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We're approaching the end of another lunar cycle as we get closer to the New Moon. The lunar cycle is a roughly 29.5-day journey that sees the Moon transition through eight distinct phases, from New Moon to Full Moon and back again. Keep reading to find out where we are in the cycle as of Aug. 5.

What is today’s Moon phase?

As of Wednesday, Aug. 5, NASA's Daily Moon Guide tracker tells us the Moon phase is in Waning Gibbous phase, with 59% of its surface visible.

As the moon hits day 22 of the lunar cycle, visibility is decreasing significantly. But there's still more than a 50% chance of spotting some lunar features. For example, with just your naked eye, tonight you can spot the Aristarchus Plateau, Kepler Crater, and the Tycho Crater. If you have a pair of binoculars, these will help you see the Gassendi and Clavius Craters and the Apennine Mountains. Those with access to a telescope will also be able to see the Apollo 12 landing spot and the Rima Ariadaeus.

When is the next Full Moon?

The next Full Moon will take place on August 28.

What are Moon phases?

The Moon's appearance changes throughout the month as it orbits Earth, completing one full lunar cycle approximately every 29.5 days, according to NASA. During that journey, the positions of the Sun, Earth, and Moon are constantly shifting, altering how much of the Moon's illuminated surface is visible from our perspective. That's why we see the familiar sequence of phases, from a slim crescent to a half Moon, then a Full Moon, before the pattern begins again.

The eight phases are:

New Moon - The Moon is between Earth and the sun, so the side we see is dark (in other words, it's invisible to the eye).

Waxing Crescent - A small sliver of light appears on the right side (Northern Hemisphere).

First Quarter - Half of the Moon is lit on the right side. It looks like a half-Moon.

Waxing Gibbous - More than half is lit up, but it’s not quite full yet.

Full Moon - The whole face of the Moon is illuminated and fully visible.

Waning Gibbous - The Moon starts losing light on the right side. (Northern Hemisphere)

Third Quarter (or Last Quarter) - Another half-Moon, but now the left side is lit.

Waning Crescent - A thin sliver of light remains on the left side before going dark again.

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

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

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

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

Here are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2026:

AcrossStimulate, as the appetite

• The answer is Whet.

Meet The Mashable 101: Our list of the content creators shaping the internet today

"___ did the time go?"

• The answer is Where.

"Hmm, strange ..."

• The answer is Weird.

Walked through water

• The answer is Waded.

Neat and orderly

• The answer is Tidy.

DownCrop on the South Dakota state quarter

• The answer is Wheat.

"Saturday Night Live" alum Gardner

• The answer is Heidi.

Made a mistake

• The answer is Erred.

Child's bear

• The answer is Teddy.

Repeated letters in a U.R.L. address

• The answer is WWW.

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

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

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

House of the Dragon Season 3 is here, and you know what that means: It's time to take a climb into the very tangled branches of the Targaryen family tree.

Over the first two seasons of House of the Dragon, some of these branches have been pruned. (RIP to the many Targs who've perished in this bloody show.) However, Season 2 also added its fair share of new offshoots, further complicating the knotted web between Houses Targaryen, Velaryon, and Hightower. Season 3 has complicated it even further, with new deaths and the face reveal of one Daeron Targaryen. If you're looking for a refresher on that web as you watch Season 3, we've got you covered.

SEE ALSO: 'House of the Dragon' review: Season 3 atones for the sins of Season 2

Below, you'll find the Targaryen family tree as it stands as of House of the Dragon Season 3, episode 7, as well as a rundown of the characters and how they connect.

Credit: Ian Moore / Mashable Which Targaryens have died since Season 2?

There were two key deaths in the Targaryen family in Season 2: one on the Greens' side and one on the Blacks'.

Queen Rhaenyra Targaryen's (Emma D'Arcy) camp lost Princess Rhaenys (Eve Best), also known as the Queen Who Never Was. Meanwhile, King Aegon II Targaryen (Tom Glynn-Carney) and Queen Helaena (Phia Saban) lost their young son Jaehaerys when gold cloak Blood (Sam C. Wilson) and rat catcher Cheese (Mark Stobbart) assassinated him on Prince Daemon's (Matt Smith) orders.

There are still plenty of Targaryens left standing, though. Here's who to watch out for in Season 3.

Featured Video For You 'House of the Dragon': Everything you need to know in 2 minutes The Targaryen family tree: Rhaenyra, Daemon, and their children Matt Smith, Phoebe Campbell, Emma D'Arcy, Harry Collett, and Bethany Antonia in "House of the Dragon." Credit: Composite: Mashable / Images: HBO

Rhaenyra heads up the Team Black branch of the Targaryen family tree, with her husband/uncle Daemon by her side. (It was touch and go for a minute in Season 2, but after a life-changing study abroad trip to Harrenhal, complete with witches and visions, Daemon is finally ready to accept Rhaenyra as his queen.)

Their two young sons, Aegon and Viserys, are on their way to Pentos for protection after a brief pit stop in the Vale. However, Rhaenyra and Daemon's children from their prior marriages are still in Westeros and locked in on Rhaenyra's fight for the throne.

SEE ALSO: 'House of the Dragon' cut a fan favorite book character. But is that a bad thing?

Rhaenyra's son Jacaerys (Harry Collett) and Daemon's daughter Baela (Bethany Antonia) are both dragonriders. Daemon's other daughter, Rhaena (Phoebe Campbell), doesn't have a dragon, which is why she was sent off as Aegon and Viserys' guardian. However, when they went to Pentos, she remained behind in the Vale, hoping to tame its wild dragon Sheepstealer. As of Season 3, she's successfully claimed Sheepstealer, but at a cost: He went rogue during the Battle of the Gullet, and his interference helped lead to Jace's tragic death. Rhaenyra wanted Sheepstealer's rider's head, and only Daemon and Lady Jeyne Arryn (Amanda Collin) knew the truth of her identity, until Baela and Addam of Hull / Addam Velaryon (Clinton Liberty) tracked Sheepstealer down to the Vale. After a brutal dragon fight, Sheepstealer's fate hangs in the balance, and Rhaena has been dragged back to King's Landing.

