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FREE $5 TIP: For a limited time, thank your Amazon delivery driver with a free $5 tip. This offer is available for the driver of your most recent delivery within 14 days.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Tip your Amazon driver   Learn More

Delivery drivers are often underappreciated for the amount of work they put in during the holiday season. That includes Amazon's staff, who often bring you all your gifts and goodies even in inclement weather overnight, and in many cases, the same day. This year, show them how grateful you are that they get the job done with a $5 tip courtesy of Amazon.

For a limited time, Amazon will send out a $5 tip as a "thank you" to your most recent delivery driver within the last 14 days. All you need to do is click a button or have your Alexa device initiate the action. It's super simple to do, and it costs nothing to you. Your delivery driver will see you appreciate their service, and you can feel good about sharing some love this holiday season.

SEE ALSO: The 11-inch Apple iPad Air (M3, 128GB, WiFi) has dropped below $500 at Amazon

To send a $5 tip, go to this page and click the "Thank my driver" button. Or, use any Alexa-enabled device to say "Alexa, thank my driver," and you can complete the action there.

While you can't send multiple tips per order and you're limited to one per delivery driver, this is a small but very simple way to be kind to your fellow humans without it costing you a dime. The next time you need something from Amazon fast, it can at least help you remember the humans working behind the scenes to make the season (and the rest of the year) bright.

Pornhub's annual Year in Review — aka its trends roundup — is here, and it's especially interesting in a year of censorship of both pornographic and LGBTQ content.

LGBTQ content is thriving on Pornhub

"Lesbian" was the most-viewed video category on Pornhub in 2025, which isn't too surprising, as viewers, especially women, often search for lesbian porn. Terms like "lesbian scissoring," "lesbian MILF," and "lesbian strapon" grew considerably in 2025.

But LGBTQ content across the board grew on Pornhub this year, too. The "transgender" video category was the second-most viewed, up five spots from last year. "Queer" searches increased 132 percent, "bisexual" 88 percent, and "trans threesome" 67 percent.

This spike is notable, considering the actions the Trump administration has taken against LGBTQ (especially trans) rights this year. Shortly after Trump's inauguration in January, the White House deleted LGBTQ pages on its website, while the Stonewall Monument site erased "transgender" and "queer." A Trump executive order declared to "restore biological truth" to the federal government. Some tech giants were noticeably quiet during Pride Month this year, signaling their compliance with the current administration's views on LGBTQ people.

SEE ALSO: Pornhub asked tech platforms to enable device-level age verification

Yet, LGBTQ videos are booming on Pornhub.

"What's happening in 2025 is more than just an increase in views; it's a cultural shift," said trans Pornhub brand ambassador, Natassia Dreams, in a blog post shared with Mashable. "This growth shows trans creators are finally being seen and celebrated on our own terms. Audiences and the industry are evolving together."

Considering the popularity of transgender content among boomers in Pornhub's 2023 Year in Review, there might be something about the increased "taboo" of such topics.

The term "femboy" (describing a feminine man) was also searched more often on the straight side of Pornhub this year, too. It reached the top 10 of the most searched-for terms in 2025 worldwide. Meanwhile, it's number one on Pornhub Gay, up three spots from last year.

U.S. still dominates in traffic

Despite Pornhub being blocked in nearly half of U.S. states (due to age-verification laws, which require inputting personal data to access explicit sites), the United States has far and away the top source of traffic to the tube site.

Credit: Pornhub

And while Pornhub is now blocked in France, it's still in the top 10 countries by traffic even with it being accessible only part of 2025.

Pornhub's most-searched terms of 2025

Like last year, "hentai" (anime porn) is the most-searched term globally, followed by "MILF," "pinay" (a woman of Filipino descent), "lesbian," and "anal," rounding out the top five. None of these terms changed positions from 2024.

Top Pornhub trends of 2025

1. "Diverse desires" — aka the LGBTQ content discussed above.

2. MILFs: In addition to MILF being the second most-searched term globally, "mature" was the fifth most-viewed category and third among men. "GILF" searches increased 129 percent this year, while terms "cougar" grew 83 percent and "50 plus" grew 105 percent.

3. Roleplay fantasies increased in 2025 as well. The "role play" category as a whole rose by 98 percent, and searches for everyday jobs also increased, such as for "driver" (144 percent), "plumber" (67 percent), and "chef" (39 percent).

4. Cheating and affair videos were of interest this year, as searches for "cheating" grew 94 percent and "cuckold" up 73 percent. Another adult site, Clips4Sale, named the latter one of the fastest-growing fetishes of the year, so clearly there's something there. And the Coldplay Kiss Cam fiasco might have contributed to a 210 percent spike in "office affair" searches and a 388 percent increase for "CEO."

5. Femboys are gaining traction on Pornhub's main website.

6. "SFW" content is, somehow, increasing on the very much NSFW Pornhub. "SFW ASMR" is up 56 percent, for example. Meanwhile, the "podcast" category has soared 327 percent, "gaming" by 283 percent, and "music" by 62 percent.

You can peruse Pornhub's Year in Review in full on its insights blog.

Waymo is issuing a software recall for its robotaxis following reports of the autonomous cars illegally passing school buses in Austin.

This is not going to be one of those recalls in which the vehicles are actually pulled from the road. Instead, Waymo will simply update its ride-hailing cars' software.

The recall comes following a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) investigation into at least 19 security incidents in which Waymo robotaxis have illegally passed school buses in the Texas capital. The NHTSA kicked off the probe after receiving a video of a Waymo car passing a school bus with an extended stop sign and flashing lights on.

SEE ALSO: Feds investigate Waymo robotaxis for reportedly passing school buses in Austin

Waymo initially said it had released a software fix on Nov. 17, though there were reports of incidents after that date. It's unclear whether the new fix is different from the old one.

Following the incidents, Austin Independent School District requested that Waymo should temporarily stop operating in Austin when children are loading and unloading on school buses until it can guarantee their safety. Waymo hasn't indicated it plans to comply with that request.

Featured Video For You I took a ride in a robotaxi: How close are we to a driverless future?

Waymo currently operates in San Francisco, Phoenix, Los Angeles, Atlanta, and Austin, and plans to expand to a number of new U.S. cities soon, including Miami, Washington D.C., Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, and Orlando, as well as international cities like London.

While chastity reigned as 2025's fetish of the year, the explicit site Clips4Sale has a new frontrunner — and it's practically the opposite: gooning. It's the act of edging for hours or even days while watching porn, so much so that participants enter a hypnotic state (aptly called the "goon state").

Sales of gooning videos have spiked 151 percent since November 2023 on Clips4Sale, according to a blog post shared with Mashable — and 49 percent in the past six months alone. It's the fastest-growing fetish on the site.

SEE ALSO: 10 fastest-growing fetishes of 2025 so far Credit: Clips4Sale

The phenomenon has entered our cultural lexicon in recent years, as seen by a similar trajectory on Google Search. "Gooning" accounted for nearly one million searches in the past month, and since 2023, it has soared in search rankings.

Credit: Glimpse / Google Trends

"Gooning isn't JUST about masturbation! It involves overstimulation of the senses, bright color, exposure to stimuli (porn) at an excessive amount and exaggeration in visuals, demands, etc," performer Master Celestress, who's been creating gooning content since 2019, stated in a press release shared with Mashable.

