Mashable

As the Perseverance rover rumbled over Mars terrain scoping out rocks, seven companies spent the summer trying to figure out how to help NASA bring its samples back to Earth. 

The U.S. space agency's mission to return bits of rock, dust, and even air from the Red Planet, known as Mars Sample Return, is in trouble. An independent review found the unprecedented project would cost upward of $11 billion and take nearly two decades to accomplish. 

Problems with the mission's management came at the worst possible time. Hundreds of scientists and engineers working on the project at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory lost their jobs, taking the brunt of NASA's budget cuts over the past two years.

In a desperate plea, NASA announced that it would solicit proposals from the aerospace industry, in addition to asking its other campuses, for input on how to save the mission. Then in June, NASA selected seven companies out of 48 proposals to flesh out their concepts over the following three months: Lockheed Martin, SpaceX, Blue Origin, Aerojet Rocketdyne, Northrop Grumman, Quantum Space, and Whittinghill Aerospace received up to $1.5 million each to pursue studies.

From repurposing moon landers in development for NASA's Artemis campaign to rethinking the last leg of the journey, the companies have put forward some new strategies and approaches, often involving their own hardware, according to public records reviewed by Mashable.

"Mars Sample Return will be one of the most complex missions NASA has undertaken, and it is critical that we carry it out more quickly, with less risk, and at a lower cost," said NASA Administrator Bill Nelson in a statement. "I’m excited to see the vision that these companies, centers and partners present as we look for fresh, exciting, and innovative ideas to uncover great cosmic secrets from the Red Planet."

SEE ALSO: A space company is headed to Mars this fall. No, it's not SpaceX. The Perseverance rover is dropping sets of sample tubes filled with rocks and dirt on the Martian ground for later retrieval. Credit: NASA / JPL-Caltech

Since landing on Mars in 2021, Perseverance has filled 25 of 38 sample tubes with rocks and dirt. NASA's goal has been to retrieve at least a few of them and get them to Earth in the 2030s. To do that, the agency planned for the rover to deliver the samples to a robotic lander equipped with a rocket. If the rover couldn't make the drive, drones similar to the recently deceased Ingenuity helicopter would pick them up and fly them to a lander.

Once the tubes were in space, an orbiter built by the European Space Agency would bring them some 140 million miles back to Earth. (With both planets constantly moving, their distance is always changing.)

A core of a Martian rock about the size of a piece of chalk within a Perseverance rover drill. Credit: NASA / JPL-Caltech / ASU / MSSS

The pressure to find a solution has only increased since July, when NASA announced that Perseverance had just discovered in an ancient dried-up riverbed a leopard-spotted rock, with features that microbes could have formed billions of years ago, when the planet was warmer and wet. 

Though NASA stopped short of claiming it had found evidence of life, the rover's instruments detected organic compounds within the rock that are, at the least, building blocks for life in this world. But the only way to know for sure whether those compounds came from living creatures or a geological process is to grab a sample and bring it home for a rigorous analysis.

"It's kind of a reminder that no one is going to care if it costs $6 billion or $11 billion if we discover evidence of life beyond Earth for the first time in human history," Casey Dreier, the nonpartisan Planetary Society's senior space policy adviser, told Mashable.

Mars Sample Return would mark humanity's first attempt at launching off another planet. Credit: NASA How private companies would change the mission

A Mashable review of the proposal summaries shows many of the ideas suggested by the seven companies focus on the Mars Ascent Vehicle, the rocket that would blast the samples off Mars and into space — a sign that insiders may have identified the MAV as one of the key problems. The mission would mark humanity's first attempt at launching off another planet. Aerojet Rocketdyne, Whittinghill Aerospace, and Northrop Grumman's proposals all pitch ways to make that rocket — and the lander bringing it down to the surface — lighter and smaller. 

Aerojet Rocketdyne went a step farther, urging that if NASA were to reduce the mass of the Mars rocket, the team could potentially reuse the sky crane landing system that brought the Perseverance and Curiosity rovers to the Martian surface for this mission.

Lockheed Martin is looking into how NASA could model the mission after some of its Discovery and New Frontiers-class planetary missions, according to its proposal, which are cost-capped in the millions-of-dollars range. These relatively frugal missions involve private space company partners and are pre-authorized by Congress, generally making them quicker to develop. 

And, of course, Lockheed thinks it's up to the task. The company said it would assess how replacing government equipment, as well as reducing the number of samples collected, could help drive down costs. Lockheed has a long track record of developing 11 Mars vehicles for the agency in the past, said Lisa May, the company's manager of deep space exploration strategy, in a statement to Mashable. 

"It's kind of a reminder that no one is going to care if it costs $6 billion or $11 billion if we discover evidence of life beyond Earth for the first time in human history."

The newcomer space companies are also part of the mix. Elon Musk's SpaceX wants Starship to be incorporated somehow into the mission architecture, and Jeff Bezos' Blue Origin is looking into how NASA could leverage the company's own Artemis moon lander, dubbed Blue Moon. Either spacecraft could potentially carry a heavier load than the lander and rocket in development, ensuring the agency wouldn't have to make difficult choices about which samples to leave behind on the Red Planet.   

While most of the concepts seem to be centered on cost savings in the samples' retrieval, Quantum Space's proposal seeks to redesign a much later part of the journey. Its plan would involve a handoff of the samples from the European orbiter to Quantum's own moon-orbiting spacecraft that would eventually drop the samples over Earth for a Utah desert landing. The company is calling this its "anchor leg concept" — a way to cut back on near-term costs of the mission, according to Quantum. 

"The use of our commercially developed spacecraft to achieve one of the highest priority goals in solar system exploration exemplifies a successful private-public partnership," said Ben Reed, Quantum's co-founder and CIO, in a statement. "Our sleeves are rolled up, and we’re ready to dive in!"

The Perseverance rover on Mars uses tools to bore holes in rocks to collect samples. Credit: NASA / JPL-Caltech / ASU Why Mars Sample Return is in jeopardy

NASA and the broader scientific community have pushed for Mars rocks since 1978, after the success of the Viking mission, said Dreier of The Planetary Society. 

In order to insulate Mars Sample Return from inconsistent support from Congress, NASA designed and organized this science endeavor like it would a human spaceflight program, with its development spread across all NASA campuses and jobs posted throughout the country. But that approach apparently resulted in in-fighting, he said: Changes to one vehicle or phase of the mission at one NASA center would then have cascading repercussions, necessitating redesigns on other parts being developed at other centers. 

And with a lack of big-picture messaging on the significance of the mission, Mars Sample Return never enjoyed the sort of political buy-in that, for example, kept lawmakers focused on getting moon missions to the finish line in the past, Dreier said. But he's cautiously optimistic that NASA's desire to address the issues now will get the project back on track.

"NASA's trying to find ways to break through the bureaucratic management inertia that had settled on the program, that was just dragging it down," he said. "I think this is a near-death experience that might shake everyone out of complacency."

Imagine not eating for half a year.

For the Alaskan bears of Katmai National Park and Preserve, the long winter famine always looms large. So they eat. And eat. And attempt to grow profoundly fat, because they must subsist off their fat stores for months. That's why, in this wild northern realm, a fat bear is a healthy bear.

One of the largest and most dominant bears of Katmai's Brooks River — a salmon-clogged region of the park that's livestreamed on explore.org — is bear 32, "Chunk." As a large dominant bear, he earns access to the most productive fishing spots, allowing an already large bear to grow huge.

"By all ursine measures, Chunk has been successful. He's perhaps the largest bear at Brooks River," Mike Fitz, a former Katmai park ranger and currently a resident naturalist for explore.org, told Mashable.

Fitz estimates Chunk currently weighs 1,200 pounds. And the bear still has a strong salmon-consuming month ahead.

SEE ALSO: A violent event occurred on Alaska's fat bear livestream

A single sockeye salmon can pack around 4,000 calories. So a bear like Chunk, who repeatedly catches fish in the Brooks River, eats tens of thousands of calories per day. But on Aug. 26, Chunk outdid himself.

Avid bear cam observers, who document bear behavior throughout the summer, informed Fitz that Chunk ate a whopping 45 salmon in about 10.5 hours of fishing. Fitz has personally seen similar achievements, having watched the giant Katmai bear 747 consume 15 salmon in three hours.

"This is direct evidence of his hard work and success in preparation for winter hibernation."

The calories in each fish Chunk consumed likely varied this late in the season, as some fish have spawned (releasing eggs into a stream bed), and some haven't. Fitz estimates each fish contained an average of 3,000 calories.

"That would mean that Chunk consumed 135,000 calories in one day," Fitz marveled. "This is direct evidence of his hard work and success in preparation for winter hibernation."

Tweet may have been deleted Tweet may have been deleted

These livestreamed cams capture an unfiltered view of bear behavior. Some of it is endearing, and sometimes it's harsh.

Chunk is often under the eye of the most watched camera, which is attached to a bear-viewing platform next to the river's waterfall. So his exploits are frequently observed. Earlier this summer, for reasons unknown, he attacked a cub that had fallen off the waterfall and passed near him in the river. In their hypercompetitive world, bears do sometimes attack each other or younger bears, but the impetus can remain uncertain.

"We get to see their moments of joy," Fitz said in an online live chat discussing the attack. "However, the webcams are live, the footage is uncensored. We also see bears face hardship, hunger, injury, pain, and even death."

In the coming month or so, Katmai's already rotund bears will continue to exploit any salmon left in the river. They'll lose up to one-third of their body weight during hibernation, so the more fat accumulation, the better odds of survival.

Each year, the park celebrates the success of these animals in their wild realm, an online event called Fat Bear Week. Chunk will clearly be a favorite. Though he'll certainly have some ursine competition.

"Chunk is poised to be a top contender in Fat Bear Week 2024," Fitz said.

I first tried the new Dyson OnTrac headphones for Mashable back in July. After spending a couple of months testing them out, the verdict is in: These headphones sound incredible. They're also supremely comfortable, making it easy to bliss out to my favorite music. I've been bopping my head and doing embarrassing air drums more in the past two months than I have in the last decade.