The Targaryen family tree: Alicent Hightower and her children Tom Glynn-Carney, Olivia Cooke, Phia Saban, and Ewan Mitchell in "House of the Dragon." Credit: Composite: Mashable / Images: HBO

Dowager Queen Alicent Hightower (Olivia Cooke) remains the matriarch of Team Green, although she's growing increasingly regretful about her role in the war for succession. (So regretful, in fact, that she's offered to surrender the Iron Throne to Rhaenyra and take steps to ensure her rule.) She had four children with the late King Viserys (Paddy Considine).

The eldest, Aegon, was crowned King of Westeros over Rhaenyra, before she took back the Iron Throne in Season 3, episode 2. His younger brother Aemond (Ewan Mitchell) attempted to kill him in a dragon dogfight at the Battle of Rook's Rest, and once Aegon recovered from his worst injuries, he fled King's Landing with the help of Larys Strong (Matthew Needham). Aemond became Prince Regent, and Alicent has been trying her best to get herself, her daughter Helaena, and granddaughter Jaehaera out of harm's way — they've been captured and imprisoned in King's Landing. Aemond, separated from his dragon Vhagar, is currently determined to set up his new seat of power in Harrenhal with Alys Rivers (Gayle Rankin).

Alicent's youngest son Daeron (Benjamin Evan Ainsworth) makes his official House of the Dragon debut in Season 3, episode 4, although he's been hiding in plain sight since the Season 3 premiere. He's a ward of House Hightower and squire to Lord Ormund Hightower (James Norton), who's engineering his own plot — involving a fake Daeron — to place him on the throne.

SEE ALSO: 'House of the Dragon' pulls a Daeron Targaryen switcheroo that isn't in 'Fire and Blood' The Hightower family tree: Otto, Gwayne, and Ormund James Norton, Olivia Cooke, Rhys Ifans, and Freddie Fox in "House of the Dragon." Credit: Composite: Mashable / Images: HBO

In addition to Alicent, the rest of House Hightower continues to be a major player in House of the Dragon. Her father, Otto Hightower (Rhys Ifans), former hand of the King, was the first Green loyalist to be executed under Rhaenyra's reign. Elsewhere, Alicent's brother Gwayne (Freddie Fox) has been traipsing around the Seven Kingdoms with Ser Criston Cole (Fabien Frankel), a nightmare we wouldn't wish on even our worst enemies.

House of the Dragon Season 3 also introduces a new member of the Hightower family: Lord Ormund, head of House Hightower. His late father Hobert (Steffan Rhodri) was Otto's oldest brother, making Ormund Alicent and Gwayne's cousin.

SEE ALSO: 'House of the Dragon's Ormund Hightower cooks up a villainous plan that isn't in the book The Velaryon family tree: Corlys and his sons Alyn and Addam Steve Toussaint, Abubakar Salim, and Clinton Liberty in "House of the Dragon." Credit: Composite: Mashable / Images: HBO

Rhaenyra's Hand is Corlys Velaryon (Steve Toussaint), also known as the Sea Snake due to his naval prowess. Over the course of House of the Dragon, he's lost his wife Rhaenys, as well as their children Laena (Nanna Blondell) and Laenor (John Macmillan).

However, Season 2 revealed that Laena and Laenor weren't Corlys' only descendants. He also has two bastard sons, Alyn of Hull (Abubakar Salim) and Addam of Hull (Clinton Liberty). Their mother Marilda, unseen in the show, was a shipwright. House of the Dragon primarily refers to Marilda in the past tense, implying she is dead, hence why she's greyed out in our family tree. However, by this point in Fire and Blood, she is still alive. Corlys, however, is currently a prisoner of Ormund Hightower in Tumbleton.

While Corlys didn't truly acknowledge Alyn and Addam prior to Season 2, the pair are now a much more prominent part of his life — and the show. Alyn is a notable sailor in Corlys' fleet, and Addam became a dragonrider. Thanks to his Valyrian blood, he now rides Seasmoke, Laenor's old dragon.

The dragonseeds: Addam, Ulf the White, and Hugh Hammer Kieran Bew, Tom Bennett, and Clinton Liberty in "House of the Dragon." Credit: Composite: Mashable / Images: HBO

Addam isn't the only new dragonrider to join Rhaenyra's ranks in Season 2. Smallfolk Ulf the White (Tom Bennett) and Hugh Hammer (Kieran Bew) also claimed dragons. Ulf rides Silverwing, the dragon of Rhaenyra's grandmother Alysanne, while Hugh rides Vermithor, the dragon of Rhaenyra's grandfather Jaehaerys. The pair, like Addam, are bastards of Valyrian blood, earning them the nickname of "dragonseeds." While they haven't been legitimized as Targaryens, they will certainly have a large role to play in the battles to come.

House of the Dragon Season 3 premieres June 21 at 9 p.m. ET on HBO and HBO Max, with a new episode every Sunday.

UPDATE: Aug. 5, 2026, 10:42 a.m. GMT This article has been updated to reflect the events of the first seven episodes of Season 3.

UPDATE: Jul. 12, 2026, 10:00 p.m. EDT This article has been updated to reflect the events of the first four episodes of Season 3.

UPDATE: Jun. 26, 2026, 4:02 p.m. EDT A previous version of the family tree did not show Rhaenys, Hobert, or Marilda as deceased the way they are in the show. It has since been updated.

TL;DR: Wizards of the Coast revealed the first wave of commanders from Magic: The Gathering's Mystery Booster: Commander Edition at Gen Con, displaying rule-breaking mechanics, deep MTG lore, and cards built around multiplayer chaos ahead of the set's release.

Magic: The Gathering has never shied away from weird card design, but Wizards of the Coast's newest Commander product might be pushing that further than ever. Wizards first announced Mystery Booster: Commander Edition at MagicCon Amsterdam earlier this summer, revealing it would feature more than 50 exclusive legendary creatures with hundreds of reprints.

