Mashable

There's been a veritable avalanche of great games in 2024, and the big hitters are now up for the gold.

The nominations for The Game Awards were announced on Monday evening, with Game of the Year nominees Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, Balatro, Black Myth: Wukong, Astro Bot, Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree, and Metaphor: ReFantazio dominating the list.

Indie games like Life is Strange: Double Exposure, Neva, Indika, Lorelei and the Laser Eyes, Manor Lords, Pacific Drive, and more are all up for awards, and major releases like Helldivers 2, Silent Hill 2, Star Wars Outlaws, The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom, and Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 are up for awards too — though not Game of the Year.

And for TV fans, Arcane, Fallout, Knuckles, Like a Dragon: Yakuza, and Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft are all nominated for Best Adaptation.

SEE ALSO: The 10 best video games of 2024 (so far)

Notably, one of the biggest snubs was BioWare's excellent Dragon Age: The Veilguard, which only landed one nomination this year for Innovation in Accessibility. I'm sure complete and utter icon Taash would have something to say about this.

Here are the nominations for The Game Awards 2024 — have you played them all?

Game of the Year

Astro Bot

Balatro

Black Myth: Wukong

Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth

Metaphor: ReFantazio

Best Game Direction

Astro Bot

Balatro

Black Myth: Wukong

Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth

Metaphor: ReFantazio

Best Narrative

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth

Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth

Metaphor: ReFantanzio

Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II

Silent Hill 2

Best Art Direction

Astro Bot

Black Myth: Wukong

Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree

Metaphor: ReFantazio

Neva

Best Score and Music

Astro Bot

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth

Metaphor: ReFantazio

Silent Hill 2

Stellar Blade

Best Audio Design

Astro Bot

Call of Duty: Black Ops 6

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth

Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2

Silent Hill 2

Best Performance

Briana White, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth

Hannah Telle, Life is Strange: Double Exposure

Humberly González, Star Wars Outlaws

Luke Roberts, Silent Hill 2

Melina Juergens, Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2

Innovation in Accessibility

Call of Duty: Black Ops 6

Diablo IV

Dragon Age: The Veilguard

Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown

Star Wars Outlaws

Games for Impact

Closer the Distance

Indika

Neva

Life is Strange: Double Exposure

Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II

Tales of Kenzera: Zau

Best Ongoing Game

Destiny 2

Diablo IV

Final Fantasy XIV

Fortnite

Helldivers 2

Best Community Support

Baldur's Gate 3

Final Fantasy XIV

Fortnite

Helldivers 2

No Man’s Sky

Best Independent Game

Animal Well

Balatro

Lorelei and the Laser Eyes

Neva

UFO 50

Best Debut Indie Game

Balatro

Animal Well

Manor Lords

Pacific Drive

The Plucky Squire

SEE ALSO: 6 of the coolest upcoming indie games at SXSW Sydney 2024 Best Mobile Game

AFK Journey

Balatro

Pokémon Trading Card Game Pocket

Wuthering Waves

Zenless Zone Zero

Best VR/AR Game

Arizona Sunshine Remake

Asgard's Wrath 2

Batman: Arkham Shadow

Metal: Hellsinger VR

Metro Awakening

Featured Video For You CES 2024: The AR glasses that let you game on the go Best Action Game

Black Myth: Wukong

Call of Duty: Black Ops 6

Helldivers 2

Stellar Blade

Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2

Best Action/Adventure Game

Astro Bot

Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown

Silent Hill 2

Star Wars Outlaws

The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom

Best RPG

Dragon’s Dogma 2

Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth

Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth

Metaphor: ReFantazio

Best Fighting Game

Dragon Ball: Sparking! ZERO

Granblue Fantasy Versus: Rising

Marvel vs Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics

MultiVersus

Tekken 8

Best Family Game

Astro Bot

Princess Peach Showtime

Super Mario Party Jamboree

The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom

The Plucky Squire

Best Sim/Strategy Game

Age of Mythology: Retold

Frostpunk 2

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess

Manor Lords

Unicorn Overlord

Best Sports/Racing Game

F1 24

EA Sports FC 25

NBA 2K25

Top Spin 2K25

WWE 2K24

Best Multiplayer Game

Call of Duty: Black Ops 6

Helldivers 2

Super Mario Party Jamboree

Tekken 8

Warhammer 40K: Space Marine 2

Best Adaptation

Arcane

Fallout

Knuckles

Like a Dragon: Yakuza

Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft

Most Anticipated Game

Death Stranding 2: On the Beach

Ghost of Yotei

Grand Theft Auto VI

Metroid Prime 4: Beyond

Monster Hunter Wilds

Content Creator of the Year

CaseOh

IlloJuan

Techno Gamerz

TypicalGamer

Usada Pekora

Best Esports Game

Counter-Strike 2

DOTA 2

League of Legends

Mobile Legends: Bang Bang

Valorant

Best Esports Athlete

33

Aleksib

Chovy

Faker

ZyWoO

ZmjjKk

Best Esports Team

Bilibili Gaming (League of Legends)

Gen.G (League of Legends)

NAVI (Counter-Strike)

T1 (League of Legends)

Team Liquid (DOTA 2)

The Game Awards will be announced on Dec. 12 at the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles. The event will be streaming live on The Game Awards website.

