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Mashable is a leading source for news, information & resources for the Connected Generation. Mashable reports on the importance of digital innovation and how it empowers and inspires people around the world. Mashable's 25 million monthly unique visitors and 10 million social media followers have become one of the most engaged online news communities. Founded in 2005, Mashable is headquartered in New York City with an office in San Francisco.
Updated: 49 min 2 sec ago

Dyson’s first stand-alone headphones look like a vacuum, but sound incredible

Thu, 08/29/2024 - 13:34
Mashable's Miller Kern spent a month testing Dyson's new Ontrac noise-canceling headphones to see if their quality stands out as much as their design.

Elon Musk's AI facility is reportedly operating gas turbines without a permit

Thu, 08/29/2024 - 12:52

Elon Musk's AI company has caught the attention of environmentalists in Memphis, Tennessee for reportedly operating gas turbines without a permit.

On Monday, environmentalist groups Memphis Community Against Pollution, Young, Gifted & Green, Sierra Club Chickasaw Group, and Sierra Club Tennessee Chapter sent a letter to the Shelby County Health Department calling for an investigation of the xAI data center, which powers the X chatbot Grok.

SEE ALSO: Elon Musk's Grok heeds misinformation concerns by sending users to Vote.gov The environmental cost of supercomputers like xAI

According to the letter, xAI has installed at least 18 gas combustion turbines, which "have the capacity to emit about 130 tons of the ozone-precursor nitrogen oxides (NOx) per year." The groups allege that the xAI data center, which may be contributing to Memphis' existing smog problem, "has not applied for any air permits for these turbines."

The vast amount of electricity and computing power required to run AI models is an emissions nightmare. According to a report from the International Energy Agency (IEA), electricity consumption of data centers is projected to double by 2026, which would roughly equate to the entire electricity consumption of Japan. And that's not counting the amount of water required to cool the servers and e-waste.

With supercomputers using up the same amount of energy as a small country, it's easy to see the global environmental impact, let alone the immediate vicinity of a data center like Memphis.

The letter, which says xAI's data centers violate Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) smog standards, calls for an investigation by the local county health department. Moreover, the letter requests that the data center cease operations until a permit is obtained.

Bring a little pleasure into your life with up to 70% off at Lovehoney

Thu, 08/29/2024 - 12:30

UP TO 70% OFF: As of August 29, save up to 70% off sex toys and select items at Lovehoney during its Labor Day Sale. Plus, get a free gift when you spend $79, and get free shipping when you spend $49.

Opens in a new window Credit: Lovehoney Lovehoney Labor Day Sale Up to 70% off select sex toys, plus a free gift with order of $79 Get Deal

Labor Day Weekend is almost here. If you plan on celebrating the long weekend by taking some time for yourself (and perhaps a lover), you might want to stock up on some goodies from Lovehoney. This beacon in the sexual wellness sphere has a great deal on sex toys and other goodies, and you can save a significant amount of cash by shopping there for all your pleasure-related needs.

As of August 29, get up to 70% off select sex toys and other products during the Lovehoney Labor Day Sale. Plus, get free shipping when you spend $49, and a free gift when you spend $79 or more. No promo code is required, as your discounts will be automatically applied at checkout.

SEE ALSO: All of the best sex toy deals we could find this week

Choose from a wide variety of different toys, like the Lovehoney Heat Wave Warming Rechargeable G-Spot Rabbit Vibrator, the Magic Bullet Vibrator, prostate massagers, and much more. You'll find toys on sale for every preference and gender to add to your cart. If you've got something you've been eyeing at Lovehoney for a while, chances are it's on sale.

Pop everything in your cart and prepare to spice up your sex life. Just do it quickly, as it's likely this sale will end soon.

Amazon deal of the day: The iPad mini 6 is back down to its Prime Day price of $379.99

Thu, 08/29/2024 - 11:57
Check out the best Amazon deals of the day as of Aug. 29: OUR TOP PICK Apple iPad Mini 6 (64GB, WiFi) $379.99 at Amazon (save $119.01) Get Deal BEST SOUNDBAR DEAL Sonos Beam Gen 2 soundbar $399 at Amazon (save $100) Get Deal BEST TV DEAL Amazon 40-inch 2-Series Fire TV $159.99 at Amazon (save $90 with Prime-exclusive code 40PRIME) Get Deal BEST PHONE DEAL Samsung Galaxy S24+ (256GB, Unlocked) $799 at Amazon (save $200.99) Get Deal

With Labor Day weekend coming in hot, we're seeing some pretty sweet deals at Amazon. We've rounded up the best deals we could find at the mega retailer on Aug. 29, including record-low prices on gadgets from Apple, Samsung, and Sonos.

Here are our top picks for the best Amazon deals of the day. If none of these speak to you, be sure to check back at our deal picks from Aug. 27 and Aug. 28. Many of those are still live — including 20% off a NordicTrack treadmill and $100 off a fancy Garmin running smartwatch.

Our top pick Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPad Mini 6 (64GB, WiFi) $379.99 at Amazon
$499.00 Save $119.01 Get Deal

As of Aug. 29, Apple's sixth generation iPad Mini is back down to its record-low Prime Day price of $379.99 — a savings of 24%. It comes as no surprise that we're seeing the price on the 2021 device drop with the rumored iPad mini 7 expected to launch soon. When it debuted, Mashable's Stan Schroeder called it "the best iPad if you want a small iPad" and "a better deal than the iPad Air," crediting the sleek new design, camera upgrade, speed, stereo speakers, and practical Touch ID. While it could certainly use a chip upgrade, it's still an excellent device in 2024 — especially at this price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Sonos Sonos Beam Gen 2 soundbar $399.00 at Amazon
$499.00 Save $100.00 Get Deal

The second-generation Sonos Beam soundbar improves upon the already fantastic design of its first iteration, which Mashable tech reporter Raymond Wong said "hits the sweet spot on price, design, sound quality, and features." Upgrades include a new grill, better processor, and Dolby Atmos compatibility on top of is already excellent audio quality and convenient voice assistant support. It's our favorite soundbar to pair with your TV, although it's important to note that it does not support Bluetooth and is a little more limited for Android users. As of Aug. 29, the Beam Gen 2 is on sale for just $399 at Amazon — that's 20% in savings and matches its all-time low.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon 40-inch 2-Series Fire TV $159.99 at Amazon
$249.99 Save $90.00 with Prime-exclusive code 40PRIME Get Deal

While it's not the fanciest TV on the market by any means, Amazon's 2-Series Fire TV is a great choice for those seeking a no-frills smart TV on a tight budget. As of Aug. 29, the 40-inch version is down to just $159.99 for Prime members when you use the code 40PRIME at checkout. That's a savings of $90 and just $10 away from its lowest price on record. It doesn't support 4K resolution (check out the 4-Series or Omni Series for that feature), but it does offer all the smart capabilities from the Fire TV experience, hands-free control via on-board Alexa, and support for HDR 10, HLG, and Dolby Digital Audio.

Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung Galaxy S24+ (256GB, Unlocked) $799.00 at Amazon
$999.99 Save $200.99 Get Deal

Announced at the Galaxy Unpacked event back in January, the Samsung Galaxy S24+ is the mid-range model in the S24 lineup. It features subtle improvements over the S23 series specs, including a newer Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, a brighter screen, and thinner bezels, plus support for a new suite of Galaxy AI features. The S24+, in particular, offers more screen real estate than the S24 with higher-resolution, as well as a beefier 4,900mAh battery. Regularly $999.99, an unlocked S24+ with 256GB of storage is down to just $799 as of Aug. 29 — that's its lowest price to date.

None of these deals catching your eye? Check out Amazon's daily deals for even more savings.

PS5 Pro: It looks like a sketch of the design just leaked

Thu, 08/29/2024 - 11:54

After a few quiet months, rumors about Sony's alleged upcoming "PS5 Pro" console are flooding the internet again. This time, we may have gotten a glimpse at what the console looks like.

Leaker billbil-kun, writing for the French website Dealabs, claims to have seen the final packaging for the not-yet-released console.

PS5 Pro design

According to the leaker, the PS5 Pro is slightly thicker than the current model, but otherwise retains the same basic size and shape.

Tweet may have been deleted

The biggest visual difference lies in three black stripes that run horizontally along the device's white exterior.

SEE ALSO: PS5 Pro: There are new whispers that the release date is fast approaching

Aside from some stripes, it doesn't seem much has changed visually. It's still white, and sports two USB-C ports and a power button on the front. The bulk of the changes will probably happen inside, where the console is expected to be more powerful than the PS5 – but not powerful enough to be a full-on PlayStation 6.

It wasn't clear when or even if a PS5 Pro would come out after Sony's summer gaming showcase came and went without an announcement, but new rumors are pointing to perhaps a September announcement. The PS4 Pro was announced in September of 2016 and released in November of that year, so maybe Sony will adhere to that schedule again.

Stay connected off-grid with the Starlink Standard Kit AX for 40% off

Thu, 08/29/2024 - 11:35

SAVE $200: The Starlink Standard Kit AX Tri Band WiFi System is on sale at Best Buy for $299.99, down from the usual price of $499.99. That's a 40% discount.

Opens in a new window Credit: Starlink Starlink Standard Kit AX Tri Band Wi-Fi System $299.99 at Best Buy
$499.99 Save $200.00 Get Deal

After remote work became a lot more common in 2020, some of us have gone fully off-grid. A secluded cabin in the wilderness, a fully-outfitted van, or a sailboat cruising an archipelago are all places some of us call home, but staying connected for work can pose a challenge. Starlink offers a solution, connecting you to satellite internet from secluded areas that aren't typically in coverage zones. Thanks to today's deal at Best Buy, the associate kit to get you set up with Starlink connectivity is much more affordable.

As of Aug. 29, the Starlink Standard Kit AX Tri Band WiFi System is on sale at Best Buy for just $299.99, discounted from the usual price of $499.99. That means you'll be saving $200 and scoring a 40% discount. But keep in mind you'll need to sign up for a Starlink service plan to get coverage, which starts at $50 per month.

SEE ALSO: The best VPN in August 2024

Starlink aims to deliver high-speed internet to rural or remote locations that usually don't see a signal to stay connected. Through a network that includes thousands of satellites, Starlink gives broadband internet access that's strong enough to stream shows, join your Zoom meetings, stay in touch with emails, or even spend the weekend online gaming.

To get access to this network, you'll need to set up a WiFi satellite dish at home — or on your van, or boat — which is where the Starlink Standard Kit AX Tri Band WiFi System comes into play. This kit includes all necessary elements to get started with Starlink, including the satellite, WiFi router, cables, and a convenient base.

The Standard Kit supports WiFi 6 so you'll be able to get faster speeds while connecting to either 2.4GHz or 5.0 frequencies.

Since the included Starlink satellite sits outside, it's made with weather-resistant materials that can withstand the coldest of cold and hottest of hot temperatures. But keep in mind you should set up the satellite in an area that has a clear view of the sky, making it possible to connect to Starlink's network.

You can also download the Starlink app to get more information about the best set-up location before you install.

If you're hoping to stay connected while off grid, Starlink is a great option, and you can currently save $200 on the Starlink Standard Kit AX Tri Band WiFi System that'll keep you connected. Your family, friends, and work will be thrilled to have you online.

Learn something new from the experts with 50% off your first year of MasterClass

Thu, 08/29/2024 - 11:03

50% OFF: As of August 29, get 50% off your a year-long MasterClass subscription. That's $5 off monthly and a yearly fee of $60.

Opens in a new window Credit: MasterClass MasterClass subscription $60.00 at MasterClass
$120.00 Save $60.00 Get Deal

If you're looking to spend some time honing a new craft, there's no better place to learn than MasterClass. There, you can pick up new skills from the pros in each field you could be interested in, like singing from Christina Aguilera or comedy from Steve Martin. Right now, you can grab a year subscription for 50% off its normal price.

As of August 29, you can get a year-long MasterClass subscription for 50% off. That means you can spend just $60 instead of the $120 it would normally run you. The deal is available from now through September 2, so you'll have to act quickly if you want to pick it up.

MasterClass has over 180 classes throughout 11 different categories. There are also plenty of new options added on a rolling basis. You can learn writing from legendary Goosebumps author R.L. Stine, cooking from Gordon Ramsay, or even screenwriting from Aaron Sorkin. Whatever you're into, there's a celebrity expert to learn from. You can also participate in course discussions, read up on offline learning materials, and take part in Q&A discussions.

With the holidays coming up, this could make a great gift. Snag one for you, a friend or family member, or a group and see if you can't learn a few things together.

Blair Underwood reveals the piece of advice from Sidney Poitier that helped shape his career

Thu, 08/29/2024 - 09:27
Key advice from one acting legend to another as Blair Underwood recounts the key piece of advice he received from the great Sydney Poitier.

'The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power' Season 2: Who is the Dark Wizard?

Thu, 08/29/2024 - 09:00

Just when The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power reveals the identity of one mysterious wizard, it brings in a new mysterious mage for us to puzzle over.