What Wizards didn't do at the time was show any of the new "wild cards," leaving Commander players speculating for months about what this set would actually include.

That changed over the weekend, when the first wave of reveals came out of an invite-only Gen Con event hosted by Gavin Verhey — and the photos that spread online made it clear this set isn't just reprints. The new legends are genuinely wild deckbuilding puzzles.

The reprints alone make for a wild draft, but the real story is the new legendary creatures. Wizards used them to dig into niche archetypes, forgotten mechanics, weird deckbuilding rules, and multiplayer-focused effects — the stuff that just doesn't fit into a normal set.

Most recent premier sets keep the command zone stocked with legends that reliably ramp and draw cards within strict color identities. This set completely flips that, ignoring the usual rules for what a commander is supposed to do.

What's inside the set?

Beyond the new legendary creatures, Mystery Booster: Commander Edition is built specifically for Commander Draft, and each box comes packed with a mix of new and old cards. Here's a full breakdown of what's inside the booster:

• 20 total Magic cards per booster

• 3 white, 3 blue, 3 black, 3 red, and 3 green common or uncommon cards

• 1 reprint wildcard of any rarity

• 1 rare or mythic rare reprinted commander

• 1 non-foil or traditional foil new-to-Magic commander

• 1 additional non-foil or traditional foil card

• A Future Sight frame common/uncommon card

• A Future Sight frame rare/mythic rare card

• A traditional foil acorn stamp card (rare pull, under 1%)

• 1 playtest card

SEE ALSO: Stop trading blind: The 5 most valuable MTG cards from every current Standard set

In total, the set draws from more than 2,000 cards across Magic's entire history, so opening a box is a mixed bag of old favorites and cards you've probably never even seen printed before.

60 brand-new commanders

Gavin Verhey designed 60 all-new legendary creatures for this set, and several use a new mechanic called Rulebreaker, letting you bend Commander's usual deckbuilding rules. One standout: Tsagan, Raider Warlord, which started out digitally in MTG Arena's Alchemy: Aetherdrift, is now making its first tabletop appearance — and unlike most Alchemy cards, it's fully legal in Commander, Legacy, and Vintage.

Credit: Wizards of the Coast Credit: Wizards of the Coast More surprises: Future Sight, Alchemy, and playtest cards

Remember Future Sight's alternate frame from 2007? It's back for 134 different reprints in this set, some appearing in non-foil or foil for the first time ever.

There are also 10 traditional foil cards carrying the acorn stamp, all originally built for MTG Arena's Alchemy format using digital-only mechanics — not legal in Constructed formats, but fair game for Mystery Booster: Commander Edition Draft or Sealed.

Credit: Wizards of the Coast Credit: Wizards of the Coast

The box also includes 121 playtest cards, styled after Wizards' actual internal testing mockups, with one in every booster. They're not tournament-legal either, but they're a fun addition to casual Commander Draft.

Where and when to buy

Wizards will be hosting a range of Mystery Booster: Commander Edition events at MagicCon, including MagicCon: Atlanta on Nov. 13-15, where you can register to play. You can also get it through Festival in a Box, once it becomes available via MagicSecretLair, though Wizards hasn't confirmed an exact date yet.

Cards and sealed products for the set have also started showing up on TCGplayer, though listings currently show as sold out — still worth bookmarking in case restocks come through.

TL;DR: The latest Stuff Your Kindle Day takes place on Aug. 5-8. Stuff Your E-Reader, hosted by Indie Author Collective, is offering free books in a variety of subgenres.

We're not in the habit of complaining about free giveaways, but if there is one thing that bothers us about Stuff Your Kindle Days, it's that they sometimes come and go in the blink of an eye. We need time to prepare. We need to properly assess our options and lovingly handpick the books that speak to us. 24-hour events rob us of this opportunity.

Fortunately, the latest Stuff Your Kindle Day is a much more relaxed affair.

Stuff Your E-Reader, hosted by Indie Author Collective, is offering free books across a variety of subgenres until Aug.8. Everything that you download is yours to keep forever, so you really can stock up ahead of the colder winter months on the horizon.

SEE ALSO: T-Mobile is giving away the 2026 Motorola Razr for free — how to qualify

Looking to make the most of the latest Stuff Your Kindle Day? We've lined up everything you need to know about this popular event.

When is Stuff Your Kindle Day?

Stuff Your E-Reader takes place from Aug. 5-8. This four-day giveaway provides participants with the chance to really dig into everything on offer.

Which books are free?

Stuff Your E-Reader is an all-genre book blast, so there really is something for everyone. There's a helpful hub page with everything neatly organized. You can filter by price (free or $0.99), platform (Kindle or Kobo), representation, and genre. There are 30+ genres to pick from, including fantasy, thriller, romance, gothic, and erotica.

Is Stuff Your Kindle Day the same as Amazon Kindle Unlimited?

Everything you download on Stuff Your Kindle Day is yours to keep forever, and there's no limit on the number of books you can download. Stuff Your Kindle Day downloads don't count towards the 20 books that Amazon Kindle Unlimited subscribers can borrow at the same time.

The best Stuff Your Kindle Day deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Kindle (16GB) + Kindle Unlimited (3 Months) $109.99 at Amazon
  Shop Now Why we like it

These popular e-readers let you take your entire library on the go. With weeks of battery life and an anti-glare display, you can read anywhere and anytime with the Kindle. Plus, you can get three months of Kindle Unlimited for free with your purchase for a limited time.

TL;DR: Live stream the 2026 US Open for free on 9Now. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

There was absolutely nothing wrong with the French Open or Wimbledon, but you could feel the absence of Carlos Alcaraz. We missed his all-action style, his passion, and his rivalry with top seed Jannik Sinner. Fans will be desperately hoping he's back to defend his US Open title, and the good news is that he's officially on the entry list.

Barring any late injuries, we should finally get to see the Alcaraz vs. Sinner rivalry renewed at Flushing Meadows. Of course, that's not the only story. Sabalenka will be looking to defend her title against a host of talented players, including Americans like Coco Gauff and Jessica Pegula. Questions will also be asked of Zverev and Djokovic as they look to bridge the gap to the game's biggest stars.

