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Mashable is a leading source for news, information & resources for the Connected Generation. Mashable reports on the importance of digital innovation and how it empowers and inspires people around the world. Mashable's 25 million monthly unique visitors and 10 million social media followers have become one of the most engaged online news communities. Founded in 2005, Mashable is headquartered in New York City with an office in San Francisco.
Updated: 35 min 44 sec ago

How long is a light-year? Here are some ways to think about it.

Wed, 11/20/2024 - 05:00

Superman may fly faster than a speeding bullet, but he'd easily lose in a race against a beam of light, the fastest thing we know about in the universe. 

Light travels at a rate of 186,000 miles (or 300,000 kilometers) per second in a straight line through the vacuum of space, according to NASA. That means it could zip around Earth about seven times by the time you finished saying "One Mississippi." 

The universe is too vast to track distances on the scale of miles, so astronomers use light-years to convey the great lengths between cosmic objects. A light-year is the distance light can travel in one Earth-year. One light-year is about 5.88 trillion miles (or 9.46 trillion kilometers). 

SEE ALSO: How a NASA nuclear rocket engine could unleash the solar system Light-years measure distance not time

A common misconception — likely because of the word "year" — is that this unit measures time. But light-years capture how far one object is relative to another. Earth is about eight light-minutes away from the sun, meaning humans always see it not as it is exactly at that moment but how it was eight minutes ago. The next-nearest star is Proxima Centauri, 4.25 light-years away. At that distance, humans see it as it was 4.25 years ago. 

In astronomy, looking farther into the cosmos with telescopes automatically translates into observing the past because light and other forms of radiation take time to reach us. The farther a celestial object is, the longer ago in history the observer sees it. When discussing how far things are, time and space are inextricably linked. 

Now for a thought exercise to boggle the mind: The farthest detected star is known as Earendel, located 28 billion light-years away. Converted into a road trip, that would put about 168 sextillion miles on the odometer from Earth. (A sextillion, if you were wondering, has 21 zeros.) When astronomers found this ancient star with the Hubble Space Telescope in 2022, they saw it as it was many billions of years ago. 

The farthest detected star is known as Earendel, located 28 billion light-years away. Credit: NASA / ESA / CSA Light-years exceeding the universe's age

But if the universe is estimated to be about 13.8 billion years old, how are astronomers seeing objects more than 13.8 billion light-years away? That can be a fairly complicated cosmology question to answer, but the key concept to remember is that, since the Big Bang, nothing in space has stood still. The universe is expanding, and the speed at which it's moving away from its starting point hasn't stayed constant. Right now, for reasons that aren't yet fully understood, that expansion is accelerating. 

The universe is actually estimated to be some 92 billion light-years wide, explains Don Lincoln, senior scientist at Fermilab in Illinois, in the video below.

"Our visible universe has a radius of about 46 billion light-years, even though it's only 13.7 billion years old. But we're not seeing that distant point as it is now, but as it was shortly after the universe began. And the ongoing expansion makes things even worse," he said. "The bottom line is that if we're ever going to try and explore other galaxies, we better get cracking."

Distances to interstellar destinations from Earth
  • Next closest star: Proxima Centauri, 4.25 light-years away

  • Other famous stars: Barnard's star, 6 light-years away; Vega, 25 light-years away; Betelgeuse, 650 light-years away; Polaris, aka the North Star, 430 light-years

  • Closest supermassive black hole: Sagittarius A*, aka Sag A*, 26,000 light-years away 

  • Next closest galaxy: Canis Major Dwarf Galaxy, 25,000 light-years away 

  • Nearest large galaxy: Andromeda, 2.3 million light-years away

  • Farthest detected star: Earendel, 28 billion light-years away

Thieves reportedly use AT&T data to track and steal iPhones — how to protect yourself

Wed, 11/20/2024 - 05:00

As the holiday season ramps up, so do the schemes of so-called "porch pirates" — and this time, they're alarmingly tech savvy.

The Wall Street Journal reported last month on a wave of thefts involving AT&T iPhones delivered via FedEx, largely attributed to both companies’ lax policies on requiring signatures for high-value deliveries. However, an incident in September has highlighted a disturbing escalation.

SEE ALSO: Apple's new iPhone update is locking law enforcement out of phones

KHOU 11, a station located in Houston, broke the story: Deer Park Police arrested two teenagers for allegedly stealing four iPhone 16 devices in a highly orchestrated operation involving stolen tracking data.

The alleged thieves, who reportedly flew to Texas from Detroit for a weeklong heist spree, were caught red-handed with tracking numbers for multiple deliveries. Armed with this data, they targeted FedEx trucks, tailing them for hours and even confronting a driver with a legitimate tracking number to demand the package.

The big mystery here is how these teens gained access to the tracking numbers for iPhones being shipped in Texas. Neither AT&T nor law enforcement has offered much clarity.

“These are crimes committed by sophisticated criminals that are being investigated by both federal and state law enforcement agencies,” AT&T said in an email statement to Mashable. “Parcel theft is a concern across many businesses, and it is something we take seriously. We work with law enforcement agencies and parcel carriers to protect our deliveries from these sophisticated criminals."

One theory, circulating without confirmation, points to a possible rogue employee inside AT&T funneling tracking data into the black market. Regarding this, AT&T refused to comment on "rumors and speculation."

