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The clock’s ticking — get MS Office 2019 for less than your weekly coffee budget

Mashable - Mon, 03/24/2025 - 00:00

TL;DR: Get Microsoft Office Professional Plus 2019 for Windows for just £23.20 (reg. £177.24) when you buy a lifetime license at the Mashable shop.

Are you ready to finally get your digital life in order? Then this offer on Microsoft Office Professional Plus 2019 for Windows might just be part of the solution.

For just £23.20 (reg. £177.24), you’ll score a lifetime license to all the Office classics you know and love.

Unlike subscription-based models like Office 365, this one-time purchase gives you unlimited access to heavy-hitting productivity tools like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook. Whether you’re a freelancer drafting client proposals, a small business owner crunching numbers in Excel, or just someone tired of those “You’ve hit your free tier” notifications, this promotion lets you work to your heart's content without ongoing fees.

Plus, you get lesser-used but equally handy apps like Access and Publisher — because you never know when you’ll need to flex your database or desktop publishing skills.

Why Office 2019? It’s ideal for those who want the essentials without unnecessary extras. The interface is familiar, so there’s no steep learning curve, and you don’t need to worry about hefty system requirements or cloud-based AI tools bogging down your workflow. Plus, it works offline, meaning unreliable Wi-Fi won’t derail your productivity.

This lifetime license is especially clutch for cost-conscious peeps. Forget recurring subscriptions and unpredictable renewal fees — this one-time purchase keeps your budget predictable while delivering serious value.

Upgrade your productivity toolkit with a lifetime solution that works as hard as you do.

Get a lifetime Microsoft Office Professional Plus 2019 license for just £23.20 (reg. £177.24) for a limited time at the Mashable Shop.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Microsoft Microsoft Office Professional Plus 2019 for Windows £23.20 at the Mashable Shop
£177.24 Save £154.04 Get Deal

NYT Strands hints, answers for March 24

Mashable - Sun, 03/23/2025 - 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 preferred pace.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for March 24 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for March 24 NYT Strands hint for today’s theme: Yes, Queen ...

The words are music-related.

Today’s NYT Strands theme plainly explained

These words are popular artists.

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 RockBand.

Featured Video For You Strands 101: How to win NYT’s latest word game NYT Strands word list for March 24
  • Blondie

  • Heart

  • Kiss

  • Genesis

  • Journey

  • Eagles

  • Rush

  • RockBand

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 March 24, 2025

Mashable - Sun, 03/23/2025 - 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 March 24 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: Not pleasing to the nose

  • Green: Stays the same

  • Blue: Found on a video game cover

  • Purple: A popular dip has seven of these

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: Bad-smelling

  • Green: Unfluctuating

  • Blue: Who video games are for, per ESRB ratings

  • Purple: Things with layers

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 #648 is...

What is the answer to Connections today
  • Bad-smelling: FOUL, RANK, RIPE, SOUR

  • Unfluctuating: CONSTANT, LEVEL, STABLE, UNIFORM

  • Who video games are for, per ESRB ratings: ADULTS ONLY, EVERYONE, MATURE, TEEN

  • Things with layers: EARTH, HENHOUSE, ONION, PHOTOSHOP

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 March 24

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.

Hurdle hints and answers for March 24, 2025

Mashable - Sun, 03/23/2025 - 22:00

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

An ointment.

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

SALVE

Hurdle Word 2 hint

A cart or lorry.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for March 24, 2025 Hurdle Word 2 Answer

WAGON

Hurdle Word 3 hint

Found on a kangaroo.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for March 24 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for March 24, 2025 Hurdle Word 3 answer

POUCH

Hurdle Word 4 hint

Public outrage.

SEE ALSO: NYT Strands hints, answers for March 24 Hurdle Word 4 answer

FUROR

Final Hurdle hint

A pitch.

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

SPIEL

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

Wordle today: Answer, hints for March 24, 2025

Mashable - Sun, 03/23/2025 - 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 March 24 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 March 24, 2025 Here's a subtle hint for today's Wordle answer:

A perspective.

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 A.

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...

ANGLE.

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 March 24

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.

Tesla trade-ins at highest levels ever while consumers boycott Musk

Mashable - Sun, 03/23/2025 - 15:13

Tesla is facing an unprecedented boycott.

Protests at showrooms and acts of vandalism against Tesla vehicles have popped up around the world due to CEO Elon Musk's affiliation with President Donald Trump and other far-right parties. Musk has also been a driving force behind the "Department of Government Efficiency," his government project behind the mass firing of federal workers and potential future cuts to Social Security. And, of course, throwing up a so-called "Roman salute" gesture has also affected Tesla's sales. 

The boycott has resulted in Tesla's EV car sales dropping by as much as 76 percent in some markets. However, it's not just Tesla's potential customers who are turning away from the company. Tesla owners want out now, too.

SEE ALSO: Tesla is somehow missing $1.4 billion

According to new data from online car inventory platform Edmunds, March 2025 saw the highest monthly share of Tesla trade-ins on record. Drivers have traded in a record number of Tesla vehicles this month. Tesla models from 2017 or newer have made up 1.4 percent of all vehicles traded in as of March 15.

