Feed aggregator

What are you, SIMP 0136?

Astronomers used the powerful James Webb Space Telescope to peer into this object flying by itself through our Milky Way galaxy. It's rapidly spinning, and at some 13 times the mass of Jupiter, it could be a rogue planet speeding around the cosmos, or possibly a failed star, called a brown dwarf.

An instrument on Webb called the Near-Infrared Spectrograph collects light from distant objects and then separates them into different wavelengths, or colors, like a prism. These colors, representing different materials, have begun to reveal what's in SIMP 0136's atmosphere, and might truly reveal its identity.

"Imagine watching Earth from far away. If you were to look at each color separately, you would see different patterns that tell you something about its surface and atmosphere, even if you couldn’t make out the individual features," Philip Muirhead, a scientist from Boston University who co-authored the new study, said in a statement. "Blue would increase as oceans rotate into view. Changes in brown and green would tell you something about soil and vegetation."

SEE ALSO: Aliens haven't contacted us. Scientists found a compelling reason why.

SIMP 0136 spins fast — a full rotation lasts just 2.4 hours — allowing Webb to capture a full view of light observations in a short amount of time. They suggest a truly exotic atmosphere with deep clouds composed of iron particles, and loftier clouds made of silicate material grains (silicates are primary ingredients in rocks on Earth). What's more, large pockets of carbon monoxide and dioxide could be present on SIMP 0136, perhaps forming during chemical reactions.

It's a wild world, in the galactic Wild West.

"We haven’t really figured out the chemistry part of the puzzle yet," Johanna Vos, an astrophysicist at Trinity College Dublin who led the study, explained. "But these results are really exciting because they are showing us that the abundances of molecules like methane and carbon dioxide could change from place to place and over time. If we are looking at an exoplanet and can get only one measurement, we need to consider that it might not be representative of the entire planet."

A graphic showing different wavelengths of light collected by the James Webb Space Telescope on SIMP 0136. Credit: NASA / ESA / CSA / Joseph Olmsted (STScI) A conception of how SIMP 0136 may appear in space. Credit: NASA / ESA / CSA / Joseph Olmsted (STScI)

SIMP 0136 is relatively nearby in space terms, at some 20 light-years away from us (a light-year is some 6 trillion miles). If it's a brown dwarf, it never grew dense and hot enough to stoke nuclear fusion and become a luminous star. If it's a rogue world, it may have long ago been gravitationally kicked out of its alien solar system, and now wanders alone and starless through our galaxy.

The Webb telescope's powerful abilities

The Webb telescope — a scientific collaboration between NASA, ESA, and the Canadian Space Agency — is designed to peer into the deepest cosmos and reveal new insights about the early universe. It's also examining intriguing planets in our galaxy, along with the planets and moons in our solar system.

Here's how Webb is achieving unparalleled feats, and may for years to come:

- Giant mirror: Webb's mirror, which captures light, is over 21 feet across. That's over two-and-a-half times larger than the Hubble Space Telescope's mirror, meaning Webb has six times the light-collecting area. Capturing more light allows Webb to see more distant, ancient objects. The telescope is peering at stars and galaxies that formed over 13 billion years ago, just a few hundred million years after the Big Bang. "We're going to see the very first stars and galaxies that ever formed," Jean Creighton, an astronomer and the director of the Manfred Olson Planetarium at the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee, told Mashable in 2021.

- Infrared view: Unlike Hubble, which largely views light that's visible to us, Webb is primarily an infrared telescope, meaning it views light in the infrared spectrum. This allows us to see far more of the universe. Infrared has longer wavelengths than visible light, so the light waves more efficiently slip through cosmic clouds; the light doesn't as often collide with and get scattered by these densely packed particles. Ultimately, Webb's infrared eyesight can penetrate places Hubble can't.

"It lifts the veil," said Creighton.

- Peering into distant exoplanets: The Webb telescope carries specialized equipment called spectrographs that will revolutionize our understanding of these far-off worlds. The instruments can decipher what molecules (such as water, carbon dioxide, and methane) exist in the atmospheres of distant exoplanets — be they gas giants or smaller rocky worlds. Webb looks at exoplanets in the Milky Way galaxy. Who knows what we'll find?

"We might learn things we never thought about," Mercedes López-Morales, an exoplanet researcher and astrophysicist at the Center for Astrophysics-Harvard & Smithsonian, told Mashable in 2021.

TL;DR: Charge three devices at once with the INIU Leopard 100W GaN USB Wall Charger, on sale for $42.99 with free shipping until March 30 at 11:59 p.m. PT. 

