- Help
- Google+
TL;DR: Only through October 27, you can get Windows 11 Pro for just $17.97 (reg. $199).
If your laptop is running slow or lagging when you need it to be snappy, you don't necessarily need a new laptop. An easy and affordable alternative is to upgrade your operating system to the most recent one available to help your trusted laptop work out those kinks. Windows 11 Pro happens to be on sale for just $17.97 (reg. $199).
Say goodbye to your outdated operating system and embrace the latest features of Windows 11 Pro. This incredible promotion offers a smooth transition to the cutting-edge OS, enhanced multitasking, and advanced security — ideal for work, play, and everything in between.
This advanced OS brings a polished, modern interface designed to enhance productivity and improve multitasking. With powerful features like snapping windows, virtual desktops, and voice typing, you’ll be navigating your tasks faster.
Windows 11 Pro also includes Azure AD and Hyper-V for professionals needing more technical tools, making it the go-to option for businesses. Security-wise, the inclusion of biometric login, TPM 2.0, and Smart App Control helps keep your data safe in an increasingly risky cyber landscape.
One of Windows 11 Pro's main features is its seamless integration of AI-driven tools, particularly Copilot, which has been dubbed the "ultimate AI study buddy." Copilot is an intelligent productivity booster that can assist you with a wide variety of tasks, from summarizing documents to providing actionable suggestions in real time.
Copilot uses Natural Language Processing (NLP) to help you interact with your system in a more intuitive way. Whether drafting emails, organizing presentations, or analyzing data, Copilot provides intelligent suggestions for text, formatting, and layout improvements, allowing you to complete tasks faster and more efficiently.
Don't miss out — this limited-time offer is only available until October 27.
Get Windows 11 Pro for just $17.97 (reg. $199) while you still can.
StackSocial prices subject to change.
Opens in a new window Credit: Retail King Microsoft Windows 11 Pro $19.97TL;DR: Enjoy wireless CarPlay, Android Auto, and built-in streaming services with the PlayAIBox Wireless Adapter, on sale now for $79.97 (reg. $129) through October 27.
Opens in a new window Credit: RochasDivineMart PlayAIBox Apple CarPlay & Android Auto Wireless Adapter with Streaming Service Support $79.97Tired of plugging and unplugging your phone for Apple CarPlay or Android Auto? The PlayAIBox Apple CarPlay & Android Auto Wireless Adapter offers you the freedom and convenience you want on the road.
For just $79.97 (reg. $129) through October 27, this compact gadget upgrades your car with seamless wireless connectivity and built-in streaming services like Netflix and YouTube.
Whether commuting to work or heading out on a road trip, the PlayAIBox transforms your ride into an entertainment hub, giving you everything from navigation to streaming in one easy-to-use system. While hands-free convenience for your maps and music is amazing, this adapter also lets you download apps directly from Google Play, store media on external SD cards, and even mirror your phone screen for an enhanced experience.
No more fussing with cables. This adapter supports wireless connectivity for both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This means you stay more focused on the road. With dual compatibility for iOS and Android, it works across more than 800 car models and lets you run multiple apps at once, thanks to its Allwinner A133 chip.
Whether you're in extreme heat or freezing cold, the PlayAIBox is built to last, with a working temperature low of -22 degrees Fahrenheit. And for those long drives or downtime at the rest stop, simply switch over to YouTube, Netflix, or Disney+ for hours of entertainment, all from your car's display.
Keep your digital world at your fingertips without the clutter of cables. Stay connected, stay entertained, and drive confidently with this game-changing wireless adapter.
The PlayAIBox Wireless Adapter is on sale for $79.97 (regularly priced at $129) through October 27.
StackSocial prices subject to change.
TL;DR: A great gift for gamers: these 3-month Xbox Game Pass Ultimate Memberships are only $36.49 (reg. $50).
New games are coming out all the time. As exciting as that can be, games aren't exactly cheap. Dropping a fresh $60 on every new title isn't feasible for many gamers, so it's a good thing there's an alternative.
Instead of grabbing every new title, try Xbox Game Pass Ultimate to get access to hundreds of high-quality titles on-demand. With exclusive day-one releases, a huge library of indie hits and blockbusters, and seamless play across consoles, PCs, and even smart TVs, Game Pass is a game-changer—and now it’s more affordable than ever. Right now, you can grab a 3-month membership for just $36.49 (normally $50), and since these memberships are stackable, you can lock in up to 15 months at a discount.
A great buy, even if you already own itThis membership is available to new and existing members, so it's worth checking out even if you're a long-time Game Pass member. Now you can keep up your membership for much cheaper.
Game Pass Ultimate isn’t just about access—it’s about staying ahead. With new games constantly being added, including fresh releases from Xbox Game Studios and Bethesda, there’s always something exciting waiting. Whether you're hopping into the latest RPG or exploring an indie gem, you’ll never run out of games to play.