That's up by a full percentage point from last March when Tesla cars only made up 0.4 percent of trade-ins.In addition, Edmunds analysts said that number is likely to go up as the second half of the month rolls on and they receive more trade-in data. 

Edmunds says that in February 2025, Tesla made up 1.2 percent of all trade-ins, so this month's numbers have already exceeded last month's, and there is plenty of time left to go. According to Edmunds, this data excludes trade-ins towards new Tesla purchases, so these aren't cases of customers trading up for a newer Tesla vehicle.

Edmunds' data also showed that interest in buying new Tesla vehicles has dropped to its lowest levels since October 2022. Car buyers who are considering a Tesla vehicle now sit at 1.8 percent of shoppers. It previously peaked in November of last year with 3.3 percent. 

As for Tesla owners looking to sell their EVs, Mashable previously reported how Tesla user car prices have cratered due to Musk. On average, the price of used Tesla vehicles has fallen by 10 percent, which is a much bigger drop in value than used cars made by other automotive brands.

Your Netflix alternative is here, and it’s only A$23 for life

Mashable - Sun, 03/23/2025 - 13:00

TL;DR: Get a lifetime subscription to BitMar’s content finder for A$23 (reg. A$237) through 27 April with code BITMAR5 at checkout.

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 A$23 when you use the discount code BITMAR5 at checkout (reg. A$237). Just head to the Mashable Shop and grab this deal before 27 April.

Wait…how does Bitmar 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 A$23 with code BITMAR5 at checkout (reg. A$237). This coupon code expires 27 April.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: BitMar BitMar Streaming Content-Finder: Lifetime Subscription AU$23
AU$237 Save AU$214 Use code 'BITMAR5' Get Deal

One companys devious plan to stop AI web scrapers from stealing your content

Mashable - Sun, 03/23/2025 - 12:54

AI is stealing your content. We know this is how AI companies have built their highly-valued businesses – by scraping the web and using your data to train their chatbots.

Web scraping isn't new. In the past, websites could rely on simple protocols like robots.txt to define what could, and could not, be used by web crawlers. Those guidelines were respected by the companies doing the scraping to, say, build results for search engines. AI companies, however, are not abiding by this social contract and are ignoring those instructions.

Cloudflare, a global network service that helps some of the biggest websites in the world deliver content to users, has devised a new plan to deal with AI companies' web scrapers. And the idea is as positively devious as it is ingenious. 

In a new blog post, Cloudflare has shared how it's now "trapping misbehaving bots in an AI labyrinth." Basically, bots that don't follow the rules laid out for them via protocols such as robots.txt, a simple text file that lays out what web crawlers are allowed to do on a site, will be messed with in order to waste the time and resources of the company in charge of the bot.

"AI-generated content has exploded…at the same time, we’ve also seen an explosion of new crawlers used by AI companies to scrape data for model training," Cloudflare said in its post. "AI Crawlers generate more than 50 billion requests to the Cloudflare network every day, or just under 1% of all web requests we see."

Cloudflare says it previously just blocked AI web crawlers and scrapers. However, doing so alerted those behind the bots that their access had been denied, and as a result they would shift strategies in order to continue their scraping campaigns.

So, Cloudflare came up with an idea to build a honeypot: a series of fake webpages created with AI-generated content.

The fact that Cloudflare is utilizing AI-generated content to fight AI web scrapers isn't just for schadenfreude. When AI trains off of AI-generated content, it actually degrades the AI model itself. The industry even has a term for it: "model collapse." Cloudflare is essentially making sure that bots that break the rules are punished for doing so.

Cloudflare's post gets into the technical details of building the AI labyrinth. But, the main gist of it is that Cloudflare devised things in a way where a human visitor shouldn't ever see these AI-generated honeypot pages. In addition, humans would notice the "AI-generated nonsense" on these pages. Bots, however, would fall down the rabbit hole, wasting computational resources as they go deeper and deeper through the multiple pages of AI-generated content.

Cloudflare customers are able to opt-in to using the AI labyrinth right now to protect their content from web scrapers.

NYT Mini crossword answers, hints for March 23, 2025

Mashable - Sun, 03/23/2025 - 09:22

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, March 23, 2025:

AcrossWomen's World Cup team that had a rivalry with the U.S. during the 2010s
  • The answer is Japan.

Napoleon's punishment during the 1810s (twice!)
  • The answer is Exile.

Component of muscle tissue
  • The answer is Sinew.

Wreck beyond repair
  • The answer is Total.

Like the air at a hookah lounge
  • The answer is Smoky.

DownJoking remarks
  • The answer is Jests.

Statement of truth
  • The answer is Axiom.

Kind of bean used in refried beans
  • The answer is Pinto.

Spring ___ (start dripping)
  • The answer is A leak.

Afresh
  • The answer is Newly.

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.

Echo vs. Echo Dot: Which device should you buy during Amazons Big Spring Sale?

Mashable - Sun, 03/23/2025 - 05:00

Smart speakers like Amazon's Echo family of products are a great starting point if you’re looking to get a smarter home. They're affordable and easy to use, and beyond just playing music, they can help you find your next binge-watch, read the news, and adjust room settings. 