Stephen Colbert has commented on that viral photo of Donald Trump, Elon Musk, and RFK Jr. eating McDonald's on a plane.

We make a lot of noise about all the tech deals you can bag during Black Friday, and it's true that you can find low prices on TVs, laptops, headphones, speakers, and just about everything else on your shopping list during this busy period. But what about tools? Is Black Friday the best time to find deals on everything you need to build out your toolkit? Of course it is.

Home Depot is offering a bunch of buy one, get one free deals on cordless tools this Black Friday. Decent tools are seriously expensive, so the opportunity to pick up a tool for free is surely worth your consideration.

SEE ALSO: Best Buy is treating most of November like Black Friday

We've gone ahead and checked out everything on offer from Home Depot, and lined up a selection of standout deals. We've included big discounts on popular brands like Milwaukee, Ryobi, DeWalt, and Makita. So whether you're a professional, DIY enthusiast, or an absolutely hopeless amateur, there is a deal for you right here.

These are the best deals on cordless tools this Black Friday.

Best deals on Milwaukee

• Milwaukee 18-Volt Cordless Router — free with Milwaukee Battery Starter Kit

• Milwaukee 18-Volt Cordless Jig Saw — free with Milwaukee Battery Starter Kit

• Milwaukee 18-Volt Angle Grinder — free with Milwaukee Battery Starter Kit

Best deals on Ryobi

• Ryobi 18-Volt Oscillating Tool — free with Ryobi Battery Starter Kit

• Ryobi 18-Volt Reciprocating Saw — free with Ryobi Battery Starter Kit

• Ryobi 18-Volt Power Scrubber — free with Ryobi Battery Starter Kit

Best deals on DeWalt

• DeWalt 18-Volt Router — free with DeWalt Battery Starter Kit

• DeWalt 18-Volt Planer — free with DeWalt Battery Starter Kit

• Dewalt 18-Volt Jigsaw — free with DeWalt Battery Starter Kit

Best deals on Makita

• Makita 18-Volt Jigsaw — free with Makita Battery Starter Kit

• Makita 18-Volt Square-Drive Ratchet Nut Driver — free with Makita Battery Starter Kit

• Makita 18-Volt Angle Grinder — free with Makita Battery Starter Kit

Best deals on Ridgid

• Ridgid 18-Volt Oscillating Tool — free with Ridgid Battery Starter Kit

• Ridgid 18-Volt Orbiting Sander Tool — free with Ridgid Battery Starter Kit

• Ridgid 18-Volt Circular Saw — free with Ridgid Battery Starter Kit

The Daily Mini Crossword is one of the many popular daily word games available on Mashable. Powered by Arkadium, the mini crossword offers a speed round of puzzle fun with clues that are sure to challenge experienced crossword enthusiasts.

But there's no need to let the challenge get in the way of your enjoyment! If moments are turning to minutes after getting stuck on a clue, find the answers you need to progress right here.

And when you're done, check out the many other word games you can play on Mashable, including a full-size crossword.

Also, if you get stuck on any other daily word games, such as Wordle, Connections, or Strands — we have you covered.

SEE ALSO: Hurdle hints and answers for November 18 SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable

Here are the clues and answers to Daily Mini Crossword for Tuesday, November 19, 2024:

AcrossAuction off

• The answer is Sell.

When the body can't breathe

• The answer is Anoxia.

Covid-19 Waiter

• The answer is Carhop.

2019 AFC South runners-up

• The answer is Titans.

End of a Threat

• The answer is OrElse.

Pink, as a steak

• The answer is Rare.

DownA system to get products to their destination

• The answer is Sorter.

Give away oxygen

• The answer is Exhale.

First winless NFL team in the salary cap era

• The answer is Lions.

____ in judgment

• The answer is Lapse.

Thespian

• The answer is Actor.

Currency of Nigeria

• The answer is Naira.

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.

TL;DR: Give the gift of portable sound with the JBL Clip 5 Bluetooth speaker — now just $59.99 (reg. $79.95) for a limited time.

Opens in a new window Credit: JBL JBL Clip 5 Ultra-Portable Bluetooth Speaker (Open Box) $59.99 at the Mashable Shop
$79.95 Save $19.96 Get Deal

Are you on the hunt for something to really wow the music lover or outdoor enthusiast on your shopping list? The JBL Clip 5 Ultra-Portable Bluetooth Speaker can help elevate every adventure with rich, punchy JBL Pro Sound in a compact, durable design. Mashable has named JBL Clip speakers some of the best Bluetooth speakers in the world, praising them for their portability and surprisingly full sound.

At just $59.99, this new, open-box speaker offers big sound and ideal portability, making it a fantastic gift for anyone who loves music on the go. New, open-box items are typically excess inventory from store shelves.

The JBL Clip 5 features an upgraded carabiner clip that can attach to just about anything, so your tunes are always within reach. The IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating ensures it’s ready to handle the elements, whether clipped to a backpack during a mountain hike or set up poolside for a day in the sun.