The OnTrac headphones also have a signature feature that I'm still wrapping my head around, even as the headphones are literally wrapped around my head. I'm talking about the 55-hour battery life — and that's with Active Noise Cancellation engaged.

Overall, I'm loving the new headphones, but I've found some pain points that might make you hesitate before dropping $499.99 on your own pair.

Dyson breaks into consumer audio

Dyson has released headphones before. You might remember the bizarre and slightly dystopian Dyson Zone, the headphones with a built-in mask and air purifier. (We all got a little weird during the pandemic, right?). With the OnTrac, Dyson is launching a whole new product line, so let's forget about the Zone, which is for the best.

With its headphones, Dyson enters a crowded market. Sonos recently launched the Ace headphones, the brand's new high-end headphones. Dyson also has to contend with Sony, Master & Dynamic, Bose, Marshall, and others.

SEE ALSO: The 6 best headphones for 2024, from wireless earbuds to the best noise-cancelling picks

Dyson has a reputation for innovative engineering, and when these shiny new cans first dropped, I asked, "Can Dyson do for headphones what it's done for vacuums and hair dryers?" I have an answer this time, and it's not quite. They're impressive, but they're hardly the only headphones worth buying in 2024.

Dyson's new high-end headphones feature customizable accessories. Credit: Timothy Beck Werth / Mashable Dyson headphones, this time without an air purifier. Credit: Timothy Beck Werth / Mashable A clever design hack gets you 50+ hours of battery

When you look at the OnTrac headphones, they appear to have three cushions along the inner side of the headband. However, only the top component is actually a cushion. Dyson added batteries in the other pieces, letting them blow other brands away in the race for longer battery life.

For comparison, Sony's flagship XM5 headphones offer 29-ish hours of battery life with ANC. Bose's QuietComfort Ultras offer 24 hours. And the Beats Studio Pro also cap out at 24 hours. (Apple's AirPods Max are now several generations behind, and don't even break the 24-hour mark.)

SEE ALSO: The Marshall Major V headphones claim to have 100 hours of battery life, so I put them to the test

With more than double the battery life of major competitors, this is much more than an incremental improvement. It's the kind of genius Dyson design hack that seems totally obvious in retrospect, and we expect other brands to follow Dyson's lead here. The gains are just too big to ignore.

The batteries live in the headband for even weight distribution and longer battery life. Credit: Timothy Beck Werth / Mashable Credit: Timothy Beck Werth / Mashable

(Read more about the battery life in the "How We Tested" section below.)

Colorful, swappable components

You can buy these headphones in three pre-set colorways: CNC Copper, CNC Black Nickel, and Ceramic Cinnabar. The machine-cut aluminum ear plates and cushions come in a variety of colors, and you can purchase the ones you like best to customize your headphones.

Via Giphy

You can buy the extra accessories from Dyson, and this is another feature I hope other brands imitate. (I'm talking about expanded personalization, not making people pay extra for it.) The skin-tone headphones and transparent earbuds from Beats are always popular, and Apple's mint AirPods Max are still a popular fashion accessory years after their release.

OnTrac headphones in the CNC Copper colorway. Credit: Timothy Beck Werth / Mashable I swapped out the ear cups for a different color. Credit: Timothy Beck Werth / Mashable Let's talk about the sound

Here's the headline: The sound rocks. I've previously tested the Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones and earbuds for Mashable, and I've personally used Beats, Apple, and Jabra products in the past. These are the best headphones I've tested yet.

According to Dyson, “Most headphones operate on a frequency range from 20 to 20,000 Hertz. Our technology expands that range, from 6 Hertz at the low end to 21,000 Hertz at the top." The brand says that results in improved bass, treble, and overall audio clarity, and I believe them.

These headphones sound superb, truly. They're the second-best audio experience I've ever heard. The only sound that beats it? xMems ultrasonic audio technology, which isn't yet available to consumers.

The sound really does sound true to life, and I've been listening on the Bass Boost mode because I have weak hearing on the low end of the spectrum. I can appreciate entirely new details in some of my favorite songs, and I've been listening to more music than I have in years thanks to these headphones.

I wish you could hear how incredible these are. Credit: Timothy Beck Werth / Mashable

If you want to disappear into a bubble of sound and enjoy your music to the fullest, these headphones deliver a powerful experience. The spatial audio isn't as advanced as what you get with the newest Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones, but the overall audio experience is mighty impressive.

Noise cancellation: Also very impressive

Dyson promises these headphones will deliver 40 decibels of noise cancellation. The over-ear headphones provide plenty of passive noise cancellation, and with active noise cancellation added to the mix, most ambient noises drop away like magic. It's not 100 percent noise cancellation, but it's very good.

SEE ALSO: I flew 3,440 miles on a plane with Apple AirPods Max and Sony XM5: Which has better noise cancellation?

The noise cancellation works well on calls, too. During a test call, a friend was able to tell that I was calling on headphones, but they could barely hear the train passing in the near distance.

And did I mention you can listen to music with ANC engaged for up to 55 hours? Again, I say, holy shit.

Comfort is king

I won't expand too much on the comfort of these headphones because I don't need too many words to describe it: They're really comfortable.

Between the design of the headband and the ear cushions, I've had no problems with fatigue, weight distribution, or discomfort while listening to music. You could easily wear these for a cross-country flight without issue. I found that I could angle the precise position of the ear cups, and the cups would stay firmly in that position, which added to the comfortable fit.

One drawback — they're not particularly comfortable around your neck, i.e. when you're not listening to music. So, I don't expect people to wear them as an accessory like you see with the Apple AirPods Max.

Credit: Timothy Beck Werth / Mashable My biggest gripe: The clunky design

For my Dyson OnTrac headphones review, I tried to set aside my feelings about the aesthetics and stay objective. But I have to say it: I hate that these headphones say "Dyson" prominently on the headband. Both sides of the headphones have the brand name above the cups. Unless I'm overpaying for a fancy new Burberry sweater, I hate when products have the brand name written on them.

Overall, I expect the aesthetics to be divisive, in a love-it or hate-it kind of way. Dyson embraced a chunkier design here, I suspect because of the camouflaged batteries in the headband. This contrasts with the slicker, more minimalist approach of other manufacturers.

Controls and connectivity

These headphones feature a mini joystick-like toggle that lets you control your music and volume. I found this a lot better than touch controls, and the headphones have proven to be super user-friendly.

The same goes for setup and the MyDyson app (the app tracks your usage and ambient sound exposure throughout the day). Unfortunately, they do fail in one respect: multipoint Bluetooth pairing.

Credit: Screenshot courtesy of Dyson Credit: Screenshot courtesy of Dyson

I couldn't get the headphones to easily switch between my devices. If I connected them to my MacBook for a Zoom call but wanted to switch back to my iPhone, I first had to go into my MacBook's Bluetooth settings, disconnect the headphones, then go into the settings on my iPhone to reconnect. It was annoying.

Are the Dyson OnTrac headphones worth it?

That's the $499.99 question. In terms of audio quality, battery life, and comfort, these headphones definitely justify that price tag. And if you like the customization aspects of the design, then they're a smart purchase.

But if aesthetics and vibes are as important to you as comfort and audio quality, then your decision comes down to how much you like the OnTrac design.

The Dyson OnTrac headphones are available at Dyson, Amazon, and Best Buy for $499.99.

Dyson OnTrac Headphones with Active Noise Cancellation $499.99 at Amazon
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TL;DR: Get Microsoft Office 2021 and Windows 11 Pro for $54.97 through September 3 — that’s less than $28 apiece.

Summer’s drawing to a close, and it’s time to get serious about those grades. Whether you’re hitting the books or looking to help your student, check out this ultimate back-to-school bundle: Microsoft Office and Windows 11 Pro, armed to help you tackle assignments and fight procrastination.

Separately, this office suite and OS cost hundreds, but they’re on sale for $54.97 for a few more days. This is your last chance to upgrade your Windows computer for such a deal before school starts.

Microsoft Office 2021 apps

Every student needs reliable productivity apps for those dreaded assignments and presentations. Lean on tools like Microsoft Word and PowerPoint for homework, OneNote for note-taking, and Outlook and Teams to stay connected to peers and teachers. 

Microsoft Office for Windows also comes with Access and Publisher. You might use Excel and Publisher for math and data science courses and Publisher if you’re designing materials for clubs or art classes.

Windows 11 Pro + Copilot AI

Upgrading your OS isn’t just for the new user design; you’ll also get the new AI assistant, Copilot. Microsoft calls it “the ultimate AI study buddy.”

Copilot uses a custom version of ChatGPT, so it’s like getting the chatbot's premium version without having to pay for it. You could use it to:

• Have it explain complex class concepts in simpler terms

• Make custom flashcards

• Create practice questions

• Simulate conversations in a new language you’re learning

You’ll also enjoy how Windows 11 Pro boosts your PC’s load times, gives you new productivity tools, and adds new security features like BitLocker device encryption. It’s like an internal makeover for your computer.

Take advantage of this Microsoft app bundle with Office 2021 and Windows 11 Pro at $54.97 (reg. $438) through September 3 at 11:59 p.m. PT. No coupon is needed for this discount.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Retail King The Ultimate Microsoft Office Professional 2021 for Windows: Lifetime License + Windows 11 Pro Bundle $54.97
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TL;DR: Save 70% on a portable MagSafe-compatible iPhone charger until September 3.

My purse used to resemble a tech graveyard: A tumbleweed of charging cords and a hefty power bank that weighed me down like an anchor. But the other day, my shoulder was so sore from carrying around my bag, and my cord was so frayed my phone wouldn’t even charge, so I ordered this wireless iPhone charger.

If you remember Apple’s MagSafe Battery Pack (they discontinued it), it’s almost identical to that, except it’s way cheaper. You can get one for only $34.97 (reg. $119.95) through September 3 in white, black, or light blue.

