Mashable

TL;DR: Charge any Apple Watch anywhere with a wireless Apple Watch Keychain Charger on sale for $14.97 through April 27.

Opens in a new window Credit: VistaShops Apple Watch Wireless Charger Keychain $14.97
$49.95 Save $34.98 Get Deal

Apple Watches are super portable. That's practically half the appeal, but portability isn't as exciting when your battery is dead. If you want to give your Apple Watch battery some backup without lugging around a second cable, just get one of these Apple Watch Wireless keychain Chargers. They work with any Apple Watch, and you can even get one on sale for $14.97 (reg. $49). 

Charge your Apple Watch anywhere

Carrying one of these keychains means you don’t have to worry about packing an extra cable or scrambling for an outlet when your battery runs low. This pocket charger has a built-in 950mAh battery, enough to power up your Apple Watch wherever you are. Just attach it to your keychain, toss it in your bag, or keep it in your pocket. 

The wireless magnetic charging ring makes recharging simple. Just pop your Apple Watch on the charger, and strong magnetic adsorption keeps it in place while it powers up. Four LED indicator lights let you monitor the battery status at a glance, so you’ll always know when it’s good to go.

This charger also doubles as an adapter. You can charge it while you charge your watch, so all you need is a micro USB cable to power up on the go.

April 27 at 11:59 p.m. PT is the cutoff to get an Apple Watch Wireless Charger Keychain on sale for $14.97. 

StackSocial prices subject to change.

TL;DR: Live stream Vancouver Whitecaps vs. Pumas UNAM in the Concacaf Champions Cup for free on YouTube. Access this free live stream from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The quarter-final round of the Concacaf Champions Cup includes some really interesting matchups, including Vancouver Whitecaps vs. Pumas UNAM. The Whitecaps are the last remaining team not from Mexico or the USA.

If you want to watch Vancouver Whitecaps vs. Pumas UNAM in the Concacaf Champions Cup for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Vancouver Whitecaps vs. Pumas UNAM?

Vancouver Whitecaps vs. Pumas UNAM in the Concacaf Champions Cup kicks off at 9:30 p.m. ET on April 2. This fixture takes place at BC Place.

How to watch Vancouver Whitecaps vs. Pumas UNAM for free

Vancouver Whitecaps vs. Pumas UNAM in the Concacaf Champions Cup is available to live stream for free on YouTube.

This free live stream is available in most locations around the world, but not in North or Central America. Fortunately, fans in these excluded territories can still access this free live stream with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the UK (or somewhere else with access), meaning you can unblock free live streams of the Concacaf Champions Cup from anywhere in the world.

Live streamVancouver Whitecaps vs. Pumas UNAM 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 the UK (or somewhere else with access)

4. Visit YouTube

5. Live stream Vancouver Whitecaps vs. Pumas UNAM for free

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (2-Year Subscription + 4 Months Free) $139 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but most do offer free-trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can watch Vancouver Whitecaps vs. Pumas UNAM in the Concacaf Champions Cup without actually spending anything. This clearly isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to stream select Concacaf Champions Cup fixtures before recovering your investment.

If you want to retain permanent access to free streaming services from around the world, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for streaming live sport is on sale for a limited time.

What is the best VPN for YouTube?

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

• Servers in 105 countries including the UK

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

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

• Fast connection speeds free from throttling

• Up to eight simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A 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.

Live stream Vancouver Whitecaps vs. Pumas UNAM in the Concacaf Champions Cup for free with ExpressVPN.

TL;DR: Live stream LAFC vs. Inter Miami in the Concacaf Champions Cup for free on YouTube. Access this free live stream from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The quarter-final round of the Concacaf Champions Cup includes some fascinating matchups, including LAFC vs. Inter Miami. Fans will be eager to see whether the likes of Messi and Suarez can lead Inter Miami into the semi finals.

If you want to watch LAFC vs. Inter Miami in the Concacaf Champions Cup for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is LAFC vs. Inter Miami?

LAFC vs. Inter Miami in the Concacaf Champions Cup kicks off at 11:30 p.m. ET on April 2. This fixture takes place at the BMO Stadium.

How to watch LAFC vs. Inter Miami for free

LAFC vs. Inter Miami in the Concacaf Champions Cup is available to live stream for free on YouTube.

This free live stream is available in most locations around the world, but not in North or Central America. Fortunately, fans in these excluded territories can still access this free live stream with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the UK (or somewhere else with access), meaning you can unblock free live streams of the Concacaf Champions Cup from anywhere in the world.

Live stream LAFC vs. Inter Miami 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 the UK (or somewhere else with access)

4. Visit YouTube

5. Live stream LAFC vs. Inter Miami for free

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (2-Year Subscription + 4 Months Free) $139 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but most do offer free-trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can watch LAFC vs. Inter Miami in the Concacaf Champions Cup without actually spending anything. This clearly isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to stream select Concacaf Champions Cup fixtures before recovering your investment.

If you want to retain permanent access to free streaming services from around the world, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for streaming live sport is on sale for a limited time.

What is the best VPN for YouTube?

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

• Servers in 105 countries including the UK

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

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

• Fast connection speeds free from throttling

• Up to eight simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A 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.

Live stream LAFC vs. Inter Miami in the Concacaf Champions Cup for free with ExpressVPN.

