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The Last of Us Season 2, episode 1 introduces one of the games most terrifying villains

Mashable - Sun, 04/13/2025 - 22:00

If you survived The Last of Us Season 1 and the sheer terror of all the Clickers, Bloaters, and cannibals, we've got some grim news: You're not out of the woods in Season 2.

The second season of Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann's HBO adaptation amps up the threat level for Ellie (Bella Ramsey), Joel (Pedro Pascal), and the residents of Jackson, Wyoming, from the very first episode, with the arrival of one of the scariest types of Infected in The Last of Us Part II game.

Alas, the Stalkers have arrived.

What's the new type of Infected in The Last of Us Season 2?

In Season 2, episode 1, we get our first glimpse of a new type of Infected, one that crawls extremely fast in the most deeply unwelcome way.

When Ellie and Dina (Isabela Merced) investigate Clickers in the Greenplace Market, and Ellie falls through the floor into the supermarket below, we think the coast is clear through the lack of Grudge-level sounds. But as Ellie's flipping through an old People magazine, we see something scurry past in the background on all fours. It's an instant nope, especially when a small hoot echoes through the aisles. As Ellie hunts the creature, it takes on a strategic stealth we previously thought only humans could use, not Infected. It seems...calculated.

SEE ALSO: 'The Last of Us': What you can expect from Season 2

The evolution of Infected takes our heroes by such surprise they call a council meeting in Jackson about it. Ellie tells Tommy, Maria, and their councillors of the "smart" new Infected. "No one's saying it can do math or anything," says Ellie. "But it didn't run at me. It did what we do: took cover, planned, waited, lured me in. Stalking."

This swift, scurrying new villain is, in fact, known as a Stalker in The Last of Us games — and they're a tough one to beat.

What are Stalkers in The Last of Us?

Two words: Be afraid. Stalkers are a type of Infected who are very fast, very aggressive, but very stealthy. Think the speed of a Runner (the Infected that just run at you) with the power of a Clicker (the Infected who use echolocation to hunt you, making it unlikely you'll survive their attack), but make it covert.

When you're playing The Last of Us but mainly The Last of Us Part II, you'll be stealthing along, minding your own damn business, and you'll spot a Stalker scurrying in the shadows. As soon as you see this movement, that pulse rate skyrockets. When you try to attack them, they'll retreat into cover. Stalkers will then move up, getting closer to you, peeking their head out, and then charge at you in an unexpected moment (again, you're unlikely to survive the attack). When Ellie (that's you) finds a group of Stalkers in a pitch-dark office building in The Last of Us Part II, it's a flashlight-mode moment that still haunts me.

Plus, as Ellie experiences in the TV show, Stalkers are really hard to locate using the game's Listening Mode (your own version of echolocation that highlights enemies nearby). As Ellie says in the game, "These fuckers are quiet." Really, the only way to kill a Stalker in the game is swift reflexes (and an immunity to Infected helps if you miss the first time).

So, if Stalkers are near Jackson, as we see in Season 2, episode 1, the people of the settlement are in real trouble.

The Last of Us Season 2 is now streaming on Max. New episodes air weekly on Sundays 9 p.m. ET on HBO.

The Last of Us Season 2, episode 1 adds a new character who wasnt in the game

Mashable - Sun, 04/13/2025 - 22:00

The Last of Us Season 1 expanded the world of Naughty Dog's beloved game, and the second season is no different.

With the return of the HBO series, Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann send you right back to the settlement of Jackson, Wyoming, where we left Ellie (Bella Ramsay) and Joel (Pedro Pascal) on the edge of town after everything that happened in Salt Lake City.

In Season 2, Ellie and Joel have been reunited with family since then, namely Joel's brother Tommy (Gabriel Luna) and his wife Maria (Rutina Wesley), two of Jackson's leaders. But with this pair comes a new character to The Last of Us, one who didn't appear in the Part II game: their son, Benjamin.