One of the coolest perks? You can play wherever you want. Stream games to your phone, tablet, or even a VR headset with cloud gaming—no downloads required. Plus, members get exclusive discounts on in-game content and free add-ons, along with access to EA Play. That means early trials and special rewards for franchises like The Sims and Madden NFL.
With Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, you’re not just buying games—you’re getting an ever-evolving experience that fits any setup and any mood. And at this discounted price, there’s no better way to dive in.
Save on a great gift for gamersWhy get one game when you can unlock dozens?
Until October 27 at 11:59 p.m. PT, you can get an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate 3-Month Membership on sale for $36.49.
StackSocial prices subject to change.
Opens in a new window Credit: Retail King Xbox Game Pass Ultimate: 3-Month Membership - Stackable & Global - (Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, Windows - Digital Code) - Final Sale $36.49TL;DR: Lifetime access to Babbel's language learning platform is just $179.97 (reg. $599) through October 27.
Opens in a new window Credit: Babbel Babbel Language Learning: Lifetime Subscription (All Languages) $179.97It's not easy to learn a new language, and it can be expensive to boot. But there's a great deal on an app you can keep for life and soak in all the languages you wish for all your future travels.
If you’re looking to learn a new language or refine the skills you already have, Babbel could help get you there. This lifetime subscription covers all languages and is available for just $179.97 (reg. $599) through Oct. 27.
Babbel offers an unbeatable opportunity to start speaking new languages with confidence. Whether you're preparing for international travel, aiming for career advancement, or simply love the idea of mastering multiple languages, Babbel makes it possible with short 10- to 15-minute lessons designed specifically for busy lives.
Developed by over 100 expert linguists, the Babbel language learning app goes beyond just teaching grammar and vocabulary. It provides personalized, interactive lessons tailored to your goals and language level. Whether you’re starting with the basics or tackling more advanced topics, Babbel is designed so that you can progress at your own pace.
With Babbel, you get lifetime access to 14 languages, including Spanish, French, German, and Italian, as well as languages less commonly offered, such as Swedish and Indonesian. And because Babbel syncs across devices, you can learn anywhere, anytime — whether on your phone while commuting or on your computer at home.
Babbel’s advanced AI-powered features make language learning more effective by offering intelligent suggestions to improve your writing and speech. Its speech recognition technology helps refine your pronunciation, while natural language processing aids in summarizing content, translating languages, and extracting key information from conversations.
Plus, with real-world context in every lesson, you won’t just be memorizing vocabulary—you’ll be learning how to use it in conversations that matter, whether it's asking for directions, ordering food, or chatting with locals.
Travel, work, and connect in new ways with Babbel. A lifetime license to all languages is on sale for just $179.97 (reg. $599) until October 27.
StackSocial prices subject to change.
TL;DR: Live stream Indianapolis Colts vs. Houston Texans for free on TVNZ+. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.
It's Week 8 of the NFL 2024 season and we're all set for a solid Sunday Football lineup. Indianapolis Colts vs. Houston Texans could prove to be one of the most interesting games of the day.
The Colts (4-3) have only lost one in five and beat Miami last week. The Texans, meanwhile, have one of the best records in the entire league so far this season (5-2), but took a narrow, last-gasp loss to Green Bay in Week 7. This is essentially for the top spot of AFC South. A Texans win would see them maintain the lead, while the Colts will go joint top if they can beat Houston.
Indianapolis Colts vs. Houston Texans is available to watch for free from anywhere in the world. Read below for all the information you need to access the game.
When is Colts vs. Texans?Indianapolis Colts vs. Houston Texans starts at 1 p.m. ET on Oct. 27. This fixture takes place at NRG Stadium.
How to watch Colts vs. Texans for freeIndianapolis Colts vs. Houston Texans is available to live stream for free on TVNZ+ in New Zealand.
If you are abroad, you might need to use a VPN to access TVNZ+. VPNs are useful online tools that work by hiding your real-world IP address (digital location) and then connecting you with a secure server in another country, in this case New Zealand. This helps you bypass geo-restrictions and access TVNZ+ no matter where you are.
Access free live streams of the NFL by following these simple steps:
Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)
Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)
Open up the app and connect to a server in New Zealand
Visit TVNZ+
Live stream Indianapolis Colts vs. Houston Texans for free from anywhere in the world
The best VPNs for streaming aren't technically free to use, but the top VPN providers tend to offer deals such as free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. Sign up for these deals and you'll be able to access free live streams of the NFL without spending anything in the long run. It's a short-term fix, but you'll have all the time you need to stream Indianapolis Colts vs. Houston Texans — along with other select NFL fixtures — before you reclaim any initial cost.
What is the best VPN for the NFL?ExpressVPN is the best service for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream the NFL live, 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 always secure
Fast connection speeds
Up to eight simultaneous connections
30-day money-back guarantee
A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off the list price. Thid deal also includes a whole year of unlimited data backup via the cloud and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Live stream Colts vs. Texans for free from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.