It's one of those March mornings where dark rainclouds keep chasing the sun away. I'd rather not leave my remote work sanctum. But there's a quick errand to run in my car, and my mood brightens at one thought: that the drive will be just long enough for me to do a five-minute breath meditation via my Apple Watch.

That's right — strange as it may sound to some, I meditate while driving, and have done so for years. When I step behind the wheel solo, I don't call a friend or fire up a playlist or a podcast or an audiobook, even though there's invariably one of each I want to do at any given time. Nor do I listen to any kind of voice-guided meditation (which, as I wrote, is very much not for me.)

The breath-guiding I'm hooked on has nothing to do with my smartphone, which is easily the most dangerously distracting device in my car. It is utterly, blissfully sound-free. It's the haptic feedback from the smartwatch on my wrist — the slowly-fading tapping sensation that tells me to breathe in for five seconds, the silence indicating I breathe out for the same length of time — that invests my drive with a surprising sense of peace.

SEE ALSO: No, you don't need a guide to meditate

Turns out I'm not the first to discover the soothing power of haptic-based meditation while driving. A 2018 study conducted by Stanford medical school, called "in-car interventions for guided slow breathing," offered a first-of-its kind vibrating seat that helped participants to inhale and exhale by vibrating their whole body, not just their wrists.

All but five of the 24 participants in the study preferred these in-car vibrations to meditative voice guidance. Their Heart Rate Variability (HRV) increased, suggesting they were becoming less stressed. "Slow breathing practices could transform the automobile commute from a depleting, mindless activity into a calming, mindful experience," the Stanford medics concluded.

I'm not about to recommend this to anyone without more on-road study (the Stanford team used simulators in both city and highway modes). Even if this sounds like a fit for you, you should check with your doctor before risking light-headedness by trying a new breathing exercise in an unfamiliar situation. But having run this experiment on myself for years, I believe haptic meditation has made my driving less distracted, and way less road-ragey.

Once I was the guy who headed for the fast lane and got mad at red lights. Now I'm the guy who waves to let you into my lane, or let you cross — and who treats red lights as a golden opportunity to just, y'know, appreciate whatever is happening in the world outside my windshield.

Distracted while driving? Just breathe.

Now, if you're the kind of person who associates meditation with distraction — who thinks that floating away or zoning out is an optimal result — car meditation may sound horrifying. But as this series has been saying for years, mindfulness isn't about escaping to somewhere else. It's about tuning in non-judgmentally to the reality all around you in this very moment: a vital skill if you're going to be safe behind the wheel.

And with April being Distracted Driving Month, we'd be remiss if we didn't point out all those widely-used methods to take drivers elsewhere in their minds — music, podcasts, audiobooks, calls — come with evidence that they make us worse drivers.

"Music in every mood reduces reaction time," concluded a 2023 study of studies about driving with music. "Driving and listening to music compete for the driver’s limited cognitive capacity." Listening at a lower volume does seem to lower drivers' speed, but even that raises their heart rates.

There's more mixed data when it comes to voices in your car. One 2018 study done in driving simulators found that participants' reaction times on simple traffic tests were faster while listening to audiobooks, but slower in complex driving situations. A 2024 study found that drivers were "more prone to making errors" when listening to radio conversations — even more so than music.

As for being on the phone, even if it's hands-free, forget about it. We've long known that phone calls make us more distracted. A 2022 meta-analysis of 83 studies concluded that being on a call while driving "negatively affects driving performance, exposing drivers to dangerous traffic situations." If you, like me, have a friend who keeps missing their freeway exits when they're talking to you, know that this is about the least damaging negative result of the chat.

In short, what you're doing behind the wheel matters — and we're all doing something. Distracted driving leads to more than 3,000 deaths a year in the U.S. alone, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. That last meta-analysis also found that in literally any secondary task executed while driving, "the driver's cognitive, manual, visual, and auditory resources are all involved," meaning less attention is paid to the road.

So, go ahead if you wish; transport yourself to other places in your mind while hurtling around in a giant hunk of metal. I'll be over here with the multiple driving anxiety coaches who recommend various breathing exercises to stay calm behind the wheel.

And thanks to the Apple Watch's Breathe feature, where you set the length of your breaths in advance, I don't even have to distract myself by counting the seconds of each breath. My mind is alert, my diaphragm calmly expands and contracts, my foot is ready to tap the brake at any time.

Your move, world beyond the windshield.

Chris Taylor is Mashable's senior editor. This column reflects the opinions of the writer.

The macOS Sequoia 15.4 update has arrived, bringing a few noteworthy features to the Mac operating system.

This is the fourth major update since macOS Sequoia launched last September. Previous macOS Sequoia updates brought Apple Intelligence features like ChatGPT support, AI-generated images and editing with Image Playground, an updated Siri, AI-powered Writing Tools, and AI-generated emoji called Genmoji. Additionally, Apple updated the Photos, Safari, and the Weather app and introduced notification summaries in Messages and Mail.

This update builds on some of these existing features and introduces some new stuff too (insert "Face with Bags Under Eyes" emoji). Let's dive in on new macOS Sequoia 15.4 features to know about.

Mail app redesign

One of the features Apple highlighted with the macOS Sequoia 15.4 update is the redesigned Mail app, which was already deployed to the iPhone with iOS 18.2. Now, emails are automatically sorted into four categories: Primary, Transactions, Updates, and Promotions. Sorting your emails this way is designed to help users "prioritize the most important messages," according to the Apple support page. It also makes it super easy to batch delete the unimportant emails.

