Feed aggregator

Apple launches Shazam Viral Charts to track those overnight blowout hits

Mashable - Wed, 05/07/2025 - 11:00

When Rihanna launches a new album, it's fairly easy to guess that it's going to appear on the top music charts. But what about those hits which seem just happen to go viral overnight, like Kate Bush's "Running Up That Hill" hitting the charts 37 years after its release thanks to Stranger Things?

Well, there's a new way to track those. On Wednesday, Apple launched Shazam Viral Charts, using its music discovery platform to offer an overview of what's going viral right now.

SEE ALSO: Spotify's iPhone app now lets you choose how you want to pay

According to Apple, the charts do more than tracking social hits. "They capture the full spectrum of how songs are catapulted into the spotlight, including cultural moments from traditional media, on-demand streaming, and tentpole events," the company wrote in a press release.

Another example of how this happens is Billy Preston's "Nothing From Nothing" reaching No. 4. on the U.S. chart after being featured on The White Lotus Season 3 finale.

Apple didn't share much about the algorithms that populate these charts, beyond saying that the aim is to capture the fastest-moving songs right now.

It's not just one chart, either: A global chart tracks the top 50 viral hits globally, and the 42 national charts rank 25 top songs.

The charts, which are updated daily, are available on Apple Music and Shazam.

Snag a two-pack of Skullcandy Indy Evo true wireless in-ear earbuds for $35 at Woot

Mashable - Wed, 05/07/2025 - 10:58

SAVE 75%: As of May 7, you can get a two-pack of Skullcandy Indy Evo true wireless in-ear earbuds for $34.99, down from $139.98, at Woot. That's a 75% discount, or $104.99 in savings.

Opens in a new window Credit: Skullcandy Skullcandy Indy Evo true wireless in-ear earbuds (2-pack) $34.99 at Woot
$139.98 Save $104.99 Get Deal

If you’re always misplacing your earbuds or need a backup pair just in case, Woot’s got a pretty good deal going on a pair of Skullcandy Indy Evo true wireless in-ear earbuds.

As of May 7, you can get a two-pack of Skullcandy Indy Evo earbuds for just $34.99, down from $139.98, at Woot while supplies last. That’s a 75% discount and a savings of $104.99. There’s a 10 per customer limit, and Woot estimates they will ship between May 16 and May 20. You’ll get two pairs of Indy Evo earbuds, two charging cases, two sets of ear gels (S, M, L), two sets of stability gels (S, L), and two USB-C charging cables.

SEE ALSO: The best earbuds in 2025

The Indy Evo hold a 30-hour charge: six hours from the buds themselves and 24 hours from the charging case. They’re also IP55 water- and dust-resistant, so you can wear them while working out or in slightly inclement weather. Plus, with built-in Tile technology, you can track either earbud if you happen to misplace one. (You’ll just have to download the Tile app.)

Samsungs fancy Galaxy Buds3 Pro are just a dollar shy of their best price ever

Mashable - Wed, 05/07/2025 - 10:48

SAVE $60: As of May 7, the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro are on sale at Amazon for $189.99, down from $249.99. That's 24% in savings and just a dollar shy of their best price on record.

Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro $189.99 at Amazon
$249.99 Save $60 Get Deal

Samsung took a page out of Apple's playbook last year and adopted the stem-style design of the AirPods Pro for its newest rendition of the Galaxy Buds Pro. But aesthetic isn't the only major change; the Galaxy Buds3 Pro are Samsung's smartest and fanciest earbuds yet. And you can snag a pair for under $200.

As of May 7, the Galaxy Buds3 Pro are down to just $189.99 at Amazon. That's $60, or 24%, off their retail price of $249.99. That's a $10 price drop over the last week and just a dollar shy of their best price ever.

SEE ALSO: Save $100 on the Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 and give Mom a smartwatch for Mother's Day

The Buds3 Pros feature pinch-able and swipe-able Blade Lights on the stems to control things like volume and song selection, plus a new planar tweeter and dual amplifiers that result in more robust sound. Our friends at PCMag (also owned by Ziff Davis) praised the "nuanced sound quality with exceptional clarity."

For the first time, the Galaxy Buds3 Pro also lean heavily into AI (shocking, I know). Their adaptive noise cancellation feature can filter out distractions when it's time to focus, or let in ambient sounds and voices when you need to stay in touch with your surroundings. Meanwhile, the adaptive equalizer feature auto-adjusts your audio in real time based on your fit. The real standout is its interpreter feature, though. Users can get real-time translations of a foreign language they're hearing in Listening Mode, whether it's during a phone call, a TV show, or an IRL conversation. Of course, you'll need a Samsung Galaxy phone to unlock this feature.

