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Updated: 49 min 9 sec ago

All the new products Apple could release in March: iPhone 17e, iPad Air, MacBooks

Mon, 02/09/2026 - 11:52

Apple just released a new AirTag model, but it's reportedly not done with product launches for the first part of 2026 yet.

By the end of March, we could have new revisions of the iPhone E-series, new iPads, and new MacBooks to play around with, according to Mark Gurman's latest newsletter at Bloomberg. The prolific Apple reporter claimed a product launch could come as soon as March 2. Without wasting any more time, let's get into all of the major products Apple could launch by the end of March.

SEE ALSO: Apple's iPhone 17e to launch 'imminently,' report claims iPhone 17e

Last year, the iPhone 16e offered great battery life and modern Apple software features for the relatively low price of $599. People who bought one didn't get high-end camera support or anything like that, but they did get the ability to stay in the contemporary Apple ecosystem for a long time without breaking the bank. According to Gurman, we're getting another one of those very soon.

Gurman said the iPhone 17e is "due imminently," with the iPhone 17's A19 chip and MagSafe charging as two big new features. On top of that, it will reportedly still cost $599, so it's just a straightforward upgrade over last year's model without a higher price point. It's still not as cheap as the old iPhone SE was, but good things rarely last forever.

New iPads

According to Gurman, we're also getting minor revisions to the iPad family soon. There will be a new entry-level base iPad and a new iPad Air, both of which will have new processors powering them. The former will be powered by the A18 chip and the latter by the M4 chip. Per Bloomberg's report, the A18 chip in the basic iPad will enable Apple Intelligence features on that device for the first time. Sadly, it sounds like that's about all you can expect from these devices.

New MacBooks

As for MacBooks, this product category has the most potential action of any of them for the first half of the year. Gurman reported that there will be new 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models and a new MacBook Air with an M5 processor. Gurman also referenced a new Mac Studio desktop and even a new Studio Display monitor, though it's unclear if all of these are going to launch in the March window described above, or just vaguely before the halfway point of 2026.

Perhaps the most intriguing new Mac computer that we could see in the first half of the year is the alleged budget MacBook. Gurman says it will have a 13-inch display and an iPhone-caliber chip inside of it, all for a price that should be significantly less than $1,000. Given the price of a decent laptop these days, that would be huge. As someone whose slightly older MacBook badly needs a battery replacement, I wouldn't say no to one of these at all.

Scammers are increasingly posing as loved ones, survey suggests

Mon, 02/09/2026 - 11:49

Scams are unfortunately ubiquitous in the digital age — and a new survey suggests that a growing number of bad actors are pretending to be your loved ones.

Phone number verification tool ClarityCheck just conducted a survey of around 1,900 adults in the U.S., UK, and European Union, and found that 64 percent of respondents have encountered a suspicious message or call that seemed to come from someone they knew.

SEE ALSO: Beware Instagram reset password scams that users report are on the rise

Of those, nearly half involved impersonating a former romantic partner or close friend. Thirty-eight percent initially believed the scammer was genuine for several days or longer — even when the scammer asked for money or sensitive information.

The survey results highlight how scammers prey on people's vulnerability. Romance scammers and pig butchering schemes attempt to build trust with their targets before requesting money or data. ClarityCheck found that respondents who recently went through a breakup, relocation, or period of prolonged isolation were 52 percent more likely to engage with someone suspicious for an extended period.

"When someone appears to know your emotional history, the usual warning signs are displaced by recognition and trust," Ihor Herasymov, managing director of ClarityCheck, stated in a press release. "The damage is not only financial. It often reshapes how people perceive their past relationships and their own judgment."

"This type of fraud works because it does not feel like fraud," said Herasymov.

In recent months, lawmakers have attempted to curb romance scams. Back in September, two senators urged the CEO of Match Group to act on these types of cons, but no update has been made public. In the meantime, Tinder has implemented required facial scans for new users, and Hinge plans to test them as well.

The best Presidents Day streaming deals: Starz, YouTube TV, Hulu, and more

Mon, 02/09/2026 - 11:35
The best Presidents' Day streaming deals at a glance: Starz $2.99 per month for 3 months (save $24) Get Deal YouTube TV free 10-day trial, then $59.99/month for 2 months $82.99/month (save $46) Get Deal Disney+ and Hulu bundle $9.99 for 1 month (save $3) Get Deal Mubi $1 for 3 months (save $43.97) Get Deal

While we typically see the best streaming deals of the year around Black Friday, it's not the only time streaming services offer discounts. With Presidents' Day around the corner, we've got our eyes locked on our favorite streamers for any potential deals that pop up. To my surprise, several have already landed.

These discounts aren't technically labeled as Presidents' Day streaming deals, but they're live for a limited time around the holiday, so that's what we're calling them. While the prices won't wow you quite like Black Friday, we could all use any savings we can get. If you're looking to sign up for a streaming service this season, you might as well save some money, right?

We'll be sure to update this list with any new streaming deals that may arise this week. For now, here are all the best Presidents' Day streaming deals live — as well as some evergreen deals we think are worth snagging.

Best Presidents' Day streaming deal Opens in a new window Credit: Starz Starz $2.99/month for 3 months (save $8/month) Get Deal Why we like it

One of the most slept on streaming services, this Starz Presidents' Day offer allows you to diversify your movie and TV lineup for only $2.99 per month for three months. It typically costs $10.99 per month, so you'll save about $24. Not only does Starz have its own original series like Sweetpea and Three Women, but it's also the first stop Lionsgate theatrical releases make in the streaming circuit. Recent additions include The Long Walk and The Strangers: Chapter 2, while upcoming films include The Housemaid and Greenland 2: Migration.