How to protect yourself

With the idea that porch pirates may be getting more sophisticated, here are some simple ways to safeguard your deliveries.

1. Require signatures for all packages

One of the easiest ways to deter package theft is to require a signature for delivery. By adding this extra step, you ensure that your package isn’t left unattended on your porch. Major carriers like FedEx, UPS, and USPS allow you to select this option during checkout or shipping setup.

2. Use an alternate locked delivery box

Consider setting up a secure delivery box outside your home. These locked containers provide a safe spot for couriers to drop off packages and are designed to prevent unauthorized access. Some models even include smart locks that sync with delivery notifications, giving you full control over access. You can also explore delivery services like Amazon Key, which allows packages to be placed inside your garage or another secure area.

3. Invest in a Ring Camera

Most porch pirates are looking for quick, easy targets, and the sight of a camera can be enough to make them think twice. Many models, like the popular Ring or Google Nest cameras, offer motion detection, two-way communication, and real-time alerts to your phone, so you can keep an eye on your packages from anywhere.

Directors Nick Johnson and Will Merrick talk 'Missing' and the real meaning behind its whirlwind ending

Wed, 11/20/2024 - 05:00

The standalone sequel to Searching is here, and like its predecessor, Missing weighs in on some hefty topics using social media and technology. Starring Nia Long and Storm Reid as mother-daughter duo Grace and June Allen, Missing follows the twists and turns of Grace's mysterious disappearance as June pieces it all together at home using her laptop and some social media hacking. But while the film will lure you in as a suspenseful thriller with astounding editing and novel visual storytelling, its real appeal stands on the thematic undertones grounding its whirlwind plot. 

At a first glance, Missing may seem to be a crime story about the internet's many rabbit holes that undermine our privacy. But the film is actually more concerned with the public's obsession with finding the perfect victim and villain for a news story. It's a fixation that's created and nourished by a seemingly endless wave of true-crime content that sensationalizes real-life tragedies, frequently at the expense of people of color. Missing's real story is about how quick people (and the internet) are to villainize and neglect people of color if it means they get another TikTok hit or Netflix true-crime special

What happens in Missing? Credit: Sony Pictures "A lot of this film is playing with your biases, and the ways you might misinterpret something."

When Grace Allen fails to return from her vacation with her new boyfriend Kevin (Ken Leung) in Colombia, time is of the essence. As the feds drag their heels on investigating her disappearance, June takes things into her own social media-savvy hands to find out what actually happened to her mom. While Missing strings you along for many plot twists, spoiler alert — its big reveal is that Grace never actually left for Colombia; she was kidnapped on her way to the airport by June's father, James (Tim Griffin). 

James was dangerously abusive to Grace when June was young. So, Grace fled with June to California years before, changing their names and leaving young June to believe her father was dead. As it turned out, James met Kevin while they were both in prison. It was Kevin who helped him orchestrate this entire heist by hiring actors to play out their Colombia vacation gone wrong. While all eyes and fingers were pointing to Kevin in Colombia, Grace was trapped in a shack in James' ranch the entire time. After a series of trials and tribulations, June manages to save the day and get her mom back home. 

SEE ALSO: 'Missing' review: a twisty whodunnit where Gen Z's internet habits save the day What does Missing's ending actually mean? Credit: Sony Pictures

Mashable hopped on a quick Zoom with the co-directors of Missing, Nick Johnson and Will Merrick, to discuss the subtext of their movie.

"There was one [high-profile] case in particular where it felt like people on TikTok were profiting off of the commentary and theories of this case, that we didn't really love," shared Johnson. "And so we injected that into the movie itself because we saw that happening [in real life]."

When Grace's disappearance makes it to the news, everything about her case quickly becomes internet clickbait, with TikTokkers and Gen Z true-crime aficionados digging into Grace's past and finding out that she has something to hide. The viewer knows Grace changed her name to escape her abuser, but the internet doesn't and is adamant about making her a villain. 

The wave of true-crime TikToks pouring in and pointing to Grace as the true puppet master behind everything illuminates how quick society is to point fingers at single Black women (or men) instead of looking at the bigger picture. "We definitely thought about the missing white girl syndrome while making this" added Merrick. "A lot of this film is playing with your biases and the ways you might misinterpret something, even you as the audience and not the true-crime people we're criticizing."

In Missing, true-crime content creators don't operate with empathy, never stopping to wonder what might have compelled Grace to change her name in the first place. Instead, they hop on a dangerous media bandwagon for the rush of it all, leaping to scandalizing conclusions. It's a phenomenon Cat Cardenas at Slate Magazine refers to as "true-crime brain," and we can see it every day, onscreen and off.

While Missing is a wild roller coaster with a series of events that may seem out of the ordinary, a lot of the film is grounded in real-life inspirations that guide its characters' actions. The real joy of the film is watching your TikTok FYP page being fed to you on the big screen — a dish out on all things true crime and what it can create. 

Missing is now streaming on Hulu.

UPDATE: Nov. 18, 2024, 4:48 p.m. EST This article was originally published on Jan. 22, 2023. It has been updated to include the latest viewing options.

'Missing' review: a twisty whodunnit where Gen Z's internet habits save the day

Wed, 11/20/2024 - 05:00

While Missing may be a mystery, it’s more importantly a masterclass in innovative, visual storytelling. The film is a standalone sequel to 2018’s Searching, and like its predecessor, Missing’s plot is entirely mediated through technology.