Since debuting a decade ago, Amazon’s Echo devices have multiplied quickly. There are nearly a dozen iterations of the smart home devices, but let’s not overcomplicate it. The Echo (Fourth Generation) and Echo Dot (Fifth Generation) fall in the middle of the Echo lineup. While they look like virtually the same device, the Dot offers the perks of an Echo in a smaller package.

So what’s one to do? To help you out, we compared these smart speakers side by side. Here’s everything you need to know if you’re deciding between the Echo and the Echo Dot.

When is the best time to buy an Echo or Echo Dot?

Before we even get into all the logistics of both devices, you should be prepared for when to shop. Yes, they start at affordable prices — the Echo starts at $99.99 and the Dot at $49.99. However, you don't need to (and shouldn't) buy them at full price. The best time to buy is during shopping holidays like Black Friday, when you'll find Echos at their lowest prices ever. We've seen the Echo Dot go as low as $22.99.

While we’re still several months away from the big shopping events, seasonal events like Amazon’s Big Spring Sale present savings opportunities, especially on Amazon devices. When the event runs from March 25 through the 31, we’re looking out for deals on Echo devices.

Privacy concerns on Echo devices

Another thing to mention before we get into the Echo vs. Echo Dot debate is something that affects all Echo users, no matter the specific device. Rightfully so, there are privacy concerns around Echos as they've been known to record entire conversations, listening in when you're talking about potentially sensitive information.

To limit some of this risk, in the Alexa app, you can review your daily voice history and delete anything you don't vibe with, manage the access to data certain skills have, and more. On the exterior of both the 4th Gen Echo and 5th Gen Echo Dot, you can also find a mic-off button that will prevent any audio input from reaching Alexa.

However, in 2025, Amazon is making even bigger changes that could affect user privacy. Previously, users could choose "Do Not Send Voice Recordings" in settings, which meant that all requests you made were processed locally rather than getting sent off to Amazon's servers. As of March 28, 2025, Amazon is taking away this setting, meaning all requests will be sent through Amazon servers.

While Amazon promises that all information requests are encrypted and secure, it still means that the retailer has access to all user data now. If you have concerns, there are other smart home options to explore with better privacy.

Good things come in colorful packages. Credit: Stacia Datskovska / Mashable Difference between Echo and Echo DotAmazon Echo smart speaker review (4th Gen) Amazon Echo (4th Gen) $99.99 at Amazon
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The Echo weighs 34.2 ounces and its dimensions are 5.7 x 5.7 x 5.2 inches. On its round exterior, you'll find an action button, volume buttons, a mic-off button, a light-up ring, a power port, and a 3.5-millimeter audio output. With three distinct color options currently available at Amazon, this under-$100 device is sure to fit your home decor seamlessly.

Setting up the Echo is also seamless and you can use it within minutes. Indeed, the only things inside the package are the device itself, a power adapter, and two guides. The setup guide is highly visual, which is always a perk. To begin, you have to download the Alexa app and sign in. No, you don't need to have a Prime account to use an Amazon smart device (though its range of possibilities surely increases for those of us who are Prime members). Plug in the included power adapter into the Echo and then plug the Echo into a wall outlet. The light ring on the Echo will turn blue when it’s on and then orange when Alexa greets you. Next, connect the Echo to your home WiFi network. The Alexa app will then walk you through the rest of the setup process, including customizing your "wake word," mastering the pronunciation of your name, allowing access to phone contacts, and more.

SEE ALSO: The 10 best Echo devices to add to your smart home

Once all that is ready, you're good to go. Give your newest smart home companion a warm welcome: After all, it will be your go-to from now on for blasting music, waking you up in the morning, providing news and weather reports, calling loved ones, and so much more.

Amazon Echo Dot smart speaker review (5th Gen) Echo Dot (5th Gen, 2022 release) $49.99 at Amazon
Shop Now

The Echo Dot takes smart living to a new level. Though this device is two years newer than the aforementioned Echo (4th Gen), it's actually $50 cheaper.

The Echo Dot weighs 10.7 ounces, a third of the size of the Echo, and its dimensions are 3.9 x 3.9 x 3.5 inches. This baby can easily fit on countertops, shelves, or nightstands. Similar to the Echo, it boasts an action button, a microphone-off button, volume controls, a light ring, and a power port. It pretty much comes with the same color options as the bigger Echo, except for its deep sea blue shade being slightly darker than the Echo's twilight blue shade. Potayto, potahto.

Setup is also a breeze with the Echo Dot. First, plug it into a wall outlet and open the Alexa app to start setup. (You’ll need to download the Alexa app on your smartphone beforehand.) Once you open the app, select “devices” and then select the “+” icon. Follow the on-screen instructions from that point on and personalize the device to your liking.

What you get when you order an Amazon Echo Dot. Credit: Stacia Datskovska / Mashable Smarter, easier living featuresEcho

The Amazon Echo functions as your personal butler and best friend. Since it's a smart speaker that connects to the Alexa Voice Service, you use it to do everything from playing the latest hits to purchasing some kitchen staples to killing your boredom with a round of Jeopardy! Advanced sound technology helps the Echo immediately respond to you and recognize your voice. In fact, during the setup process on the Alexa app, Echo learns your voice's cadences and pitch by making you repeat some sample prompts. Impressive.