"There's a psychological aspect to gooning that I feel is overlooked. It became a buzzword where jerking off equals gooning and nope, it's not!" she continued. "Gooning is more of a state of mind than anything else!"

The rise of gooning has occurred at the same time as an increased scrutiny of the porn industry and online speech. Age-verification laws, which typically require personal data like a government ID or a facial scan to view such content, have been enacted in half of U.S. states and other countries like the UK and France. And in the U.S., several bills have been introduced this year to ban porn (though none have been passed). Despite widespread disapproval of porn, gooning — which takes porn viewing and masturbation to another level — has prevailed.

"Gooning is the perfect fetish for our sex-and-tech obsessed culture," Clips4Sale spokesperson Avery Martin said in the press release. "It's an embrace of radical pleasure at a time of reactionary sexual politics. In the midst of moral panics about porn and technology, gooners have reclaimed both to turn the narrative on its head, embracing an almost religious pursuit of pleasure. In the past year, creators have seized on the moment and are creating incredible, and incredibly creative, content to feed this large and voracious audience."

Meanwhile, giantess, which was Clips4Sale's 2024 fetish of the year, was the most searched for fetish in the U.S. in 2025. Wrestling, tickling, vore, and ballbusting followed it in the top five.

If you've noticed Jon Hamm perpetually blissing out on a blue-hued dancefloor on your FYP, join the club.

The latest TikTok meme is seeing quietly victorious creators stitching a scene featuring the actor's performance in Apple TV series Your Friends and Neighbors, a series released back in April this year.

SEE ALSO: Ariana Grande's viral 6-7 moment in her Adam Sandler conversation shows, yes, she's online

Creators are using the stitch to describe the sudden euphoria that comes with specifically glorious situations, such as "when you're petting a dog and someone says 'wow he usually doesn't like anyone!'" or when someone says "hey let's watch Lord of the Rings, I've never seen it," or the absolutely unrivalled "hey can I be mean for a second?" The stitch has evolved into reactions of cats being happily scritched, with Hamm's vibing demeanour matching that of a well-patted feline.

And they're all set to Danish DJ Kato's 2010 track "Turn The Lights Off" feat. Jon, making for one niche online coalescence of ecstasy — and one that joins the ranks of TikTok forever changing music discovery for older tracks.

The spliced scene, from Your Friends and Neighbors Season 1, episode 8, titled "When Did We Become These People?" captures not euphoria per se, but a pure moment of unbridled escapism in Hamm's character, Andrew Cooper, a disgraced, desperate financier who begins stealing from his neighbours. In the scene, Coop has hit a bit of a rock bottom and counters it with a night out, eventually finding himself on a dancefloor in a trance to Joseph William Morgan's "Sentient System" (the TikTok memes don't use this song).

Essentially, this TikTok meme isn't that deep, it's just vibes. Like those cockatiels a while back.

Featured Video For You How TikTok is Changing the Music Industry

HBO MAX BUNDLES: HBO Max is offering a few different bundle deals so you can stream from its library without making a massive dent in your wallet.

The best HBO Max deals and bundles in December 2025: Best Disney+ Bundle Deal Disney+, Hulu, and HBO Max Bundle $19.99/month with ads, $32.99/month ad-free Get Deal Best Hulu Bundle Deal Hulu and HBO Max Bundle Add HBO Max to your Hulu base plan from $9.99/month Get Deal Best Student Deal HBO Max Student Save 50% on HBO Max Basic With Ads Get Deal

It's happened: Max has rebranded back to its old name of HBO Max. Forget the name change, though, because the service still has plenty of exciting films and shows to watch. From IT: Welcome to Derry, to Materialists, to the upcoming Game of Thrones series A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, there's plenty to keep you busy over the winter months.

The good news is that HBO Max has a couple of different bundles available at the moment that are worth checking out, including a big bundle with Disney+ and Hulu. With streaming prices on the rise, a bundle like this can be a great way to save some cash while getting access to your favorite services.

SEE ALSO: Netflix to buy Warner Bros.: 5 properties Netflix would own under deal

Alongside bundles, we've also broken down HBO Max's standard plans in case you're just interested in its service on its own.

Best Disney+ bundle deal Opens in a new window Credit: HBO Max Disney+, Hulu, and HBO Max Bundle $19.99/month with ads, $32.99/month ad-free Get Deal Why we like it

The HBO Max, Disney+, and Hulu bundle is a top-tier choice for those looking to have access to some of the biggest streaming services around. Starting at $19.99 per month, this bundle grants you access to Hulu, Disney+, and HBO Max's streaming services for a much lower price than what you'd pay for them on their own. If you've already got Disney+ and Hulu subscriptions, this bundle is worth every cent. If you're interested, there are two plan options to choose from:

• Disney+, Hulu, HBO Max Bundle (with ads) — $19.99 per month (save 42%)

• Disney+, Hulu, HBO Max Bundle (no ads) — $32.99 per month (save 41%)

Best Hulu bundle deal Opens in a new window Credit: Hulu Hulu and HBO Max Bundle Add HBO Max to your Hulu base plan from $9.99/month Get Deal Why we like it

If you're not interested in the Disney+, Hulu, and HBO Max mega bundle, you can just get Hulu and HBO Max together if you already have a Hulu base plan, which starts at $11.99 per month. HBO Max Basic with Ads can be added onto your plan for $9.99 per month, or you can splash out on the HBO Max Standard plan for $16.99 per month.

• Hulu with HBO Max add-on — from $9.99 per month

Best student deal Opens in a new window Credit: HBO Max HBO Max Student Discount Students save 50% on HBO Max Basic With Ads Get Deal Why we like it

It's always nice when streaming services have a deal for students, and HBO Max's offer is definitely worth taking advantage of. Students who can verify their status with UNiDAYS are eligible to get the HBO Max Basic With Ads plan for just $5.49 per month. That's a 50% discount off its $10.99 monthly price. After verifying your status, you'll receive a unique code that can be used to redeem the discounted plan on HBO Max.

• HBO Max Student Discount — $5.49 per month (save 50%)

HBO Max's monthly plans

HBO Max offers a few different subscription plans. If you don't mind having to sit through ads, HBO Max's Basic With Ads plan starts at $10.99 per month or the annual plan runs for $109.99 per year. If you can't stand ads and don't mind throwing down a bit more cash, the Standard plan will cost you $18.49 per month or $184.99 per year. If you really want to go big on an HBO Max plan, you can spring for the fancy Premium plan, which costs $22.99 per month or $229.99 per year.

Below we've broken down what comes with each of these plans, per HBO Max's website, so you can know a bit more before you buy.

Basic With Ads — $10.99 per month, $109.99 per year

• Stream on two devices at once

• Full HD 1080p resolution

Standard (Ad-free) — $18.49 per month, $184.99 per year

• Stream on two devices at once

• Full HD 1080p resolution

• 30 downloads to watch on the go

Premium (Ad-free) — $22.99 per month, $229.99 per year

• Stream on four devices at once

• 4K Ultra HD video quality (as available)

• Dolby Atmos immersive audio (as available)

• 100 downloads to watch on the go

If you're wondering where to start once you've set yourself up with a HBO Max subscription, we've got an excellent selection of recommendations to point you in the right direction. Looking for a great TV show to kickstart your next binge-watching session? Have a look through our roundup of the 20 best TV shows streaming on HBO Max. Or if you prefer movies, we narrowed down the 25 best movies on HBO Max to make your next movie night a spectacular one.