If you don't like the new look, you can always revert back to the traditional interface by disabling the automated mail categorization.

Some minor Apple Intelligence updates

It wouldn't be a macOS Sequoia update without some Apple Intelligence news. But this time around, the updates are pretty minor. The ability to make those Memory movies in the Photos app on an iPhone is now available on Macs too. And in Image Playground, you can now choose a "Sketch" style option in addition to Animation and Illustration styles.

Lastly, with the macOS Sequoia 15.4 update, Apple Intelligence has been expanded to new languages: French, German, Italian, Portuguese (Brazil), Spanish, Japanese, Korean, and Chinese (simplified).

New emoji

The update we're most excited about is the introduction of eight new emoji, which are also available on iPhones with the iOS 18.4 update.

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

Feast your eyes upon these beauties:

• Face with Bags Under Eyes

• Fingerprint

• Splatter

• Root vegetable

• Leafless tree

• Harp

• Shovel

• The Sark flag

We have a feeling Face with Bags Under Eyes is going to get a lot of use.

It's almost been a year since Apple announced macOS Sequoia, which means the next generation of macOS is right around the corner at WWDC on June 9. We'll be keeping our eyes peeled for what's rumored to come next.

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

Here are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Wednesday, April 2, 2025:

AcrossSource of Monopoly money

• The answer is Bank.

Pizzeria fixtures

• The answer is Ovens.

With 8-Across, magical substance that enables flight in "Peter Pan"

• The answer is Pixie.

See 7-Across

• The answer is Dust.

"Keep it down!"

• The answer is Shh.

DownWhack on the head

• The answer is Bop.

Fervent

• The answer is Avid.

Connection point

• The answer is Nexus.

Potato-filled pastry

• The answer is Knish.

Mr. Milchick's first name on "Severance"

• The answer is Seth.

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

Featured Video For You The Wordle Strategy used by the New York Times' Head of Games

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.

SAVE $60: As of April 2, Sony PULSE Elite headset for PS5 is available in open-box fair condition at Best Buy for $89.99. That’s $60 off its usual $149.99 price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Sony Sony PULSE Elite (Open Box) $89.99 at Best Buy
$149.99 Save $60.00 Get Deal

I don’t usually look twice at open-box gear unless I’m feeling brave or broke. But $89.99 for Sony’s PULSE Elite wireless headset at Best Buy? That’s a risk I’m more than willing to take. Brand new, this thing goes for $149.99. For $60 less, I’ll deal with a few cosmetic scuffs if it still sounds like a dream and plays nice with my PS5.

I think what makes this headset a standout is the combo of planar magnetic drivers and PlayStation Link tech. It delivers that low-latency, high-fidelity audio that makes every game sound like it was mixed in a studio instead of a broom closet. Explosions rumble, footsteps whisper, and every in-game insult hits just a bit harder. It’s immersive in the best, most distracting way.

SEE ALSO: Apple announces WWDC 2025 dates

The mic is retractable and powered by AI-enhanced noise rejection. I’ve used plenty of headsets that made me sound like I was phoning in from a submarine. This one? Clear, crisp, and natural. And thanks to the dual device connectivity, I can take a call mid-session without pausing the game or unplugging anything. Not that I want to take calls, but the option’s there.

• Price: $89.99 $149.99

• Retailer: Best Buy

• Condition: Open-box fair

• Compatibility: PS5, PC, Mac, PlayStation Portal

• Drivers: Planar magnetic

• Wireless tech: PlayStation Link

• Microphone: Retractable, AI-powered noise rejection

• Connectivity: Bluetooth, dual device

• Battery life: Up to 30 hours

• Quick charge: 10 minutes for 2 hours

• Accessories: Charging hanger included (condition-dependent)

• Comfort: Plush ear cups, headband strap suspension

Battery life is a non-issue. It lasts up to 30 hours, and if you forget to charge it (which I always do), a 10-minute quick charge gives you two hours of juice. Also, the included charging hanger keeps it off your desk and looking less like an e-waste graveyard.

It’s technically listed as “Fair” condition, so yeah, it might have a couple dents or be missing an accessory. But the core experience? Still very much intact. And for under 90 bucks, I think it’s a gamble that pays off. Especially if you’ve been eyeing a premium headset without the premium price.

SAVE $50: As of April 2, UGREEN Nexode 25000mAh 200W power bank is available for $79.99 at Amazon. That’s a 38 percent discount from its regular price of $129.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: UGREEN UGREEN Nexode 25000mAh 200W $79.99 at Amazon
$129.99 Save $50.00 Get Deal

I don’t typically get excited about battery packs, but the UGREEN Nexode is one of those rare exceptions. It’s not just that it has 200 watts of fast charging power or that it holds 25000mAh of juice. It’s that it makes every other power bank I own feel like a sad pocket warmer in comparison. And right now, it’s on sale for $79.99 at Amazon. That’s $50 off. Which, for something this functional and overachieving, feels like robbery. Again, legal.

I think what sold me was the TFT smart display. It shows battery percentage, output, input, voltage, current—basically everything you need. Compared to most LCD readouts, this one actually looks nice and, dare I say, modern.