TL;DR: Live stream Atlanta Falcons vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers for free on TVNZ+. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.
It's Week 8 of the NFL 2024 season and both the Atlanta Falcons and Tampa Bay Buccaneers are looking to bounce back from Week 7 losses. The Falcons took a surprise loss to the Seattle Seahawks, which broke a three-game winning streak, while Buccaneers blew any early lead against the Baltimore Ravens.
But both the Falcons and the Bucs have decent records this season — they're both currently 4-3 — and are currently joint top of the NFC South. That makes this a can't-miss clash as they fight to bounce back and secure the top spot of the division.
If you want to watch the Sunday Football action, Atlanta Falcons vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers is available to watch for free from anywhere in the world. But only if you know how to access it. Here's all the information you need.
When is Falcons vs. Buccaneers?Atlanta Falcons vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers starts at 1 p.m. ET on Oct. 27. This fixture takes place at the Raymond James Stadium.
How to watch Falcons vs. Buccaneers for freeAtlanta Falcons vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers is available to live stream for free on TVNZ+ in New Zealand.
TVNZ+ is a free streaming platform that's geo-restricted to viewers in New Zealand. If you're travelling outside the country, you might need to use a VPN. These useful online tools can hide your real-world IP address (digital location) and connect you with a secure server based in New Zealand. This allows you to access TVNZ+ wherever you are.
Access free live streams of the NFL by following these simple steps:
Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)
Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)
Open up the app and connect to a server in New Zealand
Visit TVNZ+
Live stream Atlanta Falcons vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers for free from anywhere in the world
The best VPNs for streaming aren't actually free to use, but leading VPN providers tend to offer deals such as free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. Sign up for these deals and you can access free live streams of the NFL without spending a dime. It's a short-term fix, but this gives you time to stream Atlanta Falcons vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers — plus other select fixtures — before you claim back any initial cost.
What is the best VPN for the NFL?ExpressVPN is the best service for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream the NFL live, 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 always secure
Fast connection speeds
Up to eight simultaneous connections
30-day money-back guarantee
A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95, which means a saving of 49% on the list price. As part of this limited-time deal you'll also receive three bonus months of usage for free, a whole year of unlimited data backup via the cloud, and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Live stream Falcons vs. Buccaneers for free from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.
TL;DR: Live stream Chicago Bears vs. Washington Commanders for free on TVNZ+. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.
The NFL 2024 season rolls on with Week 8. We've got a keen eye on Chicago Bears vs. Washington Commanders, as both teams look to continue solid form.
The Bears (4-2) are on a three-game winning streak — which has included dominant wins over the struggling Carolina Panthers and Jacksonville Jaguars — while the Commanders obliterated the Panthers 40-7 in Week 7. But there's cause for concern in the Washington camp with rookie QB Jayden Daniels potentially out with a rib injury. The Bears are also coming off a bye week, which could see Chicago well rested and raring to go. Either way, don't miss Sunday Football.
Chicago Bears vs. Washington Commanders is available to watch for free from anywhere in the world. Here's all the information you need to stream the game.
When is Bears vs. Commanders?Chicago Bears vs. Washington Commanders starts at 4.25 p.m. ET on Oct. 27. This fixture takes place at Northwest Stadium.
How to watch Bears vs. Commanders for freeChicago Bears vs. Washington Commanders is available to live stream for free on TVNZ+ in New Zealand.
If you're abroad for this fixture, you can still access TVNZ+ by using a VPN. These tools can hide your real-world IP address (digital location) and then connect you to a secure server in another country, in this case New Zealand. This enables you to bypass geo-restrictions and access TVNZ+ no matter where you are.
Access free live streams of the NFL by following these simple steps:
Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)
Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)
Open up the app and connect to a server in New Zealand
Visit TVNZ+
Live stream Chicago Bears vs. Washington Commanders for free from anywhere in the world
The best VPNs for streaming aren't technically free, but the top VPN providers tend to offer incentive deals such as free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By signing up for these deals you'll be able to access free live streams of the NFL without spending anything long-term. This is a temporary fix, of course, but you'll have all the time you need to stream Chicago Bears vs. Washington Commanders — plus other select NFL fixtures — before reclaiming any initial cost.
What is the best VPN for the NFL?ExpressVPN is the best service for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream the NFL live, 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 always secure
Fast connection speeds
Up to eight simultaneous connections
30-day money-back guarantee
A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95, saving you 49% on the list price. As part of this limited-time deal you'll also receive three bonus months of usage for free, a whole year of unlimited data backup via the cloud, and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Live stream Bears vs. Commanders for free from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.
TL;DR: Live stream England vs. Samoa in this rugby league series for free on BBC iPlayer. Access this free streaming site from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.
England face Samoa in a couple of absolutely massive international rugby league matchups. It's going to be electric viewing, and better yet, fans can watch both games without spending anything.