Opens in a new window Credit: INIU INIU Leopard 100W GaN 3-Port USB Wall Charger $42.99 at the Mashable Shop
$46.99 Save $4.00 Free shipping Get Deal

Are you one of those people with a single "good charger" and a bunch of really bad ones? Regular chargers are a dime a dozen, but real estate for quality power delivery can be competitive. If you want an affordable 100W charger to power more devices at once, check out the INIU Leopard GaN 3-Port Wall Charger. 

This charging block is fast, compact, and fits three different devices. It's also on sale for Mashable readers for a limited time. Instead of paying $46, you can get one for $42.99 plus free shipping.

Your new 'good charger' has arrived

This compact charger will be right at home by your nightstand, but it's also ready to tag along inside your travel bag. At just 2.5 inches across, it’s small enough to slip into your bag without adding bulk. The foldable plug makes it even easier to pack, so you don’t have to deal with tangled cords or extra adapters. Despite its small size, it doesn’t skimp on power.

With two USB-C ports and one USB-A, you can charge a laptop, tablet, and phone at the same time. The internal GaN components mean that you can charge faster and with less heat than traditional chargers. And thanks to the 100W total output, that battery is going to fill up fast, whether you're powering up a MacBook, an iPhone, or even a Nintendo Switch.

This little charger supports Qualcomm Quick Charge 3.0 and Power Delivery 3.0, which means it can handle fast charging for a wide range of devices. Plus, built-in safety features make sure your devices are safe from overheating and battery wear.

March 30 at 11:59 p.m. PT is the cutoff to get the INIU Leopard 100W GaN Charger for $42.99, with free shipping included.

StackSocial prices subject to change. 

TL;DR: Mashable readers can get a Headway Premium lifetime subscription for $47.99 with code LEVELUP20 during our spring sale (reg. $299.95).

Guess what? It’s already March, which means my New Year’s resolution to read more books is officially a bust since my total is zero. I just don’t understand how people can get a second wind after work to read several chapters, let alone finish something cover to cover. Then, I learned about Headway.

The Headway app is like CliffsNotes for books. Now, that’s something I could actually get on board with…summaries of books instead of the intimidation of a 300-page book (which I’ll never open). During Mashable’s spring sale, a lifetime subscription to Headway is only $47.99 when you use our code LEVELUP20 at checkout (reg. $59.99).

This app will change the way you think about reading

I don’t normally like paying for apps, but I’m okay with it this time since it’s a one-time purchase. And, apparently, Headway adds new books all the time, so the content shouldn’t get stale.

There are thousands of book summaries available on pretty much every topic, though they’re almost all nonfiction. You can select categories like boost intelligence, lead a healthy lifestyle, and achieve life balance to get book recommendations from the app.

Start with a title like How to Stop Worrying and Start Living. And if you prefer audiobooks or podcasts to old-school reading, yes, the app also lets me listen to storiesinstead of sitting and reading. In only 17 minutes, I’ve read more than I have all year.

This book summary app even makes it possible to read or listen to entire books over my lunch break, during my commute to work, or while I’m folding laundry. If you like the idea of ‘read 100 books in 2025,' then you may want to try this app, too.

Join me in developing better reading habits with Headway. Use code LEVELUP20 at the Mashable Shop to get a lifetime subscription for $47.99 (reg. $299.95).

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: GTHW App Limited Headway Premium: Lifetime Subscription $47.99 at the Mashable Shop
$299.95 Save $251.96 Use code 'LEVELUP20' Get Deal

A commercial lander arrived just in time to watch the sun rise over the surface of the moon, capturing dramatic shadows cast among craters under a dazzling bloom of light. 

Firefly Aerospace's Blue Ghost spacecraft touched down at 3:34 a.m. ET on March 2. Though Firefly wasn't the trailblazer — the first private robotic lander to make the journey to the surface occurred last year — it was the first to get its lander there upright and in one piece — a point the Texas-based company emphasized when it announced its mission success. 

NASA and four other government space programs around the world have stuck a moon landing, but so far just one prior company, Intuitive Machines, hasn't crashed so badly that it couldn't operate. Its lander ended up on its side in February 2024, limiting what science it could collect and send back to Earth. Meanwhile, Intuitive Machines is sending its second lander, Athena, to the moon for an attempt to land again on Thursday, March 6. 

"With the hardest part behind us, Firefly looks forward to completing more than 14 days of surface operations, again raising the bar for commercial cislunar capabilities," said Shea Ferring, Firefly's chief technology officer, in a statement. "Just through transit to the Moon, Firefly’s mission has already delivered the most science data to date for the NASA CLPS initiative."