Our PCMag pals summed it up best: "For Samsung users, the Galaxy Buds3 Pro are a worthy option with top-notch audio, unique AI features, and classy looks." And for under $200? They're quite the steal.

Grab the Mova P10 Pro Ultra Robot Vacuum and Mop for its lowest price ever

Mashable - Wed, 05/07/2025 - 10:38

SAVE 55%: The Mova P10 Pro Ultra robot vacuum and mop is on sale at Amazon for $499, down from the standard price of $1,099. That's a savings of $600.

Opens in a new window Credit: Mova Mova P10 Pro Ultra robot vacuum and mop $499 at Amazon
$1,099 Save $600 Get Deal

Keeping the floors clean is a never-ending task. You've cleaned up the flour that dusted the floor during this afternoon's baking session, but now there's the dog hair on the couch — and who knows how much dust is under that couch. Instead of constantly worrying about floor cleanliness, offload the chore to a smart robot vacuum that comes with major mopping abilities. As an extra perk, it's on a super sale today.

As of May 7, the Mova P10 Pro Ultra robot vacuum and mop is on sale at Amazon for $499, marked down from the normal price of $1,099. That's a 55% discount that shaves $600 off the price, making this the lowest price we've ever seen at Amazon.

We'll start with one of the major highlights that comes with the Mova P10 Ultra Plus: It not only mops, but it dries the mopping pads with heat. Not all robot vacuum combos dry the mopping pads, leaving you to get in there, remove them, and dry them separately. Not only does the Mova do this on its own, but it uses heat for drying, so there's a lot less chance you'll end up with a stinky mop on your hands. The water tanks on the robot's base can effectively mop 4,300 square feet before the water will need replacing.

SEE ALSO: The Eufy Auto-Empty C10 robot vacuum is nearly half off at Amazon

The Mova's 13,000Pa suction power is also noteworthy, which could be great for pet owners. The 5,200mAh battery means this robot vacuum combo can clean for up to 2.5 hours nonstop before it'll need to head back to base for a recharge.

If you're not interested in yet another floor cleaning session, the Mova P10 Ultra Pro is happy to take up the task. Snag it while it's on sale for $499 at Amazon, and you'll be well on your way to sparkly clean floors.

Real ID requirements for every state: How to find yours

Mashable - Wed, 05/07/2025 - 10:32

It's official: Real IDs are required to fly in the United States (well, kind of).

Following two decades of bureaucratic groundwork since the proposal for federally validated licenses passed, the enhanced license is now an official part of the security process for domestic travel and entry into certain federal facilities. Marked by a small star in the corner of the document, the identification standards are overseen by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and enforced by the Transportation Safety Administration (TSA).

SEE ALSO: Flying without REAL ID? Here's how much extra time you need at security

Individuals flocked to renew their licenses over the last few months, creating increased demand at local DMVs and heightened confusion around travel throughout the country, amid an already tense travel environment. On Tuesday, DHS and TSA representatives clarified they would still accept travelers without Real IDs, but with additional (read: lengthy) security protocols for those with other accepted identification.

This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed.

So, for the many Americans who have yet to procure their enhanced licenses: You still have a bit of time.

How to find your state's Real ID requirements

The Real ID application process (and required documents) vary by state. Federal agencies recommend individuals visit the DMV or licensing authority for their state of residency to get the specifics — fortunately, the DHS has made that a little easier.

Scroll down to the bottom of the department's Real ID readiness hub and you'll find an interactive map of U.S. states and territories, automatically linking to the region's relevant office. The website also walks individuals through whether or not their current travel plans are "Real ID ready" and answers Frequently Asked Questions.

Each state will require, at the minimum, documentation that verifies your full legal name, date of birth, Social Security Number, and two proofs of residence, as well as validation of lawful status to reside in the U.S. Get those in order ASAP. Beyond this, each state will have different additional document or process requirements, such as the ability to complete an application online (California) or have your documents pre-screened before the DMV (New York).

Grab an Amazon Fire TV Stick HD for under $20

Mashable - Wed, 05/07/2025 - 10:27

SAVE $15: As of May 7, get the Amazon Fire TV Stick HD for $19.99, down from its usual price of $34.99. That's a discount of 43%.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Fire TV Stick HD $19.99 at Amazon
$34.99 Save $15.00 Get Deal

If you need a quick and easy streaming device that doesn't take much fuss to set up, Amazon's lineup is always a great option. The Amazon Fire TV Stick HD is one pick that you just plug in to your TV to be all set to watch within minutes. You don't need a full-featured smart TV, nor all the newest technology. And that means you can take it with you to a hotel, a friend's house, or anywhere you go. If that sounds like a plan to you, you can get one today for a great price.

As of May 7, get the Amazon Fire TV Stick HD for $19.99, down from its usual price of $34.99. That's $15 off and a discount of 43%.