Season 1 introduced us to the Stranger (Daniel Weyman), a powerful figure with no recollection of who he is. Based on a key quote in the Season 1 finale and a new hint in Season 2, episode 2, it's fairly clear to the audience that the Stranger is Gandalf the Grey. But he has no way of knowing that! So it's off to the Eastern land of Rhûn for the Stranger, where he hopes to find answers about who he is and what role he has to play in the battle to come against Sauron (Charlie Vickers).

SEE ALSO: 'The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power' Season 2 review: Darkness looks good on Middle-earth

But before the Stranger can worry about the Dark Lord, he'll have to deal with another villainous entity: a Dark Wizard (Ciarán Hinds) who's set up shop in Rhûn. In Season 2, episode 2, we learn that it was this Dark Wizard who was responsible for sending the white-cloaked Mystics after the Stranger in Season 1. He also seems to be a fan of both moth magic and blood magic, but otherwise, we don't know much about the Dark Wizard — not even his real name! Just like with the Stranger's identity in Season 1, though, we can definitely make some educated guesses as to who from J.R.R. Tolkien's legendarium the Dark Wizard might be.

The biggest clue here is the "wizard" of it all, which suggests that the Dark Wizard is an Istar like the Stranger. Appropriately meaning "Wise One" or "Wizard," the Istari are a group of five powerful spirits known as Maiar whom the Valar sent to protect Middle-earth.

Three of the Istari feature fairly prominently in Tolkien's work: Gandalf the Grey, Saruman the White, and Radagast the Brown. However, The Rings of Power's Dark Wizard really can't be any of these three. The show has indirectly confirmed time and again that the Stranger is Gandalf, so that's him ruled out. Saruman does eventually fall to the darkness in The Lord of the Rings trilogy, but his turn occurring in the Second Age, when The Rings of Power takes place, would be far too soon. Finally, nature-loving Radagast is probably too busy hanging out with the animals of Middle-earth to even bother raising a cult of moth-wielding Mystics.

So that leaves us with the last two Istari, and the ones Tolkien tells us the least about: the Blue Wizards, otherwise known as Ithryn Luin, named for the color of the robes they wore upon arrival to Middle-earth.

SEE ALSO: Did you catch this hint at the Stranger's real name in 'The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power' Season 2? Who are the Blue Wizards in Tolkien's work?

The Blue Wizards are a big question mark in Tolkien's legendarium, perhaps even to Tolkien himself. In one of his 1958 letters, he wrote, "I really do not know anything clearly about the other two [Istari]." In the Unfinished Tales, there are mentions of them being named Alatar and Pallando. In later works, though, he referred to them as Morinehtar and Rómestámo.

These later writings clarify a bit of what Tolkien believed to be the purpose of the Blue Wizards, which was to curb Sauron's rise in the East. And you know what's in the East? Rhûn, right where the Dark Wizard is hanging out. Based on that alone, it's pretty likely that the Dark Wizard is one of the Ithryn Luin.

There's even more evidence for that theory, though. In the same letter where Tolkien said he didn't know too much about the Blue Wizards, he theorized that they were "emissaries to distant regions" who "failed, as Saruman did" and fell to darkness. From there, Tolkien "suspect[ed] they were founders or beginners of secret cults and 'magic' traditions that outlasted the fall of Sauron." And I don't know about you, but the Mystics and their moth magic feel very much like a secret cult to me.

Of course, there's the the small problem that the Dark Wizard's robes and surroundings are devoid of anything blue, which doesn't exactly scream Blue Wizard. But perhaps he simply rejected the color associated with his original mission to Middle-earth when he turned evil, ditching the blue for his current look. After all, if Sauron's shift from Halbrand to Annatar taught us anything, it's that Middle-earth villains love a makeover.

The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power Season 2 is now streaming on Prime Video, with a new episode every Thursday.

Did you catch this hint at the Stranger's real name in 'The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power' Season 2?

Thu, 08/29/2024 - 09:00

By the end of its first season, The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power all but confirmed that the mysterious Stranger (Daniel Weyman) was none other than Gandalf himself. If his magic powers, gray clothing, and affection for the Hobbit-like Harfoots weren't indicators enough, him directly quoting Ian McKellen's Gandalf in the finale — saying "if in doubt, always follow your nose" — sealed the deal.

However, as The Rings of Power Season 2 kicks off, the Stranger still has no clue who he is. That's why he, Nori Brandyfoot (Markella Kavenagh), and Poppy Proudfellow (Megan Richards) are following a star map to the Eastern land of Rhûn. Maybe there, they can find answers about who the Stranger is, including, crucially, his name.

SEE ALSO: 'The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power' Season 2 review: Darkness looks good on Middle-earth

In episode 2, Nori does her best to workshop some possible names for the Stranger. Suggestions include Doderic, Andwise, and Fredegar. While the Stranger isn't feeling any of those, the names are fun nods to Hobbits briefly mentioned in J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings: Doderic Brandybuck is a relative of Merry, Andwise Roper is Sam's uncle, and Fredegar Bolger (aka "Fatty" Bolger) is a good friend of Frodo's, and later Merry's brother-in-law.

However, Nori says something else in episode 2 that's a clearer hint at the Stranger's name — even if she doesn't realize it at the time. As Poppy wonders why the Stranger can't just magically create food and water for them, Nori reminds her that he needs a stick or staff of some kind to harness his power, saying "he's afraid he'd lose control again without a gand."

SEE ALSO: 'The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power' Season 2: Who is the Dark Wizard?

Now hold on just a minute! A "gand"? As in "Gand"alf? That's it, we've cracked the code!

But "gand" — from the Old Norse "gandr," meaning "staff," "wand," or even "magic" — is so much more than just a word that sounds similar to Gandalf. It's a key part of the etymology of Gandalf's name, and it could be a clue as to what the Stranger's quest in Rhûn will entail.

Why is a "gand" so important in The Rings of Power? Daniel Weyman in "The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power." Credit: Ben Rothstein / Prime Video

Tolkien didn't come up with the name Gandalf on his own. Instead, he tweaked a name from a section of the Norse poem Völuspá titled the "Catalogue of Dwarves." (This is also where most of the dwarves' names from The Hobbit came from.) Name-wise, the inspiration for Gandalf was a dwarf named Gandálfr, which combines "gandr" and "álfr," meaning elf. Basically, "Gandálfr" means "elf with a wand."

Being the language lover that he was, Tolkien preserved that meaning in his own works. He wrote in his Unfinished Tales that the name Gandalf means "Elf of the Wand," in reference to both Gandalf's staff and Men's misconception that he was an Elf. (Notably, "Gandalf" is just the name Men came to know the wizard by. He has other names, including Olórin, his name in Valinor, and Mithrandir, the name given to him by the Elves.)