SEE ALSO: 'The Last of Us': What you can expect from Season 2

I'll be referencing some light game spoilers in this article, so if you'd rather the narrative remain a mystery, turn back now.

Gabriel Luna as Tommy Miller in "The Last of Us." Credit: Liane Hentscher / HBO

It's one of the first differences between the game and the TV series in Season 2, the addition of Maria and Tommy's young son. The series' time jump covers five years we don't get to see between Seasons 1 and 2, during which time Benjamin has been born in Jackson.

In the game, Tommy and Maria don't have any children. Adding Benjamin to their lives in the show allows actors Luna and Wesley to explore their characters' relationship with each other in a different way, illustrating how new life emerges and creates relative stability in a show where such a thing is rare. In Season 1, Maria explains to Ellie during the haircut scene in episode 6 that her son Kevin died before the Cordyceps outbreak, so Season 2 gives Wesley more room explore Maria's complicated relationship with motherhood.

Uncle Joel! Credit: Liane Hentscher / HBO

Benjamin also provides a major new opportunity for Joel's character, whose experience with fatherhood has been traumatic to say the least — first, losing his daughter Sarah (Nico Parker) with the outbreak of the Cordyceps pandemic, and second, struggling to establish his bond with Ellie. The scene in Season 2, episode 1 where Joel bonds with his nephew over "shooting monsters" as Uncle Joel is outstandingly sweet, and honestly the first time we've seen Joel show his playful paternal side for an age.

However, I suspect the main impact Benjamin's presence in the show has is that it will add emotional weight to Tommy's life-changing decision to leave Jackson for reasons we'll leave unclear. It's a deeply traumatic departure for Maria, as Tommy's partner, and it'll be even more wrenching in the show now that Tommy is both a husband and a father. The stakes have changed for Tommy in the show, and his decision to leave Jackson takes on expanded significance.

Just remember, family members have not fared well in The Last of Usnever forget Season 1, episode 5, the series' most heartbreaking episode of all.

The Last of Us Season 2 is now streaming on Max. New episodes air weekly on Sundays 9 p.m. ET on HBO.

Trump admin already walks back smartphone, laptop tariff exemption

Mashable - Sun, 04/13/2025 - 14:06

Donald Trump's tariff policies appear to be changing once again.

It appears that the Trump administration's tariff exemptions on iPhones and other electronics announced on Friday are coming back. After imposing a whopping 145 percent tariff on goods from China, Trump rolled out exceptions that were surely welcomed by tech companies like Apple.

SEE ALSO: As tariffs invade the apparel market, selling your clothes online is the move — here's how

The tariff exceptions covered a slew of electronics from China. While the baseline tariffs remained, the exceptions spared them the high reciprocal tariffs that Trump recently placed on Chinese exports into the U.S. The exempted products included electronics such as smartphones, laptops, semiconductors, and flat-panel display modules.

However, on Sunday, April 13, the Trump administration was singing a different tune.

Appearing on This Week on ABC News, Trump's Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said that the smartphone and computer tariff exemptions are only temporary.

"We need to have semiconductors, we need to have chips, and we need to have flat panels — we need to have these things made in America," Lutnick said.

"This is not like a permanent sort of exemption," Lutnick continued before referring to Trump's thinking on tariffs. "He's just clarifying that these are not available to be negotiated away by countries. These are things that are national security, that we need to be made in America."

According to Lutnick, the products exempted from the current reciprocal tariffs will be covered under new "semiconductor tariffs" that Trump will likely announce in "a month or two."

So, if you breathed a sigh of relief because you didn't yet panic-buy an iPhone before prices skyrocketed due to the tariffs, just know that your relief is only temporary.

Netflix tests out new AI search engine for movies and TV shows powered by OpenAI

Mashable - Sun, 04/13/2025 - 13:50

Black Mirror may be able to draw inspiration for future episodes from the very platform it streams on.

Netflix has just recently rolled out access to a new AI search engine tool to some of its subscribers, according to a report from Bloomberg.

