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TL;DR: Hurry and grab lifetime access to Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and more with a Microsoft Office 2019 licence for Windows at £22.56 through May 18.

Opens in a new window Credit: Retail King Microsoft Office Professional Plus 2019 for Windows £22.56
£172.38 Save £149.82 Get Deal

Your credit card is exhausted from all of today’s subscription fees. While you probably don’t want to cancel your fave streaming site or say goodbye to two-day shipping with Prime, you could swap your Microsoft 365 subscription for a Microsoft Office lifetime licence.

You can pay once and use the apps as much as you’d like; the Windows software suite is on sale for £22.56 through May 18.

What apps are included?

Microsoft Office 2019 isn’t the newest version available, but it’s the cheaper one for people who just need to use the apps and don’t care about what they look like inside. However, it does have a classic, timeless design.

Here's a list of the apps you get:

• Word

• Excel

• PowerPoint

• Outlook

• OneNote

• Publisher

• Access

Differences between Microsoft 365 and a lifetime licence

This purchase is a no-brainer if you aren’t taking full advantage of Microsoft 365’s OneDrive storage, mobile app access, and cloud-based backups. Those just wanting the apps should be more than comfortable with a Microsoft Office download.

You might actually like this licence more than the subscription. The apps are downloaded directly onto your PC instead of hosted on the cloud. While this does mean there are no built-in cloud backups, you don’t have to worry about the hassle of trying to work offline.

Plus, now that Microsoft added Copilot’s AI features to Microsoft 365, you might be looking for a way to escape them. Not everyone is crazy about having a virtual robot interfere with their work, and these classic apps won’t ever bug you about it.

The price drop on this lifetime licence to Microsoft Office 2019 for Windows ends soon.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

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

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

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

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

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

Duck, duck, ___.

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

GOOSE

Hurdle Word 2 hint

Humid weather.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for May 14, 2025 Hurdle Word 2 Answer

MUGGY

Hurdle Word 3 hint

A sanctuary.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for May 14 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for May 14, 2025 Hurdle Word 3 answer

OASIS

Hurdle Word 4 hint

A loose-fitting blouse.

SEE ALSO: NYT Strands hints, answers for May 14 Hurdle Word 4 answer

TUNIC

Final Hurdle hint

A feature.

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

FACET

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

TL;DR: A wide range of AI courses are available to take for free on Udemy.

We all know by now that there is a small chance that AI is going to take over the world. We're OK with it, because what exactly are we supposed to do to stop it?

The good news is that we should have a few years before we get to that point of no return. And in that time, we should do everything we can to make this technology work for us. We might as well squeeze what we can out of the technology before it becomes out master, right?

A wide range of online courses on AI can be found on Udemy. And better yet, some of the best examples can be taken for free. We've checked out everything on offer and lined up a selection of standout courses to get you started.

These are the best online AI courses you can take for free this month:

• A Gentle Introduction to Generative AI

• AI-900: Microsoft Azure AI Fundamentals

• AI and Crypto 2025: Trading, Investing, Careers, and AI Automation

• AI Art Generation Guide: Create AI Images For Free

• AI Filmmaking

• AI for Beginners: Learn The Basics of ChatGPT

• AI for Business and Personal Productivity: A Practical Guide

• AI for Everyone

• AI Literacy Essentials: Working Responsibly with AI

• AI-Powered Chatbot: Build Your Own with No Code

• AI Product Strategy

• Artificial Intelligence for Accountants

• Artificial Intelligence for Humans: AI Explained

• Artificial Intelligence: Preparing Your Career for AI

• Become an AI Accelerated Engineer Using ChatGPT

• Become an AI-Powered Engineer: ChatGPT, Github Copilot

• Become an AI-Powered Engineer: Cursor, the AI-First IDE

• Become an OpenAI ChatGPT Master: Start Earning with AI

• Business Analyst: Digital Director for AI and Data Science

• ChatGPT 101: The Complete Beginner's Guide and Masterclass

• ChatGPT in 30 Minutes: New Prompt Engineering and AI Skills

• ChatGPT, Midjourney, Firefly, Bard, DALL-E, AI Crash Course

• ChatGPT Security: Privacy Risks and Data Protection Basics

• Create Faceless YouTube Videos Using Free AI Tools Only

• Deep Learning and AI with Python for Beginners

• Digital, Virtual and AI Photography

• Gemini AI Course for Beginners

• Generative AI and Prompt Engineering

• Generative AI For Leaders

• Google Gemini AI with Python API

• How To Make YouTube Automation Videos in 20 Minutes Using AI

• Introduction to Artificial Intelligence

• Introduction to Human Data and AI Data Training

• Learn Basics About AI

• Master Gemini AI

• Mastering Generative AI for Developer Productivity

• Microsoft Azure AI Fundamentals: Get Started with AI

• Midjourney and ChatGPT: Unleash AI for Unique Image Generation

• Prompt Engineering+: Master Speaking To AI

• Unleash your Creativity with Stable Diffusion AI

These free online courses don't include certificates of completion or direct instructor messaging, but you still get unrestricted access to all the video content. You can learn at a pace that suits you, so there are no stressful deadlines.