SEE ALSO: Apple announces WWDC 2025 dates

Functionally, it’s a beast. I’ve used it to charge my MacBook Pro, my phone, and a tablet all at the same time. No sparks, no overheating, no tantrums. It just works. The 200W output is overkill in the best way. If you travel for work, shoot video, edit on the go, or just live with someone who never charges their phone, this thing is a dream.

• Price: $79.99 $129.99

• Retailer: Amazon

• Battery capacity: 25000mAh

• Output: Up to 200W

• Ports: 2 USB-C, 1 USB-A

• Special features: TFT smart display, PD 3.1 fast charging, real-time power data

• Charging capacity: iPhone 15 up to 5.2 times

• Color: Black

• Durability: Retains 80 percent capacity after 1000 cycles

• Safety: Real-time temperature monitoring and fast heat dissipation

It’s also surprisingly durable. Even after a thousand charging cycles, it keeps over 80 percent of its original capacity. It charges quickly, cools itself efficiently, and doesn’t scream for attention with flashing lights or obnoxious branding.

For long travel days, power outages, or just a backup that can actually do more than revive a dying phone once, this is the one I’d recommend. Especially while it’s still under 80 bucks.

SAVE $23: As of April 2, Sony WH-CH520 wireless headphones are on sale for $36 at Amazon. That’s $23 off the usual $59.99 price — about a 40% discount.

Opens in a new window Credit: Sony Sony WH-CH520 wireless headphones $36 at Amazon
$59.99 Save $23.99 Get Deal

I picked up Sony WH-CH520 headphones because I was tired of babying my battery-drained earbuds. For $36, I figured if they even lasted a week of commuting, I’d call it a win. Turns out, these things can go for 50 hours on a single charge, which is more stamina than I can claim on most weekdays.

They’re not flashy, they’re not fancy, but they do the job without complaining. The sound quality is what you’d expect from Sony: reliable, clean, and fully adjustable through the brand’s app if you feel like messing with EQ settings. I didn’t, because I like things that work out of the box, and these did.

SEE ALSO: Apple announces WWDC 2025 dates

I’ve worn them for a full day of work and they didn’t pinch or press. Lightweight is putting it mildly. They feel like a whisper on your head, which I didn’t know I wanted from headphones until I had it. They also fold flat, which makes tossing them into a bag feel less like Tetris and more like a casual flex.

• Price: $36 $59.99

• Retailer: Amazon

• Ear placement: On-ear

• Form factor: On-ear

• Battery life: Up to 50 hours

• Charging: USB-C

• Bluetooth: Yes, with multipoint connection

• Microphone: Built-in

• Color: Black

• App support: Sony Headphones Connect

• Extra features: DSEE audio enhancement, Fast Pair, Swift Pair

The fact that they pair to two devices at once is a blessing. I can swap between Zoom calls and my phone without pausing to unpair or re-pair. I’m sure there are more expensive headphones that do this, but I don’t need them. I just need these.

For anyone who wants a budget pair to leave in their work bag, keep by the couch, or survive travel without tears, this is the kind of deal that makes you feel like you’re getting away with something. At $36, I think it’s hard to justify not getting them.

U.S. security officials have reportedly been using their personal Gmail accounts to conduct government business — including sharing sensitive information about military positions. And yes, national security advisor and Signalgate protagonist Michael Waltz was involved.

If we could please go a full five business days without discovering a new breach of tech security by the Trump administration, that would be great.

SEE ALSO: U.S. security officials' passwords found online, including people in Signal chat

The Washington Post reports that members of the U.S. National Security Council (NSC) used Google's email service Gmail to correspond with the official email accounts of colleagues from other federal agencies. As such, potentially sensitive government information has ended up in their personal Gmail inboxes, which are much less secure than official federal communication channels.

Specifically, The Washington Post reports that Waltz had work documents and information on his schedule sent to his Gmail account. This alone is already a questionable security practice. However, a senior aide to Waltz also allegedly used Gmail to share more sensitive information, The Washington Post reporting that it viewed emails involving "highly technical conversations with colleagues at other government agencies involving sensitive military positions and powerful weapons systems relating to an ongoing conflict."

As highlighted by the Signal chat room scandal revealed last Monday, keeping military plans under wraps is a critical security issue. Depending on the information being discussed, officials more typically share sensitive information either in person or on the Secret Internet Protocol Router Network (SIPRNet), the U.S. government's secured computer network system. Discussing U.S. military positions via Gmail is not a great security practice.

While schedule information may not be as critically sensitive as detailed plans for imminent international military operations, the proper handling of such data is a security concern as well. It isn't difficult to imagine that bad actors could cause significant harm were they to know where and when U.S. national security officials plan to be.

Unsurprisingly, the NSC has refuted The Washington Post's report. Though NSC spokesman Brian Hughes acknowledged that Waltz might have occasionally received work-related information to his personal account, he claimed that the national security advisor copies in his government email so that it's on the official federal records. Of course, this doesn't fix information being in his personal inbox in the first place.

"Waltz didn’t and wouldn’t send classified information on an open account," Hughes told The Washington Post.

Despite the NSC's statement, this is far from the first time Waltz's digital security habits have been called into question. This report is just the latest in a string of tech security breaches by the Trump administration revealed within the past week, all of which involved the national security advisor. Further, sources reportedly told The Washington Post that Waltz was known to copy and paste information directly from his schedule into Signal.