With an impressive 12 hours of playtime on a single charge and an optional Playtime Boost for extra volume, it’s ready to keep the music flowing all day.

But it’s not just about the sound. The JBL Clip 5 is also smartly designed for flexibility. Pair it with another Clip 5 or other JBL Auracast-enabled speakers to create a wider, more immersive audio experience for your next gathering. And with the JBL Portable app, users can adjust EQ settings to fine-tune their audio for the perfect sound. This speaker is ultra-portable, ultra-durable, and ultra-ready for almost anything.

Whether picking one up for yourself or grabbing a couple for the audiophiles in your life, this price on a new JBL speaker is a can't-miss.

Get a JBL Clip 5 Ultra-Portable Bluetooth Speaker for just $59.99 (regularly $79.95) while supplies last at the Mashable Shop.

JBL Clip 5 Ultra-Portable Bluetooth Speaker (Open Box) - $59.99 | Get It Here

StackSocial prices subject to change.

TL;DR: Transform your online productivity with Merlin AI’s 26-in-1 assistant — research, create, and organize for just $99 a year.

It was only a couple of years ago that ChatGPT blew our collective minds. So, it's pretty cool to see how much the AI service world has expanded in a couple of short years.

Merlin AI is a powerful new AI assistant that combines 26 different tools right in your browser, and it's always ready to help you research, summarize, and create content at lightning speed. And for a limited time, you can get a one-year subscription for just $99 (regularly $228).

Whether you’re researching complex topics, creating social media posts, or summarizing long reports, Merlin is on call — no more juggling multiple tabs or switching between all the different AI tools.

With instant access to top AI models like Chat GPT-4, Claude, and Gemini, Merlin gives you real-time answers to nearly any question. Imagine being able to chat with any website, document, or PDF to pull out exactly the information you need.

With one click, Merlin can analyze and summarize web content, YouTube videos, or lengthy articles, helping you skip the fluff and get to the essentials. And if you’re active on LinkedIn or X (formerly Twitter), Merlin can even generate personalized content and replies for maximum engagement, with no extra apps required.

Merlin is also a creative powerhouse with its Merlin Projects and Merlin Crafts features. You can turn your own data into a personalized AI assistant for easy access to information or use Merlin Crafts to generate professional content that’s ready to share. Ideal for professionals, students, and anyone looking to streamline their digital life, Merlin is here to save you time and transform the way you work online.

Explore all this tool has to offer and grab it while it's on sale.

Get a one-year subscription to Merlin AI for just $99 (regularly $228).

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Merlin Merlin AI: 1-Year Subscription $99.00
$228.00 Save $129.00 Get Deal

TL;DR: This 2-pack of Apple-compatible Smart Trackers comes with key rings for just $34.99 (reg. $69.98) for a limited time.

Opens in a new window Credit: Ethos Smart Tracker with Key Ring - Works with Apple Find My App (2-Pack) $34.99 at the Mashable Shop
$69.98 Save $34.99 Get Deal

Finding a truly thoughtful gift can be challenging, but here’s an idea that combines practicality with tech-savviness — a 2-pack of Smart Trackers for just $34.99. An ideal present for busy friends, family travelers, or anyone prone to misplacing their essentials, these trackers are a reliable alternative to Apple’s AirTags for less.

These sleek Smart Trackers work seamlessly with Apple’s Find My app, letting you easily track down your keys, wallet, luggage, and even your pet. Lightweight and compact, they attach to just about anything and connect via Bluetooth to your smartphone, providing instant updates and precise directions for locating items at the tap of a button.

With customizable alerts, you’ll receive reminders for your essential items, helping you avoid that sinking feeling when you realize you left something important behind.

These trackers also offer simplicity and reliability. The Apple Find My integration means iPhone users can keep tabs on valuables with one app without juggling multiple tools. Plus, the massive reach of the Apple Find My network means that if your items do get lost, you're more likely to find them.

And they're made to be incredibly easy to set up and use, which means everyone from the tech-averse to the gadget enthusiast can use them. And with a long-lasting battery and durable design, these trackers offer peace of mind on the go, whether you’re traveling across the world or just tackling a busy day.

So, if you’re looking for unique, useful stocking stuffers that won’t break the bank, this 2-pack of Bluetooth Smart Trackers is a fantastic choice. Get them on sale for just $34.99 (reg. $69.98) for a limited time.

Smart Tracker Includes Key Ring - Works with Apple Find My App (2-Pack) - $34.99 | Get It Here

StackSocial prices subject to change.

TL;DR: Don't miss this Grade-A refurbished MacBook Air for just $399.99 (reg. $1,099), on sale at the Mashable Shop until supplies run out.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple MacBook Air 13.3" (2019) 1.6GHz i5 8GB RAM 128GB SSD Silver (Refurbished) $399.99 at the Mashable Shop
$1,099.00 Save $699.01 Get Deal

If someone on your holiday shopping list is hoping for a MacBook this year, we have got a solid option for you. This Grade-A refurbished Apple MacBook Air from 2019 is an affordable workhorse of a laptop.