We see our protagonist June Allen, wonderfully played by Storm Reid, navigate her mother’s disappearance by watching her laptop screen for the majority of the film’s unfoldings. Every Google search, text message notification, or notes app to-do list is how Missing tells its story. It's a wildly intimate visual rollercoaster.

What is Missing about?  Credit: Sony Pictures

June Allen is your typical Gen Z teen, ready to party it up all week while her mother, Grace (Nia Long), goes on a vacation to Colombia with her new boyfriend, Kevin (Ken Leung). But things quickly turn dark when Grace doesn’t return from her vacation, leaving June in the epicenter of a dangerous disappearance where she assumes the role of detective, using her laptop and overall tech-savvy skills to hack into emails, security camera footage, and even TaskRabbit to piece together her mother’s whereabouts.

While the film is riddled with one too many plot twists, its big reveal speaks to a more pressing aspect of our news cycle and its vilification of people of color. This makes Missing an important watch beyond the simple merit of a fun, action flick.

The charm of Missing is initially in its editing, but the plot twists become tedious.  Credit: Sony Pictures

Missing’s editing and choice in telling its story through June’s MacBook is the real fun of the film. It allows the audience to get to know her in a really intimate and innovative way. Yes, we learn about June through her dialogue with other characters throughout Missing, but we also get extremely detailed tidbits on her laptop — like a to-do list that solely consists of “do financial aid thingy” — that are sweet but subtle nods to what a Gen Z teen is actually like. You can tell a lot about a person by how many Google tabs they have open or how messy their desktop is, and Missing acknowledges that fact and invites you into June’s world. 

The editing also leaves room for some incredible montages. In the film’s first act, June throws a massive house party that’s mediated through smooth transitions from Snapchat filters to Instagram stories to fire emojis morphing into her home’s fireplace. And when the film’s mystery kick-starts, the editing and sound design catapults its suspense to a whole new level as we see (and hear) June frantically typing and clicking different links to get a single clue as to where her mom is. It all perfectly situates you in her position and realistically follows what anyone one of us would do in the face of dangerous uncertainty: Google what the hell you’re supposed to do. 

But Missing slows down in its second act. The ceaseless plot twists, coupled with the lack of seeing June actually move around, kills the suspense. There are only so many FaceTimes you can watch before wanting to actually see your protagonist in action — a feeling that’s most potent in the final act, when we’re exclusively watching almost everything through a security camera as opposed to getting up close to June in her final fight.

Missing acknowledges where we're at with true crime and why it's a problem.   Credit: Sony Pictures

Missing's incredible editing also comes through in its concluding moments, when we see June's final fight transition to a true crime Netflix special made about her story. June questions why anyone would want to see this “garbage.” The sensationalization of her story was an incredibly smart take from Missing’s creators; it speaks to a moment in entertainment where true crime remains an audience hot topic with no clear ethical boundaries. We’ve seen it play out with Netflix’s Dahmer — Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story, where the real-life families involved with the case spoke against the show for rehashing old wounds. Missing’s focus on the internet driving a true crime thirst that overshadows what’s actually at play saves its lackluster final act. 

Throughout the film, we also see June's close friend Veena (Megan Suri) regularly reference different true crime shows in an attempt to help June figure out what to do next — it's an extra dimension to the film's reflection of Gen Z culture, while simultaneously addressing the same audience hunger that drives true crime entertainment in the first place. Couple that with the flood of viral TikToks in the film about Grace's disappearance, and Missing is, at its core, commentary on how true crime can eclipse real-life scenarios and bolster an environment where nothing is really at stake if it reads like a fun, true crime doc.

Missing may drag on, but its decision to speak on cultural issues, including true crime, racism, and the internet, gives its twisty plot real substance. If you power through its hefty second act, there’s great reward in its finale and some fun along the way. 

Missing is now streaming on Hulu.

UPDATE: Nov. 18, 2024, 4:27 p.m. EST This article was originally published on Jan. 13, 2023, and has been updated to include the latest viewing options.

'Arcane' final act trailer teases one hell of a showdown

Wed, 11/20/2024 - 04:58
The final act of "Arcane" is upon us. Watch the trailer for the final episodes of the "League of Legends"-based Netflix series.

NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for November 20

Wed, 11/20/2024 - 04:47

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

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

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

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

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

Tweet may have been deleted

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

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

Tweet may have been deleted

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

SEE ALSO: NYT's The Mini crossword answers for November 20 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 - Over the net

  • Green - NFL group

  • Blue - College group

  • Purple - Schools with the same second name

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

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

  • Yellow - Volleyball terms

  • Green - AFC South teams

  • Blue - Big East schools

  • Purple - ____ Tech

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 #58 is...

What is the answer to Connections Sports Edition today
  • Volleyball terms: DIG, SERVE, SET, SPIKE

  • AFC South teams: HOUSTON, INDIANAPOLIS, JACKSONVILLE, TENNESSEE

  • Big East schools: BUTLER, CREIGHTON, MARQUETTE, XAVIER

  • ____ Tech: GEORGIA, LOUISIANA, TEXAS, VIRGINIA

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

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

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

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

Save big on a refurbished Kindle Scribe ahead of Black Friday

Wed, 11/20/2024 - 04:36

SAVE $76: As of Nov. 20, this refurbished Kindle Scribe is on sale for $233.99 at Amazon. That's a 25% saving on list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Kindle Scribe (Refurbished) $233.99 at Amazon
$309.99 Save $76.00 Get Deal

The Kindle Scribe is the latest hot product for book lovers. Released earlier this year, the Amazon product combines reading and notetaking in one handy device.