Find the best free AI courses on Udemy.

Opens in a new window Credit: Udemy AI Courses Free at Udemy Get Deal

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Yellow: To educate

• Green: MLB data

• Blue: Pennsylvania legends

  Purple: They share a first 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: Teach

• Green: Baseball fielding stats

• Blue: Current Philadelphia sports teams

• Purple: Jimmy ___

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 #233 is...

What is the answer to Connections Sports Edition today

• Teach - COACH, DRILL, INSTRUCT, MANAGE

• Baseball fielding stats - ASSIST, ERROR, FIELDING PERCENTAGE, PUTOUT

• Current Philadelphia sports teams - BARKLEY, HARPER, HURTS, MAXEY

• Jimmy ___ - BUTLER, GAROPPOLO, GRAHAM, ROLLINS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

SEE ALSO: NYT's The Mini crossword answers for May 14 Here's a hint for today's Connections categories

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

• Yellow: To inhale

• Green: They share similar beginnings

• Blue: Air Bud is an example

• Purple: Pronounced differently than its spelling

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

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

• Yellow: Absorb using capillary action

• Green: Greek prefixes

• Blue: Titular talking animals of film

• Purple: Starting with silent letters

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 #703 is...

What is the answer to Connections today

• Absorb using capillary action: DRAW, PULL, SUCK, WICK

• Greek prefixes: HYPER, KILO, META, NEO

• Titular talking animals of film: BABE, BOLT, DUMBO, TED

• Starting with silent letters: GNOME, KNEE, MNEMONIC, PSYCHE

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

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for May 14

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.

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

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

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

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

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

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for May 14 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for May 14 NYT Strands hint for today’s theme: Boogie woogie woogie

The words are rhythm-related.

Today’s NYT Strands theme plainly explained

These words are popular dances.

NYT Strands spangram hint: Is it vertical or horizontal?

Today's NYT Strands spangram is vertical.

NYT Strands spangram answer today

Today's spangram is Line Dance

Featured Video For You Strands 101: How to win NYT’s latest word game NYT Strands word list for May 14

• Macarena

• Hustle

• Wobble

• Line Dance

• Footloose

• Locomotion

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

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

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

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

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

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable SEE ALSO: NYT Connections today: Hints and answers for May 14 Where did Wordle come from?

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

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

What's the best Wordle starting word?

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

What happened to the Wordle archive?

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

Is Wordle getting harder?

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

SEE ALSO: NYT's The Mini crossword answers for May 14, 2025 Here's a subtle hint for today's Wordle answer:

A type of drum.

Does today's Wordle answer have a double letter?

The letter O appears twice.

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

Today's Wordle starts with the letter B.

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

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

Drumroll please!

The solution to today's Wordle is...

BONGO.

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

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

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for May 14

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

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

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

At a celebrity-packed Tuesday press event in Los Angeles, Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky announced a refreshed app for the home rental site, new curated "Experiences," and the opportunity to book professional "Services."

Chesky began the media event by highlighting the humble beginnings of the stalwart rental site, which started in 2007 when he offered up his own San Francisco apartment to travelers seeking a place to stay. Beginning over a decade ago, Airbnb began to take off in popularity, attracting 272 million bookings in 2019 — but business, unsurprisingly, fell off a cliff with the COVID pandemic in 2020.

Now, with travel picking back up and the website reaching profitability for the first time in 2022, Airbnb is working to diversify its current offerings of rentable homes and apartments. With the newly offered "Services," travelers can use the relaunched Airbnb app to book catered meals, massages, makeup services, workouts, professional photography, and more. Airbnb "Services" are available in 260 cities, and anyone can book, even those not using Airbnb for temporary lodging.

Similarly, "Experiences" are available to anyone and offer highly curated opportunities, like touring temples with a mystic in Peru or sipping mezcal with a sommelier in Mexico City. Airbnb is also launching "Airbnb Originals," a new tier of Experiences, which Chesky described as "extraordinary experiences hosted by the world's most interesting people." Some examples cited were learning to dance in Seoul with a K-Pop star, touring Note Dame with the architect who worked on its restoration, and performing with your own alter ego created with help by Megan the Stallion (who was in attendance at the launch, along with other celebrities like Doechii, Karlie Kloss, and too many influencers to count).

Jud Coplan, Vice President of Product Marketing at Airbnb, says Services and Experiences allow people to continue a relationship with Airbnb after a trip, by utilizing its offerings in their own home.

The people behind Airbnb's Services and Experiences are carefully vetted, Coplan and Chesky attested. "Services hosts have an average of 10 years of experience, have completed Airbnb’s identity verification process, and are required to submit relevant licenses and certifications," according to a press release.