By mentioning the Stranger's need for a gand in episode 2, The Rings of Power positions the search for a staff as a key part of his quest moving forward. Add to that his episode 1 dream of a shapeshifting staff calling to him, and we're officially on staff watch.

So where is Gandalf going to find a staff in Rhûn? Could he fashion one from those gnarled trees all around the desert? Might he receive one as a gift? And perhaps most pressingly, will he understand how a gand relates to his name as soon as he takes up his staff? Or, like in Tolkien's work, will he earn that name from Men he encounters on his journeys?

The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power Season 2 is now streaming on Prime Video, with a new episode every Thursday.

Apple Intelligence is now a little easier to get outside the U.S.

Thu, 08/29/2024 - 08:37

Apple Intelligence is a little easier to try out if you're not in the U.S. Unfortunately, users in the European Union and China are still fully excluded.

As noticed by 9to5Mac, the latest developer beta of iOS (iOS 18.1 Beta 3) no longer requires the user to set the device region to the U.S. The only thing that is required is for the user to set device language and Siri language to the U.S. English language.

This does not mean that AI features are available in languages other than U.S. English; they're not. It's just a little easier for users outside of the U.S. to test the new features out, without having to set device region to the U.S. and thus change their clock, calendar, and other settings.

Apple's own release notes for iOS 18.1 Beta 3 reflect this. "To try the Apple Intelligence beta, join the waitlist in Settings and you will be notified as soon as it is ready for your device. Both device language and Siri language must be set to U.S. English," the notes say.

NOPE. Credit: Stan Schroeder/Mashable

Being in Europe, I was excited about this change. Unfortunately, the release notes also state that "Apple Intelligence is not currently available in the EU or China." I've upgraded to the latest developer beta and tested this out; sure enough, Apple Intelligence is still unavailable to me.

This is hardly surprising given Europe's recently introduced rules for artificial intelligence, which prompted Apple to delay AI features in the EU.

SEE ALSO: Apple's iPhone 17 will come with a huge RAM upgrade, report claims

There is a way to override this and test Apple Intelligence features in Europe, but it requires the user to set the device region to U.S. (in addition to the settings mentioned above). The real dealbreaker is that you also must set your Apple ID country to the U.S., and to do that, you need to go through a number of (typically painfully annoying) steps which include canceling subscriptions that block a country/region change and wait for subscriptions to expire, and re-download all your apps, music, movies, and TV shows. And even if you do all that, it still might not work unless you use a VPN (and even then you could get mixed results). In other words, for the vast majority of users, it's not worth trying.

I went to an offline 'Draw and Date' event for singles. Here's how it went.

Thu, 08/29/2024 - 07:30

It's a Wednesday night in south-east London and dozens of intrepid young single people are sitting cross legged on the floor and looking up at a disrobed life model.

"Am I doing feet again?" I ask, already knowing the answer.

"Who's drawing the boobs?"

"Is that where her bum is going?"

We've just arrived at Dulwich Art Group's "Draw and Date" event for single people in their mid-20s to mid-30s, and we're breaking the ice with a group "fast poses" activity. In random groups, we're combining our efforts to produce a life-size charcoal drawing of the life model in front of us. A few people are drawing the model's upper body, while some sketch out her torso, and I attempt to draw a knee, shin, and foot. I have zero life drawing experience and, well, it shows. But, I'm also not alone in that. There are many beginners here, all of us muddling along and trying our best, with mixed results. A metaphor for modern dating, you might say.

This event is part of a wave of offline dating events that are popping up in response to dating app fatigue, which is currently plaguing online dating culture right now. A recent report found that 79 percent of Gen Z daters experienced dating app burnout. There's a number of issues afoot in dating right now, principal among the complaints is the lack of conversation going on in people's inboxes. Many report amassing matches like collectors' items (albeit ones you can quickly dispose of), but when it comes to interacting with them, that's where we run into trouble. Tumbleweed in the chat. And so, we continue the vicious (and boring!) cycle of swiping, spending enough time for it to feel like the least rewarding side hustle imaginable.

As a long-time singleton who's been on just about every dating app known to humankind, I'm no stranger to feeling like I want to throw my phone in the sea. So, why not try something new? Shake things up a little? Enter the chat: IRL events for singles.

SEE ALSO: I got stood up. I refuse to let dating app culture break my spirit.

Back in the bustling studio, we're appraising the fruits of our labour. And, the finished product is...interesting, to say the least. Together, we've sketched a (very) creative interpretation of the human body. Who said art needed to be realistic, anyway? Glancing over at the handiwork of the group next to us is humbling. Their drawing is objectively great, each body part looking consistent and life-like. There's no time to dwell on our artistic shortcomings, however. We're ushered outside to get some fresh air while the organisers set up easels for the next activity.

Our drawing. Credit: Rachel Thompson / Mashable The superior drawing by the group next to us. Credit: Rachel Thompson / Mashable

It's a balmy evening — 28 degrees celsius (82.4F) — and everyone is looking decidedly sweaty and a tad nervous. But, we're doing what we came here to do: chat to interesting strangers. Mercifully, any shyness was overcome in that group activity and we're all getting stuck in. "So, how did you find out about this event?" appears to be everyone's favourite opening line. The consensus is: Instagram. We move on to asking people where they live and there's a decent mix of people who live near and far.

As a millennial in my mid-thirties, I came of age before Tinder blew up, before dating apps. Offline dating events are having a moment right now amid the dating app fatigue, but let's not forget, it wasn't all that long ago when offline dating was just...dating. If there's a meme response for this last statement, it'd be: "Sure grandma let's get you to bed."

Our next activity at Draw and Date is about to begin, and each woman has been asked to grab and easel, which is equipped with paper and charcoal. Much like a speed-dating event, the men will rotate through the room easel-by-easel, lending their artistic talents (or lack thereof) until the bell rings and it's time to move on. This way, you get a chance to meet everyone and chat to anyone you might have had your eye on. They're a friendly bunch and the conversation is flowing.

Credit: Rachel Thompson / Mashable

During this rotation, I meet two gay guys who feel a little outnumbered by the straight folks in the room. The signup sheet didn't ask about sexual orientation for their inaugural event, but in the future, it would be great to have an event aimed solely at gay and bi men, and another for lesbians and bi women.