More Presidents' Day streaming deals
  • DirecTV MySports$59.99/month for 2 months $69.99/month (save $10/month)

  • Disney+ and Hulu bundle$9.99/month for 1 month $12.99/month (save $3/month)

  • Mubi — $1 for 3 months $14.99/month (save $43.97)

  • NFL Sunday Ticket$16/month for 12 months $31.50/month (save $186)

  • Spotify Premium — Free for 2 months $12.99/month (save $12.99/month)

  • YouTube TVfree 10-day trial, then $59.99/month for 2 months $82.99/month (save $23/month)

Evergreen streaming deals

The best early Presidents Day mattress deals take up to 60% off a new bed, sheets, and pillows

Mon, 02/09/2026 - 11:26
Best early President's Day mattress deals at a glance: Best overall deal DreamCloud Premier Hybrid Mattress with free accessories (queen) $1,099 (save $1,397) Get Deal Best organic mattress deal Naturepedic Serenade Organic Hybrid Mattress (queen) $1,599.20 (save $399.80) Get Deal Best foam mattress deal Bear Original Mattress (queen) $649 (save $349) Get Deal

As much as we try to ignore it, sleep is a major part of life. Ask any parent of a young child or someone who's dealing with jet lag and they'll confirm that sleep makes a big difference. It impacts our mood, cognitive ability, and even the immune system.

We have tons of great tech that helps us get restorative slumber like sleep earbuds that are comfortable enough for side sleepers, smart beds that adjust temperature automatically, and air purifiers that help with breathing in healthy air. But those probably won't help all that much if your mattress is uncomfortable. A good bed is both supportive of your back, shoulders, and hips while also being comfortable enough to keep you sound asleep. If that's not happening, it might be time for a new bed.

Just like how there's a best time of the year to buy a new TV, mattresses have a few standout sale times. President's Day happens to be one of the best times to score a major discount on a new mattress, bedding, and pillows. If you bedroom or your guest room has been asking for a refresh, check out these deals.

Best overall mattress deal Opens in a new window Credit: DreamCloud DreamCloud Premier Hybrid Mattress (queen) $1,099 at DreamCloud
$2,496.01 Save $1,397.01 mattress protector, sheet set, and two cooling pillows included Get Deal Why we like it

Last spring when I tested the DreamCloud Premier Hybrid mattress, I was shocked by the quality to price ratio. It feels like a luxury mattress you'd encounter at a 5-star hotel, but its price falls into the affordable range. In fact, a single night's stay at some 5-star resorts would cost more than this mattress.

The DreamCloud Premier is a hybrid bed that combines a plush pillow-top with ultra supportive memory foam and coil layers. The edge-support is also noteworthy. When testing, I felt like this was a great option for couples thanks to the motion isolation or anyone who's a combination sleeper and needs support in several positions.

The DreamCloud Presidents Day Sale tosses in a mattress protector, bamboo sheet set, and two cooling pillows. If you're shopping for a queen-size, you'll be able to get the DreamCloud Premier Hybrid with these accessories for $1,099.

Best organic mattress deal Opens in a new window Credit: Naturepedic Naturepedic Serenade Organic Hybrid Mattress (queen) $1,599.20 at Naturepedic
$1,999 Save $399.80   Get Deal Why we like it

If you shop for organic food and look for clothing made of natural materials, you might want to opt for an organic mattress. The Naturepedic Serenade Organic Hybrid Mattress is on sale for 20% off during the brand's winter refresh sale. The eight-inch tall mattress uses certified organic latex, wool, and cotton, which eliminates the need to use chemical-derived foam or flame retardants.

Aside from the all-organic materials and glue-free design, one of the highlights of the Naturepedic Serenade Organic Hybrid Mattress is its customization options. You can get the mattress in plush, cushion-firm, or firm to best suit your sleeping style and needs. Plus, wool and cotton are naturally breathable materials, so this could be excellent if you tend to sleep hot.

Best foam mattress deal Opens in a new window Credit: Bear Bear Original Mattress (queen) $649 at Bear
$998 Save $349 mattress protector and two pillows included Get Deal Why we like it

An all-foam bed is a great option for tons of people, and Bear makes some of the best if you're looking for an excellent value. In a queen size, the Bear Original Mattress usually costs $998, but it's on sale for $649 during the Bear Presidents Day Sale. Plus, the brand is throwing in two free pillows and a free mattress protector.

Bear uses three layers of foam on the Bear Original that are designed to provide great support and comfort to pressure points. This could also be a great option for a kids' room thanks to its affordability. In a twin size, the Bear Original is on sale for $463.

More mattress and bedding deals
  • Amerisleep — save $1,000 on a mattress with code PD2026

  • Avocado — take up to 20% off organic mattresses and 10% off organic bedding and pillows

  • Awara — save 50% on select mattresses

  • Beautyrest — save up to $1,000 on select mattress and adjustable base sets

  • Birch — take 25% off sitewide with code PRES25

  • Brooklyn Bedding — save up to 35% on mattresses

  • Casper — take up to 30% off on mattresses and 35% off bedding bundles and pillows

  • Coop Sleep Goods — save up to 40% sitewide

  • Helix — take 25% off sitewide with code PRES25

  • Eight Sleep — save up to $350

  • Essentia — take 21% off sitewide

  • Nectar — save up to 60% on mattresses and 66% on bundles

  • Nest — save up to 15% on mattresses and 20% on pillows

  • Nolah — take 35% off sitewide with free in-home set-up and removal on qualifying orders

  • Puffy — save up to $1,350

  • Purple — take up to $500 off a mattress and earn up to $300 in gift credit

  • Silk & Snow — get a free sleep bundle with mattress purchase

  • Tempur-Pedic — save up to $500 and get $300 in free accessories; BOGO pillows and sheets bundles

Listen up: The AirPods Pro 2 are in stock and just 99 cents away from their lowest price ever

Mon, 02/09/2026 - 11:13

Save $109.99: As of Feb. 9, you can find brand-new Apple AirPods Pro 2 earbuds for just $139.99, slashing an impressive 44% off their $249 price tag. This puts them just 99 cents away from their lowest price ever.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple AirPods Pro 2 $139.99 at Woot
$249 Save $109.01   Get Deal

As a shopping reporter on the headphones and earbuds beat, I take notice when Apple earbuds drop down to record-low prices.