Airbnb sees Services and Experiences as offering new opportunities to its current hosts (including American hosts dealing with a drop in guests from Canada), where homeowners can expand their offerings with things like tours and catered meals. Interested hosts can apply to be part of Services and Experiences through Airbnb's website.

Chesky also announced the Airbnb app's new features, which include easier access to booking Experiences and Services, expanded options for messaging and sharing photos with travel buddies, and a more elaborate calendar that allows trips to be synced with Google calendars. The app's new Profile section also allows travelers to quickly see all the places they've visited and contacts for Airbnb members they've interacted with on their journeys.

Google’s Find My Device network is getting a new name — the Find Hub.

During The Android Show, the Android 16-focused preview event ahead of Google I/O 2025 next week, we learned that Google's location tracking network is being rebranded as Find Hub, probably to avoid confusion with Apple's Find My network.

During the event, Google team members said that the new Find Hub would let you track luggage, devices, and people, and will eventually let you locate lost bags while flying.

"Thanks to our partnerships, you’ll be able to easily share your Bluetooth tag's location with some of your favorite airlines early next year, making recovering your lost luggage a breeze," reads a Google blog post about the development.

Support for ultra-wideband (UWB) is also central to the new Find Hub, with new third-party Bluetooth trackers rolling out later this month. Unlike Bluetooth, UWB enables pinpoint location tracking over short distances, meaning you’ll get turn-by-turn directions right to your lost items. It’s the same tech Apple’s AirTags have used since debuting in 2021, and Samsung’s SmartTags jumped on board shortly thereafter.

SEE ALSO: Google's Gemini AI is coming for your car, watch, and TV

During the Android event, we also learned that Google will begin selling trackers in collaboration with Pixbee, which is launching with Disney-themed trackers. What are the odds some nervous parents will be tracking their own children with these Disney Bluetooth trackers? Pretty high, unfortunately.

The new Disney-themed trackers are coming soon. Credit: Google

The catch, however, is that Android's support for UWB is fragmented. Apple has near-universal UWB support across its devices (with the oddball 16e as the exception). Android, on the other hand, is all over the map. The Pixel Pro lineup and Samsung’s Galaxy Pro phones, including the new S25 Edge, are covered. Motorola has just one model: the Edge 50. A handful of Xiaomi phones make the cut, too, but that’s about it.

Beyond UWB, Find My Hub is also tapping into satellite connectivity, keeping you linked to friends and family even when you’re off the grid and out of cell range.

It's software update season, folks.

Google confirmed on Tuesday that Android 16, the next release of its mobile operating system (and, confusingly for some people around my age, one of the best Dragon Ball Z characters) will launch in June. It brings plenty of new Gemini AI features, as well as a refresh to the user interface that's rolling out to Pixel devices first.

Speaking of devices, not every Android device on Earth will support Android 16. You need to make sure you have a new enough phone to download the update when it launches this summer. So, which phones will support Android 16 at launch?

SEE ALSO: Everything we know about Android 16 after 'The Android Show' event Every Pixel phone that supports Android 16

It's a little tough to definitively list every single Android phone that will support Android 16, since there are approximately 10 million different Android phone models on the market at any given time. However, at the very least, we know which Google Pixel models will support it:

• Pixel 6

• Pixel 6 Pro

• Pixel 6a

• Pixel 7

• Pixel 7 Pro

• Pixel 7a

• Pixel 8

• Pixel 8 Pro

• Pixel 8a

• Pixel 9

• Pixel 9 Pro/Pro XL

• Pixel 9a

• Pixel 9 Pro Fold

• Pixel Fold

There are a bunch of other Android manufacturers, including some companies that don't even really release phones in the U.S. market. Of course, the most notable Android phone maker is Samsung. According to a site called Android Update Tracker, Samsung Galaxy S phones going back to the S22 should get Android 16, but don't count on anything older than that getting it.

What Samsung phones will support Android 16

Obviously, we'll know more about device support once Android 16 is fully out there and not in beta testing. However, based on what we know so far, we're confident the following Samsung smartphones will also support Android 16 when it launches later this spring:

• Galaxy S25 Edge

• Galaxy S25

• Galaxy S25+

• Galaxy S25 Ultra

• Galaxy Z Fold6

• Galaxy Z Flip6

• Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition

• Galaxy S24

• Galaxy S24+

• Galaxy S24 Ultra

• Galaxy Z Fold5

• Galaxy Z Flip5

• Galaxy S22

• Galaxy S22+

• Galaxy S22 Ultra

• Galaxy S23

• Galaxy S23+

• Galaxy S23 Ultra

• Galaxy A16

• Galaxy A16 5G

• Galaxy A26 5G

• Galaxy A36 5G

• Galaxy A15

• Galaxy A15 5G

• Galaxy A25 5G

• Galaxy A35 5G

This is only a partial list. If you don't see your phone, check Samsung to see if your phone is still getting active security updates. That doesn't guarantee your phone will support Android 16, but it's definitely more likely.