If you want to watch the 2026 US Open for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

What is the US Open?

The US Open Tennis Championships (or US Open) is a hardcourt tennis tournament held annually in Queens, New York. It is the fourth and final of the four Grand Slams, held after the Australian Open, French Open, and Wimbledon.

The defending singles champions are Carlos Alcaraz and Aryna Sabalenka.

When is the 2026 US Open?

The 2026 US Open is the 146th edition of the tournament. This year's event takes place from Aug. 23 to Sept. 13.

How to watch the 2026 US Open for free

The 2026 US Open is available to live stream for free on 9Now.

9Now is geo-restricted to Australia, but anyone can access this streaming platform with a VPN. These handy tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to secure servers in Australia, meaning you can unblock 9Now from anywhere in the world.

Access free live streams of the 2026 US Open by following these simple steps:

1. Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (we recommend 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 9Now

5. Watch the 2026 US Open for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.99 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but leading VPNs do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can gain access to free live streams of the US Open without committing with your cash. This is obviously not a long-term solution, but it does give you time to watch the entire tournament before recovering your investment.

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

What is the best VPN for the US Open?

ExpressVPN is the best service for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport, 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 always secure

• Fast connection speeds

• Up to 10 simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $68.40 and includes an extra four months for free — 80% off for a limited time. This plan includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.99 (with a money-back guarantee).

Live stream the 2026 US Open for free with ExpressVPN.

TL;DR: Live stream the 2026 Vuelta a España for free on SBS on Demand. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The huge news from the world of cycling is that Tadej Pogačar is set to compete in this year's Vuelta a España.

That's certainly bad news for anyone looking to battle it out for top spot in the general classification. It might also be bad news for fans hoping for competitive racing, such is the dominance that Pogačar is displaying right now. Can anyone compete with the Tour de France winner? It'll take something special to stop Pogačar from claiming the only Grand Tour he's yet to win.

If you want to watch the 2026 Vuelta a España for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

What is the Vuelta a España?

The Vuelta a España is an annual multi-stage bicycle race primarily held in Spain. The Vuelta is the third and final grand tour of the 2026 men's road cycling season, following the Giro d'Italia and Tour de France.

The defending general classification champion is Jonas Vingegaard.

When is the 2026 Vuelta a España?

The 2026 Vuelta a España is the 81st edition of the three-week cycling race. This year's event will start on Aug. 22 in Monaco and end on Sept. 13 in Granada.

How to watch the 2026 Vuelta a España for free

The 2026 Vuelta a España is available to live stream for free on SBS on Demand. You can watch all 21 stages live and free, plus stream stage replays, mini stages, and highlights.

SBS on Demand is geo-restricted to Australia, but anyone can access it for free with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in Australia, meaning you can live stream on SBS on Demand from anywhere in the world.

Live stream the 2026 Vuelta a España for free by following these simple steps:

1. Sign up for a streaming-friendly VPN (we recommend 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. Connect to SBS on Demand

5. Watch the 2026 Vuelta a España from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.99 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free. However, leading VPNs tend to offer free trials or money-back guarantees. By using these offers, you can watch the 2026 Vuelta a España without actually spending anything. This obviously isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you plenty of time to watch every stage of the Vuelta a España before recovering your investment.

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

What is the best VPN for SBS on Demand?

ExpressVPN is the top choice for streaming 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 always secure

• Fast connection speeds

• Up to 10 simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $68.40 and includes an extra four months for free — 80% off for a limited time. This plan includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.99 (with a money-back guarantee).

Watch the 2026 Vuelta a España for free with ExpressVPN.

TL;DR: EcoVacs is launching the W2S Pro Omni, a window-cleaning robot with edge detection, a portable multi-purpose charging dock, and 12-tier suction protection to keep it safely attached to glass. It launches Aug. 10, priced at $599.99.

Robot vacuums have solved floor cleaning, but there's always a stubborn gap left behind: floor-to-ceiling windows, big glass panels, and sliding doors that don't get cleaned as often as they should. EcoVacs is calling this the "last dirty inch" problem, and it's tackling it with the launch of the W2S Pro Omni, a dedicated window-cleaning robot. This new model launches on Aug. 10 for $599.99.

Credit: Ecovacs Credit: Ecovacs

The core feature here is what Ecovacs calls TruEdge 2.0 — high-density felt bristles set in an eight-tooth radial layout, designed to reach into corners and edges rather than just wiping down the flat middle of a window and calling it done. That's paired with a dual-side 6-jet spray system to help loosen stuck-on dirt and stains.

One of the more practical upgrades is the all-in-one multi-purpose dock. It doubles as a control panel, a charger (rated for 110 minutes of runtime), and portable storage, so instead of needing an outlet near whatever window you're cleaning, the power source essentially travels with the robot.

Credit: Ecovacs

Safety is a big focus, too. EcoVacs packed in a bunch of protection features — strong suction, pressure sensors, and edge detection — all working together to keep the robot securely stuck to the glass. Even if the battery gets low mid-clean, EcoVacs says it's designed to stay attached to the window for 30 minutes rather than risk falling off.

Windows, meet your match — the W2S Pro Omni arrives Aug. 10.

TL;DR: Live stream select Ligue 1 fixtures for free on CazéTV. Access these free live streams from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

Ligue 1 doesn't have the same reputation as the Premier League or La Liga, but PSG has just secured its second consecutive Champions League title, so perhaps it's time to reassess the quality of France's top league?

We know that there's a gulf in quality between PSG and the rest of the league, but Ligue 1 now combines genuine stars like Dembélé, Vitinha, and Kvaratskhelia with elite young talent that will dominate the game in the years to come. Will any team make the jump and actually compete with PSG for the title? That seems unlikely, but fans can bank on some thrilling football every week.

If you want to watch Ligue 1 for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

What is Ligue 1?

Ligue 1 is a professional football league in France and the highest level of the French football league system. Ligue 1 is contested by 18 clubs, including popular teams like PSG, Olympique de Marseille, and AS Monaco. Every team plays 34 matches per season.