The AI search engine, which is powered by ChatGPT creator OpenAI, takes Netflix's search capabilities beyond looking up movies and TV shows by title, genre, or actor. The tool allows users to search for content using numerous other search queries, such as mood. Being that the feature is powered by OpenAI, it appears likely that users will be able to use natural language in their search.

Artificial intelligence isn't completely new to Netflix. The streaming company utilizes AI to power its recommendation algorithm, to help subscribers discover content based on their viewing history.

While Netflix is experimenting with AI, the company clearly knows of the pushback from creatives on the technology, and has previously gone on the record to say it would not use AI to replace filmmakers, screenwriters, or actors.

The AI search engine is currently in the testing phase. It's currently only available on iOS devices and to some customers in Australia and New Zealand. In addition, those subscribers need to specifically opt-in to use the tool.

Netflix expects to expand the test out to other countries, including the U.S., in the near future.



This app turns iOS devices into scanners, and now its A$40 for life

Mashable - Sun, 04/13/2025 - 13:00

TL;DR: Scan anything, anywhere, with this lifetime subscription to iScanner, now A$40 (reg. A$320) with code SCAN through April 27.

Raise your hand if you've had to drive to your parent's house to borrow their printer. If most of us don't have the space for clunky printers, chances are we also don't keep a scanner at home. That's what iScanner is for: transforming your iPhone or iPad into a handy scanning machine. 

Right now, a lifetime subscription to this convenient way to scan is just A$40 wide code SCAN, saving you A$280 if you act fast and purchase before April 27. 

This multi-tasking app saves you serious desk space

Even if you're one of the few with a physical scanner still in your presence, you can now clear some counter space thanks to iScanner. And while you're at it, you can throw away that dusty old filing cabinet, too. 

iScanner is the number one US-based scanning and document management tool, letting you knock items off your to-do list from anywhere. Need to save a receipt for taxes? Do you have a contract you need to digitize? You can scan any document using just the phone on your iOS device. 

Students, entrepreneurs, educators, and stay-at-home moms alike will all find endless uses for a scanner in your pocket. The AI-powered tools ensure your documents' borders are detected and automatically adjusted while also straightening scan pages and ditching curves and skews. 

Thanks to AI, you can also use iScanner to help you solve complicated math problems. Or put its OCR technology to the test and let it help you decipher text in up to 20 languages.

Once things are scanned, the app becomes a full PDF editor and file manager. Edit your scans, including signing them, adding text, or auto-filling them with custom templates. Then, use the file manager's folder via drag and drop to keep them safe and organized. 

Scanning something confidential? You can also protect files and folders by locking them with a PIN.

Secure iScanner for life with code SCAN, bringing the price down to A$40 through April 27.

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Opens in a new window Credit: BP Mobile iScanner App: Lifetime Subscription AU$40
AU$320 Save AU$280 Get Deal

SNL Weekend Update takes on Trumps tariffs on China

Mashable - Sun, 04/13/2025 - 12:15

Donald Trump's tariffs were a big theme on this week's Saturday Night Live. And SNL's "Weekend Update" was no exception. 

Trump's whopping 145 percent tariff on China gave SNL cast member Bowen Yang the perfect opportunity to reprise his role as "Chen Biao," China's (fictional) trade minister.

SEE ALSO: Trump interrupts 'Jesus,' riffs on Easter, tariffs, and more in 'SNL' cold open

The Chinese trade minister pokes fun at how random a number 145 percent is for Trump's tariffs before conceding that the tariffs are going to cause "a lot of hardship" for both countries.

"But wait, I'm just wondering which side is more willing to endure hardship for the glory of their nation?" Yang's Biao said. "The one that's been around for thousands of years or the one that's sending Katy Perry to space?"

Earlier in the day, Trump announced that certain products, namely electronics and computers, were now exempt from his reciprocal tariffs on China. Of course, SNL addressed this most recent news, too.