SEE ALSO: Upgrade your TV's sound on a budget with 23% off the Fire TV Soundbar Plus and subwoofer

The Fire TV Stick HD is small enough to put in your pocket, and there aren't any moving parts to worry about when you take it with you on vacation. It comes with a remote with built-in Alexa functionality, so you can search by voice or button.

The device supports just about every streaming option you can think of, from Prime Video to Netflix to Hulu and all the others in between, and all you need is an HDMI port to get it set up. Insert the device, and you'll open up a world of streaming instantly with crisp HD quality.

If you're looking to get a reliable streaming device that doesn't take a long time to set up, this is it. At this price, you might as well get an extra to keep in your suitcase for the next time you travel.

Our favorite solar generator is $430 off at Amazon

Mashable - Wed, 05/07/2025 - 10:13

SAVE 46%: As of May 7, you can get a Jackery Solar Generator 1000 V2 + E100 Plus for $499, down from $929, at Amazon. That's 46% off, or $430 in savings.

Jackery Solar Generator 1000 V2 + E100 Plus $499 at Amazon
$929 Save $430 Get Deal

One of the worst things you can be is unprepared (this goes for zombie apocalypses, power outages, and even just regular old camping trips). And with hurricane season just a month away, it might be wise to have a backup power source ready to go.

As of May 7, you can get the Jackery Solar Generator 1000 V2 with an Explorer 100 Plus for $499, down from $929, at Amazon. That’s a 46% discount, or $430 in savings.

SEE ALSO: Save $550 on the Anker Solix C1000 portable power bank and get ready for summer camping

The generator has a 1,500W AC output and a 3,000W surge peak, so it’s capable of handling multiple appliances at once. It’s also lightweight (23.8 pounds), has a foldable handle, and features an emergency charge function (activated in-app) that’ll get you from 0 to 100 in just one hour, so it’s ideal for camping or road trips.

It has two USB-C ports, one USB-A port, one DC car port, and three sine wave AC ports, so you can charge pretty much whatever you need to.

Looking for the perfect Mothers Day gift? Surprise mom with the Kindle Paperwhite essentials bundle.

Mashable - Wed, 05/07/2025 - 07:15

SAVE $50: As of May 7, the Kindle Paperwhite Essentials Bundle is on sale for $166.97 at Amazon. That's 23% off its list price of $216.97.

Opens in a new window Credit: Kindle Kindle Paperwhite Essentials Bundle $166.97 at Amazon
$216.97 Save $50 Get Deal

If you're an avid reader or know someone who is, a Kindle is a great gift idea. Especially with Mother's Day coming up soon, they're worth keeping in mind. The good news is some Kindle bundles are even enjoying nice discounts right now at Amazon, including the Kindle Paperwhite Essentials Bundle, so there's no better time to pick one up if you've had your eye on it.

The Kindle Paperwhite Essentials Bundle has received a $50 discount at Amazon, dropping its bundle price from $216.97 to $166.97. With this bundle you're getting the 16GB Kindle Paperwhite in black, a black fabric cover, and a power adapter, which is a great way to kickstart an e-reading journey. This is especially true if you're buying it as a gift.

SEE ALSO: Prime members get a free e-book with Amazon's First Reads

We consider the Kindle Paperwhite to be the best overall Kindle in our roundup of the best Kindles, with Mashable's Samantha Mangino saying, "the 2024 Kindle Paperwhite is the sleekest, fastest e-reader yet." It boasts a seven-inch, glare-free display and 25% faster page turns so you can breeze through your favorite novels. Its compact size makes it an excellent traveling companion, too, so it's perfect for any trips you have planned this summer.

Amazon has the Kindle Paperwhite essentials bundle listed as a limited-time deal, so act fast to scoop it up at this discounted price.

There are a couple more Kindle deals worth checking out right now as well. The standard Kindle Essentials Bundle has received a nice discount at Amazon, and if you don't want a bundle, the Kindle Scribe is down to its lowest-ever price there, too.

You can save over 50% on Beats Studio Pro headphones right now at Amazon

Mashable - Wed, 05/07/2025 - 07:13

SAVE $180: As of May 7, the Beats Studio Pro headphones are on sale at Amazon for $169.95, 51% off their list price of $349.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Beats Beats Studio Pro $169.95 at Amazon
$349.99 Save $180.04 Get Deal

If you've been looking for some new headphones to pick up this year or are on the lookout for a nice Mother's Day gift idea, Amazon has quite a few discounts available right now. One of our favorites at the moment is on the Beats Studio Pro headphones, which have been discounted down 51%.

This has dropped the price of the Beats Studio Pro from $349.99 to $169.95, which is a great deal to take advantage of while it's still available. Multiple color options are down to this price as well, so you can choose between the black headphones, deep brown, dune, matte white, moon, navy, and sandstone.