And while we're not quite back down to a record low, 99 cents away feels close enough — especially when it's on a previous generation model that can be harder to find brand new. That's exactly the case with the Apple AirPods Pro 2 at Woot, which are on sale for $139.99, knocking $109.99 off their $249 list price.

SEE ALSO: Sony’s new LinkBuds Clip open earbuds embrace pastel colors and a clip style design

Though Woot is often a retailer for refurbished products, these buds are brand new, which isn't a given considering their discontinued status: at the time of writing, they're sold out at Amazon and Walmart and more expensive than the Pro 3 earbuds at Target and Best Buy.

SEE ALSO: Apple AirPods Pro with USB-C review: About time

It is worth noting that the AirPods Pro 2 hit the market in 2022, with a USB-C port refresh in 2023. While they're not exactly top of the line anymore, they are a great option, especially for users in the Apple ecosystem who don't want to shell out $200 or more for the newer AirPods Pro 3 (with the Pro 3 being a 2025 release, I'm not holding my breath for price drops lower than that for at least the next few months).

These earbuds still have solid active noise cancellation, interchangeable silicone ear tips, personalized spatial audio, and house the same H2 chip as the Pro 3 earbuds. You'll sacrifice mostly on not having the best of the best — the battery life is six hours to the Pro 3's eight, the noise cancellation isn't as powerful, and features like heart rate monitoring and live translation aren't available on the older buds.

Still, for $140, they're a great buy if you're not looking to pay premium prices. You'll want to grab this deal while it's live for the next seven days on Woot — or until supplies last.

Dunkin is giving away free iced coffee on Feb. 9 — how to redeem this limited-time offer

Mon, 02/09/2026 - 11:01

Did you catch the Dunkin' ad during the Big Game? Dunkin' reimagined Good Will Hunting as a sitcom, including cameos from the likes of Jennifer Aniston, Matt LeBlanc, Jason Alexander, Ted Danson, Alfonso Ribeiro, Jaleel White, and Jasmine Guy. It was a welcome hit of '90s nostalgia.

During the commercial, Dunkin' announced that it would be giving away 1.995 million free iced coffees of any size to customers who use the code GOODWILLDUNKIN in the Dunkin’ app on Feb. 9. Simply download the Dunkin' app to your smartphone (it's free) and use the code at the checkout. It's that easy.

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It's worth noting that this offer is only valid while supplies last and you're limited to a single redemption.

Dunkin’ has also dropped a collection of authentic vintage and ’90s-inspired clothing that very much fits the vibe of the commercial. This exclusive drop features vintage windbreakers, denim jackets, workout sets, and much more. The entire collection is available to shop now but items are selling out fast.

National Pizza Day 2026 is here — celebrate with deals and freebies from 7-Eleven, Chuck E. Cheese, and more

Mon, 02/09/2026 - 10:37

Monday, Feb. 9 is National Pizza Day. What's that? This is news to you? You don't have us fooled. This is one of the biggest days of the year for foodies. Don't pretend for a second that you haven't been eyeing up this date for months.

The great news for lovers of dough and melted cheese is that a bunch of popular retailers run promotions on National Pizza Day, including Chuck E. Cheese, Grubhub, Papa Johns, and Pizza Hut. That means you can celebrate this occasion with a cheap slice. We've tracked down everything that's out there and lined up a selection of standout offers for your consideration.

If you want to make the most out of National Pizza Day 2026, check out some of the best freebies and discounts we found below.

National Pizza Day deals7-Eleven

7Rewards and Speedy Rewards members can buy one pizza and get another for just $3. Plus, use the code DELIVERY10 to get $10 off any first-time orders of $20 or more on the 7NOW Delivery app.

California Pizza Kitchen

Get $10 off $40+ orders at select California Pizza Kitchen locations with the code WINTER10 at checkout.

Cheez-It

On National Pizza Day, get Cheez-It Duoz Pesto and Mozzarella and Cheez-It Snap’d Margherita Pizza for 20% off plus free shipping with the code PIZZA20.

Chuck E. Cheese

Until Feb. 12, celebrate National Pizza Day with a $5 large one-topping pizza with a games purchase. Fun Pass holders can score this deal without a games purchase.

Grubhub

On National Pizza Day, enjoy BOGO on six-piece wings with orders of at least $15 at Popeyes, get $7 off orders of $30+ at Pizza Hut, and get 25% off orders of $30+ at 7-Eleven. Plus, all Amazon Prime Grubhub+ members can use the code GET10 at the checkout to get $10 off a $30 order.

Papa Johns

Get the XL NY Style Pizza for $11.99 on National Pizza Day.

Papa Murphy’s

Get $10 off $25+ orders with the code PZDAY26.