Other phones that will get Android 16

In addition to Samsung and Pixel phones, a variety of other smartphones will also support Android 16. While we don't have an exact list, the Android developer blog mentions specific brands that are eligible for the Android 16 beta. If you have a relatively new phone from one of the following brands, then you're likely to get access to Android 16 sooner than later. We're also including Motorola, which runs on the Android OS.

• Motorola

• Hono

• IQOO

• Lenovo

• OnePlus

• OPPO

• realme

• Sharp

• Vivo

• Xiaomi

The deal could be a way for OpenAI to gain a foothold among programmers, who are rapidly embracing A.I. technologies.

Buying gifts for the special woman in your life can be tricky. What do you buy a person who has everything? What should you gift to someone who's picky about their products? Our advice is to curate a gift according to her interests and personality. A gift for the lady in your life should be just that: A gift for her. Part of our bigger series on the Best Gifts For Everyone, we’ve put together this comprehensive list to guide you on your important mission. And if it happens to be a teen girl you're shopping for, then we have a list for that too.

Google I/O 2025 is just one week away. 

But, if you just can't wait, Google held a special event on Tuesday: Android Show I/O Edition, which gave a look at some new big things headed to Android devices with the Android 16 update.

Google shared some interesting stats during the livestream. For example, there are 3 billion active Android devices around the world, making it the most popular mobile operating system. More than one billion messages are sent in the U.S. alone across all mobile devices (iOS included) using the new RCS Messaging standard, which allows Android and iOS users to easily text as one big happy family.

The real highlights, however, are in all the new features Google announced today. Here's everything you need to know from The Android Show event.

Android 16

According to Google, Android 16 will feature the operating system's biggest redesign in years, with a "whole new look and feel." Material 3 Expressive brings a brand new UI to Android devices, which can be tailored to each individual user. 

Android 16 Credit: Google

For example, Android 16's Material 3 Expressive allows users to personalize everything from the device interface's colors, fonts, and even animations. Even haptic rumbles can be connected to on-screen swipes and slides. A "refined" homescreen grid will also bring a neater, more visually pleasing app layout to users' screens.

Another new Android 16 feature is Live Updates, which will highlight the most important notifications on the users' lockscreen. Rideshare services, food deliveries, and navigation apps will all be prioritized in order to provide users with up-to-date information on time-sensitive events so that they aren't pushed down the screen with less important notifications. 

Google says that Pixel devices will be the first to get Android 16 when it rolls out later this year.

Wear OS 6

Google's smartwatch operating system is also getting a big visual update in what the company is calling its "most expressive version yet."

Watch OS 6 Credit: Google

Wear OS 6 will have a new Material 3 Expressive UI that embraces the circular screen of smartwatches and matches the on-screen visuals to the physical display shape of each smartwatch device.

Transitions and animations that Android users have become accustomed to will also be coming to Wear OS 6, along with a 10 percent battery improvement for smartwatches that update to the new operating system

In addition to all that, Google Assistant will be replaced with Gemini, bringing Google's AI model to its smartwatch operating system.

Gemini across all devices

Gemini isn't just coming to smartwatches either. Google announced that Gemini will be rolled out across all of its Android devices. That's right, Google is bringing AI to your car, your watch, and your TV.

Gemini across all devices Credit: Google

Google's AI Gemini will soon be coming to Android Auto and Google Built-In cars, in order to bring AI assistant abilities to drivers without having to use their smartphone. For example, drivers can conversationally ask Gemini details about locations on their map app and Google's AI chatbot will provide the user with real-time facts and other information based on their query.

Gemini was also announced for smart TVs, which will bring AI chatbot capabilities to users while watching their favorite movies and television shows. 

Gemini on smart TVs Credit: Google

And finally, Google teased that Gemini would be integrated into Android XR, the company's operating system for virtual and augmented reality headsets and smartglasses.

Google also shared some new Gemini features for Android smartphones, which allow the user to screen record documents and snap photos of real-world items and then share the content with Gemini in order to receive summaries or ask questions.

Safety and Security The new Google 'Find Hub' will replace Find My Device. Credit: Google

Perhaps the biggest news from The Android Show I/O Edition is that Find My Device is no more.

Find My Device is now known as Find Hub in order to reflect that the tracking feature isn't just for devices anymore. Find Hub can be used to check on the location of loved ones, share locations with friends and families, and more.

Google shared that they are working with new tracker tag companies such as July, which makes Bluetooth-tag embedded smart luggage. Google is also working with major airline partners so users can share their tags and track them through the airline when traveling.

Disney tracker tags Credit: Google

Disney will also soon release its own themed tracker tags with popular Disney, Marvel, and Star Wars characters. 

On the cybersecurity end of things, Google shared how Google Messages is continuing to get smarter when it comes to text message scams. Android's enhanced protections have been able to detect even newer schemes, such as the recent fake E-Z Pass toll road scam.