SEE ALSO: The 9 best headphones of 2025

With up to 40 hours of battery life, the Beats Studio Pro will keep you listening for longer to your favorite music, podcasts, and more. They're perfect for any long trips you've got planned as we head into the summer months. On top of that, they boast great sound quality and noise-canceling features to keep you fully immersed. They also have a Transparency mode that lets you be more aware of your surroundings without interrupting what you're listening to.

This Beats Studio Pro discount is listed as a limited-time deal, so act fast to pick them up at this low price.

These aren't the only headphones on sale right now that have caught our eye, either. The Beats Solo 4 are also discounted at Amazon, back down to their lowest-ever price, or if you're looking for more fitness-focused headphones, the SHOKZ OpenRun Pro 2 are on sale as well there.

The Apple Watch Series 10 (GPS, 42mm) is back at its lowest price for under $300

Mashable - Wed, 05/07/2025 - 07:02

SAVE $100: As of May 7, the Apple Watch Series 10 (GPS, 42mm) is on sale at Amazon for $299, 25% off its list price of $399.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple Watch Series 10 [GPS 42mm case] $299 at Amazon
$399 Save $100 Get Deal

If you've had your eye on an Apple Watch - whether as a little treat for yourself or as a Mother's Day gift with the big day coming up soon - now is a great time to pick one up with some nice discounts available. The Apple Watch Series 10, in particular, is enjoying a very nice discount at Amazon right now, returning to its lowest-ever price.

The Apple Watch Series 10 (GPS, 42mm) is currently listed for $299. This is 25% off its usual list price of $399, allowing you to save $100. There are a few different models listed at this price as well, so you can choose between the lovely rose gold aluminum case with a plum sport loop, the jet black aluminum case with an ink sport loop, and the silver aluminum case with a blue cloud sport loop.

SEE ALSO: Oura Ring vs Apple Watch: I put the top two fitness trackers head-to-head

This sleek little smartwatch comes full of exciting features to help you kickstart your day. This includes trackers for heart rate and sleep alongside advanced workout metrics and safety features like Fall Detection, Crash Detection, and Emergency SOS. Mashable's Stan Schroeder had plenty of good things to say about it in our review as well, including that it "offers faster charging, a thinner chassis, and better viewing angles."

Now's a great time to pick up the Apple Watch Series 10 (GPS, 42mm), especially if you're still looking for a nice Mother's Day gift idea. Don't miss out on 25% off it at Amazon.

Looking for more Mother's Day gift ideas? There are plenty of great discounts floating around right now on a variety of items. In terms of headphones, the Beats Solo 4 are back to their lowest-ever price at Amazon. Or, if you've been looking to find a good fitness tracker to surprise your mom with this year, the Fitbit Inspire 3, our favorite budget fitness tracker, is 20% off there right now.

Uber Revenue Up 14 Percent, Despite Economic Fears

NYT Technology - Wed, 05/07/2025 - 06:55
The company also predicted that business in the current quarter would be stronger than Wall Street had predicted.

The Garmin Forerunner 965 is back to its lowest price for the first time this year

Mashable - Wed, 05/07/2025 - 06:25

SAVE $100: As of May 7, the Garmin Forerunner 965 is on sale for $499.99 at Amazon. That's a savings of 17% on list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Garmin Garmin Forerunner 965 $499.86 at Amazon
$599.99 Save $100.13 Get Deal

If you're looking for a new smartwatch to level up your runs, the Garmin Forerunner range will definitely be on your radar. One of the major players in this category, these watches are designed with runners and athletes in mind, and through the different price points you'll find watches with GPS tracking, heart rate monitoring, and a range of performance metrics.

If you're a serious runner looking for a bargain, you'll be glad to hear one of the Forerunner's most impressive models, the 965, is reduced at Amazon, bringing it back down to its lowest-ever price, but for the first time this year.

As of May 7, the Garmin Forerunner 965 is on sale for $499.99 at Amazon. That's a savings of 17% on list price, or $100 off in total. This deal is available across all three colorways.

The Forerunner 965 is full of incredible stats and data tracking for the most serious of runners to newbies. The bright AMOLED display is colorful and attractive, but also makes for a very accessible user interface. Standout features of this fitness tracker include: training status, sleep score, training readiness, and built-in maps.

With a battery life that can last up to 23 days, the Forerunner 965 is an ideal choice for long-distance athletes looking to upgrade.

Head to the Amazon website before this deal runs out.