The defending champions are PSG.

When is Ligue 1?

The 2026/27 Ligue 1 season kicks off on Aug. 21. The 34-matchday campaign concludes on May 29.

How to watch Ligue 1 for free

CazéTV will be showing select Ligue 1 fixtures for free on their YouTube channel.

These free live streams are geo-restricted to Brazil, but anyone can bypass these restrictions with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in Brazil, meaning you can unblock free live streams of Ligue 1 from anywhere in the world.

Access free live streams of Ligue 1 by following these simple steps:

1. Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (we recommend 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 Brazil

4. Visit CazéTV

5. Watch Ligue 1 fixtures for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.99 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but leading VPNs do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can gain access to free live streams of Ligue 1 without actually spending anything. This is obviously not a long-term solution, but it does give you time to watch select fixtures (plus coverage of the Premier League and La Liga) before recovering your investment.

If you want to retain permanent access to free live streams all season, you will need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for live sport is on sale for a limited time.

What is the best VPN for CazeTV?

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

• Servers in 105 countries, including Brazil

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

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

• Fast connection speeds

• Up to 10 simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $68.40 and includes an extra four months for free — 80% off for a limited time. This plan includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.99 (with a money-back guarantee).

Live stream Ligue 1 for free from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

TL;DR: Microsoft Office 2024 Professional Plus is $54.99 (reg. $249.99) for a lifetime license, no monthly bill included.

Opens in a new window Credit: Microsoft Microsoft Office 2024 Professional Plus for Windows: Lifetime License $54.99
$249.99 Save $195   Get Deal

There’s a certain kind of software that doesn’t need to be a subscription, and Office is a good example. Microsoft 365 keeps charging you whether you touched Word this month or not, while Microsoft Office 2024 Professional Plus is a one-time $54.99, and then it’s just… yours.

That gets you Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote, and Access, installed on a single Windows PC for good. The license is tied to the machine itself rather than a Microsoft account, which is the tradeoff that keeps the price this low. For a computer you’re planning on keeping around a while, that’s a pretty easy trade to make.

A few things worth knowing before you buy:

• Dark mode is built in across all six apps

• Runs smoothly on older hardware, no beefy specs required

• Files save in standard formats, so sharing with Microsoft 365 users isn’t an issue

• No account sign-in needed to open the apps day to day

If the plan is to eventually cut the Microsoft 365 cord, $54.99 for a full, permanent Office suite is about as low-friction as that switch gets. Get Microsoft Office 2024 Professional Plus for $54.99, regularly $249.99.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

TL;DR: Get 100TB of Internxt Cloud Storage for a one-time payment of $999.99 (reg. $9,900) and store years of files with zero-knowledge encryption, unlimited device access, and no monthly subscription fees.

Opens in a new window Credit: Internxt Internxt Cloud Storage Lifetime Subscription: 100TB $999.99
$9,900 Save $8,900.01   Get Deal

Tired of constantly running out of cloud storage? Every time you need more space, the monthly fees climb higher, keeping you in an expensive, never-ending cycle of upgrades and charges. As we accumulate more data every day, it may be time to consider a more financially responsible approach to keeping your files safe.

With Internxt Cloud Storage, you truly own your space — there’s no more renting your data storage. And right now, you can lock in an ample 100TB of storage for just $999.99 (reg. $9,900) for a limited time.

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Using iCloud to keep your files safe? The maximum storage Apple allows you to rent is currently just 12TB — and it costs $64.99 a month. If you’re looking for a more affordable way to safeguard your precious data, providing enough space to last a lifetime, it’s time to check out Internxt Cloud Storage.

With Internxt Cloud Storage, you own your storage space. That means you can say goodbye to those hefty monthly fees and rest easy knowing you can keep all your important data in one secure space. You can also rest easy knowing Internxt’s end-to-end encryption is so secure that even the company itself can’t access your data.

It’s also GDPR compliant — adhering to strict European privacy laws — and audited and verified by Securitum. That’s a major improvement over other cloud storage services, which not only access your data but also make money from it through targeted ads and data sharing.

If you’re making the switch, Internxt offers cross-platform compatibility so you can easily integrate it across all your devices and operating systems via a desktop app, web browser app, and iOS or Android app.

Never pay for cloud storage again with this 100TB Internxt Cloud Storage lifetime subscription for just $999.99 (reg. $9,900).

StackSocial prices subject to change.

TL;DR: The GoCable 8-in-1 EDC packs 100W fast charging, multiple connectors, data transfer, and handy everyday tools into one compact keychain — and it’s just $29.99 (reg. $49.99) for a limited time.

Opens in a new window Credit: GoCable GoCable 8-in-1 EDC 100W Cable $29.99
$49.99 Save $20.00   Get Deal

There are tech gadgets that people wind up living in a junk drawer for months — and then there are the ones that quickly earn a permanent spot in someone’s daily routine. The GoCable 8-in-1 EDC 100W Cable falls squarely into the second category. It’s the kind of practical, tech-forward surprise that makes people say, “Wait … this does that too?”

At first glance, GoCable looks like a sleek little keyring accessory. But once you start using it, it quickly proves it’s more than just a charging cable.

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Designed as an everyday carry essential, it combines ultra-fast charging with genuinely useful built-in tools, all wrapped in a compact, tangle-free design that clips neatly onto a bag, belt loop, or keychain.

With 100W charging capabilities (when paired with a compatible power source), GoCable can power everything from phones and tablets to laptops, drones, and cameras.

Universal connectors mean you’re covered whether you’re using USB-C or Apple’s Lightning — no more digging through tangled cords or carrying three different cables just in case.

What makes it especially satisfying, though, are the thoughtful extras. An LED power display shows your real-time charging status. The magnetic wrap keeps things neat and frustration-free. There’s even a built-in bottle opener and a safe-proof cutter for impromptu moments like opening a package on the fly or cracking a drink at a picnic.

The GoCable makes an ideal asset for travelers, creators, commuters, and anyone who lives even slightly tethered to their devices.