"You can't live without our technology," said Yang's Chinese trade minister, acknowledging the tariff change earlier that day. "But I think we'll survive without your Newman's Own salad dressing." 

Trump interrupts Jesus, riffs on Easter, tariffs, and more in SNL cold open

Mashable - Sun, 04/13/2025 - 11:28

Saturday Night Live opened the show this week with a recreation of The Cleansing of the Temple, a significant moment in the Bible where Jesus Christ kicks out the merchants and money changers who were turning the house of worship into a "den of thieves."

SEE ALSO: Jack Black dons Indiana Jones get-up in 'SNL' dating show sketch

However, just as Mikey Day, who plays Jesus in this cold open, is getting started, James Austin Johnson's President Donald Trump interrupts everything.

And SNL's resident Trump impersonator may have just given his best performance yet.

James Austin Johnson as Trump goes buck wild for more than five uninterrupted minutes on everything from his tariffs to Easter, the price of eggs, and even which SNL members were cast as Jesus and his disciples in the recreation frozen in time behind him.

James Austin Johnson's use of puns here to compare Jesus and Trump, Easter, and Trump's tariffs reach biblical proportions.

"You know, many people are even calling me the Messiah because of the Mess-I–ah made out of the economy," Johnson's Trump says.

NYT Mini crossword answers, hints for April 13, 2025

Mashable - Sun, 04/13/2025 - 09:01

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

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

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

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

Here are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Sunday, April 13, 2025:

AcrossState sch. founded by Thomas Jefferson
  • The answer is UVA.

Flower containers
  • The answer is Pots.

"Crib" or "pad," for "house"
  • The answer is Slang.

Pants, informally
  • The answer is Trou.

Company nicknamed "Big Blue"
  • The answer is IBM.

DownCompany nicknamed "Big Brown"
  • The answer is UPS.

What "V" stands for on a battery
  • The answer is Volt.

Big name in 1980s arcade games
  • The answer is Atari.

Stuck-up sort
  • The answer is Snob.

Big Red, e.g.
  • The answer is Gum.

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.

What to Know About Trump’s Antitrust Efforts Against Tech Giants

NYT Technology - Sun, 04/13/2025 - 05:01
The Trump administration will take Meta to court this week, continuing an aggressive effort to rein in the power of the biggest tech companies. Here’s what to know.

U.S. Prepares to Challenge Meta’s Social Media Dominance

NYT Technology - Sun, 04/13/2025 - 05:00
On Monday, Meta will face off against the federal government in a landmark antitrust trial over claims that it illegally squashed competition by buying Instagram and WhatsApp.

Upgrade to Windows 11 Pro for less than a movie ticket

Mashable - Sun, 04/13/2025 - 05:00

TL;DR: Upgrade to Microsoft Windows 11 Pro for just $14.97 (regularly $199) and enjoy enhanced security, productivity features, and the AI-powered Copilot assistant.​

In the ever-evolving world of technology, keeping your operating system current is essential for optimal performance and security. For a limited time, you can upgrade to Microsoft Windows 11 Pro for just $14.97, a significant reduction from its regular price of $199.​

Why upgrade to Windows 11 Pro?

Windows 11 Pro offers a sleek and user-friendly interface designed to enhance your computing experience. Features like Snap Layouts and Virtual Desktops allow for efficient multitasking and enable you to organize your workspace with ease. The redesigned Start menu provides quick access to your apps and documents, streamlining your workflow.​

Security is a top priority with Windows 11 Pro. The operating system includes advanced features such as BitLocker encryption and Windows Information Protection, providing robust protection against unauthorized access and data breaches. These tools are especially beneficial for professionals handling sensitive information.​

Integrated AI and better graphics

One of the standout additions is Windows Copilot, an AI-powered assistant integrated into the system. Copilot assists with tasks like answering queries, generating images, summarizing web pages, and even planning your next trip, streamlining your workflow and boosting productivity.​

Gamers and creative professionals will appreciate the inclusion of DirectX 12 Ultimate, which delivers enhanced graphics and immersive experiences. Additionally, features like Auto HDR improve color and contrast in games, providing a more vibrant visual experience.​

Upgrading to Windows 11 Pro at this price point offers an affordable way to enhance your PC's functionality, security, and overall performance.​

You can pick up Windows 11 Pro for just $14.97 (reg. $199) through April 27 at 11:59 p.m. PT only.