If you want to watch England vs. Samoa in this rugby league series for free from anywhere in the world, keep reading to find out how.
When is England vs. Samoa?England vs. Samoa starts at 2:30 p.m. GMT on Oct. 27. This fixture takes place at Brick Community Stadium.
How to watch England vs. Samoa for freeEngland vs. Samoa is available to live stream for free on BBC iPlayer.
BBC iPlayer is geo-restricted to the UK, but you can stream on this free platform from abroad with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server based in the UK, meaning you can access free live streams on BBC iPlayer from any location.
Access a free live stream of England vs. Samoa by following these simple steps:
Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)
Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)
Open up the app and connect to a server in the UK
Visit BBC iPlayer
Stream England vs. Samoa for free from anywhere in the world
The best VPNs for streaming are not free to use, but most of the top VPN providers will generally offer deals such as free trials or money-back guarantees. Take advantage of these offers to watch England vs. Samoa without actually spending anything. We know it's only a short-term solution, but it will give you all the time you need to stream select fixtures before recovering your initial investment.
What is the best VPN for BBC iPlayer?ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport on BBC iPlayer, for a number of reasons:
Servers in 105 countries including the UK
Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more
Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure
Fast connection speeds free from throttling
Up to eight simultaneous connections
30-day money-back guarantee
A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 for a very generous saving of 49%. This plan also includes three bonus months of usage at no additional cost, a whole year of unlimited cloud backup absolutely free, and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Live stream England vs. Samoa for free with ExpressVPN.
TL;DR: Live stream Indiana Pacers vs. Philadelphia 76ers in the NBA for free on Ran.de. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.
Another NBA season, another year of hope for the Philadelphia 76ers. Can they finally get things right and go all the way? The addition of Paul George is certainly going to help, but much will depend on how he performs with Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey.
The Indiana Pacers will be looking to make steady progress this season, with Tyrese Haliburton and Pascal Siakam leading from the front. A home victory over the Philadelphia 76ers would create some serious momentum for this young team.
If you want to watch Indiana Pacers vs. Philadelphia 76ers in the NBA for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.
When is Indiana Pacers vs. Philadelphia 76ers?Indiana Pacers vs. Philadelphia 76ers in the NBA starts at 2:30 p.m. ET on Oct. 27. This game takes place at the Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
How to watch Indiana Pacers vs. Philadelphia 76ers for freeIndiana Pacers vs. Philadelphia 76ers is available to live stream for free on Ran.de.
Ran.de is geo-restricted to Germany, 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 Germany, meaning you can unblock free live streams of the NBA from anywhere in the world.
Live stream Indiana Pacers vs. Philadelphia 76ers for free on Ran.de by following these simple steps:
Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)
Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)
Open up the app and connect to a server in Germany
Visit Ran.de
Watch Indiana Pacers vs. Philadelphia 76ers for free from anywhere in the world
The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but leading VPNs do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can gain access to free live streams of the NBA without actually spending anything. This obviously isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to live stream Indiana Pacers vs. Philadelphia 76ers before recovering your investment.
What is the best VPN for the NBA?ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport, for a number of reasons:
Servers in 105 countries including Germany
Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more
Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure
Fast connection speeds free from throttling
Up to eight simultaneous connections
30-day money-back guarantee
A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.
Live stream Indiana Pacers vs. Philadelphia 76ers in the NBA for free with ExpressVPN.
TL;DR: Pay only £15.40 for a lifetime license to Microsoft Windows 11 Pro through 27 October at the Mashable Shop. That's a savings of 89%, but this price won't be around much longer.
If your work computer is slowing you down, you don't necessarily have to buy a new computer or laptop to upgrade your tech. Sometimes, all it takes is installing a brand-new operating system to boost your productivity and enhance your computer's security. So before you order a new machine, consider breathing new life into your current device by upgrading to Microsoft 11 Pro.
Through 27 October, Mashable readers can get a coveted Microsoft 11 Pro lifetime license on sale for £15.40 (reg. £153.43). This OS boasts a bunch of nifty features, including a new-and-improved interface, advanced security, AI assistance with Copilot, and an elevated gaming experience.
Microsoft 11 Pro is great for modern professionals, especially those working in a remote or hybrid setup. For instance, if you're a stickler for security, the OS packs BitLocker device encryption, meaning you can lock your device remotely so no one else can access it. Windows Information Protection is included, too, allowing you to remotely manage your system to prevent data leaks. Plus, you can also take advantage of biometrics login, Smart App control, and advanced antivirus defenses.
In terms of usability, enjoy Windows 11 Pro's new interface, which includes snap layouts, seamless redocking, better voice-typing, and a more powerful search experience. It's primed for play, too, thanks to DirectX12 Ultimate, which bolsters the graphics quality for more immersive gaming.
You'll have all these features and more with a one-time purchase of the license. You can install it on up to two devices, provided that they have 4GB RAM and 40GB of hard drive space.