All-in-all, there was nothing too groundbreaking announced at The Android Show I/O Edition. However, what was announced will bring some major changes and upgrades across a slew of devices in the coming months. 

Google packed a lot into a roughly 30-minute event, so we can only imagine what more they have in store at Google I/O next week.

Sometimes when a new app or Software as a Service (SaaS) launches, the company behind the product offers a "lifetime plan" for their very first customers. These lifetime deals for early adopters are usually priced at a premium, or what it would cost for multiple years of a subscription to the service. 

One important thing to note about these plans is that "lifetime" means the life of the company or service, not the customer's lifetime. Companies can fail and that lifetime deal would then no longer be active. On the other hand, customers are drawn to lifetime plans because if the app or service takes off, that early adopter has locked themselves in at that one-time price indefinitely while everyone else pays a monthly or yearly subscription.

However, what happens when a product is successful, doesn't shut down, but simply gets sold to a buyer who allegedly was unaware that they were acquiring a service with lifetime deal customers?

Unfortunately, those who paid for a lifetime deal to the VPN service VPNSecure are learning what happens the hard way.

VPNSecure boots lifetime deal customers

As reported by Ars Technica, VPNSecure lifetime deal customers were first notified on April 28 that their lifetime plans were being deactivated. VPNSecure offered no advance notice, as the company has since acknowledged, and simply deactivated the service for its lifetime customers on the same day it sent the deactivation emails.

According to the new owners of VPNSecure, the company was acquired in May 2023 and the previous ownership allegedly did not provide any details regarding VPNSecure's lifetime deal customers.

"Unfortunately, the previous owner did not disclose that thousands of Lifetime Deals (LTDs) had been sold through platforms like StackSocial," VPNSecure explained in its notification to lifetime deal customers. "We discovered this only months later—when a large portion of our resources were strained by these LTD accounts and high support volume from users, who through part of the database, provided no sustaining income to help us improve and maintain the service."

Furthermore, the new VPNSecure owners claim that they simply acquired "the tech, the brand, and the infrastructure/technology—but none of the company, contracts, payments, or obligations from the previous owners.”

StackSocial is a tech marketplace where software developers offer discounts or lifetime deals for their apps or services. VPNSecure had offered lifetime deals through StackSocial and StackSocial's affiliates as recently as 2022. Customers paid around $30 for the lifetime plan.

Further complicating matters, outlets like Ars Technica and TechRadar reported that the current ownership of VPNSecure appears to be obscured. VPNSecure's website lists InfiniteQuant Ltd as its parent company, however the Bahamas-based firm claims they are not affiliated with the VPN service. VPNSecure's terms of service have listed Dubai-based HOLDXB Trading FZCO and Australia-based Boost Network Pty Ltd at different times, however, neither entity appears to have a contact listed online.

VPNSecure lifetime customers who want to continue using the service were offered a discounted subscription rate. However, since cancelling the lifetime deal, VPNSecure has been bombarded with negative reviews on social media like Reddit and on review platforms like Trustpilot so it doesn't seem like many will be taking advantage of that offer.

Ahead of Google I/O 2025, the company gave us a teaser of what Android 16 will bring at a new event dubbed "The Android Show." But if you thought Google would spill all the juicy details early, well... not quite.

In a special Android I/O edition on Tuesday, Google confirmed what almost everyone already knew: Android 16 is getting a UI glow-up called Material 3 Expressive. Beyond that, the presentation pivoted hard into Gemini AI — mostly on devices other than your phone or laptop — and doubled as a glorified promo reel for the Galaxy S25 Edge and other recent Android-powered hardware.

Check out the new homescreens for Android 16 and WearOS. Credit: Google SEE ALSO: Google I/O 2025: What to expect with Gemini, Android 16, and Project Astra

Was it underwhelming? Kind of. But to give credit where it’s due: Material 3 Expressive is pretty damn good-looking. What we saw during the stream looked bouncy, fluid, and unapologetically vibrant, like if Corporate Memphis art stopped trying so hard to be quirky and just leaned into the fun.

Fingers crossed we get more details during the big I/O keynote on May 20.

Here's what we know about Android 16 The new Android 16 UI will be more colorful and animated. Credit: Google

The one real feature worth getting mildly excited about? Screen-off fingerprint unlock is finally coming to older Pixels. Once exclusive to the Pixel 9 in early developer builds, this slick unlock method now works all the way back to the Pixel 6, including the 6a, 7, and 8 series. No more tapping the screen just to scan your finger.

Right now, this biometric feature is only live on Android 16 Beta 3. And if this update is any indication, Android 16 isn’t aiming to reinvent the wheel. It’s more about smoothing out the ride — tweaks, polish, and quality-of-life upgrades that quietly patch up the friction points left behind by Android 15.

The full version is slated to land sometime before the end of June, according to Google.