Collaboration takes many forms in this activity — some of my group partners stand and talk while I attempt to capture the model's contorted pose. There are a few attempts by the men to "correct" my work and one even rubs out the face I've drawn, replacing it with his own scribbles. One man critiques the curve I've bestowed on the model's bum in my drawing, suggesting I've given her too much ass. "In an ideal world, yes, the line would come out here, but it doesn't," he says, before redrawing the line. I'll let that anecdote percolate with you. Thank goodness for the bell, eh.

The final activity requires being paired up with someone you've not spoken to yet and, together, you draw one half of the model's front-facing body. We get two attempts with two different poses. My partner and I work well together, he compliments my technique, and I feel like my drawing style has loosened up over the course of the class. The finished results are...pretty good actually. I'm not as terrible as I thought I was!

At the end of the two-hour event, the organisers thank us and instruct us to head to the pub next door, should we wish to chat to anyone further, or even swap details. I spy one pairing exchanging numbers (cute!). A few people linger, waiting to see who's heading out to continue the evening.

It was fun to flirt with lots of strangers, but I didn't feel a connection with anyone in particular. I did, however, make a new friend, which is always lovely. What I appreciated about the event was the hopefulness that everyone seemed to have. We all stepped outside of our comfort zone not knowing what to expect, feeling a little exposed, a little vulnerable. It's a brave thing to have hope and to put yourself out there, physically as well as digitally. So, when I stopped by the pub on my route home for a solo G&T, I commended myself for my bravery. Maybe I'll go along again, perhaps I'll take up life drawing lessons. I had a fun evening and chatted a lot of lovely people while doing something artistic. It certainly beats a night of swiping on my sofa.

Netflix's 'The Shadow Strays' teases a young assassin trying to rescue a child

Thu, 08/29/2024 - 06:24
Netflix has dropped its teaser for Timo Tjahjanto's "The Shadow Strays".

Apple's iPhone 17 will come with a huge RAM upgrade, report claims

Thu, 08/29/2024 - 05:53

Apple's iPhone 16 is due to launch in two weeks, but we're already seeing rumors about its successor, the iPhone 17.

On Wednesday, a Chinese leaker said that the iPhone 17 will be a huge upgrade compared to iPhone 16 when it comes to RAM. Apple's iPhone 16 models will come with 8GB of RAM, he said, but iPhone 17 will have 12GB of RAM, which will apparently make it more capable to handle advanced AI applications.

SEE ALSO: What to expect from Apple's September event: iPhone 16, Apple Watch 10, and more

Then, Apple sleuth Ming-Chi Kuo chimed in in a tweet. According to Kuo only the iPhone 17 Pro Max will come with 12GB RAM, with the other models still limited to 8GB RAM.

Tweet may have been deleted

"Enhanced on-device AI capabilities will likely be a major selling point for the iPhone 17 Pro Max," he wrote.

Kuo also said that the iPhone 17 Pro Max will have an "upgraded cooling system combining vapor chamber (VC) technology and graphite sheets," while the other new iPhones launched in 2025 will use graphite sheets alone for thermal management.

There's a lot of assumptions here: We don't even know how much RAM the iPhone 16 will have, as this device hasn't come out. We do know, however, that the iPhone 15 models come with 6GB of RAM, while both the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max have 8GB of RAM.

Artificial intelligence (or Apple Intelligence, as Apple calls it) can be resource hungry, so it makes sense for Apple to beef up RAM for next year's models.

This is not the first rumor we've heard about Apple's iPhone 17. Previous reports said that Apple is working on a "slim" iPhone 17 variant; we've also heard that the iPhone 17 will have an upgraded, 24-megapixel selfie camera, and that the rear camera will be relocated to the top center of the phone's back.

It's fun to speculate about next year's iPhone, but for now we're far more interested in this year's iPhone 16. Apple is scheduled to launch new iPhones, along with new Watches and perhaps a few other devices, on Sept. 9.

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

Thu, 08/29/2024 - 05:05

If you're a scholar of Greek mythology, froth over The Iliad, The Odyssey, and Metamorphoses, couldn't put Hades or Assassin's Creed: Odyssey down, or love movies and TV shows like Blood of Zeus, Xena: Warrior Princess, and Disney's Hercules, you'll be able to watch Netflix's Kaos with little confusion. If you're not up on the major deities of the Greek pantheon or heroes like Odysseus, Perseus, and Theseus (a lot of 'euses'), the series might have you scrambling to Google who's who.

But luckily, narrator Prometheus is there to guide you through Kaos. He's just having his liver pecked out by an eagle as he does.

SEE ALSO: 7 ancient Greeks who might be your friend in 'Assassin's Creed: Odyssey'

From The End of the F***ing World writer Charlie Covell, with directors Georgi Banks-Davies and Runyararo Mapfumo, Kaos is a deadpan, dark, soapy take on Greek myths, staying mildly true to their stories and taking liberties where it works — often to make political statements, and sometimes just because it's fun. With a sprawling, talented, mostly British cast (some of whom are deeply underused; hello, Billie Piper), arresting production design, and enough IYKYK ancient asides to sink a galley, Kaos is a nerdy, modern foray into legend, with a tempestuous, sybaritic, divine family at its core.

What is Kaos about? Janet McTeer as Hera and Jeff Goldblum as Zeus in "Kaos." Credit: Justin Downing / Netflix

In modern Krete, gods meddle with human lives like egomaniacal kids in a worldwide candy store, gathering to watch the mortals' tribulations on TV over family dinner. Televised human sacrifices are given on the regular to appease Olympian braggadocio and king of the gods Zeus (Jeff Goldblum). Human political leaders like President — not King, but pretty much — Minos (Stanley Townsend) pander to the whims of pescatarian playboy Poseidon (Cliff Curtis). Women voluntarily slice off their tongues to become loyal earthly followers of power player and divine queen Hera (Janet McTeer). Among it all, Dionysus (Nabhaan Rizwan) drowns his daddy issues in excess.

Nabhaan Rizwan as Dionysus. Credit: Justin Downing / Netflix

But not everyone's happy with the gods, and dissent simmers throughout the streets. Worried about a pesky little prophecy predicting his downfall, and refusing to tolerate blasphemy without consequence, Zeus decides to zap his human underlings with a little divine punishment.

Crucially, there are three humans essential to Zeus' prophesied downfall: There's Ariadne or "Ari" (Leila Farzad), dutiful daughter of Minos, who's crushing on her security guard Theseus (Daniel Lawrence Taylor) and hoping to peacefully sort out Kretians sharing their city with persecuted Trojan War refugees; there's Eurydice or "Riddy" (Aurora Perrineau), doomed muse of Chris Martin-like pop musician Orpheus (Killian Scott); and there's Caenaeus (Misia Butler), a trans man who had to leave the Amazons, was murdered, then ended up working in the Underworld.