Priced at $29.99 (reg. $49.99) for a limited time, the GoCable is an everyday gadget that feels both smart and genuinely helpful — grab it while stock lasts.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

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

SAVE $31.99: As of Aug. 5, the Sony WH-CH520 headphones are on sale for $38 at Amazon. That's a 46% discount on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Sony Sony WH-CH520 $38 at Amazon
$69.99 Save $31.99   Get Deal

You don't need to splash out hundreds of dollars for good headphones. In fact, with this latest Amazon deal on the Sony WH-CH520, you don't even need to spend a hundred dollars, not even close.

As of Aug. 5, this popular pair has dropped to just $38. Already a steal at the normal list price of $69.99, we can't resist a deal like this. You can choose from a wide range of colors, with everything from standard black, blue, and white discounted, as well as options with a pop of color like yellow, pink, and cappuccino.

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These budget headphones have many premium features you'd find on much more expensive sets. For example, enjoy up to 50 hours of battery life with quick charging, making them ideal for holidays, commutes, and extended listening without constantly recharging. They're designed for long sessions, built with a lightweight frame, adjustable headband, soft ear pads, and swivel earcups.

The sound quality is impressive too, and can be customized through EQ Custom in the Sony app. And if you use your headphones for calls or voice notes, the built-in microphone won't let you down with its support for hands-free calls.

Find this Sony headphones deal at Amazon right now.

SAVE $300: As of Aug. 5, the EcoVacs Deebot X11 Pro robot vacuum is on sale for $699.99 at Amazon. That's a 30% discount on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Ecovacs EcoVacs Deebot X11 Pro $699.99 at Amazon
$999.99 Save $300   Get Deal

The EcoVacs Deebot X11 Pro robot vacuum is back on sale on Amazon, and this time it's at a record-low price. As of Aug. 5, this robot vacuum is down from $999.99 to $699.99, saving you $300. According to price tracking by camelcamelcamel, this is the lowest price it has ever been.

So, what are you getting in addition to your $300 discount? This robot vacuum combines both vacuuming and mopping technology to tackle everyday dirt, spills, and pet hair. It has an OZMO Roller 2.0 that uses a high-density nylon roller with continuous pressurized self-washing to scrub away stubborn messes and dried stains while cleaning with fresh water.

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For vacuuming, it pairs a 19,500Pa BLAST suction with an optimized airflow to help lift embedded dust and pet hair from carpets and hard floors. It also benefits from a Triple Lift System that automatically adjusts the cleaning approach when it detects liquids or carpets, even lifting the roller to help keep the carpet dry.

And you won't have to clean awkward corners yourself. The TruEdge 3.0 extends the roller closer to edges and corners for improved coverage, so no spot is missed.

Head to Amazon now to secure this robot vacuum deal.

SAVE $70: As of Aug. 5, the Beats Studio Buds+ are on sale for $99.95 at Amazon. That's a 41% discount on list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Beats Beats Studio Buds+ $99.95 at Amazon
$169.95 Save $70.00   Get Deal

Whether you've lost one earbud or your current pair is starting to give up, this latest Amazon deal on the Beats Studio Buds+ could save you some cash on a replacement. They're a reliable pair of wireless earbuds with great sound quality, and as of Aug. 5, they're $70 off. That brings the cost down to $99.95.

And for under $100, you're truly getting a great deal. They feature Beats' custom acoustic platform for great sound, along with two listening modes: Active Noise Canceling (ANC) to reduce external noise and Transparency mode to let background sounds through when needed. The earbuds also support Spatial Audio for a more immersive listening experience.

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For battery life, you'll get up to 36 hours of listening time with the charging case, so you won't need to recharge them after every use.

They come with four sizes of silicone ear tips, ensuring a secure, comfortable fit and improved acoustic performance. This also makes them idea workout earbuds, especially since they are IPX4-rated for sweat and water resistance.

Head to Amazon to grab this great Beats earbuds deal.

TL;DR: The Motorola Razr is available for free with T-Mobile. To qualify for this offer, simply activate a new line on an Experience More plan.

Opens in a new window Credit: Motorola Motorola Razr Free when you activate a new line on an Experience More plan. Shop Now

Samsung and Apple dominate the smartphone news cycle, but Motorola has quietly built one of the most practical foldables on the market. And better yet, you can pick up this popular phone for free right now.

T-Mobile is giving away the new Motorola Razr for free, with no trade-in required, when you activate a new line on its Experience More plan. The total cost is covered via 24 monthly bill credits. If you cancel or switch carriers before the two-year mark, you’ll owe the remaining balance on the phone’s full retail price.

If you’re already planning to add a line, getting a high-end foldable without trading in your current device is easily one of the best mobile carrier deals live right now.

The Motorola Razr offers a 3.6-inch external display that's big enough to reply to Slack messages, check Google Maps, and sort through emails without flipping the phone open. Under the hood, the 4,800mAh battery outlasts most compact foldables on the market, and the 50MP main camera sensor handles quick WFH video calls and casual shots with ease.

Score the new Motorola Razr for free with T-Mobile.

My first reaction to the announcement of Ted Lasso Season 4 could best be summed up in one word: Why?

SEE ALSO: 'Ted Lasso' Season 4 teaser reveals Richmond's women's football team

The Emmy-winning series had already come to a close with Season 3, which saw coach Ted Lasso (Jason Sudeikis) returning to Kansas City to be with his son Henry (Gus Turner, replaced with Grant Feely in Season 4). Following three seasons of working on his mental health and his family relationships, the move home was the natural conclusion to Ted's arc. What more could the show have to say? And more importantly, did we need more? Season 3 was fairly lackluster, fumbling key character moments, languishing in overly sentimental melodrama, and dragging thanks to hour-long runtimes. If Ted Lasso was going to come back and recapture some of its earlier magic, it had some serious lessons to learn.

Three years after its supposed finale, it seems like Ted Lasso has finally learned these lessons. With Season 4, the series finds new purpose thanks to a surprising move: having Ted step out of the spotlight.