Pizza Hut

Join Hut Rewards to get a free large one-topping pizza on your next order through the Pizza Hut app. Place a qualifying order through the app or online with a minimum purchase of $7.99 and Hut Rewards members will get a coupon for the free pizza within 24-48 hours in the app.

The best last-minute Valentines Day gift? Discounted gift cards at Amazon

Mon, 02/09/2026 - 10:17

SAVE UP TO $30: Amazon has tons of gift cards on sale for up to 20% off, including Dave & Buster's, DoorDash, Ulta, and more.

Best gift card deals as of Feb. 9: Best dining deal DoorDash e-gift card $42.50 (save $7.50) Get Deal Best self-care deal Ulta Beauty physical gift card $45 (save $5) Get Deal Best date night deal Dave & Buster's e-gift card $40 (save $10) Get Deal

Valentine's Day is this Saturday, which means we have officially entered the "panic buy" window. If you're still scrambling to find a little something for your bestie or soulmate (or just want to treat yourself to what is essentially free money), Amazon is currently running a sale on digital and physical gift cards.

SEE ALSO: Best gift ideas for people in long-distance relationships

Right now, you can score 10% to 20% off brands like Uber, DoorDash, and Instacart. Since many of these are e-gift cards, they can be delivered instantly to your giftee's inbox. Just make sure you double-check which delivery method is selected before checkout; if you accidentally choose a physical card, you might be cutting it too close for the holiday. (Though most offer overnight delivery with Prime.)

More gift card deals at Amazon

Starbucks is giving away free coffee on Monday, Feb. 9 — how to get yours

Mon, 02/09/2026 - 09:38

Need a pick-me-up after Sunday's Big Game? Head to your local Starbucks: The coffee chain is giving out free drinks to its Starbucks Rewards members today (Monday, Feb. 9).

Members of the loyalty program can score a free tall (12-ounce) iced or brewed coffee with the purchase of any other beverage, so bring a friend — or your very tired, possibly hungover self. Note that any customizations you make to the free drink might cost extra, per a press release.

Opens in a new window Credit: Starbucks Starbucks Rewards Join for free Learn More

Starbucks is also debuting special-edition green paper cups and launching a new 1971 Roast coffee blend on Monday, according to the release. The cups will be available at participating U.S. Starbucks stores through February while supplies last.

This is the second year in a row that Starbucks has poured free coffee after the Big Game, marking what it's calling "Starbucks Monday."

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Last month, Starbucks announced that it was updating its Starbucks Rewards program with a new tiered membership structure — which isn't going over well with customers, judging by some Reddit threads. The changes won't go into effect until Tuesday, March 10.

How to sign up for Starbucks Rewards

If you're not a Starbucks Rewards member yet, you can join for free online or in the Starbucks app. Every purchase earns you "Stars" that you can redeem for free drinks, snacks, merch, and drink customizations. (Registering a gift card or preloading money on the app will earn you double the Stars per dollar.) Additionally, you'll get a free drink or food item on your birthday.

Some fine print: You had to be signed up for Starbucks Rewards before today in order to be eligible for your free tall coffee. You'll also need the Starbucks app on your phone. A coupon for the free coffee will appear in the "Offers" tab.

If you don't see the coupon, the company recommends ordering in-store and letting your barista know that you're a Starbucks Rewards member.

Heres a simple trick for getting over someone

Mon, 02/09/2026 - 09:18

Long ago, back when I was single, I lamented — as those who are in the midst of unrequited love are wont to do — to some friends in a group chat.

It was one of those situations where I was sick of hearing myself (or reading myself, as it were) talk about this unrequited love, so I knew my friends had to be sick of me talking about it, too. It was to the point where I even curtailed myself talking about this person with my therapist for fear that she was sick of the subject, even though I pay her to listen to my problems.

“Sorry to bring this up again, but…” became a running refrain over iMessage and in real life.

SEE ALSO: What we're getting wrong about dating, according to a Kinsey scientist

My friends, being the angels that they are, did not complain about my “circling back” to this issue or about trying to suss out the reasons this relationship imploded. At the same time, they did not really know how to help me.

Until one day, a then-coworker of mine made a suggestion I would never forget.

“Dude,” she said over text, “Just write out a list of all the ways they suck. It really helps.”

It was so simple, and yet it had never crossed my mind before. I propose this as something to add to your “toolbelt of getting over someone who doesn’t deserve your grief,” along with blocking on social media and distracting yourself with movies or TV.

Writing down a list of someone’s flaws may sound petty. And that’s because it is — but when heartbroken, a simple exercise that enables one’s pettiness without actually reaching out to the person who deserves said pettiness is a win. When I want to text someone about how much they suck, about how they hurt me — me! A wonderfully unique, hot, gainfully employed person — do I actually text them?

No. No. That would be embarrassing and only exacerbate the heartbreak. Instead, I type it furiously in my Notes app or, better yet, I text it to my own number.

Writing down a list of your ex’s flaws is another iteration of that. You are releasing your rage into a flurry of bullet points, all about how, actually, this person’s breath smells, and they don’t change their sheets often enough, and they have terrible taste in music. By writing it down, you are not bottling up your emotions, but you’re also not involving the other person. You still care about this person, but the key is you’re not letting them know.

There’s evidence that journaling helps manage stress and anxiety. Just the act of getting your feelings out of your head helps — it’s one reason why talk therapy is so helpful for many. They become tangible, more real. Furthermore, writing by hand commits what you’re writing to memory more so than typing. While the Notes app is my go-to for lists — to-do lists, grocery lists — a “flaws list” is fun to actually write in a journal. Or both! Go nuts!