And as of Nov. 20, you can grab a deal on an Amazon-certified refurbished model for just $233.99, a saving of 25% on list price. According to Amazon, a refurbed product is refurbished, tested, and certified to look and work like new and it comes with the same limited warranty as a new device, so you have peace of mind that the device is fit for purpose.

SEE ALSO: Stock your digital library ahead of Black Friday with these Kindle book deals

This Kindle Scribe deal also comes with the Premium Pen so you can jot down notes and convert them to text as easily as writing in a notebook. Unlike the basic pen, this model comes with an eraser at the top so you can quickly remove mistakes just by flipping the pen. It is also battery-free, as it works through a special power source embedded in the Kindle Scribe, so no need to charge it.

Besides its note-taking abilities, it has a 10.2-inch 300 ppi Paperwhite display, glare and ink-free. Like the original Kindle model, it's perfect for sitting outside in the sun or in harsh lighting.

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

Upgrade to the JBL Clip 5 with this great early Black Friday discount

Wed, 11/20/2024 - 04:32

SAVE $30: As of Nov 20, the JBL Clip 5 is on sale for $49.95 at Amazon. That's a 38% discount on list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: JBL JBL Clip 5 $49.95 at Amazon
$79.95 Save $30.00 Get Deal

If you're looking for a robust Bluetooth speaker for on-the-go listening, we've found an incredible early Black Friday deal for under $50.

As of Nov. 20, the JBL Clip 5 is on sale at Amazon for $49.95. This deal is available in all color options, including purple, pink, squad, white, and sand.

SEE ALSO: Grab the Sennheiser Accentum headphones for just $80 this Black Friday

This tiny speaker is not one to be underestimated, it packs a serious audio punch. The powerful driver and passive radiator give you a bigger, better, and of course, louder JBL Pro Sound. Plus, the handy clip design makes this speaker perfect for listening on the go. Simply clip it onto your backpack, belt loop, or whatever you want, and make the most of the 12-hour battery life.

It's also IP67-rated, meaning it’s both waterproof and dustproof, so it’s able to cope with outdoor adventures and beach days. Plus, with JBL’s Auracast feature, you can connect multiple JBL speakers to expand your sound for an even bigger, louder listening experience.

Head over to Amazon to grab this great deal.

NYT's The Mini crossword answers, hints for November 20, 2024

Wed, 11/20/2024 - 04:30

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

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

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

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

Here are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Wednesday, November 20, 2024:

AcrossWith 8-Across, knock-knock joke response before the punchline "Don't cry!"
  • The answer is Boo.

Group of musical notes
  • The answer is Chord.

Washing machine cycle before "spin"
  • The answer is Rinse.

Popular frozen waffles
  • The answer is Eggos.

See 1-Across
  • The answer is Who.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for November 20 DownOpen-bottomed hand drum
  • The answer is Bongo.

Words of approximation
  • The answer is Orso.

Poems written in tribute
  • The answer is Odes.

Specification for T-shirt necklines or socks
  • The answer is Crew.

Stoned
  • The answer is High.

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

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

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

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

The Garmin vívoactive 5 just got its biggest-ever discount at Amazon

Wed, 11/20/2024 - 04:29

SAVE $100: As of Nov. 20, the Garmin vívoactive 5 is on sale at Amazon for $199.99. That's a 33% discount on list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Garmin Garmin vívoactive 5 $199.98 at Amazon
$299.99 Save $100.01 Get Deal

Amazon's Black Friday deals officially kick off on Nov. 21. But there's still a huge range of daily deals you can grab right away, including this great discount on the vívoactive 5. As of Nov. 20, the watch is reduced to $199.99, saving you $100. Plus, this is the lowest price it has ever been at Amazon.

Released in late 2023, this smartwatch is a sharp upgrade from the previous model. Unlike the vívoactive 4, the 5 benefits from a bright AMOLED display, making colors much more vibrant and noticeable. It also has a much-improved battery life, boasting 11 days in smartwatch mode.

SEE ALSO: The Garmin fēnix 7 Pro is at its lowest-ever price at Amazon

Stats-wise, it is packed with advanced health-tracking features, including heart rate monitoring, SpO2 tracking, stress tracking, and in-depth sleep insights. The sleep insights have also had an upgrade, now featuring sleep coaching.

However, if you're looking for specific training metrics including training status and training readiness, you'll want to look at the higher-end watches, including the Forerunner range. But for a general smartwatch for tracking a range of sports and health stats, you can't go wrong with this Amazon deal.

Head to Amazon now to secure this great deal.

Grab the Sennheiser Accentum headphones for just $80 this Black Friday

Wed, 11/20/2024 - 04:21

SAVE $70: As of Nov. 20, the Sennheiser Accentum wireless headphones are on sale for $80 (down from $149.95) at Amazon for Black Friday. That's a 33% discount plus a $19.95 off coupon.