Remember: You only have until 27 October at 11:59 p.m. PT to shop this deal at the Mashable Shop. Grab a lifetime license to Windows 11 Pro for only £15.40 (reg. £153.43) while you can.
StackSocial prices subject to change.
Opens in a new window Credit: Microsoft Microsoft Windows 11 Pro: Lifetime License £15.40 at the Mashable ShopIf 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 MashableBy 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 October 27 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for October 27 NYT Strands hint for today’s theme: Best of the bestThese words are good combinations..
Today’s NYT Strands theme plainly explainedThese words have companion words also in the puzzle, and together each combination means something is the best of its kind when used in the formation "__ of the ___." It’s not a straightforward Strands solution in the usual way.
NYT Strands spangram hint: Is it vertical or horizontal?Today's NYT Strands spangram is horizontal.
NYT Strands spangram answer todayToday's spangram is Perfectpair.
Featured Video For You Strands 101: How to win NYT’s latest word game NYT Strands word list for October 26Life
Head
Pick
Cream
Perfectpair
Crop
Litter
Party
Class
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.
Connections: Sports Edition is a new version of the popular New York Times word game that seeks to test the knowledge of sports fans.
Like the original Connections, the game is all about finding the "common threads between words." And just like Wordle, Connections resets after midnight and each new set of words gets trickier and trickier—so we've served up some hints and tips to get you over the hurdle.
If you just want to be told today's puzzle, you can jump to the end of this article for October 27'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 SEE ALSO: Hurdle hints and answers for October 27 What is Connections Sports Edition?The NYT's latest daily word game has launched in association with The Athletic, the New York Times property that provides the publication's sports coverage. Connections can be played on both web browsers and mobile devices and require players to group four words that share something in common.
Tweet may have been deletedEach puzzle features 16 words and each grouping of words is split into four categories. These sets could comprise of anything from book titles, software, country names, etc. Even though multiple words will seem like they fit together, there's only one correct answer.
If a player gets all four words in a set correct, those words are removed from the board. Guess wrong and it counts as a mistake—players get up to four mistakes until the game ends.
Tweet may have been deletedPlayers 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 October 27 Here's a hint for today's Connections Sports Edition categoriesWant a hit about the categories without being told the categories? Then give these a try:
Yellow: How to score
Green: Gridiron pet names
Blue: Winning arms of yesteryear
Purple: Siblings
Need a little extra help? Today's connections fall into the following categories:
Yellow - Football scoring plays
Green - Abbreviated NFL team names
Blue - Last year’s conference championship QBs
Purple - NFL brothers
Looking for Wordle today? Here's the answer to today's Wordle.
Ready for the answers? This is your last chance to turn back and solve today's puzzle before we reveal the solutions.
Drumroll, please!
The solution to today's Connections Sports Edition #31 is...
What is the answer to Connections Sports Edition todayFootball scoring plays: FG, PAT, SAFETY, TD
Abbreviated NFL team names: BUCS, CARDS, FINS, PATS
Last year’s conference championship QBs: GOFF, JACKSON, MAHOMES, PURDY
NFL brothers: BARBER, KELCE, MANNING, WATT
Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be new Connections for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.
Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.
SEE ALSO: Mini crossword answers for October 27If 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.
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 October 27'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 October 27 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 October 27 Here's a subtle hint for today's Wordle answer:Coarse and gets everywhere.
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 S.
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...
SANDY.
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 October 25Reporting by Chance Townsend, Caitlin Welsh, Sam Haysom, Amanda Yeo, Shannon Connellan, Cecily Mauran, Mike Pearl, and Adam Rosenberg contributed to this article.
If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.
Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Wordle.
Connections is the latest New York Times word game 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 October 27'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.
Tweet may have been deletedEach puzzle features 16 words and each grouping of words is split into four categories. These sets could comprise of anything from book titles, software, country names, etc. Even though multiple words will seem like they fit together, there's only one correct answer.
If a player gets all four words in a set correct, those words are removed from the board. Guess wrong and it counts as a mistake—players get up to four mistakes until the game ends.
Tweet may have been deletedPlayers 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 October 27 Here's a hint for today's Connections categoriesWant a hit about the categories without being told the categories? Then give these a try:
Yellow: Cheeky
Green: Vibes
Blue: Measurements
Purple: Famous "little" characters
Need a little extra help? Today's connections fall into the following categories:
Yellow: Sassy
Green: Ambience
Blue: Units
Purple: The Little____
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 #503 is...
What is the answer to Connections todaySassy: CUTE, FRESH, SMART, WISE
Ambience: AIR, FEELING, MOOD, QUALITY
Units: BAR, BELL, LUX, MOLE
The Little___: MERMAID, PRINCE, RASCALS, TRAMP
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 October 25Are 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.
Keeping your Snapchat streak going on iPhone is easier than ever before.