What else is different with Android 16 vs. Android 15? Here are some of the additional changes we know about so far:

• A new look courtesy of Material 3 Expressive UI updates

• New accessibility features for tools such as TalkBack

• Camera improvements such as improved temperature/tint adjustments, new hybrid auto-exposure modes, extra support for UltraHDR images

• Photo picker improvements for apps that use this feature

• Third-party apps will be able to disable AI writing tools

• Better night-mode detection in photo/video apps

• Auracast broadcast audio support for compatible hearing aids (specifically for Pixel 9 devices)

• Improved text contrast

• Additional Gemini features, though details are scarce so far

Starting soon, Google Gemini will be available on your watch, in your car, and on your TV.

At The Android Show, an Android-focused mini event leading up to Google I/O, the tech giant announced that its Gemini AI model will be integrated into Wear OS, Android Auto and Google Built-in, and Google TV.

With Wear OS in the coming months, Google Pixel Watch users will be able to verbally give Gemini reminders or ask it to pull up event details, such as upcoming dinner reservations. Because of Gemini integration across Google Workspace apps, it can access information from your calendar and emails.

For drivers who like to get things done in their cars, senior Android UX director Guemmy Kim shared ways Gemini works with its car dashboard apps. Users can ask for summaries of texts they received, translate messages into other languages, and even ask for help cheating on their book club by asking for a synopsis of Pride and Prejudice and discussion points.

Gemini is coming to Android Auto in the coming months. Credit: Google

Indeed, the ability to cut corners in work and everyday life seemed to be one of Gemini's key selling points in the presentation. In an earlier part of the livestream, Senior Android Product Manager Rohan Shah demoed using Gemini to take a look at a long pre-event email. "I could have and should have gone through it myself, but I have Gemini here to help," said Shah.

Gemini will come to the Android Auto app first, and then to Google Built-In for cars manufactured with Google's operating system.

One area of our lives that doesn't ask anything from us is the TV, where Google is also adding Gemini. In the same way that streaming platforms like Netflix are adding new AI features, Gemini is coming to Google TV. The event touted potential use cases like using natural language to ask for custom movie recommendations or pulling up information and educational YouTube videos. This feature is also rolling out in the coming months, presumably as Android 16 goes live. Google also shared that Gemini will come to Android XR next year.

Using Gemini on Google TV. Credit: Google

Of course, this was just the pre-Google I/O event focused on Android. Next week, we expect many, many more Gemini AI announcements from Google-land, so stay tuned.

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One of the world's biggest spectacles has arrived. Eurovision 2025 kicks off May 13 with an epic live show in St. Jakobshalle, Basel. Switzerland is hosting this year's competition following its victory last year, when singer Nemo performed "The Code."

The songwriting competition that has delighted European audiences since 1956 is now easy to tune into in America as well. Whether you're already hip to the fever dream that is Eurovision or you're new to the storied song contest, now is a good time to join in the fun. Think American Idol on an acid trip. It's truly a sight to behold, with jaw-dropping fashion, bizarre songs, flashy choreography, and stuff you can't even put into words.

Don't miss out on the music and the madness — here's everything you need to know about how to watch the 2025 Eurovision Song Contest live in the U.S.

When is Eurovision 2025?

The 69th Eurovision Song Contest live shows kick off this week in Basel, Switzerland. The first semi-final is Tuesday, May 13 at 3:00 p.m. ET, with the second semi-final and grand final following on Thursday, May 15 and Saturday, May 17 at the same time.

The top contenders from each semi-final earn a place in the grand final on Saturday, where they'll compete alongside the Big 5 (United Kingdom, Spain, Germany, France, and Italy) and the host nation, Switzerland. You won't catch these six countries in the semi-finals, as they have guaranteed spots in the finals.

How to watch Eurovision 2025

Gone are the days when you had to scour the web to find a way to watch the Eurovision Song Contest in America. Peacock has held the exclusive streaming rights to Eurovision in the U.S. since 2019, and this year is no different. Catch all three days of the competition live on Peacock on May 13, 15, and 17 starting at 3 p.m. ET each day.

For the cost of a Peacock subscription — starting at $7.99 per month — you'll get a front-row seat to the outrageous contest. But before you sign up, check out the following streaming deals that could save you some money.

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Your Google Pixel phone's interface is about to look a little different in the near future.

During The Android Show event on Tuesday, May 13, Google officially revealed Material 3 Expressive, a new look for its user interface that will launch with Android 16 later this year. As a name, Material 3 Expressive does leave something to be desired (its predecessor was called Material You design), but the update itself looks impressive enough. Whereas previous Google and Android aesthetics have favored "clean design" principles, Material 3 Expressive is, well, more expressive.

It's coming to Pixel devices first, though we don't know exactly when, and it's a big refresh of the UI you're used to seeing on Pixel devices. Material 3 Expressive will also be bringing visual changes to WearOS and Google Pixel smartwatches.

So, what kind of changes can you expect?