SAVE $11.04: Pokémon TCG's League Battle Deck - Team Rocket's Mewtwo ex is currently $27.24 on TCGPlayer right now, that's $11.04 less than Amazon's $38.98. This includes everything you need to battle.

Opens in a new window Credit: The Pokémon Company League Battle Deck - Team Rocket's Mewtwo ex $7.24 at TCGPlayer
Possible $60 Gift Card if you qualify on Amazon. TCGPlayer is cheapest otherwise. Get Deal

"Why is he sharing a premade Pokémon TCG deck as a deal?" Well, usually i'd be with you, but this is such a great gift for someone looking to get into playing the game with family and friends. You can literally rip this box open, have a 60-card deck ready to go with cool card without thinking about building a deck or finding something to replace a legal coin, damage counters and to learn the table layout while playing.

This is an entry-level product to the hobby that walks would-be trainers through the door and makes for something different to do this holiday. Breaking this deck down, Team Rocket's Mewtwo ex 081/182 is worth $1.50 each, with Team Rocket's Crobat ex 122/182 is $1.20 and the Ace Spec Scramble Switch is worth a mighty 25c. Those "chase cards" rack up to $6.15.

This sounds like a hard sell, but for an extra $21.09 you're getting the bulk to make up the rest of the deck, 6 damage counter dice, two condition markers, deck box, tournament legal coin and a strategy sheet. If you have a load of Destined Rivals bulk knocking around you could probably make a similar deck for free and have at it. But this target audience is coming in fresh with zero idea of how to play. For these people it's a great product.

The best chase cards you can pull from Destined Rivals Credit: Mashable Photo Composite / The Pokémon Company

If you fancy upgrading this deck down the line or getting some higher end cards for your collection, Destined Rivals is a great place to start. The artwork in this set is some of the best i've seen in Pokémon TCG, and there's Secret Art Rare versions of the Crobat and Mewtwo ex found in this League Battle Deck. Here's up-to-date market values per TCGplayer alongside links so you can catch your own:

1. Team Rocket's Mewtwo ex - 231/182
   Near Mint Holofoil: $445
   Market price: $443.48
   Most recent sale: $477.98

2. Cynthia's Garchomp ex - 232/182
   Near Mint Holofoil: $226.98
   Market price: $232.82
   Most recent sale: $225.98

3. Ethan's Ho-Oh ex - 230/182
   Near Mint Holofoil: $174.90
   Market price: $175.27
   Most recent sale: $175

4. Team Rocket's Moltres ex - 229/182
   Near Mint Holofoil: $120.02
   Market price: $126.13
   Most recent sale: $123.95

5. Team Rocket's Crobat ex - 234/182
   Near Mint Holofoil: $69.02
   Market price: $72.23
   Most recent sale: $68.79

Donald Trump grabbed as many press opportunities as he could to criticise Jimmy Kimmel in the run-up to hosting the Kennedy Center Honors on Sunday, calling the late night show host and longtime critic of the president "terrible" and saying, "If I can't beat out Jimmy Kimmel in terms of talent, then I don't think I should be president."

Fellow late show host Stephen Colbert's response? "You can't and you shouldn't."

In The Late Show clip above, Colbert explains his confusion over Trump talking so much about Kimmel, given that Kimmel hasn't actually hosted the event.

"I called him and Jimmy Kimmel has never hosted the Kennedy Center Honors," says Colbert. "But here's the thing: I did, the three years leading up to Trump becoming president."

Meanwhile, here's what Kimmel himself said in response to Trump.

HULU BUNDLES: Hulu is offering a range of bundle deals so you can stream from its impressive library without breaking the bank.

The best Hulu deals and bundles in December 2025: Best ESPN Bundle Deal Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN Unlimited Bundle $29.99/month for a year, then $35.99/month Get Deal Best HBO Max Bundle Deal Disney+, Hulu, and HBO Max Bundle $19.99/month with ads, $32.99/month ad-free Get Deal Best Hulu Bundle Deal Disney+ and Hulu Bundle $12.99/month with ads Get Deal Best Student Deal Hulu Student Deal Hulu with ads for $1.99/month Get Deal

There's a wide range of excellent shows and films to watch on Hulu. From The Monkey to the thrilling Alien: Earth series (check out our review here), it's a library that's full of options to keep you entertained through these darker months.

If any of these have caught your eye and have you itching to sign up for Hulu, we're here to help you get the best deal. Outside of the standard ad-supported and ad free plans, there are quite a few bundle deals available with Hulu that are worth exploring if you're looking to save some cash. This includes a great limited time offer on the new Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN Unlimited Bundle. If you're a sports fan, you can sign up for this plan for $29.99 per month for a year right now.

SEE ALSO: Critics hate 'All's Fair,' but the internet has other thoughts

Considering Hulu and Disney Plus have just increased their prices, there's no better time than now to find a way to save through bundles. Below you can find details on Hulu's best bundles at the moment — alongside information on both its ad-supported and ad free plan, if you just want the basics — offering you a way to save on the service without going overboard on spending.

You can get additional streaming services thrown in at a lower cost, and what's better than that?

Best ESPN bundle deal Opens in a new window Credit: Hulu Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN Unlimited Bundle $29.99/month for a year, then $35.99/month Get Deal

Alongside the big Hulu, Disney+, and HBO Max bundle, Hulu also has plans for sports fans that throw in ESPN Select or ESPN Unlimited. According to ESPN, "ESPN Select includes ESPN+ content only. Fans who want ESPN+ exclusively may subscribe to the ESPN Select plan. ESPN Unlimited includes all of the ESPN networks and services, including ESPN+." For those interested in the latter, the good news is there's a promotion going on right now.

The Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN Unlimited Bundle, which has ads, is currently available for $29.99 per month for a year. The Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN Unlimited premium bundle without ads is available for $38.99 per month for a year.

These discounted bundles are only available for new and eligible returning subscribers through Jan. 5, 2026. Once the year is up, they'll go back to their full prices of $35.99 per month with ads and $44.99 per month without.

• Disney+, Hulu, ESPN Unlimited Bundle — $29.99 per month for a year (then $35.99 per month)

• Disney+, Hulu, ESPN Unlimited Bundle Premium — $38.99 per month for a year (then $44.99 per month)

• Disney+, Hulu, ESPN Select Bundle — $19.99 per month

• Disney+, Hulu, ESPN Select Bundle Premium — $29.99 per month

Best HBO Max bundle deal Opens in a new window Credit: Hulu Disney+, Hulu, and HBO Max Bundle $19.99/month with ads, $32.99/month ad-free Get Deal Why we like it

Released last July, this is one of the best Hulu bundles available at the moment. Starting at $19.99 per month, this bundle grants you access to Hulu, Disney+, and HBO Max's streaming services for a much lower price than what you'd pay for the three of them separately. It's an incredible deal to take advantage of, especially if you've already got Disney+ and HBO Max subscriptions. There are two plans to choose from with this bundle, and they are:

• Disney+, Hulu, HBO Max Bundle (with ads) — $19.99 per month (save 42%)

• Disney+, Hulu, HBO Max Bundle (no ads) — $32.99 per month (save 41%)

Best Disney+ bundle deal Opens in a new window Credit: Hulu Disney+ and Hulu Bundle $12.99/month with ads Get Deal Why we like it

If you don't want to splash out on the full Hulu, Disney+, and HBO Max bundle, the next best thing is the Disney+ and Hulu Bundle. This comes with just Disney+ alongside Hulu, giving you access to each of their ad-supported streaming platforms for as low as $12.99 per month. If you're already subscribed to Disney+ or have been hoping to jump into its library, this is well worth investing in.