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Opens in a new window Credit: Microsoft Microsoft Windows 11 Pro $14.97
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Scan on demand for life with this $42 app

Mashable - Sun, 04/13/2025 - 05:00

TL;DR: Keep a scanner in your pocket at all times with this lifetime subscription to SwiftScan VIP for $41.99 (reg. $199) with code TAKE30 now through April 27.

If you need to safeguard an important document, digitizing it is the way to go. Unfortunately, scanners are hard to come by these days. That's why SwiftScan VIP is the perfect app to transform your smartphone or tablet into a powerful scanning tool.

SwiftScanVIP is a mobile scanning app that makes digitizing documents easier than ever. And right now, a lifetime subscription is only $41.99 with the code TAKE30 through April 27. 

Keep a scanner on hand for life

SwiftScan instantly turns your smartphone or tablet’s camera into a portable, on-demand scanner. All you have to do is open the app and hold your device above the document. It automatically detects edges and crops the page for you.

Once you scan, you can enhance the quality of the document with SwiftScan's color filters, auto-optimization, and blur reduction features. Then, choose to save it as a PDF or JPG. 

Need to scan more than one page? That's no problem; SwiftScan can also combine multiple pages into a single document. 

After scanning, SwiftScan helps you get your documents where they need to go. Choose to send them as an email or a fax or upload them to the cloud storage service of your choice. SwiftScan automatically organizes your scans into folders, making them easily searchable with OCR technology for quick access later.

Aside from helping with scans, SwiftScan can also tackle PDF editing. You can sign, annotate, or even redact information from these frustrating file formats right in the app. 

Enjoy easy scanning access for life with SwiftScanVIP, now only $41.99 (reg. $199) with code TAKE30 through April 27.

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Opens in a new window Credit: Maple Media SwiftScan VIP: Lifetime Subscription $41.99
$199.99 Save $158 Get Deal

Downsize your screen time with this $90 credit-card-sized smartphone

Mashable - Sun, 04/13/2025 - 05:00

TL;DR: Stay connected more conveniently with the NanoPhone, a miniaturized smartphone packed with plenty of features now available for $89.97 (reg. $199) through April 27.

Say goodbye to overwhelming screens and hello to a simplified, smarter way to stay connected.

The NanoPhone is truly pocket-sized, measuring around the size of a credit card while still offering all the perks of your usual smartphone. And you can bring one home for a much smaller price at just $89.97 (reg. $199) now through April 27. 

This mini smartphone also comes with a mini price

Whether you’re looking to cut down on screen time or just need a phone that fits in your pocket without the bulk, the NanoPhone is here to change the game. 

The NanoPhone packs all the perks of your usual smartphone — a clear, responsive touchscreen, access to your favorite apps, and a built-in camera — in a tiny format. There's no additional data plan required; you can insert your current SIM card, and it should work with your existing 4G carrier.

Both front and rear cameras let you snap photos and video chat, while Bluetooth capabilities let it connect to wireless headphones or a smartwatch for seamless integration. 

Don't assume a smaller phone means a smaller battery life. The NanoPhone is ready to last all day long. Bring it along when you don't want to be weighed down by your usual smartphone, or keep it as an emergency backup phone and tuck it somewhere safe. 

Bring home a NanoPhone for just $89.97 (reg. $199.99) now through April 27 with no coupon needed.