SEE ALSO: A company is returning to the moon. Here's how it will avoid tipping again Firefly's Blue Ghost lander captures its own shadow on the surface of the moon, with Earth on the horizon in the blackness of space, on March 2, 2025. Credit: Firefly Aerospace

Though the moon is only about 250,000 miles away, Blue Ghost, named after an exotic type of firefly, traveled more than 2.8 million miles over the course of 45 days in space, testing its systems and collecting copious amounts of spacecraft data, before attempting the landing. 

Blue Ghost is now sitting on Mare Crisium, a plain made from an ancient hardened lava flow. It's next to a volcanic feature, Mons Latreille, in the northeast on the near side of the moon. The landing site is expected to provide insights into the lunar environment and test technologies for supporting future landings carrying astronauts. 

Firefly's lander, originally scheduled to lift off in late 2024, is the first NASA Commercial Lunar Payload Services mission of the year. The program has invested $2.6 billion in contracts with vendors from the private sector to help deliver instruments to the moon and send back crucial data. Blue Ghost is carrying 10 instruments for NASA, which has paid Firefly $101.5 million for the ride. The space agency wants to see a regular cadence of moon missions to prepare for astronaut-led Artemis expeditions in 2027 or later.

Blue Ghost takes a picture from the surface of the moon, revealing Earth in the distance and its own top deck, complete with a solar panel, antenna, and one of the NASA instruments it carried on March 2, 2025. Credit: Firefly Aerospace Tweet may have been deleted

The lander will conduct experiments over the next two weeks, the equivalent of a full lunar day. During that time, NASA will test underground drilling, lunar soil sample collection, and radiation-tolerant computing. 

"The data captured could also benefit humans on Earth by providing insights into how space weather and other cosmic forces impact Earth," NASA said in a statement on Sunday.   

There are sure to be many more rare and dramatic images beamed home. Toward the end of the mission, Blue Ghost will send back images of the lunar sunset, studying how moon dust levitates from solar influences and creates a lunar horizon glow. Following sundown, Blue Ghost will operate for several more hours through the darkness of lunar night, continuing to take pictures, to see how the dust's behavior changes.

TL;DR: Live stream Pumas UNAM vs. LD Alajuelense in the Concacaf Champions Cup for free on YouTube. Access this free live stream from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The Concacaf Champions Cup brings together the best teams from North and Central America, making for a number of fascinating matchups. The remaining teams are fighting it out for a place in the quarter finals, with Pumas UNAM taking on LD Alajuelense this week.

Pumas UNAM will be the favorites in this matchup, but don't count out the team from Costa Rica. Anything can happen in tournament football.

If you want to watch Pumas UNAM vs. LD Alajuelense in the Concacaf Champions Cup for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Pumas UNAM vs. LD Alajuelense?

Pumas UNAM vs. LD Alajuelense in the Concacaf Champions Cup kicks off at 8:30 p.m. ET on March 4. This fixture takes place at the University Olympic Stadium.

How to watch Pumas UNAM vs. LD Alajuelense for free

Pumas UNAM vs. LD Alajuelense in the Concacaf Champions Cup is available to live stream for free on YouTube.

This free live stream is available in most locations around the world, but not in North or Central America. Fortunately, fans in these excluded territories can still access this free live stream with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the UK (or somewhere else with access), meaning you can unblock free live streams of the Concacaf Champions Cup from anywhere in the world.

Live stream Pumas UNAM vs. LD Alajuelense by following these simple steps:

1. Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

3. Open up the app and connect to a server in the UK (or somewhere else with access)

4. Visit YouTube

5. Live stream Pumas UNAM vs. LD Alajuelense for free

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

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

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

What is the best VPN for YouTube?

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

• Servers in 105 countries including the UK

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

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

• Fast connection speeds free from throttling

• Up to eight simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

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

Live stream Pumas UNAM vs. LD Alajuelense in the Concacaf Champions Cup for free with ExpressVPN.

TL;DR: Live stream Cincinnati vs. Tigres UANL in the Concacaf Champions Cup for free on YouTube. Access this free live stream from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The next knockout round of the Concacaf Champions Cup includes some fascinating matchups, including Cincinnati vs. Tigres UANL. Cincinnati made it to this stage after beating Motagua over two legs. Tigres UANL lost the first leg of their matchup against Real Estelí, but recovered to progress after winning the second leg 3-0.

If you want to watch Cincinnati vs. Tigres UANL in the Concacaf Champions Cup for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Cincinnati vs. Tigres UANL?

Cincinnati vs. Tigres UANL in the Concacaf Champions Cup kicks off at 6:30 p.m. ET on March 4. This fixture takes place at the TQL Stadium.