With iOS 18 you can now switch out the Flashlight and Camera shortcuts on your lock screen for any of over 50 options, including Snapchat's camera. With the shortcut, you can quickly take photos and videos for Snapchat with the tap of a button. But you need to unlock your phone to edit or send Snapchats.
Here's how to add the shortcut.
Total TimeStep 1: Hold down on your lock screen
Step 2: Select "Customize"
Step 3: Tap "Lock Screen"
Step 4: Select either the Flashlight or Camera icon
Tap whichever shortcut you want to be replaced by Snapchat.
Step 5: Hit the + icon
Step 6: Scroll through the options or use the search bar to find Snapchat and select it
Step 7: Tap "Done"
Apple's newest update, iOS 18, brought with it a long list of AI features, dubbed Apple Intelligence. Gemini Live is now available on Android phones, Lenovo created an AI-powered laptop, and Google can't get enough AI in its search results, or its phones.
If you've looked around at phone updates recently and thought, "huh, that's a lot of AI features — too bad I don't care about that at all," you wouldn't be alone. According to a survey of 2,484 adults including 2,387 smartphone owners from CNET and YouGov, people aren't ecstatic about AI on their phones.
A quarter of smartphone users reported that they "don't find AI features helpful" at all while about half of respondents said they weren't interested in paying a monthly subscription fee for AI capabilities. Meanwhile, about a third have privacy concerns about AI on their phones.
This changes a bit depending on generation, with younger people more comfortable and willing to spend on AI than older smartphone users. Overall, according to CNET, AI is "among the last reasons consumers want to upgrade their smartphones."
Then what is actually drawing smartphone users to upgrade? Battery life, of course. Nearly two-thirds of respondents said longer battery life is their "biggest motivation" for an upgrade, followed by more storage and better camera features. AI integrations motivated just 18 percent of respondents.
No matter why you choose to upgrade, waiting on AI seems to be the best route. After all, it is moving at quite the pace.
OpenAI has once again trimmed its safety-focused operations, dissolving its AGI Readiness team — a group dedicated to preparing for so-called artificial general intelligence. Miles Brundage, a senior advisor on the team, broke the news in a post on his Substack Wednesday, which also confirmed his departure from the company.
SEE ALSO: OpenAI funding round values company at $157 billionIn the post, Brundage hinted at a growing need for independence in his work, suggesting that his exit reflects a desire for more freedom as he continues to explore the rapidly evolving AI landscape.
"I decided that I want to impact and influence AI's development from outside the industry rather than inside," Brundage wrote, adding, "I’ve done much of what I set out to do at OpenAI."
Brundage went on to express broader concerns, stating, "Neither OpenAI nor any other frontier lab is ready, and the world is also not ready." According to Brundage, this isn’t a lone sentiment — many within OpenAI’s senior ranks share these reservations. As for the AGI Readiness team, former members are set to be reassigned across other divisions within OpenAI.
SEE ALSO: Sam Altman steps down as head of OpenAI's safety groupA company spokesperson told CNBC they back Brundage’s choice to move on. Still, the timing is rough for OpenAI, which has been navigating an exodus of senior leadership at a moment when stability is key. Although it was able to snag a top AI researcher from Microsoft, that addition doesn't fill the many recent gaps in OpenAI's upper ranks.
The leadership shifts and team dissolutions aren’t helping to quell mounting concerns around OpenAI's push toward AGI, particularly since its controversial announcement of a plan to become a fully for-profit company after beginning its life as a nonprofit.
Back in May, the company disbanded its SuperAlignment team — a group tasked with pioneering "scientific and technical breakthroughs to steer and control AI systems much smarter than us." Around the same time, OpenAI also reassigned its top AI safety leader, raising eyebrows within the AI ethics community and beyond.
On Oct. 3, former Colorado county clerk Tina Peters was sentenced to nine years in prison for tampering with voting technology used in the 2020 election. She wasn't trying to finesse the count, though, she was trying to prove someone else had. Spoiler: They hadn't.
Peters' actions turned her into the celebrity face of a movement, one casting doubt on the deeply complex mechanics of how one's vote is counted and vetted, all with the goal of reinstating former president Donald Trump as commander-in-chief. The echoing effects of such conspiracies will be felt again in 2024, using the internet and the public's awareness of the technology's vulnerabilities, to once again call the process into question.
As part of this distrust campaign, conservative figureheads, including Trump and Robert F. Kennedy Jr., have demanded the use of paper ballots in the upcoming presidential election, arguing the analog voting process (which offers a physical record of the count) is a more secure bet for vote tabulating. Elon Musk, accompanying Trump on the campaign trail, has continued to claim that voting machines are used to rig elections digitally and has asked that counties hand count paper ballots insteads. What the public may not realize is that just about every state already uses paper ballots. According to estimates by the Brennan Center, a nonpartisan law and policy institute, 98 percent of ballots cast this year will be on paper.