Best mesh wifi deal: Save $75 on the Amazon eero 6+

Mashable - Wed, 05/07/2025 - 06:16

SAVE $75: As of May 7, the Amazon eero 6+ router is on sale for $224.99 at Amazon. That's a 25% savings on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon eero 6+ $224.99 at Amazon
$299.99 Save $75 Get Deal

Life is too short for bad internet. Put bad streaming, website buffering, and dropped FaceTime calls in the past, and upgrade to a mesh wifi system. And as of May 7, you can find a great deal on the Amazon eero 6+ mesh router system.

This product is currently reduced to $224.99, saving you 25% on the list price. This discount is specific to the three-pack option, but you can find deals across all bundles. This option is also without a month of eero Plus.

A mesh wifi system is the perfect way to eliminate dead spots in your home, and is ideal for when you need the wifi to reach a long way from the router, or through very thick walls. The setup includes a main router and extra nodes (satellites) placed around your home. They work together to provide a reliable wifi coverage all over your home.

The eero 6+ is an exceptional router system that offers gigabit WiFi speeds at an affordable price. It is backward-compatible with older eero devices, making it flexible for all home setups.

It boasts WiFi 6 technology and an extra boost from the 160 MHz radio channel, so the eero 6+ ensures fast and reliable connectivity for the entire household. The TrueMesh technology reduces dead spots and dropped signals, keeping your smart home running smoothly even when you’re away.

And the setup is super easy, taking just minutes by using the eero app.

This is only a limited-time deal at Amazon, so move fast to secure this low price.

The Echo Show 5 is reduced by $25 at Amazon

Mashable - Wed, 05/07/2025 - 06:00

SAVE $25: As of May 7, the Amazon Echo Show 5 is on sale for $64.99 at Amazon. That's a savings of 28% on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Echo Show 5 $64.99 at Amazon
$89.99 Save $25 Get Deal

Amazon's Echo Show 5 is a staple in Amazon's smart home lineup. A smart assistant with a screen, and available for well under $100, you can't really go wrong. And as of May 7 it is back down to its lowest price this year. Right now, you can buy this device for $64.99, a savings of 28%.

But why this model? Well, the Echow Show 5 with built-in Alexa, the ability to watch Netflix shows, and it even has video chat capabilities. The design is neat and nifty, with a screen size of just 5.5 inches, perfect for looking at the weather, recipes, or the time at a glance, without taking up too much space in your home.

You can even stream music from the Echo Show, with compatibility with the most popular streaming apps, including Apple Music, Amazon Music, Spotify, and Deezer. This model even benefits from a deeper bass and clearer vocals for a more advanced listening experience.

Not to mention, the Echo Show 5 is eco-friendly, featuring fabric made from 100% post-consumer recycled polyester yarn and an aluminum body crafted from 100% recycled materials.

This deal won't be around for long, so head to Amazon now.

We tested every pair of Bose headphones to find the best for noise cancellation, sound quality, more

Mashable - Wed, 05/07/2025 - 06:00

You can't talk about headphones without talking about Bose. You'll find Bose headphones and earbuds throughout all of our best-of guides, whether you're looking for noise-cancelling, airplane travel, or working out options.

In recent years, Bose's collection of headphones and earbuds has undergone a bit of a shake-up, with longstanding headphones like the Bose QC 45 and Bose 700 being discontinued in favor of the new QuietComfort line. We've tested every model in Bose's current collection and have insight into which pair of headphones is right for you.

How to choose the best Bose headphones

Overall, Bose's headphones prioritize comfort and audio quality, and you really can't go wrong with any model. There are truly no bad products here — having tested every product on this list, they're all high-performing options.

So, the bulk of your decision comes down to your personal preferences. If you care deeply about audio quality and want a personalized experience, you'll want a pair of headphones that offers different modes and spatial audio. For athletes or commuters who need to be aware of their surroundings, a pair of earbuds that provide rich audio while letting you hear the world around you is great.

Here are the best Bose headphones of 2025, hands-on tested by Mashable staff:

How to Use A.I.-Powered Writing Tools on Your iPhone and Android

NYT Technology - Wed, 05/07/2025 - 05:01
Artificial intelligence software — some already free on your device — can quickly compose and edit documents. But be sure to check its work.

Sick of dating apps? Try a dungeon sound bath instead.

Mashable - Wed, 05/07/2025 - 05:00

As I look for a spot to unfurl my yoga mat, I hear: "You're welcome to lie anywhere you want, including inside the cage."

It's not a typical sound bath greeting, but then again, this isn't a typical sound bath: it's taking place in Dungeon East, a BDSM space in downtown Los Angeles. I discovered the event on the app Plura, a hybrid events and dating app for kink-friendly and non-monogamous people. The sound bath at Dungeon East was just one of the events that caught my eye, including a rope tying workshop, non-monogamy speed dating, and an erotic ceramics class.

SEE ALSO: Is Feeld for normies now?