Leila Farzad as Ariadne or "Ari." Credit: Justin Downing / Netflix

Covell's observational wit and clear love for the Greek myths comes through his ill-fated narrator, Prometheus (Stephen Dillane), who, hanging from a cliff face, gives Guy Ritchie-style commentary about the events — all while his liver is pecked out daily by an eagle. Constant shots back to Prometheus breaking the fourth wall do get a little tiresome, but they're crucial to keeping the audience aware of the importance of seemingly banal moments. 

Kaos plays with figures of Greek myths like toys in a sandbox Debi Mazar as Medusa? Yes, yes, yes. Credit: Justin Downing / Netflix

The Greek pantheon is already a heaving soap opera of adulterous, murderous, power-hungry narcissists, so Covell has plenty to work with fitting them into a modern TV series. Kaos plays on recent shows like Succession and The Fall of the House of Usher centred around tyrannical, powerful families, with Covell attempting to bring a little Roy family venom to the Olympian dinner table. The gods were the originals, after all.

Covell wields the major players of Greek mythology as if playing in a sandbox, slightly tweaking well-worn detail for a contemporary-feeling narrative that avoids going full caricature. The series plucks these legendary figures from their reverent pedestals on ancient amphorae and gold-framed masterpieces, plunging them into human bodies in 2024. The show's depiction of such well-known names as Zeus, Hera, and Poseidon wandering through our world feels very Terry Gilliam and more adult than Percy Jackson and the Olympians.

Cliff Curtis as Poseidon. Credit: Justin Downing / Netflix

Covell's modern updates often feel like theatrical jests. For one, the entrance to Hades lies in a skip bin at the back of a desert dive bar called The Cave, the crumbling haunt of The Fates (Suzy Eddie Izzard, Sam Buttery, and Ché) owned by Poly (Joe McGann), an eye-patched version of the cyclops Polyphemus. The Underworld itself isn't a writhing seven circles of Hell as we thought; instead, it's a boring, bland pit of bureaucracy and middle management, where a disinterested Medusa (Debi Mazar) trains newcomers. Charon's (Ramon Tikaram) legendary Styx ferry is a crappy fishing boat. The mighty three-headed Cerberus, guardian dog of the underworld, is shrunk down to the cutest platoon of three-headed sniffer dogs you'll ever see. They're all clever, thoughtful interpretations of famous figures, brought to life by a talented cast that commits.

Move over, Zeus: The supporting characters of Kaos are the real gods The Fates themselves! Sam Buttery, Suzy Eddie Izzard, and Ché. Credit: Justin Downing / Netflix

The big drawcard and marketing emphasis for Kaos is Jeff Goldblum as king of the gods Zeus, with the promise of the gregarious actor dabbling in various lightning-bolt knee-jerk reactions and narcissistic bad management. And Goldlbum does deliver, playing both the frivolous party god and the brutish, thunderous bully. But the monarch of Olympus is arguably outshone by the other members of the pantheon and the show's human heroes. 

Curtis pretty much steals every scene he's in as the bored, indulgent Poseidon, lounging about on his superyacht The Trident and providing the infusion of humor this show needs — a talent Mazar shares as the deadpan Medusa. David Thewlis is perfectly cast as Hades, a tie-wearing bureaucrat who'd probably bore you to death before anything, and Rakie Ayola gives Persephone an amiable practicality lacking in the other gods. McTeer's Hera, a steely queen giving Claire Underwood energy, gets the lion's share of the characteristically bonkers Greek god activities: shapeshifting into Zeus for a human sexual tryst then turning his lovers into bees, slicing off the tongues of her followers and using them as macabre listening devices. The usual.

Although he's given ample screen time and brings credulous, romantic sweetness to the god, Rizwan feels relatively safe as Dionysus, the PG god of wine, madness, ecstasy, and hedonism. A fine True Blood purveyor of Bacchanalian excess, this Dionysus is not.

Billie Piper is in "Kaos" for a second as Cassandra. More please! Credit: Justin Downing / Netflix

On Earth, the supremely talented Billie Piper is criminally underused as Cassandra, making an impact despite her small role as the prophet who'd never be believed. Farzad and Perrineau are compelling and earnest as Ariadne and Riddy, two smart, strong women who are simultaneously put on a pedestal and undermined by the men in their lives, and who are determined to reclaim their agency. Butler is an understated treat as Caenaeus, making romantic even a place as morose as the Underworld. And though Scott brings the right lovelorn theatricality to Orpheus, the show crushed his characterisation for me with one overwhelmingly cheesy song performed at a concert right from the start. This man's musical talents need to be able to pull his wife out of Hell. That "Eurydice" song is not it.

The trustiest supporting stars of the series are those who dwell in The Cave, with Izzard and her fellow Fates making me want to join whatever band they're forming. Similarly, the justice-delivering Furies (Cathy Tyson, Natalie Klamar, and Donna Banya) bring a consistent, swaggering Western vibe to the series.

For me, a mythology nerd, the series slightly suffers from its extremely limited pantheon, with Dionysus the only one of the "kids" to show up to Zeus and Hera's family barbecues. It's possible Covell is keeping the rest of the gods and goddesses for next season, but Olympus feels empty without a trace of Demeter, Aphrodite, Athena, Artemis, Apollo, Ares, Hephaestus, and Hermes — all rife for comedic characterisation of their own. 

Kaos leans little on CGI, instead making every last physical detail count David Thewlis and Rakie Ayola as Hades and Persephone. Credit: Justin Downing / Netflix

Greek myths are often difficult to depict, challenging ancient amphorae painters and Renaissance artists alike. But Kaos leans away from too much CGI (though there is a little; three-headed dogs don't just draw themselves) and toward opulent, theatre-like production design from Dick Lunn for the various environments. Covell developed Kaos from a short play called The Company Project, so that tracks. Eurydice's pain at not being able to submerge in the River Lethe is beautifully done, with Perrineau seemingly walking on water through hidden, old-school production tricks. If you label a simple door as "Earth" and want your audience to believe it's a portal, it takes a lot of work around that option to make it make sense — and Kaos makes it happen.

By no means is set decoration and design in Kaos an afterthought, with meticulously detailed and tongue-in-cheek Easter eggs hidden through every scene. Costuming by Rebecca Hale and hair and makeup by Vickie Lang is sleek and subtle, with lightning-bolt trimming for Zeus' leisure suit and Medusa's snake hair kept at bay with a headscarf. The set design and decoration includes miniscule references to people and places of Greek myth — a Tyndareus Gasoline petrol station; cereal aisle full of Gaea's Granola, Achilles' Heels, and Spartan Crunch; stores selling toy versions of Poseidon's trident and Zeus' lightning bolt; and sports teams named for beings like the Satyrs. There's ample amount of foreshadowing of characters' fates in fly-by references, like Eurydice buying Underworld fave the pomegranate at the supermarket.