For just $399.99 (originally $1,099), you can own a MacBook Air that’s terrific for everyday tasks like browsing, multitasking, and getting work done. Quantities are very limited, so once they’re gone, they’re gone.

The 2019 MacBook Air is both powerful and portable. Its 13.3-inch Retina display offers vibrant colors and clear visuals, all adjusted by True Tone for a more natural look. Its Intel Core i5 processor with Turbo Boost lets you breeze through daily tasks and projects, while the battery can last up to 12 hours—meaning it’s ready to keep up with you from morning to night.

And at only 2.75 pounds, this MacBook Air slips easily into a bag, making it an easy travel companion.

You or your giftee will enjoy the convenience of Touch ID for secure login, two Thunderbolt 3 ports for lightning-fast data transfer, and a 720p FaceTime HD camera for staying connected. With Grade-A refurbished quality, this MacBook arrives in near-mint condition, ready to deliver Apple’s signature performance and design without the hefty price tag.

If you’re after a reliable, stylish laptop that covers all the basics, this MacBook Air is a fantastic choice. 

This grade-A refurbished MacBook Air (2019) is just $399.99 (reg. $1,099) while stock is still available.

Apple MacBook Air 13.3" (2019) 1.6GHz i5 8GB RAM 128GB SSD Silver (Refurbished) - $399.99 | Get It Here

StackSocial prices subject to change.

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

Smaller than a river.

SEE ALSO: Mini crossword answers for November 19 Hurdle Word 1 answer

CREEK

Hurdle Word 2 hint

An official part of the storyline.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for November 19 Hurdle Word 2 Answer

CANON

Hurdle Word 3 hint

With speed.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for November 19 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for November 19 Hurdle Word 3 answer

HASTE

Hurdle Word 4 hint

A particular kind of organized crime.

SEE ALSO: NYT Strands hints, answers for November 19 Hurdle Word 4 answer

MAFIA

Final Hurdle hint

Opposite of behind.

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

AHEAD

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

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.

Tweet may have been deleted

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.

Tweet may have been deleted

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 November 19 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 - To protect or prevent

• Green - How it's all shaping up

• Blue - Always at the plate

• Purple - Top prospects

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 - Defend

• Green - Ways to show standing in different sports

• Blue - Hall of Fame catchers

• Purple - NFL QBs drafted No. 1

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 #57 is...

What is the answer to Connections Sports Edition today

• Defend: BLANKET, COVER, GUARD, SHIELD

• Ways to show standing in different sports: LEADERBOARD, RANKINGS, STANDINGS, TABLE

• Hall of Fame catchers: BENCH, FISK, MAUER, PIAZZA

• NFL QBs drafted No. 1: COUCH, LUCK, NEWTON, PALMER

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.

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 Monday, November 19, 2024:

Across___ Pilkey, children's author who created Captain Underpants and Dog Man

• The answer is Dav.

Person who prefers to keep to themselves

• The answer is Loner.

Boiling with rage

• The answer is Angry.

Protrude, like a bodybuilder's muscles

• The answer is Bulge.

Casual top

• The answer is Tee.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for November 19 Down___ holes (treats that are actually balls, not "holes")

• The answer is Donut.

Geometry class measurement

• The answer is Angle.

On the ___ of tears

• The answer is Verge.

Lecture's counterpart, in college science courses

• The answer is Lab.

Bread that might be marbled

• The answer is Rye.

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 $500: As of Nov. 19, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 is on sale at Amazon for $1,519.99 at Amazon. That's a 25% saving on list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 $1,519.99 at Amazon
$2,019.99 Save $500.00 Get Deal

Black Friday sales are a great excuse to upgrade your tech, especially if a high-spec device is on your wishlist. And for those lusting over the ever-cool Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6, you can now grab a great discount at Amazon.

As of Nov. 19, you can treat yourself to this folding touchscreen phone for $1,519.99, reduced from $2,019.99. This deal is available on the 256GB option in the navy, silver, and pink colorways.

SEE ALSO: How to sign up for Amazon Prime ahead of Black Friday

Besides the impressive folding tech, the outer display generally functions like a regular smartphone screen, while the larger inner screen provides more space for apps or split-screen use. Think of it as your phone becoming a tablet. And like most newer smartphones, it comes with a range of photo abilities, from wide-angle to telephoto.

Other impressive features include the "With Circle to Search" feature. With this, you can circle anything on your screen — like shoes or gadgets — and instantly find where to buy them. The phone also comes packed with other AI tools including Generative Edit which helps you clean up images, remove objects, and enhance colors.

This is a limited-time deal at Amazon, so if you're interested move fast.

SAVE $50: As of Nov. 19, the JBL Flip 6 is on sale at Amazon for $79.95. That's a 38% saving on the list price, and the lowest it has been on Amazon.

Opens in a new window Credit: JBL JBL Flip 6 $79.95 at Amazon
$129.95 Save $50.00 Get Deal

There may be a couple of weeks left until the big event really kicks off, but Black Friday discounts have already started to appear at top retailers, including Walmart, Target, and Best Buy. And while Amazon's Black Friday event doesn't officially kick off for a few more days, you can already find deals across TVs, phones, and headphones, and we love this latest discount on the JBL Flip 6.