This gadget keeps my phone alive no matter what

Instead of digging through my purse to find my brick of a power bank, I just grab this small battery pack and stick it to the back of my phone. When I’m on the subway after work, using my car mount, or sitting at a restaurant, it's so nice not to worry about my ugly, frayed cord getting in the way.

I have the iPhone 13, but my friends with Androids can also use it as a portable wireless charging pad since it supports Qi-enabled devices. I’m everyone’s favorite friend when their phone is about to die.

Something important to note, though, is that if your case isn’t MagSafe-compatible, it won’t magnetically stick. So, if that’s important to you, you’ll have to get one, grab one of those sticky magnetic rings to make your case compatible (which is what I did), or pop your case off when you charge.

While I love this sleek, minimal wireless charger, my old clunker wins in terms of battery capacity. With 5,000mAh on board, I get about one and a half iPhone charges before I have to recharge this battery, but it’s so incredibly lightweight that I think it’s worth the effort. 

Order your magnetic iPhone charger while they’re only $34.97 (reg. $119.95) until September 3 at 11:59 p.m. PT. No coupon is needed for this price drop.

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Opens in a new window Credit: Electronic Avenue Speedy Mag Wireless Charger for iPhone $34.97
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TL;DR: Save 42% on digital night vision binoculars that also record through September 3.

Opens in a new window Credit: Mesay Mini Digital Night Vision Binoculars with 1080p HD Recording $89.97
$159.99 Save $70.02 Get Deal

There's so much wildlife to see after the sun sets. Once you have a pair of night vision binoculars, your hiking and birdwatching (or even Bigfoot hunting) adventures don't have to stop after dark.

Grab these mini digital night vision binoculars that also record video for just $89.97 (reg. $159.99) through September 3. That’s 43% off.

Your binoculars, but better (and cooler)

Picture this: You’re venturing down a new trail, and you hear a twig snap. Is it Bigfoot? A deer? Guess you’ll never know — unless you pull out your new binoculars and take a closer look. With 10x optical zoom, you can see almost 1,000 feet away.

Better yet, when something inevitably catches your eye, you can freeze the moment in time by clicking the shutter. Your 1080p photos or videos are saved to the included 32GB TF card, so you can easily share them online.

When night rolls around, your view won’t be compromised. Since you have night vision, you’re basically an owl now. You can use the infrared illuminator during dusk or in complete darkness and see almost as far away as you would in the daylight. Imagine everything you’ll spot — like an owl hunting for prey, scavenging porcupines, or Bigfoot. Okay, probably not that last one, but it's fun to hope.

Grab night vision binoculars while they’re on sale for $89.97 (reg. $159.99) until September 3 at 11:59 p.m. PT. No coupon is needed for this price drop.

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TL;DR: Save 76% on a Babbel lifetime subscription through September 3 and learn up to 14 new languages. 

Babbel didn’t just teach me French…it helped me meet the love of my life. I was in a little café in Paris, and a beautiful man came up and introduced himself to me — in French. 

Thankfully, I had downloaded the language-learning app before my friend's bachelorette trip to Paris. So I understood him. Mostly. The sparks flew instantly. I was so lucky to have stumbled across that Babbel lifetime deal when I had. It was only $139.97, compared to $599, and I couldn’t find a better price anywhere else.

How French lessons became a love story

After Louis and I met at the café, my friend kept calling Babbel the cupid of language-learning apps. I didn’t know how fluent I could become from an app, but with Louis’s phone number in my pocket, I was determined to give it a chance.

I set a goal on Babbel to practice for 20 minutes daily and become as fluent as possible. Babbel has more than just the basic greetings — I learned to talk about my job, order in a bar, discuss environmental issues, and buy theater tickets. 

But I was more than a little nervous for my date with Louis. What if I couldn’t understand him? Or worse, what if he couldn’t understand me? Babbel’s speech-recognition technology helped ease my anxiety (a little) by assuring me I was somewhat on the right track. Louis just told me I had an American accent.

When I got home, Louis and I promised to keep in touch. I took some live lessons through Babbel. While these are an additional cost, you get two free ones with this lifetime deal, which were tremendously helpful in boosting my confidence before Louis visited me in New York.

I’ve been using Babbel for about a year now, and when I saw that the lifetime subscription price was back down I had to encourage you to try it for yourself. You never know what doors it could open.

Learn a new language with a Babbel lifetime subscription on sale for $139.97 (reg. $599) through September 3 at 11:59 p.m. PT. No coupon is needed for this unbeatable deal.

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Opens in a new window Credit: Babbel Babbel Language Learning: Lifetime Subscription (All Languages) $139.97
$599.00 Save $459.03 Get Deal

SAVE 45%: Snap up a 4K dual-camera drone for just $64.97 (reg. $119.99) through September 3.

Opens in a new window Credit: RochasDivineMart 4K Dual-Camera Drone for Beginners with Intelligent Obstacle Avoidance $64.97
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If you'd love to get a drone but think they're too expensive and too easy to crash into a tree — now's your chance.

Get a 4K dual-camera drone on sale for only $64.97. Normally $119.99, you can get this quadcopter for 45% off through September 3.

It practically flies itself

You don’t have to be a pilot to take flight with this done. Actually, it’s so simple a child — or your grandma — could do it. The remote control has one-key start and stop buttons for getting in and out of the air, so you don’t have to worry about taking off or landing like Tom Cruise in Top Gun.

Then, the drone flies itself in altitude hold mode, which keeps the drone steady. Take pictures or record videos from the 4K 90-degree front camera with the remote control. You could get some insane aerial shots of sunset landscapes or city views. Or try the 120-degree wide-angle bottom camera and gesture controls. This lets you make palm gestures or fists to take photos and videos, like group pictures of the whole family or action shots for TikTok.

Worried about crashing into a tree? The drone has 3-way obstacle avoidance that watches for and repels itself away from trees, walls, and people (you never know).

Grab this cheap beginner drone while it’s on sale for $64.97 (reg. $119.99) until September 3 at 11:59 p.m. PT. No coupon is needed for this price drop.

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If you're watching Kaos closely, you'll have the whole thing spoiled for you in five minutes. And if you're reading this article, you'll have the whole thing spoiled for you all over again.

In the first episode of Charlie Covell's Netflix series about the Greek myths, Eurydice (Aurora Perrineau) meets Cassandra (Billie Piper) at a supermarket, exchanging a few words with her in the cereal aisle. Moments later outside, Riddy sees Cassandra being apprehended by a security guard for shoplifting, a situation Riddy deescalates by paying for Cassandra's stolen cat food. But if you listen to what Cassandra says at this moment, she basically spoils the whole show.

"Everyone steals," she hisses. "Even the gods. Especially the gods. They're stealing our souls."

Problem is, no one ever listens to Cassandra. It's her whole thing.

SEE ALSO: 'Kaos' review: Can Netflix’s Greek myth series go the distance?

The prophet and Trojan princess of Greek mythology is said to have been pursued by Apollo, the sun god. He granted Cassandra the gift of prophecy, but when she didn't want to go on a date with him (ugh, entitled men), he added a cursed proviso to her talent. Though Cassandra would be able to warn people of what was coming, no one would believe her prophecies. "She shrieked and shouted out through all the city," Homer writes in The Iliad of Cassandra warning the Trojans about the coming sacking of their city. Turns out, the Ancient Greeks already knew the agony of women not being believed.

In this moment in Kaos, when Cassandra tells Eurydice the gods are stealing human souls, it's absolutely accurate, as the series reveals later. Hades' all-important Frame in the Underworld doesn't generate Renewal (reincarnation) as people on Earth are told it does; instead, their souls are sucked up into Olympus' water supply, to be drunk by the greedy gods for their restorative powers.

And though it takes the entire series for Riddy and her newfound fav Caeneus (Misia Butler) to figure it out, Cassandra tried to tell us all along. "Nobody wants to know!" she cries. "Why won't anyone listen?"

How to watch: Kaos is now streaming on Netflix.

Some 480 million miles away, an ocean — harboring perhaps twice the water of Earth's seas — sloshes beneath the icy surface of Europa. NASA's going there.

This moon of Jupiter has long intrigued planetary scientists, as a number of missions have swooped by the world's cracked, icy crust. Now, for the first time, a spacecraft is dedicated to investigating the moon. It's slated to launch in October.

"Almost time to spread our wings!" NASA posted online this week. "At @NASAKennedy, our spacecraft has been outfitted with its solar array 'wings.' They're not only huge, but strong enough to withstand the harsh conditions around Jupiter's intriguing moon Europa."

SEE ALSO: NASA scientist viewed first Voyager images. What he saw gave him chills.

What's more, the space agency has confirmed that a crucial part of Europa Clipper's infrastructure — the transistors that regulate the craft's electricity — just passed tests. Earlier this year, an agency evaluation raised concerns that intense levels of radiation around Jupiter could impair the mission.

"The Europa Clipper mission team recently conducted extensive testing and analysis of transistors that help control the flow of electricity on the spacecraft. Analysis of the results suggests the transistors can support the baseline mission," NASA wrote on Aug. 28. (The baseline mission means flying by Europa nearly 50 times between 2031 and 2034, which will provide almost complete reconnaissance of the Jovian moon.)

Europa's cracked, icy surface as captured by the Juno spacecraft in 2022. Credit: Image data: NASA / JPL-Caltech / SwRI / MSSS // Image processing: Kevin M. Gill CC BY 3.0 Tweet may have been deleted

The spacecraft is giant. It's "the largest spacecraft NASA has ever developed for a planetary mission," the agency explained. When its solar-array wings fold out in space, the over 110-foot (30.5-meter) craft will be longer than an NBA basketball court. The large panels are necessary because the distant Jovian region only receives three to four percent of the sunlight that Earth receives.

"At Jupiter, Europa Clipper’s arrays will together provide roughly 700 watts of electricity, about what a small microwave oven or a coffee maker needs to operate," NASA explained. "On the spacecraft, batteries will store the power to run all of the electronics, a full payload of science instruments, communications equipment, the computer, and an entire propulsion system that includes 24 engines."