Set-wise, Kaos is a sumptuous feast on one hand, an intentionally soulless pit on the other. Mount Olympus is a palatial, verdant complex with elegant fountains, gilded baroque dining sets, casual peacocks, and gluttonous feasts on the lush lawn. In the Underworld, Kaos joins Loki, Good Omens, and The Umbrella Academy in the insistent trend toward fantasy realms as mid-century modernist, with all-powerful deities inexplicably using chunky telephones and outdated technology to communicate with each other. Much of the action takes place in the Underworld, where Kaos relies on a black and white filter to represent the lifeless realm; it works from a budget perspective while lending an easy elegance.

Misia Butler as Caenaeus with a liiiiitttlle Cerrrrrberuuuuus eeeeee. Credit: Justin Downing / Netflix

The future for Kaos is left on a cliffhanger, teasing a second season and leaving a fair few storylines unaddressed at the close. Narrative-wise, the story seems to be leading to more of its titular chaos, so we can probably expect more Greek mythology-level bonkers pandemonium in Season 2. As for the first season, lovers of Greek myth will inevitably spend the eight episodes smugly pointing out references, while newcomers might feel slightly adrift as to who's who. But it's an entertaining, soapy, surreal series that plays well with the gods, wrath be damned.

How to watch: Kaos is now streaming on Netflix.

I used the Pixel 9 Pro XL in the shower — does the screen work when wet as claimed?

Thu, 08/29/2024 - 05:00

The Pixel 9 Pro XL came out swinging with an impressive set of features that threaten Samsung and Apple's dominance in the smartphone market.

From its Super Res Zoom feature that allowed me to see strangers more than 5,000 feet away to its record-breaking battery life, the Pixel 9 Pro XL is the best Android phone I've ever tested. (And this is coming from someone who daily drives the Galaxy S24 Ultra, the latest and greatest phone Samsung has to offer.)

The Google Pixel 9 has great zoom, but it's not as impressive as the Pixel 9 Pro XL Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

The Pixel 9 Pro XL couldn't get any better — until I spotted some chit-chat about a new display feature across the Pixel 9 series.

Called "Adaptive Touch," Google says that it's a touch sensitivity feature that "will automatically adjust to your environment, activities, and screen protector." The Pixel 9 series, by the way, has a similar touch sensitivity feature called Screen Protector Mode, but it's not new. The novel Adaptive Touch tool is designed to auto-adjust to various conditions, but Screen Protector Mode kicks the sensitivity up a notch to compensate for users' screen protectors.

Water droplets on the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

Google never explicitly said that Adaptive Touch supports wet fingers, but some tech outlets put it to the test and got optimistic results. "The Pixel 9 works much better with wet fingers than the Pixel 8 Pro," Android Authority said. "The Pixel 9 handles wet fingers like a champ, offering a smooth scrolling experience even with water standing on the screen," Chrome Unboxed said.

I'm skeptical, so I decided to test this Adaptive Touch feature myself with the Pixel 9 Pro XL.

Pixel 9 Pro XL: How does it fare in the shower?

No, I didn't totally submerge the Pixel 9 Pro XL in water or anything wild like that, but I did recreate a scenario I often find myself in: interacting with my device, wet fingers and all, while blasting music in the shower.

The Touch Sensitivity feature should already be on by default, but you can toggle it off. Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

Yes, I'm one of those people who brings their phones into the bathroom to play music for a shower soirée. (Hey, if I'm going to slip on soap, at least I'll do it to a good beat.)

I accessed Adaptive Touch by navigating to Settings > Display > Touch Sensitivity. As it turned out, Adaptive Touch is toggled on by default for Pixel 9 devices.

So the question is, after drenching my fingers in water, and getting some droplets on the screen, how did the Pixel 9 Pro XL fare in the shower? Here are my ratings:

  • Tapping on apps - Good. The Pixel 9 Pro XL was responsive to all the apps I tapped on via the home screen.

  • Swiping (up and down) - Terrible. Exiting apps require an upward swipe, but I needed to employ this gesture several times before the screen responded.

  • Swiping (left and right) - Good. The Pixel 9 Pro XL was responsive as I swiped through my collection of apps.

  • Scrolling - Terrible. I experienced some glitches and phantom touches.

  • Fingerprint unlock - Good. No issues while using biometric authentication to unlock the Pixel 9 Pro XL.

To sum it up, I was able to tap on apps and other UI elements without any issues. For example, I was able to skip to the next track on my playlists seamlessly. Swiping through my apps on the home screen was a smooth experience, too.

Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

However, when it comes to scrolling through long-form content, I experienced "screen jumping" in which I'd try to scroll down to the bottom of the article, but it'd jump back up to the top. Swiping upward to escape apps was the most frustrating; I sometimes found myself repeatedly swiping up to 10 times before I finally got a response.

Although fingerprint unlock worked well with my wet fingers, as ExtremeTech (Mashable's sister site) pointed out, the Pixel 9 series' new ultrasonic in-display sensor likely played a bigger role in my positive experience with it.

Without getting too technical, the ultrasonic sensor, an upgrade from the Pixel 8 series' optical sensor, is designed to detect your fingerprints even while wet. My Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra also has an ultrasonic in-display sensor — and it, too, can detect my fingerprints while they're wet.

While the Pixel 9 Pro XL fares well in the shower for some gestures, I wouldn't say that it excels in supporting wet fingers. However, if you ever get caught in the rain, or you just came out of a dip in the pool (or you, like me, enjoy jamming out in the shower), the Pixel 9 Pro XL can handle simple taps without malfunctioning.

The OnePlus Ace 2 Pro famously has a "Rain Water Touch" feature that is designed to handle pesky water droplets on a display, so perhaps it's about time that Google, Samsung, and Apple seriously considers wet-finger support.

Opens in a new window Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable Google Pixel 9 Pro XL $1,099.00
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How to unblock Xnxx for free

Thu, 08/29/2024 - 05:00

TL;DR: Secure access to your favorite free porn sites with a VPN. The best service for unblocking porn sites like Xnxx is ExpressVPN.

There are a lot of locations around the world that will block access to your favorite porn sites, and that's probably a good idea. However, there is a time and a place for everything. And when the time is right, you'll want to be able to access sites like Xnxx without hassle.