What’s more, there’s nothing wrong with performing self-improvement out of spite. It’s petty. It’s silly, and probably won’t “cure” you of your affliction overnight. But if nothing else, it’s a step in the right direction: of realizing this person is not deserving of your love. So get your favorite pen and your Muji notebook and get writing.

This article was originally published in 2020 and updated in 2026.

The lonely state of getting over someone you never dated

Mon, 02/09/2026 - 09:11

You know you've got it bad when you start crying in public.

It happened on the District Line as I made my way home, weary and emotionally bruised. Many moons ago, I boarded the train and sat in the end carriage on purpose, so I could have my emotional breakdown around fewer people. I tried to hide the tears as soon as they coursed down my cheeks, but I couldn't conceal the sharp intakes of breath that come when you're trying so hard not to weep audibly. My chin was doing that ugly uncontrollable wobble that happens when you're having a massive sobbing session.

Women sitting in the same carriage as me shot furtive, concerned glances my way. I wanted to tell them, "Don't worry, nothing terrible has happened, not really. I'm just crying over a man I never even dated." That last detail — the fact I couldn't even call this man my ex-boyfriend — made me feel I didn't have the right to feel heartbreak.

SEE ALSO: How to get over a breakup

It was a lonely time. A time where I felt I couldn't really talk about what had happened, a time where I felt I needed to apologise every instance I brought up my pain and the thoughts that paced back and forth through my mind. "Sorry to keep going on about this," was the caveat that preceded all statements concerning the heartbreak I deemed invalid.

During a habitual pre-bedtime scroll through TikTok, I stumbled across a glut of videos that put into words the lonely state of getting over someone you never dated. I hit the heart so fast. Finally! A TikTok trend that speaks to my soul! But watching these videos made me wonder why we don't talk about this type of heartache more.

As an anxiously attached girlie with a tendency to fall too hard, too soon, I've gone down the heartbreak-over-someone-I-never-dated road more times than I can remember. Whether it's a situationship, an intense fling, a friends-with-benefitship, or an unrequited crush, each occasion is accompanied by a low-level feeling of stupidity, a kind of "I can't believe I'm back here again" as if I should have learned my lesson by now. Perhaps I should have. But as I'm learning through therapy, beating myself up for feeling something deeply only amplifies the existing hurt. There's no need to add more pain to the mix.

In the run up to my 30th birthday, I found myself embroiled in a very confusing talking stage with a guy. We'd been emailing back and forth (very You've Got Mail of us, tbh) and eventually we started messaging over Instagram. While chatting to this person, and spending time with them IRL, I started to like the guy and wonder where things were headed. It eventually became clear that this talking stage would be where things were going to stay. Or rather, that's where things ended.

SEE ALSO: How to separate romantic rejection from your self-worth

I felt rejected, and began questioning my self-worth, and wondering what I needed to change about myself in order to be deemed lovable. Not only that, I felt naive and angry at myself for allowing myself to feel something without even so much as kissing the guy. I wondered how I could have possibly misread this situation so badly – had I read too much into the emails and messages? A few years later, and with a much better relationship with my self-worth, I know my feelings were real and valid. I'm not a mindreader and I can't speak to the other person's motivations for behaving in that way, but I know it has nothing to do with me.

SEE ALSO: I haven't had a boyfriend for a decade. Here's what I've learned.

As someone who's not had a long-term relationship for over a decade, my status as a perennial singleton who's actively dating doesn't mean I've been spared heartbreak during that time. Far from it. I know from my experience, and from that of my friends, that you can feel tremendous heartbreak, pain, and grief from any kind of relationship — be it in the very early stages of dating someone, the talking stage, or after sleeping with someone a couple of times. Just because you can't call them your boyfriend, girlfriend, partner, whatever, doesn't mean you don't have the right to feel sorrow and heartache over something ending. Your feelings are valid no matter the duration of that connection.

Match’s dating expert, Hayley Quinn, says short romances and flings are easy to invalidate, but grieving over situationships is becoming increasingly common. "Modern dating often means that commitment takes time to form, and it’s often found that by the time you have 'the conversation' about what you are, you're already attached — even if someone doesn't want the same level of relationship as you do," says Quinn. If you're in a situationship that suddenly ends, just remember that time will heal. "Even if you don't understand their reasons, and never get closure, the fact that they're no longer present in your life is telling enough about what they can offer you," she says. "Remember, you will grow out of believing this person is the only one for you, and there will be many other people who can give you the same level of connection as they did, whilst bringing more to the relationship, matching your wants and needs too."

SEE ALSO: Just in time for V-Day — the best dating apps for serious relationships

Rachael Lloyd, relationship expert at eharmony, says the amount of time spent together and the type of relationship are immaterial if you've caught feelings for someone that aren't reciprocated. "All too often we are presented with the narrative that ‘breakup blues’ are only valid if you’ve been with a partner for years, experienced significant milestones or if the relationship ended badly," says Lloyd.

"In my view, that’s nonsense. What about the guy you never heard from after two amazing dates? The girl who ghosted you despite the great sex, the funny back and forth online that suddenly becomes one sided. All still sting." Lloyd says it's important to acknowledge and sit with those emotions in order to get over such knock-backs. "It’s not silly to be sad about something that hurt you and dismissing these experiences could lead to you becoming more emotionally unavailable later down the line," says Lloyd. "As with any breakup — focus on self-care, look to your friends for support and go easy on yourself."

Recently I found myself saying the words "I hate myself for feeling this way" to my therapist. She stopped me in my tracks and told me, "What we resist persists." How can you move on from a feeling if you're fighting its very existence? With time, you'll feel differently. But just know, your feelings are valid and you have every right to feel sad.

This article was first published in 2021 and republished in 2026.