A bevy of cameras, ground-penetrating radar, spectrometers, and beyond will scan the world below for water, eruptions of water, and the composition of Europa's ice. Beneath the ice, for example, there might be evidence that Europa hosts hydrothermal vents on its seafloor. On our planet, life teems around these deep-ocean vents.

"Beyond Earth, Europa is considered one of the most promising places where we might find currently habitable environments in our solar system," NASA said.

The huge spacecraft's launch opportunities open on Oct. 10, 2024, and after looping through the inner solar system, will arrive at Jupiter in 2030.

The observations will be unprecedented. But even more exploration could follow: A potential follow-up mission, called Europa Lander, will settle down on this extraterrestrial world and drill into the still-mysterious ice.

TL;DR: Watch Connecticut Sun vs. Washington Mystics in the WNBA with WNBA League Pass. Avoid blackouts and watch the WNBA from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The WNBA season continues into the home stretch towards the playoffs. Not every team can punch a ticket to the postseason, and the Washington Mystics — who are hosting Connecticut Sun — have had a tougher run than some in 2024. They're sat at the bottom of the Eastern Conference, though not bottom of the whole league. A few more wins could see them nudging towards the playoffs.

Connecticut will be a tough game, as they've had a strong season and have already qualified for the playoffs. Make sure you don't miss the action.

We have all the information you need to watch Connecticut Sun vs. Washington Mystics in the WNBA for free and from anywhere around the globe.

When is Connecticut Sun vs. Washington Mystics?

Connecticut Sun vs. Washington Mystics in the WNBA starts at 3 p.m. ET on Aug. 31. This fixture takes place at the Entertainment and Sports Arena in Washington, DC.

How to watch Connecticut Sun vs. Washington Mystics

Basketball fans can watch Connecticut Sun vs. Washington Mystics plus the remainder of the WNBA 2024 season from anywhere in the world with a WNBA League Pass.

Don't forget that WNBA League Pass doesn't show locally televised games live in the participating teams' local areas. But you can get around the blackout rules by using a VPN. VPNs are useful online tools that can hide your real IP address (digital location) then connect you to secure servers in other locations, allowing you to access every WNBA League Pass game live, excluding games shown on Amazon Prime Video.

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Summer may (almost) be over, but that means fall TV is just beginning. And trust me when I say there's a lot you won't want to miss.

This fall and winter, we'll see the return of major genre series like Squid Game, Silo, and Arcane, as well as beloved comedies like Abbott Elementary, Shrinking, and Somebody Somewhere. Elsewhere, you'll find shows set in the worlds of Star Wars, Dune, and even Gotham City; sitcoms from bold comedic voices; and some seriously spooky shows perfect for Halloween. Clear your schedule, you've got a lot of watching to do!

SEE ALSO: The 13 best TV shows of 2024 (so far)

Here, in order of release date, are 40 TV shows to check out this fall, handpicked by Mashable's entertainment team.

English Teacher

If you're not familiar with comedian Brian Jordan Alvarez from his collection of kooky TikTok characters or his excellent web series The Gay and Wondrous Life of Caleb Gallo, FX's English Teacher is here to get you with the program. Alvarez created and stars in this comedy about a high school English teacher weathering all the personal, professional, and political challenges that come with the job. Often, it's all three at once, combining in a perfect storm at school football games, class trips, and beyond. Featuring instantly memorable one-liners, breakneck pacing, and some unexpected life lessons along the way, English Teacher deserves to be at the top of every sitcom-lover's watchlist. — Belen Edwards, Entertainment Reporter

Starring: Brian Jordan Alvarez, Stephanie Koenig, Enrico Colantoni, Sean Patton, Carmen Christopher, Jordan Firstman, and Langston Kerman

How to watch: English Teacher premieres Sept. 2 at 10 p.m. ET on FX, and streams the next day on Hulu.

The Perfect Couple

A wedding goes horribly wrong in The Perfect Couple, Netflix's adaptation of Elin Hilderbrand's novel. The show whisks us away to Nantucket, where bride-to-be Amelia Sacks (Bad Sisters' Eve Hewson) is hours away from marrying into the wealthy Winbury family, headed up by mystery novelist Greer (Nicole Kidman) and her husband Tag (Liev Schreiber). The stage is set for a dream marriage... until a body washes up on the beach. Now, everyone is a suspect. Let the juicy drama unfold. — B.E.

Starring: Nicole Kidman, Liev Schreiber, Dakota Fanning, Eve Hewson, Billy Howle, Meghann Fahy, Ishaan Khattar, Jack Reynor, Michael Beach, Donna Lynne Champlin, and Isabelle Adjani

How to watch: The Perfect Couple premieres Sept. 5 on Netflix.

Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist

Based on the true crime podcast of the same name, Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist tells the story of a brazen heist that took place the night of Muhammad Ali's 1970 comeback fight in Atlanta. The star-studded series features big names like Samuel L. Jackson, Taraji P. Henson, and Don Cheadle, with Kevin Hart leading the pack as hustler Chicken Man, who becomes the prime suspect in the caper. — B.E.

Starring: Kevin Hart, Samuel L. Jackson, Taraji P. Henson, Don Cheadle, Terrence Howard, Chloe Bailey, Marsha Stephanie Blake, Dexter Darden, Lori Harvey, and Sinqua Walls

How to watch: Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist premieres Sept. 5 on Peacock.

The Old Man Season 2

In 2022 we were late to The Old Man, catching up just in time to develop a summer crush on Jeff Bridge's silver fox, retired assassin Dan Chase. This time, we're champing at the bit to see where this thrilling series goes next.

Based on the 2017 novel by Thomas Perry, The Old Man follows a former CIA operative (Bridges) who's successfully lived in hiding for 30 years. But once his cover's blown, he's forced on the run, causing troubles for old allies (John Lithgow), his newly acquired lover (Amy Brenneman), and his only daughter (Alia Shawkat), who ended the season in the hands of a vicious warlord. Season 2 promises to dig deeper into the complicated relationship between the trained killer and the current head of FBI operations, plunging both back into Afghanistan, where they served decades before. We can't wait to see every gnarly turn and every grizzled grimace. — Kristy Puchko, Entertainment Editor

Starring: Jeff Bridges, John Lithgow, Alia Shawkat, and Amy Brenneman

How to watch: The Old Man Season 2 premieres Sept. 12 at 10 p.m. ET on FX, and streams the next day on Hulu.

Three Women

Based on Lisa Taddeo's nonfiction book, Three Women centers on the stories of American women struggling to make sense of their lust and love lives. And from the looks of the first trailer, this will be a must-see for fans of limited series like Big Little Lies.

Shailene Woodley stars as a fictionalized version of Taddeo, a journalist seeking to make a book about the hard truths of female sexuality in America. In her search, she finds Lina (GLOW's Betty Gilpin), a suburban housewife trapped in a loveless marriage and desperate to reconnect to her own body through desire. Meanwhile, 17-year-old Maggie (Gabrielle Creevy) believes she's found love with her high school teacher; beyond the age gap and power dynamic issues, he's also married. Then there's Sloane and her husband Richard (Imaginary's DeWanda Wise and Longlegs' Blair Underwood), a successful couple who swings with other couples in the lap of luxury, but finds a threat to their marriage in a new lust interest. With new episodes dropping weekly across a 10-episode season, Three Women seems sure to tantalize across the fall. — K.P.

Starring: Shailene Woodley, DeWanda Wise, Betty Gilpin, Gabrielle Creevy, and Blair Underwood

How to watch: Three Women premieres Sept. 13 on Starz.

How to Die Alone

Known for Insecure and The White Lotus, Natasha Rothwell's own show is all about seizing the damn day. Rothwell leads her deadpan-titled comedy How to Die Alone as Mel, a JFK airport employee who feels unfulfilled in life on many levels. "[I wanted] to really explore the difference between loneliness and being alone," Rothwell told a panel for the Television Critics Association (TCA). When she's faced with a pretty embarrassing near-death experience, Mel gets a dose of perspective that propels her to get stuck into life. — Shannon Connellan, UK Editor            

Starring: Natasha Rothwell, Conrad Ricamora, Jocko Sims, and KeiLyn Durrel Jones

How to watch: How to Die Alone premieres Sept. 13 on Hulu.

SEE ALSO: 'How to Die Alone' is Natasha Rothwell's 'most vulnerable' work yet American Sports Story: Aaron Hernandez

Ryan Murphy continues to build his American Story empire with American Sports Story: Aaron Hernandez. Based on The Boston Globe's podcast Gladiator: Aaron Hernandez and Football Inc., this limited series chronicles the life of NFL superstar Aaron Hernandez (Josh Rivera), including his family life, his murder conviction, his death by suicide, and how he impacted American sports and culture as a whole. — B.E.

Starring: Josh Rivera, Jaylen Barron, Lindsay Mendez, Ean Castellanos, and Tammy Blanchard

How to watch: American Sports Story: Aaron Hernandez premieres Sept. 17 at 10 p.m. ET on FX, and streams the next day on Hulu.

Agatha All Along

Kathryn Hahn's witchy Agatha Harkness was one of the standouts of 2021 Marvel series WandaVision. Who could forget when she captured our attention — and ears — with the Emmy-winning ditty "Agatha All Along"? Now, she gets a show all to herself with the aptly titled Agatha All Along, which sees her setting off on a quest down the Witches' Road to regain her magical powers. Joining her on her journey is a mysterious teen (Heartstopper's Joe Locke) and a coven of witches including Aubrey Plaza, Sasheer Zamata, and Patti LuPone. Expect killer cast chemistry, magic galore, and of course, some new witchy bops.* — B.E.

Starring: Kathryn Hahn, Aubrey Plaza, Joe Locke, Patti LuPone, Sasheer Zamata, Ali Ahn, Miles Gutierrez-Riley, Emma Caulfield Ford, Maria Dizzia, and Okwui Okpokwasili

How to watch: Agatha All Along premieres Sept. 18 on Disney+.