Ted Lasso Season 4 is all about women's sports. Tanya Reynolds and Jason Sudeikis in "Ted Lasso." Credit: Apple TV

Don't worry, Ted is still very much around, ready to dole out folksy one-liners and Beastie Boy quotes at the drop of a hat. But Ted Lasso wisely recognizes that its lead has found closure to his most pressing emotional challenges. Now, Ted acts as more of a conduit through which the show can introduce its newest focus: women's sports.

Ted Lasso hinted at this focus in its Season 3 finale, when Keeley Jones (Juno Temple) pitched a Richmond women's team to Rebecca Welton (Hannah Waddingham). Three years later, that dream is becoming a reality, and Rebecca wants Ted back to coach the Lady Greyhounds.

She, Keeley, and Leslie Higgins (Jeremy Swift) win him back over the course of the season's first episode, which falls into some Season 3 pitfalls: overly on the nose and far too long. (Trimming episode runtimes, tragically, isn't a lesson Season 4 has learned.) Thankfully, Ted Lasso finds its footing again from episode 2 onward once Ted lands back at Richmond.

SEE ALSO: The NWSL is finding its next generation of fans online

Here, Ted Lasso begins to recapture some of its Season 1 magic. In its first outing, the series worked best when Ted was breaking down the walls of those who doubted him, from Richmond's players to its fanbase. His empathetic curiosity in the face of his skeptics is the reason the show became COVID's feel-good hit, even if later seasons tackled darker material. With a new team in Season 4, Ted Lasso finds itself at a similar starting point to Season 1. There's a new crew of players to win over, along with a new assistant coach in the no-nonsense Alice Chilton (Tanya Reynolds). But perhaps most importantly, there's a good chunk of the footballing world that doubts whether a Richmond women's team even needs to exist.

Women's sports are on a meteoric rise. In 2025, a Nielsen Sports report estimated that women's soccer could become one of the world's top five sports by 2030. In the United States, viewership and fandom of the NWSL has increased drastically over the past year. Sexist detractors will tell you otherwise, downplaying the work of incredible athletes and the leagues they're building. Ted Lasso represents these detractors as a Greek chorus of jerks: drunken bozos at a round of pub trivia, or disgruntled Richmond shareholders who are flabbergasted that their money is going toward funding a women's team. Even Rebecca must confront her own internalized misogyny. After all, she fails to consider a woman for the head coach job and often wonders above all else whether the team will be profitable. A financial report from Leslie doesn't help, although the pair are still determined to support the team.

SEE ALSO: Everything coming to Apple TV in 2026

Here's where Ted Lasso jumps into its Believe-mobile and puts its engine into full throttle. This time, though, Ted isn't in the driver's seat. He (and Rebecca and Leslie) are happy passengers to Keeley, whose unbridled enthusiasm is the true heart of the season. Already a capable entrepreneur by the end of Season 3, the years between seasons have allowed her to blossom even further into a tenacious go-getter. From fighting for a better locker room to sorting out jersey delivery issues, she is on fire — not just with the determination to build something new, but with the deep-seated knowledge that this team is necessary. Look no further than the Lady Greyhounds' multi-generational fans. Pub owner Mae Green (Annette Badland), whose bar has shown men's soccer for years, is over the moon that she now gets to watch a women's team. Meanwhile, Roy Kent's (Brett Goldstein) niece Phoebe (Elodie Blomfield) and her friends get new athletic role models to look up to. Yes, the messaging can be a bit heavy-handed. (It's Ted Lasso, it comes with the territory.) But the joy the show builds around the Lady Greyhounds made my eyes misty, in much the same way that seeing a young girl in a WNBA or NWSL jersey does. It's awesome to watch athletes break barriers, to see people build a long-lasting love of women's sports, and to highlight both of these great things on a show as big as Ted Lasso.

Ted Lasso's Lady Greyhounds steal the show. Brendan Hunt, Jason Sudeikis, and Tanya Reynolds in "Ted Lasso." Credit: Apple TV

As for the Lady Greyhounds themselves, they are an absolute blast to watch. Like the Greyhounds in Ted Lasso's earlier episodes, they're more of a boisterous ensemble, with the exception of a few characters pulling focus. Law student Gemma (Abbie Hern) doubles as an ace striker. Goalie Boots (Jude Mack) brings a wild edge to the team. Twins Niamh (Aisling Sharkey) and Siobhan (Rex Hayes) bicker up a storm. Mother Lizzie (Faye Marsay) deploys her maternal instincts on the field, often acting as a foul-mouthed mediator. In the first four episodes sent to critics, these characters begin as sketches who are steadily being filled in, with the potential for so much more down the line.

But the truest scene-stealer here is assistant coach Alice. Reynolds has consistently been a bright spot in every project she's in, from Sex Education to The Other Bennet Sister. Ted Lasso is no different. As the ultra-direct Alice, Reynolds is a master of deadpan, and the perfect counterpoint to Sudeikis' boisterous Ted. Her straight-shooting leads to some of the early episodes' best comedic moments, but her intense quest for total perfection on the pitch suggests some serious personal growth ahead. As the show pulls focus away from Ted and onto the Lady Greyhounds, Alice is primed to be a great new co-lead.

That shift is proof of Ted Lasso's welcome evolution in Season 4, which so far seems to be avoiding Season 3's biggest pitfalls. As someone who was skeptical of the show's return in the first place, its embrace of women's sports, like Ted coaxing Rebecca with his divine shortbread, has won me over.

The first episode of Ted Lasso Season 4 is now streaming on Apple TV, with new episodes every Wednesday.

Today's Connections: Sports Edition will be easier if you've ever watched hockey or baseball.

As we've shared in previous hints stories, this is a 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. The sports Connections can be played on both web browsers and mobile devices and require players to group four words that share something in common.

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Each puzzle features 16 words, and each grouping of words is split into four categories. These sets could comprise 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 before the game ends.