As daters have become increasingly fed up with the ghosting and endless swiping on dating apps, they've turned to in-person events like run clubs, flirt parties, and chess groups to meet people. I've been using dating apps since I was 19, and when I opened up my relationship with my partner, they became an integral part of my non-monogamy journey. But lately I'd been curious about the appeal of in-person events — was I missing something? And was Plura's emphasis on in-person events the answer for polyamorous people? Could this sound bath be the new way to find a potential lover? 

A kinky Eventbrite and polyamorous dating app in one

The failures of dating apps were a major inspiration for Plura's founder, Luna Ray, to create the app. After years of exclusively meeting people at events in the polyamorous scene in the Bay Area, she downloaded a dating app during COVID lockdown. "Within a couple of days, I got all of the [negative behaviors] that people say about dating apps: unsolicited dick pics, ghosting, people being assholes," she says. At community events, no one acted this way because there was accountability.  

She initially built Plura as a way for people to go on group dates during the pandemic. But when the world opened up, and Ray started going to events again, "I [was feeling] really socially anxious. I haven't seen people in like, two years. [And I thought] if only I could know who was going to this event. And then I realized, oh wait, I built an app for that." She partnered with local event organizers to list their events on Plura, and the app took off. 

Today, the app functions like both a kinky Eventbrite and a dating app for polyamorous people. It's available across the U.S., although in-person events are only in the Bay Area, Los Angeles, New York, San Diego, Portland, and Atlanta. (Plura's user numbers aren't public, but in 2024, there were nearly 16,000 events posted on the app.) Users can scroll through events and purchase tickets through the app. They can also see which other Plura members are attending, and a chat function opens up as well. You can "bud" (Plura's language for "liking" a user) any attendee. 

Then there's the dating portion, under a separate tab, where Plura provides five profiles a day with the option to add any of them as a bud. Similar to most dating apps, a chat only opens up if the like is mutual. But unlike Hinge, Plura doesn't show everyone who adds you as a bud first. If you want to see all of your likes, you have to pay $24.99 a month for Plura+. Whereas many of the dating features require payment, most of the event features are free. Looking at the app holistically, it feels like the dating app portion is a side dish — the main course is the array of events. 

That's how Plura user Nic Sornoso, 32, looks at it. The events have been a game changer for her. "Before Plura, it seemed literally impossible to meet non-monogamous people in person," she says. 

When Sornoso and her husband Vince Taesali first opened their marriage, she turned to dating apps to connect with other people. She was disappointed — none of them allowed her to filter by non-monogamy, except for Feeld. And she didn't like how glitchy Feeld was, and felt that "people are very forward on Feeld, which is fine, but that's not how I like to get to know someone." 

A friend told her about Plura, describing it as "Facebook for non-monogamous people," and she downloaded the app. She saw an ethical non-monogamy (ENM) meetup at a bar five minutes away from her and decided to go with her friend. She met friends and even a guy she's still dating today. Now she doesn't even use other dating apps anymore — she just meets people in person at Plura events.

"The dungeon is my Tinder"

Scrolling through the app, I was shocked by how many non-monogamy social events were happening around the city. My partner and I have been open for three years, yet we feel squarely outside the non-monogamy scene. We haven't been to any play parties (we tried to get into one and never heard back), and, as the only open couple in our friend group, we didn't know where to look. But scrolling through the events, seeing the ENM meetup at a bar less than a mile away from me, it felt like a whole new world was opening up.

Accessibility was a major focus for Ray. "I wanted it to be easier if you were just starting out in your poly or queer journey to find your people. People [in] most other places, or even in the Bay Area, if you're outside of the communities, it can be hard to find your way in," she says. 

Scrolling through the events, seeing the ENM meetup at a bar less than a mile away from me, it felt like a whole new world was opening up.

Making it easier for users to discover events doesn't just benefit polyamory newcomers, but also event organizers. 

Justine Cross, the owner of Dungeon East, hosts a variety of gatherings at her space, ranging from sex education classes to play parties to the sound bath. She's struggled with posting them on the right website or app. Instagram will shadowban her (reduce her account's reach) if she posts the events, she says. Eventbrite has erroneously removed non-sexual events for violating its policy. Facebook worked for a while, but her audience doesn't use it anymore. Plura was a natural fit, an app that actively promotes her events to a target audience. 

These non-sexual events are crucial for bringing in a new audience. "I want people to have good experiences in the dungeon. I want people to see the space and see that it isn't scary. If they're not ready to rent out the dungeon or come to a party, they [could] come to a sound bath and feel more comfortable." But she also knows through her own experience that, "the dungeon is my Tinder, I meet everyone there." Meeting in person is way more fruitful than an app. 