In this situation, you should consider using a VPN. These tools can bypass online restrictions to gain access to block sites from anywhere in the world. This sounds complicated, but it's really not.

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

How to unblock Xnxx for free

VPNs can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to secure servers in other locations. This straightforward process means you can bypass geo-restrictions to access porn sites like Xnxx from anywhere in the world.

Follow these simple steps to unblock Xnxx:

  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 Xnxx

  4. Watch Xnxx videos from anywhere in the world

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

The best VPNs for bypassing content restrictions are not free, but leading VPNs do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can unblock porn sites like Xnxx without actually spending anything. This obviously isn't a long-term solution, but it does mean you can retain access to porn sites when traveling or temporarily away from home.

What is the best VPN for porn?

ExpressVPN is the best service for fast and reliable unblocking of porn sites like Xnxx, 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 Xnxx for free with ExpressVPN.

How to watch Sinner vs. Michelsen in the 2024 US Open online for free

Thu, 08/29/2024 - 05:00

TL;DR: Live stream Sinner vs. Michelsen in the 2024 US Open for free on 9Now or TVNZ+. Access these free streaming platforms from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

Jannik Sinner is the top-seeded player at the US Open, but most people would probably favor Djokovic or Alcaraz over the Italian. That puts Sinner in the strange position of seeking his second Grand Slam title of the year as an unfancied favorite.

Whether Sinner can truly compete with Djokovic and Alcaraz is yet to be seen, because first he needs to get past Alex Michelsen in the second round.

If you want to watch Sinner vs. Michelsen in the 2024 US Open for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

How to watch Sinner vs. Michelsen in the 2024 US Open for free

Fans can live stream the 2024 US Open for free on these platforms:

These streaming services are geo-blocked, but anyone from around the world can access these sites with a VPN. These handy tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to secure servers in other countries, meaning you can unblock 9Now and TVNZ+ from anywhere in the world.

Access free live streams of the 2024 US Open 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 Australia or New Zealand

  4. Visit 9Now or TVNZ+

  5. Watch Sinner vs. Michelsen in the 2024 US Open 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. You can leverage these offers to access free live streams of Sinner vs. Michelsen without actually spending anything. This isn't a long-term solution, but it gives you enough time to watch every US Open match before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for the US Open?

ExpressVPN is the best service for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream the US Open for free, for a number of reasons:

  • Servers in 105 countries including Australia and New Zealand

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

  • Strict no-logging policy so your data is always secure

  • Fast connection speeds

  • Up to eight simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off 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 Sinner vs. Michelsen in the 2024 US Open for free from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

How to watch Alcaraz vs. Van de Zandschulp in the 2024 US Open online for free

Thu, 08/29/2024 - 05:00

TL;DR: Live stream Alcaraz vs. Van de Zandschulp in the 2024 US Open for free on 9Now or TVNZ+. Access these free streaming platforms from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The US Open has started with a bunch of exciting matchups between top players, and that's not going to stop as we move closer to the finals.

Someone who will have his heart set on making the final will be Carlos Alcaraz. The Spaniard did drop a set in his first-round match, but that won't worry him. He'll firmly believe that he can go all the way and win his third Grand Slam title of the year.

If you want to watch Alcaraz vs. Van de Zandschulp in the 2024 US Open for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

How to watch Alcaraz vs. Van de Zandschulp in the 2024 US Open for free

Fans can live stream the 2024 US Open for free on these platforms:

These streaming services are geo-blocked, but anyone from around the world can access these sites with a VPN. These handy tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to secure servers in other countries, meaning you can unblock 9Now and TVNZ+ from anywhere in the world.

Access free live streams of the 2024 US Open 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 Australia or New Zealand

  4. Visit 9Now or TVNZ+

  5. Watch Alcaraz vs. Van de Zandschulp in the 2024 US Open 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 top VPNs do tend to offer incentive deals such as free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. You can leverage these offers to access free live streams of Alcaraz vs. Van de Zandschulp without actually spending anything. This isn't a long-term solution, but it gives you enough time to watch every US Open match before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for the US Open?

ExpressVPN is the best service for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream the US Open for free, for a number of reasons:

  • Servers in 105 countries including Australia and New Zealand

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

  • Strict no-logging policy so your data is always secure

  • Fast connection speeds

  • Up to eight simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off 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 Alcaraz vs. Van de Zandschulp in the 2024 US Open for free from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

Even if it wasn't $100 off, this air purifier would still be worth it

Thu, 08/29/2024 - 05:00

TL;DR: Clean the pet dander and other allergens from the air with the Turonic PH950 Air Purifier and Humidifier, now $279.99 (reg. $389). 

Opens in a new window Credit: Turonic Turonic PH950 Air Purifier & Humidifier Combo $279.99
$389.97 Save $109.98 Get Deal

Allergies, like the things that cause them, come in all shapes and sizes. A tiny sniffle after your cat rubbing against your face? No problem. But what about when your sneezes sound like two freight trains wrestling in a tiny tunnel? You can't get rid of Mr. Mittens, and allergy pills aren't always the best option. You know what doesn't have side effects? An air purifier. 

The Turonic PH950 is part air purifier, part humidifier. Together, it's a full atmospheric revamp for your room, and anyone with seasonal or pet allergies will probably want one, especially now that they're $110 off. 

Why would I pay $280 for an air purifier?

In short, this air purifier is worth the price because it works really well on a big area. 

For more details, the PH950 is a beast when it comes to cleaning the air in your home. It starts with an 8-stage purification system that leaves no stone unturned. First up is a mesh pre-filter that grabs pet hair and dust, the usual suspects in homes with pets. Then, the cotton filter catches smaller particles, and the true HEPA filter swoops in to take care of those ultra-fine allergens that have you sneezing up a storm.

If you’ve got odors from pets or anything else lingering around, the activated carbon filter and cold catalyst filter are on it. And just when you think that’s all, the UV light steps in to eliminate bacteria and viruses, giving you peace of mind that your air has gone through the wringer and come out better for it. 

The PH950 also has a built-in humidifier, which is a game-changer, especially if you’re battling dry air or allergies. Maintaining the right humidity levels may do wonders for your respiratory comfort.

And the best part? This powerhouse is quiet. With a noise level as low as 36 dB, it’s quieter than a whisper, so it won’t disturb you or your pets. It’s also got the muscle to handle large spaces, purifying up to 4,200 square feet in just two hours. Whether you're dealing with a sprawling living room or a large bedroom, the PH950 can clear the air.

Breathe easy — get the Turonic PH950 Air Purifier while it's on sale for $279.99. 

StackSocial prices subject to change. 

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