Opens in a new window Credit: Sennheiser Sennheiser Accentum $80.00 at Amazon
$149.95 Save $69.95 Get Deal

Finding premium headphones at an affordable price is no small feat, but Black Friday has delivered once again. The Sennheiser Accentum wireless headphones are available for $80 at Amazon, down from their usual price of $149.95. This deal includes a 33% discount and an additional $19.95 coupon for extra Black Friday savings.

Designed for all-day comfort, the Accentum headphones combine a lightweight, ergonomic build with a silicon-lined headband and cushioned ear cups. Whether you’re binging podcasts, tackling work calls, or simply tuning out with your favorite music, these over-ear headphones promise a comfortable fit for hours of uninterrupted listening.

SEE ALSO: Amazon deal of the day: The Sennheiser Momentum 4 earbuds just hit a record-low price

Speaking of uninterrupted, the Accentum boasts a 50-hour battery life — enough to keep your playlists going for days on end. And if you’re in a hurry, fast charging gives you a quick boost to keep the music flowing.

For audio quality, the Accentum delivers HD stereo sound with a customizable five-band equalizer and adjustable sound modes. Whether you’re at home or on the move, the hybrid Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) keeps distractions at bay. At the same time, the transparency mode lets you stay aware of your surroundings when needed.

Communication is also a strong suit for these headphones. Their two-microphone beamforming technology ensures clear voice transmission for calls or voice assistant commands, even in less-than-ideal environments.

At just $80, the Sennheiser Accentum headphones offer a mix of style, functionality, and impressive battery life without breaking the bank. This Black Friday deal is hard to beat, so grab them while you can.

Save over $180 on Sennheiser Momentum 4 headphones this Black Friday

Wed, 11/20/2024 - 04:19

SAVE OVER $180: As of Nov. 20, the Sennheiser Momentum 4 wireless headphones are on sale for $199.95 (down from $379.95) at Amazon. This deal includes a $30 coupon for extra Black Friday savings.

Opens in a new window Credit: Sennheiser Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless Headphones $199.95 at Amazon
$379.95 Save $180.00 Get Deal

Suppose premium sound is on your wishlist this Black Friday. In that case, the latest Sennheiser Momentum 4 deal might be music to your ears. Available for $199.95 at Amazon, these audiophile-grade headphones are discounted by over $180 from their original price of $379.95 — thanks to a 39% discount plus an additional $30 coupon.

These over-ear headphones are built for comfort and high performance. They feature Sennheiser's signature sound quality, powered by a 42mm transducer system and aptX Adaptive codec for a dynamic listening experience. Momentum 4 delivers crisp, detailed audio with rich bass and balanced highs. Streaming your favorite playlists or zoning out to a podcast sounds epic.

SEE ALSO: The best cheap laptops for 2024: Models under $1,000 that we've tested and loved

Adaptive Noise Cancellation (ANC) minimizes distractions and is perfect for tuning out noisy commutes or bustling coffee shops. When you need to stay aware of your surroundings, the adjustable transparency mode lets ambient noise in without removing your headphones.

Comfort is also a priority with the Momentum 4. Its lightweight, foldable design includes a padded headband and cushioned ear cups, making it ideal for extended listening sessions. Need a long battery life? You've got it — up to 60 hours of playback on a single charge, with fast-charging capabilities that give you several hours of use in just a few minutes.

The four beamforming microphones ensure your voice comes through clearly if you're taking calls. At the same time, built-in wind suppression helps maintain call quality in breezy conditions. And with the Sennheiser Smart Control App, you can customize your audio settings through an integrated equalizer and sound presets.

At $199.95, these headphones offer serious bang for your buck. Don't wait too long — this Black Friday deal won't last forever.

Score a GoPro Hero for under $180 this Black Friday

Wed, 11/20/2024 - 04:15

SAVE 10%: As of Nov. 20, the GoPro Hero compact action camera is available for $179.99 (down from $199.99) at Amazon for Black Friday.

Opens in a new window Credit: GoPro GoPro Hero $179.99 at Amazon
$199.99 Save $20.00 Get Deal

GoPro Hero is worth considering as a reliable outdoor action camera option — especially now that it’s discounted to $179.99 at Amazon for Black Friday. That’s $20 off its usual price of $199.99. While not a massive price drop, this deal offers a chance to snag a solid entry-level camera for under $180.

The GoPro Hero keeps things simple, which is part of its charm. This model records in 4K Ultra HD and captures sharp 12MP photos. It’s designed to take on a bit of rough-and-tumble, with a durable, waterproof build that can handle depths up to 16 feet. Whether you’re heading out for a hike, snorkeling trip, or skate session, this camera is a solid companion.

SEE ALSO: The best cheap laptops for 2024: Models under $1,000 that we've tested and loved

HyperSmooth video stabilization is one of its standout features, helping to smooth out bumpy footage. So, even if your adventures get shaky, your video won’t. With a 1.76-inch touch screen, it’s also intuitive to use — there are no endless menus or complicated settings to navigate. Just point, shoot, and let the camera do the heavy lifting.

The included GoPro Quik app makes managing footage straightforward. Plug the Hero in to charge, and it’ll automatically upload your clips to the cloud, organize them, and even generate highlight reels. It’s not a complete editing suite, but it’ll save you some time.

While it lacks the advanced features of the Hero12 or Hero13, the Hero is a great starter camera. It’s lightweight, durable, and versatile enough to handle most everyday adventures. At $179.99, it’s also a budget-friendly way to dip your toes into the action cam world.