You can tell Alexa exactly what to put on your grocery list and manage the items on your Alexa app. Credit: Screenshot: Amazon

Prompt response: Beamforming technology, noise-cancellation, and seven microphones will enable the Echo to hear you from your nearby location. Just speak the wake word and say commands like “Alexa, find an Amazon Music playlist,” or “Alexa, call Dad” for immediate assistance. Something to note: Your speaker does not by any means have to be called Alexa. Other fun options include Echo, Ziggy, or Santa. Referring to your device as that last option unlocks a whole new Ho-Ho-Ho personality for it. Another thing to note: Amazon is getting better about accessibility, in the form of Adaptive Listening. This feature, when enabled, essentially gives you more time to finish speaking — Alexa's way of accommodating speech patterns like stuttering.

Beats master: Of course the Echo can play music, but it’s more than a basic speaker. It comes with Dolby premium sound that fills a whole room — with deep bass and clear high notes alike. If you have two Echo devices in one room, you can actually tell one of them to "play music everywhere," which will amplify sound to even higher levels and make for an actual at-home clubbing experience. Word of caution, however — Alexa didn't cooperate with me, strangely, when I tried to test out this feature. For those of us who are highly picky about music streaming services, Amazon lets you set default options which you can change at any time. Do you want Alexa to pick music from Apple Music but podcasts from Spotify? No problem, there's an option for that.

Hands-free communication: If you need to message or call loved ones, the Echo has your back. You can use Alexa to communicate with people via phone or text on the Echo, without grabbing your smartphone. Plus, Alexa can also make household announcements across Amazon Echo devices at home, so your family knows if dinner is ready or guests are arriving. Use the Drop-In feature to connect to other Amazon Echo devices or the Announcement feature to record cute messages in your own voice (accompanied by a range of sound effect offerings, including dinner bell, kiss, trumpet, as well as, a bit alarmingly, toilet flush and fart).

Control smart devices: If you have other smart devices that work with Alexa, you can easily control them with Echo's Zigbee smart home hub. Just ask Alexa to dim the lights, adjust the room temperature, or turn on a compatible smart-plug-connected appliance. The best thing about this? You don’t have to press any buttons, and you can even engineer routines for yourself ahead of time to set these processes in motion at a certain time in your home.

The Echo can double as a night light Credit: Stacia Datskovska / Mashable Echo Dot

Making the smart living switch isn’t always budget-friendly, but the Echo Dot is affordable and provides great voice control features. These features aren't all that different from what you get with the Echo. The only true upgrades are new motion sensors that let you touch-control the device, the 1.73-inch front-firing speaker (versus a woofer and tweeters), and "Eero mesh network support so the Echo Dot can serve as a node for your Eero network if you use one," according to our sister site, PCMag. Use the Dot to receive reminders, save cookie recipes to your app for future reference, bask your room in a night light glow, communicate with friends and family, soothe yourself with some white noise, and beyond.

Listening companion: We’ve all tried the conventional speaker setup, which typically involves too many outlets and wires. Echo Dot offers the opposite experience for all your listening needs. You can use your voice to play music through streaming services, including Amazon Music, Apple Music, and Spotify. Plus, Audible and other media forms are available on the Echo Dot. Ask Alexa to find the perfect playlist or podcast, and you’ll have something to listen to when you cook in the kitchen, lounge on the couch, or work out in your living room. Another extra-cool feature? The Dot will start playing deep sleep music when it detects sounds of snoring — if you enable it to do so.

Task help: There are times we wish that we had a personal assistant for little things, including making lists and scheduling calendars. The Echo Dot helps make your everyday routine (and entertainment) more seamless with voice control. Try saying: "Alexa, set a timer for five minutes," "Alexa, play the Reuters news briefing," "Alexa, open my daily horoscope," or "Alexa, find my phone." The possibilities are endless. Be sure to reference the "more" tab on the Alexa app to browse through all of the Echo Dot's offerings.

Use the Dot to send messages to houseguests, remind you of tasks, and more! Credit: Screenshot: Amazon

Converse with and check in on loved ones: Like the Echo, the Echo Dot allows you to send messages, make phone calls, and use other Echo devices as intercoms. Enjoy hands-free communication with loved ones and make announcements via Drop-In to keep everyone in touch at home. If you have elderly parents at home, you can also take advantage of Alexa Together — Amazon's remote caregiving offering that does cost extra but allows you to connect compatible fall detection devices to the Echo Dot, see snapshots of your loved ones' daily interactions with Alexa, get 24/7 access to trained agents who can call 911 in case of an emergency, create gentle reminders such as "take your pills," and more.

Monitor your smart home environment: The Echo Dot also offers the option to monitor smart devices at home. If you have light bulbs, thermostats, or streaming media players that are compatible with Alexa, you can control their activity with the Echo Dot. Just speak to Alexa in your room of choice, and you can easily monitor lighting, temperature, and more with verbal commands. Also, if you enable sound detection routines, you can program a particular sound (dog barking, oven dinging, door opening) to trigger a certain Alexa Routine. This feature has an accessibility bonus since it can be used as a way to provide visual cues to those with hearing challenges. For instance, "if Alexa detects running water for a period of time... she can trigger the living room smart lights to flash on and off, serving as a visual reminder to shut off the faucet," as reported in USA Today.