The Penguin

Colin Farrell reprises his role as Oswald "The Penguin" Cobb in The Batman spin-off The Penguin. Taking place after the events of The Batman, which saw Gotham disastrously flooded, this gritty crime drama follows Oz in his quest to take over the city's vast criminal underworld. But he'll have some stiff competition in the form of Sofia Falcone (Cristin Milioti), daughter of the late Carmine Falcone. What happens when these two criminal masterminds go head to head? And what other morsels of Batman lore can we expect to see here?* — B.E.

Starring: Colin Farrell, Cristin Milioti, Rhenzy Feliz, Michael Kelly, Shohreh Aghdashloo, Deirdre O’Connell, Clancy Brown, James Madio, Scott Cohen, Michael Zegen, Carmen Ejogo, and Theo Rossi

How to watch: The Penguin premieres Sept. 19 at 9 p.m. ET on HBO and Max.

A Very Royal Scandal Ruth Wilson and Michael Sheen in "A Very Royal Scandal." Credit: Christopher Raphael / Blueprint / Sony Pictures Television

For some reason, 2024 is the year of not one but two dramatizations of the BBC's notorious 2019 Prince Andrew interview, in which Newsnight anchor Emily Maitlis asked the Duke of York about his link to convicted pedophile Jeffrey Epstein. We've already had Netflix's Scoop, and now Prime Video's version, A Very Royal Scandal, is here, with Ruth Wilson as Maitlis and Michael Sheen as Prince Andrew. Directed by Julian Jarrold and written by Jeremy Brock, A Very Royal Scandal tracks Maitlis securing the interview, the preparation, the event itself, and the aftermath. — S.C.

Starring: Ruth Wilson, Michael Sheen, Joanna Scanlan, Alex Jennings, Éanna Hardwicke, and Claire Rushbrook

How to watch: A Very Royal Scandal premieres on Prime Video on Sept. 19.

Twilight of the Gods

Zack Snyder and Norse mythology collide in Twilight of the Gods, a 2D animated series bursting with blood, sex, and warring gods.

Co-created by Snyder, Jay Oliva, and Eric Carrasco, Twilight of the Gods invites us into a mythical world where heroes and gods accomplish great deeds and fight greater wars. Here, mortal king Leif (voiced by Stuart Martin) and warrior Sigrid (Sylvia Hoeks) fall in love. But when Thor (Pilou Asbæk) ruins their wedding night, Sigrid finds herself on a no-holds-barred quest for vengeance. Brace yourselves for brutal action sequences, encounters with Thor, Loki, and Odin, and maybe even the occasional dragon. — B.E.

Starring: Stuart Martin, Sylvia Hoeks, Pilou Asbæk, Rahul Kohli, Paterson Joseph, Jamie Clayton, Birgitte Hjort Sørensen, Kristofer Hivju, Thea Sofie Loch Næss, John Noble, and Peter Stormare

How to watch: Twilight of the Gods premieres Sept. 19 on Netflix.

Penelope

Wilderness survival stories meet coming-of-age tales in the YA drama Penelope, co-created by Mel Eslyn and Mark Duplass. The show focuses on 16-year-old Penelope (Little Fires Everywhere's Megan Stott), who chooses to abandon technology and venture alone through the woods of Washington state. Mashable Entertainment Editor Kristy Puchko called Penelope's pilot, which premiered at Sundance, "a cozy fantasy set in the real world," adding that "the concept of touching grass proves a wholesome jumping-off point for a modern teen's journey of self-discovery." — B.E.

Starring: Megan Stott, Austin Abrams

How to watch: Penelope premieres Sept. 24 on Netflix.

Grotesquerie

Ryan Murphy. Niecy Nash-Betts. Travis Kelce. Three names we didn't predict being in the same project, but Grotesquerie threatens to shake up more than that. The American Horror Story and Pose creator's upcoming series is a grisly 10-episode crime drama that digs into a series of religious horror happenings in a small town. Nash-Betts stars as Lois Tryon, a detective who's trying to get the bottom of it all — but of course, she has a deep, dark, personal connection buried there. She's helped by nun and journalist Sister Megan, played by Micaela Diamond, who also has her secrets. And it's not clear who Travis Kelce is playing at this point, but he'll inevitably bring a few more Taylor Swift fans into the Murphyverse. Written and created by Murphy, Jon Robin Baitz, and Joe Baken, Grotesquerie is inevitably going to be all kinds of fucked up, so ready yourselves. — S.C.       

Starring: Niecy Nash-Betts, Courtney B. Vance, Lesley Manville, Micaela Diamond, Nicholas Alexander Chavez, Raven Goodwin, and Travis Kelce

How to watch: Grotesquerie premieres Sept. 25 at 10 p.m. ET on FX and streams on Hulu the next day.

Nobody Wants This

Looking for a rom-com series that's got a bit of spice? Named for the fictional podcast of its irreverent female lead, Nobody Wants This focuses on the burgeoning — but inconvenient — romance that blooms between a dashing young rabbi (The O.C.'s Adam Brody) and an atheist "shiksa" (The Good Place's Kristen Bell), who hosts a podcast all about sex and relationships. His congregation isn't thrilled when she crashes services at the synagogue to chat. Her sibling/co-host (Succession's Justine Lupe) isn't thrilled about him and his gawky older brother (Veep's Timothy Simons) whole vibe — especially when the sisters are on the brink of a big development deal. But no one — not even their mutual friend (Joy Ride's Sherry Cola) can deny their chemistry. — K.P.

Starring: Kristen Bell, Adam Brody, Timothy Simons, Justine Lupe, and Sherry Cola

How to watch: Nobody Wants This premieres Sept. 26 on Netflix.

The Legend of Vox Machina Season 3 

The most chaotic heroes in all of Tal'dorei return for The Legend of Vox Machina Season 3, which continues adapting Critical Role's first-ever Dungeons and Dragons campaign. This season sees the members of Vox Machina squaring off against the remaining dragons of the Chroma Conclave — and their own inner demons. Bring on the angst, the fantasy adventures, and the most NSFW applications of magic you could possibly imagine. — B.E.

Starring: Ashley Johnson, Laura Bailey, Liam O'Brien, Marisha Ray, Matthew Mercer, Sam Riegel, Taliesin Jaffe, and Travis Willingham

How to watch: The Legend of Vox Machina Season 3 premieres Oct. 3 on Prime Video.

SEE ALSO: How 'The Legend of Vox Machina' brings a 'Dungeons and Dragons' campaign to life Heartstopper Season 3

Netflix's adaptation of Alice Oseman's beloved graphic novel Heartstopper returns for a third season, reuniting you with Charlie (Joe Locke) and Nick (Kit Connor) and their delightful gang of pals. They made it official at the end of Season 1 and toyed with the idea of saying "love" out loud in Season 2. Tao (William Gao) and Elle (Yasmin Finney) finally figured out their feelings last season, Isaac (Tobie Donovan) found a name for his sexuality, and Tara (Corinna Brown) supported Darcy (Kizzy Edgell) as her turbulent home life boiled over. In Season 3, the teens look to the future, the big decisions after school. Jonathan Bailey and Hayley Atwell join as guest stars this season, and graphic novel character Michael Holden (Darragh Hand) will finally join the story. Can't bloody wait. — S.C.  

Starring: Kit Connor, Joe Locke, Yasmin Finney, William Gao, Corinna Brown, Kizzy Edgell, Tobie Donovan, Jenny Walser, Rhea Norwood, Jonathan Bailey, Hayley Atwell, and Darragh Hand

How to watch: Heartstopper Season 3 premieres Oct. 3 on Netflix.

Abbott Elementary Season 4 Tyler James Williams and Quinta Brunson in "Abbott Elementary." Credit: Disney / Gilles Mingasson

This October, school's back in session for Quinta Brunson's Emmy award–winning sitcom Abbott Elementary. And while I can't wait for more hilarious hijinks from Abbott's squad of teachers, the most pressing question remains: What's next for Janine (Brunson) and Gregory (Tyler James Williams) after their scorching kiss in the Season 3 finale? — B.E.

Starring: Quinta Brunson, Tyler James Williams, Lisa Ann Walter, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Janelle James, Chris Perfetti, and William Stanford Davis

How to watch: Abbott Elementary Season 4 premieres Oct. 9 at 9:30 p.m. ET on ABC, and streams the next day on Hulu.

SEE ALSO: How does 'Abbott Elementary' cast its mind-blowing guest stars? La Máquina Gael García Bernal and Diego Luna in "La Máquina." Credit: Courtesy of Hulu

Since starring in 2001's iconic coming-of-age movie Y tu mamá también together, Diego Luna and Gael García Bernal have remained friends; they've been co-stars and creative partners, even founding two production companies, La Corriente del Golfo and Canana Films. Now, the former studio is teaming up with Disney for Hulu's first Spanish-language original series. Written by Marco Ramirez and directed by Gabriel Ripstein, La Máquina stars Bernal as a boxer named Esteban who's nearing the end of his career. Luna co-stars as his manager Andy, who wants him to enter one last fight. But there's dodgy underworld dealings afoot, which are being investigated by journalist Irasema (played by 3 Body Problem star Eiza González). — S.C.   

Starring: Diego Luna, Gael García Bernal, and Eiza González

How to watch: La Máquina premieres Oct. 9 on Hulu.

Teacup

Peacock's Teacup promises frights aplenty, just in time for Halloween. Based on Robert McCammon's 1988 novel Stinger, and produced by Saw and The Conjuring's James Wan, Teacup follows a group of people in rural Georgia facing down an unknown threat. The show's cryptic teaser doesn't tell us much beyond that, but thanks to its frightening images of dead animals and people in gas masks, consider us spooked (and seated). — B.E.

Starring: Yvonne Strahovski, Scott Speedman, Chaske Spencer, Kathy Baker, Boris McGiver, Caleb Dolden, Emilie Bierre, and Luciano Leroux

How to watch: Teacup premieres Oct. 10 on Peacock.