How to watch Cincinnati vs. Tigres UANL for free

Cincinnati vs. Tigres UANL in the Concacaf Champions Cup is available to live stream for free on YouTube.

This free live stream is available in most locations around the world, but not in North or Central America. Fortunately, fans in these excluded territories can still access this free live stream with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the UK (or somewhere else with access), meaning you can unblock free live streams of the Concacaf Champions Cup from anywhere in the world.

Live stream Cincinnati vs. Tigres UANL by following these simple steps:

1. Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

3. Open up the app and connect to a server in the UK (or somewhere else with access)

4. Visit YouTube

5. Live stream Cincinnati vs. Tigres UANL for free

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

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

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

What is the best VPN for YouTube?

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

• Servers in 105 countries including the UK

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

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

• Fast connection speeds free from throttling

• Up to eight simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

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

Live stream Cincinnati vs. Tigres UANL in the Concacaf Champions Cup for free with ExpressVPN.

TL;DR: Live stream LAFC vs. Columbus Crew in the Concacaf Champions Cup for free on YouTube. Access this free live stream from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

There are only 16 teams left in the Concacaf Champions Cup, with quarter final places up for grabs as the remaining teams are paired together in two-legged matchups. One of the most interesting of these pairings is LAFC vs. Columbus Crew. It's difficult to pick a winner from these talented sides.

LAFC secured their spot at this stage by beating Colorado Rapids, but Columbus Crew are expected to put up more of a fight.

If you want to watch LAFC vs. Columbus Crew in the Concacaf Champions Cup for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is LAFC vs. Columbus Crew?

LAFC vs. Columbus Crew in the Concacaf Champions Cup kicks off at 10:30 p.m. ET on March 4. This fixture takes place at the BMO Stadium.

How to watch LAFC vs. Columbus Crew for free

LAFC vs. Columbus Crew in the Concacaf Champions Cup is available to live stream for free on YouTube.

This free live stream is available in most locations around the world, but not in North or Central America. Fortunately, fans in these excluded territories can still access this free live stream with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the UK (or somewhere else with access), meaning you can unblock free live streams of the Concacaf Champions Cup from anywhere in the world.

Live stream LAFC vs. Columbus Crew by following these simple steps:

1. Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

3. Open up the app and connect to a server in the UK (or somewhere else with access)

4. Visit YouTube

5. Live stream LAFC vs. Columbus Crew for free

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

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

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

What is the best VPN for YouTube?

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

• Servers in 105 countries including the UK

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

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

• Fast connection speeds free from throttling

• Up to eight simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

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

Live stream LAFC vs. Columbus Crew in the Concacaf Champions Cup for free with ExpressVPN.

TL;DR: Mashable readers can save 65% on the legendary M1 MacBook Air laptop with this near-mint refurbished model before they sell out.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple MacBook Air 13.3" M1, 8GB RAM, 128GB SSD (Refurbished, 2020) $514.99 at the Mashable Shop
$1,499.00 Save $984.01 Get Deal

When eggs are $8, and the price of virtually everything else is unpredictable, it only makes sense that you don’t want to splurge on a new laptop. But don’t get things twisted — you don’t have to rule out luxury brands like Apple if you don’t mind grabbing one of our best-selling refurbished laptop deals.

You can avoid the brand-new $1,499 price tag on a Macbook and pay only $514.99 for this refurbished MacBook Air. It may be a few years old, but it’s in like-new condition and an excellent choice for anyone needing a reliable laptop for everyday tasks. It’s pretty to look at, too.

The M1 MacBook Air is one of the most award-winning laptops ever made, and this Grade A Refurbished model won't be available for long.

More about your dream Apple laptop

This MacBook was the first of its kind, dropping the Intel-based processor for the M1 chip designed by Apple. The result? Faster performance, better graphics, and quicker machine learning tasks — anyone who’s used a PC could probably tell the difference.

Want to feel some of that Apple vs. PC power right now? Here’s what this 2.8-pound MacBook packs in:

• 13.3-inch Retina display with 2560x1600 native resolution

• 128GB SSD storage

• Up to 18 hours of battery life

• Silent operation with a fanless design

• Touch ID sensor for fingerprint log-ins

If you still have doubts about purchasing a pre-owned laptop, you can rest assured that this device is backed by a 30-day parts and labor warranty. That means if any parts, such as the battery, need replacement, you can contact the third-party provider.

Order one of these discounted MacBook Airs before they’re gone — we expect them to sell out quickly at $514.99 (reg. $1,499).

StackSocial prices subject to change.