Don't let the Dot's size fool you — it's mighty smart. Credit: Stacia Datskovska / Mashable Price and competitionEcho

At $99.99, the Echo is moderately priced, but it comes with benefits that go beyond other smart speakers. With its high-tech sound features, including Dolby audio, you’ll be able to enjoy your favorite beats at the right volume. When you’re entertaining guests, you can engage the multi-room music feature to turn your pad into a dance floor (adjusting bass settings accordingly). In addition to playing music, the Echo allows you to control smart devices and communicate with loved ones via voice control. It also comes with a skills range so extensive that it might take you months to try them all out.

The Echo comes with a one-year limited warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship. If you would like additional protection, you can buy an extended warranty separately at Amazon.

In terms of competition, the $99.99 Apple HomePod mini can be considered a pretty close match (at least price-wise). It's teeny compared to the Echo, though, and a larger/more advanced Apple smart speaker — the HomePod — will cost you $299 (see our full review of the Apple Homepod). While this competitor might be a better choice for Apple fans, due to its easy iOS compatibility, Siri isn't as smart or loyal of an assistant as Alexa in our opinion.

Echo Dot

For those on a technology budget, the 5th Gen Echo Dot delivers all the smart speaker benefits at a fraction of the price. At $49.99, it’s more affordable than other Amazon Echo devices (despite being the newest Dot) and still has desirable features like advanced voice recognition, smart device control, and assistance with small tasks via Alexa.

Unlike the Echo, the Echo Dot only comes with a 90-day limited warranty. It’s applicable to defects in materials and workmanship and you can contact Amazon’s Customer Service for assistance. This warranty, too, can be extended to a one-year, two-year, or even three-year plan for an additional fee.

If we're talking about what's available on the smart speaker market that can compare to the Dot, the Google-Assistant-powered Nest Mini (2nd Generation) immediately comes to mind, as it also costs $49.99. The Nest Mini is cute as a button (and weighs almost as much). It's compatible with streaming services like Spotify, Pandora, and iHeart Radio, as well as Youtube, has smart home pairing with Arlo, Nest, Ring, and other appliances, and it allows you to voice-purchase essentials from storefronts that aren't limited to Amazon. Still, with the Dot's new-and-improved front-firing speaker, there's no question that it wins the contest when it comes to quality audio. Also, with its upgraded temperature and movement sensors, the Dot seems to be leading the smart home game. I mean, what other speaker will listen for the sound of broken glass and immediately alert you to a potential robbery happening when you're MIA?

Clearly, the Echo is way bigger than the Echo Dot (reflected in their price difference). Credit: Stacia Datskovska / Mashable So, to Echo or to Echo Dot?

If you want a large smart speaker that delivers high-quality sound, allows you to engage in hands-free control, and use your voice to communicate with loved ones, the $99.99 4th Gen Echo is a good call. Another perk of this device is that it’s customizable: You can choose a decorative shell to compliment your home decor vibe. Plus, it works with other Amazon Echo devices for the ultimate sound setup whenever you need it.

If you don’t want to fork over a lot of cash for a smart speaker, the Echo Dot is a great pick — especially considering it's newer than the 4th Gen Echo. At only $49.99, it’s a steal compared to other Amazon-connected devices and offers the same smart speaker benefits... and then some.

How to watch Mexico vs. Panama online for free

Mashable - Sun, 03/23/2025 - 05:00

TL;DR: Live stream Mexico vs. Panama in the Concacaf Nations League for free on YouTube. Access this free live stream from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

Mexico take on Panama in the final of the Concacaf Nations League. Mexico defeated Canada 2-0 in the semi final to make it to this showpiece event. Fans were expecting Mexico to meet USA in the final, but Panama shocked the world by beating Pochettino's side with a last-minute winner from Cecilio Waterman.

If you want to watch Mexico vs. Panama in the Concacaf Nations League for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Mexico vs. Panama?

Mexico vs. Panama in the Concacaf Nations League final kicks off at 9:30 p.m. ET on March 23. This fixture takes place at the SoFi Stadium.

How to watch Mexico vs. Panama for free

Mexico vs. Panama in the Concacaf Nations League is available to live stream for free on YouTube.

This free live stream is available in most locations around the world, but not in North or Central America. Fortunately, fans in these excluded territories can still access this free live stream with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the UK (or somewhere else with access), meaning you can unblock free live streams of the Concacaf Nations League from anywhere in the world.

Live stream Mexico vs. Panama 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 the UK (or somewhere else with access)

  4. Visit YouTube

  5. Live stream Mexico vs. Panama for free

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (2-Year Subscription + 4 Months Free) $139 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 Mexico vs. Panama in the Concacaf Nations League without actually spending anything. This clearly isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to stream the Concacaf Nations League final before recovering your investment.

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

What is the best VPN for YouTube?

ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport on YouTube, 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 two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $139 and includes an extra four months for free — 61% 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 Mexico vs. Panama in the Concacaf Nations League for free with ExpressVPN.

Use ChatGPT to be your assistant in everyday life with this $30 bundle

Mashable - Sun, 03/23/2025 - 05:00

TL;DR: Find out how to get more out of AI in the 2025 ChatGPT Skills and Creativity Bundle on sale for $29.99. 