Don’t wait too long — Black Friday deals tend to vanish as quickly as they appear.

Grab the AWOL Vision UST 4K projector for $900 off this Black Friday

Wed, 11/20/2024 - 04:11

SAVE $900: As of Nov. 20, the AWOL Vision LTV-3000 Pro 4K Projector is on sale for $3,099 (down from $3,999) at Amazon for Black Friday.

Opens in a new window Credit: AWOL AWOL Vision LTV-3000 Pro 4K Projector $3,099.00 at Amazon
$3,999.00 Save $900.00 Get Deal

Let’s face it, a regular TV doesn’t cut it when you’re chasing the ultimate home theater setup. Luckily, the AWOL Vision LTV-3000 Pro 4K ultra-short throw (UST) projector has hit its Black Friday pricing, and it’s a deal worth shouting about. You can snag this cinematic powerhouse for $3,099 at Amazon — $900 off its previous price of $3,999.

If you’ve been on the fence about upgrading your home entertainment, this is your sign to take the leap. Designed to deliver a jaw-dropping 150-inch screen, the LTV-3000 Pro makes every movie night like a red carpet premiere. Its 3,000 peak lumens and Dolby Vision and HDR10+ support ensure brilliant picture quality, whether it’s a sunny day or a pitch-black movie marathon.

SEE ALSO: Black Friday is coming, but we're still waiting on Amazon Echo deals

What sets this projector apart? It’s the world’s first UST projector to double as a center-channel speaker, complete with Dolby Atmos for surround sound that pulls you right into the action. Paired with its ability to reproduce over 1 billion colors and 147% of the DCI-P3 color gamut, the result is a viewing experience so rich you’ll forget you’re at home.

For 3D lovers, this deal gets even better. The projector supports active shutter 3D, and Amazon is offering two free pairs of glasses with your purchase. Since this laser projector uses just a fraction of the energy of traditional TVs, you can enjoy guilt-free binge-watching.

Don’t sleep on this one: Black Friday deals this good don’t last forever. Grab the AWOL Vision LTV-3000 Pro for $3,099 before it’s gone and transform your living room into the theater of your dreams.

SpaceX's sixth Starship test flight successful despite abandoning booster catch

Wed, 11/20/2024 - 02:50

SpaceX conducted its sixth Starship test flight on Tuesday, with CEO Elon Musk joined by U.S. President-elect Donald Trump to observe from the control room. While the launch went well, SpaceX quickly aborted plans to catch the first-stage Super Heavy booster, instead opting for a standard ocean splashdown.

Starship launched from SpaceX's Starbase launch pad in Brownsville, Texas at 4 p.m. local time (5 p.m. EST / 2 p.m. PST). Building on Starship's fifth test flight early last month, objectives for this week's flight included reigniting its Raptor engine while in space, conducting heat shield experiments, and testing manoeuvring changes for reentry.

SEE ALSO: SpaceX's successful Starship flight grabbed by giant mech arms Tweet may have been deleted

Arguably the most significant goal of this launch was a second test of SpaceX's Mechazilla, Starbase's launch tower. More specifically, this test aimed to use Mechazilla's "chopstick" arms to catch Starship's Super Heavy booster rather than have it splash down. 

However, SpaceX abandoned its attempt to catch the 33-engine booster mere minutes into the test flight, the Super Heavy booster ultimately splashing down in the Gulf of Mexico instead. SpaceX has not specified exactly why the test was aborted, saying only that the necessary criteria for a catch were not met

Mechazilla previously caught the booster during its first test of the system in October. SpaceX's ultimate goal is for the Super Heavy booster as well as the rest of the Starship system to be entirely reusable. 

Tweet may have been deleted

Fortunately for SpaceX, its other objectives went better. As the Super Heavy booster detached, Starship fired its six Raptor engines to take it to a coast phase. It then successfully reignited one of these Raptor engines while in space, doing so for the first time.

Tweet may have been deleted Tweet may have been deleted Tweet may have been deleted

SpaceX then pushed Starship's limits during its final descent, having removed sections of Starship's heat shield tiles since the last test. Employing a more aggressive angle than typical for reentry, Starship was manoeuvred nose down for the descent rather than its usual "belly flop" orientation. This was intended to deliberately stress the Starship's flaps, testing whether they were still able to maintain control and help slow the spacecraft down.

Despite the stress, Starship did not undergo a "rapid unscheduled disassembly," ultimately splashing down intact in the Indian Ocean.

Tweet may have been deleted Tweet may have been deleted

Measuring 397 ft (121 m), SpaceX's Starship aims to eventually carry passengers beyond Earth's orbit to "the Moon, Mars, and beyond." The company claims it will be able to transport 100 passengers on lengthy flights between planets.

New video-watching guidelines for teens just dropped

Wed, 11/20/2024 - 00:01

An old public service announcement that once aired before late-night newscasts posed a simple question to parents: "It's 10 p.m. Do you know where your children are?"

A similar prompt for safety-minded 21st century parents might go something like this: "It's 10 p.m. Do you know what your children are watching online?"

Some parents may have long given up on answering that question, even if they grasp that online videos can expose teens to inappropriate content, including bullying, self-harm, disordered eating, and porn.