SEE ALSO: Google I/O 2025: What to expect with Gemini, Android 16, and Project Astra

Material 3 Expressive adds new features like deeper color customization, but in terms of day-to-day changes, it just looks livelier than previous Android builds. There are new animations, such as the rest of the notification row moving a little bit when you clear out a push notification. In general, UI elements also look more rounded than before. There's also a new Live Updates feature that will give you up-to-the-minute updates on things like food deliveries.

Material 3 Expressive is also coming to Pixel Watch devices, where the rounded UI elements look natural due to the circular shape of the Pixel Watch's display. It's not the most massive Android upgrade we've ever seen, but UI improvements are always welcome.

Here are some additional looks at the new UI experience coming with Android 16:

The lockscreen experience Credit: Google Expect more color, more animations, and more rounded edges. Credit: Google The rounded shapes will fit in perfectly with Pixel Watches. Credit: Google Preview of the new visual language coming with Android 16, dubbed Material 3 Expressive. Credit: Google

Google hosted its Android event on Tuesday, and with it came a number of exciting new features that will soon be available on your devices with Android 16.

Here are the major Android updates Google shared at the event.

1. A totally new look, dubbed Material 3 Expressive

Perhaps the biggest update for Android 16 is an overhauled look, a design Google is calling Material 3 Expressive.

"It's a UI tailored to you," Android's VP of Product Management and User Experiences Mindy Brooks said during the presentation. The idea is that doing things on your phone should feel simpler and more intuitive.

"Material 3 Expressive feels even more fluid and introduces a system of more natural, springy animations meant to bring a moment of delight to everyday routines," Android wrote in a blog announcing the news. "For example, when you dismiss a notification, the others next to it subtly respond to your drag. And when you snap it off the stack, you feel a satisfying haptic rumble."

The new design will also feature more customizable options for color, font, and other visual components on your phone. Google shared a video previewing what the new design will look like.

2. Live updates

Google also announced a live updates feature that should help you stay on task. It effectively surfaces important updates from an app, meaning you don't need to navigate through other open apps or distractions. Google used the example of tracking an order from Uber Eats; Live updates should allow you to track your food with just a glance.

Credit: Android 3. Gemini everywhere, including Gemini Live

Google, like pretty much every other tech company, promised to further integrate AI into Android 16. That means Gemini everywhere. It even seemingly took a shot at Apple in the process.

"It isn't just an app, like on some other phones," said Rohan Shah, senior product manager at Android, during the event. "It's a powerful assistant, just one press away."

So, what does Gemini everywhere look like? It means it'll be on your Android watch, in Android Auto, and all over your phone. During the event, Google imagined folks using Gemini to set reminders, find stops on road trips, and summarize messages.

A big update for Android 16, in particular, is that all users have access to Gemini Live. That means everyone will be able to share their screen and camera with Gemini. This could prove especially helpful to folks using Android Auto, since Gemini Live should be able to help drivers perform hands-free tasks.

4. Find Hub

People are using device tracking for way more than finding their phone. In response, Android 16 comes with Find Hub, which is basically an app for all the things you track. It's effectively a hub for all the people, devices, tags, and more that you track. Android also said it will roll out satellite connectivity soon, meaning you should be able to locate your friend even as they hike in the middle of nowhere.

We received a lot of news about Android on Tuesday, but we expect even more Google news with its I/O keynote next week.

As a senior marketing manager for a nonprofit, a content creator, and a mom of two, L.A.-based Meghety Foudoulian has a lot going on. And, like many parents, she found that making the jump from a full-time career to splitting her time between work and the parenting of small children was a tough one. After the birth of her daughter in 2021 she says, “I realized just how tough motherhood can be.”

Originally from Lebanon and born to Armenian parents, Foudoulian was living half a world away from her larger support system when her daughter was born. She suddenly felt very alone.

“Motherhood had always been sugarcoated for me, especially on social media, and I didn’t know how much I’d need a village until I didn’t have one,” she says.

Just two weeks postpartum, feeling alone and craving community, she launched her Instagram account (@lifewithmamameg) while up in the middle of the night to breastfeed. It combined her love for comedy, allowed her to be creative, and served as a lifeline both for herself and other moms. Since launching in 2021, @lifewithmamameg now has nearly 65K followers.

Working moms are often celebrated for being able to “do it all.” But there’s so much more to the story of balancing a career and building a brand while raising kids at the same time. We caught up with Meghety Foudoulian over email about all things motherhood and content creation.

What is your "personal brand" — what are you hoping people will get from your page @lifewithmamameg?

[It’s] all about being honest, real, and funny. I always say my page screams, “Let’s laugh about it so we don’t cry about it!” I truly love making people laugh! It’s one of my favorite ways to connect.

At the same time, going through the ups and downs of motherhood has brought out a more reflective side of me. I often write about my emotions because I know how lonely it can feel when you're in the thick of it and feel like you’re not being heard or seen. I want moms to feel less alone, to know that someone gets it.