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpertEase Education The 2025 ChatGPT Skills & Creativity Bundle $29.99
Get Deal

Sometimes, using ChatGPT feels like gambling. You enter a prompt, and the AI gives back something completely useless. Then you try again, and it's perfect. Jackpot. The robot got the job done. 

AI isn't actually like gambling. It only feels that way if you haven't learned the tricks of the trade. It's not luck, it's skill, and the ChatGPT Skills and Creativity Bundle can show you how it's done. Find out how to get more out of AI in the 2025 ChatGPT Skills and Creativity Bundle on sale for $29.99. 

How to use ChatGPT well

There's more than one way to use ChatGPT. You can use it to create content from nothing, or you can use it to enhance what's already there. This bundle shows you how to do both over the course of five courses. 

What do you use AI for? Whether it's for YouTube, blogging, articles, or emails, the Creative Writing and Content Creation course can show you use how to get more out of AI. There's even a downloadable prompt guide that can point you in the right direction. And if you want more help refining your AI prompts, there's an entire course dedicated to prompt engineering for ChatGPT or other generative AI. 

There are also more focused courses teaching you the tricks to using AI to enhance your productivity, create content in bulk, and even use ChatGPT for travel. Find out how ChatGPT could take over some of your administrative work, write everything from TikTok to YouTube shorts, or help you find the best hotel for your next trip. 

Learn to use AI the right way. Get the 2025 ChatGPT Skills and Creativity Bundle on sale for $29.99. 

StackSocial prices subject to change. 

Grab a refurbished MacBook Air for just $200 through March 30

Mashable - Sun, 03/23/2025 - 05:00

TL;DR: Bring home a refurbished Apple MacBook Air (1.8GHz i5, 8GB RAM, 128GB SSD) for just $199.97 (reg. $999) now through March 30.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Refurbished Apple MacBook Air (1.8GHz i5, 8GB RAM, 128GB SSD) $199.97
$999 Save $799.03 Get Deal

Ready to upgrade your laptop without overspending?

Though it sounds too good to be true, a refurbished Apple MacBook Air (1.8GHz i5, 8GB RAM, 128GB SSD) can be yours for just $199.97 (reg. $999). But you'll have to act fast — this deal only runs through March 30.

Score all the perks of a MacBook Air for a fraction of the price

Whether looking for a new work computer that's easy to bring along on the daily commute or in the market for a personal laptop that won't take up much space, it's hard to beat a MacBook Air. 

This model weighs less than three pounds but doesn't sacrifice any of the usual Apple quality. It comes equipped with a powerful 1.8GHz Intel Core i5 processor ready to provide speedy performance anywhere you open it. 

Are you worried about how much you can store on a MacBook Air? You may be surprised to find out this model has an impressive 128GB of storage and is ready to house your important data right on the laptop.

No matter the purpose, work or play, the 13.3-inch widescreen has Intel HD Graphics 6000, so you can enjoy vivid, high-quality images for your business emails or White Lotus binge session. 

Speaking of that binge session, you won't need to stay tethered to an electrical outlet while you watch your shows. This model offers an ample 12-hour battery life on a single charge. 

This deep discount comes from the device's grade A refurbished rating. This means your MacBook Air will be delivered in near-mint condition, with virtually no sign of wear, and you'll only pay that bargain refurbished price tag. 

Act fast to secure your own MacBook Air for only $199.97 (reg. $999) now through March 30, while supplies last. 

StackSocial prices subject to change.

This retro gaming console has over 70,000 games preloaded — and its on sale for $90

Mashable - Sun, 03/23/2025 - 05:00

TL;DR: The Kinhank Super Console has over 70,000 retro games built in, and it's only $89.97 through March 30. 

Opens in a new window Credit: Kinhank Kinhank Super Console X2 Pro Retro Gaming Emulator & Streaming Console $89.97
$159.99 Save $70.02 Get Deal

Have you seen how much some retro games cost? It's one thing if you're a collector, but if you just want to play the games from your childhood, it's frustrating when the only options are super expensive. That's why more gamers have started using emulators on their phones and computers, but now, you can actually get a full gaming console with emulators built in.

The Kinhank Super Console can play games from the NES, SNES, Sega Genesis, and more, and it has over 70,000 of them built in already. Get one of these retro consoles on sale for only $89.97 (reg. $159). 

Retro gaming is finally affordable

This retro gaming emulator feels like bringing the arcade home with you.  It comes with dual systems, running EmuELEC 4.5 for retro gaming and Android 9.0 for modern apps, so you can go from playing Sonic the Hedgehog to streaming your favorite shows in seconds. And because it's packed with a powerful Amlogic S905X2 processor and Mali-G31MP2 GPU, you'll get crisp, quality visuals whether you're playing an old favorite or watching a new one.

Old consoles were great, but some modern amenities are worth carrying over. That's why this console has dual-band WiFi and Bluetooth 5.0, so it's easy to connect controllers, headphones, or even your TV. It’s not just limited to your old favorites, either. You can download an additional 20,000 3D games for free.

Two wireless controllers are included, so you can kick back with your favorite gaming buddy and enjoy some couch co-op the way it used to be played. 

March 30 is the cutoff to get the Kinhank Super Console X2 on sale for $89.97. 

StackSocial prices subject to change. 