As of Nov. 19, the versatile speaker is reduced by 38% to $79.95, which also happens to be its lowest-ever price at Amazon.

SEE ALSO: How to sign up for Amazon Prime ahead of Black Friday

The JBL Flip 6 is a two-way speaker system, featuring a racetrack-shaped woofer for strong bass and midrange, a tweeter for crisp highs, and dual passive radiators. For durability, it boasts an IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating. So if you often take your speaker for outdoor listening, this is an ideal option.

It has a stellar battery life, so you can listen for up to 12 hours with just one charge. Plus, PartyBoost lets you pair compatible speakers for stereo sound or link multiple speakers to increase your sound.

Head to Amazon before this deal runs out.

SAVE $50: As of Nov. 19, the Oura Ring 3 is on sale at Amazon for $249. That's a 17% saving on list price, and the lowest it has ever been on Amazon.

Opens in a new window Credit: Oura Oura Ring 3 $249.00 at Amazon
$299.00 Save $50.00 Get Deal

Black Friday sales have already started at a range of retailers, including Walmart and Best Buy, and while Amazon's Black Friday deals don't officially begin until Nov. 21, there's a range of active discounts that are worth your attention.

If health tracking is your thing, you'll love this discount on the Oura Ring 3. As of Nov. 19, you'll find it reduced to its lowest-ever price at Amazon, just $249.

SEE ALSO: How to sign up for Amazon Prime ahead of Black Friday

Smart rings are the latest tracking devices that allow us to monitor our health stats, and one of the biggest names in this field is the Oura Ring. A tracker that provides overall well-being and recovery stats, it allows users to access their data via an app. Similar to some of our favorite smartwatches, but hidden away in a sleek, normal-looking ring.

The Oura Ring 3 is perfect for sleep tracking, heart monitoring, and checking activity levels. It can even record your body temperature and heart rate variability (HRV). The only downside to note is that after a month of free access to an Oura Membership, a subscription fee of $5.99 per month is required.

This is a limited-time deal at Amazon, so don't miss out.

SAVE $50: As of Nov. 19, the Apple Watch Series 10 is on sale for $349 at Amazon. That's a 13% saving on list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple Watch Series 10 $349.00 at Amazon
$399.00 Save $50.00 Get Deal

Amazon's Black Friday event technically doesn't kick off for a few more days (Nov. 21 for your calendars), but there are already some active deals lingering, if you look hard enough. And as of Nov. 19, the Apple Watch 10 is at its lowest-ever price at Amazon. Reduced by 13%, you can now pick up the latest model for just $349.

The Apple Watch Series 10 is a great update on the 9. It comes with the same stats, metrics, and data but better. In terms of health and fitness metrics, the Series 10 boasts advanced health tracking including ECG readings, heart rate notifications, and ovulation estimates.

SEE ALSO: How to sign up for Amazon Prime ahead of Black Friday

In the Vitals app, you'll find detailed overnight metrics such as heart and respiratory rates, and sleep tracking. It even includes alerts for possible sleep apnea. For fitness enthusiasts, the Workout app lets you track a whole load of activities, along with tools to monitor workout intensity and aquatic tracking with depth and water temperature sensors. And with 18 hours of normal use (and fast charging that gives you 80% in 30 minutes), the watch is perfect for all lengths of activity.

Style-wise, the Series 10 is the thinnest Apple Watch so far but it also has the biggest and most readable display. It also introduces Apple's first-ever wide-angle OLED display, meaning the watch remains clear and sharp when looking at it quickly or from different angles.

Still not sure? Check out our extensive review to see if the Apple Watch 10 is worth the splurge.

Head to Amazon to snag this deal before it runs out.

The best deals for watching 'Smile 2' online: WATCH NOW Buy 'Smile 2' on demand $24.99 at Prime Video Shop Now BEST STREAMING DEAL (WATCH LATER) Paramount+ Essential annual subscription Free 7-day trial, then $59.99/year (save 17%) Get Deal BEST THIRD-PARTY STREAMING DEAL (WATCH LATER) Free Paramount+ with Walmart+ membership free 30-day trial, then $98/year Get Deal BEST AD-FREE DEAL (WATCH LATER) Paramount+ with Showtime annual subscription Free 7-day trial, then $119.99/year (save 17%) Get Deal BEST FOR STUDENTS (WATCH LATER) Paramount+ for students $4.50/month (save 25%) Get Deal

Smile! The horror box office hit of the fall is coming to spook you on the small screen soon. Smile 2, the pop star-centric sequel to Parker Finn's 2022 feature, is one of the rare film follow-ups to outshine the original. Charlie's Angels actress Naomi Scott stars as the film's lead, a pop megastar named Skye Riley. The cast also features Rosemarie DeWitt, Kyle Gallner, Lukas Gage, Miles Gutierrez-Riley, Peter Jacobson, Raúl Castillo, Dylan Gelula, and Ray Nicholson.

Whether you skipped the theater or want to watch it again, Smile 2 is available to watch at home beginning Nov. 19. Here's everything you need to know.

What is Smile 2 about?