Waltz was a central figure in the Signal chat room scandal, having been the one to add The Atlantic's editor-in-chief Jeffrey Goldberg to the group chat in which U.S. officials were planning to bomb Yemen. Later that week, Waltz was among several officials involved in the chat whose private contact details and passwords were found online. His Venmo contact list was also discovered in the wake of Signalgate, revealing a list of over 300 of Waltz's associates.

In light of this previous insight into Waltz's digital habits and security, these new allegations regarding his Gmail usage aren't entirely surprising. 

Even so, it doesn't seem as though Waltz is facing any serious consequences for his arguably lax digital security standards. The White House has stood by Waltz amidst the security scandals, with press secretary Karoline Leavitt stating that the "case has been closed" regarding Signalgate. President Donald Trump further said that he didn't think Waltz needed to apologise, and that he believes the national security advisor is "doing his best."

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

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

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

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

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

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for April 2 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for April 2 NYT Strands hint for today’s theme: Shine on

The words are related to light.

Today’s NYT Strands theme plainly explained

These words are how you might describe the shine of a star.

NYT Strands spangram hint: Is it vertical or horizontal?

Today's NYT Strands spangram is vertical.

NYT Strands spangram answer today

Today's spangram is StarPower.

Featured Video For You Strands 101: How to win NYT’s latest word game NYT Strands word list for April 2

• Twinkle

• Shimmer

• Gleam

• Radiate

• Dazzle

• Sparkle

• StarPower

Looking for other daily online games? Mashable's Games page has more hints, and if you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now!

Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

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

Back in January, Nintendo did us all a solid and told us that the Switch 2 is real and we would hear more about it soon. "Soon" is now.

Nintendo is holding a Nintendo Direct livestream at 9 a.m. ET on Wednesday, April 2 to tell us (presumably) everything we want to know about Switch 2. You will be able to watch it live on Nintendo's YouTube channel. Unfortunately, Nintendo hasn't yet said how long the Direct will be, as it generally does when announcing these things. Given that Nintendo Directs are usually about 40 minutes long when there isn't a new console to show, one could reasonably assume that this one will be longer than that.

SEE ALSO: Nintendo Switch 2 patent seems to confirm mouse functionality for the new Joy-Cons

As for what to expect from the Switch 2 Direct, all we can do is speculate. It would be shocking if Nintendo didn't at least reveal the price and release date of the console during this stream. There will also be a bunch of trailers for upcoming Switch 2 games, as well as some idea of which ones will be available at launch.

Aside from the new Mario Kart title that was shown briefly during the Switch 2 reveal video in January, though, it's nearly impossible to say what else will be shown during this Direct.

Either way, the time is almost upon us. Get ready, folks.

Connections: Sports Edition is a new version of the popular New York Times word game that seeks to test the knowledge of sports fans.

Like the original Connections, the game is all about finding the "common threads between words." And just like Wordle, Connections resets after midnight and each new set of words gets trickier and trickier—so we've served up some hints and tips to get you over the hurdle.

If you just want to be told today's puzzle, you can jump to the end of this article for the latest Connections solution. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable What is Connections Sports Edition?

The NYT's latest daily word game has launched in association with The Athletic, the New York Times property that provides the publication's sports coverage. Connections can be played on both web browsers and mobile devices and require players to group four words that share something in common.

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

Each puzzle features 16 words and each grouping of words is split into four categories. These sets could comprise of anything from book titles, software, country names, etc. Even though multiple words will seem like they fit together, there's only one correct answer.

If a player gets all four words in a set correct, those words are removed from the board. Guess wrong and it counts as a mistake—players get up to four mistakes until the game ends.

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

Players can also rearrange and shuffle the board to make spotting connections easier. Additionally, each group is color-coded with yellow being the easiest, followed by green, blue, and purple. Like Wordle, you can share the results with your friends on social media.

Here's a hint for today's Connections Sports Edition categories

Want a hint about the categories without being told the categories? Then give these a try:

• Yellow: Move quickly

• Green: Where to medal

• Blue: Best football catchers

• Purple: Same second name – not simultaneously

Featured Video For You Connections: How to play and how to win Here are today's Connections Sports Edition categories

Need a little extra help? Today's connections fall into the following categories:

• Yellow: Run fast

• Green: Future Olympic host cities

• Blue: NFL's leading receivers in 2024

• Purple: Cities the Athletics have called home

Looking for Wordle today? Here's the answer to today's Wordle.

Ready for the answers? This is your last chance to turn back and solve today's puzzle before we reveal the solutions.

Drumroll, please!

The solution to today's Connections Sports Edition #191 is...

What is the answer to Connections Sports Edition today

• Run fast - DART, DASH, SCOOT, SPRINT

• Future Olympic host cities - BRISBANE, LOS ANGELES, MILAN, SALT LAKE CITY

• NFL's leading receivers in 2024 - CHASE, JEFFERSON, LONDON, THOMAS

• Cities the Athletics have called home - KANSAS CITY, OAKLAND, PHILADELPHIA, SACRAMENTO

Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be new Connections for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.

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

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

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

Connections is the one of the most popular New York Times word games that's captured the public's attention. The game is all about finding the "common threads between words." And just like Wordle, Connections resets after midnight and each new set of words gets trickier and trickier—so we've served up some hints and tips to get you over the hurdle.

If you just want to be told today's puzzle, you can jump to the end of this article for today's Connections solution. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable What is Connections?