SEE ALSO: 'Teacup' horror teaser has a family fighting an unseen threat Disclaimer

Apple TV+'s Disclaimer promises one of this year's most exciting TV team-ups, that of director Alfonso Cuarón (Roma, Children of Men) and Cate Blanchett (Tár). Cuarón writes and directs this psychological thriller, based on the novel by Renée Knight, about journalist Catherine Ravenscroft (Blanchett) who receives a novel from an unknown author threatening to expose her deepest secrets. The hunt is on to find the writer's true identity — but can Catherine find them in time to save her relationship with her family? — B.E.

Starring: Cate Blanchett, Kevin Kline, Sacha Baron Cohen, Lesley Manville, Louis Partridge, Leila George, Hoyeon, Kodi Smit-McPhee, and Indira Varma

How to watch: Disclaimer premieres Oct. 11 on Apple TV+.

Gastronauts

Streaming service Dropout has carved out a name for itself with series like game show Game Changer and actual play show Dimension 20. Now, it takes on the culinary competition space with Gastronauts, a show where award-winning chefs prepare dishes based on prompts from a panel of comedians. In Gastronauts' trailer, these prompts range from "only use ingredients from this vending machine" to "horniest," so truly anything is on the menu. — B.E.

Starring: Jordan Myrick, Sam Reich, Brennan Lee Mulligan, Vic Michaelis, Jacob Wysocki, Oscar Montoya, and Kendahl Landreth

How to watch: Gastronauts premieres Oct. 11 on Dropout.

Shrinking Season 2

One of the best shows of 2023 is coming back for a second season. Season 1 focused on the everyday might of grief, as therapist Jimmy (Jason Segel) and his teen daughter Alice (Lukita Maxwell) took it day by day after his wife's death — all with the help of colleagues Gaby (Jessica Williams) and Paul (Harrison Ford), best friend Brian (Michael Urie), neighbour Liz (Christa Miller), and patient-turned-friend Sean (Luke Tennie). Last season ended with the characters in pretty solid places mentally, but with some relationships undefined, so we're keen to see how these develop in Season 2. — S.C.   

Starring: Jason Segel, Harrison Ford, Jessica Williams, Lukita Maxwell, Christa Miller, Luke Tennie, and Michael Urie

How to watch: Shrinking Season 2 premieres Oct. 16 on Apple TV+.

SEE ALSO: 15 minutes of sadness: Behind the therapy trick in 'Shrinking' Hysteria!

The Satanic Panic of the late 1980s takes center stage in Peacock's Hysteria!, which kicks off with the disappearance of a beloved varsity quarterback. In an attempt to take advantage of the town's interest in the occult, high school heavy metal band Deth Krunch rebrands as fully Satanic. Their efforts backfire when a string or murders, kidnappings, and "supernatural activity" point back to them. Let the witch hunt commence. — B.E.

Starring: Julie Bowen, Anna Camp, Emjay Anthony, Chiara Aurelia, Kezii Curtis, Nikki Hahn, Bruce Campbell, Garret Dillahunt, Nolan North, Elijah Richardson, Milly Shapiro, Allison Scagliotti, and Jessica Treska

How to watch: Hysteria! premieres Oct. 18 on Peacock.

What We Do in the Shadows Season 6 Kristen Schaal, Harvey Guillén, Natasia Demetriou, Kayvan Novak, Matt Berry, and Mark Proksch in "What We Do in the Shadows." Credit: Pari Dukovic / FX

This year, we bid farewell to the best vampires in all of New Yawk Cit-AY, as What We Do in the Shadows kicks off its sixth and final season. How will we ever say goodbye to Nadja (Natasia Demetriou), Laszlo (Matt Berry), Nandor (Kayvan Novak), Guillermo (Harvey Guillén), and Colin Robinson (Mark Proksch)? Hopefully with cursed hats, guest stars galore, and a slew of great Matt Berry line readings. — B.E.

Starring: Kayvan Novak, Matt Berry, Natasia Demetriou, Harvey Guillén, Mark Proksch, and Kristen Schaal

How to watch: What We Do in the Shadows Season 6 premieres Oct. 21 at 10 p.m. ET on FX, and streams the next day on Hulu.

Before Jacobi Jupe and Billy Crystal in "Before." Credit: AppleTV+

Another psychological thriller from Apple TV+, Before stars Billy Crystal as Eli, a child psychiatrist grieving the loss of his wife Lynn (Judith Light). When he encounters a young boy named Noah (Jacobi Jupe), Eli realizes the two may share a haunting connection, and works to help Noah overcome his troubles. — B.E.

Starring: Billy Crystal, Judith Light, Jacobi Jupe, and Rosie Perez

How to watch: Before premieres Oct. 25 on Apple TV+.

Somebody Somewhere Season 3

Since its very first season, Somebody Somewhere has quietly cemented itself as one of HBO's best comedies. Bridget Everett stars as Sam, a grieving woman who returns to her hometown of Manhattan, Kansas, and finds community with a group of local outcasts. Tackling everything from loss to adult friendship with a grounded, low-key touch, Somebody Somewhere is a sweet reminder that you can always find your people, no matter where you go. And with its third and final season on the way, it's not too late to get started on this understated gem. — B.E.

Starring: Bridget Everett, Jeff Hiller, Mary Catherine Garrison, Tim Bagley, Murray Hill, Jennifer Mudge, Mercedes White, Meighan Gerachis, and Ólafur Darri Ólafsson

How to watch: Somebody Somewhere premieres Oct. 27 at 10:30 p.m. ET on HBO and Max.

The Diplomat Season 2 Keri Russell in "The Diplomat." Credit: Alex Bailey/Netflix

One of Netflix's most addictive political dramas of 2023 is back for Season 2, and after that finale we're ready to dive into more diplomatic tension, secret workplace romances, and Keri Russell generally kickin' ass. Created by Debora Cahn (The West Wing, Homeland), this wildly popular series returns with Russell in the lead as Kate Wyler, the U.S. ambassador to the UK amid an international crisis. In the finale, the real villain was unmasked as a very influential caller from inside the house, and an explosion left some of the main characters' fates uncertain. Who survived the blast? And how will Kate figure out who's behind it, especially when she's distracted by the dishy UK foreign secretary, Austin Dennison (David Gyasi), and the arrival of U.S. Vice President Grace Penn (Allison Janney)? — S.C.   

Starring: Keri Russell, Allison Janney, Rory Kinnear, David Gyasi, Rufus Sewell, Ato Essandoh, Ali Ahn, Nana Mensah, Miguel Sandoval, Michael McKean, Celia Imrie, and T’Nia Miller

How to watch: The Diplomat Season 2 premieres Oct. 31 on Netflix.

The Franchise Jessica Hynes, Daniel Brühl, Isaac Powell, Aya Cash, Himesh Patel, and Lolly Adefope in "The Franchise." Credit: Colin Hutton / HBO

Do the ever-expanding worlds of the MCU and DCEU have you suffering from franchise fatigue? Then the new satire The Franchise should be just up your alley. Co-created by Armando Iannucci (Veep, The Thick of It) and Sam Mendes (Skyfall, American Beauty), this comedy follows the film crew of a new big-budget superhero film plagued by total chaos.* — B.E.

Starring: Himesh Patel, Aya Cash, Jessica Hynes, Billy Magnussen, Lolly Adefope, Darren Goldstein, Isaac Powell, Richard E. Grant, and Daniel Brühl

How to watch: The Franchise premieres in Oct. (date TBC) on HBO and Max.

The Day of the Jackal

While Frederick Forsyth's novel The Day of the Jackal — as well as Fred Zinnemann's 1973 film — centered on an assassination attempt of French President Charles de Gaulle, Peacock's upcoming adaptation brings the story into a contemporary setting. Eddie Redmayne dons the mantle of the elusive titular assassin known as the Jackal, while No Time to Die's Lashana Lynch plays the British intelligence officer hellbent on tracking him down. What follows is a destructive cat-and-mouse chase that spans Europe. — B.E.

Starring: Eddie Redmayne, Lashana Lynch, Úrsula Corberó, Charles Dance, Richard Dormer, Chukwudi Iwuji, Lia Williams, Khalid Abdalla, Eleanor Matsuura, Jonjo O’Neill, Nick Blood, Sule Rimi, and Florisa Kamara

How to watch: The Day of the Jackal premieres Nov. 7 on Peacock.

St. Denis Medical

Between Abbott Elementary and new NBC comedy St. Denis Medical, it seems like the mockumentary sitcom is alive and well. Created by Justin Spitzer (Superstore, American Auto), St. Denis Medical takes us behind the scenes at an underfunded, understaffed hospital in Oregon. Here, medical professionals work hard to improve people's lives, all while trying to stay afloat themselves. If you're a connoisseur of workplace sitcoms, this should be up your alley. — B.E.

Starring: Wendi McLendon-Covey, David Alan Grier, Allison Tolman, Josh Lawson, Mekki Leeper, Kahyun Kim, and Kaliko Kauahi

How to watch: St. Denis Medical premieres Nov. 12 at 8 p.m. ET on NBC, and streams the next day on Peacock.

Silo Season 2 Rebecca Ferguson in "Silo." Credit: AppleTV+

Craving dystopian sci-fi drama? Then rejoice, because Silo is on its way back to us. Season 1 of the Apple TV+ series, about the last 10,000 people on Earth and their subterranean home, ended with the reveal that the silo-dwellers may not be as alone as they thought. So what's next? Will the world's many silo citizens join together? Or will those pesky folks over in Judicial continue to suppress information in order to maintain an oppressive peace? — B.E.

Starring: Rebecca Ferguson, Common, Steve Zahn, Tim Robbins, Harriet Walter, Chinaza Uche, Avi Nash, Alexandria Riley, Shane McCrae, Remmie Milner, Clare Perkins, Billy Postlethwaite, Rick Gomez, Caitlin Zoz, Tanya Moodie, and Iain Glen

How to watch: Silo Season 2 premieres Nov. 15 on Apple TV+.