Taking place just days after the original left off, the film follows international pop star Skye Riley (Scott), who is working toward a career comeback a year after a devastating crash that killed her boyfriend. Though she's been sober since the crash, the emotional and physical pressure of the tour leads her to seek out an old drug dealer acquaintance Lewis (Gage) for painkillers. Unfortunately, she gets a bit more than she bargained for, as Lewis has been infected by the Smile curse and passes it to Skye. What follows is an "unpredictable narrative that's full of jump scares, creepy imagery, and spine-tingling sound effects," and of course, a bunch of eerie smiling people.

Here's the full trailer:

Is Smile 2 worth watching?

Still in select theaters nationwide, Smile 2 has been a surprising box office hit. Against a $28 million production budget, the film has grossed an exceptional $125 million worldwide. What's more, $23 million of that came from its opening weekend. Even more impressive, critics and fans alike are loving it more than the original — a very rare feat for a sequel. Smile 2 currently holds an 85 percent critic rating and 81 percent audience rating on Rotten Tomatoes, while the original Smile holds 79 percent and 77 percent, respectively.

Mashable reviewer Monica Catillo called it "even more fun and gory this time around" in her review. "It's not often that a sequel exceeds its original, but Smile 2 delivers the thrills and chills of its predecessor with an even more pronounced funhouse feel."

Read our full review of Smile 2.

How to watch Smile 2 at home Credit: Paramount Pictures

Just a month after Smile 2 dominated the box office, it's set to make its at-home debut on video-on-demand sites like Prime Video and Apple TV+. You can now purchase the film for your own digital library. A rental option will also be available eventually. If you'd rather stream the Smile sequel, keep reading to learn more.

As of Nov. 19, you can purchase the film at the following retailers:

• Prime Video — $24.99 to buy

• Apple TV — $24.99 to buy

• YouTube — $24.99 to buy

• Fandango at Home (Vudu) — $24.99 to buy

Is Smile 2 streaming?

Smile 2's first stop in the home entertainment market will be digital on demand. If you don't want to pay $24.99 for the film, however, it will be making its streaming debut at a later date. Since it's a Paramount Pictures film, like the original, it'll be joining the Paramount+ library. While there's no official streaming date yet, we can make an educated guess based on the timeline of other Paramount Pictures films and expect to see Smile 2 hit the streaming circuit in mid-to-late December.

For reference, Paramount Pictures' A Quiet Place: Day One opened in theaters June 28, made its digital-on-demand debut on Aug. 2, and hit Paramount+ on Aug. 27.

If you want to prepare for the film's arrival, you can sign up for a Paramount+ subscription starting at $7.99 per month. There are also a few ways you can save some money on a subscription. Check out the best Paramount+ streaming deals below.

The best Paramount+ streaming deals (to watch later)Most affordable: Get a free 7-day trial, then $7.99/month Opens in a new window Credit: Paramount+ Paramount+ Essential Free 7-day trial, then $7.99/month Get Deal

Want to spend the least amount of money possible to watch Smile 2? Your best bet is to wait for the official streaming release and sign up for a month of Paramount+ Essential for just $7.99. If you're new to the streamer, you'll get a seven-day trial, which will allow you to watch it for free. After you watch, just be sure to cancel your subscription if you want to avoid the monthly charge. You'll have to watch some ads throughout the movie, but just think of them as built-in bathroom breaks.

Best long-term deal: Save 38% on a Paramount+ Essential annual subscription Opens in a new window Credit: Paramount+ Paramount+ Essential annual subscription $59.99/year (save 38%) Watch Now

If you opt for the annual plan instead of the monthly plan, you can save 38% on your subscription. You'll have to pay more upfront, but it pays off in the grand scheme of your streaming lineup. An annual Paramount+ Essential plan will run you $59.99 per year, which breaks down to only $5 per month as opposed to $7.99 per month. That's basically like getting 12 months for less than the price of eight. If you want to watch more than just Smile 2 and ads aren't a dealbreaker, this is your best bet.

Best deal for no ads: Save 23% on a Paramount+ with Showtime annual subscription Opens in a new window Credit: Paramount+ with Showtime Paramount+ with Showtime Free 7-day trial, then $119.99/year Watch Now

If ads are a deal breaker for you, you'll have to sign up for the ad-free tier: Paramount+ with Showtime. This will run you either $12.99 per month or $119.99 per year (which breaks down to just $10 per month). Plus, if you're new to the streamer, you can also take advantage of that seven-day trial. Beyond just giving you access to ad-free Paramount+ content, the extra cost also unlocks access to Showtime originals and movies (like Yellowjackets and The Curse), live TV with CBS, and college football. Although you'll have to pay more, it's definitely a whole lot of bang for your buck.

Best deal for students: Save 25% on Paramount+ Essential Opens in a new window Credit: Paramount+ Paramount+ Essential for students $4.50/month (save 25%) Watch Now

College students can score a Paramount+ Essential monthly subscription for just $4.50 per month, so long as they can verify their student status using SheerID. Once verified, student discounts are valid for four years, even if you graduate prior to the four-year period. After four years, you'll be charged the standard rate for an Essential monthly subscription.

