrethe Vestager, the European Union’s antitrust regulator, who put technology’s harms on the global agenda, reflected on a decade of taking on the biggest companies and what comes next.

Get 15-minute audio summaries of bestselling books with this app

Mashable - Tue, 11/26/2024 - 00:00

TL;DR: Get a lifetime subscription to Headway Premium — the app that delivers quick, powerful insights from popular nonfiction books — on sale for £47.85 (reg. £239.27).

Opens in a new window Credit: GTHW App Limited Headway Premium: Lifetime Subscription £47.85 at the Mashable Shop
£239.27 Save £191.42 Get Deal

For those of us with big goals but little time, Headway offers a clever shortcut to wisdom. Imagine getting the main takeaways from bestselling books in short summaries that fit into your day. It's learning on your schedule.

With a lifetime plan to Headway Premium for a one-time payment of £47.85, you can tackle new skills, boost your knowledge, and feel like a lifelong learner without diving into hours of reading.

Users can choose from a wide variety of topics, including health, nutrition, finances, real estate, self-help, and more. There are more than 1,500 different summaries to choose from, and up to 50 more are added monthly. A very helpful feature allows you to get personalised recommendations according to your goals and preferences.

While this won't replace reading the actual book, it can clarify some of the more important points and let you know if it's something you'd like to know more about. Plus, you can choose to learn by reading, listening, or watching, which can keep things interesting, and allows you to listen to Headway summaries while you drive to work.

Right now at the Mashable Shop, you can score a lifetime subscription to Headway Premium and start your self-growth journey right.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

How to watch Sporting Lisbon vs. Arsenal online for free

Mashable - Tue, 11/26/2024 - 00:00

TL;DR: Live stream Sporting Lisbon vs. Arsenal in the Champions League for free on Virgin Media Player. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

Sporting Lisbon face off against Arsenal in the fifth round of Champions League fixtures. It's going to be an epic clash between two exciting sides.

Sporting Lisbon are unbeaten in this year's competition with three wins from four games, including a stunning victory over Manchester City. Arsenal aren't far behind, and will be looking to capitalise on the fact that Sporting Lisbon have just lost their talented manager.

If you want to watch Sporting Lisbon vs. Arsenal in the Champions League from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Sporting Lisbon vs. Arsenal?

Sporting Lisbon vs. Arsenal in the Champions League kicks off at 8 p.m. GMT on Nov. 26. This fixture takes place at the Estádio José Alvalade.

How to watch Sporting Lisbon vs. Arsenal for free

Sporting Lisbon vs. Arsenal is available to live stream for free on Virgin Media Player in Ireland.

If you're abroad for this fixture, you might need to use a VPN to access Virgin Media Player. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in Ireland, meaning you can unblock Virgin Media Player to stream the Champions League for free from anywhere in the world.

Live stream Sporting Lisbon vs. Arsenal for free by following these simple steps:

Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)
Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)
Open up the app and connect to a server in Ireland
Visit Virgin Media Player
Watch Sporting Lisbon vs. Arsenal for free from anywhere in the world

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

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but most do offer free-trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can access free live streams of the Champions League without actually spending anything. This obviously isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to stream Sporting Lisbon vs. Arsenal (plus more Champions League fixtures) before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for Virgin Media Player?

ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport on Virgin Media Player, for a number of reasons:

Servers in 105 countries including Ireland
Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more
Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure
Fast connection speeds free from throttling
Up to eight simultaneous connections
30-day money-back guarantee

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

Live stream Sporting Lisbon vs. Arsenal in the Champions League for free with ExpressVPN.

How to watch Sparta Prague vs. Atletico Madrid online for free

Mashable - Tue, 11/26/2024 - 00:00

TL;DR: Live stream Sparta Prague vs. Atletico Madrid in the Champions League for free on Virgin Media Player. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The fifth round of Champions League fixtures includes some really exciting matchups, including Sparta Prague vs. Atletico Madrid. Neither side has really impressed in this year's competition, but there is still time to turn things around.

Atletico Madrid will be favorites to win this important game, but Sparta Prague possess the quality to cause an upset.

If you want to watch Sparta Prague vs. Atletico Madrid in the Champions League from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Sparta Prague vs. Atletico Madrid?