SEE ALSO: Instagram will let users 'reset' their recommended content

Yet there's no easy way to track or monitor teens' viewing habits, and they can access videos pretty much anywhere — from YouTube to TikTok to parent-approved streaming platforms like Disney+. Even using software to detect certain types of content on their devices doesn't prevent them from watching questionable or off-limits videos on a friend's phone.

The American Psychological Association hopes to help people navigate this challenging dynamic with a new set of guidelines for healthy teen video viewing.

The recommendations offer parents guidance on warning signs related to harmful viewing habits while highlighting key areas of concern, like content that encourages violent or risky behavior, the negative role that influencers can play, and the dangers of AI-generated video material.

Dr. Mitch Prinstein, co-author of the guidelines and chief science officer of the APA, emphasizes that the burden of preventing harm to teens shouldn't fall to parents alone. That's why the guidelines also recommend policies for both politicians and online video-watching platforms to consider.

In the meantime, here are key strategies for parents who want to help their teen develop healthy video-viewing habits but can't wait on policymakers and platforms to improve content standards:

1. Co-watch video content with them.

Prinstein says it's ideal if parents can watch videos with their child, when possible. This content can and should be wide-ranging, inclusive of TV and movies watched together as a family, videos by their favorite influencer, their top TV show, and short-form posts on platforms like TikTok and YouTube.

This might seem overwhelming, but parents needn't commit to a comprehensive weekly or daily co-viewing habit with their teen. Rather, watch what you can with them, and be sure to ask questions about what aspects of the video they like or don't like.

Open-ended conversations about video content can help teens better understand what they're watching. Plus, it offers an opportunity for parents to talk about their own values, preferably without being judgmental or hectoring.

Instead, parents should feel free to point out that a beloved movie from their own childhood doesn't necessarily hold up to modern ideas about beliefs like gender equality.

Prinstein says that when parents watch objectionable video content with their kids but don't talk about problematic scenes or themes, it can signal approval of those ideas to the teen. "It's good to say something, speak up, and say, 'That might have been funny in the '80s, but we do not agree with that today,'" Prinstein says.

2. Get familiar with your teen's interests and favorite influencers.

Prinstein recommends periodically asking your teen what they're viewing online. This is particularly important if you hear about a popular show, like the animated YouTube series Skibidi Toiliet, or a concerning trend, like "looksmaxxing," which can promote potentially dangerous body care practices.

If your teen is a fan, try to engage them with questions about what makes it interesting or funny. If they don't know about certain video content, parents can still be curious about their teens' opinions on the topics at hand.

Since influencers can play an outsize role in teens' lives, Prinstein urges parents to closely monitor who they're following. This can be as simple as jotting down the names of the influencers they like, and then searching for more information about those individuals online.

Parents should consider limiting a teen's access to an influencer's content when it promotes unhealthy behavior. At the same time, parents can also encourage teens to engage with influencers who champion positive behavior and attitudes, like standing up to bullying and posting body-positive content.

3. Identify firm boundaries.

The guidelines do not recommend limiting video viewing to a certain number of minutes or hours each day. Instead, they suggest looking for signs of distracted behavior, loneliness, and excessive viewing that can interfere with a teen's sleep, among other negative effects.

Prinstein also says this interference doesn't have to be extreme to warrant creating new boundaries. If video viewing keeps a teen from performing their chores, for example, that's reason enough to consider reducing their access to content and devices.

Parents should also stay mindful of teens' exposure to advertising on video-watching platforms, where they may see products that aren't appropriate or safe for them. Similarly, the rise of content generated by artificial intelligence is likely to steer teens toward harmful video content in ways that parents may not understand, particularly if they're viewing explicit deepfake videos.

Parents can talk to their teens about non-obvious video content that may still be dangerous, and set boundaries related to engaging with that material, such as forbidding the use of software that creates deepfakes.

Prinstein says that parents navigating these challenges in their own household should reach out to other parents of teens. Together, they can both commiserate and think about ways to create standards in their own communities while even possibly pressuring politicians and tech companies to make important changes.

"We're all in this together," Prinstein says. "We are all struggling with this in very similar ways, and we should not feel like we have to take care of this all by ourselves."

Get a 3-year subscription to a top VPN for only £62

Wed, 11/20/2024 - 00:00

TL;DR: Protect unlimited devices with a Windscribe VPN 3-Year Pro Plan on sale for £62.26 (reg. £163.13). 

Opens in a new window Credit: Windscribe Windscribe VPN Pro Plan: 3-year subscription £62.26 at the Mashable Shop
£163.13 Save £100.87 Get Deal

Remember when privacy online was easy to come by? Unfortunately, just like MySpace, those days are behind us. Now, if you want to protect your anonymity and get a little taste of the internet without borders, you need a VPN, and a good one, too. 

Windscribe has been around for a while, and there's a good reason for that. With Windscribe, you can browse anonymously on servers spread over 69 countries, break through geo-restrictions, and browse like nobody's watching (because they aren't). It sounds like it should be expensive, but there's actually a sale going on that takes a Windscribe VPN 3-Year Pro Plan down to £62.26 (reg. £163.13). 

What can Windscribe do?

Windscribe takes its protection a step beyond what you'd find with basic VPNs. As both a desktop app and a browser extension, Windscribe protects your entire device and browsing experience, blocking intrusive ads, pesky trackers, and even malware with its signature R.O.B.E.R.T. tool.