Best third-party deal: Get Paramount+ for free with a Walmart+ membership Opens in a new window Credit: Walmart / Paramount Walmart+ membership Free 30-day trial, then $98/year Watch Now

It may not be the simplest way to watch Smile 2, but a Walmart+ membership gives you free access to Paramount+ and plenty of other sweet benefits. Better yet, you can kick things off with a free 30-day trial, so you can enjoy an entire month of streaming without paying a cent. Just be sure to cancel before your trial ends if you want to avoid charges. If you want to keep your Walmart+ membership going, it'll cost you either $12.95 per month or $98 per year ($8.17/month).

Earlier this year, Google lost a massive antitrust lawsuit filed by the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ). Now the tech giant could be forced to sell off Google Chrome, the most popular web browser in the world.

According to sources speaking to Bloomberg, the DOJ reportedly intends to recommend that Google be ordered to sell off its Chrome browser as a remedy in its significant antitrust lawsuit. In said suit, U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta found that Google had engaged in anticompetitive practices through its exclusive distribution agreements with other tech companies.

SEE ALSO: 'Google is a monopolist’: Google loses huge antitrust case over search

Such agreements ensured its Google search engine was the default option on the vast majority of desktop and mobile devices in the country. Web analytics service StatCounter states that Google currently enjoys 89 percent of the global search engine market share. This number jumps even further to 93 percent when solely looking at mobile devices.

In previous years, Google has paid Apple up to $200 billion per annum to guarantee that it is the default search engine in the latter's Safari web browser. Safari is the pre-installed default browser on every Apple iPhone, iPad, and Mac. Such deals are unlikely to be permitted in the future.

"Google is a monopolist, and it has acted as one to maintain its monopoly," Mehta wrote in his August opinion.

Google has said it plans to appeal the ruling.

If Mehta does order Google to divest from Chrome, it would be a massive blow to the tech giant. Chrome commands almost 67 percent of the global web browser market share, as per StatCounter. The second most popular browser is Safari with just 18 percent. 

The loss of its Chrome browser isn't the only painful consequence Google could potentially see from this antitrust crackdown. Bloomberg reports that the DOJ will also request measures regarding Google's Android operating system and artificial intelligence, as well as concerning data licensing requirements.

Specifically, the DOJ will reportedly recommend that Google be ordered to unbundle its Android mobile operating system from its other products, offering it to clients separately from other services such as Google Search and the Google Play store. (Fortunately for the tech giant, the DOJ no longer appears to be pushing for it to sell off Android altogether.) The DOJ will further propose that Google be ordered to provide websites more options for opting out of having their content used by its AI, licence the data from its search engine, and give advertisers more control regarding where their ads appear.

The courts could deem a Chrome selloff unnecessary if such measures are enough to create a more competitive market. If they aren't, then Google may lose Chrome in one of the U.S.' largest antitrust crackdowns in history.

Bloomberg's report follows the DOJ's proposed remedy framework filed in October. Barring Google's appeal, a final ruling in this antitrust case is expected in August next year.

Parenting in the modern world comes with its fair share of adventures - from those first baby steps to navigating the teenage years. As your little ones grow up in this digital age, they'll naturally want to explore the vast online world. However, anyone who has spent any time on the internet knows how terrifying that thought can be. While teaching your children about responsible internet use is crucial, there is only so much you can expect from them. Kids are natural explorers, and the internet can just look like one big playground to them. So it’s up to us to understand the digital spaces our children inhabit, and put in the right safety rails to help stop them from getting hurt (or seeing anything inappropriate).

The first, most essential step you must take to help boost your family's online safety is investing in a robust security suite. While basic tools such as antivirus are useful, there are plenty of other tools within a cybersecurity suite that you can take advantage of to help keep your household safe online. Such as masking your children’s location data with a VPN, scanning the dark web for any exposed information, or backing up sensitive documents or family photos in an encrypted vault.

The always-connected generation

Today's kids are growing up in a world where being online is as natural as breathing. While previous generations might have spent hours chatting on landlines or flipping through magazines, today's kids are more likely to be found huddled around their smartphones, tablets, or computers. And although they’re digitally native, kids are still learning cyber safety best practices, so it's essential to have a strong line of defence against potential threats. And with so many different types of devices within the one household (Windows, Mac, iOS and Android), you may need to find a solution that is “one size fits all”.

Staying ahead of the game

Unfortunately, it’s not enough to just throw money at the problem, purchase some software, and call it a day. It’s also important to educate yourself on the safest ways to live and work online. If you want your children to browse the web safely, you need to lead by example. Learn how to recognise scams on Facebook Marketplace, make sure your router is set up correctly, and pass down this wisdom. You can’t expect your kids to understand online safety if you can’t explain it to them.

Choosing the right tools

When it comes to picking the right cybersecurity suite for your family, there are literally hundreds of options to choose from. Do you still need antivirus? Do you need a VPN? What is ransomware? These are questions which can be overwhelming and lead people to throw their hands up in the air and give up. It doesn’t have to be too hard though. PCMag produces our own annual list of the best antivirus software and security suites, and a regular top contender is Norton 360 Deluxe.