The NYT's latest daily word game has become a social media hit. The Times credits associate puzzle editor Wyna Liu with helping to create the new word game and bringing it to the publications' Games section. Connections can be played on both web browsers and mobile devices and require players to group four words that share something in common.

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

Each puzzle features 16 words and each grouping of words is split into four categories. These sets could comprise of anything from book titles, software, country names, etc. Even though multiple words will seem like they fit together, there's only one correct answer.

If a player gets all four words in a set correct, those words are removed from the board. Guess wrong and it counts as a mistake—players get up to four mistakes until the game ends.

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

Players can also rearrange and shuffle the board to make spotting connections easier. Additionally, each group is color-coded with yellow being the easiest, followed by green, blue, and purple. Like Wordle, you can share the results with your friends on social media.

SEE ALSO: NYT's The Mini crossword answers for April 2 Here's a hint for today's Connections categories

Want a hint about the categories without being told the categories? Then give these a try:

• Yellow: Sudden change

• Green: Category

• Blue: They share a last name

• Purple: Heteronyms

Featured Video For You Connections: How to play and how to win Here are today's Connections categories

Need a little extra help? Today's connections fall into the following categories:

• Yellow: Caprice

• Green: Ilk

• Blue: Williamses

• Purple: Words pronounced differently as proper nouns

Looking for Wordle today? Here's the answer to today's Wordle.

Ready for the answers? This is your last chance to turn back and solve today's puzzle before we reveal the solutions.

Drumroll, please!

The solution to today's Connections #660 is...

What is the answer to Connections today

• Caprice: FANCY, IMPULSE, LARK, WHIM

• Ilk: KIND, LIKE, SORT, TYPE

• Williamses: HANK, ROBIN, TENNESSEE, VENUS

• Words pronounced differently as proper nouns: HERB, JOB, NICE, READING

Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be new Connections for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for April 2

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

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

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

Oh hey there! If you're here, it must be time for Wordle. As always, we're serving up our daily hints and tips to help you figure out today's answer.

If you just want to be told today's word, you can jump to the bottom of this article for today's Wordle solution revealed. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable SEE ALSO: NYT Connections today: Hints and answers for April 2 Where did Wordle come from?

Originally created by engineer Josh Wardle as a gift for his partner, Wordle rapidly spread to become an international phenomenon, with thousands of people around the globe playing every day. Alternate Wordle versions created by fans also sprang up, including battle royale Squabble, music identification game Heardle, and variations like Dordle and Quordle that make you guess multiple words at once. 

Wordle eventually became so popular that it was purchased by the New York Times, and TikTok creators even livestream themselves playing.

What's the best Wordle starting word?

The best Wordle starting word is the one that speaks to you. But if you prefer to be strategic in your approach, we have a few ideas to help you pick a word that might help you find the solution faster. One tip is to select a word that includes at least two different vowels, plus some common consonants like S, T, R, or N.

What happened to the Wordle archive?

The entire archive of past Wordle puzzles was originally available for anyone to enjoy whenever they felt like it, but it was later taken down, with the website's creator stating it was done at the request of the New York Times. However, the New York Times then rolled out its own Wordle Archive, available only to NYT Games subscribers.

Is Wordle getting harder?

It might feel like Wordle is getting harder, but it actually isn't any more difficult than when it first began. You can turn on Wordle's Hard Mode if you're after more of a challenge, though.

SEE ALSO: NYT's The Mini crossword answers for April 2, 2025 Here's a subtle hint for today's Wordle answer:

To use a bad word.

Does today's Wordle answer have a double letter?

There are no recurring letters.

Today's Wordle is a 5-letter word that starts with...

Today's Wordle starts with the letter C.

SEE ALSO: Wordle-obsessed? These are the best word games to play IRL. The Wordle answer today is...

Get your last guesses in now, because it's your final chance to solve today's Wordle before we reveal the solution.

Drumroll please!

The solution to today's Wordle is...

CURSE.

Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be a new Wordle for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.

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

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for April 2

Reporting by Chance Townsend, Caitlin Welsh, Sam Haysom, Amanda Yeo, Shannon Connellan, Cecily Mauran, Mike Pearl, and Adam Rosenberg contributed to this article.

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

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

If you like playing daily word games like Wordle, then Hurdle is a great game to add to your routine.

There are five rounds to the game. The first round sees you trying to guess the word, with correct, misplaced, and incorrect letters shown in each guess. If you guess the correct answer, it'll take you to the next hurdle, providing the answer to the last hurdle as your first guess. This can give you several clues or none, depending on the words. For the final hurdle, every correct answer from previous hurdles is shown, with correct and misplaced letters clearly shown.

An important note is that the number of times a letter is highlighted from previous guesses does necessarily indicate the number of times that letter appears in the final hurdle.

If you find yourself stuck at any step of today's Hurdle, don't worry! We have you covered.

SEE ALSO: Hurdle: Everything you need to know to find the answers Hurdle Word 1 hint

Often made of logs.

SEE ALSO: Apple’s new M3 MacBook Air is $300 off at Amazon. And yes, I’m tempted. Hurdle Word 1 answer

CABIN

Hurdle Word 2 hint

A deep interior.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for April 2, 2025 Hurdle Word 2 Answer

BOWEL

Hurdle Word 3 hint

An open position.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for April 2 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for April 2, 2025 Hurdle Word 3 answer

STEAD

Hurdle Word 4 hint

To prepare.