SAVE $300: As of March 4, the Apple Studio Display is on sale for $1,299.99 at Amazon. That's a 19% saving on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple Studio Display $1,299.00 at Amazon
$1,599.00 Save $300.00 Get Deal

MacBook users, you won't want to skip this latest Amazon deal on the Apple Studio Display. As of March 4, this impressive monitor is reduced to $1,299.99 at Amazon, saving you $300 on list price. It's worth noting that this deal is specific to the tilt-adjustable monitor with standard glass. This deal does not include AppleCare+.

The screen is the perfect upgrade if you're looking for a sleek, high-quality workstation. It has a 27-inch 5K Retina display with 600 nits of brightness, P3 wide color, and support for a billion colors. It’s got a 12MP Ultra Wide camera with Apple's Center Stage, meaning your video calls stay focused on you, even if you move around.

SEE ALSO: 'There's something in the air:' Apple's Tim Cook teases new Air product drop this week

The three-mic system is impressive, ensuring your voice comes through loud and clear, and the six-speaker sound system with Spatial Audio delivers an immersive listening experience. Perfect for long calls or meetings, or even watching movies and TV.

Connectivity-wise, you get one Thunderbolt 3 port and three USB-C ports, plus 96W of power delivery to keep your MacBook charged. And for added comfort, there’s an optional stand that lets you adjust both tilt and height.

This deal is available at Amazon, get it now before it runs out.

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.

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: Battle

• Green: Teams in the Gateway to the West

• Blue: Share a last name

• Purple: Shared a famous coach

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: Fight

• Green: St. Louis teams

• Blue: Joneses

• Purple: Teams coached by Nick Saban

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 #162 is...

What is the answer to Connections Sports Edition today

• Fight - BOX, DUKE, SCRAP, SPAR

• St. Louis teams - BILLIKIENS, BLUES, CARDINALS, ST. LOUIS CITY

• Joneses - CHIPPER, DEACON, JONQUEL, K.C.

• Teams coached by Nick Saban - CRIMSON TIDE, DOLPHINS SPARTANS, TIGERS

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 $400: As of March 4, the roborock Q5 Pro+ is on sale for $299.99 at Amazon. That's a 57% saving on list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: roborock roborock Q5 Pro+ $299.99 at Amazon
$699.99 Save $400.00 Get Deal

If you're looking for a high-quality robot vacuum, the name "roborock" will be on your radar. One of the most impressive robot vacuum brands on the market, these models are seriously impressive, and worth every cent.

And as of March 4, courtesy of Amazon, you can pay less for one of the most advanced models: the roborock Q5 Pro+. Previously priced at $699.99, it is now down to just $299.99. Not only are you saving a whopping $400, but this is the lowest it has ever been priced at Amazon.

SEE ALSO: This iRobot Roomba Robot Vac deal authorizes you to delegate cleaning

And for $299.99, you're getting a great device. Equipped with a DuoRoller system, this vacuum picks up dirt, dust, and pet hair easily, whether it's on carpet or hard floors. It also boasts a powerful 5500 Pa HyperForce suction power, meaning it can pick up nearly all kinds of dirt.

It is also incredibly low maintenance — not only does it self-empty, but the dustbin has a 2.5-liter storage, so you'll only need to empty it around every seven weeks. The voice controls are also a big plus: Whether you use Alexa, Google Home, or Siri, it'll work for them all. There really is hardly any work involved for you with this device.

It even uses PreciSense LiDAR Navigation to map out paths in your home. The clever 3D mapping allows the vacuum to navigate its way around your home with no help, avoiding obstacles and convenient cleaning routes.

This price won't be around for long, as Amazon has marked this as a limited-time deal. So head to Amazon now, before it runs out.

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 Tuesday, March 4, 2025:

AcrossSecretly includes on an email chain

• The answer is BCCs.

"Everything good?"

• The answer is YouOk.

Big name in nondairy milk

• The answer is Oatly.

Food, informally

• The answer is Grub.

Game in which you might have to find "something blue"

• The answer is ISpy.

DownPigs with tusks

• The answer is Boars.

Slice or dice

• The answer is CutUp.

Cheese mixed with Monterey Jack in an orange-and-white speckled block

• The answer is Colby.

What the lens of a telescope faces

• The answer is Sky.

Teacher of meditative poses

• The answer is Yogi.

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

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

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

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

SAVE $20: As of March 4, the Amazon Fire Stick 4K is on sale at Amazon for $29.99. That's a 40% discount on list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Fire Stick 4K $29.99 at Amazon
$49.99 Save $20.00 Get Deal

We're big fans of Amazon's Fire Stick. A handy little device, it can turn nearly any TV into a smart TV for much less than buying something outright. It's a streaming device that plugs into your TV (or laptop) and lets you access platforms including Prime Video, Netflix, Hulu, and more. It comes with a remote with Alexa built-in and is currently less than $30.