The end of remote work doesnt work for women

Mashable - Sun, 03/23/2025 - 05:00

Five years ago, when the COVID pandemic forced all non-essential workers to stay home, American families were swiftly forced to reorganize themselves.

Suddenly, they had no childcare, no school, and no support system to help them navigate an unprecedented moment in their lifetimes. But just as unexpectedly, parents and caregivers whose jobs could be performed remotely had something relatively novel: the ability to work from home.

For many mothers who could take advantage of remote work, it was a burden and blessing that ultimately became indispensable. Once their kids went back to daycare or school, the flexibility of working from home often meant they could better juggle the many demands on their time, including the disproportionate amount of housework they perform compared to their male partners.

SEE ALSO: Remote work helps the environment. Here's how.

"There was a massive amount of efficiencies that happened in terms of managing lives during the pandemic, ironically," says Susan MacKenty Brady, CEO of the Simmons University Institute for Inclusive Leadership.

Now, some business leaders, and even the president of the United States, are determined to roll back workplace flexibility.

In January, President Donald Trump declared that government employees would be required to return to their workplace. Last month, in a company town hall, JP Morgan CEO Jamie Dimond offered a profanity-laced explanation for why his employees had to work five days a week in-person again. Amazon and AT&T, among other companies, have also called employees back to the office.

Proponents say working in person full-time will boost productivity, but experts say that women will pay a unique price.

"It's going to affect the advancement of women notably, because we got a taste for a bit of what we could do if we were given our own choices," MacKenty Brady says.

A workplace 'disconnect'

By 2023, women had finally rejoined the workforce at the same rate as men prior to the pandemic, according to the Institute for Women's Policy Research. But it took them 11 months longer than it took men to reach that milestone; women didn't achieve their pre-pandemic employment level until childcare jobs also recovered.

Now it appears that many women rely on remote work to succeed at home and in their professional role. CNBC’s annual Women at Work survey recently found that about a quarter of respondents said their work-life balance had improved over the last year. They attributed the change primarily to having a more flexible schedule.

Of 700 women in the job market, the vast majority characterized their hunt as "very difficult," largely because they're unable to find remote or hybrid roles.

Organizational psychologist Patricia Grabarek says the push to end flexible work reflects, in part, the prerogative of high-powered executives, many of whom are men, who can hire people to manage their households and lives (or delegate those tasks to a stay-at-home wife or partner). Their days are also filled with important meetings that they may prefer to happen in person.

As a result, what executives think work can and should look like often varies significantly from their employees' needs, and how they best achieve productivity.

"There is this disconnect...for what the day-to-day looks like for employees," says Grabarek, who is also the author of Leading for Wellness: How to Create a Team Culture Where Everyone Thrives.

The pressure-cooker of office vs. home

Along with that disconnect, there's silence about the reality of ending remote work, particularly for women.

Reporting back to the office full-time doesn't mean that home and community responsibilities suddenly disappear. There are still kids who need to be promptly picked up from after-school care, dogs that need walking, errands that must be run, doctors' appointments that can't be missed, and so on.

Whereas mothers (and fathers) could previously use time spent commuting on some of these tasks, now they're back in their cars or riding public transportation. When flexibility vanishes, MacKenty Brady says the answer is often to buy more childcare. That only puts additional pressure on households to earn more to afford care while also creating fresh tension for mothers who feel spread thin.

MacKenty Brady says it's rare to hear corporate leaders publicly acknowledge these pressures, even as their insistence on in-person work could actually diminish productivity and engagement by increasing stress and exhaustion.

MacKenty Brady believes that even if women aren't vocally opposing return-to-work mandates, perhaps because they fear the repercussions of doing so, they also won't tolerate the shift over the long term.

More than 1 in 5 of women surveyed by CNBC said they'd "seriously considered quitting" in recent months in an effort to reduce work stress and find a higher-paying job. Of the 8 percent of women who did quit, they cited improved work-life balance as the chief factor in their decision.

"People are feeling exhausted, they're feeling burnt out." - Patricia Grabarek, organizational psychologist

There's no indication yet that significant numbers of women will drop out of the workforce, but Grabarek says that decreased flexibility may force women to step away from their jobs, just as they did during COVID.

The corporate trend against flexible work might also help explain the appeal of the so-called tradwife lifestyle, even for women who have no interest in the religious aspects of it.

"People are feeling exhausted, they're feeling burnt out," Grabarek says. "I think the idealism behind this freer seeming life, where you're just able to focus on the simple thing, feels nice."

MacKenty Brady doesn't believe in pitting housewives against career women. But she does note that staying home may be the product of forces beyond a woman's control.

"If a woman genuinely chooses a more traditional role because it aligns with her values and aspirations, that is her right and should be respected," she says. "However, if societal pressures, romanticized nostalgia, or economic limitations are shaping that choice, then we must question whether it’s truly a choice at all."

MacKenty Brady says that despite the emphasis on getting back to the office full-time, offering flexible work options is a no-brainer, because women are essential to the American workforce. In other words, alienating them is no strategy for a company's financial success.

This low-maintenance AirTag alternative is just $30

Mashable - Sun, 03/23/2025 - 05:00

TL;DR: The super-thin KeySmart SmartCard tracking card works with Apple’s Find My app, lasts five months on a charge, won’t bulk up your wallet like an AirTag, and is just $29.97.