SEE ALSO: NYT Strands hints, answers for April 2 Hurdle Word 4 answer

EQUIP

Final Hurdle hint

A military trainee.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Games available on Mashable Hurdle Word 5 answer

CADET

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

The big Nintendo Switch 2 Direct presentation is almost upon us. Let's make some predictions.

On Wednesday morning at 9 a.m. ET, Nintendo is going to blow the doors off the Switch 2, most likely telling us how much it will cost and when it will come out. That stuff is cool and good to know, but what about the games? At this point, Nintendo has only sort of confirmed one Switch 2 game that we're pretty sure will be part of the console's launch lineup. Everything beyond that is pure guesswork.

But that's not going to stop me. Here are my rough predictions for what might be available when the Switch 2 launches later this year.

SEE ALSO: Switch 2 release date, price and everything else we expect from Nintendo Direct Nintendo Switch 2 launch lineup predictions

To be clear, we have almost nothing to go off of besides a few seconds of footage in the console's January reveal video and various online rumors. But who cares? Let's do this.

Mario Kart 9

When Nintendo first unveiled the Switch 2 via a short teaser video in January, it felt the need to include a few seconds of footage of exactly one new video game running on the console: a new Mario Kart. This will be, numerically speaking, the ninth one, but it's very possible Nintendo calls it something other than Mario Kart 9.

SEE ALSO: Switch 2 release date, price and everything else we expect from Nintendo Direct

And that's pretty much all we have on that. The footage shown in that video confirms that races will expand from 12 contestants to at least 24, and the one track shown looked a lot larger than they usually are in these games. Eagle-eyed viewers also noticed that Donkey Kong has a new character design, the karts themselves appear to have new fuel tanks on them, and there's a mysterious orange glowing item pickup that you can barely see in one of the shots. Is Nintendo adding a boost meter to this game? Maybe!

As for when this game will available, I would bet actual American dollars that it's a launch game.

A new 3D Super Mario adventure

That, unfortunately, is the last rock solid, almost-100-percent-certain prediction I can make about the Switch 2's launch lineup. However, I can make educated guesses from here on out.

It's been nearly eight years since the last mainline 3D Super Mario adventure, which was Odyssey in the first year of the Switch's existence. Odyssey is an incredible game, but eight years is a long time to wait for a new, proper Mario game. Based solely on the fact that it's been a lifetime (by gaming standards) since the last one, and the fact that Nintendo needs to convince people to buy the Switch 2, it would make a ton of sense for a new adventure starring the iconic Italian plumber to grace the Switch 2 early in its lifespan.

Whether it's a proper launch title or something that comes out before the end of 2025, I would bet on seeing this game on store shelves sooner rather than later.

Metroid Prime 4: Beyond

This one might be wish-casting rather than sober analysis on my part, but whatever. I want Metroid Prime 4 to be a Switch 2 launch title.

Until about five days ago, I would've bet on this happening. Strangely, though, Nintendo plopped a Metroid Prime 4 trailer into the middle of a Switch 1-focused Direct last week, notably failing to give it a specific release date other than "2025." I'm prone to overthinking these sorts of things, and that tells me Prime 4 could genuinely just be a Switch 1 game. However, Nintendo can be surprising, so maybe it gets another trailer during the Switch 2 Direct, with a real release date that happens to coincide with the console's launch. This would give the Switch 2 a more "hardcore" title to complement Mario Kart right out of the gate, especially if the aforementioned 3D Mario game is not ready yet.

At least one big third-party game

The most open-ended prediction on this list is that Nintendo will, at the very least, show off one or two flashy third-party releases during the Direct, just to show off what the Switch 2 can do on a technical level. We even have some news reporting to guide us in the direction of what those might be, too!

For starters, leaks from prominent leaker NatetheHate indicate that Metal Gear Delta: Snake Eater and Final Fantasy VII Remake and Rebirth are coming to Switch 2. Delta has an announced release date in late August, so it might not be available right away, depending on when the Switch 2 launches. As for Remake and Rebirth, these would be pretty big gets for Nintendo, as neither of those games are even available on Xbox right now.

The same leak also indicated Ubisoft might bring one or two recent Assassin's Creed games to the console, namely either Mirage, Shadows, or possibly both. If that's the case, I wouldn't be shocked to see either of those as a launch title. Ubisoft traditionally supports Nintendo consoles early and often, and those could be nice technical showpieces to demonstrate the console's horsepower.

I don't have any insider information related to this, so it's just a guess on my part, but I have this weird gut feeling that Elden Ring could make an appearance, too. That would certainly get people talking.

Possibly a Zelda remaster

It's way too early for a new The Legend of Zelda game, given that we got both Echoes of Wisdom and Tears of the Kingdom in the last two years. I wouldn't count on seeing that at all during the Switch 2 Direct.

However...news reports from a couple of years ago suggested Nintendo first started demonstrating the Switch 2 to corporate partners behind closed doors with a souped up version of Breath of the Wild, the most notable Switch 1 launch title. Nintendo loves selling people games multiple times, so don't be shocked if there's at least a remaster of Breath of the Wild (and maybe even Tears of the Kingdom, too) early in the Switch 2's lifespan.