As of March 4, the newest model of the Fire Stick 4K is reduced by 40%, now priced at $20.99.

SEE ALSO: Get $20 off the Fire TV Stick 4K Max for a limited time at Amazon

And there's no complicated setup for this device. These handy remotes are so simple to use that anyone can do it. Just pop the device into your TV's HDMI port, and that's it. You'll have instant access to a range of streaming platforms as well as many live channels.

And with the Fire Stick 4K, you can enjoy incredible 4K Ultra HD visuals with advanced HDR formats like Dolby Vision and HDR10+. This model also boasts a much more powerful processor and enhanced Dolby Atmos support than its predecessor, ensuring a smoother performance and better quality sound.

This deal is only available for a limited time, so move fast so you don't miss out.

SAVE OVER $80: As of March 4, Bowers & Wilkins Pi6 wireless earbuds are available for $168.08 at Amazon,. That's a 32% discount from their usual $249 price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Bowers & Wilkins Bowers & Wilkins Pi6 Wireless Earbuds $168.08 at Amazon
$249.00 Save $80.92 Get Deal

I'm not a fan of the price tags that come with high-end audio gear, but Amazon has Bowers & Wilkins Pi6 wireless earbuds on sale for $168.08, down from their usual $249 price. If you've been holding out for audiophile-level earbuds with noise cancellation, this is it.

If you're unfamiliar with Bowers & Wilkins, they're a big deal in the high-end audio world. This is the brand that produces some of the best-sounding speakers and headphones on the market, so it's no surprise that the Pi6 earbuds come packed with serious audio tech.

SEE ALSO: I have no excuse to skip workouts now that the Apple Watch Series 10 is $70 off

They feature 12mm bio-cellulose drive units borrowed from the Px7 S2e over-ear headphones — translation: distortion-free audio with incredible detail. Whether you're listening to music, watching movies, or gaming, these buds dynamically adjust their performance for the best possible sound thanks to aptX Adaptive technology.

• Price: $168.08 $249

• Retailer: Amazon

• Noise Cancelling: Adaptive ANC, auto-adjusts to surroundings

• Battery Life: 8 hours per charge (24 hours with case)

• Fast Charging: 15-minute charge = 2 extra hours

• Sound Quality: 12mm bio-cellulose drivers, aptX Adaptive

• Microphones: 3 built-in mics for call clarity

• Water Resistance: IP54-rated (sweat and dust-resistant)

• Compatibility: Works with iOS and Android, supports B&W Music App

Pi6s come with bespoke active noise cancellation, meaning the earbuds adjust the noise cancellation level based on your environment. Commuting on a train? The ANC will kick in stronger. Sitting in a quiet room? It dials things down so your audio doesn't feel unnatural. Plus, there are three built-in microphones designed to improve call clarity, so you're not that person yelling, "Can you hear me now?" on Zoom.

Battery life isn't the longest in the game, but it's solid. You'll get up to eight hours per charge, extending the case to 24 hours total. And if you're in a pinch, a 15-minute charge gives you an extra two hours, perfect for when you forget to charge them before heading out. They also have an IP54 rating, meaning they can handle sweat, rain, and dust.

At $168.08, these are some of the best luxury earbuds under $200, and the price doesn't dip this low often. If you've been looking for top-tier sound without paying top dollar, I'd grab these while they're still on sale.

SAVE $50: As of March 4, Beats Studio Buds are available for $99.95 at Amazon. That's a 33% discount from their usual $149.95 price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Beats Beats Studio Buds $99.95 at Amazon
$149.95 Save $50.00 Get Deal

Good noise-canceling earbuds aren’t cheap unless you catch a deal like this. Amazon has Beats Studio Buds on sale for $99.95, which is $50 off their usual $149.95 price. Finding a solid pair of wireless ANC earbuds for under $100 isn’t easy, and when it’s a brand as well-known as Beats, you know they’re worth a second look.

I’ve tested my fair share of earbuds and can confidently say that Beats knows how to do bass right. But unlike some older models that went all-in on deep lows, the Studio Buds feature a custom acoustic platform that balances everything out. So you get booming bass but also crisp mids and highs. Listening to hip-hop, rock, or podcasts is solid without messing with EQ or bass settings.

SEE ALSO: I have no excuse to skip workouts now that the Apple Watch Series 10 is $70 off

One of my favorite things about these buds is their two listening modes. If you want to tune everything out, Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) blocks out distractions. But if you still want to hear what’s happening around you, Transparency Mode lets in ambient noise. Both options are game-changers, especially if switching between work, workouts, and commutes.