• Disney+, Hulu Bundle — $12.99 per month

This isn't the only Disney+ plan available with Hulu, though. For those looking to jump into an ad-free tier for the Disney+ and Hulu bundle, there's the Disney+, Hulu Bundle Premium plan that'll cost you $19.99 per month instead.

• Disney+, Hulu Bundle Premium — $19.99 per month

Best student deal Opens in a new window Credit: Hulu Hulu Student Deal Hulu with ads for $1.99/month Get Deal Why we like it

If you're a student enrolled at a university, you can score a Hulu (with ads) plan for even lower than the above bundles. Hulu's Student Deal gives eligible college students the ability to buy a Hulu (with ads) plan for just $1.99 per month. Hulu notes that the deal lasts "so long as student enrollment status remains verified," then it goes back up to the standard monthly price.

• Hulu Student Deal — $1.99 per month

Hulu's monthly plans

If you're just looking to jump straight into Hulu's library without any fancy bundles, there are a couple of subscription options to consider. The ad-supported tier comes in at $11.99 per month, but you'll get your first month free, which is a great way to test the waters and see if it's the right fit for you. If you want to go ad free, that'll cost you $18.99 per month. Unfortunately, this plan does not offer a free trial like its ad-supported sibling.

• Hulu (with ads) — $11.99 per month (get first month free), $119.99 per year

• Hulu Premium (no ads) — $18.99 per month

If you really want to go big on a streaming investment, there's the Hulu + Live TV plan. This costs a whopping $89.99 per month for its ad-supported plan, but comes with plenty to keep you busy. Hulu + Live TV (with ads) gets you access to 95+ channels, unlimited DVR, Disney+ (with ads), ESPN Select (with ads), and Hulu (with ads). If you want to go even bigger with the ad-free plan — which offers Hulu (no ads), Disney+ (no ads), and ESPN Select (with ads) alongside Live TV — it'll cost you $99.99 per month. The ad-supported plan also offers a free trial, but for just three days instead.

• Hulu + Live TV, Disney+, and ESPN Select (with ads) — $89.99 per month (three day free trial)

• Hulu Premium + Live TV, Disney+ Premium, and ESPN Select (no ads) — $99.99 per month

• Hulu + Live TV, Disney+ Premium, and ESPN Select — $94.99 per month

• Live TV Only — $88.99 per month

Wondering what to watch once you get set up with a Hulu plan or bundle? We're here to help with that as well. Have a look at our roundups of the 30 best comedies on Hulu, the 25 best sci-fi movies on Hulu, and the 26 best horror movies on Hulu to start building your watchlist. And if you're in the mood to binge-watch a show, check out our breakdown of the 25 best shows on Hulu.

DISNEY+ BUNDLES: Disney+ is offering bundle deals so you can stream the best of its library at a lower price.

The best Disney+ deals and bundles in December 2025: Best ESPN Bundle Deal Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN Unlimited Bundle $29.99/month for a year, then $35.99/month Get Deal Best HBO Max Bundle Deal Disney+, Hulu, and HBO Max Bundle $19.99/month with ads, $32.99/month ad-free Get Deal Best Hulu Bundle Deal Disney+ and Hulu Bundle $12.99/month with ads Get Deal

Whether you're looking to jump into the latest superhero saga or journey to a galaxy far, far away, Disney+ is the streaming service for you.

Home to Marvel, Star Wars, Pixar, and so much more, Disney+ offers a library that's stuffed-full of shows and films to keep both adults and kids entertained when it matters. This includes the new Taylor Swift 'Eras Tour' docuseries, which is gearing up to drop on Dec. 12 for eager fans ahead of the holidays.

If you've had this streaming service on your radar but are unsure which plan is the best fit for you, we've got you covered with a selection of Disney+ streaming deals. This includes a great limited time offer on the new Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN Unlimited Bundle. If you're a sports fan, you can sign up for this plan for $29.99 per month for the first year.

SEE ALSO: 'Percy Jackson and the Olympians' Season 2 review: Rough waters ahead for 'Sea of Monsters' adaptation

Alongside that deal, there are a few more bundles to check out with Disney+ right now, including the Disney+, Hulu, and HBO Max package. This is a great investment for those who already own the other two streaming services and are looking to cut down on costs. Considering Disney+ has just increased its prices, now is as good a time as any to check out a bundle.

We've detailed all of the available bundle deals below, alongside basic information on Disney+ plans if you just want the House of Mouse's service on its own.

Best ESPN bundle deal Opens in a new window Credit: Disney Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN Unlimited Bundle $29.99/month for a year, then $35.99/month Get Deal

If you're a sports fan looking to add ESPN into your bundles, you're in luck: Disney offers bundles with both ESPN Select and ESPN Unlimited. According to ESPN, "ESPN Select includes ESPN+ content only. Fans who want ESPN+ exclusively may subscribe to the ESPN Select plan. ESPN Unlimited includes all of the ESPN networks and services, including ESPN+." If the latter has caught your attention, it has a limited-time offer going on right now.

The Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN Unlimited Bundle, which has ads, is currently available for $29.99 per month for a year. The Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN Unlimited premium bundle without ads is on offer for $38.99 per month for a year.

These discounted bundles are only available for new and eligible returning subscribers through Jan. 5, 2026. Once the year is up, they'll go back to their full prices of $35.99 per month with ads and $44.99 per month without.

• Disney+, Hulu, ESPN Unlimited Bundle — $29.99 per month for a year (then $35.99 per month)

• Disney+, Hulu, ESPN Unlimited Bundle Premium — $38.99 per month for a year (then $44.99 per month)

• Disney+, Hulu, ESPN Select Bundle — $19.99 per month

• Disney+, Hulu, ESPN Select Bundle Premium — $29.99 per month

Best HBO Max bundle deal Opens in a new window Credit: Disney Disney+, Hulu, and HBO Max Bundle $19.99/month with ads, $32.99/month ad-free Get Deal Why we like it

The Disney+, Hulu, and HBO Max bundle is one of the best available at the moment. Starting at $19.99 per month, you can have three excellent streaming services right in the palm of your hand, which is a great offer to take advantage of. The $19.99 per month option is for the With Ads plan, but if you'd prefer to watch your favorite content without ads, the No Ads plan comes to $32.99 per month. Compared to what you'd pay for each of these on their own, you're saving 42% with the ad-supported plan and 41% with the ad-free plan.