Sparta Prague vs. Atletico Madrid in the Champions League kicks off at 5:45 p.m. GMT on Nov. 26. This fixture takes place at the epet ARENA.

How to watch Sparta Prague vs. Atletico Madrid for free

Sparta Prague vs. Atletico Madrid is available to live stream for free on Virgin Media Player in Ireland.

If you're abroad for this fixture, you might need to use a VPN to access Virgin Media Player. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in Ireland, meaning you can unblock Virgin Media Player to stream the Champions League for free from anywhere in the world.

Live stream Sparta Prague vs. Atletico Madrid for free by following these simple steps:

Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)
Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)
Open up the app and connect to a server in Ireland
Visit Virgin Media Player
Watch Sparta Prague vs. Atletico Madrid for free from anywhere in the world

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

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but most do offer free-trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can access free live streams of the Champions League without actually spending anything. This obviously isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to stream Sparta Prague vs. Atletico Madrid (plus more Champions League fixtures) before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for Virgin Media Player?

ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport on Virgin Media Player, for a number of reasons:

Servers in 105 countries including Ireland
Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more
Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure
Fast connection speeds free from throttling
Up to eight simultaneous connections
30-day money-back guarantee

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

Live stream Sparta Prague vs. Atletico Madrid in the Champions League for free with ExpressVPN.

How to watch Manchester City vs. Feyenoord online for free

Mashable - Tue, 11/26/2024 - 00:00

TL;DR: Live stream Manchester City vs. Feyenoord in the Champions League for free with a 30-day trial of Prime Video. Access this free live stream from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The Champions League is back with another batch of really intriguing matchups, including Manchester City vs. Feyenoord.

Macnester City are struggling right now, but they've still got a decent record in this year's Champions League. A win against Feyenoord should put them firmly back in the running for a top eight finish. Feyenoord are further back in the standings, but still have a good chance of making the playoffs with some positive results.

If you want to watch Manchester City vs. Feyenoord in the Champions League for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Manchester City vs. Feyenoord?

Manchester City vs. Feyenoord in the Champions League starts at 8 p.m. GMT on Nov. 26. This fixture takes place at the Etihad Stadium.

How to watch Manchester City vs. Feyenoord for free

Manchester City vs. Feyenoord is available to live stream on Prime Video in the UK, but you don't need to be subscribed to Amazon Prime to watch this fixture. Instead, you can watch Manchester City vs. Feyenoord (plus more Champions League fixtures) for free with a 30-day trial of Amazon Prime.

If you're abroad for this fixture, you might need to use a VPN to watch the Champions League for free on Prime Video. This process is straightforward:

Sign up for a 30-day Amazon Prime trial (if you're not already a member)
Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)
Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)
Open up the app and connect to a server in the UK
Watch Manchester City vs. Feyenoord for free from anywhere in the world on Prime Video

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

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but most do offer free-trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can watch Manchester City vs. Feyenoord on Prime Video without committing with your cash. This isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to stream select Champions League fixtures before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for Prime Video?

ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport on Prime Video, for a number of reasons:

Servers in 105 countries including the UK
Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more
Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure
Fast connection speeds free from throttling
Up to eight simultaneous connections
30-day money-back guarantee

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

Stream Manchester City vs. Feyenoord in the Champions League for free with ExpressVPN.

Black Friday deals Amazon vs. Walmart: Comparing the best sales

Mashable - Tue, 11/26/2024 - 00:00

Black Friday is an awesome opportunity to pick up all the products on your wishlist at reduced rates. But it can also be pretty exhausting.

You can find deals on just about everything from leading retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, Target, and Home Depot. That's great news for the savvy shoppers out there with a plan of attack. But most people don't have everything mapped out. Most people are frantically scanning the many Black Friday sales for something of actual value. At this point, it's OK to ask for help.

Amazon and Walmart go hard for Black Friday, but which retailer actually offers the best deals on the most popular categories? We've done the hard work for you and checked out everything on offer from Amazon and Walmart, and lined up a selection of standout deals for your consideration. With only a handful of the very best deals to consider, it's easy to see which retailer comes out on top in each category.

These are the best Black Friday deals from Amazon and Walmart.

Best Black Friday earbud/headphone deals: Amazon vs. WalmartAmazon