Other dark horse candidates

Now, back to the "Alex is completely guessing" part of the presentation. There are a couple major Nintendo franchises that saw great success on Switch 1, and could use a new entry early in the Switch 2's life. That doesn't necessarily mean they'll be on store shelves right away, but I wouldn't be surprised if they showed up within a year of launch.

Namely, it's been five years since Animal Crossing: New Horizons saved all of us from pandemic-fueled despair. Those are shockingly complex games for how simplistic they seem on the surface, so a new entry may not be ready for launch, but I wouldn't be totally shocked to at least see an announcement related to Animal Crossing in the Nintendo Direct on Wednesday.

The other big Nintendo franchise I have on my mind here is Fire Emblem. The turn-based-tactics/dating sim franchise reached incredible heights with 2019's Three Houses, and while Engage only came out a couple of years ago, it was so uninspiring and dull that I'm choosing to just kinda ignore it. Whether the next Fire Emblem is a new game or a remake of one of the older Japan-only titles, I expect it to be on Switch 2, and it could theoretically be shown on Wednesday.

There's every possibility that my predictions here are totally and utterly wrong, in which case you're free to pelt me with tomatoes. But all of them at least feel reasonably realistic to me.

FREE STREAMING ALERT: Through April 29, Target Circle members can still score three free months of Peacock Premium. That's $7.99 per month or $23.97 total in savings. Not a Target Circle member? Sign up for free.

Opens in a new window Credit: Peacock Peacock Premium free for 3 months via Target Circle Get Deal

Between consistent price hikes and password sharing crackdowns, the streaming era is becoming kind of a bummer. That's why it's such a delight to see any kind of streaming deal pop up. Bonus points if the deal costs you zero dollars.

Through April 29, Target Circle members can still score three months of Peacock Premium for free. That's $7.99 per month in savings or a total of $23.97. The deal originally popped up ahead of its Circle Week event. Although the sitewide sale is over, the partnership deal with Peacock remains through the end of the month. The only fine print is that you must be a Target Circle member and must not be a current Peacock subscriber.

Not a Target Circe member? No worries. It's free and easy to join. Simply head to Target.com/circle and choose "Create account." Enter your full name, email address, and phone number, then choose whether to use a password or passkey (fingerprint, face ID, or pin) to sign in. Select "Create account" and voila! You are now a Target Circle member and can take advantage of the free Peacock deal.

Peacock is the exclusive home of Universal Pictures (and Focus Features) films like Wicked, Conclave and Nosferatu. You'll also find popular NBC shows like The Office, New Girl, and Yellowstone, plus reality TV faves from Bravo and Peacock Originals like Poker Face and Mrs. Davis. Peacock Premium is the streamer's lowest tier, which means you will have to put up with some ads during shows and movies. But it's hard to complain when you aren't paying a cent.

TL;DR: Get lifetime access to Microsoft Office 2021 and Windows 11 Pro for only A$87 until 27 April at the Mashable Shop.

Subscriptions are great — until they start piling up on you. If you’re tired of recurring fees, this lifetime license bundle for Microsoft Office 2021 and Windows 11 Pro lets you own the tools you need to stay productive without breaking the bank. Through 27 April at the Mashable Shop, you can get both tools with a one-time purchase of for A$87.

With Microsoft Office 2021, you’ll get lifetime access to essential apps like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams, OneNote, Publisher, and Access. Perfect for handling everything from detailed reports to creative presentations, MS Office offers powerful tools and a user-friendly ribbon interface to simplify your workflow. Whether you’re formatting documents or analyzing data, this suite is built for modern professionals.

On the OS front, Windows 11 Pro offers a sleek, efficient platform packed with features. Snap layouts and virtual desktops make multitasking a breeze, while advanced security tools like BitLocker help keep your data safe. But what really stands out is Copilot, Windows 11’s built-in AI assistant. Copilot helps you with tasks like generating ideas, summarizing web pages, or adjusting settings — all with a simple prompt. It’s like having a personal productivity partner built into your system.

Whether you’re optimizing your work setup or upgrading your personal tech, this deal has everything you need to get ahead.

For just A$87, this bundle of Microsoft Office 2021 Professional and Windows 11 Pro gives you lifetime ownership of two essential tools, freeing you from the hassle of subscriptions.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Microsoft The Ultimate Microsoft Office Professional 2021 for Windows: Lifetime License + Windows 11 Pro Bundle AU$87
AU$663 Save AU$576 Get Deal

TL;DR: Get Microsoft Office 2024 Home for Mac or PC with a one-time purchase of A$206 (reg. A$238) through 27 April 27 — no subscription required.

What can you expect from your one-time purchase of Microsoft Office 2024 Home for Mac or PC?

• Includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and OneNote for essential productivity

• One-time purchase with no recurring fees for lifetime use on one device

• Redesigned ribbon for quick access to tools based on what you’re working on

• Co-authoring features let multiple users collaborate in real-time

• Smarter AI suggestions for text, formatting, and data visualization

• Optimized for Mac Ventura, Sonoma, and Sequoia operating systems, as well as Windows 10 or 11 operating systems

• Create, collaborate, and organize your projects without ongoing subscriptions

Boost your productivity with a lifetime license to Microsoft Office 2024 Home for Mac or PC, now just A$206 until 27 April at 11:59 p.m. PT — no monthly fees, just essential tools you can count on.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: InterPlein Microsoft Office 2024 Home for Mac or PC: One-Time Purchase AU$206
AU$238 Save AU$32 Get Deal