• Disney+, Hulu, HBO Max Bundle (with ads) — $19.99 per month (save 42%)

• Disney+, Hulu, HBO Max Bundle (no ads) — $32.99 per month (save 41%)

Best Hulu bundle deal Opens in a new window Credit: Disney Disney+ and Hulu Bundle Disney+ and Hulu with ads for $12.99/month Get Deal Why we like it

If the Disney+, Hulu, and HBO Max mega bundle feels like a bit too much, there are smaller bundle deals to check out instead. One of the most affordable bundle options the service has is the Disney+, Hulu Bundle. This brings together Disney+ and Hulu (with ads) for $12.99 per month. This is a great way to gain access to both of their libraries for only $1 more than what you'd pay for just one of the ad-supported plans on their own.

• Disney+, Hulu Bundle — $12.99 per month

If you'd rather spring for the ad-free version of that bundle, Disney+, Hulu Bundle Premium is what you need. This offers both Disney+ and Hulu without ads for $19.99 per month.

• Disney+, Hulu Bundle Premium — $19.99 per month

Best Disney+ monthly plans

Disney+ offers two standard plans if you just want the service on its own. The Disney+ ad-supported plan comes to $11.99 per month while the ad-free Disney+ Premium plan will set you back $18.99 per month or $189.99 per year if you'd rather pay annually.

• Disney+ (With Ads) — $11.99 per month

• Disney+ Premium (No Ads) — $18.99 per month, $189.99 per year

Disney+ has also created an "extra member" plan for people using your account that live outside of your household as they crack down on password sharing. If you're looking to add another person onto your account, you're only allowed one extra profile and can choose from the following add-on plans:

• Disney+ (With Ads) — $6.99 per month

• Disney+ Premium — $9.99 per month

• Disney+, Hulu Bundle — $7.99 per month

• Disney+, Hulu Bundle Premium — $10.99 per month

• Disney+, Hulu, ESPN Select Bundle — $11.99 per month

• Disney+, Hulu, ESPN Select Bundle Premium — $14.99 per month

There's a wealth of shows and films to check out on Disney+ after you sign up. If you want some help finding something to watch, check out our roundups of the 12 best TV shows for adults on Disney+ and the 20 best movies on Disney+ to start building out your watchlist.

Google is facing a European Union investigation into its use of publishers' online content for AI-generated search summaries like AI Overviews and AI Mode, with anticompetitive practices the primary suspicion.

Announced on Tuesday, the EU's main executive body, the European Commission, opened a formal antitrust probe into Google's practice of using online publishers' material for AI purposes — and that includes the company's use of content uploaded to YouTube.

According to the EU, the investigation will examine "whether Google is distorting competition by imposing unfair terms and conditions on publishers and content creators, or by granting itself privileged access to such content, thereby placing developers of rival AI models at a disadvantage."

SEE ALSO: EU fines Elon Musk's X $140 million for lack of transparency

Specifically, the EU will dig into Google's AI-powered, generative search summary tools AI Overviews and AI Mode, and whether the company used web publisher content for these tools "without appropriate compensation to publishers and without offering them the possibility to refuse such use of their content."

Since Google launched AI Overviews in May 2024, researchers have found websites including news and media outlets have seen a devastating impact on site traffic. In July 2025, Google also launched AI Mode, a more conversational AI-generated search results aggregator. A Pew Research Center study from July 2025 found users are less likely to click on links when an AI summary appears in the results, with users more likely to end their browsing session.

This impact on news sites has been colossal. As Cecily Mauran reports for Mashable, "Organic search traffic from major news sites including the Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, and The Washington Post has declined according to SimilarWeb data. And smaller, independent sites say the rollout of AI Overviews has forced them to shut down their sites or entirely reinvent their distribution model as a result of declining traffic, according to a Bloomberg report. Other reports from SEO analysts found the presence of AI Overviews reduced clicks to sites, compared to traditional search results."

In the UK, MailOnline and Metro owner DMG Media told the Competition and Markets Authority (per the BBC), that AI Overviews had caused an 89 percent drop in click-through rates.

Featured Video For You Humans could soon live underwater, in these deep sea habitats

So, what's next? The EU has informed Google of the investigation and says there is "no legal deadline" for the end of the case, noting that the timeline may be impacted by "the complexity of the case, the extent to which the companies concerned cooperate with the Commission and the parties' exercise of the rights of defence."

It's just the latest Big Tech case brought forth by the EU, with Apple and Meta facing hundreds of millions in fines and a landmark €120 million fine slapped on Elon Musk's X, all for breaching its Digital Services Act (DSA). But it's also the latest case against a major tech company using material for AI training and aggregation purposes, with ChatGPT creator OpenAI facing multiple lawsuits for AI training and copyright infringement, including from publishers. Ziff Davis, Mashable's parent company, in April filed a lawsuit against OpenAI, alleging it infringed Ziff Davis copyrights in training and operating its AI systems.

Trump hosted the Kennedy Center Honors on Sunday, and was quick to compare his own hosting abilities with that of his least favorite host, Jimmy Kimmel — who he described as "terrible" and "horrible."

"That is very hurtful," Kimmel says in the clip. "I thought we were friends. I don't know what's going on. He is really fixated. I'm starting to think he might have a crush on me."

Kimmel goes on to play a clip of Trump saying, "If I can't beat out Jimmy Kimmel in terms of talent, then I don't think I should be president."

"Agreed," Kimmel responds. "I'm with you. I don't think I've ever agreed with anything more than that."

SAVE OVER $100: As of Dec. 9, the 11-inch Apple iPad Air (M3, 128GB, WiFi) is on sale at Amazon for $449.99 after clipping the coupon on the store page. Normally it's listed for $599, so this saves you $149.01.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPad Air 11-inch with M3 chip $449.99 at Amazon
$599 Save $149.01   Get Deal

If you've been hoping to score some deals on Apple devices before the holidays, Amazon still has some discounts to look through. In particular, if an iPad is on your shopping list, the 11-inch Apple iPad Air (M3, 128GB, WiFi) has dropped to $449.99 with the help of a coupon on the Amazon store page.

This model of iPad Air is usually listed for $599, so this discount price - which will appear at checkout after ticking the coupon price box on the store page - saves you $149.01 overall. It's also only $0.99 away from its lowest-ever price, according to price tracker camelcamelcamel, making now a great time to grab it. This discount applies to all available colors at the time of writing as well, so you can pick out your favorite.

SEE ALSO: From AirPods to espresso machines, everything the Mashable shopping team bought during Black Friday and Cyber Monday 2025

We're big fans of this iPad Air, with it even landing a spot on our list of the best iPads as the "best pick for most people." Mashable's Samantha Mangino notes in this roundup that, thanks to the M3 chip, "it has the same processing power as a MacBook, scoring 11,464 on our Geekbench 6 test. AKA, it packs a lot of power into a more affordable package."

Mashable Deals Be the first to know! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Loading... Sign Me Up By signing up, you agree to receive recurring automated SMS marketing messages from Mashable Deals at the number provided. Msg and data rates may apply. Up to 2 messages/day. Reply STOP to opt out, HELP for help. Consent is not a condition of purchase. See our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. Thanks for signing up!