This stunning LG UltraGear gaming monitor is over $300 off at Amazon

Mon, 02/09/2026 - 09:04

TL;DR: The LG UltraGear 27-inch QHD OLED gaming monitor is now down to $496.99 at Amazon. That's over $300 off its usual $799.99 list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: LG LG Ultragear 27-Inch QHD OLED Gaming Monitor $496.99 at Amazon
$799.99 Save $303 Get Deal

If you’ve been eyeing an OLED gaming monitor but waiting for prices to cool off, this latest Amazon deal might be the ideal upgrade to your setup. As of Feb. 9, the LG UltraGear 27-inch QHD OLED gaming monitor is available for $496.99 at Amazon, shaving over $300 off its regular $799.99 list price. That puts a high-refresh OLED display firmly into mid-range monitor territory, which is no small feat considering the specs on offer.

At the center of the experience is a 2560x1440 QHD resolution OLED panel with a standard 16:9 aspect ratio, making it a natural fit for competitive gaming setups and everyday desktop use alike. OLED technology delivers near-perfect black levels, rich contrasts, and vibrant colors that give games a noticeable boost in visual depth compared to traditional LCD panels. This is great for immersive adventure titles like Red Dead Redemption 2, but also full-scale MMORPGs like Where Winds Meet

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Performance is where this UltraGear monitor really shines. A blazing-fast 240Hz refresh rate paired with a near-instant 0.03ms response time keeps motion smooth and responsive in fast-paced titles like Fortnite, while NVIDIA G-Sync compatibility and AMD FreeSync Premium Pro helps eliminate screen tearing across a wide range of GPUs. Support for VESA DisplayHDR True Black 400 also adds extra punch to highlights without sacrificing shadow detail.

Connectivity is well covered, with HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort support making this a solid option for both high-end PCs and current-gen consoles, like the PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch 2.

If you’re willing to spend extra on a larger model, the 49-inch curved Samsung Odyssey OLED G9 gaming monitor is still $500 off. In the event you’re still set on a 27-inch model, but from a different brand, the Acer Nitro WQHD gaming monitor is at a record-low price at Amazon.

HBO Max is launching in the UK and Ireland. How much will it cost?

Mon, 02/09/2026 - 08:08

HBO Max has announced its launch date and pricing for the UK and Ireland.

On Monday, the company revealed HBO Max will begin streaming in the UK on Thursday, March 26. The platform will launch equipped with its slate of originals including A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, The Pitt, Heated Rivalry, and Euphoria, which UK viewers have been watching through Sky and NOW via licensing partnerships (Industry lovers, the HBO/BBC co-production is still streaming on BBC iPlayer).

HBO Max is launching in the UK and Ireland with content partners Sky and Prime Video, so expect that to reflect on the TV, movies, and sports available on day one.

SEE ALSO: The best HBO Max deals and bundles in January 2026

Three platforms dominate the UK's streaming arena right now; in its 2025 report, Ofcom (the UK's communications regulator) found that two-thirds of UK households subscribe to at least one of Netflix, Prime Video, or Disney+, with Netflix the most subscribed-to service (six in 10 households have it). And with Netflix set to acquire Warner Bros., including HBO, (yes, it's still happening and under review by the U.S. Department of Justice), rival streamers are looking at a tough challenge.

Featured Video For You Netflix and Paramount's bidding war over Warner Bros, explained

Notably, according to Ofcom, though broadcast TV still accounts for the majority of in-home viewing (56 percent) in the UK, YouTube is the second most-watched service in the UK, just behind the BBC.

How much will HBO Max cost in the UK and Ireland?

HBO Max will have four different plans available in the UK and Ireland; two with ads, two without.

Basic with ads (£4.99/month)

Stream on two devices in Full HD (except movies that have an exclusive "first stream" on HBO Max after showing in cinemas).

Standard with ads (£5.99/month)

Stream on two devices in Full HD (including movies that have an exclusive "first stream" on HBO Max after showing in cinemas). Plus, 30 downloads for offline viewing.

Standard (£9.99/month)

Everything you get with the "Standard with ads" subscription but without ads.

Premium (£14.99/month)

Stream on four devices in 4K Ultra HD with Dolby Atmos (where available) and 100 downloads. No ads.

In the UK, Netflix's ad-supported standard tier is £5.99 per month, while its Standard tier is £12.99 per month and Premium is £18.99 per month. Disney+ (where UK viewers can watch Hulu content), sits at £5.99 / £9.99 / £14.99 per month for the same tiers; Paramount+ (where Showtime lives for UK viewers) is £4.99 / £7.99 / £10.99. Prime Video costs £5.99 for ad-supported streaming and £8.99 for ad-free standard, while Apple TV is £9.99.

HBO Max in the UK will also allow people with a TNT Sports streaming subscription (£30.99 per month extra) to watch within the HBO Max app, which means Premier League, Emirates FA Cup, Adobe Women’s FA Cup, UEFA Champions League, etc.

Another day, another streaming service to fork out for — so, which one's actually worth it?

The Pokémon TCG Trainer’s Toolkit is at a record-low price at Amazon — save over $20

Mon, 02/09/2026 - 06:42

TL;DR: The Pokémon TCG Trainer’s Toolkit (2025) is down to $34.45 at Amazon. That’s $22 off its usual list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: The Pokémon Company Pokémon TCG: Trainer’s Toolkit (2025) $34.45 at Amazon
$56.99 Save $22.54   Get Deal

Build-ready Pokémon TCG products don’t usually see deep discounts once they’ve found their audience, which makes this latest price drop on the Pokémon TCG Trainer’s Toolkit worth a closer look. As of Feb. 9, Amazon has the 2025 edition of the Pokémon TCG Trainer’s Toolkit down to $34.45, shaving $22 off its $56.99 list price. 