"My dating advice for people is to go to the events that you want to go to and talk to people. And I know that's intimidating, but that's how you meet people." At the dungeon, it's not just sexual or kinky relationships that are forming, but friendships too. Cross told me about a group of friends who met at one of her workshops, and consistently come back together. 

"The need [Plura] is solving for is connection and loneliness," Ray tells me. "It's not just, 'I want to get laid, I want to date, I want to have a life partner.' It's the full spectrum of relationships that non monogamous people can have." This informs not just the emphasis on in-person events, but also the way the dating app portion is designed. 

Lengthy profiles are encouraged on Plura, with prompts like "Ask Me About" and a space to describe your relationship ecosystem. 

SEE ALSO: Tariffs are coming for your sex toys

"People are creating a digital representation of who they are. I want people to take the time and really consider [each profile] because it's not just, 'Is this person hot or not?' But, 'Is this person someone that I could connect with on a bunch of different dimensions?' Not just, 'I'm optimizing for the hottest person that I can have sex with tonight,' which is a totally valid use case, but also not the only one we want to be building for," Ray says.

"Literally everyone I've met from Plura has been really, really cool," says Sornoso, "and I think that goes back to [being able] to show more of your personality on the app." She can see way more information about someone before having to match and talk with them, and for Sornoso, it allows for more meaningful and better connections. 

Hearing Sornoso's experience and Ray's rationale for the limited matches per day, it feels like I've been approaching Plura the wrong way. I'm used to making snap judgments while swiping, looking at every profile as a potential sexual connection. That's served me for finding dates, but looking at the events on Plura, hearing about Sornoso's experience and new friendships, made me feel like I've been missing out on something. 

I've heard so many people describe non-monogamy as a "scene" or "community," but so far in my experience, it's felt more like making a personal choice than joining a new friend group. And I've realized I want some of that community — I want to make friends with other people who are open, who understand the thrills and pitfalls that come with this kind of relationship. 

"The need [Plura] is solving for is connection and loneliness." - Plura founder Luna Ray

So I'm at this sound bath to see if I can find that. There are about eight of us spread out on the floor. Several brought blankets and pillows, which, as I lie out on my rubber yoga mat, I'm envious of. Soon our instructor suggests we lie on our backs, and over the next hour, I listen to the sounds of bowls and a gong and hear vibrations radiating through my stomach. As I settle in, I think that maybe after the event, I can chat with some more people. But by the time the gong wakes us up,  I'm yawning and we're all appropriately blissed out and sleepy. 

As I leave with my partner, no new friendships formed, I think of something Cross told me. I'd asked her for her thoughts on people going to events to meet others, like how many people are joining run clubs to find someone to date. The problem with that, she said, is "some people who are going to run clubs are literally just going there to run." 

Plura events are by and for people like me — and next time, I'll give the ethical non-monogamy social club a shot. 

Exceptionally rare radio sources detected in a distant galaxy

Mashable - Wed, 05/07/2025 - 05:00

Astronomers have spotted a pair of exotic features believed to be the aftermath of a colossal cosmic smackdown — not between two galaxies, but two groups of galaxies. 

These glowing arcs of radio energy are known as "radio relics," faint clouds resulting from powerful shockwaves surging through hot gas that fills the space amid a galaxy cluster.

The cluster, PSZ2 G181.06+48.47, is billions of light-years from Earth, but its image is less forgettable than its name. Using the Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope in India and the Very Large Array in New Mexico, a team of researchers spotted the arcs flanking the cluster like giant parentheses. The distance between the punctuation is an estimated 11 million light-years — about 100 times the span of the Milky Way.

That makes their separation a record holder — "the largest known to date," according to a paper published on the discovery in The Astrophysical Journal.

SEE ALSO: What cracked the Milky Way's giant cosmic bone? Scientists think they know. An annotated view of a galaxy cluster reveals a rare pair of radio relics. Credit: Kamlesh Rajpurohit et al / https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.3847/1538-4357/adbbb9

Galaxies are often part of larger collections of galaxies, held together by gravity, according to NASA. These groups and clusters, containing hundreds to thousands of galactic neighborhoods, serve as building blocks for the larger structures of the universe. Clusters are also composed of scorching gas that reaches millions of degrees as well as dark matter, an invisible material that scientists don't yet fully understand.

The team, led by Kamlesh Rajpurohit, an astronomer at the Harvard & Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics, thinks the newfound radio relics formed when shock fronts sped through space following two clusters wrecking. These waves can force particles to shine in radio light.

Though these two come as a pair, they're not identical twins. The researchers describe the northernmost glow as brighter and polarized, meaning its light is moving in the same direction. Its companion to the south has a stranger ghostly shape and an energy pattern that may mean it was caused by a more powerful shockwave. 