SEE ALSO: AI might be influencing your vote this election. How to spot and respond to it.Derek Tisler, counsel in the Brennan Center’s Elections and Government Program, co-authored the center's recent report on the state of paper ballots and has worked extensively in election security and voting machine infrastructure.
"There is just more attention on the mechanics of election administration," Tisler said, "in a way that there never was before 2020." Where once people's awareness of their vote started and ended with how to cast a ballot, "Now, there is so much more attention on who is running the elections and what the entire voting process looks like, from registration to the day that results are final. That is having different impacts on different people."
Our nation operates what is essentially 50 different electoral processes at once during a presidential election, Tisler says, generating an abundance of rules, guidelines, and mechanics that are in need of constant adjustment in order to create clear and reliable information for voters. Working against this process is rampant conspiratorial thinking by many Americans, built on misconceptions and stoked by rampant fear-mongering — some, like Tisler and other election security experts, view this state of disinformation as the bigger democratic concern.
America's voting machine obsessionHistorically, public confidence in elections — and technology's role — has fluctuated. The controversial "hanging chad" issue of the 2000 presidential election resulted in a push for the digitization of the voting process. As a result, advancing tech, like electronic poll books and machines, have made the system more convenient and accessible for many, including those with disabilities and non-English speakers, and has, overall, improved accuracy. It's also cut down costs on a system that relies heavily on a labor force of volunteer citizens.
But foreign interference in the 2016 election, hacking and disinformation attempts in the 2020 election, and continued incredulity thrown at elections by right-wing leadership, have complicated the matter. Lingering fears of interference and unfounded conspiracy theories about things like mail-in voting, poll observers, and (allegedly) rampant fraud, have made the field of information even hazier.
It is your community who is running those elections. It is your neighbors... It's those people who are stepping up to make this process happen. - Derek Tisler, Brennan CenterAt the center of the controversy rests the nation's "voting machine crisis," featuring a dearth of modernized machine units and an abundance of outdated machines that couldn't stand up to security risks. Some machines, known as optical scanning machines, simply record hand-penned ballots. Others, direct-recording electronic (DRE) machines, use touch screens and store votes in the machine's internal memory. The latter attempted to correct the accounting issues of the former, but country and state software systems for DREs unveiled a new problem: foreign and domestic cyberattacks taking advantage of outdated machines.
"Some Republicans have spread lies that election machinery is rigged and not to be trusted but there is no evidence to support that," Darrell West, senior fellow at the Brookings Institute Governance Studies program and disinformation researcher, told Mashable. "There were many lawsuits in 2020 and there was no evidence that voting equipment malfunctioned or did not record votes properly."
Following the 2020 results, election tech manufacturers Dominion and Smartmatic USA were accused of enabling a "stolen" election by changing or deleting votes on such machines. But these claims were unfounded, with both companies recently settling defamation lawsuits against the individuals and media networks that popularized the accusations. "It's completely predictable that a lot of the confusion, even conspiracy theories, have centered on technology — on the voting machines themselves," said Tisler. "Anytime you are talking about computers, it is difficult for the average person to understand what exactly is happening and how it works."
This is exacerbated by inflammatory comments like Musks', insinuating that voting machines are easily hacked machinery able to be manipulated by anyone with computer knowledge. "They are tested extensively and not connected to the internet so [they] cannot be hacked. People should feel secure that their votes will be recorded fairly and accurately," said West.
SEE ALSO: Are the 2024 presidential campaigns Too Online?Foreign interference through phishing schemes, personal data leaks, and breaches of proprietary systems operating election tech are enough to prompt ongoing pressure on government leaders to build a more secure and transparent security protocol. But, as experts have routinely said, it's not enough to question the process entirely, despite urging from conspiracy theorists.
In 2018, the U.S. Election Assistance Commission allocated $380 million toward improving federal election administration, enhancing election technology, and improving election security, as part of the 2002 Help America Vote Act (HAVA). More than $100 million of that was intended for voting equipment upgrades, but few counties had adequate resources to overhaul. Another $800 million investment in 2023 has attempted to fill in the gaps and push the majority of jurisdictions over the bureaucratic hump.
The Brennan Center has calculated a near $300 million dollar budget to replace voting equipment, which will only increase as current machines also age out. That's to be expected, however. Just as consumers phase out their personal devices for the latest models, election tech must evolve. Voters' knowledge has to evolve, as well.
Building back trust in the electoral processGeneral trust in the government has been low for decades. In 2023 polling by the Pew Research Center, 22 percent of Americans expressed trust in a fair government. That's up from only 16 percent in 2022.
Recent cybersecurity findings suggest continued vulnerabilities in systems storing sensitive public records and legal documents. Another fear-inducing headline: A vulnerability in the state of Georgia's voter registration cancellation portal, allowing malicious actors to disenfranchise swaths of voters, prompting widespread concern of collusion.