Alongside its boost in performance, this iPad also features a sleek 11-inch Liquid Retina display that makes whatever you're watching, reading, or scrolling through look crisply detailed and colorful. This particular model comes with 128GB of storage as well, so there's plenty of space to fill with your favorite apps.

Don't miss out on this great deal on the 11-inch Apple iPad Air (M3, 128GB, WiFi) at Amazon. It's not the only option on sale right now, either. If you want to splash out on a fancier model, you can also save on the 13-inch M4 iPad Pro at Amazon.

TL;DR: Live stream Toronto Raptors vs. New York Knicks in the NBA Cup for free with a 30-day trial of Amazon Prime. Access this free live stream from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The NBA Cup quarter finals are here, featuring some fascinating matchups including Toronto Raptors vs. New York Knicks. The Raptors have been one of the most interesting stories of the season. The Knicks started slowly, but have been looking pretty slick of late. This quarter-final matchup is difficult to predict.

If you want to watch Raptors vs. Knicks in the NBA Cup for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Raptors vs. Knicks?

Raptors vs. Knicks in the NBA Cup starts at 8:30 p.m. ET on Dec. 9. This game takes place at the Scotiabank Arena.

How to watch Raptors vs. Knicks for free

Raptors vs. Knicks in the NBA Cup is available to live stream for free with a 30-day trial of Amazon Prime.

This free live stream is geo-restricted to the U.S., but anyone can secure access with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the U.S., meaning you can access free live streams of the NBA from anywhere in the world.

Stream the NBA for free by following these simple steps:

1. Sign up for a 30-day trial of Amazon Prime (if you're not already a member)

2. Subscribe to a VPN (like ExpressVPN)

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

4. Open up the app and connect to a server in the U.S.

5. Watch the NBA from anywhere in the world on Prime Video

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Learn More

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but they do tend to offer money-back guarantees or free trials. By leveraging these offers, you can watch NBA live streams without actually spending anything. This clearly isn't a long-term solution, but it does mean you can watch select games from the NBA Cup before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for the NBA?

ExpressVPN is the best service for accessing free live streams on platforms like Prime Video, 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 secure

• Fast connection speeds free from throttling

• Up to eight simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $139 and includes an extra four months for free — 61% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.95 (with money-back guarantee).

Live stream the NBA Cup for free with ExpressVPN.

TL;DR: Live stream Orlando Magic vs. Miami Heat in the NBA Cup for free with a 30-day trial of Amazon Prime. Access this free live stream from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The NBA Cup quarter finals feature some really interesting matchups, including Orlando Magic vs. Miami Heat. The Magic have a perfect record in this competition, and there's a feeling that things are slowly starting to click after a slow start. That being said, we would be surprised if Erik Spoelstra didn't have something up his sleeve for this knockout game.

If you want to watch Magic vs. Heat in the NBA Cup for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Magic vs. Heat?

Magic vs. Heat in the NBA Cup starts at 6 p.m. ET on Dec. 9. This game takes place at the Kia Center.

How to watch Magic vs. Heat for free

Magic vs. Heat in the NBA Cup is available to live stream for free with a 30-day trial of Amazon Prime.

This free live stream is geo-restricted to the U.S., but anyone can secure access with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the U.S., meaning you can access free live streams of the NBA from anywhere in the world.

Stream the NBA for free by following these simple steps:

1. Sign up for a 30-day trial of Amazon Prime (if you're not already a member)

2. Subscribe to a VPN (like ExpressVPN)

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

4. Open up the app and connect to a server in the U.S.

5. Watch the NBA from anywhere in the world on Prime Video

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Learn More

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but they do tend to offer money-back guarantees or free trials. By leveraging these offers, you can watch NBA live streams without actually spending anything. This clearly isn't a long-term solution, but it does mean you can watch select games from the NBA Cup before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for the NBA?

ExpressVPN is the best service for accessing free live streams on platforms like Prime Video, 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 secure

• Fast connection speeds free from throttling

• Up to eight simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $139 and includes an extra four months for free — 61% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.95 (with money-back guarantee).

Live stream the NBA Cup for free with ExpressVPN.

TL;DR: The Deeper Connect Air Portable Decentralized VPN Travel Router is on sale for $169 with free shipping (order by Dec. 15 for holiday delivery).

Opens in a new window Credit: Deeper Connect Deeper Connect Air Portable Decentralized VPN Travel Router $169
$219 Save $50   Get Deal

If you’re shopping for someone who travels often — whether for work, remote gigs, or pure wanderlust — this is the kind of gift that instantly makes their life easier.

The Deeper Connect Air is a portable, decentralized VPN router that brings fast, secure, subscription-free browsing wherever they land. And right now, it’s available for just $169 (down from $219) with free shipping. Order by Dec. 15 if you want it wrapped and ready in time for Christmas.

Mashable Deals Be the first to know! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Loading... Sign Me Up By signing up, you agree to receive recurring automated SMS marketing messages from Mashable Deals at the number provided. Msg and data rates may apply. Up to 2 messages/day. Reply STOP to opt out, HELP for help. Consent is not a condition of purchase. See our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. Thanks for signing up!

What makes this device so useful is how much digital stress it removes. Airport Wi-Fi acting sketchy? Hotel network wide open? Café hotspot overloaded? The Deeper Connect Air quietly handles all of that.

It delivers military-grade encryption, 300Mbps speeds, and no monthly VPN fees, ever. Just plug it in, and you’re protected — no configuration, extra apps, or complicated setup.

It’s also ideal for entertainment on the road. The device lets you bypass geo-restrictions on streaming platforms, keeps ads from slowing things down, and handles up to five devices at once. For families, it includes one-click parental controls; for digital nomads, it supports 80+ Web3 features and even offers blockchain-based node access.

Because it uses decentralized VPN (DPN) technology, there’s no single server tracking your usage. You’re connecting through 80,000+ global nodes, which means stable access to virtually any region — and far less risk than public networks.

For frequent travelers, remote workers, students abroad, and anyone who would rather not use unsecured WiFi, this pocket-sized router is both practical and surprisingly powerful.

With no ongoing fees, it’s a smart tech gift that pays off every time they open their laptop on the go.

Get the Deeper Connect Air Decentralized VPN Router while it’s just $169 (reg. $219) with free shipping.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

SAVE $19.50: Pokémon TCG's Phantasmal Flames Elite Trainer Box is currently $87.49 on TCGPlayer right now, that's $19.50 less than Amazon's $106.99. But if you manage to qualify for Amazon's Visa card, you'll get an instant $60 gift card to knock down the ETB price to $46.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: The Pokémon Company Phantasmal Flames Elite Trainer Box $106.99 at Amazon
Possible $60 Gift Card if you qualify on Amazon. TCGPlayer is cheapest otherwise. Get Deal

Elite Trainer Boxes are some of the most popular sealed Pokémon TCG products on store shelves right now, with Phantasmal Flames being no exception. It's got Mega Charizard X slapped all over it, including the 65 included deck sleeves, themed dice and tournament legal coin. There's every chance to pull one of four Mega Charizard X ex cards, including the Secret Illustration Rare, Gold Hyper Rare, Hyper Rare and regular ex Ultra Rare. Although the odds are harsh, there's nine booster packs to help mate the magic anyway.