Interior Chinatown Jimmy O. Yang in "Interior Chinatown." Credit: Disney / Mike Taing

Created by author Charles Yu and based on his National Book Award–winning novel, this series follows Willis Wu (Jimmy O. Yang), a character actor stuck in a never-ending cycle of generic background roles on police procedural Black and White. However, he's thrust into the spotlight when he accidentally witnesses a crime and begins to investigate for himself, uncovering family secrets and Chinatown's criminal underground along the way. — B.E.

Starring: Jimmy O. Yang, Ronny Chieng, Chloe Bennet, Sullivan Jones, Lisa Gilroy, Archie Kao, and Diana Lin

How to watch: Interior Chinatown premieres Nov. 19 on Hulu.

Dune: Prophecy

2024 continues to be the year of Dune, as Warner Bros. follows up the sandworm-filled glory of Dune: Part Two with Dune: Prophecy. Originally developed as Dune: The Sisterhood, this new sci-fi series delves into the beginnings of the Bene Gesserit order, 10,000 years before Paul Atreides even came to Arrakis. Led by Valya Harkonnen (Emily Watson) — a long-ago ancestor of Dune's Baron, Rabban, and Feyd-Rautha — this fabled sisterhood will serve the Great Houses of the Imperium and shape the future of the entire universe. Perhaps we'll witness the origin of the powerful Voice, or the start of the project to create the Kwisatz Haderach. Either way, if these spooky space witches are your favorite part of Dune's vast lore, this is the show for you.* — B.E.

Starring: Emily Watson, Olivia Williams, Jodhi May, Sarah-Sofie Boussnina, Shalom Brune-Franklin, Faoileann Cunningham, Aoife Hinds, Chloe Lea, and Mark Strong

How to watch: Dune: Prophecy premieres in Nov. (date TBC) on HBO and Max.

SEE ALSO: The Bene Gesserit take control in 'Dune: Prophecy' teaser Arcane Season 2

It's been three years since League of Legends-based series Arcane first rocked our world with gorgeous animation, kick-ass fight scenes, and a truly devastating story of lost sisters. Now, with its heavily anticipated second — and final — season in November, we'll finally be able to see what happened after Jinx blasted the Council of Piltover with her shark rocket. Any chance of Mel, Jace, and Viktor surviving is slim, and an action-packed Season 2 teaser promises that things will only get darker from there. With Piltover and Zaun in an all-out war, is there any hope for Vi and Jinx to reconcile? Or is their sisterly bond gone for good?* — B.E. 

Starring: ​​Hailee Steinfeld, Ella Purnell, Katie Leung, Reed Shannon, Amirah Vann, Mick Wingert, Ellen Thomas, and Brett Tucker

How to watch: Arcane Season 2 premieres in Nov. (date TBC) on Netflix.

SEE ALSO: 'Arcane' Season 2 teaser promises a brutal showdown between Jinx and Vi A Man on the Inside Ted Danson in "A Man on the Inside." Credit: Colleen E. Hayes / Netflix

It's a Good Place reunion in A Man on the Inside, a comedy series created by Mike Schur, starring Ted Danson, and based on the documentary The Mole Agent. Danson plays Charles, a retired man who answers a private investigator's ad and winds up as a mole in a retirement home, where he'll make some unexpected friendships. It's a Schur show; what else would you expect? — B.E.

Starring: Ted Danson, Mary Elizabeth Ellis, Stephanie Beatriz, Lilah Richcreek Estrada, Stephen McKinley Henderson, Sally Struthers, Eugene Cordero, Margaret Avery, John Getz, Susan Ruttan, Lori Tan Chinn, Clyde Kusatsu, Marc Evan Jackson, and Jama Williamson

How to watch: A Man on the Inside premieres in Nov. (date TBC) on Netflix.

The Sex Lives of College Girls Season 3 Alyah Chanelle Scott, Pauline Chalamet, and Amrit Kaur in "The Sex Lives of College Girls." Credit: Tina Thorpe/Max

Time to check back in with our favorite messy college girls! And thank goodness, because Season 2 of Mindy Kaling's The Sex Lives of College Girls — while deeply hilarious and often relatable — also left us with a whole lot of questions. Is Bela (Amrit Kaur) really going to leave Essex? Can Whitney (Alyah Chanelle Scott) and Kimberly (Pauline Chalamet) reconcile after Kimberly kissed Canaan (Christopher Meyer)? There's so much drama, we all need to be back on campus ASAP.* — B.E.

Starring: Pauline Chalamet, Amrit Kaur, Reneé Rapp, Alyah Chanelle Scott, Mekki Leeper, Christopher Meyer, Ilia Isorelýs Paulino, Lauren "Lolo" Spencer, Renika Williams, and Mitchell Slaggert

How to watch: The Sex Lives of College Girls Season 3 premieres in Nov. on Max. 

Star Wars: Skeleton Crew

Star Wars meets The Goonies in Skeleton Crew, which sees a group of young kids on a dangerous journey home. Lost in the far reaches of the galaxy, they'll soon cross paths with vicious pirates who want nothing more than to lock them away. Timeline-wise, this takes place during the same period as The Mandalorian, so we could very well see some crossovers. One person sure to make an appearance? Jude Law, playing a guiding Jedi figure to our troubled tweens.* — B.E.

Starring: Jude Law, Ravi Cabot-Conyers, Ryan Kiera Armstrong, Kyriana Kratter, Robert Timothy Smith, Tunde Adebimpe, Kerry Condon, and Jaleel White

How to watch: Star Wars: Skeleton Crew premieres Dec. 3 on Disney.

SEE ALSO: 'The Acolyte's cancellation is a huge mistake for Star Wars Win or Lose

Pixar leaps into the TV game with its first-ever original series Win or Lose, all about the highs and lows of youth softball. Over the course of the show, you'll get to know the Pickles softball team — and everyone in their orbit — as they gear up for a championship game. From insecure players to their helicopter parents to a lovesick umpire, Win or Lose looks to paint a charming portrait of a team that's hungry for victory. — B.E.

Starring: Will Forte, Izaac Wang, Ian Chen, Jo Firestone, Milan, Josh Thomson, Erin Keif, and Rosie Foss

How to watch: Win or Lose premieres Dec. 6 on Disney+.

Squid Game Season 2

Who's ready to play more Squid Game? Certainly Seong Gi-hun (Lee Jung-jae), who finished Season 1 with 45.6 billion won, a red dye job, and a desire to take down the people who used him and his fellow Squid Game contestants' suffering for enjoyment. With Gi-hun likely heading back into the Squid Game arena for the next stage of his revenge mission, prepare for more contestants, more deadly children's games, and more murder. — B.E.

Starring: Lee Jung-jae, Lee Byung-hun, Wi Ha-jun, Gong Yoo, Yim Si-wan, Kang Ha-neul, Park Gyu-young, Park Sung-hoon, Jo Yu-ri, Yang Dong-geun, Kang Ae-sim, Lee David, Lee Jin-uk, Choi Seung-hyun, Roh Jae-won, and Won Ji-an

How to watch: Squid Game Season 2 premieres Dec. 26 on Netflix.

SEE ALSO: 'Squid Game' Season 2 release date announced as Netflix renews series for a final season Creature Commandos

James Gunn's animated DC series Creature Commandos is basically The Suicide Squad, but with the titular "creatures." No longer able to jeopardize human lives on dangerous secret missions, Amanda Waller instead opts to create Task Force M (for "monster"). Members include the Bride of Frankenstein, Frankenstein himself, Dr. Phosphorus, Weasel, G.I. Robot, and Nina Mazursky, all of whom are ready to wreak colorful havoc on the world. — B.E.

Starring: Indira Varma, David Harbour, Alan Tudyk, Maria Bakalova, Zoe Chao, Steve Agee, Sean Gunn, and Viola Davis

How to watch: Creature Commandos premieres in Dec. (date TBC) on Max.

(*) denotes a blurb has been lifted or modified from a prior TV preview.

If you're reading this, you're looking for a little help playing Strands, the New York Times' elevated word-search game.

Strands requires the player to perform a twist on the classic word search. Words can be made from linked letters — up, down, left, right, or diagonal, but words can also change direction, resulting in quirky shapes and patterns. Every single letter in the grid will be part of an answer. There's always a theme linking every solution, along with the "spangram," a special, word or phrase that sums up that day's theme, and spans the entire grid horizontally or vertically.

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

By providing an opaque hint and not providing the word list, Strands creates a brain-teasing game that takes a little longer to play than its other games, like Wordle and Connections.

If you're feeling stuck or just don't have 10 or more minutes to figure out today's puzzle, we've got all the NYT Strands hints for today's puzzle you need to progress at your preferred pace.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections today: See hints and answers for August 31 SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Here's the answer hints for August 31 NYT Strands hint for today’s theme: Makeshift music

These words are multi-purpose items.

Today’s NYT Strands theme plainly explained

The answers all relate to items that can be used as instruments.

NYT Strands spangram hint: Is it vertical or horizontal?

Today's NYT Strands spangram is horizontal.

NYT Strands spangram answer today

Today's spangram is Jugband.

NYT Strands word list for August 31

• Washboard

• Spoons

• Broom

• Jugband

• Cowbell

• Stovepipe

• Bones

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.

TL;DR: Through Sept. 3 only, you can get Windows 11 Pro and Microsoft Office Pro 2019 for £34.92.

There's more than one way to upgrade your computer. You could drop some cash on a hardware upgrade, or you could go for something that changes how you use your computer. To that end, this all-in-one Microsoft bundle comes with Windows 11 Pro and Microsoft Office Pro 2019 for Windows. Both licenses last for the lifetime of your device with no recurring costs or subscription fees. All you have to do is get this bundle while it's on sale for £34.92. But get a shift on because this discounted price won't be available much longer.

Windows 11 Pro and Microsoft Office Pro

This two-part deal gives you some serious new toys to play with. Windows 11 Pro is a full OS overhaul both in terms of security and usability. Look out for support for biometric login, BitLocker device encryption, wake and lock, and TPM 2.0 to help secure your computer against cyber threats. 