• Price: $99.95 $149.95

• Retailer: Amazon

• Noise Cancelling: Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) + Transparency Mode

• Battery Life: 8 hours per charge (24 hours with case)

• Connectivity: Class 1 Bluetooth for extended range

• Microphones: Built-in for calls and voice assistants

• Water Resistance: IPX4-rated (sweat and water-resistant)

• Compatibility: Works with Apple and Android

Beats Studio Buds use Class 1 Bluetooth, meaning you get an extended range and fewer dropouts, even if your phone isn’t right next to you. Call quality is solid, too, thanks to the built-in microphones that pick up your voice clearly without annoying background noise creeping in.

Battery life is another win: eight hours on a single charge, with the case bringing that total up to 24 hours. And if you’re low on power, a quick charge via USB-C gives you extra juice fast. If you’re taking them to the gym or for a run, you’ll be happy to know they’re IPX4-rated sweat- and water-resistant, so a bit of sweat or rain won’t ruin them.

At $99.95, this is one of the best prices I’ve seen on the Beats Studio Buds, and these deals don’t last forever. If you’ve been looking for wireless ANC earbuds with great sound, solid battery life, and a name you can trust, then grab a pair.

SAVE $20: As of March 4, Soundcore by Anker Space A40 earbuds are available for $59 at Amazon. That's a 26% discount from their usual $79.99 price. Prime members can snag them for just $44.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Soundcore Soundcore by Anker Space A40 Earbuds $59.99 at Amazon
$79.99 Save $20.00 Get Deal

I don't know about you, but I refuse to pay premium prices for earbuds when budget-friendly options like this exist. Right now, you can grab Soundcore by Anker Space A40 earbuds for just $59 at Amazon, a decent 26% discount off their usual $79.99 price. And if you're an Amazon Prime member, you can pick them up for just $44.99 (which honestly feels like a steal).

Why put these little guys worth a spot in your ears? First, adaptive active noise cancellation (ANC). Unlike some budget earbuds that barely block out a whisper, the Space A40s can reduce noise by up to 98%. That means no more distractions from chatty coworkers, screaming kids, or whatever mystery construction project is happening down the street. The ANC automatically adjusts based on your environment, so these earbuds adapt accordingly whether you're on a plane or just trying to focus at your desk.

SEE ALSO: I have no excuse to skip workouts now that the Apple Watch Series 10 is $70 off

But good ANC is useless if the sound quality is trash. Thankfully, these don't disappoint. The double-layer diaphragm drivers deliver strong bass, clear mids, and bright treble. So, everything sounds crisp when you're pumping bass-heavy beats or catching up on your latest podcast. If you're an audiophile, you'll appreciate the LDAC mode for Hi-Res Audio Wireless sound, which means better detail and clarity for your music.

• Price: $59 $79.99 / $44.99 for Prime members

• Retailer: Amazon

• Noise Cancelling: Adaptive ANC, reduces noise by up to 98%

• Battery Life: 50 hours total (10 hours per charge)

• Fast Charging: 10-minute charge = 4 hours playback

• Sound Quality: Hi-Res sound, double-layer diaphragm drivers

• Wireless Charging: Yes

• Fit: Ergonomic, lightweight design

Battery life is another area where the Space A40s shine. You'll get 10 hours of playtime per charge, and the charging case extends that to a ridiculous 50 hours. Even better, a quick 10-minute charge gives you 4 hours of playback, which is perfect for when you forget to charge them before heading out. Oh, and wireless charging is an option if you're into that.

Comfort-wise, these are smaller and lighter than previous Soundcore ANC earbuds, so they won't make your ears ache after long listening sessions. The ergonomic design also helps them stay in place, meaning fewer annoying readjustments mid-workout or while on the go.

At $59 (or $44.99 for Prime members), these are a ridiculously good deal for ANC earbuds that don't cut corners on sound quality or battery life. If you're in the market for a solid pair of wireless earbuds that won't break the bank, I'd grab these while they're still on sale.

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.

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 March 3 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: Looking good

• Green: Brush it out

• Blue: Think of a famous author

• Purple: These words all go before another word

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: Adjectives for Nice Skin

• Green: Mess of Hair

• Blue: Dickens Characters

• Purple: ___Chain

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 #632 is...

What is the answer to Connections today

• Be at Leisure: DEWY, FRESH, GLOWING, SMOOTH

• Formats of Gold: MATT, MOP, TANGLE, THATCH

• Cylinder of Material: BUCKET, PIP, SCROOGE, TWIST

• Seen in "The Flintstones": DAISY, FOOD, MOUNTAIN, SUPPLY

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 March 3

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.