This marks a new low price for the toolkit, as confirmed on price tracker camelcamelcamel. Unlike booster-heavy boxes aimed at collectors, the Trainer’s Toolkit is designed with playability in mind, as it has a mix of standard individual cards, promo cards, bonus accessories, and booster packs to get a collection started. 

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It’s a practical pickup for anyone looking to upgrade existing decks or start building competitive lists without hunting down individual Trainer cards. At this price, it’s also one of the more affordable ways to catch up on the modern meta of the trading card game.

Inside the box, you’ll find more than 50 useful cards to power up your decks, including dozens of Trainer cards, five promo cards, three ACE SPEC cards, and a copy of Fezandipiti ex. 

The toolkit also comes with four Pokémon TCG booster packs (two Mega Evolution and two Destined Rivals), 65 card sleeves, a strategy guide, and all the essential accessories needed for play, such as damage-counter dice, condition markers, and a competition-legal coin-flip die. There’s even a Pokémon TCG Live code card to round out the package.

For more Pokémon TCG deals, the Weavile edition of the Phantasmal Flames 3-Pack Blister is down to its best-ever price at Amazon. What’s more, you can still get at least $20 off eight packs of Phantasmal Flames boosters.

Bad Bunny Super Bowl halftime show: See it now if you missed it

Mon, 02/09/2026 - 06:38

Whether you missed the cameo-filled Super Bowl LX halftime show or you just want to watch the whole thing again, the NFL has you covered.

In the early hours of Sunday morning, Bad Bunny's full halftime show was shared on YouTube, complete with 13 hits, performances from Lady Gaga and Ricky Martin, and a political message (oh, and if you missed what the football said at the end, we have it here).

The show has already generated a huge (and hugely positive) reaction on social media, with one notable exception being the president — who unsurprisingly took to Truth Social to rant about it.

The best Hulu deals and bundles in February 2026

Mon, 02/09/2026 - 06:34

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

The best Hulu deals and bundles in February 2026: Best Hulu Bundle Deal Disney+ and Hulu Bundle 1st month for $9.99 Get Deal Best HBO Max Bundle Deal Disney+, Hulu, and HBO Max Bundle $19.99/month with ads, $32.99/month ad-free Get Deal Best Student Deal Hulu Student Deal Hulu with ads for $1.99/month Get Deal Best ESPN Bundle Deal Disney+, Hulu, ESPN Unlimited Bundle $35.99/month Get Deal

There's a wide range of excellent shows and films to watch on Hulu. From Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere to the thrilling Alien: Earth series, it's a library that's full of options to keep you entertained through these winter months.

If these have caught your eye and have you itching to sign up for Hulu, we're here to help you get the best deal. Outside of the standard ad-supported and ad free plans, there are quite a few bundle deals available with Hulu that are worth exploring if you're looking to save some cash. This includes a great limited time deal on the Disney+ and Hulu Bundle, which is offering its first month for just $9.99. It only runs until Feb. 17, so the clock is ticking to take advantage of this offer.

SEE ALSO: The best romantic comedies now streaming on Hulu

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

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

Best Disney+ bundle deal Opens in a new window Credit: Hulu Disney+ and Hulu Bundle Get your first month of the Disney+, Hulu Bundle for $9.99 Get Deal Why we like it

For those interested in the ad-supported Disney+ and Hulu Bundle, it's enjoying a limited-time offer at the moment that runs until Feb. 17. Both new and eligible returning subscribers can get their first month of this streaming bundle for just $9.99. Usually it costs $12.99, which it will auto-renew at after the first month is up, but it's still a nice deal to take advantage of.

Unfortunately, this deal does not apply to the Premium ad-free version of this plan. This option is still available for $19.99 per month, as usual.

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

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

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

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

Best ESPN bundle deal Opens in a new window Credit: Hulu Disney+, Hulu, ESPN Unlimited Bundle $35.99/month Get Deal Why we like it

Alongside the big Hulu, Disney+, and HBO Max bundle, Hulu also has plans for sports fans that throw in ESPN Select or ESPN Unlimited. According to ESPN, "ESPN Select includes ESPN+ content only. Fans who want ESPN+ exclusively may subscribe to the ESPN Select plan. ESPN Unlimited includes all of the ESPN networks and services, including ESPN+." 

The Disney+, Hulu, ESPN Unlimited Bundle, which has ads, is available for $35.99 per month. The Disney+, Hulu, ESPN Unlimited premium bundle without ads is available for $44.99 per month.

Hulu's monthly plans

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

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

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

NASA clears the iPhone to go to space

Mon, 02/09/2026 - 06:11

Apple's iPhone may be one of the most popular phones on Earth, but it's about to start conquering space as well.

According to NASA administrator Jared Isaacman, NASA astronauts are now cleared to take smartphones into space, starting with the SpaceX Crew-12 and Artemis II missions.

"We are giving our crews the tools to capture special moments for their families and share inspiring images and video with the world," he wrote in a tweet.

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The SpaceX Crew-12 is a planned mission to send up to four astronauts to the International Space Station aboard a Crew Dragon spacecraft. The mission is scheduled to launch sometime post-Feb. 11, 2026. The Artemis II is a far more exciting mission as it's a plan to send a crew of astronauts to orbit the moon aboard the Orion spacecraft. That mission is scheduled to launch no earlier than March 6, 2026.