If you have any questions about what Windows 11 Pro has changed on your computer, you can just ask Copilot, the new AI assistant. Click the icon to find out more about your device or ask it to generate text, images, or answer questions. 

If you're used to Microsoft 365, then MS Office 2019 is a little different. It has older versions of the same apps, but they still get the job done. With Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote, Publisher, and Access at your fingertips, you could rock through school assignments or power through the workday without needing to worry about subscription fees at month's end. 

Don't miss your chance

There's not much time left to get this Microsoft double deal. 

You have until Sept. 3 at 11:59 p.m. PT to get the All-in-One Microsoft Bundle for £34.92 (reg. £325.13) at the Mashable Shop.

StackSocial prices subject to change. 

Opens in a new window Credit: Retail King The All-in-One Microsoft Office Pro 2019 for Windows: Lifetime License + Windows 11 Pro Bundle £34.92 at the Mashable Shop
£325.13 Save £290.21 Get Deal

TL;DR: Unblock X from anywhere in the world with a VPN. The best service for bypassing geo-restrictions to unblock sites/apps is ExpressVPN.

There has been a lot of talk about X, formerly known as Twitter, potentially being banned in Brazil. That would be mildly annoying for all the X users in that country. We say "mildly," because there is an easy fix if this actually becomes an issue.

If you're looking for the best way to unblock X from anywhere in the world, we have the information you need.

How to unblock X for free

VPNs hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to secure servers in other locations. This simple process bypasses geo-restrictions to secure access to sites/apps like X from anywhere in the world. This might sound complicated, but you can unblock your favorite sites/apps in just a few simple steps:

1. Sign up for a VPN (like ExpressVPN)

2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

3. Open up the app and connect to a server in a location that supports access to X

4. Visit X from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-year subscription + 3 months free) $99.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for unblocking sites are not free, but most do offer free trials or money-back guarantees. By taking advantage of these offers, you can unblock sites/apps and then recover your investment at a later date. This obviously isn't a long-term solution. If you want to retain permanent access to sites like X from anywhere in the world, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for bypassing online restrictions is on sale for a limited time.

What is the best VPN for porn?

ExpressVPN is the top choice when it comes to unblocking X, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries

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

• Strict no-logging policy

• Fast streaming speeds free from throttling

• Up to eight simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

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

Unblock X for free with ExpressVPN.

TL;DR: Unblock Twitch from anywhere in the world with a VPN. The best service for unblocking Twitch is ExpressVPN.

Twitch is probably not banned in your location, but imagine for a second that you're traveling to a place without access. That's a scary thought, but there is a quick fix to sort this problem. VPNs can be used to secure access to Twitch from anywhere in the world, and you don't need to spend anything.

If you're looking for the best way to unblock Twitch for free from anywhere in the world, we have the information you need.

How to unblock Twitch for free

VPNs are effective tools for bypassing online restrictions to unblock services.

VPNs can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to secure servers in other locations. This process bypasses geo-restrictions so that you can access Twitch from anywhere in the world. The process is straightforward.

Access Twitch from anywhere in the world in just a few simple steps:

1. Sign up for a VPN (like ExpressVPN)

2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

3. Open up the app and connect to a server in a location that supports access to Twitch

4. Access Twitch from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-year subscription + 3 months free) $99.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for unblocking sites like Twitch are not free, but most do offer free trials or money-back guarantees. By taking advantage of these offers, you can retain access to your favorite sites without spending anything. This obviously isn't a long-term solution, but it works well if you're traveling or temporarily away from home.

What is the best VPN for Twitch?

ExpressVPN is the top choice when it comes to unblocking sites like Twitch, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries

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

• Strict no-logging policy

• Fast streaming speeds free from throttling

• Up to eight simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

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

Unblock Twitch for free with ExpressVPN.

TL;DR: Unblock XVideos from anywhere in the world with a VPN. The best service for unblocking porn sites is ExpressVPN.

A lot of locations restrict your access to porn sites like XVideos, which is fair enough. But there are occasions when you simply want to spend some time in your own company with your favorite sites, and there's nothing wrong with that.

There's a time and a place for everything, and online blockades can get in the way of your online freedom.

If you're looking for the best way to unblock porn sites like XVideos from anywhere in the world, we have the information you need.

How to unblock XVideos for free

With a VPN, you can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect to a secure server in another location. This means you can bypass geo-restrictions to access porn sites like XVideos from anywhere in the world.

This process might sound complicated, but you can unblock your favorite porn sites in just a few simple steps:

1. Sign up for a VPN (like ExpressVPN)

2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

3. Open up the app and connect to a server in a location that supports access to XVideos

4. Visit XVideos

5. Watch XVideos content from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-year subscription + 3 months free) Get Deal

The best VPNs for unblocking porn sites are not free, but most do offer free trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can unblock porn sites and then recover your investment at a later date. This obviously isn't a long-term solution, but it works well if you're traveling or temporarily away from home.

What is the best VPN for porn?

ExpressVPN is the top choice when it comes to unblocking porn sites like XVideos, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries

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

• Strict no-logging policy

• Fast streaming speeds free from throttling

• Up to eight simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

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

Unblock XVideos for free with ExpressVPN.

TL;DR: Live stream West Ham vs. Manchester City in the Premier League for free with a seven-day trial of Fubo. Access Fubo from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The Premier League is up and running, and Manchester City are already looking like the team to beat once again. The defending champions find themselves at the top of the table after two games, and will hope to secure another win against West Ham this weekend.

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

When is West Ham vs. Manchester City?

West Ham vs. Manchester City in the Premier League kicks off at 12:30 p.m. ET on Aug. 31. This fixture takes place at the London Stadium.

How to watch West Ham vs. Manchester City for free

West Ham vs. Manchester City is available to live stream for free with a seven-day trial of Fubo.

Fubo offers coverage of all 380 matches of the 2024-25 Premier League season in Canada, but anyone can access this package with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in Canada, meaning you can unblock free live streams of the Premier League from anywhere in the world.

Access free live streams of the 2024-25 Premier League by following these simple steps:

1. Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

3. Open up the app and connect to a server in Canada

4. Sign up for a seven-day free trial of Fubo

5. Watch West Ham vs. Manchester City in the Premier League for free from anywhere in the world

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

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but most do offer free-trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can watch West Ham vs. Manchester City in the Premier League without committing with your cash. This isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to stream this weekend's Premier League fixtures before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for the Premier League?

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

• Servers in 105 countries including Canada

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

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

• Fast connection speeds free from throttling

• Up to eight simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

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

Live stream West Ham vs. Manchester City in the Premier League for free with ExpressVPN.

TL;DR: Live stream Arsenal vs. Brighton in the Premier League for free with a seven-day trial of Fubo. Access Fubo from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The Premier League consistently delivers entertaining games involving some of the best players in the world, and we're expecting more of the same this weekend. Everything starts with a interesting game between Arsenal and Brighton, as both sides look to secure their third win of the season.

If you want to watch Arsenal vs. Brighton in the Premier League for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Arsenal vs. Brighton?

Arsenal vs. Brighton in the Premier League kicks off at 7:30 a.m. ET on Aug. 31. This fixture takes place at the Emirates Stadium.

How to watch Arsenal vs. Brighton for free

Arsenal vs. Brighton is available to live stream for free with a seven-day trial of Fubo.

Fubo offers coverage of all 380 matches of the 2024-25 Premier League season in Canada, but anyone can access this package with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in Canada, meaning you can unblock free live streams of the Premier League from anywhere in the world.

Access free live streams of the 2024-25 Premier League by following these simple steps:

1. Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

3. Open up the app and connect to a server in Canada

4. Sign up for a seven-day free trial of Fubo

5. Watch Premier League fixtures for free from anywhere in the world

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

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but most do offer free-trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can watch Arsenal vs. Brighton in the Premier League without committing with your cash. This isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to stream this weekend's Premier League fixtures before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for the Premier League?

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

• Servers in 105 countries including Canada

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

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

• Fast connection speeds free from throttling

• Up to eight simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

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

Live stream Arsenal vs. Brighton in the Premier League for free with ExpressVPN.

TL;DR: Live stream Argentina vs. Australia in the 2024 Rugby Championship for free on NZR+. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The Rugby Championship is a demanding competition, because there really aren't any easy games. Just ask Australia, fresh from two defeats against a very strong South Africa side.

The Wallabies will be hoping to secure their first vistory of the tournament against Argentina, but the Pumas will be confident after securing a win against New Zealand in the opening round of the Rugby Championship.

If you want to watch Argentina vs. Australia in the 2024 Rugby Championship for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Argentina vs. Australia?

Argentina vs. Australia in the 2024 Rugby Championship kicks off at 6 p.m. ET on Aug. 31. This fixture takes place at the Estadio Jorge Luis Hirschi.

How to watch Argentina vs. Australia for free

You can live stream the 2024 Rugby Championship for free on NZR+, including Argentina vs. Australia.

The catch is that this free live stream is only available to fans in Albania, Armenia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, China, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Georgia, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, India, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Macedonia, Malta, Moldova, Montenegro, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Sri Lanka, Sweden, Turkey, and Ukraine.

If you do not live in one of these countries, you can use a VPN to change your digital location. VPNs can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to secure servers in other countries, meaning you can unblock free live streams of the Rugby Championship on NZR+ from anywhere in the world.

Access free live streams of the 2024 Rugby Championship by following these simple steps:

1. Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

3. Open up the app and connect to a server in one of the countries listed above

4. Visit NZR+

5. Live stream Argentina vs. Australia for free from anywhere in the world

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

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but leading VPNs do tend to offer deals such as free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can gain access to a free live stream of South Africa vs. New Zealand without actually spending anything. This clearly isn't a long-term solution, but it gives you enough time to watch the 2024 Rugby Championship before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for the Rugby Championship?

ExpressVPN is the best service for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live rugby on NZR+ for free, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries

• 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 for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

Live stream Argentina vs. Australia in the 2024 Rugby Championship for free from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.