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 March 3 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 March 3, 2025 Here's a subtle hint for today's Wordle answer:

Let's take a closer look at that.

Does today's Wordle answer have a double letter?

It does!

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

Today's Wordle starts with the letter C.

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...

CHECK.

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 March 3

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.

TL;DR: Own Microsoft Visual Studio for life for just £22 (reg. £392.57) through 30 March and transform your development process with advanced tools.

Opens in a new window Credit: Retail King Microsoft Visual Studio Professional 2022 for Windows £22.00 at the Mashable Shop
£392.57 Save £370.57 Get Deal

If you’re serious about coding, you need a serious tool to match your skills. Microsoft Visual Studio Professional 2022 is built to help developers work smarter, not harder — offering a comprehensive suite of features to simplify coding, debugging, and deploying your projects.

Own Microsoft Visual Studio for life for just £22 (reg. £392.57) through 30 March and transform your development process with advanced tools.

Designed for professionals and teams, this platform supports a wide range of programming languages and frameworks, making it a go-to for everything from web development to mobile app creation. Its integrated debugging tools allow you to spot and fix errors in real time, cutting down on frustration and saving you hours of work.

Collaboration is seamless, thanks to various built-in integrations, letting you work smoothly with your team. The intuitive interface and advanced organisation tools help you handle even the most complex workflows with ease, so you can stay focused on what really matters — creating amazing applications.

This isn’t just a tool for writing code; it’s a full-scale development environment tailored to the needs of professionals. You’ll also enjoy live testing features, making it easy to catch bugs early and deliver polished results. Best of all, this is a lifetime license, so there are no subscriptions or recurring fees.

Whether you’re an experienced developer or looking to take your skills to the next level, Visual Studio Professional 2022 is the ultimate companion for efficiency and precision.

Get a lifetime license to Microsoft Visual Studio Professional 2022 for £22 (reg. £392.57) through 30 March and elevate your coding game with tools built for success.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

FREE BOOKS: The latest Stuff Your Kindle Day takes place on March 4. Alpharoll is offering free romance books with cinnamon roll main characters.

Yep, we're back here again. We're announcing another Stuff Your Kindle Day, because the schedule has got completely out of hand in 2025. Of course, we're not complaining at all. Any chance to stock up on free books is something to celebrate.

For those not following events on BookTok, Stuff Your Kindle Day events provide an awesome opportunity to stock up on hundreds (or sometimes thousands) of books for free. And better yet, the books that you download are yours to keep.

The latest Stuff Your Kindle Day is focused on romance. Hosted by Alpharoll, this latest events offers romance books with cinnamon roll main male characters (sweethearts who love to dote). Want to make the most of this popular event? We've lined up everything you need to know.

When is Stuff Your Kindle Day?

The Stuff Your Kindle Day schedule has been incredibly hectic in 2025. In February, Stuff Your Kindle Day took place on Feb. 10, Feb. 14, and Feb. 21, and Feb. 28, with monster romance, indie titles, and so much more on offer for free.

SEE ALSO: The best Kindles in 2025

And now on March 4, Alpharoll is offering free romance books with cinnamon roll main male characters.

Who can take part in Stuff Your Kindle Day?

Anyone can participate in Stuff Your Kindle Day. You don't need to own a Kindle to get involved.

Kindle, Kobo, and Nook readers can download these books for free. You can even download these books on your preferred app and read them straight from your phone, as you can also find these free titles on the Google Play and Apple Books apps.

Which e-books are free?

Finding all of these free books is straightforward thanks to Alpharoll. All genres and heat levels of romance are featured in the free giveaway, and segmented by heat level and subgenre for maximum convenience for readers. See something you like? Start stocking up without spending anything.

And if you want to make sure you're ready for the next edition of this bi-annual event, consider signing up for the Alpha Cinnamon Roll newsletter.

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

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

Shop Stuff Your Kindle Day deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Kindle (16GB) + 3 Months of Kindle Unlimited $109.99 at Amazon
$145.96 Save $35.97 Get Deal Why we like it

These super popular e-readers help you take your entire library on the go. With weeks of battery life and an anti-glare display, you can read anywhere and anytime with the Kindle. They start at $109.99, a great price for those on a budget, but if you want to save even more, you can get three months of Kindle Unlimited absolutely free during Stuff Your Kindle Day.

Kindle Unlimited costs $11.99 per month and allows you to borrow up to 20 months per month. For a limited time, you can get three months of Kindle Unlimited for free, saving you $35.97.