I don’t believe in sugarcoating motherhood. That’s why I share the hard moments right alongside the beautiful ones. Through my posts, I hope to build trust with my audience so they feel like they have a virtual friend in me; someone who’s there when they need to laugh, cry, or just feel seen.

How much do you make in a month from your content?

Around $3-4K per month. This industry is very unpredictable. Some months I make nothing, and some months I make five figures. 

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When it comes to sponsored content, how do you determine what gets a yes and what gets a no?

I’m very intentional about the brands I choose to work with. My audience trusts me, and I take that seriously. I would never recommend something I wouldn’t or haven’t personally used. Before moving forward with a partnership, I ask myself, “Would I purchase this with my own money?” I’ve turned down so many partnerships in the past simply because the product didn’t align with my values or lifestyle.

On the flip side, there have been brands I truly loved as a customer, but after working with them or seeing how they communicate or treat content creators and their work, I was disappointed. Poor communication or a lack of mutual respect is a big red flag for me, and it’s often enough to make me stop supporting the brand altogether. At the end of the day, integrity matters, both in what I share and who I choose to work with.

SEE ALSO: Feather & Bone founder Shubhangini Prakash on the efficiency of motherhood

Top three things you can't live without as a mom:

Besides my supportive husband, of course, I would say my mom, who recently relocated to the US. She’s my entire village. As a working mom, I couldn’t do it without her. She helps a ton with taking care of our kids and steps in for when we need date nights. Her support is a true blessing, and I learned how to love from her. 

Next is my Zoe double stroller! We truly never go anywhere with the kids without it. It’s lightweight, durable, and spacious enough to hold all the snacks, toys, my coffee, and everything else my kids would need.

Finally, Instacart and DoorDash for grocery delivery. As much as I love a good grocery store run, I really rely on grocery delivery apps to save time and energy. It’s one less thing I have to think about, and it keeps me stocked up on essentials without leaving the house with two toddlers who always want to run around and touch everything!

Credit: Photo courtesy of Meghety Foudoulian

Top three things you can't live without in your professional role:

My Skylight Calendar: It’s truly my second brain. Between meetings, deadlines, content planning, and family life, having everything visually laid out keeps me sane and on track.

Definitely Canva: I use it daily as a marketer and a content creator. Whether I’m designing carousel posts or putting together marketing visuals, it’s my go-to creative tool that makes everything look more visually appealing.

Finally, my home office. When we lived in a smaller space, I didn’t have a dedicated work area, and now that I do, I can feel the difference. My productivity has improved so much! I’m less distracted, and mentally, my brain knows: “OK, we’re in work mode now.”

Is there anything about being a mom that has helped you with your career?

First one is adaptability. Motherhood throws so many unexpected moments your way. Just when you think you have it figured out, a new curveball is thrown at you. Routine changes, car naps, sleep regressions, teething, potty training, and so much more. I’ve learned to pivot quickly, stay calm under pressure, and make the best out of situations I can’t control. That mindset has been incredibly valuable in my work as a nonprofit marketer, where priorities can shift quickly, resources are often limited, and you need to stay solution-focused while keeping the mission front and center.

Second one is speaking up. Growing up, I wasn’t very confident in my skills, especially because I thrived in the creative world and not in the traditional academic areas, and that wasn’t always valued or encouraged in traditional school settings. I often stayed quiet, kept my opinions to myself, and doubted whether my voice really mattered.

But becoming a mom changed all of that. When it comes to my children, I realized that staying silent isn’t an option. Whether it’s speaking up at doctor’s appointments, advocating for support, or questioning what’s best for their well-being, I quickly learned that my voice is not only powerful but also necessary.

That confidence has carried over into other areas of my life too. Now I speak up more at work, I share my ideas with confidence, and I trust that what I bring to the table has value. My direct supervisor calls me the Idea Generator and that makes me so happy! Motherhood gave me the push I needed to finally own my voice.

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What do you wish more people understood about working moms?

People often assume that if you work, you’re not the one raising your kids or that you’re somehow neglecting your family. The reality is, my job is a huge part of who I am. Yes, being a mom is my most important title, but I’m not only a mom. I’m a wife, a professional, a sister, a daughter, and a friend. All these roles matter to me, and all these roles make me who I am and fill my cup.

And when it comes to my job and my page, they both remind me of what I’m good at and what I can accomplish. And that version of me — fulfilled, confident, seen — is the mom I want to show up as for my kids. I want to inspire them to see that they can pursue their passions, be confident in who they are, and always fill their own cups with things that make them them.

What advice do you have for someone looking to do what you do?

Just start. Even if it feels like you’re not ready yet, go ahead and take that first step. Honestly, I don’t think anyone is ever truly “ready,” but I do know that you’ll learn and grow as you go. The only thing that’s truly stopping you are your own doubts. And yes, some days you’ll still question yourself and feel like you’re just another voice in a sea of more prominent ones. But remember, your voice is unique. It has the power to change someone’s life in ways you might not even realize.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.