SEE ALSO: Pokémon TCG's Mega Evolution Enhanced Booster Box is over $20 cheaper on TCGPlayer, but Amazon offers a gift card

So, there's two ways to grab the Phantasmal Flames Elite Trainer Box right now. Well, three if you happen to hate money. First up, if buying it for the full fat price on Amazon for $106.99, which you really shouldn't do. Instead, you can try and qualify for an Amazon Visa card to score a free and instant $60 gift card, with zero need to use the Visa card itself to knock down the ETB to a tidy $46.99.

If you'd sooner not tempt fate with having a credit card within arms reach, well done for admitting as much. TCGPlayer has the best vanilla price right now at $87.49 including delivery, which is a cool $19.50 off Amazons price point. That one is a no-brainer, right?

The best chase cards you can pull from Mega Evolution and Phantasmal Flames Credit: Mashable Photo Composite / The Pokémon Company

If you want to save even more money over ripping endless boosters to get your chase card this holiday, the chances are it's going to work out cheaper in the long run just buying it. The good news is the majority of Pokémon TCG has found a new floor value-wise, with prices across the board tanking right now. TCGPlayer is owned by eBay and is armed with vetted and rated sellers for peace of mind buying these gems. Here's the top five chase cards available right now in Mega Evolution and Phantasmal Flames packs, including up-to-date market values and links to catch one for yourself:

1. Mega Charizard X ex - 125/094
   Near Mint Holofoil: $599.99
   Market price: $600.94
   Most recent sale: $659.99

2. Mega Charizard X ex - 130/094
   Near Mint Holofoil: $411.85
   Market price: $402.30
   Most recent sale: $429

3. Mega Lucario ex - 188/132
   Near Mint Holofoil: $371.99
   Market price: $396.09
   Most recent sale: $350

4. Mega Gardevoir ex - 187/132
   Near Mint Holofoil: $285
   Market price: $310.28
   Most recent sale: $305

5. Mega Gardevoir ex - 178/132
   Near Mint Holofoil: $209.90
   Market price: $208.60
   Most recent sale: $204.98

In May, at its annual Google I/O conference, Google announced a new product called the "Android XR glasses," without saying much about the specs or giving us a launch date.

Now, Google is ready to share more. In a blog post, the company clarified that it's actually working on two types of smart glasses, both developed in partnership with Samsung, Gentle Monster, and Warby Parker.

SEE ALSO: Google's Year in Search 2025: The most interesting part is how we searched

The first product is what Google calls "AI glasses," which do not have a display. Instead, they use a built-in speaker, microphones, and camera, to let you interact with Google's AI assistant Gemini and take photos. If you're thinking this is similar to Meta's Ray-Ban glasses, you are correct. The glasses are coming "next year," Google said.

Featured Video For You Are foldable phones worth buying in 2025? As a tech editor, I say heck yes

The other product is a tad more interesting. Google calls them simply "display AI glasses," and these are the ones that the company spoke about in May. They also have an in-lens display which can privately show you stuff like turn-by-turn navigation, translation captions, and more.

The display isn't visible to anyone but the wearer. Credit: Google

The company also shared a couple of short videos, showing the display AI glasses in action. However, Google didn't share a launch date for the glasses with the built-in display.

Both pairs of glasses will run on Google's Android XR, an operating system for what Google calls "extended reality devices," which includes headsets and smart glasses. The first Android XR headset is the Samsung Galaxy XR, which launched in October 2025.

Australia's social media ban for children under 16 will come into effect this Wednesday, Dec. 10. Platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, and YouTube have already begun disabling users' accounts to comply with the new law.

Approved by Australia's Senate earlier this year, the Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Act requires social media platforms to take "reasonable steps" to prevent Australians under 16 from holding accounts. A platform will be subject to this requirement if its primary purpose is to enable online social interaction between multiple users, it allows them to interact with some or all other users, and it lets them post content.

"Delaying children’s access to social media accounts gives them valuable time to learn and grow, free of the powerful, unseen forces of harmful and deceptive design features such as opaque algorithms and endless scroll," said Australia's eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant in a statement last month. 

"But I’ve also said consistently that age restricting social media is one important tool in our holistic approach to online safety. Ultimately, all online platforms should be building less harmful, age-appropriate experiences through safety by design."  

Failure to comply with Australia's new law could see social media platforms slapped with fines of up to $AU49.5 million ($US33 million). Fortunately, the legislation is specifically targeted at tech companies, and neither children nor their caregivers will be penalised if they circumvent a platform's restrictions to access social media anyway. Parents are reportedly already helping children evade the ban by using their own credentials, while a poll found almost a third would be willing to assist their child in getting around the restrictions on YouTube.

Nevertheless, Australia's new law means social media platforms must work to prohibit account holders under 16. Here's how they're responding.

Facebook, Instagram, and Threads Credit: Meta

Last Thursday, Meta began removing access to Facebook, Instagram, and Threads accounts belonging to Australians under 16, as well as blocking them from creating new ones. They will still be able to use Messenger, which doesn't fall under Australia's social media ban, but without a connected Facebook account. 

Meta stated that impacted users will be given the option to download their content before the ban comes into effect. They will also be prompted to update their contact information, enabling Meta to reach out and reinstate their accounts once they turn 16. If they are mistakenly caught up in the ban, users can verify their age through third-party provider Yoti, or by providing their government ID or a video selfie.

Though Meta is working to comply with the ban, aiming to remove all impacted users from its services by Dec. 10, the tech giant has made clear that it doesn't agree with it. Meta has instead argued for legislation requiring app stores obtain parents' approval before allowing children under 16 to download apps. This solution would have parents establish a child's age and relevant restrictions while setting up their phone, rather than require them to complete age verification multiple times for different apps.

"Teens are resourceful, and may attempt to circumvent age assurance measures to access restricted services," Meta wrote in a November blog post. "Realistically, we can only do so much to determine age without requiring everyone to provide a government ID — which isn’t safe, poses significant privacy risks, and could lead to identity theft."

TikTok Credit: Mashable composite: TikTok

TikTok also addressed the ban last week, stating that it will deactivate the accounts of Australian users between the age of 13 and 15. (The video sharing app already does not allow users under 13.) Further, any content they have published will no longer be visible to other users.

Impacted users will be given the option to download their information, and can either confirm that they are 16 or older, let their account be deactivated, or delete it entirely. If they choose not to delete their account, they can sign up for a reminder that it is available to them again once they turn 16. 

TikTok states that it uses multiple methods to verify users' ages, including credit card authorisation, providing government ID documents, and employing facial age estimation services from Yoti.

"Every day, we suspend thousands of accounts globally because we don't think our age requirements have been met," wrote TikTok. "We also encourage parents to have conversations with their teens to make sure they have been truthful about their age. If an Australian parent believes their teen may have provided an incorrect date of birth, they can report this in-app and online. We understand that these changes may be upsetting, but they are necessary to ensure that TikTok complies with Australian law."

Snapchat

Snapchat has argued against its classification as an age-restricted social media service, claiming that 75 percent of time Australians spend on the app is messaging and calling. Nevertheless, the Australian government maintains that Snapchat falls under the ban's purview, forcing the video sharing app to comply.