Using an enormous telescope in India and the Very Large Array in New Mexico, pictured above, a team of researchers spotted the arcs flanking the cluster like giant parentheses. Credit: Bettymaya Foott / NRAO / AUI / NSF

The relics suggest the entire cluster is in the final throes of a merger set in motion a billion years before.

In the past, astronomers have dubbed clusters fun nicknames based on the shapes of their relics, such as the Toothbrush Cluster. Perhaps in the future this one will leave behind its numerical moniker for something a bit snazzier, like the Eyebrows Cluster or the Air Quotes Cluster. Until that time, you can call it Planck cluster G181+48 for short, Rajpurohit said.

Scientists discovered one other curiosity between the relics: a faint glow at the center of the cluster. This could be a so-called "radio halo," another kind of radio source that emerges when churning gas and particles create turbulence after a violent cosmic crash.

Astronomers have previously detected less than 30 such clusters with relic pairs. But the upcoming Square Kilometre Array being built in South Africa and Australia could be a "game changer," according to the paper's authors. 

"There could potentially be many more awaiting discovery in the era of large radio surveys," they said.

See up to 1,000 feet in the dark with night vision binoculars, now $70 off

Mashable - Wed, 05/07/2025 - 05:00

TL;DR: See the world from a whole new perspective with the Mini Digital Night Vision Binoculars, now $89.99 (reg. $159.99).

Opens in a new window Credit: Mesay Mini Digital Night Vision Binoculars with 1080p HD Recording $89.99
$159.99 Save $70.00 Get Deal

Don’t let the adventures end when the sun goes down. Whether you’re hunting, fishing, or heading out on a camping trip, these Mini Digital Night Vision Binoculars let you see up to 1,000 feet away in the dark. And right now they’re on sale for only $89.99 (reg. $159.99).

Upgrade your outdoor gear with these night vision binoculars

Forget a bird’s eye view. If you’ve ever wanted to experience life after dark, these Mini Digital Night Vision Binoculars let you check out how nocturnal creatures see the world. Their 850nm infrared illuminator lets you see animals, plants, and nature clearly in total darkness or dim ambient light, making them ideal for any late-night adventures. And a 10x optical magnification lens lets you see everything in greater detail.

These Digital Night Vision Binoculars may feature impressive technology, but they pack it all into a tiny casing. They fit right in your pocket and tag along anywhere.

Want to secure proof of your escapades? These binoculars are also equipped with a 2.4-inch HD screen and a 4x digital zoom, allowing you to capture photos or videos in stunning 1080p resolution. They also include a 32GB TF card, so you can keep your memories safe.

A built-in lithium battery with 2,260mAh capacity gives you plenty of time to venture into the unknown. And the binoculars’ silicone button design offers a more comfortable grip.

Capture unforgettable moments and survey your surroundings after dark with these Mini Digital Night Vision Binoculars, now $89.99 (reg. $159.99).

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Get 50% off a dual-camera drone that’s great for beginners

Mashable - Wed, 05/07/2025 - 05:00

TL;DR: Become a drone photographer with this ideal model for newbies, the 4K Dual-Camera Drone for Beginners with Intelligent Obstacle Avoidance, now on sale for 50% off at just $59.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: RochasDivineMart 4K Dual-Camera Drone for Beginners with Intelligent Obstacle Avoidance $59.99
$119.99 Save $60.00 Get Deal

Looking to spend more time outdoors this spring? If you’re looking for a hobby that helps you take advantage of the gorgeous weather, drone photography is a great option. And right now, this 4K Dual-Camera Drone for Beginners with Intelligent Obstacle Avoidance can be yours for only $59.99 (reg. $119.99).

This drone is ideal for beginners and kids alike

Drone photography can be a fun hobby that helps you spend more time in the great outdoors. And this 4K Dual-Camera Drone is a great introduction to the pastime. Just choose a safe flying area, make sure you’re aware of the local drone flying laws, and take to the friendly skies.

Never flown a drone before? This 4K Dual-Camera Drone makes it easy with a one-key start and stop button.

You’ll get a bird’s-eye view as it cruises up to 328 feet in the sky thanks to its HD 4K 90-degree front camera, and 120-degree wide-angle bottom camera. The gesture control feature allows you to simply make movements with your hand to take a photo or video. And optical flow positioning keeps the drone in a hovering state, allowing the bottom camera to capture your adventures.

If you’re worried about crashing your new gadget, don’t be. The three-way obstacle avoidance feature keeps your drone safe mid-flight by perceiving the distance of obstacles and avoiding them in the air. Once your flight is over, this drone is foldable and easy to pack away when you’re done using it.

Pick up a new hobby with the 4K Dual-Camera Drone for Beginners with Intelligent Obstacle Avoidance, now for just $59.99 (reg. $119.99).

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Pages

Subscribe to Page Integrity, Inc. aggregator