SEE ALSO: These 'avatars' will fly around the moon with NASA's Artemis 2 astronauts

While Isaacman didn't mention specific models, an Apple spokesperson confirmed to Mashable that the iPhone is one of the phones that has been given the NASA green light.

The details on which iPhone models, exactly, will be going into space were not disclosed.

Until now, astronauts had to take those pretty orbital photos with legacy cameras. Now, they'll be able to snap them much easier, which should mean we'll be seeing a lot more beautiful space photography soon.

Lyft launches Lyft Teen for riders 13-17 years old

Mon, 02/09/2026 - 06:01

Young Lyft customers are getting their own app experience, as the ride share platform launches specialized teen settings for 13-17 year olds.

In response to a nationwide school bus driver shortage, rising costs, and what the company describes as transportation-induced stress on behalf of parents, Lyft Teen lets teens request their own rides with additional safety measures designed to expand on the app's safe ride guarantees.

SEE ALSO: Uber found liable in precedent-setting sexual assault case

The Lyft Teen experience adds new levels of security to the standard Lyft experience, starting with trip tracking and oversight for parents. Parents will get notified when their teen is picked up and dropped off, and are alerted if the app detects an unusual route change. Parents can see payment information and get full driver details while also communicating directly with them. Teen rides are automatically opted-in to PIN authorization, which requires rider and driver to verify a 4-digit code before getting in the car, and the app will automatically record audio using on-device microphones during the length of the trip.

Lyft also says teen riders will only be paired with the highest-rated drivers, those who have "annual background checks, proven safe driving records, positive passenger interactions, and experience behind the wheel." The company cited a 2022 survey from Bankrate that found only 25 percent of 16 year olds had a driver's license. Federal Highway Administration data shows that rate has remained steady.

Credit: Lyft

"Here's something I learned working for Jeff Bezos: the strongest businesses are built on things that never change," wrote Lyft CEO David Risher in a blog post. "Teens will always need to get places. Parents will always want them safe. And families will always need transportation that actually works for their lives."

Lyft competitor Uber was recently ordered to pay $8.5 million in damages to a rider who was raped by a driver in 2023, with the federal jury determining the platform was liable for the rider's assault; the company is facing a flurry of sexual assault lawsuits. Both Lyft and Uber have been taken to court over alleged safety concerns, including dozens of pieces of litigation claiming the platforms do not do enough to prevent drivers from abusing their passengers. In response, the platforms have instituted additional rider-side safety measures, such as emergency alerts, gender-specific driver requests, and tools to block specific drivers.

Snapchat adds Arrival Notifications to help users feel safer

Mon, 02/09/2026 - 06:00

Ahead of Safer Internet Day (Feb. 10), Snapchat has launched a new way to feel safer while out and about (but still online).

Users can now turn on Arrival Notifications to alert their contacts when they've reached their intended destination — similar to the location alerts on Apple's Find My, but designed for those addicted to their Snap Map. More than 400 million users visit the Snap Map every month, according to the platform.

SEE ALSO: How to watch the 2026 Winter Olympics: streaming guide

The arrival alerts can be set for single, 24-hour periods or on a recurring basis for repeated trips beyond their home, and your location will only be sent to friends you choose to share your location with, the company explains. Location sharing on the public Snap Map is still turned off by default.

To share Arrival Notifications, users can tap on their friend's profile, hit "view friendship," and turn on "Arrival Notifications." Users can customize the precise location and names for alerts.

Credit: Snap

Snapchat added location alerts for parents monitoring teen users in 2024. When enabled, the app alerts parents when their child's location has moved on the Snap Map and parents can request their child's location at any time. The platform also added new parental control features in January, following the company's settlement in a social media addiction lawsuit that also named competitors TikTok, Google, and Meta.

The Pokémon TCG Phantasmal Flames Triple Pack Weavile is down to its best-ever price at Amazon — save over $10

Mon, 02/09/2026 - 05:56

TL;DR: The Pokémon TCG Phantasmal Flames Triple Pack Blister featuring Weavile is down to $34.99 at Amazon. That's the lowest-ever price on Amazon.

Opens in a new window Credit: The Pokémon Company Pokémon TCG Mega Evolution Phantasmal Flames Triple Pack Weavile $34.99 at Amazon
$48.44 Save $13.45   Get Deal

More deals on the Phantasmal Flames expansion have been popping up for Pokémon TCG fans, and even the three-pack blisters are discounted right now. As of Feb. 9, the Pokémon TC: Phantasmal Flames 3-Pack Blister (Weavile edition) is available for $34.99, a 28% discount compared to its typical price of $48.44. 

That’s also the lowest-ever price for this Pokémon blister, as confirmed by price tracker camelcamelcamel

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Released as an expansion to the Mega Evolution set in November 2025, Phantasmal Flames has followed the trend of trading card expansions in Pokémon by remaining high above MSRP — due to low supply versus demand. In fact, individual booster packs of Phantasmal Flames currently cost $13.45 each at Amazon.

That means by buying this Phantasmal Flames 3-Pack Blister at this new price, you’ll be saving $5.36 compared to purchasing three individually. Plus you'll get a Weavile promo card, one Basic Energy, and one Pokémon TCG Live code card as a nice bonus.

This deal is a major steal compared to TCGplayer. The lowest listing available on the trading card platform is $31.79, but there is also an added shipping cost. Right now Amazon is the go-to place for saving on Phantasmal Flames booster packs (while stocks last). 

For more bargains on this expansion, you can also get the Pokémon TCG Phantasmal Flames Booster Pack bundle for at least $20 off at Amazon. Meanwhile, you can still get the Pokémon TCG Mega Evolution Booster Bundle for a new low price.  

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