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Opens in a new window Credit: Mutant Design Lab NanoPhone - A Miniaturized Smartphone Packed with Mega Features! $89.97
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Let AI help you tackle work tasks with this tool that combines the major models, now $80 for life

Mashable - Sun, 04/13/2025 - 05:00

TL;DR: Enjoy access to multiple AI models in one easy spot with 1min.AI, now only $79.97 for an Advanced Business Plan lifetimes subscription (reg. $540) through April 30.

Curious about using AI to help with work tasks but aren't sure where to start? Let 1min.AI serve as your one-stop shop. This handy platform combines several popular AI models — including ChatGPT, Gemini, and Midjourney — into one app, letting you test out their unique features without hopping between services.

Right now, a lifetime subscription to the 1min.AI Advanced Business Plan can be yours for just $79.97 (reg. $540) through April 30. 

AI doesn't have to be overwhelming

1min.AI consolidates popular AI platforms into one platform, offering an easy way to create images, generate writing, and accomplish many creative tasks in seconds. Once it's done, just give it a human once-over, and it will be good to go.

Ask questions and get informative answers thanks to AI models from GoogleAI and MetaAI. Text-based tasks are powered by GPT-5, while Gemini and Mistral are on hand to create AI-generated images. In fact, the image below was made by 1min.AI itself.

This Advanced Business Plan includes 4,000,000 monthly credits — enough to generate up to 1,112,500 words, create 1,186 images, upscale 741 photos, remove backgrounds from 74 images, transcribe more than 14,000 seconds of audio, and produce up to 37 videos each month.

This plan also supports tasks like SEO research, with up to 5,933 keywords available monthly. And if you're in need of more credits, you can earn up to 450,000 bonus credits per month by visiting the app, leaving a review, or referring a friend.

You'll receive unlimited access to the prompt library, brand voice options, storage, and collaboration features for up to 20 team members with the Advanced Business Plan, making it a great option for small businesses. 

If you're looking for an easy way to start using the power of AI, 1min.AI is a great tool. 

Secure a lifetime subscription to 1min.AI Advanced Business Plan for just $79.97 (reg. $540) through April 30.

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Your Netflix alternative is here, and it’s only $15 this month

Mashable - Sun, 04/13/2025 - 00:00

TL;DR: Get a lifetime subscription to BitMar’s content finder for $14.99 this through 27 April with code BITMAR5 at checkout (reg. $150).

Here’s a challenge: cut the cord with your streaming services. Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, all of them. You’re likely paying hundreds each year in subscription fees and, chances are, you still can’t find the one movie you want to watch on any of them.

All of these reasons are probably why so many people are turning to BitMar, a streaming service alternative. You know how you can find some free movies or TV shows available online if you dig hard enough? This powerful search engine does that for you. And, for a limited time, you can get it for $14.99 with code BITMAR5 at checkout (reg. $150).

Wait…how does it work?

BitMar is powered by the Bing search engine, but it only has eyes for free streaming content. You’ll use a far more user-friendly interface to plug in a channel, genre, actor, or a specific movie or TV show you have in mind, then this content aggregator scours the web to find it.

Is it legal? Yes. BitMar is fully compliant with copyright laws — and it’s simply locating content already available on the web.

If you’re wondering why you wouldn’t just spend the time searching for it yourself, that’s the reason right there — it saves you time. BitMar also filters out the garbage to leave you with high-quality, ad-free content.

Enjoy no subscription streaming with a BitMar lifetime subscription at $14.99 with code BITMAR5 at checkout (reg. $150).

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Hurdle hints and answers for April 13, 2025

Mashable - Sun, 04/13/2025 - 00:00

If you like playing daily word games like Wordle, then Hurdle is a great game to add to your routine.

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

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

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

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

A billiards shot

SEE ALSO: Apple’s new M3 MacBook Air is $300 off at Amazon. And yes, I’m tempted. Hurdle Word 1 answer

MASSE

Hurdle Word 2 hint

A representative.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for April 13, 2025 Hurdle Word 2 Answer

PROXY

Hurdle Word 3 hint

Used to style hair.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for April 13 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for April 13, 2025 Hurdle Word 3 answer

BRUSH

Hurdle Word 4 hint

A small glass dish.