Norton 360 Deluxe also provides award-winning antivirus for your devices, and various other features including a Password Manager, Parental Controls, Dark Web Monitoring, Cloud Backup for Windows PC, and more. It regularly performs well in our in-house lab testing, and comes from Norton - a 56 time winner of PCMag’s Editors’ Choice. You can check out our complete review here.

Parental control: A helping hand

As children start to spread their digital wings, many parents want to keep a watchful eye on their online activities. This is where family-oriented security suites come in handy. For example, Norton 360 Deluxe includes parental control tools¹ that help you to filter out inappropriate content, set screen time limits, and even monitor online activity remotely. This helps allow you to create a safer environment for your children online, enabling them to enjoy the internet without you constantly having to look over their shoulder. With Norton Parental Control, you can see your child’s search terms, viewed videos², browsing history, and set restrictions in real time from your phone (a school holiday game changer).

While a Norton 360 Deluxe subscription includes protection for 3 devices, as your family grows, you can also expand your protection with Norton 360 Premium. This will provide protection and parental control for up to 5 devices.

Building good habits for the future

The internet is here to stay, and its role in our lives is only going to grow. By prioritising cybersecurity in your household, you're not just protecting your family now - you're also teaching your children valuable habits for the future. Best practice starts at home. Teaching your kids the basics: regular software updates, using strong passwords, and recognising potential online threats are all skills that will serve them well throughout their lives.

Remember, staying safe online is a team effort. By combining a reliable security suite with open conversations about internet safety, you're helping set your family up for a positive and secure digital future. After all, the online world can be a wonderful place for creativity and learning, and as a way to connect with other like-minded people and distant loved ones. But it can also be a scary place, and having the right tools, and the right protection, will help ensure that your family stays safe as we move into an increasingly connected world. Check out more online safety tips here.

--

¹ Parental Control features are not supported on Mac or Windows in S mode.

² Monitors videos viewed on YouTube.com (but not YouTube videos embedded in other websites or blogs). It does not work with the YouTube app.

TL;DR: Get lifetime access to 1minAI for £31.54 (reg. £184.58) and alleviate creative stalls with AI-powered solutions that give you ideas fast — no subscriptions required.

If you’ve ever found yourself in a creative rut, staring at a blank screen and wishing inspiration would just happen, then 1minAI might be your new go-to. With this AI-powered tool, there’s no more waiting for ideas to strike — 1minAI gets to work in under a minute, helping you break through creative blocks and jumpstart any project, fast.

For a limited time, you can score lifetime access for a one-time purchase of £31.54 (reg. £184.58), giving you an always-ready idea generator without the usual monthly fees.

Think of 1minAI as the friend who always knows what to say (or write, or design). From crafting copy to creating images and even helping with video edits, 1minAI handles it all. With the Pro plan, you get monthly credits that let you explore different content types and formats. Whether you need quick marketing copy, visual content, or just a fresh idea to start with, 1minAI helps you save time and keep the ideas flowing.

This lifetime plan is ideal for freelancers balancing tight deadlines, entrepreneurs who wear multiple hats, or just about anyone who’d rather skip the hours-long brainstorming sessions. 1minAI handles the essentials so you can fine-tune and personalise from a strong foundation. It’s AI designed to work with your creativity, not replace it, making this tool a valuable wingman in your creative hustle.

Tackle creative tasks in 60 seconds or less with a lifetime subscription to 1minAI on sale for £31.54 (reg. £184.58) for a limited time.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: 1minAI 1minAI: Lifetime Subscription £31.54 at the Mashable Shop
£184.58 Save £153.04 Get Deal

TL;DR: Live stream Chile vs. Venezuela in World Cup Qualifiers for free on SBS On Demand. Access this free streaming site from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

Chile have been really poor in the South American World Cup Qualifiers, but they will feel like they stand a chance against Venezuela. In front of their own supporters, they will believe that they can turn things around. Of course, it's not going to be easy. Venezuela are six points ahead of Chile and drew against Brazil in their last match.

If you want to watch Chile vs. Venezuela in World Cup Qualifiers for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Chile vs. Venezuela?

Chile vs. Venezuela in World Cup Qualifiers kicks off at 7 p.m. ET on Nov. 19. This fixture takes place at the Estadio Nacional Julio Martínez Prádanos.

How to watch Chile vs. Venezuela for free

Chile vs. Venezuela in World Cup Qualifiers is available to live stream for free on SBS On Demand in Australia.

If you're abroad for this fixture, you might need to use a VPN to unblock SBS On Demand. VPNs are useful tools that can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in Australia, meaning you can access free live streams on SBS On Demand from anywhere in the world.

Access a free live stream of Chile vs. Venezuela 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

4. Visit SBS On Demand

5. Stream Chile vs. Venezuela for free from anywhere in the world

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

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

If you want to retain permanent access to free streaming sites 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 SBS On Demand?

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

• Servers in 105 countries including Australia

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

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

• Fast connection speeds free from throttling

• Up to eight simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

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

Stream Chile vs. Venezuela in World Cup Qualifiers for free with ExpressVPN.