Renewed public interest in the mechanics of the electoral process, Tisler explained, is a positive shift, but creates rippling issues. "This is what elections are all about, participation," he said. "But like with anything, you are also going to have people who use that information to cast doubt on the process."
In pursuit of addressing those very actors, Tisler explained, government and election officials have focused more intensely on transparency, opening up voters to the logistics of running a nationwide vote. Some have invited residents into the physical spaces where they work, observing voting machine tests or visiting offices. Others have taken to social media, live streaming preparation and even counts.
We are never wholly dependent on technology. We are never wholly dependent on humans. - Derek Tisler, Brennan CenterToo much information, however, isn't helpful without understanding, Tisler said. "People need context for what is happening," he urged. "It's not enough that you can see what is happening, if you don't understand the actual steps that are taking place and why they are so important to holding a secure, accurate election."
Meanwhile, advocacy groups and security experts continue to emphasize the importance of clarity and simplicity, beginning and ending with paper.
Don't worry: Your vote will be counted.Americans shouldn't feel disinclined to vote in 2024 because of technological skepticism, said Tisler. "Without a doubt, the technology is much more secure, much more reliable, than it was even a decade ago," he stated. In fact, according to the country's cybersecurity leaders, they should have more confidence that this year's election is safe from outside threats.
"It is your community who is running those elections. It is your neighbors. It is people who share so many of your values and your experiences," said Tisler. "It's those people who are stepping up to make this process happen. Sometimes, when there is a lot of passion, a lot of anxiety and tension, it's often difficult to keep all that in perspective."
Fears of voting machines and count accuracy, spurred by anti-computer comments like those of Musk, have grown to eclipse other election concerns. Attempts to undermine the election before ballots are cast, through mass disinformation campaigns, generative AI, or even the simple suggestion that our process can't be trusted, have the potential to sow as much mistrust as a genuine cyberattack. Just as big of a risk: Threats of physical violence on election day. But integrity experts and federal officials, including the State Department, have been preparing for it all. And paper has remained an essential part of the process.
People should feel secure that their votes will be recorded fairly and accurately. - Darrell West"Disinformation is a serious threat because so many people want to believe negative things about the other party," said West. "Some officials spread lies to sow doubt and make people cynical about the political process. There also are foreign entities that have incentives to spread lies in order to disrupt American elections. They want to turn people against one another." Meanwhile, West assures, "paper ballots are guarded night and day in order to maintain the integrity of vote counting. There are Republican and Democratic poll watchers who make sure the other party does not engage in any shenanigans."
According to Verified Voting, a nonprofit focused on responsible voting technology and paper ballot advocacy, almost 70 percent of counties nationwide will use hand marked paper ballots for the majority of voters. Around 25 percent will use ballot marking devices, an electronic version of a ballot that creates a paper record and doesn't store vote counts on the machine, often used for voters with disabilities. Only 5 percent of counties exclusively use DRE machines.
Only two states, Louisiana and Texas, contain counties with completely paperless voting systems. Election-deciding swing states — Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin — all maintain paper records, which are used in post-election audits in 48 states. Paper records include actual paper ballots filled out by hand, as well as printed paper ballots for voters to review after they place their vote on a machine.
Voters can also learn about the specific machines and voting processes at their polling site ahead of the election. Verified Voting's "Verifier" database provides a breakdown of the type of voting equipment used in each county.
Tisler recommends concerned voters read through the center's Roadmap to the Official Count, which explains the entire process in administering and validating a presidential election, step-by-step.
"The election process is a system of checks and balances," reassured Tisler. "There is somebody who is constantly making sure that everything is working how it should. They're checking, double checking, triple checking. We are never wholly dependent on technology. We are never wholly dependent on humans. The tech and the human component are working side by side the entire time."
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 MashableHere are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Saturday, October 26, 2024:
Across"What ___?" (end of a riddle)The answer is Am I.
The answer is Brava.
The answer is Hot To Go.
The answer is And.
The answer is Ted.
The answer is Deep End.
The answer is Scent.
The answer is Ono.
The answer is Art Deco.
The answer is Mat.
The answer is I vote no.
The answer is Bones.
The answer is Agent.
The answer is Had.
The answer is Odd.
The answer is Pen.
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 GamesAre 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.
Take a New York Minute to Review Your Recovery Plan Don Henley is right: everything can change in a New York...
I Lost all of my Photos In every disaster I have ever responded to from here to...
Boston's most important responders: Bostonians The people of Boston are to be congratulated for being...
3 Values Your Business Continuity Plan Should Have Your business lives with risk every day from competitors...
Digital Privacy: A Catch 22 Mobility, convenience, accessibility and real-...
Take a New York Minute to Review Your Recovery Plan Don Henley is right: everything can change in a New York...
3 Values Your Business Continuity Plan Should Have Your business lives with risk every day from competitors...
I Lost all of my Photos In every disaster I have ever responded to from here to...