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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: Wordle-obsessed? These are the best word games to play IRL. 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: Throw this

• Green: First overall pick

• Blue: Trading cards

• Purple: Types of scorecards

Here are today's Connections: Sports Edition categories

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

• Yellow: Things That Are Thrown

• Green: Last Four NFL Draft No. 1 Picks

• Blue: Descriptors for Types of Trading Cards

• Purple: Can Follow "Score"

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 #681 is...

What is the answer to Connections: Sports Edition today?

• Things That Are Thrown: BASEBALL, DART, FRISBEE, HAMMER

• Last Four NFL Draft No. 1 Picks: MENDOZA, WARD, WILLIAMS, YOUNG

• Descriptors for Types of Trading Cards: AUTOGRAPH, PARALLEL, PATCH, ROOKIE

• Can Follow "Score": BOARD, BUG, LINE, SHEET

Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be new sports 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.

Welcome to your guide to Pips, the latest game in the New York Times catalogue.

Released in August 2025, Pips puts a unique spin on dominoes, creating a fun single-player experience that could become your next daily gaming habit.

Currently, if you're stuck, the game only offers to reveal the entire puzzle, forcing you to move on to the next difficulty level and start over. However, we have you covered! Below are piecemeal answers that will serve as hints so that you can find your way through each difficulty level.

How to play Pips

If you've ever played dominoes, you'll have a passing familiarity with how Pips is played. As we've shared in our previous hints stories for Pips, the tiles, like dominoes, are placed vertically or horizontally and connect with each other. The main difference between a traditional game of dominoes and Pips is the color-coded conditions you have to address. The touching tiles don't necessarily have to match.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for August 5, 2026

The conditions you have to meet are specific to the color-coded spaces. For example, if it provides a single number, every side of a tile in that space must add up to the number provided. It is possible — and common — for only half a tile to be within a color-coded space.

Here are common examples you'll run into across the difficulty levels:

• Number: All the pips in this space must add up to the number.

• Equal: Every domino half in this space must be the same number of pips.

• Not Equal: Every domino half in this space must have a completely different number of pips.

• Less than: Every domino half in this space must add up to less than the number.

• Greater than: Every domino half in this space must add up to more than the number.

If an area does not have any color coding, it means there are no conditions on the portions of dominoes within those spaces.

SEE ALSO: NYT Strands hints, answers for August 5, 2026 Easy difficulty hints, answers for August 5 Pips

Number (8): Everything in this space must add up to 8. The answer is 3-6, placed vertically; 2-1, placed horizontally.

Less Than (2): Everything in this space must be less than 2. The answer is 2-1, placed horizontally.

Equal (6): Everything in this space must be equal to 6. The answer is 6-6, placed horizontally.

Less Than (2): Everything in this space must be less than 2. The answer is 1-3, placed horizontally.

Number (8): Everything in this space must add up to 8. The answer is 1-3, placed horizontally; 6-5, placed vertically.

Greater Than (4): Everything in this space must be greater than 4. The answer is 6-5, placed vertically.

Medium difficulty hints, answers for August 5 Pips

Equal (2): Everything in this space must be equal to 2. The answer is 2-2, placed vertically.

Number (1): Everything in this space must add up to 1. The answer is 1-5, placed horizontally.

Greater Than (2): Everything in this space must be greater than 2. The answer is 6-0, placed horizontally.

Less Than (4): Everything in this space must be less than 4. The answer is 6-0, placed horizontally; 0-1, placed vertically.

Greater Than (4): Everything in this space must be greater than 4. The answer is 1-5, placed horizontally; 5-2, placed horizontally.

Equal (1): Everything in this space must be equal to 1. The answer is 1-1, placed vertically; 0-1, placed vertically; 1-2, placed horizontally.

Equal (2): Everything in this space must be equal to 2. The answer is 5-2, placed horizontally; 1-2, placed horizontally.

Hard difficulty hints, answers for August 5 Pips

Equal (1): Everything in this space must be equal to 1. The answer is 1-1, placed horizontally; 1-3, placed vertically; 1-5, placed horizontally.

Greater Than (4): Everything in this space must be greater than 4. The answer is 5-0, placed vertically.

Greater Than (3): Everything in this space must be greater than 3. The answer is 4-3, placed vertically.

Number (3): Everything in this space must add up to 3. The answer is 1-3, placed vertically.

Greater Than (3): Everything in this space must be greater than 3. The answer is 4-5, placed horizontally.

Equal (5): Everything in this space must be equal to 5. The answer is 1-5, placed horizontally; 4-5, placed horizontally.

Number (3): Everything in this space must add up to 3. The answer is 4-3, placed vertically.

Equal (0): Everything in this space must be equal to 0. The answer is 5-0, placed vertically; 0-6, placed vertically.

Equal (1): Everything in this space must be equal to 1. The answer is 2-1, placed horizontally; 1-6, placed vertically.

Less Than (3): Everything in this space must be less than 3. The answer is 2-5, placed vertically.

Number (12): Everything in this space must add up to 12. The answer is 0-6, placed vertically; 6-4, placed vertically.

Greater Than (3): Everything in this space must be greater than 3. The answer is 2-5, placed vertically.

Equal (2): Everything in this space must be equal to 2. The answer is 2-1, placed horizontally; 2-2, placed vertically; 2-4, placed vertically.

Number (12): Everything in this space must add up to 12. The answer is 1-6, placed vertically; 6-5, placed vertically.

Equal (4): Everything in this space must be equal to 4. The answer is 6-4, placed vertically; 4-4, placed horizontally; 2-4, placed vertically.

Greater Than (3): Everything in this space must be greater than 3. The answer is 6-5, placed vertically.

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

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.

Mashable 101 Fan Fave: Nominate your favorite creators today

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

Hairy.

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

FURRY

Hurdle Word 2 hint

Force.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for August 5, 2026 Hurdle Word 2 Answer

VIGOR

Mashable 101 Fan Fave: Nominate your favorite creators today

Hurdle Word 3 hint

Separate.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for August 5 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for August 5, 2026 Hurdle Word 3 answer

APART

Hurdle Word 4 hint

A plan.

Hurdle Word 4 answer

DEIGN

Final Hurdle hint

Defective.

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

BUGGY

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