From Dec. 10, Snapchat will lock accounts belonging to Australians under 16. Notably, this is distinct from deactivating them. Locked accounts will remain locked for three years, unless the user verifies that they have turned 16 and has it reinstated. Users can verify their age via third-party provider k-ID, either by providing their government ID or by submitting to facial age estimation. Alternatively, users can complete age verification by connecting their Australian bank account.

Once the three-year lock expires, impacted users' Snapchat accounts will be deactivated. Deactivation gives users 30 days to download their data, which is then permanently deleted after 60 days. Fortunately, Snapchat users can still download their data while their account is locked, giving them three years to do so. Snapchat has also reminded users to cancel any subscriptions they may have to Snapchat+ or Memories+ via the App Store or Play Store. 

Unfortunately, Australian teens' Snapchat Streaks won't be preserved while their accounts are locked.

"[D]isconnecting teens from their friends and family doesn’t make them safer — it may push them to less safe, less private messaging apps," said Snap. "We continue to advocate for more privacy-conscious solutions, such as mandating age verification at the device, operating system, or app store level."

YouTube Credit: Google

YouTube was poised to get an exemption from the ban earlier this year, with owner Google arguing that it is "a video sharing platform, not a social media service, that offers benefit and value to younger Australians." This exemption was subsequently reversed in July, forcing YouTube to ban Australians under 16.

As a result, YouTube will automatically sign out all Australian users under 16 on Dec. 10, including supervised pre-teen and teen accounts. These users' YouTube channels will become inaccessible from this date, preventing them from uploading, commenting on, or monetising videos. Their channels will also no longer be visible to others. YouTube Kids will not be impacted by the ban.

Users can download their YouTube and Youtube Music data via Google Takeout, as well as permanently delete their channel if they so choose. If they don't delete it, Google will hold on to their data until they turn 16 and can re-enable their account, reinstating their uploads and comments.

Significantly, YouTube does allow users to view content without logging in. As such, the ban primarily impacts the ability for YouTube users to upload content, as well as access features such as likes, subscriptions, private playlists, and memberships.

"As the Social Media Minimum Age Act requires kids to use YouTube without an account, it removes the very parental controls and safety filters built to protect them — it will not make kids safer on our platform," said Google. "These are the unfortunate consequences of a rushed legislative process that failed to allow for adequate consultation and consideration of the real complexities of online safety regulation."

Twitch

Like YouTube, Twitch initially seemed as though it would get an exemption from Australia's social media ban. This changed late last month, when the Australian government added it to its banned social media list.

Twitch has not yet announced what steps it will be taking to specifically comply with Australia's new laws. However, the platform already does not allow users under the age of 13, and has minimum age requirements which vary by region. In addition to requesting users' birth dates when they create an account, Twitch enforces these age limits via on-device facial age estimation conducted by k-ID. 

As such, it seems likely that Twitch may request Australian users use such methods to verify their age when logging in, as well as when they sign up for a new account. Twitch streams are still available to watch without logging in, however viewers won't be able to access features such as chatting and subscribing.

Reddit

Though Reddit is reportedly gearing up to challenge Australia's social media ban in court, it will likely be a while before any potential action bears fruit. In the meantime, u/LastBlueJay from Reddit's Public Policy team has outlined how it is complying with Australia's ban in a post to subreddit r/RedditSafety. 

All Australians with Reddit accounts will be required to verify their age, both by supplying their birth date as well as via a third-party age verification service. Reddit states that this may involve supplying their government ID or taking a selfie. Accounts determined to belong to Australians under 16 will be suspended, though will have an opportunity to appeal and reattempt verification. (Reddit has always banned accounts for users under 13).

Interestingly, Reddit is also going one step further by implementing restrictions on users under 18 across the globe. These users will be served a version of Reddit with "more protective safety measures," including stricter chat settings, no access to mature content, and no ad personalisation.

While Reddit is complying with the ban, u/LastBlueJay stated that the platform "disagree[s] about the scope, effectiveness, and privacy implications of this law." Like both YouTube and Twitch, Reddit is still available for people to browse without being logged in, though users are not able to post, comment, or message others.

"We believe strongly in the open internet and the continued accessibility of quality knowledge, information, resources, and community building for everyone, including young people," they wrote in their post on Tuesday. "This is why Reddit has always been, and continues to be, available for anyone to read even if they don’t have an account. By limiting account eligibility and putting identity tests on internet usage, this law undermines everyone’s right to both free expression and privacy, as well as account-specific protections."

X

While the Australia-specific page of X's Help Centre doesn't explicitly mention the Dec. 10 ban, it does outline the microblogging platform's policy regarding young Australians.

Regardless of location, X requires users to be at least 13 years old to have an account. Restrictions are placed on accounts for users aged between 13 and 18 by default, including making their posts only visible to their followers, and requiring them to approve new followers. They can also only receive direct messages from accounts they follow.

To determine users' ages, X relies upon information such as their self-reported age, how long ago their account was created, and whether they have previously verified their identity via a third party. X uses both facial age estimation and government ID verification.

X doesn't appear to have issued any further guidance specifically addressing Australia's social media ban at time of writing. As such, it is currently unclear how it will respond to the ban, as its current measures do not appear to comply with its requirements.

"The X Rules enable minors to participate in the public conversation freely and safely, and minors should rely on the X Rules (and report to X) in order to protect themselves," reads X's Help Center page.

Kick

Australian livestreaming platform Kick has asked Australian users to verify their age via k-ID by the Dec. 10 deadline, stating that this is a mandatory requirement to continue using their service. Any accounts it determines are owned by those under 16 will be deactivated, though Kick states that users will have "clear review pathways" if they wish to appeal the decision.

"We believe in creating a safer online environment, and this change is driven by our duty of care to our users," said Kick, addressing the social media ban in a post on their website last month. "By implementing age assurance, we fulfill our legal obligations under the Online Safety Act 2021 to reduce the risk of harm to young Australians. This proactive step helps enhance the safety and well-being of our younger community members by limiting their exposure to specific online risks, such as cyberbullying, inappropriate content, and unwanted contact."

Which social media platforms are still available to Australians under 16?

Though many of the largest social media platforms will soon be off-limits to Australians under 16, not all of them are being banned. 

As previously mentioned, Meta's Messenger app will still be available, allowing kids to continue chatting to people they know. Meta's other instant messaging app WhatsApp is also exempt, as is gaming-focused voice chat app Discord.

Video game Roblox is explicitly permitted, as is the LEGO Play app and video game storefront Steam. Other platforms that won't be age-restricted are GitHub, Google Classroom, Pinterest, and YouTube Kids.

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

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

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

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable SEE ALSO: How to play Pips, the newest NYT game

Here are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Tuesday, Dec. 9, 2025:

AcrossApt profession for someone named Rosemary or Ginger

• The answer is Chef.

Get to go, as leftovers

• The answer is Box up.

Word that can precede Bowl or Glue

• The answer is Super.

Intense anger

• The answer is Rage.

"Cut that out!"

• The answer is Stop.

DownStephen Colbert's network

• The answer is CBS

Noted group of 24

• The answer is Hours.

One living abroad, informally

• The answer is Expat.

Spanish for "fire"

• The answer is Fuego.

Do some kitchen work

• The answer is Prep.

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

Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Mini Crossword.