R.O.B.E.R.T. acts as a first line of defense, blocking IPs and domains across your devices. Windscribe also boasts top-tier encryption, using AES-256 cipher with SHA512 authentication and a 4096-bit RSA key. This level of encryption, along with a strict no-logging policy and anonymous sign-ups, means you’re surfing in a truly secure bubble.

How many smart devices do you have at home? With Windscribe, you can protect all of them with a single account. Windscribe lets you connect unlimited devices on one plan. Whether it’s your phone, laptop, or even your smart TV, Windscribe has you covered.

And thanks to split tunneling, you can choose which apps need the VPN connection and which ones don’t, allowing flexibility for things like streaming and online gaming. With split tunneling, you can let certain apps access local content while others stay on the VPN, giving you better control without slowing down your experience.

Ready to protect all your devices? Get a Windscribe VPN three-year Pro subscription while it's still on sale for £62.26 (reg. £163.13). 

StackSocial prices subject to change. 

Save over 80% and get a free £10 voucher with the best Black Friday Audible deal

Wed, 11/20/2024 - 00:00

TL;DR: A three-month subscription to Audible is on sale for £0.99 per month. This Black Friday deal includes a free £10 Audible voucher.

Opens in a new window Credit: Audible Audible Black Friday Deal £0.99 for the first 3 months + £10 Audible voucher Get Deal

Although highly likely, can never count on deals on headphones, speakers, laptops, and tablets during Black Friday. Sure, there will probably be discounts to consider, but you might not find exactly what you're looking for at a low price.

So what can you rely on from Black Friday? Deals on Amazon's range of services, that's what. You know for sure that you're going to get impressive offers on the likes of Amazon Music Unlimited, Kindle Unlimited, and of course, Audible.

SEE ALSO: How to use a Visa gift card on Amazon while Black Friday shopping

A three-month subscription to Audible is on sale for just £0.99 per month, saving you over 80% on list price. This Black Friday deal includes a credit each month to purchase any audiobook from the world's largest selection of material, regardless of price and including the latest best sellers. And better yet, a £10 Audible voucher is also thrown in for you to spend on whatever you want.

This Black Friday deal is not available to current Audible members (or anyone who cancelled their membership within the past month). After the promotional period, the subscription will automatically renew for £7.99 per month. You can cancel this function at anytime though, so there is no pressure to pay anything more than the deal price.

Save over 80% on a three-month subscription to Audible this Black Friday.

2024 Black Friday ads: Best deals from Target, Best Buy, Walmart, Kohls, and more

Wed, 11/20/2024 - 00:00

Black Friday is fast approaching, promising big discounts on TVs, laptops, headphones, speakers, and so much more. It's the best time of the year to shop, with deals on offer from all the top retailers.

And it gets seriously competitive between the leading names in the retail game. Every retailer is looking to get ahead of the competition by launching early-access deals, with savings-packed ads that include some really impressive offers. But where are shoppers supposed to start?

SEE ALSO: Gaming deals are going strong ahead of Black Friday 2024

To help you make the most out of this Black Friday, we've checked out all the best deals from the Black Friday ads of Best Buy, Walmart, Kohl's, and Target. You could take some time to check out each individual page, but for those looking for a handy snapshot of the very best deals, this is the place to be.

These are the best Black Friday deals and doorbusters from Black Friday ads that you can already buy online.

Best deals from Best BuyBest Best Buy deals on Amazon devicesBest Best Buy deals on AppleBest Best Buy deals on camerasBest Best Buy deals on earbudsBest Best Buy deals on gaming essentialsBest Best Buy deals on headphonesBest Best Buy deals on health and fitness devicesBest Best Buy deals on laptopsBest Best Buy deals on phonesBest Best Buy deals on securityBest Best Buy deals on speakersBest Best Buy deals on TVsBest Best Buy deals on vacuumsBest Best Buy deals on video gamesBest deals from Kohl'sBest Kohl's deals on Amazon productsBest Kohl's deals on home audioBest Kohl's deals on headphonesBest Kohl's deals on smartwatchesBest Kohl's deals on tabletsBest deals from TargetBest Target deals on AppleBest Target deals on gaming techBest Target deals on TVsBest Target deals on laptopsBest Target deals on headphonesBest Target deals on smart home techBest Target deals on speakersBest Target deals on smartwatchesBest Target deals on vacuumsBest deals from WalmartBest Walmart deals on AppleBest Walmart deals on dronesBest Walmart deals on gaming techBest Walmart deals on headphonesBest Walmart deals on laptopsBest Walmart deals on TVsBest Walmart deals on vacuums

Best PS5 Black Friday deals: Compare Best Buy, Amazon, Target, and more

Wed, 11/20/2024 - 00:00

You can find low prices on TVs, laptops, headphones, speakers, and so much more during Black Friday. It's the busiest time of the year for online shopping, with deals on just about everything.

But what deals come out on top during this busy period? What deals really get the people going?

SEE ALSO: Gaming deals are going strong ahead of Black Friday 2024

You could make the argument that TV deals or Apple deals are the top dogs over Black Friday, but gamers would probably disagree. PS5 Black Friday deals can result in mass panic, but there's no need to lose your cool this year. We've checked out everything on offer ahead of Black Friday and lined up a selection of standout PS5 deals. This includes deals on consoles, accessories, games, and more.

These are the best PS5 deals this Black Friday.

Best deals on PS5 consolesBest deals on PS5 accessoriesBest deals on PS5 games

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