Opens in a new window Credit: KeySmart KeySmart SmartCard $29.97
$39.99 Save $10.02 Thinnest Card Tracker & Works with Apple Find My Get Deal

Losing your wallet can be an absolute nightmare. But with the KeySmart SmartCard, that stress can become a thing of the past. This ultra-thin, credit-card-sized tracker slips into your wallet, bag, or ID badge holder and connects seamlessly to Apple’s Find My network, just like an AirTag — but without the bulk.

And you don’t have to keep replacing batteries like you do with an AirTag. Just drop it on a Qi-enabled wireless charger, and you’re good to go for up to five months on a single charge. It's also currently on sale for just $29.97 (reg. $39.99) with free shipping through March 30.

While its slim design is the major selling point, it’s also built to survive life’s little accidents. With an IPX8 waterproof rating, this card can handle a full dunk in water without flinching. Whether you’re tracking down your lost wallet at a bar, trying to locate your bag at the airport, or making sure your work badge never vanishes again, KeySmart SmartCard has you covered.

The Find My integration means you can track it anywhere, play a sound when it’s nearby, and even activate Lost Mode so anyone who finds it can get your contact details. Its built-in lanyard slot is also ideal for securing office keycards and IDs, saving you from those awkward HR visits.

If you’re still using a bulky AirTag for your wallet, it’s time for a sleek upgrade.

Get the KeySmart SmartCard for just $29.97 (reg. $39.99) through March 30 with free shipping.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Wordle today: Answer, hints for March 23, 2025

Mashable - Sun, 03/23/2025 - 04:07

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 March 23 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 March 23, 2025 Here's a subtle hint for today's Wordle answer:

One of the Seven Dwarfs.

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 D.

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...

DOPEY.

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 March 23

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.

Wordle today: Answer, hints for March 22, 2025

Mashable - Sun, 03/23/2025 - 04:07

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 March 22 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 March 22, 2025 Here's a subtle hint for today's Wordle answer:

To walk slowly.

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 A.

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...

AMBLE.

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 March 22

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.

How to watch New Zealand vs. Pakistan 4th T20 online for free

Mashable - Sun, 03/23/2025 - 01:00

TL;DR: Live stream New Zealand vs. Pakistan 4th T20 for free on TVNZ+. Access this free streaming site from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

Pakistan and New Zealand are competing in a series of T20 and ODI games, providing cricket fans with some much-needed entertainment after the conclusion of the ICC Champions Trophy. New Zealand are leading the T20 series 2-1, but Pakistan did win the most recent match. Can they carry that momentum into the fourth game and level the series?

If you want to watch New Zealand vs. Pakistan (4th T20) for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is New Zealand vs. Pakistan (4th T20)?

The 4th T20 between New Zealand and Pakistan takes place at 2:15 a.m. ET on March 23. This ODI takes place at Bay Oval.

How to watch New Zealand vs. Pakistan for free

New Zealand vs. Pakistan (4th T20) is available to live stream for free on TVNZ+.

TVNZ+ is geo-restricted to New Zealand, 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 New Zealand, meaning you can access a free live stream of New Zealand vs. Pakistan from anywhere in the world.

Live stream New Zealand vs. Pakistan 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 New Zealand

  4. Visit TVNZ+

  5. Stream New Zealand vs. Pakistan for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (2-Year Subscription + 4 Months Free) $139 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 New Zealand vs. Pakistan (4th T20) without committing with your cash. This clearly isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to live stream this Test series before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for TVNZ+?

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

  • Servers in 105 countries including New Zealand

  • 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 two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $139 and includes an extra four months for free —61% 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 New Zealand vs. Pakistan (4th T20) for free with ExpressVPN.

How to watch Spain vs. Netherlands online for free

Mashable - Sun, 03/23/2025 - 01:00

TL;DR: Live stream Spain vs. Netherlands in the UEFA Nations League for free on RTVE. Access this free streaming site from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The Netherlands and Spain battled it out to draw 2-2 in the first leg of their UEFA Nations League quarter final. The game had just about everything, and we're expecting more of the same in the second leg as the action heads to Valencia.

If you want to watch Spain vs. Netherlands in the UEFA Nations League for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Spain vs. Netherlands?

Spain vs. Netherlands in the UEFA Nations League kicks off at 7:45 p.m. GMT on March 23. This fixture takes place at the Mestalla.

How to watch Spain vs. Netherlands for free

Spain vs. Netherlands in the UEFA Nations League is available to live stream for free on RTVE.

RTVE is geo-restricted to Spain, 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 Spain, meaning you can access free live streams on RTVE from anywhere in the world.

Access a free live stream of Spain vs. Netherlands 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 Spain

  4. Visit RTVE

  5. Live stream Spain vs. Netherlands for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (2-Year Subscription + 4 Months Free) $139 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 Spain vs. Netherlands in the UEFA Nations League without actually spending anything. This clearly isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to stream select UEFA Nations League fixtures before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for RTVE?

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

  • Servers in 105 countries including Spain

  • 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 two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $139 and includes an extra four months for free — 61% 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 Spain vs. Netherlands in the UEFA Nations League for free with ExpressVPN.

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