SEE ALSO: NYT Strands hints, answers for April 13 Hurdle Word 4 answer

PETRI

Final Hurdle hint

Quick.

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

RAPID

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

How to watch the 2025 MotoGP Grand Prix of Qatar online for free

Mashable - Sun, 04/13/2025 - 00:00

TL;DR: Watch the 2025 MotoGP Grand Prix of Qatar for free on ServusTV. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The early stages of the 2025 MotoGP season are being dominated by the Márquez brothers, who sit in first and second place in the standings. There is a lot still to be decided however, with a host of talented riders following closely behind. The likes of Bagnaia will be looking to cut their lead this weekend in Qatar.

If you're interested in watching the 2025 MotoGP Grand Prix of Qatar for free from anywhere in the world, we've got all the information you need.

When is the 2025 MotoGP Grand Prix of Qatar?

The MotoGP Grand Prix of Qatar takes place at the Lusail International Circuit. The 2025 MotoGP Grand Prix of Qatar race starts at 1 p.m. ET on April 13.

How to watch the 2025 MotoGP Grand Prix of Qatar for free

Every 2025 MotoGP race is available to live stream for free on ServusTV.

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

Unblock ServusTV by following this simple process:

  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 Austria

  4. Connect to ServusTV

  5. Watch MotoGP for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (2-Year Subscription + 4 Months Free) $139 at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but they do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can access MotoGP live streams without fully committing with your cash. This clearly isn't a long-term solution, but it does mean you can watch the 2025 MotoGP Grand Prix of Qatar before recovering your investment.

If you want to retain permanent access to free streaming sites from around the world, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for live streaming is on sale for a limited time.

What is the best VPN for MotoGP?

ExpressVPN is the top choice for unblocking ServusTV, for a number of reasons:

  • Servers in 105 countries including Austria

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

  • Strict no-logging policy so your data is protected

  • Fast streaming speeds free from throttling

  • Up to eight simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $139 and includes an extra four months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Watch the 2025 MotoGP Grand Prix of Qatar for free with ExpressVPN.

NYT Strands hints, answers for April 13

Mashable - Sat, 04/12/2025 - 22:00

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 preferrined pace.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for April 13 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for April 13 NYT Strands hint for today’s theme: Orange door hinge

The words are related like Orange and Door Hinge.

Today’s NYT Strands theme plainly explained

These words rhyme with different colors, even if they look like they don't.

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 ColorRhymes.

Featured Video For You Strands 101: How to win NYT’s latest word game NYT Strands word list for April 13
  • Hello

  • Queen

  • Spread

  • Height

  • Flew

  • Plaque

  • Pilot

  • ColorRhymes

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.

NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for April 13, 2025

Mashable - Sat, 04/12/2025 - 22:00

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 April 13 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: To take what's not yours

  • Green: Marked by a teacher

  • Blue: Used in Microsoft Word

  • Purple: The second half is the same

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: Steal

  • Green: Attendance status

  • Blue: Font-modifying words

  • Purple: ___Berry

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 #671 is...

What is the answer to Connections today
  • Steal: NICK, PINCH, POCKET, SWIPE

  • Attendance status: ABSENT, EXCUSED, LATE, PRESENT

  • Font-modifying words: GOTHIC, ROMAN, SANS, TYPEWRITER

  • ___Berry: CAPER, ELDER, GOOSE, LOGAN

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 April 13

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.

Wordle today: Answer, hints for April 13, 2025

Mashable - Sat, 04/12/2025 - 22:00

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 April 13 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 April 13, 2025 Here's a subtle hint for today's Wordle answer:

To chuckle.

Does today's Wordle answer have a double letter?

There are no recurring letters.

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

Today's Wordle starts with the letter L.

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

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

Drumroll please!

The solution to today's Wordle is...

LAUGH.

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 April 13

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.

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